The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in partnership with Harley-Davidson Asia, hosted a media familiarisation trip from May 2 to 4, 2026, showcasing Hat Yai, Songkhla and Phatthalung as a motorcycle touring route.
The initiative positions motorcycle touring as an experience-led travel segment, aligned with the campaign concept Unforgettable Experiences: Healing is the New Luxury.
TAT and Harley-Davidson Asia showcase southern Thailand as a motorcycle touring route across Hat Yai, Songkhla and Phatthalung
The itinerary began in Hat Yai, covering scenic roads, community stops, local cuisine and cultural landmarks across the three destinations. Locations included Hat Yai Street Art and Khao Kho Hong Viewpoint, followed by Songkhla Old Town and Hub Ho Hin Red Rice Mill.
In Phatthalung, the route featured Tai Nod Market, Chaloem Phrakiat 80 Phansa Bridge and Manorah Road Viewpoint, highlighting local landscapes and food culture. The programme concluded at the Central Mosque of Songkhla.
Participants included media, content creators and motorcycle lifestyle influencers from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and the UK. A Cars and Coffee gathering at Songkhla Public Park drew more than 700 vehicles from across the region.
The initiative is expected to generate over 20 million impressions, supporting awareness of motorcycle touring in southern Thailand. TAT and Harley-Davidson Asia plan to continue collaboration on route development and related travel experiences.
Malaysia Airlines and Tourism New Zealand have entered a two-year partnership to support travel demand to New Zealand through coordinated marketing initiatives, aimed at increasing visitor arrivals and strengthening destination visibility across key markets.
The collaboration brings together both organisations to promote New Zealand to a broad range of travellers, including young professionals, group travellers and those seeking nature-based and adventure experiences. Campaign activity will focus on the country’s landscapes, cultural heritage and range of experiences, from wellness retreats and coastal journeys to culinary and outdoor activities.
Malaysia Airlines and Tourism New Zealand will collaborate on joint marketing efforts to promote travel between Asia and New Zealand
The partnership also supports New Zealand’s positioning across Asia and other international markets, with a focus on reaching travellers seeking experience-led journeys.
Malaysia Airlines currently operates 10 weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and Auckland, providing direct connectivity between the two countries. The route is served by the airline’s A330neo aircraft, offering updated cabin features and enhanced travel efficiency, alongside onward connections through Kuala Lumpur.
Recent visitor data reflects continued growth in travel from Malaysia. As of February 2026, New Zealand recorded 32,200 arrivals from the market over the previous year, representing an increase of 11.5 per cent year on year.
“New Zealand cannot wait to welcome more visitors from Malaysia as they take the trip of a lifetime to visit our beautiful country,” said Angela Blair, general manager international, Tourism New Zealand.
“As both nations continue to deepen collaboration, Malaysia Airlines is proud to connect Asia and beyond to Aotearoa through our direct Kuala Lumpur-Auckland service and premium travel experience. Together, we look forward to inspiring more travellers to discover the lifestyle, beauty, and warmth of New Zealand while unlocking new opportunities for tourism growth between our two nations,” added Bryan Foong, CEO of airline business, Malaysia Aviation Group.
Oceania Cruises will remove non-commissionable cruise fares (NCFs) on all newly launched sailings, extending commissionable earnings for travel advisors across future itineraries.
The change will apply to upcoming programme launches, including the 2028 summer and 2028-2029 winter seasons, as well as the 2028 and 2029 around-the-world voyages. Published commission rates will be calculated on the full cruise fare.
Oceania Cruises will apply full commission rates to newly launched sailings from its 2028 programme onwards; Oceania Vista, pictured
The adjustment is intended to simplify commission structures and improve transparency, while maintaining existing pricing for guests. New itineraries are scheduled to open for sale in May and June.
NCFs remain a common feature across the cruise sector. Their removal on new sailings represents a shift in how advisor compensation is structured, aligning earnings more directly with booking value.
The move comes as the company continues to expand its fleet and itinerary portfolio, including the planned addition of a fifth Sonata-class vessel. The expansion reflects broader growth plans alongside ongoing engagement with the travel trade.
“Travel advisors are central to Oceania Cruises’ growth strategy – today and long into the future,” said Nathan Hickman, chief sales officer of Oceania Cruises. “Eliminating the Non-Commissionable Cruise Fare increases advisor earning potential on every booking and reflects our commitment to building the most advisor-centric commercial model in luxury cruising.”
He added: “This change is about recognising the value travel advisors deliver and ensuring they share more directly in the growth they help create. When our advisors succeed, Oceania Cruises succeeds – and that philosophy will continue to guide how we invest in our partnerships.”
Emirates has resumed 96 per cent of its global network following a period of disruption, with services progressively resuming across the Americas, Europe, Africa, West Asia, the Middle East, the Far East and Australasia.
The airline now operates to 137 destinations across 72 countries, with more than 1,300 weekly flights, representing around 75 per cent of its pre-disruption capacity. The recovery reflects a gradual return to regular scheduling while maintaining Dubai’s role as a global transit hub.
Emirates resumes the majority of its global network, operating to 137 destinations with over 1,300 weekly flights
Between March 1 and April 30, Emirates carried 4.7 million passengers despite operating a reduced schedule, indicating continued demand for international travel.
The airline continues to offer onboard services including multi-course dining, beverage selection, and access to its in-flight entertainment system, which features more than 6,500 channels across multiple languages. Connectivity is also being expanded, with Starlink Wi-Fi now available on 28 aircraft.
Additional measures have been introduced to support travel flexibility. Customers booking from April 2 can make one complimentary date change across all cabin classes, and fares can be held for 24 hours without charge.
For passengers transiting in Dubai between six and 26 hours, the Dubai Connect programme offers accommodation, transfers and meals, subject to eligibility. Emirates Skywards members can also access promotional benefits between May 8 and August 31, 2026, including reduced tier requirements and bonus tier miles on selected flights.
Emirates currently operates four daily flights between Singapore and Dubai using Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft, alongside a daily service between Singapore and Phnom Penh, supporting regional connectivity.
Chef Tommie Lee showcases his escargot vol-au-vent in a live demonstration on board Genting Dream
Having sailed on Genting Dream before, I was looking forward to once again enjoying a relaxing cruise with the service I had come to expect. What made this two-night Singapore–Melaka sailing stand out even more was the anticipation around this particular cruise, which featured Korean chef Tommie Lee, recognised globally as “Chef French Papa” from Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars, in a collaboration to celebrate the ship’s 10th anniversary.
At the centre of the sailing was a dining collaboration, with Lee creating an exclusive five-course set menu for the ship’s restaurant, Bistro by Reinhard Mammes. A small group of invited media were hosted for a private dining experience, offering a first-hand look at the menu on board. Chef Lee was also present during the sailing, sharing more about his culinary journey and influences in an informal session with guests. The experience came together through a French-led menu, paired with selections from Veuve Clicquot.
The first course was an escargot vol-au-vent, with tender snails set within a crisp, buttery pastry shell, accompanied by a creamy roux-based sauce and a generous portion of mushrooms – the roux technique also demonstrated live by the chef during the meal.
Next was a prosciutto and mesclun salad, served with shaved Parmesan, Kalamata olives and a lemon dressing that brought a light, zesty lift to the dish. Both courses were paired with Bottega Rosé Gold Spumante, a sparkling wine with floral and fruity notes that complemented the dishes well.
Guests were then treated to a bouillabaisse maison, a rich, saffron-infused broth brimming with fresh seafood, including mussels and fish. It was easily the heartiest course, pairing well with a glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial.
Chef Tommie Lee’s Five-Course Set Menu
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Escargot Vol-au-Vent; photo by Melissa A Tan
Prosciutto Ham with Mesclun Salad; photo by Melissa A Tan
Bouillabaisse Maison; photo by Melissa A Tan
Slow Roast Veal Tenderloin, Foie Gras and Truffle Roulade; photo by Melissa A Tan
Chocolate Mousse with Dulce de Leche Espuma; photo by Melissa A Tan
The fourth dish was my favourite of the evening: slow-roasted veal tenderloin, alongside a foie gras and truffle roulade, with green pea mash, roasted carrot purée and a velvety port wine sauce. The veal stood out for its tenderness and depth of flavour, with the sauce bringing everything together. A glass of Barton & Guestier Saint-Émilion Bordeaux further elevated the dish.
The meal concluded on a sweet note with a chocolate mousse with dulce de leche espuma. Light and airy in texture, the mousse was topped with dulce de leche – a milk jam made by slowly heating sugar and milk – adding a gentle sweetness to round off the dish. It was served with Canella Bellini Fruit Blend Spumante Brut, though the dessert stood well on its own without the addition of alcohol.
Verdict Overall, it was an enjoyable experience from start to finish. Beyond the well-executed menu, the highlight was meeting Lee, whose genuine and humble personality – and clear passion for what he does – came through in the dishes as much as in person.
Though he appeared exclusively on this sailing, his menu will be available on Genting Dream from May 3 to July 3, 2026 at Bistro Restaurant – giving more guests the opportunity to experience this specially curated menu.
Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport has promoted Avinash Chandola to rooms division manager and appointed Anju Rathore as front office manager, strengthening its rooms division leadership team.
Chandola was most recently front office manager at the property and brings over 16 years of experience, with a focus on front office operations and guest satisfaction.
From left: Avinash Chandola and Anju Rathore
Rathore joins with more than 12 years of experience in front office operations and guest experience, having led high-volume operations and service delivery across hospitality settings.
Bhutan will host the first Bhutan International Travel Mart (BITM) from June 11 to 13, 2026 in Zhichenkhar, Thimphu, bringing together global buyers and local partners.
The event will take place alongside the launch of its official website, www.bitm.bt, which serves as a central information platform for buyers, exhibitors and the public.
The Bhutan International Travel Mart will debut in Thimphu in June 2026, alongside the launch of its official website as a central information platform
Jointly organised by the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, and the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO), the event marks a new step in Bhutan’s tourism engagement with international markets. BITM is intended as an annual event and a central platform for Bhutan’s ongoing engagement with the global travel trade.
The three-day programme is designed to facilitate B2B interactions between international buyers and Bhutanese tourism stakeholders, while highlighting the country’s cultural heritage and tourism offerings. The initiative aligns with Bhutan’s long-standing approach to tourism centred on high-value, low-volume travel.
BITM will also place a focus on Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), presenting the development as part of Bhutan’s future tourism landscape. The event is expected to bring together international travel professionals and local partners, supporting connections across established and emerging markets.
Key objectives include strengthening Bhutan’s positioning as a distinctive tourism destination, creating opportunities for partnerships, and providing a platform for showcasing services and experiences. The event will also support new product introductions and collaboration within the sector.
The launch of the BITM website is intended to support access to event information and participation, reflecting the growing importance of digital platforms in global travel trade engagement.
“BITM is not merely an exhibition. It is a declaration of Bhutan’s leadership in leading a new era of mindful, regenerative, sustainable and deeply transformative tourism on the global stage. (It allows) us to tell our story directly to the world, strengthen partnerships, and create meaningful business linkages right here in Bhutan,” said Damcho Rinzin, director, Department of Tourism Bhutan, adding that GMC is central to Bhutan’s future, describing it as a “visionary blueprint” for a living sanctuary for mindfulness and a key driver of high-value tourism.
ABTO’s chairman Kinley Gyeltshen shared: “The launch of the BITM website is crucial to the success of BITM. At the same time, BITM will significantly benefit the tourism industry, particularly Bhutanese tour operators. It also creates a valuable platform for our partners to connect directly with international buyers here in Bhutan, build strong business relationships and secure meaningful partnerships.”
Air Astana Group reported a 13.2 per cent rise in first-quarter revenue to US$331 million, as it reallocated capacity from the Middle East to Asian and European routes. The airline is leveraging increased east-west connecting traffic to offset regional volatility and rising unit costs.
Following the suspension of flights to Doha, Dubai, Jeddah and Madinah, the Kazakhstan-based carrier redirected capacity towards higher-yield markets. This shift boosted available seat kilometres to South-east Asian leisure destinations and key business markets in China and India.
Canliel shares that the airline began reallocating aircraft within 48 hours of the Gulf conflict, reflecting rapidly evolving demand conditions that have become the new norm; photo by Air Astana
“Within 48 hours of the Gulf conflict starting, we had already begun reallocating our aircraft to support the rapidly evolving demand conditions which have become a new norm,” said Ibrahim Canliel, CEO of Air Astana.
The realignment led to a 65 per cent year-on-year increase in international-to-international connecting traffic during the quarter, with a sharper rise towards the end of the period.
“We saw a 65 per cent increase of international transit traffic during the first quarter, which was driven largely by a 158 per cent increase during the month of March alone,” Canliel said.
To support growth in Asia, the group launched direct flights to Shanghai in March and plans to operate up to 50 weekly services to China by June across Air Astana and its low-cost subsidiary, FlyArystan. The group also expects delivery of its first two Boeing 787-9 aircraft later this year, offering extended range and upgraded business class configurations aimed at longhaul corporate travel.
Despite higher revenue and load factors, cost per available seat kilometre rose 19.8 per cent, alongside capacity constraints linked to ongoing Pratt & Whitney engine issues. Management said it remains focused on mitigating these costs ahead of the peak summer season.
“We believe that these levels do not reflect the structural cost advantage that the group has in the industry and that we plan to leverage on going forward,” said Air Astana’s chief financial officer Goncalo Pires.
Air Astana plans to expand its fleet to 86 aircraft by 2030, comprising 54 aircraft for the Air Astana brand and 32 for FlyArystan.
The airline views its geographic shift not as a temporary adjustment but as a longer-term change in regional aviation dynamics.
“Our strategy stands sound in the new normal, and it is the execution of it over the coming quarters that is going to be key,” Canliel concluded.
Rainforest Wild Adventure at Mandai Wildlife Reserve in Singapore will soft open its second phase from May 20, 2026, expanding the park to a full 20-hectare site inspired by the rainforests of Asia and Africa.
The development completes the park’s east and west zones, allowing visitors to explore interconnected habitats within a single visit. A single ticket provides access to both zones, along with selected Adventure+ activities.
Rainforest Wild Adventure opens its eastern zone with experiences including the Canopy Glider and Primate Climb overlooking animal habitats; photo by Mandai Wildlife Group
The park combines wildlife encounters with varying levels of physical exploration. Visitors can choose from accessible activities to more challenging, harnessed experiences, with a total of nine Adventure+ offerings across the site. In the eastern zone, activities include canopy rides, elevated viewpoints and treetop courses, while the western zone offers guided high-element experiences such as climbing and simulated cave exploration.
Spanning seven hectares, the new eastern zone draws on Afro-tropical and Madagascan landscapes. It introduces species including the okapi, making its debut in South-east Asia. The park is home to four okapis, managed under an international breeding programme aimed at supporting conservation and genetic diversity.
Additional species across the park include pygmy hippo, eastern bongo, red river hog and Nile lechwe, alongside multi-species habitats representing Madagascar. The design of the habitats allows animals to move freely and exhibit natural behaviours, with visibility varying throughout the day.
To coincide with the opening, Mandai Wildlife Group will host National Geographic-themed retail pop-ups across the park, featuring apparel collections and visual displays inspired by the brand’s archive.
Rainforest Wild Adventure East will operate daily from 09.00 to 18.00, with the last admission at 17.00. Visitors can travel between zones via shuttle services within the reserve, including connections to Khatib MRT station.
As part of the soft opening, ticket holders will have access to selected Adventure+ activities, with additional experiences available separately.
Hilton has signed an agreement for a new-build property in Adelaide’s eastern CBD, marking a return for the brand in South Australia. The Hilton Adelaide East End is planned for 299 Pirie Street and forms part of the wider Arcadia mixed-use development.
The 27-storey hotel will feature 251 rooms and is being developed under a franchise agreement with Auriga Investments. Trilogy Hotels has been appointed to operate the property. Located just over one kilometre from Rundle Mall and the East End precinct, the site is positioned close to established dining, nightlife and cultural venues.
Hilton Adelaide East End is planned as part of a mixed-use development in the city’s eastern CBD, with completion targeted for 2031; photo by Matt Kroker
Guestrooms will range from 31m² to 140m², alongside a recreation deck, several food and beverage outlets and 303m² of meeting space. Facilities are expected to include a fitness centre and pool, with a focus on accommodating both corporate and leisure travellers.
The surrounding area benefits from tram access within 700 metres, while the purpose-built development is designed with contemporary architecture, sustainability considerations and operational efficiency in mind.
Arcadia is intended to combine residential and hospitality elements within a single precinct, contributing to activity in the eastern part of the CBD. The hotel is scheduled to open in 2031 and will participate in Hilton Honors, the group’s global loyalty programme.
“The return of Hilton to Adelaide is both a symbolic and strategic milestone,” said Tushar Raniga, director of development, Hilton Australasia. “This project allows us to reintroduce Hilton Hotels & Resorts as a modern, design-led flagship aligned with Adelaide’s growth and evolving skyline.”
“Together, they will create a destination that draws locals back into the CBD and supports the year‐round calendar of events that make Adelaide unique. This is a long‐term investment in the city’s future, and we are committed to delivering a precinct that elevates Adelaide for generations to come,” added Eric Luk, director, Auriga Investment Group.
