The post Bitcoin at 35,000 Feet: Emirates to Launch Crypto Payments by 2026 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In a bold move to modernize air travel payments, Emirates Airlines has announced plans to accept cryptocurrency payments from 2026. The initiative, developed in partnership with Crypto.com Pay, aims to offer greater payment flexibility while appealing to younger, tech-savvy travellers who are embracing digital currencies. The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Emirates Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Crypto.com’s UAE President Mohammed Al Hakim. The airline’s leadership said the move is in line with Dubai’s ambition to be at the forefront of financial innovation and digital transformation.

Under the agreement, Crypto.com Pay will be integrated into Emirates’ booking systems, enabling passengers to purchase flights, upgrades, and services using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major digital assets. Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, said the move reflects changing customer preferences. “This is about future-proofing the travel experience and embracing what our passengers are already asking for—safe, flexible, and fast payment solutions.”

The partnership adds to Dubai’s growing profile as a global hub for digital finance. Crypto.com’s regional leadership emphasized that the collaboration will support broader adoption of blockchain technology across the travel sector while boosting awareness of crypto-based commerce in the Middle East. In addition to backend system integration, Emirates and Crypto.com plan joint marketing campaigns to educate travellers and promote the use of crypto in travel transactions. This includes limited-time offers, rewards, and possible loyalty programme enhancements.

Emirates is among the first major global airlines to formally commit to integrating cryptocurrency as a payment method. While some low-cost carriers have experimented with crypto payments in recent years, Emirates’ announcement marks a significant shift for a full-service international airline. Industry observers note that this move could prompt other legacy airlines to explore similar partnerships—especially in markets where digital payment infrastructure is expanding rapidly.

The crypto rollout is expected to begin gradually, with pilot programmes launching in key markets before the full global implementation in 2026.

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The post “Taylor Swift Effect” Hits the Caribbean: Bad Bunny Boosts Puerto Rico’s Tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Puerto Rico’s tourism sector is experiencing a historic surge, with hotel occupancy, air travel, and local business activity spiking in response to Bad Bunny’s unprecedented 30-night concert residency in San Juan. Often compared to the “Taylor Swift Effect,” the residency is transforming the island into a top-tier cultural tourism destination—and redefining what off-season travel looks like for the Caribbean. Launched on July 11 and running every weekend through September 14, the concert series at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico has rapidly become more than an entertainment event. It’s a nationwide moment, breathing new life into Puerto Rico’s summer tourism and showcasing the island’s growing capacity to host global-scale residencies.

A cultural icon reshaping travel trends

Bad Bunny’s global influence is proving a powerful force for Puerto Rico’s economy. As a native of the island, his deep cultural ties have inspired a wave of national pride—and international curiosity. According to Discover Puerto Rico, interest in the island surged following the announcement of the residency, with hotel bookings and online travel searches reaching record highs. The most visible impact has been in San Juan, where hotels are reporting full occupancy on concert weekends. But the effects go far beyond the capital. Tourists are extending their stays and exploring the island’s beaches, forests, and heritage towns—boosting small businesses, restaurants, transport providers, and tour operators across Puerto Rico.

From all-inclusive travel packages to late-night bars and boutique hotels, the entire hospitality ecosystem is benefiting. The residency has become a case study in how cultural events can drive economic momentum across sectors, even during traditionally slower travel periods.

Global interest, rising infrastructure demands

Airlines and airports are also experiencing a spike in activity. Flight bookings to Puerto Rico have increased sharply, with travel agencies now offering bundled packages that include concert tickets, accommodation, and curated local experiences. For the island, this means not just more tourists—but a stronger case for ongoing infrastructure investment to support sustained growth. At the same time, industry insiders are already discussing the longer-term potential. Bad Bunny’s residency positions Puerto Rico as a viable venue for global artists and entertainment promoters, potentially catalysing a wave of future residencies and major events.

While the music may fade after September 14, the impact of this residency is expected to last well beyond the final encore. Tourism experts believe this moment could lead to a diversification of Puerto Rico’s visitor offerings—from nature and heritage to year-round cultural programming.

The residency also marks a cultural milestone for the Puerto Rican diaspora and global fans alike. For many, attending a concert on the island is a homecoming—an opportunity to connect with community, identity, and place. For others, it’s a first-time journey to a destination that now carries the allure of both global stardom and authentic Caribbean culture.

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The post From Date Palms to the Black Sea: Al-Ahsa’s First Direct Flight to Türkiye Takes Off appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahsa International Airport has officially launched its first direct seasonal flight to Türkiye, marking a major step forward for regional air connectivity and international tourism. The inaugural flight connects Al-Ahsa with Rize–Artvin International Airport on Türkiye’s lush northeastern coast, near the Black Sea. Operated by Turkish Airlines in collaboration with Al Ghazal Travel and Tourism Agency, the route opens up new travel options for residents of Al-Ahsa and the broader Eastern Province—especially during the summer season when outbound tourism spikes.

The launch was inaugurated by Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr, Governor of Al-Ahsa, during a ceremony attended by civil aviation officials, tourism stakeholders, and local dignitaries. The Governor described the move as part of a broader vision to make international travel more accessible to citizens and residents of the region.

“This step reflects the unwavering support of our leadership for infrastructure development and enhanced service quality,” Prince Saud noted, calling the route a strategic boost to the region’s tourism and economic ambitions.

The flight is part of expansion plans by Al-Ahsa International Airport to diversify its seasonal destinations. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to improve air connectivity, empower secondary cities, and turn the Kingdom into a major player in the global tourism industry. For many residents of Al-Ahsa, the new route eliminates the need to travel to Dammam or Riyadh to catch international flights. The launch comes at a time when demand for travel to Türkiye remains strong, particularly from Saudi holidaymakers seeking cooler climates, coastal escapes, and cultural experiences.

The route is expected to have a knock-on effect on Al-Ahsa’s local economy—strengthening its airport’s utility, boosting travel agency activity, and raising the city’s profile as a travel origin hub. It’s also a positive signal for regional airports across Saudi Arabia seeking to expand their international footprint. The Al-Ahsa Development Authority, which has been instrumental in advancing airport services, views this flight as a stepping stone toward broader international operations in the years ahead.

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The post ‘Golf Travel Denmark’ launches for Golf enthusiasts appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A new destination management company, Golf Travel Denmark, has launched to provide international golf enthusiasts with comprehensive travel packages combining Denmark’s world-class golf courses, acclaimed culinary scene, and rich cultural heritage.

The company, which is a collaboration between Classicgolf and GolfersGlobe, specializes in creating bespoke golf travel experiences for groups of 6 to 40 people, offering complete packages that include accommodation, golf, dining, and cultural attractions. Unlike automated booking platforms, Golf Travel Denmark provides personalized service with extensive local knowledge and human expertise.

“We offer something unique. Denmark is an extremely popular travel destination, and beyond golf, we’re renowned for our exceptional restaurants. The Michelin-starred establishments and New Nordic food scene are major draws for visitors to Denmark,” said Søren Barnak, one of the company’s founders.

Denmark: An Emerging Golf Destination

Denmark offers exceptional golf experiences on courses with over 100 years of history, set against stunning Nordic landscapes. The country’s summer appeal is particularly strong, with daylight extending until nearly 11 PM in June, allowing for extended golf rounds and evening activities.

Notable golf venues include Copenhagen Golf Club, Rungsted Golf Club, Simon’s Golf Club, and Scandinavian Golf Club – several ranking among Europe’s top golf courses.

Copenhagen, often called “the Paris of the North,” serves as an ideal base with its blend of historic charm and modern sophistication. The city boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants and is recognized as the birthplace of New Nordic cuisine.

Personalized service and local expertise

Golf Travel Denmark differentiates itself through personalized service and local expertise. The company handles all aspects of travel planning, from golf course selection and hotel bookings to restaurant reservations and cultural experiences.

“We know our market down to the finest detail and provide the best service possible. We can answer our customers’ questions and help find the optimal solution,” the company states. “Nothing is automated, and no question goes unanswered.”

Travel packages can include accommodation either at golf resorts or city hotels in Copenhagen, guided sightseeing tours, and additional activities such as whisky tastings or visits to breweries and distilleries.

The Nordic appeal for Golf Travellers

The Nordic country combines several attractive elements: pristine nature, historic golf courses, Copenhagen’s cultural richness, a world-renowned culinary scene, and notably friendly locals. Denmark consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world, with Copenhagen recognized as one of the globe’s safest capital cities.

The country’s efficient infrastructure ensures seamless travel experiences. Copenhagen Airport serves as a major Northern European hub, providing excellent international connectivity. Golf Travel Denmark’s mission is to create well-rounded itineraries showcasing Denmark’s cultural heritage, attractions, and unique golf experiences, whether clients seek pure golf holidays or comprehensive cultural journeys.

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The post BGS achieves 100% on-time performance with Wizz Air two months in a row appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In June, for the second consecutive month, Baltic Ground Services (BGS), achieved 100% on-time performance for Wizz Air flights at Vilnius Airport. The company was able to achieve this result despite the summer season increase of passengers and the typical challenges associated with the summer vacation period.

Flight delays are common during the summer months mainly due to the increased number of flights and passengers. IATA data shows that passenger demand jumped by 9.1% in June, with load factors at 85%. Industry professionals predict that this summer may be the worst  in history in terms of the number of delayed flights.

And the summer vacation season is not the only reason why flights get delayed. For example, on June 25, Belgium experienced a 24-hour national strike, which halted all outgoing flights. According to Vitalis Dudys, BGS Group Head of Commerce, considering all these factors, the 100% on-time performance becomes even more impressive.

“In aviation, summer is both the busiest and most chaotic season. There are numerous reasons for this – crowds, strikes, weather conditions, and so on. Ground handling services are complex in and of themselves, and in such circumstances, the margin for any errors becomes even smaller. It’s all the more reason to feel proud of this achievement,” he says.

Meanwhile, Grzegorz Michalec, Ground Operations Manager at Wizz Air, emphasizes that during the summer months, every minute counts, as airlines face a more challenging environment due to limited Air Traffic Management (ATC) slots, airport capacity, and high demand. Even a single minute can mean a missed ATC slot, resulting in additional hours of delays, a disrupted crew roster, canceled flights, and disappointed and frustrated customers.

“The BGS ground handling team perfectly understands what’s at stake here and perfectly collaborated with Wizz Air crews, consistently going the extra mile and making sure that our passengers would get to their destination safely and on time. This type of commitment makes operations better and smoother,” he says.

Achieving 100% punctuality in aviation remains rare. In most cases, airlines set their ground handling service-providing partners with a target of 97-98%. According to Mr. Dudys, BGS itself has an internal goal of 99.2%, which is also unusually ambitious by industry standards.

“Achieving 100% punctuality for two consecutive months is one of the most significant results an airport ground handling company can achieve, because we are only as good as the services we provide. Over the years, BGS was able to gather a team full of professionals who create real value for the clients,” he says.

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The post Malaysia welcomes maiden flight of Loong Air’s new Xi’an-Kuala Lumpur route appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Malaysia welcomed the arrival of Loong Air’s new inaugural flight of Xi’an-Kuala Lumpur route at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2 last 6th July.

This inaugural flight marked a key milestone in strengthening tourism ties and economic cooperation between Malaysia and China.

Loong Air’s entry into the Malaysia market is more than just an airline expansion: it is a strategic collaboration aligned with Malaysia’s broader tourism vision. 

As such, it sets the stage for deeper partnerships across aviation, investment, and cultural exchange, further enriching the country’s tourism ecosystem and economic landscape.

A warm welcome

A special welcoming ceremony was held at the airport with Tourism Malaysia deputy chair Yeoh Soon Hin and deputy director-general Samuel Lee in attendance, together with senior representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB). 

Leading the delegation from Loong Air was airline vice-president for overseas business Li Dong whose attendance symbolises the airline’s growing commitment to Malaysia as a key Southeast Asian hub.

Yeoh said at the event: “With Kuala Lumpur now directly connected to Xi’an, we’re opening more doors for tourism, business, and cultural exchange. This enhanced connectivity reaffirms Malaysia’s position as a gateway to ASEAN and a must-visit destination for international travellers.”

A thrice-weekly service

This new route, operated by a 174-seat Airbus A320, will fly three times weekly: on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

• Flight GJ8721 departs Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) at 8:35 PM, arriving at KLIA (KUL) at 1:55 AM.
• Return flight GJ8722 departs Kuala Lumpur at 2:55 AM, arriving in Xi’an at 7:55 AM.

This timely expansion supports Malaysia’s strategic goals for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), which aims to welcome more Chinese travellers, currently one of Malaysia’s top tourist source markets. 

From January to April 2025, 1.44 million visitors from China were recorded, reflecting a 37.8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.

The momentum is further supported by Malaysia’s visa-free entry policy for Chinese nationals, extended until 31st December, providing seamless access and encouraging longer stays.

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The post The Wonderful Indonesia campaign hits the road in Germany appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This month the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism’s signature campaign Wonderful Indonesia brings tropical colour to the streets of Berlin.

Till 31st July, the Wonderful Indonesia campaign makes a bold statement throughout the German capital by way of open bus tours and out-of-home (OOH) advertising in key city zones.

This initiative seeks to draw German tourists closer to Indonesia by showcasing the charm of its priority tourism and regenerative destinations which include Lake Toba (North Sumatra), Borobudur (Central Java), Mandalika (West Nusa Tenggara), Labuan Bajo (East Nusa Tenggara), and Bali.

At the same time, it supports the Ministry of Tourism’s flagship programs that emphasize immersive, personal, and authentic travel experiences ranging from gastronomy and marine tourism to wellness-based tourism. 

These focus areas were highlighted by Indonesian tourism minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana during her participation at ITB Berlin in March of this year.

Wardhana said: “Out-of-home advertising gives us the opportunity to connect with people in real time, within the flow of their daily lives. By bringing this campaign to a major European city like Berlin, we aim to raise awareness and encourage more travelers to consider Indonesia as their next destination. his initiative not only highlights our tourism offerings but also plays a role in supporting the recovery and growth of Indonesia’s travel industry.”

Where to encounter Wonderful Indonesia in Berlin

Wonderful Indonesia recognises that international OOH campaigns such as this play a vital role in enhancing brand visibility and reinforcing Indonesia’s image as a welcoming, world-class destination among broader and targeted audiences.

As such, it also reinforces Indonesia’s readiness to welcome international tourists and families in a safe, warm, and memorable environment.

That said, Wonderful Indonesia’s digital advertisements can be seen at iconic locations throughout the city, including Kurfürstendamm.

Meanwhile, the branded open bus campaign currently covers major routes, including KaDeWe Department Store, Lützowplatz, Tiergarten Culture Forum, Potsdamer Platz, Checkpoint Charlie, Gendarmenmarkt, Red Town Hall, Alexanderplatz, Karl-Marx-Allee, East Side Gallery, Neptune Fountain, DomAquarée, Lustgarten, Unter den Linden/Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof, Brandenburg Gate, Victory Column, and Elefantentor.

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The post Kinshasa to Host Inaugural World Music and Tourism Festival appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Under the High Patronage of Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kinshasa will host the first-ever World Music and Tourism Festival. UN Tourism joins the event as a supporting partner, reinforcing the shared value of culture and tourism for sustainable development and for building mutual understanding and peace.

Held under the theme “The Rumba Route for Peace,” the Festival will highlight how music can connect cultures, strengthen communities, and create opportunities. It also supports national efforts to promote cultural heritage, grow the creative economy and build peace through cultural exchange.

Music, Heritage, and Innovation

The festival will spotlight Congolese Rumba recognized by UNESCO in 2021 and its role in shaping identity and tourism. UN Tourism’s involvement is part of wider efforts to link cultural assets to inclusive growth and cross-cultural exchange across Africa.

A Three-Day Programme of Culture and Collaboration

Hosted at the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC), the Festival will feature Roundtables on:

• Musical diplomacy for peace
• Copyrights and fair pay for artists
• Music and destination branding
• Youth and digital innovation in culture

As well as:

• A Cultural Village and Exhibition Centre
• Performances from Congolese and international artists
• A “Fair Play” Masterclass for artists and entrepreneurs
• A Rumba-themed welcome, Gala Dinner, and cultural tours

As Didier M’Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated: “The Festival will bring together voices to explore how music shapes lives, drives economic opportunity, and through innovation and technology, fosters greater connection among people”.

The mix of music, dialogue, and networking reflects the Festival’s commitment to inclusive development, a goal shared by UN Tourism, which supports culture as a driver of sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

Celebrating Congolese Creativity

The Festival brings together stakeholders from governments, organizations, businesses, and civil society. Confirmed partners include UNESCO, ARIPO, Sony Music Entertainment, Sound Diplomacy, and cultural leaders from Africa, Latin America, and Europe.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated, “Music speaks to people everywhere. This Festival is a valuable opportunity to celebrate Congolese creativity while supporting local development, regional cooperation, and international understanding. UN Tourism is proud to support an initiative that reflects the shared potential of tourism and culture to foster peace, build bridges and unlock opportunities.”

This Festival is a valuable opportunity to celebrate Congolese creativity while supporting local development, regional cooperation, and international understanding

‘For the love of Music’ in Kinshasa

Open to the public, professionals, and youth, the Festival invites all to explore the intersection of music, identity, and tourism.  From performances to policy talks, it offers a powerful reminder of how culture can serve as a bridge for peace and connection.

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