Young and independent in Myanmar

Young and independent in Myanmar

The numbers of independent travellers to Nyaung Shwe and Inle Lake in Shan State are increasing, and the foreign individual tourist (FIT) market is thriving, according to Myanmar Tour Guide Association (MTGA), which credits easier communications and access as the reason. Most tour guides have said the demographic of foreign tourists who make up the FIT market are young, adventurous and usually alone, while those visiting on package tours tend to be middle-aged or older and prefer learning about the history and culture of the region.

 

St Regis heads to Jakarta

The St Regis is all set to open in Jakarta following the signing of a deal between local investors and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Located in the south of the Indonesian capital, the St Regis Jakarta and The Residence at The St Regis Jakarta is poised to become the premium addresses for well-heeled travellers and residents. The hotel itself will open in 2019 with 280 guestrooms and suites, all bearing elements of the brand’s rich heritage infused with modern inspiration. The hotel will feature four distinctive restaurants, including an all-day dining venue, a fine dining restaurant, The Deli, and the signature St Regis bar.

 

Art Basel releases gallery list

Art Basel has announced its gallery list for the 47th edition of the show, which is taking place from June 16 to June 19. This year, 287 leading international galleries will present works ranging from the early 20th-century art to the most contemporary artists of today. The Basel show, whose lead partner is UBS, will present a diverse geographical selection of leading international galleries from 33 countries. Alongside a strong representation of galleries from Europe, exhibitors and artists will be shown from across the globe. Galleries, the main sector of the show, will feature 221 galleries presenting the highest quality of painting, sculpture, drawing, installation, photography, video and editioned works. 

 

New jets for Singapore Airlines

The first A350-900 built for Singapore Airlines recently completed its maiden flight through the skies over Southwest France. The aircraft, featuring the airline’s iconic livery, will now enter the final phase of production, including further ground checks and test flights, before being prepared for delivery in the coming weeks. The A350 XWB is the world’s latest generation airliner and the newest member of Airbus’ modern, comfortable and efficient wide-body product family. The all-new A350 XWB will form the backbone of Singapore Airlines’ future mid-size wide-body fleet. The airline has ordered 67 A350-900s and these will be operated on long-range flights, as well as on selected regional services. Seven of the aircraft will be delivered with an ultra-long range capability for flights of up to 19 hours, allowing the carrier to resume non-stop flights to the USA. 

 

Train with Manchester City

Etihad Airways and Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) are giving football fans in Thailand the chance to win a trip to the UK to meet and train with MCFC. Entries for the “Fly With The Best. Train with the Best” competition is open to guests who book an Etihad Airways flight between now and February 28. The airline will fly the lucky winner and a friend to Manchester where they will enjoy a live MCFC match; a meet-and-greet with City stars; a training session with MCFC coaches; a behind-the-scenes tour of the Etihad Stadium and Etihad Campus; a personalised MCFC training kit; and a visit to the National Football Museum.