Intrepid Travel is expanding its destination management network with a new country office in Uzbekistan, scheduled to open later this year.
This move reinforces Intrepid’s Central Asia network as demand grows, with bookings to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan up 70 per cent year-on-year in 2025.
The new office will support locally managed trips and community-connected experiences across the region
The Tashkent-based office will operate as a DMC, led by a country general manager and supported by a small operational team and regional trip leaders. It will be Intrepid’s 32nd office worldwide and reflects the company’s 2030 strategy to scale locally managed DMCs and offer community-connected experiences.
Intrepid recently launched two new trips in the region. The 10-day Kyrgyzstan: Trekking the Tien Shan Trails itinerary follows nomadic paths through the western Tien Shan mountains, including overnight stays in traditional yurts and alpine lake views. The 16-day Highlights of Central Asia journey travels by train through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, with stops including a yurt stay near Issyk Kul Lake, a home-cooked meal with a local family in Uzbekistan, and wine tasting at a family-run winery in Almaty.
Intrepid’s managing director Asia and head of global operations Natalie Kidd said: “This is a natural next step in our strategy to grow where we’re seeing momentum and to support that growth with strong local teams. Central Asia is an exciting region for Intrepid, and having our own DMC in Uzbekistan means we can better support our leaders, partners and travellers on the ground.”
“Uzbekistan has seen a huge surge in interest, with its rich culture, welcoming communities and incredible landscapes. We’ve had strong relationships with partners here for many years, and we’re excited to build on that foundation with a dedicated local team,” added Ashish Verma, regional general manager North and South Asia, Intrepid.
Scoot has introduced a new KrisFlyer award chart, allowing members to redeem flights with miles at fixed rates. One-way Economy class redemptions start from 1,500 KrisFlyer miles, giving members more options to travel at lower mileage costs.
The award chart applies to popular destinations including Bangkok, Hangzhou, Ipoh, Jeju, Taipei and Vienna. KrisFlyer members can redeem Scoot Saver or Scoot Advantage seats on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional fees, such as taxes and add-ons, can be paid separately, and members earn one KrisFlyer mile per Singapore dollar spent on add-ons for Scoot-operated flights.
KrisFlyer members can now enjoy fixed-rate redemptions and extra perks on Scoot flights
Since joining KrisFlyer in 2015, Scoot has expanded its offerings for members, providing more flexibility in redeeming miles. The new award chart reinforces the airline’s commitment to member benefits while continuing to offer PPS Club, KrisFlyer Elite Gold, and KrisFlyer Elite Silver members additional privileges, including extra baggage allowance, complimentary seat selection, priority boarding and one-time flight change fee waivers.
Award flights using KrisFlyer miles are now available through Scoot’s official website and mobile app, giving members an easy way to plan travel using their accumulated miles.
Scoot’s chief commercial officer Calvin Chan said: “We believe that travel should be accessible and rewarding and launching Scoot’s award chart is our way of providing greater value for KrisFlyer members. With Scoot’s award chart, KrisFlyer members can now get more out of their miles through redemption to travel to cities including Hangzhou, Jeju, Taipei, and Vienna at attractive redemption rates. This way, members can maximise their miles to explore more destinations across the SIA Group’s network.”
Amari Phuket has introduced a new afternoon tea experience in its TreePods, boat-shaped dining cocoons set among the hillside trees with views of the Andaman Sea.
The TreePods, made from eco-friendly materials and positioned for privacy, are open to hotel guests and non-residents. The tea set includes freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, smoked salmon and egg sandwiches, shrimp and avocado brioche, chocolate-dipped strawberries, mango panna cotta, cheesecake, and brownies, served with a choice of traditional teas.
Amari Phuket launches afternoon tea in treetop TreePods with views of the Andaman Sea
Available daily from 08.00 to 20.00 with one-day advance booking, the afternoon tea is priced at 1,100 baht (US$31) for two people.
Set on a hillside at the southern tip of Patong Beach, Amari Phuket offers direct beach access and sea views, while remaining close to Patong’s markets and nightlife. Facilities include Italian dining at La Gritta, Breeze Spa, and rooms with private balconies starting from around US$100 per night for a Superior Balcony King.
Aman at Sea has unveiled the suite concept for its inaugural vessel Amangati and opened reservations for private charters and events ahead of its 2027 summer debut.
The 183-metre ultra-luxury motor yacht, created in partnership with Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design and under construction at T.Mariotti S.p.A in Genoa, will host up to 94 guests across 47 suites, each with a private terrace and some with plunge pools.
Amangati will feature 47 ocean-view suites with private terraces and customised itineraries for charters
Suites will range from 49.4m² to 183.2m², with interiors inspired by Japanese ryokan homes, featuring timber finishes, travertine bathrooms, and full-height windows for ocean views.
Amangati will offer bespoke itineraries and a dedicated crew for charter groups.
Later this year, Aman at Sea will release its curated Mediterranean itineraries for booking.
Disney Cruise Line is leading the next wave of family cruising in Asia ahead of the Disney Adventure’s maiden voyage from Singapore on March 10, 2026.
From her first float out in April this year from the Meyer Werft construction hall in Wismar, Germany, to the reveal of both Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse on her stern, the Disney Adventure has been making waves ahead of her maiden voyage in Singapore come December 15.
Set to be the largest vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet with an approximate gross tonnage of 208,000 and capacity for around 6,700 guests, the Disney Adventure is leading the next wave of multi-generational cruising in Asia, bringing the brand’s signature hallmark experiences to the region.
Combining uniquely Disney activities, food and beverage, and flair with exceptional service and immersive storytelling, guests onboard the Disney Adventure will discover a world of many Disney firsts that they can enjoy together regardless of age and create unforgettable memories together.
Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse launch the float out of the Disney Adventure in Germany
Dazzling entertainment
Remember, a brand new Broadway-style show set to dazzle and captivate guests
As part of its signature world-class entertainment offerings, guests on board the Disney Adventure will be the first to experience three brand new shows. Duffy and The Friend Ship, features crowd favourite characters and original songs as they bring the Garden Stage at Disney Imagination Garden to life, while Captain Jack Sparrow & The Siren Queen, a new action-packed swashbuckling show which will see the pirates battle a giant squid in their hunt for rare treasure.
There will also be brand-new stage production – Remember, an all-new musical held at the Walt Disney Theatre, designed exclusively for the ship. Be the first to catch a dazzling Broadway-style show at sea.
Experience it first To further immerse guests in their favourite Disney stories, step into the Marvel Style Studio and into the shoes of popular Marvel Super Heroes. A fun, family-bonding time for all ages, guests can suit up in their favourite Marvel costume and get their hair and makeup done for the full transformation.
Guests can also take home a piece or more of Disney magic home with them should they wish to buy something from the extensive shopping precinct destined for the Disney Adventure.
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Take home your favourite souvenirs from the first-ever Duffy and Friends Shop at sea
The World of Disney® store brings a massive collection of merchandise including special designs inspired by the heritage of the region
The first National Geographic Store at sea brings the spirit of exploration and offers a new co-branded collection available exclusively on board
With nearly 1,580m² dedicated to retail, the new ship will introduce several first-of-their-kind retail experiences, including Disney Cruise Line’s first World of Disney® store, the first National Geographic Store at sea, and the first-ever specialised Duffy and Friends Shop, a dedicated space for Duffy and Friends merchandise.
And specially for the Asian market, the Disney Adventure will feature exclusive product designs that reflect the region’s rich diversity and artistry with a series of new merchandise ranging from apparel and accessories to homewares and toys.
The iconic Disney Parks shopping destination, World of Disney, will also make its first Disney Cruise Line appearance on the Disney Adventure with a vast collection of merchandise. Specially designed collections will pay homage to Singapore’s iconic skyline and local flora and fauna, while others will draw inspiration from the distinctive architecture and vibrant patterns found across South and South-east Asia.
Meanwhile, the National Geographic Store is set to provide an immersive retail environment, complete with vivid photography, and offering an exclusive co-branded collection of apparel and outdoor accessories. Purchases go toward supporting the global non-profit National Geographic Society in its work to protect and illuminate the world through exploration, research, and education.
Making its debut on the ship as well is the Duffy and Friends Shop, featuring a collection of sought-after plush toys, apparel, souvenirs, including a brand-new line featuring Duffy and his friends exclusively on board.
Be among the first to sail on the Disney Adventure – make a booking with Disney Cruise Line now!
Agoda, in partnership with ASEAN, has launched the A Destination for Every Dream campaign to promote travel within the region.
Running until the end of 2025 and timed with ASEAN Day celebrations, the campaign offers exclusive deals and curated insights into the region’s festivals and cultures. Agoda’s festival-focused travel guides highlight cultural events across ASEAN Member States, encouraging travellers to explore and experience the region’s diversity.
The new campaign offers discounts and festival guides to inspire journeys across South-east Asia; Bali in Indonesia, pictured
The campaign includes discounts of up to 18 per cent on accommodation, along with savings on flights and activities booked through Agoda.
Damien Pfirsch, chief commercial officer at Agoda, shared: “A Destination for Every Dream is about making it easier and more affordable for travellers to explore the festivals and traditions that make South-east Asia so special.”
Oliver Chong, assistant chief executive (designate) of the Singapore Tourism Board’s International Group and chair of the ASEAN Tourism Marketing and Partnership Working Group, added: “This campaign reflects ASEAN’s commitment to showcasing South-east Asia as a unique and interconnected destination. By partnering with Agoda and AirAsia, we aim to make it easier for travellers to discover the vibrant festivals, diverse cultures, and authentic experiences that define our region. Together, we are opening doors to unforgettable journeys across our region.”
H World Group will enter Laos with the signing of four hotel management projects that will bring three of its brands – Intercity Hotel, Ji Hotel, and Orange Hotel – to the destination.
This move is in line with H World Group’s growth ambition in South-east Asia through what it terms an “asset-light and internationalisation strategy”. It opened its first South-east Asian hotel in Singapore – Ji Hotel Orchard Singapore – in 2019.
H World Group is set to open four hotels in Laos by 2027
The new hotels in Laos will be located in prime areas in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. They will be developed with three investment partners – Lao Kunpeng Industrial Co., Yuting Hotel Investment Management Co., and KP Construction Sole Co..
Both Intercity Hotel Vientiane and Ji Hotel Vientiane Mekong Riverside will open in early 2026 while Orange Hotel Vientiane International Airport will welcome first guests in 3Q2026.
Intercity Hotel Luang Prabang will join the network in 2027.
These openings will also mark the Orange Hotel’s brand debut outside of China and Ji Hotel’s second flag in South-east Asia.
Zhu Xiaogang, president of H World Asia Pacific, said the four projects would be “highlights” in the company’s expansion in the region.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways, Vietnam’s first airline dedicated to a “resort-in-the-sky” travel model, has selected Amadeus solutions, including the Altéa Passenger Service System (PSS), Amadeus Sky suite and Amadeus Revenue Accounting, to support its full-service operations and customer experience ahead of its official launch.
Developed by Sun Group, Sun PhuQuoc Airways aims to provide direct connections between Phu Quoc and major cities domestically and internationally. Using Amadeus Altéa PSS, the airline will manage booking, ticketing, inventory, departure control and customer service, ensuring a seamless, data-driven experience for passengers.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways will use Amadeus systems to streamline operations and enhance the passenger experience
The airline will also implement Amadeus SkyWorks, an intelligent schedule editor that allows flexible and streamlined flight planning, and Amadeus Revenue Accounting to track passenger revenue in real time and optimise accounting processes.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways is developing a hub-and-spoke network with Phu Quoc as the central hub. The launch coincides with the island’s preparations to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum in 2027, which will welcome thousands of delegates from 21 member countries.
The partnership with Amadeus comes at a time of strong growth in Vietnam’s tourism sector. Visitor numbers increased 23 per cent year-on-year in the first four months of 2025, reaching 7.7 million. According to Amadeus Travel Trends 2025, 35 per cent of global leisure travel spending will occur in Asia this year, and the region is projected to see a 50 per cent rise in air passengers over the next 15 years.
As a new regional travel hub, Sun PhuQuoc Airways is positioned to connect Asian and international travellers to Phu Quoc, supporting the continued growth of the region’s tourism and aviation sectors.
Nguyen Manh Quan, CEO of Sun PhuQuoc Airways, commented: “Choosing Amadeus is a strategic move that enables us not only to deliver outstanding service, but also to reach a global distribution network and bring international travellers closer to the beauty of Phu Quoc and Vietnam.”
“By providing data-driven insights and a modular design approach, we aim to support the airline’s ambitions in delivering high-quality service from day one and to successfully expand its reach into a successful future in the travel space” added Javier Laforgue, executive vice president, managing director, Asia Pacific, Amadeus.
K-pop star Jisoo has released a special video for her track Your Love, from her mini album AMORTAGE, filmed at Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve. The video highlights the city’s natural landscapes and wildlife attractions, including Rainforest Wild Asia, the region’s first adventure-based zoological park, and the Singapore Zoo, known for its open-concept habitats.
The video was officially released on August 12, and a behind-the-scenes video will be uploaded after.
Jisoo’s emotive performance brings Singapore’s greenery and wildlife to life, showcasing the city’s distinctive attractions to K-pop fans and international travellers alike
The collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board aims to promote Singapore to global audiences through K-content, inspiring visitors to explore its nature and cultural experiences.
To coincide with the launch of Jisoo’s video, Rainforest Wild Asia will host the Your Love meets the Wild campaign from August 13 to October 5, 2025, offering an immersive trail that recreates locations from the video.
Peppers Hunter Valley, Australia Peppers Hunter Valley has reopened following the rebrand of Grand Mercure The Vintage and a multi-million-dollar refurbishment. The property returns to the Hunter Valley, where the Peppers brand was first established.
The hotel offers one-, two- and three-bedroom villas upgraded with modern kitchens, as well as refreshed lighting and new furnishings. A redesigned reception area combines Peppers’ signature style with the relaxed atmosphere of the countryside.
Located within The Vintage precinct, the property is surrounded by vineyards, rolling hills and the Greg Norman-designed 18-hole golf course. A new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar, Mezze, will open upstairs, adding to the precinct’s culinary offerings.
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur will open in the iconic Merdeka 118, the tallest skyscraper in the Asia-Pacific.
The hotel occupies levels 75 to 114, offering guests panoramic views of the city skyline.
The property features 252 keys, including 27 suites, with wellness facilities and dining options reflecting Malaysian culture.
Situated near Petaling Street in Chinatown, the hotel provides easy access to Kuala Lumpur’s historic and cultural attractions.
Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City
Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City, Indonesia Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City will open on August 22, 2025, introducing the Aloft brand and Marriott’s first hotel in eastern Surabaya. The hotel features 233 rooms designed for business travellers, digital nomads and weekend visitors.
Guests can enjoy a fitness centre, outdoor pool, meeting spaces, W XYZ Lounge, Vibe Restaurant and Echo Lounge & Bar. The hotel is directly connected to Pakuwon City Mall, The Courtyard and Park Shanghai, putting shopping, dining and entertainment just steps away.
Pullman Sydney Penrith
Pullman Sydney Penrith, Australia Pullman Sydney Penrith, the first five-star hotel in Penrith, offers 24 Junior Suites, 95 Superior Rooms, 25 Deluxe Rooms and eight accessible Superior Rooms. Junior Suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a sitting area, work desk, full-sized fridge and microwave, along with in-room amenities such as Hunter Lab skincare products and Nespresso machines. All rooms include smart controls, digital compendiums and a Sleep Therapy Menu with a range of wellness options.
The hotel features F&B options, a fitness and wellness centre, a 10-person sauna, and sustainably minded operations including zero single-use plastics and electric vehicle charging stations.
Located 21 minutes from Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, Pullman Sydney Penrith provides easy access to the Blue Mountains, Sydney CBD and Harbour, as well as coastal attractions. The hotel is adjacent to the Western Sydney Convention Centre, and offers a central base for business and leisure travellers in New South Wales.
