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Corporate Traveller appoints Bonnie Smith as General Manager for the UK 

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Corporate Traveller, the flagship SME specialist business travel division of Flight  Centre Travel Group, announces the appointment of Bonnie Smith as General  Manager of the United Kingdom – the latest in the company’s famed ‘Brightness of Future’ moves. 

Smith brings with her incredible experience having been with FLT for 21 years, excelling in several  roles across multiple countries, having worked her way up the ladder from her beginnings as a Travel  Consultant in her homeland of South Africa back in 2004.

She will take over from current Corporate Traveller UK General Manager Donna Joines on 01 April,  who is following her own ‘Brightness of Future’ path, moving into the role of General Manager for  the FCM Travel European Service Centre.

“The UK is a core key market for Corporate Traveller globally and presents a huge opportunity for me  to be in a different country with massive growth potential,” Smith said.

“I’m passionate about Corporate Traveller and eager to expand my knowledge in a new geography.  This role offers both growth and a challenge, which I thrive on – there is tremendous potential here.

“With the business constantly growing market share and with SME business growth, we aim to be a  top travel management company. Our focus on utilising technological advancements while keeping  our people at the core of our operations is crucial to how we continue to win in this market.

“The role itself, along with the opportunity for personal and professional growth, were significant  drivers. FLT offers the rare opportunity to move countries, experience different lifestyles and  cultures, and of course, the ability to travel. It’s an extremely rewarding challenge.

“In the next five years, my aim is to make Corporate Traveller the most profitable and productive  globally. New business development, safeguarding high-income transactions, exploring technology,  and automating processes to enhance the balance for our employees are key growth opportunities.”

Corporate Traveller Global Managing Director, Tom Walley, welcomed Ms Smith to the role and said it  was the perfect example of how the business nurtures talent to progress.

“Corporate Traveller UK will be in terrific hands going forward with Bonnie at the helm – taking over  the reins after the stellar work that Donna has produced in the last couple of years. It’s an exciting  change for our business,” Mr Walley said.

“The UK business is of huge strategic importance to us and the potential for us to grow and win in  this market is invigorating. We deeply value the connection our people have with their clients and  we’re looking forward to proving the value of a people-led business to a travel programme.

“Our ‘Brightness of Future’ is woven into the very fabric of FLT’s culture and this double move – for  both Bonnie and Donna – proves we do all we can as a business to ensure talent is recognised and  growth is attainable to help drive our brands forward.”

Mummy Mafojane has since been named as FCM Travel South Africa General Manager and Herman  Heunes has been appointed as Corporate Traveller South Africa General Manager

 

 

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Bolt adds 700 airport taxis to its platform

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The implementation of the ride-hailing service for airport taxis through the Bolt app offers convenience to travellers arriving at DXB. Image Courtesy: Bolt

 

Bolt, the global shared mobility platform, announces the addition of around 700 vehicles which are part of Dubai Taxi Company’s dedicated airport fleet, to its platform. The implementation of the ride-hailing service for airport taxis through the Bolt app offers unparalleled convenience to travellers arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB) known to be the world’s busiest airport and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) thus delivering innovative and digital transportation solutions tailored to the needs of Dubai’s visitors.

The decision comes in response to the rapid increase in the number of travellers to the emirate and by introducing the ride-hailing service of airport taxis available on the platform, visitors to Dubai will now have the option to seamlessly book taxis directly through the Bolt app, ensuring a stress-free and reliable start to their journey. This initiative reinforces Bolt’s commitment to providing innovative and user-friendly mobility solutions that make travel easier for everyone.

The initiative supports the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) goals to shift 80% of taxi trips to online booking in the coming years and contribute to strengthening DTC’s role as a major player in advancing urban mobility and reinforcing its leadership in the transportation sector.

Hassle-free Experience

Travellers arriving in Dubai can enjoy several advantages when booking a ride through the Bolt app. They can skip queues by scheduling a taxi in advance upon landing, enjoy upfront fare transparency, and access a dedicated fleet of DTC vehicles available at both Dubai International and Al Maktoum airports.

Growing Strategic Partnership

Mansoor Rahma Alfalasi, CEO of Dubai Taxi Company, said: “Dubai has long been at the forefront of adopting smart city technology, and this strategic partnership with Bolt reflects the growing collaboration between the two entities. With DTC’s commitment to offering a superior travel experience aligned with global best practices that enhances the well-being of tourists and visitors, the provision of yet another e-hailing service on the platform is a huge step in enhancing and expanding digital transportation services.”

He added that as part of the partnership, DTC will utilize Bolt’s advanced infrastructure and technology, in yet another significant step towards delivering innovative and sustainable services. Our decision to add vehicles to Bolt platform will further strengthen DTC’s position and reputation in the transportation sector both locally and internationally. “We will continue to support the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for business and tourism,” Alfalasi said.

GJ Kistemaker, Vice President of Partner Markets, Business Development, and MENA at Bolt, said: ““We are excited to expand our collaboration with Dubai Taxi Company and the wider transport ecosystem in Dubai with the introduction of airport taxis on our platform. This initiative aligns with our mission to offer seamless, efficient, and digital-first mobility solutions that enhance the travel experience for both residents and visitors. We extend our gratitude to the Roads and Transport Authority and the Dubai Taxi Company for their commitment to innovation in transportation. By working together, we are making Dubai’s mobility landscape even more accessible, efficient, and future-ready”

Travellers can download the Bolt app for free on iOS and Android to start booking their airport rides today. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, Bolt ensures a smooth transition from the airport to your destination in Dubai.

 

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Saudi ministry to penalize 150 erring tourism offices

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Representative Image

 

A Saudi tour guide stands inside a tomb at Madain Saleh antiquities site, al-Ula, Saudi Arabia February 10, 2019. Stephen Kalin, Reuters
Reuters Images

The Saudi Ministry of Tourism started taking punitive measures against 150 tourism offices across the Kingdom after detecting their violations.

The tour operators and travel and tourism agencies were found involved in providing unlicensed services and activities during inspection campaigns carried out by the ministry officials. Penalties will be imposed on violators, in accordance with the provisions of the Tourism Law and its executive regulations.

The ministry officials conducted approximately 300 inspection tours, covering the regions of Riyadh, Madinah, Al-Baha, Jazan, and Al-Ahsa. The inspections were carried out in participation with several relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Interior, represented by the Public Security Department; Ministry of Transport and Logistics; Ministry of Municipalities and Housing; Ministry of Hajj and Umrah; and the Transport General Authority.

The ministry emphasized the importance of tourism offices’ commitment to obtaining the necessary licenses from the Ministry of Tourism, in accordance with the provisions of the Tourism Law and its executive regulations. This is to ensure the provision of high-quality services to tourists and visitors and to keep pace with the rapid developments witnessed by the tourism sector in the Kingdom

 

 

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Vatel Bahrain collaborates with Hawar Resort by Mantis

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Vatel Bahrain and Hawar Resort by Mantis agreement signing ceremony. Image Courtesy: Vatel Bahrain

 

Vatel Hotel & Tourism Business School has forged a partnership with Hawar Resort by Mantis, a pioneering eco-luxury establishment located on the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hawar Island.

This collaboration underscores the Vatel Bahrain’s commitment to fostering industry-academia synergies and equipping its students with unparalleled practical training experiences.

“Facilitating our students’ training at this esteemed resort, a trailblazer in sustainable luxury tourism within the Gulf and the broader Middle Eastern region, represents an astute investment in the development of their capabilities and proficiencies.” commented Sheikh Khaled bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, General Director of Vatel Bahrain.

“This invaluable opportunity empowers our aspiring hospitality professionals to refine their skills in state-of-the-art facilities that parallel the industry’s highest benchmarks. This effort aligns with Vatel Bahrain’s dedication to offering its students internship opportunities across various hotels under the Accor Group umbrella, one of the largest hotel groups in the Middle East and globally.”

In a statement on the sidelines of signing the MoU with Hawar Resort by Mantis, Sheikh Khaled emphasized the distinctive nature of the resort, being among the first luxury eco-resorts in the Gulf and the broader Middle Eastern region. This prestigious establishment will provide Vatel Bahrain students with high-level training in the sector of luxury tourism, as well as various facets of hospitality, tourism, and hotel operations, thereby enhancing their potential to attain remarkable success and distinction in the dynamic labor market.

The strategic location of Hawar Resort by Mantis on the pristine Hawar Island, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, presents an unmatched learning environment for Vatel students. This immersive experience will enable them to acquire comprehensive insights into the intricate operations and best practices of luxury facilities that cater to discerning international and domestic travelers. Furthermore, it will equip them with the essential competencies requisite for securing coveted positions within the hospitality sector upon the conclusion of their academic journey.

In a related context, Sheikh Khaled highlighted that one of Vatel Bahrain’s recent graduates, Abdullah Traif, was part of the pre-opening team at Hawar Resort by Mantis and now holds the position of Housekeeping Supervisor at the resort. He continued, “Abdullah’s success is a living example of the quality education and training provided by Vatel Bahrain, which empowers our graduates to become key contributors in the hospitality sector.”

Mohammad Ali Kunhi, Hotel Manager of Hawar Resort by Mantis, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaborative endeavor, stating, “We are delighted to forge this partnership with Vatel Bahrain, which will establish our resort as a premier training partner for the esteemed institution. This alliance will provide invaluable opportunities for Bahraini talents to engage in hands-on training within the dynamic work environment of Hawar Resort by Mantis, a sought-after destination renowned for delivering an integrated experience of relaxation amidst the captivating natural splendor of Hawar Island. We are confident that this collaboration will offer rich and diverse experiences to the college’s students, furthering their professional development.”

 

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Hilton to launch Tempo by Hilton Brand in EMEA Region

The post Hilton to launch Tempo by Hilton Brand in EMEA Region appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Spark Madrid

 

Hilton has announced that the company will hit 1,000 hotels in its Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region this Spring. Additionally, Hilton’s strong growth trajectory is set to be boosted further by the introduction of new brands, including the launch of Tempo by Hilton in the region and two further country debuts for Spark by Hilton.

Tempo Bar

 

In the coming weeks, Hilton will celebrate a significant milestone by opening its 1,000th hotel in the EMEA region, highlighting the company’s rapid growth and expansion in recent years. Recent openings such as Signia by Hilton Amman, Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, and Spark by Hilton Stuttgart Sindelfingen, along with upcoming openings of Sax Paris, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Turin Centre, Adia Aluma Athens, Curio Collection by Hilton and The Marcus Hotel Portrush, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, are all driving Hilton towards this milestone in EMEA. Last year, Hilton also announced an exclusive partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), expanding its portfolio of luxury hotel experiences.

Tempo Belfast City Centre

 

Building on its strong growth, Hilton is scheduled to launch its stylish and contemporary lifestyle brand Tempo in EMEA.  Tempo by Hilton Belfast City Centre, Tempo by Hilton Lisbon Parque das Nações and Tempo by Hilton Reykjavik are the first confirmed EMEA signings for this brand, designed for the ambitious, modern traveller and with wellbeing front and centre. Following Spark by Hilton’s recent 100 hotel milestone, the brand is set for further growth with the signings of Spark by Hilton Van City Centre and Spark by Hilton Madrid Alcalá, marking country debuts in Türkiye and Spain.

Tempo by Hilton 

 

Simon Vincent CBE, executive vice president & president, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, “We’re thrilled to be reaching the impressive milestone of 1,000 hotels across 77 countries in EMEA. Fuelled by new brand launches, several upcoming openings and our strategic partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, our customers and more than 210 million Hilton Honors members can now stay at 19 out of Hilton’s 24 brands. Our regional growth trajectory remains stronger than ever with more than 450 hotels in our pipeline, a reflection of the significant strides we are making towards our ambition to serve any customer, at any price point, anywhere in the world they want to stay.”

Tempo by Hilton

 

Tempo by Hilton 

Tempo by Hilton Belfast City Centre

Following a franchise agreement with Loughview Centre House Limited, Tempo by Hilton Belfast City Centre will be located in the prime shopping district in Belfast’s city centre. The 144-room hotel will offer guests thoughtfully designed accommodation and a fitness space to help guests relax and recharge whilst also maintaining their routine. The hotel will also feature an open lobby concept with dedicated spaces to relax, work and dine.

Tempo by Hilton Reykjavik

As part of a franchise agreement with Bohemian Hotels ehf, this central Reykjavik property is set to open in 2027 in the vibrant Hlemmur area in the city centre by the historic Freemasons’ Hall. Guest rooms will be designed with wellbeing in mind, and the hotel will include dynamic communal spaces for collaboration or focused work, as well as healthy café-style dining.

Tempo Guestroom-Day

 

Tempo by Hilton Lisbon Parque das Nações

Located in Lisbon’s main business district and an important commercial area, Tempo by Hilton Lisbon Parque das Nações will join Hilton’s portfolio following a management agreement with Kronos Real Estate Group. Integrated in a new mixed-use development called MIMA by Kronos Homes, the hotel features 142 purposefully designed guest rooms and an onsite fitness space, enabling guests to balance their day by powering up in the morning and unwinding in the evening. Additionally, the hotel will have a restaurant and bar area, ensuring guests have access to everything they need to sustain energy and boost focus during their stay.

Spark by Hilton 

Hilton’s cost-effective, conversion-friendly brand opened its first property in EMEA in 2024 with Spark by Hilton London Romford, and since then the brand has debuted in Austria, Germany and Poland. Hilton also recently announced the signings of three Spark by Hilton properties in France, which are all due to open in 2026.

Tempo Gym

 

Spark by Hilton Madrid Alcalá

The 95-room Spark by Hilton Madrid Alcalá is set to open in summer 2025, marking the debut for Hilton’s premium economy brand in Spain, following a franchise agreement with Societe Hoteliere Economique D’Investissement de Gerone Nord. The hotel will be situated in San Blas-Canillejas, a neighbourhood to the east of Madrid’s city centre.

Spark by Hilton Van City Centre

Part of a franchise agreement with the Gultepe family, Spark by Hilton Van City Centre will mark the debut of Spark by Hilton in Türkiye. Set to open in September 2025, the new property will feature 60 rooms and a restaurant, along with other key Spark by Hilton amenities such as the signature Hydration Cart and 24-hour retail market for on-the-go travellers to purchase food and drink around the clock.

Guests of all Hilton properties are able to benefit from the award-winning Hilton Honors guest loyalty programme, allowing more than 210 million members who book directly with Hilton to earn Points for hotel stays and experiences. Hilton Honors members can also unlock access to instant rewards and benefits, such as contactless check-in with room selection and exclusive member discounts.

 

 

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Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen medical response capabilities for the Umrah Season

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Saudi Arabia recently unveiled plans to strengthen its care capacity with the launch of two dedicated air ambulance helipads within the Holy Mosque in Makkah. This strategic move will enable rapid medical evacuations for critical patients to hospitals across the Kingdom, marking a significant advancement in healthcare infrastructure as the Kingdom prepares to welcome millions of worshippers for the Umrah season.

The dedicated helipads will enable the swift transport of patients to specialized hospitals across the Kingdom, alleviating capacity issues and ensuring timely and world-class treatment. Helicopters will operate 24/7, providing continuous support, with some hospitals reachable within minutes. Additional helicopters can be deployed on short notice as needed, further demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s commitment to providing world-class pilgrimage experience.

Saudi authorities recently conducted an air ambulance landing drill at the mosque’s eastern runaway, testing the readiness and efficiency of medical operations. The drill ensured that patient evacuations can be carried out swiftly and in line with the highest medical standards.

The Minister of Health, Fahad Abdulrahman AlJalajel, said: “Saudi Arabia is reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of pilgrims by providing around-the-clock air ambulance support. This initiative ensures that all patients can receive the highest level of care at one of the world’s holiest and most visited sites. By transferring patients to hospitals based on their specific needs, we continue to improve health outcomes for pilgrims with both scale and speed.”

Saudi Arabia recently also inaugurated the Al-Haram Emergency Hospital, a specialist medical facility inside the Holy Mosque in Makkah. The new facility operates with state-of-the-art medical technology and highly trained healthcare professionals. It includes an intensive care unit (ICU), a laboratory department for conducting necessary medical tests, a radiology department as well as an on-site pharmacy. Additionally, the hospital features dedicated areas for critical and rapid emergencies, respiratory emergencies, an emergency observation unit, and an isolation unit for infectious diseases.

 

 

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Saudi welcomes Virgin Atlantic’s direct flights from London Heathrow to Riyadh

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‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ is delighted to announce the launch of Virgin Atlantic’s new direct flights from London Heathrow to Riyadh, which started on 30th March 2025. 

This daily service marks a significant milestone in enhancing air connectivity between the UK and Saudi, supporting the growth of international tourism and business travel. 

Key Highlights:

  • Daily Flights: Virgin Atlantic will operate daily flights using its state-of-the-art Airbus A330neo aircraft, offering passengers a seamless travel experience with a flight time of approximately 7 hours.
  • Enhanced Connectivity: This new route is part of Saudi’s Air Connectivity Program (ACP), making Virgin Atlantic the 10th airline to partner with the program.
  • Tourism Growth: The launch aligns with Saudi’s Vision 2030 initiatives, which aim to boost tourism and diversify the economy. Riyadh, with its blend of traditional Arabian culture and modern attractions, is poised to become a major tourist destination.

Access Information

Truly, it has never been easier to visit Saudi – visa initiatives have been continuously developed, with the eVisa program now including 66 countries and special administrative regions, and the GCC residents visa and 96-hour Stopover Visa. UK, US, or Schengen visa holders, as well as residents of the UK, US, or European Union countries, are eligible for the instant eVisa.

 

 

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Record surge in international skiers drives tourism growth in Japan: Visa

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With peak ski season transforming to Spring blossoms, Visa revealed data showing growing popularity of Japan as a ski holiday destination among international travellers as number of visitors surpassed pre-pandemic levels, setting a fresh record.

Based on analysis of Visa cardholders’ spending patterns during the winter peak (November 2024 – February 2025) in the top ski destinations in Japan,  the data shows around 40% year-on-year increase in number of domestic and international visitors as well as an uplift of about 25% in total spending. International visitors accounted for about 80% of total visitors and around 90% of total visitor spend.

Growing international allure of Japan as a ski destination

Visa data shows ski tourism in Japan is on the rise with the overall number of visitors having almost doubled compared to pre-pandemic levels.

  • A popular ski destination for overseas travellers with international arrivals growing nearly 50% year-on-year, accounting for around 80% of all ski travellers during recent winter peak.
  • A substantial influx of visitors from the region and beyond: Australia tops the list accounting for around 30% of total international visitors, followed by the United States (around 20%) and Southeast Asia, especially from Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia, collectively accounting for around 12%.
  • Japan is now the preferred ski destination for Mainland Chinese travellers. For Australian travellers, Japan ranks second after New Zealand.
  • Niseko and Hakuba remain top picks (nearly 50% and approximately 35%, respectively) for international ski travellers, while Furano is shown as a preferred destination for local visitors yet sees the fastest growth with around 70% year-on-year increase in overseas visits.

International travellers drive overall spend and venture beyond ski destinations

While on average domestic visitors show a slightly longer stay (about 5 days), international travellers spend more than 3 times as much per day, contributing to about 90% of overall spend. The uplift in spend is extended beyond ski destinations as international travellers continue their journey to other locations and spend in dining and retail shopping.

  • Entertainment, lodging, and restaurants accounted for about 50 to 70 percent of spending by both overseas and local travellers.
  • Ski resort experience spending takes up over 40% of overall spend by international travellers.
  • Growing preference of contactless shown as they take up over 80% of total spend among international visitors. Nearly half of these transactions were mobile-based, showing a growth of about 30% from a year ago.
  • Over 90% of overseas travellers extend trips beyond the slopes by an average of 9 extra days in Japan, driving around 35% more post-ski spending per day in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Chiba, with the bulk of post-ski spending being on shopping such as at department stores, discount stores, and for groceries (around 40% in total) and dining (around 20%).

Prateek Sanghi, Head of Visa Consulting and Analytics, Asia Pacific, said: “Our data not only indicates the growing appeal of Japan as a ski destination among international travellers but also can provide a powerful lens that can help better understand shifting travel and spending patterns of both domestic and overseas visitors. By leveraging data-driven consumer insights, governments and especially local businesses can better optimise their offerings, enhance traveller experiences, and modernise payment methods for the varying visitor segments.”

Visa’s payments data, consulting services and in-house data science capabilities enable organisations with key insights to help them enhance visitor experiences, optimise business strategies, and drive economic growth across the travel and commerce ecosystem.

 

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Intrepid Foundation encourages travel professionals and travellers to give for Myanmar relief

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Intrepid Travel, through its corporate social responsibility arm Intrepid Foundation, is calling upon the world to send aid to those severely impacted by the 28th March earthquake.

Homes, businesses, and schools have been destroyed by the massive tremors, but responders struggle to bring aid where it matters, as many roads remain blocked and the bulk of national communication systems are down.

In light of such circumstances, donations to the Myanmar Earthquake Appeal will help provide immediate emergency relief and critical assistance for the worst-hit communities in the country.

Also, Intrepid will match all donations up to AU$100,00 to bring as much relief as possible to quake victims.

Intrepid Travel’s Mike Stewart

Hitting close to home

Regional general manager for Southeast Asia Mike Stewart said: “My friends and colleagues are reporting catastrophic damage in Myanmar, a country that holds a special place in my heart.”

Stewart lived and worked in Myanmar for a couple of years, around 2011 when it was just emerging from military rule and reopening to the world.

He said: “The country’s progress was palpable, and it was an exciting time to be there. But as we all know in recent years, Myanmar has slid back into violence, and the situation has become increasingly dire.”

Stewart pointed out that, just before the quake hit, he spoke to Intrepid’s staff in the capital city Yangon.

He remarked: “They were struggling with electricity blackouts lasting up to eight hours a day, and one, is also without access to water.”

This bleak state of affairs has been exacerbated by the destruction wrought by the disaster.

Time to reach out and help

As of noon on Sunday, 30th March, Myanmar’s military junta has reported 1,644 fatalities due to the earthquake, 3,408 injured, and 139 missing.

Biheng Zhang, general manager of the Intrepid Foundation, declared that now is the time for the global community, especially fellow professionals in the travel and tourism sectors, to step in and provide support.

Zhang said: “The impact of the earthquake in Myanmar is severe. Although we’re not currently travelling in Myanmar, the country continues to hold a special place in Intrepid’s heart. I appeal to our global travelling community: those who’ve been to Myanmar in the past or who have simply visited the region. Your support at these times can bring critical aid to the thousands of families at a time they need it most.”

Learn more about Intrepid Foundation’s Myanmar Earthquake Appeal via https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/myanmar-earthquake-appeal.

Donations may be made online through the aforementioned website.

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Bangkok remains operational after regional quake triggers tremors

The post Bangkok remains operational after regional quake triggers tremors appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

On 28 March 2025, at 13:20 local time, an earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay. The earthquake had a magnitude of 8.2 and a depth of 10 kilometres. It was located northwest of Chiang Mai Province, approximately 112 kilometres from Mae Ai District. Tremors were felt in some northern and central Thailand areas, including Bangkok. At 15.00 Hrs., the Prime Minister declared Bangkok an emergency zone.

Current Status as of 29 March 2025:
Transportation:

Bangkok City Travel:
• Services on the BTS Skytrain and long-distance routes resumed by the evening of 28 March.
• The MRT Blue Line and Purple Line resumed operations on the morning of 29 March.
• The Red Line Mass Transit System (SRT Red Line) and the Airport Rail Link operate as usual.
• Update on Sunday, 30 March: The Yellow Line will reopen at noon but the Pink Line will remain closed.

Air Travel:
All Bangkok airports remain operational. Suvarnabhumi Airport—All public transportation systems at the airport are fully operational, and the situation has returned to normal.

Rail Travel:
The State Railway is now operating normally. All long-distance train services from Krung Thep Aphiwat Station resumed normally. Further information can be obtained from the Customer Relations Information Center at telephone number 1690, available 24 hours.

Road Travel:
• Road travel in Bangkok is open as usual, except for the Din Daeng Expressway, which is temporarily closed for structural safety inspections. Alternative routes are available via Sirat Expressway.
• All bridges over the Chao Phraya River remain open. The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) has increased bus services in Bangkok and surrounding areas, operating throughout the night to accommodate travellers.
• Highways connecting to surrounding provinces are operating as usual, such as Rama 2 Road, which connects Bangkok to Hua Hin.

Shopping Mall:
All shopping Malls, including Siam Paragon, CentralwOrld, ICONSIAM, King Power, and all shopping centres under the Mall Group and EM DISTRICT, such as Emporium and Emquartier, are now open as usual.

Events and Festivals:
All tourism-related services in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces and in all destinations across Thailand are operating as usual.

All events and festivals remain as scheduled, including the Maha Songkran World Water Festival at Sanam Luang and the Songkran events planned in destinations up and down the country.

Tourist Assistance Contact Information:
The Thai authorities and the concerned public and private sectors are collaborating their efforts to ensure safety and security for tourists and the general public. Tourists can contact relevant agencies at the contact details below should they need any assistance.

Tourist Information Center
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
(Providing tourist information/Events & Festivals/Travelling around Thailand)
Tel: 1672
Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Tourist Police Bureau
Tel: 1155
Website: www.touristpolice.go.th

Ministry of Tourism & Sports Tourist Assistance Center (TAC)
(Offering help in the aftermath of natural disasters, assault, accidents, and distress)
Tel: 0 2134 4077
Website: www.mots.go.th

Department of Consular Affairs
(Passport/Apply for a Thai Visa/Visa requirements)
Tel: 0 2572 8442
Website: https://consular.mfa.go.th

State Railway of Thailand
(Train timetables/Ticket booking)
Tel: 1690
Website: www.railway.co.th

Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA)
(Bus services in Bangkok)
Tel: 1348
Website: www.bmta.co.th

Emergency Call Center (Royal Thai Police)
Tel: 191

Immigration Bureau
(Request for extension of stay in Thailand/Alien registration application)
Tel: 1178, 0 2572 8500
Website: www.immigration.go.th

The Transport Company Limited
(Inter-provincial bus services)
Tel: 1490
Website: www.transport.co.th

Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited
(Flight schedule/Passenger guides)
Tel: 1722, 0 2132 1888
Website: www.airportthai.co.th

Department of Highways
(Highway Information)
Tel: 1586
Website: www.doh.go.th

National Disaster Warning Center
Tel: 1784
Website: www.disaster.go.th

Medical Emergency Call Center
Tel: 1669

Fire and Rescue Department
Tel: 199

 

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