The post Royal Jordanian Airlines to Launch New Nonstop Flights to Mumbai  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Royal Jordanian Airlines announces the launch of a new nonstop route between Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM), commencing 19 June, 2025. The new service will operate year-round, four times a week—on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays—aboard the modern Airbus A320neo. This strategic addition strengthens connectivity between India and Jordan and offers seamless onward travel to over 50 destinations across the Middle East, Gulf, and North Africa.

The new route will open the door for Indian tourists to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. With Royal Jordanian’s seamless access to the Kingdom, passengers from Mumbai can now exploRJordan through an unforgettable journey. In just three or seven days, visitors can witness the breathtaking rose-red city of Petra—one of the Seven Wonders of the World—float in the healing waters of the Dead Sea, and explore the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, positioning Jordan as a contemporary, truly authentic Arabia five hours away from India. Whether driven by history, nature, or a passion for discovery, Jordan promises Indian travelers an enriching escape filled with beauty, culture, and unmatched hospitality.

“With direct access to Jordan, a captivating country rich in history and culture, passengers can now easily explore Jordan’s inspiring landscapes. This expansion reflects our dedication to showcasing Jordan’s unique allure to tourists, inviting them to uncover its hidden gems, immerse themselves in its vibrant traditions, and experience the renowned hospitality that awaits every visitor,” stated Chief Commercial Officer of Royal Jordanian, Karim Makhlouf. “

Royal Jordanian’s new route to Amman offers more than just added convenience—it serves as a vibrant bridge between India and Jordan, connecting travelers to the heart of a land where ancient wonders and modern vitality coexist in harmony. With this launch, Indian tourists can now explore Jordan’s captivating history, breathtaking landscapes, and dynamic culture more easily than ever before, as they will be eligible for visa-free entry when booking tourist packages.

Isha Goyal, CEO of STIC Travel Group, shared her enthusiasm on the launch of Royal Jordanian’s Mumbai–Amman service on 19th June, saying:

“The new direct service between Mumbai and Amman is more than just a flight — it is a bridge between two ancient civilizations and a gateway for deeper tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Jordan holds a distinctive place in the Levant region, and as a longstanding friend of India, this long-awaited route marks a significant step in bringing our countries closer. This milestone reflects STIC Travel’s continued commitment to forging strategic airline partnerships built on trust, shared vision, and service excellence. We look forward to introducing Indian travellers to the richness and beauty of Jordan, an inspiring and still largely untapped destination.”

As the airline of choice for convenient and seamless global travel, Royal Jordanian offers travelers from Mumbai smooth connections not only to Jordan but also onward to more than 50 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, North Africa, the United States, and Canada. With attractive fares, well-timed schedules, and a reputation for comfort and reliability, passengers can enjoy a streamlined travel experience across continents. As a proud member of the oneworld airline alliance since 2007, Royal Jordanian ensures access to a global network of premium services and destinations, making international travel from India more accessible and enjoyable than ever before.

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The post Umana Bali teams up with Utama Spice for Global Wellness Day appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

To mark this year’s Global Wellness Day, LXR Hotels & Resorts’ Umana Bali tied up with Balinese wellness pioneer Utama Spice for a meaningful and immersive experience.

Held on 13th June, the eve of Global Wellness Day on the 14th, LXR’s first property in Southeast Asia invited select members of the media to take part in a session characterised by mindful movement, holistic healing, and creative expression.

Utama Space director Ria Templer said of the collaboration: “We’re thrilled to partner with Umana Bali to celebrate Global Wellness Day and share the spirit of natural wellness with our community. This event beautifully reflects our belief in the power of mindful living and making healthier choices for ourselves, our communities and the planet.”

Umana Bali’s director of marketing and communications Arga Brahma added: “We are honoured to collaborate with Utama Spice in creating an experience that celebrates presence, purpose, and personal wellbeing. As a wellness destination rooted in nature and cultural connection, Umana Bali offers the perfect setting for this meaningful collaboration, surrounded by the serene clifftops of Ungasan.”

Reconnect Magenta

Global Wellness Day is a worldwide initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of living well and inspiring individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices. 

This year’s theme, #ReconnectMagenta, invites us to pause and return to meaningful connection with ourselves, our loved ones, nature, and our communities. 

The color magenta, blending the energy of red with the calm of blue, embodies the campaign’s call to live with greater intention, compassion, and presence.

An immersive day

The collaborative event cast the spotlight on the shared values of both brands: a commitment to holistic wellbeing, a deep respect for nature, and a passion for authentic community connection.

These, in turn, align with Hilton’s global direction for 2025, which places greater emphasis on wellness-focused experiences. 

Guests immersed themselves into a unique programme of activities, including a candle-making session, rejuvenating yoga class, and therapeutic sound healing experience, all designed to inspire balance, presence, and joy.

As part of the collaboration, Utama Spice highlighted its signature Yoga Mat Spray, an invigorating blend of natural botanicals with antibacterial properties, making it an ideal companion for mindful movement and daily wellness rituals.

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The post UAE is Redefining Global Tourism through smart strategies and infrastructure investments appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The UAE is cementing its global tourism leadership through visionary planning, strategic connectivity, and cultural innovation. The historic leadership role at UN Tourism from Shaikha Al Nowais underscores its influence, while data-driven insights show strong growth in arrivals and satisfaction. Diversifying hotel options, capitalising on climate and safety, and promoting multi-emirate itineraries will be key to sustaining momentum into 2025 and beyond.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is asserting its influence as a global tourism leader, marked by the historic election of Shaikha Al Nowais as the first female Secretary-General of UN Tourism. As the region garners international attention, data from Mabrian, the global travel intelligence company part of The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, sheds light on how the UAE is redefining the global tourism playbook through smart strategies, infrastructure investments, and a deep understanding of evolving traveller preferences.

According to the WTTC, travel and tourism contributed 13% to the UAE’s GDP in 2024, with a projected growth of 4% by the end of 2025. Thanks to a sustained, long-term strategy laid in the 1990s and early 2000s, the UAE has positioned itself as a world-class destination, experiencing consistent growth in international tourist arrivals, significant investments, and diversification efforts; and it continues to pursue strategies for sustainable expansion.

Insights into Action: The UAE’s Multi-Segment Tourism Strategy

“The UAE’s spectacular tourism development results from a clear roadmap combining a smart connectivity strategy—enhanced by low-cost carriers to serve specific segments and seasonal demand—with thoughtful product design, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and strategic use of unique advantages that are hard to replicate,” says Carlos Cendra, Partner and Director of Marketing and Communications at Mabrian. “Data suggests the next phase involves laser-focusing on opportunities arising from the UAE’s vision and its alignment with current market and consumer trends.”

1) Consolidating Western Europe and Boosting Asia:  Strong air connectivity has been central to the GCC’s rise in global tourism, with the UAE leading the charge. Mabrian data shows international seat capacity has grown steadily since 2019, reaching a 14.5% increase in 2025. Western Europe remained the top source region in 2024, while Northeast and Southeast Asia recorded the highest year-over-year growth at 24%, as featured in Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025.

“To attract more visitors from mature markets, diversification of demand segments is essential. This includes opening new routes—particularly low-cost options—and expanding lodging beyond luxury offerings,” explains Cendra.  According to the Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025, the UAE is moving in this direction: Emirates will hold the largest East Asia network among non-Asian airlines, Etihad Airways will add 14 destinations, and Wizz Air will increase its direct flights.

2) Expanding Midscale Hotel Options to Broaden Market Reach:  The UAE’s key hotel categories (3 to 5-star) are evenly distributed and, as previously mentioned, future development primarily leans toward upscale and luxury brands. According to the Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025, some of the most anticipated openings include new properties from Corinthia Hotels, Jumeirah,  Six Senses, NH Collection, Le Méridien, Mandarin Oriental, Mondrian, LUX*, Rixos, W and JW Marriott. However, expanding midscale offerings can further enrich the country’s lodging landscape. The scheduled openings of midscale lifestyle brands like Moxy Hotel and Mama Shelter—which resonate strongly with younger travellers—suggest that the UAE is actively working to broaden its appeal in this growing segment.

The midscale segment can support pricing strategies across categories, and contribute to enhance competitiveness of lodging offerings in the destination, already well-regarded as the high Hotel Satisfaction Index of Emirati hotels (73.7/100). In terms of profitability, more midscale hotels imply more price elasticity, particularly in higher categories: Mabrian forecasts suggest average hotel prices will converge across emirates in the coming months, especially as 5-star hotels slightly adjust rates to stay competitive in markets like Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

 

3) Concept Travel Itineraries: Showcasing Each Emirate’s Identity:  A key driver of the UAE’s tourism success is leveraging the unique identity of each emirate to curate experiences tailored to travellers’ diverse interests, with culture, art, and heritage as central themes. Mabrian data shows culture as the top demand driver in Dubai (25.5%), Abu Dhabi (29,5%), Sharjah (33.8%), and Ras Al Khaimah (23.8%). Complementary experiences shape each emirate’s appeal: active tourism (15.2%), gastronomy (13%), and shopping (11.3%) in Dubai; active tourism (12.8%) and sunbathing (11.2%) in Abu Dhabi; and nature & outdoors (16.4%) in Ras Al Khaimah.

“Aligned with how travellers seek inspiration—beyond simply visiting attractions or hotspots—the UAE has the opportunity to inspire around concept-based itineraries that resonate with a wide range of traveller segments, offering experiences that are more captivating and appealing than a mere than a checklist of attractions,” adds Cendra.

4)  Building an Umbrella Brand for the UAE’s Tourism Offering: “An umbrella brand for marketing the UAE’s diverse experiences can help boost arrivals, extend the average stay beyond 4.45 days, and enhance satisfaction and loyalty,” says Mabrian expert.

To achieve this, satisfaction with tourist products is essential—particularly given the UAE’s positioning as a premium destination. This requires prioritising not only the launch of new, unique attractions, accommodations, and infrastructure, but also the delivery of world-class on-site service. According to the Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025, the UAE’s Tourist Product Satisfaction Index (TPI) stands at 68.8 out of 100—a positive score with a growing trend. However, there is still room for improvement to reach an outstanding performance level, represented by a TPI of 75, as seen in destinations like Singapore, Seychelles, or Thailand.

5) Capitalising on Climate and Safety as Strategic Advantages:  As Connecting Travel Insights Report 2025 highlights, citing Mabrian data, the UAE holds a significant competitive advantage due to its perceived high levels of safety and its exceptional, appealing climate. As a Mabrian expert notes, “these two factors form a strong foundation for building a successful tourism strategy, and the UAE has many opportunities to capitalise on this advantage when competing with other highly developed global destinations.”

The exceptionally high Climate Perception Index (85.3/100) reflects the UAE’s reputation as a destination with favourable weather for much of the year. Meanwhile, the outstanding Perception of Security Index (94.8/100) is a key driver, indicating that travellers feel safe and confident—encouraging visitation and strengthening the UAE’s appeal across key segments, from families and business travellers to wellness seekers.

 

 

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The post Centara raises the bar for Thai hospitality through its growing global portfolio appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Thai hospitality operator Centara Hotels & Resorts accelerates its global business enhancement strategy with the opening and transformation of iconic five-star and luxury hotels in some of the world’s most desirable destinations. 

Through the expansion of its exclusive Centara Grand and Centara Reserve brands, the group continues to uphold its celebrated standards while remaining true to its Thai family heritage, advancing its goal to be a top 100 hotel company worldwide by 2027. 

Spearheading the growth is the distinguished Centara Grand brand which opened an exquisite new resort in the Maldives earlier this year, following recent luxury openings and renovations in destination hotspots, Osaka and Bangkok. 

Coming up later this year is the unveiling of a revitalised version of one of the world’s leading heritage hotels in Hua Hin, Thailand, a country which will also welcome the second Reserve brand in Krabi.

Centara Hotels & Resorts chief executive Thirayuth Chirathivat said: “It is with a great sense of pride that we bring Thai hospitality to the world. We look forward to further growth over the years as we elevate our positioning as a hotel group, opening, restoring and repurposing hotels and resorts in leading destinations around the globe.”

Centara Grand: distinguished accommodations in distinctive destinations

Acclaimed five-star brand Centara Grand has delighted guests with its distinguished hospitality for over four decades.

Today, it continues to expand in dream destinations: back in April of this year, the highly-anticipated Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives opened its doors on The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, the multi-island destination in the Indian Ocean. 

The sophisticated private retreat, where gracious Thai hospitality meets Maldivian allure, immerses guests in endless personal space, unrivalled private stretches of beach, world-class dining experiences, and one-of-a-kind, transformative wellness journeys. 

From the elegant beachfront and overwater pool villas to gastronomic highlights including a Mediterranean beach club and overwater sunset champagne bar, and holistic wellbeing at Spa Cenvaree Retreat, guests are assured of moments of indulgence and tranquillity in equal measure.

Centara Grand is also elevating hospitality in Asia’s most dynamic gateway cities. Centara Grand Hotel Osaka marked Centara’s inaugural hotel in Japan in 2023, and has quickly become a preferred option for domestic guests, international travellers and local diners. 

In Bangkok, the flagship Centara Grand at CentralWorld is the destination-of-choice for high-end travellers. Following an extensive refurbishment, it has reinforced its status as a major Bangkok landmark with its chic rooms & suites and sky-high culinary venues.

Long heralded as Thailand’s number one family resort, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard, has also been completely transformed. 

The multi-award-winning Lost World-themed resort recently renovated its rooms, suites, facilities and water park, positioning it for an exciting new era of family-friendly five-star Thai hospitality. 

Nestled on Thailand’s gulf coast, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin is one of the world’s leading heritage hotels, as recognised by CNN Travel, with a history dating back to the 1920s. 

The timelessly elegant beachfront retreat, blessed with colonial-style architecture, sweeping green lawns, and a picture-perfect sandy shore, is undergoing a thoughtful restoration programme to elevate the hotel while preserving its essence. 

Contemporary flourishes, inspired by the history of the building, complement original features as the charming story of the Railway Hotel is celebrated throughout. 

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is directly connected to Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, a vibrant underwater world-themed family resort, via a private bridge, affording guests unprecedented access to thrilling water attractions and extended dining experiences at the neighbouring resort should they be so inclined. 

The newly built resorts are providing a new vision for Maldivian hospitality, with bespoke concepts to meet the needs of different types of travellers. 

Centara now offers a quartet of idyllic island resorts in the Maldives, under four distinct concepts: Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Mirage, and The Centara Collection.

Centara Reserve: a tale of exceptional luxury

Centara Reserve, Centara’s collection of luxury storytelling resorts, promises immersive experiences that weave graceful Thai service and laconic local narratives into every stay. 

The beachfront retreat features pool access rooms and ocean-facing villas, plus the world’s first Reserve Spa Cenvaree, curated culinary offerings, and inspiring activities. 

Having marked the brand’s debut in late 2021, Centara Reserve Samui has been recognised by numerous prestigious awards including one of Thailand’s top 10 luxury “Beach Island Resorts” by Travel + Leisure.

The world’s second Centara Reserve will soon start welcoming guests to a pristine private cove in Thailand’s Krabi province. 

The former Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi, which commands unparalleled vistas of towering limestone cliffs and the Andaman Sea, is currently closed for a comprehensive renovation that will see it reimagined as the Centara Reserve Krabi: a secluded haven set to showcase luxurious rooms, suites and villas, bespoke dining, wellness, and personalised experiences that tell the story of this tropical Thai paradise.

Chirathivat said of the upcoming resort: “We are excited to be entering the next phase of our long-term growth strategy as we enhance existing properties and develop new ones through our Centara Grand and Centara Reserve brands to delight new audiences and reward loyal customers. We are certainly anticipating an active and exciting next 40 years as we expand our portfolio and elevate our offerings across the world.”

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The post Silversea’s Silver Shadow sets off on its 83-day Grand Voyage appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Experiential, luxury, and expedition cruise provider Silversea’s vessel Silver Shadow set sail on its 83-day Grand Voyage yesterday, 19th June.

Off to traverse the North Atlantic and Northern Europe, this cruise will enable guests to retrace the steps of the early Vikings as they explore 55 destinations in 16 countries.

Traveling on board the Silver Shadow, one of the most intimate ships to sail in the region, guests will access the most iconic ports, including Geiranger and Flåm, as well as the smaller harbours of Rouen, Iles de la Madeleine, and more, benefitting from Silversea’s destination expertise and the most personalized service at sea. Five overnight calls and numerous late departures will enable travellers to venture deeper ashore. 

Silversea president Bert Hernandez declared: “Our guests on Silver Shadow’s 83-day Grand Voyage through the North Atlantic and Northern Europe are embarking on a truly exceptional journey. These extended voyages allow travellers to spend more time in each region, really connecting with local cultures and traditions. With exclusive events planned in Cardiff and Quebec City, this voyage promises an immersive experience that highlights the authenticity and richness of each destination, tailored by Silversea’s expertise.” 

Into the great northern expanse

Departing New York City, travellers will take in Eastern Canada before crossing to the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Northern Europe including the Norwegian Fjords, the Baltic Sea, and Iceland, subsequently returning to Bayonne, New Jersey, on 2nd September.

This immersive voyage will connect travellers with the region’s pristine landscapes, unique wildlife, and iconic cultural experiences.  

Grand Voyage guests will participate in an extensive range of immersive experiences ashore. 

In the United Kingdom, for example, guests will be going to Boodles Jewellery House with an exclusive lunch in Liverpool and a privatized tour of a country house and lunch with an English Lord in Dorset, among other experiences. 

In Norway, guests can explore Lysefjord by yacht and participate in an unforgettable kayak and Sauna Experience in Trondheim.

Enhancing the experience, two exclusive events ashore will unveil the authentic customs of visited communities throughout the Grand Voyage: 

• Castles and Choirs – Cardiff, Wales – 29th June

In Cardiff, Wales, a land renowned for its lush countryside and distinguished choral culture, Silversea’s guests will enjoy an atmospheric night of song in the 17th-century Hensol Castle. Surrounded by Gothic grandeur, guests will savour a dinner of Welsh delicacies, prepared with hyperlocal ingredients. As the evening unfolds, the air will fill with the soulful harmonies of the Johns’ Boys Choir, who proudly honour their Welsh roots from the world’s greatest stages. 

• A Lakeside Retreat, Overnight – Quebec City, Canada – 25th and 26th August

Silversea guests will soak in the enchanting French Colonial architecture of Quebec City before leaving the city behind for the Huron-Wendat First Nations community. Deep in the surrounding nature, guests will spend the afternoon unwinding at a lakeside luxury lodge before dining beneath the stars at a BBQ picnic. After a restful night’s sleep in the heart of nature, Grand Voyage guests will rejoin Silver Shadow the following morning. Silversea’s Silver Shadow offers one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea. On board, guests will benefit from the company’s signature comfort standards, including the personalized service of a butler in every suite category and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios.   

Silversea’s industry-leading range of Grand Voyages includes the Grand Voyages South Pacific expedition 2025 and 2026, the Grand Voyages Mediterranean 2025 and 2026, the Grand Voyage Australia 2025, and the Grand Voyage South America 2027. 

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The post Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru now on soft opening appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Plaza Premium Group announced the soft opening of Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru at Malaysia’s Senai International Airport. 

As the only lounge operator in the airport, the 80-seater lounge promises to deliver an elevated, seamless and culturally rich experience to both international and domestic travellers under one roof.

Offering an expertly considered mix of cutting-edge technology with local Malaysian heritage, Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru offers an elegant, comfortable, and innovative space for guests, providing an ideal environment before their flight, whether travelling near or far. 

According to PPG regional general manager for Southeast Asia Calvin Loh: “Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru is more than just a place to wait for your flight: it’s a space to experience the best of Johorian hospitality, art and innovation. Returning to Johor Bahru with Plaza Premium Lounge is an exciting moment for us. By seamlessly blending technology with local culture, we are excited to redefine the travel experience for both domestic and international passengers at Senai International Airport.”

As the exclusive lounge operator at Senai International Airport, Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru is a game-changer for the region. 

Unlike many other airport lounges, the space caters to both international and domestic travellers, offering the same level of premium service, whether they are flying across the globe or within Malaysia.

Where technology meets gracious tradition 

The lounge is well equipped with state-of-the-art technology to streamline the guest experience such as self check-in kiosks for a more efficient and hassle-free access to the lounge. Implementation of QR code-based food ordering system also allows lounge guests to browse and order their meals effortlessly.  

With the aim to further enhance lounge experience with digital solutions, this lounge has actively integrated the Smart Traveller app which enable personalised experiences, rewards and a smooth transition through the lounge and airport.

For passengers on tight schedules, Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru introduces the Lounge To-Go corner for ultimate convenience. 

This dedicated space offers travellers the option to grab a premium selection of food and beverages to enjoy on the go, without compromising on quality. 

As part of the Proudly Local concept, the lounge goes beyond comfort and convenience to offer a true cultural immersion, celebrating the vibrant heritage of Malaysia in every dimension. 

Authentic local food and beverage choices give guests the opportunity to experience a true taste of Johor Bahru and Malaysia, with regional flavours and delicacies that showcase the richness of the country’s culinary heritage. 

Signature dishes such as Otak-Otak (spiced fish paste wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection) and Laksa Johor which truly sets itself apart from other types of laksa. 

While most versions across Malaysia are served as soup, this unique dish from Johor resembles a plate of spaghetti bolognese with yellow noodles generously coated in a rich, flavourful gravy. 

The sauce is made with coconut milk, asam gelugur, dried prawns, lemongrass, galangal, and a blend of aromatic spices, creating a hearty and memorable meal.

Guests will also be able to discover local artworks by Malaysian artists which are prominently featured throughout the lounge, offering a unique and immersive experience for guests. 

With the opportunity to purchase the art pieces, this turns the lounge into a cultural hub where guests can support and engage with local creativity. 

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The post Savour the occasion: Superb Sunday brunch at Le Meridien Bangkok Surawong appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

There are few pleasures more civilised than a well-spent Sunday — a leisurely morning that folds gently into an afternoon of good company and even better food. In Bangkok, a city not exactly short of grand hotel brunches, one venue has quietly redefined what that experience can be.

Tucked into the rich cultural tapestry of Surawong Road, Le Méridien Bangkok Surawong offers a fresh, refined take on the weekend ritual with its signature Beyond Brunch — a culinary celebration where indulgence is savoured slowly, not served at speed.

Beyond Brunch is not about excess. It is about excellence. It is about slowing down to taste the moment, one exquisite bite at a time. In a city that moves at breakneck speed, Le Méridien Surawong has dared to whisper instead of shout — and in doing so, it has redefined what Sunday means.

As someone who has lived in Bangkok for over 30 years and eaten my way through countless brunch buffets from Sathorn to Sukhumvit, I can say with some authority that this one stands apart. Not for the quantity — but for the quality, clarity of vision, and the art of hospitality.

At Le Méridien Surawong, brunch is served degustation-style, with an astounding choice  of 47 tasting plates brought directly to your table.

Choose from:

~

SOUPS & BISQUES • CLASSIC CAESARS •

TARTARE TREASURES • THAI FAVOURITES •

LATEST RECIPE JAPANESE RICE BOWLS •

FROM THE OVEN • EUROPEAN CLASSICS •

PASTA PERFECTION • SEAFOOD DELIGHTS •

GRIDDLE • BEEF & PORK SELECTION •

SWEET TREATS • LE SCOOP

~

There’s no scrambling around chafing dishes or dodging the oyster queue — here, you sit back and let the flavours come to you.

And what flavours they are. The menu is a confident blend of Thai finesse and European culinary technique:

Crispy golden foie gras, duck roll, mango salsa

Hokkaido scallop, black truffle purée, red wine sauce & beurre blanc

Salmon, Ikura Salmon roe, cucumber, New Zealand avocado

Westholm wagyu prime striploin, onion, carrot, potato

Cajun lamb chop, garlic confit, mashed potato, broccolini, shredded nori

Even the sweets are served with flourish:

Fresh strawberries, vanilla gelato, crispy brioche

Golden caramelized Cavendish banana parfait

Every dish is plated with intention, with careful attention to temperature, texture, and presentation — something rarely achievable in your typical buffet line.

But it’s not just the food that defines Beyond Brunch. It’s the sense of place.

The hotel sits at the heart of Surawong, one of Bangkok’s most storied neighbourhoods. Once the city’s colonial-era entertainment and hospitality quarter, Surawong was home to Bangkok’s first theatres, jazz lounges, and fine dining rooms. It was where East met West — not only in architecture, but in attitude.

That heritage still hums through the streets today. Historic shophouses nestle beside contemporary galleries, and a short walk from the hotel takes you to Charoen Krung’s creative quarter or into the lanes of Silom’s old commercial core. It’s a district that has fed the city — quite literally — for over a century.

Le Méridien Surawong honours this legacy with its bold, contemporary design and deep culinary credibility. Inside, the hotel’s public spaces are curated with striking Thai art and sculpture, echoing the creative spirit of the neighbourhood.

At the centre of it all is Dieter Ruckenbauer, the hotel’s General Manager and a true hospitality craftsman. With decades of experience across Europe and Asia, he has brought a sense of purpose and poise to the hotel’s food and beverage programme. Beyond Brunch is the hotel’s signature statement — a reflection of thoughtful dining and meaningful hospitality.

“We wanted to go beyond the usual,” Dieter says, “To move past the excess of buffet culture and create something slower, more intentional. Brunch should be something you remember — not just something you consume.”

And he’s right. There’s something deeply satisfying about this experience. You’re not overwhelmed. You’re not exhausted. You’re nourished — mind, and spirit.

⸻

Beyond Brunch isn’t just a meal. It’s a mood.

It’s Bangkok brunch, done beautifully.

Savour the flavour. Savour the occasion. Savour the good life — Beyond Brunch.

⸻

BEYOND BRUNCH | LE MÉRIDIEN BANGKOK SURAWONG

40/5 Surawong Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok

Every Sunday | 12:00–15:00

Reservations: service.lmbkk@lemeridien.com

+66 2 232 8888

www.lemeridienbangkoksurawong.com

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The post Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group launches in the Republic of Ireland appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) announced that it has received approval to operate in the Republic of Ireland.

This development heralds a phase of  major expansion for the group into a key European market.

The parent company of iconic travel brands Abercrombie & Kent, Cox & Kings, and Crystal secured official approval from the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), allowing it to sell to customers in Ireland across all three brands for the first time.

Cox & Kings managing director and A&K senior vice-president of sales for UK and EMEA Jennifer Charlton said: “Ireland has long been a key market for us, and this allows us to meet growing demand with the confidence and assurance Irish travellers expect. From safari to expedition cruising, tailor-made journeys to cultural discovery, this launch brings Cox & Kings, Crystal and A&K’s legendary service and deep destination knowledge directly to the Irish market.”

The IAA approval not only allows AKTG to sell holidays to Irish residents but also opens up access to point-of-sale air and cruise fares from Dublin, a key development that unlocks greater flexibility and value for Irish customers. 

That said, the company is working with major airline partners to secure ITX and cruise fares from Dublin, this will provide Irish consumers with access to preferential air rates and commercial terms from their local airport.

What happens next

A dedicated Irish point of contact is expected to follow shortly, further reinforcing AKTG’s commitment to local presence and customer trust, with agency sales manager Victoria Houston overseeing trade sales in this expanding market. 

New local telephone numbers have been set up for Irish consumers and trade with Euro denominated pricing already in place for Crystal and soon to be available for A&K and Cox & Kings.

Widely regarded as the gold standard in luxury travel, A&K’s legacy of crafting extraordinary journeys across seven continents will soon be directly available to Irish customers, along with Crystal’s award-winning voyages and Cox & Kings’ small group journeys and tailor-made trips designed for the culturally curious.

This new phase of expansion reflects the group’s continued investment in the European market and its vision to bring unparalleled travel experiences to new audiences.

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