Central Vietnam’s Golf Tourism Soars with New Global Air Connections

Central Vietnam’s Golf Tourism Soars with New Global Air Connections

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 16, 2025

Central Vietnam is stepping up as a world-class golf tourism destination, thanks to a wave of new international flight connections that are making it more accessible than ever. Leading the charge is a major new route by Emirates Airlines, which will link Danang and Dubai with four weekly flights starting June 2, 2025.

Dubai International Airport is one of the most connected hubs globally, giving travellers from over 260 destinations easy access to Vietnam’s central coast. This move is expected to significantly boost inbound golf and leisure tourism in the region.

Adding to this momentum, Vietnam Airlines will resume services between Danang and Osaka, Japan, from July 3, operating four times a week. Recent months have also seen a flurry of new and resumed air routes to Danang:

  • Vietnam Airlines restarted Bangkok-Danang flights on March 30
  • Air Premia launched Seoul-Danang in January
  • Myanmar Airways International begins Yangon-Danang in April
  • Aero K introduced Cheongju-Danang in February 2024
  • Air Astana will start Almaty-Danang flights from June 4

This growing connectivity cements Danang International Airport as a major gateway, connecting Central Vietnam to key markets including Japan, Korea, India, Thailand, Singapore, and more.

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“Connecting Central Vietnam directly to Dubai is a game-changer,” said Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Golf Lang Co. “Golfers and tourists alike will now have unprecedented global access to our world-class golf and luxury resorts.”

Simon Mees, General Manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club, added, “Improved connectivity with Emirates elevates the profile of Central Vietnam as a golfing destination to new heights. We’re thrilled to welcome players from around the world.”

With standout courses like the Sir Nick Faldo-designed Laguna Golf Lang Co, Luke Donald’s Ba Na Hills Golf Club, and Montgomerie Links by European great Colin Montgomerie, the region is attracting international attention.

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“This is a milestone for our ongoing efforts to showcase Central Vietnam as one of Asia’s top golf destinations,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, Club Manager at Montgomerie Links.

But it’s not just golf drawing tourists. The region offers UNESCO heritage sites like Hoi An, the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills, pristine beaches, and lively events like the Danang International Fireworks Festival, creating a complete package for global travellers.

As bookings rise and global interest grows, these strengthened air routes promise a strong tourism boost and economic uplift, cementing Central Vietnam’s status as a rising star in global golf tourism.


Saudi Tourism Brings an Immersive Qahwa Experience to Indian Travel Trade and Media in Mumbai

Saudi Tourism Brings an Immersive Qahwa Experience to Indian Travel Trade and Media in Mumbai

By Author

Published on April 19, 2025

A celebration of heritage, hospitality, and cultural connection, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) recently hosted Brewtopia — an exclusive, invite-only Qahwa experience that brought to life the traditions and storytelling behind Saudi coffee. Curated for select members of the Indian travel trade associations, content creators, influencers, journalists, media partners, the evening offered an immersive glimpse into the destinations warm and time-honoured coffee culture.

Brewtopia, held at Soho House Mumbai, offered guests a multisensory introduction to Arabian coffee, celebrating its rich flavours and the warm traditions of Saudi hospitality, also known as the ‘Saudi Welcome’.

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Under the expert guidance of Ganga Prabhakar and Pavan Hanbal, founders of Coffee Mechanics and Kana, attendees explored a distinctive fusion—brewing Qahwa using a French press, a nod to popular Indian brewing methods. The fragrant blend was then poured from a traditional brass Dallah into petite ceramic cups and paired with indulgent Medjool dates, symbolising authentic ’Saudi Welcome’. Guests were immersed in the synergy between India and Saudi, united by a shared passion for coffee. 

The evening unfolded with storytelling and concluded with networking with representatives from the Saudi Tourism Authority – India team, who shared insights into the destination’s growing appeal as a dynamic, welcoming, and diverse destination for Indian travellers.

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As part of STA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening ties with India’s travel trade and media, Brewtopia served as a platform to spotlight emerging travel opportunities, entertaining festivals, and international sporting events. With its rich history, modern cities, beautiful coastlines, and warm culture, Saudi continues to emerge as one of the most exciting places to visit.


OBLU NATURE Helengeli Launches First-Ever PADI Women’s Dive Month

OBLU NATURE Helengeli Launches First-Ever PADI Women’s Dive Month

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 19, 2025

Taking a bold step in championing women in diving, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, part of the Atmosphere Core portfolio, has launched the first-ever PADI Women’s Dive Month in collaboration with TGI Maldives, ELE|NA Ayur spa, and Marine Biologist Luca Melodia. Extending the spirit of PADI Women’s Dive Day on 19th July into an entire month, this initiative gives solo women travellers, families, and groups of friends more opportunities to explore the underwater beauty of the Maldives.

Following the 2024 “PADI Outstanding Contribution to Women's Diving” award, both TGI Maldives and OBLU NATURE Helengeli continue their mission to introduce more women and families to the joys of diving. Helengeli island, with its exotic house reef located just metres from the shore, and surrounding dive sites, offers unparalleled diving experiences suitable for beginners and professionals alike.

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Throughout July, guests at OBLU NATURE Helengeli can enjoy special offerings such as discounted dives, marine life talks, wellness activities, and curated holiday packages as part of the comprehensive OBLU Island Plan™. TGI Maldives, with over 40 years of experience in ocean diving, is offering exclusive discounts on all dives booked by women during the month, including the PADI Discover Scuba Dive sessions ideal even for non-swimmers.

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Highlighting the initiative, TGI Maldives Operations Manager Greta Marcelli shared, “There’s nothing like seeing guests’ emotions after their first dive. While we celebrate women in diving year-round, PADI Women’s Dive Month in July provides a platform to offer more reasons to join us in paradise.”

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The celebration is further enriched by ELE|NA Ayur spa, which has curated over 18 wellness activities including sunrise yoga, aqua aerobics, and core stability classes. These sessions aim to enhance flexibility and stamina, supporting guests in their diving journeys. Additionally, women who book a dive experience will enjoy special discounts on the spa’s signature Coconut Shell and Sand Bundle massages, crafted with locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.

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PADI Regional Manager Matt Wenger noted, “By extending our PADI Women’s Dive Day celebration into a month-long event at the stunning OBLU NATURE Helengeli resort, we aim to welcome even more newcomers to the sport while also offering advanced certifications for enthusiasts.”

This July, guests are invited to embrace the spirit of exploration and relaxation by booking their stay with a 20% discount on a minimum four-night fully inclusive package. TGI Maldives and ELE|NA spa are also extending a 20% discount on women’s PADI-certified dive courses and spa treatments booked throughout the month.


A Dream Under the Sea: Dining at M6m – MINUS SIX METRES at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO

A Dream Under the Sea: Dining at M6m – MINUS SIX METRES at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 18, 2025

Nestled six metres beneath the surface of the South Malé Atoll, M6m – Minus Six Metres at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is more than just a restaurant—it's a magical meeting point of fine dining and marine beauty. This signature underwater venue delivers an unforgettable experience where world-class cuisine is served with front-row views of the ocean’s most captivating creatures.

From the moment guests arrive at the elegant M6m Lounge, the journey begins with champagne and caviar served above water, before a graceful descent into the underwater chamber. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls offering panoramic views of vibrant coral reefs and shimmering fish, the setting is a sensory dreamscape—intimate, luxurious, and surreal.

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At the heart of the experience is a modern seafood degustation menu, carefully curated by Executive Chef Alok Verma. The courses are a celebration of the sea—light yet indulgent, refined yet adventurous, each bite reflecting the elegance of the marine world just beyond the glass. Paired with a handpicked collection of premium wines, the culinary journey becomes a true immersion of taste and wonder.

Dining at M6m is like tasting the ocean while watching it dance around you. It’s a moment suspended in time—pure, indulgent, and utterly unforgettable,” says Chef Alok Verma.

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Adding to its charm, M6m is part of the resort’s signature INDULGENCE™ Plan, making this once-in-a-lifetime experience effortlessly accessible. Guests staying for four nights or more are treated to a complimentary dining experience at M6m—luxury made simple, and memories made unforgettable.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, M6m offers a dining experience unlike any other. Come for the view. Stay for the flavours. And leave with memories only the ocean can create.

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