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Malaysia Airlines has upgraded its Bonus Side Trip (BST) program, offering international travelers a free domestic return flight to one of seven Malaysian destinations when transiting through Kuala Lumpur. This initiative allows passengers to explore Langkawi, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Alor Star, Kuala Terengganu, or Kota Bharu at no extra cost. Dersenish Aresandiran, chief commercial officer of Malaysia Aviation Group, said the BST reflects the airline’s commitment to showcasing Malaysia’s cultural richness and hospitality. The program supports ‘Visit Malaysia Year 2026’ by promoting sustainable tourism and encouraging travelers to discover lesser-known local gems beyond the capital.

Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has officially entered the South Asian market with the opening of The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection. This marks the brand’s debut in the region, which includes Nepal, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, and represents Marriott Bonvoy’s 19th brand in South Asia. The hotel is located in Tahachal, Kathmandu, and features 285 rooms and suites. It incorporates elements of traditional Nepali design, such as wooden jaalis, Thangka paintings, and exposed brick, alongside modern amenities.

According to the company, the hotel also offers views of the Himalayan range and nearby cultural landmarks, including the Swoyambhunath Stupa. Originally established in 1966, The Soaltee is a long-standing hotel in Nepal’s hospitality sector. Now rebranded under the Autograph Collection, the hotel includes a curated installation titled “The Storyteller,” which highlights its historical legacy through various exhibits in public spaces.

Storyteller Saigrace Pokharel has released a new book titled ‘Saigrace: The Storyteller’, which reflects on his journey in the field of storytelling. The book launch coincided with his 100th live performance, held in Colorado, United States.

The event was attended by several personalities, including Nepali singer and writer Hiranya Bhojpure; Binod Adhikari, Goodwill Ambassador for Nepal in the US; Nabaraj Shrestha, President of the Global Nepal Film Award America; musician Manoj Raj Siwakoti; and Colorado event organizer Suman KC.

The book covers the global history of storytelling and highlights moments from Pokharel’s performances around the world. It includes insights into the reception of his works, including Mero Adhuro Prem, an audio novel that ranks fourth globally and first in Nepal on YouTube viewership charts.

Personal reflections are also featured, with Pokharel recounting experiences with audiences and noting how storytelling has resonated with listeners, including stories of emotional impact. ‘Saigrace: The Storyteller’ offers an overview of Pokharel’s career and emphasizes the broader influence of storytelling on audiences.

The third edition of ‘Bhojanlipi Swad’, a culinary event featuring traditional Nepali cuisine, was held in Kathmandu. The event, curated by internationally recognized chefs Ghanshyam Kandel and Durga Khadka, showcased 25 dishes prepared using primarily Nepali agricultural products. The menu included items made from mohi, millet, maize, buckwheat, nettle, jackfruit, and mushrooms, along with a variety of meat dishes including fish, duck, goat, and chicken. Dishes made from ingredients like bel sherbet, niuro (wild fern), khuwa, and paan laddoo were among the highlights.

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, inaugurated the event by sampling the dishes. Speaking at the event, he emphasized the potential of promoting agri-tourism to strengthen the national economy and highlighted the importance of investment in the hospitality sector to generate employment and income. Rudra Sharma, head of Nepal House, expressed satisfaction in collaborating on the campaign to promote Nepali cuisine and music. The event saw participation from individuals representing various sectors, including agriculture and tourism.

Chef Kandel stated that Nepali cuisine is deeply connected to culture and spirituality. He noted that in today’s world, people seek not just taste but also holistic well-being, adding that Nepali food could serve as a valuable gift to the world due to its health benefits. 

Chef Kandel has recently published a cookbook titled 'Timur'. Another cookbook, 'Bhojanlipi', co-authored with fellow chef Khadka, is set to be released soon.