News: Virgin Atlantic launches merch, new InterCon Bangkok, Ryanair’s new Norwich flights

News in brief:

Virgin Atlantic launches its own line of merch

It’s taken almost 40 years, but Virgin Atlantic has finally launched its own brand of merchandise.

The collection has been designed in collaboration with British designers Fenella Smith and Oliver Co. It comprise t-shirts, sweatshirts, bags and travel accessories. Bizarrely, there’s also a pack of playing cards (which I actually fancy!)

The bags and travel accessories come in vivid Virgin Atlantic-red vegan leather which has been made from tea leaves, apparently. A red bag tag will set you back £33 whilst the large flight bag is £79. Tshirts and sweatshirts are from £29 and £53.

The items can be bought here on Virgin Atlantic’s ‘retail therapy’ website. You can make a steep saving if you opt for in-flight duty-free delivery.

The airline seems to have missed a trick by not offering collectable, metal versions of its Wilbur and Orville salt and pepper shakers. When Virgin Red recently put the standard plastic versions up for redemption they sold out very quickly.

New InterContinental opens in Bangkok

IHG’s InterContinental brand has announced the opening of InterContinental Bangkok Sukhumvit. It is the second InterContinental hotel in the city.

Situated in Thonglor, one of Bangkok’s most upscale neighbourhoods, it has 241 rooms and suites and:

seamlessly weaves traditional Thai craftsmanship with modern international influences to create an unparalleled destination that mirrors the essence of one of Bangkok’s most vibrant districts.

There are three restaurant and bar options: AVA Brasserie (international), The Lobby (an all-day lounge serving Thai tea alongside a traditional Japanese green tea ceremony) and Rogues, a ‘high-energy cocktail bar’ with live jazz performances.

There is also a spa, THE SPA by HARNN, with a Japanese-Thai inspired concept.

You can find out more on the hotel website here.

Ryanair launches flights from Norwich

Ryanair has added its 22nd UK airport – Norwich.

The three initial routes are Alicante, Faro and Malta, none of which are currently served from the airport.

All will be served twice per week and flights start on 1st April.

Our last review of the Executive Lounge at Norwich Airport (yes, there is one) is here.