LOT Polish Airlines has begun the process of introducing in-flight Wi-Fi across its long-haul fleet, marking a significant step in enhancing the passenger experience. The service has already been activated on the airline’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, registered as SP-LSA.

The national carrier plans to gradually expand the service across its Boeing 787 fleet, with two additional aircraft expected to receive Wi-Fi connectivity by the end of April. The rollout forms part of the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen its onboard offerings and respond to growing passenger expectations for continuous internet access during flights.

The connectivity service is powered by Viasat’s next-generation solution, Viasat Amara. The technology is designed to provide fast and stable internet access, allowing travellers to stay connected with family and colleagues, work remotely, or enjoy online entertainment while travelling.

Izabela Leszczyńska, Director of the Product Development and Customer Experience Office at LOT Polish Airlines, highlighted the importance of connectivity for modern travellers. She said that internet access has become an essential component of long-haul travel, particularly for passengers flying for business or leisure.

“Internet access has become an expected part of the offering on long-haul flights. Therefore, we view its implementation across our fleet as a natural stage in the development of our product, one that responds to the needs of passengers – both those traveling for business and for leisure. We wanted a solution that would ensure stability and high quality, which is why we chose a partner with well-established experience in aviation, whose technology is used by airlines around the world. Our passengers travel with different purposes and expectations. We want them to be able to spend their time on board exactly as they need, productively, staying in touch with loved ones, or in complete relaxation.”

Don Buchman, President of Viasat Aviation, also commented on the collaboration, noting that the introduction of Viasat Amara represents an important milestone in enhancing connectivity for passengers travelling on LOT’s Dreamliner fleet.

“We are proud to bring Viasat Amara to LOT Polish Airlines as they take this important step in elevating the long-haul passenger experience. Delivering fast, reliable in-flight Wi-Fi on the Dreamliner fleet is a meaningful milestone, and LOT’s commitment to offering high-quality connectivity reflects a deep understanding of what today’s travelers expect. With Viasat’s global satellite network and Viasat’s Amara connectivity solution, passengers can stay productive, entertained, and connected throughout their journey, from gate-to-gate—whether they’re working, streaming, or keeping in touch with family and friends. We look forward to continuing our partnership as LOT expands connectivity across its fleet.”

Passengers will have access to two paid Wi-Fi packages. The Chat package, priced at $7, allows instant messaging services, while the Streaming package, priced at $29, enables broader internet access, including browsing websites, watching videos and working online during the flight.

Complimentary internet access will be available for LOT Business Class passengers and members of the Miles & More programme from select partner airlines who hold eligible status, regardless of their travel class.

The range of connectivity packages has been designed to provide flexibility, allowing travellers to choose services that suit their needs, from basic messaging to more advanced internet usage during the journey.

Viasat, the connectivity provider behind the service, is a global communications company with offices in 24 countries. The company focuses on building a global communications network that supports reliable and secure connections across land, air and sea. In May 2023, Viasat completed the acquisition of Inmarsat, combining the technologies and resources of both companies to strengthen its global connectivity solutions.

Disney Cruise Line has officially entered the Asian cruise market with the maiden voyage of the Disney Adventure, which set sail from Singapore on March 10. The ship becomes the eighth vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and the first to operate in Asia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion.

The launch of Disney Adventure strengthens The Walt Disney Company’s presence in one of the fastest growing travel regions while also tapping into cruising, one of the most rapidly expanding segments of global tourism.

Joe Schott, President of Disney Signature Experiences, highlighted the significance of the new ship, describing it as a global brand ambassador for Disney Cruise Line. He noted that the vessel brings together Disney’s storytelling, entertainment, and renowned service into a fully immersive cruise experience designed to create lasting memories for guests.

The debut of the ship forms part of Disney Cruise Line’s broader expansion strategy. The company has announced plans to introduce five additional cruise ships between 2027 and 2031, further strengthening its presence in the global cruise industry.

The Disney Adventure is also helping introduce new travellers to Disney cruise vacations. According to a survey of the first guests who booked sailings on the ship, more than 90 percent are sailing with Disney Cruise Line for the first time. The data also indicates that most passengers are first-time cruisers, highlighting the brand’s ability to attract new audiences across Southeast Asia.

Families make up a significant portion of the passengers, reinforcing Disney Cruise Line’s strong appeal in multigenerational travel, a travel trend that is particularly popular in the region. Additionally, many guests plan to spend time in Singapore before or after their cruise, which is expected to contribute positively to the local tourism economy.

Although many passengers are new to cruising with Disney, their familiarity with the brand remains strong. Most guests report having previously experienced Disney through theme parks, films, television shows, or consumer products, making the cruise journey a natural extension of the Disney storytelling universe.

The new ship also brings the Disney experience closer to travellers in the region. For instance, Hong Kong Disneyland is located more than 1,500 miles from Singapore, and the arrival of the Disney Adventure provides a more accessible way for guests in Southeast Asia to enjoy Disney-themed experiences.

Looking ahead, Disney is continuing to expand its cruise footprint in Asia. The company has previously announced plans to collaborate with Oriental Land Co., Ltd. to introduce Disney cruise vacations in Japan, with operations expected to begin by early 2029.

With its Asia debut through the Disney Adventure, Disney Cruise Line aims to connect with new audiences, strengthen its presence in the region, and further grow its global cruise tourism portfolio.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has announced the appointment of Memo Hernandez as its new Executive Chef, bringing over two decades of global culinary experience to the historic luxury hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Chef Memo, originally from Costa Rica, joins the 94-year-old property after building an extensive career in luxury hospitality across different parts of the world. Most recently, he worked in the Bahamas, and his previous culinary journey has taken him to destinations including Kosovo, Vietnam, Tanzania, Maldives, Fiji, Dubai, and several other international locations.

In his new role, Chef Memo will oversee the hotel’s culinary programme and lead the teams across its key dining venues. These include Cafe d’Angkor, the signature all-day brasserie serving Asian and international dishes; 1932, the hotel’s Khmer fine-dining restaurant; The Conservatory, known for the classic Raffles Afternoon Tea experience; and the hotel’s banquet operations.

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Chef Memo Hernandez said,

“I am thrilled to be joining Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, one of Asia’s most iconic luxury hotels, whose extraordinary range of culinary offerings includes the truly exclusive Bespoke Temple Dinner. I am both honoured and inspired to present my culinary creations in the sacred temples of Angkor Wat.”

One of the most distinctive dining experiences at the hotel is the Bespoke Temple Dinner, offered as part of the Raffles ‘Curated Journeys’ programme introduced in 2024. The experience takes place within the ancient temple complex of Angkor, where torch-lit surroundings create a memorable setting among the historic relics of the Khmer Empire.

The specially designed meal draws inspiration from the hotel’s original 1936 menu, which was once served in the same historic setting. Guests also enjoy an evening of traditional Cambodian Apsara dance, performed against the backdrop of the temple structures.

Chef Memo also expressed his enthusiasm for working closely with local producers in Cambodia.

“I’m also very excited to partner with local suppliers as we tap into the incredible fresh produce and resources of Cambodia,” he added.

A specialist in Nikkei cuisine, Chef Memo brings a unique culinary perspective shaped by his global journey. Nikkei cuisine is a century-old culinary tradition that originated from Japanese immigrants in Peru, blending influences in a way that reflects cultural identity rather than simply combining recipes.

Speaking about his culinary philosophy, Chef Memo said,

“My cuisine isn’t a ‘fusion’ of recipes. It’s a culinary autobiography. It’s the authentic food of a global citizen who has lived across borders and refused to leave any of those flavours behind.”

Welcoming the new Executive Chef, Joseph Colina, General Manager of Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, said,

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Memo to Raffles, where he will play a critical role in continuing to elevate our culinary offerings and delivering unforgettable, authentic experiences that honour our rich heritage while embracing innovative global influences for our discerning guests.”

With this appointment, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor continues to strengthen its culinary direction while celebrating its long-standing heritage and unique dining experiences in the historic setting of Angkor.