The post Skål International India National Congress 2025 concludes in Mumbai appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Skål International India National Congress 2025 concluded at the iconic Sahara Star Hotel in Mumbai and has made history. Took place from September 12 to 14, the three-day mega event welcomed a record-breaking participation of more than 200 delegates, from India and abroad, all paying full congress fees to be part of this milestone gathering.

The congress began with grandeur and glamour, as distinguished personalities including Maneka Gandhi, Shashi Tharoor, Pooja Bedi, Subhash Gha, Zayed Khani and many more lit up the moments, lending prestige, and inspiration to the occasion.

TRANSPARENCY AND GROWTH AT THE CORE

At the heart of the congress, the Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the fiscal year 2024–2025 was held on Day 1, preceded by the National Board meeting. President Sanjeev Mehra and Treasurer Monik Dharamshi presented transparent reports on finances and activities. Delegates appreciated the clarity of leadership, as the roadmap for Vision 2025–2030 that was shared, laying out strategies to strengthen Skål’s footprint in India and deepen global engagement.

“This congress is not just about numbers; it is about values, vision, and vitality,” says Dr. Mukesh Batra, President, Skål International Mumbai South, the host club. “We are proud to host Skålleagues from across India and abroad to Mumbai, to celebrate the true spirit of friendship, collaboration, and business networking that Skål stands for.”

THE SKÅL INTERNATIONAL INDIAN EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2025

For the first time, Skål International India national board has launched the Skål International Indian Excellence Awards 2025, designed to recognise outstanding contributions from clubs, individuals, and Friends of Skål. The awards celebrated the achievements in club performance, membership growth, innovation, sustainability, and community impact.

The Award List

1. Best Performing Indian Skål Club of the Year 2025 – Skål International Chennai
2. Best Active Indian Skål Club of the Year 2025 – Skål International Goa
3. Fastest Growing Indian Skål Club of the Year 2025 – Skål International Bangalore
4. Best Indian Skål Club Event of the Year 2025 – Jointly presented to Skål International Kolkata and Skål International Jammu & Kashmir for their inspiring Twinning Ceremony — a historic milestone that reflects unity, collaboration, and friendship across regions.
5. Best Indian Skål Club CSR of the Year 2025 – Skål International Coimbatore
6. Recognition as a Reckoning Force – Skål International Kochi
7. Recognition for Outstanding Young Skål Engagement – Raja Gopal Iyer, Skål International Trivandrum
8. Indian Skålleague of the Year 2025 – Kamleshwaran P.S., Skål International Chennai
9. Recognition for Global Outreach – N.S.N. Mohan, Deputy Vice President and Director of Region 10, Skål International

“The Excellence Awards are not merely trophies; they are a tribute to dedication, creativity, and the unwavering spirit of Skålleagues who are driving this movement forward,” says Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India. “Our board’s vision for 2025–2030 is rooted in collective growth: more clubs, stronger retention, deeper engagement, and a unified Indian presence on the world stage.”

INDIA EMERGING AS THE GLOBAL LEADER IN SKÅL

India’s leadership within the global Skål movement was proudly reaffirmed again. Skål International India is now the largest Skål country in the world in terms of membership, surpassing Skål USA. Four Indian clubs are ranking among the global top ten, underscoring the country’s dynamic contribution to international tourism networking.

Ambitious plans were announced to expand Skål clubs into every Indian state and Union Territory, ensuring representation from across the nation. The initiative of twinning clubs within India is introduced to build better collaboration, mentoring, and shared opportunities among members.

India’s robust tourism market is providing fertile ground for this growth. Outbound travel is surging, domestic tourism is booming post-pandemic, and inbound travel is rising steadily. Skål International India’s expanding network is becoming the unifying force connecting professionals across all segments of this growth story.

“India is now firmly at the centre of global Skål activity,” says Shekhar Divadkar, President, Skål International Asia. “This congress reflects the vibrancy and energy of Indian tourism and hospitality professionals, who are increasingly shaping conversations at both regional and global levels. The future of Skål lies in Asia, and India is leading the way.”

NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President and Director Region 10, Skål International, adds: “Skål is unique because it blends business with friendship, creating an ecosystem where tourism leaders collaborate, innovate, and work collectively towards sustainable growth. India’s role is pivotal in this journey.”

BUSINESS AMONG FRIENDS, ENTERTAINMENT AMONG STARS

The congress also created vibrant opportunities for Skålleagues to interact, network, and embody the philosophy of “Doing Business Among Friends.” Delegates from across India and abroad participated in sessions, networking breaks, and fireside chats. Over 200 events were hosted nationwide by Skål clubs in the past year, highlighting the strength of the grassroots network.

SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CENTRE

Aligned with UNWTO and Skål International’s global sustainability ethos, the Mumbai congress was organised with environmentally responsible practices. The organisers ensured that there was no food or water waste, avoiding paper and single-use plastics, and encouraging delegates to embrace responsible practices. The sustainable design of the congress resonated strongly with members, setting an example for future events.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026 AND BEYOND

As part of the celebrations, the finalists for the Skål International India National Congress 2026 were announced, generating excitement among delegates eager for the next gathering. The finalists are Skål Jaipur, Skål Coimbatore, and Skål Jammu & Kashmir.

Skål International India is also reaffirming its ambition to host both the Skål International World Congress and the Skål International Asia Congress in the coming years, positioning India as a global hub of tourism leadership.

A LANDMARK IN THE MAKING

The Skål International India National Congress 2025 shaped up as more than an event — it became a celebration of unity, progress, and vision. With record participation, impactful exchanges, cultural vibrancy, and a focus on sustainability, the congress set a new benchmark for Skål events worldwide.

 

 

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The post Brilliant Lady welcomes Kelis aboard for the Miami MerMaiden voyage appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Fresh off her dazzling New York debut, Virgin Voyages’ newest ship Brilliant Lady has been turning heads with her epic arrival moment on the Hudson and series of showcase events. 

On 17th October, she’ll trade the fall foliage for palm trees as she makes her highly anticipated Miami arrival. 

Marking the start of her Caribbean season, the eight-night Miami MerMaiden will blend big city buzz with tropical energy, headlined by none other than Grammy-nominated artist and culinary creator Kelis.

High-energy performances on the high seas 

The one-time-only itinerary takes Sailors from Miami to Tortola’s lush landscapes, St. Maarten’s cultural crossroads and Virgin Voyages’ private Beach Club at Bimini. 

But the real headliner is on board: Grammy-nominated artist and Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef Kelis. 

Known for global hits like “Milkshake” and “Bossy,” Kelis is set to deliver a high-energy performance under the Caribbean stars on Brilliant Lady’s pool deck.

The celebration doesn’t stop at the music: leaning into her culinary passion, Kelis will debut the indulgent Kelis Sundae on board.

Slated to be served at The Wake, this decadent dessert was created exclusively for the Miami MerMaiden. 

It’s a first-of-its-kind treat that blends her artistry in both food and music, giving Sailors a taste of her creativity beyond the stage.

Kelis herself remarked: “There’s something magical about performing at sea and creating something deliciously special to celebrate such an epic moment aboard Brilliant Lady. Virgin Voyages gets that music and food tell stories, and I’m excited to share both sides of my passions with Sailors on this incredible Miami celebration.”

We love the nightlife

In true Virgin fashion, the voyage also spotlights Miami’s legendary nightlife. 

A bespoke speakeasy experience will bring the city’s bar culture to sea, with cocktail menus curated in collaboration with local favorites The Sylvester, Bar Kaiju, Swizzle, and Better Days. 

This limited-edition experience captures the spirit of Miami’s electric evenings, adding a hometown flavour to the sailing.

According to Virgin Voyages chief executive Nirmal Saverimuttu: “Miami has always been Virgin Voyages’ home, so bringing Brilliant Lady here with an artist like Kelis feels like coming full circle. Her fearless creativity and boundary-pushing artistry perfectly capture the spirit of what we’re building at sea.”

Following in the footsteps of past Virgin headliners like Nicky Jam, Melanie C, and Boy George, the Miami MerMaiden underscores Virgin Voyages’ deep connection to music and culture. 

Brilliant Lady’s Miami debut is not only a milestone for the Virgin Voyages brand, but it’s also a love letter to the city where Virgin’s sailing story first began.

Brilliant Lady’s arrival also unlocks a season of longer Caribbean getaways. In addition to her debut MerMaiden, she’ll chart courses south to the ABC islands, explore Colombia’s colorful coastlines, and call on Ocho Rios, offering Sailors an expanded menu of tropical escapes.

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The post Philippine transportation department works to ensure viable airfares appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippine Department of Transportation (DOTr) is currently working to ensure viable airfares and expand access to more domestic and international destinations, seeking to strengthen the country’s aviation and tourism sectors.

At present, the DOTr is coordinating with the Civil Aeronautics Board regarding measures that balance affordability with sustainability for airlines.

This initiative is concurrent with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)’s ongoing drive for infrastructure upgrades.

Philippine Airlines welcomed the department’s collaborative approach, saying it is committed to aligning with the government’s connectivity and tourism agenda.

In a statement, airline executive vice-president and chief operating officer Carlos Luis Fernandez remarked: “As the flag carrier, we look forward to continuing this productive dialogue with the DOTr under the leadership of acting secretary Giovanni Lopez, confident that our joint initiatives will deliver lasting benefits to the traveling public and to the national economy.”

Likewise, industry leaders view Lopez’s entry to the department’s leadership as an opportunity to strengthen coordination between the public and private sectors, ensuring policies and infrastructure improvements deliver long-term benefits to passengers and the economy. 

Coming up next

Among the projects under study is the proposed runway extension at Siargao Airport, which would enable larger aircraft to operate more efficiently and lower the cost per seat for travelers.

Meanwhile, the construction for the expansion of Siargao Airport’s passenger terminal building(PTB) is ongoing, in line with the current administration’s directive to enhance the travel experience and safety of local and foreign tourists in one of the country’s top tourism destinations.

The expanded and modernized Siargao Airport PTB will be able to accommodate 750 passengers daily, from the previous maximum capacity of 200 passengers. 

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The post ONYX Hospitality Group reinforces long-term commitment to Japanese market appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Southeast Asian hotel management firm ONYX Hospitality Group reinforces its long-term commitment to Japan as a key strategic market through a targeted development initiative. 

As part of its broader vision for growth in Northeast Asia, ONYX will embark on a focused Japan Sales Mission from 29th September to 3rd October in order to strengthen trade partnerships and lay the groundwork for future growth in the region.

This initiative centres on one-on-one meetings with key partners, reflecting ONYX’s strategic focus on consultative engagement and its dedication to cultivating long-term, mutually beneficial relationships within the Japanese travel trade.

According to ONYX chief executive Yuthachai Charanachitta: “Japan is a market that rewards consistency, depth, and cultural alignment. Success here relies on strong, ongoing partnerships with travel agents and tour operators, and we are fully committed to nurturing these relationships. This sales mission is a key part of our long-term strategy to tailor our offerings to the evolving needs of Japanese travellers and steadily grow our presence through thoughtful, partner-led development.”

The sales mission and partner engagements will focus on showcasing ONYX’s key properties in Thailand, highlighting the Group’s strong presence in a region highly appealing to Japanese tourists. 

For the Japanese, Thailand remains a top destination for medical and wellness tourism, golf travel, as well as long-stay and retirement segments. 

That said, ONYX Hospitality Group is uniquely positioned to cater to these markets through its diversified portfolio across key Thai destinations.

Preferred destinations

Bangkok and Phuket consistently rank among the top preferred destinations for Japanese travellers, creating exciting opportunities for several of ONYX’s flagship properties across its Amari, OZO, and Shama brands. 

Properties that are already well-regarded by Japanese travellers include Amari Bangkok, Amari Phuket, Amari Pattaya, OZO North Pattaya, and Shama Lakeview Asoke Bangkok. 

This diverse portfolio reflects the varied preferences of the Japanese market, ranging from the warm hospitality and comprehensive services of Amari, the contemporary appeal of OZO, to the spacious serviced apartments offered by Shama.

Into emergent destinations

Beyond these well-known destinations, there is also growing interest among Japanese travellers in emerging areas such as Chonburi Province, located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast and home to popular beach towns like Bangsaen and Pattaya. 

This opens further potential for properties such as Amari Pattaya, OZO North Pattaya, and the newly opened Amari Bangsaen, located approximately 85 kilometres southeast of Bangkok and close to Pattaya. 

Similarly, Khao Lak, in Phang Nga Province north of Phuket, represents a promising market for Amari Vogue Krabi, located nearby in Krabi Province. This reflects rising interest in secondary Thai destinations.

The upcoming activities in Japan aim to further strengthen the profile of ONYX’s established key properties while also exploring opportunities to tailor offerings at emerging destinations, meeting the evolving needs of the Japanese market and deepening engagement with the travel trade.

Bringing the ONYX Hospitality Real Estate Investment Trust to Japan

As part of ONYX Hospitality Group’s strategic growth, the upcoming Japan sales mission will highlight properties under the newly established ONYX Hospitality Real Estate Investment Trust (ONYXRT). 

This REIT was set up through a filing with Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission and initially includes four high-performing leasehold properties: Amari Bangkok, Amari Pattaya, OZO Pattaya, and OZO Phuket, all demonstrating strong average occupancy rates above 80 percent. 

Featuring ONYXRT properties in the Japan sales mission likewise underlines the Group’s integrated approach, combining operational excellence with asset optimisation to maximise value across its portfolio.

The sales mission further reinforces ONYX Hospitality Group’s long-term commitment to the Japanese market by strengthening strategic relationships with leading wholesalers, OTAs, and retail agencies. 

It will highlight ONYX’s commitment to aligning its offerings with the evolving preferences of Japanese travellers, while gathering valuable market insights to inform future product and marketing development. 

By maintaining a consistent and engaged presence, ONYX aims to secure sustainable growth and deepen its footprint in this important market over the years to come.

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The post Australis Cruises marks 35th anniversary in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Chilean expedition cruise company Australis Cruises marks its 35th anniversary season of cruises in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego from this month till April 2026. 

The 35th season will run from 22nd September 2025 to 6th April 2026, featuring weekly five-day, four-night voyages sailing the spectacular waterways between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia and vice-versa.

These voyages enable explorers to experience one of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations at the very heart of Patagonia.

To mark the new season, Australis Cruises is holding a special Sale to Sail offer on all departures for the 2025/2026 season with a discount of US$479 per person based on two sharing and a discount of US$479 for solo travellers. 

The offer is valid for new bookings made before 31st October 2025, subject to availability.

Into the heart of South America

The South American cruise line has built an enviable reputation for its fully immersive journeys through the majestic fjords, towering glaciers, and windswept landscapes of this pristine region, and operates two specially designed vessels: the Stella Australis and Ventus Australis, both purpose-built to navigate the waters of Southern Patagonia.

These nimble, Chilean-owned vessels can drop anchor and disembark in areas where other ships cannot sail. 

As such, they afford their passengers access to narrow channels, including the historical and evocative Wulaia Bay, where the Yamana Indians once lived and thrived. 

Today, visitors can explore a former radio station built by later settlers, now transformed into an archaeological museum that offers a vivid insight into life on the edge of Patagonia.

At the same time, Australis remains the only cruise line to land each week at Cape Horn, giving passengers the rare chance to stand at the edge of the continent. 

January 2026 will likewise mark 410 years since Dutch explorers Jacob Le Maire and Willem Schouten first landed on Cape Horn, opening the gateway to the newly charted Drake Passage.

For Australis passengers on the 2025/26 itineraries, a landing at Cape Horn offers the chance to tour the remote lighthouse and meet its only inhabitants, the lighthouse keeper and his family. 

They will also encounter the striking Cape Horn Monument, a seven-metre-high memorial erected in 1992 by sculptor José Balcells Eyquem. 

Dedicated to the countless sailors who perished in these unforgiving waters, it serves as both a moving tribute and a sobering testament to the dangers of maritime explorations around this part of Patagonia.

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The post The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection expands APAC team appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection announced the significant expansion of its human resource component in the Asia-Pacific, particularly for its reservations team in light of surging demand.

According to vice-president and general manager in the Asia-Pacific Seb Seward: “We are thrilled to welcome such talented and driven individuals to our APAC team. It’s notable how they all stood out thanks. to their exceptional guest service ethos.

The new appointments include Melissa Ong who takes on the role of director for travel partnerships in Asia, along with three additional members for the reservations team based in Sydney, Australia.

Meet Melissa Ong

Ong officially took on the post of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s director of travel partnerships in Asia on 8th September.

Currently based in Singapore, she knows The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection well as she was a global account director with Marriott Luxury Group as Global Account Director for six years.

Prior to that, she spent eight years with The Leading Hotels of the World.

Seward said of Ong: “I am delighted to welcome Melissa to the team. I had the opportunity to know her well over the past year and have really enjoyed working with her. We’re excited to leverage her market expertise and relationships as we continue our growth in Asia.”

He added that this is the perfect time for Ong to join the Collection’s growing team, as it looks forward to the Luminara’s inaugural Asian voyage season this December.

For her part, Ong enthused: “I’m thrilled to begin this new journey with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The brand’s dedication to redefining luxury at sea through personalised service, transformative travel experiences, and a spirit of discovery deeply resonates with me. It’s more than just travel; it’s about creating meaningful moments that linger long after the voyage ends. I’m looking forward to collaborating with partners who share our passion for innovation and excellence. Together, we can craft unforgettable experiences that elevate luxury travel.”

Time to grow the team

At the same time, to meet surging customer demand, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection needed to expand its Sydney-based reservations team from two to five agents.

The new additions to the team are Christopher Menon who joins from Four Seasons Singapore, and previously worked at The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong; Nathan Gudsell who comes in from Baillie Lodges and previously worked for Quintessentially; and another Marriott team member Jasmine Zaman who is currently working as assistant front office manager at Pier One Sydney Harbour was previously with The Ritz-Carlton property Hotel Arts in Barcelona.

While Menon joined the team last 18th August and Gudsell on 2nd September, Zaman will be coming in on 6th October.

At present, Menon and Gudsell are in Fort Lauderdale, FL for extensive training, and will later have first-hand yacht experience in Europe before they begin assisting partners this October.

Zaman, on the other hand, will train in Malta prior to having her own superyacht experience; she officially assumes her duties in November.

Seward said of the expanded team: Trade partnerships are central to our strategy and I’m confident that our advisors will value our investment in our Sydney-based team.”

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The post Going Beyond ‘Service’ with Raja Rajarajan: Services are becoming increasingly consultative and insight driven appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

 

SCHEDULE A CALL WITH AGILYSYS HERE

TDM has started a series of interviews under the theme ‘Going Beyond’ that bring to the forefront ‘a behind-the-scenes look’ at the expertise of Agilysys APAC team members across product engineering, services, HR, and sales, highlighting how each function plays a strategic role in delivering value to hospitality clients.

This series of interviews explores how these teams contribute to key business outcomes — enhancing the guest experience, driving RevPAG, enabling seamless, interoperable solutions, etc. — while providing a deeper understanding of the people, processes, and innovation that power Agilysys’ impact across the hospitality sector.

In Part 3 of the ‘Going Beyond’ series TDM interviews Raja Rajarajan, Senior Director Services, APAC, Agilysys.

Raja Rajarajan explores how the services team supports hospitality providers through smooth implementation, ongoing optimisation, and long-term success with Agilysys solutions. He shares how service excellence drives operational outcomes, enables seamless integrations, and directly contributes to enhancing the guest experience and supporting RevPAG growth across the APAC region.

Travel Daily Media (TDM): As Senior Director of Services, how do you and your team help clients across APAC maximise value from Agilysys solutions, and what does a typical day in your role look like?

Raja Rajarajan (RR): As the Senior Director of Services for Agilysys in the APAC region, based in Sydney, my focus is on helping clients not just implement our solutions effectively, but maximise their long-term value. My team and I work closely with hotels, resorts, and hospitality businesses across the region, supporting them at every stage of their journey – from initial consultation through to onboarding, implementation, training, and ongoing optimisation.

Clients often describe us as ‘innovative and responsive,’ and we take pride in that. It reflects our deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in their daily operations and ensuring that technology never becomes a barrier to great service.

No two days are the same, and that’s one of the aspects I enjoy most. A typical morning might begin with project updates, addressing any escalations, and reviewing resource planning across the diverse markets we serve. Collaboration with our product teams is a key part of my role; bringing client feedback directly into the development cycle to continuously enhance our solutions.

Managing teams across geographies and time zones can be complex, but I see it as a unique opportunity to drive innovation and impact. It challenges me to stay adaptable, communicate clearly, and remain closely attuned to the local needs of each market. The diversity within APAC sparks fresh thinking and helps keep us aligned with the rapid evolution of the hospitality industry.

At the core of everything we do is a simple, shared goal: to deliver service excellence and help our clients succeed.

TDM: Agilysys is known for delivering seamless, end-to-end solutions. How does the services team support hoteliers in achieving smooth implementation and long-term interoperability across their tech stack?

RR: Our services team isn’t just focused on deployment – we’re with our clients throughout the entire journey. Our goal is to ensure each implementation not only runs smoothly but also aligns with the property’s long-term operational and commercial goals.

We conduct detailed needs assessments to gain a deep understanding of each property’s workflows, guest interactions, and any third-party systems in use. With this foundation, we create a tailored deployment plan that minimises disruption, reduces downtime, and ensures seamless integration with existing technology. This thoughtful, proactive approach is a big reason clients see us as responsive and dependable.

We work across a wide range of hospitality environments, from independent hotels to resort groups, new openings, and properties transitioning from legacy systems. Whether it’s upgrading a single module or implementing a full end-to-end ecosystem, we collaborate closely with each client to customise the approach.

Importantly, our support doesn’t stop at go-live. We remain actively engaged through regular upgrades, performance reviews, system health checks, and ongoing training. Our goal is to ensure Agilysys solutions continue to evolve alongside our clients’ needs – becoming not just a software platform, but an extension of their operation.

TDM: In your experience working with a diverse range of hospitality providers, what role does services excellence play in improving guest experiences and supporting RevPAG-focused strategies?

RR: In hospitality, technology should never be a barrier – it should be an enabler. When systems are implemented and optimised with precision, they free up staff to focus on the guest. This has a direct impact on satisfaction, loyalty, and ultimately, revenue per guest.

When front-of-house and back-of-house systems are tightly integrated and fine-tuned for operational efficiency, properties are better positioned to personalise experiences, upsell intelligently, and respond to guest needs in real time. That’s how RevPAG is unlocked – not just by having the right tools, but by using them to their fullest potential.

Notably, our support doesn’t end at implementation. We view every relationship as a long-term partnership. Our services team remains actively engaged, providing ongoing consultation, system reviews, and tailored advice. This allows us to respond as needs evolve and ensures that our clients can continue to elevate the guest experience over time.

TDM: Can you share a recent success story or common challenge where the services team played a key role in helping a client improve operations or drive revenue outcomes?

RR: One common challenge we frequently see is fragmented guest data across multiple systems. Many hospitality providers rely on separate platforms for property management (PMS), point-of-sale (POS), inventory, and loyalty – which leads to siloed information and an incomplete view of the guest journey. This not only affects staff efficiency but also limits personalisation and targeted marketing opportunities.

We recently worked with a multi-property resort group facing exactly this issue. Their front desk staff couldn’t access guest preferences or past bookings from spa or dining outlets, missing critical upselling moments and opportunities to personalise the experience. Meanwhile, their marketing team lacked a consolidated view of guest spend across departments, making targeted campaigns ineffective. Staff spent far too much time manually cross-referencing data – time that could’ve been spent with guests.

Our team stepped in with a strategic approach, not just to implement Agilysys’ integrated PMS and POS, but to unify their broader ecosystem and create a single source of truth. We started with a full data flow analysis, identifying gaps and delays in how guest information was captured and shared. Working closely with IT and operations, we developed a plan to import and sync legacy data into the Agilysys platform.

This resulted in a fully unified guest profile. Today, front desk agents can instantly access a guest’s previous spend, dietary preferences, or favourite activities, regardless of where that data originated. Real-time updates from new bookings – like a last-minute spa appointment – are captured immediately and reflected across the system.

Beyond the tech, we focused heavily on cross-departmental training. It wasn’t just about adoption, it was about workflow transformation. Front desk teams learned how to act on guest insights to offer meaningful upsells. F&B staff were trained to recognise returning guests and tailor service accordingly.

The transformation was significant. Manual processes were reduced dramatically. Staff became more empowered, guest engagement improved, and operational efficiency increased. Over time, these enhancements translated into measurable gains – stronger guest satisfaction, more ancillary revenue, and greater confidence in using technology to drive results.

TDM: Looking ahead, how is the role of services evolving in the hospitality tech space, and how is Agilysys positioned to support hoteliers in meeting the expectations of today’s – and tomorrow’s – guests?

RR: The role of services is becoming increasingly consultative and insight driven. As guest expectations grow more complex – from hyper-personalised experiences to mobile-first interactions and seamless service delivery – hospitality providers need more than just software. They need strategic partners who can anticipate change, share best practices, and unlock new opportunities.

At Agilysys, we’re investing in advanced analytics, AI-powered support, and continuous education to help hoteliers stay ahead of the curve. Our services model is designed to evolve with our clients – ensuring they can not only adapt to shifting guest expectations but consistently exceed them.

We recognise that many operators are understandably cautious about system change. That’s why we prioritise empathy and collaboration throughout every engagement. Whether it’s a phased rollout, a migration from legacy platforms, or a full digital transformation, we walk alongside our clients at every stage – helping them build the confidence and capability to future-proof their operations.

TDM: What does ‘Going Beyond’ mean to you?

RR: For me, Going Beyond is about committing to client success in ways that extend far beyond contracts or service agreements. It’s about being proactive, anticipating needs before they arise, and delivering outcomes that genuinely add value.

It means staying engaged well after go-live – being there when challenges come up, responding with urgency, and celebrating wins as a team. It’s not just about fixing issues; it’s about creating moments of trust, clarity, and collaboration throughout the relationship.

Ultimately, Going Beyond is a mindset. It’s about showing up consistently, standing by our clients through change, and building partnerships rooted in long-term growth. That’s what drives us – not just delivering software, but delivering confidence, continuity, and shared success.

SCHEDULE A CALL WITH AGILYSYS HERE

 

 

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The post Kyrgyztan and India discuss the expansion of air travel and tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Kyrgyzstan’s ambassador to India Askar Beshimov recently met with Neeraj Rathi, chairman and managing director of India’s Wingspan Group.

Per a report from the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry, the parties involved discussed the potential for cooperation in the field of civil aviation, as well as tourism between the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of India.

By doing so, Kyrgyzstan seeks to draw in more Indian tourists whilst expanding opportunities for local businesses to make contact with their counterparts in South Asia.

The parties confirmed their mutual interest in strengthening transport links between their nations as a way of boosting tourism development and investment cooperation.

More flights = better corporate and cultural exchanges

According to Beshimov, the importance of expanding direct flights to stimulate business and cultural exchanges needs to be given immediate importance.

Rathi expressed his agreement with the ambassador’s sentiments, and likewise pointed out the high potential of the Kyrgyz Republic as a tourist and transit destination for Indian nationals.

The Wingspan Group chair added that India is certainly ready for further interaction with the Kyrgyz side.

Following the meeting, the parties expressed a mutual intention to advance practical steps to develop cooperation.

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The post Malaysia impresses the Vietnamese travel sector at ITE HCMC 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Malaysia presented its home nation’s best attractions at the International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC) 2025 from 4th to 6th September.

Malaysia’s participation at the Expo underscored its strong commitment to promoting its diverse destinations, strengthening bilateral tourism cooperation, and marking an important milestone in preparation for the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. 

Likewise, ITE HCMC 2025 served as a strategic platform on which to showcase Malaysia’s diverse offerings to international buyers, industry players, and travellers.

The event also served to highlight Malaysia’s readiness to welcome more visitors in the coming year.

Aligned with sustainability and innovation 

With the theme Sustainable Tourism, Vibrant Experiences, ITE HCMC 2025 cast the spotlight on eco-friendly travel, cultural preservation, and deeper visitor engagement. 

Indeed, the theme was in seamless alignment with Malaysia’s tourism vision, which puts an emphasis on nature-based adventures, community-driven tourism, and eco-cultural initiatives to benefit both travellers and local communities.

Tourism Malaysia’s participation at ITE HCMC 2025 also featured the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, which sought to attract Vietnamese families seeking a safe environment, quality education, and an affordable cost of living. 

In addition, Malaysia presented an educational showcase that included globally-recognised degrees and competitive tuition fees, enticing Vietnamese students with an accessible yet world-class option.

Putting MICE first

Aside from the country’s natural and cultural attractions, Tourism Malaysia also highlighted their nation’s strengths as a leading Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination. 

International groups of 50 to 499 delegates are entitled to exclusive benefits, including welcome souvenirs, partial support for gala dinners or receptions, cultural performances, photo booth setups, airport hospitality desk services, and accommodation subsidies of up to RM2,500. 

Depending on group size, support packages range from RM7,920 to RM49,915, making Malaysia an attractive choice for business events of varying scales.

According to Tourism Malaysia director in Ho Chi Minh City Amirah Nadiah Mazlan: “Malaysia offers not only world-class facilities but also rich cultural experiences that create lasting memories. Through our incentive programme, we aim to provide strong support for organisers and delegates, positioning Malaysia as a preferred MICE hub in the region.”

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Source: traveldailymedia

The post Korean Air adds Incheon Airport monitoring feature to its mobile app appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Korean Air’s mobile app now includes a feature that shows key updates from Incheon International Airport in real time.

Powered by Incheon International Airport Corporation’s public open application programming interface (OpenAI), this innovative addition provides passengers with updates on key airport operations.

In a statement released on Friday, 12th September, Korean Air officials said: “The Incheon Airport Guide feature enhances passenger convenience by bringing tailored airport information directly into our mobile app.”

They added that the airline will continue to develop digital solutions that create smoother, more efficient travel experiences. 

What can the app do for you?

Among the things that can be monitored through the real-time airport monitor are congestion levels at check-in counters, security and immigration checkpoints, as well as estimated travel times from airport arrival to the boarding gate.

The app also shows parking availability at long- and short-term parking facilities by floor at the facility, along with the location of Korean Air lounges and their respective occupancy levels.

App users can even share their estimated arrival time and exit door via SMS or messaging apps with those meeting them at the airport.

The post Korean Air adds Incheon Airport monitoring feature to its mobile app appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia