Royal Caribbean has released details of the entertainment and dining options that will be available aboard Star of the Seas, set to debut in August 2025 from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. The new vessel will feature a wide range of performances, food venues, and activities for all ages.
The ship will host five main shows spanning theatre, water, air, and ice. These include a new Royal Caribbean production, Create, following a robot character named KRE-8 through a story told via music, dance, and visual arts. Families can also watch Pirates & Mermaids at the AquaTheater, which combines dance, diving, and synchronised swimming with comedic storytelling.
Star of the Seas will feature new entertainment and dining offerings on Caribbean sailings from August 2025
The highlight of the programme is Back to the Future: The Musical, adapted from the Broadway version. It will be performed with the support of the largest orchestra at sea and feature choreographed sequences and special effects. Other shows include Torque, a water-based performance involving divers, swimmers, and slackliners, and SOL, an ice show themed around the journey of the sun.
Dining options include more than 40 restaurants and bars. Among them is the AquaDome Market, exclusive to the Icon Class, which will feature five food stands including new options offering American barbecue, South-east Asian dishes, and South American snacks. Central Park’s Lincoln Park Supper Club, new to the fleet, will offer a multi-course meal with live jazz and cocktails inspired by 1930s Chicago.
Other venues include Chops Grille for steak, Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, and Celebration Table for private dining. Casual options include Surfside Eatery, Basecamp, and Windjammer, which will continue to serve a variety of international cuisines.
Evening entertainment will extend beyond the shows. Guests can visit the adults-only comedy club The Attic, try karaoke, or visit Casino Royale. There will be more than 20 bars and lounges, including favourites such as Dueling Pianos, Rye & Bean, Lou’s, and Bubbles in Central Park.
Star of the Seas will sail seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including stops at Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. From December 2025, itineraries will also include Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, part of the new Royal Beach Club Collection.
“At Royal Caribbean, we know that dining and entertainment are at the heart of our guests’ vacation experiences and memories. With the Icon Class line-up redefining what it means to vacation, Star pushes the boundaries of flavours and entertainment with a mix of brand-new and fan-favourite offerings, so every kind of vacationer can make memories of a lifetime together and in their own ways,” said Kara Wallace, chief marketing officer, Royal Caribbean.
Rosewood Hotel Group has made two key appointments: Anthony Ingham as chief operating officer and Luca Finardi as vice president, operations, EMEAC (Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Caribbean Atlantic).
Ingham will assume his role on September 1, reporting to CEO Sonia Cheng. He brings extensive global experience from previous senior roles at Marriott International, Starwood, and InterContinental. Most recently, he led hospitality operations, branding, and customer experience at The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
From left: Anthony Ingham and Luca Finardi
As COO, he will oversee global operations, guest experience, commercial strategy, and digital functions across Rosewood’s portfolio.
Finardi will join on June 1 and report to Ingham. with over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, he previously served as general manager of Mandarin Oriental Paris and area vice president for France, Italy, and the Czech Republic. He will oversee regional operations in the EMEAC region, working closely with property leaders and global teams.
Five universities from Taiwan have formalised a partnership with four Sabah-based tourism associations to promote agro- and community-based tourism in the Malaysian state.
The collaboration was formalised with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Kota Kinabalu. It aims to promote sustainable tourism development through knowledge exchange, community engagement, and academic-industry cooperation. The MoU is also expected to support capacity-building among local stakeholders and contribute to long-term, values-driven tourism initiatives.
The partnership aims to promote rural and sustainable tourism through education and community collaboration
The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Sabah government and representatives of the Malaysia Talent Education and Industry-Academia Collaboration Association, who accompanied the Taiwanese delegation.
The participating Taiwanese institutions are Dayeh University, National Chi Nan University, Nan Kai University of Technology, Lee-Ming Institute of Technology, and the Taiwan Agro and Rural Tourism Association. Their Sabah counterparts include the Kiulu Tourism Association, Tambunan Tourism Association, Sabah Tenom Coffee Entrepreneurs Association, and the Tambatuon Village Women’s Community Association in Kota Belud.
The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) will facilitate the collaboration as part of its broader efforts to develop inclusive and sustainable tourism models.
STB chairman and assistant minister of tourism, culture and environment, Joniston Bangkuai, said the initiative aligns with the Sabah Maju Jaya development blueprint, which highlights agriculture and tourism as key economic drivers.
He noted that “agro-tourism plays a vital role in enhancing visitor experiences while directly empowering rural communities”, adding that STB has identified 51 agro-tourism products across Sabah and is piloting a digital data platform in Kiulu to guide rural tourism strategies.
The Walt Disney Company and Miral have joined forces to develop a Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, in the UAE. The resort will be located on Yas Island, a leisure and entertainment hub in the capital.
The project will be Disney’s seventh theme park resort globally and the first in the Middle East. It will feature Disney attractions and characters, integrated with elements reflecting the local culture and environment.
From left: Miral’s Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi and Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, The Walt Disney Company ‘s Robert A Iger, and Disney Experiences’s Josh D’Amaro
Miral will oversee the full development and construction of the resort. Disney will lead the creative design and provide operational oversight through its Imagineering team. Miral, which has previously partnered with international brands on Yas Island, will operate the site.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, group CEO of Miral, said that bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marked a significant step in the company’s efforts to enhance the island’s status as a global destination for entertainment and leisure.
The UAE’s geographical location, within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population, positions it as a key travel hub. Its aviation infrastructure, including major airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, handles over 120 million passengers annually.
Once completed, the resort will include Disney-themed entertainment, accommodation, dining, and retail. The project is expected to contribute to the tourism sector and support long-term economic development in Abu Dhabi.
Miral chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak said. “The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence. What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination – an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world, creating magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever.”
Robert A Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company, added: “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways and will become a source of joy and inspiration for the people of this vast region to enjoy for generations to come.”
Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Experiences, remarked: “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio. The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront – which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways. This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before.”
Further details will be announced as the project progresses.
UOL Group has partnered with Hilton to introduce the first NoMad Hotel in Asia-Pacific, set to open on Singapore’s Orchard Road in early 2027.
The 173-room luxury hotel will be built on the site of the former Faber House, which is being redeveloped into a 19-storey hotel with retail and commercial spaces.
Rendering of NoMad Hotel, which will bring luxury lifestyle experience to Singapore’s Orchard Road in 2027
NoMad, which recently joined Hilton’s luxury portfolio, is known for its unique blend of luxury and lifestyle. The hotel brand, acquired following Hilton’s purchase of a majority stake in Sydell Group, is expanding its footprint from its flagship in London to high-end markets worldwide. This marks Hilton’s first entry into Singapore’s luxury lifestyle hotel market.
The Singapore hotel will feature distinctive local design elements, including curated artworks by Singaporean artists with special needs. The property is expected to offer guests access to the city’s shopping, entertainment, and cultural hubs, with key districts like the financial centre, Bras Basah-Bugis, Arab Street, and Chinatown just a short distance away.
Designed by the architecture firm WOHA, the hotel will feature a biophilic design, incorporating a 15-storey cascading waterfall and vertical greenery on its façade. The third level will host a public space for art and design programming, and the hotel will connect with surrounding developments.
The guest experience will begin at the fifth level, with a lobby, sky terrace, and infinity pool overlooking Orchard Road. Guestrooms will be located above, with a rooftop bar and restaurant completing the offering.
Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said: “With demand for high-end, experience-driven stays surging across the region, the luxury gateway of Singapore offers the perfect backdrop to debut NoMad’s uniquely local luxury hospitality – and will be the first of many cities in Asia to welcome the brand.”
UOL chief operating officer Neo Soon Hup added: “NoMad Singapore will bring together modern elegance and the city’s dynamic cultural energy, offering a distinct experience that reflects the brand’s character. We look forward to making NoMad a standout presence in the market, delivering exceptional stays that go beyond traditional luxury and resonate with discerning travellers.”
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will complete refurbishments on Norwegian Epic and Pride of America ahead of the 2025 summer travel season, adding new features and upgraded facilities.
Norwegian Epic will complete a three-week dry dock on May 8, 2025, with updates including a new hot tub on deck 18, a redesigned Kids’ Aqua Park, and an expanded adults-only Vibe Beach Club featuring extra seating, a second hot tub, and private cabanas. Eight new staterooms – balcony and ocean view – will also be added.
Norwegian Epic’s expanded Vibe Beach Club adds more seating, a second hot tub, and private cabanas
The ship will also offer nine- to 11-day cruises from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, visiting ports in the Mediterranean and Greek Isles, including Santorini, Mykonos, Valletta, Naples, Catania, and Florence/Pisa. Later in the year, she returns to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for seven-day Southern Caribbean cruises to ports including Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, and St Thomas.
Pride of America will undergo upgrades from May 3 to 31, 2025, including a new Starbucks on deck five and the addition of pickleball to the sports court. She will also gain 12 club balcony suites and three inside staterooms on deck 12. Youth spaces will move to deck six, along with a new Library and Card Room.
Following dry dock, Pride of America will resume her seven-day inter-island Hawaii cruises from Honolulu on May 31, 2025, operating year-round with port calls across four islands and overnights in Maui and Kauai.
“Delivering the best vacation experience for our guests, where they have the freedom and flexibility to do more of what they love is and will always continue to be our goal,” said David J Herrera, president of NCL.
“By listening to guests’ feedback, we are excited to provide them with more to do on board starting this summer as Norwegian Epic sets sail for Europe and Pride of America continues to offer the world’s only seven-day inter-island Hawaii voyages departing from Honolulu 52 weeks out of the year.”
Southern Discoveries is adding new travel experiences, including a wine tour, marking its return to the Queenstown market.
The company’s new tours focus on slower, more personal travel, encouraging guests to explore the landscapes and stories of Queenstown, Central Otago and Fiordland. The aim is to create meaningful experiences that reflect the value of kaitiaki (guardianship).
Sip on local wine at top Central Otago vineyards with Southern Discoveries’ new Queenstown tour
The Queenstown Wine Tour takes small groups to four Central Otago wineries, including Chard Farm, Brennan Wines, and Mora Wines in Arrowtown. A private charter option is now available, offering exclusive use of a Mercedes Sprinter van.
The company has also introduced its longest Milford Sound cruise, the Discover More Milford Sound Cruise, lasting up to two hours and fifteen minutes. A nature guide is on board, and also travels with guests by coach if included.
A new VIP upgrade is available on the Milford Sound Nature Cruise. The Cascade Room offers a private cabin, top-deck access, and food and drink service for up to 20 guests.
In Te Anau, Southern Discoveries will launch a new farm and cruise experience in October. Guests will visit a working farm with shearing and dog demonstrations, followed by morning tea and a Milford Sound cruise.
Macau’s compact layout and vibrant cultural scene make it ideal for walking tours that unravel the destination’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Macau’s historic centre holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the entire city is recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. These elements enrich the experience, allowing visitors to savour local cuisine while exploring historical landmarks and other attractions, according to the Macao Government Tourist Office (MGTO).
Neighbourhoods such as the lively Taipa and Cotai areas, combined with the tranquil charm of Coloane Village, further enhance the walking experience. They offer a blend of unique cultural and modern attractions, providing visitors with plenty to explore on foot.
Visitors can discover the charm of Macau’s hidden corners through guided tours and cultural activities. Picture by Macao Government Tourism Office
So far, the MGTO has introduced four major walking routes on its website and mobile app, namely World Heritage Tour in Central District; Art & Cultural Tour in St Lazarus Parish; Portuguese Ambiance Tour at Taipa Island; and Tranquility Tour in Coloane Village.
Additionally, MGTO offers an online Smart Trip Planner on its website and mobile app, allowing visitors to customise their time in Macau based on personal preferences in the areas of Sightseeing, Experiences, Shopping, Dining, and Recommendations.
Indeed, visitors are spoiled for choice, as The Walking Routes Map offers 38 thematic routes to explore. Created by the Cartography and Cadastre Bureau, Municipal Affairs Bureau, and the Cultural Affairs Bureau, the routes span from popular spots like Taipa Village and Guia Hill to the memorable buildings of Coloane and the scenic rockscapes along the Southern Coastline of Coloane. Visitors can immerse themselves in a journey through streets and alleys, rediscovering the charm of old Macau and uncovering the forgotten history and tales of these areas.
The recent recognition by Skyscanner as one of the Top 9 Walkable Cities in Asia and South Asia has significantly reinforced Macau’s appeal as a travel destination. Skyscanner highlights the city’s pedestrian-friendly layout, safety, and rich cultural and historical attractions, all within walking distance.
An MGTO spokesman said the accolade highlights the city’s commitment to sustainable tourism and strengthens Macau’s development as a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.
In fact, MGTO is actively driving tourism into different neighbourhoods. To support this, it has introduced financial support programmes for local associations, enabling them to utilise resources to develop diverse community activities that will attract tourists and bring about economic revitalisation.
Join a chef-guided cooking tour. Picture by Macau Cultural Explorer
Activities are centred around three main themes: Travel around Macau Community Tourism, Taste of Macau Food Promotion, and Waterfront Fun Maritime Tourism.
A total of 43 community activities have been approved this year. Among them is the 2025 Chinese Temple Journey, which offers guided tours of three temples, where guests will explore the historical and cultural significance of these sites and their surrounding communities. There will also be a traditional handicraft experience.
Another activity is the Macau Full of Fun – Community Tourism Guided Tour, which offers insights into local merchants of various districts, along with participation in handicraft workshops.
Seven community activities or tours will be available from May to June, including the Mong Ha Creatives Market, Family Adventure Macao Consumer Carnival 2, 2025 Chinese Temple Journey, Macao Full of Fun – Community Tourism Guided Tour, Past Memory Roaming Project, Songkran 2025, and Funny Island: Lotus Creativity Marketplace.
Private sector tour operators are already on the walking tour bandwagon. Agency Macau Explorer Cultural Travel started offering in-depth cultural walking tours, such as the Protestant Cemetery and Pilgrimage tour, six years ago. Recently, it collaborated with the historic Hotel Central on a 2.5-hour tour and partnered with young entrepreneurs on a gastronomy community tour. These tours are subsidised by the MGTO.
Managing director Manuel Wu told TTG Asia that the latter tour has been fully booked since its launch.
Fleshing out the gastronomy community tour, Wu said guests would follow a local to pick up ingredients before cooking in a studio kitchen. They would get to encounter local culture along the way. As such, the tour is ideal not only for international tourists and students from China but also locals who are keen to familiarise themselves with their community.
“It’s environmentally friendly too, as no transportation is used,” said Wu.
He added that Macau has around 300 pátios (courtyards in Portuguese) and becos (alleys), and these are where cultural experiences can be found.
As Macau celebrates the 20th anniversary of the historic centre’s UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription, there is a stronger push for visitors to explore beyond popular spots like the Ruins of St Paul’s and Senado Square, which are mainly frequented by backpackers.
Wu hopes to see the addition of new elements, such as blending local religions and pop culture to create unique intellectual property (IP) products.
He suggested integrating the IP of Chinese blockbuster animation Ne Zha 2 to create a Ne Zha mini show as part of walking tours in Macau.
Wu also addressed the lack of night walking tours in the destination, and suggested that an after-dark photography tour bundled with resident shows at leading integrated resorts, such as House of Dancing Water (performed at City of Dreams) and Macau 2049 (performed at MGM Theater) could work.
Ingram addresses travel and tourism industry professionals attending TRENZ 2025, a trade event managed by Tourism Industry Aotearoa
The association for New Zealand’s travel and tourism businesses, Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), is working with government agencies and academics to identify future skillsets needed in the industry and develop relevant courses in response, and has introduced a data insights resource to help members access “good information for good decisions”.
These initiatives, join many others that TIA is operating to “make development and upskilling business capability more accessible and available for our members”, shared TIA chief executive, Rebecca Ingram.
Ingram addresses travel and tourism industry professionals attending TRENZ 2025, a trade event managed by Tourism Industry Aotearoa
Elaborating on the skillset forecast, Ingram told TTG Asia that the workforce scenario of the future will consider issues such as skills needed, where such specialists will need to be deployed in the country, what training is needed, and the availability of relevant courses now to meet future need.
She said: “It’s a really long term, strategic way of looking at tourism and making sure that we are planning for the future.”
She noted that essential skills in travel and tourism are evolving, and there is now a need for people to be able to take initiative on tasks, be flexible, show leadership, and identify different trusted information sources and use data for decisions.
“These are all really important skills for life, and we want to make sure that our young people are building up those skills that are going to be transferable, no matter what tourism career they’re choosing to embark on,” she stated.
For this initiative, TIA is leveraging its relationship with the Tourism Teachers Aotearoa of New Zealand to take tourism education into secondary schools, thus paving a “strong pathway into tertiary education”.
“I really want our young people to see the breadth and depth of what a career in tourism could look like. There is definitely a job to do to help our young people, and also their parents, understand the possibilities available with a career in tourism (and being involved in) global businesses where they can transfer around the world,” Ingram added.
When asked about other recent and significant capability-building projects, Ingram pointed to the Women in Tourism Career Accelerator programme, conducted in partnership with Powrsuit. The programme enjoys “overwhelming interest” and has awarded three scholarships at press time.
Ingram shared that the programme supports a diverse profile – the first batch of beneficiaries includes one who works for a holiday park, one for economic development agency Tataki Auckland Unlimited, and one for Hammer Springs resort town.
To qualify for scholarship consideration, candidates need to be nominated by others. Submissions are then reviewed by TIA.
Ingram said there is no limit to the number of scholarships the programme will offer.
Another successful programme at TIA is the online learning management course for members, which comprises 12 modules covering “case studies, readings, activities to cement their learning”.
Available free for all, the course has more than 450 learners to date, with a high completion rate.
Ingram emphasised that TIA approaches capability building investments with a view from the individual level as well as the macro level “to make sure that we can continue to deliver for years to come”.
Here’s wishing all our Buddhist readers a happy Vesak Day!
