Author Archive for: admin

IATA launches its Integrated Sustainability Programme

The post IATA launches its Integrated Sustainability Programme appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) launched its Integrated Sustainability Programme (ISP) as it opened the 2025 IATA World Sustainability Symposium (WSS) in Hong Kong. 

ISP is a certification program offering airlines a comprehensive sustainability management and assessment framework. 

It is designed specifically for airlines and built upon the successful IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA).

Along with certification, the programme includes training, consulting, assessments, guidance, and tools in four critical modules:

  • Environmental management;
  • Sustainable procurement;
  • Social responsibility; and 
  • Sustainability performance. 

ISP certifications and modules may be pursued individually or as a fully integrated sustainability program. 

Certifications are subject to a recurring two-year cycle of independent assessments.

According to IATA senior vice-president for sustainability and chief economist Marie Owens Thomsen: “The comprehensive ISP certification program validates that an airline is managing its sustainability efforts at the highest level and in the broadest context. It does this by integrating the monitoring of environmental, social, and governance measures and providing all stakeholders, regulators, and customers with a transparent view of the progress. This comes with the added value of being designed for airlines’ specific needs, making ISP a practical framework to inform decision-making while ensuring that airlines’ efforts are aligned with global best practices.”

Integrated programme modules 

The four ISP modules include:

  • Environmental Management:  IEnvA is now a fully integrated program within the ISP. By incorporating ISO14001:2015 principles, IEnvA enables organizations to assess their environmental footprint systematically, manage compliance obligations, and develop targeted management plans for emissions, waste, water, noise, biodiversity, and pollution. Airlines already certified under IEnvA will be incorporated under the ISP framework, with the option to take up additional modules/certifications.
  • Sustainable Procurement: For the first time, the ISP brings ISO20400:2017-aligned sustainable procurement standards to aviation. This empowers organizations to evaluate and improve the sustainability of their supply chains and the goods and services they buy across environmental, social, and governance dimensions.
  • Social Responsibility: The ISP integrates ISO26000:2010, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and OECD guidelines into a certifiable framework to help organizations map social risks and opportunities. These encompass establishing customer protection and service, human rights due diligence processes, driving continuous improvement in community engagement and investment, for example.
  • Sustainability Performance: This program allows airlines to measure and monitor their environmental, social, and governance performance. Following the new ISP framework will support transparent reporting and informed decision-making in line with evolving organizational, regulatory, customer and investor ESG ambitions and requirements.

New Zealand and Taiwan get in first

At the WSS in Hong Kong, it was also announced that Air New Zealand and EVA Air are the first two carriers to receive the Sustainable Procurement certification under the ISP.  

Air New Zealand’s chief sustainability and corporate affairs officer Kiri Hannifin said of the certification: As New Zealand’s national airline, we’ve always had a responsibility to help our people and communities thrive. For Air New Zealand, sustainable procurement means building on the collective strength and innovation of our supplier network, and working together to create better outcomes for people and the planet. By backing IATA’s new ISP, we want to play our part to help lift standards across aviation, and demonstrate that doing what’s right is about doing good business.”

EVA Air’s chief sustainability officer Jason Liu echoed these sentiments as he remarked: “Earning this certification marks a key milestone in EVA Air’s sustainability journey, reflecting our commitment to integrating sustainability into procurement and collaborating with partners to build a more resilient supply chain.”

What comes next

At present, ISP modules and certification procedures are only available to airlines. 

Indeed, it is expected that ISP will evolve over time as IATA continues to work with a broad spectrum of industry participants and stakeholders to ensure that industry standards, guidance, and certifications remain practical and impactful.

Over time, its scope will eventually spread to ground handlers, cargo handlers, airports, MROs, and caterers.

The post IATA launches its Integrated Sustainability Programme appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

South Korea’s T’Way Air offers savings on flights to and from Taiwan till 31st October

The post South Korea’s T’Way Air offers savings on flights to and from Taiwan till 31st October appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

South Korean low-cost carrier T’way Air invites travelers to enjoy special savings through 31st October on Taiwan-Korea bookings for travel until 28th March 2026.

Those shopping for trips can avail of any of the following offers:

  • Up to 15 percent Off Promo Code: enter promo code FLYOCT when booking, for travel through 28th March 2026;
  • First-Come TWD 500 Off Coupon: bookings of TWD 5,000 or more, travel through 28th March 2026; valid on Taipei–Jeju, and Kaohsiung–Jeju;
  • TWD 300 Off Coupon: bookings of TWD 3,000 or more, travel through 28th March 2026;
  • TWD 800 Off Coupon: bookings of TWD 7,000 or more, travel through 28th March 2026;
  • TWD 400 Early Bird Coupon: bookings of TWD 3,000 or more, travel period 1st December 2025 to 28th March 2026; and
  • TWD 900 Early Bird Coupon: bookings of TWD 7,000 or more, travel period 1st December 2025 to 28th March 2026.

A treat for Taiwanese tourists

Travellers may opt to start in Myeongdong for street food and nonstop shopping, walk the fortress wall in Naksan Park for sunset views, and look over the Seoul skyline from N Seoul Tower. 

As that’s bound to whet an appetite, they can try local favorites including gimbap, naengmyeon, seollongtang, and Korean hot dogs at locations close to major shopping and cultural hotspots. 

For a change of pace, head to Jeju Island for coastal trails and a relaxed vibe beloved by locals.

With T’way Air flights to Korea, planning a culture-rich trip is easy, and the Korean Wave adds to the fun. 

The airline currently operates seven direct flights to Korea: Songshan–Gimpo (Seoul), Taipei–Jeju, Taipei–Daegu, Taichung–Incheon (Seoul), Kaohsiung–Gimpo (Seoul), Kaohsiung–Incheon (Seoul), and Kaohsiung–Jeju.

The post South Korea’s T’Way Air offers savings on flights to and from Taiwan till 31st October appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

APO Group founder Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard named to Future Hospitality Summit Africa’s advisory board

The post APO Group founder Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard named to Future Hospitality Summit Africa’s advisory board appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Pan-African communications and news distribution consultancy APO Group announced that its founder and chairman Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard was appointed to the advisory board of the Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) 2026.

As a member of the board, Pompigne-Mognard will play an instrumental role in shaping the strategic direction of FHS Africa by sharing valuable insights on the key themes and topics that will define the event’s agenda. 

His perspective will help ensure that FHS Africa continues to deliver impactful, relevant, and future-focused discussions for the continent’s hospitality and investment sectors.

With regard to his appointment, Pompigne-Mognard pointed out how the hospitality sector plays a pivotal role in advancing Africa’s economies.

He said: “Hotels are a cornerstone of Africa’s growth story. They attract tourism, stimulate foreign investment, and generate foreign currency. More importantly, they provide a platform for vital business meetings and events that bring together multinational organisations across the continent.”

Through his continued involvement with FHS Africa, Pompigne-Mognard aims to further support initiatives that strengthen Africa’s position as a leading destination for hospitality investment and development.

Long-standing involvement

Prior to this most recent appointment, Pompigne-Mognard served as a member of the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF)’s advisory board from 2019 to 2025.

He was also a speaker and resource person at both AHIF and the Forum de l’Investissement Hôtelier Africain (FIHA).

Named among the Top 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 and 2024, Pompigne-Mognard also serves in multiple senior advisory capacities across key sectors throughout the African continent.

The post APO Group founder Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard named to Future Hospitality Summit Africa’s advisory board appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Omio releases its 2025 NowNext report

The post Omio releases its 2025 NowNext report appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global multi-modal booking platform Omio published its annual NowNext report on Friday, 17th October.

The latest edition of NowNext paints a vivid picture of how global travel will continue to evolve in the coming year.

Among the aspects studied were emotional drivers and generational biases, as well as trending destinations and evolving demands.

It was particularly notable how intentional travel is currently on the rise, though now involving a little more planning and greater intent across evolving traveller types.

The report is the result of an Omio-commissioned survey done by global research institute YouGov.

The omnibus survey involved more than 10,555 global participants, particularly from Italy, Spain, Germany, the UK, the US, Brazil, Japan, and Australia. 

Findings included are based on those who may take a holiday in the next 12 months as well as current Omio user data.

Omio’s president of B2C and supply Veronica Diquattro remarked: “Travel has shifted dramatically in recent years, from no travel during the Pandemic, to revenge travel, and now into a new era of intentional travel. What hasn’t changed is people’s determination to explore. The desire to travel is as strong as ever and, although it isn’t always easy, travellers continue to find a way. Our report reveals a new age of conscious, smart, and value-driven travel. At Omio, we dedicate our efforts to keeping pace with emerging traveller demands, ensuring every journey is seamless. Whether that’s finding the best deals, offering a mode of transport that suits their needs, or connecting them to trending destinations with ease, we are here to turn travellers’ dreams into reality and inspiration into action.”

Coming up in 2026

Among the trends travel professionals need to keep an eye on in the coming year are:

  • Worldwide Woe The world is a hot mess right now, and that’s having a significant impact on how people travel. 69 percent of those who may take a holiday in the next 12 months say global events will affect their future travel planning. However, it’s not all doom and gloom, as travel intent isn’t going anywhere. Amongst those who may take a holiday in the next 12 months 30% want to travel more often than before;
  • Deal or No Destination With rising living costs, frequent travel has become more challenging, but not impossible. 38 percent of consumers will prioritise travel over other non-essential spending. From travelling off-season to planning in advance and more carefully, these determined travellers are pros at finding the best deals or planning more flexibly to ensure they can get away. The new ‘Travel Thrifties’ type is here to stay;
  • Love EU More The world’s love affair with Europe is set to continue. However, next year will see Europeans prioritising their own continent over destinations further afield. Although Brits might no longer be EU citizens, 56 percent still intend to book holidays on the continent. Germans, Italians, and Spaniards also plan to stay local next year. Travellers from outside of Europe are also still enamoured with EU excursions;
  • World of Mouth Travellers are turning their backs on the internet for more human ways to get inspired. While social media and AI are in the mix, most people prefer to find their next destination via past trips or word-of-mouth recommendations. Interestingly, 23 percent are influenced by TV shows or films, so screen-driven tourism is booming and is reshaping the travel sector;
  • Beach, Please 2026 will see the renaissance of the seaside holiday, with consumers seeking a more relaxing or beach time break and a desire to return feeling recharged. Capital city breaks and big adventures have been the trips du jour, but next year will bring a calmer, more mindful energy, with 20 percent of travellers opting for solo time and self-reflection, plus 18 percent wishing for wellness and self-care;
  • Overtourism & Out Sustainable travel is here to stay, but not in the way you might expect. Supporting local businesses, embracing regional culture, and seeking out under-the-radar locations, all taking precedence over choosing greener transport choices. Effect and cause: Italian and Spanish travellers are the most interested in exploring less-crowded or under-the-radar destinations, which could be a direct result of overtourism in their homeland;
  • Capital Losses Capital cities had a moment last year, but that’s about to change. In 2026, 21 percent of travellers want to journey to lesser-known destinations. Travellers cite lower prices, fewer crowds, and unique attractions or culture as reasons to visit smaller metropolises next year. At the same time, Omio data shows a similar trend, with bookings to second cities rising by 34 percent, compared to last year.
  • The Gender (Off)Balance Compared to the last few years, 19 percent of men are more likely to travel solo next year, seeking to disconnect from their busy lives. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to travel to connect, with 34 percent planning to travel for family time or reunions, and 22 percent being more likely to go away with friends. No man is an island, but perhaps next year, they should travel to one; and
  • Generation Zealous Gen Z is reinventing the travel landscape as we know it. 31 percent will plan ahead of time and more carefully to manage the amount they spend on holidays and travel in the next 12 months. This is good planning as they want to travel more, go away for longer, and choose more environmentally friendly transport options. They demand more than any other generation, but will they get it?

The post Omio releases its 2025 NowNext report appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Saudi Arabia stands at centre of global wellness at the first-ever FIBO Arabia

The post Saudi Arabia stands at centre of global wellness at the first-ever FIBO Arabia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

FIBO Arabia, the leading international exhibition for health, fitness, and wellness in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), drew to a successful conclusion last week.

The inaugural run of FIBO Arabia welcomed 12,399 regional and international visitors to the three-day showcase staged at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center.

Held under the theme For a Strong and Healthy Society, and aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the event delivered an integrated platform for innovation, knowledge exchange, and strategic partnerships across the wellness value chain.

Supported by the Ministry of Investment as Strategic Partner, the Ministry of Sport as Executive Partner, and the Ministry of Health as the official Wellness & Longevity Partner, FIBO Arabia showcased over 80 global exhibitors and homegrown enterprises, featuring five dynamic live arenas and a conference programme hosting more than 50 internationally renowned speakers, setting a new benchmark for fitness events in the region.

A reflection of Saudi dynamism

RX managing director for the Middle East and emerging markets Vasyl Zhygalo said that the event’s success reflects both the strength of Saudi Arabia’s wellness economy and its appetite for innovation, collaboration, and growth across the industry.

Zhygalo said: “Over three days, we have seen transformative ideas shared, new partnerships formed, and inspiring performances that highlight the Kingdom’s global ambition.“

FIBO Arabia event director Cynthia Zeinoun added: “What makes this event truly special is the way it unites government, business, athletes, and communities around a shared vision for healthier, more active lifestyles. This first edition is only the beginning; we are building momentum in Riyadh to shape the regional and international fitness landscape for the future.”

An important report

Among the event’s headline announcements was the launch of the first Fitness Sector Development Report: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a collaboration led by the Ministry of Sport in partnership with FIBO Arabia and advisory firm CAA Portas.

The report was presented by Abdullah AlRasheed, director of investment enablement at the Ministry of Sport, and Wissam Khalaf, head of MEA and a partner at CAA Portas.

The document outlined how the fitness industry in the country is expected to double in value to SAR 15.5 billion by 2030, driven by investor interest, policy reform, and surging participation from women and youth.

Who’s who

Leading international brands from over 18 countries were present at the event, including Apparel Group, Technogym, Life Fitness, DRAX, Matrix, BH Fitness, Precor, Keiser Corporation, Therabody, Delta Fitness, and Wellness First, amongst others.

The international presence helping to underscore the Kingdom’s growing influence in the health and wellness sector.

The FIBO Arabia Conference likewise brought together prominent fitness voices, including global strategist Herman Rutgers, Morgan Stanley’s Alexey Naumov, Armah Sports Company’s Nathan Clute, and Riyadh Combat Club’s Hani Bukhari, who explored strategies to accelerate market maturity and increase sector inclusivity.

A strong focus was placed on women in fitness, with a strong lineup of female speakers and thousands of women attendees, including Nelly Attar, the first Arab woman to climb K2 and Saudi-national Rawan Al Saadi, a Les Mills athlete, who highlighted the role of empowerment, shifting cultural narratives, and the importance of inclusive facility design.

The exhibition also marked a significant step forward in national fitness development. As part of the Performance Arena, the FIBO Arabia x Saudi Bodybuilding Federation National Championship featured Saudi athletes competing for a spot in the upcoming IFBB World Bodybuilding Championships.

The post Saudi Arabia stands at centre of global wellness at the first-ever FIBO Arabia appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

IWTA interviews Jayne McDougall on “Empowering Communities Through Hospitality”

The post IWTA interviews Jayne McDougall on “Empowering Communities Through Hospitality” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

 

IWTA interviews Jayne McDougall on “Empowering Communities Through Hospitality”

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you know of any female leaders or up and coming superstars in the Travel and Hospitality industry you would like to hear their story, please visit our page and complete a nomination form!

 

NOMINATE SOMEONE

 

NOMINATE YOURSELF

 

 

The post IWTA interviews Jayne McDougall on “Empowering Communities Through Hospitality” appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Agoda inks partnership with UK hospitality chain Premier Inn

The post Agoda inks partnership with UK hospitality chain Premier Inn appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global digital travel platform Agoda has signed a partnership with the United Kingdom’s largest hotel chain Premier Inn.

By doing so, the hotel’s portfolio of over 900 properties across the UK, Germany, and Ireland can now be accessed by Agoda’s customer base. 

This collaboration is set to deliver greater choice and value to Agoda’s travelers, particularly those from Asia, who are increasingly seeking quality, reliable accommodation as they explore destinations across the UK, Germany and Ireland.

Agoda senior vice-president of supply Andrew Smith said of the partnership: “Premier Inn’s commitment to delivering great value, consistent quality, and ensuring every guest enjoys a good night’s sleep are shared values that underpin Agoda’s mission to make travel more accessible and rewarding. Together we’re bringing trusted stays to millions of new travelers across Asia and beyond.”

For his part, Premier Inn’s director of sales and distribution Tim Sleep said: “Partnering with Agoda is another exciting step forward in reaching even more guests and travelers across international markets. Greater visibility of all of our 900+ hotels will allow a new set of travelers to enjoy the comfort, service and convenience we consistently offer.”

Meaningful partnerships

This collaboration underscores Agoda’s focus on building partnerships that deliver tangible benefits for both travelers and industry partners including accommodation, airlines and activities providers. 

With Premier Inn now available on Agoda, travelers gain access to a wider range of quality stays, while Premier Inn benefits from increased exposure to high-potential markets.

Together, Agoda and Premier Inn are helping to shape the future of international travel by making it easier for guests to discover and book trusted accommodation across borders.

A way of catering to a greater interest in UK/Europe travel

Per one of Agoda’s latest reports, interest in travel to the UK and European region is on the rise among Asian travellers as seen in the 20 percent increase in searches within this year compared to 2024.  

Excluding intra-Asian destinations, the UK ranks among the top five most searched international destinations for travelers from Asia.

With the addition of Premier Inn’s extensive network to its platform, Agoda is not only expanding its accommodation offering but also supporting Premier Inn’s ambition to reach new international audiences. 

At the same time, Agoda’s deep roots and digital expertise in Asia offers Premier Inn the opportunity to tap into the region’s dynamic outbound travel market, connecting millions of travelers with high-quality, great-value stays as they plan their next adventure.

The post Agoda inks partnership with UK hospitality chain Premier Inn appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

AirAsia Malaysia commences flights on its new Kuala Lumpur-Banjarmasin route

The post AirAsia Malaysia commences flights on its new Kuala Lumpur-Banjarmasin route appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AirAsia Malaysia flew its inaugural service connecting Kuala Lumpur and Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan, Indonesia today, 20th October.

This maiden flight marks the first-ever scheduled international link between Malaysia and the Indonesian province.

In addition to enabling affordable and direct linkage to Malaysia’s capital, this new service will also provide travellers with more seamless and affordable options to visit the other stunning destinations in the country, complementing efforts for the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign and supporting the region’s economic growth through halal-friendly travel and trade opportunities.

AirAsia Malaysia chief executive Fareh Mazputra said: “Indonesia has always been an important market for us, and this move to provide direct connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Banjarmasin reinforces our goal to boost regional connectivity and support the vibrant communities of South Kalimantan. This is another step to deliver affordable travel experiences that connect people and opportunities across the region. We look forward to making Kuala Lumpur directly accessible for the Banjar community and to welcoming more travellers from across the world to explore the unique travel experiences that Banjarmasin offers.”

For his part, South Kalimantan governor H Muhidin remarked: “The inauguration of AirAsia’s first direct international flight to Banjarmasin is significant for South Kalimantan. This new connectivity will not only boost our local economy and tourism sector but also strengthen cultural and trade ties within the region. We warmly welcome AirAsia and look forward to the opportunities this connectivity brings to our people, promoting South Kalimantan as a vibrant, halal-friendly travel destination.”

A timely development

The timing of this inaugural flight is particularly meaningful as AirAsia was recently honoured at the 2025 World Travel Awards Asia and Oceania, hot on the heels of Kuala Lumpur’s highly-covetted recognition as the world’s leading low-cost carrier hub by OAG. 

This new route will also expand travel options for AirAsia guests from Banjarmasin thanks to the airline’s extensive Fly-Thru network, spanning over 130 global destinations.

As one of the most connected foreign carriers in Indonesia, with AirAsia serving 18 and counting destinations across the country, this route is set to deepen people-to-people ties, boost travel and trade in addition to showcasing Banjarmasin’s unique river culture as well as its growing potential as a must-visit halal-friendly destination.

A rapidly-growing market

As of October 2024, South Kalimantan recorded nearly 100,000 domestic tourist entries, reflecting a robustly-expanding tourism market. 

Known as the City of a Thousand Rivers, Banjarmasin is a living tapestry shaped by the waterways that have long connected its people, culture, and community. 

Rooted in the rich heritage of the Banjar people and surrounded by the natural beauty of South Kalimantan, it is a place where tradition thrives and journeys can feel timeless.

With the launch of a direct international route to Kuala Lumpur, these numbers are expected to increase exponentially in 2025, boosting both inbound and outbound tourism. 

The post AirAsia Malaysia commences flights on its new Kuala Lumpur-Banjarmasin route appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Bhaya Soul to offer The Soul Sanctuary experiences throughout Q4-2025

The post Bhaya Soul to offer The Soul Sanctuary experiences throughout Q4-2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Throughout the final quarter of this year, Vietnam’s Bhaya Soul introduces The Soul Sanctuary to soothe weary travellers.

The Soul Sanctuary is a curated series of special wellness activities designed to enhance the onboard journey and offer moments of connection, renewal, and reflection. 

Available from October to December, this series brings together sound healing, yoga, and music.

This unique offering is aligned with Bhaya Soul’s vision of creating not just a cruise, but a soulful retreat on the waters of Ha Long Bay.

The Soul Sanctuary activities are complimentary for every guest onboard during the scheduled dates. 

Experience the art of sound healing this October

This month marked the beginning of The Soul Sanctuary through a transformative sound healing session featuring the handpan and crystal bowls. 

Known for their resonant and ethereal tones, these instruments invite listeners into a deep state of relaxation and balance. 

The handpan’s warm vibration paired with the pure, crystalline resonance of the bowls creates a soundscape that resonates with the soul.

What makes this session truly unique is its harmony with the natural environment: the soft sounds merge with the gentle rhythm of Ha Long Bay’s sea waves, crafting a natural symphony of serenity. 

Surrounded by towering limestone karsts and the endless expanse of tranquil waters, passengers are invited to let go of stress, realign their energy, and rediscover inner stillness. 

The deck becomes a floating meditation hall, where every breath is in sync with nature’s song.

This activity is a guided journey which combines sound therapy with the mystical landscape of Ha Long Bay to create an environment where guests can achieve clarity of mind, emotional release, and a deeper connection to themselves.

Breathe a little deeper this November

In November, The Soul Sanctuary continues with yoga and ocean breathwork, held on a selected day of the cruise. 

Designed as an evening practice, the session emphasizes gentle yin yoga to stretch and restore the body after a day of exploration. 

Guests are guided through mindful postures, grounding movements, and conscious breathing techniques inspired by the rhythm of the ocean.

Practicing against the panoramic backdrop of Ha Long Bay allows passengers to experience a rare union between movement, breath, and nature. 

Every inhalation is carried by the salty sea air; every exhalation is released into the stillness of the bay.

The session is ideal for both beginners and seasoned practitioners, with the focus on slow living and presence rather than physical intensity. 

Guests will leave feeling refreshed, centered, and connected, both to themselves and to the energy of the bay. 

As a wellness cruise experience, it embodies Bhaya Soul’s belief that slow traveling is about balance, mindfulness, and the joy of being fully present in the moment.

Classical guitar music beguiles the ear in December

Closing the year, Bhaya Soul invites guests to experience a cultural and musical journey with the Classical Guitar Session: Melodies Around the World in December.

The soothing strum of guitar strings fills the evening air as melodies inspired by different cultures are performed live onboard.

The performance offers a shared moment of warmth and connection among passengers. 

The tender interplay between classical guitar and the natural rhythm of the waves paints an unforgettable atmosphere: elegant yet intimate, timeless yet alive in the present.

Music has always been part of Bhaya Soul’s signature wellness elements, reflecting the ship’s preference of combining Vietnamese artistry with global influences. 

Just as Ha Long Bay itself is a meeting place of sky, stone, and sea, the guitar session unites travelers from different backgrounds through the universal language of melody.

The post Bhaya Soul to offer The Soul Sanctuary experiences throughout Q4-2025 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Goa makes a mark with its run at ITB Asia 2025

The post Goa makes a mark with its run at ITB Asia 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Goa made a strong impression at ITB Asia 2025 as it cast the spotlight on its distinctive Regenerative Tourism model.

Touting its blend of sustainability, culture, and connectivity under the theme Goa: The Gateway to All Possibilities, the Department of Tourism of the Government of Goa engaged with key international stakeholders to promote meaningful collaborations and enhance global visibility.

This year’s ITB Asia delegation was made up of GTDC managing director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, deputy director of tourism Shri Rajesh Kale, GTDC’s deputy general manager for marketing and hotels Shri Deepak Narvekar, GTDC superintending engineer Shri Nivrutti Parsekar, GFDC general manager Shri Amar Heblekar, and  GTDC senior manager Shri Vishesh Naik.

Why Goa?

From leisure travellers discovering the province’s unique landscapes, to adventure seekers exploring its scenic hinterlands, wellness enthusiasts attending yoga and wellness retreats, or MICE and film tourism professionals, Goa offers a truly diverse tourism experience. 

Through its regenerative approach, the state ensures that tourism growth benefits local communities while protecting its cultural and natural heritage for generations to come.

Goa’s successful presence at ITB Asia 2025 reaffirms its standing as a forward-thinking destination, one that is embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration to unlock global opportunities in tourism.

Opening doors

Speaking about Goa’s participation, its minister of tourism Shri Rohan A Khaunte declared: “Our participation at ITB Asia 2025 has opened new avenues for Goa to engage with global tourism leaders and strengthen international collaborations. This engagement has helped us attract quality tourism, diversify source markets, and position Goa as a year-round destination that offers meaningful experiences. Through such international platforms, we aim to reinforce Goa’s identity as a destination that grows responsibly while contributing positively to the global tourism landscape. These exchanges not only enhance our international outreach but also pave the way for long-term partnerships that align with our vision of creating a tourism ecosystem rooted in regeneration and inclusivity.”

Tourism director Shri Kedar Naik likewise emphasised the state’s readiness to welcome international travellers.

Naik said: “Goa’s participation at ITB Asia reflects the state’s commitment to expanding international reach while staying true to its cultural essence. We are working towards attracting travellers who value authentic experiences that celebrate Goa’s heritage, wellness offerings, and natural beauty in responsible ways.”

For his part, GTDC’s Arolkar remarked: “ITB Asia 2025 allows us to explore innovative tourism solutions and collaborate with global partners to enhance Goa’s offerings while keeping sustainability and community benefits at the core.”

The post Goa makes a mark with its run at ITB Asia 2025 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia