The post Hosted buyer applications for AIME 2026 now open appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With AIME 2026 already shaping up to be a standout event, hosted buyer applications are now officially open for the Asia Pacific’s premier business events trade show.

Applications are now open for both international and domestic hosted buyers to take part in the AIME 2026 Hosted Buyer Programme, a three-day experience designed to spark commercial connections, uncover new destinations and suppliers, and deliver real business outcomes.

Participants will benefit from a curated appointment schedule of high-value meetings, access to the Hosted Buyer Lounge, flexible free-flow meeting options, and immersive live activations across the trade show floor.

The AIME Hosted Buyer Programme is renowned for its industry-leading approach to business matching which offers buyers cutting-edge technology to connect with exhibitors that best meet their event needs from leading destinations and venues to AV providers, boutique spaces, caterers, airlines, tour operators, and more.

According to event director Silke Calder: “AIME 2025 was an incredible success, and we’re confident 2026 will raise the bar even higher. The early demand from exhibitors highlights the essential role AIME plays in driving business outcomes across Asia Pacific.”

It’s time to strike whilst the iron is hot, as places in the programme are limited, so early applications are advised. 

Indeed, as of press time, 80 percent of the event’s exhibition space has already been sold or reserved.

Pre-event special

Prior to AIME, hosted buyers will also take part in the Uncover Melbourne Experience on 8th February.

This tour is an inspiring, experiential showcase led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau, designed to immerse guests in the city’s unique potential for creative and memorable business events. 

While optional for domestic buyers, the experience offers valuable insight into what makes Melbourne a standout destination for business events.  

The biggest business event in the Asia Pacific

Scheduled for 9th to 11th February 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), AIME comes back with an expanded footprint across 16,500 sqm to accommodate over 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers, and more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments.

Held on days two and three, the AIME trade show floor is where the business happens, featuring a dynamic program of pre-scheduled appointments (PSAs), networking opportunities, and experiential showcases from across the global events sector.

All told, the coming event will be AIME’s biggest edition yet delivered by Calder and her team at Talk2 Media & Events.

Melbourne Convention Bureau chief executive Julia Swanson declares: “We are incredibly proud of the ongoing success of AIME, which has become a key event for the global business events community. AIME brings people together from around the world to our amazing city of Melbourne, and as always we look forward to the new partnerships, connections and opportunities that will come out of the 2026 event.” 

AIME continues to set the benchmark in the region, connecting the global business events community with best-in-class suppliers through a curated program of pre-scheduled meetings, high-impact networking, and innovative event experiences.

Managed by Talk2 Media & Events on behalf of the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), AIME is the longest-running and most influential business events trade show in the region. 

Indeed, AIME combines human connection with cutting-edge event tech that delivers measurable ROI for buyers and exhibitors alike.

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The post Plaza Premium Group Plants its Flag in Riyadh with New Regional HQ, Celebrating a Decade in Saudi Skies appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has officially opened its new Regional Headquarter Office in Riyadh, its second base in the Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) region. The launch marks a milestone in the Group’s Middle East & Africa expansion and commemorates 10 years of operations in Saudi Arabia. The new office in Riyadh will serve as a central hub to support PPG’s growing portfolio across the Middle East and Africa, covering airport lounges, hotels, meet & greet, fast track, and concierge services.

Talking about the company’s new milestone, Song Hoi See, Founder & CEO of Plaza Premium Group, said: “The opening of our Riyadh regional office is a proud milestone as we advance our presence in Saudi Arabia and broaden our impact across the region. Our local partnerships and talented workforce continue to set new standards in airport hospitality, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

The company currently operates in Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, and Red Sea International Airport, serving an average of 100,000 guests every month. It employs more than 350 staff in Saudi Arabia and works closely with government authorities to nurture aviation and hospitality talent. PPG has achieved a Saudisation rate of 60% with a target of 80%, alongside a graduate training programme to prepare the next generation of aviation and hospitality leaders.

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

With the Riyadh headquarters, PPG reinforces its commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s economic growth, investing in local expertise, and expanding its role as a global leader in airport hospitality.

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The post TAT presents “Khao Gaeng” Thai Curry Rice Championship 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and partners proudly present the “Khao Gaeng” Thai Curry Rice Championship 2025, taking place from 17 to 19 October at Phenix Pratunam in Bangkok. The three-day event will celebrate Thailand’s beloved curry rice as a defining symbol of the nation’s culinary identity and a must-taste experience for international visitors.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “Khao Gaeng, or Thai curry rice, is more than a quick meal. It embodies the diversity of Thai cuisine, with each region offering its own flavours, and is a dish travellers encounter everywhere in Thailand. Affordable and accessible to all, curry rice reflects local culture, with several restaurants even recognised in the Michelin Guide. TAT is committed to positioning it as a must-taste Thai experience for visitors worldwide.”

The initiative is organised by TAT in collaboration with the Thai Restaurant Association, Phenix Pratunam, food delivery platforms LINE MAN Wongnai, Grab and Robinhood, together with KaichefHouse, GlongSaenSuk The Amatatian Resterland, Suan Dusit University and other partners.

The competition will showcase five signature dishes—green curry with chicken (kaeng khiao wan gai), coconut chicken soup (tom kha gai), beef panaeng curry, five-spice egg and pork belly stew (kai palo), and shrimp-paste chilli dip (nam prik kapi). Around 30 curry rice vendors from across Thailand, from street food stalls to mall-based restaurants, are expected to compete.

Contestants must have operated for at least one year and will be judged on taste, quality, creativity and hygiene.

Winners will receive cash prizes, with the champion awarded 100,000 Baht, a trophy, a certificate and the title of Professional Thai Curry Rice Champion. Runners-up will receive cash prizes ranging from 50,000 to 10,000 Baht, along with commemorative plaques and certificates. Additional awards include sales support packages and promotional opportunities from food delivery platforms, reinforcing the competition’s role in supporting small businesses while showcasing Thai culinary heritage on the global stage.

Phenix Pratunam, the competition venue, is positioned as a culinary destination for both locals and international visitors, offering a dedicated Taste Kitchen and a wholesale food hub. Partners including Grab, LINE MAN Wongnai and Robinhood will further amplify the competition with special campaigns, incentives and promotions.

Thailand’s culinary reputation continues to shine worldwide. Signature dishes such as ‘Tomyum Kung’—recognised on UNESCO’s cultural heritage list—stand alongside Michelin-recognised restaurants and regional favourites. With festivals at home and abroad celebrating everything from som tam to fine dining, Thai food is firmly established as a pillar of the nation’s soft power. The Khao Gaeng Championship builds on this success, affirming Thai cuisine as both globally celebrated and central to the travel experience in Thailand.

 

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The post Ras Al Khaimah to host inaugural IIREIS appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Ras Al Khaimah is set to take centre stage as the UAE reinforces its position as a magnet for global real estate investment with the inaugural International Real Estate Investment Summit (IREIS), scheduled for October 30–31, 2025. The two-day event by Cityscape, hosted at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre in Ras Al Khaimah, aims to provide an unprecedented platform to unlock high-value real estate opportunities by connecting investors, developers, and policymakers to offer insight into both regional growth and emerging global trends.

Designed as a forum without borders, the summit will spotlight the UAE’s transformation and the wider evolution of global real estate markets — from shifting capital flows in Europe and Asia, to the rise of sustainable urban models in North America, while also examining market trends, investment strategies, and innovations shaping the next era of real estate.

Global real estate investment turnover is forecasted to grow by 27% to USD 952 billion in 2025, surpassing USD 1 trillion by 2026, according to Savills, a leading global property advisor. The UAE is already emerging as a key beneficiary, attracting USD 45.6 billion in FDI (foreign direct investment) in 2024, a 48.7% year-on-year increase, with real estate accounting for nearly 7.8% of greenfield project values.

The UAE’s real estate sector has been gaining remarkable momentum. Dubai recorded AED 326 billion (approximately US$89 billion) in transactions in the first half of 2025, a 39% year-on-year increase, with new investors rising by 22%. Residential and prime-segment sales continue to climb, while rental yields remain among the highest in the world, reflecting a resilient and lucrative market that continues to attract international attention. Analysts note that the country’s strategic location, economic stability, and progressive regulations have positioned it as a key hub for capital flowing across East and West.

New data further underscores the scale of international interest. Between 2014 and 2024, international property transactions in the UAE recorded a 106% increase, highlighting growing confidence from overseas buyers.

Since the 2022 announcement of Wynn Al Marjan Island, the first integrated resort in the region coming up on Marjan’s flagship “Al Marjan Island”, international purchases in Ras Al Khaimah have shown a compound annual growth rate of 9.2% up to 2025 year-to-date, with demand extending beyond Al Marjan Island to areas including Al Hamra Village, Mina, and central Ras Al Khaimah. Currently, 66% of transactions across the UAE are from international buyers, with locals and expatriates accounting for the remaining 34%.

Against this backdrop, Ras Al Khaimah is emerging as a quietly powerful player. The Emirate’s proximity to Dubai, investor-friendly policies, and strategic developments are attracting international interest. Among these, the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island is driving significant FDI into Ras Al Khaimah, enriching the Emirate’s reputation as a global destination for luxury living and tourism. On Al Marjan Island specifically, global investors are drawn to premier solutions and access to best-in-class infrastructure and community assets. Here, international investors contribute 68% of total investment volumes, compared to 32% from UAE-based buyers, underscoring its global pull.

The debut International Real Estate Investment Summit (IREIS) is supported by Headline Sponsor Marjan, Strategic Sponsors Al Hamra and RAK Hospitality Holding, and Diamond Sponsor RAK Properties.

Cityscape’s unparalleled expertise in convening industry pioneers adds both credibility and depth to the summit, ensuring Ras Al Khaimah’s developments are uniquely positioned within a global context. Attendees will gain access to high-level discussions on capital flows, cross-border opportunities, and lifestyle-driven real estate, all set against the backdrop of one of the UAE’s most promising emerging markets.

The highly anticipated summit on October 30–31 will be a pivotal moment where global real estate ambition intersects with regional growth, innovation, and lifestyle transformation. With Ras Al Khaimah at its heart, the summit offers a glimpse into the next chapter of investment opportunity in the UAE and beyond.

 

 

 

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The post Emirates welcomes its first retrofitted Boeing 777 in Africa appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Following the advanced deployment of the retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft to both Cape Town and Johannesburg last month, Emirates, hosted a guided tour of the fully refreshed aircraft. The airline showcased its next-generation cabins, featuring the latest sophisticated design and South Africa’s debut of the highly acclaimed Premium Economy Cabin. Johannesburg and Cape Town are the first destinations in Africa to be served by the retrofitted Emirates Boeing 777, demonstrating the airline’s steadfast commitment to South Africa.

Key stakeholders from South Africa’s aviation and tourism sectors were in attendance, including Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro in Cape Town and Poppy Khoza, Director General South African Civil Aviation Authority in Johannesburg, along with Rashid Alardha, Emirates’ Vice President Commercial Operations, Sub-Saharan Africa and Afzal Parambil, Regional Manager for Southern Africa, Emirates.

Commenting on the deployment, Afzal Parambil said, “As we celebrate three decades of service to South Africa, our commitment to bring the latest and greatest to the market is unwavering. Over the years, we have built strong relationships with our customers and are proud to have a very high percentage of repeat passengers, particularly on long-haul travel to destinations in the Far East and Europe. The deployment of our refurbished Boeing 777 – our first in Africa – will further elevate the experience for these passengers, with the introduction of Premium Economy and our new Business Class experience. We look forward to welcoming travellers from South Africa on the refreshed Emirates Boeing 777 soon.”

 A closer look at the refreshed Boeing 777 

The refurbished four-class Emirates Boeing 777 features upgraded interiors with new design elements, including modern colour palettes, specially designed Ghaf Tree motifs, and wood finishes across all cabins. Each aircraft includes 260 latest generation Economy seats, 24 of the popular Premium Economy seats, 38 Business Class seats in 1-2-1 configuration and eight First Class Suites.

Economy Class is decked out with a calming ocean blue interior, and high ceilings, giving a greater sense of space and light. The cabin features the latest generation seats with generous legroom, to ensure comfort is the top priority.

The highlight is Emirates Premium Economy, introducing the much-lauded cabin to South Africa for the first time. Making luxury travel more accessible to a wider audience, Premium Economy offers an experience similar to Business Class on many airlines, with spacious leather reclining seats with full leg and footrests and adjustable headrests. It features in-seat charging points, a wood-finished side cocktail table, a 13.3-inch TV screen, a generously sized pillow and blanket, complimentary amenity kits on select flights and a globally exclusive sparkling wine – Chandon Vintage Brut 2017.

Emirates’ Boeing 777 Business Class cabin has also been redesigned, with seats set-up in a 1-2-1 arrangement to offer privacy, aisle access and space to work, lounge and indulge in restorative rest. Each seat is wrapped in champagne leather, matching the ones on the latest Emirates A380, with detailed stitching and soft cushioned headrests.

Described as a hotel room in the sky, Emirates’ First Class Suites maintain the highest levels of comfort, privacy and luxury that passengers have come to expect from Emirates and now offer refreshed interiors.

Emirates’ industry-leading retrofit programme 

First initiated in November 2022, Emirates’ USD $5 billion dollar retrofit programme is one of the largest known programmes in the industry, with 219 A380s and Boeing 777s slated for nose-to-tail upgrades to enhance the onboard experience for passengers.

The monumental project is handled entirely in-house by Emirates Engineering, with over 270 engineers and technicians work round the clock, devoting over 1,800 manhours each day to bring each aircraft to impeccable completion. To date, 67 aircraft have rolled out of Emirates Engineering – 32 A380s and 35 Boeing 777s.

Once complete, Emirates will have installed 8,512 next-generation Premium Economy seats, 2,034 refreshed First-Class suites, 12,720 upgraded Business Class seats with entirely new configurations, and thoughtfully overhauled 68,364 Economy Class seats.

 

 

 

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The post Visit Lauderdale Expands Lauderdale Loyalist Program appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Visit Lauderdale has expanded its award-winning trade platform, Lauderdale Loyalist, making it now available in four languages with the recent addition of German and Portuguese. Powered by TravPRO Mobile, the free platform connects travel advisors with interactive training, ready-to-use marketing materials, and a variety of other tools to help them confidently sell Greater Fort Lauderdale.

 Greater Fort Lauderdale’s 31 municipalities, 24 miles of golden sandy beaches, and vibrant attractions make it a standout destination that travel advisors can confidently recommend to their clients. With interactive learning modules, a searchable supplier directory of more than 500 trusted partners and insider tips, Lauderdale Loyalist ensures that travel advisors have everything they need to share the destination with their clients. The platform is now available in five languages – English, Spanish, German and Portuguese – both online and via a mobile app.

“Expanding Lauderdale Loyalist helps us support travel advisors around the world as they introduce Greater Fort Lauderdale to their clients,” said Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. “The program not only strengthens our partnerships but also ensures visitors arrive with experiences tailored to their interests.”

 Travel advisors who complete their online training can unlock the Lauderdale Loyalist Passport, a mobile VIP passport with exclusive deals on shopping, museums, outdoor adventures and more. Updated regularly, the passport gives advisors firsthand access to the destination, helping them create tailored experiences for their clients.

 

 

 

 

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The post Boutique Heritage Festival “Singing Sands” Returns to Rajasthan from 10-12 October appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Dancing Peacock is bringing back the Singing Sands Heritage Festival for its second edition from 10 to 12 October. Set against the evocative backdrop of the 275-year-old Dundlod Fort in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, the festival promises a curated blend of folk music, guided heritage walks, hands-on craft sessions, storytelling, and traditional cuisine, offering guests an intimate encounter with the living traditions and artistry of Rajasthan.

After a debut in 2024 that drew visitors from across India and overseas, the festival returns with a focus on small-scale, close-knit experiences. Special highlights this year include a workshop with folk instrument makers, a visit to the world-renowned Dundlod Stud Farm of Thakur Raghuvendra Singh (Bonnie Bana), immersive horse safaris across the desert landscape, experiences at traditional desert camps, and a tour of a restored haveli-turned museum. All of this is set within the historic Dundlod Fort, built in 1750 by Thakur Kesari Singh, which serves as both the current royal residence and an enduring symbol of Rajput-Mughal architectural fusion, providing an immersive setting that embodies the festival’s spirit of living heritage.

Naveen Tripathi, Festival Producer, said: “Singing Sands is imagined as a boutique heritage festival; intimate, immersive, and rich with cultural experiences. At Dundlod Fort, music, crafts, and stories unfold within courtyards and havelis, creating a retreat that feels both exclusive and deeply engaging. Every performance and workshop is designed to draw people closer to Rajasthan’s living traditions, not as spectators but as participants. The festival is a cultural escape where you slow down, connect with the roots of heritage, and leave with moments that stay with you long after you return to everyday life.”

Festival Director, Vinod Joshi, said: “What makes Singing Sands so unique is the way traditions and settings come alive together. A folk singer in a haveli courtyard, a sarangi blending with global instruments, or the discovery of unseen crafts against the backdrop of mesmerizing architecture are experiences that cannot be recreated elsewhere. The festival is as much about the joy of  engaging with artists as it is about enjoying the music itself. With its workshops, storytelling walks, and shared feasts under starlit skies, Singing Sands becomes a cultural getaway that is exciting, memorable, and unlike anything audiences would find in a conventional setting.”

The festival also emphasizes inclusivity, with women artists and artisans playing a central role. Meals highlight regional recipes, and children aged 12 and under can attend free of charge, encouraging young visitors to experience Rajasthan’s vibrant traditions in an engaging and enjoyable way. The second edition of Singing Sands goes beyond being a cultural showcase; it offers a chance to truly be part of Rajasthan’s living traditions in an authentic and personal way.

 

 

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The post ‘Cvent Accelerate Berlin’ Attendance Expected to Triple appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cvent, an industry-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider, is expecting to triple its attendance at its DACH-focused industry conference, Cvent Accelerate Berlin. The strong growth underscores the significance of in-person events for driving positive business outcomes and highlights the ongoing demand from event professionals, marketers, and hoteliers for smaller, localised forums to support deeper conversations and more meaningful connections onsite.

Taking place on Tuesday 23 September 2025 at the Estrel Berlin, Cvent Accelerate Berlin will feature a day-long programme of sessions led by industry pioneers and regional experts, engaging panel discussions, interactive technology demonstrations, and inspiring success stories. Featured speakers include Colja Dams, CEO of VOK DAMS, who will lead the session How digital doppelgangers are transforming live events, exploring the key trends shaping the industry and highlighting the critical role of artificial intelligence and community building in transforming how events are designed and experienced. Matthias Schultze, Managing Director, GCB German Convention Bureau e.V., will co-present a session with Dr. Stefan Rief, Institute Director, Fraunhofer IAO, titled Change and opportunities in the event sector: generational change and digitalisation, highlighting how demographic shifts, automation, and AI are shaping the future of work and the events industry.

“Cvent Accelerate Berlin unites the DACH region’s leading event, marketing and hospitality professionals to exchange insights and best practices. Every element of the conference is designed to deliver practical, reliable strategies that can be applied immediately. Our goal is for attendees to leave with a clear understanding of how data-driven approaches, the responsible and transparent use of artificial intelligence, and the latest innovations can create measurable impact and secure future success in a fast-changing MICE landscape,” said Andreas Heckmann, Chief Customer Officer at Cvent.

The conference agenda includes more than 20 sessions and features over 15 external speakers, together with senior leaders from Cvent. Sessions will be delivered primarily in German, with live captioning in both English and German powered by Wordly to ensure broad accessibility.

Conference Highlights

• Opening and closing keynote | Delivered by Andreas Heckmann, Cvent Chief Customer Officer, this session provides a comprehensive industry outlook on the power of data, technology, and events to strengthen customer engagement and accelerate business outcomes.
• The future is now! Innovations & AI in the convenience hospitality industry 2025 | Explores how Cvent’s latest hotel and supplier software solutions will enable hospitality professionals to reach more planners, drive efficiency, and capitalise on the opportunities AI is creating for the hotel and MICE sectors.
• Event Technology: Innovations today and tomorrow | Examines how industry leaders measure event success through KPIs such as attendee satisfaction, post-event surveys, and attendance.
• Travel Performance: Identify trends, seize opportunities | Showcases data-driven insights and developments in the travel business, with practical advice from a panel of experts.
• Amex GBT Session: The art & science behind unforgettable events | Drawing on the scientific findings of neuroscientist Dr. Sahar Yousef, this session explores the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and event design to create lasting and impactful experiences.

Multiple curated Tech Tours

In addition to the main sessions, multiple curated Tech Tours will provide attendees with live, interactive demonstrations for how Cvent technology delivers better outcomes. These include:

• Q&A – Ask the Expert: Direct access to Cvent specialists for product guidance, insights, and recommendations.
• Business Travel: Strategies to attract, discover, and respond to more corporate travel opportunities.
• CventIQ: Learn how Cvent’s all-new suite of powerful intelligence and AI capabilities improves efficiency, enables personalisation, and provides more tangible, actionable insights with ease.

 

 

 

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The post Tamarind Global blends work and leisure in curated ‘work-to-wow’ trips appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Tamarind Global designs ‘work-to-wow’ journeys where weekday conferences naturally transition into curated weekend experiences—think local cuisine, wellness, soft adventure, and family add-ons, marking the perfect bleisure trip. 

From the outset, Tamarind Global has focused on curating experiences rather than just building itineraries, which allowed them to scale across the verticals of Holidays, Celebrations and Corporates.

Tamarind Global hopes to deliver immersive, scalable, and locally resonant experiences, powered by data, AI-driven customisation, and sustainability-first planning. In an interview with TDM, Louis D’Souza, Managing Partner, Tamarind Global shares more…

Travel Daily Media (TDM): You have vast experience in the travel industry and have contributed so much to it over the years. Could you share a bit about how the company started, how it has grown over the years.

Louis D’Souza (LS): In the span of two decades, Tamarind Global has evolved from a DMC into an integrated travel, events, and destination-weddings company with a presence across the globe. From the outset, we focused on curating experiences rather than just building itineraries, which allowed us to scale across our three verticals of Holidays, Celebrations and Corporate. Cross-departmental synergies have been at the core of Tamarind Global’s growth story. With multiple divisons spanning corporate travel, MICE, weddings, and luxury leisure, we have been able to harness expertise across teams to deliver integrated solutions for our clients.

This shift coincided with India’s tourism boom, which in recent years has contributed trillions to GDP and supported millions of jobs, with business-travel spending rebounding beyond pre-2019 levels. These tailwinds helped strengthen our corporate and events verticals and enabled us to build scalable, multi-market programs, preferred hotel partnerships, and strong air consolidations.

At the same time, we have invested heavily in proprietary technology, online booking applications for hotels and flights, microsites, and analytics, to ensure our programs are measurable while delivering true white-glove service. This balance of scale and boutique DNA remains at the heart of our value to clients.

TDM: Which trends are ruling in terms of personalisation and customisation for events globally and in India? Can you share which major event your team brought to life in 2025 and what’s on the cards for 2026?

LS: Globally and in India, the trends shaping personalisation in events are driven by technology, wellness, and sustainability. We are seeing the rise of AI-enabled rooming, diet codes, wellness slots, and localised content on guest apps. At Tamarind Global, we have gone a step further by developing dynamic agendas for MICE, which manage transport, sessions, and F&B in real time, with sustainability toggles that allow guests to choose lower-impact options.

In 2025, Tamarind Global successfully executed diverse large-scale projects, including a 1,200-delegate global sales meet with hyper-personalised agendas, concierge support, and sustainability reporting. We also delivered large-format weddings and celebrations across various locations globally, showcasing our ability to blend scale, personalisation, and innovation across different event formats.

For 2026, Tamarind Global is curating bold, large-scale experiences that combine scale with personalisation. We are designing immersive pan-Asia incentive programs — experiences that go beyond traditional rewards to immerse participants in sustainability, wellness, and purposeful travel, blending cultural exploration with responsible impact.

We also plan to roll out multi-city customer festivals across India, where brands can connect with clients and communities nationwide through a unified festival identity that travels from metro to metro, while tailoring content, performances, and activations to each city’s unique flavor.

These formats highlight our ability to deliver immersive, scalable, and locally resonant experiences, powered by data, AI-driven customisation, and sustainability-first planning.

TDM: What are the top emerging destinations for Corporate Offsites in 2025 in India and abroad?

LS: In 2025, the top destinations for corporate offsites in India include Goa, which is seeing new hotel inventory, Udaipur and Jaipur, Coorg and the rapidly expanding North East for nature-led retreats, as well as Rishikesh and Dehradun that blend wellness with adventure. Drive-to destinations like Corbett and Mussoorie are also growing in demand.

We’re seeing strong momentum for emerging MICE destinations from India, with Vietnam, Oman, Ras Al Khaimah, Türkiye, Georgia, and Qatar leading the way. These markets are winning over corporates by offering the right mix of connectivity, scale, and unique experiences—exactly what Indian companies are prioritising when planning their offsites.

These locations balance beach, culture, and adventure, making them ideal for bleisure.

Our decision factors consider visa access, flying time, and diversity of venues, while also keeping in mind the growing need for sustainability and employee engagement as part of the offsite experience.

TDM: Do share in detail blesuire trends across India and how do you plan the same. Please share some statistics to support the answer.

LS: Bleisure has now moved from being a trend to becoming mainstream. The global bleisure market was valued at around $693 billion in 2024 and is projected to cross $816 billion in 2025. Indian professionals are among the most frequent bleisure travellers, averaging 7.4 work-linked trips per year compared to the global average of 6.4. At Tamarind Global, we design ‘work-to-wow’ journeys where weekday conferences naturally transition into curated weekend experiences—think local cuisine, wellness, soft adventure, and family add-ons. These are all integrated into a unified stack covering approvals, duty of care, air, hotel, insurance, and ground services. We’ve also introduced bundled pricing models with optional carbon-smart choices and microsites that clearly separate corporate and personal spending.

TDM: What five things do luxury travellers look for and which destinations have been popular for luxury travel for Indians in 2025 within the country and globally? How are you crafting these perfect holidays?

LS: Luxury travellers are seeking five essentials: virgin territory and privacy through exclusive villas; insider access such as after-hours museum visits or culinary residences; purposeful wellness that goes beyond the spa; zero-friction journeys with e-visas, secured transfers, and concierge apps; and experiences rooted in sustainability with a story. For Indian travellers, Rajasthan’s palaces, Kashmir and Ladakh in summer, and wellness-oriented properties in Goa and Kerala have been especially popular this year. Globally, we see strong demand for the UAE’s city-plus-desert experiences, Italy’s heritage and gastronomy, and phenomenon travel in Japan and Scandinavia—whether cherry blossoms or the midnight sun—alongside European cultural circuits reflecting the wave of outbound Indian travellers. At Tamarind Global, we craft these journeys as “modular luxury” holidays: anchored stays enriched with curated insider moments, secret tables with local chef partners, and verified lower-carbon options. With leisure demand on a strong upswing, we believe India is fast becoming a true porthole of global luxury travel.

TDM: Where are Indians travelling to for destination weddings? Which trends are popular for the destination weddings in 2025 globally and in India? What is your mantra for providing bespoke, enchanting, wow weddings?

 LS: Indian couples are choosing a mix of iconic domestic destinations such as Rajasthan, Goa, and Kerala, alongside international favorites including Thailand, the UAE, and Italy. A rising “Wed in India” sentiment is also driving demand for domestic celebrations, fueled by improved infrastructure and a growing luxury inventory. The year’s trends point toward more intimate guest lists paired with greater conceptual luxury, flexible scheduling, sustainable décor, maximalist fashion, multi-day thematic arcs, and seamless tech integration through QR invites, concierge chats, and dynamic seating. At Tamarind Global, our mantra is simple yet powerful: design for delight, deliver with discipline. We start with the couple’s narrative, then bring it to life with a vetted ecosystem of vendors and meticulous logistical planning—whether that’s chartering flights, managing customs for trousseau or ensuring sustainability. The result is weddings that are breathtaking, flawlessly timed, and deeply personal, leaving lasting impressions on hosts and guests alike.

TDM: How has AI and tech impacted the way you all function? Can you throw some light on the way you are utilising the same to improve and grow your work?

LS: At Tamarind Global, AI is still at an early stage of our journey, but it’s already proving transformative. We’ve begun applying it to practical areas such as forecasting room nights, sentiment mining, and delivering hyper-personalised experiences for guests. On the operational side, our teams use AI copilots to speed up proposal writing, auto-tag RFPs, and generate itineraries. As the business travel sector resets toward an expected $1.57 trillion spend in 2025, buyers increasingly prioritise AI, cost control, and sustainability—so aligning with this shift is essential. We also see search evolving with AI-driven overviews, which means our content and SEO strategies are adapting as well. Importantly, we approach AI with governance and transparency: using opt-in data, keeping humans in the loop, and ensuring luxury travel retains its human touch. The results so far are faster turnarounds, tighter budget control, and higher guest satisfaction scores—proof that AI, when applied carefully, is a powerful ally in growth.

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Source: traveldailymedia

The post Visama Explorer Nan, an Eco-Lux Tented Camp Unveiled in Northern Thailand appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Visama Explorer Nan tented camp is the latest foray into outdoor lodging by VHG Hospitality Asia, part of holding company YAANA Ventures, the Bangkok based sustainable hospitality group which has conceived, built and operated multiple award winning tented camps and ecolodges such as Cardamom Tented Camp in Cambodia, the former Visama Mae Chan in northern Thailand, Anurak Lodge in Khao Sok, southern Thailand, and a community-based tented camp in Bhanteay Chhmar, also in Cambodia.

At the heart of the new camp is the Ambalama, inspired by the Sri Lankan tradition of resting places for travellers. Here, guests gather for nightly conversations or an open-air cinema show by the fireplace, accompanied by a bar service with crafted cocktails.

The intimate Monmanee creek-side restaurant completes the experience, with a cosy fireplace for the cooler winter evenings. The menu highlights Northern Thai specialties alongside Western comfort classics, paired with a thoughtful selection of wines and cocktails.

Mountain views

For accommodation, the new property features eight spacious, air-conditioned tented suites, all with plush bedding, ensuite bathrooms, and private decks. All safari tents are 36 sqm (388 sq ft) plus an additional 12 sqm (129 sq ft) covered veranda. They come in two categories: Mountain View and Creek View.

Guests can expect in-tent creature comforts such as king-sized beds, Wi-Fi, hot water rain shower, safe deposit box, refrigerator/mini bar, toiletries, bath robe, French press coffee, kettle and amenities consistent with four-star accommodation. Except it’s under canvas.

“Visama exists to create exceptional places to stay in remote locations,” said Willem Niemeijer, CEO and co-founder of VHG Hospitality Asia. “We also aim to open pathways of career development for local communities. We believe that meaningful travel is based on mutual respect and understanding. Visama Nan seeks to implement that vision,” he said.

Outside the well-appointed safari tents, guests can enjoy tree planting, artisan workshops, hiking, biking and sightseeing to temples and waterfalls.

Visama Explorer Nan is an 80 minute flight from Bangkok plus a two-hour road transfer through spectacular scenery. There are two Air Asia flights and one Nok Air flight daily to Nan from Don Muang international airport in the Thai capital.

Opening Promotional Rates

Visama Explorer Nan is offering a special “Opening Whisper Escape” rate bookable until 31 December of THB4740 (US$150/€127/£110) including breakfast and dinner for two for stays after 1st December 2025. From 1st January 2026 there will be a “Tent & Taste” two-night offer for THB6970 (US$220/€187/£161) per night with breakfast and dinner for two.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post Visama Explorer Nan, an Eco-Lux Tented Camp Unveiled in Northern Thailand appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia