The post Club Wyndham Asia announces partnership with The Mall Group appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel + Leisure Co’s Club Wyndham Asia announced a strategic partnership with leading Thai retail and lifestyle firm The Mall Group today, 17th June.

The two parties have teamed up to jointly offer exclusive Club Wyndham Escapes packages for international shoppers.

Through this collaboration, holders of The Mall Group Tourist Card can access specially curated holiday packages offering fantastic value at two of Club Wyndham Asia’s premier resorts in Phuket. 

Travel + Leisure Co senior vice-president for operations Warren Cullum said: “This exciting partnership allows international travellers to experience the best of both worlds – life as a club member at our Phuket resorts while enjoying premium retail privileges with The Mall Group.”

The Mall Group’s chief marketing officer Voralak Tulaphorn added: “The Mall Group is committed to enriching the travel experience of our Tourist Card members. Through this partnership with Club Wyndham Asia, our members can enjoy stays at upscale resorts while buying quality they know and trust through our world-class shopping offerings.”

What travellers need to know

Rates start from US$151 for a three-day stay for two at Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay, and US$196 at Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket, Trademark Collection by Wyndham. 

Packages include a daily breakfast for two and a THB 2,000 shopping voucher from Club Wyndham Asia, which can be used at The Mall Group properties.

The special offer is available for bookings made before 31st July, for stays starting before 30th September. 

To redeem the offer, guests must present a valid The Mall Tourist Card at the time of booking with Club Wyndham Asia.

Participating resorts are as follows:

• Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay offers a serene hillside escape overlooking the Andaman Sea. Known for its luxurious private pool suites and breathtaking sunset views, the resort was recently named Honeymoon Resort of the Year by Travel Daily Media
• Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket delivers a more vibrant experience with its stylish oceanfront setting, sociable atmosphere, and popular poolside events—ideal for solo travellers, couples, or groups of friends looking for a lively tropical getaway

Note that The Mall Group Tourist Cards are available to international shoppers who present their passport as well as a boarding pass in some cases at designated counters in The Mall Group properties such as Emporium, Emquartier, Emsphere and Paragon department stores.

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The post IndiGo Announces Direct Flights from Delhi to Jorhat and Tiruchirappalli appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IndiGo has announced direct, 4x weekly flights between Delhi and Jorhat, Assam from 20 September  2025, and daily direct flights connecting the national capital to Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu from 16 September 2025. These flights will strengthen connectivity from Delhi to gateway to Northeast and Southern Tamil Nadu respectively, boosting tourism, facilitating trade, and supporting local businesses.

Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, said “We are pleased to introduce exclusive direct flights from Delhi to Jorhat as well as Tiruchirappalli, reinforcing our commitment to expanding domestic connectivity and enhancing access across the country. These daily flights will strive to provide affordable travel options to explore the rich cultural, spiritual, and natural wonders these regions have to offer.”

Delhi, the capital of India, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity. It is renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and India Gate. The city is also famous for its bustling markets like Chandni Chowk and Sarojini Nagar, offering everything from street food to traditional crafts. As a political and cultural hub, Delhi showcases a rich culinary heritage and serves as a gateway to exploring India’s diverse traditions.

Jorhat, the “Tea Capital of Assam,” is both a spiritual and economic gem of Northeast India. It is close to Majuli, the world’s largest river island, which is a center for Vaishnavite culture and monasteries. Economically, Jorhat thrives on its tea industry, producing some of the finest teas globally, and serves as a hub for agriculture and trade. The city’s proximity to Kaziranga National Park also boosts eco-tourism, supporting local livelihoods and conservation efforts.

Tiruchirappalli, or Trichy, is a vibrant city in Tamil Nadu, known for its rich heritage, spiritual significance, and industrial growth. Home to iconic landmarks like the Rockfort Temple and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, it attracts pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. Trichy is also a key educational hub and industrial center, housing NIT Trichy and a thriving manufacturing sector. With its strategic location, international airport, and growing economy, the city serves as a major gateway to South India.

Flight Schedule:

 

Flt Num	Origin		Destination		Effective	Frequency	Departure	Arrival
6E 767		Delhi		Jorhat	Sep 20, 2025	Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat	09:40	12:20
6E 768		Jorhat		Delhi	Sep 20, 2025	Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat	13:00	15:45
6E 769		Delhi		Tiruchirappalli	Sep 16, 2025	Daily	14:40	17:45
6E 770		Tiruchirappalli		Delhi	Sep 17, 2025	Daily	06:00	09:15

*Schedule is subject to approvals from regulatory authorities.

 

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The post Jumeirah marks World Sea Turtle Day by releasing turtles back to their natural habitat appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Jumeirah marked World Sea Turtle Day yesterday, 16th June, through the release of 72 rehabilitated sea turtles back into their natural habitat.

In the company of guests, partners, and community members, Jumeirah officials brought a bevy of both hawksbill and green turtles back to the sea.

The event was also a milestone for the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) which has already returned more than 2,300 turtles to the wild since it was established in 2024.

To further celebrate World Sea Turtle Day, a variety of conservation-focused activities took place across Jumeirah’s portfolio.

In Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, in partnership with the Environment Agency–Abu Dhabi (EAD), hosted an intimate release of 135 sea turtles on its pristine beachfront. 

Meanwhile, guests at Jumeirah Bali witnessed the release of newly hatched turtles into their natural habitat, as part of a long-standing collaboration with Eco Tourism Bali. 

The event also featured an engaging educational programme on sea turtle conservation and the importance of protecting marine biodiversity by fostering greater awareness of ocean health and encouraging responsible travel.

Significant milestones

Barbara Lang-Lenton, director of the aquarium at the Jumeirah Burj al-Arab and lead for the DTRP said that the event  was a remarkable moment for the team and a meaningful step forward in boosting the world’s understanding of sea turtles in the Gulf.

According to Lang-Lenton: “Sea turtles have remarkably complex biology, and there is still much to uncover about their behaviours, migration patterns, and nesting habits in this region. Each new finding, like this one, helps us piece together a more complete picture of their presence and life cycles in the Gulf, guiding future conservation efforts.”

Among those released was Najeeb, an 80kg male green turtle rescued in December of last year, whose name means noble and generous in Arabic.

Nursed back to health after he was found with extensive injuries, Najeeb was one of two turtles fitted with a satellite tracker, allowing the DTRP team to monitor his journey after release. 

The last time the team released a male green turtle of similar size, it travelled all the way to nesting sites in Oman. 

Najeeb is one of many turtles nursed back to health by the dedicated team at the DTRP, based at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Al Naseem. 

Each release marks a meaningful step forward in the ongoing mission to protect marine life and preserve biodiversity in the Arabian Gulf.

Saving a rare find

This year, the DTRP  also reached a significant conservation milestone with the rare rescue of a baby Loggerhead turtle, a species not known to nest in the Arabian Gulf. 

Found in early 2025, this tiny turtle represents an important finding in marine science for the region. 

According to experts from the IUCN and regional organisations, there are no previous records of Loggerhead turtles nesting inside the Gulf.

Although the Loggerhead baby was not part of today’s release, it is expected to return to the wild in the coming months. 

This discovery follows another milestone in 2024, when a green turtle nest was recorded in Abu Dhabi for the first time, underscoring the growing importance of the region in global marine conservation efforts.

Beyond turtle conservation

Beyond turtle rehabilitation, Jumeirah has been expanding its marine conservation initiatives through coral restoration efforts, one of several projects under the ‘Planet’ pillar of its sustainability strategy. 

A new coral nursery at the Turtle Lagoon in Jumeirah Al Naseem is now visible to guests and incorporated into daily educational experiences. 

In collaboration with ecosystem restoration specialists Ocean Revive, the team is researching and testing new technologies to grow and reintroduce corals into the sea. 

So far over 1,400 fragments have been created, with over 300 already translocated to the sea.

In addition, Jumeirah continues to support DUBAI REEF, a pioneering purpose-built reef development and one of the largest in the world which aims to increase marine biodiversity and protect the emirate’s coastal ecosystems. 

Reflecting Dubai’s commitment to marine conservation, the three-year initiative will see over 20,000 reef modules deployed across 600 square kilometres to restore marine habitats and support the growth of indigenous corals, thereby enhancing marine life. 

As part of this initiative, Jumeirah is contributing through coral fragmentation work at the turtle lagoon at Jumeirah Al Naseem, where small coral fragments are attached to circular discs, often called “coral cookies”, providing a stable base for growth and easy handling. 

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The post Our top priority is establishing a clear and distinctive identity across Centara’s growing portfolio in the region: Jansson appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel Daily Media (TDM): What are your top priorities in the pre-opening phase of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives?
Andrew Jansson (AJ): In the competitive Maldivian hospitality landscape, our top priority is establishing a clear and distinctive identity, both within the destination and across Centara’s growing portfolio in the region.

The opening of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, alongside Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, brings to life The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts—a unique multi-island concept offering guests seamless access to both resorts. This addition also marks our fourth property in the Maldives, joining the rebranded Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa – The Centara Collection in the Ari Atoll, and Centara Ras Fushi, our adults-only haven. Together, these four distinctive properties allow us to cater to a wide range of travellers through diverse, thoughtfully designed experiences—another of our key priorities in the Maldives.

Equally important has been building the right team. From seasoned professionals with experience in remote and logistically challenging resort openings to internal talent drawn from Centara properties worldwide, our pre-opening team blends expertise with the warmth of our signature Thai-inspired hospitality. I believe that people are our greatest asset, and with the right team in place, we can consistently deliver exceptional service and meaningful experiences for our guests.

TDM: Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives opened in November 2024. How has its initial reception been, and what strategies are you implementing to strengthen its position?
AJ: Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives has received exceptional feedback since its opening. We recognised early on that creating a tailored experience for the growing family market in the Maldives would have tremendous appeal, and it’s been exciting to see how well that vision has connected with our guests. Our family-centric amenities—including rooms with bunk beds, an extensive water complex with a lazy river, enhanced safety features in overwater villas, and our unique Candy Spa for children—have been particularly praised. Moving forward, our strategy is to further develop our activities and facilities while establishing ourselves as the definitive first-choice destination for families visiting this island paradise.

TDM: Centara is known for blending Thai hospitality with local cultural influences. How will this be reflected in the guest experience at these two properties?
AJ: The essence of any authentic experience lies in its people, and our local Maldivian team members are the true ambassadors of their culture. While Thai hospitality is celebrated for its warmth and grace, Maldivian hospitality offers a distinct sense of pride and sincerity.

At both of our resorts, we embrace elements of Thai culture through various offerings, such as the Suan Bua Thai restaurant and Thai holistic well-being at Spa Cenvaree, as well as our Thai staff who exemplify gracious Thai hospitality to our guests.

We are fortunate to provide the best of both gracious Thai hospitality and Maldivian charm, creating a guest experience that is not only welcoming but also rich in culture. Our service goes beyond being professional; it is personal. It is about fostering genuine interactions and sharing a passion for making each guest feel truly immersed in this extraordinary setting.

TDM: With an increasing focus on personalisation, sustainability and experiential travel, what unique guest experiences can visitors expect at both properties?
AJ: The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts offers guests the opportunity to experience two unique resort environments in one stay. Guests can choose between the vibrant atmospheres of Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, which features an expansive water park, a winding lazy river, rooms with bunk beds, a candy-themed spa, and engaging activities for younger visitors, or the tranquil luxury of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, which provides a sanctuary for wellness journeys and world-class dining. This dual-island setting allows us to customise experiences for a diverse range of travellers.

In addition to personalised stays, we prioritise meaningful travel. Both resorts are committed to marine conservation initiatives, responsible waste management practices, and water conservation systems aimed at minimising our environmental impact while preserving the beauty of the surroundings. Guests can also participate in immersive experiences, such as reef-safe diving, guided snorkelling, wildlife excursions with marine experts, and island trips that celebrate local heritage.

We are dedicated to creating moments that are not only memorable but also mindful, inviting guests to connect more deeply with the destination, its people, and its ecosystem.

TDM: Given Centara’s broader strategy of strengthening its flagship properties, how do these two Maldives resorts contribute to the brand’s global growth vision?

AJ: In recent years, Centara has introduced a series of landmark properties, including the luxurious Centara Reserve Samui, the acclaimed Centara Mirage Resort Dubai, and the striking Centara Grand Hotel Osaka. Our two new Maldives resorts build on this momentum and set the standard for future developments, showcasing Centara’s ability to deliver distinctive, world-class experiences that not only deepen our connection with loyal guests but also inspire new travellers. Both properties play an important role in driving the continued growth and global expansion of our brands, reinforcing our commitment to offering exceptional stays across diverse destinations.

TDM: How do you plan to develop and train your team to maintain Centara’s reputation for excellence at both properties?
AJ: Our focus is on continuously enhancing our products and services across both resorts. We actively engage with our guests and listen carefully to their feedback, as well as insights from our experienced team members. A key part of our approach is a commitment to ongoing development—constantly learning from what works well and identifying areas for further growth. This forward-thinking mindset is at the core of our training approach, ensuring that we’re always evolving and striving for excellence in every aspect of the guest experience.

TDM: With nearly 30 years in hospitality and experience in 14 countries, what key leadership philosophies guide your approach to managing luxury and upscale resorts?
AJ: What’s helped me in my career is approaching every situation with an open mind. Just because something worked at one resort doesn’t mean it’ll work the same at another. Guests all have different expectations, and each team member brings something unique to the table, so you need to be flexible and ready to adapt. When it comes to the concept of upscale and luxury, I’ve learned that this varies by individual. For some, it could mean a spacious three-bedroom sunset villa with all the extras, while for others, it might be a tranquil week away with family. As a hotelier, it’s about anticipating those different needs and delivering experiences that truly matter to each guest.

TDM: This is your fourth resort management role in the Maldives. What unique challenges and opportunities do you anticipate with these two Centara properties?
AJ: The Maldives continues to grow as a world-class destination, with a wave of new developments reflecting both its enduring appeal and the strength of its global brand. As travel demands evolve and new markets emerge, we see exciting opportunities ahead. With the launch of The Atollia, we aim to play a key role in this growth by offering guests expanded access to experiences across our two new resorts. From exceptional dining and rejuvenating spa treatments to immersive activities and curated excursions, we look forward to being part of shaping the future of hospitality in the Maldives.

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The post Virgin Atlantic Holidays partners with Atmosphere Core appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Leave the UK rat-race behind as Virgin Atlantic Holidays & Atmosphere Maldives’ inspirational ‘paradise’ campaign launches in 34 stores nationwide to help make your castaway dreams a reality

As part of a joint campaign to elevate the vast choices available for that once-in-a-lifetime Maldivian escape, Virgin Atlantic Holidays has joined forces with Atmosphere Core, the market leader in immersive all-inclusive vacations, to present a selection of in-store experiences that represent each of the groups’ private islands, sharing a taster for what awaits in the world’s top oceanic destination.

From the 16^th June to the 30^th June, customers to Virgin Atlantic Holidays stores across the UK will be truly spoilt in the lap of heartfelt hospitality as Atmosphere Maldives introduces its three distinct brands and nine unique island escapes.  This immersive journey takes customers through the refined elegance of THE OZEN COLLECTION Atmosphere’s premium collection of two private islands, the three 5-star Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts portfolio where a new experience awaits, finishing with the laid-back natural lifestyle that emanates from the four COLOURS OF OBLU resorts – complimented with the hotelier’s award-winning ELE|NA spa and wellness experience.

Paul Truss is UK Head of Product at Virgin Atlantic Holidays, “When it comes to big ticket destinations like the Maldives, we know that many of our customers love to hear the advice of the experts. Whether it’s over water villas versus beach villas, or seaplane transfers versus boats, understanding the nuances of the Maldives can be key to making the right choice.

“To assist guests when booking their Maldives escape, Virgin Atlantic Holidays is delighted to team up with Atmosphere to present examples of their guest experiences that are not to be missed.  With the widest variety of resorts to suit every budget thanks to their unique Holiday Plan all-inclusive concept, our retail teams are ready to welcome guests and sharing in-depth information that will turn your good holiday into an unforgettable great one”.

From Essex to Edinburgh, all 34 UK Virgin Atlantic Holidays stores will be sharing insights in what a true Maldives castaway escape could look like.  With specialist knowledge of resort experiences, accommodation types and facts guests are yet to discover, the Virgin Atlantic Holidays’ teams are ready to take guests on a journey to share just why the Maldives stands out as the world’s number one most desirable destination.

Commenting on the immersive in-store experience with Virgin Atlantic Holidays, Atmosphere Core’s Chief Commercial Officer Stéphane Laguette adds: “As the popularity of the Maldives continues to grow at pace with multigenerational appeal, at Atmosphere Core we have crafted our fully inclusive Holiday Plans to cater for all needs and budgets.  With our three distinct brands, we have options available for every traveller ranging from entry level affordable luxury, to stunning mid-scale 5-star private islands, to premium class 5-star plus exclusive escapes”.

Launched in 2013, the award-winning Atmosphere Core ‘Holiday Plan’ concept pioneered the all-inclusive holiday in the Maldives and has set the company in a league of its own.  Holiday Plan packages include seaplane or speedboat connections, all food and beverages, excursions, spa treatment, non-motorised watersports, and daily schedules of activities from sunrise yoga to pool parties to marine biology classes.

 

 

 

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The post Canberra Crowned the World’s Best City for Quality of Life in 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With its expansive green landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, world-class safety, and smart urban design, Australia’s capital, Canberra sets a global benchmark for modern living and stands out as an irresistible destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of nature, culture, and lifestyle.

The city has been ranked #1 in the world for quality of life, according to the Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2025 (Oxford Economics, 2025). Among 1,000 cities assessed globally, the Quality-of-Life category assessed key five indicators: life expectancy, income equality, housing affordability, cultural access, and public safety.

This isn’t just a win for Canberra, it’s an invitation for the world, including travellers from India, to experience a city built around people, nature, and purpose.

 Why Canberra Stands Out

Canberra rose from second place in 2024 to claim the top spot for quality of life in 2025, overtaking Grenoble, France (Newstime Media, 2025). The city earned this distinction due to its high life expectancy, low crime rates, strong income equality, and moderate housing costs. Its rich cultural and recreational scene from national museums and art galleries to scenic bike trails and outdoor adventures further strengthens its appeal (Oxford Economics, 2025).

 A Lifestyle Destination for Indian Travellers

For Indian travellers seeking meaningful and memorable experiences, Canberra offers a refreshing alternative to the hustle of the usual tourist circuits. From spotting native wildlife at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve to exploring the National Gallery of Australia and Australian Parliament House, and sampling fresh produce at local farmers’ markets, the city strikes a perfect balance between relaxation and cultural enrichment.

With its clean air, warm hospitality, family-friendly attractions, and growing connectivity to India, Canberra is an ideal getaway for couples, solo travellers, and multigenerational families. Beyond holidays, it also appeals to students, professionals, and those considering migration thanks to its smart infrastructure, walkable design, and welcoming community.

Canberra’s quality of life isn’t just a ranking, it’s something you feel. Whether it’s watching hot air balloons over Lake Burley Griffin or enjoying a glass of Shiraz at a nearby vineyard, the calm and cultural richness of the city offers a soulful escape.

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The post MP–France MoU to Usher in a New Era of Global Cultural Exchange appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In a significant step towards strengthening long-term cooperation in the fields of culture and tourism, a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav at the CM’s residence, Samatva. The MoU marks a landmark development that positions Madhya Pradesh as a central hub for Indo-French cultural and tourism collaboration.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India; Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board; and Akhilesh Verma, President of Alliance Française de Bhopal. The MoU is valid for a period of three years and is extendable upon mutual agreement.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav remarked that India and France have always shared a strong and cordial relationship, further strengthened following Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s recent visit to France. He affirmed Madhya Pradesh’s commitment not only to cultural cooperation with France but also to deepening trade relations. He also mentioned his proposed visit to France in the coming month.

Dr. Yadav stated that this partnership would pave the way for collaboration in industrial development, encouragement of entrepreneurship, and promotion of traditional crafts. “This MoU embodies our vision to establish Madhya Pradesh as not only the cultural capital of India but also as a dynamic global centre for tourism and cultural exchange. The agreement will provide international exposure to the state’s artists and is expected to significantly boost tourist footfall from France and across Europe,” he added.

Ambassador Dr. Thierry Mathou expressed his pleasure at formalising this partnership and stated, “We are delighted to establish this important collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh. France places great emphasis on cooperation in tourism, security, environment, and education. This MoU will strengthen cultural diplomacy between the two nations, unlocking new opportunities in the domains of art, education, and tourism.”

The MoU outlines several key initiatives, including the joint organisation of cultural events such as art festivals, music and dance performances, film screenings, culinary showcases, and other programmes that celebrate shared heritage. A dedicated Indo-French Cultural Calendar will be developed annually.

Additionally, Madhya Pradesh’s tourism promotional content will be translated into French, with targeted efforts to attract French tourists. Special training in French language and culture will also be provided to tourism officials and guides in the state to enhance visitor experience.

This strategic collaboration is expected to boost the state’s cultural diplomacy, offering global opportunities to local artists, artisans, students, and cultural institutions. It is a significant stride towards positioning Madhya Pradesh’s distinctive identity on the global cultural map.

Also present on the occasion were Raghvendra Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary, Department of Industries; Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, Consul General of France in India;  Shad Joynal Abedin, Political Advisor to the French Embassy; and representatives from Alliance Française.

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The post Aussie Travel to the USA Slips as Asia Surges Ahead in May: ATIA appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Outbound travel from Australia to the United States has dipped for the first time in months, while travel to Asia continues to surge, according to the Australian Travel Industry Association’s (ATIA) latest Travel Trends Report for May 2025.

The report reveals that overall outbound travel by Australians reached 12.05 million for the year ending April 2025, a 12.1% rise year-on-year, driven by strong growth to Asia. However, travel to the United States declined by 6.2% in April 2025 compared with April 2024despite overall outbound travel rising 8.3% in the same period.

Destinations including Vietnam (+28.5%), Japan (+17.0%), and China (+12.7%) led the growth, reinforcing Asia’s prominence as the region of choice for Australian travellers. For the full year, Japan saw the strongest rise at +33.8%, followed by China (+26.9%) and Vietnam (+25.0%).

Holiday travel continues to dominate outbound trips, consistently making up around 60% of international travel, while travel to visit friends and relatives peaked at 34.8% in February. Business and other travel reasons remain comparatively low.

On the inbound side, Australia welcomed approximately 8.36 million international visitors in the year ending April 2025, a 6.7% increase from the previous year. Growth was strongest from China (+23.4%), Japan (+12.9%), and South Korea (+11.9%), while arrivals from New Zealand and the USA held steady.

In April 2025 alone, international arrivals rose 8.1% year-on-year, with significant increases from the United Kingdom (+39.5%) and China (+27.1%). However, arrivals from several Asian markets, including Indonesia, Japan, and Malaysia, experienced slight declines.

From an aviation perspective, Qantas Airways retained the largest market share of international passengers for the year ending February 2025, carrying 528,000 travellers and accounting for 15.8% of the market. Jetstar followed with the most significant growth, increasing its passenger count to 401,000 and its market share to 12.0%, up from 11.0% the previous year. Singapore Airlines also experienced a rise, growing its share from 9.0% to 9.4%. In contrast, airlines such as Scoot Tigerair and China Eastern saw a decline in both passenger numbers and market share.

Overall, total international airline passengers grew from 3.21 million to 3.35 million year-on-year, reflecting broader travel demand recovery.

ATIA CEO Dean Long said: “We’re seeing a noticeable softening in USA-bound travel by Australians, with a 6.2% drop in April 2025 compared to the same month last year even as overall outbound travel increased.”

“Holidaymakers continue to drive outbound travel demand, accounting for around 60% of all trips. The appeal of international experiences, especially across Asia, remains strong as Australians prioritise leisure travel.”

“These trends demonstrate the critical importance of a resilient and responsive travel sector to meet shifting consumer behaviours.”

“We encourage Australians to always book through ATIA Accredited travel businesses to guarantee expert service, transparency, and peace of mind.”

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The post Antara Cruises Launches New Shorter Journeys Tailored for Indian Travellers appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Antara Cruises is expanding its footprint within the domestic market. With growing interest among Indian travellers for shorter yet immersive experiences, Antara Cruises now pleased to announce the launch of new itineraries thoughtfully curated for Indian audiences seeking meaningful getaways rich in heritage, nature, and comfort.

While traditionally favoured by international guests and for longer journeys, Antara Cruises is now enhancing its offerings with flexible itineraries, making river cruising more accessible and appealing to Indian travellers who prefer weekend escapes or extended cultural immersions.

Introducing the New Routes:

Creeks & Crocodiles, Gupti – Dangamal – Gupti (2 Nights/3 Days starts from 2nd August 2025)

Lying along the Bay of Bengal coast, Bhitarkanika – often called the ‘mini-Amazon’ – is India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem. Embark at Gupti, a scenic village about 3.5 hours from Bhubaneswar. The cruise includes a village walk, traditional Odia dinner, and a full-day sail to Dangamal, where guests can spot estuarine crocodiles, spotted deer, monitor lizards, wild boars, Indian pythons, rhesus macaques, and a variety of birds. A visit to the forest’s Orientation Centre is included before returning to Gupti.

Mangrove Majesty, Gupti – Dangamal – Habali Kathi – Gupti (3 Nights/4 Days starts from 4th August 2025)

A more enriching exploration of Bhitarkanika National Park, this extended itinerary sails beyond Dangamal to Habali Kathi. The journey includes guided nature walks, tranquil riverscapes, and opportunities to spot rare species in their natural habitat.

Kolkata – Mayapur, Upstream (3 Nights/4 Days starts from 15th September 2025)

A serene sail along the Hooghly River from Kolkata to Mayapur, with stops at Bandel and Kalna. Highlights include the historic Hooghly Imambara, Rajbari Temple Complex, and the sacred ISKCON headquarters in Mayapur.

Mayapur – Kolkata, Downstream (3 Nights/4 Days starts from 18th September 2025)

Begins with a visit to the iconic ISKCON temple complex in Mayapur, followed by Guptipara, a rural town known for its paddy fields and Himsagar mangoes. Explore Vaishnav temples with exquisite terracotta work, witness Jacquard and Jamdani saree weaving in Fulia, and then continue to the French colonial town of Chandernagore and the Danish heritage sites in Serampore.

On these new routes, Raj Singh, Founder and Chairman of Antara Cruises, stated: “Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of hosting travellers from around the world. Now, we’re seeing growing interest from Indian travellers seeking shorter, meaningful getaways that go beyond the conventional. These new voyages are designed to meet that need, combining cultural richness, flexible durations, and the signature elegance of every Antara journey. We’re excited to welcome more Indian guests aboard.”

These additions aim to align with the evolving preferences of Indian travellers – with departures scheduled weekly, custom-curated experiences, and all-inclusive stays aboard the company’s boutique ships and catamarans.

 

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