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Celebrate International Yoga Day at Aloha on the Ganges, Rishikesh 

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Woman doing yoga asana Natarajasana – Lord of the dance pose outdoors at waterfall in Himalayas

In honour of International Yoga Day on 21 June, Aloha on the Ganges invites guests to a rejuvenating experience by the Ganges at the “Yoga Capital of the World.” Surrounded by serene, forested hills and nestled along the banks of the Ganges, this luxury resort blends wellness, culture, and spirituality. 

Begin your day with sunrise yoga, followed by mindful pranayama sessions guided by the rhythm of the flowing Ganga. Thoughtfully prepared vegetarian meals offer nourishment throughout the day, in harmony with the wellness journey.

Guests are invited to explore deeper healing through Tattva Spa’s signature therapies, inspired by age-old Ayurvedic traditions. As dusk settles, unwind by the infinity pool with panoramic river views, before witnessing the tranquil in-house Ganga Aarti—a spiritually immersive ritual, exclusively curated for resident guests.

Escape the ordinary—celebrate yoga in its purest form, with Aloha’s harmony of mind, body, and soulful living by the Ganges. At Aloha, wellness is not just practiced—it is lived. And in this sacred space, the Ganga herself becomes your guide, your muse, and your companion in stillness.

Date: 21st June, 2025

Venue: Aloha on The Ganges, Rishikesh

 

 

 

 

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Finnair celebrates 70 years of flights to Ivalo, Lapland

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a house in Lapland; Shutterstock

 

Finnair celebrates a significant milestone this week, 70 years since the launch of the first flight to Ivalo, the airline’s northernmost destination in Finland and the European Union’s most northerly international airport.  The inaugural service took place on 18 June 1955, marking the beginning of a long-standing commitment to connecting travellers with the unique nature and culture of Finnish Lapland.

At that time, the route was operated via fellow Finnish gateways, Oulu, Kemi, and Rovaniemi, with a DC-3 aircraft.

Located in the heart of Northern Lapland, Ivalo serves as a gateway to some of Finland’s most pristine wilderness areas, including Lake Inari, Lemmenjoki National Park, and the Hammastunturi Wilderness Area.

The region offers year-round experiences, from hiking and canoeing in summer to snowmobiling and aurora hunting in winter. In addition to Ivalo, Finnair operates direct flights from Helsinki to other key destinations in Lapland, including Kittilä and Rovaniemi.

Kittilä provides access to the popular Levi and Ylläs ski resorts, while Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is a year-round vibrant hub for tourism, culture, and business.

Jenni Suomela, Finnair’s Vice President, Sales and Retail, said: “Ivalo has been part of Finnair’s network for 70 years, a testament to the long-standing importance of Lapland in our operations.

“Today, the region is more popular than ever, and we have a strong offering year-round. “We have several weekly flights to different destinations during the summer, and our schedule for the upcoming winter is the most extensive yet.”

During this summer season Finnair flies over 50 weekly flights to Lapland from Helsinki, timed for easy connections for customers from the UK and Ireland.

During the 2025–2026 winter season, Finnair will operate up to 72 weekly flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, 41 to Kittilä, and 33 to Ivalo.

The expanded schedule is designed to support growing demand, particularly during peak travel periods and weekends, while ensuring smooth connections for British and Irish customers.

Lapland continues to be one of Finnair’s most distinctive and attractive destinations, due to the region’s natural beauty, peacefulness, strong cultural heritage, and Nordic hospitality.

From the Midnight Sun and autumn colours to the Northern Lights, Lapland offers unforgettable experiences in every season.

 

 

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Enterprise attractions lag in distribution and tech adoption: Arival

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The Colosseum is bathed in the warm light of sunset, enhancing its ancient glory and the serenity of the surrounding ruins

 Arival, the business intelligence and events company for the in-destination experiences industry, in partnership with GetYourGuide, a premier online marketplace for tours and activities, announced the release of their comprehensive new report, “Inside Enterprise Attractions”, part of the Global Operator Landscape (3rd Ed.) report series.

This insightful report delves into the technology, distribution, and product operations of the world’s largest visitor attractions, highlighting a critical disparity; while large attractions drive significant revenue, many are underperforming in key digital distribution and tech adoption, presenting substantial untapped opportunities.

The “Inside Enterprise Attractions” report provides an in-depth analysis of the trends shaping the attractions sector, from evolving ticketing systems to innovative product development.  It reveals that the 50 largest attractions studied, despite generating an estimated $20 billion in annual revenue, often lag behind smaller operators in adopting modern booking technology and optimizing online distribution.  For instance, more than half (54%) of the top 50 attractions still rely on direct sales through their own websites or physical ticket counters as their primary distribution channel, indicating a significant opportunity for growth through diversified online partnerships.

The report also highlights that only 38% of these attractions have fully integrated API connectivity with online travel agencies (OTAs), limiting their reach to a global audience. These figures underscore a massive untapped potential for increased revenue and broader visitor engagement.

“As the summer travel period rapidly approaches, there’s an immense opportunity for attractions to truly capitalize on traveler demand,” said Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder and CEO of Arival.  “Understanding the modern traveler’s journey and optimizing digital distribution and connectivity isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about unlocking billions in potential revenue by effectively reaching and serving a global audience.  The insights in this report provide a clear roadmap for attractions to enhance their offerings and maximize their impact this season and beyond.”

This report underscores the immense potential for attractions to leverage advanced technology and strategic distribution partnerships to enhance reach, streamline operations, and ultimately boost revenue.  The findings will be particularly relevant for tour operators and resellers seeking to build stronger relationships and demonstrate clear value to attractions, while being sensitive to their brand and operational constraints.

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Travelex reports surge in prepaid travel card popularity

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Foreign exchange brand Travelex has seen major year-on-year growth of its prepaid Travelex Money Card, outpacing industry forecasts of prepaid travel card market growth. Travelex has seen a 49% increase in Travelex Money Card reload transactions (customers adding currency to their card) between January and May compared to the same period last year, alongside a 50% increase in card reload penetration (the proportion of Travelex Money Card reloads vs purchases of cash).

The surge in customers choosing Travelex’s prepaid card product outpaces Allied Market Research data, which forecasted a 15.3% CAGR in the prepaid travel money card market between 2023 and 2032.

“Travellers want to access, top-up and manage travel money in a secure and reliable way. Our prepaid Travelex Money Card enables customers to easily budget, get competitive Travelex rates and spend whenever and wherever” said Simon Jackson, Chief Customer Officer at Travelex.

Travelex has also seen a 10% year-on-year increase in conversion rate in its TMC app, as more customers who began a card reload finalised the purchase.

The increase in conversion rate is attributed to Travelex relaunching its Travelex Money Card app last year, with the new app offering customers an improved user experience. The UK app allows customers to add up to 22 different currencies, check their balance and transactions, view their card details, and freeze and unfreeze their card for instant protection.

“We’re delighted that our new Travelex Money Card app has been a major driver of Travelex Money Card growth. The app offers customers a fast and seamless top-up experience, making it even easier to spend safely abroad,” added Jackson.

 

 

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Royal Jordanian Airlines to Launch New Nonstop Flights to Mumbai 

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Royal Jordanian Airlines announces the launch of a new nonstop route between Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM), commencing 19 June, 2025. The new service will operate year-round, four times a week—on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays—aboard the modern Airbus A320neo. This strategic addition strengthens connectivity between India and Jordan and offers seamless onward travel to over 50 destinations across the Middle East, Gulf, and North Africa.

The new route will open the door for Indian tourists to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. With Royal Jordanian’s seamless access to the Kingdom, passengers from Mumbai can now exploRJordan through an unforgettable journey. In just three or seven days, visitors can witness the breathtaking rose-red city of Petra—one of the Seven Wonders of the World—float in the healing waters of the Dead Sea, and explore the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, positioning Jordan as a contemporary, truly authentic Arabia five hours away from India. Whether driven by history, nature, or a passion for discovery, Jordan promises Indian travelers an enriching escape filled with beauty, culture, and unmatched hospitality.

“With direct access to Jordan, a captivating country rich in history and culture, passengers can now easily explore Jordan’s inspiring landscapes. This expansion reflects our dedication to showcasing Jordan’s unique allure to tourists, inviting them to uncover its hidden gems, immerse themselves in its vibrant traditions, and experience the renowned hospitality that awaits every visitor,” stated Chief Commercial Officer of Royal Jordanian, Karim Makhlouf. “

Royal Jordanian’s new route to Amman offers more than just added convenience—it serves as a vibrant bridge between India and Jordan, connecting travelers to the heart of a land where ancient wonders and modern vitality coexist in harmony. With this launch, Indian tourists can now explore Jordan’s captivating history, breathtaking landscapes, and dynamic culture more easily than ever before, as they will be eligible for visa-free entry when booking tourist packages.

Isha Goyal, CEO of STIC Travel Group, shared her enthusiasm on the launch of Royal Jordanian’s Mumbai–Amman service on 19th June, saying:

“The new direct service between Mumbai and Amman is more than just a flight — it is a bridge between two ancient civilizations and a gateway for deeper tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Jordan holds a distinctive place in the Levant region, and as a longstanding friend of India, this long-awaited route marks a significant step in bringing our countries closer. This milestone reflects STIC Travel’s continued commitment to forging strategic airline partnerships built on trust, shared vision, and service excellence. We look forward to introducing Indian travellers to the richness and beauty of Jordan, an inspiring and still largely untapped destination.”

As the airline of choice for convenient and seamless global travel, Royal Jordanian offers travelers from Mumbai smooth connections not only to Jordan but also onward to more than 50 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, North Africa, the United States, and Canada. With attractive fares, well-timed schedules, and a reputation for comfort and reliability, passengers can enjoy a streamlined travel experience across continents. As a proud member of the oneworld airline alliance since 2007, Royal Jordanian ensures access to a global network of premium services and destinations, making international travel from India more accessible and enjoyable than ever before.

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Umana Bali teams up with Utama Spice for Global Wellness Day

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To mark this year’s Global Wellness Day, LXR Hotels & Resorts’ Umana Bali tied up with Balinese wellness pioneer Utama Spice for a meaningful and immersive experience.

Held on 13th June, the eve of Global Wellness Day on the 14th, LXR’s first property in Southeast Asia invited select members of the media to take part in a session characterised by mindful movement, holistic healing, and creative expression.

Utama Space director Ria Templer said of the collaboration: “We’re thrilled to partner with Umana Bali to celebrate Global Wellness Day and share the spirit of natural wellness with our community. This event beautifully reflects our belief in the power of mindful living and making healthier choices for ourselves, our communities and the planet.”

Umana Bali’s director of marketing and communications Arga Brahma added: “We are honoured to collaborate with Utama Spice in creating an experience that celebrates presence, purpose, and personal wellbeing. As a wellness destination rooted in nature and cultural connection, Umana Bali offers the perfect setting for this meaningful collaboration, surrounded by the serene clifftops of Ungasan.”

Reconnect Magenta

Global Wellness Day is a worldwide initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of living well and inspiring individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices. 

This year’s theme, #ReconnectMagenta, invites us to pause and return to meaningful connection with ourselves, our loved ones, nature, and our communities. 

The color magenta, blending the energy of red with the calm of blue, embodies the campaign’s call to live with greater intention, compassion, and presence.

An immersive day

The collaborative event cast the spotlight on the shared values of both brands: a commitment to holistic wellbeing, a deep respect for nature, and a passion for authentic community connection.

These, in turn, align with Hilton’s global direction for 2025, which places greater emphasis on wellness-focused experiences. 

Guests immersed themselves into a unique programme of activities, including a candle-making session, rejuvenating yoga class, and therapeutic sound healing experience, all designed to inspire balance, presence, and joy.

As part of the collaboration, Utama Spice highlighted its signature Yoga Mat Spray, an invigorating blend of natural botanicals with antibacterial properties, making it an ideal companion for mindful movement and daily wellness rituals.

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UAE is Redefining Global Tourism through smart strategies and infrastructure investments

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Wide angle photo of Museum of the future on Sheikh Zayed Road. Dubai at night.

The UAE is cementing its global tourism leadership through visionary planning, strategic connectivity, and cultural innovation. The historic leadership role at UN Tourism from Shaikha Al Nowais underscores its influence, while data-driven insights show strong growth in arrivals and satisfaction. Diversifying hotel options, capitalising on climate and safety, and promoting multi-emirate itineraries will be key to sustaining momentum into 2025 and beyond.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is asserting its influence as a global tourism leader, marked by the historic election of Shaikha Al Nowais as the first female Secretary-General of UN Tourism. As the region garners international attention, data from Mabrian, the global travel intelligence company part of The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, sheds light on how the UAE is redefining the global tourism playbook through smart strategies, infrastructure investments, and a deep understanding of evolving traveller preferences.

According to the WTTC, travel and tourism contributed 13% to the UAE’s GDP in 2024, with a projected growth of 4% by the end of 2025. Thanks to a sustained, long-term strategy laid in the 1990s and early 2000s, the UAE has positioned itself as a world-class destination, experiencing consistent growth in international tourist arrivals, significant investments, and diversification efforts; and it continues to pursue strategies for sustainable expansion.

Insights into Action: The UAE’s Multi-Segment Tourism Strategy

“The UAE’s spectacular tourism development results from a clear roadmap combining a smart connectivity strategy—enhanced by low-cost carriers to serve specific segments and seasonal demand—with thoughtful product design, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and strategic use of unique advantages that are hard to replicate,” says Carlos Cendra, Partner and Director of Marketing and Communications at Mabrian. “Data suggests the next phase involves laser-focusing on opportunities arising from the UAE’s vision and its alignment with current market and consumer trends.”

1) Consolidating Western Europe and Boosting Asia:  Strong air connectivity has been central to the GCC’s rise in global tourism, with the UAE leading the charge. Mabrian data shows international seat capacity has grown steadily since 2019, reaching a 14.5% increase in 2025. Western Europe remained the top source region in 2024, while Northeast and Southeast Asia recorded the highest year-over-year growth at 24%, as featured in Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025.

“To attract more visitors from mature markets, diversification of demand segments is essential. This includes opening new routes—particularly low-cost options—and expanding lodging beyond luxury offerings,” explains Cendra.  According to the Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025, the UAE is moving in this direction: Emirates will hold the largest East Asia network among non-Asian airlines, Etihad Airways will add 14 destinations, and Wizz Air will increase its direct flights.

2) Expanding Midscale Hotel Options to Broaden Market Reach:  The UAE’s key hotel categories (3 to 5-star) are evenly distributed and, as previously mentioned, future development primarily leans toward upscale and luxury brands. According to the Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025, some of the most anticipated openings include new properties from Corinthia Hotels, Jumeirah,  Six Senses, NH Collection, Le Méridien, Mandarin Oriental, Mondrian, LUX*, Rixos, W and JW Marriott. However, expanding midscale offerings can further enrich the country’s lodging landscape. The scheduled openings of midscale lifestyle brands like Moxy Hotel and Mama Shelter—which resonate strongly with younger travellers—suggest that the UAE is actively working to broaden its appeal in this growing segment.

The midscale segment can support pricing strategies across categories, and contribute to enhance competitiveness of lodging offerings in the destination, already well-regarded as the high Hotel Satisfaction Index of Emirati hotels (73.7/100). In terms of profitability, more midscale hotels imply more price elasticity, particularly in higher categories: Mabrian forecasts suggest average hotel prices will converge across emirates in the coming months, especially as 5-star hotels slightly adjust rates to stay competitive in markets like Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

 

3) Concept Travel Itineraries: Showcasing Each Emirate’s Identity:  A key driver of the UAE’s tourism success is leveraging the unique identity of each emirate to curate experiences tailored to travellers’ diverse interests, with culture, art, and heritage as central themes. Mabrian data shows culture as the top demand driver in Dubai (25.5%), Abu Dhabi (29,5%), Sharjah (33.8%), and Ras Al Khaimah (23.8%). Complementary experiences shape each emirate’s appeal: active tourism (15.2%), gastronomy (13%), and shopping (11.3%) in Dubai; active tourism (12.8%) and sunbathing (11.2%) in Abu Dhabi; and nature & outdoors (16.4%) in Ras Al Khaimah.

“Aligned with how travellers seek inspiration—beyond simply visiting attractions or hotspots—the UAE has the opportunity to inspire around concept-based itineraries that resonate with a wide range of traveller segments, offering experiences that are more captivating and appealing than a mere than a checklist of attractions,” adds Cendra.

4)  Building an Umbrella Brand for the UAE’s Tourism Offering: “An umbrella brand for marketing the UAE’s diverse experiences can help boost arrivals, extend the average stay beyond 4.45 days, and enhance satisfaction and loyalty,” says Mabrian expert.

To achieve this, satisfaction with tourist products is essential—particularly given the UAE’s positioning as a premium destination. This requires prioritising not only the launch of new, unique attractions, accommodations, and infrastructure, but also the delivery of world-class on-site service. According to the Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025, the UAE’s Tourist Product Satisfaction Index (TPI) stands at 68.8 out of 100—a positive score with a growing trend. However, there is still room for improvement to reach an outstanding performance level, represented by a TPI of 75, as seen in destinations like Singapore, Seychelles, or Thailand.

5) Capitalising on Climate and Safety as Strategic Advantages:  As Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025 highlights, citing Mabrian data, the UAE holds a significant competitive advantage due to its perceived high levels of safety and its exceptional, appealing climate. As a Mabrian expert notes, “these two factors form a strong foundation for building a successful tourism strategy, and the UAE has many opportunities to capitalise on this advantage when competing with other highly developed global destinations.”

The exceptionally high Climate Perception Index (85.3/100) reflects the UAE’s reputation as a destination with favourable weather for much of the year. Meanwhile, the outstanding Perception of Security Index (94.8/100) is a key driver, indicating that travellers feel safe and confident—encouraging visitation and strengthening the UAE’s appeal across key segments, from families and business travellers to wellness seekers.

 

 

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Centara raises the bar for Thai hospitality through its growing global portfolio

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Thai hospitality operator Centara Hotels & Resorts accelerates its global business enhancement strategy with the opening and transformation of iconic five-star and luxury hotels in some of the world’s most desirable destinations. 

Through the expansion of its exclusive Centara Grand and Centara Reserve brands, the group continues to uphold its celebrated standards while remaining true to its Thai family heritage, advancing its goal to be a top 100 hotel company worldwide by 2027. 

Spearheading the growth is the distinguished Centara Grand brand which opened an exquisite new resort in the Maldives earlier this year, following recent luxury openings and renovations in destination hotspots, Osaka and Bangkok. 

Coming up later this year is the unveiling of a revitalised version of one of the world’s leading heritage hotels in Hua Hin, Thailand, a country which will also welcome the second Reserve brand in Krabi.

Centara Hotels & Resorts chief executive Thirayuth Chirathivat said: “It is with a great sense of pride that we bring Thai hospitality to the world. We look forward to further growth over the years as we elevate our positioning as a hotel group, opening, restoring and repurposing hotels and resorts in leading destinations around the globe.”

Centara Grand: distinguished accommodations in distinctive destinations

Acclaimed five-star brand Centara Grand has delighted guests with its distinguished hospitality for over four decades.

Today, it continues to expand in dream destinations: back in April of this year, the highly-anticipated Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives opened its doors on The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, the multi-island destination in the Indian Ocean. 

The sophisticated private retreat, where gracious Thai hospitality meets Maldivian allure, immerses guests in endless personal space, unrivalled private stretches of beach, world-class dining experiences, and one-of-a-kind, transformative wellness journeys. 

From the elegant beachfront and overwater pool villas to gastronomic highlights including a Mediterranean beach club and overwater sunset champagne bar, and holistic wellbeing at Spa Cenvaree Retreat, guests are assured of moments of indulgence and tranquillity in equal measure.

Centara Grand is also elevating hospitality in Asia’s most dynamic gateway cities. Centara Grand Hotel Osaka marked Centara’s inaugural hotel in Japan in 2023, and has quickly become a preferred option for domestic guests, international travellers and local diners. 

In Bangkok, the flagship Centara Grand at CentralWorld is the destination-of-choice for high-end travellers. Following an extensive refurbishment, it has reinforced its status as a major Bangkok landmark with its chic rooms & suites and sky-high culinary venues.

Long heralded as Thailand’s number one family resort, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard, has also been completely transformed. 

The multi-award-winning Lost World-themed resort recently renovated its rooms, suites, facilities and water park, positioning it for an exciting new era of family-friendly five-star Thai hospitality. 

Nestled on Thailand’s gulf coast, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin is one of the world’s leading heritage hotels, as recognised by CNN Travel, with a history dating back to the 1920s. 

The timelessly elegant beachfront retreat, blessed with colonial-style architecture, sweeping green lawns, and a picture-perfect sandy shore, is undergoing a thoughtful restoration programme to elevate the hotel while preserving its essence. 

Contemporary flourishes, inspired by the history of the building, complement original features as the charming story of the Railway Hotel is celebrated throughout. 

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is directly connected to Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, a vibrant underwater world-themed family resort, via a private bridge, affording guests unprecedented access to thrilling water attractions and extended dining experiences at the neighbouring resort should they be so inclined. 

The newly built resorts are providing a new vision for Maldivian hospitality, with bespoke concepts to meet the needs of different types of travellers. 

Centara now offers a quartet of idyllic island resorts in the Maldives, under four distinct concepts: Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Mirage, and The Centara Collection.

Centara Reserve: a tale of exceptional luxury

Centara Reserve, Centara’s collection of luxury storytelling resorts, promises immersive experiences that weave graceful Thai service and laconic local narratives into every stay. 

The beachfront retreat features pool access rooms and ocean-facing villas, plus the world’s first Reserve Spa Cenvaree, curated culinary offerings, and inspiring activities. 

Having marked the brand’s debut in late 2021, Centara Reserve Samui has been recognised by numerous prestigious awards including one of Thailand’s top 10 luxury “Beach Island Resorts” by Travel + Leisure.

The world’s second Centara Reserve will soon start welcoming guests to a pristine private cove in Thailand’s Krabi province. 

The former Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi, which commands unparalleled vistas of towering limestone cliffs and the Andaman Sea, is currently closed for a comprehensive renovation that will see it reimagined as the Centara Reserve Krabi: a secluded haven set to showcase luxurious rooms, suites and villas, bespoke dining, wellness, and personalised experiences that tell the story of this tropical Thai paradise.

Chirathivat said of the upcoming resort: “We are excited to be entering the next phase of our long-term growth strategy as we enhance existing properties and develop new ones through our Centara Grand and Centara Reserve brands to delight new audiences and reward loyal customers. We are certainly anticipating an active and exciting next 40 years as we expand our portfolio and elevate our offerings across the world.”

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Silversea’s Silver Shadow sets off on its 83-day Grand Voyage

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Experiential, luxury, and expedition cruise provider Silversea’s vessel Silver Shadow set sail on its 83-day Grand Voyage yesterday, 19th June.

Off to traverse the North Atlantic and Northern Europe, this cruise will enable guests to retrace the steps of the early Vikings as they explore 55 destinations in 16 countries.

Traveling on board the Silver Shadow, one of the most intimate ships to sail in the region, guests will access the most iconic ports, including Geiranger and Flåm, as well as the smaller harbours of Rouen, Iles de la Madeleine, and more, benefitting from Silversea’s destination expertise and the most personalized service at sea. Five overnight calls and numerous late departures will enable travellers to venture deeper ashore. 

Silversea president Bert Hernandez declared: “Our guests on Silver Shadow’s 83-day Grand Voyage through the North Atlantic and Northern Europe are embarking on a truly exceptional journey. These extended voyages allow travellers to spend more time in each region, really connecting with local cultures and traditions. With exclusive events planned in Cardiff and Quebec City, this voyage promises an immersive experience that highlights the authenticity and richness of each destination, tailored by Silversea’s expertise.” 

Into the great northern expanse

Departing New York City, travellers will take in Eastern Canada before crossing to the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Northern Europe including the Norwegian Fjords, the Baltic Sea, and Iceland, subsequently returning to Bayonne, New Jersey, on 2nd September.

This immersive voyage will connect travellers with the region’s pristine landscapes, unique wildlife, and iconic cultural experiences.  

Grand Voyage guests will participate in an extensive range of immersive experiences ashore. 

In the United Kingdom, for example, guests will be going to Boodles Jewellery House with an exclusive lunch in Liverpool and a privatized tour of a country house and lunch with an English Lord in Dorset, among other experiences. 

In Norway, guests can explore Lysefjord by yacht and participate in an unforgettable kayak and Sauna Experience in Trondheim.

Enhancing the experience, two exclusive events ashore will unveil the authentic customs of visited communities throughout the Grand Voyage: 

  • Castles and Choirs – Cardiff, Wales – 29th June

In Cardiff, Wales, a land renowned for its lush countryside and distinguished choral culture, Silversea’s guests will enjoy an atmospheric night of song in the 17th-century Hensol Castle. Surrounded by Gothic grandeur, guests will savour a dinner of Welsh delicacies, prepared with hyperlocal ingredients. As the evening unfolds, the air will fill with the soulful harmonies of the Johns’ Boys Choir, who proudly honour their Welsh roots from the world’s greatest stages. 

  • A Lakeside Retreat, Overnight – Quebec City, Canada – 25th and 26th August

Silversea guests will soak in the enchanting French Colonial architecture of Quebec City before leaving the city behind for the Huron-Wendat First Nations community. Deep in the surrounding nature, guests will spend the afternoon unwinding at a lakeside luxury lodge before dining beneath the stars at a BBQ picnic. After a restful night’s sleep in the heart of nature, Grand Voyage guests will rejoin Silver Shadow the following morning. Silversea’s Silver Shadow offers one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea. On board, guests will benefit from the company’s signature comfort standards, including the personalized service of a butler in every suite category and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios.   

Silversea’s industry-leading range of Grand Voyages includes the Grand Voyages South Pacific expedition 2025 and 2026, the Grand Voyages Mediterranean 2025 and 2026, the Grand Voyage Australia 2025, and the Grand Voyage South America 2027. 

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BREAKING: Israeli Ministry of Tourism reports over 22,000 tourists seek to evacuate

The post BREAKING: Israeli Ministry of Tourism reports over 22,000 tourists seek to evacuate appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

(Editor’s Note: Information in this article current as of 9:50am, BKK.)

Danny Shachar, director-general of Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, has released a list naming 22,000 tourists seeking evacuation flights out of the embattled Middle Eastern nation.

This ongoing evacuation initiative is a part of the Safe Return operation which, as of press time, now facilitates the safe departure of tourists from the country.

Initially, Safe Return only coordinated return flights to Israel for Israeli travellers who found themselves abroad in conflict zones.

Shachar said: “Tourists find themselves in a situation of uncertainty and even distress amid an intense war. Some are staying here longer than planned, sometimes under difficult financial and personal circumstances.”

Current state of affairs

At the beginning of the Israel-Iran war, approximately 40,000 tourists were in Israel; today there are approximately 32,000. 

Some tourists chose to leave for Jordan and Egypt through land border crossings, all of which are open. 

The Ministry of Tourism is strengthening its representatives at land border crossings to assist tourists in the process. 

Tourists who have not yet registered for evacuation flights are invited to fill out the digital form at this link.

Per the announcement issued yesterday, 19th June, the Ministry of Tourism now has a virtual office that provides tourists in Israel with information services through digital channels in Hebrew and English.

The service may be accessed via the following channels:

  • Email: virtual@goisrael.gov.il
  • WhatsApp messaging application through phone number: +972-53-583-5808
  • Facebook page: Israel Virtual Tourist Office

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