Sharmishtha Patange has been appointed business events manager – India at Business Events Australia, effective June 8, 2026.
Based in India, she will support the implementation of the organisation’s distribution strategies and partnerships across the country’s MICE sector, while working with customers and stakeholders to drive business events and incentive travel to Australia.
The Indian Union Cabinet, chaired by prime minister Narendra Modi, last week approved a one-time budgetary support package of 100 billion rupees (US$1.17 billion) for Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to help stabilise Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices for Indian airlines operating domestic and international flights.
The support will be provided as interest-free advances to OMCs and comes as Indian airlines grapple with rising operating costs. Industry stakeholders and aviation analysts believe the measure could provide short-term relief for carriers.
Subhash Goyal, chairman of STIC Travel Group and chairman of the aviation and tourism expert committee of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), said: “The budgetary support will help airlines avoid steep increases in airfares, therefore keeping air travel more affordable for passengers. While this initiative may not eliminate the challenges arising from high global fuel prices, it is certainly a positive step that can provide short-term stability and support the growth of the Indian aviation industry.”
According to Mayur Patel, OAG Aviation’s commercial and industry affairs leader for Asia-Pacific and the Middle East and Africa, the Indian aviation sector is facing several pressures simultaneously.
“When fuel already accounts for roughly 40 per cent of airline operating expenditure under normal conditions and can climb towards 60 per cent under extreme market stress, the arithmetic of running scheduled services simply breaks down,” Patel said.
He noted that airlines are contending with three major challenges: higher crude oil prices linked to the West Asia crisis, rupee depreciation that is increasing fuel procurement costs, and longer international flight paths following the closure of Pakistani airspace.
“The impact is already visible in airline capacity decisions. Air India has reportedly cut up to 22 per cent of domestic flights over a three-month period while IndiGo has reduced domestic capacity by five to seven per cent and international capacity by 17 per cent,” Patel stated.
Pushan Sharma, director at Crisil Intelligence, noted rising fuel prices continue to weigh on the sector’s profitability and growth prospects.
“Passenger traffic is expected to see only marginal growth in the current fiscal year as rising fuel costs keep airfares on the higher side. While Indian carriers are benefiting from capped ATF prices, up by 15 per cent only compared to doubling of ATF rates globally, still the pressure on sector profitability remains significant,” Sharma said.
Goyal added that airlines continue to face the challenge of balancing higher operating costs with the need to maintain affordable fares and support passenger growth.
While welcoming the government’s support package, industry experts said long-term structural reforms remain necessary.
Patel highlighted the need to bring ATF under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework to reduce the tax burden on airlines.
“The combined effective tax burden on ATF for domestic operations sits at approximately 24.9 per cent of the final inclusive price and because ATF was deliberately excluded from the GST framework when it launched in 2017, airlines cannot claim input tax credit on a single rupee of fuel tax. Every litre burned on a domestic route carries an embedded tax cost that no other comparable industry in India faces on its primary input,” Patel said.
Dream Cruises has launched Forever Broadway, a new musical production created in partnership with Broadway Asia International and premiering exclusively aboard Genting Dream.
The show debuted on June 5, 2026, as part of Dream Cruises’ 10th anniversary celebrations and features a selection of songs from well-known Broadway productions, including New York, New York, Dancing Queen, Grease Lightning, Tonight and On Broadway.
Developed for Asian audiences, the production combines live performances, choreography, special effects and orchestral recordings created specifically for the ship’s theatre.
The show was conceived by StarDream Cruises and developed in collaboration with Broadway Asia International. The cast brings together international performers from New York and London alongside resident entertainers from the Dream Cruises and StarCruises fleet.
Dream Cruises has also partnered with Design Orchard Singapore and local brands Bohème by Véro, Frey and Raja Rani, with selected apparel and accessories featured in the production.
Forever Broadway is now showing aboard Genting Dream.
For more information, visit StarDream Cruises.
China’s Adora Cruises has selected Port Klang for its first overseas homeport deployment, with the 2,680-passenger Adora Mediterranea scheduled for an exclusive charter season from November 24 to December 14, 2026.
The collaboration with Malaysian cruise specialist Hwajing Travel & Tours was unveiled at ITB China 2026 in Shanghai.
Kenny Cheong, managing director of Hwajing Travel & Tours, said: “We look forward to creating a distinctive, Muslim-friendly cruise holiday experience for Malaysian and regional travellers aboard Adora Mediterranea.”
Jenny Ye, vice president of sales, revenue management and commercial operations at Adora Cruises, described Malaysia as an important market in the cruise line’s international expansion plans.
“We are pleased to bring Adora Mediterranea to Port Klang and introduce guests to Adora’s cruise experience,” she said.
Marketed as the newly upgraded “Art Ship”, Adora Mediterranea features Mediterranean-inspired interiors, international dining, live entertainment, themed bars and family-friendly facilities. The vessel has 1,057 cabins across 12 decks.
All sailings will depart from Port Klang and include Muslim-friendly meal options, as well as multilingual crew members fluent in Mandarin, English and Bahasa Malaysia.
The programme comprises eight sailings across four itineraries: a three-day cruise to Penang; four-day cruises to Penang and Langkawi or Phuket; and a six-day one-way voyage to Nha Trang and Guangzhou.
Cruise fares start from 499 ringgit (US$118) for the three-day Penang itinerary, 799 ringgit for the Penang-Langkawi route, 899 ringgit for Phuket, and 1,299 ringgit for the six-day sailing to Guangzhou.
The charter coincides with Hwajing Travel’s 37th anniversary and adds another homeported cruise programme to Port Klang ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
Vinpearl has signed partnership agreements with Agoda, AirAsia Move, BeMyGuest and GlobalTix as it seeks to expand the international reach of its hospitality, leisure and entertainment businesses.
The agreements were signed during business forums held in Thailand and Singapore as part of Vietnamese state visits to Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines between May 28 and June 1, 2026.
In Thailand, Vinpearl extended its relationships with Agoda and AirAsia Move. Through Agoda, the company aims to increase visibility for its accommodation, attractions and entertainment offerings in markets including South-east Asia, India, the Middle East and Australia. The agreement also expands distribution of VinWonders products through Agoda’s platform.
The partnership with AirAsia Move will make Vinpearl and VinWonders products in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang and Danang-Hoi An available through the travel platform’s booking ecosystem, allowing travellers to combine flights, accommodation and attractions within a single itinerary.
In Singapore, Vinpearl signed agreements with experience distribution platforms BeMyGuest and GlobalTix. The partnerships are intended to increase the presence of VinWonders products across South-east Asia, China and India, while expanding access to attractions and experiences in Nha Trang, Phu Quoc and Danang.
According to the company, the agreements will combine the partners’ technology and distribution networks to broaden international access to Vinpearl and VinWonders products and support the promotion of Vietnam’s tourism sector.
Ngo Thi Huong, CEO of Vinpearl, said: “These partnerships not only expand Vinpearl’s network of strategic partners but also create a strong foundation for the Vinpearl and VinWonders ecosystem to connect more deeply with global traveller segments through some of the region’s leading travel, aviation, and distribution platforms.”
Krishna Rathi, associate vice president, supply, Agoda, added that the partnership would help Vinpearl and VinWonders engage more closely with international travellers across Asia and other global markets.
Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia Move, commented that the collaboration would support travel connectivity and tourism flows within the region while increasing access to Vietnam’s tourism offerings.
Mastercard has launched a travel campaign offering cardholders access to more than 300 dining, shopping, accommodation and entertainment promotions across South-east Asia.
The Phone. Passport. Mastercard. campaign will run from May to December 2026 in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.
Developed with issuing banks and merchant partners, the initiative includes offers spanning transport, retail and leisure experiences. The campaign comes as demand for shorthaul travel continues to grow, supported by strong regional connectivity and increased interest in nearby destinations.
Through Phone. Passport. Mastercard., the company aims to make journeys easier by providing travellers with access to payment services and benefits across participating markets.
According to Mastercard, the programme is designed to help travellers access offers and make payments across multiple destinations using its payment network. The company said its technologies, including tokenisation, multi-factor authentication and fraud monitoring, help support secure cross-border transactions.
The initiative is also intended to support merchants and tourism businesses by connecting them with travellers across some of the region’s busiest travel corridors.
Offers will be available through participating partners across the six markets, covering both trip planning and in-destination spending.
Dheeraj Raina, senior vice president and head of integrated marketing and communications, South-east Asia at Mastercard, said: “South-east Asia is one of the most rewarding regions in the world to explore today – rich in culture, nature, food and unforgettable experiences, often just a short trip away.
“We’re helping make travel across the region feel more seamless, accessible and connected, while bringing travellers closer to the local experiences and businesses that make every journey memorable.
Bhaya Cruises has introduced a series of summer packages across its Bhaya Soul and The Au Co brands, offering added benefits for travellers exploring Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
The Summer All-Inclusive package on Bhaya Soul includes a two-day, one-night wellness-focused cruise featuring activities such as kayaking and guided walks. Guests booking the package receive a complimentary suite upgrade valued at US$200, round-trip transfers between Hanoi and Halong valued at US$80, and US$50 in onboard drink credit.
The Au Co has also launched its Summer Privilege package for the season. The offer includes a complimentary one-night hotel stay in Hanoi valued at US$80, round-trip transfers between Hanoi and Halong valued at US$80, and US$50 in onboard drink credit.
Operating in Halong Bay, The Au Co offers itineraries focused on the destination’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
The summer promotions are available for direct bookings and include a range of onboard activities and destination experiences.
For more information, visit Bhaya Cruises.
Brought to you by Seoul Tourism Organization
With its seamless integration of business, leisure and culture, the South Korean capital has been an attractive destination for business and leisure travellers.
To build on this dynamic ecosystem where productivity meets relaxation, the government is actively encouraging business travellers, and those who travel with their families, to extend their stays in the capital.
Leveraging its world-class infrastructure, business strength, and cultural appeal, Seoul is establishing itself as a destination for working and living.
Established MICE hub with scenic views
Located in the inner west area along the Han River lies Magok, a modern district that offers the convenience of business infrastructure, transport connectivity, and hospitality is the Magok district.
With easy connectivity to both Gimpo and Incheon airports, Magok is conveniently situated for business travellers.
At its heart is Seoul MICE Plaza, which serves as a dedicated platform for global conferences, events, and industry exchange, as well as a ‘workation’ hub.
Nearby is the COEX Magok Lewest, a large-scale MICE complex comprising a convention centre, hotel and meetings facilities, providing top of the line MICE facilities.
Offering some nature in the urban setting is the Seoul Botanic Park, home to a glass greenhouse, themed gardens, waterfront trails, allowing visitors to step into a calm and restorative environment.
Fine hospitality
Travellers can get their downtime at several upscale hotels in the area.
The Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok and Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Botanic Park offer convenient access to both business venues and green spaces.
For those seeking a refined cultural and culinary experience, Mayfield Hotel provides a distinctive traditional Korean experience. Set within serene gardens and hanok-inspired architecture, the hotel combines traditional aesthetics with seasonal cuisine at its restaurants.This environment is particularly suited for high-level meetings and private gatherings, allowing guests to engage with Korea’s heritage alongside a professional agenda.
Further towards the city centre, Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery offers a luxurious escape, pairing Han River vistas with interiors designed for both focused work and restorative rest.
Similarly, both Conrad Seoul and Fairmont Ambassador Seoul provide elevated environments with expansive views over the Han river and city skyline. These five-star spaces provide business-ready spaces for use in the day and sophisticated settings in the evening where the lights along the riverfront create a serene backdrop for unwinding.
Seoul’s creative and cultural scene
Beyond Magok, Seoul’s ‘workation’ landscape reflects a more creative and community-driven way of working.
Across the river, Oil Tank Culture Park, is a success story of urban regeneration. Formerly a cluster of oil storage tanks, the area was designed as a cultural complex for exhibitions and performances, turning the city’s industrial heritage into contemporary expression.
To complement this cultural immersion, a Seoul Cruise experience offers a different perspective of the city. Whether for informal meetings or team bonding sessions, a journey along the Han River allows travellers to appreciate the glittering skyline of the city.
Visit Seoul to see the diverse experiences that await.
Bali is stepping up efforts to address key infrastructure challenges, including waste management, traffic congestion, water distribution and energy security.
Speaking at the Bali and Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) 2026, Bali governor I Wayan Koster said: “Bali will have waste-to-energy plant funded by Danantara and the project will break ground this June with a target to complete by late 2027.”
The facility will process 120 tonnes of waste daily, with Koster aiming for a garbage-free Bali by 2028.
To address traffic congestion, the provincial government is working with the central government to improve land and sea transport connectivity, with projects targeted for completion by 2030. Water challenges will be addressed through improvements to distribution networks, while Bali is also developing local clean energy facilities to strengthen energy self-sufficiency.
These initiatives support Bali’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045 through rooftop solar deployment, virtual power plant technology, and large-scale solar projects in Nusa Penida and Muara Nusa Dua.
Koster said these infrastructure projects are important to support Bali’s tourism-driven economy, which has continued to grow following the pandemic.
“In 2025, foreign arrivals reached a historic high of 7.5 million visitors, proving Bali’s enduring appeal despite weathering intense negative media campaigns in late 2025,” he said.
“Last year, visitor arrivals to Bali increased by 350,000 tourists compared to 2024, meaning Bali alone contributed (nearly) 46 per cent of Indonesia’s 15.4 million total foreign visitors in 2025.”
Bali generated 176 trillion rupiah (US$11 billion) in tourism foreign exchange earnings, accounting for 55 per cent of Indonesia’s total tourism revenue.
According to Koster, tourism contributes 66 per cent of Bali’s economy and helped drive economic growth of 5.8 per cent, the fifth highest among Indonesia’s provinces.
To support continued growth, the regional government has introduced stricter enforcement measures.
“Tourists who violate legal regulations or disrespect Balinese cultural values will face swift deportation under newly established enforcement systems,” he said.
Koster said Bali’s hotel and restaurant tax revenue reached 2.89 trillion rupiah during the first five months of the year.
“The hotel tax increased from 1.7 trillion rupiah to 1.8 trillion rupiah, and the restaurant tax also increased from 885 billion rupiah to one trillion rupiah; the data is clear because this is an online system,” he said.
While conflict in the Middle East contributed to a nine per cent decline in international arrivals in April, the decrease narrowed to seven per cent in May as demand began to recover.
“So the negative trend is slowing down, but if we look at the impact on hotel occupancy rates and the impact on hotel taxes, it is actually increasing, meaning that even though the number of foreign tourists has decreased, the impact on PHR has not dropped,” Koster noted.
Looking ahead, the Bali government will focus on ensuring visitors stay in licensed accommodation, as many travellers are currently using unlicensed properties that do not contribute tax revenue.
What are your first steps as you move from COO to CEO?
My priority is to build and organise the integration process for a harmonised strategy.
Rakuten Travel is focused on the Japanese market and adding value to Japanese suppliers and customers, while RTX – which buys inventory to introduce to the Japanese consumer, and supports Asia-Pacific and global players to simplify their global connectivity through our platform – is to drive global expansion, and add value to the travel industry.
To accelerate our globalisation, it is important to expand the number of our clients, the client reach, and develop a direct supply relationship with hotels.
What do the Q12026 results show, and where is global expansion taking place?
Year-on-year, the travel business, both domestic and global, maintained high growth rates with gross transaction value increasing 8.1 per cent and 69.7 per cent respectively.
For the second part, I have to split the answer into two categories: the demand side and the supply side.
We are seeing a boom in the number of US consumers, in vacation rentals, and travellers who are not just using Expedia, but also non-travel related and financial websites.
Chinese and Koreans are travelling abroad more than the Japanese these days, and we can capture that demand.
There are also big changes in B2B, with players plugging into white-label platforms and requiring inventory.
While China and the US are the largest travel markets, Europe is also growing. Online travel is dominated by just the one or two companies. But usage is changing, and we wish to provide the hotel inventory.
On the supply side, there are synergies in the US West Coast and whenever we get new inventory, we introduce it to the Japanese consumer and Asia-Pacific-wide.
The US East Coast is also important because the US is still largely dominated by domestic demand, and the East Coast, including the Caribbean islands, are top destinations.
What about closer to home?
We have more than 10 offices in the Asia-Pacific region in cities such as Seoul, Taipei, Singapore, and Bangkok, and we have introduced those inventories to the Japanese customer, and driving supply expansion from these regional offices.
We are targeting higher-tier hotels, and have also customised connectivity solutions for the Japanese customer.
Our first targets are regional chains, especially business hotel chains, in big cities or resort areas, which tend to be dominated and managed by Western companies.
We want to work with local chain hotels to build something new Asia-Pacific-wide. While I can’t name them, I can say were are focusing on South-east Asian brands.
From the supply side, South-east Asia is one of the most popular regions in Asia-Pacific, and cities such as Bangkok are one of the top destinations in the world.
From the demand side, the number of South-east Asian travellers is increasing, and so is spending.
How does RTX stand out? Would you say it’s the numbers – 500,000 hotel properties, 200,000 vacation rental properties, 20,000 directly contracted properties, and being in 200 countries?
Yes, we have access to a big number of partners and industry players in the world. But what is most important is being able to access an exclusive rate, and how much of a differentiation – and our biggest differentiator is, of course, the Japanese hotels.
We haven’t seen anyone who can call out “We are the largest in Asia-Pacific” yet, so we want to be in that position.
How are you using AI?
We have launched AI concierge on our Japan platform and it will be the model globally.
With Rakuten AI (a comprehensive, agentic AI platform and suite of Large Language Models, developed by Rakuten Group to integrate AI across its vast ecosystem), Rakuten Travel’s new booking feature allows users to receive end-to-end agentic support from tailored recommendations to accommodation facility booking.
We are now collecting more intelligence and user behaviour, and like other online travel companies, we do see a big increase in AI (and Agentic AI) use.
AI can help Japanese hotels and accommodation partners who tend to explain their beauty and charm in great detail, but consumers may not have time to consume so much information.
Japanese customers love reading all the details, but not necessarily customers in other countries.
When we roll out in South-east Asian, AI will definitely add value to standardise fragmented hotel descriptions, in mapping hotels and room types, remove overlapping – when a hotel’s name, or room type is slightly different, AI knows which is correct and which is wrong, correct it, and increase accuracy.
Another area where AI can do better is in translation, especially in Asia-Pacific with so many different languages, different alphabets, and Chinese, Japanese, and Korean characters.
Rakuten AI can translate original copy in Chinese, Korean, etc, more accurately into standardised English or other key languages, compared to asking hotels to translate and submit copy in English.
The booking service itself is still in development, and only available for the hotel portion. But in future, booking a rental car or packages will be on one single AI platform.
Note: Rakuten Group is a Japanese technology and Internet conglomerate that operates as a global ecosystem of over 70 businesses spanning e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and telecommunications.
