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Asia/Singapore Wednesday, 25th February 2026
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Page 151

Visa moves its Asia-Pacific travel campaign into next phase with airline partnerships

By TTG Asia
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The #TravelWithVisa initiative takes off in Hong Kong at the K11 Musea, set against the backdrop of the iconic Victoria Harbour

Riding on the success of its #TravelWithVisa initiative in Asia-Pacific, digital payment specialist Visa has elevated the campaign with partnerships with five international airlines – Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA AIR, and Singapore Airlines – to offer Hong Kong and Macau outbound travellers rewarding flight experiences with premium benefits.

The initiative will showcase Visa’s intercity smart mobility solutions that enable a more efficient door-to-door travel journey, along with merchant offers that curate new travel experiences and exclusive access to mega events across Asia-Pacific for Visa cardholders.

The #TravelWithVisa initiative takes off in Hong Kong at the K11 Musea, set against the backdrop of the iconic Victoria Harbour

The #TravelWithVisa initiative is regional in nature, designed to connect travellers with major destinations in Asia-Pacific. With a multi-phased approach, the initiative aims to enrich travel experiences, boost travel spending, and contribute to the region’s tourism economy. Visa stated that Asia-Pacific saw a remarkable 26 per cent increase in cross-border trips originating within the region in 2024, outpacing the global growth rate of 1 per cent.

Visa also noted that the region plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism. In 2024, seven out of the top 10 fastest-growing travel destinations globally, in terms of arrivals, are from the region, including Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.

Stephen Karpin, regional president, Asia Pacific, Visa, said: “Travel is a powerful catalyst for fostering global connections, bridging cultures, and driving economic prosperity. This is at the heart of our #TravelWithVisa initiative, which is designed to unlock transformative growth opportunities across Asia-Pacific. By collaborating with a network of partners and leveraging our robust payment solutions, we are delivering exceptional value and seamless travel experiences to consumers. We also want to express our appreciation to the tourism offices for their support of our vision. Together, we are contributing to the tourism ecosystem and the economic development of the region.”

Shirley Yu, group general manager, Greater China, Visa, added: “As one of Asia-Pacific’s busiest aviation hubs, Hong Kong serves an important travel gateway connecting Greater China region and other parts of the world. Its accessibility, vitality and popularity as a destination have made it a constant focal point for travellers from around the world; hence, making it an ideal launchpad for the #TravelWithVisa initiative.”

Singapore Airlines embarks on million-dollar transformation of Changi Airport lounges

By TTG Asia
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Artist-Impression---T2-SilverKris-First-Class-Lounge-Bar

Singapore Airlines (SIA) will transform its SilverKris and KrisFlyer Gold lounges at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 over the next two years, investing S$45 million (US$) to elevate the on-ground customer experience at its main hub.

Renovations will progress in phases, with works starting first on the First Class SilverKris Lounge and ending by 4Q2025. Construction of the new Business Class SilverKris Lounge is expected to begin in 4Q2025, and the new KrisFlyer Gold Lounge in 1H 2026. Full completion is expected around mid-2027.

An artist impression of the future SilverKris First Class Lounge Bar at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2

The revamped lounges will boast 50 per cent more space and seating capacity, and feature upgraded facilities, signature elements from SIA’s flagship lounges at Changi Airport Terminal 3, and an enhanced variety of F&B options.

The all-new First Class SilverKris Lounge will feature a spacious area with increased capacity, higher ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The renovated bar will offer a premium experience, including barista services in the morning.

The live cooking stations in the First Class SilverKris Lounge will serve a wide range of popular Singaporean, Asian, and Western cuisine of dishes, while the self-service buffet will also be expanded to mirror the offerings available at the SilverKris Lounge in Terminal 3.

The Business Class SilverKris Lounge will expand by 30 per cent, providing customers with more space and comfort. It will include a quiet rest area and a redesigned living room area with diverse seating options. The expanded self-service buffet, featuring both Asian and Western cuisines, will be complemented by a new full-service bar.

The KrisFlyer Gold Lounge will double its capacity, offering various seating options. New amenities will include in-lounge restrooms and shower suites, enabling customers to freshen up before their flights.

Yeoh Phee Teik, senior vice president customer experience, Singapore Airlines, said: “Building on the success of our Terminal 3 lounges, we are extending our signature hospitality and thoughtfully curated offerings to Terminal 2. This upgrade reaffirms our continued dedication to providing a seamless, world-class experience that meets the high expectations of our discerning customers.”

 

 

 

Aviation roundup: FitsAir, Philippine Airlines and more

By TTG Asia
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FitsAir

FitsAir begins direct flights to Kuala Lumpur
Sri Lanka’s low-cost carrier, FitsAir, has commenced new direct flights connecting Colombo with Kuala Lumpur. The service, which began operations on April 4, runs four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Philippine Airlines

Philippine Airlines expands Vietnam services
Philippine Airlines (PAL) will introduce non-stop flights between Manila and Danang beginning July 1, with an initial schedule of three flights per week.

The new Manila-Danang route operates every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, deploying Airbus A321 jetliners that accommodate up to 199 passengers.

PAL recently upgraded its Manila-Hanoi-Manila route to a daily service, and will launch flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) starting on May 2.

In addition to the new PAL Manila-Danang, Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City routes and the daily Manila-Hanoi services, the airline also operates eight weekly flights between Manila and Ho Chi Minh City.

Saudia

Saudia introduces new Jeddah-Bali service
Saudia has launched a new route connecting Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and Bali, Indonesia, operating thrice a week on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with 24 Business Class seats and 274 Economy Class seats.

The new service will cater to growing demand from leisure travellers, business professionals, and pilgrims heading to the Kingdom.

Conrad Centennial Singapore gets a new name

By TTG Asia
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Conrad Centennial Singapore hotel has been renamed Conrad Singapore Marina Bay on April 15 to reflect its connection to Marina Bay.

Conrad Singapore Marina Bay will unveil a refreshed lobby and new dining concept in early 2026

The name change will be followed by transformations of dining venue Oscar’s, which will adopt a new concept, and of the lobby to offer a new arrival experience. These changes are set to debut in early 2026, and be complemented by guest programming that offers deeper connections to Marina Bay’s cultural, artistic, and culinary vibrancy.

The Conrad brand, which is part of the Hilton portfolio, is represented by two properties in Singapore, with the other being Conrad Singapore Orchard.

Aman names its first luxury sea vessel

By TTG Asia
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Amangati

Amangati, which means ‘peaceful motion’ in Sanskrit, is Aman’s first luxury motor yacht, which will launch in 2027 to offer a summer season of private sailing around the Mediterranean.

Amangati will mirror Aman resorts’ tranquil land-based sanctuaries

The vessel is now under construction by T Mariotti in Genoa, Italy. The final product will feature 47 spacious luxury suites, each with its own private balcony, as well as four international dining concepts, a Jazz Club, a spacious Aman Spa, and an expansive Beach Club with direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht.

Amangati will be powered by a suite of green technologies, such as utilising battery power, to provide a more sustainable way of travel

The group’s chairman and CEO Vlad Doronin, said: “Naming Amangati marks a pivotal and inspiring milestone for Aman. The vessel will embody the very essence of our brand’s DNA, providing exceptional privacy, best in class amenities, now synonymous with Aman, and our signature unparalleled service not yet experienced on the water.”

Singapore story unfolds at Expo 2025 Osaka

By TTG Asia
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The Singapore Tourism Board has assembled a swathe of local creative talents – from installation artists and performers to visual designers and local brands – for the country’s showcase at the Expo 2025 Osaka.

The Singapore pavilion, titled The Dream Sphere, promises a multi-sensory journey for visitors, offering an immersive showcase of Singapore’s rich culinary heritage, distinctive retail offerings, and dynamic performing arts. From a range of exclusive collectibles to world-class gastronomy and live entertainment, The Dream Sphere is also a celebration of the country’s 60 years of independence and tells the story of how Singapore transforms its hopes and dreams into realities.

The pavilion encompasses an exhibition showcase; the 60 Dreams Collection; Dream Boutique, where exclusive souvenirs and merchandise from local brands are sold; Cloud Bar, where visitors can take a swig of expertly crafted beverages curated from local gins by Brass Lion Distillery, Compendium Spirits and Tanglin Gin; Shiok! Café, a culinary tribute to Singapore’s renowned hawker culture; and Dream Rhythms, where an eclectic mix of performances are put up.

UN Tourism applauds Asia-Pacific’s strong rebound, says transformation for resilience is next target

By Mimi Hudoyo
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Now that Asia-Pacific’s travel and tourism industry has rebounded from the pandemic, the region’s next step is to transform for greater resilience and sustainability, opined UN Tourism secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili said in his opening address at the 37th UN Tourism Joint Commission for East Asia and the Pacific (CAP) and South Asia (CSA) meeting in Jakarta on April 15.

The focus of the 37th CAP-CSA meeting is therefore on transformation, and key priorities for discussion include tourism investment, green investment, and the circular economy.

From left: Philippine tourism secretary Christina Garcia Frasco; Indonesia coordinating minister for economic affairs Airlangga Hartarto; UN Tourism secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili; and Indonesia minister of tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana

Pololikashvili said: “These priorities will lay the foundation for a more resilient and sustainable tourism sector by empowering youth through training and education.”

Coordinating minister for economic affairs in Indonesia, Airlangga Hartarto, acknowledged the current global economic uncertainties and underscored the timeliness of the meeting to mitigate potential impacts on the tourism sector. He highlighted Indonesia’s robust tourism performance in 2024, with global international tourist arrivals nearing pre-pandemic levels at around 1.4 billion.

Airlangga stated that tourism brings economic, social and cultural benefits, and urged meeting attendees to “use this event to collaborate, and discuss how tourism can promote economic growth, inclusivity, and preservation of the environment”.

He also emphasised Indonesia’s commitment to international cooperation as a means to navigate global challenges and foster shared prosperity

The Indonesia Tourism Guideline will launch as part of the meeting, and will serve as a reference for green investment in the country’s tourism sector.

37th CAP-CSA meeting spans two days and includes the 56th Meeting of CAP, the 60th Meeting of CSA, as well as a UN Tourism Regional Conference on April 16, focusing on tourism policies within the circular economy. The latter, facilitated by UN tourism experts, aims to provide valuable insights into global and regional trends in tourism investment and promote the sharing of best practices for sustainable development.

Commenting on the UN Tourism Regional Conference, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, Indonesia minister of tourism, said it “aligns with the ministry’s priority development of sustainable tourism, and objective of advancing the blue, green and circular economy.”

Japan outbound performance to glow this coming Golden Week

By Kathryn Wortley
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More Japanese travellers will make overseas trips during the country’s extended holiday period this spring, aided by the ongoing recovery of international flights, increased incomes among some segments, and campaigns to stimulate demand, according to research by Japan’s largest travel agent.

Based on its survey of 1,846 people, JTB Corporation estimates 550,000 people will travel abroad between April 25 and May 7, also known as Golden Week, equating to a 10 per cent rise year-on-year.

JTB Corporation’s Japan outbound survey finds South Korea most in demand for the Golden Week holidays; Cheonggyecheon in Seoul pictured

Total spending on outbound trips could reach 147.4 billion yen (US$1.03 billion), up 9.6 per cent over the same period in 2024, but the average spend is predicted to remain about the same, at 268,000 yen.

The largest ratio of respondents (15.9 per cent) plan to spend between 100,000 and 150,000 yen on travel expenses.

Destinations chosen by respondents are South Korea (25.7 per cent), Taiwan (14.2 per cent), South-east Asia (10.6 per cent), Hawaii (9.7 per cent), and Europe (9.7 per cent). Within Europe, Italy, Spain, Portugal and France are the most popular countries.

The survey also found travellers are seeking longer trips than in previous years. Almost one third of those surveyed said their trip would span four days/ three nights, followed by five days/four nights (13.3 per cent), three days/two nights (14.2 per cent), and six days/five nights (14.2 per cent).

Domestic travel, however, is expected to drop 7.2 per cent from 2024 to reach 22.9 million, largely due to rising prices and cost-saving intentions among households, fuelled by economic uncertainty globally, as well as a desire to avoid crowded places, according to JTB.

Shinkansen extension lifts Fukui tourism businesses

By Kathryn Wortley
0

One year on since the Japanese speed rail arrived in Fukui prefecture, the latter has been building on its growing tourism ecosystem with new subsidies and tours for international visitors.

The Hokuriku Shinkansen was extended 125km along the Sea of Japan coast from Kanazawa, Ishikawa prefecture to Tsuruga, Fukui prefecture in March 2024, improving travel access and shortening travel time from Tokyo to about three hours.

The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is one of the key highlights in the area

Since the line opened, visitors to Fukui have increased by about one million year-on-year, with overnight stays by international tourists reaching 90,000, up 37.2 per cent year-on-year, according to the prefectural government.

The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, one of the prefecture’s top attractions, reported a 26 per cent increase in visitors from March 2024 to February 2025.

Still, with growth in overnight stays by inbound tourists below the national average, the prefectural government aims to do more. This fiscal year (April 2025 to March 2026), a 5,000 yen (USD 34.81) subsidy will be awarded to travellers who fly from Seoul, Taipei or Hong Kong to Komatsu in neighbouring Ishikawa prefecture, and spend the night in Fukui.

The prefecture is also developing night events featuring food and traditional performing arts, and partnering with West Japan Railway Co. to develop tours catering to inbound visitors attending Expo 2025 in Osaka, which will be held from April 13 to October 13, 2025.

Fukui prefecture is expected to get another surge in tourism when the Hokuriku Shinkansen is extended from Tsuruga to Shin-Osaka Station, although the timeline for this project has not yet been set.

Radisson Hotel Group gets its game face on with esports-ready programme

By TTG Asia
0

Radisson Hotel Group has unveiled Esports Ready by Radisson Hotels, a new programme to offer esports teams, players and organisers carefully curated services and amenities designed to keep them focused, motivated, and prepared to perform at their best.

Developed in partnership with Spacefwd, a leader in esports and gaming expertise, the Esports Ready by Radisson Hotels programme includes features such as seamless connectivity through 500/500 Mbps symmetric internet with 100 per cent uptime, cabled connections, and backup lines for flawless gameplay and broadcasts; flexible services to match the demanding schedules of esports athletes; team-centric spaces like accessible private gaming rooms, lounges, and secure storage; and exclusive perks like 15 per cent discount on Best Available Rates and flexible cancellation.

The Esports Ready by Radisson Hotels programme caters to specific needs of esports travellers

Radisson Hotel Group expects the programme to place it in the lead in the race for the growing esports industry. Reports indicate that the global esports market is rapidly expanding, with projections expecting the market to surge to US$13.7 billion by 2032 globally, and particularly in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East & Africa regions.

The groups has already lined up over 100 esports-ready properties, including Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Delhi Airport and Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Bangkok in Asia.

Angela Graun, vice president sales operations, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “The high-stakes world of esports means every second counts, and every detail matters. Radisson Hotel Group understands the unique challenges the industry faces when it comes to demanding travel schedules, unpredictable practice times, the need for seamless and reliable connectivity and secure, functional spaces to strategise and unwind.

“With Esports Ready by Radisson Hotels, we can help overcome these hurdles impacting performance and event success. Thanks to our diverse global portfolio of thoughtfully designed properties, Radisson Hotel Group can cater to the specific needs of esports travellers and create seamless experiences that facilitate esports success.”

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Plaza Premium Group names new Oceania GM
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TTG Asia | Juan Losada takes helm at Regent Phu Quoc