The post TransNusa launches Bali – Perth Route appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As the international aviation industry players recovers, rebuilds, reassess and expands its route and service offerings, the newly transformed TransNusa has positioned itself to become the gateway to all things Indonesia.

The airline, which has positioned itself strategically in its home country, can now connect international passengers to various precious and untouched vacation destinations in Indonesia from its bases in Bali and Jakarta.

PT TransNusa Aviation Mandiri (TransNusa), Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Bernard Francis said: “TransNusa prides itself in enhancing passengers’ lifestyles by offering comfortable services and easier access to destinations that are world renowned for its unique and stunning landscape and natural offerings,” he said, adding that Indonesia has more than 17,000 islands that boosts its own stunning and vibrant panoramas.

On details of the Perth-Bali route scheduled flights, Datuk Bernard explained, “Initially, TransNusa will operate three scheduled flights a week, which will be on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. From April 12, we will increase the frequency to four times a week by adding another flight on Tuesday and eventually increase the frequency to a daily flight from June 1 onwards.”

TransNusa’s scheduled flight, 8B 080 (DPS-PER), will depart Bali at 09.10am from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and arrive the Perth Airport at 12.50pm. The flight, 8B 081 (PER-DPS), will depart Perth Airport at 13.35pm and arrive at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali on 17.20pm. TransNusa will be utilising its Airbus A320 that has a seat capacity of 174 for this international route that has a 3 hours and 40 minutes flight duration.

TransNusa started selling the flight tickets that are priced from as low as AUD 169, IDR 1.799.000, CNY 782, USD 163, and MYR 514 on January 15. The TransNusa flight tickets can be purchased at transnusa.co.id or any secure online travel agent.

“With this Bali-Perth route launch, we want to be your local guide to all things Indonesia. We would like to become a gateway for our international passengers’ travel plans in Indonesia,” said, Datuk Francis, adding that TransNusa landed its maiden flight in Perth Airport at 12.50pm today.

Datuk Francis explained further, “The Bali – Perth international route may be a golden route as the highest number of tourists, almost every year, in Bali are from Perth. However, for TransNusa, our responsibilities towards our passengers are not only to provide a comfortable flight between Perth and Bali but also to enhance lifestyles by connecting our West Australian passengers to other hidden gems in Indonesia.”

“We have introduced this new international route in order to provide our passengers with additional travel choices and access to various other untouched paradise and secret getaway vacation destinations in Indonesia such as world-renowned diving haven, Manado.”

“Apart from Bali and Manado, TransNusa also offers connecting flights to Raja Ampat in Sorong, which is home to the world’s richest coral reef and rare marine species, and to Indonesia’s Island of Spices, Ambon, among other local and international destinations,” said Datuk Bernard, adding that TransNusa can also connect passengers to Guangzhou, China from Bali.

For its international flights, TransNusa not only provide premium services with competitive ticket prices, but the airline also has attractive product bundles called SEAT, SEAT-PLUS and FLEXI-PRO.

“Our passengers will enjoy check-in baggage of between 15kgs to 30 kgs, depending on the product purchased,” Datuk Bernard said, explaining that the baggage offering was over and above the 7kgs limit offered as a passenger’s hand carry.

“For the highest package, FLEXI-PRO, we provide more complete services such as free baggage 30kgs, free to choose seats, free food, and drinks, priority at check-in and boarding. In addition, TransNusa also provides its FLEXI-PRO passengers with the ability to be able to change their flight schedule without restrictions and obtain refund when needed.”

TransNusa, which aims to ensure its passengers travel with ease and comfort, has also configured their A320s with a 174-seat configuration, which allows for passengers to enjoy about 30 inches of legroom, comparable to the experience passengers would get in a full-service airline.

“We are committed to providing affordable and competitive ticket prices, while still providing premium services to our customers.” Stressed Datuk Bernard.

 

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The post Vietjet launches direct flights from Hyderabad & Bengaluru to Vietnam appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Vietjet is further strengthening its presence in India with the launch of new direct flights connecting Hyderabad and Bengaluru to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s economic powerhouse, on March 18 and 19, 2025, respectively. These new routes mark a significant milestone in Vietjet’s commitment to expanding its global network while enhancing connectivity between India and the Southeast Asia region.

To celebrate the launch, Vietjet is running two special promotions from now to March 24, 2025. For the Hyderabad/Bengaluru-Ho Chi Minh City routes, the airline offers tickets starting from INR11 plus taxes & fees for flights between June 1 and October 15, 2025 (*). Additionally, flyers can enjoy a discount of up to 20% (**) with the promo code “HOLIINDIA” on other India-Vietnam routes, for flights between April 1 and September 30, 2025 (*).

The two new routes are expected to provide Indian travelers with seamless access to Vietnam’s largest metropolis. Located in Southern Vietnam and at the heart of Southeast Asia, Ho Chi Minh City stands as a dynamic economic hub, renowned for its vibrant urban energy, thriving business landscape, and world-famous street-food scene. 

Both Hyderabad, a key economic and technology center, and Bengaluru, a major IT and business hub, are vital additions to Vietjet’s operations in India. With the new services, Vietjet is solidifying its position as the airline with the most extensive flight network between the world’s most populous country and Vietnam, operating 10 direct routes with 78 flights per week. This network connects New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, to key Vietnamese hubs—Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang.

Since launching the New Delhi-Ho Chi Minh City route in 2019, Vietjet has pioneered in expanding air links between India and Vietnam, operating over 8,300 flights and transporting nearly 1.62 million passengers. The introduction of new direct flights is expected to boost tourism and trade among Asian regions, offering travelers from India more affordable options to explore Vietnam and beyond. Indian travelers can take advantage of Vietjet’s international connections to popular destinations, including Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or major cities in Australia and Northeast Asia.

(*) Excluding public holidays and peak travel periods

(**) Excluding taxes and fees

New India–Vietnam routes information
(All times are in local time, 24-hour format)

 

Hyderabad (HYD) – Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) route (from March 18, 2025)

Sector	Flight number	Departure – Arrival times	Frequency
HYD–SGN	VJ1804	23:35 – 05:30 (+1)	Tue, Sat
SGN–HYD	VJ1803	19:40 – 22:35

Bengaluru (BLR) – Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) route (from March 19, 2025)

Sector	Flight number	Departure – Arrival times	Frequency
BLR–SGN	VJ1802	23:30 – 05:55 (+1)	Mon, Wed, Fri
SGN–BLR	VJ1801	19:10 – 22:30

 

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The post ‘Memories by Minor Hotels’: Destination weddings across Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Minor Hotels announces the launch of Memories by Minor Hotels, a curated Indian wedding programme designed to elevate destination weddings with unparalleled luxury, cultural authenticity, and world-class service. Memories by Minor Hotels allows couples to celebrate their occasion in some of the world’s most breathtaking locations across Asia.

A destination wedding experience like no other

Understanding the grandeur and intricacy of Indian weddings, Minor Hotels creates celebrations that are as unique as each couple. The hotel’s dedicated Indian wedding specialist ensures every detail aligns with the couple’s vision, seamlessly incorporating timeless Indian traditions with modern elegance.

Couples can choose from over 30 hotels and resorts across Thailand, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, India and the Maldives that offer venues from lush gardens and elegant ballrooms to picturesque beaches and intimate spaces, all providing the perfect backdrop for a dreamy celebration. Minor Hotels’ brands, including Anantara, Avani, NH Collection and NH, offer a range of accommodations to meet the varied needs of the couple and their guests. Food is at the heart of every celebration. Minor Hotels provides expert chefs to craft authentic Indian fare or allows couples to bring in their preferred chef or caterer.

Minor Hotels’ team is experienced in crafting comprehensive, bespoke wedding packages, including all-inclusive and buyout options, and special packages for pre-wedding celebrations and wedding nights. Couples also have an array of add-ons such as spa treatments, bridal party services and bespoke décor and entertainment sourced from Minor Hotels’ preferred vendors to ensure a flawless event.

Destination weddings

The launch of Memories by Minor Hotels comes as the demand for destination weddings is soaring, and couples are increasingly seeking destinations that offer bespoke services tailored to their cultural traditions. Minor Hotels properties in Asia successfully hosted 125 Indian weddings in the past 14 months, a significant increase from prior years. The recent opening of Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, the launch of Minor Hotels’ luxury brand in the country, further solidifies the group’s commitment to serve the Indian wedding market and become the preferred choice for hosting Indian weddings.

A Global Stage

Indian couples looking to celebrate their wedding in an extraordinary way can now explore Memories by Minor Hotels across Asia’s most sought-after destinations. Whether a beachfront ceremony in Thailand, a lavish palatial celebration in Jaipur, or an intimate affair in the Maldives, Minor Hotels promises an unforgettable way to start your happily ever after.

Until 30 June 2025, couples who reserve their Memories by Minor Hotels wedding package can enjoy additional benefits, including a complimentary suite for the bride and groom on the wedding night and one complimentary room night for their wedding planner.

 

 

 

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The post Tanjung Kelayang Reserve appoints Petrie PR as its agency appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Asia-based luxury travel and lifestyle PR agency, Petrie PR, is delighted to announce its appointment to represent Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, a sanctuary of pristine beauty and sustainable luxury on Belitung Island, Indonesia. As one of the world’s most eco-conscious destinations, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve offers an unparalleled retreat within a UNESCO Global Geopark, where untouched beaches, striking granite formations, and vibrant marine ecosystems come together in harmony with the local community.Tanjung Kelayang Reserve embodies a refined island lifestyle, welcoming families, couples, adventure seekers, and eco-conscious travellers to experience Sheraton Belitung Resort and Billiton Ekobeach Retreat. These thoughtfully designed accommodations provide a gateway to crystal-clear waters, stunning coastal landscapes, and immersive island explorations that celebrate the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

With its highly anticipated launch in Q2 2025, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is set to redefine Indonesia’s sustainable luxury travel landscape. Petrie PR will spearhead the strategic PR, digital, and influencer activation across key markets in Indonesia and Singapore, positioning the destination as a premier escape for diverse audiences, from wellness enthusiasts to adventure-driven travellers. The agency’s tailored strategy will focus on elevating brand awareness through impactful media relations, thought leadership initiatives, and dynamic collaborations with influential voices in the travel and hospitality industry.

“Tanjung Kelayang Reserve represents a rare fusion of sustainability, heritage, and unspoiled natural beauty—one that aligns perfectly with today’s discerning travellers seeking meaningful experiences,” said Linda Petrie, Managing Director of Petrie PR. “We are honoured to bring this extraordinary destination to the forefront through a dynamic and impactful communications strategy, reinforcing its status as one of Indonesia’s most compelling luxury escapes immersed in nature.”

With over three decades of expertise in luxury hospitality, travel, and lifestyle PR, Petrie PR remains dedicated to crafting compelling narratives that enhance brand presence on the global stage.

 

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The post Ponant reveals new identity as the Ponant Explorations Group appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Ponant opens a new chapter as it rebrands as the Ponant Explorations Group.

This new phase comes in the wake of the cruise firm’s acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions.

The move is also part of the Group’s international growth strategy to build a portfolio of leading exploration voyage brands.

By doing so, Ponant Explorations Group reinforces its ambition to accelerate its development while strengthening its position in a dynamic and evolving market.

Group chief executive Hervé Gastinel said: “As PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, we confirm our positioning and ambition. We remain true to our core identity: delivering an unparalleled travel experience to iconic destinations, providing exclusive access to confidential locations with our human-scale ships, and maintaining a commitment to excellence in service.”

Staying on top

As the global leader in high-end exploration voyages aboard intimate ships embarking fewer than 500 guests, Ponant Explorations Group is building a portfolio of brands renowned for their expertise and destination-focused exploration cruises.

According to its CEO in the Asia Pacific Deb Corbett: “The Asia Pacific team is excited and proud to be part of this phase of strong expansion. We all look forward to implementing our diverse and dynamic go-to-market action plans to support the vision and growth of this portfolio.”

The Group now includes three commercial brands: Ponant Explorations, Paul Gaugain Cruises, and Aqua Expeditions.

Remaining true to its heritage, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP upholds continuity in its brand identity, preserving the iconic visual elements of its signature three-sail logo.

At the same time, each commercial brand has its own visual identity.

Three distinctive brands

The Group’s historic brand, PONANT EXPLORATIONS is recognised for its exploration voyages.

For over 35 years PONANT EXPLORATIONS has taken guests as close as possible to majestic nature and ancestral culture, far from the crowned maritime routes.

Expedition leaders, naturalists, and enthusiastic experts organise safe disembarkation, shore excursions and cultural, scientific or historical conferences on board.

Experts in French Polynesia since 1998, Paul Gauguin Cruises offers a unique concept of exploration at the heart of Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South of Pacific aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, featuring 165 cabins and suites.

The brand offers a relaxed, international, and authentic atmosphere, earning numerous awards over the years.

A pioneering brand specialising in luxury small-ship expeditions, Aqua Expeditions explores the world’s most biodiverse and culturally significant destinations aboard best-in-class vessels of stylish contemporary design.

Expect tailored five-star itineraries, a highly exclusive 1:1 crew- to-guest ratio, cuisine by award-winning chefs, and small group expert-guided activities and excursions.

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The post Air New Zealand codeshares with Air India appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Star Alliance Partners Air New Zealand and Air India today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the objective of boosting air connectivity between India and New Zealand. The MoU was signed at an event in Mumbai in the presence of Honourable Prime Minister of New Zealand, Mr Christopher Luxon, and other dignitaries.

The MoU includes the establishment of a new codeshare partnership on 16 routes between India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, conferring travellers more choice and convenient access between the two countries.

Customers will now be able to travel from the Indian cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai on Air India, and connect at Sydney, Melbourne or Singapore onto Air New Zealand-operated flights to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington and Queenstown.

Besides improving customers’ ease of booking and travel, the codeshare aims to increase visibility of the respective markets as tourism destinations. The MoU will also see Air New Zealand and Air India explore the introduction of a direct service between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028, subject to new aircraft deliveries and approvals from relevant government regulators.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran emphasised the strategic significance of India as a future destination, highlighting its rapidly expanding tourism market and increasing travel demand.“India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand, and we are excited about the opportunity to enhance connectivity for travellers between our two countries. This codeshare agreement is an important first step, offering more options for customers while we work to understand what a direct service could look like.

“Today’s event underscores the significance of the India market to New Zealand, not only for tourism but also for strengthening business and education ties. We are committed to working collaboratively to grow the travel market over the coming years, ensuring a strong foundation for a successful direct service by 2028,” said Foran.

Campbell Wilson, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Air India, said: “As part of Air India’s ongoing transformation, we have been expanding our global network using our own aircraft as well as through new or expanded codeshare agreements with other airlines, chiefly our Star Alliance partners.

We are delighted to be deepening our relationship with Air New Zealand, which follows the recent expansion of our codeshare partnerships with Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways. This partnership will not only strengthen our presence and simplify customer journeys, but also help us develop traffic so that, in time to come, we may viably operate a non-stop service between India and New Zealand, which we and Air New Zealand have committed to explore together with the respective authorities.”

With India emerging as a growing tourism and business hub, this partnership reflects the airline’s commitment to delivering enhanced travel experiences while supporting trade, tourism, and economic growth. Currently, Air New Zealand customers travelling between New Zealand and India benefit from strong connectivity options via Singapore Airlines, offering a smooth transit through Singapore. The prospect of a future direct route would further strengthen the relationship between the two countries, providing more efficient and accessible travel opportunities.

The MoU also outlines Tourism New Zealand’s commitment to growing inbound tourism from the Indian market. Tourism New Zealand’s research shows that 18 million people in New Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai are actively considering traveling to New Zealand, making it a key emerging market. More than 80,000 international travellers arrived from India last year, 23% more than in 2019.

The long-term growth potential is significant, with India ear-marked as one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets. Indian travellers are keen to explore New Zealand’s vibrant landscapes, film sets and rich cultural opportunities.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Rene de Monchy said: “It’s fantastic to see Air New Zealand and Air India working on stronger international connectivity between the two countries. We know improved aviation links have a crucial role to play in the growth of international tourism and will make it easier for Indian travellers to come and enjoy a holiday in New Zealand.

“An added bonus is that travellers from India also have a strong tendency to visit New Zealand in the off-peak months that coincide with their major holiday periods.”

The codeshare flights will be available for booking progressively, subject to due regulatory approvals.

 

 

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The post Vietnam’s Ba Den Mountain to host major events for UN Day of Vesak 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh, Vietnam has been designated as the venue at which thousands of delegates will light candles and pray for global peace as part of the United Nations Day of Vesak 2025 this May.

Several meaningful activities have been scheduled for the same period, as the world commemorates one of the most significant celebrations of the Buddhist faith.

A solemn candlelight prayer ceremony for world peace will be held at the mountain’s summit, to be participated in by more than 2,000 Vesak delegates from 80 countries and territories. 

This event is considered a profoundly meaningful activity aligned with the theme of Vesak 2025: Unity and Inclusivity for Human Dignity: Buddhist Insights for World Peace and Sustainable Development.

Sun Group deputy general director Nguyen Lam Nhi Thuy said of the event: “Hosting the Vesak 2025 delegation for the world peace candlelight prayer ceremony is a tremendous honour for the Ba Den Mountain tourist area. On 8th May we will also hold special ceremonies to welcome the delegation during this grand Buddhist event, including a bodhi tree planting ceremony and the enshrinement of Buddha relics for Buddhists and the public to pay homage.”

Paying homage to the Buddha’s relics during the Vesak festival is one of the most spiritually significant rituals, allowing Buddhist followers and the public to receive the Buddha’s blessings. 

Ba Den Mountain is one of the few places in Vietnam that preserves the Buddha’s relics, which were bestowed by the World Fellowship of Buddhists at Bodh Gaya, India, in 2014.

Where the essence of peace dwells

According to the Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit, this year’s programme encompasses various contents, with peace being one of the most prominent. 

It can be understood as peace of mind, a fundamental foundation for social stability, global harmony and the finding of peace in nature and the environment.

Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit declared: “With Ba Den Mountain, I can feel the essence of ‘peace’ through the Buddhist spirit and the presence of the Maitreya Bodhisattva statue, a symbol of joy and serenity. This sacred mountain allows one to immerse in nature, share tranquillity with others and spread the spirit and message of world peace in practice.”

It was also pointed out that peace is not merely an abstract idea, but a concrete example of how we can live in peace while developing the economy, without destroying the environment or causing harm to others. 

This is why a sacred spiritual destination filled with positive energy like Ba Den Mountain will serve as a place where individuals can seek healing and tranquillity.

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The post China’s Green Book of Tourism forecasts a promising future for the sector appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Research Centre of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences released the latest edition of China’s Green Book of Tourism on Friday, 14th March.

Per this latest edition, China’s tourism sector is set to solidify its position as a global leader, driven by policy innovation, digital transformation, and consumer-focused trends. 

Experts pointed out that this will ensure long-term sustainable growth and deliver world-class travel experiences for both domestic and international visitors.

At the same time, this report underscores the industry’s shift toward high-quality development, essentially balancing the preservation of traditional cultural heritage with the demands of modern tourism.

A promising future

One of the key findings in the latest Green Book of Tourism is that the future looks bright for the Chinese tourism sector.

The report opines that this is possible if the sector puts key emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and demographic-driven trends. 

As global tourism continues to recover, China is capitalizing on policy support, infrastructure investments, and evolving consumer preferences to propel the sector forward.

Looking to the year ahead, the report predicts that the industry will focus on key areas such as extended public holidays, major cultural and sporting events, expanded visa-free policies, and a balanced approach to quality and quantity, domestic and international markets, and innovation versus tradition.

The lure of urban tourism

The Green Book likewise noted a shift toward experiential and thematic urban tourism, which is enhancing the global competitiveness of Chinese cities. 

Many cities are leveraging social media to create immersive experiences, while personalised and private tours are gaining popularity.

These reimagined tours cater to travellers seeking in-depth exploration whilst travelling on their own.

Other relevant trends

Travel trends are also evolving, with more tourists opting for cost-effective, less crowded destinations. 

Self-guided travel is on the rise, with self-driving tourism accounting for 78 percent of domestic trips and solo travel bookings increasing by over 25 percent.

Additionally, the aging population is shaping the industry, with senior tourism emerging as a dominant force. 

The government is actively promoting age-friendly initiatives, such as senior-friendly train services, guided group tours, nostalgia tourism, and health-focused travel packages, to meet the needs of this growing demographic.

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The post Gili Lankanfushi Maldives receives Gold Certification from EarthCheck appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Pioneering Maldivian luxury resort Gili Lankanfushi Maldives recently received Gold Certification from EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for sustainable travel and tourism.

The gold certification follows the resort’s silver certification in 2017 and bronze certification in 2015, a testament to Gili Lankanfushi’s enduring commitment to building and strengthening its sustainability practices for over more than a decade.

The prestigious certification recognises properties which have demonstrated a lasting commitment to sustainability, meeting key EarthCheck benchmarks across energy, water and paper use, carbon emissions, waste, chemicals and community and employee impact. 

Gili Lankanfushi is one of only three resorts in the Maldives that have earned the accolade.

Resort manager Rodrigo Buanafina said of the certification: “We are extremely proud to have achieved Gold Certification by EarthCheck in recognition of our ongoing commitment to sustainability here at Gili Lankanfushi. Gili is passionate about preserving the natural beauty and ecosystems of this natural paradise, which is why we are so committed to reducing our environmental impact.  Our numerous sustainability initiatives, including our Eco Centre and world-famous Coral Lines project, which our guests love to get involved in, are at the heart of what we do, to ensure the wonder of The Maldives can be enjoyed for many more generations to come.”

At the right time

The certification comes at a pivotal time in Gili Lankanfushi’s sustainability journey, with the resort recently unveiling a state-of-the-art Eco-Centre. 

A complete renovation of the island’s previous structure, the centre comprises extensive recycling and composting facilities alongside a ‘Gili Veshi’ Marine Biology Shack.

 The recent addition of the Eco-Centre includes a food composter that digests food and garden waste, in turn generating the compost the resort uses to fertilise its Organic Garden, where a selection of herbs, spice and lettuce are grown and used for dishes in Executive Chef Harinath Govindaraj’s popular plant-based menu. 

There is also a glass-crushing machine, which creates construction materials from glass waste, while a compacting machine compresses tin and aluminum that is later recycled. 

Guests can participate in these efforts via a variety of local handicraft workshops, creating special souvenirs they can treasure long after they return home.

Sustainability at Gili Lankanfushi 

Sustainability is at the heart of Gili Lankanfushi’s vision, with an emphasis on preserving the natural environment, protecting the fragile marine ecosystem and leaving only footprints behind.

Conservation is taken seriously by the island’s dedicated marine biology team who monitor the health and biodiversity of the surrounding coral reef ecosystems, measuring light intensity and sea surface temperature, identifying and tracking manta ray and turtle populations, removing invasive Crown of Thorns starfish, and educating guests about the underwater world through lectures and guided snorkelling trips.

Gili Lankanfushi’s Coral Lines project provides a nursery environment for new corals to grow, bolstering the house reef and monitoring health and survival types across coral genotypes.

Guests have the opportunity to participate in the famed conservation project, where they learn about coral reef restoration and rehabilitation, visit the nursing coral on ropes and can even adopt a coral. 

All buildings are constructed using sustainably sourced plantation teak, palm wood and bamboo in addition to recycled telegraph poles. 

All rooms provide organic toiletries in refillable earthenware containers, to minimise plastic use and wastage, while the island’s dedicated desalinisation plant is used to provide glass bottles of still and sparkling water for all guests.

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The post Viking takes delivery of its latest river ship for European routes appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Viking announced it took delivery of the Viking Nerthus, the company’s newest Viking Longship, on Wednesday, 19th March. 

The delivery took place this morning when the ship was presented at Meyer’s Neptun Werft shipyard in Rockstock-Warnemuende, Germany. 

Viking chair and CEO Torstein Hagen said of the new vessel that is slated to ply the Seine in France: “We are proud to welcome the Viking Nerthus to our growing fleet of award-winning Viking Longships. France continues to be a destination of great interest for our guests, and with the arrival of our newest ship on the Seine River, we look forward to introducing even more curious travellers to the region’s rich history and cultural treasures in ‘the Viking way.’”  

This milestone is the most recent development as Viking continues to grow capacity. 

Based on the committed orderbook, the Company expects to take delivery of 25 additional river ships by 2028 and nine additional ocean ships by 2030. 

With these orders, Viking will have 109 river ships in 2028 and 21 ocean and expedition ships in 2030.

Space and contemporary elegance

The Viking Nerthus joins the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art sister ships on the Seine River and will sail Viking’s popular eight-day itinerary, Paris & the Heart of Normandy, and the new eight-day Christmastime in Paris & Normandy itinerary.

Hosting 168 guests in 84 staterooms, the new Viking Nerthus features Viking’s signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. 

An identical sister ship to the Viking Kari, the Viking Radgrid, the Viking Skaga and the Viking Fjorgyn, the Viking Nerthus features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow, an Aquavit Terrace, and a wide variety of stateroom choices. 

The vessels feature a hybrid propulsion system with batteries and exhaust gas after-treatment. 

They are also equipped for shore power to reduce reliance on fuel while in port, while onboard solar panels further contribute to the ships’ energy efficiency.

With two itineraries and sailing dates from March through December, the Viking Nerthus will journey roundtrip from Paris, with ports of call along the Seine, including Giverny, Rouen and the beaches of Normandy. 

In Paris, Viking’s ships dock in an exclusive location at Port du Grenelle, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. 

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