APAC Travel Headlines - August 16, 2024

Australia to Join US Global Entry Program to Cut Travellers' Airport Wait Times Australians will become eligible for easier passage through American airports with participation in the US Global Entry program, set to begin early next year. The program allows pre-approved, low-risk travellers from selected countries to use automated kiosks to speed up their processing times upon landing in the US.
Singapore Airlines to add Capacity to European Cities in 2025 Singapore Airlines (SIA) is to add flights and capacity to several key European cities, including London, Rome, Milan and Barcelona, as part of its summer 2025 schedule. SIA said its recently launched route between London Gatwick and Singapore would increase from five times per week to a daily service from 30 March 2025. This would give the airline five daily flights from London as it already has four daily services from Heathrow.
British Airways to Suspend London-Beijing Flights British Airways will temporarily suspend its direct service between London Heathrow and Beijing, starting from 26 October 2024 until at least November 2025. The UK carrier did not provide reasons behind the suspension, but local news reports have suggested the increased cost of operating flights between Europe and Asia—due to the closure of Russian airspace—has contributed to the move.
Air New Zealand Updates Airpoints™ Program Star Alliance member, Air New Zealand (Air NZ), is launching a new online Airpoints program experience. With this, more than 4.6 million Airpoints members will be able to enjoy a new-look digital experience in what is the first phase of Air New Zealand's new and improved Airpoints program for members. In the upcoming second phase, the Kiwi flag carrier says it will further introduce new tiers and benefits.
Etihad to Serve Singapore With A380 Superjumbo Etihad confirmed it will operate its A380 to Mumbai for a special four-month period between 1 September and 31 December, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of its flights to the Indian City. The airline announced plans for a fourth A380 route, with the addition of superjumbo services to Singapore next year. The Gulf carrier's A380 aircraft will fly daily between Abu Dhabi and Singapore from 1 February, replacing the Boeing 787-10 which currently plies the route.
SXSW Sydney 2024 TAG is proud to be the official travel partner of SXSW Sydney—an annual gathering of visionaries, thought leaders and emerging talents from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The inaugural event in October 2023 delivered an inspiring week of programing to more than 280,000 attendees representing 41 countries, who came together to network, learn and discover. This week-long event takes over Australia's Harbour City from 14-20 October and is stacked with more than 1,000 events and networking sessions across the key pillars of Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen. If you want to be part of the massive event, contact TAG for all your travel needs at SXSWSydneyDelegates@tag-group.com.
All That Matters Singapore 2024 The 19th All That Matters (ATM) event is the gateway to the APAC music, sports, gaming, marketing, Web3, arts and entertainment industries. A conference by day and live music festival by night, ATM is Asia's premiere 'Business 2 Business 2 Fan' event experience that brings together world class speakers with more than 2,000 senior executives. Join in on the fun at Hilton Singapore Orchard, 16-18 September, 2024. Early bird tickets are now on sale. Secure your VIP and Content passes for exclusive savings.

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Rydges Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

Immersed in the city's culture and lifestyle, Rydges Melbourne is in the heart of Melbourne, surrounded by iconic dining, theatres and entertainment, just minutes from Melbourne Sports and Entertainment Precinct. Expect a transformed property, refreshingly local service, 370 exceptionally renovated rooms, suites and apartments—plus, incredible event spaces and facilities. Guests are encouraged to work out in the interactive fitness studio, refresh in the rooftop pool, or head to the new signature restaurant and bar's outdoor terrace.

Crown Towers Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

Crown Towers Melbourne is a haven of rare luxury, located on the banks of the Yarra River, in the heart of the city's Arts and Leisure Precinct. Lavishly appointed and offering an impeccable standard of customer service and attention to detail, this is one hotel that truly understands the meaning of opulence.

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