The post Hidechika Takasaka takes helm of Okura Nikko Hotel Management Company appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hotel Okura Co Ltd subsidiary Okura Nikko Hotel Management Co Ltd announced the appointment of Hidechika Takasaka as its new president and representative director.

A long-time industry veteran, Takasaka brings nearly four decades of experience in the field of financial services to the role.

He said of his appointment: “Okura Nikko Hotels is a collective formed by bringing together Okura Hotels & Resorts with its flagship, The Okura Tokyo, alongside Nikko Hotels International and Hotel JAL City, both of which have their origins in one of Japan’s leading airlines. We operate around 80 hotels, primarily in Japan and Asia. Our mission is to embrace and share on a global scale what we call omotenashi, the Japanese spirit of hospitality, uniquely blending this with the facilities and standards of an international hotel.”

Takasaka added that, as the company looks ahead, its primary goal will be to continually deliver services that will exceed the expectations of guests.

He said: “I feel it is my responsibility to uphold the trust of our hotel owners and contribute to the steady growth of our chain. It will be an honour to play my part in supporting the tourism industry both in Japan and internationally.”

Meet Hidechika Takasaka

Takasaka joined the Hotel Okura Group in April 2024 as senior managing executive officer and chief officer for operations management at Okura Nikko Hotel Management. 

He was appointed as managing executive officer at Hotel Okura in June of last year. 

Prior to joining the Hotel Okura Group, he worked at Dai-ichi Life Insurance Co Ltd from 1987, where he held several key positions, including manager of the Credit Department and general manager of both the International Business Department and the Loan Department. 

He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Tokyo and a master’s degree in business administration from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

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The post Accor brings over 350 of its regional leaders in for its Pacific Leaders Conference appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Accor recently brought together over 350 general managers and regional leaders for its 2025 Pacific Leaders Conference on the Australian Gold Coast.

Revolving around the theme LEAD: Leadership, Elevate, Accelerate, Deliver, Accor’s leaders were invited to explore how strategy, sustainability, innovation, and people come together to create meaningful impact for guests, teams, partners, and communities across the region.

Accor Pacific’s chief operating officer Adrian Williams said of the event:  “Leadership today is about more than just performance: it’s about perspective, partnership, and purpose. This conference brought our community together to exchange bold ideas, celebrate success, and reaffirm our collective ambition – to be the most sustainable, inclusive, and high-performing hospitality network in the region. At the heart of this is our unwavering focus on delivering strong results for our owners and partners, and optimising performance across every hotel we operate.”

Two dynamic days

The two-day conference agenda at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, guided by emcee Melissa Doyle, included keynote sessions, business deep dives, breakout workshops, and thought-leadership forums focused on people and culture, loyalty, brand, commercial strategy, operational excellence, and responsible hospitality.

The conference opened with a welcome event hosted at the newly opened Mondrian Gold Coast, where the “surf shirt chic” dress code theme offered a lighthearted moment of connection and set the tone for two days of high-impact collaboration. 

The following morning, a sunrise Surf Life Saving session was hosted at Northcliffe Surf Club, a nod to the Gold Coast lifestyle and a moment of wellbeing for delegates.

Underscoring leadership on all levels 

Several of Accor’s global leaders were in attendance, including group deputy CEO Jean-Jacques Morin who delivered a keynote on the evolving travel landscape, Accor’s global momentum, and the importance of agility, resilience, and performance at every level of the business.

Meanwhile, Accor Premium, Midscale, & Economy Division chief financial officer Patrick Laurent presented a global financial perspective on performance strategy, investment priorities, and the importance of financial resilience.

A key highlight on the agenda was a dynamic panel discussion of leaders from Accor’s Middle East, Africa, Turkey & Asia Pacific, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, led by Duncan O’Rourke.

An Emerging Leaders Forum also brought together aspiring General Managers for an afternoon of leadership insights and development. 

Later, a Q&A session with Colliers’ Neil Scanlan and Accor’s Llewelyn Wyeth provided practical owner perspectives, while the LEAD workshop challenged participants to co-create solutions to real business challenges. 

On the final day, a standout session featured Australian Paralympic gold medallist Curtis McGrath, whose powerful story of resilience, service, and transformation inspired leaders to reflect on the deeper impact of their work on people, purpose, and possibility.

Brand strategy also took centre stage in forums led by global brand presidents Benoit Racle and Jean-Yves Minet who gave participants an in-depth look at how each brand is evolving to meet the demands of tomorrow’s travellers.

A focal point throughout the conference was the Supplier Hub, a dynamic marketplace showcasing key partners and sponsors who play a vital role in Accor’s operations and future-facing innovations. 

Their investment and presence added valuable connection points across every aspect of the programme.

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The post BWH Hotels invite guests to earn more points for every three nights in Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

BWH Hotels invites travelers to discover more and earn up to 5,000 bonus Best Western Rewards (BWR) points through its latest campaign.

As of 12th May, BWR members will earn 5,000 bonus points for every three nights stayed at participating hotels across Asia until 1st September of this year.

Stays do not need to be consecutive, and each member can earn up to 20,000 bonus points during the promotion.

This offer is available at Best Western and SureStay Hotels-branded properties in Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Pakistan, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines. 

To participate, BWR members simply need to sign in to their account and register before booking.

REGISTER HERE

 

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The post ABTA partners with the Royal Life Saving Society UK on ‘holiday water safety’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ABTA is partnering with Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) to raise awareness on how to stay safe in and around the water on holiday, particularly in an environment which is new to customers and their families. With the summer holidays fast approaching and off the back of RLSS UK’s Drowning Prevention Week (14-21 June), now is a good time to encourage people to think about their safety and confidence in the water before they go away. The water safety charity and ABTA have worked together to produce the Holiday Water Safety Toolkit, to help ABTA members share advice with their customers.

With a number of reported accidental drownings of British people happening overseas this year, it is incredibly important that customers are aware of the potential hazards in the water and how to keep themselves safe.

The advice in the Holiday Water Safety Toolkit is based on RLSS UK’s Water Safety Code and has specific advice for travellers to stay safe when they’re abroad and know what to do in an emergency.

The advice encourages holidaymakers to:

• Be prepared by practising their skills before going away and packing brightly coloured swimwear
• Keep children within arm’s reach and supervise them at all times, even when a lifeguard is present
• Stick together when near the water
• Learn what to do if they get into trouble

ABTA members can access the toolkit by visiting the Marketing Toolkit on the Member Zone at abta.com/marketingtoolkit. The toolkit includes social media graphics, pre-written social media posts and a blog. The toolkit can be used throughout the summer in members’ customer marketing channels.

Graeme Buck, ABTA Director of Communications, said: “Having fun in the water is at the heart of so many people’s holidays but sadly each year some people do get into difficulty, with some losing their lives in the water.

“Accidents are less likely if people have the right knowledge to enjoy water safely with friends and family.

“This is why we are working with the RLSS UK so that our members can share the charity’s clear and concise advice to help customers and their families have fun in the water safely.”

Charity Director at RLSS UK, Matt Croxall, said: “Holidays are the perfect time for families to enjoy the water together and with the summer holidays fast approaching, it’s an important time to think about water safety. The Water Safety Code is an easy way to start the conversation with your family to ensure a fun and safe holiday. This, along with our partnership with ABTA, will allow us to reach as many families as possible with the vital water safety advice in the toolkit ahead of their trips.”

 

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The post Rise in Indian Travel to Southeast Asia: Agoda appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The landscape of international travel for Indian passport holders is undergoing a transformation, courtesy the growing trend of relaxed visa policies across Southeast Asia. This shift is not only breaking down logistical barriers but also encouraging an increase in international travel, particularly to destinations that have recently simplified entry requirements.

Data from digital platform Agoda reveals that Indian travellers are responding enthusiastically to these changes. Comparing accommodation searches made on Agoda between July to December 2024 for check-ins between January to May 2025, against the same timeframe a year earlier, Malaysia, Palau, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka — countries with eased visa requirements — have seen a clear rise in interest.

Commenting on the trend, Gaurav Malik, Country Director India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal at Agoda, said: “The easing of visa restrictions across Southeast Asia is a welcome move that resonates strongly with Indian travellers. As barriers to entry fall, we’re seeing a direct impact on travel interest and planning. This new era of accessibility is helping travellers discover not just tourist-favourites like Malaysia, Philippines and Sri Lanka but also hidden gems like Palau. Agoda remains committed to making travel seamless and affordable, and we’re excited to see where this heightened accessibility takes Indian tourists next.”

Malaysia truly Asia

Malaysia, which introduced visa-free entry for Indian citizens in 2023, recorded a 47% year-on-year (YoY) increase in accommodation searches. Cities like Langkawi (+118%), Kuala Lumpur (+28%) and Highlands (+27%) have seen an increase, indicating renewed enthusiasm for Malaysia’s diverse travel offerings. Similarly, the Pacific Island nation of Palau, despite being a lesser-known gem, witnessed a 49% increase in interest, alongside its recent announcement of visa-free entry for Indian passport holders earlier this month.

Better connectivity to the Philippines

The Philippines, a long-time favourite for sun-soaked escapes, has also joined the club of visa-friendly destinations for Indians starting this June. Agoda has observed an upward trend in accommodation searches among Indian travellers for the Philippines, contributing to a YoY increase of 26%. The cities of Manila (+43%), Palawan (+30%), and Cebu (+25%) are among the top gainers.

Heading to Sri Lanka

Finally, Sri Lanka has also seen a 9% overall YoY increase following the country’s decision to grant visa-free access to Indian passport holders last October. Increased interest in destinations like Mirissa (+31%) and Nuwara Eliya (+16%) suggest Indian tourists are eager to explore beyond familiar favourites such as Colombo and Kandy.

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The post Leisure travel is expected to triple in value to $15 trillion by 2040: BCG Report appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Leisure travel is set to triple in value by 2040, growing from $5 trillion today to $15 trillion, according to a new report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG).  But it’s not international jet-setting fueling the boom. The real engine is closer to home: domestic leisure travel is projected to generate nearly $12 trillion by 2040, while regional travel is set to triple to more than $2 trillion. International travel will grow the fastest but still hold the smallest share—reaching $1.4 trillion.

Meanwhile, the next wave of travelers is increasingly coming from emerging markets like China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam—outpacing traditional tourism heavyweights like the US, UK, and Germany.

These are among the findings of BCG’s report, Unpacking the $15 Trillion Opportunity in Leisure Travel, based on a survey of nearly 5,000 travelers across 11 countries, conducted by BCG’s Center for Customer Insight, plus an analysis of travel patterns in 68 markets.

“India is poised to become one of the most dynamic leisure travel markets globally. With domestic leisure travel spend projected to grow at 12% annually and international spend at 10% through 2040, Indian travelers are increasingly exploring both their own country and the world. There is a clear shift observed in the travel industry led by younger generations—Millennials and Gen Z—who are not only traveling more, but also seeking experiences that blend value, personalization, and purpose. India also stands out for its strong preference for multigenerational travel and the growing popularity of ‘bleisure’, with over 70% of travelers looking to combine work and leisure. As travel becomes more digital, culturally relevant, and experience-led, India’s rising consumer base will play a pivotal role in shaping the next chapter of global leisure travel.”, said Nitima Malhotra, Partner, BCG.

Key Indian Findings:

• Younger generations in India are 22% more likely to anticipate taking more trips in the next year and also have higher intent to spend more on travel

• Indian travelers prefer nature, city, beach and cultural destinations (58%), with higher interest in spiritual (10%) than other countries

• Indian travelers primarily take trips to relax (15%), explore (13%), and escape (11%) with higher focus on religion (6%) than other countries

• 28% of Indian travelers typically take trips with a partner or spouse and 23% with immediate family; only 9% travel alone

• Indian travelers are most influenced by activities (18%) and ease of travel (17%) with lower emphasis on cost and family/friends

• Most Indians plan to combine business with leisure travel; millennials are most likely to do so (35%)

• 81% of Indian travelers have combined business with leisure travel at least once

• 59% of Indians use AI tools, while 80% say human touch remains important

“With more people taking vacations—and taking them more frequently—we’re seeing a profound shift in who’s traveling, what they expect, and how they plan their journeys,” said Christina Mühlenbein, a BCG managing director and partner, and a coauthor of the report. “New demographics, digital habits, and expectations are rewriting the rules.”

Trends Shaping the Traveler of the Future

• Millennials and Gen-Zers are now the most influential travelers globally.They plan more trips and spend more compared with older generations. These younger travelers are digitally savvy and socially conscious.

• Once considered niche, solo travel is now mainstream.Today, 18% to 39% of travelers say they take solo trips. This is often driven by younger adventurers seeking cultural experiences, spiritual getaways, or wellness retreats over traditional beach vacations.

• “Bleisure” travel isn’t just a pandemic-era phenomenon. In China, India, Nigeria, and Saudi Arabia, more than 70% of travelers plan to combine business and leisure trips. This compares with just 15% to 30% in the US, UK, and Germany.

What Travelers Want

Across all markets, relaxing and spending quality time with loved ones remain top reasons to travel, but how people relax is shifting. While traditional beach getaways, urban adventures, and nature experiences are still popular, BCG’s report finds that travelers are increasingly motivated by cultural exploration, health and wellness retreats, and spiritual or religious journeys. Food tourism is also booming, where Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indonesian travelers ranked food as a top motivator.

“People are seeking travel experiences that reflect who they are,” said Dennis Utzerath, a BCG managing director and partner, and a coauthor of the report. “Traditional beach and city getaways haven’t lost their charm. But more and more, travelers are prioritizing meaning, convenience, and personal fulfillment alongside relaxation.”

AI Is the New Travel Agent

Travelers—especially those from emerging markets—are turning to AI for their trip plans. Many consumers in China (65%), India (59%), Indonesia (58%), and Vietnam (51%) report that they’re using AI-powered tools and chatbots to plan and book trips. But 79% to 85% of travelers from these same markets also say that human touch points remain important.

“The travelers of tomorrow look different—who they are, who they travel with (or without), what they expect, and how they make decisions,” said Lara Koslow, a BCG managing director and senior partner, and a coauthor of the report. “To stay relevant, travel companies will need to get ahead of these shifts—or risk being left off the itinerary.”

 

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The post RCI Expands Indian Network with New Affiliations with Club Mahindra  Properties   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Resort and Condominiums International (RCI), a leading provider of vacation exchange services, announced the addition of several new Club Mahindra properties to its global exchange network. This partnership significantly expands RCI’s presence in India and provides its members with  access to a wider range of high-quality holiday experiences.

The newly affiliated Club Mahindra resorts include:

• Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort in Ahmedabad offers a uniquely curated Ahmedabad  experience, blending luxurious accommodations with a diverse array of activities, from  championship golf to immersive cultural experiences.
• Club Mahindra Le Vintuna Managed Resort in the serene mountains of Gangtok offers a luxurious  escape. Amidst Sikkim’s breathtaking natural beauty and Club Mahindra’ssignature hospitality with  a range of exclusive amenities, this resort makes for a perfect all-season getaway.
• Club Mahindra Assonora resort in Goa is more than just a relaxing getaway. Assonora provides a  curated experience filled with fun for the whole family, from poolside races and treasure hunts to  karaoke nights and treks through the Goan hills. It has everything to make your entire week a  dreamy family holiday.
• Club Mahindra Bharatpur Resort offers a journey back in time, providing a tranquil escape. Tucked  near one of India’s most famous bird sanctuaries you can reconnect with nature, wake up to  birdsong, walk through centuries-old forts, and savour royal cuisine.
• Club Mahindra Saura Hotel in Agra offers the perfect base for exploring the city’s iconic  architectural brilliance, including the Taj Mahal. This Club Mahindra resort places you at the heart  of the city’s vibrant local Bazaars, grand forts and cultural richness.
• Club Mahindra at the Chumbi Mountain Retreat Resort & Spa, Pelling is surrounded by the  Kanchenjunga range—the world’s third-highest peak. This resort offers an authentic and immersive  experience in the heart of Sikkimese tradition and culture. Breathe in crisp mountain air as prayer  flags flutter in the breeze.
• Club Mahindra Pavagadh is Located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Champaner-Pavagadh  Archaeological Park. Enjoy your stay while exploring the vibrant local crafts, Garba folk dances, an  immersive blend of spiritual heritage, architectural grandeur, and cultural color—all wrapped in  the serenity of Pavagadh.

Lucas Ramos, Senior Director, Travel & Membership – Asia, Pacific & India at RCI said, “India is truly a land  of incredible diversity – something that never ceases to amaze me. It’s no surprise that Indians have such a  strong passion for travel and discovering new places. That’s exactly why, at RCI, we work with such  dedication to expand our exchange portfolio with exciting destinations.

I’m very pleased to share that we’ve just added some fantastic new resorts from our valued affiliate, Club  Mahindra. And I must say – the locations of these resorts are amazing! I’m confident that our Indian  members will love exploring these new experiences we’ve prepared with so much care.” 

This partnership allows RCI members to exchange their timeshare weeks or points for stays at these  newly affiliated Club Mahindra resorts, providing them with even more vacation options within India. Club  Mahindra members will also benefit from access to RCI’s global network of affiliated resorts, opening up a  world of travel possibilities.

 

 

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The post Banyan Group comes away with 15 wins at the Asia-Pacific Property Awards appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Pioneering Thai hospitality developer Banyan Group reaffirmed its renown among Thailand’s premier property developers by taking home 15 top honours in the prestigious Asia-Pacific Property Awards 2025-26.

The record tally of accolades cemented Banyan Group as the most awarded developer in Thailand for the second consecutive year.

This also makes the company Thailand’s most successful award-winner of all time with a total of 64 honours to date.

Banyan Group founder and executive chairman KP Ho declared: “The International Property Awards are a world-renowned mark of excellence. This continuing recognition is a true testament to the hard work and talent of our entire team. Our dedication to innovation, exceptional design, and creating amazing experiences for our customers has made us a leader in Thailand’s luxury residential development.”

Best in the region 

The latest honours include two 5-star awards with two nominations for “Best of Asia”.

Laguna Lakelands, a visionary master plan for an eco-friendly residential community unfolding over the next 5 to 15 years, was recognised for Best Development Marketing, with Laguna Beach Residences Bayside nominated for best luxury condominiums.

Among the ‘Best in Thailand’ awards, Skypark Elara Lakelands was honoured for top condominium development.

Luxury pool villas at Banyan Tree Lake Residences Yara were awarded for residential villa development of 10-19 units and luxury residential property.

Townhouses at Banyan Tree Beach Residences Nammu won the award for luxury residential property and luxury residential development of 10-19 units.

Laguna Lakelands Waterfront Villas were honoured for best residential property development of 10–19 units, as well as best residential property.

Laguna Beach Residences Bayside were recognised for best residential development of 20+ units as well as top luxury condominium development.

Finally, upcoming Skypark Elara Lakelands and Residences at Garrya Phuket were also both honoured for their interior show homes.

Banyan Group also won top honours for best developer website.

Raising the bar for luxury residential developments

Best known for its award-winning hotels and resorts, Banyan Group is increasingly focusing on luxury private residences, primarily in Thailand but also internationally. 

A recent Savills report ranked the group top in Asia and 5th globally in the total value of its branded residential projects.

With demand soaring for luxury lifestyle real estate from both international and Thai investors, the group plans to release luxury residential real estate worth over US$1 billion in Phuket alone in the next 2-3 years.

New projects driving growth at the iconic Laguna Phuket include ultra-luxe Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus condos on the doorstep of Bang Tao Beach; and chic new condos at Laguna Lake Residences Aster, neighbouring Bang Tao’s popular Boat Avenue entertainment district.

Also being unveiled soon is the biggest beach club in Phuket, Rava Beach Club, occupying an exclusive 150-metre shoreline of Bang Tao Beach, complete with infinity pools, marking yet another outstanding facility for residents.

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The post Kyoto’s SOWAKA Hotel offers guests spiritual stays rooted in tradition appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

SOWAKA Hotel unveils a new suite of refined cultural experiences designed to bring guests closer to Japan’s spiritual heritage.

From Zen meditation with a monk to sacred fire rituals, curated forest treks, and rooftop yoga at sunrise, each new offering reflects SOWAKA’s commitment to stillness, authenticity, and self-discovery.

According to general manager Yuki Yamano: “What we offer is more than a stay, but a quiet invitation to experience the soul of Kyoto; our ancient capital, rich in history and tradition. These new experiences invite our guests to pause, reflect, and discover a renewed perspective on life through Zen, through nature and authenticity.”

A spiritually-focused immersion

Private Zen Experience: Learn Zazen with a Zen Monk

Guests are invited to learn the philosophy and practice of zazen, or seated meditation, in an intimate session led by a Zen monk. 

This is not simply a meditative practice, but more of a path to understanding why we sit. 

By confronting the emotional and existential challenges of life with acceptance, guests may find quiet realisations that linger long after the session ends. 

This experience transcends religion, distilling Zen into its purest, most accessible form. 

Kyoto Trekking: A Mindful Journey into Nature

A tranquil counterpoint to Kyoto’s bustling temples, this guided trekking experience takes guests through lesser-known mountain trails which are selected and tailored just for them. 

With over 150 km of forest paths around the city, the curated journey encourages reconnection with the natural world. 

Listen to birdsong, feel the dappled sunlight, and rediscover the grounding simplicity of nature’s rhythms.

Goma Fire Ceremony: A Spiritual Rite of Renewal

In an authentic Esoteric Buddhist fire ritual, guests take part in the Goma Ceremony: an intense, sacred moment of spiritual clarity.

Facing the flame, participants chant the Heart Sutra and Fudo Myoo mantra, invoking transformation, protection, and deep personal intention.

Non-Japanese speakers receive phonetic guides in advance to support full participation in this powerful rite.

Rooftop Yoga: Sunrise Above Gion

Held before sunrise on SOWAKA’s tranquil rooftop, this private yoga session offers serenity with sweeping views of Higashiyama and the gentle sounds of morning birds. 

Each session is customized to the guest’s ability, from beginner to advanced, offering a beautiful way to start the day with energy, mindfulness, and gratitude.

Private Tea Ceremony

This tea ceremony experience is not a step-by-step lesson but an invitation to quietly immerse yourself in the philosophy of mindful presence cherished by generations. 

Set in a traditional machiya townhouse with the soft sounds of charcoal and kettle steam, the serene atmosphere encourages inward reflection similar to Zen meditation. 

Guests are invited to surrender to subtle shifts in mood and sensation, discovering the essence of the tea ceremony as a way of being rooted in stillness and attention. 

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