Royal Caribbean International will welcome the third ship into its Icon Class fleet, with Legend of the Seas setting sail on summer adventures from Barcelona in 2026. Its grand debut is set for November 2026, when it will head off on six-night journeys in Western Caribbean and eight-night journeys in Southern Caribbean.
Bookings have opened on February 20.
Royal Caribbean International has named its third Icon Class ship Legend of the Seas
Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said: “On the heels of celebrating one year of the record-breaking Icon Class and the memories made by vacationers of all ages on Icon, we are thrilled to announce the name of Royal Caribbean’s third Icon Class vacation.
“Legend of the Seas is the next bold step in this exciting era of vacations and the continuation of the Icon Class legacy, and we look forward to bringing the revolutionary lineup of experiences to more families and adventurers across Europe, the Caribbean and beyond.”
Legend of the Seas, which is still under construction in Turku, Finland, will offer eight neighbourhoods onboard, with more than 40 ways to dine and drink, adrenaline-pumping thrills, unrivaled ways to chill, and plenty of ways for holiday-makers to make memories together and on their own, without compromise.
The ship will also be Royal Caribbean International’s fourth ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and feature a proven lineup of industry-leading environmental programmes.
Kandima Maldives has announced that Dermot Birchall will be the resort’s new general manager.
Dermot has over 20 years of experience across leading luxury resorts and five-star hotels in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, and a strong track record in driving operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and commercial success.
The global travel and tourism industry has reduced its carbon footprint at the end of 2024, contributing 6.7 per per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions globally compared to 7.6 per cent in 2019. Emissions reduction was made possible by “renewable electrification” in ground transportation, which contributes to 40 per cent of carbon footprint in the travel and tourism industry.
However, WTTC’s president & CEO, Julia Simpson, warned that in absolute terms, the industry’s greenhouse gas emissions were still rising, as travel and tourism is a growth sector.
Simpson: Ground transportation and aviation are travel and tourism’s top two greenhouse gas contributors respectively
“People often think that the largest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions is aviation, but it is actually ground transport – the tiny trucks coming to hotels for delivery and the vehicles transporting customers around,” said Simpson, addressing select media during a forum in Singapore.
“So, we should be challenging all our governments to ensure that electric vehicles are utilised.”
She noted that international air travel was the second biggest contributor of emissions, “which is why we are vociferously campaigning all governments to incentivise the production of SAF (sustainable aviation fuel)”.
The aviation industry currently consumes 300 million tonnes of jet fuel, and the volume would rise to 500 million tonnes by 2050 “despite the industry’s net zero commitment”.
Currently, SAF usage has only reached one million tonnes, which makes up just 0.3 per cent of total aviation fuel. This might rise to 0.5 per cent.
WTTC’s Julia Simpson (right) and her team share updates on the travel and tourism industry’s achievements in the past year at a forum in Singapore; photo by Karen Yue
“This puts into perspective the big mountain we have to climb to achieve our emissions targets,” she remarked, noting that that the International Civil Aviation Organization has targeted five per cent of SAF usage by 2030, the EU has mandated six per cent by 2030, and the UK and Japan at 10 per cent.
When asked how these SAF mandates would be enforced when production remains so slow and price of SAF so high, Simpson acknowledged that “it is indeed a challenge”.
“We need to get to that happy place where there is enough SAF and where SAF is not that expensive,” she told TTG Asia.
She pointed to the Inflation Reduction Act in the US, which “massively” incentivises the production of SAF, as a solution.
“There are a lot of farmers in the US that are dependent on that stream of income; they are contributing different feedstock to SAF production.”
Further, in response to TTG Asia’s query on whether US president Donald Trump’s push back against some of the funding disbursement attached to the Inflation Reduction Act would impact output from the world’s biggest SAF producer, Simpson said: “We are all in this world at the minute trying to second guess what statements mean as opposed to action. But I do know that Trump is a big supporter of farmers in the US and this (renewable energy production) is a major scheme worth billions now. I would be very surprised if he chooses to upset that economy.”
Simpson is also quick to add that the aviation sector is not merely relying on SAF to reduce their footprint. It is making investments to cut emissions even in the face of slow SAF production. Efforts include investing billions from their investors and stakeholders cash in building aircraft that are more fuel efficient, and streamlining air traffic control with AI so that aircraft can fly more efficiently in a straight line.
She is also hopeful that the growth of rail travel globally will alleviate emissions pain in travel and tourism.
Andrea Bocelli returns to perform in Macau for the first time in nine years
Renowned Italian classical artist Andrea Bocelli will be performing at a concert in Macau’s Galaxy Arena on March 29, 2025.
Andrea Bocelli returns to perform in Macau for the first time in nine years
This marks the first time the legendary tenor has appeared at Macau’s largest indoor arena.
This concert will feature a unique setlist, offering fans in Macau, Hong Kong, and throughout Asia-Pacific a rare opportunity to experience the artist live.
Known as the “Voice of God” and as one of the world’s most famous tenors, Andrea Bocelli is celebrated for his ability to blend Italian folk, opera, and pop music, earning acclaim for his distinctive crossover style. With over 90 million albums sold and more than 16 billion streams, Andrea Bocelli is the biggest-selling artist in the classical genre.
Travel platform Klook will take over Singapore’s stylish enclave Duxton Hill with its Wellness Weekend over February 22 and 23, where visitors can participate in more than 60 wellness experiences, from cold plunges and meditative sound baths to Traditional Chinese Medicine workshops.
The event is the Klook’s nod to the rising demand for wellness and restorative travel experiences.
Klook Wellness Event will offer more than 60 wellness experiences
Sarah Wan, general manager of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore at Klook, told TTG Asia: “Travel data from Global Web Index shows that across South-east Asia, more than half (57 per cent) of Millennials and Gen Z prioritise relaxation as a factor when deciding on their destination, underscoring the growing importance of wellness during travel.
“We’ve observed an uptick in demand for wellness and health experiences. Globally, our platform data shows that bookings for such experiences doubled in 2024 compared to the previous year, along with a 69 per cent increase in platform visits, indicating rising interest from travellers in the wellness space. Some of the top wellness activities on our platform include kintsugi workshops, zero gravity floating, and outdoor yoga or meditation retreats.”
Wan added that “travel habits are also shifting” towards a preference for “spontaneity, experience-first travel, and social influence”.
“The experiences sector is the fastest-growing segment within the travel industry, particularly in Asia. Focusing on quality over quantity, we see travellers prioritising immersive experiences that allow them to be more present and connect with local culture and communities. In order to connect with this audience, we’re constantly expanding our offerings and curating tailored wellness experiences,” she said.
The Klook Wellness Weekend is part of the wider Rejuvenating in the Lion City project supported by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), and is Klook’s opportunity to tackle the issue of insufficient self-care among Singaporeans. A previous Klook study found that 76 per cent of Singaporeans face time constraints that prevent them from practicing self-care, highlighting the pervasive lack of time for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Programmes are developed with local partners to spotlight unique wellness experiences. Activities combine heritage charm and modern lifestyle, and will also engage families with children through a designated playground. Attendees have an opportunity to win grand prizes worth up to S$10,000 (US$7,456.70).
When asked if the Klook Wellness Weekend would be a recurring feature on Klook’s calendar not only in Singapore but also in the markets she heads, Wan said: “With wellness experiences on the rise, we’re optimistic there will be future opportunities to curate even more unique experiences and events for our customers.”
Indeed, Klook is in tune with wellness desires, and has worked with partners to create even more initiatives that highlight Singapore’s readiness to welcome health-conscious travellers.
With the support of STB’s Experience Step-Up Fund, Klook has developed and launched five new wellness experiences: Mini Zen Garden Workshop by House of Melissa; Mini Forest Bathing & Sound Bathing to Plant Music by Xiu Nature Connections; Tienji Awareness Method Demo by Tienji Academy; Ancient Remedies and Modern Wellness Tour by Offbeat Tours; and Wellness, Stories and Tea at Tanjong Pagar Tour by Tribe Tours.
Wan said: “These initiatives reflect Klook’s innovative spirit – expanding our portfolio and enhancing accessibility as we explore fresh avenues in travel experiences, including wellness.”
Aviation travel data provider, OAG, has confirmed that Asia-Pacific is on track to solidify its position as the world’s most competitive aviation market in 2025, having surpassed 2019’s total capacity by 0.5 per cent last year.
OAG’s latest report, Is Asia Pacific the World’s Most Competitive Aviation Market?, stated that both domestic and international sectors showed remarkable growth and resilience in 2024. Domestic markets across the region operated at 4.7 per cent above 2019 levels in 2024 – underscoring the critical role of domestic travel in driving the region’s aviation recovery.
Asia-Pacific region achieved 594.8 million seats in 2024, making it the second-largest international aviation market globally
Chinese domestic capacity in 2024 stood 14 per cent above 2019, and India was 13 per cent ahead of pre-pandemic levels in 2024. These two countries, along with Japan and Indonesia, boasted more than 100 million seats in their domestic markets last year.
However, Japan remained four per cent behind 2019 domestic capacity levels as a combination of socio-economic factors hold back growth. Contributing to Indonesia’s slower return (17 per cent behind) are ongoing supply chain issues, with 27 per cent of the country’s aircraft currently stored or out for maintenance.
On the international front, the Asia-Pacific region achieved 594.8 million seats, making it the second-largest international aviation market globally. The region now accounts for one in every four international seats worldwide.
Leading the charge in international seat capacity are Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and China Eastern.
The report also found that airfares in the region had been driven down by rapid capacity expansion and increased competition. Average ticket prices on 17 of the 20 largest growth markets declined in 2024, many by more than 20 per cent, with Bangkok to Shanghai Pudong seeing a 71 per cent reduction in fares, year-on-year.
OAG’s head of Asia Pacific, Mayur Patel, said: “As the Asia-Pacific region continues to expand, the synergy of robust domestic recovery, dynamic international growth, and competitive strategic pricing makes it the world’s most vibrant and competitive aviation market.”
In an earlier interview with TTG Asia, Patel expressed confidence in air capacity improvements across the region in 2025, with tourism and tourism recovery and expansion particularly driven by the expansion of low-cost carrier operations.
Singapore travel agency Dynasty Travel will launch a new travel fair called Blink in a popular mall in town, promising easier access for Singapore customers looking to secure their next holiday.
Blink will feature hourly flash deals on different countries, offer free Strides Premier airport meet-and-greet limousine services for all customers who book group tours during the travel fair, and other perks.
Dynasty Travel’s Blink travel fair will conduct hourly Destination Sharing Sessions that help attendees gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the countries that they may be visiting
Blink will take place over two weekends from February 22 to 23 Feb, and again February 28 Feb to March 2 – the second edition coinciding with Singapore’s major travel fair led by the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore.
Following the pandemic travel disruption, Dynasty Travel has been rebranded as a contemporary travel agency guided by a new mission to help people “travel well, learn more, and do good”.
The inaugural Blink is said to exemplify this multi-year transformation. While it retains beloved travel fair content like stackable discounts and free gifts, it also presents new elements that help customers “travel well” through an enhanced selection of accommodation, meals and experiences that make the best use of customers’ time abroad; “learn more” through hourly Destination Sharing Sessions that help attendees gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the countries that they may be visiting; and “do good” through showcases of the agency’s sustainable operations.
Dynasty Travel’s chief executive officer, Teo Tianyi, said: “Even with the ease of making travel arrangements online these days, I believe that there is still a lot of value that a long-established travel company like Dynasty Travel can bring to travel-loving Singaporeans.”
Tourism Malaysia has unveiled its Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign in India along with a target of 1.6 million Indian arrivals. A series of strategic travel trade initiatives will back its campaign ambitions.
The NTO has been actively engaging with the Indian travel trade industry. Earlier this year, Tourism Malaysia participated in the OTM 2025 travel tradeshow in Mumbai, and led a sales mission across key Southern Indian cities including Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Kochi. Continuing its engagement, Tourism Malaysia will soon join SATTE 2025 in New Delhi from February 19 to 21.
Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign is launched in India
Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali, director, Tourism Malaysia New Delhi, told TTG Asia that the NTO’s presence at SATTE 2025 will “create awareness about VM2026”.
“Apart from our mass marketing efforts, we will be focusing on niche segments like golf tourism, weddings and MICE to meet our target of 1.6 million Indian tourist arrivals in 2026,” he added.
To court golf enthusiasts, Tourism Malaysia will organise a series of golf tourism-focused events across five Indian cities from March to December 2025. Key markets like New Delhi and Kolkata have already been identified for these events.
Ahmad Johanif also shared that joint promotions with India-based travel agents will be introduced to promote Malaysia as a golf and wedding destination.
Industry players see strong potential in Malaysia for Indian weddings, but urge additional steps to raise its competitive edge against dominant destinations such as Thailand, Turkey, the UAE, Bali, and Mauritius.
Rachit Jain, director of event management company Rashi Entertainment, suggested measures such as fast-track immigration services for wedding groups as well as tax exemptions and incentive schemes for wedding agencies.
As Tourism Malaysia continues its courtship of Indian travellers, a series of fam trips for Indian travel agents and media representatives will be made available in collaboration with airlines like IndiGo and Air India.
Data on China’s domestic self-driving holidays, captured during the pandemic and post-lockdown, show demand increasing from 41 per cent to 80 per cent from 2020 to 2024, and Chinese travellers are now going behind the wheel all over the world.
Leading China car rental platform Zuzuche, which offers self-driving travel services, had processed more than 20 million international driving licence holders as of 4Q2024 and its year-on-year booking growth rate in 2023 was a whopping 331 per cent.
Zuzuche data shows that more than half of Chinese self-drive travellers are between the ages of 21 and 45
The findings and other trends were shared by Keiko Zhang, vice president and marketing director, during Dragon Trail International’s (DTI) webinar on Chinese New Year 2025 and self-driving tourism.
Australia and New Zealand dominate as top outbound destinations in Asia-Pacific, with Malaysia and Thailand as popular choices. Further afield, Chinese travellers are booking self-drive holidays in the UAE.
Top destinations in Europe are the UK, France, Italy and Spain while Germany and Norway are emerging on the radar.
Zhang noted the US is a hot self-drive destination for the China market.
The top five picks for 2025 Spring Festival were Australia, New Zealand, the US, Thailand and Norway, she said, adding that year-on-year growth saw Norway jumping 326 per cent and Saudi Arabia 200 per cent.
She continued: “Chinese travellers are increasingly seeking niche experiences and 2024 fastest growing hidden gem road-trip cites include Hobart (Australia), AIUla (Saudi Arabia), Zagreb (Croatia), Tbilisi (Georgia) and Mallorca (Spain).
Zuzuche data shows that more than half of self-drive travellers are between the ages of 21 and 45 post-lockdown, and there are 15 per cent more females. Spring Festival demographics show that 30.8 per cent of self-drive travellers are women aged 55 and above.
Social media plays a crucial role in the decision-making loop for travellers, Zhang highlighted.
Sienna Parulis-Cook, DTI, director of marketing and communications, shared that Ctrip Chinese New Year self-driving travel trends saw overseas car rentals increasing by 42 per cent year-on-year.
“The average length of car rentals overseas was six days and popular destinations for self-driving travel included Los Angeles, Dubai, San Francisco, Bangkok, and Phuket,” Parulis-Cook added.
Julia Simpson giving a keynote address at Aviation Festival Asia 2025 on the quick pace of innovation in Asia
The emergence of four or five tech giants in AI in the next five years, and “one of the best” emerging from Asia-Pacific, will be exciting on the innovation and product front where the region is expected to continue to be the “fastest growing”.
Julia Simpson giving a keynote address at Aviation Festival Asia 2025 on the quick pace of innovation in Asia-Pacific and its benefits on the industry
Julia Simpson, president and CEO, WTTC, in her keynote address at Tuesday’s Aviation Festival Asia, held in Singapore, noted that the region is “very quick to innovate” and invest in product development.
Examples include buying aircraft with better fuel efficiency, using AI for optimal flight paths, saving fuel depending on weather conditions, and customer “hyperpersonalisation”.
AI is both a revenue generator and cost saver, she opined, and is transforming travel and tourism in areas such as limiting food waste and changing buying patterns.
“(The adoption of) AI has to start from the CEO, be led from the top and skills put in place in-house to take out the cost and eventually give customers a better experience,” she noted.
While ground transportation may be the biggest greenhouse gas emitter, WTTC’s job is to call on governments to support the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), Simpson declared.
She named Singapore as a good example of a country leading the way in SAF production.
While global GDP is expected to grow between 2.3 and 2.5 per cent over the next 10 years, Simpson said travel and tourism is expected to grow twice as fast and keen investors are looking at tech opportunities in Asia-Pacific.
In a follow-up panel discussion during the conference, Simpson and airline chiefs addressed the recent spate of accidents and reiterated the industry’s safety-first principle and regulatory measures that still make flying the safest means of transportation.
Airlines cannot fly if they do not meet the regulatory requirements, Richard Nuttal, CEO, SriLankan Airlines, stated.
He added that there should not be speculation over air accidents and regulatory bodies should be left to conduct their investigations.
Ajay Singh, chairman and managing director of SpiceJet, attributed the media attention to the aviation industry being “the most visible”.
Simpson, formerly with British Airways, said the industry’s safety culture and regulatory measures are well in place, there is “zero tolerance”, and safety is at the top of the agenda.
