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Five conflicting travel topics that divide business stakeholders

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The toss-up between cost-savings, employee safety, and the value of in-person interaction is an ongoing boardroom debate. In the age of virtual calls, many employees are desperate to hit the road, while others prefer to conduct their business via digital channels.

Whichever side of the fence you fall on, business travel remains vital to build working relationships and drive growth. Yet, there are certain topics relating to company travel initiatives that stakeholders don’t quite agree on. To understand the perspectives, challenges, and opportunities, it’s vital that leaders know where the disconnects lie.

Aneesh Batra, Head of Customer Success, India & Southeast Asia at SAP Concur says: “These findings highlight the points of contention between travellers, travel managers, and CFOs, for the first time in our Global Business Travel Survey. To empower employees to develop professionally and create new opportunities on the road, it’s vital that every role in the organisation aligns on common goals.” Explore more insights in the seventh annual SAP Concur Global Business Travel Survey.

The latest Global Business Travel Survey from SAP Concur asked business travellers, travel managers, and chief financial officers (CFOs) about friction points in business travel. These are the main areas of disagreement:

  1. The need for business travel

The overwhelming majority (99%) of business travellers believe travel is helpful, if not essential, to success in their roles. Yet, 43% of CFOs say more than half of their company’s business travel could effectively be replaced by teleconferencing or other communication methods that don’t require travel. A third (33%) of travel managers view the tilt towards virtual meeting options as a direct threat to their company’s business travel.

  1. Employee willingness to travel 

80% of business travellers are very willing to travel over the next 12 months, marking an increase from 67% in 2023. However, nearly half (45%) of CFOs believe employee reluctance or refusal to travel could negatively impact company health within the next year. 35% of travel managers view employees’ unwillingness as a threat to business travel.

  1. Changes in travel budgets

Each role has a different view on how travel budgets are evolving. 14% of business travellers think their company’s travel budgets will remain stagnant or decrease this year. Yet, only 24% of CFOs and 22% of travel managers say budgets will be maintained or cut – suggesting a disconnect between employee perceptions and management’s financial outlook.

  1. The roles that hold the most influence

There’s a perception gap over who influences business travel decision-making. Business travellers believe travel managers (39%) and CFOs (36%) have similar influence, significantly ahead of their own at 28%. However, travel managers are broadly aligned in feeling they (43%) have nearly the same amount of influence as CFOs (41%), compared to only 16% for business travellers. CFOs strongly disagree, with 69% believing they are the most influential decision-makers, ahead of travel managers (21%) and travellers (9%).

  1. The impact of budget limitations

Although they see travel as critical to their roles, more than three-fourths (79%) of business travellers say important trips have been curtailed due to costs. In alignment, 69% of travel managers believe their company travel budget fails to reflect the importance of business travel to their organisation’s success. And whilst CFOs acknowledge the problem, there’s dissent in the ranks. 51% of CFOs somewhat agree that budget limitations stop employees from travelling as much as they need to do their jobs well, while just 29% strongly agree.

 

 

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Vietjet launches direct flights from Hanoi to Chengdu

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Vietjet has inaugurated its direct flights connecting Hanoi, Vietnam’s cultural and historical heart, to Chengdu, a major city in Southwest China. Operating four round-trip flights per week, the new service strengthens Vietjet’s presence in one of its key markets while further enhancing connectivity across Asia.

This latest addition reinforces Vietjet’s growing presence at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, which already connects passengers to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s economic powerhouse. With the Hanoi–Chengdu service, Vietjet now offers non-stop flights from both of Vietnam’s largest cities to the Chinese province of Sichuan.

The new service is part of Vietjet’s strategic expansion in China that has witnessed the launch of seven new routes since the beginning of this year. The airline currently connects both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu. It also operates flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Xi’an, while a new Hanoi-Xi’an service is scheduled to commence on July 6, further boosting travel options across Asia.

As Vietjet continues to expand its fleet and its international flight network, the airline reaffirms its position as one of the Asia-Pacific’s leading carriers. With a commitment to accessible and affordable travel, Vietjet is making it easier than ever to reach Vietnam and destinations across the region. The airline is set to launch more new routes in the second half of this year, including new services to key cities in Asia and beyond, further strengthening its role on the global aviation map.

 

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Ignacio Merino Appointed as New CEO of Freetour.com

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The booking platform for free tours and low-cost experiences, Freetour.com, has announced the appointment of Ignacio Merino Romero as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Merino joined the company two and a half years ago as Head of Business Development, during a particularly challenging period for the tourism sector, still recovering from the pandemic’s aftermath. Since then, he has been a key figure in the company’s recovery and growth, leading strategic initiatives and forging international partnerships that have enabled Freetour.com to expand to 145 countries and over 1,100 destinations worldwide.

With over 15 years of experience in managerial roles across various tourism companies, Merino brings strong expertise in management, strategy, and international development. Alongside the dedication and hard work of the entire Freetour.com team, he has played a key role in diversifying the offering, opening new markets, and strengthening relationships with local operators: efforts that have been fundamental to repositioning the company as one of the leading players in affordable tours and travel experiences.

“It is an honour to take on this new challenge and to continue working with a team that has shown exceptional resilience and passion,” said Merino. “We will remain committed to responsible, accessible, and sustainable tourism, connecting travellers with authentic experiences around the world.” 

In 2024, the company recorded the best results in its history in terms of revenue, bookings, and customer numbers. Since its foundation, Freetour.com has connected nearly 10 million travellers with local guides through a wide range of walking tours worldwide.

With this appointment, Freetour.com enters a new phase of consolidation and international growth, relying on leadership that combines sector experience, strategic vision, and a strong commitment to responsible and quality tourism.

 

 

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Waldorf Astoria offering 71 expansive villas and 68 sophisticated guest suites to open by 2027 in Bali

The post Waldorf Astoria offering 71 expansive villas and 68 sophisticated guest suites to open by 2027 in Bali appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hilton announced the signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali with Indonesian property developer PT Balibuana Perkasa, further expanding Hilton’s presence in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Set to open in late 2027, Waldorf Astoria Bali is poised to be the crown jewel of Nusa Dua, setting a new benchmark for luxury travel and hospitality in the prestigious oceanside locale that has hosted world leaders and discerning global travelers alike. The luxurious seaside retreat will take pride of place along Sawangan Beach, offering direct access to its picturesque shoreline.

Waldorf Astoria Bali will be the ownership’s second property with Hilton following the award-winning Hilton Bali Resort and will join Hilton’s existing portfolio of 16 operating and 12 pipeline hotels and resorts across Indonesia.

“This signing builds on the success of Hilton Bali Resort with PT Balibuana Perkasa and deepens our long-standing relationship. Their continued trust is a testament to the enduring value of Hilton’s brands and importantly, our owners’ confidence in Hilton’s ability to deliver best-in-class returns,” said Clarence Tan, senior vice president, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “Indonesia’s rise as a world-class destination presents tremendous opportunities and underlines its strategic importance to Hilton in Asia Pacific. With the upcoming arrival of Waldorf Astoria, Bali will hold the distinction of being home to three of our luxury brands, including Conrad Hotels & Resorts and LXR Hotels & Resorts, in addition to our flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Garden Inn.”

The signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali comes as Hilton recently surpassed 1,000 luxury and lifestyle hotels globally with another 500 in the development pipeline, demonstrating strong momentum and opportunity for its brands in this segment of the market.

The Epitome of Oceanfront Luxury

With breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Waldorf Astoria Bali will feature 71 expansive villas and 68 sophisticated guest suites, combining elegance and grandeur with a distinct sense of place and the effortless, signature service that the brand is known for.

In line with Waldorf Astoria’s legacy of culinary excellence and innovation, Waldorf Astoria Bali will feature multiple distinctive dining destinations. Among them is a dynamic beach club, and Peacock Alley, a refined cliffside restaurant and pool terrace that reimagines the brand’s iconic lounge and bar – a signature of the Waldorf Astoria brand that traces its roots to the original hotel in New York City.

One of the resort’s most anticipated culinary experiences is The Ledge by Dave Pynt, an award-winning concept that builds on the success of Pynt’s acclaimed restaurants – The Ledge at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Burnt Ends, his Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore. Known for his mastery of open-flame cooking and custom-built grills, Pynt will bring a bold yet relaxed dining experience that redefines modern barbecue through a distinctly global lens. Waldorf Astoria Bali willal so boast a suite of wellness experiences, including a tranquil spa inspired by traditional Balinese wellness rituals, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and swimming pools that overlook the Indian Ocean. Young travelers can also look forward to indulging in the resort’s family-friendly activities, along with a dedicated kids’ club.

Offering 748 square meters of event space, including a 465 square meter ballroom and a stunning chapel as an unparalleled venue for weddings, Waldorf Astoria Bali will set the stage for iconic events and unforgettable celebrations. Conveniently located just 14.5 kilometers from Ngurah Rai International Airport, the resort is minutes away from the renowned cliff fronts of Ungasan and Uluwatu and will also offer easy access to hidden gems like Geger Beach.

“Bali’s natural beauty and rich cultural depth make it a fitting home for Waldorf Astoria. With Conrad Bali, Hilton Bali Resort, Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and Hilton Garden Inn Ngurah Rai Airport already representing a strong presence on the island, this signing reflects Hilton’s continued commitment to expanding thoughtfully across South East Asia’s most sought-after destinations,” said Alexandra Murray, vice president and regional head, South East Asia, Hilton. “With the addition of Waldorf Astoria Bali, we are not only elevating our luxury footprint in Indonesia, but we are also reinforcing our promise to deliver unforgettable world-class experiences to travelers seeking the very best in hospitality.”

Gandi Rudiarto, director, PT Balibuana Perkasasaid: “Over the years, we have worked closely with Hilton as our trusted partner to create exceptional experiences for guests, and we are pleased to take that partnership to the next level by bringing the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand to Bali. The island paradise has been in the global spotlight for hosting world events like the G20 Summit, and we are confident that Waldorf Astoria Bali will introduce new heights of unforgettable luxury that befits leaders and luminaries – true to the brand’s illustrious legacy of hosting presidents and royals.”

The signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali brings Hilton another step forward on its trajectory to grow its luxury presence to 150 hotels in the Asia Pacific region in the coming years. Having recently opened its first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Japan – the Waldorf Astoria Osaka – Hilton will also open Waldorf Astoria properties in Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, Shanghai, Tokyo, Xi’an and Hanoi over the next two years. Conrad Hotels & Resorts is expanding with upcoming properties in prime travel destinations across China, including Xi’an, Chengdu, and Nanjing, as well as in Nagoya, Japan. LXR Hotels & Resorts hotels are set to debut in Bengaluru, Hiroshima and Xi’an, following the debut of the brand in Kyoto and Bali with ROKU KYOTO and Umana Bali respectively. NoMad will make its Asia Pacific debut in Singapore in 2027.

Waldorf Astoria hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.

 

 

 

 

 

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BOQEP excels with new levels of recognition 

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Picturesque tropical golden Nudey Beach with turquoise water on Fitzroy Island. It is a continental island southeast of Cairns, Queensland, Australia.

Queensland’s popular tourism recognition program will evolve this year to keep pace with global visitor expectations and shine a spotlight on the state’s exceptional operators. In 2025, the highly sought after Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP) stamp of recognition was awarded to a record 2,341 businesses – demonstrating the need for additional levels to better acknowledge the industry’s highest of achievers.

The 2026 BOQEP assessment will move away from make-or-break success and instead introduce levels of recognition. Gold and Silver stamps will showcase the top performing operators, while the score to secure the familiar Teal stamp remains the same – giving operators a clear pathway to strive towards in providing exceptional experiences that meet industry standards of best practice.

Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the new Silver and Gold levels raise the bar for this nation-leading program.

“Carrying the industry’s Best of Queensland Experience stamp has always been viewed as a significant achievement,” Minister Powell said.

“As we hit the green and gold runway to 2032, it’s time for new incentives and benchmarks to really encourage operator growth and draw attention to those outstanding businesses at the very top of our industry.”

This year BOQEP will also introduce two new criteria that operators will be assessed against– Google Business Profile and Sustainability Certification.  Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said reviewing the BOQEP regularly is crucial to cementing our reputation as a world-class holiday destination.

“In today’s digital world a Google Business Profile is no longer an option, it’s a must-have,”  Davidson said. “Sustainability also must be an area of focus for operators given that visitors are increasingly choosing businesses that genuinely care about our planet.

“The Best of Queensland Experience Program shows that if we provide operators with best practice guidance and clear parameters to strive towards, they don’t hesitate to take on the challenge.  “The number of tourism businesses offering an online booking platform has more than doubled in the past five years from 1,671 to 3,438, proving the BOQEP sets benchmarks for success.”

The BOQEP rates businesses on an independent set of criteria that includes consistent delivery of an exceptional experience based on positive customer reviews, website with secure online booking, social media presence, RTO membership and Accreditation.

Being named a Gold, Silver or Teal BOQE means a business can use the appropriate coloured official stamp of recognition in marketing, allowing potential travellers to easily identify them.

The Best of Queensland Experience program was developed in partnership with the state’s Regional Tourism Organisations (RTO), the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) and the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI).

 

 

 

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Emirates inaugural flight from Dubai to Shenzhen lands

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VIP delegation on Emirates’ inaugural flight to Shenzhen: Orhan Abbas, Emirates SVP, Commercial Operations Far East, led the VIP delegation on Emirates’ inaugural flight to Shenzhen

 

Emirates has officially launched its new daily service to Shenzhen, marking the airline’s fourth gateway in the Chinese mainland and reinforcing its East Asia growth strategy. Emirates inaugural flight, EK328, touched down at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport on 1 July, receiving a warm welcome from distinguished guests and media partners on arrival.

Passengers who flew on the inaugural flight from Dubai received special gifts and certificates to commemorate the occasion.

Orhan Abbas, Emirates SVP, Commercial Operations, Far East

Emirates now offers 42 weekly flights to four key cities in the Chinese mainland – Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen – providing passengers and businesses with enhanced connectivity and travel options in and out of Chinese mainland.

Operated by a four-class Boeing 777-300ER, Emirates’ flight EK328 departs from Dubai at 1005hrs, arriving in Shenzhen at 2200hrs. The return flight EK329 departs Shenzhen at 2355hrs, landing in Dubai at 0340hrs the next day.*

Adam Li, Emirates’ Vice President, China

Flights to and from Shenzhen are conveniently timed to enable seamless connectivity to key destinations across Europe, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam – leveraging Emirates’ extensive global network via its Dubai hub. Passengers can also seamlessly connect to Emirates’ points in Kenya, Egypt, South Africa and Saudi Arabia.

Emirates’ Gala Dinner in Shenzhen

Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Airline, said:“We are excited to launch our new daily service to Shenzhen – one of China’s most dynamic and innovative cities. This milestone reflects Emirates’ ongoing commitment to strengthening our presence in the Chinese mainland and supporting the country’s trade and tourism objectives. It is also aligned with the strengthening of China-UAE relations, and a strategic move to seamlessly connect the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s innovation corridor – an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub that aims to attract global innovation resources, through our flights.

The Journey of a Legendary Landscape performing at Emirates’ Gala Dinner in Shenzhen

We would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, Shenzhen Airport Group and our local partners for their support in making this launch possible. We look forward to connecting more travellers and businesses between Shenzhen and Dubai and across our growing network.”

Thousand -hand Bodhisattva performing at Emirates’ Gala Dinner in Shenzhen

Passengers flying to Shenzhen will enjoy an elevated experience onboard one of Emirates’ enhanced Boeing 777s, offering 8 private suites in First Class, 40 lie-flat seats in Business Class, 24 seats in Premium Economy and 260 spacious seats in Economy Class. Shenzhen has become the first city in Chinese mainland to receive Emirates’ retrofitted aircraft with upgraded cabin interiors and the award-winning Premium Economy. The new Business Class cabin in a 1-2-1 layout will further offer aisle access to every passenger.

Lang Lang, renowend Chinese pianist performing with his wife Gina, German-Korean pianist

Enhanced cargo and passenger operations    

Emirates has been serving China since 2004 and plays a significant role in facilitating seamless connectivity to over 50 countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, covering one-third of the 150 countries and regions participating in the initiative. Expansion of the airline’s operations will further boost inbound visitor volumes to the Greater Bay Area from GCC countries and Africa, while also supporting industries such as smart manufacturing, e-commerce, and biopharmaceuticals, through a 72-hour global supply chain system.

Emirates’ wide-body Boeing 777-300ER, served on the Dubai-Shenzhen route, offers 16 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight. Allowing it to further help amplify the “Aerial Silk Road” by integrating Shenzhen’s advanced manufacturing sector with Emirates’ global cargo network. Airline’s world-class cold chain capabilities will ensure the global accessibility and seamless transportation of perishable goods and pharmaceuticals.

Strengthening UAE-China ties

The UAE is China’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, with bilateral trade reaching US$95 billion in 2023. Aviation plays a key role in the rapid growth of trade exchanges between the two nations. Emirates’ expansion into the Chinese mainland comes at an opportune time as the UAE and China’s comprehensive strategic partnership deepens further, boosting cooperation in various sectors such as trade, technology, logistics and investment.

Travellers from the GCC including the UAE can now visit China visa-free for up to 30 days, allowing Emirates’ customers to enjoy hassle-free planning for their business and leisure trips to the Chinese mainland.

Emirates remains committed to facilitating convenient and seamless international connectivity in and out of the Chinese mainland, in line with its growth strategy for East Asia.

 

 

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Be amongst the top industry leaders at TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Asia

The post Be amongst the top industry leaders at TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Showcase your outstanding initiatives and innovations in delivering exceptional travel experiences.

Asia’s travel and tourism industry continues to lead across global markets, driven by world-class infrastructure, forward-thinking strategies, and a deep commitment to creating exceptional journeys. With its dynamic balance of tradition and modernity, the region continues to captivate travellers seeking both innovation and authenticity.

In recognition of the key players behind this growth, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Asia is set to honour the organisations and individuals who consistently redefine industry standards across the region.

The prestigious awards programme celebrates Asia’s leading hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators, travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology. It shines a spotlight on the visionaries who are transforming the industry through bold innovation, sustainable practices, and world-class service.

Amongst the distinguished winners at last year’s awards programme are Pan Pacific Singapore and its renowned restaurant, Edge, recognised for its exceptional fusion of world-class dining, business-friendly luxury, and state-of-the-art event facilities. Their excellence earned them the titles of Dining Concept of the Year – Singapore, Business Hotel of the Year – Singapore, and MICE Hotel of the Year – Singapore.

“These accolades are a testament to our team whose hard work and commitment to excellence have made us a leader in the hospitality industry. We strive to create exceptional experiences for every guest, whether they travel for business or for attending events. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our loyal guests and partners for the continued support and trust in us. Thank you Travel Daily Media for this recognition,” Melvin Lim, General Manager, Pan Pacific Singapore.

Submission of nominations will be open from 7 July to 12 September 2025. Don’t miss the chance to spotlight your achievements. Send in your entries and be recognised amongst Asia’s travel industry leaders at the Awards Dinner on 20 November 2025.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Asia is presented by Travel Daily Media. To view the full list of last year’s winners, click here. For more information on the awards programme, you may contact Danica Avila at (+65) 3158 1386 or danica@traveldailymedia.com.

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Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Tourism Strategy 2030 Unveiled At MTF 2025

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Officially unveiled at the Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) 2025, the final draft of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Tourism Strategy 2030 is now being readied for publishing and will be available for download at www.mekongtourism.org by mid July.

The GMS comprises Cambodia, China’s Yunnan Province and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. In 2024 these countries welcomed over 69 million international arrivals, signalling a strong recovery toward pre-pandemic levels. Intra-GMS travel accounted for around 9.5 million trips in 2023.

The GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 was jointly developed by the GMS Tourism Working Group and the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), with support from the GMS Economic Cooperation Program.

MTCO executive director Suvimol Thanasarakij said the strategy would drive high-quality sustainable tourism development, promote regional cooperation, and accelerate the development of secondary destinations across the GMS. Strategic programs would focus on building sustainable destinations, developing human capital, strengthening engagement and enhancing regional destination marketing.

In development since late 2023, the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 will guide regional tourism cooperation over the next five years. It follows on from the GMS Tourism Sector Strategy (2016-2025).

“The new 2030 strategy builds on the strong foundation laid by previous strategies, but updates it to better reflect today’s realities – like climate challenges, the digital shift, and the need for more inclusive and resilient growth,” said Suvimol.

“The 2030 strategy places more emphasis on developing secondary destinations and improving connectivity, so that tourism benefits aren’t just concentrated in the big cities. It integrates climate action and digital transformation much more deeply. There’s a strong focus on making tourism more inclusive – supporting women, youth, and groups that have traditionally been left out.”

“In this strategy, we’re also making regional marketing – including the promotion of multi-country travel experiences – one of our key strategic directions. And importantly, this strategy calls for stronger public-private partnerships and better coordination across stakeholders at all levels, from the top to the local on-the-ground players.”

The GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 draws from extensive consultations with stakeholders in tourism and related sectors. From the start in 2023 the MTCO talked closely with the GMS member countries, and in 2024 consultations were expanded to tour operators, tourism associations, NGOs, academia, media, international organizations and development partners.

“A lot of common themes came up, like the urgent need to strengthen digital and marketing skills, better infrastructure, concerns about sustainability and overtourism, and a big one – how to get the private sector more involved. Workforce challenges and the need for upskilling and reskilling were also raised, especially in light of post-COVID recovery,” noted Suvimol.

MTF 2025 was hosted by Laos in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang, from 25-27 June 2025 under the theme of “United Journey – Stronger Together”. Held at Pullman Luang Prabang, the forum drew 230 delegates from 92 organizations across 20 countries, including government agencies, tourism businesses, development partners, civil society and the media.

The event’s theme highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration in tourism planning and development, and the power of partnership, in shaping the region’s tourism future.

“It was energizing to see the GMS tourism community come together not only to celebrate our progress, but to work hand-in-hand in the fields – literally – to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for travel in the Mekong,” said Suvimol.

Literally, because a special feature of the forum saw sessions happen ‘on the ground’ – in a setting relevant to the theme of each. An ecotourism discussion was held by the river in an eco-resort setting, while an agrotourism panel took place in a rice field.

MTF 2025 also featured the first-ever GMS tourism private sector workshop, which brought together representatives from GMS travel and tour guide associations to exchange insights, discuss challenges and enhance regional collaboration.

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Sanford Travel is now part of CT Partners

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Australian travel-buying network CT Partners officially welcomed family-owned travel management company Sanford Travel to its prestigious membership group.

The addition of Sanford Travel brings the network’s total membership to 33.

Sanford Travel managing director Georgina Byrt said: “CT Partners is the right fit for our business and will allow us to surround ourselves with like-minded, high-performing agencies who genuinely understand the value of collaboration. The transparency and financial model are incredibly compelling; there’s nothing else like it in the market.”

Byrt added that joining up is all about shared values, saying: “We’re focused on growing our presence in events and leisure over the next two years, and CT Partners offers the ideal environment to support that growth while staying true to who we are.”

For his part, CT Partners chief executive Matt Masson declared: “We are incredibly proud that an established business like Sanford Travel recognises the value of our unique and fully transparent model. As a not-for-profit, our purpose is singular: to grow our members’ businesses, not our own. Each member is an equal shareholder and has a say in the future direction of our network. Sanford Travel’s decision to join is a strong vote of confidence in the strength and integrity of CT Partners.”

A quick backgrounder

Founded in 1987 as Sanford International Travel by Linda Brettell and John Jowett, the Sydney-based agency has evolved over nearly four decades to become a well-established player in the corporate travel sector from which it derives 70 percent of its business.

Currently under Byrt’s leadership,, the company is now poised to accelerate growth in the events and leisure segments.

Likewise, CT Partners continues to deliver exceptional value across the Australian travel industry. 

Now in its 21st year, the network reports a Total Transaction Value (TTV) exceeding $2 billion, including $1 billion in preferred airline production. Members also received record overrides of $26 million, marking a 48 percent year-on-year increase.

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How Costa del Sol is Embracing a More Sustainable Travel Future

The post How Costa del Sol is Embracing a More Sustainable Travel Future appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Costa del Sol, long synonymous with mass tourism and beachfront resorts, is evolving. Today, the region is balancing its reputation as a sun-and-sand playground with a growing commitment to sustainability and authentic local experiences. For travel professionals, this presents both opportunities and responsibilities — to adapt to shifting traveler values, manage resources wisely, and deliver experiences that respect local communities.

From Volume to Value: A New Vision

In the wake of the pandemic, many destinations across Spain — and the world — have seen the pitfalls of over-reliance on volume-based tourism. The Costa del Sol is no exception. With more travelers seeking slower, more meaningful experiences, local authorities and businesses are pivoting toward a model that favors value over sheer numbers.

Some coastal towns, like Nerja and Estepona, have begun investing in walkable old towns, cultural routes, and nature trails that spread visitors beyond the crowded beachfronts. This not only relieves pressure on key hotspots but also channels economic benefits into lesser-known villages and inland areas.


Empowering Local Producers

One clear trend: local food and craft are taking center stage. From olive oil tastings in rural co-operatives to urban markets in Málaga city, visitors want to know where their money goes — and they increasingly prefer spending it on authentic local businesses.

For tour operators and DMCs, this means forging partnerships with local farmers, winemakers, and artisans. Small-group experiences that highlight regional specialties can be marketed as high-value add-ons — while delivering genuine economic impact to communities that previously saw little benefit from large resort bookings.


Decarbonizing the Costa

Like many European destinations, Andalusia is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Rail connections to Málaga have improved in recent years, offering lower-emission access from major cities like Madrid. Local transport providers are testing e-buses and car-sharing services that make it easier for visitors to leave rental cars behind.

Meanwhile, a number of hotels are obtaining sustainability certifications, investing in water-saving technologies, and supporting local conservation projects. For travel advisors and tour operators, being able to vet and recommend truly responsible accommodation will become a growing point of differentiation.


Off-Season & Off-the-Beaten-Path

A challenge for many coastal destinations is seasonality. Costa del Sol has long depended on a summer peak, but stakeholders are working to extend the season by developing culture-focused and nature-based offerings that thrive in spring and autumn.

Hiking routes, local festivals, and creative retreats in villages like Frigiliana and Mijas Pueblo offer a slower pace — and a reason for travelers to visit when the beaches are quieter. For B2B operators, packaging these shoulder-season options helps smooth out demand, keeps local staff employed year-round, and reduces strain on resources during high season.


Technology & Transparency

More travelers, especially Gen Z and millennials, want to know how their trips impact the planet. Forward-thinking DMCs and hospitality brands are responding with clearer communication — from carbon footprint calculators to digital itineraries that highlight the percentage of spend going to local businesses.

Small steps like replacing paper brochures with QR-coded guides, or offering real-time availability for rural experiences, can add up to measurable savings and a more responsible supply chain.


Why It Matters for Travel Professionals

Sustainable tourism is no longer a fringe idea; it’s becoming a baseline expectation. For travel businesses operating in Costa del Sol, now is the time to rethink how products are sourced, how itineraries are designed, and how guests are educated.

Travel advisors, group planners, and corporate buyers will increasingly seek partners who can prove they’re committed to regenerative practices. That means collaborating with local communities, protecting cultural heritage, and ensuring that growth is balanced with stewardship.


Final Thoughts

Costa del Sol will likely remain one of Europe’s beloved coastal escapes. But its future prosperity depends on redefining what success looks like — not by how many sunbeds are booked, but by how well the region’s natural and cultural assets are protected for generations to come.

For travel professionals, this is more than a market trend — it’s an invitation to shape the next chapter of responsible travel in Southern Spain.

Author Bio:
Thomas Bjerkan is an independent travel writer and sustainability advocate based in Spain. He explores how destinations can balance growth with authenticity, and loves helping travelers discover local stories beyond the guidebook.

The post How Costa del Sol is Embracing a More Sustainable Travel Future appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia