The post Zeroing in on ‘Travel Gift Cards’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Feeling the urge to travel after winter? You’re not alone. Travel companies report that the first quarter of the year sees a spike in travel gift card redemptions, as people start turning holiday presents into real trips. After all, why let a gift card sit unused when it could cover a flight, a hotel stay, or even a guided tour?

What’s driving the travel gift card boom?

Market projections vary, but one thing is clear: travel gift cards are becoming more popular. The gift card market as a whole is growing at over 15% annually, expected to surpass USD1.5 trillion by 2025 and potentially exceed  USD4 trillion by 2032.

While traditional gifts still hold value, travel gift cards offer something unique—a practical and flexible way to turn a gift into an experience. Recent studies suggest they are not only becoming more common but are also being used sooner, particularly in the first few months of the year.

“In the first quarter of this year, we’ve seen a notable rise in travel gift card usage,” says Magdalena Petrusic, a travel and research expert at Paris Tickets & Tours.

• The 55+ age group saw a 3% increase in travel gift card usage.
• Younger travelers (18-24) led the way with a 15% jump in bookings for attractions and tours.

Petrusic believes this trend will continue:  “The share of travel gift cards in gifting will keep expanding, especially as experience-based tours and activities take center stage.”

Recognizing this growing trend, Paris Tickets & Tours analyzed user habits to identify the most frequently used travel gift cards. Their research revealed 14 of the most commonly used options, with an interesting insight: one in ten travelers also uses a ride-sharing gift card like Uber or Lyft.

A practical choice for accommodation

When it comes to gifts, ease of use and flexibility matter. Travel gift cards can be a hassle-free way to pay for accommodation, without the restrictions that sometimes come with traditional vouchers.

That said, one major platform is missing from the picture: Booking.com no longer offers gift cards. Instead, they partner with third-party providers to issue Travel Credits, which function differently. This change might come as a surprise to those who expected a more flexible gift card option.

The growing solution for transportation needs

More and more people are choosing experiences over material gifts, and travel statistics reflect this shift. According to Statista, international travel is expected to reach 1.5 billion trips by 2025.

Travel gift cards now cover all major forms of transportation, from flights and trains to buses and ferries. Values range from small amounts to as much as $2,000, making them suitable for anything from short trips to long-haul travel. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also part of the equation, offering an added layer of convenience for travellers navigating unfamiliar cities.

However, availability can be an issue. Some providers, like FlixBus and Greyhound, have given conflicting information about their gift card policies. Attempts to purchase their gift cards have led to uncertainty, suggesting that while demand is strong, supply isn’t always reliable.

Experience-based gifting: A flexible option for travellers

One of the biggest advantages of travel gift cards is their versatility. Instead of giving someone a physical item that might not be useful, a gift card allows them to customize their experience—whether that means a cultural tour, an adventure activity, or a visit to an iconic landmark.

So, do travel gift cards actually deliver?

The evidence suggests that they do. Whether for flights, hotels, attractions, or transportation, they provide a practical and flexible option for both gift-givers and recipients. While they may not replace traditional gifts entirely, their growing popularity suggests that more travelers are finding them useful.

Whether you’re the one giving or receiving a travel gift card, it’s an easy way to turn travel plans into reality—offering a thoughtful gift that’s actually used.

Based on her research, we asked Magdalena to highlight some of the most commonly used travel gift cards. Below is a table with their key features.

 

TRAVEL GIFT CARDS OVERVIEW (Q1 2025)
PROVIDER	INCLUDED	DESIGN & FORM	EXPIRATION	WHERE TO BUY	COVERAGE
Airbnb Gift Card	Accommodation & experiences (varies by region)	Customizable, digital & physical	No expiration date	Online (Airbnb site, Amazon)	Worldwide
Hotels.com Gift Card	Online hotel bookings	Limited customization, digital & physical	Typically 1-5 years	Online(Hotels.com site, Amazon)	Worldwide
Marriott Gift Card	Marriott hotels – stays, dining, spa, and select service	Customizable, digital & physical	No expiration date	Online (Marriott site, Amazon)	Worldwide
Accor ALL Gift Card	Accor hotels – stays and some additional services vary by location	Customizable, digital & physical	Typically 1-5 years	Online (Accor site, Amazon)	Europe
Best Western Gift Card	Best Western stays & extra services in select hotels	Limited customization, digital & physical	No expiration date	Online (Best Western site, Amazon)	Worldwide
Eurostar	Eurostar train tickets	No customization, digital (e-voucher)	12 months from issue to activate, 24 months after the last use	Online EU, USA (Eurostar)	Europe
Amtrak	Amtrak train tickets	No customization, physical & digital	No expiration	Online USA (Amtrak, Amazon)	USA
Southwest Airlines	Southwest Airlines flight tickets	No customization, physical & digital	No expiration	Online USA (SWAirlines, Amazon)	Worldwide
Delta Air Lines	Delta flight tickets	Customizable, digital & physical	No expiration	Online USA, CA (Delta)	Worldwide, Delta marketed flight
United Vacations	United flights + hotel or hotel only	No customization, physical	No expiration	Online (United)	Worldwide
Ryanair	Ryanair flights, baggage, seat selection, and priority boarding	Customizable, generic design, physical & digital	12 months from issue	Online (Ryanair)	Worldwide
GetYourGuide	Thousands of tours & activities	Add a custom message, digital e-card or printable option	3 years	Online GetYourGuide or authorized resellers.	Worldwide
Global Experiences Card Provided by Viator	Over 350,000 experiences	Options of design may vary, digital e-card via email	No expiration	Online GiftCards or authorized resellers	Worldwide
Source: Paris Tickets & Tours

 

 

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The post IndiGo to implement Amadeus SRM Flex appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IndiGo has reached an agreement with Amadeus to implement advanced Revenue Management technology, Amadeus Segment Revenue Management Flex (Amadeus SRM Flex).

With the adoption of this cloud-based Revenue Management system, IndiGo will benefit from an intuitive and easy-to-operate user interface. The web-based application, SRM Flex will receive information from IndiGo’s Navitaire New Skies® Passenger Service System (PSS) through its cutting-edge Revenue Management Integration Service. This will enable near real-time data exchange capabilities allowing the carrier to immediately respond to market dynamics such as new bookings or equipment changes.

Price setting capabilities within the system can be adjusted to be rule-based, science-based, or a mix of both depending on the carrier’s strategy. Repetitive routines can also be automated in order to optimize operational efficiency and increase revenue opportunities.

Abhijit Dasgupta, SVP – Planning and Revenue Management IndiGo, says: “IndiGo is making great progress on its journey ‘Towards New Heights and across New Frontiers’ to adapt and excel in the evolving aviation industry. Amadeus’ Revenue Management technology will enable IndiGo’s revenue management team to have more granular steering controls, make quicker business decisions, drive greater automation and increase efficiency across the board. IndiGo will be able to streamline its operations by consolidating interfaces into one, resulting in time optimization and a sharper focus on more sophisticated Revenue Management strategies required for a fast-growing network in a diverse set of markets and passenger segments. Most importantly, it enables IndiGo to merge its own growing data science & machine learning capabilities with the solution, leveraging the strengths of both IndiGo and Amadeus to develop an ecosystem that can cater to IndiGo’s expansion plans and future growth.”

Javier Laforgue, Executive Vice President, Travel Unit & Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Amadeus, says, “We are pleased to work with IndiGo to make the most of this technology. Together, we will help maximize the carrier’s revenue opportunities and create new efficiencies so IndiGo can focus on providing great service to its passengers. Amadeus’ Revenue Management technology is open, PSS agnostic, modular, and easy to use. It can also be seamlessly integrated with external solutions that IndiGo currently uses or plans to use. We are confident that this technology will firmly place IndiGo on solid footing for the long term as it looks to grow in India and beyond.”

David P. Evans, Head of Navitaire, added, “We’re thrilled that IndiGo has adopted Amadeus’ Revenue Management technology to drive new opportunities and growth. Navitaire’s open, adaptable and scalable platform enables airlines like IndiGo to connect to their preferred business partners, helping to enhance their Revenue Management capabilities, streamline operations and respond swiftly to market dynamics. We look forward to supporting IndiGo in their growth and expansion efforts.”

IndiGo has charted a course of rapid growth in India and across the globe, backed by a firm order for 500 A320 aircraft. Its selection of Amadeus SRM Flex will ensure that it has the right technology in place to support this growth far into the future. Currently, IndiGo features a fleet of over 400 aircraft, with more than 2,200 daily flights, connecting 120+ destinations, of which 38 are international. Last year, the carrier welcomed over 113 million passengers and launched its business class offering, IndiGoStretch, and loyalty program, IndiGo BluChip.

 

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The post FHRAI urges Government to delink F&B GST from Hotel Room Tariffs appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has reiterated its demand to delink the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on Food & Beverage (F&B) services from accommodation charges in hotels. Citing multiple representations made to the authorities, FHRAI has emphasized that the current practice of linking F&B taxation to hotel room tariffs is both unfair and operationally challenging for the hospitality industry. Under the prevailing GST framework, restaurants within hotels charging Rs. 7,500 or more per room per day are subject to 18% GST on F&B services with input tax credit (ITC) benefits, while those in hotels with tariffs below this threshold must levy 5% GST without ITC. FHRAI has proposed a flexible system allowing all hotel restaurants to independently opt for either 18% GST with ITC or 5% without ITC, irrespective of the room rates.

With the luxury and upscale markets in the hotel sector expanding steadily and a significant share of proposed future supply of additional rooms being in the upscale, luxury and upper midmarket segment, FHRAI firmly believes that this will lead to substantial revenue enhancement for the Government as at no point of time, these hotels will shift to a lower GST bracket in order to cater to a specific market which is defined by luxury and experience.
FHRAI also emphasized the benefits of ITC for hotels, citing data from the Ministry of Tourism, which lists 417 five-star and five-star deluxe hotels nationwide, all of which operate multiple restaurants. These establishments have significant operational expenses, making ITC a critical advantage that will encourage them to retain the 18% GST slab even if given the option to shift to 5%. Furthermore, midscale hotels, which currently cap their room rates below Rs. 7,500 to avoid compliance complications, are likely to increase tariffs if F&B rates are delinked.

Standalone restaurants, particularly branded chains with high operational costs, are also expected to opt for 18% GST with ITC benefits. With over 500,000 restaurants in India, a sizable number could shift to this tax bracket, further boosting government revenues. Addressing past industry concerns, FHRAI has urged the government to regularize previous GST payments on an “as-is” basis to resolve confusion arising from past regulations. Given these compelling arguments, FHRAI has called for immediate policy intervention to delink F&B rates from hotel accommodation charges, ensuring both industry growth and enhanced tax collections.
“The delinking of F&B rates from accommodation charges is not just a necessary step for the hospitality sector but also a win-win for the government. This move will not result in revenue loss but will, in fact, drive higher GST collections. A fair and transparent taxation policy is essential to support industry expansion and ensure that businesses operate without unnecessary financial and administrative burdens,” said K. Syama Raju, President, FHRAI. Pradeep Shetty, Vice President, FHRAI, added: “We urge the government to take immediate action on this pressing issue. A lot of hotels are not crossing the room tariff threshold of Rs. 7,500 due this linking. The hospitality industry needs a progressive policy shift and further measures to facilitate ease of doing business.”
FHRAI remains committed to working with the government, the GST Council, and state authorities to ensure an equitable and efficient tax system that benefits both the industry and the economy.

 

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The post Akasa Air celebrates Holi with up to 15% off on flights across domestic and international  routes  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, announces its Holi Sale, offering exciting discounts on fares across its domestic and international network. This limited-time sale is the perfect opportunity to plan upcoming travel with affordable fares while enjoying Akasa Air’s signature warm service and comfortable  flying experience. Bookings can be made through all channels, including the Akasa Air website – www.akasaair.com, mobile app, and authorized travel partners.

During the offer period, customers can enjoy:

• All-inclusive (one-way) fares starting from INR 1499 for domestic routes
• Up to 15% on Saver & Flexi base fares across all domestic and international routes • Use promo code HOLI15 for discounts on international bookings
• Discount of flat 15% on seat selection for domestic and international flight bookings

The sale is valid for ‘Saver’ and ‘Flexi’ fares on bookings made between 10^th March 2025 and 13^th March 2025 for travel starting from 17th March 2025. It applies to non-stop and through flights across Akasa Air’s network  and covers both one-way and round-trip tickets, with a minimum advance purchase of seven days.

This Holi Sale reflects Akasa Air’s commitment to making air travel affordable, seamless, and comfortable. Whether planning to travel for festivities, vacation or a trip back home this sale ensures that customers can fly  into festivities without exceeding their budget.

 

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The post Negri Firman announces new partnership with Cash & Rocket appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Negri Firman PR & Communication announces its new partnership with CASH & ROCKET for the highly anticipated 2025 Italy Car Tour.

As part of this collaboration, Negri Firman’s international offices in London, Milan, New York, and Los Angeles will lead PR, communications, and celebrity and influencer outreach efforts, and support with sponsorships, to elevate the visibility and impact of this iconic event. This exciting new partnership unites their shared commitment to driving positive change, empowering communities, and uplifting women and children globally.

 

 

 

 

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The post JCB sponsors 10th edition of Sakura 2025 at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand announced premier sponsorship for the 10th edition of Sakura 2025 at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay. The event was opened by Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Digital Development and Information, Toru Hotta, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Japan in Singapore, and Felix Loh, CEO of Gardens by the Bay.

JCB’s sponsorship is part of its continuing efforts to support local activities and attractions. For example, in 2022, JCB sponsored Singapore’s countdown event, Star Island Singapore Countdown Edition 2022-23 Presented by JCB, organised by Avex and held in the prestigious Marina Bay area.

Sakura 2025 brings Japan’s unique culture and beautiful architectural history to Singapore for residents and visitors from all over the world. As Singapore is a tourism hub, the seasonal highlight enhances the appeal of Gardens by the Bay and Singapore as a whole for tourists.

“We see Sakura 2025 as an excellent opportunity to showcase Japanese culture and beauty to visitors to Gardens by the Bay. JCB, as the only international payment brand originating from Japan, is one of the sponsors of the event. We also see this as a great opportunity to promote cross-border tourism between Singapore and Japan. Although tourism from Singapore to Japan in 2024 has increased tremendously, we hope that this event will promote a deeper understanding of Japan’s interesting culture and further boost tourism to Japan. We also hope that this will raise awareness of JCB’s presence and merchant privileges in Singapore, thereby promoting JCB Card usage here,” said Hiroko Michishita, Managing Director, JCB International Asia Pacific.

During the period of Sakura 2025, banners on selected street lamps, garden banners, and MRT advertisements will feature the event. By pairing this cultural experience with strategic visibility through the event’s publicity materials, JCB aims to strengthen its presence in Singapore while encouraging travel and cultural exchange between Japan and Singapore.

 

 

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The post W Hotels unveils the reimagined W Maldives appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

W Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, unveils a highly anticipated bold new era for W Maldives, redefining the escape with a stunning renovation that blends contemporary luxury with the island’s untamed beauty. Designed for the modern traveler, this evolution amplifies the brand’s signature energy, offering a distinctive blend of authentic cultural experiences, creative design, and a deep connection to the enchanting spirit of the Maldives.

“We are not simply unveiling a completely renovated resort; we are redefining our signature, liberated approach to destination-driven luxury with this newly reimagined hotel,” said George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, W Hotels. “W Maldives has been transformed for both global travelers and locals alike, offering meaningful experiences and a deep dive into the cultural richness of these islands. We’ve created a haven that reflects the dynamic energy of this world-class, coveted destination while setting a new standard for W Hotels Escapes globally.”

The experience begins the moment guests touch down by seaplane, greeted by the escape’s signature Arrival Jetty, where crystal-clear waters and a sleek, arched design set the tone for what’s to come. A hidden bar with uninterrupted views of the house reef offers an instant taste of island indulgence. From there, the brand’s signature Living Room welcomes guests into an open-air sanctuary, where soaring ceilings, bold colors, and natural textures frame endless ocean views.

Inspired by the Maldives’ marine life and lush flora, the renowned Miaja Design Group has reimagined 77 villas into stylish hideaways. Overwater villas take cues from the patterns of majestic whale sharks, while beach villas channel the intricate textures of mangroves, each space designed to balance tranquility and adventure. For larger groups, the first-ever Supreme Overwater Two-Bedroom Villas and Oasis Overwater Two-Bedroom Villas offer expansive living spaces and private pools, perfect for creating unforgettable moments. A highlight of the transformation is the addition of two new Oasis Two-Bedroom Beach Villas, each featuring exhilarating water slides that seamlessly connect the second floor to an impressive private pool, effortlessly merging refined luxury with playful indulgence.

Dining at W Maldives is an immersive culinary experience.  Each newly redesigned venue conceptualized by EDG Design, takes guests on a journey through global flavors, crafted with the freshest local ingredients and inspired by the island’s rich culinary heritage. At FISH, the resort’s signature fine dining restaurant, guests can indulge in a sustainable ocean-to-table concept set above the serene Indian Ocean. FIRE presents a relaxed beachside smokehouse, serving expertly grilled dishes framed by the tranquil coastal surroundings, while KITCHEN, the all-day dining venue, fuels guests with a daily breakfast spread and hearty international favorites. Throughout the year, W Maldives will host exclusive pop-ups, featuring world-renowned chefs, each adding a bold new twist to the dining scene.

As the sky ignites in hues of gold and amber, SIP — W Maldives’ overwater Latin American-inspired bar — invites guests to unwind with signature cocktails, savor an array of Nikkei dishes, while taking in the island’s most spectacular sunset views. At WET Deck, sun-drenched days flow into electric nights, where signature cocktails, light bites, and vibrant beats set the scene. Shifting shades of green mosaic tiles ripple like the tide, while state-of-the-art lighting pulses to the rhythm of live music. At the heart of it all, the Splinterworks Vertex water slide — a sculptural masterpiece and the first of its kind in the Maldives — redefines poolside fun with its sleek, mirror-polished steel reflecting the island’s serenity. Built-in water jets keep it cool under the Maldivian sun, inviting guests to take the plunge into a world where relaxation and high-energy revelry collide.

For wellness enthusiasts, the brand’s signature AWAY Spa reinvents the traditional rituals of a zen-like spa, offering a modern and social immersion into health and wellness. The sanctuary offers a collection of thoughtfully curated treatments in four overwater couples’ treatment rooms, each equipped with its own steam facility. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating experiences while soaking in soothing ocean views.

Sustainability is central to the resort’s ethos. The transformation incorporates eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices throughout its design and operations. The resort is home to one of the largest biogas plants in the Maldives, alongside a flourishing fruit and vegetable garden, all part of its commitment to be self-sustaining by 2026. Guests can revel in luxurious experiences, knowing they’re making a positive impact on both the environment and local community.

“The reimagined W Maldives embraces the deep cultural heritage of the Maldives, blending it with the resort’s modern design to create an immersive, elevated experience,” says Amila Handunwala, General Manager, W Maldives. “Our goal is to offer guests a unique opportunity to connect with the traditions of the Maldives, from its rich history and cultural rituals to its natural beauty, while enjoying the bold, creative energy that W Hotels is known for. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the soul of the destination, inviting guests to explore, discover, and unwind in a truly exceptional setting.”

 

 

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The post SIHOT delivers hotel reservations to Apple and Google Wallets appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

SIHOT, a hotel management systems, has digitalised booking information, enabling guests to add hotel reservations to their Apple or Google Wallets. Using a QR code in the digitalised hotel reservation, guests benefit from a more seamless digital experience at check-in. With instant access to booking information on their mobile device and smooth integration with existing SIHOT products – SIHOT.PMS, SIHOT.WEB, SIHOT.KIOSK and SIHOT.GO! – the digitalised reservation confirmation simplifies guest identification on self-service terminals and at the front desk.

Providing convenience to guests with all travel details easily accessible on their phones, thanks to Google or Apple Wallets, this development aligns with the digital transformation of hospitality by improving operational efficiency while enhancing guest communication. With cutting-edge technology, guests can seamlessly access their booking details anytime, directly from their Apple or Google Wallet. For guests, this ensures a smoother check-in experience, reduces the hassle of searching for confirmation emails, and keeps all essential travel details conveniently at hand.

Carsten Wernet, Chief Executive of SIHOT said: “We want to further improve the guest experience – we all know how frustrating and tedious it can be to have to wade through hundreds of emails to find that one booking confirmation. Through Apple or Google Wallet, we provide instant access to their reservation information, enabling hotels to facilitate quick check-ins from the front desk or with our automated self-service systems. With this information easily at hand, this will also cut queues on arrival without having to wait for guests to find their booking confirmation details.”

While the reservation confirmations facilitate key replacement on self-service check-in kiosks, guests will still be required to provide all relevant information to fulfil their stay.

 

 

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The post Vietnam Airlines goes with Sabre’s Network Planning and Optimisation technologies appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Vietnam Airlines has opted for Sabre Corporation’s Network Planning and Optimization technology to push for its global growth.  

Currently implementing an ambitious global expansion plan, Vietnam’s flag-carrier recently added routes to the US, Germany, India, Italy, and the Philippines, and is also exploring new destinations across Europe, the US, Canada, Australia, and Asia.

Vietnam Airlines’ director for corporate planning and development Nguyen Quang Trung remarked: “Sabre’s Network Planning and Optimization tools will help us pinpoint profitable routes, create optimized schedules, and stay agile in a dynamic environment, enabling us to deliver greater value for both our passengers and our business.”

Why Sabre? 

Vietnam Airlines selected Sabre’s Fleet Manager to match capacity and aircraft type with demand, Profit Manager to accurately forecast and maximize network profitability, Network Manager to achieve hub optimization and enhanced codeshare planning, and Schedule Manager to deliver revenue-driven schedules across its network. 

The airline also already distributes its fares and offers through Sabre’s global travel marketplace.

Sabre’s general manager in the Asia Pacific for travel solutions airline sales Rakesh Narayanan expressed delight at being able to support Vietnam Airlines through this particular phase of its growth.

Narayanan said: “This new agreement underscores the strength of Sabre’s technology in addressing the increasingly complex challenges faced by the world’s top airlines when it comes to creating optimum plans. We look forward to helping Vietnam Airlines to unlock further geographic and revenue growth.”

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The post Virtuoso presents annual report at its Greater China/North and Southeast Asia Forum appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Luxury and experiential travel network Virtuoso presented a report on yet another record-breaking year at its annual Greater China/North and Southeast Asia Forum at the MGM Shanghai West Bund. 

The event which runs from the 11th to 12th March brought together over 160 attendees, including owners and managers from the network’s travel agency members in Greater China and North and Southeast Asia, and preferred partners from around the world. 

Attendees had the opportunity to hear from Virtuoso executives during various presentations and participate in professional development sessions, where they engaged in meaningful peer-to-peer conversations and exchanged ideas and best practices. 

Session topics ranged from the evolution of luxury travel in China to boosting cruise sales, navigating the new media landscape, tailoring advisor skills for selling luxury travel in Asia and more.

An exceptional year

Virtuoso senior vice-president Michael Londregan addressed members and partners at the event, presenting key trends and insights. 

He revealed that 2024 was another record-breaking year for the Virtuoso network with sales surpassing 2019 numbers by 239 percent and significantly outpacing the leisure travel industry, which has grown an average of 125 percent in the same timeframe.  

Londregan also noted that while traveller interest in Japan, specifically Tokyo and Kyoto, remains robust, the network observed travellers are branching out beyond the popular cities. 

Among the emerging destinations in the region is Bhutan, which has seen a nearly 200 percent increase in leisure hotel sales in 2024 compared to 2023. 

Additionally, Londregan discussed “The White Lotus Effect.” After season two of the popular TV show aired in October 2022, Virtuoso data showed a 424 percent spike in sales to Sicily. Season three of The White Lotus aired last month based in Koh Samui, Thailand, and the network anticipates the destination is poised for significant growth.

Humanising the exceptional

Virtuoso chairman and CEO Matthew D Upchurch took the stage at the event’s General Session and emphasised the importance of a concept that is foundational to Virtuoso: humanising the exceptional. 

In his remarks, Upchurch declared: “Since 2010, our core purpose has been to enrich lives through human connection. Some may have thought it was just a slogan or feel-good sentiment, but it turned out to be our most defensible business model and the defining element of what Virtuoso advisors offer. Interacting with other people is not a desire, but a human need. Travel is a key vehicle for these interactions and exactly why the work of our advisors has never been more important.”  

Referencing Scott Galloway’s newsletter No Mercy / No Malice, Upchurch continued, “One of my favourite newsletters says, ‘People are the new brands.’ Statistics show that social media posts that include human faces receive higher engagement, and people view their favourite influencers as friends. That’s called the Parasocial Phenomena, and it translates to our industry because travel advisors are influencers in their own right. But they are not parasocial influencers; they’re real ones. This further proves that advisors are relationship marketers that land sales, not just another form of distribution.”   

Steady growth in two major regions

Attendees also heard from Virtuoso vice-president for global member relations Cheryl Cheney Bunker, who shared key updates on the network’s membership. 

In her remarks, Bunker said: “At Virtuoso, we are deeply committed to our members’ success by fostering meaningful relationships, providing innovative resources and empowering them to thrive in an ever-evolving travel landscape.”

She expressed pride in the network’s recent growth in the region. Virtuoso’s Asia regions led the network last year by welcoming ten new agency members, including seven in Greater China alone. This increase reflects the region’s substantial influence on luxury travel. 

In 2024, Virtuoso installed a dedicated team for North and Southeast Asia in addition to its established team within Greater China, allowing the network to better serve the varying needs of agencies, partners and travellers.

As Virtuoso marks its 10th anniversary in Greater China, Irene Lee, Virtuoso general manager for Greater China, joined industry leaders on stage to discuss emerging trends, market opportunities and evolving luxury traveller preferences. 

Raymond Ang, Virtuoso general manager for North and Southeast Asia, likewise shared insights on successful strategies for engaging high-end clients and impactful luxury travel marketing campaigns.

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