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Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru now on soft opening

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Plaza Premium Group announced the soft opening of Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru at Malaysia’s Senai International Airport. 

As the only lounge operator in the airport, the 80-seater lounge promises to deliver an elevated, seamless and culturally rich experience to both international and domestic travellers under one roof.

Offering an expertly considered mix of cutting-edge technology with local Malaysian heritage, Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru offers an elegant, comfortable, and innovative space for guests, providing an ideal environment before their flight, whether travelling near or far. 

According to PPG regional general manager for Southeast Asia Calvin Loh: “Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru is more than just a place to wait for your flight: it’s a space to experience the best of Johorian hospitality, art and innovation. Returning to Johor Bahru with Plaza Premium Lounge is an exciting moment for us. By seamlessly blending technology with local culture, we are excited to redefine the travel experience for both domestic and international passengers at Senai International Airport.”

As the exclusive lounge operator at Senai International Airport, Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru is a game-changer for the region. 

Unlike many other airport lounges, the space caters to both international and domestic travellers, offering the same level of premium service, whether they are flying across the globe or within Malaysia.

Where technology meets gracious tradition 

The lounge is well equipped with state-of-the-art technology to streamline the guest experience such as self check-in kiosks for a more efficient and hassle-free access to the lounge. Implementation of QR code-based food ordering system also allows lounge guests to browse and order their meals effortlessly.  

With the aim to further enhance lounge experience with digital solutions, this lounge has actively integrated the Smart Traveller app which enable personalised experiences, rewards and a smooth transition through the lounge and airport.

For passengers on tight schedules, Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru introduces the Lounge To-Go corner for ultimate convenience. 

This dedicated space offers travellers the option to grab a premium selection of food and beverages to enjoy on the go, without compromising on quality. 

As part of the Proudly Local concept, the lounge goes beyond comfort and convenience to offer a true cultural immersion, celebrating the vibrant heritage of Malaysia in every dimension. 

Authentic local food and beverage choices give guests the opportunity to experience a true taste of Johor Bahru and Malaysia, with regional flavours and delicacies that showcase the richness of the country’s culinary heritage. 

Signature dishes such as Otak-Otak (spiced fish paste wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection) and Laksa Johor which truly sets itself apart from other types of laksa. 

While most versions across Malaysia are served as soup, this unique dish from Johor resembles a plate of spaghetti bolognese with yellow noodles generously coated in a rich, flavourful gravy. 

The sauce is made with coconut milk, asam gelugur, dried prawns, lemongrass, galangal, and a blend of aromatic spices, creating a hearty and memorable meal.

Guests will also be able to discover local artworks by Malaysian artists which are prominently featured throughout the lounge, offering a unique and immersive experience for guests. 

With the opportunity to purchase the art pieces, this turns the lounge into a cultural hub where guests can support and engage with local creativity. 

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Savour the occasion: Superb Sunday brunch at Le Meridien Bangkok Surawong

The post Savour the occasion: Superb Sunday brunch at Le Meridien Bangkok Surawong appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

There are few pleasures more civilised than a well-spent Sunday — a leisurely morning that folds gently into an afternoon of good company and even better food. In Bangkok, a city not exactly short of grand hotel brunches, one venue has quietly redefined what that experience can be.

Tucked into the rich cultural tapestry of Surawong Road, Le Méridien Bangkok Surawong offers a fresh, refined take on the weekend ritual with its signature Beyond Brunch — a culinary celebration where indulgence is savoured slowly, not served at speed.

Beyond Brunch is not about excess. It is about excellence. It is about slowing down to taste the moment, one exquisite bite at a time. In a city that moves at breakneck speed, Le Méridien Surawong has dared to whisper instead of shout — and in doing so, it has redefined what Sunday means.

As someone who has lived in Bangkok for over 30 years and eaten my way through countless brunch buffets from Sathorn to Sukhumvit, I can say with some authority that this one stands apart. Not for the quantity — but for the quality, clarity of vision, and the art of hospitality.

At Le Méridien Surawong, brunch is served degustation-style, with an astounding choice  of 47 tasting plates brought directly to your table.

Choose from:

~

SOUPS & BISQUES • CLASSIC CAESARS •

TARTARE TREASURES • THAI FAVOURITES •

LATEST RECIPE JAPANESE RICE BOWLS •

FROM THE OVEN • EUROPEAN CLASSICS •

PASTA PERFECTION • SEAFOOD DELIGHTS •

GRIDDLE • BEEF & PORK SELECTION •

SWEET TREATS • LE SCOOP

~

There’s no scrambling around chafing dishes or dodging the oyster queue — here, you sit back and let the flavours come to you.

And what flavours they are. The menu is a confident blend of Thai finesse and European culinary technique:

▫Crispy golden foie gras, duck roll, mango salsa

▫Hokkaido scallop, black truffle purée, red wine sauce & beurre blanc

▫Salmon, Ikura Salmon roe, cucumber, New Zealand avocado

▫Westholm wagyu prime striploin, onion, carrot, potato

▫Cajun lamb chop, garlic confit, mashed potato, broccolini, shredded nori

Even the sweets are served with flourish:

▫Fresh strawberries, vanilla gelato, crispy brioche

▫Golden caramelized Cavendish banana parfait

Every dish is plated with intention, with careful attention to temperature, texture, and presentation — something rarely achievable in your typical buffet line.

But it’s not just the food that defines Beyond Brunch. It’s the sense of place.

The hotel sits at the heart of Surawong, one of Bangkok’s most storied neighbourhoods. Once the city’s colonial-era entertainment and hospitality quarter, Surawong was home to Bangkok’s first theatres, jazz lounges, and fine dining rooms. It was where East met West — not only in architecture, but in attitude.

That heritage still hums through the streets today. Historic shophouses nestle beside contemporary galleries, and a short walk from the hotel takes you to Charoen Krung’s creative quarter or into the lanes of Silom’s old commercial core. It’s a district that has fed the city — quite literally — for over a century.

Le Méridien Surawong honours this legacy with its bold, contemporary design and deep culinary credibility. Inside, the hotel’s public spaces are curated with striking Thai art and sculpture, echoing the creative spirit of the neighbourhood.

At the centre of it all is Dieter Ruckenbauer, the hotel’s General Manager and a true hospitality craftsman. With decades of experience across Europe and Asia, he has brought a sense of purpose and poise to the hotel’s food and beverage programme. Beyond Brunch is the hotel’s signature statement — a reflection of thoughtful dining and meaningful hospitality.

“We wanted to go beyond the usual,” Dieter says, “To move past the excess of buffet culture and create something slower, more intentional. Brunch should be something you remember — not just something you consume.”

And he’s right. There’s something deeply satisfying about this experience. You’re not overwhelmed. You’re not exhausted. You’re nourished — mind, and spirit.

Beyond Brunch isn’t just a meal. It’s a mood.

It’s Bangkok brunch, done beautifully.

Savour the flavour. Savour the occasion. Savour the good life — Beyond Brunch.

BEYOND BRUNCH | LE MÉRIDIEN BANGKOK SURAWONG

📍 40/5 Surawong Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok

🕛 Every Sunday | 12:00–15:00

📧 Reservations: service.lmbkk@lemeridien.com

📞 +66 2 232 8888

🌐 www.lemeridienbangkoksurawong.com

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Cyprus’ All-in-One Luxury Playground, welcome to City of Dreams Mediterranean

The post Cyprus’ All-in-One Luxury Playground, welcome to City of Dreams Mediterranean appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With the help from a team of concierge staff, guests step through the glass-fronted entrance of City of Dreams Mediterranean and into a soaring marble lobby that would feel right at home in Dubai or Macau. Yet this gleaming, resort-meets-entertainment complex is enjoying its title as the first integrated resort in Europe. It is set just outside Limassol, Cyprus, positioning itself as a major player in Europe’s luxury destination game.

With 500 rooms and suites stacked in a pyramidal terraced design, echoing Cyprus’ hillside villages, City of Dreams isn’t just a hotel, it’s an all-encompassing resort experience. The setting alone is impressive, but it’s the versatility that makes it a compelling addition for travel trade professionals crafting bespoke itineraries.

A Luxury Product with Broad Appeal

Rooms start at high-end and only go up. Our Junior Suite offered a panoramic sea view, plush king-sized bed, and marble bathroom, plus the kind of balcony that encourages one to have lazy moments throughout the day. Beyond the comfort, the scale is remarkable, the grounds rival a small village, with everything from multiple swimming pools, the largest in Cyprus in fact, to a wave rider, adventure park, and dedicated kids’ club. All these features allow travel planners to appeal to both families and luxury leisure seekers.

A walk through the resort reveals its multi-faceted appeal. A glitzy casino adds day and night-time buzz without disturbing other guests, while avenues of designer boutiques and an 8,000m² expo centre create strong MICE potential. Grand ballrooms, flexible conference zones and an amphitheatre open the door to destination weddings, incentives and international summits alike.

Culinary Destinations within a Destination

Dining here is a global affair. The pan-Asian and award-winning Amber Dragon seduces with carob-woodfired Beijing duck and artisan teas, while Prime Steakhouse is a moodily-lit sanctuary of premium aged beef cuts, such as the met in the mouth, Black Angus Wagyu. Anaïs brings Riviera chic with fine French cuisine and live DJ sets, while Aura offers breezy Mediterranean buffets for all-day casual dining. These signature Restaurants and others in the resort reflect both international tastes and local authenticity, providing excellent on-site options for both FITs and groups.

A Travel Trade Secret ‘Sporting’ Weapon

For sports-focused travel or unique event packaging, the on-site Marcos Baghdatis Tennis Academy is a serious asset. Featuring 12 ATP-level courts, a clubhouse, and fitness room, the academy hosts elite international tournaments and offers “Serve & Stay” packages ideal for training holidays. For UK clients especially, where tennis has deep cultural ties, it’s a tempting winter sun option particularly, with Cyprus boasting over 300 sunny days a year.

Travel advisors catering to health-conscious travellers will appreciate the Renu Spa’s Roman-inspired design and luxury treatments, with the marketed as a “stress alleviator” and it delivered a deeply hypnotic, muscle-soothing session. Another form of  therapy awaits with high-end labels from Cartier to Hublot lining a marbled avenue just off the main lobby. For those looking to venture further, curated excursions to Kourion, the Troodos wine villages or Limassol Old Town offer a taste of Cyprus’s heritage, easily accessible within an hour’s radius.

A Dream for Travel Planners

For the travel trade, City of Dreams Mediterranean is a one-stop-shop that blends luxury leisure, family fun, business travel, and wellness escapes, plus a casino and plenty of accessibility to the island’s cultural assets. Its integrated resort model offers rich packaging potential, whether you’re planning incentive trips, tennis holidays, or high-end family getaways.

In short, this is Cyprus in a way you have never seen it before. And for those in the travel industry, City of Dreams might just be the resort that demands its place on any Mediterranean itinerary.

 

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Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group launches in the Republic of Ireland

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Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) announced that it has received approval to operate in the Republic of Ireland.

This development heralds a phase of  major expansion for the group into a key European market.

The parent company of iconic travel brands Abercrombie & Kent, Cox & Kings, and Crystal secured official approval from the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), allowing it to sell to customers in Ireland across all three brands for the first time.

Cox & Kings managing director and A&K senior vice-president of sales for UK and EMEA Jennifer Charlton said: “Ireland has long been a key market for us, and this allows us to meet growing demand with the confidence and assurance Irish travellers expect. From safari to expedition cruising, tailor-made journeys to cultural discovery, this launch brings Cox & Kings, Crystal and A&K’s legendary service and deep destination knowledge directly to the Irish market.”

The IAA approval not only allows AKTG to sell holidays to Irish residents but also opens up access to point-of-sale air and cruise fares from Dublin, a key development that unlocks greater flexibility and value for Irish customers. 

That said, the company is working with major airline partners to secure ITX and cruise fares from Dublin, this will provide Irish consumers with access to preferential air rates and commercial terms from their local airport.

What happens next

A dedicated Irish point of contact is expected to follow shortly, further reinforcing AKTG’s commitment to local presence and customer trust, with agency sales manager Victoria Houston overseeing trade sales in this expanding market. 

New local telephone numbers have been set up for Irish consumers and trade with Euro denominated pricing already in place for Crystal and soon to be available for A&K and Cox & Kings.

Widely regarded as the gold standard in luxury travel, A&K’s legacy of crafting extraordinary journeys across seven continents will soon be directly available to Irish customers, along with Crystal’s award-winning voyages and Cox & Kings’ small group journeys and tailor-made trips designed for the culturally curious.

This new phase of expansion reflects the group’s continued investment in the European market and its vision to bring unparalleled travel experiences to new audiences.

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Accor’s yacht Orient Express outfitted with BIO-SEA water treatment system

The post Accor’s yacht Orient Express outfitted with BIO-SEA water treatment system appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Water treatment specialist BIO-UV Group has supplied its BIO-SEA ballast water treatment system to French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique for operation aboard the Orient Express, the first in a series of Accor-operated luxury sailing yachts.

Factory acceptance trials for the chemical-free BIO-SEA B01-0135 unit was successfully completed, with installation aboard the first Orient Express Sailing Yachts vessel taking place at the St. Nazaire shipyard. 

The vessel was floated out on Monday, 16th June.

When the yacht becomes operational next year, the UV-based BIO-SEA system will be treating water flow rates up to 135 m3/h. 

A sister vessel, scheduled for delivery in 2027 will also be fitted with a similar B-type BIO-SEA unit.

The world’s biggest sailing yacht

At 220m (722ft) long and with gross tonnage of 26,200gt, Orient Express will be the world’s largest contemporary sailing yacht and the first to deploy the shipbuilder’s in-house designed SolidSail wind sail system. 

This features three 100m tall lightweight masts each of which will be rigged with 1500m2 Solid Sail/AeolDrive rigid but foldable sails.

Commenting on the significance of the order, BIO-UV Group sales director for solutions Maxime Dedeurwaerder explained that it underscores not only the shipowner’s commitment to decarbonisation, but also BIO-UV Group’s focus on sustainability.

According to Dedeurwaerder: “Our ballast water treatment systems resonate with environmentally conscientious ship owners and builders because of the compact, low energy consuming reactor technology we have developed. The BIO-SEA ‘B’ unit for the Accor ships, for instance, needs only one UV reactor, optimising space and energy saving efficiency without any impact on ballast water treatment performance to limit invasive species proliferation.”

For his part, Chantiers de l’Atlantique senior vice-president for sales and marketing Arnaud Le Joncour pointed out that his company has already had good experience with BIO-UV Group’s BIO-SEA ballast water treatment systems, with more than twenty installations over the past decade. 

Le Joncour said: “The BIO-SEA technology combines mechanical filtration and UV disinfection providing chemical-free treatment compliant with both IMO and USCG regulations, which was an important consideration for the operational scope of the Accor sailing yachts.”

A most effective solution

With treatment capacities ranging from 100 to 500m3/h, the BIO-SEA B Series automatically regulates the UV dose according to the water quality. 

Treatment performance is not affected by water temperature or salinity and since no chemicals or active substances are used in the treatment process, deballasting can be carried out without detriment to the marine environment.

A BIO-SEA ballast water treatment system can also benefit from the French water treatment specialist “warranty for life” policy, which assures ship operators of the through-life robustness, reliability, and performance of their installations.

Valid with a three or five-year aftermarket service agreement, the warranty is contingent on a BIO-SEA system being installed and operated in full compliance with the operation and maintenance manual; that servicing is undertaken by a certified BIO-UV technician; and that any replacement parts or consumables are supplied directly from BIO-UV Group or its official network.

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Arabian Travel Market emphasises the role of the Asia Pacific in the future of tourism

The post Arabian Travel Market emphasises the role of the Asia Pacific in the future of tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A new report following this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) shows that the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is poised for significant tourism growth.

APAC spending on international travel is poised to hit US$2.5 trillion while domestic travel may reach US$4.3 trillion by 2029.

The data was released by Euromonitor International.

The report also shows that outbound travel from APAC is projected to grow at a CAGR of seven percent, with intra-regional journeys expected to account for 61 percent of all trips by the end of this year. 

By 2029, one in three trips is anticipated to be outside the APAC region, with 75 percent of bookings set to be made online.   

A key point for discussion

A high-impact panel discussion at ATM 2025 brought together top industry minds to explore the future of travel in the APAC region. 

Moderated by Mingie Wang, Chief Correspondent at China Daily, the panel discussed traveller behaviour, digital transformation, and the resurgence of outbound travel, particularly from China, providing fascinating insights into this key global market. 

Panelists included Alhasan Aldabbagh, president of APAC Markets, Saudi Tourism Authority; Gary Bowerman, founder of Check-in Asia; Boon Sian Chai, managing director and vice-president of international markets at Trip.com Group; and Shahab Shayan, regional director for the Asia Pacific at the Department of Economy and Tourism.

During the session they highlighted a shift in purchasing decisions across the APAC region, driven by experiential travel, digitisation, and a growing desire for cultural immersion. 

Sports and media are key influences

According to ATM’s exhibition director in the Middle East Danielle Curtis: “More than 60 percent of travellers are booking trips around concerts and sporting events, while over 40 percent are influenced by digital platforms such as TikTok. Interestingly, film and television are also playing a significant role, evidenced by a rise in bookings to Thailand following the popularity of The White Lotus.” 

According to a recent report compiled by Tourism Economics on behalf of ATM, tourism nights from Asia Pacific and Africa are on track to more than double between 2025 and 2030. 

The number of tourism nights, specifically from China to the Middle East, is expected to grow by 189 percent through 2030, and APAC source markets are set to account for the largest share of business nights in the region, with India, in particular, gaining importance. 

In addition, travellers from APAC record the highest spend per person per day globally, at a rate of US$300, across various tourism sectors, including accommodation, food and beverage, and retail. 

This high level of expenditure is mainly driven by Chinese travellers whose strong purchasing power continues to shape global travel trends. 

How to ensure success in an increasingly prominent market

The Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, is key to ensuring the emirate’s strategic success in APAC markets, with a focus on market segmentation and storytelling. 

By tailoring messaging for platforms such as the video-sharing website Bilibili and the social networking and e-commerce platform Red Note, and leveraging strong air links through carriers like Emirates and flydubai, Dubai’s tourism authorities continue to position the city as a relevant, accessible, and aspirational destination for travellers across Asia.  

As a newcomer to APAC tourism markets, Saudi Arabia has adopted a highly localised approach, as outlined during the discussion. 

Recognising the diversity of the region, which comprises 49 distinct countries, tourism authorities in the Kingdom study each source market closely, from dietary preferences to cultural nuances, tailoring travel experiences accordingly. 

This strategy is supported by partnerships with media, trade, and research bodies to ensure that Saudi Arabia’s offerings resonate authentically with travellers across the region. 

Curtis added: “Technology is playing an increasingly pivotal role in travel decision-making across the APAC region, with consumers relying heavily on digital tools, social media, and AI.  Mobile-first planning is transforming how travellers research and book trips, although the digital landscape varies significantly from country to country. One constant across the region is the importance of trust, particularly in peer-generated content, which continues to influence traveller choices at every stage of the journey.”

Panellists also cited sustainability as a key consideration for younger generations in the APAC region, with research from Trip.com indicating that 30 to 40 percent of Gen Y and millennial travellers are willing to pay more for eco-friendly travel. For these consumers, sustainability extends beyond carbon offsets and environmental protection, encompassing support for local culture and heritage.

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Crimson Hotel Filinvest City marks Pride Month with the theme #HappyToBe

The post Crimson Hotel Filinvest City marks Pride Month with the theme #HappyToBe appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila officially launched its 2025 Pride Month celebration with a vibrant event held at Alibi Lounge•Bar. 

Centred on the theme #HappyToBe, the campaign honours self-expression, individuality, and community through inclusive programming that blends hospitality, art, and advocacy.

The launch event held on 11th June introduced Stay with Pride, a special room package that supports LoveYourself Inc, an organization committed to HIV awareness and LGBTQIA+ support services. 

Guests can book using promo codes HAPPYTOBE and STAYWITHPRIDE, with inclusions like breakfast or dining credits.

Crimson Hotel’s Pride campaign runs throughout June, inviting guests to participate in its ongoing promotions while fostering a space that is safe, welcoming, and joyful for all.

A taste of Pride

Complementing the stay experience are Pride-themed culinary offerings across Crimson Hotel’s dining outlets. 

These include the Blush & Bloom cocktail, a hibiscus and raspberry drink available in all restaurants; a Boutique Dinner Buffet with Pride Delights at Café Eight every Friday and Saturday; and a colourful range of pastries and drinks at Baker J such as the Pride Croissant, Pride Macarons, and Pride Spritzer.

On top of its food and beverage offerings, the hotel also unveiled the Color Parade: Pride Art Exhibit at the lobby on the eighth floor, in partnership with the South Arts Festival. 

The exhibition features works from a diverse lineup of artists: Ruth Cancio, Kate Tinamisan, Yvonne Harmony, Jeanette Kamphuis, Criselda De Leon, Celina Villaruel, and Anne Labesores.

It’s a showcase that highlights identity, resilience, and personal storytelling through art. 

A live painting session by JJ Duque marked the exhibit’s opening night.

Meet the new man at the helm

The evening also served to formally introduce Crimson’s new hotel manager Olivier Ramos.

Ramos brings over two decades of global experience in luxury hospitality. In his welcome remarks, he emphasised Crimson’s commitment to inclusion by sayingL  “At Crimson, everyone deserves to feel ‘Happy To Be’ exactly who they are. Whether you’re a guest, an artist, a colleague, or a friend of the brand, your story matters here.” 

The celebration continued with “Unfiltered: A Bar Takeover” featuring guest mixologist Jam Nhela, serving bold, Pride-inspired cocktails in collaboration with Absolut and Monin. 

Setting the evening’s rhythm was guest DJ Rae Viloria, headlining the first of the month-long “Glow: Pride Nights” happening every Friday at Alibi Lounge • Bar together with DJ Mike Lavet.

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AirAsia commemorates 16th Skytrax win with golden livery

The post AirAsia commemorates 16th Skytrax win with golden livery appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As it celebrates its 16th consecutive win from the Skytrax World Airline Awards, AirAsia proudly unveiled a striking gold commemorative aircraft livery today, 19th June.

The exclusive golden aircraft was revealed during a special send-off ceremony at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA T2).

The livery symbolises more than just the milestone win, but it pays homage to the nearly one billion guests who have placed their trust in AirAsia since 2001. 

This custom livery, themed Still Winning Still Gold, symbolises the strength, durability and resilience of gold, making it a fitting tribute to the airline’s 16th consecutive victory.

Starting a new chapter

AirAsia’s red and white livery has long stood out in the skies. 

Now, with this golden edition, the airline marks a new chapter, one built on resilience, consistency, and world-class service that remains affordable for all. 

Likewise, the cabin interior has been enhanced with elegant gold accents to elevate the inflight experience.

To commemorate this golden achievement, AirAsia also launched a special celebratory campaign, featuring great value fares daily along with a Golden Hour Sale from 4PM to 7PM, for 16 consecutive days. 

Travellers can snap up promotional fares across the airline’s entire network including exciting destinations such as Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Da Lat, Krabi, Jaipur, and many more from today till 3rd July, for travel between 2nd July 2025 and 31st March 2026 on the AirAsia MOVE app or the airline’s official website.

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IHG’s Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur to open in Q4-2025

The post IHG’s Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur to open in Q4-2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury lifestyle brand Kimpton is slated to make its debut in Malaysia through the Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur.

The new hotel is slated to open its doors in the fourth quarter of this year. 

A striking new landmark within the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX), Malaysia’s first international financial district and Kuala Lumpur’s Central Business District, Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur will bring an artful take on modern luxury to the city, redefining what it means to stay, dine, and gather in style.

Designed to be an extension of the city’s dynamic energy, the hotel will embody Kimpton’s signature approach to heartfelt service, with design-led spaces and experiences centred on its guests. 

Signature comforts

The Kimpton experience is a different way to stay, so guests ought to expect the brand’s non-standard signature perks.

These exclusive amenities and services include:

  • Forgot It, We’ve Got It: Forgot to bring a daily essential on the trip? Kimpton has its guests covered with the travel amenities they need, as well as a few that they might not have even considered;
  • Kimpton Kickstart: Jumpstart mornings with complimentary coffees and teas in the hotel lobby; and
  • Kimpton Social: A daily evening hosted social hour of curated drinks, conversation and more.

A meaningful name

The hotel’s name is a reflection of its spirit and philosophy. ‘Naluria’ [pronounced Naa-loo-ree-aa] derives from two Malay words: ‘Naluri’, meaning ‘instinct’, and ‘Ria’, meaning ‘joy.’

Combined, the word Naluria embodies the essence of following one’s instinctive inner voice towards the pursuit of joy and happiness. 

Just as Kuala Lumpur itself is a convergence of tradition and modernity, Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur will be a sanctuary where guests can embrace both adventure and tranquility in a setting that is effortlessly stylish yet deeply personal.

Ushering in a new era for Malaysian hospitality

At the helm of Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur is Paul Cunningham, a seasoned hospitality leader with over three decades of experience in luxury hotels across Asia.

He said of the upcoming facility: “We are thrilled to debut IHG’s luxury lifestyle brand, Kimpton, in Malaysia, continuing the brand’s global expansion. Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur is beyond just an inspirational place to stay – it will be the city’s next vibrant social hub, where human hospitality, inspiration, wellness and evocative experiences come together seamlessly. Location-wise, we’re surrounded by the perfect blend of commerce and creativity, with retail, dining, and green spaces that invite discovery.”

Spanning 26 storeys, the 466-room hotel will house an evocative mix of experiences, from four distinct dining venues including Four Siblings, a destination rooftop bar and lounge with breathtaking skyline views, while Tuai + Till, the hotel’s all-day-dining concept, will transition seamlessly throughout the day, serving an inspired breakfast spread in the morning before transforming into two distinctive dining experiences: Tuai, a cozy Malaysian café, and Till, an elegant Western brasserie. 

A specialty project in the making will be a retro Italian-American restaurant, soon to be revealed. 

Five flexible event spaces await intimate soirees or meetings, designed to foster human connection.

Bringing a vision to life

Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur’s interiors are envisioned in partnership with the award-winning Hassell Studio.

The overall design blends the vibrance of the city with the lushness of nature to create an urban haven. 

Inspired by Malaysia’s rich natural landscapes, the hotel’s design will weave organic textures, earthy stones, and an abundance of greenery into the fabric of its spaces. 

Floor-to-ceiling windows will frame sweeping city views, while the interplay of natural light and curated materials will evoke a sense of serenity amidst the buzzing metropolis.

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Shiji lists ten reasons why hotels need to ramp up their property management systems

The post Shiji lists ten reasons why hotels need to ramp up their property management systems appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Let’s face it: technology is constantly evolving and the team at global hospitality tech firm Shiji points out that those who refuse to move with the times are guaranteed to be left behind.

A good case for this would be the global hospitality sector, an industry that needs to move with the times, especially where its operations are concerned.

While hospitality itself continues to race in terms of amenity, service, and property development, the property management systems (PMS) used on the backend of operations are bogging many accommodation providers down.

More often than not, the legacy tools kept in use leave hotels exposed to online threats as they are no longer being updated with the latest protocols.

For this reason, Shiji shares ten reasons why hotels need to revamp their PMS if they want to both keep up with new technologies and protect themselves from threats.

I. Dealing with cybersecurity threats can get incredibly expensive

Hotels are a prime target for hackers because they have so much in the way of usable data. 

Think about it: a legacy PMS that’s practically hanging by a thread is a treasure trove for hackers who can dig into everything from credit card details to passport information; and such sensitive information can earn them a pretty penny and more on the dark web.

In turn, this will lead to lawsuits and hotels scrambling to mitigate reputational damage; and all that seriously costs.

However, if an updated PMS is put in place, hoteliers can enjoy AI-bolstered online security measures, property encrypted databases, as well as 24/7 threat monitoring to keep unsavoury elements at bay.

II. Global data laws and regulations are becoming tighter and stricter

Hotels handling international guests deal with government regulations on a regular basis.

Depending on where they are, it could be GDPR in Europe, CCPA in California, and data localisation laws in countries like China and Brazil. 

A PMS that doesn’t automatically manage data retention and compliance settings puts your hotel at risk of hefty fines. 

Fortunately, new systems come with built-in compliance tools that handle this for you.

III. You need the Cloud

If your PMS crashes because a local server failed, you’re losing bookings and frustrating guests. 

Cloud-based PMS solutions eliminate this risk, offering automatic backups, real-time updates, and access from anywhere, whether it’s the front desk, a tablet in housekeeping, or your phone at the airport. 

The cloud enables hotels to bid downtime and maintenance issues goodbye for good.

IV. Going digital makes things more convenient for guests

As nobody wants to wait in line when checking in, today’s hotel guests expect mobile check-ins, digital room keys, and instant service requests from their phones. 

Having a modern PMS in place enables these features and more.

In turn, this ensures that your property meets the expectations set by major chains and innovative independents.

V. A good PMS prevents isolation

A PMS that doesn’t talk to your revenue management system, CRM, or payment gateway creates bottlenecks. 

The best solutions offer seamless API integrations, allowing systems to work together.

Systems working in tandem can update room availability in real-time, sync guest preferences, and streamline operations without endless manual data entry.

VI. Automation leads to efficiency in terms of time and money

In this day and age, no hotel should be assigning rooms or reconciling invoices manually.

A modern PMS automates these tasks with AI-driven workflows, reducing human error and freeing up staff for guest interactions. 

Just think: with a system that automatically assigns housekeeping tasks based on check-out times, everything is done in a timely and cost-effective fashion.

VII. The right PMS ought to fit your hotel and not the other way around

Most legacy PMS solutions force hotels into rigid workflows. 

If your system makes it harder to personalise services, you’re using the wrong one. 

A modern PMS adapts to your brand’s way of doing business, not the other way around.

VIII. A modern PMS allows for data-driven decisions

Old PMS systems either lack analytics or bury hotels in spreadsheets. 

A modern system, on the other hand, delivers clear, real-time insights on an easy-to-read dashboard. 

Having one in place means no more guesswork or clunky reports.

IX. The day of standalone channel management systems is over

Managing OTA listings used to require separate channel management software, but not anymore. 

The latest PMS solutions integrate this function, ensuring rates and availability sync automatically across all platforms.

This, in turn, reduces overbookings and saves costs on third-party software.

X. Finally, relying on legacy systems will seriously leave you behind

Technology these days evolves so rapidly that a PMS designed in the 2010s can’t compete with the functional bells and whistles offered by contemporary systems.

Many PMS products these days boast of AI-driven pricing engines, voice-command functionality, or smart room integrations. 

Instead of patching an outdated system, investing in a future-proof PMS ensures your hotel remains competitive for years to come.

The post Shiji lists ten reasons why hotels need to ramp up their property management systems appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia