PATA has entered into a partnership agreement with the Phuket Hotels Association (PHA), a non-profit organisation representing hotels across Phuket in southern Thailand.
Signed by PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and PHA executive director Jayne MacDougall, the agreement establishes a mutual affiliate membership between the two organisations.
PATA and the Phuket Hotels Association have entered a cooperation agreement to support collaboration and knowledge sharing
Under the partnership, PATA and PHA will support joint activities, including the mutual promotion of events and participation by speakers where appropriate. Members and representatives of both organisations will also have opportunities to connect through networking sessions and annual events, with registration support provided in accordance with the agreement.
The collaboration also includes a knowledge-sharing component. PHA will contribute selected tourism research and insights to the PATA network on a quarterly basis through member-exclusive newsletters and relevant online channels.
The agreement is intended to support collaboration on tourism-related issues relevant to Phuket and the wider region.
Noor commented: “With this partnership, we pave the path for collaborations with the Phuket Hotels Association on their mission to promote and strengthen Phuket’s standing as a destination recognised for its quality offerings and sustainable practices.”
“Formalising a partnership with PATA marks an important step in advancing shared goals around responsible tourism, regional collaboration, and innovation, strengthening long-term outcomes for Phuket and the wider region,” added MacDougall.
Novotel, Accor’s founding brand, has launched Longevity Everyday, a global brand strategy focused on integrating well-being into everyday travel and reframing the role hotels play in supporting guests’ quality of life.
Unveiled in Paris on January 20, the initiative comes as the longevity economy is forecast to reach US$27 trillion globally by the end of the decade, with US$4.6 trillion attributed to the travel sector.
Minet: longevity is not about tech – it’s about people living better, fuller, happier lives through simple, sustainable choices
Jean-Yves Minet, Novotel global brand president for midscale and economy, said during a live broadcast from Paris: “Longevity is a mega trend reshaping our world and our industry. The question is not about adding years to life anymore. Instead, we must be thinking about adding life to years.”
He noted that longevity has traditionally been framed as an exclusive pursuit focused on luxury wellness, biohacking and costly interventions.
“But longevity is not about tech. It’s about people. It’s about living better, fuller, happier lives through simple, sustainable choices that anyone can make.
“Longevity Everyday is our promise to help people live better every single day. Not through perfection, but through progress. Not through grand gestures, but through small, meaningful steps.”
The strategy is structured around four pillars – Eat, Sleep, Move and Meet – which will be progressively rolled out across Novotel’s global portfolio of more than 600 hotels in 67 countries.
Under the Eat pillar, new menus will be introduced worldwide from April, with at least 25 per cent plant-forward options across all hotels by the end of 2026. This reflects survey data showing that 37 per cent of travellers are seeking healthier dining choices.
Novotel has also entered a multi-year partnership with British cook and food creator Alfie Steiner. The brand has developed Sustainable Seafood Principles and training in partnership with WWF and is implementing full traceability for priority species through partnerships with Seafood Souk and the Seafood Task Force.
Under Sleep, Novotel will upgrade bedding standards globally, introducing new eco-designed premium beds by 2030. The new Novotel Bed, which is 29cm deep and certified by Oeko-Tex and NF Environnement, has been designed to support rest and recovery.
The Move pillar includes global partnerships with Paris 2024 Olympic gold medallist Kauli Vaast and football club Paris Saint-Germain, offering practical guidance and tools to encourage physical activity. The Meet pillar focuses on rethinking business travel and family stays.
Air India and Singapore Airlines have signed a cooperation agreement on January 16, 2026
Air India, Singapore Airlines sign framework for expanded cooperation Air India and Singapore Airlines have signed a commercial cooperation framework agreement to deepen their partnership, subject to regulatory approvals and final joint business agreements.
The agreement sets out plans to improve connectivity between Singapore and India through closer coordination of schedules, expanded route options and more seamless journeys across both airlines. Customers would be able to book unified itineraries and access enhanced product and service offerings.
The partnership may also extend to corporate travel programmes and expanded frequent flyer benefits beyond existing Star Alliance arrangements. The airlines currently codeshare on 61 points in 20 countries, following an expansion of their partnership in October 2024.
SWISS
SWISS introduces Airbus A350 on Seoul services Swiss International Air Lines will deploy its new Airbus A350 on the Zurich-Seoul route from the start of the 2026 summer schedule on March 29.
Seoul becomes the airline’s second longhaul destination, after Boston, to be served by the A350. The aircraft introduces the new SWISS Senses cabin, offering redesigned interiors, increased privacy, updated lighting intended to reduce jet lag, and revised onboard service elements.
The route is currently operated by Airbus A340 aircraft. SWISS launched services to the South Korean capital in summer 2024 and continues to operate the route three times a week. The A350 will also reduce overall flight time compared with the existing aircraft.
Emirates
Emirates to launch daily Dubai-Helsinki service Emirates will launch a daily, year-round service between Dubai and Helsinki from October 1, 2026, creating the only direct air link between Finland and the UAE. The route expands the airline’s Nordic network and will be operated by the Airbus A350.
The aircraft features three cabins – Business, Premium Economy and Economy – with lie-flat seats in Business Class, upgraded seating in Premium Economy and the latest in-flight entertainment system. Helsinki will receive the A350 from the start of the service, introducing Emirates’ newest onboard products and cabin features to the Finnish market.
Vietjet
Vietjet to connect Hanoi with Shizuoka from April 2026 Vietjet will launch a new Hanoi-Shizuoka service on April 28, 2026, operating three times a week. With this addition, Vietjet will operate 11 routes between Vietnam and Japan.
The route marks the first scheduled air service between Shizuoka and Vietnam, and the first direct connection between Shizuoka and South-east Asia since the opening of Mt Fuji Shizuoka Airport.
Swan Hellenic has introduced a series of scuba diving options on four East Asia voyages to Raja Ampat, operated aboard the expedition ship SH Minerva. The dive programmes are available on two sailings in 2026 and two in 2027 for guests with PADI Advanced Open Water certification.
Each 10- or 11-night voyage includes five to six dives using dedicated dive boats, supported by dive masters and an onboard concierge service. Equipment is provided – wetsuits, regulators and tanks – while guests are required to bring dive computers and insurance. All permits are arranged in advance. Dive excursions are optional and start from US$250 per single dive.
Divers can join guided scuba excursions on four Swan Hellenic East Asia itineraries to Raja Ampat
The voyages are designed for both divers and non-divers. All guests can join guided snorkelling activities, including visits to Cenderawasih Bay National Park, where whale sharks are commonly sighted. Non-diving guests take part in shore landings and cultural excursions as part of the wider expedition programme.
The first 2026 sailing, Secrets of the Coral Triangle: West Papua and Raja Ampat, departs Sorong on April 18, 2026, and returns on April 28 after 10 nights. Prices start from US$7,925. The itinerary includes dives at sites such as Pulau Kri, Pulau Fam, Cape Kri and Yenbuda Jetty, alongside visits to coastal communities and historical locations.
This is followed by Heart of the Pacific Isles, departing Sorong on April 28, 2026, and arriving in Manila on May 9 after 11 nights. Prices start from US$8,720. Dive locations include Pulau Penemu, Batu Rufas, Keru Channel and Manta Ridge.
The same itineraries will operate in 2027. Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay departs on April 16, 2027, with prices from US$8,110. Raja Ampat and Philippines departs on April 26, 2027, with prices from US$8,920.
All four voyages are included in Swan Hellenic’s Elevated Expeditions offer, available until February 28, 2026, and include fare reductions, onboard credit and Wi-Fi upgrades.
The global ultra-luxury cruise market is forecast to experience exponential growth in the next decade, fuelled by the entry of more ultra-luxury hospitality brands in 2026 and 2027.
The industry is expected to be worth US$18.7 billion by 2033, up from US$8.1 billion in 2024 due to a compound annual growth rate of 9.6 per cent, as per a report by research provider Market Intelo.
Four Seasons I, the brand’s first yacht, is scheduled to enter service in the Mediterranean in March 2026
This development builds on a tripling of the luxury cruise market between 2010 and 2025, according to Cruise Lines International Association, which estimates that by 2028, 1.5 million cruise travellers will choose a luxury cruise experience.
“With a number of luxury hotel brands coming online in the luxury yachting space, you’ll see a conversion of non-cruisers into cruisers,” J D O’Hara, CEO of Internova Travel Group, told attendees of the inaugural Tourise Summit in Saudi Arabia, pointing out that this trend will lead to growth in the entire cruise sector.
New offerings from ultra-luxury brands include Four Seasons I, a 95-suite, 11 F&B-outlet ship that will debut in March 2026 in the Mediterranean. The inaugural sailing of Four Seasons II is planned for 2028.
The Orient Express Corinthian, a sailing yacht with 54 suites, is scheduled to depart Marseille, France, charting a course through the French and Italian Rivieras, in June 2026.
The Waldorf Astoria Nile River Experience, a five-deck vessel comprising 29 suites, will make its inaugural journey through Egypt’s Luxor and Aswan areas in late 2026, while Aman at Sea’s first ship, Amangati, will begin sailing in 2027 and will feature 47 suites and four dining venues across nine decks.
Luxury travel advisors can continue to demonstrate their value in the travel and tourism landscape amid a rise in AI-led travel inspiration, with first-hand destination experience, agility in managing disruption and local human connections cited as key advantages.
Simon Cameron, founder and CEO of Lightfoot Travel, a bespoke travel company serving high-net-worth guests, told TTG Asia that while AI can generate a wide range of travel ideas, the complexity inherent in luxury itineraries often requires a high level of human involvement for successful delivery.
Luxury travellers are often drawn to off-the-beaten-track destinations that require complex arrangements and local connections
“Our clients are constantly drawn to off-the-beaten-track destinations and locations, and many of these places are not easy to reach,” Cameron stated.
An example he noted was that some African lodges cannot be booked online, as properties prefer to work with travel agents who manage guest arrangements. Certain locations or areas within attractions are only accessible through local connections. In addition, some destinations require multiple flight connections followed by long road transfers, increasing the risk of disruption at various points of the journey.
“AI does not show these details and will not step in to support the client when last minute changes are required on the ground,” he said.
Sophie Newland, head of Singapore at Lightfoot Travel, added that AI-driven content has resulted in a proliferation of heavily edited destination and hotel videos, which can mislead travellers.
“There are fake reels that show incredible drone shots. In reality, the hotel may not look that great, or it may not have any service standards, or is quite a mission to get to. Travel advisors with first-hand experience of the destination and hotels are needed to educate travellers,” she explained.
Furthermore, current luxury travel trends also indicate increasing itinerary complexity. Cameron pointed to an evolution of the wellness travel trend, with luxury travellers moving away from generic spa escapes towards precision wellness programmes offering “targeted outcomes for the individual”. Such programmes, he noted, require careful curation and cannot be booked online.
Multi-generational travel also continues to grow, with more affluent grandparents travelling with their children and grandchildren.
“Often, these trips involve family members who are residing or studying in various cities around the world. The chosen destination has to logistically work for everyone, which can be challenging. Such clients often rely on us, the travel advisor, for recommendations and to coordinate complex travel arrangements,” Cameron added.
He also noted that as more female travellers opt for solo travel, the role of a trusted and experienced travel advisor becomes increasingly important.
“I know clients still value that human judgment, the nuance, the insider access, and the local knowledge that we bring as travel advisors. You can get AI to plan your trip around Bolivia and Colombia, but it will not unlock doors to premium, behind-the-scenes experiences,” Cameron pointed out.
At the same time, Cameron acknowledged that AI is increasingly shaping how businesses operate and said there is a need to “understand and adopt it to help us work better”.
He expects AI to play a role in analysing client data and feedback to support more tailored customer service.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) supported the Thailand Boat Festival 2026, held from January 15 to January 18 at Phuket Boat Lagoon, as part of efforts to strengthen regional marine tourism cooperation and cross-border connectivity under the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) framework.
The festival brought together public and private sector stakeholders from Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, including tourism authorities, marina operators, yacht and cruise service providers, and related businesses. The event served as a platform to discuss marine tourism development, workforce readiness and service standards across the subregion.
The Thailand Boat Festival 2026 brought together tourism and marine industry stakeholders in Phuket to support cross-border cooperation across the IMT-GT region
TAT also convened representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia and the Centre for Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle to promote cooperation and highlight connectivity between key marine destinations along Thailand’s Andaman coast and neighbouring countries.
Discussions during the festival focused on strengthening links across yacht tourism, marinas, charter services and supporting sectors, with an emphasis on coordinated development and cross-border travel. Panel sessions examined Thailand’s preparedness in marine tourism, including product development, skills training and regulatory alignment.
A separate panel held on January 17 explored opportunities to position the IMT-GT region as a connected destination for yacht tourism. Speakers from regional tourism and port authorities shared perspectives on infrastructure readiness, market potential and collaboration across the three countries.
The Thailand Boat Festival 2026 formed part of broader efforts to support regional tourism cooperation and encourage coordinated marine tourism growth within the IMT-GT subregion.
“Our focus is on developing skilled personnel, elevating high-quality tourism products, and ensuring that marine tourism growth delivers real benefits to local communities and the environment,” commented Wajanan Silpawornwiwat, executive director of the Southern Region Department of TAT.
Wattana Choksuwanich, chairperson of the Thai Cruises Business Association added: “Thailand Boat Festival 2026 demonstrates how public and private sectors can move forward together to build a truly connected marine tourism network. With Phuket as the primary hub and Krabi and Satun as key gateways, Thailand is ready to offer world-class yacht experiences that link smoothly with Langkawi, Penang and Sabang, creating a new generation of cross-border yacht journeys under the IMT-GT framework.”
Minor Hotels will adopt a more focused growth approach in 2026, following a year of increased development activity, with emphasis on portfolio diversification, geographic balance and capital efficiency.
The group signed 40 hotel contracts and master agreements in 2025, its highest annual total to date, and expects to complete a further 25 signings in 1Q2026. The company’s development pipeline now exceeds 640 properties globally, with future growth expected to rely primarily on managed and franchised models.
Minor Hotels’ asset-light growth strategy is reflected in properties such as Dukes The Palm, Dubai, pictured, which came under its management in August 2025
In 2026, Minor Hotels plans to concentrate investment in markets where long-term demand is strongest. More than 60 per cent of expected signings in early 2026 are located in the Middle East and Asia, increasing their contribution alongside Europe, which currently represents more than half of the portfolio.
Expansion is planned across North America, including New York and Miami, as well as the Caribbean, with selected brands entering these markets. Growth is also expected in Australia, where the group already operates more than 60 properties, and in London, supported by The Wolseley Hospitality Group, acquired in 2022.
In North Africa, development activity will focus on Egypt and Morocco, supported by European source markets. In Asia, Japan and India remain priorities, with projects underway following joint ventures and recent hotel openings. In Europe, Minor Hotels intends to increase its presence in resort destinations alongside its city hotel portfolio.
Franchising will form a larger share of future development, particularly in Europe, the US and Africa. Asset-light projects now account for 87 per cent of the group’s extended pipeline, compared with 70 per cent a year earlier.
The group also plans to introduce several new brands in 2026, including collection brands aimed at conversion opportunities and a limited number of luxury projects under The Wolseley Hotels name. Branded residences remain part of the growth strategy, with around 20 per cent of the pipeline incorporating residential elements. The first standalone branded residence project is scheduled to launch in 2026.
Minor International is also progressing plans for a hotel real estate investment trust, expected to list in mid-2026, comprising selected assets in Europe and Asia.
“The pace of recent signings reflects strong owner confidence in our brands and platform,” said Dillip Rajakarier, group CEO of Minor International. “As we add depth to our brand portfolio in 2026, this combination of global reach and an owner’s mindset gives us the insight needed to really tailor solutions to different assets and owner ambitions.”
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has partnered with a Hong Kong-Macau cross-border bus operator to offer free direct coach transfers from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) to Macau for eligible international visitors.
The offer will run from January 20 to December 31, 2026, and applies to one-way coach transfers from the restricted area of HKIA to Macau via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. The service is available to international passengers arriving in Hong Kong who wish to continue their journey to Macau.
International travellers arriving at Hong Kong International Airport can access free direct coach transfers to Macau from now till end of 2026
The initiative follows similar cross-border transport offers introduced in 2024 and 2025. This year’s programme is delivered in collaboration with Hong Kong & Macao International Airport Transportation Service Company (Macau HK Airport Direct) and is intended to support international visitation to Macau and encourage multi-destination travel across Hong Kong and Macau.
Eligible visitors can collect free tickets upon arrival at designated counters within the airport’s restricted area after completing the required procedures. Transfers depart from the SkyPier Terminal and provide direct access to Macau without the need to enter Hong Kong.
Advance bookings can be made through the service operator’s official website. During the promotion period, visitors may use the free coach service multiple times, subject to seat availability and the operator’s terms and conditions. Tickets are offered within a limited quota.
MGTO said the offer will be promoted through online and offline channels, including social media and partnerships with airlines and travel agencies. The promotion will run alongside Macau’s calendar of events and overseas marketing activities to encourage longer stays and broader engagement with tourism offerings in the city.
Modena by Fraser Shenzhen, China
Nestled in the commercial core of Luohu District, Shenzhen, China, the newly opened Modena by Fraser Shenzhen is part of the Shennan 1001 mixed-use development comprising premium offices, retail and cultural spaces. It offers 325 apartments for long-term stays and exceptional connectivity with key business and lifestyle destinations in the city as well as Hong Kong.
There are a range of layouts to choose from: contemporary 31m² studios to spacious 103m² two-bedroom apartments, each with a versatile hobby zone intentionally left open-ended, allowing residents to make the space their own. Residents can also opt for units with flexible configurations that include transformable furniture or lofts.
Besides a variety of amenities that support active lifestyles and social engagements, such as an outdoor pickleball court and residents’ lounge, Modena by Fraser Shenzhen also presents curated neighbourhood walks that introduce residents to local experiences.
The St Regis Singapore
The St Regis Singapore, Singapore
The St Regis Singapore has completed a multi-phase refurbishment that updates its 299 rooms and suites, dining venues and event spaces near Orchard Road.
Guestrooms have been refreshed with new interiors and energy-efficient lighting, while maintaining residential-style layouts. Facilities include a fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool, spa and a range of meeting and function spaces. Dining venues include an Italian restaurant, a bar and a tea lounge, along with a pâtisserie offering takeaway items.
Event facilities include a pillarless ballroom of about 710m², along with several smaller meeting rooms on the first floor.
The hotel is close to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Orchard Road shopping areas and nearby embassies, with public transport links within walking distance.
Royal Garden Kowloon East
Royal Garden Kowloon East, Hong Kong
The 366-room Royal Garden Kowloon East has opened in Tseung Kwan O and is the first new property under the Royal Garden brand in 44 years. The hotel occupies the former Crowne Plaza Kowloon East following a full rebranding.
Accommodation includes standard guestrooms, family rooms with interconnecting layouts, bunk bed studios, multi-room suites and seven villas with private gardens, which are pet-friendly.
Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, children’s club, lounge spaces and meeting and wedding venues. Dining options include a lobby café and an Italian all-day dining restaurant, with a rooftop Italian venue scheduled to open in July 2026.
The hotel is close to Junk Bay, waterfront walking routes and nearby shopping centres.
Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore
Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore, Singapore
Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore is located in the Bugis precinct, within the Bugis Junction mixed-use development and nearby the train station. The property is set within a conserved historic building and includes more than 400 guestrooms and suites.
Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, wellness areas and about 1,000m² of event space, including a ballroom and smaller meeting rooms. Dining venues include updated concepts offering Cantonese and Western cuisines.
The hotel is within walking distance of Kampong Glam, Arab Street and the Bras Basah–Bugis arts district, with museums, shops and cultural sites nearby.
jüSTa Luxe High Point Jawai
jüSTa Luxe High Point Jawai, India
jüSTa Luxe High Point Jawai is a boutique wildlife retreat in Village Bijapur, in the Jawai region between Udaipur and Jodhpur. Set across about one hectare, the resort comprises 18 rooms and suites, including options with heated plunge pools.
Rooms are arranged to face the surrounding granite landscape, with select units including private gardens, outdoor showers and sit-out areas. Facilities include a swimming pool, spa with two treatment rooms and steam bath, a multi-cuisine restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, and a banquet space of about 140m².
The resort is accessible by road from Udaipur and Jodhpur and is close to Jawai Dam, Ranakpur Jain Temple, Pola Lake and wildlife safari areas known for leopard sightings and birdlife.
