The post India is fast becoming a vital force in global tourism: Denise Scrafton appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Skål International’s 2025 World President. Denise Scrafton made a powerful and symbolic visit to India, a first in many years, reaffirming India’s rising prominence in the global Skål movement. Her presence inspired renewed energy and deeper alignment across clubs, with a focus on future leadership, sustainability, youth engagement, and international cooperation.

“India is fast becoming a vital force in global tourism and an emerging powerhouse within Skål. It’s time we lead today to shape a stronger tomorrow — together,” said Denise Scrafton, echoing her presidential theme and setting the tone for her impactful journey.

NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President of Skål International and Director of Region 10 (India), who accompanied her throughout the journey added: “Denise’s visit comes at a time when Skål India (Region 10) is evolving into a mission-driven force in global tourism. We are focused on collaboration, youth engagement, sustainability, and responsible tourism — values that align beautifully with her leadership vision.”

Sanjeev Mehra, President of Skål International India, shared: “Her presence energized our movement and inspired our clubs. We are proud of the momentum we’re building — launching new clubs, driving inclusive leadership, broadcasting powerful and meaningful communications. India is on the path to becoming Skål’s top-performing nation. With 91 years of legacy, Skål International stands as the world’s largest and oldest organisation of tourism and hospitality professionals. Remarkably, three of its top ten clubs globally — Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata —are proudly from India.”

Scrafton, who joined Skål in 2002, has held every major leadership role — from President of Skål International Melbourne and Skål International Australia to President of the Skål International Council and now World President. She pioneered the Membership Development Fund and was awarded the prestigious Skål Order of Merit. Her distinguished professional career spans key leadership positions with Flag International and Choice Hotels, and she now works with THSN Hotels and Apartments. Her contributions have earned her national acclaim in the Australian tourism industry.

Her first stop was Skål International Chennai, where she participated in a symbolic tree plantation initiative, along with meeting the members of the club reinforcing Skål’s growing focus on sustainability. “It was an honour to welcome World President Denise to Chennai,” said Kamleshwaran P S, President of Skål International Chennai. “Her insights on sustainability and ethical tourism resonated deeply with our members and reaffirmed our commitment to responsible travel.”

Next, at the gathering of Skål International Kolkata, Denise relaunched the Young Skål chapter, made possible through the strong support of IIHM and its founder Dr. Suborno Bose. “We are honoured to welcome President Scrafton to Kolkata, the city of joy,” said Amin Asghar, President of Skål International Kolkata. “Her energy and emphasis on youth, women empowerment and innovation are a source of inspiration for all our members.”

Lastly, at the Skål International Delhi celebrations, members gathered for a vibrant reception cheering her presence. “Having the World President with us was a moment of pride,” said Ranjit Vig, President of Skål International Delhi. “Her words strengthened our commitment to ethical tourism and elevated the spirit of unity within our club.”

Looking ahead, Mehra noted, “All eyes are now on Mumbai. We are gearing up to host a truly historic Skål International India Congress this September. It will be a celebration of our unity, growth, and future.”

Mohan added, “After delivering a successful India Congress in Mumbai, our next focus will be the Skål International World Congress 2025 in Cusco, Peru — and we are committed to making that a grand success as well.”

In a heartfelt conclusion, Scrafton reflected, “The warmth, professionalism, and passion I’ve experienced here will stay with me forever. Skål International India is not just participating in the global movement — it’s helping shape it. The future of global tourism has a strong Indian heartbeat.”

Skål International India proudly rededicates itself to Skål’s enduring mission — promoting sustainability, fostering ethical and visionary leadership, communications and advocacy, and advancing the spirit of “Doing Business Among Friends” across borders and generations.

Skål International India, NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President of Skål International and Director of Region 10 (India), who accompanied her throughout the journey added, “Denise’s visit comes at a time when Skål India (Region 10) is evolving into a mission-driven force in global tourism. We are focused on collaboration, youth engagement, sustainability, and responsible tourism — values that align beautifully with her leadership vision.”

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The post ACI World Raises Concerns Over Proposed Air Travel Tax appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Representative Image

ACI World  (Airports Council International) has expressed serious concerns regarding the decision by France, Kenya, Barbados, Spain, Somalia, Benin, Sierra Leone, and Antigua & Barbuda to launch a coalition ahead of COP30, focused on introducing a new tax on air transport—with a special focus on premium flyers—as a means to fund development, climate mitigation, and public health initiatives.

“We fully support the global pursuit of sustainable development and climate resilience,” said Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World. “However, targeting aviation with additional taxes is likely to undermine the very connectivity and economic growth that support these goals. The aviation sector must be empowered—not penalized—if we want to achieve long-term global progress.”

Aviation Taxation undermines Air Connectivity 

Taxation on aviation has proven to hinder air connectivity and negatively impact regional economic growth. The economic benefits lost due to these taxes can be twice as large as the revenue governments collect from them. ACI research on the Taxation of International Air Transport and Airports estimates that the removal of the US$90 billion in taxes paid by aviation users would create 5.2 million jobs and US$180 billion in global GDP.

New taxes, such as the one proposed, also risk impacting regions that are particularly dependent on air connectivity for trade, tourism, and broader development.

Moreover, the eight States announced plans to invest “all or parts of the proceeds into resilient investments and fair transitions.” However, there is a significant risk that these funds will be diverted to other uses rather than serving their intended purpose.

New Taxes Risk threaten Aviation’s Net Zero Trajectory

The coalition of eight States announced it would work towards a “better contribution of the aviation sector to fair transitions and resilience.” However, the global aviation sector already is following an ambitious, coordinated plan to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, through the leadership of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), including the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA)—the international market-based system specifically designed to address aviation emissions.

A new international tax could divert critical funding away from CORSIA and other essential decarbonization priorities—including sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), operational improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and low-emission technologies.

Call for Smarter Global Solutions

ACI World joins ICAO, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG), and others in cautioning against measures that extract value from aviation without reinvestment in its sustainable future. A globally fragmented approach—such as a tax imposed by a “coalition of the willing”—could distort competition, undermine environmental integrity, and disproportionately impact developing economies that rely on air transport for growth.

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The post Park Hyatt Bangkok’s mooncakes for 2025 take inspiration from the Year of the Snake appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Enticing sweetness and intriguing textures await diners as Park Hyatt Bangkok is set to mark this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival with exceptional mooncakes to tempt even the most capricious palates.

Taking inspiration from the Year of the Snake and incorporating distinctive Thai motifs in their design to symbolise the synthesis of cultures at Park Hyatt Bangkok, these mooncakes bear a captivating serpentine image in a whirl, symbolising peace, harmony, and sustainable growth. 

The design also corporates the chain silhouette along with traditional patterns, the same patterns which appear across the interior of Park Hyatt Bangkok.

The beautiful design blends cultural elements and brand identity, while the packaging exudes refined, modern elegance. 

An exquisite gift

A wonderful gift for family, friends and business partners, the mooncake collection adds a thoughtful touch to any Mid-Autumn celebration. 

The moon cake collection features four individual mooncakes in each vibrant gift box with remarkable flavors including Lotus Seed with Single Egg Yolk, Durian with Single Egg Yolk, Five Whole Grains and Eight Prosperities with Single Egg Yolk. 

Park Hyatt Bangkok’s Mooncake Collection is available to order now until 15th September at the early bird price of THB 1,270 net per box of four pieces. 

Pick-up of orders commences on 15th August 2025.

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The post Malaysia Airlines upgrades its Time For Memorable Journeys campaign appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As part of its ongoing Time for Memorable Journeys campaign, Malaysia Airlines invites holidaymakers to plan ahead and enjoy the best fares till 21st July for travel until 31st May 2026. 

Whether it’s basking in Sydney’s sunshine, admiring Japan’s autumn foliage, exploring the beaches of Bali or diving into the cultural gems of Kuala Lumpur, travellers can now book their next escape at great value starting from RM119 all-in return for domestic travel and RM559 all-in return for international travel, while enjoying a host of new experiences thoughtfully designed to make every journey more seamless and rewarding.

Beyond attractive fares, passengers will enjoy a full suite of end-to-end travel experiences when travelling with Malaysia Airlines. 

From upgraded in-flight services to enhanced digital features, the airline is committed to delivering Malaysian Hospitality with a contemporary edge, ensuring every step of the journey is both memorable and meaningful.

Malaysia Aviation Group’s chief commercial officer of airlines Dersenih Aresandiran said of the enhanced campaign: “With each new product enhancement and service improvement, we’re building journeys that are not only memorable but also more personalised, seamless, and rewarding. Our continuous improvement in on-time performance reflects our commitment to delivering a dependable and enjoyable experience. This is truly the time for Malaysian Hospitality to take centre stage.”

For everyone’s enjoyment

For families and leisure travellers, Malaysia Airlines offers a range of thoughtful features to make flying more comfortable and convenient. 

Young passengers can stay entertained with the Pilot Parker Activity Pack, while all guests can enjoy unlimited in-flight Wi-Fi across the airline’s A350-900, A330neo, Boeing 737-8, and select A330-300/200 aircraft, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the journey. 

Passengers can also pre-order their preferred meals from the airline’s Best of Asia inflight menu from 30 days up to 24 hours before departure, ensuring a more personalised and satisfying journey. 

On select services to Melbourne, Auckland and Bali, travellers will enjoy a refreshed cabin experience onboard the airline’s new A330neo. 

In Economy Class, the aircraft features 269 ergonomically designed Recaro R3 seats with premium touches such as coat hooks, cup holders, and generous stowage space, with 24 seats offering extra legroom. 

Each seat is equipped with a 13.3-inch 4K entertainment screen, Bluetooth connectivity, dedicated Kids Mode, and parental controls to deliver a more immersive and family-friendly inflight experience.

Travellers are encouraged to take advantage of this limited-time promotion, which includes best  Economy Class fares and additional benefits such as up to ten percent off seat selection and extra baggage allowance on select routes.

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The post Star Alliance takes World’s Best Airline Alliance award for a fourth straight year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Skytrax hailed Star Alliance as the World’s Best Airline Alliance yet again at the 2025 edition of the Skytrax World Airline Awards.

Star Alliance has won the title for a fourth straight year and brings its total number of wins in the category to 13.

LIkewise, the Star Alliance Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Lounge also retained its title as the World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge, marking a second consecutive win since its inauguration in October 2023.

The awards were presented at the Paris Air Show, held at the historic Le Bourget Airport. 

In addition to the two Alliance awards, 14 member airlines were also recognised with a total of 62 top honours in individual categories.

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, said: “We are pleased to recognise Star Alliance as the World’s Best Airline Alliance, and for having the Best Airline Alliance Lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle. These awards speak to the alliance’s continued efforts to create a joined-up experience that appeals to today’s international passengers, both in the air and on the ground.”

Yet another milestone for a winning team

Marking the milestone, Star Alliance chief executive Theo Panagiotoulias said: “This continued recognition is incredibly significant to all of us at Star Alliance. It reflects the trust millions of customers place in our member airlines, connected by a rhythm, to create smoother journeys every day.” 

Panagiotoulias also congratulated the member airline employees across the network.

He said: “This achievement reflects the shared commitment to excellence shown by every employee at Star Alliance and across our member airlines throughout a promising 2024. I proudly accept this honour on their behalf and encourage them to keep aiming higher in the year ahead and beyond.”

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The post AirAsia’s RedRun makes its way to Penang appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AirAsia brings its highly anticipated RedRun race to Penang for the very first time, marking the next leg of the airline’s regional initiative to energise travel and spotlight key tourism destinations across ASEAN.

The event successfully made its debut in Indonesia earlier this year, drawing in participants from 40 countries who raced through Bali’s scenic routes.

Now, AirAsia casts the spotlight on Penang, its second largest hub in Peninsular Malaysia, known for its vibrant heritage, rich culinary scene, and thriving creative economy.

The RedRun Penang is scheduled for 28th September at Gurney Plaza, inviting thousands of participants from across the region to join in three race categories: 3KM, 5KM, and 10KM. 

Bringing people together through running

Penang State ex-co for tourism and creative economy Wong Hon Wai pointed out that this community event offers a unique platform to bring people together and foster deeper cultural appreciation. 

Wong said: “We are pleased to see AirAsia connecting communities not only through air travel but also through engaging on-ground events like RedRun. We encourage Penangites to take part and be part of the excitement.”

For his part, AirAsia Malaysia CEO Fareh Mazputra remarked: “RedRun is more than just a run, it is a regional movement to celebrate the spirit of travel, local culture and togetherness. After a great reception in Indonesia, we are proud to bring the next edition to Penang, a city that represents the heart of our operations and our commitment to community. We are also excited to roll out our AirAsia Festival at Gurney Plaza this month, adding even more reasons to visit the Pearl of the Orient.”

Penang has long been one of AirAsia’s top-performing leisure destinations, with direct connectivity to 12 domestic and international cities, including Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Singapore, Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City, Medan and Shenzhen. 

As one of AirAsia’s five major hubs in Malaysia, Penang stands out as a top destination, especially for tourists from Indonesia, China and Singapore.

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The post Megaworld Hotels & Resorts all set to Travel Madness Expo 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) invites avid travelers to discover the vibrant destinations throughout the Philippines at the upcoming Travel Madness Expo 2025.

Happening from 11th to 13th July at the SMX Convention Center, this year’s Travel Madness Expo not only brings travellers the best offers from MHR , but it also gives the public an opportunity to meet and greet a bevy of celebrities and influencers at the booth.

Attendees shouldn’t miss MHR’s exclusive limited-time hotel vouchers which will only be available at the event, giving them a choice between two types of vouchers priced as low as Php 2,500. 

Each voucher is valid for two years upon purchase, giving you flexibility to plan the perfect getaway.

Lucky guests may also receive an additional ten percent discount when they book their travel dates at the booth, and even sign up for Club Access, MHR’s exclusive membership programme that unlocks VIP perks like room upgrades, members-only events, and exciting privileges across all properties.

Where inclusivity matters

As part of its commitment to inclusive hospitality, MHR offers Muslim-friendly accommodation making it easier for all guests to feel right at home across its destinations.

With 13 hotels across the country and two more opening soon, MHR brings together a collection of properties in Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo. 

Its growing portfolio includes Belmont Hotel Manila, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Mactan, Savoy Hotel Manila, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Twin Lakes Hotel, Kingsford Hotel Manila, and the Grand Westside Hotel.

It should also be noted that the Chancellor Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Iloilo are both slated to open later this year.

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