Palau sees 49% interest from Indian travelers; Guam will see resumed flights from T'way Air

Travel trends are governed by a multitude of factors, including public holidays, flights and visa-free options.

Palau Rock Islands arch formations. Photo from Journal files.

Palau has experienced a boost in popularity following its decision to offer visa-free access to Indian passport holders. Online travel site Agoda’s data highlights a 49% increase in interest in Palau from Indian travelers, making it one of the top emerging destinations for those looking for a unique and less crowded escape.

According to Travel and Tour World, a growing middle class in countries that include India is fueling a growing demand for international and domestic travel.

In airline news, T'way Air will resume flights to Guam from Osaka on July 18, after it ceased flights on the route in 2021. The daily service will operate through Oct. 25 and will provide a total of 77 flights with a 189-seat capacity, according to the A.B. Won Pat International Airport, Guam.

While Japan flights and arrivals are on the rise, Guam’s most notable recovery success to date is the two Korean Air daily flights which began in June, with passenger loads comfortably at more than 90%.

July will offer visitors the Liberation Day parade on July 21 and the launch of the Tumon night market from July 27 and every Sunday thereafter between the SandCastle and the Dusit Beach Resort Guam from 5 to 9 p.m.

Night markets — and markets in general — are a perennial attraction that offer visitors a free and casual experience with a variety of vendors.

United Airlines has a promotional fare from Guam to Taipei from $416* (including estimated taxes) for travel from July 4 through Oct. 31. Tickets must be purchased at the time of booking, no later than July 18. *Includes estimated taxes of approximately $150.59. mbj

Two firms seek approval to ship off-island waste to NMI landfills

The NMI Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality is reviewing two separate requests from private companies seeking to dispose of off-island waste in NMI landfills — one from a Saipan-based company involving construction and demolition debris from the U.S. Army Garrison in Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands, and another covering pharmaceutical waste from Guam.

Palau sees 49% interest from Indian travelers; Guam will see resumed flights from T'way Air