UN tourism body calls China's visa-free policy "a synonym of trust and confidence"
China's recent extension of the visa-free policy to Switzerland and Ireland, in addition to five EU countries and Malaysia, is hailed by the UN tourism body as a major advancement in the global tourism industry's recovery. Senior officials from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) said that it not only showcases China's trust in the world, but also underscores its confidence in the tourism industry.
China seeks visa exemption treatment from Japan for diplomats
China has asked Japan to provide visa exemptions for Chinese nationals who hold diplomatic and official passports, an arrangement Tokyo currently offers to dozens of countries on a reciprocal basis, sources familiar with the bilateral relationship said Tuesday. Beijing has requested as a condition to revive its pre-COVID unilateral practice of exempting visa requirements for Japanese short-term visitors, they said. The latest move was considered a concession as China had previously demanded equal visa-free treatment from Japan for Chinese short-term visitors.
United Airlines further cuts China flights by removing 68% of March flights
United Airlines is once again removing flights to China from its upcoming schedule. Per Cirium data, the airline removed 161 flights from its list of scheduled flights in March. This includes flights from New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington DC to Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu.
Boeing to deliver first 737 Max to China in five years, amid ongoing quality-control crisis
Boeing is set to deliver a Boeing 737 Max to a Chinese operator for the first time in almost five years – a small bright spot for the airframer as it battles an ongoing quality control crisis. The flight marks a breakthrough in Boeing’s presence in the Chinese market, amid simmering geopolitical and economic tensions. The airframer is facing growing scrutiny from regulators and lawmakers over quality-control and safety issues, after a door plug blow-out involving an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 on 5 January.
AirAsia X resumes direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Xi’An, strengthening Malaysia-China ties
AirAsia X (AAX) announced its service resumption from Kuala Lumpur to Xi’An, rekindling the link between Malaysia and this iconic Chinese city, known as one of the four Great Ancient Capitals of China and the starting point of the Silk Road. Starting on 4 April 2024, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the capital of Shaanxi Province and the oldest surviving capital of China, home to thousands of years of Chinese heritage and history.
Trip.com's Europe chief on booking trends
Andy Washington, general manager for Europe at Trip.com Group, shared his views with TTG on booking trends, how the global online travel agency is harnessing AI and how it’s catering to clients in the UK and beyond. Mr. Washington emphasized the importance of the UK market and the applications of AI technologies for the travel business.
Accor brings its European leading aparthotels brand Adagio to China
Accor announced the Chinese debut of Adagio, Europe’s leading long stay aparthotels brand, with the signing of Adagio Chengdu Jianyang. The 168-room midscale serviced residence hotel is planned to open by the end of 2025, in The Star Lane Urban Commercial Complex in Jianzhou New City, within the heart of the Eastern New District of Chengdu. As a European market leader in the extended stay segment, Adagio has nearly 130 aparthotels in 16 countries.
Cathay Pacific partners with Rosewood Hong Kong for upgraded lounge offerings
Cathay Pacific's The Pier Lounge won the Business Traveler Award for the World’s Best Airline Lounge. The airline is partnering with Rosewood Hong Kong, ranked second in the World’s 50 Best Hotels, to elevate its lounge dining experience. Inspired by The Dining Room by BluHouse, the menu features Italian cuisine and is crafted by Chef Fabian Altabert.
Grant Chum becomes Sands China’s new CEO and President
Grant Chum has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President of Sands China, succeeding Robert Goldstein and Wilfred Wong in their respective roles, as announced in a company stock filing on Wednesday. Chum, 48, has been serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Macau gaming and integrated resort operator since February 2020. Since July 2022, he has also concurrently served as Executive Vice President — Asia Operations at Sands China’s parent company Las Vegas Sands (LVS), with oversight over the group’s operations in Asia.
