Lufthansa introduces Allegris cabins for Singapore-Munich flights
Lufthansa to deploy Allegris cabins on Singapore-Munich route
Lufthansa will introduce its Allegris cabin product on flights between Singapore and Munich from October 26, 2026.
The Allegris-equipped Airbus A350 will operate on the route, bringing Lufthansa’s latest cabin interiors across First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy Class.
The move marks an investment in the Singapore market and enhances Lufthansa’s offering on one of its key Asia-Europe routes via its Munich hub.
Passengers will also have access to Lufthansa’s Future Onboard Experience, a new onboard service concept being rolled out across the airline’s network.
SWISS
SWISS adds Bengaluru, expands A350 network for winter 2026/27
SWISS will launch a new five-times-weekly service between Zurich and Bengaluru during the 2026/27 winter schedule, marking the airline’s first route to Southern India. Bengaluru becomes SWISS’s third destination in India after Delhi and Mumbai.
The airline will also expand deployment of its Airbus A350 fleet, adding Zurich-Johannesburg and Zurich-Shanghai services. The aircraft is already scheduled to operate flights to Boston and Seoul.
From Geneva, SWISS will discontinue services to Berlin, Hamburg and Pristina in the winter schedule as it adjusts operations amid ongoing aircraft and engine parts availability issues affecting its Airbus A220 fleet.
For the 2026/27 winter season, SWISS will serve 88 destinations from Zurich and Geneva, including 60 European and 24 intercontinental destinations from Zurich.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways
Sun PhuQuoc Airways launches Singapore-Phu Quoc service
Sun PhuQuoc Airways will introduce scheduled flights between Singapore and Phu Quoc on July 25, 2026, with ticket sales now open.
The airline becomes the first full-service carrier on the Singapore-Phu Quoc route, which is currently served primarily by low-cost airlines.
The new service will offer Business Class and Economy Class cabins, expanding premium travel options between Singapore and the Vietnamese island destination.
The route strengthens air links between Singapore and Phu Quoc and provides additional connectivity for international travellers transiting through Singapore’s Changi Airport.
Etihad expands flights to Paris
Etihad to operate double-daily A380 flights to Paris
Etihad Airways will increase Airbus A380 operations on the Abu Dhabi-Paris Charles de Gaulle route to twice daily from July 1.
The expanded schedule will see Paris become one of the few destinations in the airline’s network served twice daily by the Airbus A380.
In addition to the two daily A380 flights, Etihad will continue operating a third daily Boeing 787-9 service on the route, bringing total frequencies between Abu Dhabi and Paris to three flights a day.
Hotel exterior, with most rooms featuring a balcony; photo by Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Location Standing on the former site of the iconic Selegie Centre, Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is a newly opened boutique property with 128 guestrooms, located within walking distance of Little India and the Bugis precinct. Tekka Centre sits directly across the road, while nearby eateries include the flagship outlet of Old Chang Kee. Little India MRT station is also just a five-minute walk away.
Accommodation The hotel offers a range of accommodation options, including standard Queen rooms, Twin and King configurations, as well as suites located on the upper floors.
I stayed in a Corner Deluxe King Room, which came with a private balcony fitted with a zip-track blind that could be drawn for added privacy or opened up to views of the Mt Emily neighbourhood. The balcony quickly became my favourite spot to unwind in the room, thanks to the comfortable sofas that made it easy to relax.
Upon entry, there is a small foyer area fitted with a bench that is useful for putting on shoes or placing bags. An open-concept hanging section for clothes is also located here, although limited to just a few pieces of clothing.
Inside the room, the work desk proved conducive for getting work done, with electrical outlets conveniently built into the desk itself. Larger chargers, such as my Macbook charger, could not fit within the internal compartment, although this was easily resolved by using the nearby wall outlet instead. Despite its appearance, the work chair was also far more comfortable than expected, offering good support and posture during extended periods of work.
The room was also equipped with a kettle, tea and coffee sachets, and filtered bottled water that can be refilled upon request. A mini fridge stocked with complimentary canned drinks was provided for the first round as well.
Bathroom amenities are by Maison 21G, featuring the Chai Noir scent, which is also diffused throughout the hotel. All guestrooms are fitted with shower facilities, with the exception of the suite, which comes with a round stone bathtub.
Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
1 of 10
Standard Queen Room in dark theme; photo by Melissa A Tan
Corner King Room; photo by Melissa A Tan
Suite living room; photo by Melissa A Tan
Bathroom; photo by Melissa A Tan
Sky Terrace; photo by Melissa A Tan
Hathaway Autograph; photo by Melissa A Tan
Hathaway Autograph al fresco area; photo by Melissa A Tan
Saga Bar; photo by Melissa A Tan
Rooftop pool during the day; photo by Melissa A Tan
Rooftop pool at night; photo by Melissa A Tan
F&B Despite its relatively intimate size, the hotel delivers a strong culinary offering through its signature restaurant, Hathaway Autograph. Under the direction of Chef Lawrence, the menu draws on comforting regional flavours while introducing modern interpretations of classic dishes.
The al fresco all-day dining venue also hosts the hotel’s buffet breakfast, featuring an egg station, hot dishes, fruits, yoghurt, charcuterie, and even a pancake-making machine.
While the restaurant is open for lunch, I did not have the opportunity to dine there as I spent much of the day exploring the surrounding neighbourhood. Dinner, however, proved to be a highlight, with both set menus and à la carte options available.
For starters, I sampled the Salmon & Coconut Kinilaw, a Filipino-style ceviche bursting with refreshing flavours from citrus-cured salmon and creamy avocado, alongside the Tempe Buncis, a simple yet flavourful dish that evoked a comforting, homely feeling. I also had the Grilled Squid “Rojak” – an interesting interpretation of the traditional dish. Among the mains, my standout favourites were Ah Nya’s Fish Curry, featuring fresh barramundi poached in a rich and hearty curry sauce, and the Wagyu Bakudan Bakso, a tender tendon meatball served in a clear, subtly sweet beef broth. Both dishes brought back fond memories of meals shared with my Indonesian relatives, where similar flavours were often served at the dining table.
To end the meal, I had the Sago Gula Melaka and Sticky Coffee Pudding, both decadent desserts that provided a satisfying finish to an enjoyable dinner.
I found myself particularly enjoying the evening atmosphere at Saga Bar, located on the hotel’s second level. During my visit, bartender Shuhan showcased her mixology skills with a cocktail specially created for the hotel, which has yet to be officially named. The drink was enjoyable and well-balanced, featuring notes of cranberry and Cointreau among its flavours. I even brought a nightcap back to my room to enjoy on the balcony before turning in for the night.
Guests at the bar can also order dishes from Hathaway Autograph’s menu. On one evening, I opted for the Signature Beef Cheek Rawon and the Chilli Crab Dip, both of which proved to be delightful accompaniments to the cocktails.
Located on the ground floor near the hotel’s street-level drop-off point, Vernacular Coffee offers a convenient stop for coffee and light refreshments throughout the day.
Facilities The hotel’s design draws on local heritage influences, from bathroom metal grilles reminiscent of old lift gates to tingkat-shaped desk lamps in the guestrooms. Inspired by the vision of the hotel’s Indonesian owner, many of the nostalgic touches reflect his years spent living in Singapore.
Located on the second floor, the lobby features a playful five stones theme, complete with oversized replica cushions and a communal workstation area. Guests can also borrow five stones sets to try the traditional game for themselves.
On the eighth floor is the rooftop swimming pool, equipped with hot and cold poolside rinse showers, with plans for a rooftop bar also in the works. Despite rainy weather during much of my stay, I still managed to enjoy a relaxing night swim before the pool closed at 22.00.
The hotel’s Sky Terraces, located on the third, fifth and seventh floors, provide open-air green spaces within the city, while guests seeking a workout can request passes to a nearby gym via the front desk.
Service All the staff at Varel Singapore were warm and friendly, consistently checking in on how my day was going and whether I required any assistance during my stay. Guests are also welcomed upon check-in with TWG tea and a scoop of gelato by Denzy Gelato, a thoughtful touch that added to the arrival experience. Special mention goes to Colin, front office supervisor, who attended to my needs attentively and patiently answered my questions about both the hotel and the surrounding area. I would also like to commend Viwan, F&B supervisor, who took care of my dining requests and reservations throughout the stay.
The hotel also utilises the Marriott Bonvoy app, which allows guests to message the front desk, request housekeeping services and amenities, as well as make dining reservations. Mobile Key functionality is also available, enabling guests to use their smartphones in place of a physical key card, although a Bluetooth connection is required.
Verdict Overall, I had an enjoyable stay at Varel Singapore, made even better by the warm hospitality from the team throughout my visit. The rooms were clean, cosy and comfortable, while the food and service consistently impressed me during my stay. Combined with its thoughtful design touches and convenient location, it is a hotel I would gladly return to in the future – and one I wished I could have stayed at a little longer.
Sri Lanka is offering a free 30-day visa to nationals of 40 countries from May 25, providing a boost to the tourism industry amid the impact of the Middle East crisis on travel demand.
The countries include the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Australia, Poland, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Nepal, China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, France, the US, Canada, the Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Israel, Belarus, Iran, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, South Korea, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, New Zealand, Kuwait, Norway, Türkiye and Pakistan. Travellers from these countries previously paid a visa fee of about US$50.
Sri Lanka has introduced free 30-day visas for travellers from 40 countries to support tourism recovery; Kandy in Sri Lanka, pictured
India, China, Russia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia have been entitled to free visas since 2023 under a special arrangement. The broader free-visa scheme was first proposed in mid-2024 but was delayed due to administrative procedures.
Travellers are still required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival in Sri Lanka. Countries with bilateral reciprocal agreements, including the Maldives, Seychelles and Singapore, will receive a 90-day visa.
The move was welcomed by industry stakeholders.
“This is a good initiative. Look at how Singapore (for a long time) and Thailand have benefitted by free visas and visa-on-arrival,” said Devindre Seneratne, former president of the Travel Agents Association of Sri Lanka and a travel agent. “Many visitors will start talking (about this) helping to spread the message. It will also help to boost arrivals from Europe,” he added.
Seneratne noted that the scheme would strengthen ongoing destination marketing efforts and boost arrivals, while urging authorities to implement the long-awaited destination marketing campaign.
Hiran Cooray, chairman of Jetwing Symphony Hotels, said the move would support tourism growth, but cautioned that authorities should ensure the scheme does not attract undesirable activity.
Earlier this month, police arrested more than 120 foreign nationals, including Chinese, Malaysian, Vietnamese, Taiwanese, Filipino and Cambodian citizens, for overstaying visitor visas and allegedly engaging in business activities in the country, including financial fraud and website hacking.
In southern Sri Lanka, some tourists have reportedly been operating small businesses, including bars, through local partners to avoid detection.
Tourist arrivals have fallen by 20 per cent since the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East, a major transit hub for European travellers.
The 12th edition of the Bali and Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) 2026 kicks off today, May 28, with a gala dinner at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, ahead of the main travel mart taking place from May 29-30 at the Bali International Convention Centre.
Held under the theme Redefining Indonesia’s Gastronomy Journey: A Celebration of Taste, Cultures, and Sustainable Heritage, this year’s event brings together 407 buyers from 44 countries and 286 sellers from four countries and 13 Indonesian provinces.
The two-day BBTF 2026 event in Bali aims to strengthen tourism partnerships and promote Indonesia’s cultural and gastronomic offerings to international markets
High-level government officials, including the vice president of Indonesia, the minister of tourism and the governor of Bali, are expected to attend, highlighting Bali’s role in Indonesia’s tourism strategy.
As international travel patterns shift and competition intensifies, BBTF 2026 is positioning Bali around destination identity, market confidence and tourism value for local communities.
The momentum is also being supported by expanding international air connectivity.
New services include Jetstar’s direct Sunshine Coast-Bali and Melbourne Avalon-Bali routes, alongside Virgin Australia’s upcoming Canberra-Bali service launching on June 22. Regional access has also expanded, with Indonesia AirAsia introducing a Bali-Danang route and IndiGo launching a Mumbai-Denpasar service to complement its existing Bengaluru flight.
I Putu Winastra, chairman of the ASITA Bali Chapter and head committee of BBTF 2026, remarked that connectivity should be viewed as part of a wider tourism ecosystem.
“Every new route to Bali brings more than passengers,” Winastra said. “It opens market access, strengthens hotel demand, restaurant spending, transport movement, creative economy opportunities, and wider exposure. Our task is to protect the quality of our products and visitor experience, so that access can become quality transactions and lasting value.”
This year’s focus on gastronomy is intended to showcase how Balinese tourism remains connected to culture, community and everyday life. Organisers said maintaining Bali’s global reputation will also require stronger sustainability efforts.
“Bali is a living culture, a home, and a responsibility,” Putu said, adding that preserving the island requires cleaner environments, better destination management and commitment from all stakeholders.
The event also serves as a business-to-business platform aimed at building partnerships through meetings, familiarisation trips and post-event tours.
“Tourism is diplomacy in motion. Every visit to Bali, every meal, every cultural encounter, and every meeting between buyers and sellers shapes how people understand the island and Indonesia. BBTF gives Bali the opportunity to build trust through real experience,” Putu concluded.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement with Phuket HA 2 Co. for voco Phuket Patong, further expanding the premium brand’s presence in Thailand.
Scheduled to open in 2028, the 307-room property will form part of the mixed-use Abov Patong development in Phuket, which will include hotels, branded residences and lifestyle facilities such as a clubhouse, theatre, swimming pools and Kids Club.
From left: Abov Patong’s Nada Anerutteva and Wuthikrai Kulsirisawad; and IHG’s Pathana Jitsaereetham and Kate Gerits
Located on the hillside of Patong and approximately 150m from the beach, voco Phuket Patong will offer ocean views and access to nearby entertainment, shopping and dining areas. Facilities at the hotel are expected to include a restaurant, two bars, spa, swimming pool and fitness centre.
The signing adds to the rapid growth of the voco brand in Thailand following its debut in Bangkok last year. Additional voco properties are also in development across Bangkok and Phuket.
IHG said the agreement also strengthens its broader presence in Phuket, where the group currently operates or has signed seven hotels across brands including InterContinental, Vignette Collection, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express.
“Phuket experienced its most successful high season in five years in 2025, surpassing pre-Covid benchmarks,” said Pathana Jitsaereetham, director, development, Thailand, IHG. “This resurgence highlights Phuket’s enduring charm as an island destination.”
Wuthikrai Kulsirisawad, CEO, Phuket HA 2 Co., said: “With its distinctive brand identity, I am confident that (voco Phuket Patong) will stand out from the crowd and be a valuable addition to the mixed-used development… I look forward to building a strong long-term partnership with the team as we introduce local and international travellers to experience the very best that Patong has to offer.”
Meliá Hotels International and Tanzanite International are moving ahead with a major expansion of Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort, adding new accommodation, wellness and lifestyle facilities as demand for upscale coastal travel in southern Vietnam continues to grow.
Expected to open in 3Q2028, the expansion will add 191 suites and rooms alongside new wellness, leisure and lifestyle facilities, further strengthening Ho Tram’s positioning as an upscale coastal destination in southern Vietnam.
Meliá Hotels International will expand Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort with additional suites, wellness facilities and serviced residences by 2028
The development will include five additional swimming pools across 2,500m², including a rooftop pool, as well as expanded fitness, wellness and dining facilities.
Ahead of the expansion, the resort is also introducing new family and wellness-focused experiences. Enhancements include an upgraded kids club featuring a treehouse and expanded activity programme, a professional football pitch scheduled to open in June 2026, and a dedicated outdoor zone for teenagers.
From August 2026, the resort’s wellness programme will expand to include an onsen experience and a new Wellness Inclusive Package incorporating yoga, meditation, tai chi, spa therapies and nature-based activities. Additional experiences will include cacao and coconut oil workshops, forest bathing trails and access to sauna and steam facilities.
As part of the wider development, Meliá and Tanzanite International will also introduce The Indochine Residences at Meliá Ho Tram, comprising serviced two- and three-bedroom residences, duplexes and penthouses linked to the resort’s hospitality and rental programme.
The expansion comes as Ho Tram continues to develop as a coastal tourism destination, supported by infrastructure improvements and the future opening of Long Thanh International Airport, located approximately 66km away.
“Vietnam continues to represent one of the most strategic growth markets for Meliá Hotels International in Asia-Pacific, and Ho Tram is rapidly emerging as a premier leisure and lifestyle destination within the region,” said André P Gerondeau, chief operating officer, Meliá Hotels International.
Nguyen Nam Son, chairman of Tanzanite International, added that the project reflects the partners’ long-term commitment to Ho Tram and is expected to generate more than 1,000 construction jobs and approximately 500 operational roles once completed.
Explora Journeys has opened sales for its Summer 2028 Journeys Collection, marking the debut of Explora VI and the completion of the brand’s six-ship fleet.
Launching in August 2028, Explora VI will join the line’s global deployment across 178 destinations in 27 countries. The programme spans the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska and the North American East Coast.
Explora Journeys opens bookings for its Summer 2028 season alongside the debut of Explora VI
The itineraries focus on slower-paced travel, with overnight stays and extended port calls in destinations including New York, Reykjavik and Istanbul, alongside maiden calls to ports such as Korčula and the Faroe Islands.
Explora I and Explora II will operate Mediterranean itineraries between April and October 2028, covering destinations across the Aegean, Adriatic, Iberia and North Africa. Explora III returns to Alaska from May to September, while Explora IV and Explora V will sail across Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, Iceland, Greenland and the North American East Coast.
Explora VI will operate 13 Mediterranean journeys between August and November 2028, beginning with its maiden voyage from Rome to Barcelona. The itineraries include calls across Sicily, Sardinia, the French Riviera and the Adriatic coast.
Explora Journeys said guests booking early will have access to preferred rates and suite selections for the inaugural season of Explora VI.
Marriott International and The Fern Hotels & Resorts have surpassed 75 hotel signings and 50 property openings under the Series by Marriott brand in India, less than six months after the collaboration launched in November 2025.
The milestone adds more than 3,556 rooms to Marriott International’s India portfolio and marks one of the company’s fastest regional brand expansions to date.
Marriott International and The Fern Hotels & Resorts have reached 75 signings and 50 openings for Series by Marriott properties across India
Developed in partnership with Concept Hospitality Private Limited (CHPL), Series by Marriott was introduced as a collection brand bringing together locally recognised hotel groups under the Marriott Bonvoy platform. The portfolio now spans 43 cities across India, including Tier 1, 2 and 3 markets, as well as resort destinations.
Open properties include The Fern Mumbai, Goregaon, Series by Marriott; The Fern Jaipur, Series by Marriott; The Fern Habitat Goa, Candolim, Series by Marriott; Rakabi The Fern Igatpuri, Series by Marriott; and The Fern Residency Bengaluru, Seshadripuram, Series by Marriott.
The brand targets domestic and regional travellers seeking internationally recognised standards alongside locally rooted hospitality experiences. Properties are designed around core travel essentials such as accommodation, connectivity and service consistency, while incorporating regional identity and destination-specific elements.
Selected hotels within the portfolio also offer fitness facilities, breakfast options and meeting spaces catering to both leisure and business travellers.
In addition, guests staying at participating properties can access Marriott Bonvoy benefits, including points earning and app-based travel services.
“When we launched Series by Marriott in India last November, we spoke of a brand designed to scale with both speed and purpose,” said Kiran Andicot, senior vice president, South Asia, Marriott International. “Reaching 75 signings, with 50 open and operating hotels across the country, in under six months is a validation of that vision. India is not simply a launchpad for this brand; it is proof of concept.”
Suhail Kannampilly, managing director, Concept Hospitality, added that the partnership combined The Fern’s regional hospitality approach with Marriott International’s global distribution and loyalty network, contributing to stronger owner and traveller interest in the brand.
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) has added four new hotel brands to its network, expanding the alliance’s footprint across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
The additions include Almanac Hotels, Regal Hotels International, Story Hotels & Resorts and TemptingPlaces Collection, collectively contributing 22 properties to the GHA Discovery loyalty programme.
Global Hotel Alliance has expanded its network with four new hotel brands spanning Europe, Asia and the Middle East; Story Seychelles, pictured
The expansion strengthens GHA’s presence in destinations including Hong Kong, Barcelona, Vienna and Prague, while also introducing the alliance to new markets such as Zagreb in Croatia and Rabat in Morocco.
GHA said the latest additions continue its strategy of broadening its portfolio of independent hotel brands while enhancing options available to its more than 35 million GHA Discovery members.
Almanac Hotels joins the alliance with boutique properties in Barcelona, Vienna and Prague, focusing on locally inspired hospitality and design-led stays. Regal Hotels International adds 11 properties across its Regal, Regala and iclub brands, bringing approximately 6,800 rooms and more than 30 dining venues into the network.
Story Hotels & Resorts contributes five properties across the Middle East, North Africa and the Indian Ocean, including beachfront and urban hotels centred on destination-led experiences and wellness. TemptingPlaces Collection joins with a portfolio of boutique properties in Europe, including Château d’Augerville Golf & Spa Resort in France and Dent Blanche Resort in Switzerland.
Alongside the new brand additions, GHA said existing member brands have introduced 14 additional hotels and resorts since the start of the year. Recent openings include Capella Kyoto in Japan, Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi in Florence, Corinthia Rome, Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp in Zambia and Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel in Australia.
“Our continued expansion reflects the strength of our alliance proposition and the growing desire for collaboration within the independent sector,” said GHA CEO Chris Hartley.
“With the addition of these eclectic brands, we are further diversifying our portfolio and the value we deliver to over 35 million GHA Discovery members.”
He joins from DFDS A/S, where he most recently served as vice president and head of the company’s passenger and freight business in Northern Europe.
