Discovery World Corporation, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Lucky Cloud 9 Resort, Inc (LC9), and its property management company, Discovery Hospitality Corporation (DHC), makes its mark in the Surfing Capital of the Philippines as it recently broke ground for Kip&Kin Siargao last 10th January.
Partners from the Land Bank of the Philippines, Sterling Struktures Inc, H1 Architecture, Design HQ, and AVAC Project and Construction Managers Corporation graced the ceremonial breaking of the ground, marking the beginning of construction works for the latest addition to DHC’s renowned managed properties in the Philippines.
This exciting development will be built on approximately 7,000 sqm out of the company’s 2.6 hectare lot area in General Luna, Siargao, Surigao del Norte, and is near Cloud 9, one of the island’s most famous tourist sites.
It will house 34 hotel rooms, 48 hostel beds, and retail spaces, providing options for different preferences. The rest of the property is being planned for future expansion phases of additional rooms and retail spaces.
The new development is slated to open in 2027.
What is Kip&Kin?
According to Discovery World Corporation chair and CEO John Y Tiu Jnr: “Kip&Kin is more than just a place to stay; it’s a lifestyle brand where guests can immerse themselves in the energy of Siargao’s vibrant culture and natural splendor. We are excited to have Discovery Hospitality’s expertise to create an experience that captures the essence of Siargao and makes a significant contribution to the local economy.”
Under DHC’s dynamic brand portfolio, Kip&Kin exemplifies the philosophy of Live Unbound, a brand that celebrates kinship, community, and connection.
Designed for the younger generations of millennials and Gen Zs, it provides areas that encourage both solo and group activities while allowing visitors to easily connect with the places they are visiting.
With its dual concept of hotel rooms and hostel stays, Kip&Kin appeals to this new generation of tourists looking for lively, meaningful stays while also providing the ideal getaway for families and mature travelers looking to make lifelong memories.
Where free spirits roam
That said, Siargao is the perfect spot for Kip&Kin’s first-ever establishment.
The teardrop-shaped island, known for its top-notch waves, vibrant culture, and close-knit community, epitomizes everything Kip&Kin stands for.
This location offers the ideal setting for meaningful adventures, a community of kindred spirits, a sustainable and engaging environment, and appreciating the charms of free-spirited life.
The Future of Food Series 2025, organised by Synthesis and Kita Food Festival, launched the first in a series of seminars on Monday, 20th January.
The series consists of a novel format including three test-kitchen seminars and a symposium exploring what we are likely to be eating ten years from today.
Synthesis is a Singapore-based brand strategy consultancy that creatively brings together public data in unexpected ways to expose opportunities and help prepare businesses for the future. The Kita Food Festival is an exploration and celebration of food in Southeast Asia that brings together some of the region’s leading chefs and culinary minds.
The Future of Food aims to reveal how populations and climate change will dramatically reshape our diets in the next decade and spotlight future solutions.
This year’s event built upon Synthesis’ research, Menu 2034, which modelled 100,000 possible versions of the world in 2034 to spotlight two possible futures: radical transformation, where we turn to tradition and regenerative agriculture to live within planetary boundaries, and resilient adaptation, where innovation, science and technology help us create novel foods to thrive in changing environments.
Dealing with evolving resources
The first test kitchen with the theme of Source took place at the Synthesis Creative Data House, focusing on where to source food to raise production in a resource-challenged world.
Currently, more than 50 percent of the world’s calories come from three plants: rice, wheat, and corn.
Considering that about 30,000 plants are edible by humans, diversifying our nutrition is crucial to build resilience in a world where food systems are increasingly under pressure due to climate change-induced extreme weather events.
Polycropping also helps enhance soil health in the long term.
Around 75 guests from across the food chain explored various immersive stations and sampled foods of the future including seaweed and cricket hazelnut madeleines, Vertical Ocean prawn milk rolls, crudités with climate-resilient plants from the Singapore wet market and Blueyou Selva Shrimp oat congee.
Chef Christopher Kong of Dearborn and his team crafted creative future-resilient dishes for the guests and chef Oliver Truesdale-Jutras introduced climate-consequential wines, offering guests a taste of what to come.
The event also included an engaging panel discussion featuring René Benguerel, CEO at BlueYou (Switzerland); Enzo Acerbi, CTO at Vertical Oceans (Singapore); Nithiya Laila, culinary anthropologist (Hong Kong, Singapore); Didier Chanove, innovations lead at Kerry Group (Singapore); and BE WTR managing director Christian Lukey (Singapore).
Benguerel said: “We need to go back to local knowledge and cultural heritage to innovate nutrition habits and become climate resilient.
Laila, on the other hand, underlined the importance of avoiding the temptation to chase perfection from ingredients by being flexible and experimental when eating and cooking.”
Immersion into the future of food
Reflecting on the success of the event, Synthesis founder Lee Fordham said: “Knowledge and data are important, but knowledge doesn’t change behaviour. Our mission of this Series, in partnership with Kita, is to immerse people in the future, and through dialogue and collaboration, spark change through clarity and shared vision.”
The upcoming test kitchens will explore the biggest impact areas; ‘Stretching’ the food we already have and ‘Finding Sustenance’ in the future of food.
Fordham added: “We’re also very excited about the Symposium, which will take place at New Bahru, with the participation of industry leaders from scientists and food innovators to farmers and anthropologists.”
Kita Food Festival co-founder Darren Teoh remarked: “I think it’s fascinating that we’re at a point in human history where the very systems we’ve created to sustain ourselves are now causing so much harm. The recent Synthesis and Kita dialog surrounding food sourcing really brought this to light. The world is grappling with issues like monocropping, the loss of biodiversity, and access to truly nutritious food; and, in many cases, just food itself. What stood out to me was seeing the panelists, each in their own way, tackling these challenges. It’s encouraging to witness people working through these complexities and contributing to what is, ultimately, a collective effort: a jigsaw solution that we’re all piecing together.”
The Philippines is refocusing its tourism efforts for 2025 in order to woo tourists from Europe, India, and the highly-coveted Middle East luxury market.
Measures related to this are meant to compensate for the low number of Chinese tourist arrivals in 2024.
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) recently reported that the low turnout of Chinese arrivals which totalled at just over 300,000 was one of the factors that kept the country from hitting its 2024 arrivals target.
To mitigate this, tourism secretary Christina Frasco said: “Visa liberalization is critical. And so, with the challenges that we are facing pertaining to the Chinese market, we are now looking at India.”
Frasco added that the DOT will ramp up initiatives to tap into the Indian outbound market, of whom five million travelled to Southeast Asia in the past year, though only 79,000 came to the Philippines.
Considering other key markets
Furthermore, the DOT will continue and ramp up its ongoing marketing efforts in Europe and the Middle East.
Frasco remarked that the department saw increased market recovery in the region as well as Europe, possibly due to the global Love the Philippines campaign.
She said: “As far as the Middle East is concerned, we’re seeing very, very encouraging growth, with recovery rates averaging from around 500 percent. Qatar, for example, is now recovered at over 800 percent, so we’re also going to be quite aggressive in terms of marketing to that region, even as we continue our aggressive marketing strategies in Asia and the ASEAN.”
In order to draw in European tourists, on the other hand, the DOT will conduct a focused marketing campaign in France and neighbouring countries to capitalise on the new Manila-Paris direct flights by Air France.
Amid new measures to attract other markets, Frasco said the agency would continue to advocate to recover the Chinese market as far as tourism is concerned and ensure that the Philippines remains a top-of-mind destination to travelers.
Talks, she said, are in progress with the Department of Foreign Affairs and relevant agencies to relax the visa policies for the Chinese.
Luxury cruise line Crystal announced the release of three 2026 Grand Journeys that serve as an invitation to a world of intrigue, wonder and inspiration.
These extended voyages forge a deeper, more meaningful connection with every destination, from the art and architecture of Europe to the idyllic islands of the South Pacific, with authentic experiences in every port.
With an industry-leading space-to-guest ratio, reduced passenger capacity and nearly one staff member per guest, elegant ships CrystalSerenity and CrystalSymphony offer larger, redesigned suites, exceptional and wide-ranging entertainment, and specialty dining restaurants.
An all-access pass to exquisite destinations
Crystal’s pioneering collaboration with Abercrombie & Kent will provide guests travelling on these longer journeys unique access to the hidden facets of some of the world’s most coveted destinations with like-minded friends and fellow travellers.
Passengers also get full access to exclusive events curated by experts in the region.
A&K Travel Group chief executive Cristina Lewis said of the voyages: “We’re thrilled to announce an impressive selection of Grand Journeys for 2026. These extended itineraries offer exclusive opportunities for immersion in some of the world’s most unique and sought-after destinations. We can’t wait for our guests to experience these unparalleled voyages along with the unique land experiences we are creating with our sister brand Abercrombie & Kent.”
Three itineraries to beguile an eager traveller
89-nights: Los Angeles to Singapore
Departing: 11 Jan — 11 April 2026
From $83,100 per guest, double occupancy *
Crystal Serenity
Blue skies, swaying palms, powder sands – this dreamy vision comes into clear view on Crystal’s Grand Journey departing LA. In Hawaii, feel the sand between your toes on Waikiki Beach, before passing through the castaway islands of French Polynesia – Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji and more. These stepping stones lead you across the International Date Line to New Zealand, which wows with its dramatic landscapes and gleaming cities. Guests are rewarded with breathtaking cruises into the lush fjords of Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds. Intriguing Indonesia and the Philippines are explored too, before you arrive in Hong Kong and turn southwest to experience the culinary adventures of Vietnam and Thailand. This epic journey concludes with the vibrant energy of Singapore.
58-nights: Mombasa to Tokyo
Departing: 6 Feb — 5 Apr 2026
From $44,800 per guest, double occupancy
Crystal Symphony
Discover the world’s most enchanting destinations on this soul-soothing voyage, weaving among islands of beauty, travelling along storied coastlines, and disembarking in cities brimming with tropical glamour. Begin in the beachside Kenyan city of Mombasa, where you’ve likely come straight from safari, and sail first to the spice island of Zanzibar. The Seychelles, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, the Andaman Islands and the Philippines captivate with their picture-perfect shores, while Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo dazzle with their seamless blend of ancient customs and cutting-edge cool. Crossing the cerulean seas of 17 countries, from calm coves to urban hubs, this journey is grand in every sense.
48-nights: Lisbon to Lisbon (featuring a total solar eclipse)
Departing: 27 Jun — 14 Aug 2026
From $42,300 per guest, double occupancy *
Crystal Serenity
From pastries to palaces, fishing towns to fairytale cities, this epic voyage spanning 12 countries takes you on a deep dive into Europe’s loveliest coastal hubs. There’s plenty to delight the senses: tantalise your taste buds with Santander’s seafood, Bordeaux’s wines and Hamburg’s hip café scene. Gaze in wonder at the historic architecture of Copenhagen and Amsterdam, and the raw nature of the Scottish islands and Norway. Learn about maritime heritage in Southampton, UK, Zeebrugge, Belgium, and Brest, France, and experience the thrill of a total solar eclipse as you cross from Spain to Portugal. Sea days offer the chance to indulge in the onboard spa, pool and restaurants, while reflecting on all the highlights of your exceptional adventure.
What can guests expect on board?
Airfare allowance or credit for the first two guests
Crystal Society members receive a 5 percent saving if booked by 1 April 2025
Vienna’s tourism sector reported its strongest ever performance in 2024, with 18.9 million bednights (up 9% on 2023) and record revenue from overnight stays. Events in Vienna in 2025 will be all about the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Waltz King, Johann Strauss. At the same time, the capital will be shining a light on numerous neighbourhoods outside the city centre.
“2024 was the most successful year for city tourism in Vienna since records began,” confirmed Vienna Tourist Board CEO Norbert Kettner. The city reported 18,865,000 visitor overnight stays – up 9% on 2023 and more than the previous record set in 2019. Revenue from overnight stays grew by a quarter more than total bednights, which led to a first: “Vienna’s accommodation providers were already on the brink of a new revenue record by the end of November,” Kettner explained. Reaching EUR 1.2 billion for January to November – the months for which final totals were available – this represented a 12% increase on the same period in 2023. “In a challenging global economic environment, Vienna’s city tourism sector has proved to be a driver of value-added, creating year-round jobs directly in the location,” Kettner said.
Around 82% of Overnight Stays accounted for by visitors from abroad with 798,000 Bednights from the UK.
Germany (3,462,000 overnight stays, up 4% on 2023) accounted for the largest share of bednights, followed by Austria (3,353,000, up 6%) and the USA (1,224,000, up 17%). “In terms of revenue from overnight stays, the USA took the top spot in the five-star hotel category,” Kettner revealed. European countries put in a strong showing in terms of bednights, with places four to ten occupied by Italy (1,035,000 overnights, up 14%), the United Kingdom (798,000, up 17%), Spain (618,000, up 11%), France (531,000, up 9%), Poland (484,000, up 10%), Switzerland (416,000, up 7%) and Romania (373,000, up 5%). Previously strong markets such as China (300,000, up 79%) and Japan (163,000, up 45%) are still below their pre-pandemic level. Even so, China has already made its way back into the top ten markets in terms of revenue from overnight stays.
60% of beds in Four and Five Star Category accommodations
Vienna currently has 433 hotels. In total, they have around 40,900 rooms with 81,800 beds. Around two thirds of the city’s hotel beds are in the four and five star categories. As a result, Vienna is ideally equipped for all of its upcoming major events, which in 2025 include six large-scale congresses, each set to attract more than 10,000 participants. This year, the capital is expecting to host more than 50 congresses and company meetings with over 1,000 participants each.
2025 Theme Year: King of Waltz. Queen of Music.
As part of the “King of Waltz. Queen of Music.” theme year, visitors to Vienna can look forward to a major cultural treat to mark Waltz King Johann Strauss II’s 200th birthday: 65 productions at 69 locations across the city. All of the highlights are listed online at strauss.vienna.info. Mini-documentary Space Anthem (spaceanthem.vienna.info) asks why Strauss’s iconic Danube Waltz – omnipresent in popular culture as the anthem of space – did not leave Earth with the Voyager Golden Record in 1977.
From “Before Sunrise” to “Vintage Shopping”: 30 walks throughout Vienna
Vienna is also giving the districts beyond the city centre their time to shine: under the banner of Heartbeat Streets, the spotlight will be on 16 local neighbourhoods (including five new ones in the course of 2025). And visitors will be given an opportunity to experience Vienna’s diversity thanks to a soon-to-be 30-strong selection of guided city walks in the ivie City Guide App: covering everything from impressive women to arts and crafts and even a walk dedicated to the movie Before Sunrise (which is turning 30 this year), there is plenty of variety.
Located in the stunning province of Cádiz, this luxury resort is set to redefine hospitality along the renowned Costa del Sol and will be Fairmont’s flagship property in Spain.
A Haven of Luxury and Exclusivity
Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Solfeatures 213 rooms, suites, and private villas that embody the finest in luxury design, with bright and open interiors featuring light wood, organic textures, and warm cream tones, all illuminated by the golden Andalusian sun and offering panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Carefully selected pieces by local Andalusian artisans offer guests a true connection to the local creative community and enhance the resort’s sophistication and elegance. The resort’s 47 villas with private pools and expansive terraces have been inspired by a traditional Andalusian village, set along charming, whitewashed streets and facades, and provide a tranquil escape for those seeking space, serenity, and privacy.
Culinary Excellence and Authenticity
Fairmont is renowned for its extraordinary culinary offerings, and Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol is no exception. The resort will feature five distinct dining venues, each offering a unique gastronomic experience. A highlight for gourmets will be the resort’s signature restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Benito Gómez, while more relaxed options such as the poolside bistro celebrate the region’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients. As the day progresses, guests can feel the rhythm change at the resort’s vibrant private beach club which transforms into a lively evening spot, with DJs setting the tone as the sun goes down. The beach club menu will feature seaside favorites and shareable dishes served at large wooden tables, with a continuous flow of refreshing beverages and inventive cocktails. The special dishes will include a contemporary take on the “espeto”, a traditional specialty from Maìlaga, where fish, typically sardines, are roasted over firewood in a boat filled with beach sand.
Wellness and Rejuvenation in a Mediterranean Paradise
The resort’s 1,800-square-meter spa offers an unparalleled sanctuary where the elements of nature come together in perfect harmony. The spa will be the only one in the region with breathtaking views that span from the endless azure Mediterranean Sea on one side, to the lush, emerald mountains rising on the other. Guests can enjoy holistic treatments inspired by natural elements, expert manicures and pedicures in collaboration with renowned specialist Bastien Gonzalez, hydrotherapy facilities, a hammam, and a dedicated yoga studio and cardio lounge for holistic fitness. Every corner of the spa has been designed with relaxation and rejuvenation in mind, providing the ultimate setting for guests to disconnect, recharge, and reconnect with nature.
A Family-Friendly Destination
Designed with families in mind, Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Soloffers a wealth of amenities for guests of all ages. A dedicated Kids Club (4-9) offers educational and engaging activities, while a Teens Club (9-13) provides a technology-driven social space where younger guests can connect and unwind. Babysitting services are also on offer to guests to allow parents to enjoy some carefree relaxation time.
Minor Hotels is stepping into 2025 on a strong growth trajectory, underpinned by a robust pipeline of almost 300 new hotels slated to open over the next three years. This expansion puts the international hotel owner and operator on track to pass a milestone of 850 properties by the end of 2027, positioning it among the world’s largest hospitality groups.
With more than 560 properties and 81,000 keys already in operation worldwide, Minor’s latest figures show a three-year pipeline of over 285 new hotels and almost 47,000 keys, underscoring the group’s ambitious global strategy and revealing a focus on global market diversification. While more than 50% of Minor’s existing portfolio is currently concentrated in Europe, the addition of more than 100 properties in Asia, more than 60 in the Middle East & Africa, and 40 in Australia and New Zealand will lead to a more balanced global portfolio distribution.
Minor Hotels is also looking to expand its presence in several priority markets, especially in North America and North Asia. Markets such as Morocco, Egypt, and Turkey have also been identified as priority destinations for entry, while efforts continue to accelerate momentum in the priority market of India following the recent opening of Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur Hotel.
Leveraging global brand strength
Luxury and upscale remains a driving force in Minor Hotels’ expansion, with one-third of the three-year pipeline categorised in the Luxury segment, encompassing the Anantara, Tivoli, and Elewana Collection brands, and a further third in the Premium segment across NH Collection, Avani and nhow. The group is also investing heavily in uplifting many of its luxury properties, including significant renovation works at the original Anantara property in Hua Hin, Thailand.
Minor Hotels has also been undertaking an in-depth optimisation of its brand architecture as part of a new-look masterbrand strategy, with the outcomes set to roll out in 2025. These include the upcoming planned launch of two new hotel brands, broadening the group’s scope and creating fresh opportunities for owners seeking distinctive brand options—particularly for conversion properties.
Conversions and brownfield developments make up a significant portion of the pipeline at 38%, with the remainder consisting of greenfield projects.
Minor is also focusing on wellbeing as a cross-brand strategic priority, highlighted by the recent opening of destinations such as Layan Life by Anantara in Phuket. It will continue to emphasise hotel projects that take an integrative approach to wellbeing that combines medical technology and local cultural insight to deliver maximum benefits to guests.
“We remain committed to strategic growth across a diverse range of regions, always striving to provide innovative hospitality experiences that deliver value for our owners and partners. As well as leveraging our experiential luxury expertise, our evolving brand architecture, asset-right strategy, and focus on branded residence opportunities are the mainstays of our ambitious plans, and we look forward to bringing them to life in the coming years.” Said, Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of parent company Minor International.
Branded residences in focus
Branded residences will also be an important element of the group’s future, with pipeline projects in more than a dozen countries featuring a residential component.
Having been an early pioneer of branded residences in the late 1990s with developments such as Layan Residences by Anantara in Phuket, Thailand—well before many other operators entered this space—Minor Hotels plans to accelerate residential growth across both resort and urban destinations, including the potential for standalone branded residence projects in major cities.
The recent opening of Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, which includes an upcoming residential component, demonstrates the appeal of integrated living experiences that blend upscale hospitality with private ownership. Upcoming residential projects in Europe, Asia as well as Middle East & Africa – where projects are confirmed in Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Oman, and Tanzania – will further strengthen Minor Hotels’ presence in those regions.
Globally, the group sees strong growth prospects for residential property under the Anantara and NH Collection brands in the Middle East and Europe in particular.
2025 opening highlights
The year ahead is already shaping up to be an exciting one for Minor Hotels, with a range of new openings across the globe. A small selection of highlights include:
Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel.
Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel (February) – Set on the hillside of Gaia, Portugal, in a historic Port Wine cellar that forms part of the overall guest experience.
nhow Rome (Q2) – The 10th property under the design-forward nhow brand, further enhancing Minor Hotels’ lifestyle portfolio in Europe.
Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles Resort (Q3) – A major refurbishment will position this property as a flagship resort for Avani, elevating the brand’s footprint in the Indian Ocean.
Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp.
Anantara Kafue River Zambia Tented Camp (Q3)– Anantara’s debut in the luxury tented camp segment, offering guests an exclusive safari experience in a stunning natural setting.
NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort.
NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort (Q4) – After closing for a six-month renovation, one of the Maldives’ most storied resorts will open with a brand new look and plant the second NH Collection flag on the archipelago.
“As we chart new pathways for global expansion, preserving the integrity of our brands remains paramount. We’re committed to elevating our luxury portfolio while ensuring each brand’s unique identity delivers authentic, experience-led stays. Our pipeline showcases confidence in both established and emerging markets, grounded in the understanding that robust brand resonance and uncompromising quality are central to our success—and to our promise of exceptional value for guests and owners alike.” Said, Omar Romero, Chief Development and Luxury Officer at Minor Hotels.
The latest pipeline figures underscore Minor Hotels’ ambitious global strategy. A core element of this vision is the group’s “asset-right” approach, balancing owned, leased, managed, and franchised properties to ensure sustainable and diversified growth. While approximately 70% of the current portfolio is owned or leased, the group aims to bring this ratio closer to 50-50 by 2027.
Out of the pipeline projects, more than 90% will be under hotel management agreements (HMAs) or franchise deals, placing the group on track to meet that goal.
TAP Air Portugal carried 16.1 million passengers in 2024, a 1.6% increase from the previous year. The largest percentage increases in passengers carried were on North American (USA and Canada) routes, accounting for 1.59 million people – up 8.9% compared to 2023.
The airline carried 1.03 million passengers on UK routes in 2024, a 6.1% increase from 2023 figures. TAP’s Europe to Brazil routes surpassed the two million passenger mark, a record-breaking increase of 7.1% compared to 2023.
For Europe to Africa, TAP carried 1.1 million passengers in 2024 – a 0.1% reduction from the previous year.
Meanwhile, flights between Madeira and mainland Portugal experienced a 3.3% increase in 2024, with 983,000 passengers choosing to fly with TAP. On the Azores routes, TAP carried 527,000 passengers in 2024, 1.3% more than the previous year.
Passengers carried on flights to Europe, excluding Portugal, increased 0.9% to 8.8 million.
The load factor for all TAP routes was 82.3% – 1.5 percentage points more than in 2023. The supply of seats measured in ASK grew 1.6% compared to the previous year. Revenue per seat, measured in RPK, increased by 3.4%.
The UK’s largest regional airline, Loganair, has been appointed as the official transport provider for the inter-islands air service between Kirkwall, Orkney and the islands of Papa Westray, North Ronaldsay, Westray, Sanday, Stronsay and Eday.
Loganair is the current provider of inter-islands airline services and has been successful in its bid to Orkney Islands Council to continue to provide vital lifeline flights to the island communities for another four years.
The contract awarded by the local council through the Public Service Obligation (PSO) framework will see Loganair extend its current contract for a further four years, starting 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2029.
Luke Farajallah, Chief Executive Officer, Loganair said: “The inter-island services between Kirkwall and the neighbouring islands are vital for the communities and individuals who rely on air transport to travel safely and conveniently for personal and professional reasons.
“We’re very pleased that we are continuing to play a part in the provision of these services and that the communities we serve can look forward to remaining connected together using our friendly and reliable services in the years ahead.
“Loganair’s ability to provide these lifeline services is entirely due to the experience and hard work of our dedicated team in Kirkwall who, for almost 60 years, have been there as an embedded part of the community they live in and serve.
“2025 is going to be a very special year for Orkney and the surrounding island communities, and we never take for granted the trust that is placed in us to serve in this wonderful part of Scotland. This announcement allows us to look forward to further developing our relationship with the communities in Orkney and the Islands, providing reliable, sustainable and affordable air travel for at least the next four years through the award of this contract.”
Luke Farajallah CEO Loganair
The airline, which pioneered the services in conjunction with the then Orkney Islands Shipping Company in 1967, has continually maintained the lifeline air links connecting the islands of North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Westray, Sanday, Stronsay and Eday with Kirkwall ever since. It bases two of its Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft at Kirkwall to fly the routes, carrying around 20,000 customers every year.
Although the world’s shortest scheduled flight – two minutes between Westray and Papa Westray – is one of the islands’ tourist attractions in its own right, the services fulfil a year-round critical role in the delivery of education, healthcare, mail and other essential services to Orkney’s North Isles. Inter-island flights became bookable on-line for the first time in 2019.
Loganair has previously recruited and trained engineers locally to take over from retiring long-serving members of its team and is committed to continuing this policy of local investment in Orkney wherever it can.
Mellissa Thomson, North Isles Councillor and Vice-Chair of the Development and Infrastructure Committee said: “Our inter isles air service is vital to our isles’ communities – whether that be by providing quick and easy access to mainland Orkney and beyond for local folk, bringing itinerant teachers out to our isles’ schools, bringing youngsters into Papdale Halls or offering an alternative to the ferry for our visitors.
“We’ve been served loyally by Loganair over a number of years and I’m pleased that once again we’ve been able to award the contract to them.”
Canberra isn’t a regular capital. It’s where history meets modernity, and every season brings an adventure!
In 2025, the city will once again dazzle visitors with a lineup of unforgettable events, cultural festivals, outdoor escapades, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, there’s something here for everyone.
The Australian National Botanic Gardens’ Rainforest Gully is lit up for the AfterDARK Firefly tours
Here are 25 incredible experiences waiting for you in Canberra in 2025:
Pompeii Exhibition at the National Museum of Australia (December 13, 2024 – May 4, 2025): Explore ancient Roman life through immersive displays and artifacts.
FLIGHT: Drone Sky Show + Night Markets (Friday 24 until Sunday 26 January, 5 pm – 8 pm): Discover the evolving story of our nation through a series of shows that reflect, respect, and celebrate its journey. Experience the breathtaking drone sky show and explore the vibrant night markets, all in one exciting event.
National Multicultural Festival (February 7–9, 2025): Celebrate cultural diversity with performances, workshops, and international cuisines.
Royal Canberra Show (February 21–23, 2025): Experience agricultural displays, thrilling rides, and entertainment for all ages.
Enlighten Festival (February 28 – March 10, 2025): Witness iconic buildings illuminated with stunning projections, alongside cultural events.
Canberra Comedy Festival (March 12 – 23, 2025): Enjoy performances from local and international comedians in various venues across the city.
Canberra Balloon Spectacular (March 15–23, 2025): Watch the sky fill with colorful hot air balloons during this early morning spectacle.
Canberra Wine Week (March 2025): Celebrate Canberra’s cool-climate wines with tastings, vineyard tours, and gourmet pairings.
The National Folk Festival (March 17-2, 2025): Celebrate the spirit of folk music and dance. Immerse yourself in timeless rhythms and melodies that connect generations.
Canberra International Music Festival (April 30 – May 10, 2025): Experience a fusion of classical and contemporary music performances.
Truffle Season Canberra Region (June – August 2025): Indulge in truffle hunts, cooking classes, and gourmet dining experiences during truffle season.
Floriade (September 13 – October 12, 2025): Marvel at over a million blooming flowers in Australia’s biggest spring festival.
Floriade NightFest (October 2–5, 2025): Experience Floriade after dark with illuminated displays, live music, and entertainment.
Handmade Canberra Markets (Quarterly, 2025): Shop for unique, artisan goods and enjoy delicious food at these popular markets.
Canberra Bike Tours (Year-round): Explore Canberra’s history, culture, and scenic spots with fascinating stories, local know-how, and the best photo opportunities on a guided bike tour with Mulga Bicycle Tours.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve Tours (Year-round): Explore wildlife and Aboriginal heritage through guided tours at this scenic reserve.
Jamala Wildlife Lodge Stay (Year-round): Stay overnight in a luxury lodge where you can get up close with exotic animals for a unique, safari-like experience.
Air CBR (Year around): Soar above the capital and Brindabella Ranges on a luxury helicopter tour with Air CBR, offering scenic flights and charter services across the ACT.
Australian National Botanic Gardens (Year around): Escape the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of over 4,500 native Australian plants at the Australian National Botanic Gardens.
Activities at Lake Burley Griffin (Year-round): Lake Burley Griffin is Canberra’s water playground, offering scenic trails and iconic sites. Cycle, e-scooter, or paddle around the lake, enjoy a floating picnic on a sustainable GoBoat, or soak in the colorful sunsets on a relaxing cruise.
Culture Attractions of Australia (Year-round): Discover Australia’s cultural pulse through iconic galleries, museums, performing arts, historic sites, and sporting attractions. Enjoy exclusive access, expert-led talks, and immersive experiences enriched by art, music, and superb dining.
Discover the Australian Story (Year-round): From world-class exhibitions to local arts and heritage, Canberra offers a cultural journey like no other. Explore 12 iconic attractions, museums, and galleries that showcase Australia’s story, from First Nations history to contemporary art. The National Gallery of Australia stands as a cultural home, bringing Australia’s rich narrative to life through its remarkable collections and exhibitions.
Haig Park Village Markets (Sundays, Year-round): Visit this vibrant market for fresh produce, artisan goods, and live entertainment.
Explore the Canberra Wine District (Year-round): Just 30 minutes from the city, Canberra’s wine region boasts over 140 vineyards and 40+ wineries. Enjoy cellar door tastings, scenic vineyard visits, overnight stays among the vines, and discover the region’s rich winemaking history.
Canberra’s Scenic Lookouts (Year-round): Canberra’s stunning landscapes are perfect for nature lovers, with breathtaking views from various scenic lookouts. Enjoy panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding mountain ranges from Mount Ainslie or take a drive up Red Hill for views of charming suburbs and rolling hills. Don’t miss the National Arboretum, where you can wander through lush gardens and forests while soaking in sweeping city views.
No matter the time of year, Canberra promises a calendar brimming with excitement, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Plan your 2025 getaway now and immerse yourself in experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime!
