AirAsia revs up for one of its biggest sales yet with up to 99 percent off all seats, all flights across its extensive network.

This limited time sale gives travellers the ultimate flexibility to explore more destinations for less from today, 23rd February, to Sunday, 1st March.

Throughout the promotional period, fares to all of AirAsia and AirAsia X’s routes with flight codes AK and D7 will be on sale on up to 99 percent off for travel between 1st June 2026 till 27th March 2027 via airasia.com or the AirAsia MOVE app.

A diverse range of destinations

This promotion has something for everyone: urban explorers can now fly affordably to Trivandrum, Changsha, Osaka, Sydney and more, as well as to AirAsia X’s newest ventures Tashkent, Istanbul, Bahrain, and London.

For would-be beachcombers, they can swap the city skyline for sun and sea with island adventures like Labuan or unwind along the coastal charms of Nha Trang and Krabi for the ultimate tropical getaway. 

As an added bonus, customers can enjoy an additional 10 percent off on Value Pack bookings on AirAsia flights, which includes meals, travel insurance, seat selection, and more.

The School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM) of the University of Baguio in the northern Philippines held its tenth annual International Tourism & Hospitality Students’ Conference (ITHSC) on Friday, 20th February, at the Newtown Plaza Hotel and Convention Centre in Baguio City.

This year’s conference revolved around the theme From Classroom to Community: Advancing Regenerative Tourism Through Education, and featured speakers highlighting diverse aspects of contemporary travel and tourism.

In her opening remarks, Jenelyn Mangagngey-Magpatoc, dean of the UB-SIHTM, declared that the event reaffirms the school’s commitment to ensure that learning will create lasting impact beyond classroom walls to drive the further growth of global tourism, particularly through the concept of regenerative tourism.

She said: “Regenerative tourism challenges us to go further than sustainability, to actively explore, nurture, and give back to the communities and environment we serve. Through our curricula, research extension programmes, and student connections, the academic can be a powerful catalyst in advancing this mission.”

From cultural preservation to urban accessibility

The city of Baguio and the surrounding Mountain Province have long been known for their focus on maintaining the integrity of the natural environment whilst keeping the traditions of its indigenous peoples alive in the present day.

In which case, the talk Communities Shaping Tourism, Tourism Sustaining Communities by Rex Alwin Alquisan, mayor of the municipality of Kabayan, Benguet, struck a chord among attendees as he pointed out the challenges involved in preserving indigenous culture, particularly his municipality’s famed fire mummies which are the current citizens’ most tenuous link to their heritage and which also highlight the disappearing traditions of the Ibaloi people.

Moving into more contemporary lines, Dr Philip Z Peckson, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Asia & the Pacific in Manila, tackled the concept of Revitalising Cities & Heritage Sites Through Walkability-Based Initiatives which explored how walkability-based initiatives could improve urban tourism as well as heritage site management by way of accessibility and better mobility.

Peckson specifically cited the zakkyo [mixed-use structures] common to cities like Tokyo and even Baguio which have long been a measure for urban accessibility as their unique premise of stacking diverse services, including clinics, restaurants, and schools, into a single footprint has helped cities make the most use of available land area and infrastructure.

By doing so, urban areas make basic services and facilities more accessible by concentrating them into a single area, as opposed to the horizontal model which forces residents to travel to perform daily tasks.

In the third talk, Rowena B Gonnay, co-founder of the Slow Food Community in the neighbouring town of Pasil, cast the spotlight on how the global Slow Food movement has empowered indigenous communities throughout the globe, enabling them to maintain their cultural identity despite ongoing challenges involving destructive modern agricultural methods.

Giving the next generation something to think about

Travel Daily Media’s own Marga Manlapig took to the floor for the fourth talk Responsible Digital Storytelling: Crafting Meaningful Narratives Online which discussed how authenticity and being factural will enable contemporary content creators stand out in an overwhelming content-saturated environment.

As she pointed out: “The legitimate travel press, both B2B and B2C, are competing neck and neck with online influencers and key opinion leaders to grab the attention of an incredibly fickle audience. You may think that the online folk are gaining ground as they boast of followers in the thousands, if not millions, and that conventional media will soon be obsolete; but I pose a reality check here for you: which of them is authentic and which of them is meaningful?”

Eunkyu “Nick” Chun, membership and youth programme manager for the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) concluded the event with his talk : – .

During the talk, he emphasised the vital role that younger people, especially students, play when it comes to regenerative tourism; he drove the point further by calling delegates onstage to interact with their peers from other schools in order to devise working concepts on how best to approach both sustainable and regenerative tourism.

Chun concluded the event by saying: “It’s not about me: it’s about you and what you can contribute as students and future professionals in the industry.”

Why this conference matters

Initially staged in 2014, the annual ITHSC at the University of Baguio has sought to address the local and global tourism sector’s rapid evolution.

As such, it has alwaus focused on five key objectives, namely:

1. To provide a platform for the future workforce to gain insights into regenerative tourism initiatives;
2. To provide insights on innovative solutions addressing sustainability challenges in the tourism and hospitality industry;
3. To display the growing importance of the interrelationship between tourism and networks as an important source of support
   for the tourism and hospitality industry;
4. To create positive awareness of the interrelationship between tourism and networks as an important source of support; and
5. To strengthen cooperation and camaraderie among hospitality and tourism institutions, educators, and students.

In the context of regenerative tourism, Mangagngey-Magpatoc said it best: “Our students are at the heart of this movement. When equipped with the right values, skills, and mindset, they become ambassadors of goodwill, modern-day Samaritans who do not merely observe the needs of the community, but choose to act. Whether through small initiatives or transformative projects, every cautious effort contributes to a more regenerative and compassionate today’s economy.”

The Caloocan City government in northern Manila formally inaugurated its redeveloped People’s Park during ceremonies marking its 64th cityhood anniversary.

The Php50-million redevelopment of Caloocan City’s People’s Park was made possible through a generous donation on the part of the Melco Resorts Philippines (MRP) Foundation, the philanthropic arm of luxury integrated resort City of Dreams Manila.

The revitalised park was inaugurated by city mayor Dale Gonzalo Malapitan together with MRP Foundation chairman and president Clarence Chung.

Chung declared on the occasion: “We believe that communal spaces help build strong and thriving communities where citizens can gather to connect, and where children can play. We are thankful for the opportunity to contribute P50 million to Caloocan City’s commitment to uplift its public spaces, because providing parks for the community exemplifies one of the highest traditions of public service. We are optimistic that the Caloocan City People’s Park will be a vibrant hub for community gatherings, recreation, and cultural and sports events.” 

A space where everyone can play

MRP Foundation fully funded the comprehensive redevelopment of the park, which includes landscaping and installation of a children’s playground, physical fitness equipment, jogging lane, picnic area, pickleball court, seating areas, walkways, and security features. 

It should likewise be noted that the donation to the city government of Caloocan is one of MRP Foundation’s various undertakings focused on environment, education, culture, and health programs in conjunction with the mandate of PAGCOR.

The modern park, which is open from 6 am to 10 pm, also features food kiosks, supporting economic opportunities for the city’s business owners. 

The undertaking aligns with Caloocan City’s greener city goal and smart city initiative which aim to provide green spaces for play and respite of their citizens. 

Global hospitality management firm Accor convened over 300 general managers from its properties throughout Asia with its global leadership team for the Asia Leadership Conference 2026.

Staged from 3rd to 5th February at Novotel Manila Araneta City in the Philippines, the event revolved around the theme THRIVE, serving as a strategic platform to align priorities, exchange insights, and equip leaders to drive sustainable growth and high-performance results across the region.

The programme featured senior Accor executives, industry specialists, and strategic partners, offering practical perspectives and cross-market insights to support stronger decision-making and execution at property level.

By bringing together leaders from diverse markets, the Asia Leadership Conference continues to play a central role in strengthening alignment, accelerating innovation, and advancing Accor’s performance across Asia’s dynamic hospitality landscape.

According to chief operating officer for the premium, midscale, and economy division in Asia Garth Simmons: “This conference brought together our leaders and teams who shape the guest experience and business performance across our hotels every day. It is about rising above challenges, working across borders and cultures, and turning shared knowledge into strong results. By investing in leadership, knowledge, capabilities and confidence, we are building hotels and teams where people, performance and purpose thrive together, driving sustainable, long-term growth.”

Where leadership matters

Designed for senior hotel leaders across Accor’s premium, midscale and economy portfolio, the three-day conference combined forward-looking business updates, market outlooks, and operational deep-dives with interactive workshops and peer-led knowledge sharing. 

Discussions focused on evolving hospitality and tourism trends, commercial performance, guest experience, talent development, and responsible hospitality practices.

A highlight of the conference was the Asia Leadership Awards which recognised hotels that delivered outstanding results across key performance pillars:

• Responsible Hospitality Award: Novotel and ibis Bangkok IMPACT, Thailand
• Best Food & Beverage Performance: Pullman Singapore Hill Street
• Art of Hospitality Award (Guest Experience & Loyalty): Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam, Thailand
• Brand Excellence Award – Midscale & Economy: Novotel Manila Araneta City, the Philippines 
• Brand Excellence Award – Premium: Swissotel The Stamford, Singapore
• Operational Excellence Award: Mercure Tokyo Hibiya, Japan
• Work of Heart Award: Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, the Philippines
• Hotel of the Year: Swissotel The Stamford, Singapore

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) announced that Debra Fox is their new chief sales officer for trade sales.

Fox’s appointment is a reflection of AKTG’s commitment to strengthening trade partnerships across its luxury portfolio worldwide. 

In her new role, Fox will assume global responsibility for all trade sales across AKTG’s flagship brands, including Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal, A&K Sanctuary, Cox & Kings, and Ecoventura, and reports to CEO Cristina Levis. 

The appointment creates a unified sales leadership structure designed to enhance advisor support while maintaining the distinct brand expertise that travel partners value.

A full slate

Fox will likewise remain managing director for Abercrombie & Kent’s tour operating businesses in Australia and the UK. 

In Asia, she will work with a strong regional leadership team led by Tony Archbold, vice-president of trade sales for A&K, Crystal and A&K Sanctuary, Asia. 

With regard to this, she said: “This structure allows us to deliver even more focused support to our trade partners than ever before. We’re building on the excellent foundations we have in the Asian market, with Tony leading a dedicated team who bring deep expertise in advisor relationships and a clear focus on maximising sales opportunities across all our brands.” 

This recent development aligns AKTG’s sales teams globally while maintaining dedicated brand expertise where it works best for each market. In Asia, the sales leadership team comprises: 

Under the new set-up, Archbold will be supported by sales director Evon Ler and the inside sales team which will continue to build on collaboration internally, increasing execution effectiveness on a local level, with a clear focus on maximising sales opportunities and impact across trade partners for all AKTG brands. 

Keeping the momentum

The strengthened sales structure supports unprecedented expansion across AKTG’s portfolio. Abercrombie & Kent continues its momentum with new DMCs in key markets and product launches including new A&K Sanctuary properties such as Gorilla Forest Lodge in Uganda, Pure Amazon riverboat in Peru, and Baines’ Lodge in Botswana. 

The recent brand refresh has driven increased advisor engagement and client demand. 

Meanwhile, Cox & Kings is embarking on a significant phase of global expansion, with Australia among the pivotal new markets for launch. 

Leveraging AKTG’s strong global network, the expansion will broaden Cox & Kings’ geographical footprint and solidify its position as a leader in distinctive, immersive travel. 

On the other hand, Crystal continues its successful relaunch with two vessels currently operational, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, following extensive multi-million-dollar refurbishments. 

The brand recently returned to the number one position in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for 2025 for mid-size luxury ocean ships. 

Crystal’s confidence in its long-term future is underscored by the announcement of Crystal Grace, the brand’s first new ocean ship in 25 years, scheduled for delivery in May 2028. 

The 650-guest, all-suite vessel will represent a natural evolution of Crystal’s design and service philosophy, with generous public spaces, world-class dining and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the segment. 

Additionally, the company has secured financing for the refurbishment of two additional ships.

Global hotel brands are increasingly targeting Airbnb’s market share by introducing residential-style accommodations to cater to the growing demand for multigenerational travel. With over 40% of families planning trips that include at least three generations, the hospitality industry is witnessing a shift towards larger, professionally managed spaces. This trend has prompted major hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton to launch new offerings that blend the comfort of home with the services of a hotel.

Flats by Marriott Bonvoy has launched sales for its first for-sale multigenerational residential product at Ambar Residences Orlando, marking its entry into the US and Canadian markets. These residences offer large-format living spaces with full kitchens and flexible sleeping arrangements, alongside hotel-like services such as professional housekeeping and concierge access. This model aims to provide guests with the benefits of short-term rentals whilst maintaining the consistency and service of a hotel.

Hilton has also entered the fray with its Apartment Collection, which includes approximately 10,000 apartment-style units globally. The brand plans to expand by adding up to 3,000 more units through partnerships and franchise agreements. These offerings feature furnished flats with chef-ready kitchens and 24/7 on-site staff, combining residential flexibility with institutional operations.

Airbnb, meanwhile, reported a $120 million year-over-year profit decline in Q4 2025, highlighting the competitive pressures from these new developments. As hotels continue to innovate and expand their residential offerings, the future of short-term rentals is set to evolve, focusing on professionally operated, brand-backed hospitality solutions

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Uttarakhand’s largest youth-led festival, Himalayan O₂ – The Tehri Lake Festival, is set to take place from 6 to 9 March 2026 at Tehri Lake. Organised by the district administration of Tehri Garhwal in collaboration with the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, the festival promises a vibrant mix of adventure sports, arts, culture, and music. Notable performances include those by the music bands Pandavas and Amit Trivedi.

The festival, themed “Freedom in the Mountains”, aims to highlight the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Nitika Khandelwal, district magistrate of Tehri Garhwal, stated, “This year, the four-day Tehri Lake Festival will not be limited to just Tehri Lake, but activities will also be organised at main tourist destinations of the district.” Over 100 hotels across the district will provide accommodation during the festival.

Key events include a photography competition, Master Chef Tehri culinary showcase, painting contests, river rafting, and fashion shows. Adventure enthusiasts can participate in trekking, paragliding, and mountain biking. Cultural programmes will focus on themes like “Save Ganga”, with heritage showcases and devotional events.

Participants can register for various competitions and workshops, with top performers receiving cash awards up to $1,200 (₹1,00,000) and special experiences. The festival aims to promote sustainable tourism and celebrate the spirit of the Himalayas. For more information, visit the festival’s official website

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Gulf Air and Bahrain Airport Company have unveiled a significant investment in their workforce with the launch of a market-benchmarked Compensation & Benefits Framework and an enhanced Medical Insurance Programme. This initiative, announced on 21 February 2026, marks a pivotal step in their human capital transformation, aiming to foster a high-performance culture and align with global standards.

The new Compensation & Benefits Framework introduces a unified grading structure to facilitate career progression and includes performance-linked rewards to enhance accountability. This strategic move is designed to align individual contributions with the companies’ overarching goals. The enhanced Medical Insurance Programme further supports employee wellbeing by offering improved coverage and access to healthcare for employees and their dependants.

Khalid Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “Our transformation begins with our people. This initiative reinforces our long-term commitment to investing in talent and supporting the Bahrain Government Action Plan (2023-2026) in driving sustainable national development.”

Mohamed Matar, Chief People Officer of Gulf Air Group, highlighted the strategic commitment to Bahrainisation, aiming to strengthen the pipeline of Bahraini talent and prepare nationals for leadership roles in the evolving aviation sector.

This announcement is part of a broader agenda to drive meaningful organisational change through a culture of care, performance, and motivation, reinforcing Gulf Air and Bahrain Airport Company’s commitment to sustainable growth and excellence

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Cirque du Liban’s renowned Fontana Show is set to make its debut in Doha, as announced by Qatar Calendar. The show, known for its unique blend of circus artistry and advanced water, light, and sound elements, will be hosted in a specially constructed circus tent at Hyatt Plaza from 20 March to 18 April 2026. This marks a significant addition to Qatar Calendar’s expanding roster of international family-friendly entertainment.

The Fontana Show, celebrated as one of the most ambitious travelling aquatic performances in the Middle East, features a choreographed musical fountain, aerial acts, acrobatics, and visual effects. An international cast of performers will deliver a programme designed to captivate families and live entertainment enthusiasts.

Qatar Calendar’s 2026 line-up continues to grow with the inclusion of the Fontana Show, supporting a year-round entertainment schedule that integrates local, regional, and international events. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and solidify Doha’s reputation as a vibrant hub for live entertainment.

Tickets and show timings are available through Platinumlist, ensuring easy access for residents and visitors alike. As part of its mission, Qatar Calendar, presented by Visit Qatar, serves as the official platform for showcasing the nation’s major events, reinforcing Qatar’s status as a dynamic global destination

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Malaysia Airlines is set to introduce a third daily non-stop flight between Kuala Lumpur and Doha starting 30 June 2026. This expansion increases the airline’s weekly flights on this route to 21, reflecting the sustained demand for travel between Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

The additional service will enhance Malaysia Airlines’ access to over 120 codeshare destinations via Kuala Lumpur and Doha. Passengers will benefit from improved connectivity from Asia and Australasia to key destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. The increased frequencies from Australia will further support seamless travel in both directions.

Bryan Foong, CEO of Airline Business at Malaysia Aviation Group, stated, “The introduction of our third daily service to Doha underscores the strong performance of this route and the strategic importance of our partnership with Qatar Airways. By expanding capacity, we are enhancing access to Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Americas via Hamad International Airport, whilst leveraging our growing Australian network to support more seamless east–west travel.”

The new flight schedule for summer 2026 includes departures from Kuala Lumpur at 9:00pm, 2:50am, and 8:05pm, with return flights from Doha at 1:50am, 8:05am, and 2:35am. This expansion is part of Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to offering customers greater flexibility and a more integrated travel experience across key global markets

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