The post ANA HOLDINGS invests in Otetsutabi appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ANA HOLDINGS INC through its corporate venture capital (CVC)  fund “ANA Future Frontier Fund L.P.,”  announced its investment in Otetsutabi, Inc（Otetsutabi), a short-term job matching platform for rural area travellers.

Otetsutabi is a unique human resource matching service that combines short-term, part-time work  opportunities with travel experiences. The platform connects local businesses facing labor shortages  with travelers seeking to explore new places while earning income.

Since its launch in January 2019, Otetsutabi has grown significantly, now offering over 1,900  workplaces nationwide to more than 70,000 registered users. This success has positioned Otetsutabi  as a leader in the local spot work market. With increasing demand from Gen Z and seniors looking  for a second career, Otetsutabi anticipates further revitalization of local economies and stronger connections between local communities and non-residents. The company plans to use this latest  round of funding to accelerate customer acquisition, enhance product improvement and expand  recruitment.

ANA HD’s investment in Otetsutabi reflects its strong belief in the platform’s potential to drive  regional development and create new business opportunities. ANA HD also recognizes Otetsutabi’s robust regional network, its ability to attract participants interested in local areas and its compelling  branding. Through this investment, ANA HD will actively support Otetsutabi’s ongoing business  growth and expansion.

Further information about ANA HD’s “ANA Future Frontier Fund L.P.” and its investments can be  found on ANA’s website.

 

 

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The post Women Travelers in Asia are Driving the New Hospitality Trends in 2025: Agoda appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Agoda recently unveiled the top women’s travel trends in Asia revealing that women across Asia are charting a different course than their male counterparts when it comes to holiday plans. From a stronger appetite for new destinations to a preference for traveling with family and friends, women travellers are reshaping travel preferences in ways that are directly influencing the hospitality landscape. As Agoda celebrates 20 years of empowering hoteliers to stay ahead of changing travel trends and guest expectations, these insights serve as a timely reminder for hoteliers of the need to constantly adapt to an increasingly dynamic and diverse market.

Women love travelling to culturally immersive destinations

According to Agoda’s latest report, 60% of women in Asia prioritize exploring lesser-known and culturally immersive destinations. Indian and Indonesian women are leading this trend, with 80% and 69% respectively eager to discover new places that offer different cultural experiences.

The Agoda data also highlights a strong preference for group travel among women. Some 40% of Asian women prefer to travel with family, compared to just 28% of men. In markets like Indonesia, an impressive 68% of women favour family trips—underscoring the importance of multigenerational travel and spending quality time with loved ones. Traveling with friends is another area where women outpace men – just under a third of Japanese women (29%) prioritize this  followed by a quarter of Indian women (25%).

While group travel is popular, solo adventures are also an important part of women’s travel trends. The Agoda study found that men still take more solo trips than women (24% of men vs 15% of women). However, there are pockets of growth in solo women travel. Women in Hong Kong and Thailand are the most likely in Asia to embark on solo journeys. Other reports reveal that 62% of women aged 18 to 25 are drawn to solo travel as a way to step beyond their comfort zones. According to government travel advisories, top-ranked countries for safe solo women travel include Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Nordic countries, Spain, Singapore, and the UK.

Getting away for a holiday on every short break

Research also shows that women travellers are increasingly choosing to book short trips more frequently rather than long annual breaks. An industry report indicates the percentage of women taking two trips in the first quarter of 2025 has nearly doubled to 35%, from just 18% in early 2020. This points to women using long weekends and off-peak periods to get away more often, rather than saving all travel for a single annual vacation.

“It’s clear that women are playing an increasingly influential role in all travel decisions,” said Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda. “Armed with data on women’s booking behaviours and preferences, hospitality leaders have a timely opportunity to reassess their approach to guest management. By proactively tailoring offerings to women travellers’ preferences, hotels can deliver exceptional guest experiences and secure loyalty from a demographic that is set to reshape travel in Asia. Embracing these trends can help position your business in a fast-moving travel landscape.”

Agoda’s report makes it clear that adapting to women travel trends is not just about good service—it’s about aligning with what is now a core driver of the travel economy. Hoteliers should consider the following focus areas, informed by the latest Agoda insights:

• Develop experiences involving unique local activities and showcase lesser-known attractions. Women’s interest in discovering new destinations signals demand for boutique tours, cultural workshops, and “hidden gem” recommendations beyond the typical tourist itinerary.

• Highlight emerging tour products such as premium women-only tours. For instance, tour operators are now designing experiences exclusively for women travellers. One such tour takes participants to Peru, where they can meet Quechua weavers in the Sacred Valley. Another itinerary in Morocco features a baking class at a local women’s cooperative, empowering female chefs and offering an immersive cultural experience.
• Build trust with solo women travellers by ensuring a 24/7 security presence, well-lit common areas, secure access floors, and options like women-only floors or female dormitories in hostels. Training staff to be attentive to solo female guests’ needs and offering concierge guidance for safe local exploration can further set your property apart. Additionally, consider offering more safe and reliable transfer options with trusted providers for women travelling solo, especially after-dark airport transfers.
• Women often invest more in personal care essentials from hair and skincare to fragrances and beauty tools. Stock up on popular items like hair straighteners, curlers, and high-powered dryers, along with everyday must-haves such as quality irons, makeup and nail polish removers. Consider making a feature of high-quality complimentary soaps and shampoos.

As women in Asia continue to embrace travel in 2025, Agoda offers a wide range of options to suit their diverse preferences. With over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda provides endless possibilities for creating unforgettable travel experiences.

Adding to the excitement, Agoda celebrates its 20th anniversary with a special birthday campaign from May 7–20, offering travellers up to 60% off, followed by exclusive discounts reaching 70% on May 21.

 

 

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The post Canopy by Hilton to debut in Tokyo in 2028 offering 174 keys appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hilton , Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd. and TBS Holdings, Inc. have signed the Canopy by Hilton Tokyo Akasaka as part of a mixed-use development project that will include offices, commercial facilities, theaters and halls, and hotels, directly connected to Tokyo Metro’s Akasaka Station.

Scheduled to open in 2028, Canopy by Hilton Tokyo Akasaka marks the debut of the brand into Tokyo and the Kanto region of Japan and will be the third Canopy by Hilton hotel in Japan. The Canopy by Hilton portfolio includes more than 40 open properties around the globe across 13 countries and territories. Each hotel offers an elevated stay experience through maximizing local charm, refined design, and tailored food and beverages to suit guests’ preferences.

To be part of an 18-floor mixed-use building

The Canopy by Hilton Tokyo Akasaka will be located on the 7th to 18th floors of a mixed-use building in the west block of the Akasaka area development project, “Akasaka 2-Chome and 6-Chome District Development Plan,” led by TBS and Mitsubishi Estate. The building will be 18 stories tall. The hotel will feature a total of 174 guest rooms, primarily around 31 square meters in size, including 24 suites. It will offer two dining options: a restaurant & bar, and a terrace café with panoramic views of the Akasaka area. Additional amenities will include a 77-square-meter meeting lounge, as well as a 24-hour fitness room.

The building will be directly connected to Akasaka Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. The lower floors are set to include theaters and halls, aiming to establish the building as a hub for entertainment in the Akasaka area. Its convenient location provides easy access to business districts and various tourist attractions across Tokyo. Additionally, limousine bus services to and from airports are planned.

“We are truly honored to announce the signing of the Canopy by Hilton Tokyo Akasaka in partnership with Mitsubishi Estate and TBS. In recent years, demand for lifestyle brands has been increasing in the hotel market. By introducing the Canopy by Hilton brand in Tokyo, one of the world’s top destinations, we will be able to cater to the diverse needs of our guests. We look forward to welcoming visitors from Japan and abroad and offering an experience that allows them to fully enjoy the charm of the Akasaka area,” said Joseph Khairallah, area vice president, head of Japan, Korea & Micronesia, Hilton.

This is the third ‘Canopy by Hilton’ hotel in Japan

“We are very pleased to welcome Hilton, one of the world’s leading global brands, as the hotel operator for this mixed-use development aimed at establishing Akasaka as a hub for entertainment that reaches the world. With the first entry of the Canopy by Hilton brand in the Kanto region, we aim to further enhance the charm of the area, including its history and culture,” said Yuji Fujioka, Representative Corporate Executive Officer and Deputy President of Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.

“We are very pleased to welcome Hilton, a global leader in the hospitality industry, and to announce the development of Canopy by Hilton Tokyo Akasaka as part of this project. We look forward to creating new experiential value for visitors from both Japan and abroad through the synergy with our media content in the newly revitalized Akasaka area,” said Tatsuo Sugai, Executive Vice President & Board Director of TBS Holdings, Inc.

 

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The post ATE 2026 to take place from 10 -14 May 2026 in Adelaide appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Australia’s largest annual trade event, the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), will return to Adelaide/Tarntanya in 2026 attracting members of the tourism industry from around Australia and around the world.

Thousands of delegates will travel to Adelaide for ATE which will be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre between Sunday, 10 May 2026 and Thursday, 14 May 2026.

Tourism Australia Managing Director, Phillipa Harrison, said it is the first time the event has been held in Adelaide since 2018 and it will be a great opportunity to showcase to the world the products and experiences South Australia has to offer.

“Brisbane has done a great job hosting ATE25 and we are already looking ahead to next year to see how Adelaide and South Australia showcase the best of their state to visiting international buyers and global media,” Ms Harrison said.

“ATE helps to drive international travellers to regions right around the country but it is a particularly good opportunity for the host state and we will be working closely with our partners, the South Australian Tourism Commission, to put on a memorable event next year.”

South Australia’s Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, said: “we’re incredibly proud to welcome hundreds of international buyers and sellers at the industry’s premier trade event in Adelaide in 2026.”

“The Australian Tourism Exchange offers a powerful platform to showcase South Australia’s unique offerings to the most influential national and international tourism stakeholders, inspiring them to promote our wonderful destination in their markets,” Minister Bettison said.

“I am confident that South Australia will leave a lasting impression on delegates, when they can experience for themselves our abundant hospitality that you won’t get anywhere else.

“From our world-class food and wine, natural wonders and beautiful regions, our stand-out events and festivals, and new luxury accommodation – we’re looking forward to giving the world a taste of what South Australia and our passionate tourism operators have to offer.

ATE26 will be delivered by Tourism Australia in partnership with the South Australian Tourism Commission.

 

 

 

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The post Vietjet starts direct flights between Hanoi and Shanghai appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Vietjet has officially launched a new direct route between Hanoi and Shanghai, marking a significant addition to its growing international flight network. This new daily service is part of the airline’s rapid expansion in China, including four new routes from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to both Beijing and Guangzhou.

Vietjet Vice President Nguyen Duc Thinh said: “This new service reflects our continued commitment to providing travelers with more convenient and affordable flight options to Vietnam from key destinations around the world. With five new routes between Vietnam and China launched this year alone, we are steadily expanding our international presence and opening new horizons for global connectivity.”

Flash sale on May 5, offering 55% off

To kick off the summer travel season, Vietjet will launch a one-day flash sale on May 5, offering 55% off Eco-class tickets (*) using the promo code SUPERSALE55, valid for travel between May 15 and November 30, 2025 (**). Customers who purchase tickets between now and May 18, 2025, will also receive VND100,000 (approx. INR 325) e-vouchers (***), which can be redeemed on their next booking. Additionally, Vietjet continues to offer tickets starting from INR11 plus taxes and fees (*) every Friday for international flights from India to Vietnam

The new route to China is positioned as a convenient option for travellers heading to Shanghai and even to Beijing, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Chengdu via Hanoi and/or Ho Chi Minh City, particularly for passengers from India. With Vietjet’s expanding network and competitive fares, these routes offer greater flexibility and more seamless connections for Indian travellers from New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi to Vietnam and across Asia-Pacific.

At the same time, Vietjet has strengthened its international flight network with the successful launch of non-stop services between Vietnam and Japan, connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Nagoya and Fukuoka. This expansion follows the introduction of direct flights from Hyderabad and Bengaluru to Ho Chi Minh City last month, along with four new China routes linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with Beijing and Guangzhou.

Vietnam remains a top destination in Southeast Asia, known for its safety, warm hospitality, and diverse cultural and natural attractions. As the airline continues to modernize its fleet and expand its international footprint, Vietjet reaffirms its position as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading new-age carriers, making travel to Vietnam and beyond more accessible than ever.

 

 

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The post ATIA: Travel agencies continue to thrive in the digital age appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) issued a statement rejecting claims in KPMG’s latest research report today, 2nd May.

The new report declared that the travel agent profession is in decline, a declaration that ATIA decries as misleading and disconnected from both real-time industry activity and government-backed projections.

Indeed, ATIA chief executive Dean Long proclaims the present time as the golden age of travel professionals, as more Australians, many of whom were burnt by COVID-travel experiences, turn to expert advisors for complex travel needs and crisis support.

Long said: “KPMG’s report unfortunately fails to reflect the devastating impact of COVID on our sector, when the international travel ban forced the loss of more than a third of our workforce. The 2021 Census which KPMG has relied on reflects a time when the borders were closed and the industry in survival mode given this the bulk of the bookings made through our members are for International Travel. This period of extensive job losses has continued to impact as the sector rebuilds but the job losses are not due to lack of traveller appetite for expert travel support.”

Erroneous sources

The KPMG report references a ten-year reduction in travel agent roles, claiming the profession has experienced the biggest decline of any major occupation and attributing the decline to the impact of online.

However, the industry snapshot captured in the August 2021 Census which is one of the sources for the KPMG report was at the height of COVID-19 lockdowns and international border closures. 

At that time, the industry had recorded revenue losses exceeding 90 percent, and more than a third of the workforce had been let go as international travel ground to a halt.

While that shortfall is still being felt today, with accredited travel businesses across the country reporting persistent skills shortages, the demand for travel professionals is stronger than ever, and Australians are using accredited agents at record levels.

While the KPMG Report also relies on Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) data from May 2024 including the fact that more than 17,000 Australians are working as Tourism and Travel Advisors, it seems to ignore JSA’s accompanying forecasts that the sector will grow by 4.3 percent over the next five years and nearly 10 percent within the next decade.

On the way to recovery

Over 70 percent of international air sales and more than 90 percent of corporate travel bookings are still made through agents proving that travel professionals are not only relevant, but central to how Australians travel today. 

In 2024 alone, ATIA members booked $13.5 billion in retail travel, $11.8 billion in corporate travel, and $5.6 billion in land operations.

The profession is still rebuilding following COVID-19, but the fundamentals have never been stronger: travellers want personalised advice, expert support in times of disruption, and guidance in an increasingly complex global travel landscape.

As Long puts it: “The demand for travel agents and advisors has never been higher and the biggest challenge we face is not declining relevance, but an urgent workforce shortfall that we continue to work hard to have addressed so Australian travel businesses can meet this growing demand.”

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The post Westin Beach Workout makes its debut in Bali appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Known for its holistic approach towards wellness, The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali officially unveils its newest innovation for fitness enthusiasts: Westin Beach Workout.

This new addition is a unique, eco-friendly fitness space crafted entirely from natural wood and set against the stunning backdrop of Bali’s pristine coastline.

Resort general manager Sander Looijen pointed out that the new workout space is the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.

Looijen said: “Blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the beachfront, it offers guests the invigorating experience of working out to the soothing sound of the waves and ocean breeze. With top-notch, sustainable equipment and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect place to energize, unwind, and embrace the island’s spirit.”

All-day fitness

From 7 AM to 7 PM daily, guests can enjoy a wide range of functional and strength training options using specially crafted wooden fitness equipment. 

Facilities include:

• Wooden Bench Press
• Leg Press with Squats
• Full Range of Wooden Dumbbells and Weight Plates
• Kettlebells of Various Weights
• TRX Suspension Training Equipment
• Flipping Tire
• Hanging Bars and Stick Wall Climbers
• Exercise Balls

Aside from independent training, The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali also offers High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) sessions, complemented by Ice Bath Recovery Experiences to maximize fitness benefits and aid muscle recovery.

As part of Westin’s signature ‘Move Well’ pillar, the Beach Workout reaffirms the brand’s dedication to empowering guests to maintain their wellness routines while traveling. 

Where sustainability matters

Sustainability is also at the heart of this new facility, with an ongoing commitment to eco-friendly practices, utilizing sustainable materials, minimizing waste, and promoting a “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” philosophy.

As Looijen explains: “At The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, wellness extends beyond just physical fitness: it’s a way of life. Our Beach Workout perfectly embodies our vision: inspiring our guests to move well, live well, and feel their very best amidst Bali’s natural beauty.”

Adding to the allure, the Beach Workout’s sunrise-facing location offers early risers a spectacular morning workout view. 

On clear days, the majestic Mount Agung paints an unforgettable backdrop—turning each session into a truly transformative experience.

The Beach Workout is supported by Westin’s dedicated Recreation Team, ensuring expert guidance and personalized assistance for every guest.

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The post Tripadvisor names Quest Orange Australia’s best hotel for this year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tripadvisor recently hailed Quest Orange as the number one hotel in Australia at its 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Hotels.

Quest Orange was not the only hotel from the brand to gain nods, as it was joined by Quest South Perth Foreshore which placed fourth and Quest Perth Ascot which stands at number eight in the Best of the Best Hotels top 10.

A total of seven Quest hotels finished in the top 25, as Quest North Sydney finished 11th, Quest on Dorcas 15th, Quest Bella Vista 21st, and Quest Echuca in 23rd.

Quest Orange owner Amy van de Ven said: “It’s absolutely amazing and I’m incredibly proud for Quest Orange to be named number one on Tripadvisor. This recognition is really meaningful because it is based entirely on guest reviews, and it is a tribute to the care and consistency that my team put into every stay. It is not just a huge win for our team but regional tourism and the broader orange community that we are so proud to be a part of.‘’

The Travellers Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel.

 It is awarded to those hotels who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. 

Out of eight million listings, fewer than one percent achieve this milestone.

The ratings say it all

Quest Orange, a hotel within an easy walking distance of the town centre, received an overall ranking of 4.9 out of 5 from 445 guest reviews. Guests gave it a ranking of 4.9 for location and cleanliness, 4.8 for service and 4.6 for value.

The hotel’s spacious rooms feature mountain and landmark views and are equipped with quality fittings, comfortable beds, and a shower with good pressure.

The hotel includes a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and a rooftop terrace which is popular with guests for relaxation.

Quest South Perth Foreshore received a rating of 4.8 out of five from 597 reviews with its child- and family-friendly atmosphere and restaurant ranking as what travellers loved most about the hotel.

Quest Perth Ascot, also received a rating of 4.8 out of five from 234 reviews with travellers saying they loved its pool the most.

Quest North Sydney received a rating of 4.7 out of five with guests rating the sauna and babysitting service as the most popular.

Quest on Dorcas in Melbourne received a rating of 4.5 from 1085 reviews, Quest Bella Vista 4.4 from 1014 reviews, and Quest Echuca 4.5 from 1392 reviews.

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The post Solon: Passport tampering could strike a blow against Philippine tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine senator Sherwin Gatchalian released a statement on Thursday, 1st May, calling out how deliberate tampering of passports will threaten the country’s tourism sector.

Gatchalian warned that, if left unchecked, this ongoing scam at both air and sea ports could drive away tourists and undermine confidence in the country’s immigration systems.

He said: “The reported passport-ripping scheme is a serious threat to our country’s reputation as a tourist destination.”

The senator called upon port authorities to immediately hold those responsible accountable, and that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and airport authorities should formulate security protocols to ensure the safety of passengers without compromising convenience and comfort.

Active warning

For his part, DOTr secretary Vince Dizon issued a warning on the said scheme which has been seen in several airports and resulted in the offloading of passport holders.

Dizon advised passengers bound for international flights to always check the validity and condition of their passports before traveling and to consult with passport centers or airport authorities when in doubt.

Under the Philippine Passport Act, a passport is considered damaged if its physical condition is altered due to wear and tear, aging, negligence, or other factors that leave it mutilated or defective.

A passport is deemed mutilated if its data page becomes unreadable or if any information is missing. 

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