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When it comes to grand gestures, painting your entire city in the one colour is quite something. So much for painting the town red. How about pink? Jaipur beckons as one of India's most enchanting destinations, where the Old City is harmoniously bathed in the same pink hue. The elegant capital of Rajasthan was painted in pink stucco in 1876 to welcome Albert Edward, the Prince of Wales, who was the son of Queen Victoria and later became King Edward VII. Jaipur's Maharaja chose the colour because pink symbolises hospitality in Rajput culture, and the gesture impressed the Prince so much that he nicknamed the city the "Pink City." The name – and the stucco - has stuck ever since. A year later, a law mandated that all future buildings in the Old City must be painted pink. As I swept into Jaipur on a private holiday Wendy Wu Tours, there's no denying how that welcoming palette sweetly seduces even the most jaded of travellers. Jaipur effortlessly casts you under its spell, as you delve into its rich history and treasury of enticements. There is an unmistakeable magic about the place. Nearly 300 years ago, an enlightened maharajah with a penchant for jewels and a keen eye for architecture built this planned city, wedged between the arid hills of northwest India. Built in the form of a rectangle, Jaipur was divided into nine blocks, seven for public use and two reserved for the state's most prestigious palaces and buildings. The entire city was girdled by a formidable protective wall. Called Jaipur after the city's founder, Jai Singh II, the planned city soon gave rise to astonishing royal palaces and vast workshops of artisans recruited to establish a new commercial hub. These days, gem cutters, jewellery designers and garment-makers are still doing a flourishing trade in Jaipur. And the royals still occupy a wing of the majestic City Palace, while gleaming mid-rise towers and a new subway system anchor Jaipur's forward march. But for all the contemporary progress, it's the architectural grandeur, proud sense of place and thriving craftwork traditions that make this destination so infectious. Street markets are splashed in colour and handicrafts, and Hindu temples can be found nearly every 100 metres. Though the streets heave with beeping and belching traffic, aimless tourists and dung-dropping cows, there is a charm and charisma to the carnival of commotion. Close to City Palace, my wonderful Wendy Wu Tours guide Vipin treated us to some sizzling old-school retail therapy. We walked under the peeling pink porticos of the roadside bazaars which were emblazoned with everything from puppets to pyjama pants; passing by carts of fried chickpea cakes, and marble-lined shrines with statues of Hindu gods. Garment-hunting was high on the agenda, for gifts to take home. Vipin led us to his favourite shop, where an explosion of colourful fabrics heaped in piles and stacked to the ceiling soon greeted us, as attentive staff served us Masala chai. Whether you're after local, authentic t-shirts, shirts, trousers, scarfs, saris, rugs, cushion covers, towels or table-cloths…this is textile and garment-shopping heaven. As my sister snapped up some sensational saris, I haggled down the price on a sublime tablecloth with block-printed red elephants. The other boom retail business is jewellery, because Jaipur is a global centre for cutting and polishing precious and semiprecious gems. Head to Jewels Emporium's stately white building and take a tour of the workshops, where cutters shape facets, and men at workbenches adorn gold settings with jewels, and rinse the gold dust from their hands in wash basins. That water is later sold to extraction companies. The quality of the workmanship is second to none, true Rajasthan's abiding legacy. Jaipur's Pink City bragging rights is best epitomised by the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. We stopped by to pose in front of this five-story palace façade, constructed from pink sandstone. Built in 1799, its iconic facade features 953 small windows which allowed royal women of the court to observe street processions without being seen while also creating a natural cooling effect. The palace's architecture is a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, ornately designed with protruding bays of lattice stonework and cupolas mimicking Krishna's crown. Could there be a more glorious façade in the world? City Palace is a stirring complex to leisurely explore, peppered with mouth-watering architecture, tranquil courtyards and lush gardens. The prize draw is the Palace of the Breeze, a triumph in building design, whereby the air circulates so efficiently that it keeps the occupants cool even in the extreme summer months, when the mercury can nudge 50 degrees. The on-site museum is studded with royal treasures, costumes and curiosities. Out in the courtyard, I admired some massive silver vessels that carried the Maharaja's drinking water from the Ganges River to London in 1902 for Edward VII's coronation. You can see the royal reception rooms that are still in use, where Jaipur's royal family entertain guests in an ornate dining room and parlour, where chairs have silver lions for armrests. The walls are painted with gold dust and extracts of rubies and emeralds. Yipin pointed out where the royal family reside. There's a lot of tabloid tattle about Jaipur's current Maharaja, Pacho Singh. He's only 27, quite the polo-playing playboy and is currently living in the palace with his French girlfriend. But it's fully expected he cannot marry her, in deference to royal tradition and Rajasthan's adherence to arranged marriages and astrological alignment. Beyond the Old City, no visit to Jaipur is complete without savouring the sky-piercing magnificence of the four-hundred-year-old Amber Fort. (Pronounced Ah-meer.) Sprawling across the upper reaches of a hillside like a scene out Return of the Jedi, this fortress was previously the seat of power for the Rajput kings from 1599, before relocating to Jaipur's Old City just over a century later. En-route to the fort, Vipin led us to the most dreamy viewpoint, on the shores of Lake Maotha, where we gazed up in awe at this hilltop colossus. Brightly dressed elephants lumbered by, readying to carry visitors up the slope to the fortress. I had previously taken an elephant ride up to Amber Fort, but I've put weight on since then and am more mindful of animal welfare. We opted for a jeep ride through the skinny lanes snaking their way up to Sun Gate. From here, we marvelled over the China Wall-esque fortifications, the Amber Wall, riding across the ridgelines as far as the eye can see. ( It's 12km in length.) But this Rajput stronghold hooks in the tourist hordes principally for its gobsmacking array of palatial buildings and extravagant ornamental gardens. In shades of honey and rose stone, white marble and gilt decor, it's a frothy fusion of ornate Hindu and Islamic design. Amber Fort's exquisite craftsmanship is best exemplified by the Mirror Palace, or Sheesh Mahal. Candlelight dinners would have been next-level. A single lit candle spangles the beautifully cut Belgian glass panels and mirror mosaics that festoon the walls of the banquet room, transforming the space into a night-sky kaleidoscope across the walls and ceiling. Apparently, this room was made by the Maharaja so that the Maharani (queen) could see the stars at night, as she was not allowed to sleep in the open. Other highlights include the many-pillared Diwan-i-Am, the Hall of Public Audience; the Jal Mandir, or Hall of Victory, which features carved marble panels, a mirrored ceiling, and expansive views over the ramparts of the fort. The Sukh Niwas, the Hall of Pleasure, is another drop-dead-gorgeous marble room that was cleverly cooled with water. Here, the Maharaja reportedly relaxed with his ladies. Amber Fort is a resplendent blockbuster, reverberating with the glory days of Rajput rule in Rajasthan. Jaipur residents are rightly proud of their architectural showstoppers. One of the signature attributes to the city is the fact that some historic palaces, no longer required for the affairs of state, have been reimagined as beacons of hospitality. But I stayed at a brand-new luxury build that is a grand triumph of contemporary construction, fully inspired by Jaipur's landmarks and Rajasthani finesse. Introducing Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur. Whether it's for a big bling-bling Bollywood wedding or for immersive luxury experiences away from the heaving throng of Jaipur's tourist spots, this hotel delivers a tour de force in lavish Rajasthani living, with a contemporary take. It is splendour defined. As our Wendy Wu Tours driver pulled into the entrance, a troupe of Rajasthani dancers and costumed drummers serenaded our arrival in spectacular, effervescent style. Unfurling over 5.5 lush acres, the grand hotel's money shot is its sensational main façade, drawing rich inspiration from Amber Fort and Rajasthan's royal palaces. Features include majestic arches, intricately designed jharokhas (bay windows), and graceful chhajjas (overhanging eaves) and detailed carvings. It was thoughtfully painted in the same colours as Amber Fort's walls during golden hour. Rajputana history and heritage permeates the hotel. You'll notice it in the materials—yellowstone from Jaisalmer, marble from Banswara and Makrana, and locally sourced timbered. There's the treasury of sublime artworks, notably including portraits of Rajput warriors and royalty. Peek inside the Rang Mahal ballroom, where the walls are completely covered with celebratory nods to the state's heritage. It was handpainted over two-and-a-half years by third-generation artists. Delicate thikri glasswork, hand-carved wood accents, and intricate gold leaf detailing abound across the hotel. Amer Bagh garden venue unfurls like a verdant blanket at the base of the hotel – and is a stirring outdoor venue. Jai Bagh (victory garden is the main outdoor space for guest and I was absolutely enthralled delving into the daily bazaar that is staged here in the afternoon, complete with puppeteers, block printers, bangle makers and astrologers. Anantara's core DNA is to create hotels steeped in local elements and the Jaipur addition excels at delivering exactly that. You can even go chowk-hopping, vegetable shopping and cooking with local women. The hotel boasts 150 rooms and suites, layered across five categories, with most overlooking the inner courtyard or Jai Bagh. We stayed in the Anantara One-Bedroom Terrace Suite, which is kitted out with its own outdoor Jacuzzi and expansive terrace. I was transfixed here watching muscular monsoon thunderstorms tear up the sky and soak the land! Guestrooms do not skimp on celebrating the sense of place, with sumptuous comforts and artful design elements, from the zardozi on the pillows, thikri work on the headboards, wooden jharokas by the window nooks, and Mughal miniature art on the walls. If that's not enough to tempt you, Anantara's first outpost in India will enchant you with its gastronomic verve. Led by Executive Chef Sunil Jajoria, Sheesh Mahal is a pinch-yourself jewel box of a venue, to experience the true essence of Rajasthan with exquisitely fitted out with glittering mirror mosaics, dressed in 350,000 pieces of glass, inspired by the legendary Mirror Palace. Coud there be a more wondrous place to savour the true essence of Rajasthan's culinary brilliance? The menu marries traditional Rajasthani delicacies with global influences, paired with signature cocktails like the Jewel of Jaipur. Jajoria, a Rajasthan native, has been researching local cuisine for the last seven years. Perfected over 20 trials, his menu dives deep into how maharajas entertained. His tasting menu kicks off with hummus that tastes like Bikaneri bhujia, moving on to ker sangri kebabs, besan kebabs mimicking paneer (as there was no paneer in the history of Rajasthan, says the chef), and Shekhawati maas tacos. The menu is handwritten by the chef himself, on vintage paper he has been collecting since his he was a boy. Pair this menu with the ‘Echoes of Distillation' spirit tasting of heritage liquor from the royal family of Mahansar. It's mixology at its finest, with no shortage of artful theatre thrown in. Another cracking experience is Amrit Mahal, the vibrant all-day dining venue, which presents a diverse array of international and Indian specialties. There were too many highlights to recount, but the lamb baos, edamame truffle dimsums, lotus root on fire, Cantonese buttermilk prawns, soba noodles, and Japanese caramel cheesecake were all pleasurably devoured. The buffet breakfast here is like a royal banquet! The spa experience is a signature feature pillar of any Anantara property, and resident experts were brought in from Thailand to train the Jaipur team. The treatment repertoire remains consistent with their global spa menus—a mix of Ayurveda, Thai massages, and western therapies. I deployed my sister to the spa for some personal panel-beating and she is still buzzing about the deep tissue massage she savoured. She rates it as the best massage of her life, “life-affirming, age-reducing and liberating.” Another starring attribute of the hotel is its genuine sense of connection with the community. As a part of their grassroots outreach, the hotel works with local women to make the rotis on their menu on a chulha or traditional clay stove. You can take an early morning trip to the flower market or a guided farming experience. Even better, take a private visit to Hathi Gaon, which is a community of rescue elephants residing in their natural habitat. Or partake in a local culinary class. I was particularly impressed that the hotel takes care of their staff's accommodation needs, building nearby apartments to ensure they are well-housed. Hospitality is as sparkling as the palace-like hotel itself - faultless, ultra-attentive, charismatic and truly unforgettable. Treat yourself to a remarkable Jaipur escape at Anantara Jewel Bagh. You'll be royally treated from the moment you arrive. You will not want to leave. www.anantara.com Delve into India and the Golden Triangle with the award-winning tour specialists across Asia and beyond. I chose a tailor-made Classic India private holiday, that enables you optimise your itinerary and accommodation preferences, as much as you wish. The itinerary can be as active or as laid back as you are, with full flexibility over included meals and excursions. You'll be in the best of hands with Wendy Wu Tours. www.wendywutours.co.nz/india From New Zealand, it's just a one-stop connection to a multitude of destinations in India, including New Delhi, with Singapore Airlines, on their various daily services from Auckland and Christchurch to Singapore. Enjoy well-timed connections for an easy transit in Singapore. Across all classes of travel, the award-winning carrier has not only fostered a world-beating reputation for its exceptional customer service and in-flight product, but also its innovation. Become a KrisFlyer member and enjoy complimentary in-flight WiFi. For best fares and seats to suit head to https://www.singaporeair.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ABOUT THIS EPISODEToday's guest is Lisa Partridge, communication skills specialist, facilitator, founder of SIXCOMMS and host of the SIXCOMMS podcast. I had the joy of getting to know Lisa through following each other on LinkedIn, and through our shared passion for working in nature with leaders. Lisa invites people to ‘Come Curious, and Leave Connected'.In our conversation Lisa offers valuable insights into:The 3Cs of human-centred effective communication: Connection, Curiosity and Compassion;The benefits of taking conversations outside in nature;How being in nature allows us to listen more deeply and be more present with ourselves and each other;How taking our conversations outside in nature can unlock insight and give us the clarity to see the path ahead.Lisa's Three Key Encouragements to Leaders:Connection first, always.Step outside to see inside.Slow down to lead strong.About Lisa:Originally from the UK and based in Singapore since 2009, Lisa Partridge is a communication skills specialist, facilitator, and founder of SIXCOMMS. She has worked with leading organisations including Singapore Airlines, Marina Bay Sands, Maxwell Chambers, and ADB Bank. Guided by her 6Cs of Effective Communication: Connection, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Customization, and Consistency, Lisa helps leaders and teams communicate with greater impact. She also hosts The SIXCOMMS Podcast, now with over 70 episodes, and leads 6Cs walking sessions in Singapore's parks, where a community of professionals “Come Curious, Leave Connected.”To connect, follow and find out more about Lisa:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/Website: www.sixcomms.orgInstagram: @sixcommslisaYouTube: www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations2025Lisa's Podcast: sixcomms.buzzsprout.comFree download: The 6Cs of a Thriving Communicator GuideTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.com; to listen to Finding Your Collaborative Edge with Lucy Kidd and I, to do go our website www.Collaboration.Equation.

Iconic. Few world landmarks exemplify the full meaning of that word quite like the Taj Mahal. I've just enjoyed freshly communing with the wondrous masterpiece in Agra, as part of a private tour of Classic India with Wendy Wu Tours. Four hours drive from New Delhi, Agra is rough and ready in places, much like the driving standards on India's roads. As my delightful Wendy Wu Tours driver Mr Singh observed, “There are three golden rules when driving in India. You need a good horn, good brakes and good luck.” Before savouring the gleaming Taj, my Wendy Wu Tours guide Nadeem led us on an enlightening tour around Agra Fort. En-route, we passed a decrepit sandstone building that Nadeem remarked had become nicknamed the “Monkey House” by locals. Apparently a vast tribe of 200 Rhesus macaques inhabit the crumbling building, running riot on the adjoining road when they head out to find food. Agra Fort is a marvel, a mighty red sandstone fortress overlooking the Yamuna River. It was established by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century, who was a descendant of Genghis Khan. The sprawling fort served as a military base and a royal residence, as well as the seat of government when Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire. The complex is a delight to explore, radiantly reflecting the architectural grandeur of the Mughal reign – a fusion of Persian and Indian design flourishes. Highlights include the Pearl Mosque, constructed by Shah Jahan. This tranquil and perfectly proportioned structure is made entirely of white marble. The splendid Palace of Mirrors (Sheesh Mahal), had its walls and ceilings inlaid with thousands of small mirrors. The fort also served as a prison and Nadeem led us to gaze at where Shah Jahān sadly spent the last eight years of life, in his gilded cage. Aurangzeb, his son and successor as emperor, incarcerated him there in 1658. At least Jahan could gaze across to his finest triumph, his sublime Taj Mahal, rising proudly on the horizon, around the river bend. Another headline sight at Agra Fort is the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah in Agra, India. Nicknamed the baby Taj, it's considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal. It was built 30 years earlier, for the father of the Mughal Empress Nur Jahan. The alarm clock was set for an early wake-up the following morning, to witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The last time I visited the Taj fourteen years ago, we timed it for sunset – but the crowd crush detracted from the experience. Wendy Wu Tours strongly recommended a sunrise visit – and they weren't wrong. There were barely a hundred people on site for the dawn of a new day and the absence of crowds enhances the encounter immeasurably. (Nor will you battling extreme heat.) After duly posing for photos on the marble bench immortalised by Princess Diana's visit, it was positively soothing to size up this colossal marble mausoleum from every angle and vantage point, as a yolky sunrise stamped its presence on proceedings. I felt lost in awe-inspired reflection in the ornamental gardens. Built as a memorial by Shah Jahan for his third wife, who died giving birth to their 14th child, it is arguably the world's greatest monument to love. The emperor was apparently so heartbroken by her death, his hair turned grey overnight. Construction of the monument began within 12 months, with the bulk of the building taking 8 years to complete. 20,000 people from India and Central Asia worked on the building, while specialists from Europe were brought in to produce the exquisite marble screens and inlay work. Much of the gold and precious stones were later looted by British soldiers. Following his death, Shah Jahan was buried here, alongside his third wife. There are so many touches to his masterpiece to admire. Look closely and you'll notice that the four soaring minarets are all subtly tilted away from the main building, so that they won't fall on it, in the event of a major earthquake. I love how the building was purposefully positioned pointing north, so that it is bathed in maximum sunlight from dawn to dusk, heightening the creamy lustre of the marble. And nothing detracts in the background. Built on a raised platform with its back to the river, the backdrop is only sky – a masterstroke in design, which adds to its timeless enchantment. It was striking how serious they are taking the threat of air pollution around the Taj mahal, with an enormous perimeter area, clamping down on vehicle use and the forced closure of factories in proximity to the monument. Previously, the Taj Mahal has been spruced up with an ancient face-pack recipe known as multani mitti. This blend of soil, cereal, milk and lime beautifies the skin. I must try it. They're very proud of all things Mughal in Agra so why not tuck into some Mughlai cuisine? This rich, meaty and aromatic culinary style blends Indian flavours with Persian, Turkish, and Central Asian influences. It is known for its creamy, rich gravies, elaborate dishes, and the liberal use of aromatic spices, almonds, cashews, dried fruits, and dairy products. Famous dishes chicken biryani, chicken korma and rogan josh. A decadent dessert steeped in Mughal Empire tradition is Shahi Tukda. Translating as royal bread, this version of bread pudding consists of crisp, fried bread slices soaked in sugar syrup and adorned with a creamy blend of milk, cornflour, spices, and nuts. Delicious! Great street snacks include peitha, a square sweet made from pumpkin and glucose and flavoured with rosewater, coconut or saffron. Also try gajak, a slightly spicy sesame-seed biscuit strip. I sampled some great local dining while staying at the Grand Imperial Hotel, in the heart of Agra. Standing proud since the early 1900s, this British colonial-era property with its soothing arches and colonnades and sprawling garden is a haven of elegant heritage and affordable luxury. It was built for the British as the Colonial Hotel and the property is steeped in period furnishings. This heritage gem gracefully merges historical charm with contemporary comfort. Every corner of the property reverberates with history's echoes and nods to ancient royalty, adorned with plush Lahori bricks, regal arches, and exquisite paintings. The sparkling swimming pool and lush gardens are a serene sanctuary to unwind the body, after a hot, sticky day of sightseeing. Hospitality is flawless and you'll be pleasantly surprised at the bargain accommodation rates. Strike it lucky and the hotel may well be hosting a bling-bling Indian wedding, while you're in-house. That is quite the spectacle! Delve into India with the award-winning tour specialists across Asia and beyond. Choose a tailor-made private holiday to optimise your itinerary and accommodation preferences, as much as you wish. The itinerary can be as active or as laid back as you are, with full flexibility over included meals and excursions. You'll be in the best of hands with Wendy Wu Tours. www.wendywutours.co.nz/india From New Zealand, it's just a one-stop connection to a multitude of destinations in India, including New Delhi, with Singapore Airlines, on their various daily services from Auckland and Christchurch to Singapore. Enjoy well-timed connections for an easy transit in Singapore. Across all classes of travel, the award-winning carrier has not only fostered a world-beating reputation for its exceptional customer service and in-flight product, but also its innovation. Become a KrisFlyer member and enjoy complimentary in-flight WiFi. For best fares and seats to suit head to https://www.singaporeair.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do we travel with? How do we prefer to travel? What are our travel hacks? If you are seasoned travel or just getting into that hamster wheel, this is the episode for you. Our thoughts, best practices and hacks on traveling.Share with us yours on LinkedIn or X.Our co-hosts:Bertrand Schmitt, Entrepreneur in Residence at Red River West, co-founder of App Annie / Data.ai, business angel, advisor to startups and VC funds, @bschmittNuno Goncalves Pedro, Investor, Managing Partner, Founder at Chamaeleon, @ngpedroOur show: Tech DECIPHERED brings you the Entrepreneur and Investor views on Big Tech, VC and Start-up news, opinion pieces and research. We decipher their meaning, and add inside knowledge and context. Being nerds, we also discuss the latest gadgets and pop culture news Subscribe To Our Podcast Nuno Goncalves PedroINTRODUCTIONWelcome to Episode 69 of Tech DECIPHERED. Today we'll go on a slightly softer note and discuss our travel hacks and preferences. Bertrand and I often are asked, "What do you guys travel with? What do you prefer to travel with? What are your travel hacks?" And a few other questions in this world of hamster wheel travelling.Today we'll share a bunch of our preferences. We'll share a lot of the things we travel with, from luggage to electronics to other services and devices. We will share to the best of our knowledge, how to really do it in style, if that's at all possible, once you're in that hamster wheel. We'll share some of our hacks, not only for business travelling, but also for leisure travelling. Interesting stuff. We all have our hacks. We all have our stuff going on.PREFERENCES TRAVELAirlines, alliances, loyalty programsMaybe we start with airlines and all the things around that. Bertrand.Bertrand SchmittYeah, sure. Don't get me started on Air France, who cancelled on me a huge quantity of miles without alerting me, without notice, just a few weeks before I was supposed to take a flight. I will try my best to never use them again.Nuno Goncalves PedroIt was that bad. Air France is out, so that's the beginning. Let's maybe talk about the guys who are in. I'll give you my top airlines around the world. Obviously this depends. Depends if you have to travel through that region or if you're travelling to that region. My favourites, I think maybe not sure if it's in full order, but I would say Emirates, obviously, Qatar Airways. If you're hubbing through Middle East or if you're going to the Middle East, two amazing airlines, probably two of the best in the world.I would say maybe Emirates is my favourite now. I have to be thoughtful in how I put that forward. Qatar is also exceptional, obviously if you're hubbing through Doha. Incredible airline as well. The Asian ones in general, we'll leave the Chinese for a second because that's a different ballgame all together. Let's not say all Asian ones and obviously different ones are great.I'd say Singapore Airlines continues being systematically an exceptional airline. They've become very expensive, but an exceptional airline. A little bit SOP driven, only airline in the world, true story, that I complained not once or twice, but three times on the same incident, and I actually never got a response from them on an incident which is interesting. In general, service is exceptional. Their facilities at Changi Airport are exceptional. The planes are really well-kept, the food is great, very attentious, and really like them.Cathay, I haven't flown with them in a while. They went through a bit of a slump at some point. They were my favourite for a long time. Then they went through a bit of a slump in terms of product in particular, in terms of the quality of the product, in terms of the quality of the seats, service on board, et cetera. I've heard positive things recently, so maybe worthwhile putting them back on my Top 5 list around the world.Then the Korean Airlines in general are pretty strong on s...

This week on Transit Unplugged:We head to Singapore, where public transit covers every inch of the island—and carries an astonishing 7.5 million riders daily.Host Paul Comfort sits down with Winston Toh, Managing Director of Tower Transit Singapore, one of four operators under the Land Transport Authority (LTA). With 800 buses across 60 routes, Tower Transit is at the center of a system designed with precision—and powered by centralized planning.Winston shares:Why bus ridership (3.8M daily) surpasses rail (3.4M) in Singapore How LTA ensures full national coverage and low fares (as little as $0.69 for seniors) Why “every inch of the land is covered” with integrated bus and rail systems The role of AI-enabled safety tools, including fatigue detection and driver incentive programs How Tower Transit fosters a people-first culture, with 80% staff engagement and Singapore Best Employer status The company's goal to become “the Singapore Airlines of the bus industry” Whether you're an operator, planner, or policymaker, this episode offers a blueprint for equitable, efficient, and tech-forward mobility.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort Executive Producer — Julie Gates Producer — Chris O'KeeffeEdited and Mixed by — Chris O'Keeffe + Patrick EmileAssociate Producer — Cyndi Raskin Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual-property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

In this week's Quick Hits, DeAndre Coke dives into some of the most significant updates in the travel and points space. He breaks down Chase's massive new welcome offers on Ink Business Cash and Ink Business Unlimited, which can unlock up to 90,000 Ultimate Rewards points. DeAndre also covers a long-awaited upgrade to the Avios ecosystem, where a new platform now makes transfers between British Airways, Iberia, Qatar, Finnair, and Aer Lingus seamless and instant. Hilton's fast-track Diamond promotion through Hilton for Business is highlighted as a new path for elite status, while Hyatt Regency promotions continue to add value for frequent travelers. The most significant update of the week is the refresh of the Amex Platinum and Business Platinum cards, bringing higher fees but also enhanced benefits, including expanded Fine Hotels & Resorts credits, new Resi dining credits, and added lifestyle perks like Lululemon. Finally, he shares valuable community-sourced tips for paying taxes with business credit cards more efficiently and sets the stage for exciting giveaways coming with the podcast's 100th episode.Key takeaways: Chase Ink offers: New 90,000-point bonuses on Ink Business Cash and Ink Business Unlimited after meeting spend requirements.Avios transfer upgrade: A new system makes transferring Avios between programs, such as BA, Qatar, Iberia, and Finnair, seamless and instant.Hilton fast-track: Complete 10 Hilton for Business nights by December 15 to earn Diamond status through 2027.Amex Platinum refresh: Personal and Business Platinum annual fees increase to $895, but new perks include $600 in Fine Hotels & Resorts credits, Resi dining credits, and Lululemon credits.Business Platinum boost: Large spend categories and $5,000+ purchases now earn 2x points instead of 1.5x.Centurion lounges: The new Amex app introduces waitlist features for lounges, plus improved tracking for welcome bonuses.Hilton devaluation: Top-tier properties now cost up to 250,000 points per night, raising the bar for aspirational stays.Alaska changes: Alaska's Atmos Rewards program is scaling back partnerships with LATAM and Singapore Airlines.Tax payments hack: Paying estimated taxes via PayPal with a business card can reduce fees to 1.85%.Resources:Our WhatsApp Community Group InvitationInk Business Card Referral LinkHyatt status for AA elites (register by October 31)Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth...

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke dives into major updates shaping the travel and points space. He covers the scrapping of the U.S. flight delay compensation plan, explaining what protections travelers still have and why booking with the right credit card is more important than ever. The conversation also explores Emirates' new restriction, which bans children under eight from flying first class with miles, a move that has sparked controversy among family travelers. Additional updates include Alaska Airlines ending its LATAM partnership, Hilton Honors' third devaluation in less than a year, Hyatt Regency's new bonus points promotion, and key transfer bonuses from Amex, Citi, and Capital One. DeAndre also discusses the transition of the podcast community from Facebook Messenger to WhatsApp, highlighting the importance of staying connected with other travelers.Key takeaways: Flight delay compensation scrapped: U.S. travelers now only entitled to refunds if flights are canceled.Credit card protections matter: Booking with Chase Sapphire Reserve, Ink Preferred, Amex, or Capital One can provide strong trip insurance.Emirates first-class policy change: Kids under eight can no longer fly first class on award bookings.Alaska ends LATAM partnership: Also scaling back redemptions with Singapore Airlines.Hilton devaluation: Top properties like Waldorf Maldives now cost up to 250K points per night.Citi Strata Elite account freezes: Some applicants face 4506-C tax transcript requests before accounts are unlocked.Mesa Bonus Offer: Refer two friends to unlock a 50,000-point Mesa bonus after $10,000 spend in 90 days (plus 5,000 points per referral); remember, you must link your mortgage and spend $1,000/month to earn mortgage-linked Mesa points.Taxes on Credit Cards: Paying quarterly estimated taxes via Pay1040/ACI (≈1.75–1.85% personal; ≈2.9–2.95% business) can be worth it to hit SUBs and earn elite nightsHyatt Regency promotion: Up to 20K bonus points for stays through Nov. 23, booked via the Hyatt app.Community shift: Podcast group chat moving from Facebook Messenger to WhatsApp due to Facebook Group Chats being locked away.Resources:Our WhatsApp Community Group InvitationMesa Homeowners Card Review: Earn Points On Your Mortgage with CEO Kelley Halpin (Ep. 81)Can You Really Earn Points on Your Mortgage? Mesa Card Review blog postMesa Homeowners Card Referral LinkHyatt status for AA elites (register by October 31)Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our...

We took a KLM Business Class Flight from San Diego to Amsterdam and are giving you the inside scoop on our experience. From the check-in process and lounge access at SAN, to the onboard service, seat comfort, in-flight dining, and even how we felt stepping off the plane in Amsterdam we're covering it all. Whether you're planning an international trip or just curious about what it's like to fly KLM's premium cabin on a long-haul route, this episode has everything you need to know.Here's what we cover:Seat setup: window vs middle seats, storage, and lie-flat comfortAmenity kit + perks: champagne, mocktails, noise-canceling headphones, and moreIn-flight dining: from crab salad & truffle pasta to French toast & cheese platesEntertainment & WiFi (or lack of it)Service experience: how KLM stacks up against Singapore Airlines & othersThe iconic ceramic Dutch house souvenir Our overall rating: 7/10 good value, but with some missesCheck out our other airline reviews:American Airlines Domestic Business ClassSingapore Airlines Business ClassSingapore Airlines Premium EconomyCathay Pacific Premium EconomyFind great flight deals by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $10 off your first year subscription.—---------------------------------------Shop: Trip Itineraries ⁠& ⁠Amazon Storefront ⁠Connect: ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠, and ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠and contact us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!

In Episode 21 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss recent news in the world of miles and points, in addition to answering listeners' questions. The Frugal Flyer team shares details about their upcoming 'Miles and Pints' event in Calgary in September, upcoming changes to the Aeroplan program, and reviews the new WestJet Business Credit Card and National Bank World Elite MasterCard offers. This episode also covers the record-high offer on the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card and the introduction of CLEAR+ for Canadians. They wrap up by answering listener questions about closing credit cards, spending in Europe, preferred carry-on luggage brands, and leveraging the Marriott Bonvoy and Singapore Airlines status match opportunity.

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke dives into the latest updates in the travel and points world, breaking down key changes that impact both frequent travelers and beginners. He covers the return of Zil Money's payroll feature via credit card, new updates to American Express Platinum benefits, and Singapore Airlines' decision to increase award redemption rates. The conversation also highlights the launch of Alaska Airlines' new Atmos Rewards premium card, as well as the expansion of Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts with additional luxury properties. DeAndre wraps up with important updates on the record-high Chase Sapphire Reserve welcome bonus and current transfer bonuses, emphasizing the importance of understanding credit card coding and carefully weighing benefits against annual fees to maximize value.Key takeaways: Zil Money Update: Payroll via credit card is now operational, although coding nuances remain important.Amex Platinum Benefits: New credits have been added, but travelers should reassess the value against the higher fees.Singapore Airlines: Increased award redemption rates make certain routes more expensive for points travelers.Alaska Airlines Card: The new Atmos Rewards premium card offers strong earning potential for loyal flyers.Amex FHR Expansion: Fine Hotels & Resorts has added more properties, expanding redemption opportunities.Chase Sapphire Reserve: Currently offering its largest-ever welcome bonus, making it a strong option for new applicants.Transfer Bonuses: Varying offers across issuers can present value, but must be compared carefully.Credit Card Coding: Understanding how charges are categorized is essential for maximizing points.Community Connection: Listener discussions and Facebook group updates remain vital for staying informed.Resources:Hyatt status for AA elites (register by October 31)AA status for Hyatt elites, targeted (register by September 4)Aeroplan Reserve 5,000 Mile CertificateBook a Free 30-minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on...

Singapore Airlines will be increasing the KrisFlyer miles needed for award flights from Nov 1, with some routes rising by 20% Now while the changes mean higher costs for members on several popular routes, travel experts say there are still redemption opportunities that make sense. But what do these changes really mean for frequent travellers? How can you make the most of your SIA KrisFlyer miles after the devaluation in redemption rates? On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong speaks with Aaron Wong, Founder of The Milelion, to find out more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Có nên chuyển toàn bộ các chuyến bay quốc tế từ Sân bay Tân Sơn Nhất đến Sân bay Long Thành ngay từ năm 2026? Đó là vấn đề đang gây nhiều tranh cãi tại Việt Nam và nhiều chuyên gia đã bày tỏ sự quan ngại về phương án này.  Công trình xây dựng sân bay quốc tế Long Thành, trên diện tích 5.000 ha, được chia làm ba giai đoạn. Giai đoạn một dự kiến hoàn thành cuối năm nay. Theo kế hoạch dự trù, vào ngày 19/12/2025, chuyến bay “kỹ thuật” đầu tiên cất cánh từ Sân bay Nội Bài, Hà Nội, sẽ hạ cánh xuống đường băng Sân bay Long Thành. Kể từ giữa năm tới, trên nguyên tắc sân bay quốc tế mới này sẽ được đưa vào hoạt động, trước mắt là với công suất 25 triệu lượt khách và 1,2 triệu tấn hàng hóa mỗi năm. Sân bay sau khi hoàn tất giai đoạn đầu được được mô tả là “với hạ tầng hiện đại, nhà ga rộng, công nghệ tự động hóa và luồng di chuyển thông thoáng”. Tổng công ty Cảng Hàng không Việt Nam (ACV) đã đề ra hai phương án: Hoặc là chuyển toàn bộ chuyến bay quốc tế về Long Thành ngay từ 2026, hoặc chỉ dời các đường bay quốc tế dài, giữ lại các chặng ngắn ở Tân Sơn Nhất. Theo báo chí Việt Nam, Cục Hàng không Việt Nam và nhiều hãng bay quốc tế cũng “cơ bản nhất trí” với phương án tập trung toàn bộ chuyến bay quốc tế về Long Thành, cho rằng như vậy sẽ “thuận tiện quản lý, tối ưu nguồn lực*. Vị trí của Sân bay Long Thành được cho là “thuận lợi hơn” vì nằm tách biệt với khu dân cư, không phải hạn chế giờ bay và sẽ được kết nối bằng các đường cao tốc, đường vành đai và trong tương lai sẽ có các tuyến metro. Nhưng vấn đề là hiện giờ mạng lưới giao thông đó hầu như chưa có và như vậy việc tập trung toàn bộ chuyến bay quốc tế về Long Thành ngay từ giữa năm 2026 sẽ đặt ra nhiều vấn đề về di chuyển đối với hành khách, nhất là vào những giờ cao điểm. Nhiều chuyên gia đã bày tỏ quan ngại về phương án này, trong đó có kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn, hiện là Chủ tịch NgoViet Architects & Planners và có trên 30 năm kinh nghiệm quốc tế về tư vấn thiết kế, quy hoạch kiến trúc tại châu Á và Bắc Mỹ. Theo quan điểm của kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn, Sân bay Long Thành chưa thể tiếp nhận ngay toàn bộ hay phần lớn các chuyến bay quốc tế, mà vai trò của sân bay này nên được nâng dần lên theo từng bước cho đến khi có đầy đủ cơ sở hạ tầng giao thông cần thiết. Sau đây mời quý vị nghe bài phỏng vấn qua điện thoại với kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Xin kính chào kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn, xin cám ơn ông đã nhận trả lời phỏng vấn. Trước hết ông có đánh giá như thế nào về vị trí và tiềm năng của Sân bay Long Thành? KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Long Thành có một vị trí chiến lược tốt, bởi vì Sân bay Long Thành phục vụ cho cả vùng đô thị thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, chứ không phải chỉ riêng thành phố Hồ Chí Minh. Trong tương quan với những khu vực trọng điểm như là khu trung tâm của các tỉnh thành lân cận thành phố Hồ Chí Minh: Bình Dương, Đồng Nai, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu, cũng như các hạ tầng trọng điểm như Cụm cảng biển Thị Vải - Cái Mép - Cần Giờ, cùng trung tâm đường sắt ở phía Bình Dương, v.v…, tôi nghĩ rằng đây là một vị trí chiến lược tốt. Sân bay cũng nằm cách trung tâm nội thành Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh trong một khoảng cách có thể nói là lý tưởng, khoảng 40km, không quá xa và sân bay có quỹ đất rộng. Thưa ông, có hai phương án đang được đặt ra cho năm 2026: Hoặc là dồn toàn bộ các chuyến bay quốc tế đến Sân bay Long Thành, hoặc là chỉ chuyển những chuyến bay đường dài đến Long Thành và những chuyến bay đường ngắn thì tạm thời vẫn để ở Tân Sơn Nhất. Về các hệ thống giao thông để mà kết nối sân bay Long Thành với Sài Gòn chẳng hạn thì ông thấy hiện nay họ đang tiến hành như thế nào?  KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Các nhà quản lý mong là sẽ đưa sân bay Long Thành vào hoạt động cuối năm nay hoặc là đầu năm sau. Tuy nhiên, có vẻ như là những dự án kết nối hạ tầng, kết nối vùng không theo kịp với tiến độ này. Hai phương án mà ACV đưa ra: Một là chuyển toàn bộ tuyến quốc tế về Long Thành và hai là chỉ chuyển những tuyến đường dài về Long Thành và giữ lại những tuyến đường ngắn lại cho Tân Sơn Nhất và cả hai sân bay đều có tuyến bay quốc nội. Tôi nghĩ rằng hai phương án này cũng chỉ hướng đến mục tiêu ngắn hạn thôi, bởi vì chúng ta phải nhìn đến với mục tiêu dài hạn là hướng đến đích đến, khi mà hoàn thành đúng như kỳ vọng và đúng như quy hoạch, Long Thành sẽ là một sân bay tầm cỡ quốc tế hàng đầu của siêu đô thị Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh. Mình nói siêu đô thị là bởi vì Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh đã rất là lớn, quy mô đã trên 10 triệu dân và vừa rồi Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh nay sáp nhập với tỉnh Bình Dương và tỉnh Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu, tăng quy mô đô thị lên gấp ba và dân số lên gấp rưỡi. Như vậy, Sân bay Long Thành phục vụ cho cả một vùng đô thị Nam Bộ rộng lớn phía Nam, trong đó Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh là trung tâm. Như vậy, nhìn đến kỳ vọng tương lai, khi đó sân bay Long Thành có thể được ví như sân bay Charles de Gaulle của Paris với những tuyến quốc tế đường dài và hạ tầng của nó thì không chỉ có đường bộ, đường cao tốc, mà có cả kết nối metro, kết nối đường sắt cao tốc, giống như TGV của Pháp, đến sân bay Long Thành. Bên cạnh đó là khu vực xung quanh sân bay Long Thành sẽ hình thành như là một đô thị sân bay ( Airport City ). Giữa Sân bay Long Thành và Cụm Cảng Thị Vải - Cái Mép - Cần Giờ còn có khu thương mại tự do quốc tế đang được dự tính xây dựng, một phần là sẽ thuộc Đồng Nai, một phần sẽ thuộc Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh.  Viễn cảnh xa là như vậy, nhưng trước mắt, nếu chúng ta đưa nó vào sử dụng, cho là đầu năm sau đi, thì rõ ràng là hạ tầng kết nối không kịp xây dựng. Đứng về góc độ khoa học, chúng ta có thể thấy rất rõ là việc nóng vội đưa tất cả những tuyến bay quốc tế về đây sẽ không hiệu quả, sẽ làm giảm giá trị của cả Long Thành lẫn Tân Sơn nhất. Tức là cả hai sân bay đều không hoạt động được tốt. Trước mắt, nếu muốn đưa sân bay Long Thành sớm sử dụng đó, tôi vẫn thấy phương án hai có lẽ là khả thi hơn, mặc dù là trong tương lai, Sân bay Long Thành sẽ đóng một vai trò quan trọng hàng đầu tại Việt Nam, lúc đó Tân Sơn Nhất sẽ đóng vai trò thứ yếu. Nhưng sang năm thì tôi nghĩ rằng chúng ta hãy nhìn vào thực tế: vẫn nên để Tân Sơn Nhất quan trọng hơn Long Thành trong ngắn hạn. Bởi vì, với một siêu đô thị như Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh mà hoạt động hiện giờ là khách quốc tế ra vào và khách quốc nội đi và đến sân bay Tân Sơn Nhất, thì không nên vì mong muốn thúc đẩy phát triển Long Thành khi nó chưa có đủ điều kiện mà làm hại đến sự nghiệp chung. Vâng, tức là có nguy cơ nó sẽ gây khó khăn cho các hãng hàng không quốc tế  tức là hành khách của những chuyến bay quốc tế dài tới Long Thành muốn kết nối với Sân bay Tân Sơn nhất để đi các chuyến nội địa thì gặp tình trạng là đường xá của mình không phục vụ kịp. KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Chắc chắn rồi. Chúng tôi cũng đi nước ngoài thường xuyên. Sân bay quốc tế nào cũng vậy thôi, kết nối quốc nội với quốc tế phải thuận tiện. Hiện giờ người ta đang mong muốn Long Thành trở thành như là một "hub" về hàng không, sẽ là nơi tập trung những chuyến bay đường dài đi Châu Mỹ, đi Châu Âu, đi Châu Úc, vân vân… và sẽ có những chuyến quốc nội và quốc tế đến và gom khách ở đây. Dần dần sẽ có những chuyến bay thẳng của máy bay Boeing và Airbus rất lớn. Nhưng chúng ta phải nhìn nhận là hiện giờ Long Thành chưa phải là hub. Muốn trở thành hub thì cần điều kiện là hạ tầng kết nối phải rất là tốt. Bên cạnh đó, các hãng hàng không của Việt Nam, ít ra là hai hãng Vietnam Airlines và Vietjet, phải vươn lên tầm quốc tế, giống như Singapore Airlines hay là Japan Airlines, lúc đó nó mới trở thành là một thực tế. Như vậy là việc chuyến các chuyến bay quốc tế đến Long Thành là tùy thuộc vào khả năng tiếp nhận của sân bay. Khi nào thì Sân bay Long thành mới có thể đạt được mục tiêu đó? KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Tôi nhìn đến một kịch bản là mình tăng dần dần tầm quan trọng của Long Thành. Có thể là bước một sẽ có một số tuyến quốc tế và giai đoạn đầu có thể tập trung nhiều hơn cho hoạt động vận chuyển hàng hóa, tức là chuyển toàn bộ hoạt động vận chuyển hàng hóa, hay sửa chữa bảo dưỡng máy bay của Tân Sơn Nhất về Long Thành. Bước một thì có thể chấp nhận là Tân Sơn nhất vẫn quan trọng hơn Long Thành. Bước hai là khi bắt đầu có những kết nối hệ thống phục vụ cho Sân bay Long Thành, không chỉ là giao thông xung quanh sân bay, mà cả kết nối đến các tỉnh thành ở trong vùng Nam Bộ, bởi vì một  sân bay như Long Thành phục vụ cho cả một vùng đô thị rộng lớn, chứ không phải chỉ một hai tỉnh thành. Bước hai là khi chúng ta có kết nối ít nhất là đường bộ cao tốc nối đến các tỉnh thành, những hệ thống vành đai 1,2,3,4 của Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh hoàn thành những kết nối trực tiếp, như là đường Long Thành - Dầu Giây, được mở rộng ra để không ách tắc. Và có thể thêm được hai tuyến metro quan trọng. Thứ nhất là tuyến Metro trực tiếp từ Thủ Thiêm chạy thẳng lên Long Thành và thứ hai là kéo dài  tuyến Metro số 1 lên Biên Hòa từ Biên Hòa xuống Long Thành. Có nghĩa là sân bay này sẽ được phục vụ bởi hai tuyến metro từ nội thành Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh. Lúc đó mình mới nên bàn đến việc chuyển đa số những tuyến quốc tế, đường ngắn và đường dài, về Long Thành.  Bước ba thì xa hơn thế. Lúc đó Long Thành không chỉ là một sân bay, không chỉ là một điểm trung chuyển, mà có thể trở thành điểm đến theo mô hình thế kỷ 21 của thế giới, đó là đô thị sân bay. Về đô thị sân bay, tôi có đi thăm và làm việc với các đồng nghiệp ở sân bay Charles de Gaulle, họ có đưa lên khu đô thị sân bay của Paris. Sân bay Changi của Singapore, hay sân bay Schiphol ở Amsterdam thì đi khá xa với mô hình đô thị sân bay. Đến đó chúng ta thấy sân bay trở thành một điểm đến hấp dẫn. Khi hạ cánh xuống người ta có thể lựa chọn ở lại sân bay, có khách sạn, có căn hộ, rồi có dịch vụ thương mại, thậm chí là công viên giải trí. Bước ba thì Long Thành sẽ trở thành thứ nhất là một đô thị sân bay. Thứ hai là khu thương mại tự do kết nối với Long Thành, kết nối với Cụm cảng biển Thị Vải - Cái Mép - Cần Giờ, trở thành cũng là một điểm đến hấp dẫn. Lúc đó nó mới thật sự là kỳ vọng mà chúng ta đang mong muốn cho Long Thành. Tóm lại, trong ba bước này, tầm quan trọng của Long Thành sẽ tăng dần dần. Nhưng tôi muốn nhấn mạnh là ở bước một, hãy khoan thúc đẩy nó ở một vai trò quá quan trọng so với năng lực hạ tầng của nó. Trong bước một thì có thể khai trương, đưa Sân bay Long Thành vào sử dụng, nhưng ở bước một này, nó không thể quan trọng hơn Tân Sơn Nhất được.

Singapore shares rose today to track a positive session in Asia. The Straits Times Index was up 0.23% at 4,262.69 points at 1.30pm Singapore time, with a value turnover of S$1.03B seen in the broader market. In terms of companies to watch, we have OCBC. That’s after the bank announced today the introduction of a US$1 billion digital US commercial paper (USCP) programme using the blockchain. Elsewhere, from how Singapore’s core and headline inflation slowed in July, to how oil prices climbed after Ukraine stepped up attacks on Russia – more economic headlines remained in focus. Also on deck - a look at changes to Singapore Airlines’ frequent flyer programme and what that would mean for the company and investors.On Market View, Money Matter’s finance presenter Chua Tian Tian unpacked the developments with Chong Ser Jing, Co-founder and Portfolio Manager, Compounder Fund.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Có nên chuyển toàn bộ các chuyến bay quốc tế từ Sân bay Tân Sơn Nhất đến Sân bay Long Thành ngay từ năm 2026? Đó là vấn đề đang gây nhiều tranh cãi tại Việt Nam và nhiều chuyên gia đã bày tỏ sự quan ngại về phương án này.  Công trình xây dựng sân bay quốc tế Long Thành, trên diện tích 5.000 ha, được chia làm ba giai đoạn. Giai đoạn một dự kiến hoàn thành cuối năm nay. Theo kế hoạch dự trù, vào ngày 19/12/2025, chuyến bay “kỹ thuật” đầu tiên cất cánh từ Sân bay Nội Bài, Hà Nội, sẽ hạ cánh xuống đường băng Sân bay Long Thành. Kể từ giữa năm tới, trên nguyên tắc sân bay quốc tế mới này sẽ được đưa vào hoạt động, trước mắt là với công suất 25 triệu lượt khách và 1,2 triệu tấn hàng hóa mỗi năm. Sân bay sau khi hoàn tất giai đoạn đầu được được mô tả là “với hạ tầng hiện đại, nhà ga rộng, công nghệ tự động hóa và luồng di chuyển thông thoáng”. Tổng công ty Cảng Hàng không Việt Nam (ACV) đã đề ra hai phương án: Hoặc là chuyển toàn bộ chuyến bay quốc tế về Long Thành ngay từ 2026, hoặc chỉ dời các đường bay quốc tế dài, giữ lại các chặng ngắn ở Tân Sơn Nhất. Theo báo chí Việt Nam, Cục Hàng không Việt Nam và nhiều hãng bay quốc tế cũng “cơ bản nhất trí” với phương án tập trung toàn bộ chuyến bay quốc tế về Long Thành, cho rằng như vậy sẽ “thuận tiện quản lý, tối ưu nguồn lực*. Vị trí của Sân bay Long Thành được cho là “thuận lợi hơn” vì nằm tách biệt với khu dân cư, không phải hạn chế giờ bay và sẽ được kết nối bằng các đường cao tốc, đường vành đai và trong tương lai sẽ có các tuyến metro. Nhưng vấn đề là hiện giờ mạng lưới giao thông đó hầu như chưa có và như vậy việc tập trung toàn bộ chuyến bay quốc tế về Long Thành ngay từ giữa năm 2026 sẽ đặt ra nhiều vấn đề về di chuyển đối với hành khách, nhất là vào những giờ cao điểm. Nhiều chuyên gia đã bày tỏ quan ngại về phương án này, trong đó có kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn, hiện là Chủ tịch NgoViet Architects & Planners và có trên 30 năm kinh nghiệm quốc tế về tư vấn thiết kế, quy hoạch kiến trúc tại châu Á và Bắc Mỹ. Theo quan điểm của kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn, Sân bay Long Thành chưa thể tiếp nhận ngay toàn bộ hay phần lớn các chuyến bay quốc tế, mà vai trò của sân bay này nên được nâng dần lên theo từng bước cho đến khi có đầy đủ cơ sở hạ tầng giao thông cần thiết. Sau đây mời quý vị nghe bài phỏng vấn qua điện thoại với kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Xin kính chào kiến trúc sư Ngô Viết Nam Sơn, xin cám ơn ông đã nhận trả lời phỏng vấn. Trước hết ông có đánh giá như thế nào về vị trí và tiềm năng của Sân bay Long Thành? KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Long Thành có một vị trí chiến lược tốt, bởi vì Sân bay Long Thành phục vụ cho cả vùng đô thị thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, chứ không phải chỉ riêng thành phố Hồ Chí Minh. Trong tương quan với những khu vực trọng điểm như là khu trung tâm của các tỉnh thành lân cận thành phố Hồ Chí Minh: Bình Dương, Đồng Nai, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu, cũng như các hạ tầng trọng điểm như Cụm cảng biển Thị Vải - Cái Mép - Cần Giờ, cùng trung tâm đường sắt ở phía Bình Dương, v.v…, tôi nghĩ rằng đây là một vị trí chiến lược tốt. Sân bay cũng nằm cách trung tâm nội thành Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh trong một khoảng cách có thể nói là lý tưởng, khoảng 40km, không quá xa và sân bay có quỹ đất rộng. Thưa ông, có hai phương án đang được đặt ra cho năm 2026: Hoặc là dồn toàn bộ các chuyến bay quốc tế đến Sân bay Long Thành, hoặc là chỉ chuyển những chuyến bay đường dài đến Long Thành và những chuyến bay đường ngắn thì tạm thời vẫn để ở Tân Sơn Nhất. Về các hệ thống giao thông để mà kết nối sân bay Long Thành với Sài Gòn chẳng hạn thì ông thấy hiện nay họ đang tiến hành như thế nào?  KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Các nhà quản lý mong là sẽ đưa sân bay Long Thành vào hoạt động cuối năm nay hoặc là đầu năm sau. Tuy nhiên, có vẻ như là những dự án kết nối hạ tầng, kết nối vùng không theo kịp với tiến độ này. Hai phương án mà ACV đưa ra: Một là chuyển toàn bộ tuyến quốc tế về Long Thành và hai là chỉ chuyển những tuyến đường dài về Long Thành và giữ lại những tuyến đường ngắn lại cho Tân Sơn Nhất và cả hai sân bay đều có tuyến bay quốc nội. Tôi nghĩ rằng hai phương án này cũng chỉ hướng đến mục tiêu ngắn hạn thôi, bởi vì chúng ta phải nhìn đến với mục tiêu dài hạn là hướng đến đích đến, khi mà hoàn thành đúng như kỳ vọng và đúng như quy hoạch, Long Thành sẽ là một sân bay tầm cỡ quốc tế hàng đầu của siêu đô thị Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh. Mình nói siêu đô thị là bởi vì Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh đã rất là lớn, quy mô đã trên 10 triệu dân và vừa rồi Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh nay sáp nhập với tỉnh Bình Dương và tỉnh Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu, tăng quy mô đô thị lên gấp ba và dân số lên gấp rưỡi. Như vậy, Sân bay Long Thành phục vụ cho cả một vùng đô thị Nam Bộ rộng lớn phía Nam, trong đó Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh là trung tâm. Như vậy, nhìn đến kỳ vọng tương lai, khi đó sân bay Long Thành có thể được ví như sân bay Charles de Gaulle của Paris với những tuyến quốc tế đường dài và hạ tầng của nó thì không chỉ có đường bộ, đường cao tốc, mà có cả kết nối metro, kết nối đường sắt cao tốc, giống như TGV của Pháp, đến sân bay Long Thành. Bên cạnh đó là khu vực xung quanh sân bay Long Thành sẽ hình thành như là một đô thị sân bay ( Airport City ). Giữa Sân bay Long Thành và Cụm Cảng Thị Vải - Cái Mép - Cần Giờ còn có khu thương mại tự do quốc tế đang được dự tính xây dựng, một phần là sẽ thuộc Đồng Nai, một phần sẽ thuộc Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh.  Viễn cảnh xa là như vậy, nhưng trước mắt, nếu chúng ta đưa nó vào sử dụng, cho là đầu năm sau đi, thì rõ ràng là hạ tầng kết nối không kịp xây dựng. Đứng về góc độ khoa học, chúng ta có thể thấy rất rõ là việc nóng vội đưa tất cả những tuyến bay quốc tế về đây sẽ không hiệu quả, sẽ làm giảm giá trị của cả Long Thành lẫn Tân Sơn nhất. Tức là cả hai sân bay đều không hoạt động được tốt. Trước mắt, nếu muốn đưa sân bay Long Thành sớm sử dụng đó, tôi vẫn thấy phương án hai có lẽ là khả thi hơn, mặc dù là trong tương lai, Sân bay Long Thành sẽ đóng một vai trò quan trọng hàng đầu tại Việt Nam, lúc đó Tân Sơn Nhất sẽ đóng vai trò thứ yếu. Nhưng sang năm thì tôi nghĩ rằng chúng ta hãy nhìn vào thực tế: vẫn nên để Tân Sơn Nhất quan trọng hơn Long Thành trong ngắn hạn. Bởi vì, với một siêu đô thị như Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh mà hoạt động hiện giờ là khách quốc tế ra vào và khách quốc nội đi và đến sân bay Tân Sơn Nhất, thì không nên vì mong muốn thúc đẩy phát triển Long Thành khi nó chưa có đủ điều kiện mà làm hại đến sự nghiệp chung. Vâng, tức là có nguy cơ nó sẽ gây khó khăn cho các hãng hàng không quốc tế  tức là hành khách của những chuyến bay quốc tế dài tới Long Thành muốn kết nối với Sân bay Tân Sơn nhất để đi các chuyến nội địa thì gặp tình trạng là đường xá của mình không phục vụ kịp. KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Chắc chắn rồi. Chúng tôi cũng đi nước ngoài thường xuyên. Sân bay quốc tế nào cũng vậy thôi, kết nối quốc nội với quốc tế phải thuận tiện. Hiện giờ người ta đang mong muốn Long Thành trở thành như là một "hub" về hàng không, sẽ là nơi tập trung những chuyến bay đường dài đi Châu Mỹ, đi Châu Âu, đi Châu Úc, vân vân… và sẽ có những chuyến quốc nội và quốc tế đến và gom khách ở đây. Dần dần sẽ có những chuyến bay thẳng của máy bay Boeing và Airbus rất lớn. Nhưng chúng ta phải nhìn nhận là hiện giờ Long Thành chưa phải là hub. Muốn trở thành hub thì cần điều kiện là hạ tầng kết nối phải rất là tốt. Bên cạnh đó, các hãng hàng không của Việt Nam, ít ra là hai hãng Vietnam Airlines và Vietjet, phải vươn lên tầm quốc tế, giống như Singapore Airlines hay là Japan Airlines, lúc đó nó mới trở thành là một thực tế. Như vậy là việc chuyến các chuyến bay quốc tế đến Long Thành là tùy thuộc vào khả năng tiếp nhận của sân bay. Khi nào thì Sân bay Long thành mới có thể đạt được mục tiêu đó? KTS Ngô Viết Nam Sơn: Tôi nhìn đến một kịch bản là mình tăng dần dần tầm quan trọng của Long Thành. Có thể là bước một sẽ có một số tuyến quốc tế và giai đoạn đầu có thể tập trung nhiều hơn cho hoạt động vận chuyển hàng hóa, tức là chuyển toàn bộ hoạt động vận chuyển hàng hóa, hay sửa chữa bảo dưỡng máy bay của Tân Sơn Nhất về Long Thành. Bước một thì có thể chấp nhận là Tân Sơn nhất vẫn quan trọng hơn Long Thành. Bước hai là khi bắt đầu có những kết nối hệ thống phục vụ cho Sân bay Long Thành, không chỉ là giao thông xung quanh sân bay, mà cả kết nối đến các tỉnh thành ở trong vùng Nam Bộ, bởi vì một  sân bay như Long Thành phục vụ cho cả một vùng đô thị rộng lớn, chứ không phải chỉ một hai tỉnh thành. Bước hai là khi chúng ta có kết nối ít nhất là đường bộ cao tốc nối đến các tỉnh thành, những hệ thống vành đai 1,2,3,4 của Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh hoàn thành những kết nối trực tiếp, như là đường Long Thành - Dầu Giây, được mở rộng ra để không ách tắc. Và có thể thêm được hai tuyến metro quan trọng. Thứ nhất là tuyến Metro trực tiếp từ Thủ Thiêm chạy thẳng lên Long Thành và thứ hai là kéo dài  tuyến Metro số 1 lên Biên Hòa từ Biên Hòa xuống Long Thành. Có nghĩa là sân bay này sẽ được phục vụ bởi hai tuyến metro từ nội thành Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh. Lúc đó mình mới nên bàn đến việc chuyển đa số những tuyến quốc tế, đường ngắn và đường dài, về Long Thành.  Bước ba thì xa hơn thế. Lúc đó Long Thành không chỉ là một sân bay, không chỉ là một điểm trung chuyển, mà có thể trở thành điểm đến theo mô hình thế kỷ 21 của thế giới, đó là đô thị sân bay. Về đô thị sân bay, tôi có đi thăm và làm việc với các đồng nghiệp ở sân bay Charles de Gaulle, họ có đưa lên khu đô thị sân bay của Paris. Sân bay Changi của Singapore, hay sân bay Schiphol ở Amsterdam thì đi khá xa với mô hình đô thị sân bay. Đến đó chúng ta thấy sân bay trở thành một điểm đến hấp dẫn. Khi hạ cánh xuống người ta có thể lựa chọn ở lại sân bay, có khách sạn, có căn hộ, rồi có dịch vụ thương mại, thậm chí là công viên giải trí. Bước ba thì Long Thành sẽ trở thành thứ nhất là một đô thị sân bay. Thứ hai là khu thương mại tự do kết nối với Long Thành, kết nối với Cụm cảng biển Thị Vải - Cái Mép - Cần Giờ, trở thành cũng là một điểm đến hấp dẫn. Lúc đó nó mới thật sự là kỳ vọng mà chúng ta đang mong muốn cho Long Thành. Tóm lại, trong ba bước này, tầm quan trọng của Long Thành sẽ tăng dần dần. Nhưng tôi muốn nhấn mạnh là ở bước một, hãy khoan thúc đẩy nó ở một vai trò quá quan trọng so với năng lực hạ tầng của nó. Trong bước một thì có thể khai trương, đưa Sân bay Long Thành vào sử dụng, nhưng ở bước một này, nó không thể quan trọng hơn Tân Sơn Nhất được.

Cooper and Nolan are conjuring up something special in this unbelievable BONUS EPISODE, when they discover the MAGIC CRYSTAL! Without a comprehensive knowledge of Hong Kong cinema, the guys may never know if this movie is as insane as it seems. But there IS one thing that they're absolutely sure of: the martial arts scenes are as incredible as the special effects are awful. Surprise ads for Singapore Airlines, a living room battle of the sexes, and some VERY questionable dubbing are all part of the magic you can expect to hear when you press play; this episode (featuring a beer from the Burlington Brewery) is one crystal that's ready to shine!

#240: Transferring points is one of the best ways to maximize your points, so today we share the top airline and hotel transfer partners. We also cover strategies to get the most out of your points, including how to leverage transfer bonuses, identify sweet spots, avoid common mistakes, and more. Greg Davis-Kean is the founder of Frequent Miler, a blog dedicated to helping people maximize their travel rewards and loyalty programs, mostly without flying. He is also the host of the Frequent Miler on the Air podcast. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/top-transfer-partners-greg-frequent-miler Partner Deals Thrive Market: 30% off your first order of organic groceries + a free $60 gift Vuori: 20% off the most comfortable performance apparel I've ever worn LMNT: ⁠Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mix NetSuite: Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performance OpenPhone: 20% off the first 6 months of your own business phone system For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Greg Davis-Kean: Frequent Miler | Newsletter | Podcast Frequent Miler Resources Current Transfer Bonuses How to Save Miles by Flying More How to book EVA Air Infinity MileageLands awards How to book Vacasa Vacation Rentals with Wyndham points Flight Award Search Tools PointsYeah AwardTool ($20 off annual plans with code ALLTHEHACKS) ATH Podcast Airline/Hotel Transfer Partner Spreadsheet Ep #166: Best Award Search Tools for Booking Flights with Points & Miles with Greg the Frequent Miler Ep #167: Best Tools for Booking Hotels with Points & Miles with Greg the Frequent Miler Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@allthehacks.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (01:00) Outsized Value from Transferring Points (02:27) Quick Episode Overview (08:21) Why Emirates First Class Is a Coveted Experience (14:07) Air Canada's Aeroplan Program (17:51) Maximizing Transfer Bonuses (19:17) Getting Value from the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club (25:29) Sweet Spot for Virgin Atlantic (32:49) Using Air France-KLM Flying Blue for Business Class Flights (39:09) Leveraging Avios Points (44:09) Avios Sweet Spots and Places to Avoid (49:44) Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific (55:44) Is the Avianca LifeMiles Program Worth It? (59:30) JetBlue's Transfer Partners (1:01:44) Southwest Airlines (1:04:39) Aeromexico (1:04:52) Qantas and Turkish Airlines (1:06:43) Booking Flights via United (1:09:26) EVA Air Program for Flights to Asia (1:11:18) Uses for ANA (1:12:45) TAP Air and Thai Airways (1:13:21) Why Greg Loves Alaska Miles (1:15:31) Difference Between Airline Miles vs. Hotel Points (1:16:37) Using Hyatt Points (1:18:07) Getting Value from Wyndham, IHG, and Hilton (1:21:11) The Marriott Bonvoy Program (1:21:40) Booking Hotels with Citi ThankYou Points (1:23:28) Leader's Club (1:25:10) Wells Fargo and Accor Points (1:25:58) Why You Should Set Up Your Award Programs in Advance (1:27:47) Is It Possible to Reverse Transfers? (1:28:56) Where to Find Greg and Frequent Miler Resources Connect with Chris Newsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedIn Editor's Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s going on with Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway — and is its golden era fading? Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, this episode of Market View dives into underwhelming earnings, Kraft Heinz woes, and the stock's recent slide post-retirement news. Plus, we break down Apple’s AI ambitions after Tim Cook’s rare pep talk, the latest Wall Street dip sparked by poor jobs data and Trump’s new tariffs, and a closer look at Palantir’s $10B US Army deal. Also on the docket: Singapore Airlines downgraded, Thai Airways’ comeback, CDL’s hotel ambition, and Amazon’s “Netflix of AI” idea shaking up entertainment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Tech beats the street — what’s next for markets? Meta and Microsoft impress with massive earnings jumps and post-session stock surges. We break down the AI-powered momentum behind Meta’s 11% leap and Microsoft’s $4 trillion club status. Plus, a surprise Fed vote split, new Trump tariffs on South Korea, India, and Brazil, and what it all means. Also in focus: Amazon, Reddit, Foxconn, HSBC, UBS, Seatrium, Jardine Cycle & Carriage, CapitaLand India & China Trusts, Singapore Airlines, and Yangzijiang Shipbuilding. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Singapore Airlines losing altitude while Tesla soars with a mega chip deal? Singapore Airlines sees profits plunge nearly 60%—but its share price tells another story. Meanwhile, BYD dominates Singapore's EV market and Huawei claims the top smartphone spot in China. The NASDAQ and S&P 500 hit fresh records as the Dow lags behind. Tesla surges on news of a $16 billion chip partnership with Samsung. Plus, we check in on STI movers including Keppel DC REIT and Jardine Matheson. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore shares fell today to track losses in the region. The Straits Times Index was down 0.59% at 4,216.18 points at 2.44pm Singapore time with a value turnover of S$1.11B seen in the broader market. In terms of companies to watch, we have Singapore Airlines, after the company reported a 58.8 per cent drop in Q1 FY2026 net profit to S$186 million yesterday, even as revenue rose 1.5 per cent to S$4.8 billion. Elsewhere, from how China’s government spending hit its highest level in nearly two decades, to how the greenback is strengthening against the Singapore dollar, more international headlines remain in focus. On Market View, Money Matters’ finance presenter Chua Tian Tian unpacked the developments with Jeff Ng, Head of Asia Macro Strategy, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From picking up a karaoke mic working at a Maid Cafe, to performing alongside Min-ho, Taemin...2NE1?!?!?On this episode - we sit down with Estelle Fly, a Singaporean artist who's had a crazy ride in showbiz. Being scouted to become a J-pop Idol when she was only 17, she spills the harsh realities of the cuttroat J-pop industry, working as a Singapore Airlines kebaya girl, appearing on a Korean reality singing show, going viral on TikTok doing voiceovers for Pixar...and how she eventually landed on the mainstage of WATERBOMB Singapore 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Singapore shares moved lower today as investors looked ahead to a week of corporate earnings. The Straits Times Index was down 0.25% at 4,250.35 points at 2.46pm Singapore time, with a value turnover of S$898.75M seen in the broader market. In terms of companies to watch, we have Singapore Airlines, after its chairman Peter Seah was redesignated as a non-independent director at the company’s annual general meeting on Friday. Elsewhere, from a trade deal reached between the European Union and the United States, to how Chinese AI firms are forming alliances in a bid to develop a domestic ecosystem and reduce dependence on foreign technological know-how – more international headlines remain in focus. Also on deck – expectations ahead of big-tech earnings out this week from Amazon, Apple, Meta and Microsoft. On Market View, Money Matters’ finance presenter Chua Tian Tian unpacked the developments with David Kuo, Co-founder, The Smart Investor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Udhara de Silva, who leads loyalty marketing for Singapore Airlines in Australia, walks through the launch and rapid growth of Kris+, the digital rewards app that enables members to earn and spend miles in restaurants and retail stores – a first for any airline rewards app outside of Singapore. The discussion tracks why Australia was chosen as the testbed, the challenges of localizing a QR-based payment app in a card-centric market, and the dual work of building merchant trust and user habits from zero. Udhara details what drives engagement, how to “double dip” on points, and why genuine merchant partnerships matter more than technical bells and whistles. Listeners get insight into evolving loyalty marketing tactics, campaign strategies, and the real mechanics of building an airline's everyday brand.Questions Udhara answered in this episode:Why did Singapore Airlines expand Kris+ to Australia first?What unique challenges come with launching a QR code–based payment app in Australia?How do you pitch and onboard merchants before an app is live?What technical features make Kris+ easy for partners to adopt?What's different about marketing an airline app versus a retail loyalty app?What tactics actually drive repeated use and engagement?What does merchant “densification” mean, and why is it critical?How does Kris+ expand the loyalty audience beyond high-income credit card holders?What's next for Kris+ in Australia and globally?Timestamp:2:00 – Scope of KrisFlyer: Australia's place in the global member base3:00 – The origins and purpose of Kris+5:30 – How Kris+ works: earning, spending, “double-dipping” on miles6:00 – Selecting Australia: market sophistication and loyalty culture9:00 – Pitching and onboarding merchants, early business development12:10 – Overcoming the QR code adoption barrier15:10 – Building merchant trust with low technical overhead16:00 – Tactics for engagement: push notifications, highlight tiles, gamified challenges17:00 - Kris+ challenges18:00 – Advice for marketers launching in new regions20:00 – The future: merchant densification, market expansion, next stepsQuotes:(3:30) “It's a custom-built app. You scan a QR code, enter the amount, and you get to decide whether you want to either spend your miles that you might have earned from a flight, or you can pay with Apple or Google Pay, and then you earn miles on that transaction. You're double dipping.” (13:00) “There are certain high-volume merchants where they have started educating and frontliners have started educating partners. But it's a combination of factors, I think. We're very mindful of the fact that QR codes aren't mainstream yet, and so it's a bit of a slow burn.”  (14:10) “Tailoring the message to the Australian voice, the Australian landscape, the whole lack of familiarity with QR codes — that was something we had to really learn from the ground up.” Mentioned in this episode:Udhara de Silva's LinkedInKris+ (Singapore Airlines digital rewards app)KrisFlyer frequent flyer programContact for merchant/partner queries: krisplusau@singaporeair.com.sgBrunetti (Melbourne café, case study for merchant adoption)

Episode 60: Show Notes This year, only one of us had a Memorial Day trip, at least on a plane, and this episode is all about that! This trip also marks Trevor's family's first international long-haul trip since January of this year. From their experience at the Centurion Lounge at Washington, DC's Reagan-National airport, to managing flights with a toddler, Trevor shares the highlights. We start with Tom's fishing trip to Chesapeake before diving into Trevor's vacation, which began on a boat and continued with a JetBlue flight to Madrid via Boston. He talks about lounge experiences, including Capital One and Chase Sapphire, and offers tips for handling naps and meals in-flight. In Madrid, Trevor shares why this visit topped previous ones, from the Thompson hotel to great food. The family then flew to Valencia on Air Europa, explored major sites, stayed at Palacio Santa Clara, enjoyed paella, visited the zoo, and saw local protests. The trip ended with a stop in Frankfurt and a return to New York on a Spontaneous Escapes deal from Singapore Airlines. Tune in to learn what he enjoyed most, what he would do differently, and what he most recommends to listeners. Key Points From This Episode: [00:42] Tom's fishing trip to Chesapeake and the beginning of Trevor's Memorial Day vacation on a boat. [04:33] Trevor and his family's experience of their first long-haul flight since January.  [09:15] Capital One Landing Lounges, the Jet Blue trip to Boston, and his experience at the Chase Sapphire Lounges. [16:30] The Jet Blue Trip to Madrid, timing his daughter's naps, and meal logistics on Jet Blue.  [22:55] Why this experience of Madrid was even better than before and his experience of The Thompson. [24:37] Dining experiences in Madrid, parks, and other activities Trevor's family enjoyed. [28:48] Highlights and lowlights of Valencia which Trevor travelled to on Air Europa.  [33:15] Three incredible architectural sites his family was able to see. [38:26] Staying at the art hotel, Palacio Santa Clara, eating paella in Valencia, and a visit to the zoo. [47:15] Coming across protests in Valencia and visiting the old market before flying to Frankfurt. [51:54] The Valencia Airport and flying Lufthansa to Frankfurt. [56:08] What Trevor is considering for his next trip to Madrid and what he loved about it. [58:25] Taking the Spontaneous Escapes Offer from Singapore and getting back to New York.  Quotes: “One of the great advantages of travel is to be able to see some of mankind's amazing achievements in the arts, and architecture is definitely one of them.” — @TktweetsKim [38:17] “Valencia is known for [its] paella, and it is truly incredible.” — @tmount [39:47] “If you're going to Spain, put Valencia on your list, and if you've got kids, put the Bioparc in Valencia on your list.” — @tmount [46:24] “The city is just so incredibly walkable in Madrid.” — @tmount [56:37] Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Hyatt Regency Madrid Biopic Valencia Puerto de Indias Palacio Santa Clara Queen Sofia Palace of Arts Musee de les Ciences Air Europa Travelstories Episode 8 El Retiro Park El Calamar Chase Sapphire Airport Lounges Jet Blue Capital One Lounges Thomas Kim on X Trevor Mountcastle on X The Milenomics Podcast Network

Send us a textToday, we will discuss the Air India 787 crash, some All Nippon Airways news, and Singapore Airlines' new menu.If you like this episode, make sure to check out more and support my podcast by following it!Make sure to check out my instagram, @theaviationfiles, especially if you want to give feedback or share your thoughts on this week's episode! 

Udhara De Silva is the Head Loyalty Marketing for Singapore Airlines in Australia, being involved in the successful launch of Kris+ in in November 2023, and growing the Australian KrisFlyer member base to become the largest outside of Singapore and localising the global KrisFlyer programme content to resonate with Australian consumers and anchor the Singapore Airline brand. Hosted by Carly Neubauer This episode is sponsored by ComarchShow Notes:1) Udhara De Silva2) Singapore Airlines3) KrisFlyer4) Kris+5) Hidden Potential (Book)6) Singapore Airlines Launches Kris+ Loyalty Program in Australia -2024 episode

Send us a textWelcome to What's Up in Business Travel for Week 21 of 2025.  This is a weekly podcast where we update you on what's up this week in the world of business travel.  This podcast is great for those who need to know what's happening all in under 15 minutes.Topics covered during this podcast -Global Air Travel surges 8% in AprilInflation continues to declineTransportation Secretary says $12.5B is not enoughSouthwest begins charging for bagsLCC Azul files for bankruptcyWestJet completes Sunwing integrationJetBlue & United partner on loyaltyHopper partners with LloydsEmirates Skywards enhances partnership with Marriott BonvoyIHG & Singapore Airlines partner on SME loyaltyAmerican launches TSA PreCheck Touchless IDHyatt announces Unscripted by HyattUnited Airlines moves up check-in timeYou can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360.  Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show

We're taking you aboard Singapore Airlines' Premium Economy for their 10-hour flight from Tokyo to LAX. Was the experience worth the points? How does it compare to flying economy or splurging on business class? (P.S. We've reviewed Singapore Airlines Business Class too—check that one out after this!We're breaking down the entire experience:Booking with points & paying extra for those prime bulkhead seatsPre-flight perks like priority check-in and 2 free checked bagsThe seat comfort (hello calf rests & 8-inch recline!)In-flight service & amenity kitsOur gourmet meals via Book the Cook Entertainment options, WiFi access, and more!Find great flight deals with Singapore Airlines by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and watching the daily flight deals (points & cash) that are emailed directly to you! Use our promo code TS10 to get $10 off your first year subscription.—---------------------------------------Shop: Trip Itineraries ⁠& ⁠Amazon Storefront ⁠Connect: ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠, and ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠and contact us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.

Singapore Airlines is soaring to record profits—but is the runway clear ahead? Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, today’s Market View dives into SIA’s 65% earnings surge and the 7-month bonus bonanza. We unpack SingPost’s worst day ever, IPO drought woes on SGX, and Warren Buffett’s latest trades. Plus, we play UP or DOWN with Alibaba, Coinbase, Walmart, and oil prices. DBS and ST Engineering shine locally while Genting Singapore stumbles. Here more of the ups or downs of Singapore Airlines, SingPost, SGX, Berkshire Hathaway, Alibaba, Coinbase, Walmart, DBS, ST Engineering, Genting Singapore, Constellation Brands.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Pam shares her full itinerary from her recent return to Thailand—a dream trip she's been wanting to repeat since her very first adventure on points and miles years ago. From business-class flights on Singapore Airlines, to luxury stays at the Conrad, Ritz-Carlton, and Banyan Tree—and of course, daily massages for $12—Pam takes us through every high (and low!) of the trip. How Pam Booked Her Flights The trip started with a Thrifty Traveler Premium alert: saver award space on Singapore Airlines from San Francisco to Bangkok. Pam positioned to SFO from Denver and visited the Polaris Lounge before the long-haul flight—cookie skillets included!  Stop #1: Koh Samui – The Conrad vs. The Ritz-Carlton Pam's first two nights were spent at the Conrad Koh Samui, booked with Hilton free-night certificates.  Next, she moved to the Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui, using two Marriott free-night certificates.  So which luxury resort won Pam over? Listen to find out what Pam loved about the Conrad that made it the winner over the Ritz-Carlton. Stop #2: Krabi – Luxury, Views, and Boat Tours Next up was Krabi, where Pam and her crew splurged on a paid stay at the Banyan Tree Krabi. This peaceful resort had amazing views, but the food was disappointing. It provided a great base for day trips to Hong Island, Railay Beach, and the Phi Phi Islands.  And with massages available nearby from $12 to $30/hour, Pam was in heaven! Final Nights: Park Hyatt Bangkok & Grand Hyatt SFO Before flying home, Pam spent one night at the Park Hyatt Bangkok, booked for 25,000 Hyatt points. She raved about the architecture, location, outstanding food, and luxurious vibe—and she can't wait to go back. Then Pam stayed one night at the Grand Hyatt SFO, an airport hotel she loves for its breakfast and convenience—even though it's now in the same category as the Park Hyatt Bangkok! Pam's take? Thailand is one of the most affordable and rewarding destinations you can book with points and miles. Use airline miles to get there, pay cash or use points for luxury stays, and save room in your budget for daily massages!

US and China call a truce — but will the market euphoria last? Hosted by Michelle Martin, this solo edition dives into how Wall Street’s overnight rally is fueling gains in Asia-Pacific markets. Nike, Lululemon, and Wynn Resorts ride the wave of optimism, while investors watch Singapore Airlines, SingPost, and Walmart earnings ahead. We unpack Tilman Fertitta’s latest moves in Wynn Resorts and Indonesia’s IPO surge. Plus, the latest on Sinar Mas Land’s revised buyout offer, and why SGX faces headwinds even as Hong Kong and Indonesia see IPO booms. Companies mentioned: Nike, Lululemon, Wynn Resorts, Singapore Airlines, SingPost, Sinar Mas Land, Frasers Logistics & Commercial Trust, DFI Retail, Seatrium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the Singapore Home Brew Segment on the “Saturday Mornings Show” with host Glenn van Zutphen and co-host Neil Humphreys... Push Sharma, Founder & CEO of Haldy, the multi-award-winning Singapore startup, talks about developing the World’s First Sugarfree, Turmeric Mints. Push is approaching health and wellness with cutting-edge innovation including a Design Patent on the unique & innovative recyclable Mint package. With over 25 years of experience across private equity, consulting, and entrepreneurship, he’s built a brand that’s gained recognition from Singapore Airlines, InterContinental Hotels, and major e-commerce platforms. Push joins us to share his journey, the story behind Haldy, and three tips for every successful entrepreneur.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of The 7 Minute Leadership Podcast dives into the airline industry, exploring how major airlines like Delta, Singapore Airlines, and Southwest compete for passengers. Learn key leadership lessons from their strategies.Host: Paul FalavolitoConnect with me on your favorite platform: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Substack, BlueSky, Threads, DiscordFree Leadership Resources: www.paulfalavolito.comBooks by Paul FalavolitoThe 7 Minute Leadership Handbook: bit.ly/48J8zFGThe Leadership Academy: https://bit.ly/4lnT1PfThe 7 Minute Leadership Survival Guide: https://bit.ly/4ij0g8yOfficial 7 Minute Leadership MerchGrab exclusive gear and more: linktr.ee/paulfalavolitoPartners & DiscountsFlying Eyes Optics – Best aviator sunglasses on the marketGet 10% off with code: PFAVShop now: flyingeyesoptics.comGatsby Shoes – Dress sneakers built for leaders on the moveUse my affiliate link for 10% off: Gatsby ShoesSubscribe & Listen to My Podcasts:The 7 Minute Leadership Podcast1 PAPA FOXTROT – General Aviation PodcastThe DailyPfav

Is AI about to cause the biggest workplace disruption in 25 years? In this episode of Today in Tech, host Keith Shaw sits down with Salesforce Chair and CEO Marc Benioff to explore the rise of AI agents—and how they're already transforming major companies like Singapore Airlines, Disney, Lennar, and Pandora. Marc shares insights from his recent global travels, real-world use cases of Salesforce AgentForce, and why AI agents go far beyond ChatGPT-style tools. From multi-language support in seconds to revenue-driving personalization, this conversation uncovers how digital agents are reshaping the future of work, healthcare, and customer experience. :mag: Topics Covered: Why AI agents are bigger than generative AI Real-world enterprise use cases (Disney, Lennar, Singapore Airlines, etc.) The economic model behind agentic AI Job loss vs. reskilling debate AI's future in medicine and customer service What's next for Salesforce and AI innovation :brain: “Technology isn't good or bad—it's what we do with it,” says Benioff, reflecting on 26 years of Salesforce innovation. :tv: Don't miss this in-depth and honest discussion about the future of AI, enterprise technology, and what it means for businesses and workers alike. :pushpin: Subscribe for more expert interviews, tech insights, and deep dives into transformative innovations. #MarcBenioff #AIagents #Salesforce #TodayInTech #KeithShaw #AgenticAI #EnterpriseAI #AI2025 #DigitalTransformation #TechInterview #GenerativeAI #AIinBusiness #OpenAI #ChatGPT #AgentForce #AIJobs #Reskilling #FutureOfWork

Welcome to the March edition of the AviaDev Insight Africa Connectivity update for 2025, hosted by Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev Africa. This month's guests are:  Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH SEAN Behramjee Ghadially, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH BEHRAMJEE  Topics this month include: Recap and feedback on Uganda Airlines' new LGW route Kenya Airways report a $42 million profit and continues to tweak its schedules and navigate operational challenges Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Partnership. Who stands to gain the most and what's behind it? Deep Dive Topic 1: Understanding the importance and changing dynamic of the China market to Ethiopian Airlines' network.  Deep Dive Topic 2: US-South Africa schedule changes as Delta and United lean in to Cape Town and away from Johannesburg Fastjet to launch Harare-Lusaka from 9th April Airlink to boost Nairobi to 10 x week and Lusaka to 10x day Singapore Airlines increasing Johannesburg to 10x week in April and 12x from June Gulf Air to return to Nairobi on 2nd June after a 13 year hiatus Thanks for listening. If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe and share it with someone from your network who may benefit from listening. 

Join Michelle Martin on her tour of markets! This episode dives into director deals at Hosen Group, Audience Analytics, and Stoneweg European REIT. Michelle and Ryan explore CoreWeave’s high-stakes IPO drama with Nvidia, Microsoft, and OpenAI in the mix. Boeing soars on a $20B defense win over Lockheed, and Meituan, SIA, and Yangzijiang also post gains. Plus, a fiery look at Meta’s battle to block the tell-all memoir Careless People. Hosted by Michelle Martin who speaks with Ryan Huang,See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 111 of the Award Travel 101 podcast, hosted by Angie Sparks with guest Joseph Petrovic, covers key updates in the world of points and miles. They discuss a travel hack to avoid costly airline upgrades by using schedule changes instead. In industry news, Southwest has reduced reward rates, Etihad is offering up to a 40% transfer bonus until March 2025, and Singapore Airlines is celebrating 10 million KrisFlyer members with bonus miles and a 20% discount on select award flights.Angie and Joe also share recent travel and credit card updates. Angie rebooked her return flight from Croatia to avoid an overnight layover, while Joe optimized his Japan trip by securing multiple flights and award hotel stays. He also saved points by rebooking a Bonvoy stay at a lower rate. Their credit card strategies were a major focus—Angie manages 53 cards with over $8,000 in annual fees and plans to close 10 to save costs, while Joe, with 50 cards, offsets fees through tax strategies and benefits, making his collection cost-neutral.To wrap up, Joe highlights ExpertFlyer as a valuable but often overlooked tool for securing first and business class upgrades on airlines like Alaska, American, Hawaiian, and Korean. While many tools have emerged in the award travel space, ExpertFlyer still provides an edge for certain travelers. The episode offers valuable insights into maximizing award travel, staying flexible with bookings, and making the most of credit card benefits.Links to Topics DiscussedSouthwest Slashes Earn RatesHotel Program to Etihad Guest Transfer BonusSingapore Airlines Krisflyer PromosWhere to Find Us The Free 110k+ member Award Travel 101 Community. To book time with our team, check out Award Travel 1-on-1. You can also email us at 101@award.travel Our next meetup will be May 16-18, 2025 in Chicago! Tickets are SOLD OUT and the waitlist is exhaused but stay tuned for news about our next meetup! Our partner CardPointers helps us get the most from our cards. We love being able to automatically add all of our offers and quickly seeing the best card to use for every purchase. Signup today at https://cardpointers.com/at101 for a 30% discount on annual and lifetime subscriptions! Lastly, we appreciate your support of the AT101 Podcast/Community when you signup for your next card!

En este episodio, analizamos los eventos más relevantes que están impactando los mercados y sectores clave: Mercados en alza mientras entran en vigor los aranceles: Wall Street sube mientras las tarifas del 25% a importaciones de acero y aluminio entran en vigor. La atención del mercado está en el CPI de febrero, con una inflación esperada del 2.9%, clave para la próxima decisión de la Fed. Super Micro Computer y la revolución en Edge AI: $SMCI integrará los nuevos procesadores Xeon 6 de $INTC en sus servidores, prometiendo mayor eficiencia energética y capacidad en redes de telecomunicaciones e inteligencia artificial en el borde de la red. Salesforce expande su presencia en Singapur con inversión de $1B: $CRM busca acelerar la adopción de su plataforma de IA, Agentforce, mientras colabora con Singapore Airlines para desarrollar soluciones de gestión de clientes impulsadas por IA. TSMC propone una alianza con Intel para su división de fundición: $TSM busca operar la manufactura de chips de $INTC con el respaldo de $NVDA, $AMD y $AVGO. Analizamos el impacto de esta movida en la industria y la posible aprobación de la administración Trump. Acompáñanos para entender cómo estos eventos están moldeando los mercados, la tecnología y la innovación global. ¡Un episodio cargado de análisis estratégico!

We all love talking about luxurious, over-the-top award redemptions—think first-class flights, overwater villas, and five-star resorts. But let's be real—some of the best uses of points and miles are not Instagram-worthy. In this episode, we break down the difference between sexy and unsexy redemptions, why both are important, and how they each play a role in maximizing your points strategy. What Makes a Redemption “Sexy”? Pam kicks things off with her signature philosophy: “A sexy redemption is a Pam redemption.” For her, that means business-class flights on international routes and stays at luxury hotels. But she also reminds us that sexy is subjective—a Southwest flight to Hawaii can absolutely be a dream-worthy redemption for a family! Jess adds that she aspires to make every redemption as “Pam-level” as possible, but admits that her first year of points and miles was entirely unsexy. Unsexy Redemptions: The Unsung Heroes of Travel Not every redemption is flashy, but that doesn't mean it's not valuable. Alex shares how some of her best redemptions have been for things like: Flying last-minute for a wedding, funeral, or family emergency Booking budget-friendly Hyatt Place stays for soccer tournaments Using airport hotels for positioning flights to avoid travel disruptions Staying in hotels during home renovations or natural disasters While they may not be glamorous, these redemptions save real money and make everyday travel easier. As Pam puts it, “If you can cover an ‘unsexy' expense with points and it costs you nothing, that's actually pretty sexy.” Our Favorite Sexy and Unsexy Redemptions Each of us shares a mix of redemptions that stand out: Jess: Emirates first class with an onboard shower and champagne (sexy!) vs. Hyatt stays during a Houston freeze and power outage (unsexy but a lifesaver). Alex: A Maldives overwater villa + Qatar Qsuite flights (sexy!) vs. a last-minute flight to care for her sister after surgery (not glamorous, but necessary). Pam: Business class Singapore Airlines flights to Thailand + Ritz-Carlton stays (sexy!) vs. booking a flight to London during COVID for a hospitalized grandchild (priceless). Why Every Redemption Has Value At the end of the day, points and miles are a tool for travel freedom—whether that means luxury vacations, practical family trips, or unexpected emergencies. As Jess reminds us, “No redemption is a bad redemption if it saves you money and makes your life easier.” Whether you're dreaming of first-class flights or just want to avoid paying cash for a last-minute family trip, this episode will help you make the most of your points—sexy or not!  Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Jess's Emirates first class reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtPGqi2gKvI/?igsh=dzZrOXp2NnA1djhw Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – What is a “sexy” vs. “unsexy” award redemption? 01:40 – Pam's philosophy: Why luxury redemptions are her go-to 07:00 – Alex's take: Why family travel means balancing both 15:30 – Unsexy redemptions: Why they're just as valuable 22:45 – Our best (and worst) redemption stories 30:00 – Why no redemption is a bad redemption

Wenn einer das Leben in seinen vielfältigen Formen in Worte fassen kann, dann ist es Weltwach-Stammgast Andreas Altmann. Dass seine Erzählungen zum Träumen und ab und zu auch zum Schaudern anregen, hat er sowohl in seinen Büchern als auch hier bei uns in der Show schon oft bewiesen.In seinem neuen Buch „Sehnsucht Leben“, einem Best-of seiner Reportagen, lässt er uns einmal mehr an Begegnungen in aller Welt teilhaben. Von Abenteuern in Acapulco zur einmaligen Eleganz von Paris, vom höchsten Gewirr in Kathmandu zu den zauberhaften Weiten Lapplands, von Megametropolen wie Shanghai und Jakarta ins paradiesische Goa – Andreas sorgt im neuen Werk wie auch in dieser Episode für ganz viel Sehnsucht nach Leben. Werbung:Partner dieser Folge ist das Reisebüro TravelEssence. Jetzt Beratungstermin vereinbaren – online oder in einem der Reisebüros in Deutschland. Der Premium-Anbieter für Flüge nach Perth in Westaustralien ist Singapore Airlines. travelessence.de/westaustralien-erlebenDieser Podcast wird auch durch unsere Hörerschaft ermöglicht. Wenn du gern zuhörst, kannst du dazu beitragen, dass unsere Show auch weiterhin besteht und regelmäßig erscheint. Zum Dank erhältst du Zugriff auf unseren werbefreien Feed und auf unsere Bonusfolgen. Diese Möglichkeiten zur Unterstützung bestehen:Weltwach Supporters Club bei Steady. Du kannst ihn auch direkt über Spotify ansteuern. Alternativ kannst du bei Apple Podcasts UnterstützerIn werden.WERBEPARTNERhttps://linktr.ee/weltwachSTAY IN TOUCH:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weltwach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/weltwach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Weltwach/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WELTWACHNewsletter: https://weltwach.de/newsletter/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's Just the Tip, we give our honest opinion about the amazing experience of flying business class with Singapore Airlines. We discuss whether it's worth the price, walk you through the whole experience, and share how you can book this with points.Download our Singapore Itinerary for the perfect plan to spend two days in this amazing island nation and keep the fun going after your business class experience. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Shop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Trip Itineraries⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Storefront ⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect: ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠and contact us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.

Musk, Modi, and Trump... the troika meet in Washington. Will Apple finally start making phones in Indonesia, to tap SEA's largest consumer market? How much Singapore Airlines crews are paid. Listen as we discuss on the International News Review on the Saturday Mornings Show - with Steve Okun, CEO, APAC Advisors, host Glenn van Zutphen, and co-host Neil Humphreys. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The podcast is back, and Geoff is flying solo for the first time in 6 years. Thanks Vinod for everything you brought to the podcast. Geoff takes a look back at his 2024 round-the-world trip and other Canadian aviation experiences. Geoff checked the Island Hopper off his bucket list, travelling from Honolulu to Guam via the Marshall Islands and Micronesia. He forced a long layover in Honolulu to allow a visit to the city before heading out on the Island Hopper. The Island Hopper planes are old with some of the oldest Inflight Entertainment Systems Geoff has seen in years. Majuro airport and The Marshall Islands are in the middle of the Pacific on various atolls. This particular routing took Geoff via Kwajalein (no pictures at this stop!), Pohnpei and Chuuk (you can get passport stamps in Micronesia even if you are in transit) before landing in Guam. Geoff is a much bigger fan of the south side of Guam than the north side. Geoff took one of the last flights with United from Guam to Fukuoka. If you're flying to FUK, take the time to enjoy the observation deck. He then headed to Osaka via Hiroshima with the Shinkansen. Flight boarding in Japan is super efficient, and Geoff tried it first domestically from Osaka-Itami to Tokyo-Haneda. After spending time in Tokyo, Geoff flew onward to Copenhagen via Singapore. There is a wonderful 7-11 after security airside at Haneda that sells all sorts of Japanese treats. The Jewel in Singapore is lovely but is super busy on a summer Saturday night. A beach layover in Copenhagen is possible with a quick metro journey. Geoff enjoyed his first ever fifth freedom flight from Frankfurt to New York JFK on Singapore Airlines. If you're liking this episode experience, you may also enjoy Experience 2. "International Megahubs and Flight Ticketing." It's available wherever you listen to your podcasts. Geoff had some interesting domestic experiences in the second half of 2024. A widebody flight on a route not normally served by that plane, and subsequent upgrades. And then there was a massive storm system and hailstorm chaos in Calgary. Geoff also visited Canada's easternmost international airport in St. John's. And to build his knowledge, Geoff is now a successful student with distinction for IATA's training course on passenger fares and ticketing. If you have trip plans or experiences that you would like to share, please email us at stories(at)seat1a.org or find us on Facebook, Bluesky, Threads and Instagram. If you wish to support the show financially, we are on Patreon. Show notes are available online at http://podcast.seat1a.org/

#83: My guest today is Alda Agustiano, also known as Chong The Nomad, who is a music producer and DJ based in Seattle, Washington. Alda has been producing music for well over a decade now, recently releasing her debut album titled “Do We Make Of This?” and also working on projects such as Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings, and getting music sync spots with companies like Singapore Airlines, Apple, Universal Audio, and Nike. She has also opened for artists like Odesza and Death Cab for Cutie.   In this episode, we talk Alda's musical upbringing—transitioning from piano lessons to music production in high school, her choice to go to music school and how she made the most of it, her struggles and realizations with the business side of her music career. and so much more.   Find Alda here: Website: https://www.chongthenomad.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chongthenomad/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1TCIxnDm8SASkB6dTMrFCy?utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/chongsongs     And if you're interested in making music and sound for games, I have a newsletter and free courses that will get you started, and help you find paying work in games. Just go to http://www.bit.ly/soundbizpod

2024 was a year to remember! In this episode, we're sharing our best of 2024 awards, from unforgettable hotel stays and flights to top credit card offers that helped us turn big dreams into reality. If you've ever wondered what points and miles can do, this episode will inspire you to dive in and start planning your own adventures. Pam's Picks: Bougie Moments at the Grand Hotel Victoria and Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Pam shares her top hotel stays of the year, starting with a stay in Lake Como. This “lifestyle of the rich and famous” property left Pam feeling like royalty, even as she joked about rocking athleisure among designer outfits. Her other favorite? The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, where she enjoyed incredible January weather and a suite upgrade that made her feel like she was living in a dream. Alex's Favorite Stay: Greece with a Twist Alex highlights her stay at Canaves Oia Suites in Santorini. The breathtaking views, private infinity pool, and authentic cave house design made it a “pinch me” experience. This trip reminded Alex why points and miles are so worth it—making unforgettable luxury accessible. Jess's Overwater Villa Moment in Bora Bora Jess couldn't top her Conrad Bora Bora stay this year, calling it a “pinch me” experience. From the overwater villa to stargazing on her private deck, Jess shared how she turned a $15,000 dream trip into a reality with Hilton points. Her takeaway? These moments are priceless, and points make them possible. Top Flights of the Year Pam's favorite flight was on the luxurious Etihad Apartments, booked with Air Canada miles for just 65,000 points. Her first-class experience, complete with caviar service and a private suite, was a highlight of the year. Alex shared a special memory of flying business class on Singapore Airlines, while Jess raved about Turkish Airlines' new A350 suite, complete with the best corn soup she's ever had. The Best Credit Card Offers of 2024 The team also reviewed their favorite credit card offers of the year. Pam scored big with the Chase Freedom Unlimited. Alex loved the Chase Ink Business Preferred's 120,000-point bonus, and Jess highlighted the Capital One Spark Cash Plus, which earned her 260,000 miles. Looking Ahead to 2025 As the episode wraps up, the team reflects on the incredible opportunities points and miles offered in 2024 and teases what's to come in 2025. Whether you're just getting started or already a pro, there are plenty of offers and strategies to help you plan your best year of travel yet. Want to Learn More? If you're ready to start making memories like these, check out our free webinar, How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free. The link is in the show notes—don't miss it!   Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 02:00 – Favorite hotel stays: Pam, Alex, and Jess share their picks 10:00 – Best flights: From Etihad Apartments to Turkish Airlines suites 22:00 – Top destinations: Portugal, Japan, and more 30:00 – Best credit card offers and strategies for 2024 39:30 – Looking ahead: What we're excited about in 2025

Driving innovation in technology and business transformation demands visionary leadership, seamless integration of business and tech strategies, and a willingness to take risks. Today's guest, David Gledhill, exemplifies these qualities as he shares his experience leading DBS Bank through a remarkable digital transformation and beyond.David Gledhill is a seasoned technologist and business leader. As the former Group Chief Information Officer at DBS Bank for over 11 years, he spearheaded the bank's technology and transformation efforts, building a high-performance culture and integrating technology into the core of the business strategy. Under his leadership, DBS achieved global recognition for its digital transformation, and David's journey has been featured in Harvard Business Review as one of the top global transformations. After his time at DBS, David held a senior role at Lloyds Banking Group, further enhancing his expertise in large-scale transformation. He is now a non-executive director at companies like Singapore Airlines and serves as a senior advisor to McKinsey & Company.In this episode, host Barry O'Reilly invites David to discuss his leadership journey, from reshaping the technology at DBS to embracing a digital-first strategy. David offers insights on making tough decisions, aligning business with technology, and leading organizations through massive change.Key Takeaways:Technology as a Strategic Driver: David emphasizes the shift from viewing technology as a support function to recognizing it as a core driver of business strategy. He explains how leading with a digital-first mindset can unlock new growth opportunities.]Bold Decision-Making in Leadership: David shares the importance of making tough decisions early in leadership roles. He describes how scrapping failing projects and resetting strategies allowed DBS to pivot successfully.Building a High-Performance Culture: David highlights the significance of creating a culture where business and technology teams share accountability. His “two in a box” leadership model at DBS encouraged joint ownership of goals and outcomes.Learning from Tech Giants: Drawing inspiration from companies like Google and Amazon, David discusses how studying these tech giants helped DBS adopt cutting-edge practices in cloud computing, data analytics, and agile development, setting them apart in the banking industry.Additional Insights:Fostering a Culture of Storytelling: David highlights the importance of storytelling in driving organizational change. At DBS, he brought in a journalist to craft compelling narratives around early successes, which helped engage teams and build momentum for transformation.From Technologist to Strategic Leader: David's transition from a technical expert to a strategic business leader is a testament to the evolution required in leadership roles. He reflects on how moving from deep technical work to overseeing large-scale business transformation broadened his leadership perspective.The Role of Technology in the Future of Banking: David reflects on the future of the financial industry, noting...

Lara and Carey discuss Something About Her's long-prophesied opening and the Eater review that may cement SAH as a star in the world of sandwich shoppes. They also talk the deadly turbulence that rocked a Singapore Airlines flight, the blood vial attack on the RNC in Washington, and the baby radicalizing the world by way of the Four Seasons Orlando. Janet's Babymoon from Hell continues on The Valley, Michelle reveals to Jax the REAL reason behind the "texting famous men" rumors, and why Jesse is in full support. The men gather 'round the fire to cry and complain about women, Jesse terrifies Janet, blackout Jax yells at Brittany about her GERD (again), then lets out a thunderous Freudian slip the next on a fishing jaunt with the boys.Buy tickets to the SUP SUMMER 2024 TOUR!Subscribe to Once Upon a Time in Nashville to hear the first two episodes out now!Listen to this episode ad-free AND get access to weekly bonus episodes + video episodes by joining the SUP PATREON.Be cheap as hell and get full-length videos of the pod for free by subscribing to the SUP YOUTUBE.Relive the best moments of this iconic podcast by following the SUP TIKOK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the Trump campaign struggles to explain a post invoking a Nazi slogan, the former president also equivocates on whether he'd support a ban on birth control. Extreme turbulence on a Singapore Airlines flight leaves at least one dead and dozens injured. And ahead of a busy travel season, President Biden plans to release a million barrels' worth of gasoline from strategic reserves.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 1467 - Brought to you by: Chubbies - Go to https://ChubbiesShorts.com/HardFactor or use promo code HardFactor for 20% Off your entire order!! Lasara Men's Health - Go to https://Lasara.com/HardFactor to get 10% Off Testosterone Therapy today! Timestamps: (00:00:00) Memorial Day and Weather update

Seven people were seriously injured during the incident on Singapore Airlines flight from London. Also: Sixteen of the world's largest AI firms have agreed on new safety guidelines, and schools are closed in northern India as the authorities deal with an intense heatwave.