Air New Zealand has revealed its new uniform, a collection that reflects the cultural heritage and artistry of Aotearoa New Zealand. The print, colour, and design aim to represent aspects of Aotearoa to an international audience.
The uniform was designed by New Zealand-born designer Emilia Wickstead and features hand-painted prints by tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana. It marks a change in Air New Zealand’s uniform design and incorporates elements of identity and storytelling.
The new uniforms aim to represent identity, inclusivity, and the airline’s connection to New Zealand
Worn by 6,000 Air New Zealand staff globally, the airline’s uniforms are a recognisable part of its identity. The new designs by Emilia and Te Rangitu continue this tradition with a new approach.
The new Air New Zealand uniform collection includes a mix of colours, prints, and tailored designs. Key pieces include The Fine Print – Dress, with a tui knot neckline and the kōwhai print inspired by Māori heritage and the story of Ngatoro-i-Rangi; The Collective Thread – Shirt, a design with printed patterns, suitable for any crew or ground staff member; and The Wrap Around – Trench, a trench coat in violet pinstripe designed for consistency across the uniform. The Woven One – Ie Faitaga is a garment to be trialled by Pasifika staff, reflecting Pacific heritage, while The Runway Cut – Waistcoat is a new design for male crew and ground staff, intended to convey a sense of presence and authority.
Air New Zealand will begin trialling its new uniform in May 2025, following an initial reveal. After a period of testing and feedback from staff across the airline, the uniform will be introduced across its network, with team members expected to begin wearing it from 2026.
Air New Zealand chief executive Greg Foran commented: “For us, this is more than just a uniform; it is a celebration of our people, our culture, and our values. Air New Zealand has never been about standing still or blending in. As an airline, we are all about being bold, celebrating what makes us unique, and celebrating our team members. This new uniform encapsulates everything we stand for – a combination of innovation, rich cultural heritage, and a sense of pride and belonging.”
Centara Hotels & Resorts is introducing an opening offer at its newest property, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island, which will open on May 1 this year.
Located in the Andaman Sea, the retreat offers sea views and relaxation, with room rates starting from 5,500 baht (US$160) per night. This includes daily breakfast for two, a daily resort credit of 500 baht, and early check-in and late check-out. Guests who book a minimum of three consecutive nights will also receive round-trip boat transfers from Tonsai Pier.
Centara Villas Phi Phi Island opens May 1 with special rates and perks
In addition, CentaraThe1 members will earn triple points during their stay.
A two-hour ferry ride from Phuket, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island features an infinity pool, direct access to the sea from the resort deck, treatments at Cense by Spa Cenvaree, restaurants and bars, and activities for families, couples, and groups.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has signed seven MoUs and one collaboration agreement with local and international partners to strengthen Singapore’s position as a top tourism and lifestyle destination.
These partnerships aim to enhance marketing efforts, attract new events and brands, improve visitor experiences, and promote sustainable tourism growth.
STB’s new partnerships aim to position Singapore as a leading destination for tourism, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences
Key collaborations include partnerships with CapitaLand, Fever Labs, Pop Mart, Klook, and the Singapore Business Federation, targeting areas such as lifestyle, entertainment, business events, and destination branding.
The partnership with CapitaLand Investment has been renewed with a three-year collaboration agreement, running from June 2025 to May 2028. This collaboration will focus on attracting international brands and events to Singapore, supporting the development of local concepts with tourism potential, and updating CapitaLand’s existing properties – such as CQ @ Clarke Quay, Funan, and Raffles City Singapore – to offer new experiences.
A new partnership, the Dempsey Precinct Partnership, has been formed by representatives from Dempsey, HSBC Bank (Singapore), and STB to promote the Dempsey area. It will focus on increasing awareness and encouraging visits through joint marketing campaigns, and highlight the area’s unique mix of heritage architecture, retail, dining, and green spaces.
The partnership with Fever Labs will further support efforts to position Singapore as a hub for attractions and entertainment in Asia. Over the next three years, this collaboration will aim to secure first-in-the-world or first-in-Asia events, foster partnerships with industry stakeholders, and share insights to better understand international visitor preferences, ultimately growing visitor numbers and tourism spending.
STB’s expanded partnership with Klook, formalised through a new three-year MoU, will support the STB’s Tourism 2040 goals. It will focus on growing visitor numbers, identifying future demand, developing new tourism products, and strengthening the sector’s long-term resilience. Key initiatives include a global marketing campaign, co-developing tourism offerings, supporting major events, promoting cruise-related travel, and testing emerging technologies such as AI.
In partnership with Pop Mart International, a three-year collaboration will introduce exclusive experiences and events in Singapore, including the Pop Toy Show, which will be the brand’s only showcase outside China in 2025 and 2026. Additionally, Pop Mart is collaborating with Mandai Wildlife Group and STB to launch a themed experience at selected wildlife parks in 2026.
Meanwhile, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and STB have signed a two-year MoU to support the local business events ecosystem and increase the number of local hosts for association conferences. This partnership will aim to improve the capabilities of local trade associations, provide networking opportunities, and assist them in bidding for and hosting international business events in Singapore.
Finally, Singapore Flyer and STB are collaborating with South Korean lifestyle brand Wiggle Wiggle to transform one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks starting from 2Q2025. This four-month partnership – the brand’s first in South-east Asia – will feature five themed capsules and giant inflatables at the Singapore Flyer. Visitors can also enjoy a 111.5m² experience zone and pop-up store showcasing Wiggle Wiggle’s popular products.
Luxury Phuket hotel, Trisara has recently unveiled its largest-ever residence villa on site, a nine-bedroom ocean-front property that welcomes extended families and groups on holidays. This addition, according to the general manager, further sharpens Trisara’s appeal among its repeat multi-generational guests.
Known simply as Villa No.2, the 9,711m² nine-bedroom residence villa comes with seven well-furnished master bedrooms and two additional rooms as well as a collection of lush tropical gardens, manicured lawns, seafront decks, infinity pool, and an air-conditioned living and dining hall.
Trisara enhances its appeal to multi-generational travellers with the launch of its largest residence villa
Guests could enjoy their time together in complete privacy, if they so wished, with their daily requests attended to by a dedicated butler while a private chef, specialising in authentic Thai cuisine, could curate and present all meals onsite.
Villa No.2 is among many other residence villas sharing the sprawling grounds of Trisara with hotel villas and hotel facilities. The smallest residence villa is designed with two bedrooms.
General manager Claudia Schwarze said Trisara is familiar with welcoming and caring for extended families and groups of friends choosing to holiday together.
“As we speak (on April 4), there is a group of 16 guests here with us. They are actually owners of one of Trisara’s villas, but have also booked another to accommodate everyone in the group,” she shared.
Schwarze added: “We are so used to having multi-generational travel groups with us, and it makes sense that our guests love coming back to Trisara because our owners designed the resort the way they would like to enjoy it with their family. Our owners come by often, from grandparents to young grandchildren.
“We thought carefully about family time, kids’ time, and adults’ time, and are giving each person what they need.”
Trisara’s kids’ club, which offers daily fun and educational programmes as well as both a book and video library, helps to keep young guests occupied should guardians seek personal time indulging in one of many experiences curated by the Trisara team. At Trisara, guests can join a cruise on a luxury motor yacht, go snorkelling in the Andaman Sea, get a crash course on MuayThai boxing from expert trainers, join a Thai cooking class, and more.
Trisara’s revamped F&B concept is complemented by a thoughtful children’s menu that is available at all resort restaurants.
Schwarze said: “We have been told that Trisara offers one of the most diverse and healthiest kids’ menu around Phuket. We don’t just offer nuggets and chips – yes, we need to have these favourites, but we also serve dishes like poached sea bass. We consider the different age groups and what they would want to eat.”
The multi-generational travel segment is lucrative, opined Schwarze, as most of such guests tend to stay all day on property to enjoy various facilities.
Cathay has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, outlining progress in its sustainability activities and confirming its commitment to long-term sustainable development.
As the Cathay Group enters its next phase of growth, sustainability remains a priority.
Cathay continues sustainability progress with SAF, circular economy goals, and community-focused programmes
Key highlights from the 2024 Sustainability Report include Cathay’s efforts to support a local Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) ecosystem, including the launch of a tripartite SAF partnership with HSBC Hong Kong and EcoCeres, enabling SAF usage from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and highlighting the potential for developing an SAF system in Hong Kong. The airline also co-founded the Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition (HKSAFC), a multi-stakeholder group aimed at supporting SAF policy development and adoption. Globally, Cathay’s Corporate SAF Programme recorded a 22-fold increase in SAF usage compared to its launch in 2022.
In support of a circular economy, Cathay Pacific reduced the average number of single-use plastic (SUP) items per passenger to 2.6 and introduced two new 2025 targets – to increase in-flight recycling of water bottles to 33 per cent and to ensure that at least 50 per cent of remaining passenger-facing SUP items are made from recycled plastics. A new workflow for recycling plastic bottles and cans was also implemented at HKIA.
In the community, 2024 marked the 20th anniversary of Cathay’s youth development programme, I Can Fly, which resumed after a five-year pause and was expanded to include an exchange tour in the Greater Bay Area.
Cathay’s CEO Ronald Lam said: “Having successfully completed our two-year rebuilding journey, we have now set our sights on growth and development, where sustainability remains an area where we aspire to lead and is at the forefront of our path forward.
“Our environmental focus continues to be on climate change and a circular economy. Beyond our environmental efforts, we remain committed to our deep roots in Hong Kong, enriching our communities through youth, sports, and arts initiatives while setting our sights on future growth by attracting, developing and retaining a strong pipeline of global talent.”
The 2024 Sustainability Report can be viewed here.
Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a hotel management agreement with Agungwaluya Kuta Pengembang for Cross Bali Waluya, a 115-key resort in Bali’s Berawa neighbourhood.
The resort is set to open in 2029 and will operate under the Cross brand.
The 115-key Cross Bali Waluya is set to open in 2029
Located near Berawa and Batu Belig beaches, Cross Bali Waluya is situated in one of Bali’s most sought-after areas. The resort will feature one-bedroom suites, one-bedroom penthouses with jacuzzis, and two- and three-bedroom residences and penthouses with private rooftops, lap pools, and wellness facilities. Additional amenities will include a spa, fitness centre, infinity pool, kids’ zone, plunge pool, restaurant, and bar.
The resort’s design follows Tri Hita Karana, the Balinese philosophy of harmony between people, nature, and spirituality. From landscaped spaces to hospitality experiences, every aspect of Cross Bali Waluya is created to meet the modern traveller’s need for well-being, peace, and a connection with the environment.
Vigor Agungwaluya, director of Agungwaluya Kuta Pengembang, said: “Our collaboration with Cross Hotels & Resorts brings a fresh, dynamic approach to hospitality, offering spacious and thoughtfully curated stays that blend comfort with the unique charm of Berawa. We’re excited to open doors to a wider market and create memorable experiences for every guest.”
“Cross Bali Waluya embodies our brand philosophy of Luxury by Design. Every room category, amenity, and guest touchpoint has been envisioned to offer understated luxury in a setting that feels both inspiring and relaxed. Berawa is where culture meets creativity, and this resort will offer a refined base for guests who want to experience Bali through a new lens,” added Evan Burns, country manager – Indonesia, Cross Hotels & Resorts.
The 10th edition of the Digital Travel APAC Summit will be held from August 12-13, 2025 at a new venue, One Farrer Hotel, Singapore.
The summit focuses specifically on digital developments in the travel sector, covering marketing, eCommerce, customer experience, and data. It is designed for professionals responsible for leading digital initiatives.
From left: Trip.com Group’s Amy Wei, Cathay Pacific’s Gordon Chu, TripZilla’s Winnie Tan, AMAN’s Olivier Jolidon, Teleperformance’s Andrew Budiman, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Kim Chua
After highlighting emerging trends and disruption in 2024, the 2025 event will move towards actionable strategies, practical solutions, and scalable models to support digital progress across the industry.
This year’s theme, Navigating the Future of Travel: Building Trust in an AI-Driven World, focuses on the impact of AI on the travel industry. The summit will bring together over 300 senior leaders from airlines, hotels, online travel agencies, and tourism boards to discuss innovation, customer trust, and the sector’s digital future.
The two-day event will include sessions, networking opportunities, and travel technology showcases. The 2025 agenda will feature more panels and fireside chats, encouraging open discussions and increased audience engagement.
More than 50 industry experts will lead discussions on key challenges facing the travel sector in 2025. Topics will include how tourism boards define success and remain top-of-mind, adapting to shifting consumer behaviour, effective strategies for social media marketing, driving long-term success with AI, and using customer data platforms (CDPs) to enhance personalisation.
Attendees will also get to explore a lively exhibition zone, showcasing the latest in travel technology – from seamless booking tools to AI-powered CX platforms.
Cambodia Airways inaugurates Phnom Penh-Hong Kong route
Cambodia Airways celebrated its Phnom Penh-Hong Kong service on April 1 with a ceremony at Hong Kong International Airport. The inaugural flight was celebrated with warm greetings and floral presentations at both Hong Kong and Phnom Penh airports.
This new route, the airline’s fourth non-stop connection to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, enhances its network across key regional cities, offering greater convenience for business travellers, strengthening ties between Cambodia and Hong Kong, and providing Hong Kong tourists easy access to Cambodia’s culture and historic sites.
Qantas
Qantas introduces non-stop flights between Singapore and Darwin
Qantas has launched a new non-stop flight from Singapore to Darwin, offering a direct connection between the Lion City and Australia’s Top End.
This new service adds over 70,000 seats annually and provides a more efficient gateway to Darwin, saving visitors time by eliminating the need to transit through other Australian cities.
Flights will operate four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The service is operated by a Qantas Boeing 737-800 with 12 Business and 162 Economy seats. Eligible Qantas customers and Frequent Flyers will have access to the Qantas International First or Business Lounge at Singapore’s Changi Airport, as well as the Qantas Club in Darwin.
Vietjet
Vietjet launches four new Vietnam-China routes
Vietjet has launched four new non-stop services from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Beijing and Guangzhou as part of its 2025 expansion, which also includes new routes to India, Japan, and Singapore.
The new routes offer daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Beijing and Guangzhou, and from Hanoi to Guangzhou. The Hanoi-Beijing route will initially operate three times a week, transitioning to daily service from April 27. A new daily Hanoi-Shanghai service will begin on April 29.
These new routes are part of Vietjet’s broader international growth, with direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hyderabad and Bengaluru in India having started in March, and new services to Nagoya and Fukuoka in Japan launching in late April. A new Phu Quoc-Singapore route will begin in May.
British Airways
British Airways restarts daily flights from London to Kuala Lumpur
British Airways has resumed flights from London to Kuala Lumpur, with the first flight departing London Heathrow on April 1 and arriving in Kuala Lumpur on April 2.
The daily service, operated on a 787-9 Dreamliner, provides UK travellers with direct access to Kuala Lumpur, a city with a range of attractions, a diverse culinary scene, and landmarks such as the Petronas Towers, blending modernity with a rich cultural history and offering opportunities for both exploration and relaxation.
137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts has launched the Tale of Two Thai Cities: The Land of Lotus package, offering stays in both Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
Interest in Thailand has grown following its selection as the filming location for the third season of The White Lotus drama series.
Embrace Thailand’s cultural heritage and modern luxury with 137 Pillars’ unique two-city package
The Tale of Two Thai Cities: Land of Lotus package includes a stay in Chiang Mai, where guests can explore the city’s historical sites. The 30-suite hotel is set in a residential area near Wat Gate Temple, the Ping River, and local shops. Facilities include a pool beside a living wall of over 20,000 plants, and the Nitra Serenity Centre offering spa treatments. Dining venues include The Dining Room, Palette Restaurant, and Jack Bain’s Bar, which serves cocktails and champagne.
137 Pillars Suites & Residences in Bangkok offers a central location near the Emquartier and Emporium shopping areas. The hotel features two high infinity-edge pools, with the rooftop pool exclusive to Suite guests. Dining includes the Bangkok Trading Post Deli & Bar and Nimitr Restaurant, with private rooftop dining available. The Nitra Serenity Centre provides spa treatments for relaxation.
The package offers a 30 per cent discount on suite bookings in Bangkok and a 25 per cent discount in Chiang Mai, with a minimum two-night stay at each property. Additional inclusions at both locations are round-trip airport transfers, personal butler service, complimentary daily breakfast for two, a complimentary 60-minute Thai or Aromatherapy massage for two, additional F&B and spa discounts, as well as rooftop sundowners from 18.00 to 19.00 daily in Bangkok.
From now to October 31, rates start at 137 Pillars House from 19,000 baht (US$565) per night, and at 137 Pillars Suites from 17,100 baht per night.
Released in December, the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) emphasises island tourism with plans to drive development and promotional efforts.
Considering the cultural and natural resources of individual islands, the blueprint will explore and promote distinctive countryside and island tourism itineraries while enhancing amenities for visitors.
The stunning Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark covers Sai Kung and a section of the New Territories, accessed by a mix of land transportation and boat
For instance, efforts to develop Lantau Island as a ‘Tourism Island’ will be intensified, integrating the leisure and recreational elements of North Lantau with the eco-tourism offerings of South Lantau. In addition, the development of the South Lantau Eco-Recreation Corridor will be expedited, as well as the ex-Lamma Quarry area into a resort and outdoor recreational area.
Yacht tourism is on the list as well. The Hong Kong Development Bureau is looking to promote this in the expansion area of the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter, the ex-Lamma Quarry area, and the waterfront near Hung Hom Station. It will invite private organisations to explore the construction and operation of yacht berthing facilities there, alongside other initiatives.
In fact, island tourism is not something new, as the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has been a long-time supporter of this initiative.
A HKTB spokesman said: “The city’s breathtaking great outdoors are minutes away from the urban hustles, making it an integral part of Hong Kong’s tourism appeal. As such, we leverage the city’s scenic nature and outdoor activities for tourism promotions on various channels to provide an enriched experience to visitors.”
The spokesman cited the year-round Hong Kong Great Outdoors campaign, launched in 2009, which provides guides to activities such as hiking, beach outings, outdoor sports, cycling, sightseeing, and outlying island tours.
The Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival showcased artworks across the four Sai Kung islands
HKTB has also been supporting outlying island event promotions to raise awareness of the vibrant culture and diverse happenings on the islands. These include the Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival and the Cheung Chau Bun Festival.
Founder and chief foodie officer of Hong Kong Food Tours, Cecilia Leung, welcomes the focus on island tourism, citing it as an opportunity to showcase Hong Kong’s lesser-known natural beauty and attract eco-tourism travellers who might not otherwise consider the city as a destination.
Said Leung: “This also encourages repeat travellers to return to Hong Kong to explore the islands. Although our groups are small, logistical arrangements still need to be carefully considered, and it is crucial to ensure that the environment is being protected.”
She also noted that private and customised tours are on the rise. “A premium, more exclusive island experience could be developed for higher-spending travellers seeking unique experiences,” she added.
“It’s an interesting idea to explore building large-scale integrated resorts as part of the island tourism strategy. These integrated resorts should still have easy access to the city centre to allow visitors to explore other parts of Hong Kong,” Leung said.
When it comes to green and culture tourism, Walk in Hong Kong co-founder and CEO Paul Chan, and Eco Travel GM Derek Tse specialise in such journeys, yet still face challenges. This could be something the blueprint could improve in the future.
Tse opined that most of these islands for tourism are located in the eastern part of Hong Kong, such as Sai Kung, Lai Chi Wo and Sha Tau Kok.
He added: “We don’t openly advertise this as a regular offering and only provide tailor-made arrangements due to challenges such as logistical limitations. For instance, we organised a half-day post-conference tour to the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark for 400 international doctors. However, due to a very limited selection of boats and a monopolised operation, we had no choice of vessel and had to split the group into two boats, despite booking two months in advance.”
Accessibility is key for Hong Kong’s more than 260 islands, emphasised Chan, adding that the government must play a role to facilitate this in order to fully integrate island tourism into the economy.
Tai O island is home to a historic fishing village; photo by Hong Kong Tourism Board
He said: “Although we are a forerunner in offering various experiences in Yan Chau Tong harbour as well as in the Sha Tau Kok (STK) Frontier Closed Area, the stumbling block is still the requirement to apply for an entry permit three days in advance.”
STK, a restricted area, was opened to visitors in 2022. Along with the neighbouring villages of Lai Chi Wo, Kuk Po, and Ap Chau, they form a cluster rich in Hakka culture.
In January, Chan incorporated the Countryside Harvest Festival of Kuk Po into the tour experience. By partnering with local villagers, the event featured outdoor concerts, drama performances, a photo exhibition with lion dance, and a marketplace. It drew one to two tour groups comprising overseas visitors.
Shared Chan: “Indeed, the city offers more options beyond popular destinations like Lantau and Cheung Chau. However, unpredictable summer weather limited our tour availability to autumn and winter. Price-wise, as it caters to a niche market, the costs of transportation and food arrangements to these remote areas are higher.”
In Sai Kung, the Hong Kong Pearl Cultivation Association offers a pearl farming workshop that incorporates eco-tourism elements that include environment, community and culture, as well as the actual hands-on experience.
General manager David Wong said: “The availability of hardware such as hotel facilities and piers are all the more important as the islands don’t have them. I believe that tourists (would rather) stay overnight on those remote islands than to rush to catch the last boat back to the city. Otherwise, they might need to charter a boat, which can be very costly.”
