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IATA: Passenger demand growth up 6.6% in October 2025

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its October 2025 global passenger demand report on Friday, 28th November.

Per the report, total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 6.6 percent compared to October 2024. 

Meanwhile, total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 5.8 percent year-on-year, while the October load factor was at 84.6 percent.

International demand rose by 8.5 percent from where it was in October of last year, while capacity was up 7.1 percent year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.6 percent.

With regard to domestic passenger demand, numbers were up 3.4 percent from October 2024, with capacity up by 3.6 percent YoY and load factor at 84.6 percent.

According to IATA director-general Willie Walsh: “October was a strong month for air travel with demand up 6.6 percent on the previous year. Of particular note is the 4.5 percent international traffic growth for carriers based in North America which comes after several months of basically flat performance. The trends for the rest of the year look encouraging: scheduled seat capacity in November is set to expand 3.6 percent and in December by 4.7 percent. This points to strong demand for holiday travel and businesses looking to complete deals by the end of the year. Considering the uncertainty in the economic outlook for 2026, the resilience of demand for air travel, with the jobs and growth it brings, is a bright spot that governments should nurture with care.”

Regional breakdown for October 2025

International RPK growth climbed to 8.5 percent in October year-on-year, with double-digit growth in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. All regions except the Americas saw load factors improve.

  • Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 10.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 9.1% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.4% (+1.4 ppt compared to October 2024). International traffic within Asia had a stellar performance, with traffic to/from China, Japan, and Vietnam experiencing particularly robust expansions, each exceeding 10% growth year-on-year. 
  • European carriers had a 7.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 6.0% year-on-year, and the load factor was 86.5% (+1.2 ppt compared to October 2024).
  • North American carriers saw a 4.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 4.7% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.2% (-0.1 ppt compared to October 2024). The trans-Atlantic corridor expanded by 3.8% year-on-year in October, a modest improvement over September’s 3.3% increase.
  • Middle Eastern carriers saw a 10.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 8.1% year-on-year, and the load factor was 82.5% (+2.0 ppt compared to October 2024). The Middle East’s strong growth is partly due to its low base a year ago, when geopolitical tensions disrupted traffic.
  • Latin American airlines saw a 7.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 8.2% year-on-year. The load factor was 84.6% (-0.8 ppt compared to October 2024).
  • African airlines saw a 7.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 5.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 74.1% (+1.4 ppt compared to October 2024).

Meanwhile, domestic RPK rose 3.4 percent over October 2024 and load factor fell by 0.1 ppt to 84.6 percent on the back of a 3.6 percent capacity expansion. 

The US domestic market returned to modest growth after two months of contraction. Brazil’s domestic growth of 12.4 percent was the standout performance.

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Century Cruises presents first glimpses of its new vessel Century Star

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Century Cruises announced on Saturday 29th November, that the Century Star, the newest addition to its global fleet, is gearing up to sail on the Danube River. 

Century Star is the cruise line’s first vessel in Europe and is scheduled for its maiden voyage on 18th September 2026.

Century Cruises president and general manager in the Americas David Fredericks said of the new ship: “Century Star, the first of many vessels planned for the Danube and Rhine, is a  testament to the vision set by our chairman Jianhu Peng 30 years ago on the banks of  the Yangtze River. Through dedication and hard work, we have reached the  heart of Europe, and we are incredibly proud. This is where Eastern elegance  and hospitality meet Western style, on the Danube River.

Fredericks added that while the Century Star’s debut is set for September of next year on the Danube, an itinerary plying the Rhine has already been scheduled to cast off on 6th November 2026, while a saunter through the Egyptian Nile will become a reality by 2027.

This new ship joins the brand’s environmentally-conscious fleet, as it boasts of hybrid  propulsion, a hull crafted from recycled steel, and full compliance with EU sustainability standards aimed at achieving net-zero carbon performance.  

Having built four eco-friendly vessels in as many years. earning international  accolades along the way, Century Cruises’ pursuit of excellence has naturally  led to its expansion into Europe. 

A product of global collaboration

Measuring 134.99 metres, the ship will host 78 luxury cabins for 174 guests, offering an intimate and refined cruising experience on the Danube. 

The vessel is the product of a truly global collaboration: Chinese vision paired  with Western craftsmanship, all done to an exceptional level of quality. 

The Century Star’s hull was designed by Concordia Damen Shipbuilding, whose contemporary aesthetic enables the vessel to blend seamlessly into the timeless scenery of the Danube. 

Inside, the lush interiors by renowned MDesigns draw inspiration from the  diverse cultures and landscapes along the river’s route. 

The Black Forest, the Danube’s birthplace, inspires the refined  atmosphere of the main restaurant, leading to a design recognised as a CSI Awards  2025 Finalist for Concept of the Year;

The Bar and Lounge, influenced by Baroque architecture and the musical  heritage of Beethoven and Strauss, evokes the warmth of Vienna’s  traditional coffee houses; and

The lobby pays homage to Bulgaria’s Rose Valley, while the standard  cabins offer the welcoming charm of a Serbian home, enhanced with  touches of local folklore. 

Walking through Century Star feels like journeying through the spirit of each  country along the Danube: a cultural tapestry woven into the ship itself. 

Gearing up for an unforgettable river journey

The inaugural Blue Danube Cruise begins in  Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube, and continues through highlights including  Esztergom, Bratislava, the famed City of Music Vienna, as well as  Linz and Passau. 

This eight-day voyage includes immersive local experiences, with guests transported  from port to landmark by Century Cruises’ dedicated buses. 

Onboard, passengers will enjoy European culinary excellence complemented by beloved  classics from Century Cruises’ expert chefs. 

Enriching lectures on the Danube’s  history, along with Eastern wellness practices such as Tai Chi and Yoga, demonstrate how multicultural influences can exist in perfect harmony. 

Blending Eastern elegance and hospitality with Western service and style, Century Cruises brings a fresh, distinctive, and sophisticated cruising  experience to the heart of Europe. 

A second itinerary sailing from charming Amsterdam to elegant Basel is also ready to launch, delivering an unforgettable journey along the storied waters of the  Rhine. 

With such an exceptional itinerary on the slate, Fredericks remarked: “The future of cruising is bright with Century Cruises.” 

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DXB set for a strong year-end travel peak with 10mln guests expected

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Dubai International (DXB) is preparing for a strong year-end travel wave beginning 27 November and carrying through to 31 December 2025, with forecasts indicating over 10 million guests will pass through the airport during this period. The early lift begins with the UAE National Day long weekend, with daily totals averaging over 294,000, before accelerating into December, which is expected to welcome more than 8.7 million guests and stand as DXB’s busiest month yet on record. Daily guest numbers are expected to exceed the 300,000-mark during December with Saturday, 20 December likely to be the busiest day with 303,000 guests.

During this period, the pattern is consistent across both arrivals and departures. Outbound travel dominates in the days leading up to the National Day break, as residents take advantage of the long weekend. Mid-December, the rhythm shifts again and inbound travel rises sharply, driven by Dubai’s vibrant and rich festive calendar.

Dubai Airports continues to work closely with oneDXB partners including airlines, control authorities, commercial partners and airport service teams, to ensure smoother journeys. The airport has also issued smart travel tips to help guests make their journey seamless during this travel peak:

  • If you’re flying with Emirates, use the airline’s convenient home, early and self-service check-in facilities as well as a city check-in option at ICD Brookfield Place in the DIFC area in Dubai.
  • Arrive no earlier than three hours before the scheduled departure time. Use online check-in where available to save time.
  • Families with children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process.
  • Emirates First and Business Class guests departing from Terminal 3 can use the “Red Carpet” Smart Tunnel for a quick, document-free passport check.
  • Be aware of the latest travel regulations for the destination you’re travelling to and be prepared with all the necessary travel documents.
  • Properly pack spare batteries and power banks in your hand luggage.
  • Say your goodbyes at home as only passengers will be allowed inside the terminals during peak periods.
  • Use Dubai Metro to get to and from the airport’s Terminals 1 and 3. Metro operating times are generally extended during festive holidays and peak periods at DXB.
  • Enhanced support is available for People of Determination, including marked accessibility routes, discreet assistance for guests wearing Sunflower Lanyards from trained staff, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in DXB Terminal 2.
  • Stay informed on flight and gate updates with DXB Express Maps, the wayfinding platform that helps you navigate the airport with a quick QR code scan and search.
  • Once at the airport, enjoy DXB’s world class facilities including restaurants, duty free shopping, hotel and exclusive lounge access before flight.

 

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5 ways the Delta app can save you time at the airport

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Taking to the skies this holiday season? Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or an every-now-and-then adventurer, Delta’s app helps you stay informed and in control throughout your journey. With digital time-savers like interactive airport maps and self-service standby options, the app is your ultimate travel companion –this holiday, and every day. That’s why more than 97% of SkyMiles Medallion Members use the app to manage their day-of travel experience.

Whatever your travel profile, discover how the app can help you breeze through the airport and focus on what matters most: enjoying your journey.

1. Checking a bag? Use App Bag Drop to save time in the lobby.  

Delta’s App Bag Drop – now in ATL, BOS, JFK, DTW, LAX, MSP and SEA– is a game-changer for customers who want to save time and skip lines at the airport.

If you’ve checked in and added your bags via the app, you can use a dedicated App Bag Drop lane to quickly print your bag tag and drop off your luggage, bypassing the main queue. That means shorter lines, faster check-in and more time to relax before your flight.

Plus: Did you know you can redeem miles toward checked bags? Use miles to cover fees for standard checked bags on flights originating from select U.S. airports by selecting “Pay with Miles” during check-in through the app.

These self-service bag drop lanes are rolling out to remaining Delta hubs by end of year, bringing the gift of efficiency to even more app users systemwide.

2. Upload your travel documents to the app before you get to the airport. 

Make flying overseas a breeze by uploading your passport and other essential documents to the app before you reach the airport. With everything securely stored in the app, check-in is faster and more convenient; no more searching for paperwork at the counter.

Starting in December, SkyMiles® Members can scan and store their passport to their SkyMiles Member Profile in the app. Scan just once and have your passport available in your profile for all future international trips. (Just remember to always bring your physical passport with you!)

3. Navigate the airport like a pro.  

Find your pre-flight comfort drink quickly with the app. Use interactive maps at major airports to find gates, lounges and amenities quickly. Find airport maps on your app boarding pass.

4. Plan your Delta Sky Club® visit 

In airports with more than one Delta Sky Club, customers with Club access can strategically plan their visit with the app’s occupancy tracker. With a quick glance, you can see how busy each lounge is – helping you plan your visit and choose the best location for a relaxing break. Tap “Delta Sky Club” section in the app to see real-time occupancy levels (updated every 10 minutes) for your Club of choice.

5. If plans change, stay flexible with self-service standby through the app.  

Travel plans don’t always go as expected—but luckily, the app’s self-service standby feature puts flexibility at your fingertips.

If you’re impacted by a delay or cancellation, you can list yourself for standby on an earlier domestic flight directly in the app (even if Delta has already rebooked you). No need to wait in line or call customer service—this  digital option lets you view available flights, join the standby list and track your status in real time, helping you reach your destination sooner when seats open up.*

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Dubai focuses on MICE at IBTM World 2025

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Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s official convention bureau and part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, has concluded its successful participation at IBTM World 2025 in Barcelona, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic business events destinations. The city’s presence highlighted its strong global rankings, expanding pipeline and alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

DBE participated alongside a delegation of 32 industry partners, representing hotels, venues, DMCs, planners and major entities including Emirates, Expo City Dubai, Coca Cola Arena and Dubai World Trade Centre. Together, they showcased Dubai’s collaborative, business-ready ecosystem for hosting major global gatherings.

This year’s IBTM theme, ‘People. Power. Potential.’, aligned with Dubai’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections, advancing knowledge exchange and empowering global collaboration. DBE’s participation at IBTM followed its presence at other strategic industry events in 2025, including EPEX, IMEX Las Vegas, the ICCA Middle East Summit in Bahrain and the ICCA Congress in Porto.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “IBTM World 2025 provided an excellent platform to engage with international partners and reaffirm Dubai’s growing influence on the global stage. The strong interest we saw at the show, supported by our leading international rankings and the results achieved this year, underlines the world’s confidence in Dubai as a destination that consistently delivers meaningful and high-impact business events.”

Dubai’s international recognition has continued to grow in 2025. According to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Dubai remained #1 globally for highest attendee numbers per association meeting, and #1 in the Middle East and Africa for number of association meetings hosted. Cvent also named Dubai the #1 meetings destination in the region, reaffirming the emirate’s strength in delivering high-impact events and supporting international associations in deepening their global reach.

Dubai’s H1 2025 results demonstrated sustained momentum. DBE secured 249 successful bids, a 29% year-on-year increase, for events taking place through 2029. These conferences and congresses are expected to attract over 127,000 delegates, a 35% rise year-on-year, supported by an improved 64% conversion rate and the continued growth of the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme, now comprising more than 370 ambassadors.

The strength of Dubai’s MICE sector reflects the city’s broader tourism performance. Dubai International Airport (DXB), the world’s busiest international airport for the 11th consecutive year in 2024, welcomed 70.1 million passengers in the first nine months of 2025, up 2.1% year-on-year. The emirate also received 13.95 million international overnight visitors during the same period, a 5% year-on-year increase, underscoring the synergy between leisure and business travel.

Looking ahead, Dubai is bolstering its readiness for future business events growth through the expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai and ongoing city-wide infrastructure and airport development. These enhancements will further strengthen the emirate’s ability to host large-scale, global events.

 

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AirAsia X releases financials for Q3-2025

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AirAsia X Berhad reported its unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended 30th September earlier today, 28th November.

The Company recorded turnover of RM803.5 million in Q3-2025, marginally higher than the RM795.0 million achieved at the end of Q3-2024.

This was supported by a healthier fare environment and higher ancillary income, along with a healthy Passenger Load Factor (PLF) of 82 percent. 

As part of a deliberate, group-wide network optimisation to prioritise longer-haul widebody flying, the Company redeployed selected shorter and medium-haul routes, including Bangkok, Hong Kong, Amritsar and Perth, to its sister airline, which operates more cost-efficient narrowbody aircraft on these sectors. 

According to airline chief executive Benyamin Ismail: “The Company’s performance this quarter signals the resilience of our fare environment, driven by robust demand even during a typically softer travel period. Maintaining an 82 percent PLF was a feat and reflected the strength of our core markets and the effectiveness of the team’s continuous optimisation of our network strategy.” 

Key points from the quarter

As a result of this strategic realignment, passengers carried declined by five percent; nonetheless, available seat kilometres were up nine percent YoY as AirAsia X lengthened average stage and improved daily aircraft utilisation to 16 hours, demonstrating the effectiveness of its focus on optimising asset productivity rather than chasing volume. 

Meanwhile, Revenue Passenger Kilometres rose seven percent YoY to 4,570 million, buoyed by consistently high PLF on key routes in China and Japan. 

Average base fare increased 5% YoY to RM466 in 3Q25 as market demand built up towards the upcoming peak travel season. 

Ancillary income remained an important earnings driver, up by five percent YoY to RM280.6 million as ancillary revenue per passenger rose 11 percent YoY to RM273, with duty free sales showing significant improvements against last year. 

Net operating profit advanced to RM12.0 million during the quarter versus RM3.0 million at the same time last year driven by favourable fuel cost and stronger local currency. 

Consequently, cost per ASK (CASK) dropped by nine percent YoY to 12.68 sen while CASK ex-fuel saw a modest increase of two percent to 6.72 sen. 

Profit after tax stood at RM27.8 million compared to RM121.6 million in 3Q24, the latter of which benefited from substantial net foreign exchange gains.

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Singapore Flyer Rings in the Season of Joy with Festive Experiences and Holiday Deals

The post Singapore Flyer Rings in the Season of Joy with Festive Experiences and Holiday Deals appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As 2025 comes to a close, Singapore Flyer brings back its signature festive experiences, including the highly anticipated New Year’s Eve Countdown Champagne Special and Festive 165 Sky Dining by Singapore Flyer, inviting all to toast a grand finale to Singapore’s Diamond Jubilee atop the iconic giant observation wheel.

New Year’s Eve Countdown Champagne Special

Welcome the new year from 165 metres above the city with Singapore Flyer’s popular countdown experience, a unique celebration featuring champagne, front-row seats to fireworks, and festive touches such as a party kit and limited-edition Singapore Flyer souvenir. Taking place at 11.30pm on 31 December 2025, this exclusive countdown party is limited to just 160 guests across eight capsules, with the option of reserving an entire private capsule for an intimate celebration.

The experience is open to guests aged seven and above and is priced at $250 nett per guest in a shared capsule, or $5,000 nett for a private capsule accommodating up to 26 persons, inclusive of eight bottles of premium champagne.

Festive 165 Sky Dining by Singapore Flyer

Take the year-end celebration to the skies with another crowd favourite, Festive 165 Sky Dining by Singapore Flyer, which is available on 24, 25, and 31 December 2025, as well as 1 January 2026. On these festive dates, each guest will be treated to a complimentary glass of champagne or mocktail, complementing the premier four-course menu available daily until 1 January 2026.

The luxurious 90-minute dining experience aboard Asia’s largest observation wheel begins with an amuse-bouche and artisanal bread paired with fresh truffle butter. The first rotation features a sweet and tangy harmony of heirloom tomato, homemade ricotta, olives, and passion fruit pearls, followed by seared ahi tuna with avocado and corn chile de árbol salsa. As the evening deepens, guests savour their choice of main course – Australian Wagyu Beef Sirloin Steak, Duck Leg Confit, or Miso-Glazed Chilean Seabass. The experience reaches a decadent finale with the Hazelnut Chocolate Praline, accompanied by Nespresso coffee or Gryphon tea and Janice Wong petit fours.

With priority boarding and welcome refreshments at the VIP Lounge, this exquisite dining experience – priced at $600 nett for two guests on the selected festive dates of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day – offers an elegant and special way to close the year.

Year-End Family Bundle for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents

Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents can embark on the reimagined Singapore Flyer journey at a special rate from now to 4 January 2026. The Year-End Family Bundle features a complimentary child or senior ticket with every two paying adults, available at just $80 instead of the regular price of $105. Families begin their journey through the corridors of Time Capsule, where Singapore’s story comes alive through cutting-edge multimedia, interactive exhibits, and cinematic storytelling. Launched in August 2025, the permanent immersive pre-flight experience takes guests back to the 1200s, tracing Singapore’s transformation as it unfolds aboard the Singapore Flyer.

Festive Fringe Activities

On 24 and 25 December 2025, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the festive spirit with complimentary carolling performances and balloon art. More details will be shared on Singapore Flyer’s Instagram and Facebook pages.

 

 

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Red Rock BBQ Ras Al Khaimah Debuts This November in Jebel Jais

The post Red Rock BBQ Ras Al Khaimah Debuts This November in Jebel Jais appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This November, Ras Al Khaimah welcomes Red Rock BBQ, a new addition to the Emirate’s dining landscape. Located on the dramatic heights of Jebel Jais, the UAE’s tallest peak, Red Rock offers a refined culinary experience where open-fire cooking meets thoughtful, ingredient-driven flavours, all set against sweeping mountain views. Debuting with the Jebel Jais 2025–2026 season, it emerges as a destination where life comes together.

Red Rock is a celebration of nature and gastronomy in perfect harmony. Here, sophisticated design blends effortlessly with rugged elegance, creating a space, where sun-drenched afternoons flow into vibrant, ambient evenings. At the center of the concept is fire-led cooking, featuring exceptional, locally sourced ingredients prepared over open flames and crafted under the direction of Chef Iker Zapata Errasti.

“At Red Rock, we wanted to create more than a meal. We wanted every visit to be a journey that immerses guests in Ras Al Khaimah’s extraordinary landscape, while celebrating the artistry and theatre of flame-led cooking,” says Nazli Sonmez Vallee, Chief Brand Officer at RIKAS Hospitality Group. “From the open-fire culinary experience to the mountain-inspired interiors, every detail has been carefully considered to delight the senses,” she added.

Beyond Red Rock, Ras Al Khaimah’s dining scene is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The emirate is now home to an array of elevated culinary experiences, brought to life through collaborations with renowned chefs and celebrated international partners. From innovative gastronomy to refined, locally inspired menus, these experiences are redefining the way visitors and residents alike enjoy dining in the region combining luxury, creativity, and the natural beauty of RAK in every bite.

Guests are invited to savour the moment and enjoy the setting. Whether gathering around the open flame with friends, sipping a finely crafted cocktail as the sun sets behind the peaks, or enjoying an intimate dinner under the night sky. Every element, from the textures of the surroundings to the warm, attentive service, has been curated to provide a memorable experience.

More than a restaurant, Red Rock enhances Jebel Jais’ growing reputation as a destination for both adventure and elevated experiences. The menu marries ember-roasted meats and locally inspired produce with contemporary Mediterranean touch, each dish built around craftsmanship, quality, creativity, “We are delighted to introduce Red Rock, a new barbecue dining concept at Jebel Jais, brought to life with the expertise of RIKAS Hospitality Group. This restaurant will elevate Ras Al Khaimah’s dining scene and offer residents and visitors even more exceptional experiences. We are especially excited to open in such an extraordinary destination, where life comes together,” says Donald Bremner, CEO of Marjan Lifestyle.

Red Rock opens this November, welcoming residents and visitors to experience the UAE’s newest high-altitude culinary destination. Reservations are recommended to secure a table.

 

 

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TDM Global Summit Singapore: Points to Ponder on the Future of Travel and Tourism

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The TDM Global Summit Singapore held earlier this week at the InterContinental Singapore served to give gathered industry professionals food for thought as to the direction global travel and tourism are taking within the current decade and beyond. 

Featuring speakers from various sectors within the industry, the Summit served as a sounding board for ideas and upcoming innovations that could shape the future of travel throughout the world.

That said, we present five key insights presented during the Summit and how these are changing the game in terms of hospitality, travel, aviation, and tourism.

Sustainability is a necessity rather than an option

Given the recent natural disasters which are seen as a result of climate change, global travel is scrambling to offer the world better, greener options for more sustainable operations.

We heard throughout the Summit that, rather than just another item to be ticked off a checklist, companies need to take sustainability seriously, essentially integrating environment-friendly and community-centric practices into their industrial DNA.

Rather than mere bragging rights, green certifications are seen as badges of honour and commitment among companies that seek to make their operations safer for the environment and more beneficial to their host communities.

Sustainability also means considering local traditions and the preservation thereof, especially at a time when both cultural appropriation and the invasiveness of overtourism are rife.

Whether we like it or not, AI is here to stay

We are currently in the throes of another industrial revolution, so to speak: a revolution involving the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) throughout the globe.

While many remain sceptical as to what practical benefit AI will have on their respective industries, AI is proving to be a boon as a tool for automation as it simplifies key back-of-the-house processes, making operations more efficient in the long run.

At the same time, the use of generative AI for trip planning has been rapidly gaining ground among end-consumers who are using it to scope out possible itineraries, search for the best deals, and even book their hotels, flights, and tours of choice.

As the Thais say: Healing is the new luxury

Health and wellness have been pointed out as integral elements of the contemporary luxury experience.

However, these now go beyond booking a massage or a rejuvenating treatment at a hotel spa; indeed, the scope now covers digital detoxes in far-flung regions like Bhutan and the Himalayas; spiritual retreats in India, in Basque mountain monasteries, or even quaint resorts in Thailand and Indonesia; and wellness rituals rooted in ancient traditions throughout the world.

Some of our luxury experts inadvertently leaned towards Thailand’s 2026 thematic Healing is the New Luxury, citing how people are willing to spend more to get themselves back on an even keel both physically and spiritually, along with their willingness to try treatments well beyond their comfort zones in the hope that these will lead to a full reset.

Of course, talking about wellness tourism also opens up the topic for health and medical tourism which have helped boost arrival numbers for various countries, including Thailand, Mexico, and Turkiye, given how patients from the west make their way over to seek reasonably priced yet highly effective treatment.

More people are turning to socials for travel inspiration

Social media has a major part to play when it comes to giving people ideas as to where to go, when to go, and what to do when they get there.

Indeed, several experts pointed out how some travellers will head to their travel agent of choice or check out OTAs online armed with ideas they gleaned from watching someone’s content on TikTok or Instagram.

This notion was initially posited to us at an earlier event wherein EternityX founder Charlene Ree pointed out how travel content featured on Chinese social networks Rednote, Douyin, and WeChat has spurred a greater interest in travel among China’s younger people.

While those online won’t really go for an exact shot-by-shot itinerary like the influencers, what they see online is enough to push them into making bookings and driving them to their destinations of choice.

We may be looking at the rise of privately-chartered aviation

Luxury travel is evolving at a rapid clip, and one aspect of the sector is chartered aviation.

In recent months, we’ve noted how several chartered flight services have announced their expansion into new markets or their acquisition of smaller firms in order to expand their footprint in key markets.

While mentioned fleetingly during the CEO Breakfast that preceded the summit proper, it certainly piqued the interest of C-suite attendees who see chartered aviation as a perk that luxury travellers look forward to, something that takes their trips from being humdrum to exceptional.

Taking a closer look at the matter following the Summit, we noted that the number of people taking chartered flights rather than commercial ones has increased within this year. 

Incidentally, private aviation may no longer be the exclusive perk of the moneyed class, as global companies are beginning to see its benefits as a more effective, if not efficient, way of ferrying their people from one officer to another anywhere in the world.

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Hong Kong’s Hotel Artz Fair 2025 draws to successful conclusion

The post Hong Kong’s Hotel Artz Fair 2025 draws to successful conclusion appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The 2025 edition of Hong Kong’s Hotel Artz Fair concluded on Sunday, 23rd November, marking another successful celebration of art, culture, and imagination, and reaffirming its position as Asia’s premier boutique art experience.

Held at the Conrad Hong Kong from 21st to 23rd November, the Fair transformed hotel rooms into intimate art spaces. 

Guests embarked on a unique journey, discovering diverse works from artists across 12 countries and regions, whilst engaging directly with creators. 

This distinctive format fostered dialogue, interaction, and meaningful connections between art enthusiasts, collectors, artists, and gallerists.

Founders Garth Grierson and Terry Ma jointly remarked: “Hotel Artz Fair is built upon the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, it has again proven its role and positioning as a leading hotel art fair in Asia with several breakthroughs that underscored our deep commitment to nurturing Asia’s thriving art ecosystem.”

An homage to Basquiat

This year’s edition focused on Basquiat: Two Years, Four Moments, as envisioned by LG and Fingerprint.

The exhibition featured four rarely seen works by Jean‑Michel Basquiat (1960-1988) in collaboration with a private collector. 

Yuri Han, managing director of LG Electronics Hong Kong, remarked: “We are delighted to collaborate with Hotel Artz Fair this time. Through the transparent screen of the world’s first wireless transparent OLED TV, the LG SIGNATURE OLED T, the animation seamlessly connects with the physical artwork behind it, creating a richly layered visual depth. This partnership not only demonstrates LG’s brand philosophy of integrating cutting-edge technology into art and daily life but also underscores our commitment to supporting the local art ecosystem and fostering cross-disciplinary collaborations.”

Han expressed gratitude to artist William Kan for enabling the organisers to delve deep into the dialogue on the myriad collaborative possibilities between technology and art.

Behind the screen, William Kan and Fingerprint used Swiss Droptix technology to create a work that added a third visual dimension, allowing audiences to experience how technology enriches art through layered light and imagery.

A gallery to view

The Fair also partnered with acclaimed British art adviser Tanya Baxter, recognized by Spear’s among the world’s top 500 art advisers. 

Baxter noted: “Hotel rooms create an intimate ambiance and if you hang properly with the right artists like Tracey Emin, David Hockney, Pip Todd‑Warmoth, to Bridget Riley that it’s a mix of giving them information as well as an opportunity to buy limited editions or small works, so access into the art market starts all levels. I feel like there is so much potential for this art fair that is going really, it has legs and it’s going to fly and it was dealt with in a very professional way and very pleased to be part of it.”

Another highlight was the collaboration with Gabangel, presenting the historic debut partnership between Japan’s legendary ULTRAMAN and Hong Kong artist William Kan. Angelo Lee, director of Gabangel Limited, commented: “This is our first time participating in a hotel art fair. Our theme centres on Art Player Cards, and we are proud to have launched an officially licensed ULTRAMAN project, which sparked enthusiastic interaction and strong resonance among audiences. We are deeply grateful to the Organizer for their professional support, which allowed us to focus fully on the creative aspects. This experience has greatly strengthened our confidence, and we look forward to presenting more cross-disciplinary innovations and continuing to shine at future Hotel Artz Fairs.”

Australian muralist Jamie Torpey added: “This is my first time exhibiting in Hong Kong. I have a few commissions on the way and sold about five pieces so I would say it was a massive success. I have a lot more unfinished business in Hong Kong so I will definitely be back.” 

Local photographer and gallery director Laurence Lai also reported strong results, selling over 20 works alongside two emerging talents and connecting with both high‑net‑worth collectors and art enthusiasts. 

Baxter further praised the event’s organization by saying: “We were so thrilled with the organization of this Fair, they were more than helpful from the beginning, the press were very well organized, they got a good crowd of people coming in, steady flow all the time.”

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Source: traveldailymedia