News

SriLankan Airlines Adds Ahmedabad as 10th Indian Hub

SriLankan Airlines is set to ignite its India-Sri Lanka air ties with the launch of Ahmedabad as its 10th Indian hub, joining cities like Mumbai and Delhi in the airline’s expansive network. This strategic move aims to generate a massive 12% passenger surge in 2026, driven by the deep cultural bonds between the two nations and the growing popularity of Sri Lanka’s Ramayana Trail—a captivating journey through the island’s rich heritage that continues to fuel an unprecedented travel boom. In an exciting move that promises to redefine the air travel landscape between India and Sri Lanka, SriLankan Airlines has launched Ahmedabad as its 10th Indian hub. This expansion is part of the airline’s broader strategy to capitalize on the growing travel demand between the two nations, with the addition of Ahmedabad joining other key Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai. The airline is projecting a remarkable 12% increase in passenger traffic by 2026, driven by deep cultural bonds and Sri Lanka’s rising appeal as a destination—especially through the Ramayana Trail, a captivating journey that explores the island’s rich heritage and legendary sites. SriLankan Airlines’ decision to introduce Ahmedabad as its newest Indian destination marks a monumental step in strengthening the connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. Ahmedabad is a bustling cultural and economic hub in Gujarat, a region that has seen a surge in travel demand. With this new addition, SriLankan Airlines will be offering more frequent and direct flights to this vital market, expanding its network across India’s most prominent cities.

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Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link to Cut Commute to 5 Minutes

The Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link is set to revolutionize cross-border travel between Malaysia and Singapore, offering a quick, efficient 5-minute journey that aims to alleviate the congestion at the Causeway. This long-awaited project promises to ease travel between the two countries by replacing the current KTM Shuttle Tebrau service and introducing a cutting-edge transportation system designed for the future. The RTS Link, which will link Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru with Woodlands North MRT Station in Singapore, is expected to carry over 40,000 passengers daily. Set to be fully operational by late 2026 or early 2027, the RTS Link will dramatically improve the current travel experience for commuters between Malaysia and Singapore. Fare Structure and Pricing Information While the official fare structure for the RTS Link is yet to be confirmed, tentative reports suggest that ticket prices will range between SGD 5 (approximately INR 358.75) and SGD 7 (approximately INR 502.25) for a one-way trip. These fares are likely to be finalized closer to the start of operations, expected in late 2026 or early 2027. Malaysia’s Transport Minister, Anthony Loke, has indicated that the final fare details will be made available in the second half of 2026, giving commuters time to prepare for the new pricing system. The pricing mechanism will be set by RTS Operations, a joint venture between Malaysia’s Prasarana Malaysia Bhd and Singapore’s SMRT Corporation, ensuring that the project remains sustainable while maintaining affordability for travelers. The RTS Link is a crucial infrastructure project that promises to address long-standing traffic congestion at the Causeway, with the added benefit of reducing total travel time to just five minutes. The rail link will cover a 4-kilometer distance, offering commuters an ultra-efficient cross-border service that will replace the existing KTM Shuttle Tebrau. This will significantly ease the strain on the existing rail service, which operates between Woodlands Checkpoint and JB Sentral.

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Shanghai Breaks Tourism Records with 9M+ Global Visitors

In 2025, Shanghai witnessed an extraordinary surge in inbound tourism, with over 9.36 million international visitors flocking to the city, marking an unparalleled achievement in its tourism history. This remarkable growth was driven by a diverse mix of key international markets, including Russia, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Italy, Malaysia, and many others, all contributing to the city’s rise as a top global travel destination. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, world-class attractions, and strategic efforts to attract visitors played a crucial role in this surge, cementing Shanghai’s status as a premier hub for international travelers in Asia and beyond. Shanghai, one of China’s most iconic and vibrant cities, has experienced an extraordinary surge in international tourism in 2025, cementing its position as a top destination for global travelers. With a striking 39.6% increase in inbound visitors, the city welcomed a record 9.36 million international travelers this year. The city’s tourism sector has shown immense resilience and appeal, with figures reflecting strong growth across key international markets and an ever-growing demand for Shanghai’s urban attractions. Shanghai’s tourism landscape has seen an unprecedented upswing, with the number of inbound visitors reaching 9.36 million in 2025. This 39.6% year-on-year growth highlights Shanghai’s strong allure as a key gateway into China. The end of the year saw an even more impressive surge, with December alone seeing 1.07 million arrivals—marking a remarkable 45% increase from the same month in 2024.

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Thailand Songkran 2026 Set to Spark Tourism Surge

Songkran 2026, Thailand’s iconic New Year festival, is poised to deliver an unprecedented tourism surge as millions of visitors prepare to descend on the Kingdom in April. Celebrated annually from April 13 to April 15, Songkran marks the traditional Thai New Year with a blend of ancient culture, religious rituals and spirited water celebrations that draw global attention and energise the travel sector every year. Government statistics and tourism forecasts already highlight how this festival has become one of the most impactful drivers for international and domestic travel to Thailand. From bustling city streets in Bangkok to the cultural heartland of Chiang Mai and seaside celebrations in Phuket, Songkran’s reputation as a must‑experience event is strengthening Thailand’s position on the global festival calendar. Songkran’s Roots and Rising Cultural Influence Songkran, rooted in centuries‑old Buddhist and Thai New Year traditions, celebrates renewal, purification and good fortune. Historically centred around temple visits, merit‑making and paying respect to elders by gently pouring water over their hands, the festival signifies cleansing away misfortune and welcoming a fresh beginning.

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Abu Dhabi Rolls Out New Pet-Friendly Tourism Rules

The landscape of international travel is being reshaped by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi through the introduction of specialized frameworks for the hospitality sector. It is observed by industry experts that Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a more inclusive destination by formalizing pet-friendly hotel rules and tourism regulations. These systemic changes were announced to ensure that domestic animals are accommodated within the UAE tourism ecosystem with high standards of safety and hygiene. By implementing these hospitality guidelines, the authorities aim to enhance the overall traveler experience for those who consider their animals to be integral members of the family unit. The Evolution of Hospitality Standards in the UAE A significant shift in the management of guest facilities has been initiated by the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Abu Dhabi. It is recognized that the global demand for animal-friendly accommodations has increased substantially, and the local tourism sector is being adapted to meet these modern requirements. The new circular issued by the DCT serves as a formal roadmap for hotel owners and managers who wish to transition their properties into pet-welcoming spaces. It is understood that these measures are not merely suggestions but are structured requirements designed to maintain the prestige of the capital’s tourism brand. The focus of the new policy is placed on the integration of domestic animals into the leisure environment without compromising the comfort of other guests. It is stated by the governing body that the primary objective is the standardization of services across the emirate. This ensures that a consistent level of quality is provided, whether a visitor is staying in a luxury resort or a boutique city hotel. Through this legislative update, the emirate is being promoted as a progressive hub that values the bond between owners and their companions.

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Thailand Named Top Solo Travel Destination for 2026

Thailand has emerged as the top choice for solo travellers in 2026, offering a rare mix of safety, cultural richness, and adventure across cities, mountains, and islands. Its reliable transport, welcoming locals, and diverse experiences make independent exploration easy and rewarding. From bustling urban streets to tranquil mountain retreats and sun-soaked islands, solo travellers can enjoy freedom, confidence, and unforgettable journeys at every turn. Solo travel has moved into the mainstream. From young adventurers to seasoned travellers, more people are embracing the freedom of exploring alone. Travelling solo means controlling your schedule, budget, and pace without compromise. It also encourages deeper engagement with local culture and opens up opportunities to meet new people organically. Today, tools like travel apps, online maps, and digital guides make independent travel more accessible than ever, giving first-time solo travellers extra confidence. Why Thailand shines for solo explorers Thailand stands out because it combines accessibility, safety, and variety. Its transport network is reliable, with international airports, domestic flights, buses, and trains linking most destinations. Tourist-friendly signage and English-speaking staff in major areas reduce stress, while a range of accommodations—from budget hostels to high-end resorts—ensures travellers can find something that fits their needs. A well-established backpacker and digital nomad scene also means solo visitors rarely feel isolated.

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