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David Beckham to host the official opening of Macau’s Londoner Grand

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Redefining luxury at scale, Londoner Grand marks its official opening on Sunday, 8th June, with a star-studded party hosted by Sands Global Ambassador David Beckham and his good friend G Bear, The Londoner’s newly-appointed No.1 Ambassador and chief experience officer.

Influential celebrities and KOLs attending the exclusive Londoner Grand Celebration Party will be treated to a spectacular evening of world-class entertainment, signature surprises and memorable social media moments.

Londoner Grand’s gastronomic excellence will also be an exciting feature on the night, with a series of engaging elements. This includes a sensational gala dinner at Hampton Court featuring two iconic courses by renowned chef Edward Lee, from Netflix’s hit show Culinary Class Wars

These will be complemented by dishes from The Londoner® Macao’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant The Huaiyang Garden and Michelin Selected restaurant The Mews.  

Given the scale of the upcoming celebration, Londoner Grand proves that it is more than just another resort.

Indeed, it is an exclusive getaway destination reserved for those that expect nothing less than the best, A-list guests who define luxury on their own terms.

Londoner Grand is where refinement, personal touches, and exceptional experiences crafted by the hotel’s fiercely trained A-team come together.

Meet G Bear

The one-of-a-kind event also marks G Bear’s first official ambassadorial engagement in Macau in his new role. 

Guests can expect to feel his signature warmth and whimsy and curatorial touches. 

Stylish and sophisticated, with refined taste and devilish wit, G Bear is the living embodiment of a gentleman with a twist, a debonair ambassador with the poise of a seasoned spy and the mischievous smile of a romantic lead.

As leader of the A-team G Bear’s priority is to make sure every Londoner Grand guest feels like the A-lister they are and ensure every visitor to Macau feels welcomed and looked after. 

He is the ultimate inside connection for Londoner Grand’s guests, assisting them to have an immersive journey in Macau, a unique city steeped in history, culture, gastronomy and unforgettable experiences.

Welcome to the G Bear Cafe

G Bear will also be setting culinary trends as a globetrotting gourmand with the opening of the G Bear Cafe on Monday, 9th June.

An Instagrammable social hub for the fabulous and fashionable to relax, sip on a signature Portuguese egg tart affogato, and socialise in style. 

To celebrate Londoner Grand’s opening, three dishes that his friend Edward Lee presented on Culinary Class Wars will be served at the cafe for a limited time. 

For those eager to take home some G Bear goodies, the cafe stocks a range of exclusive merchandise set to quickly become coveted collectibles, including environmentally-friendly coffee cups and stylish tote bags.

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Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay offers couples a Two Hearts One Paradise tropical escape

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Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay invites couples to immerse themselves in a dreamy escape with its special Two Hearts One Paradise offer to celebrate their love.

Ideal for honeymooners, anniversary celebrations, or simply a romantic getaway, the Two Hearts One Paradise package offers couples a memorable romantic experience overlooking the Andaman Sea.

Two Hearts One Paradise offers guests the following benefits:

  • Five percent off rooms with private pools and up to ten percent off for stays of four nights or more;
  • A complimentary heart-shaped floating breakfast served in the guests’ private pool; and
  • A 20 percent discount on all treatments at ZANA Spa and dining at all resort outlets.

The offer is valid for all bookings made and stays until 31st October of this year, inviting couples to embrace luxury, privacy, and connection in one of Phuket’s most scenic hideaways.

Aside from this latest offering, the hotel regales couples with special activities  like a Thai cooking class, cocktail making class, day spa treatments, and a tour of the hotel’s organic orchard. 

An award-winning destination

Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay also recently received the Travelers’ Choice Award from TripAdvisor, which places the resort in the top ten percent worldwide. 

The resort also holds the title of “Honeymoon Resort of the Year” from Travel Daily Media’s Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 and maintains a 5-star rating under Thailand’s STAR Initiative for Sustainable Tourism.

General manager Dominic Egger said of these accolades: “We are proud of our reputation as one of Phuket’s top romantic hotels. Every couple who stays with us brings their own love story, and it’s our privilege to create moments that become lifelong memories in that tale.”

Nestled in the tranquil hills on Phuket’s west coast, the resort features 194 elegant, non-smoking rooms and villas, many with private infinity pools offering sweeping sea views. 

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Our 2027 itineraries offer extraordinary cruises that promise unforgettable journeys: Archbold

The post Our 2027 itineraries offer extraordinary cruises that promise unforgettable journeys: Archbold appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel Daily Media (TDM): Crystal is the only cruise line featuring Nobu’s cuisine at sea. What does this exclusive partnership bring to the guest experience aboard Crystal?
Tony Archbold (TA): Nobu Matsuhisa is a prominent figure in the culinary world, with a career spanning several decades. His restaurant, Umi Uma, has been part of Crystal for over 20 years. His global reputation lends instant credibility to Crystal’s culinary offerings. The unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine at Umi Uma is a standout experience for our guests, many of whom return multiple times during their voyages. I have dined there numerous times with guests, and the feedback is always overwhelmingly positive. https://crystalcruises.com/umi-uma

TDM: The introduction of Beefbar is an exciting addition. How does this contemporary concept enhance Crystal’s luxury dining offerings?
TA: The arrival of Beefbar, renowned for its global street food, perfectly complements our existing dining options. We already feature the pan-Asian experience of Umi Uma and the refined Italian flavors of Osteria D’Ovidio, along with our exceptional modern international cuisine at Waterside and the casual atmosphere of Trident Grill. Beefbar introduces a delightful share-plate experience ideal for couples and groups alike, enhancing our culinary offerings.
Beefbar rounds out a full spectrum of dining options — as we like to say, Reef, Beef, or Leaf — all accompanied by incredible desserts and its curated cocktail menu. With separate lunch and dinner menus available, guests can enjoy multiple visits… and they do! https://crystalcruises.com/beefbar

TDM: Osteria d’Ovidio has received praise for its authentic Italian cuisine. How does this restaurant reflect the personal vision of Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, and how is it being received by guests?
TA: Since Crystal resumed operations, our Chairman has outlined a definitive standard for every aspect of Crystal. This vision, enriched by his extensive experience and Italian roots, is most prominently exemplified at Osteria D’Ovidio.
The next phase of this vision is commencing with the introduction of Massimiliano (Max) Alajmo — the youngest chef to ever earn three Michelin Stars, an accolade he has maintained for more than 20 years — alongside his brother and fellow restaurateur, Raffaele. Their unmatched skills, refined at prestigious establishments such as La Calandre in Rubano and Gran Caffè Quadri in Venice, will be showcased as the new menu debuts over the northern summer, beginning in July. https://crystalcruises.com/osteria-d-ovidio

TDM: The partnership with Casino de Monte-Carlo is a first in luxury cruising. How did this come about, and what will the experience be like onboard?
TA: After operating without a casino since our relaunch, we dedicated ourselves to understanding what our guests truly desired on board. This involved not just deciding whether to include a casino, but determining its layout and presentation, ensuring it fit our overall brand identity. Our Chairman, Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, emphasised this point.
Given Crystal’s base in Monte Carlo, collaborating with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer to bring Casino de Monte-Carlo on board was a natural choice. Established by Royal Decree in 1863, the company has defined luxurious gaming globally from the beginning.
On Crystal, Casino de Monte-Carlo offers Blackjack, American Roulette, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, and various other games, alongside numerous slot machines. We believe this forms the most comprehensive entertainment offering in our segment at sea.

TDM: Crystal recently unveiled its 2027 itineraries. What are some of the standout journeys or regions, and have they been influenced by guest feedback and travel trends?
TA: One of Crystal’s strengths is how our ships gracefully and purposefully navigate the globe. In 2027, our two vessels — Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity — will sail from Ushuaia, at the southernmost point of South America, to Honningsvåg in northern Norway; from Melbourne, Australia, to Lisbon, Portugal; and from Yokohama, Japan, to Road Town in the British Virgin Islands. Our itinerary planners excel at their work, and it’s always impressive to see how they manage to include so many remarkable ports within a single year.
Our Grand Voyages are consistently a highlight, and in 2027, they are truly exceptional. Whether it’s our 71-night journey around South America or our fascinating 54-night voyage from Lisbon to Reykjavik via Greenland, the chance to explore the world and enjoy a Grand Voyage experience, complete with generous perks like air credits, a US$1,500 “As You Wish” credit, and complimentary laundry, is unparalleled.
For me, the standout feature is the number of 7- to 10-night cruises to major destinations such as the Mediterranean, Baltic, Alaska, and Canada/New England. These itineraries can easily be combined into longer voyages, offering the flexibility to tailor a journey that fits your travel preferences, often with cost savings when booked consecutively.
Moreover, it’s not just about longer journeys; it’s also about extended stays in iconic cities. In 2027, we will provide more overnight stops in locations like Bora Bora (Tahiti), Cartagena (Colombia), Montevideo (Uruguay), Manaus (Brazil), Monte Carlo (Monaco), and even two nights in Bordeaux (France) and Shanghai. Coupled with extraordinary land experiences from our sister company, Abercrombie & Kent, an already incredible cruise transforms into an unforgettable adventure.

TDM: There’s been buzz around the addition of new ships to the Crystal fleet. What can you share about the timelines, ship features, and vision behind these new builds?
TA: We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our new ships, starting in May 2028. While many details are yet to be disclosed, guests can look forward to everything they have come to love about Crystal — elevated, refined, and reimagined experiences.
These new ships will serve as a luxurious home away from home for our returning guests. Similar in size to our current vessels, each ship will weigh just under 62,000 tonnes and carry only 690 guests, all accommodated in suites, each featuring a veranda. Additionally, the beloved wraparound promenade deck will continue to be available, providing the perfect setting for morning strolls or sunset walks.
We will place a renewed emphasis on health and wellness, while also reintroducing guest favourites: Umi Uma, Osteria D’Ovidio, and Beefbar.
At the heart of it all, as always, will be Crystal’s legendary service. Our onboard teams are renowned for their thoughtful, non-intrusive attentiveness and meticulous attention to detail that define the Crystal experience. While we maintain our leadership in culinary excellence, entertainment, and creating a true sense of home at sea, it is our warm smiles and unwavering care that keep guests coming back — and these qualities will be central to our new ships.

TDM: How will these new vessels differentiate themselves in the ultra-luxury segment?
TA: Crystal ships have always embodied the warmth and welcome of a luxurious home, rather than the formality typically found in luxury hotels or resorts. Our new ships will elevate this feeling even further. We want our guests to fully relax and enjoy the comfort of an elegant and familiar space from which they can explore the world during the day. Each evening, they can return to recharge, be entertained, and either share their experiences with fellow travelers or retreat to the privacy of their suite in preparation for the next day’s adventure.

TDM: Crystal recently launched a dedicated trade portal. How will this enhance relationships with travel advisors, particularly in the APAC region?
TA: Our trade portal aims to provide our valued trade partners with all the tools and resources they need at their fingertips. In today’s fast-paced world, no one should have to wait for an email response to manage everyday client needs when services and answers can be made readily available online.
Through our Online Booking Platform, advisors can access live inventory to quote, book, and make payments. They can select specific suites and issue guest documents—all from within the portal. It’s user-friendly and intuitive (if I can navigate it, anyone can!), so advisors only need to reach out to us for changes, cancellations, or group bookings.
The portal also offers instant access to sales figures and consolidates all Crystal bookings in one convenient location. Advisors can view payment schedules, print documents, and assist clients in preparing Guest Information Forms with ease.
Additionally, we provide a library of licensed images, videos, and social media tiles for advisors to use on their websites and marketing materials. Advisors can also create personalised, branded marketing pieces featuring multiple itineraries and pricing, all in just a few minutes.
Finally, they can view the latest Travel Advisor Fares and apply for their own Crystal cruise. These fares are currently available through March 2026, allowing advisors to plan their holidays well in advance.

TDM: With so many enhancements across culinary, entertainment, and destination offerings, how would you summarise Crystal’s evolution under its new ownership?
TA: You are right—there is so much happening, and it is an incredibly exciting time for Crystal and the wider Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG). As part of AKTG, we are owned by a company that is deeply committed to delivering exceptional experiences, both at sea with Crystal and on land with Abercrombie & Kent.
They have a clear vision: together, these two iconic brands can create unmatched and unforgettable journeys for our guests. It has been said that what we are doing is not merely an evolution, but a revolution; we are not just relaunching a cruise line, but reimagining the entire travel experience, unbound by coastlines or convention.
Our guests are not looking for boundaries; they seek to explore the world in a way that only AKTG can deliver.

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Karim Bizid takes chief operating officer post at Chedi Hospitality

The post Karim Bizid takes chief operating officer post at Chedi Hospitality appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Chedi Hospitality formally appointed Karim Bizid as its new chief operating officer in a strategic leadership move that marks a defining moment in its evolution. 

With an expanding portfolio of landmark destinations and private residences, the appointment reinforces Chedi Hospitality’s vision to deliver exceptional experiences, cultural authenticity, and guest-centric innovation.

In his new role, Bizid will oversee global operations and the implementation of brand standards across new and existing properties. 

He will play a critical role in shaping the group’s operational frameworks, guiding teams, and supporting the seamless opening of upcoming developments in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. 

Chedi Hospitality CEO Stephan Schupbach said of Bizid: “Karim’s appointment as Chief Operating Officer is a natural evolution of his leadership and a reflection of the value he brings to our brand. As we expand into new destinations and strengthen our global presence, Karim will ensure our operations are both agile and aligned to our ethos. His deep understanding of the brand and its people makes him a key pillar in our next chapter.”

Bizid himself said: “I am honoured to step into this new role at such a pivotal time for Chedi Hospitality. Having witnessed the brand’s transformation first-hand, I am deeply inspired by our vision and proud to be a part of the next phase of growth. I look forward to working closely with our talented teams and partners worldwide to shape operations that are as thoughtful and distinctive as the destinations we create.”

In his new role, Bizid will guide the group’s operational performance, embedding innovation across the guest journey, and cultivating a unified culture of service across properties. 

A firm believer in people-first, grounded leadership, he is known for fostering high-performing teams and creating environments that enable talent to flourish.

This announcement follows the group’s recent evolution from GHM to Chedi Hospitality, a move that signals a new era for the brand. 

With a refreshed visual identity, a broadened portfolio including The Chedi Private Residences and the forthcoming Serai brand, and a renewed commitment to ‘A Voyage Unbound’, Chedi Hospitality continues to chart a course defined by elevated living, purposeful travel, and exceptional service.

Meet Karim Bizid

Bizid’s leadership will be pivotal in ensuring that each destination upholds the refined values and distinct identity that define the Chedi experience, one rooted in intuitive service, architectural elegance, and meaningful guest connection.

With over two decades of expertise in luxury hospitality, he brings a results-oriented mindset and deep regional knowledge. 

His tenure as Regional Vice President of Operations and General Manager of The Chedi Muscat has been marked by award-winning success and a legacy of excellence. 

Under his stewardship, the flagship property earned recognition as Number One Hotel in the Middle East by the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 and was named World’s Leading Luxury Beach Resort & Spa by the World Travel Awards in both 2023 and 2024, further cementing its status as a regional icon.

Fluent in Arabic, French, English, and German, he brings a global sensibility to his role and a collaborative spirit that resonates across teams, owners, and partners. 

He holds a Hotel Management diploma from Cornell University and EHL Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality.

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Accenture: Travellers look to generative AI when planning their trips

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Accenture just released the results of its most recent Consumer Pulse Survey which reveals that a growing number of travellers are opting for generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) over social media to help them plan their trips.

In the report titled Me, My Brand, and AI: The New World of Consumer Engagement, findings show that gen AI is already the number one go-to-channel for travel discovery ahead of social media and Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), for active Gen AI users, defined as people using gen AI tools at least weekly for personal and/or professional reasons.  

This is an interesting development, given how in last year’s Consumer Pulse Survey travellers griped about how booking hotels was harder than buying a car and that choosing a flight was almost as hard as choosing a mortgage. 

Indeed, around 73 percent of consumers surveyed at the time complained that they faced information overload due to the sheer number of choices, messages, ads and claims presented to them online.

This resulted in up to 73 percent of them veering away from booking both flights and hotel stays through digital platforms.

Now, however, both gen AI and agentic AI are helping travel companies resolve the matter by empowering travelers to discover and purchase the right experiences with confidence tailored to their individual needs.  

In light of recent developments, Accenture’s global travel lead Emily Weiss remarked: “In the space of a year, we are already seeing AI start to solve for the problem of choice and decision overload, with a real opportunity to bring enjoyment back to the arduous process of discovering and purchasing memorable travel experiences.” 

How gen AI is changing things up in global travel

Gen AI provides an opportunity for the travel industry to reimagine the discovery and purchasing process for travelers.  

Key findings regarding how the use of contemporary technology is changing the game are as follows:

  • 80 percent of travellers in the sample across airlines, hotel stays, and travel platforms are now using gen AI tools. Brands can no longer treat gen AI users as early adopters. They are the new mainstream;  
  • 86 percent of travellers now want to shape their own experiences, with 93 percent of active gen AI saying this is important to the personal connection they feel with the brand;
  • 93 percent of those actively using OTAs have used or would use gen AI to help support purchasing decisions;
  • 78 percent of travellers are open to using a trusted AI-powered personal shopping assistant that understands their needs and goals;
  • 57 percent of travellers seek an AI assistant that can work across multiple brands and services to autonomously solve for their needs;
  • Travellers are 1.3x as engaged, and 1.7x as likely to accept a higher price from a travel provider that delivers emotionally engaging experiences; and
  • 79 percent want a travel brand that makes them feel special by remembering them personally.

As Weiss explains it: “For the travel industry, the AI opportunity goes beyond securing bookings. Consider that instead of being overwhelmed by countless options and conflicting reviews, gen AI can act as a personal travel concierge, providing bespoke recommendations based on preferences, budget and location. It can consider factors such as a person’s previous travel history, loyalty program status and even real-time data on local events and attractions.”     

What else do travellers want?

The report also showed that 81 percent of travellers seek immersive experiences at the research and discovery stage of purchasing.

Indeed, around 42 percent opined that they would switch to a brand that could proactively suggest solutions to improve their experience in real-time. 

Also, more than three-quarters of those surveyed declared that they want a brand that makes them feel special by remembering them personally. 

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Visionary women take the lead at W Kuala Lumpur

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W Kuala Lumpur turns up the heat and the volume next month through a powerful all-female creative residency titled Leading Voices.

Scheduled for 12th and 13th July, this initiative is a global first for the W brand: a bold mould-breaking event that brings female talents to the forefront. 

Through Leading Voices, W Kuala Lumpur transforms into a magnetic playground for female-led creative expression: a stage where fearless women in art, music, ink and cocktails unapologetically own the spotlight.

W Kuala Lumpur general manager Volker Burth says of the event: “With Leading Voices, we’re not just hosting an event: we’re igniting a movement. This is a sensory revolution against the expected.”

A weekend of empowerment

Under the theme “Art, Ink, Mixology & Music: A Weekend of Bold Expression,” the two-day celebration smashes convention and sets a new standard for what luxury looks and feels like. 

That said, Leading Voices isn’t just an event but more of a bold statement that W Kuala Lumpur proclaims out loud. 

This creative residency brings together boundary-breaking women artists, tattooists, mixologists, and musicians. 

Live tattoo art, soulful soundscapes, next-level cocktails, and confidence talks that inspire and empower are all on the slate. 

This initiative empowers women creatives who are reshaping the future of their respective industries.

Each featured talent brings her own fearless energy, proving that creativity knows no bounds, and neither do they.

Across two days, these courageous creators take over the W, turning every corner into a canvas of creativity and connection.

With their skilled hands and imaginative minds, W Kuala Lumpur becomes a vibrant hub for this unstoppable energy, where boundary-breaking talent, bold voices, and unapologetic individuality come together to ignite a new era of expression.

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China’s H World Group makes its debut in Laos

The post China’s H World Group makes its debut in Laos appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Chinese hospitality company H World Group Limited announced its debut into the Laotian market with the signing of four hotel management agreements.

These recent signings further advance H World’s international growth strategy by expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia.

Held in Vientiane on 29th May, these agreements symbolise H World’s entry into the Southeast Asian nation, thereby cementing its assel-light and global-centric expansion strategy.

H World Asia Pacific president Zhu Xiaogang said of the agreements: “Thie signing of four hotels in Laos is an important step for H World in promoting localised management and building a deeply rooted network across the region. We are committed to strengthening our operational capabilities in Southeast Asia and delivering high-quality, full-lifecycle services to our partners. We are confident that these projects in Laos will become the highlights in H World’s development in the region.”

Collaborative development

Located in Vientiane and the historic city of Luang Prabang, the four properties will be developed in collaboration with three investment partners: Lao Kunpeng Industrial Co., Ltd., Yuting Hotel Investment Management Co., Ltd., and KP Construction Sole Co., Ltd.

These recent signings fall under H World’s core upper-midscale and midscale brands, with projects located in Laos’ capital and major tourist destinations.

The new developments are as follows:

  • Intercity Hotel Vientiane: Developed in partnership with Lao Kunpeng Industrial Co., Ltd., the hotel will be situated near Wattay International Airport and the Sanjiang Area in Vientiane. Scheduled to open in early 2026, the hotel will offer modern amenities and seamless connectivity.
  • Intercity Hotel Luang Prabang: Invested by Lao Kunpeng Industrial Co., Ltd., the hotel will be located in the historic city center of Luang Prabang. Expected to open in 2027, it will blend local cultural elements with the brand’s signature design and functionality.
  • JI Hotel Vientiane Mekong Riverside: Developed by Yuting Hotel Investment Management Co., Ltd., the hotel will be located along the Mekong River in downtown Vientiane. Offering scenic river views and strong accessibility, it is set to open in early 2026. This marks the first JI Hotel in Laos and the second in Southeast Asia, following the opening of JI Hotel Orchard in Singapore.
  • Orange Hotel Vientiane International Airport: Developed by KP Construction Sole Co., Ltd., this project will be located near the airport and the Sanjiang Area. It is expected to open in Q3 2026. This project represents the global debut of the Orange Hotel brand outside China.

All three investment partners expressed confidence in the collaboration, citing H World’s operational excellence, brand reputation, and digital ecosystem as key drivers for the partnership. 

They also noted that the cooperation is expected to elevate hospitality standards in Laos and deliver enhanced travel experiences for guests.

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Oscar Postma takes helm of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

The post Oscar Postma takes helm of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands announced the appointment of Oscar Postma as its new general manager.

A veteran of over 25 years in the global luxury hospitality sector, Postma brings a wealth of operational expertise, strategic insight, and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences.

The new general manager remarked: “I am honoured to join The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, a resort that embodies timeless luxury in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. I look forward to working with the talented team to continue delivering world-class experiences that create meaningful and lasting memories for our guests.”

In his new role at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, Postma will oversee all aspects of the resort’s operations, ensuring the delivery of unparalleled guest experiences that align with The Ritz-Carlton’s renowned luxury standards. 

He will lead a diverse and passionate team, nurturing a culture rooted in excellence, innovation, and intuitive, personalized service. 

Meet Oscar Postma

Known for driving performance through innovation and collaboration, Postma’s dynamic career has included the management of several world-renowned properties and guiding them through pivotal transitions, renovations, and brand transformations. 

Most recently, he served as cluster operations general manager for Conrad Singapore Orchard and Conrad Centennial Singapore, where he oversaw strategic operations for both hotels. 

Prior to this, Postma was the general manager at Regent Singapore, where he navigated the property through a major brand transition, achieving a record-breaking F&B performance. 

That said, he brings a proven track record of fostering strong owner partnerships, developing high-performing teams, and enhancing the guest journey through strategic operational leadership.

Likewise, Postma brings with him a deep familiarity with the Marriott luxury portfolio, having previously served as executive assistant manager for rooms at both The St. Regis Singapore and The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore. 

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ITE HCMC 2025 to focus on Sustainable Tourism, Vibrant Experiences

The post ITE HCMC 2025 to focus on Sustainable Tourism, Vibrant Experiences appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The 19th edition of the International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC 2025) will open its doors to travel and tourism professionals from 4th to 6th September at Ho Chi Minh City’s Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC).

Centred on the theme Sustainable Tourism, Vibrant Experiences, this year’s event aims to provide a professional, dynamic, and modern platform for Vietnam’s and the global tourism community to connect, collaborate, and explore business opportunities. 

At the same time, the expo brings together tourism businesses from Vietnam and around the world, especially from Mekong sub-region countries, to showcase diverse tourism products, promote strategic partnerships, and exchange innovative ideas to advance sustainable tourism development.

ITE HCMC 2025 will also serve as a hub for domestic and international tourism businesses to seek viable partners and showcase a rich array of products to global markets. 

It also provides a platform for businesses to explore new products and business models, advancing steadily toward sustainable tourism development; at the same time, localities and tourism enterprises will have the opportunity to introduce distinctive tourism products and unique experiences of Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City to international visitors. 

Beyond travel and tourism

More than just a trade show, ITE HCMC also acts as a thought-leadership forum, spotlighting emerging trends and fostering critical dialogue around the future of the tourism industry.

Hailed as Asia’s Best Trade Show during last year’s World MICE Awards, ITE HCMC is set to reaffirm its status as one of the most exceptional events within the global exhibitions and expositions sector.

It should also be noted that it is the only tourism expo in Vietnam with an International Hosted Buyer Program, thus playing a vital role in boosting international tourist arrivals to the country.

Strength in numbers 

ITE HCMC 2025 is expected to welcome over 520 exhibiting companies and brands, as well as 50 provinces and cities, along with 240 high-level buyers from more than 30 countries and territories. 

Organisers are also set to open the doors to more than 28,000 visitors with the aim of facilitating 12,600 business appointments between international buyers and sellers.

The event is also set to feature 16 key activities, including trade connection events, forums, conferences, and seminars. 

In addition to domestic media agencies, there will be coverage from 60 international media, travel bloggers, and KOLs, reflecting an increase of 30 percent from last year.

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The Hanging Gardens of Bali offer guests luxurious immersion in nature

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For those seeking to escape the ordinary, the Hanging Gardens of Bali offer an opportunity to immerse oneself in the island destination’s enchanting beauty.

This secluded luxury retreat is nestled deep within Ubud’s lush jungles, perched on the edge of a dramatic valley, overlooking the sacred Ayung River and ancient Dalem Segara temple.

Indeed, the Hanging Gardens of Bali invite discerning travelers to discover the true essence of Balinese hospitality whilst they reconnect with nature. 

Hidden sanctuary

Those yearning for an escape that awakens all senses and nourishes the soul will be treated to an immersive world where nature’s embrace rejuvenates the spirit.

More than just a resort, Hanging Gardens of Bali is a sanctuary; and, in a world demanding constant connection, guests seeking a rejuvenating experience need look no further. 

Upon arriving in the grand open-air lobby of the hotel, the panoramic vistas of vibrant emerald foliage are captivating. 

Note also that the property is known for its twin infinity pools and for good reasons: seemingly suspended between the sky and the jungle canopy, guests are immediately treated to an iconic vision that promises an unparalleled sense of serenity.

Offering 38 luxurious private pool villas and one exclusive suite, the resort is thoughtfully designed to immerse contemporary Balinese style with nature surroundings. 

Guests are escorted to their own private villa with a whimsical ride aboard a vintage-style funicular, the main mode of transportation across the resort. 

Once at their destination, they may step into the ultimate private retreat where contemporary Balinese aesthetics, defined by dark wood and light linens, seamlessly blend with the captivating, uninterrupted vistas of the verdant rainforest, cascading rice paddies, and the serpentine Ayung River below.

For those looking for the epitome of Balinese luxury, the Hidden Palace, an exclusive 2000 square meter private residence featuring a grand five-bedroom villa tucked deep into the wilderness, offers all-inclusive luxury experiences, ideal for weddings, private parties, and group stays.

Deeper connections

Guests can connect deeply with Bali’s vibrant traditions and unspoiled landscapes, and create unforgettable memories for every occasion.

Among the activities they can enjoy are:

  • Dream Weddings and Honeymoons: Imagine exchanging vows amidst the stunning jungle scenery or celebrating a new union in a secluded, romantic villa. A dedicated guest relations team ensures every detail is flawlessly orchestrated for an unforgettable beginning;
  • Rejuvenating Retreats: Disconnect from the demands of modern life and find inner peace through bespoke wellness offerings, including traditional Balinese spa rituals, yoga sessions, and meditation amidst the serene natural environment;
  • Bleisure Travel: Seamlessly blend work and leisure in a tranquil setting. With high- speed internet access and dedicated workspaces available in all villas, guests can stay connected while enjoying the restorative power of nature during their downtime; and
  • Nature & Culture Immersion: Explore the rich biodiversity of Bali with guided jungle treks, wander through the rice paddies, uncover hidden cascading waterfalls, and immerse in the vibrant local culture and island agriculture heritage through curated experiences.

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Source: traveldailymedia