Thứ Sáu, 30 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 30

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 30

Vietnam gets mere 3.6 million foreign tourists in 2022 despite early reopening
Vietnam has only received 3.6 million foreign tourists this year, or around 70% of its target.
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Russians flock to Thailand as tourism rebounds from collapse
Thailand is receiving an influx of Russian visitors, with data showing monthly arrivals doubling in November and up nearly seven times from September, far outpacing rises from other countries in the run-up to peak travel season.
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Vietnam voted Asia’s best culinary destination for first time
Industry experts and globetrotters have named Vietnam “Asia’s best culinary destination” at this year’s World Culinary Awards for the first time.
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Indonesia to Keep Loose Entry Rules for Chinese Visitors
INDONESIA has no plans to tighten restrictions for travellers from China, keeping its looser Covid-19 policy for international visitors despite a recent surge in cases.
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Philippines prioritizes Middle Eastern tourists for 2023
The Philippine government has announced that attracting tourists from the Middle East and neighboring Muslim-majority countries is among its top priorities for 2023.
Read more

China-Laos Railway boosts travel, promotes tourism in Laos
The China-Laos Railway has significantly bolstered passenger transportation, greatly facilitated travel, and helped promote tourism in Laos since its launch in December 2021.
Read more

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 30 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 27 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 28

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 28

Southeast Asian countries race to attract wealthy foreign tourists for longer stays
While Southeast Asian neighbors are vying for wealthy foreigners by launching ‘golden visas’ with maximum stays of up to 20 years, Vietnam still makes no headway with its one-month visa policy.
Read more

Thailand extends e-visa service to nine more destinations
Thailand has extended its e-visa service to nine more countries, raising to 23 the number of countries and territories whose nationals can benefit from this service.
Read more

Malaysia Airlines & JAL expand codeshare operations after new direct flights from Kualar Lumpur to Tokyo
Malaysia Airlines and Japan Airlines (JAL) have expanded their codeshare operations following Malaysia Airlines’ recent announcement to launch a new direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo, Haneda beginning on August 14, 2022.
Read more

Longer Visa-Free Stays, Simplified Entry Procedures: Vietnam Hopes To Accelerate Travel Recovery In 2023
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pledged to work closely with local agencies to assess and propose solutions to the Government so foreign visitors can enter Vietnam with ease.
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Capital A Partners Sivilai Asia to Launch AirAsia Cambodia
AirAsia Aviation Group, part of Capital A, has signed a joint venture agreement with Sivilai Asia to establish a low cost airline in the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Read more

Russian Airline Eyes Laos as New Regional Air Hub
A Russian airline is eyeing Laos as a new potential regional hub — thanks to ongoing international developments, according to a top company official.
Read more

 

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 28 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Chủ Nhật, 25 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News| Update December 26

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 26

Cambodia’s Angkor Air starts first direct Siem Reap-Hanoi service
Cambodian carrier Angkor Air has launched its first direct service between tourist hub Siem Reap and Hanoi.
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Cambodia says foreign tourists not required to show $1,000 upon entry
The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism confirmed it does not require tourists to show $1,000 to $2,000 in cash upon entering the country.
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Indonesia starts offering 10-year visas to attract foreigners
Indonesia’s Second-Home Visa program that enables foreigners to stay in the country for up to 10 years came into effect Wednesday, as Southeast Asia’s largest economy seeks to attract more tourists.
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Oman’s SalamAir launches Muscat-Bangkok direct flights
Oman based airline SalamAir has launched a new three-times weekly direct service from Muscat to Bangkok – its second destination in Thailand after Phuket.
Read more

Changi Airport reconnects with South Asian cities to pre-pandemic level, adds Pune as new destination
Singapore’s Changi Airport has re-established its link to all South Asian cities to the pre-pandemic level and added Pune to its network, reporting a strong rebound in passenger traffic, according to a media report on Sunday.
Read more

The post Southeast Asia Travel News| Update December 26 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Năm, 22 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News| Update December 23

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 23

Vietnam tourism minister proposes granting e-visa to all markets
Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung has proposed that the government consider granting e-visas to all countries and territories, instead of the current 80, to boost foreign tourist numbers.
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Vietnam eyes 8 million foreign tourists next year amid visa hassles
Struggling with disappointing numbers since the country reopened its borders after Covid, the tourism industry has set a target of just eight million foreign tourists in 2023.
Read more

Emirates goes four daily to Bangkok
Emirates will start the new year in Thailand by adding a fourth flight between Bangkok and Dubai from 1 January 2023.
Read more

Phuket’s boat show returns
The 2023 Thailand International Boat Show will be held from 12 to 15 January 2023 at Royal Phuket Marina, highlighting the combination of onshore lifestyle opportunities and on-water boating opportunities abound in Phuket.
Read more

Electronic Visa on Arrival ( E-VoA ) Launched to Ease Traveler’s Entry Process to Indonesia
Indonesia is always committed to providing the best experience to any of its visitors. After previously launching the Second Home Visa and Immigration on Shipping (IoS) program, Indonesia launched another program to ease travelers’ entry process, namely Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVOA).
Read more

Capital A Partners Sivilai Asia to Launch AirAsia Cambodia
AirAsia Aviation Group, part of Capital A, has signed a joint venture agreement with Sivilai Asia to establish a low cost airline in the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Read more

 

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News| Update December 23 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 20 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News| Update December 20

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 20

Attractive flights, visas needed for wealthy Middle Eastern tourists
Vietnam should launch more direct routes to the Middle East, offer an open visa policy, and even open new Halal restaurants to attract wealthy tourists from the Middle East, experts say.
Read more

Government urged to remove visa hassles to rejuvenate tourism, airline industries
The tourism and aviation industries have again urged the government to ease visa requirements to speed up recovery post-Covid.
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Thailand eyes return of Chinese tourists during Lunar New Year holiday
Thailand expects to welcome back Chinese tourists during the Chinese New Year holiday next month, or within the first quarter at the latest, as China begins lifting Covid-19 restrictions.
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Ethiopian Airlines returns to Singapore
Ethiopian Airlines will resume direct services to Singapore from Adis Ababa on 25 March 2023 using a Boeing 787 for the four weekly flights.
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AirAsia X resumes Kuala Lumpur-Taipei flights
AirAsia X has recently re-introduced flights from Kuala Lumpur to Taipei after Taiwan relaxed entry rules and ended Covid-19 lockdowns.
Read more

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News| Update December 20 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Bảy, 17 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 18

Southeast Asia News | Update December 18

Singapore Christmas Wonderland Is Back
Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay 2022, Singapore’s grandest holiday spectacle, has returned from 2 December 2022 to 1 January 2023.
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6 fascinating events in Angsana Laguna Phuket to celebrate the festive season
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Angsana Laguna Phuket offers a variety of events ranging from beach parties to delicious cuisine and premium beverages to the most stunning fireworks.
Read more

THAI resumes flights to Sapporo
Thai Airways International has resumed flights from the Thai capital to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, responding to a surge in holiday bookings featuring Hokkaido.
Read more

Bamboo Airways makes Cambodia debut with Hanoi-Siem Reap flight
Signaling the revival of tourism prospects, Vietnamese leisure airline Bamboo Airways started its flight from Hanoi to Siem Reap on Sunday.
Read more

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 18 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Năm, 15 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 16

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 16

Thailand set to welcome 20 million tourists in 2023 and generate revenue of RM285 billion
Thailand is set to welcome 20 million tourists and generate tourism receipts of 2.38 trillion baht (US$64.5 billion – RM285 billion) next year.
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Hanoi-Hong Kong flights resumed after 3 years
A Vietnam Airlines flight departing from Hong Kong landed at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi on Sunday, marking the first commercial flight between the two destinations after a three-year hiatus due to Covid.
Read more

Vietnam Airlines to resume China services
Vietnam Airlines is set to resume regular flights to China, Vietnam’s largest pre-pandemic tourism market, on Friday after a long period of suspension due to Covid.
Read more

MAI expands its regional footprint with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Phuket & Phnom Penh
Myanmar Airways International (MAI), Myanmar’s largest carrier, is continuing its network expansion as the airline added three regional destinations with Hanoi (HAN), Ho Chi Minh (SGN) and Phuket (HKT) during Oct 2022 and the recently launched Phnom Penh (PNH), effective 23 November 2022.
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Vistara expands flights to Middle East

Vistara, a joint venture of Tata group and Singapore Airlines, launched daily non-stop flights between Mumbai (India) and Muscat (Oman) earlier this week, making it the airline’s fourth destination in the Gulf region.
Read more

Tourisme Malaysia welcomes Singapore’s scoot resumption or direct flights to Kuantan
Tourism Malaysia today welcomes passengers boarding Singapore’s low-cost airline, Scoot, on its return flight to Kuantan, Pahang.
Read more

Thai Vietjet to operate Chiang Mai – Osaka from THB 4,422
Offering further opportunities and flexible travel choices to its passengers, Thai Vietjet announces its new international service between Thailand’s top destination ‘Chiang Mai’ and one of Japan’s most popular cities ‘Osaka’, from Chiang Mai International Airport to Kansai International Airport, starting from 31 January, 2023.
Read more

Tourists not affected by Indonesia’s new ban on sex outside marriage, Bali governor says
Visitors to Bali will not be put at risk by Indonesia’s newly ratified criminal code, the island’s governor said, dismissing concerns that revised laws which include articles criminalising sex outside marriage may scare away tourists from its shores.
Read more

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 16 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Tư, 14 tháng 12, 2022

Quick Notes For Travel Companies On Travel Trends 2023

The year 2022  remarks the return of travel after a long time because of the effect of the pandemic. All of us expect a strong growth back of travel for the year 2023.  How travel trends will drive tourism for the next year?  Here are some highlights of travel trends for the next years and some quick notes for travel companies from the travel experts at award-winning Lux Travel DMC.

1. Travellers want to get ‘off-grid’ but comfort

From the survey of booking.com, 55% of travellers are looking for off-grid style vacations to escape from reality. However, according to this site, off – the grid doesn’t necessarily mean “rough” as travellers want to combine off-the-grid with comfort. This may lead to a rise in out-of-city breaks, with properties that can fuel travellers’ desire for a remote trip potentially proving the most popular.

A quick note for travel companies: As people are looking to move away from cities and get back to nature, Your customers will prefer the boutique resorts which are far away from the centre instead of the accommodation in the centre. Lux Travel DMC has already completed the best of “secret hideaway collection 2023”. You can contact their travel experts to get the best recommendation for accommodation to stay in 2023.

Zannier Hotels Bai San Hô

Zannier Hotels Bai San Hô

 

2. “Step out of comfort” Zone

After a too long time without travelling away from their home, World Travellers seem eager to discover new cultures, experiences, and destinations. The result from Booking.com’s survey, 73% of respondents want to step out of their comfort zone during their trip abroad. Half of the world’s travelers want to experience a complete culture shock in 2023, whether traveling to a place with entirely different cultural experiences and languages or exploring lesser-known cities and going off the beaten path. 47% of travelers want to discover exotic dishes and taste food they’ve never tried!

A quick note for travel companies: Vietnam and Cambodia will be ideal destinations for helping travellers to experience new local things. Your customers will be recommended to stay at home stays. They can encounter nature, eat traditional food and learn about local culture from ethnic minorities during their trekking here. Each destination has different ethnic minorities with different cultures and lifestyles. Their visit also contributed help the local people preserve sustainably their ethnic heritage.

3. Multi-generation families still high in the next year

Travelling with three or even four generations of family members is becoming more popular. We’re seeing an increase in trips with multi–generational families all traveling together after Covid-19. When people realize that they need more memories for sharing together, travelling is the best way to connect all of the members of their family.

A quick note for travel companies: For multi-generation families tours, you should think about the destinations and activities which will be suitable for all members to join together. From islands, and beach towns to all kinds of entertaining and recreational activities such as trekking, kayaking, cooking classes, and cycling around rice paddies, you can arrange the perfect activities for kids and families all together in Vietnam and Thailand. Beach resorts with fun activities for kids are most recommended for family holidays.

4. Travelers of all ages are willing to pay for value-added services

According to a recent Virtuoso survey, 76 percent of travelers have accepted that we’re living in a “new normal,” which explains the growing demand for – and increased value of – an expert advisor who can save travelers time, energy and the headache of sitting on the phone for hours with customer assistance. Travelers want to find someone who really knows what they’re doing, has excellent connections, saves time, and has their back. “That is the reason why they need to find good travel advisors who can help them to arrange the best services for them.

A quick note for travel companies: Trying to be your experts at your destination. You can find the local travel DMC that can enrich your knowledge of destinations, itineraries, and tips for travelling…

5. Travellers may travel even off-season

In a recent survey, the majority of Virtuoso travelers said they’d be willing to visit a popular destination during the off-season. After a long time staying at home because of Covid-19, travellers are ready to travel as soon as possible. People trend to decide to travel to make up for the lost time as the way the Media described “revenge travel”. Therefore, they do not consider too much the time they start to travel. They can travel anytime. During the off-season, they may receive a higher promotion without the crowds at their budget.

A quick note for travel companies:
You should check with your local travel experts about the season of travel. The best time to visit Southeast Asia is between November and February. The rest time will be off-season in Southeast Asia. However, it might be a slight difference among countries in this region. You may ask your local travel DMC about the off-season in the destinations your customers are planning. During the off-season, the hotels/resorts may give your travellers extra special offers during the off-season. Do not forget to ask your local Travel DMC to update you monthly on these offers.

Want to update the latest Southeast Asia holiday on the travel trend in 2023?
Founded in 2005, Lux Travel DMC is an award-winning DMC that fills a niche in the luxury market. The Lux Travel DMC specializes in high-quality travel services with an emphasis on authentic luxury travel and unique experiences in Southeast Asia. To update the latest travel trend and products in Southeast Asia, you may contact the Lux Travel DMC team at sales@luxtraveldmc.com

 

 

The post Quick Notes For Travel Companies On Travel Trends 2023 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

The Return Of The Most Luxurious Cruise To Mekong Delta

A river voyage through the Mekong delta is the ideal way to immerse yourself in authentic experiences and make memories to last a lifetime. Especially, the return of Aqua Mekong Expedition Cruise turns this voyage to become one of the most recommended luxury cruise tours for the year 2023.

1. An extraordinary odyssey on the finest of river cruise ships with Aqua Mekong

To fully explore the life and culture of the Mekong Delta, an Aqua Mekong Expedition Cruise is a worthwhile experience for high-end travellers. At Aqua Expeditions, our fleet of luxury cruise ships elevates a five-star experience with modern design, a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, and dining menus by award-winning Consulting Chef David Thompson, who incorporates the Mekong’s culinary traditions with locally -sourced ingredients to create indigenous-inspired dishes. A heartfelt personal service that caters to every guest’s needs and desires. Travellers can enjoy a five-star all-inclusive voyage on Aqua Mekong voyages are all-inclusive. All you need to feel truly at home on the Mekong are taken care of, so you can fully enjoy every moment from beginning to end.

2. What are the highlights of the journey?

+ The discovery of the ancient treasure
The travellers also have the opportunity to discover from Colonial French style in SaDec(Vietnam), ancient pagodas in Chau Doc (Vietnam) the lost treasure of the ancient heritage of Cambodia such as the Angkor Wonder, an ancient lost city of Angkor which rose like a zenith out of the Cambodian jungle,  Udong the royal capital of Cambodia for more than 250 years, Phnom Oudong (Hill of the Victorious) and Phnom Preah Reach Throp (Hill of the Royal Fortune), the city was the location of many royal coronations.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap, Cambodia

 

+ Exploring the true local Mekong Delta

Travellers on board will explore the Mekong delta through landmarks, temples, and villages where tradition, spirituality, floating markets, and craftsmanship reside. Besides, they also embark on an inspiring journey of local flavors with a dining experience crafted by Michelin-starred consulting chef David Thompson. All food and drinks on the cruise are created based on the cultural identity of the Mekong Delta, so they have a unique flavor that cannot be found anywhere else! Cruising combines cycling and kayaking, so travellers can get to experience a slice of authentic Mekong life and culture in different ways.

mekong-vietnam-cambodia-tour

Source: Lux Travel DMC

+ The touch of the nature

Not only that, but on the trip, you can enjoy the fresh air with the chirping of more than 70 native bird species in the Tra Su flooded forest, which is a flooded forest that features the typical ecosystem of the Mekong Delta. You can wake up at dawn for an excursion to the fragile wetlands of the Tonle Sap Lake, home to the 22,000-hectare Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary. It is a wonderful opportunity for contemplation as you wind your way along the peaceful hyacinth-clogged waterways.

3. How many options can the travellers get?

The travellers may plan ahead with our 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries aboard the Aqua Mekong. Here are two popular options for cruising between Vietnam and Cambodia

Option 1: Aqua Mekong Discovery Cruise 4 days from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh city

Our 3-night Mekong Discovery Cruise offers travelers with limited time a richly rewarding adventure, either heading upriver in Cambodia by exploring the Tonle Sap River, or downriver between Phnom Penh (PNH), the eye-opening capital of Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh (SGN) in bustling Vietnam.

Start the day with a guided meditation on a sundeck overlooking the emerald greenery around the river, then travel in luxury amidst captivating landscapes along the Mekong River, from the Silver Pagoda and Art Deco of the Cambodian capital to the fascinating, modern Vietnam. Sail into the agrarian heartlands of the Khmer and Vietnamese people, little touched by the modern world, making indelible memories as you cycle and kayak far, far off the beaten path.
View the tour

Source: Lux Travel DMC


Option 2
: Aqua Mekong Expedition Cruise 8 days from Ho Chi Minh to Siem Reap

If the travellers can expand their time and budget for planning the trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. Here is the suitable option for them. Joining our full 7-night Mekong Expedition Cruise allows us to share with you all the mysteries and wonders we have discovered between the Mekong River, Tonle Sap Lake, and the diverse cultures thriving in our midst.
View the tour

Important notes: During low water season, cruise vessels are not able to travel up to the Tonle Sap Lake due to the water level. Airplane transfers via Cambodian Angkor Air are included in your cruise fare in order to continue your Cambodian adventure with us to Siem Reap and its ancient lost city of Angkor Wat. Requests for flight changes and/or upgrades are not available. Please kindly inform our Reservations team should you choose to remain in Phnom Penh after disembarkation.


4. When is the best time to start the journey?

Unlike the usual summer or winter, the Mekong River has two distinct seasons: low water from August to November and high water from December to August. Sailing aboard a river cruise ship on the Mekong, travelers also find that there’s always something fascinating to experience throughout the year.

+ During high – the water season on the Mekong, from mid-August to November, the Tonle Sap lake becomes accessible to river cruise ships because the Tonle Sap river connects the lake to the Mekong swells. Guests who travel during this period can visit floating villages and the Prek Toal Bird Reserve. Ships can also dock on the shores of the lake, just 45 minutes away from Siem Reap.

+ Otherwise, the low-water season on the Mekong from December to mid-August sees a lower water level in the Mekong and reduced flows. The Tonle Sap lake is inaccessible from the Mekong via the Tonle Sap river during this period, making the lake inaccessible to river cruise ships. That said, this period is also an opportunity to see a quieter side of local life on the Tonle Sap lake. During the low water season, the cruise can dock only at Phnom Penh in Cambodia (other than Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam) and let travellers take a quick  45 – minute flight from the Capital to Siem Reap if they wish, compared to a back-breaking six-hour bus ride on an uneven country road.


5. Best price Guaranteed for all travel partners

The price will start from 4.350 USD/per person for the journey of 4 days from Vietnam to Cambodia. Children under 12 years old will receive a 20% discount. This price will be different in the high season and off-season. We are offering a very special promotion for all travel partners from now until August 2023. You may send us your enquiries via email at sales@luxtraveldmc.com.

Want to book or tailor-made the luxury cruise to Vietnam and Cambodia?

Lux Travel DMC specializes in customizing luxury tours in Southeast Asia.  If you want to tailor the luxury cruise to Vietnam and Cambodia to your interest, you may send your inquiries to our Lux Travel team at sales@luxurytraveldmc.com. The Lux Travel DMC team will be available for sending you the response within 24 hours

The post The Return Of The Most Luxurious Cruise To Mekong Delta first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Chủ Nhật, 11 tháng 12, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 9 December

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 9 December

Northern Vietnam to enjoy sunny days this week
Hanoi’s temperatures would be around 12-22 degrees Celsius for the entire week, while high-altitude locations like Sa Pa would see temperatures between 6-12 degrees, according to U.S. weather forecast service AccuWeather.

Read more

Vietnam aviation authority plans 9 new airports
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) wants to build nine more airports in the country, including two in the northern mountains and one in a special economic zone.

Read more
Sea and islands tourism to stimulate recovery
Việt Nam’s tourism has been gradually recovering since the country officially opened its doors to all visitors in March, hosting 2.7 million international tourists and 100 million domestic arrivals with total revenue of VNĐ457 trillion (US$18.2 billion).
Read more

TAT counts 10 million tourists
Taken at face value, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has something to shout about based on the latest Immigration Bureau data that shows the country welcomed 9.78 million “foreign tourist arrivals” counting from 1 January to 5 December 2022.
Read more

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 9 December first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 6

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 6

HCMC to launch overnight cruises on Saigon River to boost waterway tourism
HCMC tourism authorities plan to launch overnight cruise vessels with 100-200 cabins on the Saigon River starting next year.
Read more

Best hotels in Vietnam
Dazzling mountains, a spectacular coastline, long white-gold beaches, enigmatic cities, rich cultural traditions and incredible food — Vietnam has a lifetime of sights and sensations. Compared to its neighbours Thailand and Indonesia, Vietnam’s tourism industry is relatively new so you won’t find the same enormous array of places to stay.
Read more

Vietnam enjoys strong rise in Indian tourist number
An average monthly rise of 51% was seen in the number of Indian tourists to Vietnam in the first 10 months of this year, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT).
Read more

Rid Malaysia of ‘cheap vacation spot’ tag, the minister urged
The Malaysian Tourist Guides Council has called for immediate upgrades to tourism facilities and attractions so that Malaysia will be seen as more than just a cheap holiday destination.
Read more

Siem Reap gains air link to Danang
Cambodia Angkor Air sets its starting fare at USD99 for the one-way, two-hour flight from Siem Reap to Danang in central Vietnam.
Read more

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update December 6 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 29 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 29 Nov

Vietnam among safest travel destinations in Southeast Asia: US security company
Vietnam has been classified as a “moderate risk” country for travelers along with Malaysia and Brunei by Global Guardian, a duty of care firm specializing in travel risk.
Read more

Luxury Travel and yachting trends revealed for 2023 – 2027
From Gen Alpha Design to High-Impact Conservation, a new forecast from Globetrender and elite adventure travel company Pelorus reveals the trends defining luxury travel and yachting over the next five years.
Read more

Air Canada to Start Direct Flights to Thailand in December
Air Canada has announced that it will launch a direct flight to Bangkok next month. This would also be convenient for people traveling between Laos and North America.
Read more

Deeper and further on the Mekong
Pandaw is introducing a new river expedition that commences sailings in October 2023, exploring the Mekong Delta in more detail and venturing further to Northeast Cambodia’s Kratie, home to the famous Mekong River dolphins.
Read more

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 29 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Sáu, 25 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 25 November

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 25 November

Southeast Asian countries race to attract wealthy foreign tourists for longer stays
While Southeast Asian neighbors are vying for wealthy foreigners by launching ‘golden visas’ with maximum stays of up to 20 years, Vietnam still makes no headway with its one-month visa policy.
Read more

Hai Phong among the world’s 10 coolest third cities: Australian magazine
Australian travel magazine Traveller has listed Hai Phong City in northern Vietnam among the world’s 10 coolest third cities that remain uncrowded.

Read more

THAI adds flights to Singapore
BANGKOK, 25 November 2022: Thai Airways International will increase its Bangkok-Singapore roundtrip flights from 21 to 28 per week starting 12 December 2022 to serve travel demand going into the festive holiday season.
Read more

AirAsia flies Chiang Mai – Singapore
CHIANG MAI, 22 November 2022: AirAsia will add a new route, ‘Chiang Mai-Singapore’, effective 1 February 2023, flying every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Read more

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 25 November first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Hai, 21 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 21 Nov

Over 5,000 Vietnamese accommodations receive Booking.com’s sustainability badge
Digital travel platform Booking.com has granted its Travel Sustainable badge to 5,093 accommodations in Vietnam since the launch of the program one year ago.
Read more

Joyful street carnival of 2022 Ninh Binh Festival
A joyful street carnival and music festival within the framework of the 2022 Ninh Binh Festival 2022, themed “Trang An Heritage Connection”, was held in Ninh Binh province.
Read more

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand!
The largest province in Thailand is Nakhon Ratchasima, and is also known as Isan, combining stunning natural beauty with fascinating Khmer-era culture and history. Here are a few of the best things to do and see in Nakhon Ratchasima.
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Air Canada to launch direct flights to Thailand next month
Air Canada will launch direct flights to Thailand next month. A Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner will service the route, flying between Bangkok and Vancouver four days per week. It will be the first direct service linking North America and Thailand in 10 years.
Read more

Google Wallet Launches in Thailand and Vietnam
Google Wallet is a digital wallet that allows one to securely store credit and debit cards, tickets, passes, keys, and IDs. It was launched in 12 countries including Thailand and Vietnam on Wednesday.
Read more

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 21 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Năm, 17 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 18 Nov

Images of Hue cultural heritage to be promoted at Phu Bai Intl’ Airport
20 posters featuring pictures of heritage, cultural landscapes, typical global values of Hue heritage were recently introduced along the entrance and exit way of Phu Bai International Airport in a promotion campaign by Hue Monuments Conservation Center.
Read more

Myanmar revives annual travel mart
The Myanmar Tourism Marketing Association confirms it will host the return of Myanmar Tourism Mart in a virtual format from 28 to 30 November 2022.
Read more

Celebrity lines up 2024-2025 sailings
Singapore, 17 November 2022: Celebrity Cruises announces its most ambitious season of sailings ever, with nearly 500 departures for the 2024-2025 season.
Read more

SpiceJet launches new direct flight between Thailand and India
Budget Indian airline SpiceJet launched direct flights between Pune in India and Bangkok in Thailand operating four days per week. SpiceJet also flies directly from Bangkok to Delhi and Kolkata.
Read more

Thailand expands e-Visa service to 23 countries worldwide
Thailand just expanded its e-Visa service to nine additional embassies and consulates worldwide. A Thai visa can now be obtained online in 23 countries.
Read more

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 18 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Hai, 14 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 15 Nov

Crowne Plaza launches new study on blended travel
Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts will be partnering with three influencers from Vietnam to discuss the future of blended travel at an exclusive event at Crowne Plaza Vinh Yen City Center.
Read more

Ninh Binh boasts advantages for developing sport tourism
Sport tourism is a new development trend of the tourism sector that brings great benefits to localities. With diverse terrain, magnificent landscape, unique historical and cultural values, Ninh Binh province has great potential and advantages to develop sport tourism.
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AirAsia revives Kaohsiung flights
AirAsia celebrated its post-pandemic inaugural flight to Kaohsiung from Kuala Lumpur on 12 November, ending two years of no air connectivity between the cities.
Read more

THAI bullish on rehab progress
Thai Airways International will reconnect with Asia Pacific airlines for interline partnerships, capitalising on the opportunities to re-establish Bangkok as a hub feeding TG’s long-haul network.
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Singapore famtrip surveys tourism seaports and destinations of Ba Ria Vung Tau and Kien Giang provinces
During 8th – 9th November 2022, the delegation including representatives of Singapore cruise lines, tour operators, and Singapore Tourism Board had a survey of seaports and destinations in Ba Ria Vung Tau, Kien Giang provinces. It is within the framework of the 16th meeting of the Vietnam – Singapore Tourism Cooperation.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 15 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Năm, 10 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 11 Nov

New Gulfstream G700 makes debut in Vietnam
Gulfstream Aerospace’s G700 has made a debut in Vietnam and Asia-Pacific as part of the new ultra-long-range twinjet’s world tour.
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Hoi An to offer various heritage promotion activities
According to the Hoi An Centre for Culture, Sports, Radio and Television, from 23rd November to 7th December 2022, Hoi An will organise a number of events.
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BA flies double daily to London
British Airways adds its second daily flight from Singapore to London Heathrow. With this additional flight, for the first time, British Airways returns to its pre-pandemic schedule to Singapore.
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Cruise ships return to Singapore
Life for Singapore’s ship spotters took a turn for the better during the year’s second half as cruises made a comeback in Southeast Asia.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 11 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 8 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 9 Nov

THAI rebuilds flight network
Thai Airways International will increase flights to twice daily on the Bangkok-Melbourne route to support tourism and trade ties between Thailand and Australia.
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Robust sales response at regional fairs in Philippines 
Regional travel fairs are garnering record sales leads and results according to the latest assessment by the Tourism Promotion Board as the Philippines tourism industry embarks on recovery.
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Emirates names Thailand manager
Emirates has appointed Mohammed Alwahedi as its new country manager for Thailand as demand picks up for inbound and outbound international travel
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Mekong Delta, Vietnam being one of the best places in Jan 2023
Kick off a fresh year of 2023 with exploration and excitement by hitting the road in January and make your life the most memorable year after long days under the weather. Mekong Delta, Vietnam – among top 10 most ideal places for January 2023 travel hit list of Time Out, will surely offer visitors with blue sky and nature harmony.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 9 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Hai, 7 tháng 11, 2022

A New Non-stop Flight Launched From Hanoi – London

Following Vietnam Airlines, the new non-stop flight between Hanoi and London (Gatwick) builds on its prior successes in connecting Vietnam and the UK by providing more worthwhile travel options for citizens of the two nations.

On October 30, flight QH93 making the route Hanoi – London officially landed at London Gatwick Airport (London, England). This is Bamboo Airways‘ first regular commercial flight, marking the opening of a direct route connecting Hanoi capital with London (UK) via London Gatwick Airport. This airport is known as the second largest international airport in the UK and the 9th busiest airport in Europe, which is an ideal base for many international flights to Europe. In fact, Gatwick has direct coach, bus, and excellent train connections to over 100 UK towns and cities, making it simpler for travelers to navigate after takeoffs.

With the aim of connecting many other continents, Bamboo Airways plans to operate this regular route with a frequency of 1 round trip per week every Saturday. The appropriate flight time is more than 12 hours, significantly saving time compared to transit flights.

“The nonstop service to London Gatwick Airport is the next stage in our expansion plan to the UK market, which is regarded as a major gateway to Europe, hence encouraging connectivity Vietnam to other continents. We anticipate that Bamboo Airways’ warm demeanor and services that are focused on the global market will win over customers and boost Vietnamese aviation’s reputation.” said Nguyen Manh Quan, CEO of Bamboo Airways.

36 Old Streets – A Soulful Part of Hanoi, Vietnam

Source: Luxury Travel

The arrival of this airlines at London Gatwick brings a very welcome addition to our operation, according to Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer of Gatwick Airport. “Vietnam is a lovely country, offering a wealth of wonderful sights including stunning beaches, national parks, temples and colorful streets and vibrant night markets, so we are happy Gatwick travelers can now connect to Vietnam’s capital city and beyond so effortlessly, thanks to Bamboo’s first-rate network.” He stated.

There is no doubt that Vietnam is emerging as a favorite destination for European tourists in general, especially UK visitors.

For more detailed information about Vietnam tours, please drop at: https://luxtraveldmc.com/destinations/vietnam.

To customize your own tour, please contact sales@luxtraveldmc.com

The post A New Non-stop Flight Launched From Hanoi – London first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 3 Nov

Carriers to add 8,000 flights to meet Tet travel demand
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has green-lighted the addition of 8,000 flights, up 32% against normal, to cater to higher travel demand during Tet, Vietnam’s biggest holiday.
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Phu Quoc dismantles bungalows in marine sanctuary
Authorities in Phu Quoc Island off the southern Kien Giang Province on Monday started demolishing eight bungalows built illegally on a marine protected area.
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Royal Caribbean visits Phuket
Asia’s largest cruise ship, Spectrum of the Seas, will embark on longer itineraries, with Phuket as one of the primary stops on four to seven-night cruises.
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Buy a ticket plant a tree
Cathay Pacific of Singapore announced Tuesday its latest ‘1 Ticket, 1 Tree’ initiative across Southeast Asia to plant trees in various mangrove forests across the region.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 3 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 1 tháng 11, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 1 Nov

10 Vietnam resorts named among Asia’s most luxurious
Ten hotels and resorts in Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Hoi An, Vung Tau and Cam Ranh have been honored among Asia’s most luxurious at this year’s World Luxury Hotel Awards.
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Foreigners happy with e-visa progress, await new breakthroughs
Many foreign tourists are happy with the improvements in e-visa issuance by Vietnam, a far cry from long waiting times and slow processing on the first days after reopening.
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PG doubles daily to Siem Reap
Bangkok Airways increased flights, 30 October, from its home base at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to Siem Reap in Cambodia and to Trat on the eastern seaboard of Thailand.
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Ant Group grows partnership with STB
Ant Group and Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have expanded their cooperation to promote cross-border travel to Singapore.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 1 Nov first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Năm, 27 tháng 10, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 28 Oct

Quang Ninh wants to open more direct flights to Southeast Asia, South Korea
Authorities in Quang Ninh Province, home to world heritage site Ha Long Bay, proposed to launch new direct routes to some tourist destinations in Southeast Asia and South Korea.
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Central Highlands campsite among Southeast Asia’s must-visit glamping destinations
Southeast Asia’s leading tour operator Exotic Voyages has listed Lak Tented Camp in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak among “five gorgeous glamping sites for an unforgettable getaway.”
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Singapore sets out hotel roadmap
Minister of State for Trade and Industry and Culture, Community and Youth Alvin Tan launched the Hotel Industry Transformation Map (ITM) 2025 earlier this week at the opening ceremony of the international tradeshow FHA-HoReCa (Food & Hotel Asia-Hotel, Restaurant, Café) at Singapore Expo.
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AirAsia X expands medium-haul routes from Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur
ir Asia X group (AAX) – including Malaysia AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X – announced an expansion of medium-haul services out of Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur to meet the ever-growing demand. CEO of AAX Tony Fernandes says the airline is “well and truly back.”
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 28 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 25 tháng 10, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 26 Oct

Vietnam issues 459,000 e-visas since reopening
Since Vietnam reopened its borders and resumed pre-pandemic visa policies in March, it has issued 459,000 e-visas.
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Da Nang-Seoul among world’s most traveled air routes
The Da Nang-Seoul route has become the world’s second most popular flight route this year with 352,985 bookings after Vietnam and South Korea lifted Covid restrictions.
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AirAsia links Bali and Penang
AirAsia will boost regional inbound tourism to Penang after establishing a new direct route from Bali last week.
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Jayakarta Hotels partners with Netral Port
Jayakarta Hotels and Resorts (JKHR) has signed a partnership agreement with Netral Port (NTP) for its online direct booking services for agents, wholesalers and corporates within the Trip Affiliates Network (TA Network) ecosystem.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 26 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Chủ Nhật, 23 tháng 10, 2022

Vietnam’s Lux Group launch new adventure travel division

Vietnam-based award-winning dmc, a member of the Lux Group, has launched a new brand focusing on community-based adventure tourism.
“We are constantly coming up with innovative ideas and looking out for opportunities. We create a new brand for them and let them behave like a small independent businesses as part of our ‘string of pearls’ strategy under the Lux Group umbrella,” said Pham Ha, president of the Lux Group.


“Active travel or adventure tourism has evolved over the years from a tiny niche market to become one of the nerve centers of growth and development within the travel industry. This form of traveling is increasingly popular among people who’re in search of leisure or holiday destinations combined with vibrant environmental, cultural and natural experiences.”


Though popularly known among tourists for its war history, Vietnam has the makings of an adventure tourism, with hills, mountains, valleys, rice paddies and deserted beaches among its assets, the Lux Group said in a statement.
Examples of activities include trekking the mountains of Sapa, cycling on the Ho Chi Minh trail or rock climbing and kayaking in Cat Ba Archipelago, discovering Bai Tu Long Bay, hiking in Dalat. Wildlife can be experienced at the Cuc Phuong or Nam Cat Tien national parks.

Around 70 per cent of Vietnamese live in the countryside and remote mountainous areas. Travellers can support communities by participating in charity or voluntourism projects, while discovering the country in a responsible way.
Adventura Travel will pioneer tourism projects in Vietnam’s north, centre and south that give back to communities in through sustainable development and poverty reduction.

 

The post Vietnam’s Lux Group launch new adventure travel division first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 24 Oct

Pandaw returns to the Mekong
After successful sailings on Vietnam’s Red River last month, Pandaw Cruises announced its luxury riverboat  RV Bassac has resumed sailings between Vietnam and Cambodia.
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THAI expands routes in October
Thai Airways International expands its fleet, deploying three Boeing 777-300ER aircraft to serve higher travel demand as the airline moves closer to achieving revenue goals set out in its rehabilitation plan.
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Vietnam one of 20 best places to visit in January: Wanderlust
British travel magazine Wanderlust has listed Vietnam among 20 best places to travel to in January, citing “sunny and pleasant weather conditions.”
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Four best new resorts in Vietnam as chosen by US magazine
Readers of U.S. magazine Conde Nast Traveler have selected four best newly-launched resorts in Vietnam, in Hoi An, Phu Yen, Quy Nhon and Hue.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 24 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Sáu, 21 tháng 10, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 21 Oct

Government seeks to make Hue Asian tourist hub
The government wants royal relics to be preserved and tourism facilities upgraded to turn Hue into a “city of festivals and Asia’s cultural and tourist hub” by 2045.
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Cruise tour through Cambodia, Vietnam among 11 best choices for winter escape
British newspaper The Times has recommended a cruise along the Mekong River through Cambodia and Vietnam as ne of 11 best tours for Britons to escape the winter.
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Vietjet begins Da Nang-India direct services
Vietjet’s first direct flights from Indian cities New Delhi and Mumbai arrived in Da Nang Tuesday, marking the launch of the services.
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Penang promotions shift to Singapore
Penang Global Tourism Rolled out its “Experience Penang” – The Diversity of Asia” campaign on Tuesday, aimed at Singapore travellers.
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Thai Vietjet boosts Taipei flights
Thai Vietjet will increase flights on the Taipei – Bangkok route from three times weekly to daily starting from 2 November in response to the easing of quarantine in Taiwan and the resumption of visa-free stays for Thai travellers.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 21 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 18 tháng 10, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 19 Oct

eVisa outage slows Indian tourists to Malaysia
The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has expressed concern over the recent month-long service disruption of Malaysia’s eVISA portal, saying it has resulted in losses of MYR20 to 30 million.
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AirAsia X resumes flights
The AirAsia X Group announced Tuesday it is increasing its Malaysia AirAsia X (D7) flights to 44 weekly across 10 routes and is expanding its Thai AirAsia X (XJ) operations to fly 22 weekly services across five routes in the next two months.
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Bamboo, Vietnam adopts Amadeus solutions
Bamboo Airways gears up for global expansion by selecting Amadeus’ Altéa Passenger Service System and solutions for revenue management and digital marketing.
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Overnight cruise ship allowed in Nha Trang Bay for first time
Authorities in the central province of Khanh Hoa have licensed a private firm to trial overnight cruise services in Nha Trang Bay, widely considered among the world’s most beautiful.
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Thai AirAsia launches new routes from Bangkok to Bangladesh and India
Low-cost airline Thai AirAsia announced plans to launch direct routes from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport to Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh and to Lucknow in northern India.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 19 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Chủ Nhật, 16 tháng 10, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 17 Oct

Vietnam’s Son Doong cave among world’s 15 ‘stunning places’ on Earth: Microsoft
Microsoft’s web portal MSN has listed Son Doong cave in the central province of Quang Binh among 15 “stunning places on Earth that look like they’re from another planet.”
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Outbound tours to Japan, South Korea regain thrust
Vietnamese travel firms say outbound tours to Japan and South Korea are selling like hot cakes after both nations eased their border restrictions.
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Vistara ramps up Singapore flights
Vistara, a full-service carrier based in India, will introduce four weekly flights from Pune to Singapore starting 2 December 2022.
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Myanmar smooth talks tourism at MTF
Myanmar fielded a delegation at the 50th meeting of the Greater Mekong Subregion Tourism Working Group and the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office board meeting, a day before the annual Mekong Tourism Forum hosted by Vietnam opened on 12 October.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 17 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Năm, 13 tháng 10, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 14 Oct

Vietjet to launch first direct air route between Vietnam, Kazakhstan
Low-cost carrier Vietjet on Wednesday announced the opening of the first direct air route connecting Vietnam and Kazakhstan.
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AirAsia boosts South Asia flights
AirAsia Thailand strengthens its presence in South Asian markets by launching flights from Bangkok’s Don Mueang airport to Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh and Lucknow city in northern India.
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Vietnam’s 3 best spas as selected by tourism insiders
Nuages Spa in Sa Pa, Chanterelle Spa in Phu Quoc and Naman Retreat in Da Nang were honored as the best in Vietnam at this year’s World Spa Awards.
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Travel to Bali for a Banyan Tree escape
Residing in northern Ubud, Indonesia with glimpses of rice paddies and access to the Ayung River and its great waterfall, Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, is an untapped natural enclave with a unique ‘no walls, no doors’ villa concept offering adult-only guests a ‘nature-naked’ experience.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 14 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 11 tháng 10, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 12 Oct

Vietjet resumes Da Nang-Tokyo service as Japan reopens fully
Budget carrier Vietjet on Monday restarted flights between Da Nang and Tokyo as Japan fully reopened its borders.
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Luxury cruise ship berths in Hue with European tourists
French luxury ship Le Laperouse arrived in Hue on Monday with 106 European tourists, marking the return of international cruise vessels to the central town.
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Holidaymakers rediscovering ‘spirit of adventure’ after Covid grounded travel
Luxury travel company Kuoni has reported an upturn in bookings for destinations such as India, Thailand, Kenya, Costa Rice and Japan.
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Thai Smile flies to Luang Prabang
Thai Smile Airways will launch direct daily flights from Bangkok, Thailand to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, Laos later this month.
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Flights take off from Changi T2
Changi Airport Group (CAG) of Singapore reopened the southern wing of its newly revamped Terminal 2 (T2) departure hall on Tuesday following the resumption of arrival operations at the terminal in May this year.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 12 Oct first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.