The post Kyoto draws tourists in with Kyoto Summer Special Openings appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Kyoto City warmly welcomes travellers and culture lovers coming in for the summer to explore some of its most treasured cultural landmarks through its Kyoto Summer Special Openings 2025.

This limited-time programme offers travellers exclusive access to sacred and historically significant sites usually closed to the public.

From 11th July to 30th September 2025, the programme marks its 50th anniversary by inviting visitors to enjoy spaces rarely accessible under the theme Waterscapes to Visit in Summer and Modern Architecture Masterpieces of Kyoto. 

For the first time, special evening light-up events will also be introduced, allowing guests to experience the magic of Kyoto’s heritage in the cooler, serene hours after sunset.

What to enjoy in the daytime

Shosei-en Garden: Enshin-do Hall
Step inside this 17th-century hall for the first time in history. Once the residence of the head of Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, Enshin-do offers exquisite views of a traditional garden and features silver swallow-shaped nail covers, each uniquely crafted.
Admission: Adults ¥500 (plus Garden Maintenance Fee) / Dates: 11 July to 30 September

Higashi Hongan-ji Temple: Goei-do-mon Gate
Climb Japan’s tallest wooden temple gate for a sweeping view of Kyoto and its eastern mountains. The upper level, home to sacred Buddhist statues, is usually off-limits.
Admission: ¥800 / Dates: 11 July to 30 September

Pontocho Kaburenjo Theatre
Explore this 1927 theatre in Kyoto’s historical geisha district. Visitors can see the stage, rehearsal rooms and backstage areas on a guided tour.
Admission: ¥800 / Closed: 3 and 11–15 September

Shozan Hogyokutei Villa
Nestled in a moss-covered garden in northern Kyoto, this post-war merchant residence features rare nandina columns and art from renowned Japanese painters.
Admission: ¥800 / Closed from 12.00 midday on 6 September

Ninna-ji Temple: Kannon-do Hall
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kannon-do Hall is adorned with brilliantly preserved 17th-century murals and houses 33 Buddhist figures. Tours are guided by a temple priest.
Admission: ¥700 / Free for under 18s / Closed: 18 July, 18 August, 18 September

Kamigamo-jinja Shrine
Visit one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, with guided access to two sacred buildings normally closed to the public. Kamigamo Shrine is famous for its traditional thatched roofs and spiritual atmosphere.
Admission: ¥800 / Closed: 16–18 July

Shimogamo-jinja Shrine
Enter the sacred inner precinct of this World Heritage-listed shrine and explore the historic kitchen used for preparing offerings. A highlight is its ancient forest, preserved since the 3rd century BCE.
Admission: ¥800

Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa
Wander through this well-preserved traditional residence built by the influential Mitsui merchant family. The second floor, with views of the garden and Kamo River, will be open to the public for a limited time.
Admission: ¥800 / Special Access: 29 August to 7 September

Spectacles to enjoy when night falls

Ninna-ji Temple Night Viewing
Experience the quiet beauty of Ninna-ji Temple illuminated at night. The five-storey pagoda and main hall are bathed in light, while the Kannon-do interior, rich with ancient murals, opens for evening access.
Dates: 11 to 21 July / Admission: ¥1,700 / Free for under 18s

Kamigamo-jinja Shrine “Visit to the Dragon God”
Take a twilight footbath in the sacred Nara-no-Ogawa stream as over a thousand wind chimes sing in the breeze. Enjoy traditional dances, flute music and cool refreshments in a mystical setting.
Dates: 14 to 23 July / Admission: ¥1,200 (Children aged 6–12: ¥600)

Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa Evening Opening
Relax with a drink on a veranda overlooking the garden, as this historic residence is beautifully lit for a peaceful summer night visit.
Dates: 18–21 and 25–27 July / Admission: From ¥1,200 including drink (Free for children under 12)

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The post Australian travel sector icon Geoff McGeary passes away appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

APT Travel Group has announced the passing of their corporate patriarch Geoff McGeary.

McGeary, a pillar of the Australian travel industry, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, yesterday, 18th June.

Per the official statement, McGeary passed on just before his 84th birthday.

The Australian travel pioneer retired from the helm of APT Travel Group in January 2024 after six decades of leadership.

The family has requested that the public could send donations rather than flowers to APT’s OneTomorrow Foundation to be used in research on the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

Phil Hoffmann, founder and executive director of Phil Hoffmann travel, said of the late icon: “A true legend that has left an indelible mark on the Industry. Geoff McGeary was one of pioneers and icons of the travel and tourism industry. He was always thinking of new opportunities and was a great advocate for the distribution of products by the travel agent network. He also did so much in bringing Canada/Alaska and European river cruising programmes to the Australian market.”

What comes next

When McGeary stepped down from leadership, he put his two children Robert McGeary and Lou Tandy in charge of the business.

With their father’s passing, the younger McGeary and Tandy remain co-owners of APT Travel Group, as well as directors working together with the rest of the corporate board and other key executives.

In an interview following her father’s retirement last year, Tandy assured the public that APT will still be driven by innovation the way it has always been from her grandfather’s time to her father’s.

Tandy said: “Part of the culture of the business will be to have a go and try things. That is part of the way our father lived, and life is for living, to get out there, seek to improve and if there are mistakes, learn from them and do better next time.”

Celebrating a life well-lived

The son of Australian Pacific Holdings founder Alfred William “Bill” McGeary (1900-1963), Geoff McGeary took over daily operations at APT’s precursor day McGeary Parlour Coaches in 1961 when he was just 19.

Never looking back, he transformed his father’s little bus company in Melbourne into a leader in the global tourism industry.

Over his six decades in the saddle, McGeary attributed much of his success to good fortune.

Those who knew him best, however, would point out that it was his hands-on approach and open mind for innovation that propelled the company into the success it continues to enjoy to this day.

With his keen mix of innovation and investment, McGeary took the business from Melbourne to the world, and his inspiring story will live on through the business and the lives he touched over the years.

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The post Economic growth is there for the taking – if outbound travel industry is supported by Govt: ABTA appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The findings are from ABTA’s new report ‘Outbound travel: a catalyst for jobs, growth and wellbeing’, published  to coincide with the Government’s Spending Review and ABTA’s Travel Matters conference in London. ABTA says these findings should be ‘music to the Government’s ears’ given its focus and reliance on growing the economy to meet its manifesto and public service ambitions.
The report also highlights the part outbound travel plays in supporting inbound and domestic tourism across the UK. Not only does outbound travel support the national economy, raising £52bn in GVA annually, and contributing £10bn in tax, but it also helps with the Government’s mission to create jobs and economic opportunity across the UK’s towns and cities.

The report makes clear that without the volumes of UK residents heading overseas, many regional airports would struggle to survive – putting at risk inbound tourism and damaging communities across the country that rely on tourism income. The report reveals the regional airports particularly dependent on outbound leisure passengers for their success; East Midlands (90%), Manchester (78%), Birmingham (78%), Bristol (75%), and Exeter (75%)2 .

However, ABTA has warned that turning the growth predictions and regional potential into reality requires the right tax and policy framework and is urging the Government to harness the opportunities presented by the travel industry.

The Association said that there has been positive progress from the Government on critical areas, citing the decisions around airport expansion, airspace modernisation, and policies to back the development of a domestic Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry as examples. ABTA says the recent UK-EU summit agreement also included important areas for travel, such as the commitment to explore a youth experience scheme.

However, ABTA stressed the need to make timely progress on policy decisions; avoiding the mistakes of past governments, where too often plans have ended up in the long grass.
The Association, which marks its 75th anniversary this month, said one of the big challenges faced by businesses over the years has been where policy decision and initiatives take an unnecessarily long amount of time and make little headway, which subsequently stalls growth, progress and opportunity for business.

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said: “This Government has been clear that it wants to secure growth for the economy and towns and cities across the UK. With the Spending Review today, we’re urging the Government to capitalise on the growth potential presented by outbound travel.

“One of the things that we are highlighting is the opportunity for the UK to be a leader in sustainable travel, recognising that the industry needs to grow in a responsible way. This means accelerating progress towards decarbonisation; something that can’t be done without the support of Government.

“We’re also keen to remind Government that the travel industry is an important facilitator of growth in other sectors, whether that’s through business travel and exports carried in passenger planes for example.”

In the report, ABTA sets out three areas of policy development and recommendations that needs to be progressed in order to achieve growth:

• Ensuring the UK is a leader in sustainable travel – by embedding policies, such as the SAF mandate and Revenue Support Mechanism for aviation and investing in shoreside power at UK ports.
• Enabling UK travel businesses to compete in a global industry, by reviewing business rates to support  the high street, avoiding layering of taxes on tourism, and supporting educational and vocational routes into the sector.
• Enhancing UK-EU relations – by removing trade barriers with our largest travel market, such as difficulties in getting UK qualifications recognised, cooperating on new electronic border regimes, and agreeing a youth experience scheme as quickly as possible.

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The post Ireland’s Greatest Road Trips – the Causeway Coast and Wild Atlantic Way  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 It’s now even easier to explore the island of Ireland’s beautiful north coast with a new 10-night holiday combining two iconic coastal road trip routes: the Wild Atlantic Way, the world’s longest defined coastal route, and the Causeway Coastal Route home to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway.

Whilst visitors often pick one route to explore, a new focus on the region is encouraging road trippers to extend their stays and experience both iconic routes in one trip, taking in spectacular coastal landscapes and famous sites like the Giant’s Causeway and Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly point. The experience is available to book through McKinlay Kidd, an award-winning tour operator specialising in holidays to the UK and Ireland.

Travellers embarking on Ireland’s Greatest Road Trips – the Causeway Coast and Wild Atlantic Way will enjoy a 10-night journey that showcases the best of the north coast, taking in rugged coastal landscapes, characterful towns and famous tourism sites. As well as accommodation and car hire, the holiday includes a number of immersive experiences including ferry travel as foot passengers to Rathlin Island in the company of a local guide, a Visit Derry Pass for two, a guided tour of Fanad Head Lighthouse, a guided visit to Sliabh Liag and a tour and lunch at a Sligo oyster farm.

The new holiday begins with an early ferry to Belfast to spend some time in the city before heading to the Causeway Coast for a wonderful oceanside drive to the seaside town of Ballycastle, recently named ‘Best Place to Live in Northern Ireland’. The next day board the ferry for a short crossing to Rathlin Island, home to Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony, an ‘upside down lighthouse’ and a famous spot to see puffins.

Continue along the Causeway Coastal route taking in the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Ballintoy Harbour, the world-famous Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle and Mussenden Temple and the golden strands at Portstewart and Portrush, before reaching the city of Derry-Londonderry. Spend a night and day in this fascinating and friendly city, exploring then of the city’s attractions with a Visit Derry Pass and a guided walk of the ancient city walks.

Next, head onto the Wild Atlantic Way, for two days exploring the rugged beauty of County Donegal, including the island’s most northerly point, made famous in Star Wars, and spend the night in Irish-speaking region of the Rosses. Carry on south along the Wild Atlantic Way to view Sliabh Liag, Europe’s tallest sea cliffs and spend a night in Donegal Town with the option to enjoy some live music in the evening.

The route then takes road-trippers down into County Sligo, to see Mullaghmore Head, the mighty Ben Bulben and the blowholes at Raghly Cliffs. Spend two nights in Sligo, W.B. Yeats country, and enjoy a private oyster farm experience in Sligo Bay, before heading back to Dublin or Belfast to catch the ferry home.

The holiday has been created as part of a campaign to promote tourism to the north coast of the island of Ireland. Tourism Ireland, Failte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland have ongoing collaboration to forge greater links between the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way through the Shared Island Brand Collaboration Project, creating synergies between these two iconic touring routes through new discovery points, improved signage, and large investment into local tourism businesses.

The 10-night Ireland’s Greatest Road Trips – the Causeway Coast and Wild Atlantic Way holiday is available to now and priced from £1,595 per person, based on two adults sharing a double or twin room on a B&B basis and includes 10-nights’ accommodation, car hire and five guided excursions. There is the option to start and finish in either Dublin or Belfast.

 

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The post easyJet launches a new winter route from Birmingham Airport appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

easyJet has launched a new route from Birmingham Airport to Grenoble in France as part of a bumper package of 22 new routes from UK airports for winter. The new service to Grenoble will start on 20 December and will operate once a week on Saturdays, giving customers in the Midlands a convenient option for their winter break whether that’s a ski trip in the Alps or exploring the city and its famous Bastille Fort.

Flights on the new route are now available to book at easyJet.com and via the mobile app starting from £30.99*.

Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said: “We’re delighted to be announcing a great range of new winter routes today, with 22 new services now available from 12 UK airports, including a brand new route to Grenoble from our Birmingham base. With flights and holidays now available on even more routes for the winter, we’re providing greater direct connectivity for customers all across the UK to Europe and beyond and offering great value for money, always aiming to make travel easy.”

Tom Screen, Aviation Director at Birmingham Airport, said: “We welcome the news that easyJet will be launching a route from Birmingham to Grenoble as part of their extensive winter programme for 2025/26. Known as the ‘Capital of the Alps’, Grenoble offers excellent access to a wide range of ski resorts, as well as a wealth of historic sights within the city itself. We are confident this new programme of routes will once again prove popular among customers seeking a much-needed winter getaway.”

Since easyJet launched its base at Birmingham Airport in March 2024, the airline’s presence in the region has gone from strength to strength having more than doubled the number of destinations on its network.

The arrival of two additional Airbus A320 aircraft will enable easyJet to offer customers in the Midlands even more choice for flights and holidays across Europe. Their entry into service demonstrates the continuing strong demand from customers in the Midlands.

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The post ‘Incredible Madhya Pradesh’ Records 134.1 Million Visitors in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Madhya Pradesh, rich in diversity and heritage, continues to emerge as one of India’s most vibrant tourism destinations. Known for its cultural legacy, historical monuments, natural beauty, and rich wildlife, the state has become the preferred choice for travelers. In 2024, Madhya Pradesh witnessed an unprecedented rise in tourism, recording 134.1 million tourist arrivals — a remarkable increase of 19.6% from 2023, approximately 50.6% from 2019, and an astounding 526% from 2020.

> Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla stated, “Madhya Pradesh is a culturally and ecologically diverse state that offers a complete travel experience to visitors. The arrival of 134.1 million tourists in 2024 is proof that Madhya Pradesh is not only making its mark nationally but is also emerging strongly on the global tourism map. This achievement is the result of visionary policies, development of robust infrastructure, and active participation of local communities.”

Foreign Tourist Arrivals

In 2024, Madhya Pradesh also welcomed 167,000 foreign tourists. Khajuraho recorded 33,131 foreign arrivals, Gwalior 10,823, and Orchha 13,960. Urban destinations also saw a rise in foreign tourists with Indore receiving 9,964 and Bhopal 1,522. Wildlife parks attracted global visitors too, including Bandhavgarh (29,192), Kanha (19,148), Panna (12,762), and Pench (11,272), reflecting the state’s growing global appeal.

Major Tourism Attractions

Religious Tourism: A New Center of Faith in India

Madhya Pradesh’s religious destinations attracted 107 million visitors in 2024, a 21.9% increase over 2023. Six out of the state’s top ten tourist destinations were religious sites. Ujjain led with 73.2 million tourists, a 39% rise from 52.8 million in 2023. Chitrakoot also crossed the 10 million mark, showing a 33% increase from 9 million in 2023. Other major religious destinations included Maihar (13.3 million), Amarkantak (4 million), Salkanpur (2.6 million), and Omkareshwar (2.4 million). Projects like Mahakal Lok, Omkareshwar Mahalok, Shri Ram Van Gaman Path, Devi Lok, Raja Ram Lok, and Hanuman Lok have spiritually and economically strengthened religious tourism.

Heritage Tourism: Living History

The state’s rich heritage drew over 8 million visitors in 2024 — a 25% rise from 6.4 million in 2023. Gwalior witnessed a threefold increase, with over 900,000 tourists compared to 369,000 in 2023. Other key heritage sites included Khajuraho (489,000), Bhojpur (3.591 million), and Maheshwar (1.353 million). UNESCO recently added Bhojpur to its tentative list and designated Gwalior as a “Creative City of Music.” Madhya Pradesh now has a total of 18 UNESCO heritage sites (3 inscribed and 15 tentative), including the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, and the Sanchi Stupa.

The tentative list features:

* Ashokan Edicts

* Chausath Yogini Temple

* Gupta-period temples

* Forts and palaces of Bundela rulers

* Gwalior Fort

* Khooni Bhandara in Burhanpur

* Rock Art Sites of Chambal Valley

* Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple, Bhojpur

* Gond monuments in Ramnagar, Mandla

* Historical group of Dhamnar

* Group of Monuments at Mandu

* Group of Monuments at Orchha

* Bhedaghat–Lametaghat in Narmada Valley

* Satpura Tiger Reserve

* Chanderi

Wildlife Tourism: The Union of Nature and Adventure

Madhya Pradesh, known as the “Tiger State,” “Leopard State,” “Gharial State,” “Cheetah State,” and “Vulture State,” boasts the highest forest cover in India. It is home to 12 national parks, 25 wildlife sanctuaries, and 9 tiger reserves. Key destinations included Kanha (248,000), Pench (192,000), Bandhavgarh (194,000), Panna (385,000), and Madhai (434,000). Kuno Palpur National Park gained international attention for the cheetah reintroduction project.

Nature Tourism: Unforgettable Experiences in Nature’s Lap

Madhya Pradesh’s scenic beauty offers travelers a treasure trove of natural wonders. Popular destinations include Pachmarhi, Amarkantak, Bhedaghat, Hanuwantiya, Gandhi Sagar, Tamia, Sailani Island, and Sarsi Island. In 2024, Pachmarhi welcomed 287,000 visitors, and Bhedaghat attracted 234,000. These locations offered unique experiences through resorts, adventure sports, trekking trails, and camping. The scenic landscapes of Gandhi Sagar Dam, Sailani Island, Patal Kot in Tamia, and Sarsi Island brought travelers closer to nature.

Rural Tourism: A Vibrant Experience of Culture and Hospitality

Rural tourism in Madhya Pradesh has played a crucial role in showcasing local hospitality and culture to the world. A total of 63 tourism villages have been developed. Over 470 homestays have hosted more than 24,000 guests, offering immersive experiences of local cuisine and traditions. Villages near Pachmarhi, Kanha, and Amarkantak have become popular for rural stays. India’s first handloom village, Pranpur in Chanderi, has brought international recognition to local artisans. Tribal art forms like Gond, Bhil paintings, and Mandana art are gaining popularity among tourists.

Film Tourism: A Cinematic Destination

Madhya Pradesh has carved a niche in film tourism. Locations like Chanderi and Maheshwar have become favorites among filmmakers. The shooting of “Stree 2” popularized Chanderi, which recorded 47,630 visitors. Maheshwar welcomed 1.353 million visitors and has been the backdrop for numerous national and international films. Recently, the film Homebound, shot in Madhya Pradesh, received acclaim at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. The new Film Policy–2025 and the Tourism Facilitation Cell have made Madhya Pradesh an attractive film destination. Films like Stree, Sui Dhaaga, Dabangg 2, Padman, and web series like Panchayat and Maharani have showcased the state’s cultural and natural beauty on global platforms. Khajuraho, Gwalior, and Mandu have also emerged as filming hotspots.

Urban Tourism: The Blend of Modernity and Culture

Cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Jabalpur are known for their cleanliness, modernity, and cultural richness. In 2024, Indore saw 10.2 million tourists, Bhopal 2.2 million, and Jabalpur 2.3 million. Indore retained its title as India’s cleanest city for the seventh time in the Swachh Bharat Survey, reinforcing its status as a smart and clean tourism destination.

In 2024, Madhya Pradesh made significant strides in every segment of tourism, establishing itself as a distinct presence on the national and global map. From spiritual journeys and historical heritage to wildlife adventures and natural retreats, from rural warmth to urban sophistication, and from cultural richness to cinematic allure — “Incredible Madhya Pradesh” has offered every traveler a unique experience. The arrival of 134.1 million tourists is a testament to the state’s rapid growth in tourism and its commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. With progressive policies, government support, and strong community involvement, Madhya Pradesh is set to script a new chapter in tourism in the coming years.

 

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The post Drone Forge places inaugural order of Airbus Flexrotor appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Australian aerospace start-up Drone Forge and Airbus Helicopters have signed an agreement to purchase six Flexrotor uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) comprising 17 aircraft, making it the single largest order for the Flexrotor to date. 

The mission-ready Flexrotor systems will be configured to meet a broad range of operational requirements in the Asia-Pacific region, spanning littoral surveillance and high-altitude inland missions, to infrastructure monitoring and maritime environment assessment.

Each UAS will feature a heavy fuel engine optimised for maritime operations, ensuring greater safety, fuel availability, and interoperability with naval assets. It will also incorporate Starlink connectivity, enabling beyond-line-of-sight operations and real-time situational awareness. Additionally, the Flexrotor will be equipped with PT-6 imaging technology, providing stabilised, high-resolution intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities for efficient wide-area maritime monitoring.

“We are fully convinced that the Flexrotor, built on a strong engineering heritage, will allow us to tap into new markets with a proven solution where real-time intelligence, mission flexibility and reliability matters,” said Thomas Symes, Chief Executive Officer of Drone Forge. “We look forward to integrating and commercialising the Flexrotor systems in the region.”

“The landmark order opens a new chapter in our partnership with Drone Forge, reinforcing our shared commitment to delivering cutting-edge crewed-uncrewed teaming capabilities to Asia-Pacific operators,” said Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters. “With strong confidence in the Flexrotor’s efficiency and reliability, this force multiplier will drive operational excellence in defence and security applications.”

The agreement followed closely from a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed recently between Airbus and Drone Forge, where the two companies collaborate on the deployment and operational integration of the Flexrotor UAS.

The Flexrotor, is Airbus’ newest addition to its UAS portfolio. A modern Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft with a maximum launch weight of 25 kg (55 lbs), it has been designed for ISTAR missions for more than 12-14 hours in a typical operational configuration. It can integrate different types of payloads including an electro-optical system and advanced sensors to suit customers’ unique mission needs. With the ability to autonomously launch and recover from either land or sea requiring only a 3.7 by 3.7 m (12 by 12 ft.) area, the Flexrotor is ideal for expeditionary missions requiring minimal footprint.

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The post SAii Brand Moving Forward With Expansion Of ‘Informal Luxury’ Experience In Thailand And Beyond appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

S Hotels and Resorts is moving forward with an expansion and relaunching of the ‘informal luxury’ brand SAii, with the goal of it becoming one of Thailand’s top hospitality brands and boasting a portfolio of up to 50 properties in Thailand, Asia and Europe.

An official announcement of the relaunch is planned for the end of June.

The hospitality arm of Singha Estate PCL, S Hotels and Resorts currently owns 35 hotels globally. This includes SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, SAii Koh Samui Villas and the iconic Santiburi Koh Samui in Thailand, SAii Lagoon Maldives, two resorts in Fiji and one in Mauritius under the Outrigger brand, and a number of properties throughout the United Kingdom – these being in regional centres like Manchester, Leicester, Edinburgh and Glasgow and predominantly under Accor’s Mercure brand, Ascott’s lyf brand and Holiday Inn.

Deriving from the Thai word for ‘sand’, SAii was unveiled in 2019 with SAii Lagoon Maldives, an idyllic island resort at CROSSROADS Maldives, Singha Estate’s ground-breaking integrated destination in the Indian Ocean. SAii Laguna Phuket and Saii Phi Phi Island Village followed shortly after, as did SAii Koh Samui Villas and Santiburi Koh Samui.

A flagship of the SAii brand, SAii Laguna Phuket underwent a complete renovation in 2023 and 2024 – at around US$20 million – to reposition the property in the entry level luxury segment or what S Hotels and Resorts affectionately refers to as the ‘informal luxury’ category. This refers to a luxury resort with a touch of lifestyle, an array of excellent facilities and fantastic service, and where guests can comfortably be as they want to be.

SAii Phi Phi Island Village was also renovated, as part of the lifting of the SAii portfolio to its informal luxury positioning.

The next destinations in Thailand on the horizon for SAii are Krabi and Bangkok, according to S Hotels and Resorts CEO Michael Marshall, as well as more locations in Phuket and Samui. Beyond Thailand, destinations in Southeast Asia, wider Asia and Europe are all in the plans.

“We are focusing on an asset-light strategy, and in hotel management agreements with other owners. We can only do that with a strong brand, and we’ve got a great track record now – great case studies showing how we’ve improved property performance under the SAii brand. There’s a big opportunity for us to grow our brand, and it’s a homegrown Thai brand.”

SAii’s expansion will be aided by its recent addition to the Global Hotel Alliance, which boasts 45 hotel brands and over 850 properties in 100 countries.

Fresh off its expansive renovation, SAii Laguna Phuket in March 2025 hosted the Essence of Luxury flagship event of the Serandipians and Takumians luxury travel community. Membership in this network of travel designers and luxury partners that curate bespoke experiences for discerning travellers signifies the highest standards of service, design and guest satisfaction. SAii Laguna Phuket and Santiburi Koh Samui are both Serandipians partner hotels, and SAii Laguna Phuket has signed on to host the luxury travel event for the next five years.

This fits perfectly with the resort’s push for the informal luxury market. Weddings is another sector it is eyeing, particularly the Indian weddings market, and also the family market.

SAii Laguna Phuket’s cluster general manager Bart Callens described the resort’s multi-million dollar remake as a ‘transformation’, saying: “We have a lot of returning guests who have been here for many years, and they love the ‘new’ resort.”

Nestled on beautiful Bang Tao Beach within the Laguna Phuket complex, SAii Laguna Phuket blends modern sophistication with island charm, offering guests bespoke services, opulent rooms and suites, eco-conscious elegance and the natural beauty of its superb location.

Dedicated to providing captivating guest experiences and heartfelt Thai hospitality with a mind to sustainability, wellness and seamless integration of technology, SAii Laguna Phuket welcomes leisure travellers, families and business guests alike.

The SAii experience is savoured right from first arrival, with a sensory lobby that combines soothing scents, natural light and meditative music. The resort’s three restaurants allow for a culinary journey of excellence, and world-class facilities cater to couples, families and FITs including a gorgeous swimming pool, watersports, kids’ club and SAii Spa offering holistic treatments and signature therapies designed to rejuvenate body and mind.

State-of-the-art meeting rooms are ideal for a range of events and wedding set-ups are easily arranged on the beach or by the lagoon. A tropical-style outdoor shopping arcade is also located alongside the resort.

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The post Marie Kondo gets into Klook’s new campaign The Best You appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

World-renowned tidying expert Marie Kondo has inspired many to find out what sparks joy in their life using the KonMari method, developed by Marie herself, to transform their cluttered homes into spaces of serenity and inspiration.

Now, the tables have turned as Kondo found herself navigating a new landscape with tidiness taking a backseat to the beautiful chaos of family following the birth of her third child.

Today, she embarks on a journey with Klook to rediscover joy in a new, messier chapter of life in their latest campaign, The Best You.

Excited about this new development, Kondo enthusiastically declared: “I’m coming back to where it all started, to discover what can spark joy in this new phase of my life through travel and embracing life’s beautiful surprises.”

Looking for the Best YOU

Klook invites people to reconnect with the emotional purpose behind travel, reframing travel as more than a getaway, and centres on the idea that discovery of places, people, and parts of ourselves has the power to bring out our best selves.

With this purpose in mind, Kondo, who sought inspiration and a deeper connection to her roots, embarked on a transformative journey back to Japan, where she embraced experiences outside the meticulous world of tidying. 

From finding focus by channeling her inner samurai, dancing in a robot suit, and embracing imperfections in a traditional kintsugi workshop, these diverse encounters paint a picture of a woman open to rediscovering herself through unexpected avenues.

In her search for her better self, Kondo found a powerful connection with kintsugi, a traditional Japanese technique for repairing broken ceramic objects that translates to ‘gold’ (kin 金) and ‘joining’ (tsugi 継ぎ), breathing new life and appreciation into their imperfections.

As she puts it: “Kintsugi is very much in line with the cleanliness of the KonMari Method. What do you leave in each house? What kind of beauty do you feel? Some people have completely different sensibilities, and that is to recognize the beauty of your own house as it is. That is the goal of the Konmari Method, so I was very happy to be able to share the same philosophy. I’ve always been focused on balance and finding joy, not perfection. I found peace in accepting my imperfection. That gives me new energy to try new things. I hope others feel encouraged to do the same.”

For Kondo, her personal concept of her best self is a person who always listens to what her heart says and follows it, and knows what sparks joy for her.

As she puts it: “Now, I want to always be open to new experiences, to never stop searching for things that touch my heart.

Beyond the traveller’s checklist

Kondo’s journey into self-rediscovery underscores a profound truth: travel isn’t solely about checking off destinations or capturing picture-perfect moments. 

Instead, it’s a powerful catalyst for self-discovery, an opportunity to embrace new experiences, and ultimately find a deeper, more authentic version of ourselves amidst the journey. 

Through Klook’s The Best You, travel is more than a getaway: it’s a gateway to becoming the version of yourself you didn’t know you were looking for.

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Source: traveldailymedia

The post YOTEL Tokyo Ginza delivers an immersive experience at its grand opening appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

YOTEL Tokyo Ginza officially opened its doors to guests last 9th June through an immersive Grand Opening Party that celebrated ‘YOTEL To The World.

The grand opening likewise demonstrated the global brand’s mission to challenge the status quo of the hospitality industry.

With more than 200 guests in attendance, the event showcased YOTEL’s signature sleek design, efficient technology and innovative experiences with activations throughout the hotel’s public spaces and rooms.  

The guest list included senior leaders from YOTEL and Frasers Hospitality, YOTEL’s partner for its debut property in Japan, as well as local influencers, brand and corporate partners, and members of the media.

Located in Tokyo’s vibrant Ginza district, the hotel’s launch marks an important moment for YOTEL as it introduces its globally recognised Non-Stop ethos to the Japanese and wider APAC markets.  

An immersive globetrotting experience

During the event, guests moved through curated, city-themed spaces that celebrated where YOTEL lives and thrives. 

With a YOTEL passport in hand, guests collected stamps as they went on their non-stop journey, from New York and Singapore, to Bangkok and Tokyo.

Each room activation made use of YOTEL’s clever, space-saving design, including the signature reclining SmartBed, efficient storage solutions, and mood lighting, to become a full-sensory journey.

The themes featured in each room were as follows:

• Midnight in Manhattan: a giant photo booth with oversized pillows, balloons and props for a glamourous sleepover in the city that never sleeps.
• Ginza Game Room: transformed a room into a neon-lit arcade in a throwback to Japan’s gaming heyday.
• Southeast Asia Oasis: a calming moment where guests could relax on the SmartBed with a massage and refreshing drinks.
• Urban Jungle 24/7 Convenience: YOTEL’s beauty partner Urban Jungle offered guests products from its body and skincare range.
• Artist in Residence: Mio Furukawa displayed work and talked about creating bespoke pieces of digital art for YOTEL Tokyo Ginza.

Connecting with Japanese heritage and culture

A Japanese drum performance marked the start of the official proceedings of the night.

Shinya Ogawa, general manager at YOTEL Tokyo Ginza, introduced Frasers Property group chief executive Panote Sirivadhanabhakdi and YOTEL CEO Hubert Viriot as they collectively welcomed guests.

Ogawa also advised those assembled to note the significance of the opening and expectations for the Japan market.

Joined by Frasers Hospitality CEO Eu Chin Fen, executives participated in a traditional Kagami Biraki (sake barrel breaking ceremony) in a symbolic moment that fused the global brand with local culture.

Viriot remarked that YOTEL’s Tokyo debut is a milestone for the brand’s developmental journey.

He said: “I’m delighted to be able to celebrate with an event that encapsulates our brand ethos.  Challenging the status quo of traditional hotels, YOTEL’s mission is to deliver great hotel experiences in prime locations at a competitive price point. YOTEL Tokyo Ginza is a fabulous hotel and a wonderful representation of our brand, which will now propel us to expand across other cities in Japan.”

Frasers’ Eu Chin Fen added: “YOTEL Tokyo Ginza represents Frasers Hospitality’s maiden ground-up investment and development project in Japan. Its opening underscores our commitment to deepening our hospitality investments in existing markets while optimising our portfolio for sustained performance. We are confident that our collaboration with YOTEL, with its unique offerings, is well-positioned to set a new benchmark in Japan.”

The post YOTEL Tokyo Ginza delivers an immersive experience at its grand opening appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia