The post All Eyes on Doha: Qatar Airways Holidays Scores Big with FIFA Arab Cup 2025 Experiences appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Qatar Airways Holidays, the leisure arm of the national carrier of the State of Qatar, has announced the launch of its exclusive travel packages for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. The tournament, taking place from 1 to 18 December 2025, will unite 16 national teams from across the Arab world in a celebration of football, culture, and regional pride.

The newly unveiled packages aim to provide football fans with a seamless way to experience the event, combining return international flights on Qatar Airways, premium 4- and 5-star accommodation, and Category 1 or Category 2 match tickets for selected fixtures. Guests will also benefit from airport transfers, access to cultural events, and opportunities to explore Doha’s attractions, making it a holistic sports and leisure experience.

Talking about the announcement, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, said: “Qatar continues to uphold its reputation as a world leader in connecting sports and hospitality. The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 will once again showcase our ability to bring the region together through football, while offering international fans the chance to experience first-hand Qatar’s culture, passion, and excellence. Through Qatar Airways Holidays, we look forward to welcoming travellers from around the world to be part of this unique celebration and experience all the amazing adventures Doha has to offer both in and out of the stadiums.”

The Arab Cup 2025 marks another milestone in Qatar’s growing role as a global sports hub. Following the success of the FIFA World Cup 2022, the country continues to invest in world-class infrastructure and hospitality, blending traditional Arabian culture with modern sporting innovation. With world-renowned stadiums, cutting-edge facilities, and a well-connected transport system, Qatar is positioning itself as the heart of sports tourism in the Middle East.

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The post Emirates to launch third daily service to Nairobi appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Building on Emirates’ 30^th anniversary of operations to Kenya it has announced a third daily flight to Nairobi, commencing 1^st March 2026. With the additional frequency, the Kenyan capital will be served with 21 Emirates flights per week, connecting travellers to Dubai, and onwards to the airline’s vast global network of close to 150 destinations.

The new flight complements Emirates’ existing schedule into Nairobi, adding an early morning arrival and departure to enhance two-way connectivity with key European destinations, including the UK, France, Norway and Italy, as well as the US. By creating easier access from key markets, the additional frequency will further support Kenya’s tourism goals, which aim to attract 5 million international tourists by 2030. EK717 will depart Dubai at 00:55 hrs, arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 05:05 hrs; the return flight, EK718, will depart Nairobi at 06:50 hrs and arrive in Dubai at 12:50 hrs.

In recent months, Emirates has been operating its double daily flights at a healthy seat factor, underlining the growing demand for air travel. The third daily service, operated on a three-class Boeing 777, will boost Emirates’ capacity and provide more access to the airline’s world-class product and services, including its First Class cabins, which Emirates exclusively operates in and out of the city.

The new flight schedule has been optimised for connectivity with key flights operated by Kenya Airways, enabling seamless onward travel to top regional destinations such as Rwanda, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mozambique and Burundi. Since signing the agreement in 2023, over 31,000 passengers have benefited from the interline partnership between the two airlines, with a near 50/50 split of bookings, highlighting the mutual benefits for both Emirates and Kenya Airways customers.

Beyond passenger travel, the additional flight will also boost the transportation of goods to and from Kenya, with an additional 280 tonnes of capacity weekly in and out of Nairobi via the belly of the Boeing 777. The early morning departure will be particularly beneficial for the movement of time- and temperature-sensitive perishable commodities like fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers.

Kenya and the UAE have deep-rooted and mutually beneficial bilateral and economic relations, headlined by the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement earlier this year. Emirates SkyCargo, the airline’s freight division, has played a key role in facilitating global trade with Kenya, operating three weekly freighters into Nairobi, in addition to the soon-to-be three daily passenger flights offering a total weekly capacity of over 1,100 tonnes in and out of the market.

In October, Emirates marked 30 years of service to Nairobi, following the inaugural flight in 1995. Since then, the airline has carried over 6.6 million passengers to and from the country, forging key inbound traffic from South Korea, China, Thailand and Australia as well as ultra-long-haul passengers travelling from the US. The outbound traffic is similar, with destinations such as Shanghai and Beijing, China; Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney, Australia; and Seattle, New York and Washington proving popular with travellers from Kenya.

In 2024, Emirates opened Africa’s first Emirates World store in Nairobi, introducing the airline’s refined retail store experience to the region for the first time. Featuring immersive product displays and an expert team to provide travel consultation and bookings, the store further elevates Emirates’ world-class customer experience, on-ground.

Bookings for all three daily flights on the Dubai-Nairobi route are open now, on emirates.com, Emirates Retail Stores, the Emirates app, and preferred travel agencies.

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The post US short-term rentals set to finish 2025 on a high: Key Data appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The US short-term rental market is closing 2025 on a high, with holiday travel demand helping operators finish the year with stronger rates, higher revenue, and growing traveler confidence. New analysis from short-term rental analytics company Key Data shows the sector gaining strong momentum heading into winter.

Melanie Brown, VP Data Analytics and Insights, said: “What we’re seeing in the winter data is a market that’s steadied itself after a long period of correction. Forward-looking bookings for December show the highest rate and revenue growth of the year, with ADR pacing 6% higher and RevPAR up 7% year over year. That’s a clear sign that confidence has returned, both from travelers who are still willing to pay for quality, and from managers who’ve held their ground on pricing. Even with shorter booking windows and increasingly brief trips, operators have adapted fast. They’re leaning on smarter tools, sharper data, and stronger value propositions, and that’s what’s putting the industry back on solid footing heading into 2026.”

The Autumn 2025 Vacation Rental Market Report, released today, reveals that forward-looking bookings for December point to the strongest national gains of the year, with Revenue per Available Rental (RevPAR) projected to rise 7% year over year and Average Daily Rates (ADR) pacing 6% higher¹. November ADRs are also pacing 5% higher year over year, confirming that guests remain willing to pay for quality and space even as trip lengths shorten.

After a volatile year, the December projections mark the clearest sign yet of a stabilizing market. Travelers are paying more per night, managers are holding firm on pricing, and data suggests a decisive return of confidence as the year closes.

Regional strength heading into the holidays

The December uplift is being driven by a mix of classic holiday destinations and resilient year-round markets:

• New England: RevPAR +5% year over year
• Hawaiian Islands: RevPAR +5%
• Rocky Mountains: RevPAR +4%
• Midwest US: RevPAR +4%

Elsewhere, performance has largely stabilized. The Southwest continues to post RevPAR growth of +3% despite rate pressure, while the Southeast remains broadly flat (–1%) following a competitive summer.

Shorter trips, later bookings

Behind the recovery, traveler behavior continues to evolve. Guests are booking closer to arrival and staying for shorter periods, with the average December stay length downfrom 6.6 to 6.0 nights, a 9% drop year over year. Booking windows have also compressed by around 5% in most months, even in peak periods, reflecting a shift toward more spontaneous, flexible travel.

For property managers, agility and automation are now essential. Operators that adapt flexible pricing and efficient turnover processes are best placed to capture this last-minute demand and sustain revenue performance through the winter.

Outlook: confidence returning

With December’s RevPAR and ADR on track to reach their highest levels of 2025, Key Data says the short-term rental market is heading into 2026 from a position of strength.

 

 

 

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The post Best 3 Countryside Stays during Jaipur Literature Festival 2026 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Jaipur Literature Festival (January 15–19, 2026 at Hotel Clarks Amer) welcomes writers, artists, and travelers from all over the world to participate. But when the inspirational conversations and live programs have ended, the best way to relax is to head out to the countryside.
In addition to grand heritage palaces, here are the 3 best countryside stays based on your needs of some quiet time, creativity and reconnection during JLF 2026.

1. Savista Retreat — Yoga, Block Printing & Sustainable Luxury

Savista Retreat, a luxury boutique hotel in Jaipur, sits peacefully amid farmland just 40–50 minutes from the festival venue. Its well-maintained sustainable ethos and elegant design present itself not just as accommodation but as an art sanctuary, an eco-minded property with weekend yoga programs, healthy and delicious meals made from their own farm, local culture, and quiet beautiful gardens — the perfect restorative place to spend overnight after days of festival fun.

Experience:

•  Morning Yoga & Meditation: Reestablish the body and mind in preparation for a day of literary immersion.
•  Block Printing Workshops: Revel in the joy of traditional Rajasthani block printing. Create your design along with local artisans! 
•  Organic & Farm-to-Table dining: Enjoy freshly sourced vegetarian meals made with the edibles grown directly from their on-farm. 
•  Community & Culture walks: Access nearby villages and local communities for authentic engagement.
•  Eco-Luxury: Each room reflects mindful aesthetics — with handmade furniture, locally made textiles, and easy views into the quiet gardens. 
•  Top reasons to book: sunrise yoga to reset the body, hands-on block-printing workshops and craft demos, farm-to-table meals, small and intimate (small-number of rooms), arranged transfers for guests going to the festival. Ideal for the solo reader, as well as a writer, artist group, and small retreat.

Why It’s Special:

Savista Retreat welcomes you to slow down and reconnect. It’s where creativity flows easily—ideal for JLF tourists looking to balance the intensity of what happens in city life with the serenity of countryside life.

Note:- If you looking for places to visit in jaipur during JLF, here are the 7 places to visit during JLF 2026.  

 

2. Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur — Spa Serenity & Aravali Views

Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur is a large, countryside spa retreat in the Aravali foothills just outside of the city – a restorative option for JLF attendees looking to work on wellness goals, enjoy manicured lawns and privacy after a busy festival day. The resort features resort-scale accommodations and facilities (including a world-class spa, outdoor pool for year-round use, extensive gardens, and a few dining options) with spacious suite-style and villa-style options, making it a good choice for families, small writer-groups, or anyone looking for a relaxing, service-oriented getaway. 

 

What to do: 

• A full spa menu including Ayurvedic and wellness treatments based on “nature therapy” and relaxation programs. 
• Take a leisurely walk through the manicured lawns and enjoy views of the surrounding hills – perfect for during the early morning, sunset reflection, or quiet writing time. 
• One outdoor pool available for use year-round, lounge spaces, and family-friendly amenities available for relaxing downtime. 

 

Location & travel time: Ananta Spa & Resort is located around 35-36 km outside of central Jaipur (near Kukas/Delhi Road); you can expect to be travelling from 40-70 minutes in private car depending on traffic.  

 

Top reasons to book: Full-service spa/specialty wellness programs, expansive gardens and villa-style rooms to ensure privacy, resort-style amenities for group or families, and meeting/banquet space should you want to coordinate a small post-panel gathering. 

 

3. Alila Fort Bishangarh — A Fortress of Luxury

Perched on an impressive granite promontory, Alila Fort Bishangarh is the epitome of splendor. This exquisite 230-year-old warrior fort has been lovingly restored to incorporate not only Rajpur architecture, but also luxurious comforts that offer a wonderful rustic setting, creating an indelible contrast to the buzz of daily festival activity. It is perfectly suited to festival-goers who will appreciate an impressive and contemplative place to read after a day at JLF and perhaps to enjoy a serene dinner with fellow festival-goers at the fort. 

 

Experience highlights: 

• Enjoy indulgent, restorative spa therapies inspired by ancient wellness practices. 
• Take heritage walks around the fort and explore the surrounding rustic villages. 
• Enjoy breath-taking golden sunsets from the hilltop dining terraces. 

 

Practicals & travel time: Alila Fort is located approximately 55-65 km from the center of Jaipur and typically around a 1-1.5 hour drive time depending on traffic flow. It’s advisable to pre-arrange transfers as a private car is ideal timing to arrive at designated festival sessions or evening music programming in the  city. 

 

Top reasons to book: Unique fort environment, sprawling countryside views, elevated luxury (spa, guided walks), and memorable intimate experience for post-panel reflections.

The Jaipur Literature Festival commemorates imagination and creativity—and where better to carry that inspiration to the countryside peace? Freedom of time. Whether it’s sunrise yoga and artisan workshops at Savista Retreat, heritage charm at Samode Bagh, or royal grandeur at Alila Fort Bishangarh, each lodging promises an uplifting respite away from Jaipur’s craziness.

Plan Your Perfect Countryside Escape

After a day of books and conversations, trade Jaipur’s festival lights for the stars above the fields.

  Book Your Lodging at Savista Retreat—where The practice of yoga, local arts and crafts, and abundant nature concerns the campus of quiet time and celebrate, at Jaipur Literature Festival 2024.

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The post Discover Britain’s Past: 5 Historic Places to Visit in the UK appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Discover Britain’s Past: 5 Historic Places to Visit in the UK

From ancient castles to Roman ruins, the United Kingdom is a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored. With thousands of years of battles, civilisations and royals, each corner of the country has its own story to tell and plenty of adventures for every type of person. Whether you’re a history fan or just a curious traveller, the UK’s historic landmarks offer an unforgettable journey through time that is worth the travel.

Although there are hundreds of locations to choose from, here are five of the best that are unmissable if you’re in the UK or are visiting from abroad, each offering a glimpse into the nation’s remarkable past.

The Tower of London, England

Standing proudly by the River Thames, the Tower of London has witnessed over 1000 years of British history. Built originally by William the Conqueror in 1078, this fortress has served as a royal palace, prisons and even a zoo. If you’re visiting today, you can explore its ancient walls, its famous crows and the dazzling crown jewels, whilst listening to tales of betrayal, deceit and execution. From Anne Boleyn’s tragic story to the legend of the ravens, the Tower is a gem of London and represents its long-standing history and remains one of the country’s most captivating sites. This is a must-see for anyone who loves London history or just anyone who wants a glimpse of the infamous Crown Jewels.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Perched high above the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle is a standout in the city’s skyline. This mighty fortress has been a royal residence, a military stronghold and a symbol of Scottish identity for centuries. The main highlights of the castle include the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish kings and St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest and longest surviving building in the whole of Edinburgh Castle. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the castle, known as the defender of the nation, remains an active military base with its cannons and ramparts. When in the castle, you receive sweeping views across the city, making it a must-see for anyone wanting to understand the deep history of Scotland, and also those who would like to see Edinburgh from new heights, as well as the Scottish Highlands.

Stonehenge, England

Few places are as steeped in history as Stonehenge, the prehistoric circle of stone in Salisbury, England. Dating back over 4,500 years, its purpose and origins remain a puzzle to most historians and scientists. Something that it is a temple, whilst others believe that it is a burial site or even an astronomical calendar. However you would like to see it, Stonehenge is a feat and masterpiece of ancient engineering from the imagination of those long before. Visitors can walk around the site and also get guided tours to funny understand the context of Neolithic life. Being able to stand where early Britons have centuries before, where they once gathered and celebrated, is an awe-inspiring experience, not to be missed.
Roman Baths, England
The Roman Baths in the city of Bath offer a rare glimpse into the city’s Roman past. Built around the natural hot springs of the area, this impressive social and spiritual hub was created nearly 2000 years ago. The baths are preserved in 4 main features: the sacred springs, the Roman temple, the Roman bath house and a museum that holds artefacts from the Aquae Sulis. Visitors can wander through the ancient chambers, see original Roman paving stones and learn about the bathing rituals that shaped Roman life in Roman Britain. Still to this day, the striking great bath is still filled with steaming thermal water that flows from the sacred spring all those years ago, although it can not be used as it used to.

Conwy Castle, Wales

Built by Edward I in the late 13th century, Conwy Castle is one of Wales’ most impressive medieval fortresses as it is exceptionally well-preserved and remains almost completely intact. Its massive stone walls and eight towering turrets rise dramatically above the river Conwy, offering breathtaking views of the town and estuary below. Today, visitors can walk along the battlements and explore the great halls and chambers where knights once dined. Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Conwy Castle, stands as a proud reminder of Wales’ medieval past, strength and craftsmanship.

Get exploring

Whether you visit all of these sights or just one of them, they’re absolutely worth a visit to explore and take in the beautiful sights and rich history of the UK. If you’re in the UK, all of these sights are accessible by car, train, or even coach for a fabulous day out. However, if you don’t have a British citizenship, you can add these destinations as part of your trip around Europe or even just one if you’re in the UK for a short period of time. So what’s stopping you? Get visiting!

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The post David Morell appointed executive chef at Centara Reserve Samui appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Centara Hotels & Resorts luxury flagship Centara Reserve Samui recently appointed David Morell as its new executive chef.

Bringing over two decades of international culinary experience gained from some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, Morell will oversee the resort’s entire culinary operations, encompassing six distinctive culinary venues and bars, including in-room dining, banqueting, and bespoke guest experiences.

Resort general manager Neil Lii said of the new appointee: “David brings a wealth of creativity and leadership that perfectly aligns with our culinary direction. We are excited for our guests to experience his fresh perspective and signature style.”

Guests can look forward to Morell’s debut festive menu at the resort’s signature Reserve Celebrations this December, along with a series of curated tasting events throughout the season.

Getting to know David Morell

Morell joins Centara Reserve Samui with an impressive background spanning leading international hospitality brands, including Marriott International, Shangri-La, Banyan Tree, Hyatt International, Dusit Thani Bangkok, and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. He also honed his craft at Restaurant Lorenz Adlon, the Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant at Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Germany, where he played a key culinary role.

A native of Germany, his culinary philosophy embraces the concept of Reserve Gastronome: delightfully unpretentious, intimate, and driven by genuine passion for flavour.

His vision at Centara Reserve Samui is to elevate the resort’s gastronomic identity through refined yet approachable menus inspired by Thai flavours, crafted with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

Guests can expect modern dining experiences that celebrate the essence of Samui’s rich culinary landscape across the resort’s destination restaurants, including Act 5, Sa-Nga, The Terrace, and Salt Society Beach Bar & Kitchen.

He said of his new post: “I am thrilled to join the talented team at Centara Reserve Samui and to share my passion for creating memorable dining experiences that resonate with both authenticity and creativity. My philosophy is simple: food should tell a story, one that honours its origins while inspiring the senses.”

 

 

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The post Philippines boosts tourism ties with Saudi Arabia  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippines continues to strengthen its tourism ties with Saudi Arabia as it seeks to gain a larger share of the Middle Eastern travel market.

This was announced in a statement released by the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday, 13th November.

Earlier this month, the DOT held high-level meetings with Saudia Airlines and Riyadh Air to discuss air connectivity expansion and possible joint tourism promotions.

Tourism secretary Christina Frasco declared: “Our shared values of hospitality, family, and faith make the Philippines a natural destination of choice for Saudi travelers. With enhanced air connectivity, we aim to bring the beauty and warmth of our islands even closer to the Saudi people.”

Key meetings

The DOT delegation met separately with Saudia Airlines General Manager Abdulrahman Alabdulwahab and Riyadh Air Vice President for Network Planning and Partnerships Wolfgang Reuss during the recently concluded 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh.

The department was represented by undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, who conveyed the Philippine government’s desire to enhance accessibility and forge stronger tourism collaboration between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia.

Currently , there are two direct flights connecting the two countries: Riyadh–Manila and Jeddah–Manila.

Likewise, the Philippines continues to gain ground among Saudi travelers,  as the nation is recognised for its warm hospitality, competitive value, English-speaking service culture, and growing Halal-friendly tourism infrastructure.

Saudi nationals enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines for up to 30 days, making travel easier and more accessible.”

Frasco said: “Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound tourism markets, driven by a young and affluent population with high disposable income for travel. It represents one of our most dynamic and high-value markets in the Middle East.”

The current state of things

In 2024, tourism receipts from the Saudi market reached USD37.86 million, a 46 percent increase from the previous year.

Popular destinations for Saudi tourists outside Metro Manila include Cebu, Boracay, Pampanga, Palawan, and Cavite, reflecting a preference for premium, family-friendly beach and resort experiences.

Currently, the DOT is implementing various Muslim-friendly and Halal tourism initiatives to help attract more visitors from Saudi Arabia and other Muslim-majority countries.

It has increased the number of Halal-certified dining establishments, partnered with major hotel chains like Megaworld Hotels and Resorts to develop Muslim-friendly properties, and launched Marhaba Boracay, the country’s first Muslim-friendly cove.

AirAsia Philippines has also become the first airline to offer Halal-certified meals on all routes.

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The post Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, J City Group inks partnership with Trinidad Hospitality appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, J City Group, and Trinidad Hospitality Sdn Bhd have signed a landmark partnership for the partnership and management of Wyndham Garden Kuantan, J-City, an exciting new addition to the East Coast’s hospitality landscape. 

The official signing ceremony was held at Ramada Suites by Wyndham KLCC, marking an important milestone in the continued expansion of the Wyndham Garden brand across Malaysia.

Set to open in Q3-2026, the 361-room Wyndham Garden Kuantan, J-City located at Jalan Merdeka Kuantan Pahang, is poised to redefine upscale hospitality as the tallest building in the heart of Kuantan City. 

Raising standards

This partnership brings together the combined strengths of three key industry players who share a unified vision: to elevate hospitality standards in Kuantan and deliver world-class services that reflect excellence, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for local culture.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts president in APAC Joon Aun Ooi said: “We are thrilled to expand the Wyndham Garden brand in Kuantan through this strategic partnership. Together with J City Group and Trinidad Hospitality, we look forward to introducing a property that reflects our shared vision of quality, innovation, and exceptional guest experiences.”

Trinidad Hospitality’s Naresh Mohan added: “At Trinidad Hospitality, we are committed to managing properties that combine international standards with local character. Wyndham Garden Kuantan, J-City will be a showcase of that philosophy delivering warmth, comfort, and memorable experiences for every guest.”

A formidable property

Designed with spacious suites ranging from 743 sq ft to 1,299 sq ft, the property offers a comfortable and refined hospitality experience. 

Originally converted from serviced apartments into a luxury hotel, it enjoys a prime location in the city centre that is close to popular attractions such as Kuantan 188, East Coast Mall, Esplanade Kuantan, and many more.

Guests can look forward to a range of premium facilities that embody sophistication and relaxation, including an impressive Olympic size infinity pool at 50 metres, overlooking the Kuantan skyline, a fully equipped gymnasium, a multi-purpose hall ideal for meetings and social gatherings, a dedicated jogging track, and an integrated playground nestled within lush green landscapes. 

Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to create a vibrant yet tranquil environment, offering guests a holistic stay experience.

 

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The post Crystal names its latest vessel Crystal Grace appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Crystal has announced the name of its latest vessel Crystal Grace, its first ocean new build in 25 years under the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG).

Scheduled for delivery in May 2028, Crystal Grace will embark on her inaugural voyage on 11th June 2028 following a series of preview sailings. 

The ship will represent a bold and industry-leading evolution of Crystal’s celebrated heritage, blending innovation, sophistication and timeless style, while signalling the next chapter in Crystal’s journey to redefine luxury at sea.

As part of the launch campaign, the brand created a digital word game shared across all social channels inviting fans to guess the name of the ship themselves before the big reveal.

On land, Abercrombie & Kent will curate a series of exceptional land experiences and events across the world, powered by its network of integrated DMCs: Crystal is the only cruise line with this global, in-house capability.

A meaningful name

AKTG chief executive Cristina Levis explained that Crystal Grace is more than a name, but also a promise.

She said: “It reflects the effortless elegance, generous spirit, and sense of tranquility that define the Crystal experience. Crystal Grace is the embodiment of why we were awarded the World’s Best Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure, combining the best food, service, space, entertainment and shore experiences (by Abercrombie & Kent). With this ship, we are honoring our heritage while continuing to evolve for a new generation of guests.”

The name Grace was chosen to reflect the ship’s refined aesthetic, seamless onboard experience and the graceful way in which Crystal ships navigate the world’s most breathtaking destinations.  

The 650-passenger (based on double occupancy), 61,800-gross-ton Crystal Grace will offer spacious all-suite accommodations, entertainment and world-class dining including Umi Uma, the only Nobu restaurant at sea, the only Beefbar at sea and menus designed by the Michelin-starred Italian Alajmo brothers at Osteria d’Ovidio, all included in the voyage price. 

Guests will be pleased to find a promenade extending the whole ship’s perimeter, perfect for leisurely strolls with stunning ocean views. 

The ship will still offer one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in this segment, ensuring the personalised service and attention to detail that has made Crystal an award-winning brand for more than three decades.

Details around Crystal Grace’s suite categories will be announced in December, with additional news on the inaugural voyages, design features and new onboard offerings, unveiled in the coming months.

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The post Etihad Airways Launches Flights to Medina appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Etihad Airways has commenced flights from Abu Dhabi to Medina this week, further expanding the airline’s strong footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and enhancing travel options for guests across religious, business and leisure segments.

The resumed direct service connects Abu Dhabi with Medina, one of the most spiritually significant cities in the world and a key destination for visitors performing religious travel throughout the year. The route will support growing demand from pilgrims and travellers across the world seeking seamless connections to the Kingdom’s holy city.

Medina becomes the latest addition to Etihad’s operations in the Kingdom, reinforcing the UAE’s national carrier as a major facilitator of travel to and from Saudi Arabia. With the launch of flights to Medina, Etihad will operate 93 flights per week to five cities across the Kingdom, flying four times per day to Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, and three services per week to Al Qassim. This expansion is part of Etihad’s ambitious growth strategy, announcing 31 new destinations in a year.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “The launch of Medina reflects our commitment to strengthening connectivity from Abu Dhabi to Saudi Arabia, one of our most important markets. Medina carries profound cultural and spiritual significance for millions of people, and we are honoured to provide convenient travel through Abu Dhabi to this culturally and spiritually important city. With this new route, we look forward to supporting religious travel and providing guests with greater access, choice and convenience through our home in Abu Dhabi.”

Etihad will operate five weekly flights to Medina using its Airbus A321 aircraft, increasing to six weekly flights later this year. The service provides a smooth and comfortable journey for guests travelling between Abu Dhabi and the Kingdom, offering Etihad’s welcoming hospitality across both Business and Economy cabins.

Medina welcomes millions of visitors annually to experience its deep-rooted Islamic heritage, historic mosques, and serene atmosphere. Travellers can explore sites of profound religious significance, vibrant local markets, and the city’s contemporary cultural attractions.

Visitors connecting from Etihad’s extensive network onwards to Medina, can take advantage of a complimentary Abu Dhabi Stopover, with two free nights in one of Abu Dhabi’s top hotels.  Abu Dhabi offers a blend of enriching culture, modern architecture, and world-class entertainment, including the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.  Beyond the mosque, the UAE’s capital offers a dynamic range of attractions on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, from the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Team Labs Phenomena to the beautiful beaches or many theme parks.

With Abu Dhabi’s strategic location, guests flying from Medina can also enjoy smooth connections to Etihad’s extensive network across Asia, Australia and Europe.

Etihad’s Expanding Footprint

The launch of Medina marks an important milestone in Etihad’s growth strategy, as the airline significantly expands its network across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. In October, the UAE’s national carrier inaugurated flights to Sumatra (Medan), Phnom Penh, Addis Ababa, and Krabi, while this November the airline has already launched flights to Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Hong Kong and Tunis. 

Flight schedule

Flight Number	Departure Airport	Departure Time	Arrival Airport	Arrival Time	Frequency	Aircraft
EY631	AUH	08:55	MED	10:50	Tue, Thu, Sat	A321
EY632	MED	15:40	AUH	18:55	Tue, Thu, Sat	A321
EY633	AUH	14:30	MED	16:25	Wed, Fri	A321
EY634	MED	20:25	AUH	00:10	Wed, Fri	A321

 

 

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