News

Vietnam’s Airline Expansion Driven by India, Russia, Indonesia, Italy, China, Japan & Singapore

Vietnam expands global air routes to India, Russia, Indonesia, Italy, China, Japan, and Singapore, boosting tourism, trade, and international connectivity. Vietnam’s aviation sector is entering a period of dynamic growth, with both Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet announcing major route expansions and frequency upgrades across key international destinations. These strategic moves aim to boost tourism, strengthen trade ties, and reinforce Vietnam’s position as a regional aviation hub. Vietnam Airlines ramps up flights to India, Russia, Indonesia, and Europe Vietnam Airlines is preparing to launch several new international routes, beginning with two direct connections between Hanoi and India. Starting May 1, flights to Bengaluru will commence, followed by service to Hyderabad on May 7. Each route will operate three to four round trips per week. These additions build on the carrier’s existing India services, which already include flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Delhi and Mumbai. So far, Vietnam Airlines has transported more than 240,000 passengers on over 1,600 India-bound flights. In a significant move to restore long-distance connectivity, Vietnam Airlines will restart its direct Hanoi-Moscow service in May, after a three-year pause prompted by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The route will initially operate twice weekly. With Russia being a vital market for both tourism and commerce, this resumed service is expected to play a key role in bilateral economic recovery.

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Hong Kong Becomes a Cultural Wonderland with Art, Immersive Experiences & Creative Energy

Hong Kong comes alive this March with explosive art events, immersive exhibits, and vibrant neighborhood showcases celebrating culture, creativity, and community. Hong Kong Celebrates Local Culture Through Immersive Art Events This March Hong Kong is embracing a vibrant celebration of creativity and community this March with the launch of the “Hong Kong Super March” campaign by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB). This city-wide initiative brings together a dynamic lineup of art, cultural, and sports events, inviting both locals and travelers to explore the heart of Hong Kong through immersive and authentic experiences. The campaign spotlights collaborations with four major events: ComplexCon Hong Kong, HKwalls Street Art Festival, Art Central, and Art Basel Hong Kong. These gatherings showcase the unique spirit of Hong Kong’s diverse neighborhoods, giving visitors an intimate look into its rich cultural heritage and distinctive blend of East and West. Running from March 26 to 30 at the Central Harbourfront, Art Central introduces a new initiative called “Studio Central,” curated by Shirky Chan. This live art space features three groups of artists creating works that reflect their personal connections to local neighborhoods. By allowing visitors to observe and interact with the creative process, the project breaks down barriers between artists and audiences, turning the act of creation into a shared experience.

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A New Era unfolds in the Travel Industry as India-China Talks Pave The Way For Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Resumption

India and China engaged in constructive discussions aimed at restarting the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been halted since 2020. The talks also emphasized enhancing border management, as well as restoring direct flights and media collaborations. This development marks a positive shift in bilateral relations, with recent high-level meetings helping to reduce tensions and promote greater cooperation between the two countries. In recent diplomatic talks, China and India focused on enhancing their bilateral relationship and addressing long-standing issues, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This sacred pilgrimage, vital for Hindu worshippers, has been suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing border tensions. On March 25, 2025, the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) convened for its 33rd meeting in Beijing. The Chinese delegation was led by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while India was represented by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The discussions were described as “positive and constructive” and focused on preserving peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and improving border management. Additionally, the two sides explored the possibility of an early resumption of cooperation for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and trans-border waterways.

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Mangaluru Airport Aims for Seamless Connectivity in Summer 2025 with Additional Bengaluru Flights and Direct Gulf Services

Mangaluru International Airport is set to strengthen its air network this summer, unveiling an upgraded schedule that significantly enhances connectivity to Bengaluru and key domestic and international destinations. The new summer flight plan kicks off on March 30, 2025, and includes a noticeable rise in flight frequency. Bengaluru Route Sees Daily Flight Increase Beginning with eight daily flights to Bengaluru, Mangaluru Airport is primed to handle more passenger traffic between the coastal city and Karnataka’s capital. Starting May 23, 2025, the frequency will further rise to nine daily flights, with IndiGo Airlines introducing an additional service to meet rising demand. Currently, the route features seven daily flights, with IndiGo operating five and Air India Express running two. Under the new schedule: IndiGo will operate six daily flights initially, increasing to seven by late May Air India Express will continue with its two daily flights

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Indonesia Holiday Updates: Eid & Nyepi Impact Business Hours & Visas

As Indonesia prepares to celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Bali observes Nyepi, tourists on the island are being advised to plan ahead due to changes in business hours and visa processing schedules. The upcoming holidays will temporarily affect immigration services, including visa extensions and passport applications, requiring travelers to complete their processes before the holiday period. With government offices and businesses adjusting to the celebrations, it’s crucial for tourists to stay informed about the modified procedures to avoid any travel disruptions and ensure a smooth stay in Bali during this festive season. As the island of Bali and Indonesia prepare for the dual celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and Nyepi, travelers and residents alike are being urged to adjust their plans to accommodate temporary changes in business hours and government operations. The coming week promises to be one of celebration and reverence, but it will also affect how services are provided, particularly regarding immigration procedures, business operations, and the scheduling of public services. In line with the festive observances, Indonesia’s Immigration Department has officially announced the temporary closure of visa processing services for the duration of the Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr holidays. This interruption will impact both incoming and outgoing visa procedures, including passport applications, residency permits, and general immigration-related tasks, as businesses and government agencies adjust to the holiday period.

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Singapore Targets India’s High-Yield Travelers in New Tourism Push

Singapore aims to capture a larger share of India’s outbound tourism market by focusing on high-yield travelers through a strategic partnership with Changi and Sentosa. As India’s outbound tourism continues to grow, Singapore is aiming to capture a larger slice of this expanding market. To achieve this, it has shifted focus toward attracting high-yield travelers through a newly established strategic partnership. The Singapore Tourism Board has teamed up with Changi Airport Group and Sentosa Development Corporation in a unique, year-long collaboration aimed at boosting the visibility of Singapore’s brand in the Indian travel market. This tripartite partnership, the first of its kind, will also focus on engaging with India’s travel trade community. The partnership places a particular emphasis on attracting affluent Indian travelers, as stated by the Singapore Tourism Board. As part of the initiative, 30 Indian digital influencers will be invited to experience and promote various Singapore attractions, including Sentosa Island and Changi Airport.

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