The post BWH Hotels celebrates collective achievements at its annual convention appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global hospitality management enterprise BWH Hotels hosted its annual convention last week in Seattle, WA.

Centred on the theme Welcome Begins Here, the convention brought in over 3,000 attendees made up of BWH Hotels hoteliers, operators, and partners.

The convention also served as a venue in which to celebrate shared achievements and lay the foundation for continued success in the years ahead.

As BWH president and chief executive Larry Cuculic declared: “This week, we made a bold declaration: we will be the most welcoming hospitality brand in the world. Welcome Begins Here is more than our convention theme; it is the new foundation for our global transformation. Across every hotel, our shared commitment is to deliver memorable, locally inspired experiences that make every guest feel at home.”

Driven by a global strategy to enhance value at every touchpoint, BWH Hotels generated US$8.5 billion in revenue over the past year. 

Meanwhile, bookings on the Best Western To Go app surged 25 percent year-over-year, and a RevPAR Index of 108 outpaced industry benchmarks. 

The Best Western Rewards® loyalty programme likewise continued its strong growth, now serving 64 million members with points that never expire.  

Raising the bar for global hospitality

It should be noted that BWH Hotels made several key announcements at its convention.

These include:

• Enhancing the Customer Journey: Attendees received an exclusive first look at the new BestWestern.com website and mobile app experience, set to launch in 2026, offering a glimpse into the brand’s next chapter of digital innovation and guest-centric design. Powered by AI, the platform will deliver personalized recommendations, optimized content for emerging search engines and localized experiences tailored to travelers around the world;
• Tech-enabled Efficiencies: The company announced the launch of AutoClerk® Atlas, its next-generation property management system powered by HotelKey. AutoClerk Atlas marks a pivotal step forward for the guest and hotel team experience, introducing a world-class Property Management System that’s scalable and intuitive;
• Strategic Partnerships: To capitalize on the 2026 FIFA World Cup coming to the United States, Best Western Hotels & Resorts (BWHR) has entered into an exclusive North American partnership with Tripadvisor® in their ‘Chasing the Cup’ campaign. Travelers searching for games will find BWHR hotels near matches and along travel routes;
• Expanding Luxury & Experiential Travel: WorldHotels expanded its footprint in 2025 by adding several new properties, including, the Van der Valk Plaza Beach Resort Bonaire, a Caribbean destination joining the WorldHotels Elite collection; and the integration of Soul Spring Sanctuary, a wellness-forward concept now part of the WorldHotels Luxury collection. WorldHotels anticipates reaching 250 properties by the end of 2026;
• Partnering with Independent Developers to Drive Growth: With over 130 deals signed across its North American portfolio, the company’s Collections brands now represent over a quarter of all new developments. Additionally, Aiden, the company’s leading boutique brand, continues its rise with new projects underway in Kansas City, Toronto, Dallas, Newark, Vancouver and a newly signed hotel on the Washington State University campus in Pullman, WA;
• International Expansion: BWH Hotels signed over 300 international deals this year. In Saudi Arabia, 11 new projects reflect a strong alignment with Vision 2030. Expansion in Asia includes new openings in India, South Korea, and Vietnam. Latin America is on track for a record-breaking year, with over 20 deals signed; and
• Enabling Success: Scheduled to launch on 1st December, BWH Hotels’ new Liability Insurance Programme, developed in partnership with Willis Towers Watson® and CNA®, offers the hospitality industry’s first cost-effective, comprehensive liability coverage to help hoteliers protect assets and reduce expenses.

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The post ‘Grandcations’: How Grandparents and Grandkids Are Redefining Family Travel  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Grandparents and grandchildren are hitting the road together – and  often without parents. Skip-generation (skip-gen) holidays are rapidly gaining momentum across Asia  Pacific, according to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report released. Families are redefining how they  travel, with a stronger focus on stays that foster togetherness, create lasting memories, and  strengthen bonds across generations.

Skip-Gen Travel on the Rise: 6 in 10 Families Are Booking Holidays Without Parents Six in 10 respondents (60%) across the region report having taken – or planning to take – a skip-gen  holiday. The trend is strongest in China (86%) and India (79%), where cross-generational travel has  moved from novelty to mainstream. In China alone, more than three-quarters (77%) expect to book at  least one to two skip-gen holidays in 2026, hinting at a future where skip-gen trips may rival traditional  family vacations.

“The rise of skip-generation travel highlights a fascinating shift in how families are connecting,” said Ben  George, senior vice president and commercial director, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “Hilton is committed to  creating experiences that cater to every generation under one roof – from family-friendly amenities and  Confirmed Connecting Rooms to wellness offerings that appeal to travellers of all ages. By designing  experiences that anticipate the needs of multi-generational families, we aim to make every stay as  seamless and memorable as possible, helping guests create meaningful moments together.”

More Than a Vacation: Creating Memories Is the Top Priority for Skip-Gen Travellers The opportunity to create lasting memories is the driving force behind skip-gen travel, with 58% of  families across the Asia Pacific region choosing it for this reason. The sentiment is the strongest in India  (67%), Australia (64%), and New Zealand (63%), where around two-thirds of families cite memory making as their top motivation. In Japan, however, the priority shifts, with nearly half of families (47%) – and 50% of grandparents themselves – pointing to experiencing new things together as the main reason  for these trips.

Beyond the numbers, skip-gen holidays give grandparents and grandchildren the chance to share one of-a-kind experiences, strengthen bonds, and build family traditions. In China, nearly half of  grandparents (46%) are initiating such holidays, highlighting the growing influence of older generations  in shaping family travel and the importance of choosing stays that support every generation’s needs.

Wellbeing Boost: 89% Say Skip-Gen Trips Support Grandparents’ Health 

Family holidays aren’t just about connection – they also support health and wellbeing. Nearly nine in 10  (89%) respondents believe that travelling with family improves the wellbeing of grandparents. For  grandparents, quality time with grandchildren is the most valued part of travel (50%), suggesting how  multi-generational travel can benefit both emotional and physical health.

Thoughtfully designed stays that include wellness amenities, accessible dining, and senior-friendly  services are becoming essential in ensuring that older generations can travel comfortably while reaping  the health benefits of family togetherness.

Quality Time Over Downtime: Families Prioritise Shared Experiences Over Relaxation

According to Hilton’s global research, respondents’ number one motivation to travel for leisure in 2026  is to rest and recharge (56%), but for many travelers in Asia Pacific, these motivations are different as  spending time with family now outweighs personal relaxation as the top holiday priority. Six in 10 (61%)  say quality time matters more than downtime, a sentiment particularly strong in India (72%) and China  (62%).

When it comes to activities, culinary exploration (69%) and visits to historical and cultural landmarks  (63%) lead the way, reflecting families’ desire for stays that inspire discovery, learning, and meaningful  connection. This trend is especially pronounced in Singapore, where more than eight in 10 families  (81%) cite culinary exploration as their top family activity – a nod to the city-state’s vibrant and  celebrated food scene.

Rooms for All Ages: Making Multi-Generational Travel Seamless 

Beyond skip-gen, multi-generational travel continues to grow. Nearly half (48%) of families in Asia  Pacific take holidays with three or more generations at least once a year – a trend particularly strong in  China (78%) and India (65%). The top motivations include strengthening family bonds (60%) and  creating lasting memories across generations (57%).

Accommodation plays a crucial role in enabling inclusive stays. Nearly half of families (48%) prefer  interconnecting rooms or family suites, while 42% prioritise senior-friendly facilities and services such  as mobility aids, medical assistance, and accessible dining spaces. Relaxation and wellness amenities  (42%) are also important, underscoring the need for stays that cater to every generation.

Tal Shefer, senior vice president, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said, “In Asia Pacific, travel  is deeply rooted in family and togetherness, and we’re seeing that reflected in the continued growth of  multi-generational holidays. At Hilton, every detail is designed with the holistic stay experience in mind – so that grandparents, parents, and children alike can feel connected, cared for, and create lasting  memories together. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration at Waldorf Astoria, a city break at  Motto by Hilton, or a family getaway at DoubleTree by Hilton, every one of our brands is built to bring  people closer through meaningful experiences.”

Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report: Key Insights for 2026 and Beyond 

These insights were commissioned as part of research for Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, “The  Whycation: Travel’s New Starting Point,” highlighting how grandparents and grandchildren are  reshaping the way families travel. Hilton’s comprehensive survey of more than 14,000 global travellers  across 14 countries, along with proprietary insights from more than 5,000 Hilton team members and  feedback from 1,000 Hilton Honors members, highlights several additional trends, including:

• Hushpitality: Seeking Sweet Silence: In 2026, travellers will look for destinations where they  can dial down life’s distractions. Seeking calm – even moments of silence – signals a change in  why people are traveling, where they’re going and how they’ll relax.
• Home Comforts are the New ‘Carry On’: Travellers are grounding their trips in familiarity,  seeking comfort and a sense of home even while away. They’re bringing everyday routines with  them, and as familiar rhythms help travellers feel more relaxed, many are also taking time to  recharge and pursue personal passions – turning time off into time well spent.
• Inheritourism: Travel Runs in the Family: As children grow up, many continue traveling with  their parents, bringing familiar preferences shaped by years of shared travel. From hotel choices  to loyalty programs, parental influence still plays a key role in moulding how travel evolves  across generations.

 

 

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The post Wellington launches ‘International Conference Leaders Fund’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Business Events Wellington, in partnership with Tourism New Zealand, has launched the International Conference Leaders Fund, a bold new initiative aimed at empowering Wellington-based researchers and academics to take centre stage in the global conference arena.

The fund directly addresses a key barrier for many university researchers: limited access to funding to engage with international associations and attend global conferences. By offering targeted financial support, the fund enables researchers to raise their international profiles, strengthen global networks, and attract prestigious international conferences to Wellington.

“The strength of Wellington’s conference offering lies in its world-class research community,” says Irette Ferreira, Manager of Business Events Wellington. “This fund supports our local experts to lead on the world stage, bringing more international events – and the knowledge, innovation, and economic benefits they deliver – home
to Wellington.”

The International Conference Leaders Fund has three key goals: · Support academics in building their standing within international associations. · Align conference bids with Wellington’s key strategic sectors: Science, Climate Action and Environment, Technology, and Screen. · Boost the number of successful international conference bids led by
Wellington researchers.

By investing in future conference leaders, Wellington is cultivating a sustainable pipeline of bid champions who will help position the city as a premier destination for global knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Applications are now open and will close on 21 November 2025. University-based researchers who are active members of international associations and are keen to lead future conference bids are encouraged to apply. Full criteria and application details are available on the Wellington NZ website.

National support for local leadership

Tourism New Zealand is backing the initiative through its long-standing partnership with Business Events Wellington.“Local bid champions play a vital role in attracting international conferences that drive knowledge sharing and economic impact,” says Penelope Ryan, Global Manager Business Events at Tourism New Zealand. “We’re proud to support this fund and help grow New Zealand’s next generation of global conference leaders.”

Margaret Hyland, Deputy Vice-Chancellor – Research, Victoria University of Wellington, also champions the fund, stating: “Wellington’s research community has a global mindset and a strong track record of collaboration. This fund will give our academics the tools and confidence to lead international bids, bringing world-class events, and new opportunities to the capital.”

 

 

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The post Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri by ITC opens in Himachal Pradesh appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ITC Hotels expands its premium brand Storii by ITC Hotels with the launch of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri. Nestled amidst apple orchards and overlooking the majestic Dhauladhar ranges, the property has been envisioned as an experiential retreat that blends the beauty of the Shimla Hills with refined hospitality.

Featuring well-appointed rooms with panoramic valley views, a spa, and curated wellness offerings, Storii Kufri redefines the idea of a mountain escape — intimate, soulful, and memorable.

Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said: ITC Hotels Limited has a very strong presence in Himachal Pradesh and with the addition of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, we further strengthen our footprint in the state. At Kufri, our property is inspired by the region’s rich heritage and culture, celebrating local artistry thoughtfully blended with contemporary comforts to offer an experience that feels both timeless and modern.”

Udayvir Singh Punta, Owner of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, said: “Our dream was to create more than a hotel — we envisaged a destination that reflects the essence of Shimla Hills. The opening of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri is the culmination of years of passion and perseverance. We wanted to design a space where travellers feel embraced by authenticity and locals feel a sense of pride. It is with immense gratitude that we open our doors, welcoming guests to discover not just a stay, but a story — one that celebrates Shimla Hills and the spirit of true hospitality.”

The hotel offers distinctive dining options that celebrate both global and local flavours:

• Daran Valley – a valley-facing coffee shop serving world cuisine and Himachali favourites in a warm, inviting setting.
• Café Mehral – an open-air terrace café ideal for handcrafted beverages and light bites under mountain skies.
• Baag View – a serene lounge for freshly brewed teas, coffees, and desserts with scenic views.
• Raspippin Bar – an intimate bar offering premium spirits, wines, and handcrafted cocktails.
• Baghal Room – the signature banquet hall for weddings, corporate gatherings, and social events.

Guests can enjoy orchard walks, curated treks, bonfire evenings or wellness treatments at the spa and salon. Located just a short drive from Shimla, the hotel is an exceptional choice for leisure getaways, corporate retreats, and destination weddings.

 

 

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The post WTTC projects a 72% rise in international visitor spend to Guatemala by 2035 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Guatemala’s Travel & Tourism sector is set for a major economic boost, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), with international visitor spending projected to climb from GTQ 11.7 billion (USD 1.5 billion) in 2019 to a forecast GTQ 20.1 billion (USD 2.6 billion) by 2035. This represents a dramatic 72% increase over the period, underlining the country’s growing strength as one of Central America’s most dynamic destinations.

According to the latest data from the WTTC, visitor spending is expected to grow at a compound annual rate (CAGR) of 4.1% between 2025 and 2035, outpacing Guatemala’s overall economic growth. This expansion reflects the success of ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, as well as cultural preservation and sustainable tourism initiatives.

“This projected increase in visitor spending by WTTC is clear proof of Guatemala’s growing international appeal,” said Harris Whitbeck, Tourism Minister of Guatemala and Director-General of INGUAT. “We are working to attract more high-value visitors, strengthen partnerships with airlines and tour operators, and ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are felt across our communities. These efforts are paving the way for a new era of sustainable tourism-led growth. From adventure and nature tourism to cultural and culinary experiences, Guatemala is attracting visitors who spend more and stay longer.”

Guatemala’s tourism sector has already seen impressive growth and recovery since 2019. By 2024, the Travel & Tourism sector is expected to account for GTW 47.2 billion (USD 6.1 billion), representing an 11% increase from 2019. Jobs in the sector have also surged, with more than 541,000 Guatemalans employed in 2024, up 33% on 2019, and are forecast to reach 703,700 jobs by 2035.

In terms of visitor spending, domestic tourism accounted for 66% of total spending in 2024, while international visitors represented 34%. However, international spending is expected to grow faster than domestic, reflecting Guatemala’s rising profile on the global stage. The sector also plays a critical role in national finances, generating USD 1.2 billion in taxes in 2023, or 10% of government revenues, highlighting its importance to the Guatemalan economy.

At the same time, the tourism sector is becoming more sustainable. Emissions per dollar of GDP have fallen from 0.39 kgCO₂e in 2019 to 0.33 kgCO₂e in 2023, showing progress toward greener tourism even as visitor numbers and spending rise. With nearly half of the tourism jobs held by women (46.1%) and a quarter by young people under 25, the sector plays a vital role in demonstrating the importance of inclusive employment and fostering economic opportunity while safeguarding cultural and environmental heritage.

Looking ahead, new air routes, including JetBlue’s daily service from Fort Lauderdale to Guatemala City launched in April 2025, and Air Canada’s upcoming Montreal–Guatemala City route, are set to boost accessibility from key source markets such as the United States and Canada. With its rich mix of natural wonders, archaeological treasures, and cultural experiences, Guatemala continues to captivate global travellers. From the majestic ruins of Tikal to the volcanic landscapes of Lake Atitlán and the colonial streets of Antigua Guatemala, the country offers a diverse range of world-class attractions.

 

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The post Breakfast-Included Stays most popular Among Indian Travellers: Agoda appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With culinary travel on the rise across Asia this year, digital travel platform Agoda’s latest ranking reveals which Asian travellers are most eager to book accommodations with a complimentary breakfast. According to searches made on Agoda in August, Indian travellers are leading the charge in prioritizing breakfast-included stays among Asian travellers, with 14% using the breakfast filter as part of their accommodation searches.

A complimentary breakfast is a key consideration for many Asian travelers when booking accommodations. This amenity ranks as the second most popular search filter on Agoda, just after star ratings, underscoring the importance of a hearty breakfast as a staple of the travel experience.

The preference for breakfast-included stays also highlights a broader trend among travelers who seek convenience and value in their accommodation experiences. A complimentary breakfast not only provides a cost-effective start to the day but also offers a taste of local flavors and hospitality. This trend is particularly evident in the diverse culinary offerings available across Asia, where breakfast can range from traditional dishes to international favorites.

Indian travelers are not the only ones looking to start their travels sunny side up. Thailand (13%) and Malaysia (12%) follow close behind to round out the top three nationalities with high demand for breakfast-included stays. Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia (all 9%) and Vietnam (8%) round out the top eight Asian travelers most likely to care about the availability of a complimentary breakfast.

“Indian travelers are clearly showing their preference for stays that include breakfast, with one in seven using this filter when searching for accommodation on Agoda. This highlights the growing demand for convenience, value, and authentic experiences while traveling. Agoda’s easy-to-use platform and intuitive search filters make it simple for travelers to find properties that meet their needs, whether they’re looking for comfort, budget, or unique local flavors. By offering a seamless booking experience, we aim to help travelers make the most of their journeys with confidence and ease,” said Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda.

Travelers looking for the perfect breakfast-included stay can start their search on Agoda to select from over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all easily combined in a single booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and visit Agoda.com for more information.

 

 

 

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The post Food Japan 2025 Returns for its 13th Edition from 16 – 18 October at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Food Japan 2025, ASEAN’s premier exhibition for Japanese food and beverage (F&B) products, technology, and services, to open for its 13th edition. The event continues to serve as a vital platform for celebrating Japan’s culinary heritage, spotlighting cutting-edge innovations, and fostering business partnerships across the region.

This year, 153 exhibitors from 35 prefectures and Singapore are participating, with special pavilions featuring Aomori, All-Japan Soy Sauce pavilion, Chiba, Fukuoka, Himeji, Kanagawa, Shimane (Sakai Port Pavilion), Saitama, Sake & Spirits , Tokyo. Visitors can discover a wide spectrum of offerings from halal-certified and gluten-free products to health-conscious, plant-based options and eco-friendly packaging reflecting global trends in sustainability and consumer wellness.

Beyond product showcases, the exhibition offers interactive tastings, live demonstrations, and B2B business meetings with exhibitors, while masterclasses will also be conducted at the specially designated J-Studio inside the venue. Highlights include a shochu masterclass tailored for industry professionals, as well as a consumer-focused session on Japanese alcoholic beverages on the final day, providing valuable insights for professionals in retail, wholesale, food service, and hospitality sectors.

“We are proud to present an expanded range of new-to-market products, innovative freezing and refrigeration technologies, and curated products and workshops that capture Japan’s evolving culinary landscape,” said Masanao Nishida, Director of OJ Events Pte Ltd. “Food Japan 2025 is a unique opportunity to experience the diversity of Japan’s regional cultures while building meaningful business connections.”

Food Japan 2025 is made possible with the support of the Japan Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR), Embassy of Japan in Singapore, Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF). The organisers also extend special gratitude to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). We sincerely appreciate your unwavering support since the planning stage.

Marking its 13th successful edition, Food Japan 2025 promises an immersive experience that blends Japan’s rich culinary traditions with forward-looking innovations, offering attendees fresh perspectives on the future of the F&B industry.

Opening Hours:
Trade: 16 – 17 October, 10.00am–5.00pm
Trade & General Public: 18 October, 11.00am – 4.30pm
Address: Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre, Level 4, Hall 405, 1 Raffles Boulevard, Suntec City, Singapore

 

 

 

 

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The post Questex’s IHIF Asia Delivers Record Deal-Making Activity as $280B in Capital Targets APAC Hotel Market appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Questex’s IHIF Asia cemented its position as the APAC region’s premier hotel investment forum after three days of intensive deal-making and strategic discussions. The event attracted 520 senior delegates from 33 countries, with investors representing $280B in AUM comprising 40% of attendees – a 33% increase from the $210B represented at the 2024 event.
The conference’s deal-making hub was illustrated by the revelation that Seibu Prince Hotels’ acquisition of Ace Hotel Group – a landmark transaction that reshaped the boutique hotel landscape – originated from meetings at IHIF Asia 2024. This demonstrates the forum’s unique ability to facilitate transformative deals that drive industry consolidation and growth.

Diversified Capital Sources Signal Maturing Market

A standout feature of the event was the significant increase in Chinese and Japanese investor participation, and the emergence of new capital sources that demonstrate the hospitality sector’s evolving appeal to institutional investors. Private equity firms including Blackstone, BlackRock, Brookfield, Bain Capital and Fortress Group were represented alongside investment banks such as Goldman Sachs, signalling the asset class’s growing sophistication.
The event welcomed an increasing number of family offices, multilateral and bilateral institutions, reflecting the sector’s expanding investor base beyond traditional hospitality-focused funds.
Chinese investment groups including Delonix, Huamao, JinJiang, SSAW Group, Funyard Hotels & Resorts, and China Travel Group registered their strong presence with expanded delegations, while Japanese participation reached new heights with institutions representing both inbound capital seeking regional opportunities and outbound capital targeting domestic market expansion. This bi-directional capital flow from Japan demonstrates the country’s evolving role as both a destination and source market for hospitality investment across APAC.
Japan’s real estate developers – Mitsubishi, Indochina Kajima, Takenaka Corporation and Mitsui – brought delegations highlighting the convergence of hospitality and real estate investment strategies.

Key Investment Opportunities Drive Strategic Decision-Making

The forum’s strategic sessions delivered actionable market intelligence influencing capital deployment decisions across the region. Gateway city trophy assets in established markets including Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, and Sydney dominated investor appetite, with focus on operational upside opportunities.
Emerging markets across Southeast Asia and India emerged as key expansion targets, while technology-enabled hospitality captured attention through measurable AI integration and automation returns. Cross-border partnership structures between Western operators and Asian capital were highlighted for market access and risk mitigation, with third-party operators importing best practices from US and European markets.
Branded residential evolution featured prominently, with hybrid models emerging as preferred structures across diverse Asian markets, creating new revenue streams and enhanced development cycle economics.
IHIF Asia Digital will offer main stage sessions, extending the event’s reach to the broader hospitality investment community.

 

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The post Cross-Border Tourism During China’s 2025 Golden Week rises: Alipay appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

China’s eight-day “Golden Week” holiday – running from October 1 to 8 and coinciding with both the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day – has sparked a surge in cross-border travel among Chinese tourists. 

According to data from the Alipay platform, the top five destinations for outbound Chinese tourist spending via Alipay between October 1 and 3 were Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. Meanwhile, Greece, Laos, Nepal, Portugal and Turkey saw the fastest growth in Alipay spending by Chinese visitors.

This Golden Week, half of all outbound Chinese tourists used Alipay to make purchases overseas. The top five use cases by category were clothing, groceries, jewellery, dining, and cosmetics.

Health remains a priority for Chinese travellers. A joint report by Alipay, navigation platform Amap, and AI healthcare app AQ found that health consultations by outbound Chinese tourists via AQ during the first three days of Golden Week rose 32% compared to the previous month. The primary health issues concerning Chinese tourists include diarrhea, fever, and acclimatization problems.

AQ, the AI healthcare app developed by Ant Group, offers more than 100 AI-powered services, including doctor search, health consultations, medical report interpretation, and health assessments.

Additionally, with the expansion of visa-free entry policies, easy access to convenient payment services like Alipay, and improved tax refund services, both the number of international travellers to China and their spending are increasing.

Between October 1-5, Alipay recorded a 500% increase in payments by international travellers using Alipay Tap!, an innovative QR code-based contactless payment and customer engagement solution introduced by Alipay in China in June 2024.

Popular travel destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Guangzhou and Chengdu are upgrading instant tax refund services for international tourists, further enhancing the shopping experience for visitors. For example, Shenzhen saw a 70% increase in the number of tax refunds processed via Alipay by international travellers in the first five days of the holiday.

International travellers in China can pay at local merchants by scanning QR codes or tapping to pay with Alipay, after linking an international credit or debit card. Additionally, visitors from 12 countries and regions can pay with their home e-wallets across China, enabled by Alipay+.

 

 

 

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The post Air Arabia Abu Dhabi expands network with new route to Damascus appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, the capital’s first low-cost carrier, has announced the launch of its new non-stop flights from Abu Dhabi to the Syrian capital, Damascus, with three weekly flights starting 28 October 2025.

The new service will connect Zayed International Airport with Damascus International Airport every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, offering customers convenient and affordable travel options between the two cities.

Flight schedule, starting from October 28, 2025 (all times local):

Flight	Departure	Time	Arrival	Time	Frequency
3L 504	Abu Dhabi	09:20	Damascus	11:50	Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday
3L 505	Damascus	12:50	Abu Dhabi	16:45	Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday

Commenting on the announcement, Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia said: “The launch of our new service between Abu Dhabi and Damascus marks another step in Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s continued network expansion strategy. This new addition underscores our commitment to enhancing regional air connectivity and providing our customers with greater access to key destinations across the Middle East. As we continue to strengthen our network from the UAE capital, we remain dedicated to contributing to the growth of travel, trade, and tourism across the region.”

This route further complements Air Arabia Group’s broader network between the UAE and Syria, with Damascus accessible through non-stop flights from Sharjah and now Abu Dhabi.

Serving a growing network of more than 30 destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, the carrier remains committed to supporting the UAE capital’s vision to enhance air connectivity and promote trade and tourism growth, while offering customers affordable and value-driven air travel.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates a modern fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft, the most modern and best-selling single aisle aircraft in the world. Offering passengers, a value-added onboard experience, the aircraft is equipped with ‘SkyTime’, its complementary in-flight streaming service, and ‘SkyCafe’, its onboard menu. Passengers can also benefit from ‘Air Rewards’, the most generous loyalty program in the region.

Customers can now book their direct flights between the two cities by visiting Air Arabia’s website, by calling the call centre, or through travel agencies.

 

 

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