United Continental Holdings has announced a new daily direct service route between Hong Kong and Tokyo. This new service, to be operated by Continental Airlines with effect from 31 October this year, is the first operational expansion in Hong Kong since United and Continental merged in 2010. The daily non-stop service between Hong Kong International Airport and Narita International Airport will be operated using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, offering 14 Business Class and 141 Economy Class seats.

To meet the expected surge in demand for accommodation, the authorities in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) are looking at plans to increase the inventory of hotels in the city. HCMC currently has approximately 840 hotels, with the majority of them being one-star rated economy lodgings. In terms of upscale accommodation options, the city has approximately 26 four- and five-star hotels in operation. HCMC’s Department of Culture, Sports & Tourism has commented that they are looking at significantly increasing the current inventory by 2020. However, no specific target figures were announced.

Serviced apartment operator Ovolo Group has announced the opening of its flagship hotel in West Kowloon, Hong Kong. The all-suite 63-unit Ovolo 256 Tung Chau Street is within proximity to the Sham Shui Po and Nam Cheong MTR stations, and about 17 minutes’ drive away from Central. The hotel offers two- and three-bedroom units, measuring between 45 and 65 square metres and offering views across the city or harbour. The Ovolo 256 Tung Chau Street is the group’s first property across the Victoria Harbour, expanding into the Kowloon area.