Greater Bay Airlines Enhances Regional Connectivity with Seasonal Hong Kong–Maldives Route During 2026 Lunar New Year Celebrations

Greater Bay Airlines is strengthening its regional travel network by introducing a seasonal route connecting Hong Kong and the Maldives during the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations. This strategic move aims to meet the surge in festive travel demand while offering Hong Kong travellers a direct and convenient gateway to one of the world’s most idyllic island destinations. The limited-time service will enhance air connectivity, support tourism growth in both regions, and provide holidaymakers with seamless access to the Maldives’ pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and warm tropical climate — a perfect winter escape during the festive period.

Greater Bay Airlines Launches Seasonal Hong Kong–Maldives Route for Lunar New Year 2026

Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) is preparing to meet the rising travel demand during the Lunar New Year by launching a special seasonal service between Hong Kong and the Maldives. The airline will operate daily flights between Hong Kong International Airport and Velana International Airport in Malé from 8 to 25 February 2026, offering travellers a direct and convenient connection to one of the world’s most idyllic destinations.

Expanding Horizons for Hong Kong Travellers

As winter sets in across Hong Kong, many residents look for tropical destinations to escape the cooler climate. The Maldives, with its year-round sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious overwater villas, stands out as the perfect getaway. Recognising this growing trend, GBA’s new seasonal route aims to meet the increasing appetite for leisure travel during the festive season.

The move also reflects GBA’s broader strategy to expand its regional and international network, targeting popular tourist destinations across Asia. Since beginning operations in 2022, the airline has steadily grown its footprint, connecting Hong Kong with key cities such as Bangkok, Tokyo, Taipei, and Manila. The addition of the Maldives route marks another milestone in its mission to enhance connectivity from Hong Kong to leading holiday hotspots.

Seamless Getaway to Island Paradise

The Lunar New Year period is one of the busiest travel seasons in Asia, with millions of passengers flying across the region for family reunions and vacations. The Maldives route will allow travellers to enjoy a seamless journey from Hong Kong to paradise in just over six hours. Passengers will be able to experience the country’s renowned white-sand beaches, coral atolls, and vibrant marine life—all while escaping the hustle of urban life.

For many travellers, the timing couldn’t be better. February is considered one of the best months to visit the Maldives, offering pleasant temperatures, calm seas, and clear skies. The new route is expected to attract families, honeymooners, and adventure seekers looking for diving, snorkelling, and luxury resort experiences.

Boosting Regional Tourism and Connectivity

The introduction of the Hong Kong–Malé service is more than a short-term addition; it highlights the strengthening ties between Hong Kong and the Maldives as part of a wider push to revive tourism across the Asia-Pacific region. With the easing of travel restrictions and rising consumer confidence, airlines across Asia are capitalising on renewed travel enthusiasm.

The Maldives, known for its tourism-dependent economy, continues to see a strong rebound in visitor arrivals. Hong Kong remains a key source market for outbound luxury travel, and the launch of this route is set to support the Maldives’ goal of diversifying its tourist base beyond Europe and the Middle East.

GBA’s Commitment to Growth

For Greater Bay Airlines, the Maldives route represents both strategic expansion and a commitment to delivering new travel experiences. The airline operates a fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft, known for their comfort and fuel efficiency, ensuring passengers enjoy a smooth and reliable journey. The carrier’s focus on affordability and service quality positions it strongly among emerging regional airlines catering to leisure travellers.

A Promising Start to 2026

As the world gears up for the Lunar New Year celebrations, this new connection opens doors for Hong Kong residents seeking a unique and sunny start to 2026. Whether for romantic escapes or family getaways, the route is set to enhance holiday options while strengthening cultural and tourism exchanges between the two destinations.

With Greater Bay Airlines’ continued efforts to expand its international network, the airline is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of regional air travel—making dream destinations like the Maldives more accessible than ever.

The flight schedule of the Hong Kong – Male seasonal service is as follows:

Hong Kong (HKG) – Male (MLE) (Velana International Airport)

Flight No.	From	To	Departure / Arrival	Days of Week
HB2500	Hong Kong	Male	13:50 / 17:20	Daily
HB2501	Male	Hong Kong	19:20 / 05:20 (+1)	Daily

Greater Bay Airlines is strengthening its regional reach by introducing a seasonal route between Hong Kong and the Maldives during the 2026 Lunar New Year. This move aims to meet rising festive travel demand while enhancing connectivity between Asia and the Indian Ocean. The limited-time service will provide travellers with a convenient and direct link to the Maldives’ sun-kissed beaches, supporting tourism and offering a perfect tropical escape for holidaymakers.

Hong Kong-based low-cost airline GBA began its commercial operations in July 2022. The carrier currently operates scheduled flights connecting Hong Kong with several major destinations, including Bangkok, Taipei, Tokyo, Osaka, Sendai, Sapporo, Manila, Phu Quoc, Zhoushan, Huangshan, Yichang, Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Quanzhou, Xuzhou, Datong, and Enshi. The airline’s fleet consists of Boeing 737-800 aircraft, supporting its growing regional network across Asia.

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IndiGo Strengthens India-Saudi Arabia Connectivity with New Bengaluru-Riyadh Route, Set to Take Off on November 16, 2025, as Part of Its Expanding Middle Eastern Operations

IndiGo is enhancing its connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia with the launch of a new direct route from Bengaluru to Riyadh, scheduled to commence on November 16, 2025. This move is part of the airline’s broader strategy to expand its operations in the Middle East, responding to the growing demand for both business and leisure travel between the two nations.

Strengthening Connectivity Between India and the Middle East

The Bengaluru–Riyadh route will play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity between India’s tech hub and one of the largest economies in the Middle East. Bengaluru, known for its thriving technology and business sectors, attracts a significant number of travelers, both business and leisure, who frequently travel to Saudi Arabia for work, investment opportunities, and tourism. Likewise, Riyadh, the political and financial center of Saudi Arabia, is a key destination for Indian professionals, laborers, and businesses looking to tap into the Saudi Arabian market.

IndiGo’s decision to operate this route comes at a time when travel between India and Saudi Arabia is booming. The growing economic and social ties between the two nations have led to an increase in the number of travelers between them. This includes not only business executives and professionals but also a rising number of tourists exploring Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, which has seen a surge due to the government’s ambitious plans to develop its tourism sector.

The new service will cater to various passenger segments, from business professionals looking for efficient travel options to families and tourists seeking a seamless journey between Bengaluru and Riyadh. With its focus on affordability, IndiGo is poised to make air travel more accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Expanding IndiGo’s Middle East Network

This new route represents IndiGo’s continuous efforts to expand its international footprint, particularly in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia has become a major focus for the airline, as evidenced by its already extensive network in the country. By connecting Bengaluru with Riyadh, IndiGo not only strengthens its ties with Saudi Arabia but also reinforces its commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle Eastern market.

IndiGo’s Middle East network, which also includes connections to cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, reflects the growing importance of the region in international air travel. The Middle East has long been a hub for business and leisure travelers, and as India’s trade relations with the region continue to grow, the demand for direct air services to the region has seen a noticeable uptick. IndiGo’s cost-effective model and punctuality, along with its expanding route network, have made it a favorite choice for travelers in India and beyond.

With the launch of the Bengaluru–Riyadh route, the airline is enhancing its connectivity between India’s southern tech capital and the broader Middle Eastern region. Passengers will now have more options to travel conveniently between the two cities without the hassle of layovers, providing a time-efficient solution for both work and leisure trips.

Meeting Demand for Business, Trade, and Tourism

The new Bengaluru–Riyadh route is expected to meet a growing demand for air travel between the two countries, which is driven by factors like bilateral trade, the expatriate workforce, and tourism. Saudi Arabia is one of the top destinations for Indian expatriates, with many traveling to the Kingdom for employment opportunities in various sectors such as construction, healthcare, and technology. As the bilateral relationship between the two nations continues to strengthen, the demand for travel between Bengaluru and Riyadh is expected to grow, providing IndiGo with the opportunity to tap into this lucrative market.

In addition to business and labor-related travel, tourism is another key driver of demand. Saudi Arabia has recently opened up its tourism sector, offering a wealth of opportunities for Indian tourists to explore the Kingdom’s historical landmarks, modern attractions, and religious sites. As more Indian tourists make their way to Saudi Arabia, the need for direct, affordable flights like the one IndiGo is offering will only increase.

Conclusion

IndiGo’s new direct flight service between Bengaluru and Riyadh represents a strategic expansion that will serve the growing travel demand between India and Saudi Arabia. With its affordable fares, efficient service, and expanded Middle East network, IndiGo is set to provide a seamless travel experience for business professionals, labor migrants, and tourists alike. As the airline continues to enhance its international connectivity, passengers can look forward to more opportunities for travel, trade, and tourism between India and the Middle East. This new route also highlights IndiGo’s role in strengthening air links between key economic and cultural hubs in the region.

IndiGo is set to bolster its Middle Eastern network with the introduction of a new direct flight from Bengaluru to Riyadh, launching on November 16, 2025. This route marks a significant step in the airline’s expansion strategy, tapping into the rising demand for travel between India and Saudi Arabia. With increasing business, tourism, and cultural exchanges, IndiGo’s new service aims to offer enhanced connectivity for both Indian and Saudi travelers.

Mr. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Sales, IndiGo, said: “As Saudi Arabia’s capital and a key hub for trade and investment, Riyadh is significant for IndiGo to strengthen air connectivity with India. This new route from Bengaluru marks IndiGo’s fourth non-stop connection to Riyadh, after Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. It will enhance accessibility for business and workforce from the region while reinforcing IndiGo’s growing network across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. With this launch, we continue our focus on expanding international connectivity and making travel more convenient.”

Flight Schedule between Bengaluru and Riyadh Starting 16 November 2025

Sector	Flight No.	Days of Operation	Departure	Arrival
Bengaluru – Riyadh	6E 0053	Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday	22:05	01:20 (+1)
Riyadh – Bengaluru	6E 0054	Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday	02:20	09:15

All timings are in local time zones; exact timings may differ on the respective days of operation

Subject to regulatory approvals
(+1) indicates next day arrival

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Why Early Planning is the Best Way to Ensure a Flawless, Luxury-Filled Vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line

Planning ahead is the key to securing a flawless and luxury-filled vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). By booking early, travelers gain access to exclusive itineraries, prime accommodations, and sought-after excursions, ensuring an unforgettable experience aboard one of the most innovative fleets at sea. Early planning not only guarantees the best staterooms and dining options but also allows for a smoother, stress-free booking process, setting the stage for a perfect voyage. Whether you’re seeking indulgence in world-class amenities or the thrill of extraordinary destinations, NCL offers unparalleled luxury, and early booking ensures you don’t miss out on any of these extraordinary opportunities.

Planning a Cruise Vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line: Why Booking Early is Key to a Dream Holiday

When it comes to planning the perfect cruise vacation, rushing the process can lead to missed opportunities. For Indian travellers looking to explore the world with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), early planning is essential to ensure the best experience. With NCL’s inclusive, contemporary sea voyages offering luxury, adventure, and relaxation aboard some of the world’s most breathtaking ships, booking ahead ensures that you’ll be able to make the most of every moment.

Embark on a Dream Cruise with NCL’s Most Coveted Ships

Sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line promises an unparalleled experience, and for Indian travellers, booking early guarantees access to some of the finest ships at sea. The Prima Class fleet, featuring luxurious vessels such as the Norwegian Viva® and Norwegian Aqua®, is especially popular. These ships are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including expansive outdoor spaces, diverse dining options, and well-designed accommodations that guarantee a remarkable voyage. Whether you’re drawn to the intimate atmosphere of the Norwegian Sun or the spacious grandeur of the Breakaway Class ships like Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore, NCL offers something for everyone. For those planning an international cruise in 2026, now is the time to secure your itinerary and ensure that you’ll be able to reserve the best rooms, shore excursions, and perks before they sell out.

Why Early Booking Matters for Your Cruise Experience

Planning ahead is not just about securing a cabin; it’s about ensuring that every aspect of your cruise meets your expectations. NCL ships are designed to elevate every moment at sea. From luxurious infinity pools and rejuvenating spa treatments to world-class entertainment, early booking ensures you have first pick of these incredible options. Whether your dream cruise involves exploring Alaska’s rugged fjords or basking in the sun-kissed Mediterranean, the ship you choose will play a big role in enhancing your experience. Early booking also allows you to avoid the disappointment of limited availability, making sure that you get the most out of your cruise vacation.

Securing Your Spot for Popular Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are often a highlight of any cruise, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the culture and beauty of the destinations they visit. However, these excursions are incredibly popular, and spaces fill up quickly. For example, the Helicopter Glacier Trek in Juneau, Alaska, offers a thrilling combination of flight and guided glacier exploration, but it’s essential to reserve your spot early to ensure you don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure.

In Europe, NCL offers excursions from lesser-known ports such as Koper, Salerno, Catania, Zadar, and Tallinn, giving guests the chance to explore hidden cultural gems. For instance, the Go Green – Nature Reserve Skocja excursion immerses visitors in a restored wetland, rich with diverse wildlife. Another highlight is the Panoramas of Castelmola and Taormina, which takes guests on a breathtaking tour with views of the Mediterranean. These intimate tours fill up fast, so early reservation is crucial for securing the activities you desire.

Additionally, NCL offers a variety of Mediterranean cruises, such as the 7-Day Mediterranean Cruise from Lisbon to Barcelona or the 9-Day Mediterranean Cruise from Barcelona to Venice. These cruises stop at multiple ports, offering exciting excursions like guided e-bike tours through Barcelona’s architectural landmarks. Since these tours have limited capacity, booking early is the key to securing your ideal shore adventures.

Selecting the Perfect Stateroom for Your Group

When travelling with family, friends, or a partner, selecting the right accommodation is crucial to ensuring a memorable cruise experience. NCL’s ships offer a variety of stateroom options, from luxurious balcony cabins with sweeping ocean views to the exclusive Haven by Norwegian, which offers a private enclave for the ultimate luxury experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a honeymoon, or a multi-generational family trip, securing your stateroom early guarantees you access to the best available options that suit your needs.

Unlock Exclusive Early Booking Benefits

Booking early with NCL doesn’t just guarantee access to the best staterooms; it also unlocks a range of exclusive perks. These benefits may include unlimited open bars, specialty dining credits, high-speed Wi-Fi, shore excursion credits, and even complimentary airfare on select sailings. For families and groups, certain offers also allow the third and fourth guests to sail for free, making early booking an excellent choice for those looking to travel together.

Access Better Flight Deals and Travel Flexibility

For Indian travellers, booking early also ensures access to the best flight deals. Whether you’re flying to embarkation ports like Seattle, Barcelona, Rome, Tokyo, or Singapore, booking in advance allows you to lock in cheaper flights, better schedules, and preferred seats. Additionally, with regional visas required for destinations like Europe and Alaska, early planning gives you ample time to secure the necessary travel documents and manage your visas, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Plan Your 2026 Cruise with NCL

With NCL’s 2026 itineraries now open, it’s the perfect time for Indian travellers to plan their dream cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line operates 20 modern ships, visiting over 350 of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Whether you’re interested in the scenic beauty of Alaska, the rich history of Europe, or the vibrant culture of Asia, NCL offers an unmatched cruising experience. Don’t wait—book now and embark on the journey of a lifetime!

Early planning with Norwegian Cruise Line ensures a flawless, luxury-filled vacation by securing the best staterooms, exclusive itineraries, and sought-after excursions. Booking ahead offers access to prime accommodations and a smoother booking process, guaranteeing a stress-free and unforgettable experience aboard their world-class fleet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, early booking with Norwegian Cruise Line guarantees an exceptional cruise experience from start to finish. Whether you’re securing the perfect stateroom, booking exclusive excursions, or taking advantage of limited-time offers, early planning ensures you get the most out of your cruise vacation. With NCL’s world-class ships, itineraries, and perks, there’s no better time to start planning your 2026 cruise getaway. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the best at sea—book your dream cruise today!

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Hilton Anaheim’s Major Multi-Million Dollar Renovation is Complete, Offering a Fresh Look and Enhanced Experience for Travelers Near Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland Resort

Hilton Anaheim has completed its major multi-million dollar renovation, unveiling a fresh, modern look designed to elevate the experience for travelers visiting the Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland Resort. This extensive makeover, which includes redesigned guest rooms, upgraded meeting spaces, and a newly reimagined lobby, aims to provide a sophisticated and comfortable environment for both business and leisure guests. With an emphasis on modern furnishings, California-inspired design, and enhanced amenities, the renovated Hilton Anaheim is now better equipped to meet the needs of today’s travelers, offering an unparalleled stay just steps away from two of the area’s top attractions.

Hilton Anaheim, the largest hotel in Orange County and a top destination near both the Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland® Resort, has successfully completed a multi-million dollar renovation. This extensive makeover, which started in July 2024, was officially revealed on Thursday, October 23rd. The event included a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials, exclusive property tours for VIPs and dignitaries, and a festive evening celebration for all guests and attendees.

“Completing this renovation, the most significant transformation in our history, is a major milestone for our hotel and our entire team,” said Sergio Bocci, general manager, Hilton Anaheim. “For over a year, we navigated construction, while keeping our commitment to serving guests, reimagining every space for the future, and honoring the legacy of what this property means to Anaheim. This transformation has allowed us to celebrate the property’s role in Anaheim over the past 40 years while creating a hotel ready to welcome guests, neighbors, and partners to gather for years to come.”

The extensive renovation of Hilton Anaheim was executed in several phases, transforming the hotel’s design and functionality across various areas:

Guest Rooms & Suites: The redesign of all 1,574 rooms and suites reflects a modern, stylish approach, incorporating spacious layouts, earth-inspired tones, and dynamic accent blues drawn from the natural beauty of California. Upgrades include contemporary lighting, plush bedding, warm wood accents, and refreshed carpeting, resulting in a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.

Meeting & Event Spaces: Spanning 105,959 sq. ft., the hotel’s event spaces were entirely revamped to provide a fresh, contemporary setting. New furniture, including sleek desks and chairs, and horizon-themed wall treatments were added, alongside luxurious vinyl finishes, deeper wood accents, and improved lighting. The ballrooms and conference rooms now offer flexible, elegant environments suitable for everything from corporate meetings to weddings, enhanced by state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and technology.

Lobby & Poppy’s Lounge: The reimagined lobby serves as a vibrant communal area, complete with open seating arrangements and nature-inspired motifs. The design incorporates organic textures and a custom LED lighting system that mirrors the expansive California sky. At the heart of the lobby, Poppy’s Lounge offers a blend of contemporary elegance and comfort, serving handcrafted cocktails, shared plates, and featuring a striking grand chandelier crafted in Los Angeles.

Food & Beverage Program: Under the guidance of Executive Chef Prabeen Prathapan, Hilton Anaheim’s dining offerings have been entirely revamped, introducing new culinary concepts that emphasize Southern California’s rich flavors:

• Poppy’s Restaurant: This all-day dining spot serves a variety of seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include California avocado toast, breakfast grain bowls, artisan steaks, and delectable desserts, complemented by craft cocktails and a selection of regional wines.
• Hansen’s Market: An elevated grab-and-go market featuring fresh sandwiches, organic fruit, local coffee, California wines, and curated snacks, reflecting Anaheim’s local and regional culinary offerings.
• Saltflower: A coastal-inspired poolside restaurant offering light bites, seasonal dishes, and tiki-style cocktails. The open-air concept, with views of the pool, creates a relaxed yet refined ambiance suitable for any season.

In-House Starbucks: The renovated Starbucks, covering 3,000 sq. ft., showcases a modern design with natural wood tones and ample natural light. The new space provides enhanced speed and convenience, offering a personalized experience for both hotel guests and the local community.

Outdoor & Recreational Spaces: The newly named Anaheim Rooftide Terrace, located on the fifth floor, features a 1,200 sq. ft. pool, hot tubs, a kids’ splash area, fire pits, lawn games, flexible lounge zones, and lush landscaping. Saltflower anchors this rooftop oasis, offering alfresco dining and a resort-like atmosphere that promotes relaxation, socializing, and family enjoyment.

Hilton Anaheim has completed a significant multi-million dollar renovation, transforming the hotel with a fresh, modern design. The upgraded guest rooms, meeting spaces, and lobby provide an enhanced experience for travelers, especially those visiting the Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland Resort. This renovation reflects the hotel’s commitment to offering a sophisticated, comfortable stay with improved amenities for both business and leisure guests.

“From the lobby to our guest rooms, from rooftop pool experiences to our signature dining venues, every element has been thoughtfully designed to deliver a world-class experience,” Bocci added. “We’re proud to reaffirm Hilton Anaheim as a leading destination for travelers seeking both comfort and connection in the heart of Orange County.”

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