The post China World Summit Wing hosts the Beijing Vertical Run appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Over 1,000 runners made their way to the heart of Beijing’s central business district to take part in this year’s Beijing Vertical Run.

The event was held on Saturday, 13th September, at the China World Summit Wing.

The Beijing Vertical Run had runners climbing up 80 floors, covering a vertical distance of 330 metres, and taking more than 2,000 steps to get to the finish line. 

More than a mere physical challenge, the Beijing Vertical Run served to celebrate the spirit of fitness and active living among participants who found themselves peering through at the glorious city skyline as they made their ascent.

The perfect venue for a climb to the top

Rising above the capital’s vibrant CBD, China World Summit Wing, Beijing is Beijing’s definitive Urban Lifestyle Destination, curating immersive stay, dining and wellness experiences that embraces life enrichment while inspiring people to live holistically, actively and sustainably.

In a statement, its management declared: “As part of the Shangri-La Group, we identify with our group’s global ‘Triple S’ strategy: Stay, Savour, Shine. The Beijing Vertical Run is our hallmark event to enhance the connection with our community.”

China World Summit Wing, Beijing delivered an unparalleled race experience together with various industry leaders. 

Among this year’s supporters were the Hong Kong International Medical Clinic, Beijing as the event’s exclusive Professional Healthcare Provider and HOKA as Leading Brand Sponsor. 

Other prizes were presented by Abyss & Habidecor, Aimer Move, Bopomofo, ffit8, LUZHOULAOJIAO, Toni & Guy, VOSS, War Horse, Yan’s Palace, and Zhaopin.

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The post China World Summit Wing hosts the Beijing Vertical Run appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Over 1,000 runners made their way to the heart of Beijing’s central business district to take part in this year’s Beijing Vertical Run.

The event was held on Saturday, 13th September, at the China World Summit Wing.

The Beijing Vertical Run had runners climbing up 80 floors, covering a vertical distance of 330 metres, and taking more than 2,000 steps to get to the finish line. 

More than a mere physical challenge, the Beijing Vertical Run served to celebrate the spirit of fitness and active living among participants who found themselves peering through at the glorious city skyline as they made their ascent.

The perfect venue for a climb to the top

Rising above the capital’s vibrant CBD, China World Summit Wing, Beijing is Beijing’s definitive Urban Lifestyle Destination, curating immersive stay, dining and wellness experiences that embraces life enrichment while inspiring people to live holistically, actively and sustainably.

In a statement, its management declared: “As part of the Shangri-La Group, we identify with our group’s global ‘Triple S’ strategy: Stay, Savour, Shine. The Beijing Vertical Run is our hallmark event to enhance the connection with our community.”

China World Summit Wing, Beijing delivered an unparalleled race experience together with various industry leaders. 

Among this year’s supporters were the Hong Kong International Medical Clinic, Beijing as the event’s exclusive Professional Healthcare Provider and HOKA as Leading Brand Sponsor. 

Other prizes were presented by Abyss & Habidecor, Aimer Move, Bopomofo, ffit8, LUZHOULAOJIAO, Toni & Guy, VOSS, War Horse, Yan’s Palace, and Zhaopin.

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The post Saudi Summer 2025 sees 26% YOY Rise in Tourists appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudi confirms record-breaking numbers of tourists over Summer 2025, welcoming more than 32 million domestic and international tourists – a 26% year-on-year increase from 2024. Visitors spent big too, with total expenditures hitting SR53.2 billion ($14.2 billion) – up 15% year-on-year.

Spotlight on Aseer

One of the standout regions was the southern highlands of Aseer, where visitor numbers rose by an incredible 49%. With its cooler temperatures, lush juniper forests and dramatic peaks, Aseer has become a go-to summer escape for hikers and nature-lovers. From Al Soudah, Saudi’s highest mountain at 3,000m, to UNESCO-recognised villages like Rijal Almaa, the region blends nature, culture and adventure.

Year-round promise
The momentum isn’t set to stop here, Saudi is already preparing for an unforgettable Winter season. The season officially kicked off with the launch of Saudi’s latest global campaign starring Cristiano Ronaldo, announcing the Unreal Events Calendar and underscoring Saudi’s growing role as the world’s sports and entertainment hub. The video sets the tone for a season where every experience is designed to make you “Stay for More”, blending global icons with local culture.

From sports showdowns to cultural festivals and brand-new attractions, there are many compelling reasons to explore Saudi this year, including the WTA Finals, bringing the world’s top female tennis players to Riyadh, the Riyadh Comedy Festival, which will showcase international stand-up stars and the AlUla Wellness Festival, where visitors can immerse themselves in yoga, mindfulness, and holistic experiences against a spectacular desert backdrop. And not to be missed is Riyadh Season, the Saudi’s flagship entertainment extravaganza, filled with concerts, shows, attractions and cultural experiences on a world-class scale.

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The post Cathay partners with Hong Kong Disneyland Resort appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

 

Cathay and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL)  announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which aims to unite two iconic brands and sets the stage for exciting offerings that bring magic and wonder to travellers’ journeys.

The planned collaboration aims to unlock synergy opportunities, stimulate inbound tourism, and reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a premier global travel destination and regional transit hub.

Cathay and HKDL held an MoU signing ceremony at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, hosted by Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam and HKDL Managing Director Michael Moriarty. Beloved Mickey Mouse was also present to commemorate this special moment.

Under the MoU, Cathay and HKDL will explore opportunities for continued collaboration, including a product for travellers transiting in Hong Kong that is targeted to be launched in 2026.

Cathay’s Ronald Lam said: “At Cathay, our purpose is to move people forward in life so we are thrilled to collaborate with Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, a brand that shares our passion for delivering memorable experiences that delight and inspire. By combining world-class air travel with Disney experiences, we will create unforgettable journeys that celebrate the very best of Hong Kong. Together, we aim to inspire travellers from around the world to come to our home city and experience all that it has to offer.”

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s Michael Moriarty said: “As we mark Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20^th anniversary, this strategic collaboration with Cathay exemplifies our shared commitment to elevating Hong Kong’s global tourism appeal. Together, we aim to drive inbound visitation and solidify Hong Kong’s position as a world-class tourism and transit hub. We look forward to enchanting more tourists with immersive, experiential experiences that reflect the evolving aspirations of today’s travellers.”

Looking ahead, Cathay and HKDL will continue to explore new opportunities for cooperation, with the shared goal of delivering even more memorable travel experiences.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The post Discover the QE2, now a floating hotel docked in Dubai appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2), the world’s most legendary ocean liner, now permanently docked as a floating hotel at Mina Rashid, Dubai – invites you to journey through time with its exclusive Heritage Tours. This immersive experience reveals the remarkable evolution of the QE2, from her historic beginnings to her current role as a hotel featuring a living maritime museum.

Launched by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 20th September 1967, the QE2 was purpose-built to endure all seasons on the North Atlantic and later adapt seamlessly to the world of luxury cruising. Designed with exceptional flexibility, she featured pioneering stabilisation systems and became the first British liner to be fully air-conditioned, a testament to British engineering foresight. Her majestic profile and innovative build made her an icon of both efficiency and elegance, perfectly suited for an era where sea travel was evolving dramatically.

Over her extraordinary career, she sailed more than 5.6 million nautical miles, carried over 2.5 million passengers, and played a variety of roles, from glamorous transatlantic liner to war-time troop carrier during the Falklands War, and ultimately a luxury cruise ship hosting royalty, celebrities, and world leaders.

Today, the QE2 continues her voyage in a new form, not at sea, but as a cultural landmark and floating hotel in Dubai. The QE2 Heritage Tour is a rare opportunity to explore her original features, discover untold stories, and experience what life was like aboard this architectural marvel.

Originally launched by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 20th September 1967, the QE2 has sailed more than 5.6 million nautical miles, carrying over 2.5 million passengers and earning her place as a true icon of British engineering and seafaring excellence. The Heritage Tour provides a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore the stories, milestones, and personalities that made QE2 a symbol of elegance and innovation.

From her days as a glamorous transatlantic liner to her service during the Falklands War and her transformation into one-of-a-kind hotel, QE2 has worn many faces.

Highlights of the Heritage Tour Include:

• Authentic Artifacts & Memorabilia
  View original documents, rare photographs, artworks, navigational tools, and curated personal mementos from the ship’s golden years.
• Historic Design & Technological Innovation
  Learn how the QE2 was uniquely designed to ‘defy the seasons’, built to conquer harsh Atlantic crossings with advanced stabilisation, then later adapted for warm-weather cruising. Discover her steam turbines, pioneering engineering, and world-first features like full air-conditioning.
• Private Quarters & Royal Touches
  Step inside a preserved passenger cabin, captain’s quarters, flag room, and even the original garage, home to a vintage Rolls-Royce once housed aboard the ship.
• A True Clydebank Masterpiece
  Built by the renowned John Brown & Co. in Clydebank, Scotland, the shipyard behind some of the world’s greatest liners, the QE2 represents the peak of British shipbuilding craftsmanship, admired for her versatility, detail, and visionary design.

Now permanently moored in the heart of Dubai, the QE2 offers more than a stay, she offers a story. Aboard her teak-lined decks and elegant interiors, visitors will uncover the rich tapestry of seafaring heritage and innovation that spanned over five decades.

Whether you are a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, a curious traveller, or a family seeking a unique experience, the QE2 Heritage Tour is an unforgettable journey through the legacy of one of the greatest ships ever built.

QE2 Heritage Tours

Book your QE2 Heritage Tour and walk in the footsteps of Royalty, captains, and travellers who made history aboard this magnificent vessel. 

• QE2 Heritage Tour
  A classic guided experience taking guests through the ship’s most historic spaces, sharing the stories, design, and moments that shaped her legacy. Available daily at 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.
• QE2 Heritage Tour for Schools
  Specially designed for student groups, this educational tour runs on weekday mornings at 8:30 am and 9:30 am, with a maximum of 30 students per session. Advance booking is required.
• QE2 Royal Afternoon Tea & Heritage Tour
  Pair your heritage journey with the QE2 Royal Afternoon Tea experience.

• • At the Queens Grill: Available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 3:00 pm and 6:30 pm (last seating at 5:00pm).

• • At The Chartroom: Available Monday to Thursday from 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm (last seating at 4:00pm).

• QE2 Dine & Discover
  Combine the Heritage Tour with a lunch or dinner for a complete culinary and cultural experience aboard Dubai’s most iconic vessel. Available daily at 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.

 

 

 

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The post Saudi Tourism unveils three-city India roadshow appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudi Tourism is thrilled to announce it’s latest edition of three-city roadshow taking place from 15th to 19th September, 2025. The mega roadshow reinforces Saudi Tourism’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Indian market, one of Saudi’s important source markets for the leisure and business tourism sectors. The six-day three-city mega trade roadshow is planned across Hyderabad (September 15), Ahmedabad (September 17) and Delhi (September 19).

The event is expected to drive impact with industry partners in these cities, building competitive edge and optimise travel trade’s critical role in building and bolstering Saudi’s visitors economy envisioned under the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030. The roadshow will act as a dynamic platform for Saudi Tourism stakeholders to directly engage and collaborate with leading Indian travel agency buyers and deepen strategic partnerships to position Saudi as a premier travel destination for Indian tourists.

Coming in towards the middle of September, the roadshow acts as the launch platform of exciting new Winter Season products highlighting Saudi’s expanding leisure offerings and exciting launches for the GIT segment, as well as its appeal for MICE and Wedding tourism. The roadshows also follow the mega international launch of ‘Unreal Calendar’ Saudi Tourism latest campaign featuring football icon Cristiano Ronalno (CR7). Launched across key markets in Europe, China and India, “I Came for Football, I Stayed For More” brings to life a Saudi that offers visitors an extended season of high stakes sports, rousing entertainment, and breathtaking film, fashion and cultural events.

Accompanied by key Saudi stakeholders, over 14 leading Saudi suppliers, including DMCs, DMOs and airlines, will showcase, through their products and offerings, country’s world-class attractions—from cultural heritage and UNESCO sites to diverse landscapes, experiences, and a vibrant calendar of sports and entertainment events.

The event serves as a vital platform for sharing insights into Saudi’s diverse tourism offerings, showcasing the latest developments, and fostering collaborative efforts with key industry stakeholders. The initiative aligns with Saudi’s broader vision of making the country a preferred destination for Indian travellers seeking authentic, world-class experiences.

India remains a priority market and central to Saudi Tourism’s strategic initiatives. The fastest growing large economy, an expanding middle class, improving air connectivity, world’s largest share of young population that desire to travel, and not to forget, a short-haul flight distance away from Saudi Arabia, Saudi Tourism sees tremendous opportunity to grow the Indian market.

 

 

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The post Cirium names Philippine Airlines APAC’s most punctual airline for August 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global aviation analytics company Cirium cited Philippine Airlines (PAL) as the most punctual airline among Asia Pacific carriers in August 2025.

The Philippine flag-carrier scored an impressive 89.37 percent on-time performance (OTP) rating for the month, several points higher than the average 80.83 percent rating attained by the top ten Asia Pacific airlines throughout the same period.

Following the announcement, PAL senior vice-president for operations Roland Narciso issued a statement declaring: “We laud the efforts of our engineers, ground and flight teams for working towards on-time performance through operational efficiency. We remain steadfast in our commitment to further enhance on-time performance, a crucial factor for operational reliability, and customer satisfaction.”

The measure of punctuality

Cirium considers a flight as being on-time if the aircraft arrives at the gate within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time. 

The arrival data is a standard reliability metric reflecting the desire of travelers to reach their destinations on time and the need for airlines to comply with assigned airport slot times.

The firm tracks the on-time performance of airlines and airports and produces punctuality reporting for global aviation.

This is the second time that PAL bagged the top spot in punctuality for this year, having hit the mark in April 2025.

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The post Dusit Thani College becomes Thailand’s first certified testing centre for Japanese hospitality skills appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Dusit Thani College, Thailand’s institute for hospitality education under Dusit International, has been officially certified to administer Japan’s Accommodation Industry Proficiency Test in Thailand, creating direct pathways for Thai and ASEAN talent to secure skilled positions in Japan’s hospitality sector.

The milestone follows the signing of an agreement on 2 September 2025 between Dusit Thani College, the General Incorporated Association Center for Accommodation Industry Proficiency Test, and the All Japan Ryokan Hotel Association, with support from the Kyoto Convention & Visitors Bureau and Jeducation language school in Bangkok.

Dusit Thani College can now recruit and train Thai and ASEAN candidates

As Thailand’s first certified testing centre, Dusit Thani College can now recruit and train Thai and ASEAN candidates through its renowned hospitality and culinary arts programmes and facilitate their official skills certification locally. Successful graduates will qualify for employment in Japan via the government’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa, introduced in 2019 to help address labour shortages in industries such as hospitality and food and beverage.

Aligned with Dusit Thani College’s fast-track Talent Opportunity Programme (TOP), which prepares participants for entry-level roles in just six months, the new pathway gives aspiring professionals a unique opportunity to train, gain certification, and access employment in Japan.

Career opportunities for students

The All Japan Ryokan Hotel Association, representing more than 15,000 traditional inns and hotels across Japan, will help promote certified candidates to member employers via dedicated job fairs hosted in Bangkok. Dusit Hotels and Resorts will also welcome graduates to its own properties in Japan, including Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo, further strengthening opportunities for international placement. Jeducation, a leading Japanese language school in Bangkok, will provide essential language training to ensure participants meet SSW visa requirements, fully equipping them for life and work in Japan.

“This collaboration directly addresses the hospitality skills shortage in Japan while creating exciting career opportunities for our students,” said John Lohr, Executive Director of External Affairs, Dusit Thani College. “By combining world-class training at Dusit Thani College with official certification and a clear pathway to employment, we are building a strong pipeline of talent that benefits both Thailand and Japan.”

Makoto Yamashita, Area General Manager – Kyoto, Dusit Hotels and Resorts, added: “This partnership underscores our commitment to developing future leaders in hospitality and giving them access to life-changing opportunities abroad. It is a win–win for our students, our partners, and the wider industry.”

Dusit Thani College will begin recruiting candidates for its TOP Japan Pathway programme in October 2025. The first examinations and employer recruitment fairs are scheduled to take place in February 2026.

 

 

 

 

 

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The post Capital A’s Asia Digital Engineering signs long-term maintenance agreement with Air France appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Capital A’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) subsidiary Asia Digital Engineering (ADE) formally signed a long-term agreement with Air France to provide heavy maintenance and aircraft modification services to the airline.

The agreement was formally signed by ADE CEO Mahesh Kumar and Air France Industries executive vice-president Géry Mortreux.

Under the agreement, ADE will commence heavy maintenance checks on Air France’s Airbus A330-200 aircraft with the first induction scheduled for October 2025, followed by additional checks on a phased basis. 

These initial aircraft mark the beginning of a broader collaboration, with additional inductions expected in the coming years as the partnership between ADE and Air France continues to expand and deepen.

The beginning of a new era for Malaysian aviation

Speaking as a witness to the signing, Malaysian minister of investment, trade, and industry Zafrul Aziz remarked: “UN Tourism shared that global international visitor arrivals in 2024 had already reached 99 percent of pre-pandemic levels. For the same period, Asia Pacific alone registered 627.8 million visitors, which is forecast to increase to 801 million by 2027.”

Aziz added that, with its clear growth policies, well-established operational ecosystem, and rule of law, Malaysia’s aerospace industry is well-poised to capture that growth. 

He concluded by saying: “To that end, we welcome partnerships with foreign aircraft providers who see Malaysia’s value proposition as a regional services and MRO hub to support their client servicing in this growing region.” 

Mortreux likewise expressed pleasure over the agreement with ADE as the company’s EASA-certified facilities and highly skilled workforce make them an excellent partner for maintaining Air France’s Airbus A330-200 fleet. 

He declared: “As Air France expands its network and modernises operations, ADE’s expertise ensures efficient,  world-class maintenance that minimises downtime and maximises performance. We look forward to a strong and enduring collaboration with ADE.”

For his part, Kumar said: “This partnership with Air France marks a historic milestone not only for ADE but also for Malaysia and the wider Asean aerospace industry. Being entrusted with their aircraft maintenance is a strong testament to the capabilities and competitiveness of our region’s MRO services. We are proud to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a hub for aerospace excellence while supporting Air France’s continued operational reliability.”

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The post Plaza Premium Group opens regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Airport hospitality provider Plaza Premium Group has officially opened its new regional headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

This new facility is the Group’s second regional base in EMEA, marking a significant milestone in its expansion into the Middle East and Africa.

Likewise, it also marks ten years of serving passengers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the Plaza Premium Group.

The Riyadh office will serve as a hub for Plaza Premium Group’s operations across the Middle East and Africa, enhancing collaboration and regional support for airport lounges, hotels, meet & greet, fast track, and concierge services. 

This new base also reflects the group’s vision for continued innovation and the delivery of world-class hospitality experiences.

A star-studded opening

Held on Sunday, 14th September, the grand opening was attended by distinguished guests from government entities, airport authorities, airlines, and industry partners. 

The event was graced by the presence of Plaza Premium Group founder and chief executive  Song Hoi See, deputy CEO Ali Bora İşbulan, and senior vice-president for EMEA Okan Küfeci.

The three executives shared their vision for Plaza Premium Group’s continued growth and contribution to elevating airport hospitality in the Middle East and Africa following the ceremony.

Song pointed out that the opening of the Riyadh regional office is a milestone in the company’s ongoing regional expansion initiative. 

He said: “Our local partnerships and talented workforce continue to set new standards in airport hospitality, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. We are currently operating in Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, and Red Sea International Airport, employing over 350 team members in Saudi Arabia, and working closely with government authorities to nurture aviation and hospitality talent. With a Saudisation rate of 60 percent alongside a graduate training programme preparing the next generation of aviation and hospitality leaders, we remain deeply committed to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.” 

İşbulan added: “This is a landmark occasion as it coincides with our 10th year of serving passengers in the Kingdom. Over the past decade, Plaza Premium Group has had the privilege of working alongside our valued partners, stakeholders, and colleagues in the Kingdom to redefine the travel experience and set new benchmarks in airport hospitality. Saudi Arabia is a cornerstone of our global strategy, and Riyadh is the ideal base for our regional headquarters. This office not only strengthens our operational presence but also serves as a hub for innovation, partnerships, and delivering world-class passenger services that align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

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