The post Cambodia Airways successfully flies initial Phnom Penh-Penang service appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cambodia Airways successfully flew the maiden flight of its new Phnom Penh – Penang service last 26th June.

This initial flight marks a significant milestone in boosting regional air connectivity and strengthening bilateral tourism ties between Cambodia and Malaysia.

The inaugural flight landed at Penang International Airport, signifying the start of this direct connection between the two cities. 

The new route, operated by an Airbus A319 with a 150-seat capacity, flies twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays.

These new routes reflect a shared commitment to expanding mutual travel opportunities as the enhanced connection is expected to increase visitor flow, open more business prospects, and deepen cultural exchange between Cambodia and Malaysia. 

Currently, 41 direct flights operate weekly between Cambodia and Malaysia, offering more than 7,200 seats, highlighting the strengthening connectivity and tourism potential between both countries.

This development also complements Tourism Malaysia’s sales mission to Cambodia which ran from 19th to 22nd June.

Boosting connectivity and strengthening ties

The commencement of direct flights between Phnom Penh and Penang marks a significant step in enhancing regional connectivity and strengthening bilateral ties between Cambodia and Malaysia. 

This new route improves accessibility between the two countries and promotes mutual growth in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. 

That said, it is a timely initiative expected to boost visitor arrivals and encourage deeper economic cooperation between both nations.

Last year, Malaysia recorded 77,342 visitor arrivals from Cambodia, accompanied by a significant 47 percent surge in tourism receipts from RM164.2 million to RM240.8 million. 

This positive trend reflects not only growing travellers’ confidence and increased spending power but also the resilience of Cambodia’s outbound tourism sector. 

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The post New WTTC report calls for balanced approach towards overtourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With the global travel and tourism sectors getting to the height of the northern summer travel season, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) released a new report calling for a more balanced approach to managing tourism in popular destinations.

Released today, 7th July, the report titled Managing Destination Overcrowding: A Call to Action shows how many of the real pressures in the tourism sector come from deeper issues such as underinvestment in infrastructure, poor planning, and fragmented decision-making. 

These challenges affect both residents and visitors and need joined-up solutions, especially given that travel and tourism support one in every ten jobs and nearly ten percent of the global gross domestic product (GDP.)

The sector is also set to support one in every three new jobs over the next decade.

If managed well, travel and tourism also foster cultural exchange, global understanding, and environmental protection. 

However, the benefits these sectors bring could be at risk if governments around the world fail to take smart planning into consideration.

No quick fixes

Likewise, the report points out that there’s no simple fix to the problem and urges governments, local leaders, and businesses to work together to support both communities and visitors.

In 2024, travel and tourism were expected to contribute nearly US$11 trillion to the global economy whilst it supported around 357 million jobs.

While this is seen as a success, it also shows the need for destinations to manage their growth in a responsible manner.

Annually, governments around the world earn over US$3.3 trillion from businesses involved in travel and tourism, an amount equivalent to 9.6 percent of global tax revenues. 

Keeping this in mind, the WTTC urges governments to reinvest this sum in vital infrastructure, and solutions to relieve pressures on already very popular destinations.

At the same time, the report looks at some of the root causes of overcrowding in a small number of increasingly popular destinations across Europe and offers real-world solutions that can be tailored to local needs. 

Indeed, the paper encourages leaders to think beyond short-term fixes and focus on reinvesting tourism income into critical infrastructure improvements, local services, and resident well-being.

Six steps to better management

The report further outlines six simple steps destinations can take to manage tourism better.

These are: 

1. Get Organised: Bring the right stakeholders together, via empowered task forces;
2. Make a Plan: Define a shared vision and destination strategy;
3. Gather the Evidence: A lack of data is exacerbating issues in several destinations. It is therefore crucial to carry out evidence-based diagnoses and responses to the unique challenges faced by each destination;
4. Stay Vigilant: Monitor conditions and act early;
5. Invest Wisely: Reinvest in infrastructure and resilience, being transparent about where money is spent; and
6. Empower Residents: Make sure residents have a say and understand the benefits of Travel & Tourism in their communities

An increasingly obvious need for more responsible measures

A growing number of destinations have introduced tourism taxes in response to pressure, but WTTC warns that these measures don’t always solve the real problems and can put jobs, income, and services at risk.

The report finds that if 11 major European cities capped visitor numbers, it could cost US$245 billion in lost GDP and almost three million jobs over the next three years.

The report includes examples of destinations that are taking positive steps to combat some of the causes:

• Turisme de Barcelona Consortium operates under a public-private partnership model, guided by the principles of sustainable development goals
• VisitFlanders’ Travel to Tomorrow strategy, which reframes tourism as a tool to support local community goals such as making sure that listening to residents needs is a central tenet in their practice
• Dubrovnik’s partnership with CLIA, reducing congestion through cruise coordination and community dialogue
• Iceland, which reinvests tourism levies directly into environmental protection

According to WTTC president and chief executive Julia Simpson: “Travel & Tourism brings huge benefits including jobs, investment, and deeper cultural understanding. But growth needs to be managed carefully. We’re encouraging all decision-makers to think ahead, work together, and focus on long-term benefits for residents and visitors alike. This isn’t about stopping tourism, it’s about making it work for everyone.”

The WTTC believes that, with the right steps, destinations can protect what makes them special while ensuring that tourism continues to bring value to communities and local economies.

The report makes it clear that there are no no one-size-fits-all solutions; every destination is different, and actions must be based on local realities. But with cooperation and planning, 

That said, travel and tourism can continue to thrive in a way that protects what makes each place special.

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The post Malaysia Aviation Group places additional order for 20 A330-900s with Airbus appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Malaysia Airlines’ parent company Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) placed a firm order with Airbus for an additional 20 A330-900 aircraft. 

This new order will double Malaysia Airlines’ future A330neo fleet to 40 aircraft.

The announcement was made during the official visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim  to France over the weekend.

According to MAG group managing director Izham Ismail: “The A330neo continues to deliver the right balance of operational efficiency, range, and cabin comfort to support our network and growth strategy. With its enhanced fuel efficiency and flexibility across both regional and long-haul routes, the aircraft is a strong fit for our evolving market needs. It also allows us to offer a product that aligns with our premium positioning: streamlined, modern, and designed around passenger comfort and expectations.”

Ismail explained that the additional order likewise reinforces MAG’s long-term vision of building a future-ready fleet that supports sustainable growth, delivers consistent value to its passengers, and strengthens its competitiveness in key markets.

For his part, Airbus executive vice-president of sales for commercial aircraft Benoit de Saint-Exupéry declared: We are proud to further strengthen our relationship with Malaysia Aviation Group as it expands its A330neo fleet. This repeat order is a strong endorsement of the A330neo’s exceptional performance, fuel efficiency, versatility and passenger comfort, as well as a testament to the aircraft’s popularity among the world’s premium airlines.”

An exceptional choice

MAG first selected the A330neo in 2022 under its widebody fleet renewal programme, with a commitment for 20 aircraft, of which four have now been delivered. 

Featuring an all-new premium cabin layout, the aircraft are already operating on services from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne, Auckland and Bali.

Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200 nm / 13,300 km non-stop. 

The A330neo features the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers passengers a unique experience, high level of comfort, ambience, and design.

This includes more individual space, enlarged overhead bins, a new lighting system and access to the latest in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems. 

At the end of May 2025, the A330 Family had won over 1,800 firm orders from more than 130 customers worldwide. 

As with all in-production Airbus aircraft, the A330neo is able to operate with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a target to increase to up to 100 percent SAF capability by 2030.

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The post Shandong Airlines’ cargo service lands in Clark appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cargo services under China’s Shandong Airlines have arrived at the Clark International Airport in the Philippines.

In a social media post on Friday, 4th July, airport operator Luzon International Premier Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD) stated: “The additional route between Shenzhen and Clark boosts cargo connectivity between the Philippines and China.”

The arrival of Shandong Airlines cargo services in Central Luzon supports LIPAD’s vision of transforming Clark Airport into one of the Asia-Pacific’s premier logistics hubs.

A destination for the regional cargo sector

Long before Shandong Airlines’ arrival, the Clark Civil Aviation Complex has already been earmarked to become a globally competitive logistics center within Southeast Asia.

Aside from Shandong Airlines, other air freight operators in Clark are UPS and FedEx.

Other cargo carriers that operate via Clark Airport are Tianjin Air Cargo, Jiangsu Jingdong Cargo Airlines, China Postal Airlines, Central Airlines, and Skyway Airlines. 

Headquartered in Jinan, Shandong Airlines is a subsidiary of Air China.

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The post AirAsia to change the game yet again with purchase order for 50 Airbus A321XLRs appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AirAsia Berhad signed a landmark agreement with Airbus for the purchase of 50 A321XLRs on Saturday, 5th July.

The signing in Paris between Capital A chief executive Tony Fernandes and his counterpart at Airbus Commercial Aircraft Christian Scherer was witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim.

The purchase’s total value is at US$12.25 billion and also includes rights for 20 A321XLRs, and the aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2032.

With this agreement, the airline takes a major step towards becoming the world’s first low-cost narrow-body network carrier, anchored by its multi-hub strategy. 

Taking Asian aviation to the next level.

Fernandes pointed out that AirAsia pioneered low-cost travel and Asia and is now set to take the sector to the next level.

He said: “AirAsia is on a transformative journey to become the world’s first low-cost network carrier. This is about exponential growth, connecting geographies beyond Asean, and making flying even more democratic. We gave people in ASEAN the opportunity to explore Asia; now, we want the world to see ASEAN, and ASEAN to see the world. The A321XLR and A321LR are the game-changers enabling this vision, and we are proud to lead the charge in making our world smaller. We can’t wait to paint the skies even wider in red.”

For his part, Scherer expressed pleasure over the confirmation of the agreement, as well as over becoming part of the next phase of AirAsia’s development.

Scherer said: “Having resumed its growth trajectory, which we salute and support, AirAsia is creating solid fleet efficiencies, allowing global network expansion. The A321XLR unlocks new opportunities for AirAsia to launch non-stop flights linking primary and secondary cities all around the globe.”

The next-generation A321XLRs will operate alongside AirAsia’s all-Airbus fleet of A320 Family and A330 aircraft, supporting its long-term strategy to deliver unmatched connectivity across Asia and beyond, whilst maintaining a low-cost model through improved route economics, enhanced aircraft utilisation and fleet efficiency. 

AirAsia Group aims to carry 150 million guests annually by 2030, reaching a cumulative total of 1.5 billion guests since inception.

The new fleet plays a pivotal role in this transformation as AirAsia’s multi-aircraft strategy enables the airline to match capacity with demand, reduce fuel consumption, and support a sustainable, cost-effective growth model in a highly competitive global landscape. 

The A321XLR also offers up to 20 percent lower fuel burn per seat than the Airbus A321neo aircraft, significantly improving emissions performance and operating efficiency.

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The post Pan Pacific’s Bellustar Tokyo makes it to Japan’s top 10 city hotels appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Bellustar Tokyo, A Pan Pacific Hotel made it to 10th place among Japan’s Best City Hotels in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, making it among the best in the region.

This is the second year in a row that the hotel has been honoured since it opened its doors two years ago.

Hotel general manager Katsushi Nishikawa expressed his gratitude to Travel + Leisure, as well as guests and the hotel staff.

Nishikawa said: “It is truly gratifying and humbling to have been bestowed with this honor, which would not have been possible without the patronage of our guests and the efforts of our associates who show the utmost commitment in their day-to-day responsibilities.”

He reiterated that, as a luxury hotel in the heart of Tokyo, Bellustar Tokyo’s mission is to offer a sophisticated and elegant stay experience that meets the demands of customers from Japan and abroad.

Nishikawa concluded with: “Invigorated by the reception of this award, we will endeavor to fulfill this mission by further improving the quality of service we provide and by presenting our guests with Japanese omotenashi, or hospitality, that they will remember long after their visit has ended.”

A stellar record so far

As it marks its second anniversary this year, Bellustar Tokyo continues to devote itself to enhancing its presence in the industry. 

As a result, it has received numerous prominent awards since its opening, including a slot in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024 Top 10 City Hotels in Japan; Luxury New Hotel in East Asia – Best Architectural Design in East Asia at last year’s World’s Luxury Awards; and Best New Hotel in the international category of the TTG China Awards earlier this year.

The hotel also achieved a one Michelin Key rating in the Japan edition of the Michelin Guide for Hotels.

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The post How can destinations cater to the needs of the growing Muslim travel market? appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Representative Image

Muslim travel is changing in profound ways. Projections indicate that this market will grow to 245 million arrivals by 2030, with an estimated expenditure of USD 235 billion. This growth is fuelled by a young, digitally native generation whose aspirations we must continue to listen to and understand.

The Mastercard-Crescent Rating’s ‘The Halal Travel trends 2025’ report was officially launched at the PATA Annual Summit 2025 (PAS 2025) during the session “Halal Travel Frontier 2025: What Destinations need to know now,” Fazal Bahardeen, Founder and CEO, CrescentRating presented few trends from the report.

He stated: “We look at the trends from the Muslim traveller’s perspective. Say if a trend is ‘slow travel’ we try and find out how the different destinations can offer ‘slow travel’ for the Muslim travellers. How to attract the Muslim market without taking them as an afterthought.”

The first noticeable trend he talked about was the rise of women travellers. Muslim travellers compared to other travellers move as multi-generational groups.

The Modern Female Traveller

Females play a significant role in travel planning, especially when traveling as families. Recently, there has been a notable rise in female-only group travel and solo female journeys. To cater to this growing trend, destinations globally have increasingly adopted women friendly amenities and services. It is essential for destinations to provide safe, comfortable, and women-friendly environments, ensuring travellers’ peace of mind. Initiatives aimed at this segment also complement efforts towards inclusive travel for Muslim travellers, creating overlapping opportunities to serve diverse traveller needs effectively.

Then of course by popular opinion travelling for sports tourism.

Sports Tourism

The growing trend of people traveling for sports creates a major opportunity. To attract the valuable and expanding Muslim travel market, destinations must adapt. This means ensuring all major sporting events and active lifestyle options are designed to be inclusive, considering the faith-based and family-oriented needs of Muslim tourists.

“Local festivals also remain key trends; people want to go and enjoy those things. Another popular trend that has evolved is ‘slow travel’, he said. There are nuances that you need to investigate to understand how you can cater to specifically for Muslim travellers.

Representative Image

Solo Travel

Preferences are changing; there is a rise on solo travellers these past years who want freedom, autonomy, and independence during their trip. This trend is particularly prominent among younger generations, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the movement. Highlighting safe neighbourhoods, hospitality with local Muslim families, and women-friendly accommodations helps reassure travelers and supports a sense of empowerment.

He said, “We are also looking at it very closely how can you enable Muslim digital nomads in your destinations.”

Highlighting trends within the dimensions of the RIDA (Responsible, Immersion, Digital, Assurance) framework, the report provides an overview of the evolving travel environment. Responsible tourism emphasizes the conservation of the natural environment and the well-being of local communities, while immersive experiences offer new perspectives and opportunities for travellers to become more engaged.

Regenerative Tourism

Transforms travel by encouraging activities that restore and enhance ecosystems, local communities, and wildlife. This trend goes beyond sustainability, empowering travellers to leave destinations healthier and more vibrant than they found them. By promoting regenerative tourism, destinations can provide purpose-led experiences that resonate with the evolving traveller, positioning themselves as both ethical and faith-conscious tourism leaders

Sustainable Mobility

The shift to sustainable urban mobility has become a necessity due to the need of reducing global CO2 emissions. Cities prioritizing eco-friendly, cost-effective transport are leading the way in combating climate change and achieving environmental goals, paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable urban future. By linking sustainable mobility to core faith traditions, destinations can not only reduce their ecological footprint but also offer Muslim travellers a way to practice their faith during their journey.

Digital Detox Retreat

Provides the space for individuals to temporarily disconnect from electronic devices, enabling rejuvenation, self-reflection, and a re-evaluation of their relationship with technology. Participants engage in a brief but focused disconnection, reducing stress and fully immersing themselves in the physical world. Destinations can attract Muslim travellers by offering unplugged wellness retreats that align with faith values of mindfulness, balance, and spiritual renewal

Through his work, Fazal continues to drive innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in the evolving landscape of Muslim-friendly travel, inspiring industry leaders and travellers alike.

Accessible Tourism

Aims to create inclusive tourism experiences catering to the needs of travellers with disabilities, seniors, and families with young children. The importance of this approach lies in its potential to expand market reach while committing to inclusiveness, quality service, and safety. By combining inclusive design with faith-specific needs, destinations can create a welcoming environment for all.

Humanoid Robotics

Accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic due to safety and health concerns, the use of robots and/or humanoids streamlines operations while adding a novel touch. Equipped with artificial intelligence, robotic services can perform a range of tasks, from basic mechanical functions to more complex interactions. Faith-related awareness needs to be integrated into their programs, making them more inclusive and adaptive

Smart Apps for Halal Journeys

Streamlines the process of obtaining information and enhances the journey by offering various services. The integration of technology makes travel planning less of a hassle, makes practicing faith easier on the go, and opens opportunities for new experiences, such as VR for travel. Apps offer not only efficient information retrieval, but also shift the way Muslim tourists engage with their journeys

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The post Field visits boost tourism cooperation between Thailand and Bhutan appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted a high-level delegation from Bhutan’s Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO) from 20th to 23rd June.

This field visit is seen as a significant step toward deepening cooperation in sustainable tourism between the two nations.

The delegation explored Thailand’s sustainability practices at both policy and community levels, marking a key milestone in the Thailand–Bhutan sustainable tourism partnership.

Likewise, the visit reinforces both nations’ commitment to responsible tourism and sets the stage for stronger collaboration under the Two Countries, One Destination framework that is geared towards shared learning, joint product development, and meaningful travel experiences rooted in sustainability.

This latest collaboration builds on earlier engagement at Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2025, held from 5th to 7th June in Khao Lak, Phang-nga, where Bhutan participated alongside Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries. 

This event laid important groundwork for continued progress under the shared vision of the two nations.

An insightful opening

The programme opened with a welcome meeting led by TAT deputy governor for international marketing in Asia and the South Pacific Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai.

She was accompanied here by executive director for ASEAN, South Asia, and the South Pacific Patsri Permwongsaenee, executive director of tourism products Eblarp Sripirom, and Santi Sawaengcharoen, deputy executive director from the office of the TAT governor.

TAT presented Thailand’s strategic direction for sustainable tourism in alignment with international benchmarks and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards. 

The session included case studies of Thai businesses recognised for environmental and community-based initiatives, including The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, awarded the Green Hotel Standard Plus certification for 2024–2027.

A hands-on experience

From 21st to 23rd June, the delegation visited Nan province to explore practical models of sustainable tourism. 

They met with Wilaiwan Budasa, Vice Governor of Nan, to discuss regional cooperation and inclusive tourism development. 

The programme featured visits to recognised hospitality and tourism businesses, including Nan Boutique Hotel and Resort, Cocoa Valley, Saengthong Resort, and Pupakannapua, each certified under schemes such as the Thailand Tourism Awards, Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR), Tourism Care, Green Restaurant, and Green Hotel. 

These visits facilitated valuable knowledge exchange on eco-friendly operations, cultural preservation, and community-based tourism.

A guided tram tour of Nan Old Town, recipient of the Green Destinations Gold Level award, Thailand’s first recipient of the honour in ASEAN, and the only one in Asia in 2025, highlighted the town’s leadership in creative and sustainable urban development.

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The post More than 1,500 flights cancelled on July 3-4 in France appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Representative Image: People in the terminal of Marseille Airport in Marseille, France.

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