The post Pegasus Airlines celebrates 100,000 passengers at Birmingham Airport appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Pegasus Airlines has carried over 100,000 passengers through Birmingham Airport (BHX) since it began operations to/from Birmingham in December 2023. The low-cost carrier operates a daily route from Birmingham to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) and has operated over 500 flights from BHX to date.

 The arrival of Pegasus Airlines in 2023 significantly bolstered Birmingham Airport’s onwards connectivity with the airline serving more than 150 destinations in over 50 countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North Africa from its SAW hub. Pegasus has now joined forces with Birmingham Airport to celebrate the milestone by giving away a pair of return flights to Istanbul on BHX’s official Facebook page. One lucky winner will get the chance to jet off and explore the world’s most famous transcontinental city, renowned for its historic landmarks and delicious cuisine.

Last year, Pegasus Airlines was named Global Environmental Sustainability Airline of the Year at the CAPA Sustainability Awards 2024 in recognition of its ongoing sustainability efforts. The airline is actively seeking to decarbonise its operations in line with its commitment to IATA’s Net Zero by 2050 pledge and global imperatives to protect the planet.

These ambitions are mirrored by BHX, which is aiming to have become a carbon net zero airport by 2033 by implementing low-carbon alternatives into its operation. In March, the airport celebrated its most waste-efficient year ever with its recycling rate for terminal waste exceeding 75%.

Commenting on the airline’s milestone, Tom Screen, Aviation Director of Birmingham Airport said:

“We’re delighted to celebrate 100,000 Pegasus Airline passengers through Birmingham Airport. This special milestone is illustrative of the successful partnership we have with Pegasus and we look forward to welcoming even more of their customers through BHX.”

 

 

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The post 7 Ways Wedding Traditions Will Change By 2035 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Planning a wedding used to follow a predictable script – white dress, church ceremony, big reception with 150+ guests. But it seems those days are numbered. According to this expert, the next decade promises to completely reshape how couples say “I do,” driven by technology advances, environmental concerns, and evolving social attitudes.

Wedding expert Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, a family-run business specialising in exclusive-use venues across the UK, has witnessed these changes firsthand at their castle and country estate locations. “We’re seeing couples make bold choices that would have seemed impossible just five years ago,” says Bramer. “The traditional wedding playbook is being rewritten entirely.”

The numbers tell the story. According to reports from Axios, average guest counts have dropped from over 180 in 2006 to around 131 in 2024, which indicates a major shift toward more intimate celebrations. But guest lists are only the beginning, with today’s couples rethinking everything from vendor selection to menu choices.

Based on his experience working with hundreds of couples at premier UK venues, Bramer has identified seven key areas where wedding traditions will transform over the next decade. While some couples are already embracing these changes, he predicts they’ll become mainstream by 2035.

 

1. AI Takes Over Wedding Planning

Forget spending months scrolling through Pinterest boards. AI design assistants like June are already creating personalised mood boards, suggesting vendors, and curating colour palettes based on your style preferences. Tools like these can analyse thousands of wedding photos to understand exactly what appeals to you.

“Couples are embracing technology that saves time and reduces stress,” explains Bramer. “AI doesn’t replace the personal touch, but instead amplifies it by handling the legwork so couples can focus on what really matters.”

Digital invitations with QR codes, interactive wedding websites, and virtual guestbooks are becoming standard. Live-streaming capabilities aren’t just for pandemic weddings anymore – they’re helping distant relatives join celebrations they couldn’t otherwise attend.

2. Sustainability Becomes Non-Negotiable

Eco-conscious choices are moving from nice-to-have to must-have. Couples are choosing upcycled bridal outfits, plant-based menus, and zero-waste decor. The days of massive floral arrangements that get tossed after one day are ending.

“Modern couples want their special day to reflect their values,” says Bramer. “We’re seeing requests for locally-sourced everything, from flowers grown within 50 miles to catering that highlights regional specialties.”

Micro-weddings naturally support this trend by reducing waste and encouraging local sourcing over elaborate imported elements.

3. Micro-Weddings Replace Big Bash Culture

The intimate wedding revolution is here to stay. These celebrations of 10-50 people offer budget-friendly alternatives while creating deeply personal experiences. Couples are discovering that smaller guest lists mean more meaningful conversations and personalised details.

“There’s something magical about a micro-wedding,” notes Bramer. “Every guest feels special because they truly are part of the couple’s inner circle. The atmosphere is completely different.”

Couples are in many cases pairing micro-ceremonies with larger casual celebrations later – giving them the best of both worlds.

4. Remote Work Reshapes Wedding Timing

Work-from-anywhere culture is revolutionising when and where couples get married. Weekday weddings are surging as remote workers gain scheduling flexibility. Destination weddings are extending into multi-day experiences because guests can work from scenic locations.

“We’re booking more Tuesday and Wednesday weddings than ever before,” says Bramer. “Couples are realising they can have their dream venue at a fraction of peak-day pricing while their guests treat it like a workation.”

This change is making previously impossible venues accessible and leading to more relaxed timelines.

5. Gift Registries Go Digital and Experiential

Traditional china patterns are out. Experience registries featuring honeymoon funds, cooking classes, and adventure outings are in. Some tech-savvy couples are even accepting cryptocurrency contributions through digital wallets.

“Couples want gifts that create memories, not clutter,” explains Bramer. “We’re seeing registries that include everything from wine-tasting weekends to home renovation funds.”

This change suggests modern couples prioritise experiences over possessions.

6. Gender Roles Get a Complete Makeover

The ‘bride-centric’ wedding is fading fast. Couples are opting for inclusive vows, non-gendered attire choices, and unified parent dances. Seating arrangements now focus on meaningful connections rather than traditional family sides.

“We’re planning ceremonies that celebrate partnership equally,” says Bramer. “Some couples write completely personalised vows that throw out traditional language entirely. Others are having both partners walk down the aisle together.”

These ‘anti-weddings’ reject one-size-fits-all rituals in favour of authentic personal expression.

7. Weekday Weddings Become the Smart Choice

Cost-conscious couples are discovering the benefits of off-peak celebrations. Weekday and off-season bookings offer significant savings on venues and vendors while providing more flexible scheduling options.

“A Thursday wedding can cost 40% less than a Saturday celebration,” notes Bramer. “Couples are using those savings for better food, extended honeymoons, or house deposits instead of paying premium rates for peak times.”

This trend is creating multi-day celebrations with relaxed pacing that prioritises guest experience over tradition.

Nick Bramer, spokesperson for Country House Weddings, commented:

“We’re witnessing a fundamental shift in what couples want from their wedding day. Societal changes, technology advances, and economic pressures are forcing people to rethink what really matters. The pandemic taught us that intimate celebrations can be more meaningful than massive productions, and remote work has given couples flexibility they never had before.

“What excites me most is that tradition is being redefined, but not erased. Couples are keeping elements that resonate with them while discarding outdated expectations. They’re creating ceremonies that reflect their actual values and lifestyles rather than following someone else’s script. The result is weddings that feel more authentic and personal than anything we’ve seen in decades.”

 

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The post Hotel101 Global officially lists on NASDAQ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine asset-light hospitality management firm Hotel101 Global Holdings Corporation officially received approval to list on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange in the United States.

The company’s shares are set to begin trading on Tuesday, 1st July, and the company celebrated the listing by ringing the Opening Bell today, 28th June.

Trading is scheduled to commence under the ticker symbol HBNB following the expected completion of Hotel101’s business combination with JVSPAC Acquisition Corporation, which was approved by shareholders on Tuesday, 24th June.

With a deemed equity value at closing of US$2.3 billion, Hotel101 is the first Filipino-owned company to be listed and traded on the Nasdaq. 

A noteworthy milestone

According to Hotel101 Global chief executive Hannah Yulo-Luccini: “Today is an exciting milestone in Hotel101’s journey to become the world’s first truly global one-room hotel chain. Hotel101 was born from a simple, revolutionary idea: a ‘one room’ global hotel brand delivering consistent comfort and irresistible value worldwide. Our asset-light, technology-driven platform positions us to scale rapidly, with a goal to disrupt the hospitality industry globally with 1 million rooms across 100 countries.” 

Likewise, Edgar “Injap” Sia II, chair and CEO of Hotel101’s parent company DoubleDragon Corporation, declared: “This is a historic moment for DoubleDragon, becoming the first-ever Filipino company with a subsidiary listed and traded on the Nasdaq. It reflects the strength of our vision and the dedication of everyone who has helped bring Hotel101 to this global stage. And we’re just getting started – with a globally scalable model and a long runway ahead, we aim to redefine the industry and become a leading global hospitality brand working towards our vision of an inventory of one million Hotel101 rooms globally.”

Asset-light, success-heavy

Hotel101’s management believes that Hotel101 properties are efficient to build, maintain, operate, as well as scale and expand through direct development, joint venture partnerships, and franchise arrangements. 

Building on the success of Hotel101-branded properties in the Philippines, where there are two operating properties and a number under development, Hotel101 intends to accelerate its global expansion plans. 

For example, Hotel101-Madrid, a 680-room development adjacent to the new Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix Circuit in Valdebebas, is slated for completion in December of this year. 

Earlier this month, Hotel101 signed a 10-year agreement with an affiliate of MATCH Hospitality AG, making it an official hotel partner of the F1 Spanish Grand Prix from 2026 to 2035. 

Just last month, Hotel101 also finalised an agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Horizon Group to establish a joint venture for the development of up to ten hotels in Saudi Arabia. 

The partnership underscores Hotel101’s confidence in the Kingdom’s dynamic tourism market, one of the fastest-growing globally under Vision 2030. 

Construction is also underway for Hotel101-Niseko, a 482-room property in Hokkaido’s foremost winter sports destination; and the company has even secured a site in Los Angeles, California, marking its entry into the US market. 

In parallel, Hotel101 is actively pursuing five additional joint ventures, further advancing its goal of establishing a presence in 25 priority markets in the medium term.

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The post TWAI announces its acquisition of Travello appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

US-based global travel technology firm TWAI announced its acquisition of social travel platform and B2C tour marketplace Travello on Thursday, 26th June.

The acquisition positions TWAI to capitalize on this momentum by enhancing its direct-to-consumer reach, expanding business-to-business partner integrations, and unlocking new monetisation channels across the global travel experience economy.

This also marks yet another milestone in TWAI’s growth, as it puts the company in a leadership position in the high-growth experiential travel sector throughout the Americas, the Asia-Pacific, and Europe.

At the same time, acquiring Travello further diversifies TWAI’s portfolio, enabling it to boost its position in consumer-facing innovation, global distribution, and experiential retailing.

TWAI and Travello are slated to launch joint solutions to bring curated experiences to airlines, OTAs, and loyalty platforms worldwide throughout the next several months.

These include enhanced personalisation features, as well as expanded reseller APIs to be rolled out in phases in several pilot markets in ANZ, North America, and Southeast Asia.

Built on key priorities

TWAI co-founder and chief operating officer Moondeep Aggarwal said of the deal: “Entering the tours and activities market has been a key strategic priority for TWAI, and Travello brings a top-tier community, proven demand, and robust distribution infrastructure, all of which perfectly align with our vision to become a global travel technology powerhouse.”

For his part, Travello founder and chief executive Ryan Hanly remarked: “We have always had global ambitions and TWAI allows us to scale our tours and activities marketplace to a global audience, while also supporting our ambitions to be the industry leader in social commerce through Travello.”

Travello chief operating officer Josh Wicks added: “With TWAI’s global infrastructure and scale, we’re excited to bring their suite of B2B travel solutions to the Australian and New Zealand market and look forward to working with industry partners in new and innovative ways. At the same time, we’ll continue to build on Travello’s leadership in social commerce, connecting a global community of travellers with curated experiences in more meaningful, data-driven ways.”

A dynamic asset

Based in Australia, Travello is considered one of the world’s most dynamic travel communities and a powerful social commerce marketplace for travel experiences. 

They operate a multi-layered platform including a globally ranked social travel app, a content-rich tours and activities marketplace, and a white-label B2B engine used by OTAs, DMOs, and affiliates worldwide. 

Travello also integrates with leading reservation systems such as Rezdy and FareHarbor. 

With its catalogue of over 40,000 curated tours and activities across six continents, Travello combines social networking and commerce in a way few travel platforms have achieved. 

Following the deal, Travello’s booking infrastructure will be integrated into TWAI’s existing suite of APIs and payment orchestration platforms, providing end-to-end solutions for airlines, OTAs, loyalty programs, and tour providers.

The Travello difference

What truly sets Travello apart is its social-first approach which has allowed them to be the industry leader in the au courant aspect of social commerce. 

Built around the idea that travel is better when shared, the Travello app allows users to connect with fellow travelers, share content, discover local deals, and participate in real-world meetups all while earning rewards which can be earned and burned within their platform. 

This unique blend of community, commerce, and rewards enabled the platform to cultivate a highly engaged global user base of more than 1.2 million travellers across 180 countries. 

Indeed, Travello consistently ranks among the top 10 travel apps in over 70 countries, a testament to its global resonance and intuitive user experience. 

Travello’s community-driven platform provides TWAI with a valuable first-party data layer, enabling more personalized offers, loyalty integration, and real-time experience merchandising.

Introducing Backpacker Deals

Adding to Travello’s brand portfolio is Backpacker Deals, a trusted travel brand focused on affordable, authentic adventures across Australia and New Zealand. 

Tailored for independent travelers and domestic explorers, Backpacker Deals offer travellers localised experiences that reflect regional culture and value.

Together, Travello and Backpacker Deals represent a rare combination: a travel tech platform that is both deeply social and highly transactional, trusted by consumers and partners alike.

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The post ABTA marks 75 years at the heart of the UK’s travel and tourism scene appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

From annual sunshine breaks in the Med to extraordinary round-the-world trips, millions of UK holidaymakers have enjoyed an overseas break with an ABTA member since the travel association launched 75 years ago.

How travel has changed

Holidays have changed considerably since ABTA’s inception, with most people taking domestic breaks, often at a seaside resort in the UK, in the 1950s.

Data from the Office for National Statistics’ International Passenger Survey, which began in 1961, shows trips abroad since then have surged by more than 2,500%. While UK residents took just 3.3 million trips in 1961, this rose to 86.2m according to their latest data set in 2023².

Reasons are many, and include the growth in package holiday options, the introduction of low-cost carriers and the birth of the internet.

When package holidays first became popular, many ABTA experts listed the Balearics, Italian Riviera, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland and Germany as their most booked destinations.

Nowadays, while Europe remains the top choice for overseas trips, visited by 83% of UK travellers according to ABTA’s latest Holiday Habits report, the top 15 most visited destinations also included the USA (4th), Mexico (11th) and Australia (13th)³.

Supporting holidaymakers for 75 years

Established in the summer of 1950, ABTA was created to agree a set of standards for the businesses involved in the emerging world of international travel. Since then, ABTA has helped its members to run successful businesses while also being a constant source of advice, guidance and support for the travelling public. To this day, the ABTA Code of Conduct sets a framework for all members to act and trade responsibly and ‘do the right thing’ by customers.

ABTA helped with the industry’s first significant failure in July 1964 when the collapse of Fiesta Tours, a non-ABTA member, left around 2,000 holidaymakers stranded. In response, ABTA set up the first fund to repatriate customers in the event of a failure, and underlined the importance to customers of their holiday bookings being financially protected.

More recently, the association handled more than 1,400 customer claims following the failure of the original Thomas Cook in 2019. These started to be paid within the first seven days of the company’s collapse.

ABTA also stepped up its advice for holidaymakers during the Covid-19 crisis, by developing a hub of information on ABTA.com to set out everything people needed to know about refunds, the latest travel requirements and future bookings which was viewed more than 1.3 million times in 2020 alone.

ABTA Chief Executive, Mark Tanzer, said: “ABTA was born out of a desire to make travel better; to give people confidence that when they book a holiday with an ABTA member, they know that company is committed to delivering high standards and an exceptional service.

“The holidays our members have booked for their customers have changed hugely since our early years, when the choice of destination and style of trip were more limited. Now, people can book a holiday in practically any location, personalise almost every element of their trip and seek out whatever experience they have in mind.

“What hasn’t changed, however, is ABTA’s role as a constant companion for the travelling public, offering vital peace of mind and much-needed support. We, and our members, are ideally placed to carry on giving people confidence to travel over the next 75 years.”

Sandra McAllister, Managing Director of Althams Travel, one of ABTA’s founding members, said: “We are extremely proud to be one of the founding members of ABTA.

“Althams first stepped into the world of travel with day trips to the seaside, followed by rail and coach holidays both in the UK and abroad, and then air travel. The industry has grown hugely during this time, as the sanctity of the ‘family holiday’ has become increasingly woven into the fabric of everyday life.

“The use of the ABTA logo is essential to us as it instantly signifies ‘trust’ to our customers. ABTA is recognised as the ultimate association offering security, protection and a vital safety net, which is priceless.”

 

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