Intrepid Travel, through its corporate social responsibility arm Intrepid Foundation, is calling upon the world to send aid to those severely impacted by the 28th March earthquake.

Homes, businesses, and schools have been destroyed by the massive tremors, but responders struggle to bring aid where it matters, as many roads remain blocked and the bulk of national communication systems are down.

In light of such circumstances, donations to the Myanmar Earthquake Appeal will help provide immediate emergency relief and critical assistance for the worst-hit communities in the country.

Also, Intrepid will match all donations up to AU$100,00 to bring as much relief as possible to quake victims.

Hitting close to home

Regional general manager for Southeast Asia Mike Stewart said: “My friends and colleagues are reporting catastrophic damage in Myanmar, a country that holds a special place in my heart.”

Stewart lived and worked in Myanmar for a couple of years, around 2011 when it was just emerging from military rule and reopening to the world.

He said: “The country’s progress was palpable, and it was an exciting time to be there. But as we all know in recent years, Myanmar has slid back into violence, and the situation has become increasingly dire.”

Stewart pointed out that, just before the quake hit, he spoke to Intrepid’s staff in the capital city Yangon.

He remarked: “They were struggling with electricity blackouts lasting up to eight hours a day, and one, is also without access to water.”

This bleak state of affairs has been exacerbated by the destruction wrought by the disaster.

Time to reach out and help

As of noon on Sunday, 30th March, Myanmar’s military junta has reported 1,644 fatalities due to the earthquake, 3,408 injured, and 139 missing.

Biheng Zhang, general manager of the Intrepid Foundation, declared that now is the time for the global community, especially fellow professionals in the travel and tourism sectors, to step in and provide support.

Zhang said: “The impact of the earthquake in Myanmar is severe. Although we’re not currently travelling in Myanmar, the country continues to hold a special place in Intrepid’s heart. I appeal to our global travelling community: those who’ve been to Myanmar in the past or who have simply visited the region. Your support at these times can bring critical aid to the thousands of families at a time they need it most.”

Learn more about Intrepid Foundation’s Myanmar Earthquake Appeal via https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/myanmar-earthquake-appeal.

Donations may be made online through the aforementioned website.

Asian low-cost carrier AirAsia Group recently expanded its partnership with the golf industry in the name of branding expansion.

Indeed, the airline just signed a new partnership with Ripper GC, one of the 13 teams in the LIV Golf League. 

Airline officials said the two companies have a common goal to grow the sport together, engage with new golf enthusiasts and potential passengers, and deliver an even more exciting 2025 season. 

Ripper GC captain Cameron Smith shared his experiences from his career playing on the Australian and Asian Tours and said he was delighted to partner with AirAsia. 

Smith said: “When I started my career, and still today, one of the biggest barriers for new golfers is air travel. I am grateful that AirAsia is helping to give a new generation of golfers the opportunity to realize their dreams.” 

For his part, AirAsia Brands chief executive Rudy Khaw added: “At AirAsia Group, our motto is to make air travel accessible to more people. By partnering with Ripper GC, which won the Team Championship last year, AirAsia is able to support the future of the sport alongside a world-class golf team, which is an ideal brand value for us.”  

Under the partnership, Ripper GC players will wear caps with the AirAsia logo at all LIV Golf events in the 2025 season. 

Both AirAsia and Ripper GC are looking forward to more partnership activities in the future.

What is LIV Golf?

LIV Golf is a new tour which launched in 2022 that features both individual and team competitions. 

Unlike traditional golf tours, each hole begins with a “shotgun start,” with players scattered across the course and teeing off simultaneously, and the relatively fast-paced format of the three-day event has created a buzz among golf fans in a short time. 

Ripper GC, likewise, is a team of proven players including Matt Jones, Marc Leishman, and Lucas Herbert, along with captain Cameron Smith, that has been impressive in the highly competitive LIV golf scene. 

During last year’s season, the team recorded four team victories and secured the team championship title. 

LIV Golf Korea,  which takes place from 2nd to 4th May at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club Korea in Incheon, is the first LIV Golf event to be held in South Korea and is already generating a lot of interest. 

The Ripper GC team, winners of last year’s team championship, will be looking to repeat their victory at LIV Golf Korea 2025 this week. 

As part of the partnership announcement, AirAsia fares to Seoul in South Korea are currently on sale, starting from AU$381, till Sunday, 4th May.

Thai hospitality company Dusit Hotels and Resorts announced that its newest property in Vietnam is slated to open on  9th May.

Located in the heart of the Vietnamese capital, the Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi is a refined urban sanctuary that also serves as Dusit’s debut in Hanoi.

The opening of the Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi comes in the wake of the successful opening of the Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort Phu Quoc.

That said, the new property brings Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the tranquil shores of West Lake, offering an elegant blend of modern luxury and timeless Vietnamese charm.

Dusit International chief operating officer Gilles Cretallaz said of the property: “We are honoured to expand our presence in Vietnam and bring Dusit’s distinctive Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to Hanoi for the very first time. Inspired by the remarkable legacy of Princess Từ Hoa, Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi is much more than a new hotel: it is a celebration of cultural heritage, artistic spirit, and heartfelt service. By seamlessly blending the elegance of Vietnamese tradition with the warmth of Thai hospitality, we aim to create enriching experiences that resonate deeply with our guests and foster meaningful connections with the local community.”

Regal inspirations

Inspired by the legacy of Princess Từ Hoa, a royal figure celebrated for her pioneering contributions to the silk industry in the Nghi Tàm area near West Lake, the hotel captures the spirit of craftsmanship, community, and cultural pride that defines the neighbourhood.

A daughter of Emperor Lý Thần Tông, who reigned from 1128 to 1138, Princess Từ Hoa famously left the royal court to cultivate mulberry trees and teach silk weaving to the local people. 

Her legacy lives on in the area’s continued association with quality craftsmanship; and now, in the design and spirit of Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi, where traditional elegance is thoughtfully reimagined for the modern era.

A elegant urban hideaway

Boasting 207 beautifully appointed rooms and suites with panoramic views of the lake or city skyline, the hotel has been designed as a serene retreat for business and leisure travellers alike. 

Each space combines contemporary comfort with subtle Vietnamese detailing, all enhanced by the intuitive service and warm hospitality for which Dusit is known.

Guests can enjoy a curated collection of dining experiences celebrating both local and international flavours. 

Soi Restaurant showcases bold and authentic Thai cuisine, while Vinci Italian Restaurant and Rooftop Bar offers refined Italian fare alongside sweeping views of the city. Phở Lụa presents a cosy al fresco setting dedicated to Vietnam’s beloved noodle soup, and Dusit Gourmet provides an inviting space for artisanal pastries, afternoon tea, and freshly brewed coffee.

The hotel also features four private dining rooms designed for exclusive gatherings and VIP occasions.

Alongside a fully equipped gym and spaces for wellness activities, the hotel also offers three elegant ballrooms and a rooftop event space with spectacular views over West Lake, making it ideal for weddings, corporate functions, and social celebrations.

Lifestyle hospitality company Ennismore continues its global expansion with the recent signing of Melbourne Place in the heart of Melbourne’s central business district. 

The celebrated property will be reimagined and relaunched as Hyde Melbourne Place, marking the brand’s debut in Australia.

As such, the hotel will offer a fresh and unique experience for locals and travellers, blending contemporary design with Melbourne’s synonymous cultural essence. 

According to recently appointed general manager Jodi Brown: “Melbourne’s creative spirit, bold energy, and cultural richness make it the perfect setting for Hyde’s Australian debut. With its bohemian aesthetic, playful spirit, and deep roots in music and design, Hyde Melbourne Place will offer guests more than just a stay, it will be a full sensory experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s coming, including vibrant spaces, live music moments, and design that truly speaks to the heart of Melbourne’s artistic community.”

Even now, Melbourne Place has already been recognised as one of the city’s most exciting new destinations, recently earning a coveted spot on the Condé Nast Traveller Hot List 2025. 

Celebrated for its distinctive design, central location, and connection to Melbourne’s creative pulse, the property’s next chapter under Hyde promises to build on this strong foundation, introducing bold new experiences while honouring the cultural vibrancy that defines it.

A bold new look

Hyde, which has expanded its global presence to cities like Miami, Dubai, London, and Johannesburg, brings its bold vision for lifestyle hospitality to Australia. 

Hyde Melbourne Place will feature a variety of guest rooms and public spaces that reflect Melbourne’s renowned artistic and cultural vibrancy. In the coming weeks, full details on the hotel’s design features, music-led programming, and guest experiences will be revealed.

Hyde Melbourne Place will join Ennismore’s trio of flagship openings in Australia this year; namely Hyde Perth, Mondrian Gold Coast, and 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia, all of which mark the group’s highly anticipated debut in the country.

She’s in charge

Brown will help further cement Hyde’s commitment to excellence in its Australian debut. 

She brings over 14 years of experience in the hospitality sector across various hotels and resorts throughout Australia, including a strong presence in Melbourne.

Her tenure at these establishments is proof of her leadership abilities, deep industry insight, and passion for creating extraordinary hospitality experiences.

Etihad Airways formally signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) at the ongoing Arabian Travel Market (ATM).

This new cooperative agreement aims to strengthen the relationship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the national airline of the United Arab Emirates.

At the same time this agreement is expected to boost tourism to Thailand through Etihad’s extensive global network. 

Aligned with Etihad’s mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion.

A growing market

Last year, Etihad announced the addition of two new destinations in Thailand, among the 16 new routes the airline is launching in 2025. 

Operations to Krabi and Chiang Mai will begin in October and November respectively, and will strengthen the airline’s presence in the market, alongside existing routes to Bangkok and Phuket. 

Also, Etihad’s extensive global network and four gateways in Thailand make it easy for leisure travellers to fly directly into their favourite holiday destinations in Thailand, supporting tourism in the market on a global scale.

Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves said: “Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad’s position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences.”

For her part, TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool remarked: “Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand’s position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad’s extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand’s appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.”

Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia again took part at the annual Arabian Travel Market through its primary agency Tourism Malaysia.

At this year’s ATM in Dubai, Tourism Malaysia officers hope to target more tourists from West Asia. 

The tourism board also launched a new promotional video for VM2026, highlighting surreal experiences in Malaysia. 

Malaysia is eager to welcome 45 million international visitors and to achieve US$60.8 billion in tourism receipts by 2025. 

But more importantly, VM2026 will serve as a platform for innovation, sustainability, and community engagement within Malaysia’s tourism industry.

The Middle East is considered a prime source market for Malaysian tourism as the country welcomed 194,440 tourists from the region in 2024.

A notable delegation

The Malaysian delegation is led by Malaysian minister of tourism, arts and culture Tiong King Sing and Tourism Malaysia’s director-general Manoharan Periasamy.

The delegation consists of 82 different organizations, including five state tourism boards, 34 tour operators, 35 hotels and resorts, five Tourism Products, two tourism associations, as well one airline.

Tiong said of their participation this year: “Our multi-pronged VM2026 strategy provides a comprehensive framework to boost Malaysia’s visibility, enhance destination accessibility, and elevate our tourism offerings.”

Symbol of a vibrant nation

The VM2026 logo, a symbol of Malaysia’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and global appeal, serves as a visual representation of the country’s readiness to welcome tourists from around the world.

Adopted as the campaign’s official icon, the Malayan Sun Bear, a proud and endangered species, reflects Malaysia’s deep commitment to wildlife conservation.

Designed in a lovable, animated style, the mascot is intended to resonate with audiences of all ages, evoking a sense of warmth and joy while enhancing Malaysia’s image as a welcoming and family-friendly destination.

Official VM2026 theme song, titled “Surreal Experiences” captures the essence of Malaysia’s unique offerings. 

This song will be a key component of the campaign to attract global attention and engage visitors with the enchanting experiences Malaysia has to offer.

Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector is set to soar to new heights in 2025, according to the latest data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), cementing the country’s status as one of the world’s most popular and most resilient destinations.

With a projected ₺5.2TN contribution to the national economy in 2025 – equivalent to 12% of Türkiye’s GDP – Travel & Tourism is forecast to grow more than ₺200BN above last year. According to the research, both international and domestic visitors are set to fuel this success, with international visitor spending in 2025 forecast to reach ₺2.6TN, underscoring Türkiye’s rising global appeal.

Domestic visitor spending is projected to reach ₺1.4TN, reflecting the vibrant strength of Türkiye’s homegrown tourism economy and the appetite of its people to explore the richness of their own country.The global tourism body’s latest Economic Impact Research also shows that this impressive growth isn’t just economic.

In 2025, Travel & Tourism is expected to support 3.3MN jobs across the country, representing over 10% of all national employment. From hospitality and transport to food services and cultural experiences, the sector is creating meaningful, long-term opportunities for millions of Turkish citizens.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “Travel & Tourism in Türkiye continues to grow at pace and is reaching record numbers. As travellers seek authentic, enriching experiences, Türkiye is delivering with open arms, offering travellers a world-class experience.”

A look back at 2024

Last year, Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed ₺5TN to the Turkish economy – representing nearly 12% of total GDP. It also supported 3.2MN jobs, representing one in every 10 across the country.

International visitors spent ₺2.5TN, just over 5% below the year before, while domestic travellers added a further ₺1.3TN, emphasising the sector’s broad and growing impact.

Simpson added “2025 is on track to be a record year for Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector, but success can never be taken for granted. While the country made great strides in 2024, international visitor spending did see a slight decline. In a competitive global market, Türkiye must continue to innovate and invest to retain its world-leading position.”

Coral Travel Group, one of the leading tourism groups in Türkiye and Europe, also welcomed the outlook.

Chairman of the Board and WTTC Member, Ayhan Bektas, said “We are proud to be part of Türkiye’s tourism story and to contribute to a sector that supports millions of jobs and delivers real value to the national economy.

“The partnership between the private sector and government has helped make Türkiye one of the world’s most dynamic travel destinations — and we look forward to continuing that success together. We will continue our efforts to support Türkiye’s rise.”

Looking to 2035: A Decade of Promise

WTTC projections show the sector will maintain strong growth through to 2035.

Travel & Tourism is forecast to contribute ₺7TN to the economy by 2035, almost 13% of GDP, and is expected to support 3.8MN jobs, creating over half a million new roles over the next 10 years.

International visitor spending and domestic tourism are both expected to rise steadily, to reach ₺3.4TN and ₺1.7TN respectively.

Regent Hong Kong was recently named among Travel +  Leisure’s prestigious 500 Best Hotels in the World. 

This remarkable recognition reflects the  unwavering dedication of the team and the cherished trust of the guests, whose stories and experiences  breathe life into the hotel.  

Being counted among the world’s most exceptional properties is a moment of immense gratitude for all  at Regent Hong Kong. This recognition reaffirms a commitment to crafting authentic, heartfelt moments  that resonate with every guest who walks through the doors.  

Hotel managing director Michel Chertouh said of the accolade: “We are profoundly grateful for this honour. It’s a testament to the passion of the extraordinary team and the loyalty of the guests, whose  journeys inspire us daily. This milestone fuels the drive to deliver warm, thoughtful, and unforgettable  hospitality.”  

A gateway to adventure

Located in the heart of Victoria Harbour, Regent Hong Kong enjoys a prime location that offers  breathtaking views of the harbour beyond.

At the same time, the hotel’s location stands in unparalleled proximity to Hong Kong’s vibrant cultural  and entertainment hubs. 

The hotel is also conveniently close to the new tourist destinations of Kai Tak and the West Kowloon Cultural District, making it the perfect gateway for travelers looking to explore the  city’s latest attractions.  

Air India Express has launched its ‘Payday Sale,’ offering a flat 15% discount on domestic routes for bookings made till May 1, 2025 for travel between May 8 and September 20, 2025, only on the airline’s award-winning website, www.airindiaexpress and mobile app.

Air India Express is also waiving convenience fees for Xpress Lite bookings made on its website and app. Xpress Lite, the airline’s exclusive zero-baggage fare, offers guests a budget-friendly option with added benefits. These include the ability to pre-book an additional 3 kg of cabin baggage at no extra cost, along with discounted check-in baggage rates. Guests can check in 15 kg of baggage for ₹1,000 on domestic flights and 20 kg for ₹1,300 on international flights.

In addition, the airline’s website offers fab deals for loyalty members, including a 25% discount on Xpress Biz fares and upgrades to Xpress Biz seats, the airline’s business class equivalent with an industry-leading seat pitch of up to 58 inches. The Biz seats are available on 38 brand new Boeing 737-8 aircraft that Air India Express has recently inducted as part of its rapid expansion.

Loyalty members logged into the website can also enjoy fab deals such as 25% discount on ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, seat selection, Xpress Ahead priority services, 10 kg Xcess Check-In Baggage and 3 kg Xtra Carry-On Baggage.

Air India Express continues to offer special discounted fares and additional benefits on its website for students, senior citizens, doctors, and nurses, members of the armed forces, and their dependents, ensuring a wide range of benefits for flyers across its domestic and international network.

Recently, Air India Express achieved another milestone with the launch of operations from Manohar International Airport (GOX) in North Goa, introducing new domestic routes and international flights to Kuwait and Abu Dhabi. Additionally, the airline has expanded its summer schedule for 2025 by over 40%, now operating more than 500 daily flights across its growing domestic and international network.

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in collaboration with the FHRAI Institute of Hospitality Management (FHRAI-IHM) and with the support of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, hosted Harit Yoga – A Signature Event as part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations. The event took place at the FHRAI-IHM campus in Greater Noida on Tuesday, 29th April 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM.

Bringing together students, hospitality professionals, and wellness advocates, the event celebrated yoga as a powerful tool for harmony, peace, and environmental consciousness. The session was led by expert trainers from Mokshayatan Yog Sansthan, Noida, including Yogacharya Mukta Sharma and Yogacharya Divya Sharma, with support from Yogi Vaibhav, Yogi Rahul, Yogini Nikki, and Yogini Kavita.

As part of the celebration, saplings were distributed to participants by Shri S C Suneja and Dr Narendra Kumar, symbolising a collective commitment to environmental stewardship. This act of tree planting underscored the event’s theme and served as a tangible reminder of the connection between personal well-being and ecological health.

The gathering commenced with the Common Yoga Protocol and was followed by a series of curated yoga practices, breathing exercises, and guided meditation. Each session aimed to highlight yoga not just as a physical discipline but as a holistic way of life that cultivates mindfulness, balance, and a deeper connection with nature.

This year’s theme, “Harit Yoga: Embrace Nature, Embrace Peace,” placed a special emphasis on sustainable living and the role of yoga in nurturing both personal and planetary well-being. Conversations on green practices and lifestyle choices were woven into the programme, encouraging participants to make conscious decisions that align with wellness and ecological balance.

Jaison Chacko, Secretary General, FHRAI said: “Yoga is not just about postures or routines. It is a quiet conversation with yourself and the world around you. Through Harit Yoga, we wanted to remind people that wellness begins with awareness—awareness of our breath, our choices, and the environment we share. As an association representing the hospitality industry, we believe our spaces should do more than just serve. They should support healing, reflection, and balance. Planting a tree or taking a mindful breath is a real act of connection with the world. That is what true hospitality means to us.”