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Etihad Airways to debut A321LR this August

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Etihad Airways is setting a new standard for single-aisle flying with the debut of its all-new Airbus A321LR, delivering wide-body comfort on short and medium-haul routes. Etihad’s A321LR represents a leap forward in guest experience and innovation, bringing Etihad’s signature luxury and a true First class experience to narrowbody flying.

“The A321LR is an amazing aircraft which proves our commitment to luxury, customer experience, and connectivity,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.

“With our new First Suites, 14 lie-flat Business seats with direct-aisle access, and upgraded Economy, we’ve taken the luxury experience which we are famed for on our widebody fleet and adapted it to offer guests the same experience in a single-aisle aircraft – all while keeping them seamlessly connected with superfast, streaming Wi-Fi throughout the journey.

“More broadly, the A321LR marks a transformational moment for Etihad as we accelerate toward our Journey 2030 vision: doubling our fleet size, tripling our passenger numbers, and opening 16 new destinations in 2025 alone.”

An Extraordinary Experience in Every Cabin

Etihad’s A321LR introduces an all-new First Suite – a private, enclosed space with a sliding door, lie-flat bed, elevated dining, and bespoke design touches.

With only two exclusive First suites on board, guests will enjoy an intimate, ultra-premium experience normally reserved for long-haul widebodies. This marks the first time Etihad brings the full widebody First experience to a narrowbody aircraft, redefining luxury on short and medium-haul routes.

The innovative and spacious First Suite offers additional space for a companion to sit as well as a large 20” 4K screen for entertainment, with Bluetooth pairing and wireless charging – ensuring comfort and connection at every touchpoint.

The new Business cabin features widebody-style seats, all forward facing with direct aisle access (1-1) in a herringbone layout with 14 fully-flat 78” beds. Each seat includes a 17.3” 4K screen, Bluetooth headphone pairing, wireless charging, and ample personal storage, ensuring a seamless, connected journey.

In Economy, 144 thoughtfully designed seats offer up to 5” recline, enhanced ergonomics, and generous space. At 18.4” wide, it’s one of the widest Economy seats in the industry, providing wide-body comfort to the narrow-body aircraft. Every guest enjoys a 13.3” 4K touchscreen, USB charging, and access to Etihad’s next-generation entertainment system.

Etihad’s aircraft are equipped with Viasat’s advanced, multi-orbit ready system, which is capable of speeds of up to 1 Gbps, and available from gate-to-gate where permitted. All guests have access to streaming, social media, surfing and gaming onboard, in addition to live television throughout the cabin.

Luxury Beyond the Cabin: The First Experience Redefined

Etihad’s First Suite is only the beginning of a truly end-to-end premium journey. The airline is expanding its First class offering across more routes – including the A321LR network – and significantly investing in every detail of the travel experience with new services to be rolled out from August with the introduction of the A321LR.

“As well as investing heavily to expand our First class offering, we’re taking the time to enhance every tiny detail of the experience and introducing a host of new premium services over the next couple of months – stay tuned,” said Neves.

From the moment guests choose to book First, they will be supported by personalised service from the new Etihad Concierge, which will be available 24/7 for tailored travel planning.

In the UAE and all First destinations, guests will enjoy a private chauffeur service to and from the airport, providing a seamless experience from door-to-door. First class guests will also be personally escorted through a dedicated Check In to the Etihad First Lounge and then for boarding. On arrival, guests will be accompanied from the aircraft door to their chauffeur, with porter services taking care of the luggage.

In Abu Dhabi, First guests will also soon benefit from complimentary Home Check-In and Land & Leave services, offering a baggage-free airport experience. At Zayed International Airport, First guests will be chauffeured to the aircraft door in a private limousine if the flight does not board directly from the terminal.

“First isn’t just a seat – it’s an experience that starts the moment you choose to fly with us,” added Neves. “We’re bringing First to more destinations and elevating it at every touchpoint, combining the elegance of champagne and caviar with the convenience of modern luxury.”

Expanding Horizons

Etihad’s first A321LR enters service on 1 August 2025, with ten aircraft joining the fleet this year. The aircraft will fly from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport to destinations including Algiers, Athens, Bangkok, Chennai, Chiang Mai, Copenhagen, Dusseldorf, Kolkata, Krabi, Medan, Milan, Paris, Phnom Penh, Phuket, Riyadh, Tunis, and Zurich.

With the A321LR at the heart of its fleet expansion, Etihad is reinforcing its role as a key enabler of tourism and economic development in Abu Dhabi, while delivering world-class service at every altitude.

 

 

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RCU launches the 3rd phase of ‘Forever Revitalising’ global brand campaign in the UK

The post RCU launches the 3rd phase of ‘Forever Revitalising’ global brand campaign in the UK appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) announces the launch of the third phase in its ‘Forever Revitalising’, global brand campaign in the UK market working directly with trade distribution partners to reach our consumers.

A digital marketing campaign has gone live this week with the campaign call to action directing consumers directly to trade partners providing a comprehensive series of travel offers. Trade partners included in this phase are Abercrombie & Kent, Elegant Resorts, Destinology, Southhall Travel and Away Holidays.

Phase three is focused on conversion, with the goal of targeting individuals who have shown direct interest in AlUla content within phase one and two. Assets include website banners and social posts, each presenting the core message of AlUla’s appeal as a destination, combined with a competitive travel package offered by each of the five trade partners.

AlUla launched its inspiring inaugural global campaign, ‘Forever Revitalising’, in February 2024, and phase two, focused on driving consumer engagement and consideration with digital activity running from November 2024 to the end of January 2025. It made its debut across nine core global source markets in six languages.

With an emphasis on renewal and transformation, Forever Revitalising aligns with AlUla’s vision of becoming a destination that is not only historically rich but eternally relevant. With this global campaign, AlUla presents a revitalised cultural promise, inviting discerning tourists and partners to emotionally engage and be vested in its unique and evolving narrative.

 

 

 

 

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Air India to operate daily flights to Tokyo Haneda from 15 June 2025

The post Air India to operate daily flights to Tokyo Haneda from 15 June 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air India announced the expansion of its non-stop service between Delhi and Tokyo Haneda, increasing from 4x weekly flights to daily flights, starting 15 June 2025. This enhancement strengthens connectivity between India and Japan, offering greater convenience for travellers and supporting growing trade and tourism between the two countries.

This move builds on Air India’s recent shift to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (from Narita) on 31 March 2025, which reduced travel time to Tokyo Station to approximately 30 minutes. The daily flights, operated with Air India’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, provide passengers with faster access to central Tokyo, as Haneda Airport is just 18 km from downtown Tokyo.

“Expanding our Delhi-Tokyo Haneda service to daily flights reflects Air India’s commitment to meeting the rising demand for travel between India and Japan,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India. “This daily service, combined with our deepened codeshare partnership with All Nippon Airways, makes it easier for our guests to explore Japan and connect conveniently to other destinations in the country beyond Tokyo.”

Through Air India’s expanded codeshare with Star Alliance partner All Nippon Airways (ANA), Air India guests can conveniently connect from Tokyo Haneda to six major Japanese cities—Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Nagoya, Okinawa, Osaka, and Sapporo—on a single ticket with baggage checked through to their final destination.

The daily flights enable seamless connections to domestic Indian destinations like Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Pune, as well as international routes across Asia and Europe.

The updated flight schedule, effective 15 June 2025, is as follows:

  • AI358: Departs Delhi (DEL) at 2020 Hrs, arrives Tokyo Haneda (HND) at 0755 Hrs next day (daily).
  • AI357: Departs Tokyo Haneda (HND) at 1150 Hrs, arrives Delhi (DEL) at 1725 Hrs (daily).

Bookings for Air India’s Delhi-Tokyo Haneda flights are open on all channels, including Air India’s website, mobile app, and through travel agents.

 

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Australian Tourism Exchange officially opens

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The Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) officially opened in Brisbane/Meanjin on Monday, 28th April, kicking off a four day programme of business appointments between members of the Australian tourism industry and global tourism wholesalers and retailers.

Running till Thursday, 1st May, ATE expects the attendance of around 1,600 Australian sellers and over 700 global buyers.

Attendees will take part in 60,000 appointments at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

According to Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison, ATE is  the tourism board’s largest annual trade event and plays a crucial role in driving business from key international tourism markets to Australian tourism operators.

Harrison said: “ATE is a chance for our tourism industry to meet face-to-face with key tourism decision makers from around the world and tell them about the incredible products and experiences Australia has to offer for international holidaymakers.”

Furthermore, the 1,600 Australian sellers in Brisbane will have access to buyers from 31 countries and the connections they make in coming days will drive international travellers to their businesses in the months and years ahead.

ATE25 is delivered by Tourism Australia in partnership with Tourism Events Queensland, with support from the Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

A welcome return

Queensland minister for the environment and tourism Andrew Powell pointed out how Brisbane is extremely fortunate to host ATE25, as the event was last held in Queensland’s capital city 17 years ago.

Powell said: “Brisbane has changed significantly since the Australian Tourism Exchange was last here, and we’re so excited to have the opportunity to showcase just how much our city and state have evolved over time – we’ve got more to offer than ever before. We’ve certainly made the most of this brilliant hosting opportunity, with Queensland tourism operators taking up 191 booths, including 17 Indigenous operators, taking over a quarter of the trade show floor.”

He added that, as Brisbane is slated to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the state government is determined to enhance its global appeal.

Powell said: “There is simply no better opportunity to showcase Queensland’s countless connections to sea, land and culture than at ATE25. We want these international tourism decision makers coming back to our shores with as many visitors as possible in the lead up to 2032, during and well beyond.”

For his part, Brisbane’s lord mayor Adrian Schrinner said the 2025 Australian Tourism Exchange would drive more business to local tourism operators.

He said: “Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital, and our tourism operators are a key reason why we are capturing global attention as one of the best places in the world to visit.”

Schrimmer added that the ATE provides a fantastic platform to give tourism operators an edge internationally and stand out in a saturated market.

He said: “This will ensure Brisbane remains a destination of choice for international visitors by showcasing just how much there is to see and do here.”

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Tourism Authority of Thailand presents its country as a prime Muslim-friendly destination

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is highlighting Thailand’s position as a premier Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025.

TAT’s participation at the event is in line with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative.

At the event, TAT announced new partnerships with key GCC-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, to enhance connectivity and offer co-branded campaigns that showcase Thailand’s wellness and luxury experiences. 

These initiatives aim to help TAT reach its 2025 target of over 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa (MEA).

According to TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool: “Thailand is proud to offer an inclusive, seamless travel experience for Muslim travellers. We now have an extensive network of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities at major airports and shopping centres, and luxury accommodations with private and gender-segregated amenities. We believe these features make Thailand a compelling choice for the Muslim travel market.”

Specifically for the Muslim market

For its participation at ATM 2025, TAT has developed tailored travel packages for families, honeymooners, and wellness seekers from the GCC region. 

These curated experiences focus on privacy, cultural exploration, shopping, and relaxation, all of which were designed in line with the values and expectations of Muslim travellers.

Last year, Thailand welcomed over 956,000 visitors from the MEA region, a 25.6 percent increase from the previous year. 

Indeed, the Southeast Asian country remains a top destination among high-spending travellers from the Middle East who seek longer stays and personalised itineraries.

As part of its broader campaign, TAT is showcasing the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 at ATM. The nationwide celebration features year-round festivals, global sporting events, and exclusive travel privileges. 

Key focus areas include sports tourism, wellness, culture, gastronomy, and luxury, each offering immersive and personalised experiences that reflect Thailand’s commitment to sustainable, creative, and innovative tourism.

Thailand is a must

The campaign also highlights Thailand’s “5 Must-Do Experiences”: Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must Seek, and Must See which invites travellers to delve deeper into the country’s cultural richness beyond the typical tourist routes.

Kiatphaibool added: “The Middle East is familiar with our iconic offerings, but we’re excited to present new perspectives, including our Thai Craft Destinations concept and Hidden Gem Cities. These showcase authentic local craftsmanship, culture, and cuisine, helping travellers discover the true essence of Thailand.”

TAT’s efforts are underpinned by Thailand’s sustainable tourism strategy, which follows the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. 

This approach supports low-impact travel, community engagement, and cultural preservation, reinforcing Thailand’s role as a leader in responsible tourism.

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ITE Hong Kong 2025 to introduce Youth Travel Zone

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The upcoming ITE Hong Kong 2025 introduces an innovative new area for a new generation of travellers.

The new Youth Travel Zone is expected to help younger people imagine the infinite possibilities of global travel.

The Youth Travel Zone will also feature a Workshop Area and the Zone itself expands the possibility of learning through its proximity with several booths held by a variety of organisations.

At the heart of the zone is the VolTra Market, a venue featuring stalls showcasing the multifaceted connections between travel, culture, creativity, and lifestyle. 

Those handling the stalls come from diverse backgrounds, but share common ground in terms of extensive travel experiences that they will share with participants.

As such, The VolTra Market seeks to deliver an inspiring experience to attendees, one that revolves around the theme The Possibilities of Travel.

VolTra, the organisation behind the market, will also have its own booth next to the Zone, where it will present its programmes, services, and activities in greater detail.

According to VolTra executive director Olivia Ma: “Each stall in the VolTra Market Zone tells a story, not just of where someone has been, but how those experiences sparked creativity, purpose, and action. There, young visitors can be inspired to explore the world not just for leisure, but as changemakers in their communities and beyond.”

Here to inspire

Established in 2009, VolTra is a registered charitable organization that promotes action learning through international voluntary service, experiential travel, community participation, and gamified interaction. 

It designs and organises a wide range of local and international volunteer and educational programs, aiming to broaden participants’ global awareness. 

By inspiring individuals to turn ideas into action and make positive changes in their communities, VolTra works toward the vision of highly participative glocal action.

KS Tong, managing director of ITE organiser TKS, said: “Our warm welcome to the highly inspirational VolTra Market Zone which will show visitors, especially the younger generations, how to get more from traveling! We are excited that some stall owners actually infuse travel inspirations into their products, bringing a bit of their experience into each one.” 

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Klook: Philippine travellers hankering to go to Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam

The post Klook: Philippine travellers hankering to go to Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Klook Philippines presented the results of its 2025 Travel Pulse Study which looked into the different travel behaviours and preferences of Filipinos over the past year today, 29th April.

Study results show a particular shift with regard to dream destinations, as Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam came away as the top three choices for this year.

This year’s study specifically highlighted the likes and preferences of the younger generations, namely Millennials and Gen Z. 

General manager Michello Ho said: “Overall, we’ve seen Filipinos take more chances on travelling in 2024 and definitely aren’t slowing down in 2025. It’s even reached the extent that Millennials and Gen Zs perceive it to be a therapeutic tool. From being considered a love language last year, to being a form of therapy today, it goes to show that travel continues to evolve in different ways to serve each individual’s unique definition of joy.”

Today’s event also featured the launch of an official partnership between Klook Philippines and Hospitality Innovators, Inc. (HII) which stemmed from the results of the study.

Relevant findings

The survey found that 98.5 percent of Filipino respondents have plans to travel domestically as well as nearby locations in the next year, while more than half shared that they plan to travel internationally. 

Klook also noted that, aside from the usual international hotspots like Japan, South Korea and Singapore; Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand were emerging in popularity amongst Filipinos.

With regard to travel habits, it was noted that planning in advance remains a fundamental part of the Filipino travel experience, as 39 percent of travellers booked their flights and accommodations up to three months ahead of the trip.

Interestingly, only 27 percent of respondents booked their experience in-destination.

Once at their destination, 63 percent of Filipinos shared that they try out adventurous tours, digital detox, wellness, and meditation retreats, and are aligned with the spirit of trying out new things.

On the other hand, 57 percent take on hidden gem adventures, while 54 percent try out workshops and classes that pique their interest. 

The top consideration Filipinos made when booking their travels revolved around vacationing during times when weather conditions were optimal.

Scheduling around work and school vacations were ranked of equal importance, scoring 29.9 percent,  followed by the affordability of the travel options available to them. 

How social media comes into play

Social media plays a significant role in travel inspiration as 89 percent of Filipinos choose to visit a destination because it was popular on social media.

This was evident to the platform following a 157 percent increase in revenue for Vietnam tourism services and products made on Klook after Klook Kreators started posting about their travels to Vietnam. 

On the topic of Klook’s community of Kreators, the program is set to continue making an impact as Kreator-generated sales have increased by 20 percent in Q1 2025 versus Q4 2024.

Quick content such as photos and short-form videos  are considered the go-to travel guides for Pinoys followed by long-form videos and in-depth blog posts that dive deeper into destination.

Ho explained: “Based on our study, social media has definitely made an impact on the way Filipinos plan their travels, and the motivations that create their itineraries. It’s become a means of digitalization that drives a more intense desire to travel and explore what’s out there.”

While TikTok is only the third most popular application among respondents, the study shows that compared to the regional average, Filipinos are more than two times more likely to engage with TikTok for travel inspiration. 

The rankings haven’t changed much as Facebook remains to lead the list (84%), followed by Youtube (73%), and Instagram places last (63%). 

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InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping earns LEED Gold Certification

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The recently renovated InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping has earned LEED Gold Certification, becoming the first hotel in Chiang Mai to be recognised for its sustainability initiatives. 

In its first LEED certification since opening, the hotel achieved a total of 65 points out of 100, earning top marks for water efficiency, innovation and focus on region-specific priorities.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world’s most recognised green building rating system and focuses on sustainable living, the health of people and the environment.

A leader in sustainable hospitality, InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping is now part of a select group of eco-friendly and innovative properties around the world that meet the exacting LEED Gold criteria. 

According to general manager Adnan Yucel: “When redesigning the iconic hotel that is now InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, energy efficiency and sustainability were always at the forefront of our priorities. We are immensely proud that our dedication has been recognised with LEED Gold Certification. By combining the latest in green technology and architecture with deep respect for Thailand’s cultural heritage, we are committed to leading the way in sustainable luxury.”

Staying sustainable 

To reduce water use, the team at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping relies on 100 percent recycled water for landscape irrigation, and recycled water and water-saving fixtures for indoor systems. 

By choosing native and adaptable plants for its gardens, the hotel has not only contributed to restoring and protecting habitat areas from development and construction activities but has also ensured a significant reduction in water usage.

As part of the efforts to minimise nighttime light pollution, backlight reduction lamps soften exterior glare, while facade and landscape lighting automatically turns off between midnight and 6:00 am.

To reduce energy consumption, solar panels connect directly to the hotel’s electrical system, bypassing battery storage, and cover over three percent of the annual energy cost. 

In addition, high-performance laminated glass has replaced the original vision glass, ensuring enhanced energy efficiency throughout the building.

Finally, to mitigate the effect of tropical heat, light-coloured pavements were chosen for the hardscape areas. 

With over 45 percent of the site dedicated to open spaces, including diverse green zones, social areas and recreational spaces, both guests and team members can enjoy social interactions in calming natural environments.

Sustainable by design

The hotel’s design, highly ranked by LEED for its commitment for innovation, celebrates Lanna culture by including such elements as the Pan Ya-style roof which was inspired by the region’s vernacular architecture.

Such elements form a spiritual link between the modern building and the heritage temple on-site. 

Inside, carefully chosen graphics, textures and materials inspired by Lanna elements blend contemporary geometric structures with a time-honoured cultural identity. 

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SriLankan Airlines marks International Pilots’ Day with a thanksgiving celebration

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SriLankan Airlines celebrated its pilots with a special gathering for International Pilots’ Day on Saturday, 26th April.

The event was held at the airline’s Flight Dispatch Centre at Bandaranaike International Airport. 

Pilots were presented with a special vehicle badge bearing the iconic winged emblem, in appreciation of their enduring dedication and flying spirit that keeps the world connected every day. 

The event also treated guests to pilot-themed cupcakes, and served as an opportunity for SriLankan Airlines staff to reflect on and celebrate the extraordinary effort and sacrifices pilots make in bringing the world closer together.

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Megaworld Hotels & Resorts leads the way for Muslim tourism in the Philippines

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Embracing a new standard on Muslim hospitality, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) stands tall as the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT)’s leading partner when it comes to promoting the country to Muslim tourists. 

As of press time, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia continue to be MHR’s largest Muslim source markets, as these collectively contributed to a 40 percent increase in Muslim stays and a 58 percent growth in revenue from January to March 2024. 

Since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on 6th May 2024 at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, MHR has taken the lead in supporting Muslim tourism growth across its 13 hotels certified as Muslim-friendly by DOT. 

According to MHR managing director Cleofe Abiso: “The milestones we have achieved in Muslim-friendly hospitality would not have been possible without the invaluable partnerships we have built with the Department of Tourism, local governments, and our certification bodies like the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines. Together, we share a common vision of positioning the Philippines as a welcoming and inclusive destination for Muslim travelers.”

Abiso added that working in tandem with such partners has enabled MHR to set new standards in the Philippine hospitality sector.

She said: From being the first hotel group to achieve 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation accreditation to pioneering projects like Marhaba Boracay. At Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, we believe that when the public and private sectors collaborate with sincerity and purpose, we can truly transform the Philippine tourism landscape for the better.”

One with emergent trends

The rising demand is reflected in broader national tourism trends. 

According to the DOT, the Philippines recorded 630,000 Muslim visitor arrivals in 2024, marking a 23 percent increase compared to 2023. 

Malaysia remains the top source of Muslim tourists, with many visitors traveling in large family groups year-round. 

This proves that the Muslim market is growing with its total population expected to reach 2.3 billion by 2030.

Heartfelt service centred on diversity and inclusivity

MHR is proudly known for its Sampaguita brand of heartfelt Filipino service, creating a journey with the five senses for the guest and showcasing the values deeply-rooted in Filipino culture, such as love, honour, dignity, and healing, which the company instills in every aspect of its operations. 

MHR is also the first and largest Filipino hotel chain to achieve 100 percent accreditation as a Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment (MFAE) across all its properties, as recognized by the DOT. 

In addition, the group recognizes the significance of Halal dining and ensures that its kitchens at Kingsford Hotel Manila, Grand Westside Hotel, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, and Belmont Hotel Mactan are Halal-certified by the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines (HICCIP).

Further expanding its initiatives, MHR in partnership with the DOT and the local government of Malay, Aklan, launched Marhaba Boracay last 10th September.

This project transformed a portion of the pristine 300-meter white sand beach at Cove 2 in Boracay Newcoast into a dedicated Muslim-friendly zone. The area features family-friendly amenities and private spaces designed especially for Muslim women and children.

As more Muslim travelers discover the beauty of the Philippines, MMHR aims to stay  true to its promise of creating heartfelt, meaningful experiences with the Sampaguita.

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