The post Emirates expands its Premium Economy offering on services to Male and Colombo appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In its commitment to offering the best in-class products to customers travelling to and from the Maldives, Emirates has deployed its retrofitted Boeing 777 on flights EK656/657 and EK660/661 between Dubai and Malé. Services on the enhanced aircraft, featuring newly configured and refreshed cabins throughout, include the highly-acclaimed Premium Economy offering for an elevated travel experience.

Emirates will also deploy its retrofitted four-class Boeing 777 on flights EK650/651 operating between Dubai and Colombo from 18 July, becoming the airline’s second daily flight in Sri Lanka to feature Premium Economy seats.

Currently, over 40 destinations in Emirates’ expansive network offer Premium Economy. Travellers from select points offering Premium Economy and planning trips to the Maldives or Sri Lanka can book their entire journey and enjoy the comfort and elevated experience along the way.

Emirates’ flight EK656 departs from Dubai at 02:30 hrs and arrives in Malé at 07:40 hrs. The return flight EK657 departs from Malé at 09:15 hrs and arrives in Dubai at 12:15hrs.

Emirates’ other daily service to the Maldives with four cabin classes, flight EK660, departs from Dubai at 10:10 hrs and arrives in Malé at 15:30 hrs. The return flight EK661 departs from Malé at 18:25 hrs and arrives in Dubai at 21:25 hrs.

Emirates’ flight EK650 to Colombo departs from Dubai at 02:40 hrs and arrives at the destination at 08:35 hrs. The return flight EK651 departs from Colombo at 10:05 hrs and arrives in Dubai at 12:55 hrs. All times are local.

Emirates’ latest products

Emirates operates four daily flights to Malé, three of which are served with the retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft.

The airline will also now serve customers traveling to Sri Lanka with its award-winning Premium Economy cabins on two aircraft types – the retrofitted Boeing 777 featuring refreshed interiors and enhanced cabins, in addition to the latest aircraft to join its fleet, the Emirates A350, which operates as EK654/655.

The four-class Boeing 777 features 8 First Class suites, 40 Business Class seats in 1-2-1 configuration, 24 spacious Premium Economy seats and 256 ergonomically designed Economy seats.

On a four-class Boeing 777 aircraft, the 24 Premium Economy seats are arranged in a 2-4-2 layout with 6-way adjustable headrests for added comfort and space – making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers.

The new Emirates Boeing 777 Business Class is inspired by the fresh, open and contemporary design elements of Emirates’ iconic A380 experience, featuring soft leather cream seats accented with champagne trim, lighter wood panelling, a mini-bar, and other thoughtful touches that deliver an elegant and engaging experience.

The 40 seats in a 1-2-1 configuration ensures every customer has direct access to the aisle. Seats convert to a spacious flatbed which recline up to 78.6 inches. The Business Class seat’s 23-inch HD screen, one of the biggest in the skies, helps deliver the ultimate in-flight entertainment experience.

Premium Economy passengers also enjoy a generous checked-in baggage allowance of 35kg and a further 10kg of carry-on baggage.

The deployment of the Emirates B777 on the Dubai – Malé and Dubai-Colombo routes reflects the airline’s commitment to delivering premium travel experiences to its customers from across its network.

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The post Millennium Hotels and Resorts enters partnership with Lotte Hotels & Resorts appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) formally entered a major loyalty partnership with South Korean hospitality firm Lotte Hotels & Resorts.

A significant milestone in MHR’s international expansion strategy, this new agreement builds on the momentum of its recent collaboration with Maritim.

This dual alliance signals a transformative moment for MHR, setting the stage for broader global connectivity, enhanced loyalty offerings, and unprecedented benefits for travellers across key regions.

Indeed, Lotte represents a major force in the region’s hospitality landscape, making it a strategic cornerstone in Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ ambition to build a borderless loyalty network.

MHR executive chairman Kwek Leng Beng said: “These cooperations reflect our entrepreneurial mindset, seeking opportunities beyond traditional boundaries to create new value for our guests and our business. By collaborating with leading brands like Maritim and Lotte, we are building a hospitality network that transcends borders and elevates the guest experience.

Bringing the world to MyMillennium members’ fingertips

Through this new agreement, MyMillennium members will now enjoy preferential rates when booking with Lotte Hotels & Resorts.

In return, members of Lotte Hotel Rewards loyalty programme will be eligible to receive preferential rates at participating Millennium Hotels and Resorts worldwide.

MHR executive director Kwek Eik Sheng said: “This is a forward-looking move that strengthens our loyalty programme and offers our members more value, choices, and seamless recognition across a wider network. By joining forces, we’re building a stronger ecosystem that unlocks greater value, enhances benefits and fosters more meaningful engagement for travellers worldwide.”

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The post Archipelago introduces electric vehicle charging to Indonesian hospitality scene appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Indonesian hotel operator Archipelago is now the first major hotel group in the country to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across its entire hotel portfolio.

This milestone symbolises a major step forward in sustainable hospitality and green mobility for Indonesia. 

This initiative began with the installation of charging stations at ten hotels, serving as a tangible contribution to environmental preservation and a clear symbol of automotive technological advancement in various regions of Indonesia.

Archipelago chief executive John Flood declared: “This isn’t just a convenience for our guests: it’s a commitment to Indonesia’s sustainable future. We’re proud to support the government’s push for electric vehicle adoption by offering nationwide charging access at our hotels.”

Flood added that, by investing in EV infrastructure now, Archipelago is playing its part when it comes to building a more responsible tourism landscape for the future.

He said: “This is just one of many actions we’re taking to ensure that sustainability is more than a statement. It’s embedded in how we operate, grow, and serve our guests.”

Combining convenience and sustainability

From Jakarta to Bali, Yogyakarta to Medan, Archipelago’s guests may now charge their electric vehicles at dozens of participating hotels, making road travel across Indonesia more convenient, connected, and climate-friendly. 

The EV charging rollout is part of Archipelago’s broader ESG strategy and builds on other key initiatives already in place across its brands, including:

• Energy-efficient building retrofits and LED conversions;
• Plastic reduction and refillable amenity programs;
• Food waste minimization and local sourcing; and
• Water-saving technologies and practices.

Given how Indonesia is rapidly expanding its EV infrastructure, Archipelago is proud to play a leadership role in supporting that vision within the tourism sector. 

The chargers which are compatible with most EV models are available at flagship properties such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Denpasar, and many more across Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and Bali. 

Archipelago hotels already offering the amenity are as follows:

1. Aston Cirebon Hotel & Convention Center
2. fave hotel Pamanukan
3. fave hotel Nagoya
4. Aston Batam Hotel & Residence
5. Aston Madiun Hotel & Convention Center
6. fave hotel Madiun
7. Aston Cilegon Boutique Hotel
8. Aston Serang Hotel & Convention Center
9. Aston Pasteur Bandung
10. Aston Anyer Beach Hotel
11. The Alana Hotel & Conference Centerx Sentul City
12. fave hotel Cimanuk, Garut
13. Harper Purwakarta
14. Hotel Neo Tendean
15. Hotel Neo+ Kebayoran
16. Harper Wahid Hasyim – Medan
17. Aston Gresik Hotel & Conference Center
18. Harper Kupang 

Guests and members of the public near the hotels who own electric vehicles can now enjoy the convenience of charging their vehicles directly within the hotel premises. 

This facility is available 24 hours a day and is designed to provide maximum comfort without disrupting guests’ travel routines or activities.

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The post Dusit International introduces its ninth hotel brand Dusit Hotels appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Leading global hotel and property development company Dusit International expands its global hospitality portfolio with the official launch of its ninth hotel brand Dusit Hotels.

The Dusit Hotels brand aims to deliver tailored upper-upscale experiences that balance brand consistency with the unique needs of each market in strategic city and leisure destinations worldwide.

The brand has already been introduced with three currently operating hotels; namely Dusit Hotel Doha, Qatar; Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa, Hanoi, Vietnam; and Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu, China.

A fourth property, Dusit Hotel Greenhills, Manila, Philippines, has already been signed and is slated to open in 2026.

Indeed, the new brand has already marked its presence in key markets across Asia and the Middle East, laying a strong foundation for future growth. 

Meeting the evolving needs of guests throughout the globe

Dusit International chief operating officer Gilles Cretallaz said of this addition to the company’s already extensive portfolio: “Our latest brand has been carefully developed to meet the evolving needs of both hotel owners and modern travellers alike. As we continue to reposition the Dusit Thani brand firmly within the luxury segment, Dusit Hotels marks a strategic expansion of our presence in the upper-upscale space, reinforcing our evolution across the lodging spectrum.”

Cretallaz explained that the new brand allows Dusit to bring its unique Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to a broader range of properties, while giving owners the scope to tailor experiences to their specific markets, all backed by the company’s proven systems, global distribution, and operational excellence.

With a strong focus on comfort, character, and locality, each hotel will resonate deeply with domestic and international guests seeking purposeful, memorable stays.

Dusit International’s vice-president for global development Siradej Donavanik added: “With three Dusit Hotels already in operation and another distinctive property in the pipeline, our newest brand has already resonated strongly with our target market as well as development partners. Reflecting strong demand for this offering, we anticipate signing eight additional Dusit Hotels within the next two years, in key gateway destinations, both cities and resorts. For developers seeking a refined, versatile, and future-ready concept with proven performance and global support, Dusit Hotels presents a compelling opportunity.”

Raising the bar for experiential hospitality

Dusit Hotels was created in response to the growing demand from hotel owners and developers for distinctive properties that combine international standards with a strong sense of local identity.

This new brand is positioned to deliver memorable guest experiences rooted in the unique cultural and physical context of each destination, all of which are characterised by Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality.

Defined by a timeless, warm, and welcoming aesthetic, and guided by the tagline “Distinctly Elevated, Perfected by Place,” Dusit Hotels are crafted with the soul of each location in mind and designed to offer superior levels of comfort for business and leisure travellers of all generations. Public spaces feature curated art and locally inspired details that enhance the sense of place, while integrated smart technologies enrich the stay experience. 

With a target range of 120 to 300 keys per property, Dusit Hotels is ideally suited for conversions and purpose-built developments that seek to balance refined comfort and contemporary design with market-relevant facilities, such as destination dining, multi-functional event spaces, and wellness offerings tailored to today’s travellers. 

At each location, Dusit Hotels demonstrates its ability to deliver refined, upper-upscale experiences rooted in local character and contemporary elegance.

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The post NAIA Terminal 3 in Manila to undergo power maintenance on 15th July appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC) announced a power maintenance break at Terminal 3 of Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) beginning tomorrow, 15th July.

The scheduled maintenance check will run from 10:00 pm local time on the 15th to 2:00 am local time on Wednesday, 16th July. 

In an advisory released earlier today, 14th July, NNIC management stated: “This is part of ongoing efforts to keep NAIA safe, reliable, and operating at its best. We will do our best to keep any inconvenience to a minimum.”

Travellers have been advised to plan their trips accordingly.

An urgent necessity

Although backup generators would support critical systems, brief disruptions are expected in elevators, escalators, baggage handling systems, air conditioning, lighting, and electrical outlets.

Previously, the NNIC also put the terminal on maintenance break on 29th May, resulting in the unavailability of some boarding bridges for at least four hours.

The scheduled maintenance is part of the NNIC’s ongoing drive to improve service quality at the country’s primary international air hub.

It may be recalled that in September 2022 at least 31 flights were delayed when power outage hit Terminal 3, resulting in the disruption of operations, manual check-in and loading of baggage, and longer processing at immigration counters.

In June 2023, another power interruption hit the same terminal, causing the cancellation of seven flights as well as long queues at immigration. 

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The post Dream Cruises conducts joint safety drill with Thai authorities aboard Genting Dream appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Dream Cruises and the Thai maritime and emergency response authorities successfully held a comprehensive safety drill aboard its vessel Genting Dream on Wednesday, 9th July 2025.

The exercise reinforced the cruise line’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest  standards of safety for its guests, crew and partners. 

StarDream Cruises president Michael Goh said of the drill: “Safety is the foundation of everything we do. The safety of our passengers, crew and the communities we visit is always our top  priority. Drills like this ensure our teams are ready, coordinated and aligned with international  and local safety standards. We deeply appreciate the professionalism and support of our Thai  partners during this important drill.” 

Representatives from Thai maritime and emergency response agencies echoed the  significance of the initiative, underscoring the importance of public-private cooperation in  maritime safety preparedness. 

StarDream Cruises conducts regular safety drills for its brands StarCruises and Dream Cruises in all its operating regions and remains committed to working closely with local  authorities to ensure passenger security and confidence. 

Working together to ensure optimal safety

As the Genting Dream approached Phuket, a simulated medical evacuation was carried out  by a Royal Thai Navy helicopter, showcasing advanced coordination between air and sea  responders. 

After docking at the Deep Sea Port, a series of real-time emergency response  scenarios were simulated. 

The operation involved seamless collaboration between the ship’s  onboard safety teams and key Thai agencies, including the Marine Department, Port Authority,  Royal Thai Navy and local emergency services.  

This joint drill highlighted a wide range of critical emergency preparedness procedures, including coordinated passenger evacuation protocols, onboard incident management and  rapid medical response capabilities. 

It also provided an opportunity for cross-training between cruise ship personnel and Thai  officials, ensuring seamless cooperation in the event of a real-life incident. 

These drills are  part of the cruise lines’ ongoing commitment to enhancing operational readiness and ensuring  full alignment with international safety protocols and local regulations.

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The post Plaza Premium Group affirms commitment to sustainability via Zero-Waste Masterclass appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Airport hospitality firm Plaza Premium Group (PPG) continues to uphold its commitment to sustainability via its recent Zero-Waste Masterclass at the Plaza Premium Lounge, KLIA Terminal 2. 

The session was led by internationally acclaimed plant-based chef and zero-waste expert, chef Vojtech Vegh and attended by key personnel from the PPG Culinary team, local chefs and airport partners.

This initiative is part of Plaza Premium Group’s broader sustainability strategy to reduce food waste across its kitchen operations globally, aligning with the Group’s goal of transforming travel hospitality through minimising its environmental impact and promoting responsible business practices.

Vegh, who is renowned for his work in zero-waste and plant-based cooking, conducted an in-depth session for the kitchen team.

The discussions centred on the following topics: 

• Zero-waste cooking: a sustainable approach that uses every part of the ingredient and minimises landfill contribution;
• Understanding food waste, specifically its environmental impact, causes in professional kitchens and how mindful sourcing and storage can prevent it; and
• Best practices for zero-waste kitchens from root-to-stem usage, batch planning and creative repurposing of leftovers to reducing overproduction and embracing seasonal and local produce.

Vegh said during the sessions: “Zero-waste cooking is about respect—for ingredients, for the environment, and for future generations. Even small changes in how we cook, and plan meals can lead to meaningful impact.”

This masterclass is one of several ESG-led initiatives which Plaza Premium Group will roll out globally, with a vision to make sustainable dining an integral part of the airport experience for travellers worldwide.

Reducing food waste one lounge at a time

PPG’ global director of culinary group operations Andreas Hoehne said: “The Zero-Waste Masterclass at KLIA T2 showcases our commitment to reducing food waste across the Group. After six months of piloting the Winnow system in Malaysia, we have seen significant waste reduction, thanks to the dedication of our team. This masterclass builds on that success by exploring further ways to minimise waste and enhance sustainability.”

Hoehne added that PPG is set to roll out the initiative to key locations like Hong Kong, Dubai, Toronto, and Riyadh. 

He said: “Rather than a ‘train-the-trainer’ model, we will partner directly with Winnow to audit practices and guide our chefs using real-time data. Our goal is to transform our airport kitchens into more efficient, profitable and environmentally responsible operations worldwide.”

PPG’s global head of ESG and sustainability Syafrina Sharif likewise spoke regarding the importance of addressing food waste at the source. 

Sharif explained: “Airport kitchens serve thousands of travellers daily, and every plate prepared presents an opportunity to reduce waste and promote change. Food loss and waste is a major global issue that contributes to eight to ten percent of global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. In Southeast Asia alone, food waste accounts for over 50 percent of the region’s waste. According to UNEP’s 2024 Food Waste Index Report, Malaysia ranks fourth in the region for per capita food wastage, with an alarming average of 81 kg of food discarded per person every year.”

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The post Avalon Waterways sees record bookings for 2026 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Avalon Waterways is all set to sail into a bustling 2026 thanks to record-breaking bookings, surging demand, and a growing portfolio of experiences that continue to turn the tide on traditional cruising. 

The cruise firm reports that sales are up 17 percent from where they were in 2024 and currently up seven percent from 2025’s bookings.

Avalon attributes its success to offering what cruise aficionados want from iconic destinations and immersive experiences to innovations that put it ahead in the river cruising scene.

According to Chris Hall, managing director for the Globus Family of Brands in the Asia Pacific: “We didn’t just elevate river cruise ships: we reimagined the entire river cruise experience. The record demand we’re seeing is more than cruising’s popularity. It’s about Avalon’s difference: Suite Ships with a view, passion-filled excursions and the freedom to cruise your way.”

From iconic itineraries and immersive experiences to Suite Ship design and personalised discovery, Avalon is delivering more of what today’s travellers are asking for. 

With 2026 shaping up to be its biggest year yet, Avalon isn’t just riding the current; it’s all set to redefine it.

A fascinating slate for 2026

For those sojourning in Europe, Avalon offers a variety of fascinating journeys.

Here’s what to look forward to in the coming year:

• The Rhine River continues to captivate with castles, cobblestones and endless charm from Amsterdam to Basel. Avalon’s Romantic Rhine itinerary is its most popular.
• On the Danube River, guests are embracing two distinct stories and itineraries: Danube Dreams for the classic upper stretch and Balkan Discovery for a deeper dive into the less-travelled Lower Danube.
• In France, Avalon’s strongest growth market, Paris to Normandy remains a bestseller, followed closely by the company’s newest cruise – the wine-rich Bonjour Bordeaux itinerary.

At the same time, Avalon’s Christmas Cruise itineraries are extremely popular, led by Christmastime on the Danube which exudes festive spirit in the finest European tradition.

When it comes to Avalon Waterways in Asia, bookings for its  Mekong River cruises are up 76 percent over 2025.

On the mighty Mekong, the company’s Suite Ship welcomes just 36 guests per voyage as it winds through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia.

A smarter approach to river cruising

Avalon’s success is anchored in more than scenic views – it’s built on a smarter, more personalised way to cruise. At the heart of the experience are Avalon’s award-winning Suite Ships, featuring:

• Two full decks of Panorama Suites  that are 30 percent larger than the industry standard;
• Open-Air Balconies with the widest-opening windows in river cruising; and
• Beds that face the view, not the wall. 

Paired with signature Avalon Choice excursions which offer Classic, Discovery, and Active options, guests are free to personalise their days with excursions tailored to every interest and energy level.

While Avalon excels on the classic cruises that are leading the bookings craze, it’s the company’s Active & Discovery cruises that continue to carve-out a bold new category. 

With up to 28 included Active, Discovery and Choice excursions, these special cruise itineraries have redefined what’s possible on a river cruise, inviting Avalon guests to dive deeper, stretch further and experience destinations in entirely new ways.

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The post Too Hot to Handle: Europe’s Heatwave Shuts Down Cities. Here’s what Travellers Should Know appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Europe’s summer is officially on fire — and not in the good way. Across the continent, record-breaking heatwaves are shuttering attractions, triggering health alerts, and forcing travellers to rethink their itineraries. In Paris, the Eiffel Tower closed for two consecutive days on July 1–2 after France issued a red heat warning — its highest alert level. The mercury topped 100°F (37.7°C) in several cities, and wildfires have prompted evacuations across southern France and Portugal.

Spain has also seen record highs: the town of El Granado hit 114.8°F (46°C) on June 30, setting a new national heat record for June. According to Spain’s AEMET, June 2025 was the hottest June in the country’s history. In Majorca, the heat claimed the life of a tourist. Over in Portugal, the city of Mora recorded an even higher temperature of 115.9°F (46.6°C) — all part of an ongoing climate pattern caused by a Mediterranean marine heatwave combined with a central European heat dome.

Travel advisories have been issued by authorities in Germany, Austria, the UK, Sweden, and Norway, warning travellers to take precautions. Vulnerable travellers — such as seniors, pregnant women, and those with health conditions — are especially at risk during midday heat.

Safety over sightseeing

In many places, the infrastructure simply isn’t built for this level of heat. If your hotel lacks air conditioning, cooling techniques like cold towels, hydration, and midday shade breaks become essential. Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, clammy skin, dizziness, and fainting. If symptoms progress to confusion or body temperature soars, it could signal heat stroke — a medical emergency.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the crisis a warning sign, tweeting: “Extreme heat is no longer a rare event — it has become the new normal… No country is immune. We need more ambitious #ClimateAction now.” For travellers, that means checking alerts before visiting high-temperature zones and staying flexible with outdoor plans. In today’s Europe, beating the heat might mean skipping the sights — and redefining what a cool summer holiday looks like.

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