The post S Hotels and Resorts’ net profits surged by 57 percent in Q1-2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Singha Estate Public Company Ltd’s hospitality management firm S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited (SHR)revealed its financial performance from the first quarter of 2025.

SHR announced a net profit of 176 million baht, marking a substantial growth of 57 percent from the same period of last year. 

The result reflects cost management efficiencies in parallel with a continued commitment to financial restructuring to strengthen the foundation for stable and sustainable growth.

In Q1-2025, SHR reported total revenue from hotel business and services of 2,622 million baht, strongly driven from four core properties in Thailand especially from SAii Laguna Phuket that had an outstanding performance after the completion of asset enhancement during the end of 2024. 

As a result, SAii Laguna Phuket lifted its average daily room rate (ADR) up to 16,404 baht in January 2025, up 45 percent from the same period last year, marking a new record high since the beginning of its operations. 

In addition, average ADR of the first quarter of 2025 rose by 31 percent to 12,951 baht and the average revenue per available room (RevPAR) grew by 23 percent, driving a 12 percent YoY increase in Q1’25 RevPAR for the self-managed hotel portfolio in Thailand. 

This reflects the success of enhancing the potential of properties within the portfolio, aligned with the company’s strategy to elevate the quality of core assets. 

It highlights the distinct identity of the SAii brand through international standards and enhanced service offerings. 

Relevant developments

This outstanding performance was also supported by the strong rebound of Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort, which achieved a 16 percent YoY increase in RevPAR, and the performance of SO/ Maldives, after its first full year of operations, accelerated its growth with a remarkable 93% YoY surge in Q1 RevPAR.

SHR chief executive Michael Marshall explained that, throughout the years, the company has remained committed to enhancing its business capabilities in line with strategic initiatives designed to strengthen its investment portfolio including hotel and resort renovation projects, brand elevation efforts, and improvements in portfolio and service efficiency which all of them have steadily yielded results. 

In addition, according to the diversified strategic locations, the company’s proactive marketing strategies and optimised sales channel development have made it possible to access new high-potential markets, playing a key role in driving room rates and diversifying revenue streams. 

Furthermore, the company continues to prioritise efficient management practices to maximise operational performance under all market conditions. 

Therefore, the company could report Earnings before Interest Taxes Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) at 770 million baht, five percent higher than the previous year with Earnings before Interest Taxes Depreciation and Amortization Margin (EBITDA Margin) of 29 percent up from 27 percent in Q1-2024.

What to expect from the second quarter

While the second quarter of the year is considered a slow season within the hospitality industry, the company strongly believes that the performance will continue to move in line with the target, especially during the Easter Holiday in April, coming in three weeks later than it did last year. 

This will be another key factor in stimulating travel demand, particularly from European and North American markets.

For 2025, the company has set a revenue target of THB 11 billion and anticipates a significant surge in net profit, driven by strong hotel revenue growth, particularly in Thailand and the Maldives. 

The growth will be supported by effective and appropriate cost control measures. 

Besides growing its revenue, the company aims to achieve an EBITDA margin improvement of 1 to 1.5 percent compared to the previous year and will continue its financial strategy to reduce interest expenses by optimising debt structure, expecting the decrease in average interest rate by 50–100 basis points compared to the previous year. 

This could contribute to significant finance cost saving in the future.

The company also intends to manage appropriate funding sources to lift operational potential and strengthen long-term financial stability both from negotiation with banks to achieve the best financing terms and conditions as well as issuance of corporate debentures. 

The success of 1,700 million baht bond issuance during the first quarter, with the primary objectives of optimising the existing debt structure and reducing finance costs, will be a foundation to support sustainable long-term growth as well as reinforce investor confidence and strengthen relationships with business partners in the years to come.

Marshall concluded the report by stating: “The company remains focused on executing its profit-driven strategy while maintaining its growth targets for 2025. It will continue to leverage its strengths in cost management as well as capitalize on the continual recovery of global tourism. Additionally, the company places strong emphasis on the ongoing development and enhancement of its hotel brands to create differentiation and competitiveness at the international stage.”

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The post Centara Hotels & Resorts Makes The Maldives The Place To Be For Luxury Fun In The Sun appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Truly one of the great tropical destinations of Asia, the Maldives is known for its picture-perfect islands, azure waters and powdery white sand beaches. Now one of the great hotel brands of Asia, Centara Hotels & Resorts, is making this tropical paradise more accessible than ever before with four luxury resorts that offer travellers the perfect option for their holiday needs.

Four dazzling resorts, four distinct experiences. Centara is making the Maldives – traditionally the preserve of luxury travellers and honeymooners – a dream destination for all where they can enjoy unforgettable vacations and create everlasting memories.

With the debut of the spectacular new multi-island destination The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara now offers romantic couples, fun-loving families and experience-seeking friends a choice of Centara, Centara Mirage, The Centara Collection and Centara Grand resorts.

All four idyllic retreats are conveniently located a short speedboat or seaplane ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

A haven of Thai-inspired hospitality and Maldivian allure, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is one of the two resorts located in The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts. This sophisticated retreat offers 142 elegantly designed beachfront and overwater villas or residences, each with a private pool or Jacuzzi or both.

Opportunity abounds for day after day of tropical fun in the sun, with resort facilities including a main pool with private serenity pool, Kids’ Club and E-Zone for tots and teens, fitness centre and SPA Cenvaree Retreat.

As Centara’s premier spa experience, SPA Cenvaree Retreat is a sanctuary of holistic well-being where nature’s healing essence and time-honoured traditions are blended into curative and transformative spa journeys. These are designed to nurture the mind, revitalise the body and restore inner harmony. From signature rituals that embody traditional healing to couples’ treatments and rejuvenating beauty therapies that illuminate inner radiance, each is tailored to detoxify, energize, and harmonise body and mind, fostering a sense of renewal and tranquility.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives’ restaurants and bars serve up a world of flavours, where meals can be enjoyed against the beautiful backdrop of the Indian Ocean. The inviting all-day restaurant The Gallery features live tandoor and teppan grills, Mediterranean beach club Bluefin offers fresh seafood and live music, Sunset Social is a premier Champagne bar, and The Club is an exclusive fine-dining venue serving expertly paired tapas and wines. The swim-up bar Coco Drift is the perfect spot for sipping on a refreshment or two.

For more information or to make a booking, go to Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives now.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is the second resort situated in The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a vibrant underwater world-themed oasis where parents and kids can enjoy boundless family fun and adventure in paradise.

The resort embodies the Mirage concept, which represents Centara’s commitment to providing a fully themed family experience where every moment is filled with excitement, wonder and discovery. There’s a large water park with lagoon pools, mini atolls, slides and the Maldives’ longest lazy river, SPA Cenvaree, an orchid garden and kids Candy Spa, kids’ club and games room.

The 145 spacious beachfront and overwater villas come with a Jacuzzi or pool and boast breathtaking views of the lagoon or beachfront, immersing guests into the natural beauty of the Maldives. They exude a welcoming contemporary beach style ambiance and are thoughtfully designed for family comfort, with a dining table and private outdoor bathtub. Bunk beds are available in all family room types and connecting rooms are also available.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives’ six restaurants and bars provide a choice of delectable cuisine, and there’s a bar beach, bar pool and scrumptious bar ice cream at hand as well. The Sailhouse serves up international fare throughout the day, Aqua offers authentic osteria charm with its sumptuous seafood and Italian family-style sharing platters, and Suan Bua boasts fantastic Thai dishes as well as an amazing omakase experience. Rum Bar is set right on the beach with a laid-back tropical feel and a menu of light snacks, beers, wines and exotic cocktails, the playful Dolphin Bar is the spot for refreshments and light bites while basking in the sun, and whimsical Scoops serves up delightful ice cream and plenty of fun.

For more information or to make a booking, go to Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives now.

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection is a one-of-a-kind resort for all explorers – including nature lovers and culture seekers – wanting to discover the amazing natural beauty of the dreamy destination that is the Maldives.

Active couples, families and friends holidaying together are free to embark on journeys of tropical discovery – be it snorkelling on the award-winning house reef, taking a deep dive into the marine world with PADI-certified scuba trips, explorations of an ancient shipwreck, or an excursion to see majestic whale sharks.

This luxury all-inclusive resort offers a rejuvenating island experience where Maldivian-Thai charm and character intertwines with breathtaking nature and unparalleled underwater treasures waiting to be explored.

The 112 luxurious beachfront and overwater pool villas boast their own balcony or terrace affording stunning lagoon and Indian Ocean views. A number of the room types offer direct lagoon access, and some have a private pool. The Family Overwater Villa with Kids Bedroom is ideally suited to families, and includes bunk beds and Playstation game consoles.

Resort facilities include a beachfront swimming pool and children’s pool, E-zone for teenagers, Camp Safari for younger children, tennis, badminton and volleyball, and watersports like sailing, windsurfing and kayaking. SPA Cenvaree meanwhile offers pampering and wellness indulgence in sophisticated spa suites.

The five restaurants and bars at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection promise a tantalizing exploration of exotic flavours. Reef serves international cuisine ranging from local Maldivian specialties to English breakfast to Chinese dim sum, Mare Azzurro offers seafood and authentic Italian, and Suan Bua delivers a taste of traditional Thai cuisine. At Aqua a delicious aperitif can be enjoyed at dusk against a lagoon backdrop, while Coral Bar and Lounge tempts with an array of island-style cocktails.

For more information or to make a booking, go to Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection now.

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives is a vibrant adults-only haven for indulgence, connection, and rejuvenation, an all-inclusive luxury resort with immaculate white sand beaches and a lagoon teeming with marine life.

An intimate hideaway made for romance where couples can escape the everyday and savour complete relaxation and rejuvenation, it offers 140 beachfront and overwater villas each with a balcony or terrace and offering stunning sea views. Some of the villas feature outdoor bathtubs and direct steps down to the reef, for that immersive Maldivian experience.

Couples have an array of activities and experiences at hand to enhance their holiday, from beach games and sunset cruises to island-hopping adventures and water sports like windsurfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling and catamaran sailing. There’s an onsite PADI-certified dive centre, with a house reef only 20 m off the beach and some of the area’s top dive sites within easy reach.

Amazing underwater weddings and other ceremonies can be arranged, for truly magical moments to always cherish.

Resort facilities include a beachfront infinity swimming pool and a second pool complete with pool bar, E-Zone with a music, DVD and video games library, fitness centre and SPA Cenvaree where soothing treatments are delivered in Healing Huts with outdoor balconies overlooking the ocean.

The seven sensational dining venues at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives are deliciously diverse. Arabian cuisine takes centrestage at Al Khaimah, Italian fare is the focus at La Brezza, Suan Bua serves authentic Thai, and Oceans boasts themed international buffets. Viu Bar is the place for cocktails and sunset views, and there’s more refreshments at Waves Pool Bar and Giraavaru Lobby Bar.

For more information or to make a booking, go to Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives now.

For more information about Centara and the fun-filled family holiday, romantic getaway, adventurous escape or relaxing retreat that awaits you in the Maldives, visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

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The post Lori Sheller appointed vice-president for global cruise at Virtuoso appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global luxury and experiential travel network Virtuoso announced the latest of its appointments: that of Lori Sheller as its new vice-president for global cruise.

Sheller brings extensive expertise and a proven track record in driving growth and innovation within the travel industry to Virtuoso’s lead role within its Cruise division.

This latest appointment reflects Virtuoso’s continued investment in the global cruise sector, which remains a critical pillar of the company’s luxury travel offerings. 

In her new role, Sheller will lead Virtuoso’s global cruise strategy, overseeing partnerships with the world’s top cruise lines, driving revenue growth and enhancing the network’s cruise offerings. 

She will also be responsible for developing new initiatives to strengthen Virtuoso’s position in the global cruise market and delivering greater value to its network of travel agency members and preferred partners.

A leader in the field

Sheller comes into the organisation as a respected leader with deep experience across sales, marketing and global business development, who has consistently delivered exceptional results throughout her career. 

Prior to this appointment, she held leadership roles at top organisations, including EBG, Swan Hellenic, MSC Cruises USA, Tourico Holidays/Hotelbeds Group and Online Vacation Centre.

Senior vice-president for global partnerships Cory Hagopian said of her: “We are thrilled to welcome Lori to Virtuoso at such an important time in our growth. Her strategic vision, leadership and deep industry relationships will be instrumental as we continue to expand our cruise business globally and deliver even greater opportunities for our network.”

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The post Prix Versailles names Bali’s SAKA Museum among world’s most beautiful museums appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

SAKA Museum, the cultural and knowledge centre at AYANA Bali, was named one of the World’s Most Beautiful Museums for this year by France’s prestigious Prix Versailles. 

This international recognition honours museums that exemplify outstanding interior and exterior architecture while delivering meaningful visitor experiences that reflect heritage, innovation, and a sense of place. 

The announcement marks the beginning of the 11th edition of the Prix Versailles, which will continue to reveal leading global projects across various categories throughout the year.

For SAKA Museum, located within the lush grounds of AYANA Bali in Jimbaran, this latest honour adds to a growing list of international accolades. 

Since opening in 2024, the museum has quickly established itself as one of Indonesia’s foremost cultural institutions, named one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places 2024 and selected among the Top 100 in the Kyoto Global Design Awards for its pioneering and sustainable design.

Museum director Dr Judith E Bosnak expressed her gratitude and shared the deeper significance of this recognition.

Bosnak said: “SAKA Museum has truly become a place of cultural pride and inspiration for Bali. This recognition celebrates the ingenuity of our entire SAKA Museum team, while also underscoring the profound importance of sustainable, accessible, and cutting-edge venues for cultural learning. We hope to inspire others to embrace innovative, inclusive, and sustainable design in Indonesia while encouraging visitors to engage deeply with Bali’s past, present, and future through our immersive cultural experience.”

SAKA Museum represents a long-term commitment by AYANA to nurture and promote Balinese culture at both a local and global level. 

Through its exhibitions, seminars, knowledge center, and permanent collections, the museum aims to spark curiosity and encourage thoughtful cultural engagement while helping to advance museum practices across Indonesia. Its continued recognition on the world stage affirms its role as a leader in sustainable cultural development and architectural achievement.

One of an amazing few

The museum was honoured among the seven brilliant global institutions that are actively celebrating intelligent sustainability, cultural expression, and architectural excellence. 

SAKA Museum is also the only museum in Indonesia to be selected this year, joining the Grand Palais in Paris, Kunstsilo in Norway, Diriyah Art Futures in Riyadh, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History in the United States.

As a vibrant platform for cultural expression, SAKA Museum continues to expand its programming to deepen public understanding of Balinese identity. 

Ongoing initiatives

New exhibitions explore the island’s spiritual and ecological wisdom through immersive storytelling and world-class presentation. 

“Kasanga: Nyepi Exhibition” invites visitors to experience Bali’s sacred Day of Silence through sensory installations and contemporary interpretations. 

“Subak: The Ancient Order of Bali” offers insight into the island’s UNESCO-listed irrigation and water temple systems that have sustained Balinese agriculture and society for centuries. 

In the upcoming “Heritage Gallery: The Five Elements,” visitors are guided through the Balinese spiritual connection to earth, water, fire, air, and ether—elements that shape not just the environment but the soul of the island.

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The post Cross Hotels & Resorts signs two new hotels in Batam appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cross Hotels & Resorts announced that it has signed up two lifestyle hotels in the dynamic Indonesian province of Batam.

Cross Batam The Mix and Cross Vibe Batam The Mix are both located strategically within The Mix, a landmark 5-in-1 integrated development in Pasir Putih, Batam Centre.

The dual-branded initiative is set to redefine the island’s hospitality landscape with bold architecture, vibrant social hubs, and immersive experiences tailored to today’s style-conscious and next-gen travellers.

An important venture

Developed by PT MIG Putra Indonesia, a joint venture between PURI Group Indonesia and Rima Properties Group Malaysia, this exciting project marks Cross Hotels & Resorts’ second venture on Batam, reinforcing the brand’s growing commitment to the island’s transformation into a regional hub for lifestyle, leisure, and MICE tourism.

Catering to a diverse range of guests from Singaporean weekenders and domestic holiday-makers to Gen Z explorers, wellness travellers, and corporate event planners—the hotels offer unmatched convenience, located minutes from the Batam Centre Point International Ferry Terminal and Hang Nadim International Airport.

Cross Batam The Mix offers generously sized suites starting from 115 sqm, with sleek living areas and fully-equipped kitchenettes, crafted for travellers who appreciate space, comfort, and thoughtful design. 

Meanwhile, Cross Vibe Batam The Mix, located in the 23-storey Iconic View Tower, promises a playful, design-forward escape for the new generation of travellers.

The hotels are scheduled to open in phases starting in 2027, with full operations anticipated by 2028. 

Together, they will form the heart of a lively new ecosystem comprising residences, entertainment, retail, and leisure: an urban blueprint for Batam’s future.

Whether guests are looking to enjoy spa and wellness offerings, lively rooftop social scenes, family-friendly experiences, or productive corporate retreats, Cross Batam The Mix and Cross Vibe Batam The Mix promise a seamless blend of comfort, style, and connectivity. 

From curated culinary journeys to spaces that encourage collaboration and creativity, these hotels are designed to deliver meaningful and memorable stays for every type of traveller.

A significant milestone

Cross Hotels & Resorts CEO Harry Thaliwal declared that this latest partnership marks a milestone for his team and amplifies the strength of Cross’ dual-brand strategy in key locations like Batam.

Thailwal said: “We are honoured to collaborate with PT MIG Putra Indonesia on this visionary project. With Cross bringing our signature ‘Luxury by Design’ approach and Cross Vibe infusing youthful energy through ‘Stay, Chill, Enjoy’, we are confident that these hotels will redefine the guest experience and accelerate Batam’s evolution as a regional lifestyle and business destination. This deal reflects our belief in the immense potential of Batam and our continued mission to deliver owner value through meaningful partnerships.”

Likewise, PT MIG Putra Indonesia president-director Wagiman expressed that it was both an honour and a privilege to collaborate with Cross Hotels & Resorts in developing The Mix Project. Wagiman said: “This collaboration marks a significant milestone, not just for our businesses, but for the guests, travellers, and communities we both serve. Together, we are combining our shared commitment to excellence, service, and innovation to create truly elevated experiences. We look forward to a successful journey ahead, one that brings growth, opportunity, and lasting impact.”

Cross’ country manager in Indonesia Evan Burns  added: “These hotels are designed to become more than just places to stay; they’ll be places to gather, to celebrate, and to experience Batam through a fresh lens. This expansion reflects our commitment to shaping meaningful guest journeys that go beyond the expected.”

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The post Tourism sales mission boosts ties between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Malaysia’s recent sales mission to Saudi Arabia has been instrumental in boosting ties between the two nations.

Held from 4th to 8th May in the cities of Jeddah and Riyadsh, the sales mission was a side event to the recent launch of Visit Malaysia 2026 and the opening of Malaysia Culture Week 2025.

Likewise, the mission highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to boost its visibility in the booming Saudi tourism market.

Led by Malaysian minister of tourism, arts, and culture Tiong King Sing, the 37-member delegation was made up of representatives from hotels, resorts, travel agencies, tourism products, and state tourism boards.

Tiong declared at the opening of the mission: “We extend a warm invitation to our Saudi friends to experience the wonders of Malaysia, especially as we gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026. Discover our rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. We are confident that Malaysia will offer unforgettable experiences and make you feel right at home.”

Relevant statistics

Malaysia recorded 68,382 visitor arrivals from Saudi Arabia between January and December 2024, a significant 23.7% increase compared to the same period in the previous year.

This growth was further supported by enhanced air connectivity, with 41 weekly flights from Jeddah and Madinah to Kuala Lumpur, offering a total seating capacity of 12,747. 

The increased accessibility has played a key role in positioning Malaysia as a preferred travel destination among Saudi visitors.

Malaysia remains committed to attracting more Saudi visitors by offering diverse travel experiences, exceptional hospitality, and seamless connectivity.

The best Malaysia has to offer

This initiative sought to showcase the best of Malaysia in order to generate more visitor arrivals from the region through a showcase of the country’s unique hospitality, diverse attractions, and engaging experiences. 

Tourism Malaysia presented specially curated travel packages, promotions, and new attractions tailored for families, luxury travellers, honeymooners, and Gen Z.

To further strengthen the relationship with the local tourism industry players, the mission also featured seminars, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, and networking sessions.

In doing so, it served as a valuable platform to showcase Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings, including its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine.

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The post Philippines’ Hospitality Innovators Inc to open two new properties this year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hospitality Innovators Inc (HII), a Filipino-owned hospitality management firm, announced that it is slated to open two properties in key destinations before the year ends.

In July, the HII will open Hue Hotels and Resorts Siargao in the popular surfers’ destination.

On the other hand, it projects the opening of its Costa Solana Quezon in Pagbilao, Quezon some time towards the end of the year.

Hue in Siargao will be the third property under Hue Hotels and Resorts and is part-owned by the family-run Luana Lifestyle and Leisure Hotel Inc.

However, HII has not disclosed if it has partnered with a hotel management firm for the 50-key Costa Solana.

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The post Cebu Pacific releases Q1-2025 financials appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cebu Pacific reports that it flew seven million passengers whilst earning PHP30.4 billion in revenues throughout the first three months of 2025.

The Philippine low-cost carrier marked 20 percent growth year-on-year at the quarter’s end.

In a statement released on Friday, 9th May, the airline attributed the revenue boost largely to the 26 percent rise in passenger volume compared to the same period last year.

This growth translated to more than PHP21 billion in passenger revenue, up 19 percent, and more than PHP7 billion in ancillary earnings, up 22 percent.

The Gokongwei-led airline had 99 aircraft serving 63 destinations by the end of the first quarter.

Great optimism

According to Cebu Pacific chief financial officer Mark Cezar: “We remain optimistic on our financial outlook. Underlying demand for affordable air travel remains strong, and we’ve made earlier strategic investments to ensure resilient operations. Leveraging on these existing assets, Cebu Pacific remains well positioned for sustainable growth and improving profitability.”

The airline also reported that it maintained Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of PHP6.7 billion despite higher operational costs due to an increased fleet and expanded operations.

This translated to an EBITDA margin of 22 percent.

The airline also reported that its operating income was PHP1.96 billion, resulting in a net income of PHP466 million.

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The post From sorrow to spectacle: the impact of recent Vatican events on religious tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The passing of Pope Francis in the Vatican made its mark on various sectors of society, so it is not surprising that even the travel and tourism industries were also affected in the eighteen-day period between the death of one Pontiff and the election of his successor.

In a feature we posted on 22nd April, the day after the death of Pope Francis, we touched on the volume of travellers who made their way to Vatican City to mourn the passing of Pope John Paul II and cheered the election of his successor, Pope Benedict XVI, in 2005: per statistics, four million people showed up in Rome during the period between the sainted Pontiff’s passing on 2nd April 2005, and just a little less were in St Peter’s Square when the Sistine Chapel chimney spewed forth white smoke to declare the election of Benedict XVI.

The numbers for the wake and subsequent funeral for Pope Francis were more modest; according to the consolidated reports of the Associated Press (AP):

• 250,000 mourners from around the world came to pay their respects as the Pope lay in state at St Peter’s Basilica from 23rd to 25th April;
• Over 250,000 filled St Peter’s Square on the day of the funeral itself, excluding foreign dignitaries and church officials; and
• Nearly 150,000 more flocked to the sidewalks to watch the funeral procession as it made its way from St Peter’s to the Pontiff’s final resting place at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

While sources have been unable to discern how many of these visitors were local and how many were from overseas, the sheer spectacle and the innate human need to be part of something greater than themselves drew the masses to Rome.

The concept of papal pilgrimages

Considering the impact that Pope Francis had on the world, it again comes as no surprise that people would be interested in the places that so shaped his life and worldview.

Indeed, tour operators and travel agents, particularly those specialising in pilgrimages, noted a significant demand in those wanting to visit the Pontiff’s birth city of Buenos Aires, Argentina from 13th March 2013 when the Conclave voted him to the papacy.

Following his passing last month, tour companies, especially from Spanish-speaking areas, have noted an even bigger surge in the number of people wanting to visit Argentina.

According to Civitatis chief operating officer Enrique Espinel: “Since the Pope’s health began to decline, we saw a steady rise in interest. What used to be a once-a-month tour of Pope Francis’s Buenos Aires has become a daily occurrence. In the past few days alone, bookings for our newly launched Free Tour del Papa have increased by over 100 percent.”

Likewise, travel tech consultancy Belvera Partners reports that pilgrims are keen to know more about the life and experiences of Pope Francis and see such trips to his hometown as a way of walking in his well-scuffed shoes.

According to their report: “These experiences [offered by tour companies] explore the neighbourhoods, churches, and formative spaces in Buenos Aires that shaped the future Pope’s worldview and vocation.”

At the same time, interest has spiked in Vatican-focused tours, as travellers seek to connect with the physical spaces where Pope Francis left an indelible spiritual, societal, and political legacy.

The Belvera report concludes with: “As the world reflects, the travel industry is responding with reverence, offering experiences that help travelers walk in the footsteps of a man who moved millions both in faith and in action.”

A new Pope…and a potential new pilgrimage to consider

On 8th April, at 6:07pm in Rome, white smoke came billowing out of the chimney installed at the Sistine Chapel.

Right outside, around 40,000 people, mostly foreign tourists and pilgrims, were milling around St Peter’s Square; but the BBC reported that the numbers swelled to over 150,000 in the hour that passed between the appearance of the smoke and the official ceremony announcing the election of the new Pope: US-born Leo XIV.

Companies like Civitatis are already reporting a surge in interest in another South American location: Peru, as this was where Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost spent close to four decades of his ministry, from his arrival as an Augustinian friar in 1985 to his episcopate in Chiclayo in 2023.

Travellers are also making their way to the new Pope’s hometown in Chicago, their curiosity piqued as to what was it about the South Side of the Windy City that produced a man of such calibre.

But this poses issues of its own, particularly in the light of waning inbound tourism to the United States, fuelled by global animosity with the current administration, particularly its stance against foreigners (legal and otherwise) making their way into the country.

Yet, religious tourism of this sort could be a boon to the beleaguered country: a small pocket destination that offers a glimpse into a new player on the chessboard of history, a bit of proof that good things and people can come from even the darkest places on Earth.

 

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The post Saudia scores wins at the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudi Arabian flag-carrier Saudia received multiple accolades in the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Awards and the Onboard Hospitality Awards.

Both ceremonies were part of the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo 2025 recently held in Hamburg, Germany. 

These achievements underscore the airline’s unwavering commitment to delivering industry-leading guest experiences and setting new benchmarks in onboard hospitality.

Saudia chief guest experience officer Rossen Dimitrov said: “These awards are more than just trophies; they represent our relentless pursuit of excellence across all aspects of our guest experience at Saudia. From our pioneering collaboration with ELIE SAAB to the culturally rich Saudi Coffee Cup initiative and beyond, each advancement is redefining inflight luxury by combining timeless design with forward-thinking innovation that captivates and delights our guests at every moment.”

Award-winning initiatives

Saudia’s new ELIE SAAB premium amenity kit collection has earned Gold Awards from the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Awards for Business Class: The Middle East, First Class: Unisex Kit Middle East, and Business Class: Amenity Kit Program for the Rest of the World. 

This groundbreaking collaboration with the renowned lifestyle brand ELIE SAAB marks their debut in aviation luxury, bringing celebrated elegance exclusively to Saudia’s First and Business Class guests. 

The kits captivated judges and guests alike with their sophisticated design and luxurious contents.

Moreover, Saudia’s exquisite Saudi Coffee Cup initiative was recognized with a Gold Award for First Class Glassware. 

Launched in partnership with the Culinary Arts Commission under the Kingdom’s Ministry of Culture, this initiative features handcrafted cups representing Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions. 

It reflects Saudia’s dedication to infusing cultural elements into its service offerings while maintaining world-class standards.

Further reinforcing its status as a leader in guest comfort and innovation, Saudia was also awarded the prestigious TravelPlus Passenger Amenities Five Star Rating 2025, an honor shared by only five airlines globally this year.

The Onboard Hospitality Awards also acknowledged Saudia’s innovative approach by awarding a Highly Commended recognition in the Best Service Equipment: Crew category for the airline’s new cabin crew uniforms. 

This award reflects style as well as functionality designed to enhance service delivery onboard.

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Source: traveldailymedia