The post Nature Emirate ‘Ras Al Khaimah’ leads by example… appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As the world gears up to celebrate Nature Conservation Day this July 28^th, few destinations embody the spirit of responsible tourism like Ras Al Khaimah. Known as the Nature Emirate, it is leading by example—where conservation isn’t just a concept, but a core part of its tourism DNA.

Balanced Tourism

With dramatic mountain peaks, pristine coastlines, and rich desert ecosystems, Ras Al Khaimah stands as a sanctuary of natural beauty and a beacon for responsible tourism in the Middle East. The Nature Emirate’s Balanced Tourism strategy is a long-term, data-driven framework that prioritises sustainability in tourism development, ensuring that growth benefits the destination’s natural and cultural assets while improving the quality of life in its communities. Ras Al Khaimah became the first destination in the Middle East to get EarthCheck’s Sustainable Destinations Silver Certification. The certification process is a rigorous evaluation based on scientific criteria, benchmarking, monitoring, and auditing across 10 sustainability indicators, including energy and water conservation, waste management and social impact.

Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to sustainable tourism continues through its Responsible RAK programme, now in its fourth year. Twenty-four tourism businesses have earned Silver Certification, helping drive sustainability in the Emirate through waste reduction, biodiversity protection, inclusive hiring, and digital efficiency. With several properties on track to reach Gold Certification by year five, these efforts are laying the groundwork for long-term positive impact, reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah’s ambition to be a regional leader in responsible tourism.

A Sanctuary of Natural Wonders

Ras Al Khaimah’s varied landscapes read like a naturalist’s dream. From kayaking through mangroves, teeming with birdlife and marine species, to hiking wadis like Naqab, Kadra, and Shah in the rugged Hajar Mountains, the biodiversity is accessible yet protected. For those drawn to the desert, the Al Wadi Nature Reserve offers close encounters with Arabian oryx and gazelles, camel treks, and falconry demonstrations at the Al Wadi Equestrian Centre. Visitors seeking immersive luxury can dine under the stars at Sonara Camp, where the desert’s silence meets fresh ingredients making way to its multi-course meals.

Adventure Meets Conservation

At Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, thrill-seekers are encouraged to respect nature as they adventure. Every experience—from the world’s longest zipline, the Jais Flight, to the Via Ferrata and 94 kilometres of hiking trails are carefully designed to minimise environmental impact.

Another notable example is the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp that houses the world’s first accommodation with the Bear Grylls brand. Its construction cabins utilise recycled materials, are low in their utility usage, and adopt off-grid living principles. It immerses the visitors in survival training and heightens their appreciation for the surrounding natural environment, instilling responsible engagement with nature.

Adding to the adventure is Camp 1770, the highest campsite in the UAE with sensational mountain views. Organised by Adventurati Outdoor, experiences such as the Sunset Walk and Dinner at Camp 1770, featuring meals prepared by local mountain tribes, offer immersive ways for visitors to connect with nature. These guided hikes and cultural dining experiences turn conservation into a deeply personal journey.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For travellers keen to delve deeper, the Journey to the Soul of Ras Al Khaimah tour by Unveil Arabia, unlocks Ras Al Khaimah’s hidden ecological and cultural treasures. From picnicking in a date plantation and exploring the indigenous Ghaf tree forests, to learning about camel racing logistics at royal stables, this experience blends environmental education with local tradition. The ascent through the Ru’us Al Jibal mountains, once home to isolated mountain villages, reveals geology as ancient as the Emirate’s 7,000-year-old history.

A Call to Co-Create Nature’s Future

Exciting developments are on the horizon with the anticipated early 2026 opening of Saij, A Mantis Collection Mountain Lodge. Nestled within the dramatic landscape of Jebel Jais, this eco-luxury resort will feature 70 thoughtfully designed lodges that seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings. Guests will enjoy authentic, low-impact activities such as guided hikes, organic farming, and beekeeping—creating deep connections with nature while supporting the Emirate’s conservation efforts.

On this Nature Conservation Day, Ras Al Khaimah is not just celebrating its stunning environment—it’s empowering travellers to become active stewards of it. Guided by the principles of Balanced Tourism, the Emirate is reshaping the future of sustainable travel.

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The post Historic hotel reopens as Aman Rosa Alpina with 51 keys in the heart of Italy’s Dolomites appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In the charming mountain village of San Cassiano, Aman Rosa Alpina opens its doors, welcoming guests into the very heart of Italy’s UNESCO-protected Dolomites. A long-cherished retreat, the historic hotel emerges anew, thoughtfully reimagined by Aman from the ground up. Writing a new chapter, while honouring a legacy that dates back almost a century, the property opens with new dining concepts, elevated wellness amenities, and exclusive experiences. Offering unprecedented access to the Aman lifestyle, Aman Rosa Alpina establishes a new destination for brand loyalists and discerning travellers alike.

“The opening of Aman Rosa Alpina is the realisation of a vision that has been years in the making,” said Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of Aman Group. “I first experienced the magic of this property as a guest many years ago and developed a lasting friendship with the Pizzinini family. What started as admiration evolved into a shared ambition – to honour the legacy but also elevate this timeless mountain retreat. With its exceptional location in the heart of the Dolomites, we saw the opportunity to create a sanctuary that reflects both the heritage of the region and the essence of Aman. Rooted in our brand’s commitment to timeless design, intuitive service and transformative experiences, Aman Rosa Alpina now begins its next chapter – welcoming guests into a place of peace, privacy and enduring beauty.”

Rosa Alpina, Italy – Dolomites in Summer

Formerly known as Rosa Alpina, the hotel has been an emblem of Alpine hospitality for generations with the Pizzinini family since 1939. Speaking on the new iteration, Hugo and Ursula Pizzinini, who remain at the helm said: “The evolution of hotel into Aman Rosa Alpina marks a meaningful and carefully considered new chapter. As custodians of this beloved mountain retreat, it is a privilege to see it evolve under Aman – a brand that shares our deep reverence for place and commitment to excellence. This partnership allows us to celebrate our family’s legacy and three generations of hospitality, while embracing a future shaped by Aman’s uncompromising attention to detail and global perspective. Our mission remains the same: to preserve the authenticity and spirit of the region and for guests, past and future, to experience the timeless beauty of the Dolomites.”

Design

Now, as Aman Rosa Alpina, the property’s storied past intertwines with the brand hallmarks and design aesthetic, led by longtime Aman collaborator renowned architect Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston. The result is one of understated elegance, a profound sense of peace and an unmatched connection to extraordinary natural surrounds. At Aman Rosa Alpina the great outdoors anchors every space, with expansive balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows offering immersive views onto the majesty of the landscape. Adding comfort, glass-enclosed working fireplaces, opulent bathrooms and features such as walk-in wardrobes are present in most rooms and suites, bringing a touch of classic European elegance. Referencing the site’s original architecture and its mountain home, Jean-Michel’s design balances local craftsmanship and use of natural materials with the brand’s signature minimalism and restraint. Façades are clad in timber, dark metal accents add a contemporary touch and interiors are layered with stone, textured plaster and Italian artisanal details bringing warmth.

With a design that responds intuitively to the day’s ever-changing light, the hotel’s 51 Rooms, Suites and Signature Suites, each draw inspiration from the raw beauty of the Dolomites. The pinnacle of Alpine living, the Aman Suite is the hotel’s largest, comprising two king-bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms with steam showers (one with a soaking tub), a dining area for six guests and a large south-facing terrace. Several interconnecting suites are also available, ideal for families and groups seeking space.

Dining  

Central to the Aman Rosa Alpina experience is gastronomy, and the property presents a handful of distinct new venues for dining and socialising, each a celebration of seasonality and culinary artistry led by Executive Chef Gianluca Salvato. On arrival, the newly conceived Il Salotto welcomes guests into a magnificent, double-height space where expansive windows invite the outdoors in; the first of many spaces that frame mountain views. By day it is home to tea, coffee and light refreshments and by night, a vibrant spot for live music and cocktails. A homage to the hotel’s original piano bar, Il Salotto serves an intimate hub to meet and gather.

The Grill is at the heart of the hotel’s culinary tradition. Offering wood-fired meats, fish and artisanal pizzas, diners can indulge on the open-air terrace in the summer, enjoying long lunches and alfresco dinners at dusk. Both a sunlit dining venue and a private events space, the Heritage Room serves as a timeless setting for daily breakfast; the Di Vino Room offers an intimate, reservation-only wine library for private dinners and expert-led tastings; and the Cigar Lounge showcases a curated selection of premium cigars and aged spirits in a discreet setting. Opening for the winter season, Akari will complete the roster with an elegant Shabu Shabu (hot pot) dining experience presenting a refined Japanese menu and rare sakes in a minimalist setting.

Wellness 

Spanning 1,684 square metres and spread across two levels, the hotel’s Aman Spa has been designed to immerse guests further into the timeless tranquility of the surrounding peaks. Anchored by an arrival space enveloped by mountain panoramas, the spa comprises seven treatment suites, a 20-metre heated outdoor infinity pool, an indoor swimming pool, as well as a family pool, and extensive hydrotherapy facilities including a Finnish sauna, steam bath, Jacuzzi and a cold plunge pool.

 A dedicated Hair & Nail Salon, two medical treatment rooms and a Zen Garden further enhance the wellness offering, while a Fitness Centre and Yoga Studio support everyday wellness rituals. Signature treatments and therapies, including the Alpine Muscle Relief Massage, are distinct to Aman Rosa Alpina, designed to go hand-in-hand with mountain life and provide deep relief following active days of exploration.

Rosa Alpina, Italy – Mountainscape10.jpg

Outdoor Pursuits 

 Outside of the hotel’s historic walls, a landscape of towering peaks, deep valleys and geographical marvels makes Aman Rosa Alpina a year-round mountain playground, each season offering a new form of adventure. In summer and autumn, embark on guided hikes tours through nearby natural parks, mountain bike along scenic forest routes, ascend to inspiring heights via ferrata routes or even play golf at the nearby Alta Badia course.

In winter, San Cassiano becomes a gateway to the renowned Dolomiti Superski area, with 1,200 kilometers of groomed slopes and 450 lifts. The hotel’s Ski Butler service makes snow sports equipment preparation and shuttle transfers to the nearby Piz Sorega lift effortless, while the dedicated Ski Lounge provides a seamless experience, complete with heated boot racks and storage. Ice climbing, snowshoeing, winter hiking and ice skating can also be arranged. For moments of indoor restoration, Aman Rosa Alpina also offers Kids and Teen Rooms designed to inspire creativity and exploration alongside three private cinema rooms.

Blending timeless design, heartfelt tradition and Aman’s DNA of peace, privacy and unparalleled service, today Aman Rosa Alpina stands as a sanctuary for all seasons, where the mountains serve not only as striking setting, but an enchanting base for boundless exploration.

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The post AlFursan Introduces “Cash + Miles” Payment Option appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AlFursan, Saudia’s Loyalty Program, has announced the launch of ‘Cash + Miles’, a new payment option that allows members to split their ticket cost by paying part with AlFursan Miles and the rest with cash. The feature is now available as a new payment method during the digital booking process.

The new payment method offers greater flexibility, allowing guests to book without any seat limitations on each flight, and also modify their itineraries or request refunds through the “Manage My Booking” feature, available on Saudia’s official website and mobile applications.

The introduction of this option is part of Saudia’s broader strategy to expand payment flexibility and deliver world-class, guest-centric services. These efforts align with Saudia’s strategic objective to elevate every aspect of guests journey, from planning and booking to managing reservations and accessing post-sale support.

The AlFursan Loyalty Program rewards members with miles when flying with Saudia, flyadeal, or SkyTeam alliance partners, along with access to a growing selection of offers and exclusive privileges. The program remains focused on delivering a world-class loyalty experience, supported by strategic partnerships and advanced digital solutions that meet evolving member expectations.

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The post Virtuoso appoints Helen Mccabe-Young as Sr VP, Global Products; Amy Logan as VP, Global Network Products and Lucy Lieberman as VP, Global Digital Experience appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Amy Logan Named as Vice President, Global Network Products and Lucy Lieberman as Vice President, Global Digital Experience, Rounding Out Executive Additions to the Product Division   

Virtuoso, the global leader in luxury and experiential travel, continues to focus on expanding and refining the products it offers its members and advisors, preferred partners and the travelers they serve across the nine regions worldwide in which Virtuoso operates. Helen McCabe-Young has been named Senior Vice President, Global Products, with Thatcher Brown having recently announced his departure from Virtuoso to assume the role of CEO at Crescent Seas, an innovative luxury residence at sea concept. McCabe-Young has a keen understanding of Virtuoso’s worldwide network and the evolution of its product division, having served as Virtuoso’s Senior Vice President, Global Marketing for the past five years. Recent additions to the team also include Amy Logan as Vice President, Global Network Product and Lucy Lieberman as Vice President, Global Digital Experience, further advancing its product offerings and services in an era of global growth and transformative development for Virtuoso.

As Virtuoso’s top global marketing executive since 2020, McCabe-Young has led an integrated, results-driven operation that supports the success of both the network’s travel advisors and its luxury partners worldwide. Her marketing remit has spanned global public relations, paid media and brand, product marketing, content, CRM analytics and performance. In addition to oversight of Virtuoso’s award-winning editorial team for Virtuoso, The Magazine, now distributed in six countries, she also oversaw the launch of Virtuoso’s very successful consumer-facing So Virtuoso campaign.

As she sets her sights on deepening the value of Virtuoso for members, partners and travelers through transformative products, McCabe-Young brings strategic and commercial rigor with deep knowledge spanning multiple travel sectors and geographic regions. Her decade-long tenure at Kerzner International included executive roles such as Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing and Global Corporate Communications, where she shaped the brand and global commercial structure of One&Only Resorts while also launching Atlantis The Palm Dubai as its inaugural Chief Marketing Officer. Prior to Kerzner, she served as Vice President of Worldwide Marketing at Silversea Cruises and was instrumental in the early positioning of Princess Cruises during her tenure at Campbell-Ewald advertising.

“Virtuoso’s Product division has undergone a thoughtful strategic realignment, creating a strong foundation for the innovation and agility needed to serve the evolving needs of our global network,” said Virtuoso’s Chief Operating Officer Brad Bourland. “We thank Thatcher for his contributions to Virtuoso in this area and wish him much success as he embarks on this new chapter with Crescent Seas. We’re also excited to have Helen bring her marketing expertise and creative vision to a part of the business that’s primed for significant growth. Helen’s deep knowledge of Virtuoso and its partners gives her valuable insight into our network and uniquely equips her to lead the Product team as we continue to evolve. With a strong mix of new and experienced leadership now in place, Helen and her team are well positioned to accelerate the development of innovative products and services that enhance the value we deliver to members and partners around the world.”

Amy Logan joined Virtuoso in May, bringing over two decades of expertise in luxury travel and digital innovation. Formerly Vice President of Solutions at Classic Vacations as well as a senior leader at both Expedia and Amazon, Logan is known for crafting transformative digital experiences for travel advisors worldwide.

Lucy Lieberman, who joined the Virtuoso team in June, is a seasoned executive with more than 20 years of expertise in marketing, product development and operations. Previously, she served as CEO of Hotels at Michelin, where she was responsible for global travel services for Tablet Hotels and MICHELIN Guide. Lieberman also spent 10 years with Ogilvy and Mather, most recently serving as Managing Director, where she delivered marketing ROI for brands such as InterContinental Hotels Group, American Express, IKEA and BlackRock.

While McCabe-Young steps into her new position immediately, she will continue to assist with a smooth transition as Virtuoso conducts a search for its new marketing head. She will continue to office from her home in Del Mar, California, and report to Bourland. Logan is based in Seattle, while Lieberman works from New York, with both reporting directly to McCabe-Young.

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The post Tanah Gajah raises the bar for luxury with its Premier Pool Villas appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Family-owned and art-centric boutique resort Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana continues to elevate its villa accommodation with the addition of four Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villas.

These new luxe accommodations seek to cater to guests seeking the epitome of luxury and serenity, whether for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat for a small family. 

Nestled on the outskirts of Ubud, within a six-hectare estate in Bali’s cultural highlands and near the historic heart of the ancient Bedahulu Kingdom, Tanah Gajah a Resort by Hadiprana offers a serene retreat for its guests. 

The resort currently features seven One Bedroom Club Suites; nine One Bedroom Club Pool Villas; four Premiere One Bedroom Club Pool Villas; three Two Bedroom Club Family Pool Villas; and The Hadiprana Estate. 

The art of Indonesian luxury

Showcasing the rich heritage of Indonesia and spanning over 250sqm, each of the new villas brings a twist of contemporary design to founder Hendra Hadiprana’s original design and the timeless artistry the resort embraces. 

Set against a breathtaking backdrop of lush rice paddies and the majestic Mount Agung, the new villas offer enhanced relaxation and unparalleled tranquillity. 

Elegant House of Hadiprana furniture, including the Kalinda coffee table featuring a quartz top with refined brass bases and custom-designed lamps and armchairs, have been carefully selected to complement interiors, while the villa’s built-in sofa bed has been specially crafted by local artists in the neighbouring village of Tengkulak. 

Specifically designed and curated by Hadiprana Artwork, elegant, large-scale sculptures of leaves and birds representing peace and prosperity welcome guests into the new villas, while meticulously carved wood medallions finished in rich salak-brown hues adorn the bedrooms.  

Helping guests further immerse themselves in natural serenity, the Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villas feature an outdoor dining pavilion, outdoor soaking tub and private eight-metre pool. 

Guests can also enjoy the resort’s extensive Club Benefits, including butler service, sunset cocktails, and complimentary activities. 

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The post Agoda launches SG60 Celebration Campaign appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Digital travel platform Agoda is launching its SG60 Celebration Campaign to encourage tourism in Singapore as the nation celebrates its 60^th year of independence. With rising interest from both regional and long-haul travellers, the SG60 Celebration Campaign presents an ideal opportunity for hoteliers to tap into the destination’s growing popularity during this shared national milestone. Under the campaign, Agoda will be offering discounts of up to 20%, from 1^st August to 15^th August 2025, for consumers on inbound and outbound travel bookings.

Singapore’s diamond jubilee is a year-long nationwide effort to celebrate the nation’s 60^th year of independence. Some of the participating partners in the SG60 campaign include hospitality groups like Resorts World Sentosa and Furama Hotels International, as well as airline providers including national flight carrier Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly, reflecting Agoda’s ongoing collaboration with leading industry players for major campaigns.

“As Agoda celebrates 20 years in Singapore, the SG60 Celebration Campaign is a special celebration for us,” said Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President of Supply at Agoda. “Through our close collaboration with Singapore’s tourism authority in past years, we are using innovative, data-driven campaigns to showcase the city’s unique appeal to global travellers during the nation’s 60^th year of independence.”

Agoda’s search data from April to June shows key Asian markets including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and South Korea are among the top origin markets searching for Singapore, with Thailand showing the highest growth in searches with a 10% increase year-on-year. This growing interest is further supported by increased searches from long-haul markets such as Austria, Spain, and Denmark, each recording year-on-year growth and highlighting Singapore’s expanding global profile.

Singapore continues to stand out as an international hub and a leader in Asia thanks to its melting pot of different cultures, its world class food scene and iconic shopping malls, drawing increasing interest from travellers.

“Agoda helps us attract customers from the region and beyond thanks to its wide reach and customer base. We’re truly excited to be part of the SG60 Celebration Campaign,” said Mathew Chan, Regional Director of Revenue at Furama Hotels International. “This collaboration allows us to connect with both new and returning guests from around the world. We look forward to sharing the warmth of our hospitality and creating memorable experiences for every traveller who walks through our doors.”

Singaporeans are also exploring the world, with travel searches on Agoda’s platform spanning over 100 countries in 2025. China saw a 40% year-on-year increase in searches, while Malaysia, Japan and Indonesia remain the top regional destinations for Singaporean travellers.

Supporting millions of travellers with localized expertise across Asia and beyond, and a proven track record in building high-impact marketing campaigns, Agoda continues to be a trusted growth partner for hotels looking to scale visibility and bookings.

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