The post Australian government releases statement on Rex Express Holdings Ltd appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

It has been announced that the voluntary administrators for Regional Express Holdings Limited (Rex Holdings) will express their intention to apply to the Federal Court of Australia to extend the convening period of the voluntary administration to December of this year.

This development comes in light of Ernst & Young (EY)’s failure to secure a new owner for the regional carrier.

However, authorities have remarked that the sale process is progressing positively, with the administrators having narrowed the bidding field.

It is expected that this will give administrators additional time to secure a market-led solution. 

The decision to grant an extension is, nevertheless, a matter for the Federal Court.

What happens now?

According to the statement released earlier today, 17th June: “If approved, the Albanese Government will continue to assist regional communities in maintaining access to critical aviation during this time by extending the ticket guarantee on regional routes. 

“The existing loan of up to $80 million provided to the administrators, which is yet to be fully expended, would remain available to ensure the airline can continue to operate.

“In order to support the extension, if an application is granted by the Federal Court, additional financing of up to $30 million from the Australian Government to the administrators will also be made available should it be required to keep regional routes in the air until December. 

“The Government continues to work closely with the Administrators during their sale process for Rex. Further details of the bid process cannot be disclosed at this stage due to ongoing negotiations and commercial confidentiality.”

The government is not a buyer

Australian authorities have, nevertheless, made it clear that the government is not a bidder in the sale of Rex Holdings.

Instead, it is merely undertaking necessary work on contingencies should a market-led solution not be achieved.  

The statement further declared: “Any potential government support for a successful bidder will be conditional on commitments to provide an ongoing, reasonable level of service to regional and remote communities, the need to provide value for money to taxpayers and good governance. 

“The Albanese Government remains committed to maintaining access to aviation services for regional and remote communities that are essential to their health, education and economic outcomes, and we recognise the critical role of the Rex network to local economies.”

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The post Marina Bay Sands deploys robots to optimise back of house deliveries appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marina Bay Sands successfully deployed a fleet of 12 Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) for back-of-house deliveries.

The addition of robotics aims to optimise hotel operations, as well as those on the expo and convention side of the business.

Typically deployed for supply chain deliveries in factories around the world, the AMRs perform a critical but manpower-laborious task of deliveries for the 24/7 integrated resort (IR).

How robots improve operations at Singapore’s foremost integrated resort

With close to 20 pre-programmed routes, each AMR can transport a maximum load of 300kg and travel at a top speed of up to 84 metres per minute. 

Safety laser scanners allow for intelligent wayfinding and obstacle detecting, enabling them to come to a halt in front of obstacles and safely navigate around objects in their path.

Following the successful deployment of four robots to manage deliveries for the Hotel in March 2024, Marina Bay Sands introduced another eight robots to support deliveries for the hotel and the Expo & Convention Centre in September 2024. 

Another five will be programmed and rolled out in the second half of 2025.

The resort’s vice-president of procurement and supply chain Shijith Prathapan said of the innovation: “Running a large-scale integrated resort like Marina Bay Sands requires effective workforce planning, and since day one, we have fostered a culture of productivity by investing in innovation. As we continue to invest in Singapore, we will pursue even more innovative tools to elevate workplace processes together with our suppliers, who have been instrumental in enhancing our productivity.”

To date, over 200 work processes have already been automated across various business functions, allowing the resort to repurpose over 162,000 man-hours towards greater value-added tasks annually.

Moving forward with technology

Marina Bay Sands is also continuously refining existing productivity measures, to ensure processes are optimised with modern technology. 

The Wardrobe, a prime example of automation and productivity with an inventory containing over 200,000 pieces of uniforms in 18 conveyors running round the clock, underwent an upgrade last year. 

Previously, each uniform was embedded with a high-frequency chip which can track the location of clothing as well as the number of washes. 

Last year, the integrated resort replaced the chip in each uniform with an ultra-high-frequency chip and upgraded its inventory management system, allowing an additional function of automated stocktaking. 

By pushing a trolley of uniforms into a high-tech black box known as the “U-Door”, the team can capture the number of uniforms in just 30 seconds, counting up to 400 pieces of clothing within this timeframe. In the past, the stock-taking task was done manually.

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The post Stay22 unlocks more stays in Asia for partners through collaboration with Agoda appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Stay22 expands its global reach by adding Agoda’s inventory via their new partnership with Vio to its solution. 

With 4.5 million accommodation options worldwide, Agoda has one of the world’s largest inventories and is particularly strong in Asia. 

With Agoda now available via Vio, Stay22 partners can earn more from Asia focused travel content with trusted inventory and no extra set up.

How will this benefit Stay22 partners? 

Through Stay22, software solution publishers and content creators can now track and auto-monetize Agoda links, as the company’s inventory is now live for Stay22 partners through LinkSwap, via the Stay22 script, and the Allez Generator. 

That means any existing Agoda links are automatically monetised, with no extra setup required.

As Stay22’s head of supply Misty Brewer explains it: “The integration of Agoda’s inventory is great news for our affiliate partners as it unlocks new revenue opportunities through expanded access to Asia-based accommodations now available in our tools. We also expect this integration to drive deeper collaboration with Asian content creators.” 

What will this mean for bloggers and other media partners?

Stay22 offers affiliate revenue generation opportunities for bloggers and media partners. 

Through artificial intelligence and machine learning technology, the travel tech company is positioning itself as the layer that connects content to commerce across any medium where travel intent exists, as it aims to be the bridge that turns that intent into revenue for content creators. 

It all starts with the Stay22 Script, a lightweight, drop-in integration that activates monetization across the partners’ sites in minutes. 

It powers tools like Nova , an AI solution that spots high-intent readers and delivers the right offer at the right time which increases bookings by up to 50 percent.

That said, Stay22 remains committed to continuous innovation to better serve its partners. 

In 2025, it launched two new tools: the Stay22 Map Button and the Script Builder, and more tools are already in the pipeline, getting ready to help partners boost revenue and simplify monetization. 

The Canadian startup is purpose-built to support publishers at scale while ensuring reliable tracking, as well as payouts, and helping brands maintain performance without compromising efficiency.

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The post AirAsia Media teams up with Xoomplay Technologies appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Capital A’s travel media division AirAsia Media recently entered a strategic partnership with advertising solutions provider Xoomplay Technologies.

Under this partnership, AirAsia Media will roll out in-car tablets on AirAsia Ride vehicles, offering brands a powerful advertising solution to reach audiences while enhancing ride experiences for passengers.

This tripartite partnership was formalised at a signing ceremony in Kuala Lumpur involving AirAsia Media head Mahek Shah, AirAsia Ride head Ramanathan AMN Thiagarajan, and Xoomplay’s managing director Christian Teo.

Looking for new ways to connect

Shah said of the partnership: “At AirAsia Media, we are always exploring new ways to connect brands with the right audiences, and we are proud to work with Xoomplay to integrate in-car tablet advertising within AirAsia Ride, this enhances an advertiser’s media plan by extending brand presence beyond the flight, engaging travellers during their journey to or from the airport. This creates a seamless brand experience across AirAsia Media’s multiple touchpoints within Capital A’s travel ecosystem, ensuring consistent visibility throughout the entire travel journey.”

Thiagarajan added: “This collaboration was inspired by our goal to elevate the travel experience for passengers while unlocking new value for our partners. Passengers will now be able to enjoy curated content, and entertainment during their journeys, while advertisers gain access to a highly engaged, captive audience across key cities in Malaysia.

Teo likewise expressed excitement over the collaboration, saying: “It’s a great opportunity to unlock a powerful channel for brands to connect with high-value consumers, at the same time enhance the passenger experience through engaging content. We look forward to working closely together to help brands maximise their reach.”

Beyond just in-car ads solutions on ride, AirAsia Media also offers brands a full suite of data driven advertising solutions across our travel ecosystem, from in-app advertising on MOVE, to inflight media on our AirAsia aircrafts, and more across ASEAN.

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The post China grants Indonesians visa-free entry for up to ten days appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

China now grants Indonesian citizens a visa-free transit stay of up to days, expanding the number of countries eligible for the policy to 55.

The visa-free transit arrangement was announced on Thursday, 12th June.

Under the new ruling, Indonesian travellers are allowed to enter China through any of 60 designated ports without a visa, provided they hold valid international travel documents and connecting tickets with confirmed dates and seats to a third country or region. 

Eligible travellers can stay in designated areas for up to 10 days.

Those allowed entry under the policy may do so for the purpose of tourism, business, family, and exchange-related visits.

A necessary move

An administration official said the expansion of the visa-free transit policy is an important step toward enhancing China’s exchanges and cooperation with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). 

At the same time, it is also expected to help facilitate trade and investment between China and Indonesia, and strengthen the good momentum in bilateral ties.

China is Indonesia’s largest trading partner. Indonesia, the fourth most populous country in the world, is Southeast Asia’s biggest economy. 

The Chinese Foreign Ministry reported that bilateral trade reached US$147.8 billion last year, a 6.1 percent increase year-on-year.

Investment and infrastructure cooperation between the two countries has also thrived, with landmark projects including the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Corridor.

It is expected that this new visa-free policy, alongside initiatives such as scholarships and youth exchange programs, will open the gate for the emerging middle class, students and young people in Indonesia to gain a better understanding of China.

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The post Which is the safest seat on the plane? appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

It has been believed that Air travel is statistically one of the safest forms of transport, more people die in car accidents that airplanes. A paper by MIT researchers has found that “Aviation safety is improving by the decades. It states that the risk of dying on a commercial flight globally was 1 per 13.7 million passenger boardings from 2018 to 2022 — a significant improvement from the decade before, and far cry from the one death for every 350,000 boardings that occurred between 1968-1977.”

However, recent Airplane crashes have left people wondering how safe is Air Travel? Or at least they want to know which is the safest seat on the plane, so that they can book the same for themselves.

Is the rear of the plane safest?

When the National Transportation Safety Board in the U.S. investigated 20 crashes since 1971 (with fatalities and survivors) it found that those sitting at the back of the plane had a 69% chance of staying alive, while those at the front of the plane had only a 49% chance. Passengers placed around the wing of the plane had a 59% chance.

A 2015 Time magazine analysis of FAA data revealed that pass passengers in the rear third of the aircraft had the lowest rate in crashes. In low-energy impacts, generally the front of the aircraft may absorb the brunt of the crash force. Therefore, the rear seats in this scenario were considered the safest.

Are Seats near the Exit doors safest?

Sitting next to an exit door may increase a person’s chances of survival in a crash. The safest place inside the aircraft has also been believed to be near the wings of the plane, where there is more “structural support” to protect a passenger in case of an emergency.

What can you do to keep yourself safe?

People who have been in and survived crashes feel that they would have been better off if they were well clothed. So, you would do well to wear clothes that cover the whole body and are made from non-inflammable materials. Avoid synthetics as they are likely to stick to the skin. It would be a good idea to carry a smoke hood with you if one is not provided by the airlines.

While each place crash is different, and it is impossible to predict absolute survivability based on seat location. The debate continues, need of the hour being that Air Travel Associations as well as plane manufactures need to further research this area for greater safety of all.

 

 

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The post Singapore’s Run For Hope returns this November appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Run for Hope, one of Singapore’s longest-running cancer awareness events, returns for its 32nd edition on 23rd November at Marina Barrage. 

Organised in partnership between Four Seasons Hotel Singapore and the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), Run For Hope has become a cornerstone event in Singapore’s running calendar. 

Registration for Run For Hope 2025 began on Monday, 16th June, via the event’s official website.

This iconic run invites individuals and families to take part in either a 5km or a 10km run, all in the spirit of raising awareness and funds for cancer research in Singapore. 

Four Seasons’ regional vice-president and general manager Peter Draminsky said of nthe event: “Run For Hope has grown into more than just a run. It’s a heartfelt tradition that brings our people together in the spirit of solidarity and compassion. Every year, we are inspired by stories of resilience and the steadfast support of our community. To see thousands unite with such purpose, whether for a loved one, in memory, or simply to make a difference, is profoundly moving. It’s not just about the distance covered, but the collective commitment to hope, healing, and progress.”  

A meaningful event

This year’s event promises a vibrant day out for participants with wellness and activity booths, games, and more to engage the whole community in the spirit of hope and healing.  

Each stride made is more than a personal achievement, but also a contribution towards a future where cancer is no longer a life-defining diagnosis.  

In 2024, the event rallied over 5,000 participants and raised more than SG$216,000, an achievement that marked a new high in supporting cancer research by NCCS.  

What began in 1993 as a small gathering has since blossomed into a symbol of solidarity with those impacted by cancer, patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones alike. 

For 2025, Run For Hope continues its mission to support vital cancer research that is driving progress in early detection, treatment, and care for those who need it most.  

An ongoing struggle

The threat of cancer is very real with the disease accounting for 29,901 deaths between 2018 and 2022; within that time frame, there was a daily average of 48 people getting diagnosed with cancer. 

Despite these sobering statistics, advancements in early detection and treatment have improved survival rates. However, continued research is essential to sustain and accelerate this progress.  

What makes Run For Hope especially meaningful is that every contribution directly supports life-changing cancer research at NCCS. 

Supporting the cause isn’t limited to runners, you can still make an impact by contributing at this link or by spreading the word.  

NCCS chief executive Lim Soon Thye pointed out that he and his team see firsthand how every contribution fuels impactful research that leads to earlier diagnoses, better treatments, and igniting hope for a cancer-free future.

Lim said: “We are so grateful to all our supporters and partners for walking, running and standing with us throughout the years. Each step we take in Run For Hope contributes to a greater cause, and together let us continue to make strides towards improving the lives of those affected by cancer.”  

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The post Spring into Wellness – Discover Czechia’s Iconic Spa Towns  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Czechia has officially launched its 2025 spa season, inviting  Indian travellers to discover the charm and healing traditions of its world-renowned spa towns. With  spring in full bloom, this is the ideal time to explore the destination that offers the perfect mix of wellness,  history and European culture. Located in the western part of the country, the Spa Triangle – Karlovy  Vary, Mariánské Lázně and Františkovy Lázně has long been a magnet for those seeking therapeutic  experiences. Each town is known for its natural mineral springs, historic bathhouses and picturesque  promenades.

The spa season begins with traditional “blessing of the springs,” accompanied by open-air concerts,  parades and seasonal events that celebrate local culture and heritage. Travellers can immerse  themselves in the calming embrace of Czechia’s historic spa towns, known for their centuries-old  healing traditions and mineral-rich springs. One can enjoy everything from thermal baths and  aromatherapy treatments to scenic nature walks, café-lined colonnades and elegant architecture that  reflects centuries of spa culture.

Beyond the physical rejuvenation, Czechia’s spa towns also offer a glimpse into the country’s rich  cultural heritage. From the grand architecture of Karlovy Vary’s buildings to the serene gardens of  Mariánské Lázně and the charming streets of Františkovy Lázně, each town presents a unique blend  of history, art and natural beauty.

 

 

 

 

 

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The post Aussies are heading to Japan and Europe appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A new survey by TravelInsurance.com.au reveals the top destinations Australians are planning to visit using their tax refund this year. Forget shopping sprees or paying down debt: the nationally representative survey found that more than half of Australians (56%) intend to put some or all of their FY 2025 tax return towards overseas travel.

For those heading abroad with their tax dollars, the top 5 destinations are:

1.  Japan
2.  Europe
3.  New Zealand
4.  Bali/Indonesia
5.  Thailand

TravelInsurance.com.au CEO, Shaun McGowan, says many Aussies are using their tax return to make travel more affordable.

“Many Australians see their tax refund as an opportunity to book a holiday they might not otherwise afford. Mid-year is a popular time to travel, especially to places like Japan and Europe, where you can catch the tail end of summer without the crowds and inflated prices,” he says.

“The trend we’re seeing is that most Aussies have already covered flights, accommodation and travel insurance with savings. They plan to use their tax return for spending money, tours, and experiences.”

Australians are least likely to put their tax refund towards trips to the United States, South America, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Africa, the survey found.

Where the rest of Aussies are going with their tax refund

While overseas travel was the top choice, the survey found that a smaller portion of Australians (8%) plan to travel domestically with their tax refund, and 6% are setting sail on a cruise. In contrast, nearly a third (30%) say they won’t spend their FY 2025 tax return on travel at all.

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