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Enter the Dragon: IndiGo’s China Delhi-Chengdu route
IndiGo is set to start a daily non-stop flight on the Delhi-Chengdu route from September 15 onwards. While also operating to five other international destinations in Asia, this flight will make Chengdu, the airline’s 19th international destination. This will be the first non-stop service between Chengdu to India. "We are providing the much-needed connectivity between the two destinations." William Boulter, chief commercial officer, IndiGo said, “India is witnessing a much higher growth rate with respect to aviation and currently the India-China route is underserved by Indian carriers. With our plan to operate non-stop daily flights to Chengdu, we are providing the much-needed connectivity between the two destinations. China is a market with immense potential and holds prominent trade, cultural and tourism values. We hope to further strengthen this relation by announcing our entry into China.” Boulter added, “IndiGo will continue to expand its network to meet the requirements of both business and leisure travellers wherever they demand it. It is our constant endeavour to provide more flexibility of choice to our customers as IndiGo continues to offer them on-time, courteous and hassle-free service, and an affordable flying experience.” IndiGo said that it would be opening the sale of tickets for flights on the Delhi-Chengdu route as soon as it secures the requisite regulatory approvals.
Hilton opens first upscale international hotel within Chengdu district
Chengdu, China Hilton has announced the opening of Hilton Chengdu Chenghua, a 15-storey, full-service hotel — the first and only upscale international hotel within the district. Owned by Chengdu Sincere Real Estate Co. Ltd and managed by Hilton, the hotel is located within the Second Ring Expressway with close proximity to a major metro station. Hilton Chengdu Chenghua provides convenience for exploring the city's cultural and entertainment attractions such as Taikoo Li, Chunxi Road, Kuanzhai Alley and Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding — all within a 30-minute drive. “A key economic growth engine in Southwest China” "Chengdu not only enjoys rich culture and abundant natural resources but is also a key economic growth engine in Southwest China, presenting Hilton with immense opportunity to satisfy growing hospitality demands in the region," said Qian Jin, area president, Greater China and Mongolia, Hilton. "Hilton continues its strategic expansion in Chengdu with the debut of the brand's eighth hotel in this central neighbourhood, standing as a beacon of hospitality as it sets the benchmark for unparalleled comfort and sophistication." Hilton Chengdu Chenghua Hotel features and amenities include 298 guest rooms featuring bathrooms with separate bathtub and rain shower and floor-to-ceiling windows; three restaurants and a lobby bar; a 24-hour fitness centre; and 1,650 square metres of total meeting space. “The first and only upscale international hotel within the district” "Boasting an excellent location and easy access to entertainment and attractions in vibrant Chengdu, Hilton Chengdu Chenghua is the first and only upscale international hotel within the district," said Sean Wooden, vice president of brand management, Asia Pacific, Hilton. "We are excited to introduce Hilton's flagship brand and its exceptional service to the city, allowing discerning travellers to take advantage of Hilton's leading hospitality wherever they want to be."
Anantara enters untapped market in Chengdu, China
Artist's rendering of the Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel Anantara Hotels and Resorts has announced plans to diversify its portfolio in China by launching a luxury hotel brand in the Qingyang District of Chengdu, with the opening of Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel. Currently operating 39 hotels and resorts in 13 countries across the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, Africa and the Indian Ocean, Anantara Hotels and Resorts announced its plans to expand the brand’s presence in China this week. Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel will join the group’s existing China portfolio, comprising Anantara Sanya Resort on Hainan Island, Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort in Yunnan, and Anantara Guiyang Resort in Guizhou Province. "Responding to demand in a way that places us firmly as a strong market leader" Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels, owner of Anantara Hotels and Resorts, commented: “We are excited to announce the first Anantara in Chengdu, China, in partnership with Chengdu Tai Hang Rui Hong Real Estate Co., Ltd. This addition to our portfolio demonstrates our commitment to growth in up and coming destinations, while foreseeing and responding to demand in a way that places us firmly as a strong market leader in the Asia Pacific, and beyond.” Anantara Sanya Resort on Hainan Island Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel will feature 150 guestrooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant and specialty restaurant, a lobby lounge and bar / tea lounge, a gym and fitness facility, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a spa, children’s club, additional recreational and leisure facilities, along with banqueting and meeting facilities. The hotel is positioned to capitalise on Chengdu’s fast growth, which, at present, offers no upscale and luxury hotels, nor international branded hotels. The new property is expected to be the first luxury and upscale brand in the growing and well-connected part of town, catering to high-end leisure and business travellers. In addition, Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel is less than an hour’s drive from the high-speed Chengdu Railway Station, the Chengdu City Centre and the Chengdu Shangliu International Airport. Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province, serving as the economic, commercial, financial, transportation and communication centre of southwest China. Ranked as China’s 12th most competitive city, over 150 of the world's 500 largest companies currently have subsidiaries or branch offices in the city.
More than 1300 delegates attend 22nd UNWTO General Assembly in Chengdu
13 Sep 17 More than 1300 delegates from over 130 countries attended the opening of the 22nd session of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly in Chengdu, China this morning. During the next four days, the priorities of the Organization for 2018-2019, the transformation of the UNWTO Code of Ethics for Tourism into an International Convention and the impact of technology on tourism will centre the discussions. On the agenda of the Assembly is also the election of the Secretary General for the next four years. “China is an inspiration to others in terms of its supportive tourism policies and in placing tourism at the centre of its poverty alleviation and national development strategies,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai at the opening of the 22nd session of the General Assembly. “Besides being the fourth most-visited country in the world, with 59 million international arrivals in 2016, China is also the largest domestic tourism market, with 4.4 billion trips made within its borders,” he added. The Secretary-General also recalled the relevance of having this General Assembly, the last of his mandate, under the framework of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017. “I feel very proud to have contributed to expanding the capacity of travel and tourism to the progress of the SDGs that guide our common action to 2030. This General Assembly is a unique opportunity to continue advancing together,” he said. Wang Yang, Vice-Premier of the People’s Republic of China, recalled that, since the inclusion of China in UNWTO in 1983, the tourism sector has grown to represent 10% of the country’s economy. Vice-Premier confirmed that “smart tourism” will guide the development of the sector and highlighted the need to enforce policies to enhance sustainable tourism. The Vice-Premier also mentioned that the inherently sustainable approach to tourism in China resulted from the traditional harmony between man and nature widely present in Chinese culture. In addition, he underlined the relevance of increasing cooperation among countries in the field of tourism, especially in crisis situations such as natural disasters. He further noted that 6 million jobs related to tourism have been created in 2016 in China, particularly for women, people with disabilities and rural communities. “I feel very proud to have contributed to expanding the capacity of travel and tourism to contribute to the SDGs that guide our common action to 2030,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai “UNWTO is irreplaceable for its role of supporting the multiple dimensions of the tourism sector as well as its wide potential,” he added. The UNWTO General Assembly will discuss the Chengdu Declaration on ‘Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals’. The document, in which the potential of the tourism sector is underlined in economic, social and political terms, includes 19 articles that, among others, recommend to governments “to develop an integrated and holistic approach to tourism policy in order to leverage the sector’s positive impact and multiplying effect on people, planet and prosperity (Article 1).” In addition, it proposes “to undertake national assessments on tourism’s contribution and commitment to the SDGs and ensure the inclusion of tourism in interministerial SDG commissions and/or working groups as well as to enhance the contribution of tourism in SDGs national strategies through the set-up of institutional frameworks and mechanisms that allow participation of all stakeholders.” The High-Level Segment discussed ‘Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals’ “To advance, the tourism sector should decouple growth from environmental harm; fight climate change throughout the entire tourism value chain; measure the impacts of travellers every day accurately and regularly, and promote accessibility for all,” stated Rifai. “Furthermore we need to ensure the benefits of the sector reach communities, and prevent negative impacts on their social fabrics by tackling issues such as overcrowding, protect the weak from being exploited in our sector, prevent leakages and address global and tourism-sector security challenges without compromising people’s rights, particularly to freedom of travel and movement,” he added. High level debate on Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals The opening of the 22nd session of the UNWTO General Assembly was followed by a high level session on tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals and Building Partnerships for Development: The Example of the Belt and Road Initiative, conducted by Richard Quest of CNN International. Among the participants were: Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General of UNWTO; Li Jinzao, Chairman of the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA); His Majesty King Simeon II, Special Ambassador of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development; Sandra Howard, Vice-Minister of Tourism of Colombia; Abulfas Garayev, Minister of Tourism of Azerbaijan; Pascal Lamy, the World Committee on Tourism Ethics; Mohammed Yehia Rashed, Minister of Tourism of Egypt; Lamia Boutaleb, Secretary of State for Tourism of Morocco; Ephraim Kamuntu, Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities of Uganda; Benito Bengzon Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Development Planning of the Philippines; George Chogovadze, Head of the National Tourism Administration of Georgia; Gloria Guevara Manzo, President and CEO of WTTC; and Ambassador Eric Jakob, Head of the Promotion Activities Directorate, State Secretariat from Switzerland. “Growth and sustainability should go hand-in-hand. Recent protests in cities are the evidence that growth should be sustainable. But growth is not the enemy, as it is the story of humankind. We need to take local communities into account,” said Rifai. The debate on the SDGs was followed by a session dedicated to the Belt and Road Initiative where the discussion focused on the characteristics of this initiative. Among the speakers were: UNWTO Secretary General Taleb Rifai, CNTA Chairman Li Jinzao, Oleg Safonov, Head, Federal Agency for Tourism of the Russian Federation, Roland Ratsiraka, Minister of Tourism of Madagascar, Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, Nikolina Angelkova, Minister of Tourism of Bulgaria, John A. E. Amaratunga, Minister of Tourism Development, Christian Religions Affairs and Lands of Sri Lanka Askar Batalov, Deputy Minister of Culture and Sport of Kazakhstan and István Ujhelyi, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Transport and Tourism/Chair Tourism Task Force at the European Parliament. Additional information: More about the 22nd session of the General Assembly Opening Speech of Taleb Rifai, UNWTO’s Secretary General Photos of the official opening of the General Assembly Photos of the General Assembly in UNWTO's Flickr official account Media Resources Contacts: UNWTO Media Officer Rut Gomez Sobrino Tel: (+34) 91 567 81 60 / rgomez@unwto.org UNWTO Communications & Publications Programme Tel: (+34) 91 567 8100 / Fax: +34 91 567 8218 / comm@UNWTO.org
Waldorf Astoria offering 71 expansive villas and 68 sophisticated guest suites to open by 2027 in Bali
Hilton announced the signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali with Indonesian property developer PT Balibuana Perkasa, further expanding Hilton’s presence in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Set to open in late 2027, Waldorf Astoria Bali is poised to be the crown jewel of Nusa Dua, setting a new benchmark for luxury travel and hospitality in the prestigious oceanside locale that has hosted world leaders and discerning global travelers alike. The luxurious seaside retreat will take pride of place along Sawangan Beach, offering direct access to its picturesque shoreline. Waldorf Astoria Bali will be the ownership’s second property with Hilton following the award-winning Hilton Bali Resort and will join Hilton’s existing portfolio of 16 operating and 12 pipeline hotels and resorts across Indonesia. “This signing builds on the success of Hilton Bali Resort with PT Balibuana Perkasa and deepens our long-standing relationship. Their continued trust is a testament to the enduring value of Hilton’s brands and importantly, our owners’ confidence in Hilton’s ability to deliver best-in-class returns,” said Clarence Tan, senior vice president, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “Indonesia’s rise as a world-class destination presents tremendous opportunities and underlines its strategic importance to Hilton in Asia Pacific. With the upcoming arrival of Waldorf Astoria, Bali will hold the distinction of being home to three of our luxury brands, including Conrad Hotels & Resorts and LXR Hotels & Resorts, in addition to our flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Garden Inn.” The signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali comes as Hilton recently surpassed 1,000 luxury and lifestyle hotels globally with another 500 in the development pipeline, demonstrating strong momentum and opportunity for its brands in this segment of the market. The Epitome of Oceanfront Luxury With breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Waldorf Astoria Bali will feature 71 expansive villas and 68 sophisticated guest suites, combining elegance and grandeur with a distinct sense of place and the effortless, signature service that the brand is known for. In line with Waldorf Astoria’s legacy of culinary excellence and innovation, Waldorf Astoria Bali will feature multiple distinctive dining destinations. Among them is a dynamic beach club, and Peacock Alley, a refined cliffside restaurant and pool terrace that reimagines the brand’s iconic lounge and bar – a signature of the Waldorf Astoria brand that traces its roots to the original hotel in New York City. One of the resort’s most anticipated culinary experiences is The Ledge by Dave Pynt, an award-winning concept that builds on the success of Pynt’s acclaimed restaurants – The Ledge at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Burnt Ends, his Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore. Known for his mastery of open-flame cooking and custom-built grills, Pynt will bring a bold yet relaxed dining experience that redefines modern barbecue through a distinctly global lens. Waldorf Astoria Bali willal so boast a suite of wellness experiences, including a tranquil spa inspired by traditional Balinese wellness rituals, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and swimming pools that overlook the Indian Ocean. Young travelers can also look forward to indulging in the resort’s family-friendly activities, along with a dedicated kids’ club. Offering 748 square meters of event space, including a 465 square meter ballroom and a stunning chapel as an unparalleled venue for weddings, Waldorf Astoria Bali will set the stage for iconic events and unforgettable celebrations. Conveniently located just 14.5 kilometers from Ngurah Rai International Airport, the resort is minutes away from the renowned cliff fronts of Ungasan and Uluwatu and will also offer easy access to hidden gems like Geger Beach. "Bali’s natural beauty and rich cultural depth make it a fitting home for Waldorf Astoria. With Conrad Bali, Hilton Bali Resort, Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and Hilton Garden Inn Ngurah Rai Airport already representing a strong presence on the island, this signing reflects Hilton’s continued commitment to expanding thoughtfully across South East Asia’s most sought-after destinations,” said Alexandra Murray, vice president and regional head, South East Asia, Hilton. “With the addition of Waldorf Astoria Bali, we are not only elevating our luxury footprint in Indonesia, but we are also reinforcing our promise to deliver unforgettable world-class experiences to travelers seeking the very best in hospitality." Gandi Rudiarto, director, PT Balibuana Perkasasaid: “Over the years, we have worked closely with Hilton as our trusted partner to create exceptional experiences for guests, and we are pleased to take that partnership to the next level by bringing the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand to Bali. The island paradise has been in the global spotlight for hosting world events like the G20 Summit, and we are confident that Waldorf Astoria Bali will introduce new heights of unforgettable luxury that befits leaders and luminaries – true to the brand’s illustrious legacy of hosting presidents and royals.” The signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali brings Hilton another step forward on its trajectory to grow its luxury presence to 150 hotels in the Asia Pacific region in the coming years. Having recently opened its first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Japan – the Waldorf Astoria Osaka – Hilton will also open Waldorf Astoria properties in Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, Shanghai, Tokyo, Xi’an and Hanoi over the next two years. Conrad Hotels & Resorts is expanding with upcoming properties in prime travel destinations across China, including Xi’an, Chengdu, and Nanjing, as well as in Nagoya, Japan. LXR Hotels & Resorts hotels are set to debut in Bengaluru, Hiroshima and Xi’an, following the debut of the brand in Kyoto and Bali with ROKU KYOTO and Umana Bali respectively. NoMad will make its Asia Pacific debut in Singapore in 2027. Waldorf Astoria hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.
JW Marriott Goa offers a Chinese culinary showcase at JW Kitchen
This month, JW Marriott Goa offers diners a distinctive culinary showcase at its all-day dining establishment JW Kitchen. Currently running till Saturday,14th June, JW Kitchen invites guests to experience the bold, vibrant, and deeply storied flavours of China’s Sichuan province. Known for its fearless use of spice and aromatic complexity, Sichuan cuisine is widely regarded as one of the most exciting culinary traditions in the world. The limited-time menu is a tribute to Chengdu, the provincial capital and a UNESCO-recognized City of Gastronomy, and serves as a rare opportunity to explore this rich and diverse culinary heritage in Goa. Guests will enjoy this exclusive culinary journey in the warm, relaxed ambiance of JW Kitchen, a space inspired by the easy elegance of a contemporary Goan beach house. With both indoor and balcony seating overlooking the Chapora River and Fort, the restaurant provides a scenic backdrop to this unique dining experience. Live kitchens and interactive culinary elements further enhance the guest experience, allowing diners to engage with the artistry behind each dish. The fiery flavours of the Land of Abundance The Sichuan region, often referred to as the ‘Land of Abundance’, is famed for its layered flavors, liberal use of chilli, garlic, and the unmistakable tingle of Sichuan peppercorns. The menu features a wide array of dishes that reflect the signature boldness of Sichuan cuisine while offering depth, balance, and variety. Among the appetisers, the Chengdu-style prawns are a standout, stir-fried with burnt chilli and scallions to deliver a perfect combination of heat and umami. The spicy mala mushrooms are a vegetarian highlight, offering the numbing, peppery sensation that defines the region’s iconic ‘mala’ flavor profile. The crispy tofu with Shaoxing wine offers delicate crunch balanced by the savory richness of aged Chinese rice wine, while the Chengdu-style lamb with cumin and coriander captures the earthy undertones of western China’s Muslim culinary influences. The soup course includes the deeply comforting Mala Xiaomian-style Noodle Soup, characterised by a spicy, numbing broth and soft, hand-pulled noodles or a Spicy Seafood Peppercorn Soup, which brings together shellfish and aromatics in a broth that is both fiery and fragrant, making for a bold yet balanced beginning to the meal. Main courses feature both classics and regional favourites, including the Wok-Fried pork Belly With Mountain Chilli And Sichuan Sauce is a rich, robust dish with layers of caramelised fat and spice, while the Sichuan Hot Pot Chicken offers a dry version of the classic hot pot: fiery, aromatic, and intensely flavourful. The Mala Xiang Guo, a dry stir-fried hotpot medley, showcases a colourful mix of proteins and vegetables tossed in aromatic oils and spices. Vegetarian diners will appreciate the Stir-Fried Tofu And Long Eggplant with Sichuan pepper and garlic sauce, which offers both heat and depth. The Dan Dan noodles, a dish symbolic of Sichuan street food culture, combine spicy minced meat with sesame, soy, and vinegar for a complex, tangy finish. To accompany the mains, the Sichuan-Style Fried Rice with edamame and burnt chilli delivers a smoky, satisfying flavour with each bite. The experience concludes on a sweet note with inventive desserts inspired by regional and Asian elements. The Mango Pudding Rice With Mango Ice Cream offers a light and tropical ending, while the Darsan With Jaggery-Sesame Gelato merges the crisp texture of fried noodles with the nutty sweetness of sesame and the warmth of jaggery, creating a dessert that bridges tradition and innovation.
Fliggy releases travel insights for this year’s Dragon Boat Festival holiday
Alibaba Group’s online travel services platform Fliggy just released insights into travel trends for the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival holiday. This latest report reveals a sustained demand for high-quality travel experiences throughout the Chinese mainland, as well as the country’s special autonomous regions of Hong Kong and Macau. Data shows that bookings for customised domestic tours are up by over 50 percent year-on-year (YoY), while domestic hotel packages combining accommodation with entertainment and dining options grew by 20 percent. Likewise, travellers were spending more in the leadup to the holiday, with average expenses on tickets, camping experiences, and chartered tours rising by 8.8 percent compared to last year's holiday period. In for stays and cultural immersion This year, many travelers opted for visits to theme parks or resorts with family and friends. As a result, ticket sales for major attractions and theme parks on the first day of the holiday increased by 25 percent YoY, while comprehensive packages that included dining and entertainment experienced a remarkable 140 percent surge in bookings. With southern China entering its rainy season, the hot and humid weather led many travelers to enjoy hotel-based retreats. Properties enhanced their offerings with traditional festival activities, such as making zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings), handcrafting five-color bracelets, and creating aromatic sachets, attracting guests seeking cultural experiences. Among all accommodation types, luxury resorts and boutique homestays recorded particularly strong booking growth during the holiday period. This year saw the increased popularity of closer destinations During the three-day holiday, travelers favored short-distance road trips and nearby getaways. According to Fliggy data, domestic car rental bookings jumped by approximately 30 percent YoY, with flexible pickup and return options proving particularly popular. Top self-drive destinations included Urumqi, Chengdu, Sanya, Haikou, and Beijing. On the other hand, the most popular domestic destinations included Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nanjing, Chongqing, Xi'an, and Wuhan. Meanwhile, emerging locations such as Beitun (Xinjiang), Jincheng (Shanxi), Qiongzhong (Hainan), Qingyuan (Guangdong), Wuwei (Gansu), Nujiang (Yunnan), Dezhou (Shandong), Fangchenggang (Guangxi), and Kaifeng (Henan) showed the fastest booking growth, alluring travelers with their unique cultural and natural attractions in less crowded environments. For outbound travel, the most sought-after destinations included Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong SAR, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, France, Indonesia, and the United States, with short-haul flights (under four hours) being particularly popular. Notably, countries such as Poland, Iceland, Finland, Bhutan, Uzbekistan, Laos, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tanzania, and Georgia experienced substantial growth in bookings, drawing travelers with their pleasant climates and distinctive cultural offerings.
Top five trends for travel during the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival: Fliggy
Chinese tourists are gearing up for a three-day Dragon Boat Festival holiday from May 31 to June 2, 2025. Fliggy, an online travel platform and wholly owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group has released its 2025 Dragon Boat Festival Travel Forecast, highlighting several key trends: Rising interest in cultural experiences: Traditional activities such as dragon boat racing and zongzi(glutinous rice dumplings) making have seen a significant increase in interest. Family-oriented travel gains traction: This year’s holiday coincides with Children's Day, enhancing the appeal of family travel. Bookings for theme park tickets have surged by over 100%, while family hotel packages, which include accommodation, entertainment, and dining options, have increased by 24%. Activities such as outings to the suburbs for water fun and picnics with kids and pets are in high demand, with camping bookings rising by 80%. Short trips are more popular: Two-hour high-speed train trips and short excursions are the preferred options. Car rentals for the holiday have risen by 47% compared to last year. Popular regions for self-driving tours include Urumqi, Chengdu, Sanya, Yili, Haikou, Kunming, Guiyang, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai. Popular domestic destinations: Major provincial capitals are still favored, but second- and third-tier cities like Jincheng (Shanxi province) and Haidong (Qinghai province) are experiencing a significant increase in bookings, after the picturesque scenery in these locations went viral on social media. Shuangyashan (Heilongjiang province) and Pu'er (Yunnan province) are also emerging as preferred summer retreats. Outbound travel on the rise: Outbound travel is experiencing strong growth compared to last year. Destinations within a four-hour flight radius – such as Hong Kong SAR, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand – remain the most sought after, alongside growing interest in more exotic locations such as Uzbekistan, Iceland, Qatar, Kazakhstan, and Tanzania.
Vietjet introduces two new direct routes to China
Vietjet introduces two new direct routes from Vietnam’s capital Hanoi to Chengdu and Xi’an in China. Inaugural flights will be taking off on the 1st and 6th July respectively, offering four round trip flights each per week. These new services bring the airline’s total number of Vietnam–China direct routes introduced in the first half of 2025 to seven, further strengthening its expanding flight network. For Singaporean travellers, this opens up a more seamless journey to China via Vietnam’s Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offering more flexible and affordable travel options across the region. To celebrate the launch, Vietjet is offering promotional fares for new services through its website and mobile app. Inroads to China These new services follow Vietjet’s recent launches connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with Beijing and Guangzhou, as well as the Hanoi-Shanghai route introduced in March and April. The two additional services will strengthen comprehensive air connectivity between Vietnam and China, promoting tourism and trade while offering greater access between China, Southeast Asia, and beyond. Vietjet has been rapidly expanding its international flight network, particularly between Vietnam and China, with direct routes now linking Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to major Chinese cities such as Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi’an, Beijing, and Guangzhou. Beyond China, the airline is also boosting regional connectivity with a new direct service between Singapore and Phu Quoc to be launched on May 30. In the first and second quarters, Vietjet also launched new services to India linking Ho Chi Minh City to Hyderabad and Bengaluru, and to Japan’s Nagoya and Fukuoka. These strategic expansions reflect Vietjet’s strong commitment to enhancing international cooperation and making travel across the Asia–Pacific region more accessible and affordable. In line with its global ambitions, Vietjet continues to broaden its global flight network while providing travellers with a comfortable and seamless journey aboard modern, eco-friendly aircraft and professional service that reflects the authentic spirit of Vietnam. As part of its passenger-first approach, Vietjet also offers complimentary SkyCare travel insurance and exclusive rewards through its SkyJoy loyalty program.
NoMad hotel to open with 173 keys by early 2027 in Singapore
Hilton has reached an agreement with UOL Group to open a NoMad hotel in Singapore, marking its foray into the fast-growing luxury lifestyle segment in Asia Pacific. The debut joins NoMad London which opened in 2021 to international acclaim. Developed in partnership with UOL Group, a Singapore-listed property and hospitality group, the new, 173-bedroom NoMad in Singapore will open in early 2027, bringing the brand’s refined yet eclectic approach to luxury hospitality, with a focus on sophisticated design, world-class dining and immersive cultural programming. Located on Orchard Road, the hotel will offer access to Singapore’s prime shopping and entertainment destinations while embracing the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. Guests will be moments away from Singapore’s luxury retail corridor, abundant lifestyle experiences and local heritage enclaves including Arab Street, Bugis, and Chinatown, offering an authentic connection to Singapore’s rich culture and history. Demand for high-end, experience-driven stays rising “This signing adds a new and significant dimension to Hilton’s phenomenal growth story in Asia Pacific, as we gain a critical foothold in the luxury lifestyle space,” said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “With demand for high-end, experience-driven stays surging across the region, the luxury gateway of Singapore offers the perfect backdrop to debut NoMad’s uniquely local luxury hospitality – and will be the first of many cities in Asia to welcome the brand.” NoMad hotels strike a unique balance – grand yet intimate, refined yet playful, classic yet contemporary – blending luxury with lifestyle to create thoughtfully curated experiences shaped by captivating interior design and cultural influences. Special touches, like bespoke local artworks featured in each guest room, bring the brand’s curated identity to life. “NoMad is built on the concept of a hotel as a welcoming home filled with stories, where every detail – from its interiors and rich visual appeal to its thoughtfully curated dining experiences – comes to life. The signing of our first hotel in Singapore marks an exciting introduction of our brand to Asia Pacific,” said Andrew Zobler, founder & CEO, The Sydell Group.“This debut is just the beginning as we seek out the best destinations to introduce NoMad, with several deals in advanced discussions in destinations in North America, Europe and beyond.” UOL Group Chief Executive Liam Wee Sin said: “We are excited to introduce NoMad to Singapore as part of our placemaking vision for Orchard Road, alongside UOL’s upcoming private and exclusive preview of its luxury residential project, UPPERHOUSE at Orchard Boulevard, and the award-winning Pan Pacific Orchard, forming a trio that will contribute to the transformation of Orchard Road. NoMad makes guests feel like locals in the world’s most sought-after neighborhoods and the Orchard Road precinct offers that luxury lifestyle space.” UOL Chief Operating Officer Neo Soon Hup said: “NoMad Singapore will bring together modern elegance and the city’s dynamic cultural energy, offering a distinct experience that reflects the brand’s character. We look forward to making NoMad a standout presence in the market, delivering exceptional stays that go beyond traditional luxury and resonate with discerning travelers.” Each NoMad provides an immersive luxury experience localized for the destination, providing personalized service, and unforgettable design and culinary experiences. Hilton expands in APAC With the signing of the NoMad hotel in Singapore, Hilton takes another step toward its plan to grow its luxury presence to 150 hotels in the Asia Pacific region in the coming years. Over the next two years, Hilton will open Waldorf Astoria properties in Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, Shanghai, Tokyo, Xi’an and Hanoi. Conrad Hotels & Resorts is expanding with upcoming properties in prime travel destinations across China, including Xi’an, Chengdu, and Nanjing, as well as in Nagoya, Japan. Hilton also has expanded its luxury offering with the recent introduction of LXR Hotels & Resorts to South East Asia with Umana Bali, its second LXR property in the region, following ROKU KYOTO in Japan. These properties will join Hilton’s expanding global luxury portfolio, now one of the largest in the industry with more than 500 properties, including the recently opened Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts and Signia by Hilton Amman, as well as the recent addition of more than 400 Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties. NoMad hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.
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