Southeast Asia fights back! How countries battle pollution and overtourism
Bali, Phuket, Halong Bay, and Boracay used to be paradises on earth but now feature throng of crowds, heavy traffic, and shores defiled with trash.
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Philippines
Trouble in paradise: Why travel industry should take water safety seriously
Water safety should be a discussion, especially in the travel industry since most of the accidents either happen during the trip or while staying in a hotel.
ANA takes a seat in PAL
ANA Holdings will take a seat on the board of PAL Holdings, parent company of Philippine Airlines, after taking a 9.5% stake in the company.
PAL launches three way capital-to-capital routes connecting SE Asia to London
Philippine Airlines (PAL), has announced the launch of the first direct link connecting the Philippines to the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, from the airline’s Manila hub.
How TripClub values women and their need of work and life balance
For TripClub CEO and founder Menchie Dizon, women deserve to have both worlds so she created a program that will enable women to work and take care of their personal affairs. As a woman, she…
“Worse than Boracay”: Philippine government calls for Manila Bay rehab
The Philippine government has rallied all stakeholders to work together and be part of history — to rehabilitate the heavily polluted Manila Bay.
Go-Jek operates in Singapore after roadblock in the Philippines
Indonesian unicorn Go-Jek has opened its app to passengers in Singapore after it hits a roadblock in the Philippines.
Tourism: Key to the rise of new-age Asian tigers
Cracking the inbound tourism growth to determine the new age Asian tigers.
Indigenous calling: Philippine tourism focuses on native tribes
Looking to promote the Philippines as a go-to destination, the DOT will call on holidaymakers by showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Hit the Slopes: Klook reveals top five ski destinations
According to Klook’s internal data, ski-related bookings surged 341% year-over-year when comparing November to December 2017 with the same period in 2018.
No more balloon drop: Luxury hotel ends year with a PR crisis
Days before the end of 2018, luxury hotel Okada Manila faced a PR problem for its New Year’s Eve event.
Traveloka reportedly acquires PegiPegi and two other rivals for USD 66.8 million
A report has surfaced that the Indonesian travel tech unicorn Traveloka has long acquired some of its rivals in Southeast Asia through a Singapore-based shell company named Jet Tech…
Radisson grows in APAC with third signing in the Philippines
Radisson Hotel Group has announced the signing of its third Park Inn by Radisson hotel in the Philippines, scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2019.
‘Boracay rehab model’ to be replicated in other PH tourist islands
The Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources has announced to replicate the Boracay rehabilitation model in other tourist hot spots.
Where pawns become queens: 5 underrated Asian markets
Asia and the Pacific is a massive market and a fertile ground for travel start-ups.
Lessons from Boracay: The Philippines’ quest for sustainable tourism
Boracay, the Philippines’ crown jewel, was closed to tourists for six months to undergo rehabilitation after the president himself, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, called the island a “cesspool”…
“We do ordinary things in extraordinary ways” – Mövenpick Boracay
Mövenpick Boracay Resort & Spa is one of the 157 compliant hotels that reopened its doors to tourists and here’s what I think about it.
Boracay reopens: All you need to know before you get there
Boracay is far from perfect, but dust and roadworks should not stop you from seeing this island in a new light.
“China remains a priority” as Rosewood adds four to Asian network
Hong Kong based luxury hospitality group Rosewood Hotel Group is stepping up its Asia expansion with the opening of four new properties in China, Southeast Asia and India, they announced…
Thailand’s Maya Beach reopening delayed; PH’s Boracay to welcome tourists this month
Travellers hoping to see the famous Maya Bay in Thailand will have to wait longer as the paradise needs more time to heal.
Cebu Pacific adds direct flights between Cebu and Macau
Philippine-based airline, Cebu Pacific (CEB), continues to grow its hubs with the announcement of a new route linking Cebu City to Macau.
Collateral damage: Tourism industry jolts as natural disasters strike Asia
For the past 25 years, global tourism has been in full upswing. People are travelling more than ever leaving no stone unturned, but one thing that can stop us in our track is natural…
Seda Lio targets MICE and destination wedding markets in the Philippines
Emerging hotel chain based in the Philippines, Seda Hotels, has announced its latest offering that looks to capitalise on leisure and business travellers in the picturesque El Nido, Palawan.
Bellevue Hotels and Resorts promotes RateTiger to manage online sales
The Philippine-based hotel chain, Bellevue Hotels and Resorts, has recommended RateTiger for centralising online distribution.
Off embargo: Cebu Pacific announces Boracay schedule for October
Following the news of a six month “full tourism closure” to Boracay in the Philippines, as of the 26 April of this year, Cebu Pacific has announced it will resume flight to and from Caticlan…
Flights adjusted as Mactan Cebu International Airport runway undergoes rehab
Several domestic and international flights to and from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport will be cancelled or rescheduled from 1-21 September due to the extremely important runway…
PAL strengthens London-Manila connection with Manchester event
Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Philippine Department of Tourism London (PDOT) have hosted over 80 travel agents from the leisure and corporate sectors in Manchester.
China to host first World Food Tourism Conference
The first World Food Tourism Conference will be held in China's Panda paradise Chengdu on 5-6 September 2018 simultaneously with the Travel Trade Market 2018 (TTM).
Co-organised by Europe…
Ascott boosts pipeline through alliance in the Philippines
The Ascott Limited has signed an agreement to boost its portfolio in the Philippines by partnering with Cebu Landmasters Inc. to manage 1,600 units by 2022.
PAL upgrades London-Manila flight; introduces premium economy to Europe
Philippine Airlines launch Airbus A350-900 in the UK.
Could Japan be the next country to close due to overtourism?
Following the huge drop in inbound tourists after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in March 2011, the Japanese government boosted its tourism efforts and reintroduced Japan to the world.…
RedDoorz expands to its third Southeast Asian market in the Philippines
RedDoorz, the budget hotels booking platform that’s been winning cities in Southeast Asia, today announced its expansion into its third market in the region – the Philippines.
PAL Filipino Food Festival launches in London
Following on from its Great Australian Challenge competition when Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Tourism Australia challenged the travel agencies of the UK to show-off their knowledge of down…
‘Preserving something special by sharing it’ – Explora.ph founder on the challenges of bespoke travel
Last month, we featured Explora.ph, a travel platform that partners with locals to offer bespoke travel experiences in the Philippines. Here’s the inspiration behind the company, and some of…
Go-Jek makes international debut with $500 million in its pockets
In the coming months, daily commuters in Southeast Asia will soon get the chance to join the Indonesian way of travel as Go-Jek expands into Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, and the…
Europcar changes name; stays positive for the future
Europcar Group is now Europcar Mobility Group that shareholders think embodies the visual identity of the company.
Philippine start-up enables travellers to explore 7,641 islands like a local
Despite having more than 7,600 tropical islands, 300 volcanoes, 400 languages and thousands of colourful festivals, the Philippines is still yet to maximise all its of its many advantages…
Fleet expansion helps push Vietjet to USD60 million profit in Q1 of 2018
Following the arrival of its first new Airbus A321neo in January, VietJet has released its first financial statement of 2018, which displays a massive year-on-year increase of 146%.
Courtyard by Marriott on for a double in the Philippines
May has kicked off with a bang for Marriott in the Philippines. Not content with launching Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo, the brand has also announced the signing of a new 251-room property…
Experience beyond itineraries: we talk to a ‘serial start-up founder’
We previously posted the first part of our interview with Experience Philippines founder and CEO Giancarlo 'Gian' Gallegos, who has made us want to round up a few companions for a Random…
Radisson RED is coming for the coastal city of Cebu in the Philippines
Radisson Hotel Group has announced the signing of a flagship RED property, to be completed in Q4 2021: the Radisson RED Mandaue in Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines.
Israel Tourism targets 100,000 Indian travellers for 2018
Cashing in on the record breaking numbers of Indian tourists heading to Israel during 2017 -- an impressive growth of 31%, the Israel Ministry of Tourism has launched its new summer campaign…
Beyond the slopes: Why Swiss partnership is a “win-win” for WebBeds
After announcing details of a new partnership with Switzerland Tourism designed to seduce Asian tourists to the country, WebBeds has revealed it hosted its first two travel trade workshops…
Ctrip tracks record-breaking growth in Chinese outbound tourism
Chinese tourists and their money have continued to go places in 2017, according to Ctrip and the China Tourism Academy (CTA). The leading OTA of the People's Republic of China and the…
Dusit International unveils new hotel brand for millennial-minded travellers
Dusit International has introduceda new hotel brand – ASAI Hotels – designed for millennial-minded travellers who want local and authentic experiences in the world’s most vibrant…
Duterte confirms 6-month Boracay shutdown starting 26 April
After two months of media hype, the President of the Philippines has finally put a stamp on the much-awaited Boracay decision. According to his official spokesman Atty. Harry Roque, the…
5 things you probably didn’t know about Holy Week in the Philippines
The Holy Week in the Philippines is the most significant religious event in the country. As a Filipino, I thought I'd share with you some interesting things that happen during this week,…
Shooting for the stars: Philippine Airlines shines brighter with Amadeus
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is aiming for the stars and it has chosen travel-tech leader Amadeus to transform the airline’s core technology system.
An opportunity in the crisis: Urban planner reveals master plan for a greener Boracay
The Philippine government taps urban planner Jun Palafox and his team to help plan the design of Boracay and it’s just about time.
Pair of aces: Klook double down on USD$60 million investment
With news of Klook’s successful round of series C funding, coming at the end of last year, where the in-destination platform secured US$60 million (the largest deal of its kind) to expand…
How Alipay brings benefit of Chinese tourist boom to SE Asia’s “smallest” merchants
Continuing their relentless expansion, and commitment to installing their services for the convenience of Chinese travellers and local merchants all around the world, Alipay have announced…
Mövenpick’s Mark Willis on how to harness the power of millennials
With the news that Mövenpick will open 11 hotels and resorts across nine countries during 2018 landing last week, I headed down to the ambitious brand's Bangkok office to meet Mark Willis,…
Mas mahigpit na batas, ipatutupad sa Boracay
Sa gitna ng mga ulat ng polusyon sa dagat at pagbaha sa mga kalsada, tinitiyak ng mga awtoridad ng Pilipinas ang pagpapanumbalik sa Isla ng Boracay.
Ayusin ang industriyang panghimpapawid ng Pilipinas, mungkahi ng AsBAA
The Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) recently held a site visit and investment trip to the Philippines. Led by its Philippine chapter, the agenda for this visit were to resolve…
Forbes Travel Guide 2018 recognizes the best hotels in the Philippines
Forbes Travel Guide 2018 has just announced their top-rated picks in the travel and hospitality space and 12 of them come from the Philippines.
Batanes ang boto ng mga netizen sa #CEBFlyMeTo ng Cebu Pacific
Batanes ang unang go-to destination ng mga netizen ayon sa Facebook crowdsourcing campaign ng Cebu Pacific.
Cebu Properties recognized at ASEAN Tourism Awards
Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan and Quest Hotel and Conference Center Cebu, two of Chroma Hospitality's properties were recognized in the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards. The hotels are part…
Filipino startup bares tech updates, celebrates gains
Tripkada, the Philippine curated trip-joining start-up platform, launched its joiner app for iOS, gave stakeholder updates and revealed its expansion plans.
Philippine Airlines extends winter sale
Philippine Airlines is extending its Winter Sale promotion until the end of this month.
Bookings in the UK have increased by 87% in January compared to the same month in 2017.
In…
Hotel 101 Resort-Boracay to go big and green in the Philippines
DoubleDragon Properties Corp. recently announced the building of the biggest 'green' hotel in the Philippines – Hotel 101 Resort-Boracay.
Biggest hotel in the Philippines’ south will rise in 2020
Hotel of Asia Inc., a subsidiary of DoubleDragon Properties Corp. recently signed a joint agreement with W2JP2 Corp. to build the largest hotel in the Philippines’ southernmost region,…
ASEAN Tourism Forum 2018: Food trips, sustainability and scaling up in the next 50 years
The recent 37th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) saw the region’s tourism ministers express optimism on growing the sector in 2018 onwards.
Grand Hyatt Manila sets the stage for luxury living in the Philippines
Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced today the opening of Grand Hyatt Manila, the first Grand Hyatt hotel in the Philippines. The 461-room luxury hotel tops the tallest skyscraper in the…
Joining offbeat trips is serious business: Q&A with Tripkada CEO April Cuenca
I recently sat down with Tripkada's April Cuenca to learn more about how both she and the startup she built are disrupting the Philippine travel industry.
Do as the locals in Asia do with the Be app
Ryan shared that the Be app’s secret lies in keeping the balance between what visitors want and what locals recommend. ‘It’s important that the Be app stays authentic in terms of locations…
Opening Asia to branded budget stays, one RedDoorz at a time
RedDoorz aims to be the Uber of budget accommodation: its ecosystem allows owners of unbranded spaces to showcase their properties & reach out to travellers who want to avail of quality…
Is AHRC dropping Marriott partnership the right strategy?
AyalaLand Hotels and Resorts Corporation (AHRC) announced that its contract with Marriott InternationalHotels to manage Cebu City Marriott Hotel will conclude on December 31, 2017 after a…
Buddy up on budget adventures with Tripkada
Friendly, generous, caring, adventurous. These make us Filipinos the best chums or ‘barkada’ in virtually everything, particularly when travelling. Now, a local start-up weaponises these…
The battle for online travel in the Philippines: A review of Tripmoba versus Murang Lipad
Here at Travel Daily, we like to give readers a fair look into trends in the travel and tourism sector. While this might not be a steady review series, we hope this and any similar posts in…
Hotel Okura Manila to launch in PH
Manila, Philippines – Hotel Okura Co. Ltd., one of Japan’s leading hotel chains announced the launch of its first luxury hotel in the country later in 2018.
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Quezon City site 2021 schedule revealed
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has signed a new property in Manila, expanding its portfolio in the Philippines to three properties strong and marking another milestone in the company’s Asian…
5 amazing getaway spots in the Philippines
We’ve listed down five amazing vacation spots in the Philippines with the most eclectic themes. Our list includes a Greek-inspired resort, a Filipino heritage site, a museum hotel, an…
China’s ‘Coconut City’ now open to Southeast Asian tourists
The Haikou Tourism Development Commission of China recently bared plans to welcome Vietnamese and Philippine visitors.
The Hainan province-based agency announced that it was collaborating…
Philippine Airlines receives 10th Boeing 777-300ER from Avation PLC
Avation PLC's first aeroplane, a 777-300ER (Extended Range), was the newest addition to the fleet of Philippine Airlines (PAL).
This delivery has increased the Southeast Asia-based flag…
What exactly is Best Western Hotels & Resorts so pleased about?
Best Western Hotels & Resorts is celebrating yet another successful year in Asia, with multiple new hotels being launched in key business and leisure destinations all across the region.
Genting doubles fleet size for Millennials
Genting Cruise Lines commemorated the official handover of World Dream, the newly constructed second new build for Dream Cruises, on 26 October 2017 during a special event in Bremerhaven,…
Philippine Airlines ready to set hearts racing
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is to launch a new brand equity campaign which the airline believes is poised to win over foreign leisure travellers from international markets with the theme:…
Philippine Airlines to jet between Cebu and Bangkok
Following public demand for direct non-stop flights from Asian destinations to the Central Visayas, home of the white sands of Cebu, in the Philippines, Philippine Airlines will be opening a…
Filipinos encouraged to ‘Bring Home a Friend’
The Philippines Department of Tourism (PDOT) has launched “Bring Home A Friend” (BHAF) program, a campaign that aims to encourage all Filipinos residing in the Philippines and abroad to help…
Cebu Pacific implements mobility lifts
Cebu Pacific (CEB), is set to introduce disabled passenger lifts (DPLs) at key airports within the Philippines. The DPLs will give people with reduced mobility an easier and more comfortable…
Philippine Airlines introduce the B777-300ER to London-Manila
Philippine Airlines launches the new B777-300ER aircraft on the London - Manila route, which substantially enhances the passenger travel experience and increases capacity for the airline.
Philippine Airlines launches B777-300ER on London-Manila route
Philippine Airlines has launched the new B777-300ER aircraft on the London - Manila route.
While the inaugural flight left Heathrow on 19 September, daily flights for the B777-300ER start…
The reinvention of The MUSE Hotel Boracay
Reinvented with luxe amenities and mid-century-modern design elements, The MUSE Hotel Boracay is an 'infinite make', built to inspire the avid world traveller by delivering a unique guest…
Happy Birthday to Lind Boracay
The Lind Boracay marked its birthday this weekend, celebrating their official opening, almost two years to the day, since it first opened its doors to the public in October 2015,
Explore Palawan: the world’s top island destination
Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa’s is inviting guests to explore the local beauty sports of Palawan, with a series of local tours designed to make the most of the picturesque archipelago –…
Savoy Hotel flourishes on Boracay
After opening in April 2017, the 4-star Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast hotel, has already made a name for itself within its location at the centre of the Boracay Newcoast, an integrated…
Dream Hotel Group unveil first hotel in the Philippines
The 220-key Dream Hotel, found on the white sand beaches of Borocay – recently rated third best island destination in the world by Condé Nast Traveler magazine – is a major signing for the…
Philippines offers visa-on-arrival to Chinese tourists
The Philippines has decided to start offering visa-on-arrival to Chinese tourists, in a bid to tap into this massive inbound market.
The decision was taken as part of the Philippine…
Philippine Airlines offers free onboard Wi-Fi
Philippine Airlines has started to offer free Wi-Fi to passengers on its international flights.
Under the new initiative, PAL will provide 30 minutes or 15MB of complimentary…
Japan sets new monthly tourism record
Japan welcomed a total of 2.68 million international visitors in July 2017, which marks a 16.8% year-on-year increase and a new monthly record.
According to the latest data from the…
PAL to fly non-stop to New Zealand
Philippine Airlines will launch direct flights to New Zealand later this year, reducing the current travelling time between Manila and Auckland by more than two hours.
The national…
Asian air route updates, including connections to Krabi, Chongqing and Hiroshima
Malaysia Airlines to launch Chongqing route
Where? Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Chongqing (China)
When? Three times a week, effective 30 October 2017
Who? Malaysia Airlines
Why?…
PAL to fly new 777 daily to London
Philippine Airlines will boost its European operations next month with the deployment of its latest long-haul aircraft on the Manila-London route.
On 19 September 2017, the national…
PAL’s newest aircraft enters service
Philippine Airlines’ newest type of aircraft, the Bombardier Q400, has entered commercial service.
The turboprop received a water cannon salute prior to its maiden journey from Cebu…
Asian air route updates from HK Express, Cambodia Angkor Air, Qatar Airways and more
AirAsia adds Malaysian domestic connection
Where? Kuching to Langkawi (both Malaysia)
When? Four times a week, effective immediately
Who? AirAsia
Why? Low-cost carrier…
Win with Aviate and Philippine Airlines
From now until 31 December this year, every group booking which is confirmed with Philippine Airlines through Aviate, will receive a free bottle of Don Papa Rum.
To receive the gift,…
Asian air route updates from Thai Smile, Lao Airlines, Jetstar and more
Thai Smile flies to Lucknow
Where? Bangkok (Thailand) to Lucknow (India)
When? Four times a week, effective immediately
Who? Thai Smile
Why? Thai Airways' regional subsidiary taps…
Philippine Airlines receives award for cabin service
Philippine Airlines has been voted Fourth Best Airline Worldwide for Cabin Service by readers of SmartTravelAsia.com.
Smart Travel Asia – an independent online travel magazine with…
Asian air route updates from Hainan Airlines, AirAsia, Qatar Airways and more
China gets reconnected to Belgrade
Where? Beijing (China) to Belgrade (Serbia)
When? Twice a week, effective 15 September 2017
Who? Hainan Airlines
Why? Expanding links with Europe as…
Philippine Airlines boosts domestic routes with world-first aircraft
Philippine Airlines has taken delivery of the world’s first two-class, 86-seat Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft.
The new aircraft is the first of an order for 12 Q400s placed by PAL…
Asian air route updates, including new flights to Chiang Mai, Clark and Tianjin
Russian carrier flies 777 to Hainan
Where? Moscow Domodedovo (Russia) to Haikou (China)
When? Once a week, effective immediately
Who? VIM Airlines
Why? Handling rising Russian demand…
Filipino-Korean airline to launch second route
A new Korean-backed passenger airline in the Philippines is planning to launch its second international route this month.
Pan Pacific Airlines, which is based at Kalibo International…
Where to Stay: new hotels from Hyatt, Dusit, Holiday Inn Express, and more
Citadines Bayfront Nha Trang
Location: In a seafront development on Tran Phu Street, in Vietnam's popular resort town
Grade: Upscale serviced residence
Keys: 310 studios and…
Asian air route updates from PAL, AirAsia, Hong Kong Airlines and more
Tianjin Airlines starts flying to Vladivostok
Where? Tianjin (China) to Vladivostok, pictured (Russia)
When? Twice a week, effective immediately
Who? Tianjin Airlines
Why? Connecting…
Asian air route updates from Air Canada, Shanghai Airlines and more
Air Canada adds new passage to India
Where? Toronto (Canada) to Mumbai (India)
When? Four times a week, effective immediately
Who? Air Canada
Why? National carrier continues…
Japan Cruise Lines commits to the Philippines
Japan Cruise Lines (JCL) has given a boost to the Philippines by agreement to include the country as a regular port-of-call in 2018.
On the sidelines of the 2017 Philippine Business…
10,000 hotel rooms under construction in the Philippines
There are currently more than 10,000 new hotel rooms under construction in the Philippines.
According to a new report by TopHotelProjects, the nationwide pipeline of 10,713 rooms covers…
Philippine Airlines is AFL Europe official partner
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced that it is the Official Airline Partner of AFL Europe.
The partnership will assist the ongoing development of Australian Football in Europe, while…
Boracay gets new low-cost night flights
The Philippine resort island of Boracay will soon be accessible via new evening flights operated by low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific.
Commencing on 1 July 2017, the airline will mount…
Where to Stay: new hotels in Bali, Tokyo, Manila and more
Valero Grand Suites by Swiss-Belhotel
Location: In a residential area of Makati City, 30 minutes from Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Grade: Upscale
Keys: 271, including…
Cebu Pacific boosts capacity on domestic routes
Cebu Pacific will increase the capacity of several domestic routes from Manila next month, with a switch from ATR turboprop aircraft to Airbus jets.
Effective 4 July 2017, flights…
Philippine Airlines returns to KL
Philippine Airlines has resumed daily flights to Kuala Lumpur after a three-year absence.
The new service took off on Thursday (8 June 2017) and coincided with the start of a codeshare…
Cebu Pacific shuffles fleet due to delivery delays
Cebu Pacific has ordered more aircraft but delayed the delivery of others, as it adjusts its fleet to match capacity requirements.
The Philippine low-cost carrier has placed an order with…
Cebu Pacific boosts Hong Kong capacity with new large jets
Cebu Pacific has taken delivery of two new large aircraft, which it will now use to increase capacity on its Hong Kong routes.
The Philippine low-cost carrier will upgrade its…
38 killed as “deranged man” attacks Resorts World Manila
The death toll from Friday's attack on Resorts World Manila has risen to 38, including the attacker who is reported to have set himself on fire in a hotel room.
CNN Philippines reports…
PAL employees offered Uber rides to work
Philippine Airlines has formed a new partnership with Uber, aimed at providing its employees with a new way of getting to work.
Under the "uberHOP" ride-sharing service, employees heading…
Cebu Pacific cuts three Middle East routes
Cebu Pacific Air has confirmed that it will suspend flights on three routes between the Philippines and the Middle East.
In the next few weeks, the low-cost carrier will terminate its…
Red Planet upgrades Philippine hotels
Red Planet, the Asian budget hotel operator, is investing PHP80 million (US$1.6m) in the upgrade of multiple properties in the Philippines.
The project includes the revamp of the…
Asian air route updates: new flights from Norwegian, Spring, Air China and more…
Spring adds low-cost link between key Asian cities
Where? Shanghai Pudong (China) to Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
When? Four times a week, effective immediately
Who? Spring Airlines
Why?…
Palawan tourism boosted by airport expansion
The Philippine island of Palawan is now able to welcome more visitors, following the expansion of Puerto Princesa International Airport - the island's main gateway.
Opened on 4 May 2017,…
Asian air route updates: new flights from Hainan Airlines, AirAsia India, Cebgo and more…
Top Asian beach resorts get first direct link
Where? Sanya (China) to U-Tapao (Thailand)
When? Three times a week, effective immediately
Who? Hainan Airlines
Why? Providing the first…
PAL equips crew with tablets
Philippine Airlines is aiming to improve its in-flight service by equipping its crew members with tablets.
The national carrier has rolled out SITA's OnAir solution, which allows…
Cebu Pacific doubles profits
Cebu Pacific doubled its profits in 2016, as the low-cost airline carried more passengers and expanded its network.
The Philippine carrier posted a net profit of PHP9.8 billion…
Premium PAL goes non-stop on Middle East routes
Philippine Airlines will enhance its Middle Eastern operations this month, with the launch of all-non-stop flights and premium seats on routes to seven destinations in the region.…
Seda Hotels plans major expansion in the Philippines
Seda Hotels has unveiled plans for a major expansion of its portfolio across the Philippines.
The hotel group, which is operated by Ayala Land Hotels & Resorts Corp (AHRC), will…
‘Philippines Mega-fam’ trip for UK agents
This month Philippine Airlines and the Philippine Department of Tourism London are to host a ‘Philippines Mega-fam’ for agents to key destinations throughout the archipelago.
The week-long…
Philippines to improve air access for tourists
The Philippine government is aiming to improve and upgrade air capacity across the country, in an effort to boost international tourism.
The country is one of the largest in Southeast…
Cebu Pacific breaks traffic records
Cebu Pacific achieved new daily and annual traffic records in 2016.
For the full-year, the Philippine low-cost carrier carried a total of 19.1 million passengers, 4% more than in…
Taiwan sets new tourism record, despite Chinese slump
Taiwan welcomed a record number of international visitors in 2016.
New data from the Taiwan Tourism Bureau reveals that a total of 10.69 million travellers visited the island last…
Asian air route updates: China Southern Airlines, AirAsia X and more
THAI expands connections with neighbour
Where? Bangkok (Thailand) to Kota Kinabalu, pictured (Malaysia)
When? Daily, effective 26 March 2017
Who? Thai Smile
Why? Long-awaited direct…
Asian air route updates: Lion Air, Air India Express, and more…
Lion Air adds more services to KL
Where? Surabaya (Indonesia) to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)
When? Three times a week, effective 16 February 2017
Who? Lion Air
Why? Expanding trade between…
Philippine Airlines expands operations at Clark
Philippine Airlines is ramping up its operations at Clark International Airport, north of Manila.
The national carrier is aiming to ease pressure at Manila's Ninoy Aquino…
New seaplane services take travellers straight to Philippine islands
A series of new seaplane services will allow tourists to travel straight from Manila to some of the Philippines' top beach resorts.
Local aviation company Air Juan will use its nine-seat…
Major cruise ship to be based in Manila
Hong Kong's Star Cruises will embark on its first homeport season in the Philippines this year when the SuperStar Virgo cruise liner starts sailing from Manila.
The 269-metre-long…
Cebu Pacific boosts capacity for festive season
Cebu Pacific has taken delivery of a new Airbus A330-300 aircraft in time for the festive peak season.
The new twin-aisle jet was delivered on 14 December and has now entered service on…
Philippine Airlines revamps inter-island fleet
Philippine Airlines has finalised a deal that will improve its ability to serve domestic inter-island routes.
The national carrier has confirmed an order with Bombardier for up to 12…
Philippine Airlines adds second Singapore route
Philippine Airlines will launch two new routes from Cebu this month, including a direct connection to Singapore.
The national carrier has confirmed that its non-stop Cebu-Singapore…
AirAsia starts flying Philippines-Taiwan
AirAsia has launched its first two routes linking the Philippines with Taiwan.
The low-cost carrier's Philippine subsidiary started flying direct from Manila to Taipei on 21 November, and…
Tourism tops New Zealand economy
New Zealand’s tourism industry has become the country’s top export earner, contributing NZ$14.5 billion (US$10.2bn) into the country's economy and directly employing more than 188,000…
PAL harnesses Sabre tech to boost revenue
Philippine Airlines has chosen to adopt Sabre's AirVision Commercial Analytics solution in order to improve its revenue-generating capabilities.
This new technology brings commercial…
Manila Airport takes off with major tech upgrade
Passengers at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will soon be able to get to the gate faster following the introduction of a series of new high-tech systems.
Manila…
PAL gets long-haul Christmas presents
Philippine Airlines is expanding its fleet of long-haul aircraft, enabling it to mount additional flights to North America.
The national carrier recently took delivery of its seventh…
Cebu Pacific’s new aircraft boosts domestic capacity
Cebu Pacific has taken delivery of another high-capacity ATR 72-600 aircraft, which it will deploy on three new domestic routes.
The new turboprop aircraft was handed over to the…
Philippine Dream for Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways has enhanced its operations in the Philippines with the deployment of its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to Clark International Airport.
The state-of-the-art long-haul…
Face to face: Philippines Tourism Minister Wanda Corazon T. Teo
How important is the UK market to the Philippines?
We are serious in courting the British travel trade and business networks to bring more arrivals and related investments to the…
Philippine Airlines beefs up long-haul fleet
Philippine Airlines has boosted its long-haul fleet with the arrival of a new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
Leased from Intrepid Aviation, the new twin-aisle aircraft will be primarily…
Halal tourism boom predicted for the UAE
Total spending on halal tourism in the UAE is projected to increase by 4.4% in 2016, according to a study conducted by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).
The outbound…
Ascott reveals results of Manila makeover
Ascott has unveiled a series of upgrades at its upscale serviced residence in Manila.
One of the two towers that form the 362-unit Ascott Makati has been completely renovated, with…
Cebu Pacific launches new high-capacity plane
Cebu Pacific has taken delivery of the first ever ATR 72-600 High Capacity aircraft.
Handed over the low-cost carrier at a ceremony in France, the aircraft is the first of 16 ordered…
Korean Air builds bridges across Asia
Korean Air staff have been providing practical support to under-privileged communities across Asia this month, under the airline's CSR campaign.
Employees worked alongside 50 local…
Philippines turns to India for tourism boost
The Philippines' Department of Tourism (DOT) headed to India this month to undertake a four-city tourism roadshow.
A delegation from the Southeast Asia country, which included hotels and…
Philippine Airlines opens online shop
Philippine Airlines has launched a new online retail store.
Located at https://boutique.philippineairlines.com, the new PAL Online Boutique sells a range of items including clothing,…
China Eastern adds three new Southeast Asian routes
China Eastern Airlines is introducing more flights to Southeast Asia, with three new routes connecting mainland China’s mega-cities with destinations in Thailand and the Philippines.…
Cebu Pacific ramps up international expansion
Cebu Pacific is gearing up for an expansion of its international operations, with the placement of an order for two more long-haul aircraft and the announcement of a new service to Seoul.…
Philippine Airlines unveils global Wi-Fi service
Philippine Airlines has launched a new service that provides travellers with global mobile internet coverage for a flat fee.
The new 'myPALRoam' solution, which has been developed in…
Palawan named ‘World’s Best Island’ for the second time
Palawan in The Philippines has been named as the ‘Best Island in the World’ by international magazine Travel & Leisure.
The island first received the top destination rank in 2013 and…
Philippine Airlines adds Hawaiian connections
Philippine Airlines has formed a new partnership with Hawaiian Airlines for flights between Manila and the Aloha State.
Under the new codeshare arrangement, passengers travelling on…
Conrad debuts in the Philippines
Hilton today opened its first luxury Conrad hotel in the Philippines.
Set within the 42-hectare Bay City development, the new Conrad Manila is positioned adjacent to the huge Mall of…
Philippine Airlines launches new Saipan service
Philippine Airlines will launch a new direct flight between Manila and Pacific island of Saipan this week.
The new twice weekly services get underway on 15 June and are being targeted…
Cebu Pacific agrees sale of four aircraft
Cebu Pacific has confirmed the sale of four Airbus A319 aircraft to Las Vegas-based low-cost airline, Allegiant Air.
The agreement will see the small single-aisle jets transferred to…
Dusit trains next generation of Filipino hoteliers
Thailand's Dusit International has unveiled plans to open its first hospitality school in the Philippines.
Located at the company's new dusitD2 The Fort hotel in Manila, the new Dusit…
Best Western adds new destination in the Philippines
Best Western has unveiled plans to open its first hotel in Puerto Princesa, on the Philippine island of Palawan.
Scheduled to debut in June 2016, Best Western Plus Ivy Wall is a…
Philippine Airlines adds new Pacific island destination
Philippine Airlines will expand its route map in the Pacific this summer with the launch of a new route to Saipan, in the Northern Mariana Islands.
Commencing on 15 June 2016, the…
Cebu Pacific orders new light-weight seats
Cebu Pacific has revealed plans to roll out a new type of economy class seat on its new fleet of Airbus aircraft.
The Philippine low-cost carrier has become the first airline in the…
Air New Zealand flies to the Philippines
Air New Zealand will continue to expand its Asian network later this year with the launch of flights to the Philippines.
Commencing in December 2016, the airline will operate three…
Jetstar Japan adds second new route to Manila
Jetstar Japan, which launched its first ever Southeast Asian route from Tokyo to Manila last month, has now commenced flights linking the Philippine capital with Nagoya.
The new…
Emirates boosts Philippine links with new Cebu and Clark flights
Emirates has tripled its network of destinations in the Philippines with the launch of flights to Cebu and Clark.
The new triangular service took off for the first time on Wednesday 30…
Cebu Pacific adds multiple flights for summer season
Cebu Pacific has started to add a series of new flights on domestic and international routes for the summer season.
This week, the Philippine low-cost carrier launched an extra weekly…
Taiwan’s V Air arrives in the Philippines
V Air, the Taiwanese low-cost carrier, has launched its first flights to the Philippines.
The inaugural flight from Taipei to Manila touched down at the Philippine capital's Ninoy…
Philippine Airlines eyes Paris and Rome in major expansion
Philippine Airlines is planning to expand its European network in the coming years, including the launch of direct flights to Paris and Rome.
The national carrier recently placed an…
Cruise tourism in the spotlight for Philippines
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) completed its first Cruise Tourism Development Strategy under assistance of United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Ted…
Cebu Pacific touches down in Guam
Cebu Pacific Air has launched its first flights to the Pacific island of Guam.
The new service commenced on 15 March 2016 and will now operate four times a week, direct from Manila.…
Double-digit growth for Philippine arrivals
The Philippines experienced strong growth in terms of visitor arrivals last year, but remains a long way short of its targets.
The country's Department of Tourism has revealed that a…
Emirates promotes new Philippine routes to the trade
Emirates has teamed up with the Philippine Tourism Board to educate the travel trade about its new flights to Clark and Cebu.
Scheduled to commence on 30 March, the new triangular route…
Cebu launches Middle East seat sale
Philippines airline, Cebu Pacific Air has launched an exclusive seat sale today, for its routes between the Middle East and the Philippines.
Starting from AED 500, travellers from…
Philippine Airlines selects A350 for long-haul future
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has selected the Airbus A350 aircraft as the future of its long-haul fleet.
In a deal signed at the Singapore Airshow, the national carrier agreed to acquire…
Philippines looks to accelerate Halal tourism plans
The Philippines is accelerating its plans to position itself as one of the world’s preferred destinations for Muslim tourists, according to its tourist board.
The Philippine…
The Philippines focuses on halal tourism
The Philippines is taking steps to position itself as a destination for halal tourism.
The Philippine Department of Tourism (PDOT) has unveiled a series of initiatives to attract…
Taiwan’s V Air flies to the Philippines
V Air, the Taiwanese low-cost carrier, has announced plans to launch its first ever flights to the Philippines.
Commencing on 27 March 2016, the new Taipei-Manila service will operate…
Philippine Airlines to start flying to Saipan
Philippine Airlines will launch a new service to the Pacific island of Saipan this summer.
Commencing on 15 June 2016, the route will operate twice a week direct from Manila. Located…
Cebu Pacific welcomes first aircraft with new livery
Cebu Pacific Air has taken delivery of the first aircraft bearing its new livery.
The brand new Airbus A320 was handed over to Cebu Pacific on 22 January in a ceremony at the Airbus…
Shangri-La to launch new hotel in Manila
Shangri-La has unveiled plans to expand in the Philippines with the opening of its fourth hotel in Manila.
Scheduled to welcome its first guests on 1 March 2016, Shangri-La at the…
Emirates boosts its services to the Philippines
In a recent development, Emirates announced its intent to launch a daily circular service from Dubai to Cebu (CEB) and Clark (CRK) in the Philippines.
The new service will commence…
UK Dubai’s ‘third-biggest tourism source market’
The UK is now the third biggest source market for international tourism to Dubai, according to new figures released by Dubai Tourism.
Figures show more than 11.7M international…
Philippines records 12% increase in Middle East tourist
The success of the Visit the Philippines Year (VPY) 2015 campaign has led the Department of Tourism (DOT) to launch the Visit the Philippines Again (VPA) 2016.
This is part of its…
Dubai tourism numbers on the rise
Recent statistics released by the department of tourism in Dubai stated that visitor numbers reveal that more than 11.7 million international overnight visitors arrived in the city…
Cebu Pacific adds Russian routes in major international expansion
Cebu Pacific Air will launch its first flights to Russia, as part of a major international expansion plan.
The Philippines' Civil Aeronautics Board has granted the low-cost carrier a…
Hilton to open in huge Clark complex
Hilton has signing a management agreement for its first hotel in Clark, the Philippines, as part of a huge new development.
Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2017, Hilton…
Cebu Pacific links Singapore with Davao
Cebu Pacific Air has launched a new service connecting Singapore with Davao, the largest city in the southern Philippines.
The new twice weekly flights commenced last week and will…
Etihad adds more flights to the Philippines
Etihad Airways will add three new weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Manila next year.
From 1 May 2016, the airline will increase the route’s frequency from 14 to 17 weekly flights,…
Best Western expands in the Philippines
Best Western has expanded its portfolio in the Philippines with the launch of a new midscale hotel in Subic Bay.
Set on the west coast of Luzon Island, approximately 100km north of…
Dusit brings D2 brand to the Cebu
Thailand's Dusit International has signed an agreement for its first hotel in the Philippine city of Cebu.
The new dusitD2 Residence Cebu City is scheduled to open in 2019, located…
New Zealand gets connected with new international routes
Two significant air routes are launching this week, connecting New Zealand with Southeast Asia and South America.
Last night, Air New Zealand’s inaugural flight to Argentina’s capital…
Philippine Airlines launches first flights to New Zealand
Philippine Airlines will launch its first flights to New Zealand on Wednesday, as it continues to expand its network in Oceania.
Commencing on 2 December 2015, the national carrier…
Philippine Airlines revamps FFP
Philippine Airlines has relaunched its frequent flyer programme, promising members more options for earning and redeeming miles.
The new Mabuhay Miles programme now provides greater…
Global tourism sector to post 3.5% growth in 2015
The global travel and tourism sector is forecast to grow by 3.5% during 2015, representing strong growth despite numerous challenges that have already taken place this year.
According to…
Cebu Pacific to launch flights to Guam
Cebu Pacific Air will launch its first flights to the Pacific island of Guam next year.
Commencing on 15 March 2016, the low-cost carrier will operate four weekly flights direct…
Philippine Airlines adds more New York seats
Philippine Airlines will increase capacity on its Manila-New York route this month, with the deployment of a new Boeing 777 aircraft to the Big Apple.
The B777-300ER aircraft will be…
Novotel to debut in the Philippines
AccorHotels will open its first Novotel in the Philippines this month.
The new Novotel Manila Araneta Center, which will be located within Quezon City's Araneta Center, features 401…
Tigerair, Cebu Pacific get permission to coordinate networks
Tigerair and Cebu Pacific have been given permission to strengthen their alliance, allowing them to coordinate their operations between Singapore and the Philippines, and further afield to…
