Star of the Seas joins Royal Caribbean fleet

July 11, 2025

Royal Caribbean has taken delivery of Star of the Seas, the latest ship in its Icon Class, following nearly two years of construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland. The vessel is scheduled to debut in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, in August.

The delivery ceremony, held at the shipyard, was attended by more than 1,250 crew members and partners. Royal Caribbean Group president and CEO Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean president and CEO Michael Bayley, Meyer Turku CEO Casimir Lindholm and Meyer Turku chairman Jaakko Eskola marked the handover.

Royal Caribbean welcomed Star of the Seas with a celebration at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland; photo by sbw-photo

The ship will sail from Turku to Cádiz, Spain, where final preparations will be completed before beginning seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean routes. These include stops at Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Star of the Seas includes eight areas across the ship, each offering a mix of recreational, dining and entertainment options. Thrill Island houses a waterpark with six waterslides, a skywalk, and a surf simulator. Chill Island features four pools, live music and multiple bars. Surfside is designed for families with children, offering splash zones, informal dining, and seating areas. AquaDome provides ocean views, live shows, and several dining and bar options. The Hideaway, an adults-only space, includes a suspended infinity pool 41 metres above the ocean, a bar and a terrace with ocean views.

Additional spaces include the Royal Promenade with ocean views and the kinetic art sculpture Pearl. Central Park includes more than 30,500 plants. Other areas include the Lincoln Park Supper Club, pick-up counters for items such as sushi and sparkling wine, and the Suite Neighborhood, which spans four decks and includes the Grove Suite Sun Deck and two-level Coastal Kitchen.

The ship will be Royal Caribbean’s third powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and includes energy systems such as waste heat recovery and shore power connection. The company aims to launch a net-zero cruise ship by 2035. A fourth LNG-powered vessel, Legend of the Seas, is expected in 2026.

Royal Caribbean is also planning new destination developments. Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in The Bahamas is due to open in December 2025. Royal Beach Club Cozumel will follow in 2026, Perfect Day Mexico in autumn 2027, and a beach site in Lelepa, South Pacific, also in 2027.

“The delivery of Star of the Seas marks another bold step forward in Royal Caribbean Group’s journey to reimagine the future of vacations. Star and the Icon Class are a symbol of what’s possible when innovation, imagination and our relentless focus on delivering exceptional experiences come together, ultimately creating unforgettable memories for millions of families and vacationers,” said Liberty.

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Star of the Seas to the Royal Caribbean family as we continue to revolutionise how families and adventurers vacation,” shared Bayley. “It’s a true team effort with so many talented individuals coming together to make the new Icon Class vacation a reality, and we’re excited to debut this incredible achievement with a star-studded celebration this August.”

Aviation roundup: Ethiopian Airlines, Vietjet and more

By TTG Asia

July 11, 2025

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Ethiopian Airlines adds fifth weekly flight to Singapore
Ethiopian Airlines has launched its fifth weekly flight on the Addis Ababa-Singapore route, reinforcing its role as a key link between South-east Asia and Africa.

The new service also includes Kuala Lumpur, expanding travel options for Malaysian passengers and boosting the airline’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

Vietjet launches Hanoi-Chengdu service
Vietjet has commenced direct flights between Hanoi and Chengdu, operating four round-trip services per week. The new route strengthens the airline’s presence in China and enhances regional connectivity by providing non-stop access to Sichuan province from both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

This launch is part of Vietjet’s broader expansion in China, which has seen the introduction of seven new routes this year. The airline now connects Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with major Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. A new Hanoi–Xi’an service also began on July 6, further expanding Vietjet’s China network and boosting travel options across Asia.

Cambodia Airways expands network with Phnom Penh-Penang route
Cambodia Airways has officially launched its inaugural direct flight from Phnom Penh to Penang, which landed at Penang International Airport on June 26.

Flights will operate every Thursday and Sunday on a 150-seat Airbus A319.

This new route reflects both nations’ commitment to improving accessibility and driving mutual growth in tourism and trade.

Hong Kong Airlines boosts connectivity with direct Hong Kong–Xi’an flights
Hong Kong Airlines will start flying non-stop between Hong Kong and Xi’an five times a week from July 18. This new route supports the Belt and Road Initiative by encouraging tourism, culture, and trade between the regions.

The airline has recently expanded its network to include inland cities such as Dunhuang, Xining, Vientiane, and Danang, with flights operated using Airbus A320 aircraft.

In addition, Hong Kong Airlines is increasing frequencies on several mainland China routes, offering two daily flights to Hangzhou and Nanjing, and four daily flights to Shanghai Pudong. These additions complement an extensive network that covers key cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Chengdu, and others, providing travellers with a wide range of options to explore China.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc launches summer retreat package

By TTG Asia

July 11, 2025

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JW Marriott Phu Quoc is inviting travellers to experience its southern coastal setting with the launch of the Summer Retreat package, designed for families, food enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing escape.

Located on Khem Beach, one of Phu Quoc’s most secluded shorelines, the resort stands out for its distinctive design inspired by a 19th-century university, conceived by architect Bill Bensley.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc offers a beachfront retreat on the island’s southern coast, just 10 minutes from Sunset Town

The Turquoise Suite, designed in soft sea tones, features views of the bay, a private balcony spanning the bedroom and living area, and optional upgrades including a private pool and garden.

Dining highlights include Pink Pearl, the resort’s French fine-dining restaurant housed in a restored seaside villa. Chef Olivier Elzer, with experience across 30 Michelin-starred restaurants, presents a menu combining French coastal cuisine with local ingredients. The restaurant also hosts a weekly Sunday brunch, offering Riviera-inspired dishes and live DJ sets.

Family programmes are a core part of the resort’s offering. The Kid’s Club includes craft workshops, traditional Vietnamese games and storytelling-themed spaces designed to engage children through imaginative play.

Guests can also explore Sunset Town, a 10-minute journey by double-decker bus. Known for its sunset views, the area features attractions such as Kiss Bridge, the Kiss of the Sea show, and the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car. Resort guests receive complimentary tickets to selected attractions and unlimited access to Sun World Hon Thom with a one-way cable car ticket.

For more information, visit JW Marriott Phu Quoc.

New hotels: Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, City of Dreams Sri Lanka and more

By TTG Asia

July 10, 2025

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Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, the Maldives
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, located within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, comprises 142 beachfront and overwater villas and residences, each with direct access to either a private beach or part of the ocean.

Selected villas offer interconnecting layouts for families or groups, with some including private pools, Jacuzzis, or both. Options include the Grand Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villa, Three-Bedroom Sunset Beach Pool Residence, Grand Two Bedroom Overwater Pool Villa, and Three-Bedroom Sunset Overwater Pool Residence. These units include indoor and outdoor living and dining areas and a kitchenette. In-villa dining is available.

Dining options include an all-day restaurant, a Mediterranean seafood venue with live music, a swim-up bar, an overwater champagne bar, and a fine dining restaurant serving raw dishes, tapas, wines, and buffet meals.

Accessible by speedboat from Malé International Airport, the resort also offers a spa, marine activities, and children’s clubs for teenagers and younger guests.

City of Dreams Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka
City of Dreams Sri Lanka will open on August 2, completing the final phase of the integrated resort. The launch includes the opening of a casino, the Nüwa hotel, and a retail mall.

Located in central Colombo, the development is South Asia’s first fully integrated resort and the largest private sector investment in Sri Lanka’s luxury tourism sector to date.

The resort features 800 rooms and suites, including the 687-room Cinnamon Life hotel, which opened in October 2024, and the 113-room Nüwa hotel operated under Melco’s flagship brand. The site includes dedicated MICE facilities, a casino and entertainment zone operated by Melco, a shopping promenade, and dining venues. Entertainment spaces will host both international performances and local cultural events.

Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa, Thailand
Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa has opened near Jomtien Beach, just minutes from central Pattaya on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. The location is close to beaches, temples, water parks, shops, golf courses and other attractions. Bangkok is about a two-hour drive away, with three international airports nearby.

The property has 289 rooms and suites, ranging from 33m² deluxe rooms to 88m² suites. Family rooms feature bunk beds, while all units include modern amenities such as sofas and rain showers.

Facilities include six F&B venues, four meeting rooms, a spa, gym, kids’ club and three pools, including a children’s pool and water slides. For families, a package offers daily breakfast, free meals for children, a daily kids’ activity, and other benefits.

Fairfield by Marriott Bali Kuta Ngurah Rai, Indonesia
Fairfield by Marriott Bali Kuta Ngurah Rai is situated just minutes from Bali’s international airport and close to shopping centres and popular attractions like Kuta Beach and Uluwatu Temple.

The hotel has 166 rooms and suites with city or pool views. All rooms have a smart TV, sofa, worktable, and charging ports.

Dining options include an all-day restaurant serving international and local food, and a lobby bar with drinks and light snacks.

For events, the hotel has five meeting rooms, including a large ballroom for up to 500 guests, breakout rooms, and a boardroom. There is also an outdoor venue and a ballroom for weddings.

Facilities include a 24-hour gym, outdoor swimming pool, and children’s pool.

Diriyah Company targets Asia-Pacific markets ahead of 2030 visitor goal

By Rohit Kaul

July 10, 2025

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The Diriyah Company, responsible for developing the Diriyah project, is targeting key Asia-Pacific markets including China, Australia, Singapore, Japan, South Korea and India as it aims to attract approximately 50 million visitors annually by 2030.

“Apart from participating in trade shows like ILTM Asia Pacific, ITB China, SATTE and Tourism Expo Japan, we are organising regular webinars educating travel experts and advising them how to book our offerings. We are also engaging in media promotions trying to generate demand,” said Naif Awlia, director of tourism and engagement at Diriyah Company, speaking to TTG Asia.

Awlia: Diriyah is at the heart of the Saudi trip as the destination is the heart of our culture

The Diriyah project covers an area of 14km² and follows Najdi architectural principles, with an estimated budget of US$63.2 billion. The development includes mixed-use facilities, hotels, retail, an opera house, and residential units.

“The great thing is that we have opened multiple assets. Last year we opened Bab Samhan – a Luxury Collection hotel with 130 keys besides Diriyah Arts Futures which is part of nine museums that are opening within the development itself. The Zallal project, one of the most significant mixed-use developments, was also inaugurated recently this year,” he shared.

When completed before Expo 2030 Riyadh, the Diriyah project will include approximately 40 hotels with more than 6,000 keys, representing brands such as Anantara, Aman, Capella, Chedi, Raffles, Four Seasons and Six Senses.

Visitor numbers to Diriyah exceeded three million by the end of 2024. “This is a combination of domestic, regional and international visitors, where we have seen that a majority, around 80 per cent, is coming from the domestic and regional markets,” said Awlia.

Diriyah Company is working to attract a range of tourist segments from the Asia-Pacific region. He added: “We are open to all kinds of travellers as we always say that Diriyah is at the heart of the Saudi trip as the destination is the heart of our culture. It is the ancestral home of the royal family who established the first kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This is where you will understand the Najdi architecture and our hospitality.”

Bali tourism operators call for urgent maritime safety reforms

By Tiara Maharani

July 10, 2025

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A series of recent maritime accidents around Bali has raised concern among tourism operators, who are urging improvements in vessel safety standards, port supervision, and related infrastructure.

Three incidents – including a tourist boat capsizing in Nusa Penida in March, a fast boat accident near Nusa Lembongan in June, and a ferry sinking on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route in July – have highlighted ongoing safety issues. While cancellations remain limited, operators say concerns are growing, especially regarding Java-Bali overland routes that depend on ferry transport.

Calls for tighter safety measures are growing following recent boat incidents near Nusa Penida, pictured

I Nyoman Subrata, secretary general of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali Chapter, described the incidents as a result of regulatory shortcomings, citing inconsistent enforcement by marine and port authorities. He warned that repeated accidents could undermine Bali’s reputation as a safe destination.

“It’s time for the government to go beyond appeals. We need stricter regulation, real enforcement, and serious investment in key ports like Gilimanuk and Nusa Penida,” he stated.

Without clear directions, some operators are now building their own safeguards. Wisnu Arimbawa, managing director of Good Day Tour, said safety concerns have forced his team to vet ferry and boat operators independently.

“We’ve started developing internal protocols ourselves. Ideally, this should be handled by authorities, but we can’t afford to be passive anymore,” he said.

In response to growing concern, the Ministry of Tourism said it is stepping up coordination with the Ministry of Transportation, search and rescue teams, and local governments to improve enforcement of marine safety regulations.

Ni Luh Puspa, deputy minister of tourism, told TTG Asia that the government is focused not only on establishing safety protocols, but also on ensuring effective implementation at the operational level. Marine tourism safety, she said, “requires discipline, accountability, and consistent oversight across all operators and routes”.

At the local level, the Bali tourism office is prioritising on-the-ground preparedness during the June-August peak travel season. Wayan Sumarajaya, head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, said: “We’ve asked all relevant agencies to reinforce safety protocols and ensure readiness at key marine gateways.”

Looking ahead, tourism operators expressed hope that existing systemic gaps would be addressed to prevent further incidents. I Nyoman Subrata observed that while Indonesia has made considerable investments in air connectivity, similar attention has not yet been given to maritime infrastructure.

“If we’re serious about becoming a global marine tourism destination, safety can’t be reactive. It must be built into planning, operations, and oversight, every step of the way,” he said.

Malaysia targets Indonesian travellers with new homestay showcase

By Dhini Oktavianti

July 10, 2025

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The Malaysian Homestay Entrepreneurs Association (MHEA), in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, recently held the inaugural Homestay Tourism Showcase (HOTAS) 2025 in Indonesia.

This initiative aims to boost Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Visit Homestay Year 2025, with a goal of attracting 25,000 Indonesian visitors to Malaysian homestays this year.

The homestay packages are designed to attract Indonesian visitors seeking authentic village experiences; photo by Dhini Oktavianti

Historically, Malaysian homestays were not heavily promoted in Indonesia due to perceived cultural similarities. However, Tourism Malaysia now recognises the unique appeal of their homestay programme, which emphasises host family experiences, traditional village life, and authentic local activities.

Sahariman bin Hamdan, president of MHEA, said: “This programme is not just an ordinary tourism promotion. This is (to strengthen the) close relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia in fostering regional sustainable tourism.”

Siti Hajar Mohd Yunus, deputy director of Tourism Malaysia Northern Region, said that Tourism Malaysia usually introduces the homestay programme to countries in Japan and Europe. She added that over time, they felt the need to promote it in Indonesia, despite the cultural similarities, because the mechanism is different. She explained that the programme uses a host family approach, with village food and traditional village activities, which they are developing as new products specifically for Indonesia.

Malaysia is offering 99 new homestay programmes tailored for Indonesian tourists, covering diverse interests such as educational tourism, ecotourism, cultural immersion, history, nature, and adventure. These packages specifically target Indonesian travellers seeking experiences beyond typical city tours.

With 223 homestays across all 13 Malaysian states, visitors have a wide array of options, according to Siti. Homestay packages range from day trips to overnight stays, with prices starting at 150,000 rupiah (US$10) per person.

At the table-top session, TTG Asia found Pelegong Homestay in Negeri Sembilan provides packages starting at 80 ringgit (US$18) for a day visit and 200 ringgit for a two-day, one-night stay, including meals and activities such as traditional dance and village tours. Kuala Medang Homestay in Pahang offers activities like boat cruises, rafting, fishing, and traditional crafts.

HOTAS 2025 is projected to generate five million ringgit in revenue from events held in Jakarta, Bogor, and Pekanbaru.

The MHEA is actively seeking strong partnerships with Indonesian travel agents to continuously promote and import these 99 new packages.

Indonesian travel agents TTG Asia spoke with view the Malaysian homestay programme as an attractive option for tourists seeking authenticity.

Ricky Hilton, general manager of communication and CRM at Golden Rama Tours & Travel, noted its particular appeal to Gen Z and millennials who desire a “living like a local” experience.

However, Febriansyah, owner of Fantastik Tour and Travel Kepulauan Riau, suggested that Malaysia needs to further adapt its packages to cater to Indonesian tourists’ pragmatic and budget-conscious nature, emphasising the need for unique destinations and attractions.

UOB Travel Planners broadens cruise portfolio with Ritz-Carlton’s Luminara

By Caroline Boey

July 10, 2025

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UOB Travel Planners (UTP) is preparing to promote Luminara, the third and largest superyacht in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fleet, as it arrives in Singapore on December 23.

The yacht will operate as a base for two months, offering cruises ranging from five to 14 days to destinations across the region, including Bali, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Phuket and Tokyo.

Guests aboard Luminara can enjoy curated menus featuring local cuisine from each port of call; photo by Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The itineraries and deployment were detailed by Steven Ler, executive director of UTP, who attended Luminara’s launch and christening ceremony in Barcelona on June 26. Alongside UTP, travel agents from Thailand, China and Japan were also invited to the event.

UTP, recognised under Marriott International’s Stars & Luminous Luxury Celestial Club for luxury travel services, plans to combine its exclusive benefits and recognition for guests when booking Marriott properties with the Asian cruise itineraries to create an integrated cruise experience.

Ler said UTP Concierge offers – such as US$300 onboard credit and champagne on arrival – may be extended to its network of sub-agents across Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam, which serve a mid- to high-end customer base.

“Demand and interest in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection have grown over the last two years since the launch of the first vessel (Evrima) and the second (Ilma) in 2024,” he said.

He added that the deployment of Luminara in Asia presents an opportunity to invite travel agents onboard to learn more about the suites, amenities, meals featuring local cuisine at each port, onboard retail, art tours and other offerings.

The average cost is about US$1,500 per person per night.

With capacity for 452 guests and no casino onboard, Ler described Luminara as a new concept for the region.

British Airways signs SAF supply deal with EcoCeres

By TTG Asia

July 10, 2025

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British Airways has signed a multi-year agreement with renewable fuels producer EcoCeres for the supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

The partnership is expected to help the UK airline reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by approximately 400,000 metric tonnes, compared with using the same volume of conventional jet fuel. This reduction is equivalent to the emissions from flying around 240,000 economy passengers on return flights between London and New York.

British Airways partners with EcoCeres to boost use of sustainable aviation fuel

British Airways aims to power 10 per cent of its flights with SAF by 2030, in line with the UK government’s SAF Mandate. EcoCeres will supply SAF produced entirely from waste-based biomass feedstock, such as used cooking oil. The fuel has the potential to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent compared with traditional jet fuel.

As for EcoCeres, it continues to expand production capacity and partnerships as part of its ongoing role in sustainable aviation fuel supply.

Matti Lievonen, CEO of EcoCeres, said: “We are proud to partner with British Airways in this strategic agreement to jointly tackle greenhouse gas emissions in aviation. Together, we are contributing to the broader effort of reducing emissions in transportation.”

Carrie Harris, director of sustainability at British Airways, added: “In 2024 alone, SAF accounted for 2.7 per cent of British Airways’ total fuel use and is contributing to our achievement of a 13 per cent reduction in our carbon intensity since 2019. That’s why this new agreement with EcoCeres is so exciting – it’s another important step forward on our journey to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”

Travel start-up TRAppe publishes Bali e-guide for conscious travellers

By TTG Asia

July 10, 2025

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Singapore-based start-up TRAppe, a travel platform focused on curated, lifestyle-forward sustainable travel experiences, has debuted its Bali e-guide, featuring over 100 curated sustainable businesses, accommodation, restaurants, and tours designed for conscious travellers who want to support local communities without sacrificing style or experience.

Each business is verified through direct relationships and site visits, prioritising real local impact over costly sustainability certifications.

TRAppe launches curated collection of over 100 sustainable businesses to simplify travel choices

In a press statement, TRAppe says the digital guide addresses a common frustration for travellers seeking sustainable options: spending hours sifting through fragmented information online.

TRAppe positions itself as the well-travelled friend who has done the homework for conscious travellers seeking authentic local experiences but struggle to find them on mainstream booking platforms.

Bali e-guide will have no booking functionality at this stage; it will only provide direct links to featured businesses.

Gabriella Yan, solo founder of TRAppe, said: “I’m most excited to see travellers discovering incredible local operators they never would have found elsewhere. There are amazing family-run places doing genuinely innovative work. When travellers discover these businesses and share their stories, it creates a ripple effect that benefits entire communities.”

The Bali e-guide will serve as proof of concept for TRAppe’s broader mission: tackling economic leakage in the travel industry by making it more effortless for travellers to support authentic and sustainable businesses. The venture-backed company plans to expand across South-east Asia within the next 12 to 18 months, with upcoming guides for Singapore and Thailand.

Star of the Seas joins Royal Caribbean fleet

Aviation roundup: Ethiopian Airlines, Vietjet and more

JW Marriott Phu Quoc launches summer retreat package

New hotels: Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, City of Dreams Sri Lanka and more

Diriyah Company targets Asia-Pacific markets ahead of 2030 visitor goal

Bali tourism operators call for urgent maritime safety reforms

Malaysia targets Indonesian travellers with new homestay showcase

UOB Travel Planners broadens cruise portfolio with Ritz-Carlton’s Luminara

British Airways signs SAF supply deal with EcoCeres

Travel start-up TRAppe publishes Bali e-guide for conscious travellers

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