Travel Updates by DailyStraits.com

TransNusa Adds Lombok Route

TransNusa will launch a new direct scheduled service between Jakarta and Lombok on April 17, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen domestic connectivity and support tourism to one of Indonesia’s key leisure destinations. The airline said ticket sales for the new route began on March 16, with fares starting from IDR899,000.
TransNusa Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Bernard Francis said the route reflects the carrier’s focus on improving access across Indonesia while boosting domestic tourism. “Lombok is not only rapidly growing as a domestic and international tourist destination but the island is also the main gateway for tourism in the West Nusa Tenggara region through its Lombok International Airport,” Datuk Francis said.
The airline will initially operate 14 weekly flights, with two daily services between Jakarta and Lombok. TransNusa also announced an increase in frequency on its Jakarta-Yogyakarta route to further enhance domestic network connections.
“Our SEAT passengers will enjoy check-in baggage of up to 20kgs,” Datuk Bernard said.
“We are committed to providing affordable and competitive ticket prices, while still providing premium services to our customers.”

AirAsia MOVE Backs Erwin

AirAsia MOVE has partnered with rising Malaysian squash player Erwin Kros under its new “Rise Without Limits” initiative, aimed at supporting aspiring talent.
The travel platform has already backed Erwin’s travel, accommodation and gear in 2026 as he competed in Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan and Singapore.
Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia MOVE said, “Erwin represents the grit and ‘dare to dream’ spirit that defines us at MOVE. We believe that when aspiring athletes are given the right support, their dreams can go further than they ever imagined. We are incredibly proud to stand behind him as he takes Malaysian squash into its next great chapter.”
The partnership comes as Malaysia looks ahead to squash making its Olympic debut in 2028. Erwin, 17, is currently ranked No. 1 in Selangor and No. 20 in Asia in the Under-19 category. He recently won the Sri Lanka Junior Open.
MOVE will also support Erwin at the 2nd Touch ‘n Go SRAFTL International Junior Open Squash Championship 2026 in Kuala Lumpur from April 1 to 5, and the Negeri Sembilan Junior Open 2026 from April 7 to 11.

Qantas Regional Grants Open

Qantas has opened applications for its 2026 Regional Grants Program, inviting not-for-profit community groups across regional Australia to apply for a share of $2 million in funding.
Now in its fourth year, the program supports regional organisations delivering essential services, expanding opportunities and improving community wellbeing.
Since launching, the initiative has awarded $7 million in grants, flights and marketing support to nearly 130 groups and projects. In 2025, close to 50 regional community groups received funding, including food security, STEM education, emergency response, mobile support services and refurbished laptops for students.
QantasLink CEO Mark Dal Pra said supporting regional communities remains central to the airline’s identity.
“As an airline founded in outback Queensland, regional Australia is at the heart of QantasLink and we know how important local organisations are to the wellbeing and resilience of their communities.
“Our grants program provides practical support for groups making a real impact in their communities. It helps local organisations go further, whether they’re delivering essential services, creating opportunities or support people through difficult times.
“We’re proud of the difference the program is making and encourage regional organisations doing important work to apply.”
Applications close on May 10, 2026. Successful recipients will be selected by a panel of community representatives and Qantas employees and contacted before July 2026.

Menu Award Hat-trick

Korean Air has won the “Best Airline Onboard Menu” award for its First Class cabin for the third year in a row at Global Traveler’s 14th annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards.
The award, based on a survey of Global Traveler’s luxury readers, recognises the airline’s continued focus on inflight dining.
Korean Air said its premium catering combines traditional Korean flavours with modern culinary refinement. Following its first major inflight dining refresh in more than a decade last year, the airline introduced exclusive menus developed with Chef Seakyeong Kim, owner of Cesta in Seoul.
First Class passengers are offered an expanded dining experience featuring a wider range of amuse-bouche and appetisers, new main courses and desserts, alongside signature Korean dishes such as bibimbap. The menu is paired with a sommelier-curated wine program and served on Bernardaud china with Christofle cutlery and Riedel glassware.
“Being recognized for the third consecutive year at the Leisure Lifestyle Awards is a testament to Korean Air’s unwavering commitment to service innovation.” said David Pacey, Executive Vice President and Chief of In-flight Service and Lounges at Korean Air.
“We will continue to sharpen our competitive edge across all service areas, including our world-class in-flight dining, to ensure an unparalleled journey for our global passengers.”
The latest recognition adds to a string of recent accolades for Korean Air, including Best Cabin Service at the APEX Best Awards 2026 and Airline of the Year 2025 by Airlineratings.com.

Lebanon Sites Protected

UNESCO has granted provisional enhanced protection to 39 cultural properties in Lebanon following an extraordinary meeting in Paris.
The decision, made under the Committee for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, also includes more than US$100,000 in emergency financial assistance to support on-the-ground protection efforts.
The sites now receive the highest level of legal protection against attack or military use. Violations could constitute serious breaches of the 1954 Hague Convention and its 1999 Second Protocol, potentially leading to criminal responsibility.
UNESCO said the sites will receive technical and financial support to strengthen legal safeguards, improve risk management and provide training for cultural professionals and military personnel.
“Cultural heritage must be protected. It is the backbone of people’s identity, trust and hope, and it carries the promise of peace and recovery. When heritage is destroyed anywhere, moral standards are undermined, social cohesion is eroded, and trust and resilience are jeopardized. It is time to renew our commitment to protect culture – for the past, the present and the future of all peoples.” said Lazare Eloundou Assomo.
The move comes as UNESCO continues emergency efforts across the region, including satellite monitoring of heritage sites with the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT). Damage has already been confirmed at the historic city of Tyre, a World Heritage Site listed in 1984.

Sabah Forms Crisis Unit

The Sabah Tourism Board will set up a dedicated crisis response unit to help protect the state’s tourism industry amid growing global uncertainties, including the ongoing Middle East conflict and rising operating costs.
The unit will be led by STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit, with Deputy Chief Executive Officer Humphrey Ginibun taking on the role of Chief Strategy Officer as part of an organisational restructuring.
The move was discussed during an STB Board meeting chaired by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister and STB Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, following concerns over external factors that could affect travel demand, airline operations and market stability.
The Tourism Crisis Response Unit will report directly to the Board of Directors and focus on strategies to manage external shocks, including fuel price fluctuations, while helping Sabah remain competitive and accessible.
It will also hold regular engagement sessions with key stakeholders such as hoteliers, airlines and tour operators to improve coordination and response measures.
“As a destination with strong international linkages, we must stay alert and respond proactively. These developments require close monitoring and continuous engagement with airlines and industry players,” he said.
STB will also place greater focus on the domestic market as a stabilising force during global uncertainty. At the same time, the Board has proposed forming a joint tourism development and marketing committee with Kota Kinabalu City Hall to strengthen tourism offerings and promotion in the state capital.
“We cannot afford to work in silos. Our strategies must be coordinated and aligned with industry players, airlines and communities. With Visit Sabah 2026 ahead, we need to move forward in a focused and united manner,” he said.

Alpine Bike Retreat

The Lodge in Verbier has launched an exclusive mountain biking retreat to be held from September 6 to 13, 2026, offering an all-inclusive Swiss Alps experience hosted by Swiss world champions Kathrin Stirnemann and Joris Ryf.
Part of Virgin Limited Edition, the luxury nine-bedroom chalet said the retreat is designed for riders of all levels, with space for up to 18 guests. The programme will combine guided riding, expert coaching and recovery-focused downtime.
Guests can bring their own bikes or use complimentary bikes from Swiss brand Thömus, including e-mountain bikes. The itinerary includes half-day coaching or guided cycling sessions, bike park access, transfers, a bike maintenance workshop and secure storage with charging points.
The retreat also includes meals prepared by Head Chef Gerwin Brand, along with spa access, sports massages and other wellness facilities. Non-cycling guests are also welcome, with access to the chalet’s full hospitality offering and nearby leisure activities such as hiking, tennis and golf.
Rates start from CHF550 per person, per night for a minimum three-night stay, based on two people sharing. A full-week stay is available from CHF500 per person, per night.