Media OutReach
Blue Cross Survey: 74% of Young People Travel for Unique and Exciting Experiences One-third Lack Protection Awareness
Preference for Spontaneous Travel, Grabbing Cheap Flights and Travelling on a Whim
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited (“Blue Cross”) today announced the results of a survey1 of young people’s travel habits and preferences, as well as their level of protection awareness. The survey found that young people love to travel, with nearly 70% planning to travel2 twice or more a year. 74% of the respondents hope to explore and try unique, novel and exciting experiences during their travels. However, one-third would not purchase travel insurance, implying a lack of awareness of risk management and protection.
The survey was conducted by Blue Cross earlier through online questionnaires. The key findings are as follows:
New Generation Loves to Travel, Prefers Novel and Exciting Experiences
69% of the respondents plan to travel twice or more in the next 12 months; 22% plan to travel three times or more. In other words, one in five young people plans to travel three times or more in the coming year.
74% of the respondents aspire to explore and try unique, novel and exciting experiences during their travels, and about one-third (32%) prefer to explore lesser-known destinations.
Preference for Spontaneous Travel, Travelling on a Whim after Grabbing Cheap Flights, Following Travel KOLs Suggestions for Itinerary, “Checking in” and “Happy Sharing” on Social Media
Nearly 60% (58%) of the respondents prefer improvised travel to planning an itinerary in advance. Two-thirds (66%) of the respondents’ travel plans depend on the availability of cheap flights. As for planning their itinerary, 70% of the respondents said they would refer to the suggestions and recommendations of travel KOLs
62% of young people travel to “check in” and are keen on “happy sharing” on social media, highlighting the close connection between their offline and online activities.
Most Worried about Flight Delays, Cancellations or Lost Luggage, Yet Lacks Protection Awareness
When asked about travel-related concerns, 71% of the respondents cite flight delays or cancellations as their top worry; half (50%) of the respondents are concerned about lost or damaged luggage. These are common risks that travellers occasionally face.
Two-thirds (66%) of the respondents said they would purchase travel insurance to protect themselves and their families, of which 80% considered premium and promotional offers as the key factor when choosing travel insurance. One-third (34%) would not acquire insurance, of which 42% considered it unnecessary, showing that the new generation has inadequate awareness of their protection needs.
Blue Cross to Actively Tap the Youth Market in Line with its Young and Dynamic Brand Image
Ms. Bonnie Tse, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Cross, said, “Today’s young people love to travel, seeking out fresh and exciting experiences. They are fearless, innovative and willing to take on challenges. However, their lack of protection awareness is concerning. In addition to common travel disruptions such as flight delays and lost luggage, comprehensive travel insurance provides crucial protection and mitigates the risks against accidents, injuries, and illness during the journey.
“We hope to inspire the new generation to balance living fully with protecting themselves and their families. As young people grow and progress through different stages of life, their priorities, concerns, and aspirations evolve, and a thoughtful awareness and understanding of risk management becomes increasingly important.”
Blue Cross values the youth market. Its business data reflect a growing base of younger customers, with a 108% increase in policyholders aged 18 to 29 and a 164% increase in the number of policies. Moreover, the number of policyholders and policies for the age group 18 to 22 jumped 150% and 191% respectively.
Ms. Tse said, “This market research is focused on local university students. This new generation has huge market potential and matches Blue Cross’s young and dynamic brand positioning. The survey results help us further understand young people’s preferences, consumption patterns, habits and protection awareness, and enable us to enhance our product design and marketing strategy. For example, we will introduce more flash sales and collaborate with travel platforms and KOLs that meet the preferences and lifestyles of young people. We will tailor our offerings to the needs and pain points of the new generation, providing better value for money, and creating ‘Just Right’ protection for them.”
In addition, today’s young people are growing up in a digital environment. Blue Cross has been keeping up with the pace of digital life. For example, it has optimised its company website to create a one-stop, seamless digital insurance service experience. It has also established affinity partnerships with different digital platforms to connect with young customers at various touch points across their daily activities, from online shopping and travel bookings to payment systems and financial management services. This year, Blue Cross plans to launch a series of marketing activities catering to young people, further engaging the young customer segment online and offline.
Blue Cross Business Performance in First Three Quarters of 2024 Surpassed Market Average
Blue Cross also announced its business performance for the first three quarters of 2024. Its overall performance showed a 22% rise compared with the same period in 2023, which is significantly higher than the market’s 2% increase3. Its non-medical insurance business soared by 33%, while the market fell4 by 6% during the same period; of which, travel and personal accident insurance business surged by 44%, more than twice the market’s 21% increase5. Blue Cross’s medical insurance also outperformed the market, with a 19% increase over the same period, higher than the market’s 16% increase6.
Note:
- Blue Cross conducted a survey from 9 December 2024 to 19 January 2025 through online questionnaires. A total of 823 Hong Kong residents aged 18 or above who are currently receiving post-secondary education were interviewed to understand the travel preferences, habits and protection awareness of young people.
- Excludes travelling to mainland China and Macau.
- Source: Insurance Authority Quarterly Release of Provisional Statistics for General Business (direct business) from January to September 2024, excluding Mortgage Guarantee.
- Source: Insurance Authority Quarterly Release of Provisional Statistics for General Business (direct business) from January to September 2024, excluding Medical and Mortgage Guarantee.
- Source: Insurance Authority Quarterly Release of Provisional Statistics for General Business (direct business) from January to September 2024, non-medical part under Class of Business “Accident & Health”.
- Source: Insurance Authority Quarterly Release of Provisional Statistics for General Business (direct business) from January to September 2024, medical part under Class of Business “Accident & Health”.
Disclaimers:
- This press release is for distribution in Hong Kong only. The distribution of this press release is not and shall not be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or a provision of any insurance product outside Hong Kong.
- Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited is a subsidiary of AIA Group Limited. It is not affiliated with or related in any way to Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association or any of its affiliates or licensees.
Hashtag: #BlueCross
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited
Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited (“Blue Cross”) is a subsidiary of AIA Group Limited. With over 50 years of operational experience in the insurance industry, Blue Cross provides a comprehensive range of products and services including medical, travel and general insurance, which cater to the needs of both individual and corporate customers. Blue Cross distributes its products through various channels, including AIA agency force, online platform, direct sales, BEA network, insurance agents and brokers, as well as travel agencies.
In 2024, Blue Cross is assigned financial strength rating of A+ (stable outlook) and issuer credit rating of A+ (stable outlook) by S&P Global Ratings.
The Taiwan-born pet mobility brand opens its first SoHo pop-up inside Flying Solo, bringing its Nordic-designed pet stroller collection to the heart of New York City.
NEW YORK, USA – Media OutReach Newswire – 02 April 2026 – FikaGO, the design-led pet mobility brand recognized across Asia and Europe, has opened its first New York City pop-up store inside Flying Solo in SoHo. The opening marks a deliberate move for a pet brand into one of the world’s most competitive retail districts.
Since entering the online American market in 2025, FikaGO has built a growing community of pet parents who see their animals as a central part of everyday life. Positioned as lifestyle essentials rather than conventional pet gear, FikaGO’s range of products is designed for people who want the best for their fur babies.
“We’ve always believed that pet products should not only be functional, but also beautifully integrated into everyday life.” — Eric Guu, Co-founder, FikaGO
SoHo was a considered choice: Flying Solo, with locations in New York and Paris, is known for championing independent design with a distinctly global sensibility.
The pop-up showcases FikaGO’s auto-folding Free To Go 2 in Sandy Beige, the brand’s bestselling product. All FikaGO’s products are manufactured using eco-friendly fabrics made from recycled materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. This includes their large-capacity Agile 2 pet strollers to their airline-approved Truffle carriers and the heavy-duty Kross pet wagon.
“Launching in SoHo is a meaningful milestone for us; it allows customers to truly experience the quality, design, and intention behind every FikaGO product.” — Eric Guu, Co-founder, FikaGO
As pet ownership rises globally, particularly among urban millennials and Gen Zs, demand for products that combine functionality, design, and lifestyle integration continues to grow. FikaGO was built for precisely this moment, and SoHo is precisely where that moment lives.
Visit the FikaGO pop-up at Flying Solo, 419 Broome Street, New York, or explore the full collection at https://us.fikago.com/.
Hashtag: #FikaGO #petmobilitybrand #petstroller #petcarrier #petwagon #petkennel #petbiketrailer
https://us.fikago.com/
https://www.facebook.com/FikaGO.US
https://www.instagram.com/fikago_us/
YouTube: 
https://www.youtube.com/@fikago5910
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About FikaGO
FikaGO is a pet mobility brand founded in Taiwan, dedicated to crafting products that blend functionality, comfort, and modern aesthetics. With a presence across Asia and growing reach in Europe and the U.S, FikaGO is redefining everyday experiences between pets and their humans.
Media OutReach
Lee Kum Kee Celebrates Culinary Excellence at the Historic Hong Kong Debut of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026
From 23-25 March, Lee Kum Kee brought together top chefs, diverse cultures and industry communities through a range of thoughtfully curated experiences, bringing authentic Asian flavours to the global stage. As well as reaffirming the brand’s Asian roots and international perspective, its involvement reflected an enduring commitment to preserving culinary heritage and driving gastronomic innovation.
“Asian Flavour Duet“: A Culinary Journey Through Heritage and Innovation
Helping to build momentums for this year’s awards, Lee Kum Kee collaborated with Vicky Cheng, the acclaimed Executive Chef and owner of WING, to co-create the “Asian Flavour Duet”, a Hong Kong-style late-night supper party on 24 March. Hosted at two Hong Kong culinary landmarks, the experience unfolded in two chapters – “Paying Tribute to Heritage” and “Innovative Fusion” – and invited guests to explore the limitless possibilities of Asian flavour.
The evening began at the century-old Lin Heung Lau teahouse, a space filled with nostalgia and memories for generations of Hong Kongers. Chef Vicky reinterpreted classic Hong Kong late-night dishes using signature Lee Kum Kee sauces, while guests were immersed in the warmth of the historic venue.
The celebration then moved to Medora, Chef Vicky’s Western dining space, where an “Innovative Fusion” was revealed. He showcased his modern culinary philosophy by incorporating Lee Kum Kee sauces with contemporary techniques to create bold, unexpected dishes. Guests also enjoyed specially crafted cocktails infused with Lee Kum Kee sauces, alongside a delightful yet refined sauce-inspired gelato, demonstrating a harmonious interweaving of savoury, umami, sweetness and spice.
The multisensory journey seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, exploring the future of cuisine while highlighting Lee Kum Kee’s role as a global gateway to Asian culinary culture.
At the event, Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs at Lee Kum Kee, commented, “Tonight, we are honoured to celebrate Hong Kong’s late‑night food culture with Chef Vicky and the global culinary community. From the legacy of Lin Heung Lau to the forward‑looking spirit of Medora, we are proud to be part of the creative journey and help showcase the depth of Asian flavours on the world stage.”
Celebrating a Gastronomic Brilliance with the Highest Climber Award Sponsored by Lee Kum Kee
During the awards ceremony on 25 March, Lee Kum Kee’s booth showcased a range of the brand’s acclaimed classic sauces and innovative products. Guests sampled specially crafted bites featuring Lee Kum Kee sauces, engaging directly with the flavours and techniques that have made the brand a trusted partner in both home and professional kitchens worldwide.
As part of the evening’s celebration of the region’s most exceptional culinary talents, the Highest Climber Award sponsored by Lee Kum Kee was presented to Lamdre in Beijing by Chef Park from Atomix (No.1 in North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025). Lambre was applauded for its pioneering plant-based dining space that promotes healthy, sustainable living while honouring Chinese biodiversity in its menus.
In addition, WING, led by Chef Vicky, achieved an impressive second place in 2026 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list. The restaurant had also previously ranked No. 11 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2025, underscoring its continued international acclaim.
Building the Future Together: Deepening Global Partnerships
With the success of this prestigious awards ceremony in Hong Kong, China, Lee Kum Kee looks forward to deepening its collaboration with leading talents in the global culinary community. By continuing to champion Asian flavours and foster meaningful dialogue and exchange, the brand will continue to bring the spirit of Asian cuisine to kitchens and dining tables around the world.
Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #LKK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Lee Kum Kee
Lee Kum Kee is the global gateway to Asian culinary culture, dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Since 1888, it has brought people together over joyful reunions, shared traditions and memorable meals. Beloved by consumers and chefs alike, Lee Kum Kee’s range of more than 300 sauces and condiments sparks creativity in kitchens everywhere, inspiring professional and home chefs to experiment, create and delight. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China and serving over 100 countries and regions, Lee Kum Kee’s rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices and “Constant Entrepreneurship” combine to enable superior experiences through Asian cuisine for people worldwide. For more information, please visit www.LKK.com.
About Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants
Launched in 2013, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants aims to showcase the outstanding achievements and diverse culinary landscape of the region. The list is determined by the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, a panel of over 350 culinary experts from across Asia who vote independently based on their specialised knowledge of the local dining scene. The Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants series includes the awards ceremony and list announcement, creating a premier networking platform for restaurateurs, media, seasoned travelers and culinary connoisseurs to celebrate the exceptional service, passion and talent in the dining industry.
- Herbert Vongpusanachai takes on the role of Senior Vice President for Commercial for the region, effective April 1, 2026
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2026 – DHL Express, the world’s leading international express service provider, has appointed Herbert Vongpusanachai as Senior Vice President, Commercial for Asia Pacific, effective April 1, 2026. Herbert, who currently serves as Managing Director for DHL Express Thailand & Indochina, will be based in Singapore for his new role.
Herbert brings more than two decades of leadership experience within DHL Express, having successfully helmed multiple key markets across the region. He first joined the company in 2003 as Managing Director for Thailand & Indochina, later taking on leadership of Singapore in 2008, followed by Hong Kong & Macau in 2016. Since returning to lead Thailand & Indochina in 2020, he has driven sustained year‑on‑year profitable growth, transforming the cluster into one of the region’s key engines of expansion.
“Herbert has an exceptional track record of delivering strong business results while nurturing highly engaged teams across diverse markets. His deep understanding of our customers, collaborative leadership style, and ability to unearth opportunities in complex environments make him the ideal leader to drive our commercial agenda for Asia Pacific. I am confident that under his guidance, we will continue to accelerate sustainable growth across the region,” said Ken Lee, CEO for Asia Pacific, DHL Express.
In his new regional role, Herbert will shape and accelerate the commercial strategy for DHL Express across Asia Pacific by working with other functions to assess new sectors, routes and trade lanes with high potential for growth. He will focus on deepening customer engagement and supporting their expansion, while driving sustainable volume growth and advancing the adoption of new technologies to enhance commercial execution across markets. With his extensive country expertise and people‑first leadership style, Herbert is well‑positioned to support both regional and country teams in raising commercial performance to new levels.
“Asia Pacific remains an important anchor in global trade as seen in the latest DHL Global Connectedness Report, and this indicates the unwavering role of logistics to facilitate the flow of goods. With the newly introduced Heavyweight Express solution, which enables customers to ship heavyweight shipments with speed, certainty and reliability, I look forward to working alongside our talented teams to contribute to shaping the next chapter of DHL Express’s commercial success,” said Herbert Vongpusanachai, Senior Vice President – Commercial for Asia Pacific, DHL Express.
The latest DHL Global Connectedness Report shows that the region remains a major anchor of global commerce, with multiple economies rising in global connectedness rankings and Southeast Asia firmly establishing itself as a fast‑growing trade corridor. This also mirrors one of DHL Group’s strategies to better support 20 markets globally to accelerate growth; eight of them rest in Asia Pacific – underscoring the region’s critical role in DHL’s global network. As trade flows diversify and intra‑Asia integration deepens, this leadership appointment further strengthens DHL Express’s position in Asia Pacific.
Hashtag: #DHL
https://group.dhl.com/en.html
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dhlexpress/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
DHL – The logistics company for the world
DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 389,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.
DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 82.9 billion euros in 2025. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.
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