Thailand pushes year-round tourism in new cabinet policy statement

April 10, 2026

The Thai government has introduced a strategic tourism policy to shift the sector from volume metrics towards higher-value yields, in a policy statement delivered by prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul to the Thai parliament on Thursday.

The framework mandates structural integration of national tourism functions under the Ministry of Culture to leverage cultural diplomacy on the global stage, alongside the use of modern technology to improve management efficiency and support tourism development.

Thailand outlines a tourism policy focused on higher-value travel, infrastructure development and stronger safety standards

Another key element is the development of Thailand as a 365-day destination.

By delivering travel experiences that create “lasting impressions and cherished memories”, paired with enhanced safety standards, Thailand aims to build on its strengths in wellness tourism to generate consistent year-round demand.

Officials said the objective of this year-round model is to deliver secure travel experiences “to ensure (visitors) return to Thailand as if it were their ‘second home’”.

For the local travel trade, the policy calls for deeper integration of domestic supply chains. The government is directing hospitality providers to incorporate local agricultural goods and spa products into the visitor experience. This sourcing model is intended to distribute economic benefits to rural producers while standardising sustainable operations across the sector.

At the same time, the administration is prioritising infrastructure to support international exhibitions and major conventions, as well as “world-class recreational activities” such as concerts and sports events. New zones will be developed to attract long-stay remote workers, particularly in high-demand sectors within Thailand.

Authorities will also focus on developing and promoting destinations where local communities benefit directly and contribute to sustainable preservation.

To stimulate the domestic market, travel within Thailand will be supported through tax incentives and travel benefits to Hidden Gems cities, along with the development of products linked to Geographical Indications through collaboration between the private sector and local communities.

The policy also requires stricter enforcement of destination safety regulations.

A new mandatory visitor insurance system covering health and accidents will be introduced, alongside international certification standards for tourist venues and personnel.

The new administration is set to assume full executive authority following the conclusion of a mandatory two-day parliamentary policy debate on Friday, ending a two-month transition period since the February 8 election.

Airlines brace for prolonged impact of fuel price surge, says IATA

By Caroline Boey

April 10, 2026

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The disruption to airline operations caused by high aviation turbine fuel (ATF) since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict may take “many, many months” to normalise after the fighting stops, and nobody knows when, according to International Air Transport Association (IATA) director general Willie Walsh.

However, Walsh, speaking on April 8 at the IATA World Data Symposium held in Singapore, is confident of recovery and said airlines are not facing “an existential crisis”.

Airline leaders discuss fuel costs, digital investment and operational challenges at the IATA World Data Symposium in Singapore; photo by Caroline Boey

He said closed borders during the pandemic had a far greater impact, when 90 per cent of capacity vanished.

Citing the industry’s resilience, he noted it took four months for recovery after the September 11 attacks in 2001, and around 10 to 12 months after the 2008 global financial crisis.

Calling the jump in ATF a “wake-up call”, IATA senior vice president sustainability and chief economist Marie Owens Thomsen, in her Sustainability and Economic Outlook presentation, drew attention to the need for greater global energy investment, in particular low-emission fuels, which stood at just 1.2 per cent of 2025’s US$3.3 trillion total energy sector.

Venture capitalists, she argued, have yet to turn a profit on investments in AI, whereas the use of sustainable aviation fuel, a key part of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, is reducing emissions.

During the CEO panel discussion, airline chiefs from Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore highlighted the increase in ATF forcing capacity cuts and higher air fares.

“Fortunately, demand in the region is still strong but how can the fare increases be sustained,” Nasaruddin A Bakar, president and group CEO of Malaysia Airlines Group, quipped.

For now, the group’s strategy is to contain costs as much as possible.

Thai Airways CEO Chai Eamsiri said the airline is having to adapt to survive and is “not thinking of profitability”.

Meanwhile, Walsh said digital transformation can give airlines the opportunity to “better serve customers” and that the industry remains committed.

He cited the pandemic and how investment in technology such as self check-in kiosks away from the airport was a “win-win”.

Eamsiri noted customer service is a priority, and while investment in other projects is being postponed, the airline is proceeding with AI projects involving enterprise data.

For Scoot, CEO Leslie Thng said investing in Gen AI has helped the low-cost carrier improve customer engagement and work efficiency in optimising aircraft and crew deployment.

Scoot has set up a data department and data warehouse and is using data analytics to power business and manpower productivity, he added.

The industry has to continue to invest in digital transformation, he opined: “The airline industry cannot fall behind as the customers already expects it.”

He acknowledged Scoot’s chatbot had a low rating, but its adoption of Gen AI was better, and agentic AI is expected to be “even better” as data privacy is intact and the system is protected.

“(AI) Incidents outside the industry provide a good lesson and we continue to learn from outside and inside the aviation industry. The questions is when we will be attacked and how quickly we recover.”

Thng remarked that the aviation industry must have the appetite to experiment, as not all digital transformation efforts are successful.

DTH Travel passes US$100 million as growth continues after rebrand

By Rosa Ocampo

April 10, 2026

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Innovations and operational changes have resulted in DTH Travel achieving high double-digit growth rates, with healthy year-on-year revenue since its ownership change and rebranding four years ago.

Rebranded from Diethelm Travel when CEO Stephan Roemer acquired full ownership with partners, DTH Travel has served over 90,000 travellers across 14 Asian countries, breaking the US$100 million mark for the first time.

Roemer: people’s eyes have been opened to travel… the yearning to see and experience something unique remains

“We see that our creative approach to what would otherwise be corporate and mass travel arrangements are very much appreciated by our clients and their customers,” Roemer told TTG Asia.

On the impact of the current situation in the Middle East, Roemer said: “We received a few cancellations but this comprised less than ten per cent of our total bookings for the month. Most of our clients requested for an adjustment of dates, either within the same period or later on in the year.

“We are also still actively receiving requests – they may not be the same volume compared to last year – but we cannot say that the bookings have stopped either,”

He remains sanguine about the outlook for Asia. “As people’s eyes have been opened to travel, despite global challenges, the yearning to see and experience something unique remains. We saw this during Covid, where travel stopped when borders closed but resumed with a vengeance when they reopened.

“People may currently be on a wait-and-see status, but we are optimistic that the situation will improve and the volume of customers traveling to Asia will return,” he pointed out.

DTH Travel, whose core business remains B2B, with growing MICE and group segments, now has a customer base of just over 1,200 agents and tour operators worldwide, 720 of which made a booking in at least one destination last year.

Roemer added that the company has 22 local offices in Asia with 388 full-time employees from 19 nationalities. It has a complaint rate of less than 0.05 per cent, with guest satisfaction as the main benchmark rather than customer base or revenue figures.

DTH Travel is known for creating unique travel experiences, including the recent launch of the Blue Jasmine train experience in Thailand.

More than a train ride, Roemer said its goal is “to provide customers access to smaller locations, local communities and experiences that would otherwise be impossible without the train”.

“The train is just the very special vehicle we use for the special experience of excursions and the people travellers meet along the way”.

This focus on developing new offerings also applies to products such as adventure travel in the offbeat destination of Abra in northern Philippines, river safari experiences in Borneo, and a cross-country train journey through Laos, China and Vietnam.

Aviation roundup: Cathay Pacific, ITA Airways and more

By TTG Asia

April 10, 2026

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Cathay Pacific expands North America network with Seattle service
Cathay Pacific has commenced a new non-stop connection between Hong Kong and Seattle, adding capacity in the North America market.

The route operates five times per week and is the only direct link between Hong Kong and Seattle. With this addition, the airline now serves nine destinations in North America and operates close to 120 return flights per week to the region.

The service is operated using Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

ITA Airways is now part of Star Alliance

ITA Airways joins Star Alliance network
ITA Airways has become the 26th member of Star Alliance, adding its network in Italy and Europe to the alliance.

From April 1, the carrier is fully integrated, linking its hubs in Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate with more than 1,150 destinations served by member airlines. The addition contributes over 350 daily flights, strengthening connectivity within Italy and to international markets.

The integration enables benefits including through check in, reciprocal frequent flyer programmes and lounge access across the alliance.

Peach Aviation unveils new branding and aircraft livery plans
Peach Aviation has introduced a new brand identity with updated aircraft livery to follow in spring 2027.

The rebranding marks the airline’s 15th anniversary and includes a new logo and visual design developed with designer Oki Sato. The update does not involve changes to routes, frequencies or network operations.

Peach Aviation is based at Kansai International Airport and operates as a low-cost subsidiary of ANA.

TransNusa adds Jakarta-Lombok route with daily frequencies
TransNusa has launched a new direct service between Jakarta and Lombok, expanding its domestic network in Indonesia.

The route will commence on April 17, 2026, with 14 weekly frequencies, operating twice daily between the two cities. The addition strengthens access to Lombok and the West Nusa Tenggara region.

The airline has also increased frequencies on its Jakarta-Yogyakarta route as part of its domestic network expansion.

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong serves up April dining and Songkran events

By TTG Asia

April 10, 2026

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Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong will present a series of dining and lifestyle experiences throughout April 2026, centred on seasonal events and social dining in the Ratchaprasong district.

The programme includes a monthly beverage, Splashing with Me, priced at 349 baht (US$10) per glass, available at Moxy Bar & Restaurant. On April 5, the hotel will host Crack into Easter, with food offerings and activities such as egg hunts and painting sessions.

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong presents April experiences including Songkran-themed activities, rooftop dining and seasonal food and drink offerings

From April 11 to 15, the outdoor terrace will feature a Songkran-themed setting inspired by a traditional temple fair. Activities include water blessing rituals, games and music during the afternoon and early evening.

At Sato San Rooftop Bar, a Songkran Bite N Bucket Splash experience will run from April 13 to 15, offering small plates and drinks alongside city views. The rooftop will also feature Banana Jardin by Bally Chanoknart, a limited-time beverage priced at 400 baht, available from now to April 30.

Dining concepts include the Moxy Rice Bowl Truck, operating on Fridays and Saturdays with dishes from 199 baht, and Kub Klaem, offering shared plates from 99 baht on the outdoor terrace.

The hotel also offers a Flexi 24-Hour Stay package, allowing guests to check in at any time and stay for 24 hours. Marriott Bonvoy members can receive bonus points and stay credits for bookings made within the promotional period.

For more information, visit Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong.

Malaysia considers extending Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign to 2027

By S Puvaneswary

April 9, 2026

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The government is weighing a one-year extension of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign to strengthen the country’s position in an increasingly competitive global travel landscape.

Deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that the VM2026 National Main Committee has agreed to prolong the campaign until the end of 2027, although the move is still subject to Cabinet approval.

Malaysia weighs extending its national tourism campaign to sustain recovery and strengthen global positioning

The extension is aimed at giving authorities more time to maximise tourism opportunities and refine strategies amid shifting global travel patterns, with Ahmad Zahid noting it would allow Malaysia to “adopt a proactive approach in strengthening promotional strategies” while showcasing the country as a safe and competitive destination.

He added that external factors, including geopolitical uncertainties, had influenced the decision. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which began earlier this year, has disrupted regional stability and affected international travel demand, prompting the government to reassess its tourism timeline.

“This measure also takes into account current developments, including the Middle East conflict, which has had a significant impact on regional stability and affected the global tourism sector,” he said.

The extended campaign is expected to help Malaysia better capitalise on evolving tourist trends and sustain momentum in the sector, which has shown steady recovery in recent years.

Ahmad Zahid said the extension would help strengthen branding efforts, attract more visitors and boost tourism revenue.

Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association president Mint Leong welcomed the proposal, describing it as a positive step for the industry, but stressed that stronger execution would be key to its success.

She said that if the campaign is extended, it must be backed by fresh funding for international promotions to ensure Malaysia remains visible in key markets.

Leong also emphasised the need to improve air connectivity, particularly from longhaul markets, noting that increased direct flights would play a crucial role in driving higher-value tourist arrivals.

At the same time, she called for closer collaboration between the government and industry players to ensure promotional efforts are more targeted and effective, adding that consistency in messaging and long-term planning would be critical to fully realise the campaign’s potential.

Brunei Tourism names global agency for digital content and strategy

By S Puvaneswary

April 9, 2026

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Brunei Tourism has appointed ELMNTL as its global agency of record for social media strategy and content production, marking the first time the Sultanate has engaged an international agency to lead its digital storytelling.

Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, ELMNTL is a global marketing and communications agency specialising in tourism, hospitality, and destination storytelling.

Brunei Tourism partners with ELMNTL to develop global social media strategy and content with support from local production teams; photo by Brunei Tourism

The partnership signals Brunei’s push to strengthen international awareness through strategic digital engagement.

Salinah Mohd Salleh, acting director at Brunei Tourism, said in a press release: “This appointment reflects Brunei Darussalam’s commitment to strengthening our international presence through thoughtful, culturally respectful, and strategic digital storytelling.

“As we continue to position Brunei as a destination for family travel, cultural discovery, and nature-based experiences, ELMNTL brings the global expertise and strategic discipline needed to communicate our values, heritage, and identity to international audiences.”

Under the appointment, ELMNTL will serve as Brunei Tourism’s global strategic and creative lead, overseeing social media strategy, creative direction, content development, paid media optimisation, and performance reporting across priority markets.

The scope includes always-on content as well as seasonal campaigns aligned with national objectives.

To ensure authenticity and strong local representation, ELMNTL will collaborate with Brunei-based production company Lailatul Shazanas Studio, which will support on-the-ground filming, content capture, and cultural guidance.

The partnership combines international expertise with local creative talent to ensure Brunei’s stories are told accurately and respectfully.

Together, the teams will highlight Brunei’s positioning as a destination defined by authentic culture, preserved nature, and meaningful travel experiences, including rainforest exploration, wildlife encounters, heritage landmarks, and family-oriented travel rooted in peace, balance, and sustainability.

ELMNTL will act as the central coordination hub, setting international standards while working closely with Brunei partners to ensure consistency, cultural integrity, and execution.

ELMNTL CEO Ron Vernon commented: “Brunei represents a rare destination, one guided by values, authenticity, and respect for nature and heritage. We are honoured to be appointed as Brunei’s first international agency and to work alongside talented partners in Brunei to share the country’s story with the world.”

Brunei joins a portfolio of destinations and hospitality brands represented by ELMNTL, including Tourism Authority of Thailand (Americas); ASEAN Tourism (tourism working group and entity for the South-east Asia region) across the US, the UK, Canada, India, and Australia; Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office in the US and UK; and hospitality venues under Apogee Events, including Tribeca Rooftop, Tribeca 360, Rosa Agave & Wine Lounge, and Land’s End.

Explora Journeys to enter Asia-Pacific with 2027 cruise itineraries

By Audrey Ng

April 9, 2026

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From the Mediterranean Sea to the tropical waters of the Caribbean, Explora Journeys is now bringing its luxury cruise experience to Asia-Pacific.

Last year, the luxury ocean cruise brand of the MSC Group announced the launch of its Asian itineraries for 2027-2028, marking its first entry into the region.

Vogler: our itineraries allow guests to experience the same sense of space, harmony and personalised service they expect from the world’s finest hotels

“Asia represents a natural next chapter for Explora Journeys, offering extraordinary cultural diversity, iconic destinations, and discerning travellers who value immersive, high-quality experiences – perfectly aligned with our brand and philosophy,” said Alexandra Vogler, chief marketing and digital officer, Explora Journeys.

This move signifies the start of the company’s long-term commitment to the region, which it says is one of the world’s most strategically important luxury travel markets.

Launching in 2027 aligns with the expansion of the Explora fleet as it introduces new ships. It will focus on crafting a carefully curated regional programme that considers seasonality, local infrastructure, and the opportunity to deliver immersive itineraries across North-east and South-east Asia.

Vogler shared with TTG Asia: “We offer journeys that are immersive, restorative, and deeply personal – delivering a modern expression of luxury at sea. (Our itineraries) allow guests to experience the same sense of space, harmony and personalised service they expect from the world’s finest hotels, while waking up in a new place each day. In a region as diverse and nuanced as Asia, this creates a particularly compelling way to travel – one that feels fluid, unhurried and deeply connected to both the journey and the destination.”

As it gears up towards its launch, Explora plans to engage regional travel partners, luxury travel advisors, and trade stakeholders to “build awareness, confidence and long-term engagement within the travel trade ecosystem across Asia”, while also introducing international guests to the region.

Local engagement is also at the heart of each journey. Explora will work with regional experts, destination partners, and on-the-ground specialists to curate experiences that feel “authentic and connected, while respecting the heritage and communities of each destination”.

Travellers can look forward to itineraries with longer port stays and multiple overnight calls in gateway cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Shanghai, and Ho Chi Minh City for a more relaxed pace of travel.

New hotels: voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG, Varel Singapore and more

By TTG Asia

April 9, 2026

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voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG, Vietnam
The 250-key voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG has opened in Nha Trang, marking the brand’s third property in Vietnam. The 31-storey hotel sits along the northern coastline, about 10 minutes from Tran Phu Street, offering a quieter setting with access to the city’s main attractions.

Facilities include five dining venues, including a Mediterranean restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant, a lobby lounge and a pool bar with sea views. There is also a ballroom with ocean views and meeting spaces.

Wellness facilities include a fitness centre and a wellness centre. Nearby attractions include Nha Trang’s beaches. Cam Ranh International Airport is about 40 km away.

Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Singapore
Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel is a new 128-room property at the junction of Selegie Road and Mount Sophia in Singapore. The hotel sits in a heritage area known for shophouses, cafés and cultural venues.

Most rooms include balconies and views of the surrounding district, while facilities include an all-day dining restaurant, café, cocktail bar and rooftop pool bar. There is also a rooftop infinity pool with city views.

The hotel is within walking distance of Little India, Rochor, Bencoolen and Dhoby Ghaut MRT stations. Nearby attractions include Kampong Glam, the National Museum of Singapore, Bugis, Orchard Road and Marina Bay.

Four Points by Sheraton Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Four Points by Sheraton Johor Bahru in Bandar Seri Alam is located about 35 minutes by car from Senai International Airport and around 30 minutes from Johor Bahru city centre, with access to nearby industrial hubs including Pasir Gudang and Tanjung Langsat.

The property features 150 rooms, including twin, king and three-bedroom duplex options. Selected rooms feature balconies or patios, with higher-floor categories offering additional space.

Facilities include an all-day dining restaurant with indoor and alfresco seating, and a lobby bar serving drinks and light meals. Leisure amenities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, a ballroom of about 1,139m², as well as smaller rooms for corporate and social functions.

Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati, India
Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati introduces the brand to Andhra Pradesh, in one of India’s main pilgrimage cities. The hotel is about 15 minutes by road from Tirupati railway station and 20 minutes from Tirupati Airport, with access to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.

The 130-room property includes rooms and suites designed with natural light, workspaces and standard amenities for business and leisure stays.

Facilities include three dining venues: an all-day restaurant serving local and international dishes, a lounge bar, and a poolside outlet. Leisure facilities include a spa, outdoor pool and fitness centre.

The hotel also offers event and meeting space of about 578m², including a ballroom and flexible function areas for weddings and conferences.

Sanya to stage PATA Annual Summit in May 2027

By TTG Asia

April 9, 2026

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PATA has confirmed that its Annual Summit 2027 will take place in Sanya, China, from May 17 to 19, 2027.

The event will be held in partnership with the Sanya Tourism Board. The summit is expected to bring together industry stakeholders to discuss developments affecting travel and tourism across the Asia-Pacific region.

Sanya in China’s Hainan province will host the PATA Annual Summit in May 2027

The programme will span three days and include a one-and-a-half-day conference focused on key industry issues. Other activities will include executive board and board meetings, a Chapter meeting, a youth symposium and technical tours.

Sanya is located in the southern part of Hainan province and is known for its tropical climate, beaches such as Haitang Bay and Yalong Bay, as well as attractions including the Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park and Wuzhizhou Island. It also has a range of tourism infrastructure, including resorts and urban cultural offerings.

Tourism authorities in Sanya have reported growing visitor demand from Central Asia and ongoing efforts to expand air connectivity. In November 2025, the city recorded more than 2.24 million overnight domestic and international visitors.

A spokesperson from the Sanya Tourism Board said the city is committed to sustainable tourism development and aims to welcome international delegates while supporting regional collaboration in the Asia-Pacific travel sector.

PATA shared that the summit will provide a platform for collaboration across the region’s tourism sector, including discussions on sustainability and industry development.

“Sanya is exceptionally well-positioned to host the PATA Annual Summit. We look forward to collaborating closely with Sanya to bring the 2027 Summit to life,” said Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of PATA.

Thailand pushes year-round tourism in new cabinet policy statement

Airlines brace for prolonged impact of fuel price surge, says IATA

DTH Travel passes US$100 million as growth continues after rebrand

Aviation roundup: Cathay Pacific, ITA Airways and more

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong serves up April dining and Songkran events

Malaysia considers extending Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign to 2027

Brunei Tourism names global agency for digital content and strategy

Explora Journeys to enter Asia-Pacific with 2027 cruise itineraries

New hotels: voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG, Varel Singapore and more

Sanya to stage PATA Annual Summit in May 2027

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