StarCruises will reposition its Star Navigator from its summer homeport in Taiwan’s Keelung to Kaohsiung for the winter season, operating from November 16, 2025 to January 30, 2026 with 22 departures to destinations in Japan, the Philippines and Vietnam.
The Star Navigator will depart Keelung on November 14 for a special two-night repositioning cruise to Kaohsiung.
Star Navigator
Other cruise highlights include two five-night All Okinawa Cruise to Naha, Miyakojima and Ishigaki; two five-night Vietnam Cruise to Ha Long Bay and Da Nang; and seven five-night Philippines Cruises to explore the country’s most stunning islands.
Visit www.stardreamcruises.com for more information.
Who’s who in creativity, art, media, and fashion in Singapore descended on The Standard, Singapore when it threw a spectacular grand opening party earlier this month that spotlighted the brand’s alignment with the destination’s strengthening position as a global hub of commerce, culture, and creativity.
At the centre of the evening was Dreamscape, a fantastical living installation conceptualised by artist Eric Tobua – in collaboration with The Standard’s brand and design team – who also created the striking centrepiece that is a permanent piece of the hotel’s reception.
Known for blending nature, performance, and surrealism, Tobua brought his imaginative world to life – transforming the hotel into a dreamlike landscape where fantasy meets reality.
The party also showcased a series of striking installations – a sculptural waterfall adorned with vibrant tropical flora; and an Orange Grove Walkway that was lined with glowing oranges and twisting branches – as well as spontaneous art encounters.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has collaborated with Chinese travel platform Mafengwo to showcase Singapore’s charm through an immersive AI style at its #AnywayIt’sFun Inspiration Renewal Journey event in Beijing.
Centred around the themes of contrast, novelty, and social connection, the event showcased the diverse charm of Singapore travel through an immersive Nanyang-style experience, a friendly roundtable discussion, and stories shared by travel influencers.
Singapore Tourism Board and Mafengwo combine AI technology with tourism products to raise Singapore’s destination appeal
Mafengwo also unveiled its latest AI-powered cultural and creative product, powered by its self-developed AI model for travel industry, offering tourists a glimpse into the future of smart travel.
According to user data from Mafengwo’s AI Travel Assistant for Singapore, travellers’ preferences in Singapore are becoming more nuanced and segmented. Families with children care about “queue times at attractions” and “stroller rentals”; young travellers seek out “trendy cafés” and “Peranakan culture check-ins”; seniors prioritise “barrier-free facilities”.
“To meet these needs, Singapore has introduced five themed travel profiles,” explained Andrew Phua, STB’s chief representative and executive director of Greater China, during the event’s roundtable.
“Health-conscious travellers can explore Sentosa’s rainforest ecosystem through immersive guided tours. Food lovers may try the uniquely flavored coffee pork ribs. Urban explorers can marvel at prehistoric wonders at the new Jurassic World: The Exhibition at Gardens by the Bay. Experience-seekers can feel the pulse of Formula 1 and enjoy live performances at the Singapore Grand Prix. Meanwhile, senior travellers may enjoy the tranquility and joy of traditional embroidery workshops. By combining AI technology with tourism products, we can provide endless possibilities aligned with the “Just for Fun” spirit.”
“AI travel assistants – whether in the form of digital itineraries or creative cultural products – are more than tools. They are triggers for travel inspiration,” said Chen Gang, CEO of Mafengwo, elaborating how AI is reshaping travel in the era of hyper-independent travel.
Mafengwo’s AI Travel Itinerary tool can also provide trip planning support, giving suggestions according to the traveller’s budget.
SIA Group, which operates Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Scoot, will scale up its Asian services after Jetstar Asia completes its exit on July 31. Some of the services being planned include new Scoot flights to Okinawa in Japan and Labuan Bajo in Indonesia – which are currently operated exclusively by Jetstar Asia from Changi Airport.
Singapore Airlines and Scoot plan on adjusting their Asian network and flight schedule to fill service needs when Jetstar Asia ceases operations on July 31
In a report by Singapore broadsheet The Straits Times, an SIA spokesperson said the company would adjust its flight schedules and network to support the demand for air travel in the region following Jetstar Asia’s closure. However, services are subject to regulatory approval and alignment with the group’s airline partners.
The report also indicated plans for five new city routes in Asia between October 26, 2025 and March 28, 2026.
Jetstar Asia’s closure is expected to displace more than 500 employees. A segment of them may be able to secure employment with the SIA Group. An SIA Group spokesperson said on June 13 that the company is “working closely” with Jetstar Asia to explore employment opportunities for affected individuals.
“We are creating a number of opportunities across our airlines, including positions for around 100 pilots and 200 cabin crew. Our aim is to support as many affected staff as possible in continuing their careers within the aviation sector,” an SIA spokesperson told news channel CNA.
Sydney’s new 24-hour airport is one step closer to welcoming its first passengers, with major construction works across Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) now complete.
Drawing on the region’s natural beauty, WSl’s new terminal marries sustainable-by-design principles and innovative technology to deliver a seamless experience for airlines and passengers at Australia’s first new greenfield international airport in more than 50 years.
The new terminal at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is supported by advanced technology that will move passengers through the airport at speed
WSI CEO Simon Hickey shared that works on the terminal had started in 2019, when a global competition was held to select project architects. London-based Zaha Hadid Architects and one of Australia’s top firms COX Architecture were picked to develop the initial design concepts of WSI.
The terminal design is emblematic of the World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains Area as well as the Cumberland Plain and the region’s incredible First Nations culture and history.
“People will love spending time in this terminal as they enjoy the iconic vistas of the surrounding Blue Mountains that are reflected in our stunning feature ceiling and take in the thoughtful design and materials like the extensive use of beautiful sandstone that was sourced from a quarry on the Central Coast,” he said.
“Visitors will be welcomed by the stories of Dharug country that will connect the world with more than 60,000 years of Aboriginal culture while also highlighting the vibrant communities of Western Sydney.”
The terminal has a climate-responsive facade, and more than 6,000 solar panels affixed to its roof to provide energy efficiency and renewable electricity. In addition, it will collect and recycle rainfall for use in airport operations such as bathrooms, irrigation, and cooling towers.
Hickey added that WSI will provide Sydney with a 24-hour international gateway and offer passengers flying out of WSI a quick departure with the help of next generation technology. With both domestic and international gates located under one roof, travellers’ connections will also be simple and efficient.
WSI is on track to open for domestic, international and air cargo services in late 2026.
Hilton’s ongoing commitment to making travel a force for good has seen it establishing some unique partnerships with local organisations in Thailand to achieve stronger sustainability impact.
Hilton hotels in Bangkok and Pattaya have partnered with Wat Chak Daeng, a temple in the Phra Pradaeng District, to support plastic recycling efforts. The hotels contribute used amenities and plastic bottles, which are then turned into monk robes, flooring materials, and plastic chairs, giving plastics a second lease of life.
Hilton hotels in Bangkok and Pattaya partners Wat Chak Daeng to recycle plastic
The properties’ combined efforts have resulted in over 18,000 plastic bottles donated for recycling at the temple. This is equivalent to almost five tons of plastic being diverted from landfills.
Over in the Thai capital city, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok utilises octagonal-shaped cartons to provide drinking water for guests. After use, these cartons are donated to the Thai Green Shelter Project and converted into roof sheets and ecobricks, to help build and maintain houses for the underprivileged and survivors of natural disasters.
In 2024, the team collected and donated 11,600 empty cartons, the equivalent of around six roof sheets, to help rebuild the Rajapattana School and villages in Sukirin District in Narathiwat province. To date, over 10,000 cartons have been donated this year.
Hilton and its properties continuously look for opportunities to reduce unnecessary waste in its operations and supply chain, including the recycling and the elimination of single-use plastics, to create a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry.
Hilton’s 2025 Trends Report revealed that over 70 per cent of travellers find it important to minimise their environmental impact while traveling, with more than half considering a hotel’s sustainability program a factor that impacts their choice of stay.
Ten Khiri Travel staff have earned the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism, following the completion of a four-week online course and examination. The endeavour is part of the company’s ambition to be a completely GSTC-certified DMC by the end of 2025.
Those that passed include six of Khiri’s Green Team spokespeople, two general managers, one office manager, and the sustainability coordinator at Khiri Core in head office.
Khiri Travel aims to be a completely GSTC-certified DMC by the end of 2025
The course was led by experts Nia Klatte and Ayako Ezaki, with guest speakers contributing operational insights. Delivered via the TrainingAid platform, the programme featured live sessions, interactive modules and technical discussions.
The instruction will help Khiri strengthen its internal sustainability management system in 18 offices in all the eight Asian countries where it operates.
Sukhum Jarangdej, sustainability coordinator at Khiri Core, said: “GSTC training has elevated technical understanding and Khiri’s readiness for certification across the company.
“It also ensures our local Green Teams are equipped to lead sustainability efforts in meaningful and measurable ways, in practice, not just in theory.”
Each Khiri country office has its own Green Team consisting of volunteer staff who spearhead sustainability projects, support certification initiatives, and foster a culture of eco-consciousness across departments.
To receive personal GSTC certification, participants must pass the exam with a minimum score of 80 per cent. The certification is individual based. It can be retained by the recipient as a qualification for the rest of their career.
Khiri’s three remaining general managers and a newly appointed green team spokesperson from Vietnam are now participating in the training course.
Natalie van Ogtrop, the sustainability manager for Khiri’s parent company, Yaana Ventures, earned the certification earlier this year.
Willem Niemeijer, CEO, Khiri Travel, said: “The training represents a key milestone as Khiri moves toward overall GSTC certification as a company. We are committed to the 4Cs of Conservation, Community, Culture and responsible Commerce. Khiri will continue to lead by example on positive-impact regenerative tourism throughout Asia.”
Results of the annual Halal in Travel (HIT) Awards 2025, organised by the industry authority on halal tourism CrescentRating and online online consumer platform and mobile application HalalTrip, have highlighted growing intensity in efforts to build a warmer welcome for Muslim travellers in non-Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) destinations.
The HIT Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) Awards named Hong Kong the Most Promising Muslim-friendly Destination of The Year. Hong Kong ranks third in this year’s Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI).
Halal in Travel Awards 2025 honours organisations and individuals who drive innovation and inclusivity in halal travel
Hong Kong hospitality organisations swept up five more trophies in the HIT Muslim-Friendly Service Provider Awards category. Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong was named Muslim-friendly Hotel of The Year; The Mira Hong Kong was named Muslim-friendly Hotel of The Year; Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre was named Muslim-Friendly Convention & Exhibition Centre of The Year; Ngong Ping 360, Hong Kong was named Muslim-friendly Attraction of The Year; Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong was recognised for its Outstanding Contribution to Hong Kong’s Halal Dining Landscape.
In the same category, Malaysia’s Mohd Chan Group won the Muslim-friendly Restaurant Chain of The Year recognition.
Liew Chian Jia, regional director of Southeast Asia, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), said: “Since our Muslim-friendly push, HKTB has seen an increasing interest and participation in CrescentRating’s accreditation programme among the Hong Kong stakeholders. To support this initiative within the South-east Asia region, we have rolled out a dedicated Muslim campaign named, Jelajah Hong Kong, that showcases Muslim-friendly experiences for ease of trip planning. We will continue efforts to elevate Hong Kong’s position as a popular Muslim-friendly destination.”
In the HIT HalalTrip Travelers Choice Awards category, Switzerland Tourism’s destination campaign with Buttonscarves, an Indonesian premium scarf and headscarf brand, won the NTO the Halal Travel Marketing Campaign of The Year award.
The Taipei City Government was also recognised as the Muslim Women Friendly City Destination of The Year. This is another feather in the cap for Taipei City, which was named the Most Promising Muslim-friendly City Destination of The Year (non-OIC) in the HIT GMTI) Awards 2023.
Furthermore, the naming of Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, undersecretary, Philippine Department of Tourism as HIT’s Halal Travel Personality of The Year is reflective of the Philippines’ steady emergence as a hot favourite among Muslim travellers.
The Philippines climbed four spots to reach eighth place in the GMTI 2025 ranking of Top 20 Non-OIC destinations.
The only other title holder so far is Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, who was recognised in 2022 – he was the former minister of tourism and creative economy of Indonesia.
Sapphire Princess and Diamond Princess will be homeported in Singapore for the 2026–27 sailing season, bringing with them an expanded range of itineraries and sailing dates, including festive departures. Both ships last homeported in Singapore for the 2018–19 season.
Sapphire Princess will operate 18 itineraries from Singapore during the 2026–27 season, including round-trip South-east Asia and Far East sailings. Some itineraries will include late-night port calls in locations such as Halong Bay, Bangkok and Hong Kong. Among the itineraries is a 33-night repositioning voyage departing Los Angeles on October 15, 2025, calling at Hawaii, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Yokohama before arriving in Singapore.
Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess prepare for the 2026–27 season from Singapore
A 14-day Christmas and New Year sailing will visit eight ports in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, with an overnight stop in Bangkok.
Following a season in Japan from February to November 2026, Diamond Princess will reposition to Singapore, where she will operate 11 sailings between November 2026 and March 2027, covering 28 destinations in eight countries. The season begins and ends with repositioning voyages between Singapore and Japan, ranging from 14 to 31 days and calling at Taiwan, Hong Kong and Vietnam.
A 14-day Christmas and New Year sailing will include stops in Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok.
Take in the sights and sounds of the towns along Danube river on Trafalgar Reverie
Cruise down the Danube from Budapest one day, take a tour of Communist-era sites the next, and dine with a local family at Austria’s oldest winery the day after.
These experiences are just some of the activities in different destinations that are part of Trafalgar’s newly launched river cruise tours in Europe that will set sail from April 2026.
The two itineraries include an eight-day cruise down the Danube river from Budapest to Passau on the Trafalgar Reverie and a 10-day Rhine cruise from Amsterdam to Basel on the Trafalgar Verity.
Expanding into the river cruise segment is a natural progression for the travel brand. Trafalgar, part of the The Travel Corporation (TTC) group of companies, aims to provide travellers with deeper, more meaningful ways to connect with the destinations they visit — whether through immersive cultural encounters, behind-the-scenes access, or exclusive activities not easily available to the public.
Since its founding in 1947 in the United Kingdom, Trafalgar has led guided holidays to 72 countries across all seven continents. Today, it continues to deliver authentic travel experiences through its offerings.
“We’ve always been about making it easy for travellers to connect with the heart and soul of every destination. Now, we’re bringing that same philosophy and unmatched experience – valued by our travel advisor partners, to Europe’s iconic rivers,” said Nick Lim, CEO, Asia, TTC.
Trafalgar’s river cruises bring its signature activities and experiences as its land tours to Europe’s waterways. Here are some ways the brand continues to deliver authentic travel experiences:
Exclusive encounters
The plus interior of a balcony room on Trafalgar Verity
Trafalgar’s river cruise ships are designed for intimacy and personalised service, with just 64 cabins that can accommodate up to 128 guests. This smaller size means a more relaxed atmosphere onboard and ensures that guests can enjoy the journey without the crowds typical of larger cruises.
Moreover, the crew-to-guest ratio is 1:3, allowing for more personalised service.
Local discovery Beyond the major cities, Trafalgar’s river cruises take guests to lesser-known towns along the rivers, each rich with their own history and heritage.
Guests can immediately disembark after breakfast and head right into town, whether it is to explore the beautiful old town of Koblenz or soak in the Baroque architecture of Passau. Or they can join included tours conducted by a local specialist who can introduce them to Budapest’s local delicacies or take them on a scenic walk along the banks of the Ilz river in Bavaria.
These destinations off the typical tourist trail introduce guests to a different side of a destination that they may have been to before and experience the authenticity of small towns and villages.
One-of-a-kind experiences
The main lounge of the Trafalgar Verity is done in a classical European style
A key part of Trafalgar’s appeal is its Be My Guest experiences — personally hosted encounters with local families and communities.
For instance, guests can dine at Austria’s oldest winery, Weingut Nikolaihof owned by the Saahs family, and learn about their winemaking heritage, or lunch with the Bohrer family at a family-run farm in Breisach.
Another aspect of Trafalgar’s tours is its Stays with Stories programme where guests can stay in accommodations with historical or cultural significance. Think heritage properties such as castles or boutique hotels that reflect the character of the region.
In fact, the each ship was specially designed to reflect the river and the surrounding region.
Conscious travel Apart from taking care of guests’ needs, Trafalgar also takes care of the planet, people and wildlife through its Make Travel Matter programme.
Itineraries include experiences that support the local community or learning about responsible consumption and produciton. In fact, Trafalgar’s river cruise crew also head into town to shop for local produce that will be used for meals on board.
Make Travel Matter experiences on the river cruises include learning about Bratislava’s Cold War history on a tour of Communist-era sites and vinegar tasting at an artisanal vinegar producer.
Exclusive perks at no extra cost Travelling is also made more seamless as Trafalgar takes care of all logistics, allowing guests to focus on enjoying their journey. This includes priority access to popular attractions, effectively skipping the lines and saving valuable time.
Itineraries are designed with built-in leisure time, ensuring travellers have the flexibility to explore on their own, relax, or pursue personal interests at their own pace.
Moreover, guests benefit from 24/7 on-the-road support, ensuring assistance is always available.
Keen for an authentic experience like no other? Visit Trafalgar to discover the variety of tours available now.
Who’s who in creativity, art, media, and fashion in Singapore descended on The Standard, Singapore when it threw a spectacular grand opening party earlier this month that spotlighted the brand’s alignment with the destination’s strengthening position as a global hub of commerce, culture, and creativity.
