The post Banyan Group releases 2024 Sustainability Report appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Known for its keen drive towards sustainable operations, hospitality firm Banyan Group has released its 2024 Sustainability Report titled One Banyan, One Sustainable Future. 

The 19th edition of the report details the Group’s advancements in driving action and impact across key environmental, social, and economic dimensions, reaffirming sustainability as a core foundation of its business.

Guided by its founding mission of ‘Embracing the Environment, Empowering People’ and the belief that travel can be a force for good, the Group’s key progress in 2024 include:

• Accelerating decarbonisation and energy transition: In line with its ongoing commitment to addressing the business’ environmental impact, Banyan Group continued to invest in energy-efficient infrastructure and on-site renewable energy. Upgrades in lighting systems, air conditioning and room control units, as well as the installation of solar panels and timer controls across properties, resulted in a 5.7% reduction in emissions intensity per occupied room over 2023.
• Increasing waste management initiatives: Through an increased adoption of waste reduction, recycling and repurposing activities—including food donations, composting of kitchen waste and upcycling efforts—28% of total waste produced was diverted from landfill, a five-point increase from the previous year. 

• Upholding responsible water stewardship: As a result of the Group’s approach to water conservation—focused on infrastructure repairs, proactive leak detection, enhanced storage capacity, and water reuse—water efficiency per occupied room improved by 5.1% compared to 2023. 

• Championing marine conservation: Restorations and research projects play an important role in the way Banyan Group seeks to reduce the environmental impact of its operations—the expansion of Our Marine Lab in the Maldives alongside the launch of the Coral Reef Restoration Project in partnership with the China Environmental Protection Foundation (CEPF) in 2024 reinforced its commitment to such conservation efforts. 

• Deepening support for local communities: The Group maintained its commitment to uplifting local communities and fostering long-term resilience through education, engagement, and employment opportunities—its signature Seedlings programme nurtured 93 young individuals through training and mentorship, and provided 2,515 internship opportunities. In a continued effort to support heritage traditions and promote rural production to strengthen local economies, the Group expanded its artisan network—commissioning products that supported 306 artisan communities, including 66 newly engaged groups.

• Driving change with Greater Good Grants: To commemorate Banyan Group’s 30th anniversary in 2024, the Banyan Global Foundation funded 30 associate-initiated projects addressing the key material topics identified by the Group. The projects were selected based on criteria including the long-term social, environmental, welfare, and/or financial benefits to the communities where the Group’s hotels and resorts operate. 

The cornerstone of purpose

Banyan Group deputy CEO Ho Ren Yung said: “Sustainability is a cornerstone of Banyan Group’s purpose, and our journey will continue to evolve as we look to scale increasingly impactful practices in the upcoming years with more ambitious climate action, deeper community engagement, and greater support for our associates to take action.

In order to achieve this, the company introduced key performance metrics aligned with its identified material issues for all senior level associates in front-line and corporate roles, empowering them to champion our ambitions. 

Ho continued with: “As we track our progress in 2025, we will further refine our associates’ roles to more meaningfully support the integration of responsible practices across our operations.”

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The post Taiwan lauds Philippine policy regarding trade-centric travel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Taiwan conveyed its interest to boost economic exchanges with the Philippines as its government clarified the relevant travel policy for Filipino officials visiting the island for trade purposes.

In a statement released on Tuesday, 22nd April, Taiwanese minister of foreign affairs referred to the matter as a pragmatic move on the part of the Philippine government as it declared it would allow Taiwan to deepen substantive cooperation with their country.

Currently, Taiwan remains the Philippines’ eighth largest export market, ninth largest trading partner, and 10th largest source of imports.

Despite not having any formal diplomatic relations, the Philippines and Taiwan work together via commercial, economic, cultural and other unofficial contacts brokered through the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office.

Relevant guidelines

Philippine executive secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Memorandum Circular (MC) 82 last 15th April, reinforcing the guidelines for travel limitations to Taiwan initially imposed under Executive Order 313 in 1989.

The MC was issued to maximise opportunities for the development and expansion of the Philippines’ priority areas of investments.

Under MC 82, Philippine government officials visiting Taiwan for economic, trade and investment purposes are allowed, provided they use their ordinary passports and without using their official titles.

Furthermore, they are required to inform, coordinate and submit a report about their visit to the MECO and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

The MC also states that Philippine government officials and agencies may receive delegations from Taiwan for economic, trade and investment purposes, provided MECO is notified at least five days in advance.

However, it maintained that no agreements, memoranda of understanding, exchange of notes or similar documents can be signed with any Taiwanese organization or agency pending clearance from the DFA.

It also reiterated that travel restrictions apply strictly to the President, Vice President, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and Secretary of National Defense.

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The post Elite Havens encourages skiers to book their Niseko getaways now appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Asian luxury villa and chalet rental specialist Elite Havens encourages avid snow-bunnies to book those trips as early as now in order to secure their preferred Niseko chalets whilst taking advantage of special advance purchase rates as trips are going pretty fast.

Even as Japan’s ski season draws to an end for this year, many ski-happy travellers are already looking forward to their next trip by planning well ahead.

Indeed, Visa’s most recent report shows that Japan’s ski tourism industry experienced a 40 percent surge in domestic and international visitors between November 2024 and February 2025. 

With Niseko’s reputation as a world-class winter destination continuing to attract travellers from around the globe, booking early is more important than ever.

The Elite Havens difference

Whether you’re a seasoned skier returning for another adventure or planning your first snow-filled holiday in Japan, Elite Havens offers discerning guests the ultimate home-away-from-home experience.

Unlike traditional hotels, Elite Havens’ collection of luxury chalets, including the quaint and unique Momiji Lodge, provides all the comforts of home combined with premium hospitality services.

Perfect for families or groups of friends, these exclusive chalets offer multiple living spaces, fully equipped kitchens, drying rooms for ski clothes, and in some cases even private onsens, making them ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes. 

Guests can also enjoy the privacy and flexibility of their own space while being just minutes from the vibrant heart of Niseko, including the lively restaurants, bars, and boutiques of Hirafu and Kutchan towns.

Elite Havens also partners with Niseko Gourmet, allowing guests to enjoy private dining experiences without leaving their chalet from locally sourced Hokkaido feasts to chef-prepared meals served in the comfort of their dining room with spectacular mountain views.

Every step of the way

To make every stay seamless, Elite Havens provides a complimentary shuttle service to and from the slopes from 8am to 6pm daily during the ski season, just perfect for getting to the mountain base or heading out for après-ski adventures.

In addition, Elite Havens’ dedicated concierge team is on hand to curate a personalised itinerary from restaurant reservations and ski gear rentals to ski lessons, cultural experiences, spa treatments, and transport arrangements.

Booking with Elite Havens means more than just securing accommodation: it’s unlocking a stress-free, luxury ski holiday designed around you.

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The post The Great Barrier Reef up for the UN Environment Programme’s Lifetime Achievement Award appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Australia’s famed Great Barrier Reef was recently nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award in the United Nations Environment Programme’s highly regarded Champions of the Earth environmental awards.

The nomination was announced today, 22nd April, on the occasion of Earth Day by Reef Guardian Council chairperson Jeff Baines.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Reef Guardian Councils collaborated with the communities of the Great Barrier Reef including Traditional Owners, marine biologists, the tourism industry, and Reef Guardian Schools to nominate the World Heritage Area as the first non-human recipient of the award.

According to Baines, the Great Barrier Reef inspired greatness and had a profound impact on both the environment and on the people who visit it.

As he puts it: “The Great Barrier Reef is hands-down the best candidate for a Lifetime Achievement Award. A catalyst for environmental initiatives, the Great Barrier Reef supports First Nations communities, protects marine life and teaches future generations. We are using the voices of the communities of the Great Barrier Reef to persuade the United Nations Environment Programme to crown the Great Barrier Reef as the first non-human recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of almost 10,000 years of positive environmental impact.”

Listed among giants

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to living individuals whose work in environmental conservation and protection spans decades, and previous recipients of the award include the iconic Sir David Attenborough.

According to UNESCO, only living individuals can win and an individual is defined as a distinct entity.

Based on that definition, the Great Barrier Reef stands out as a globally outstanding and significant entity which certainly meets the entry requirements.

Getting the world involved

It should be noted that the nomination is part of The Lifetime of Greatness Project which Tourism Tropical North Queensland also launched today with a worldwide initiative to encourage the global community to get involved.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen said: “The tourism industry has thrown its weight behind this nomination because we see the impact the Great Barrier Reef has on individuals every day. It really is life changing for many people who visit and finally understand how important this World Heritage area is for biodiversity, Indigenous culture and jobs.”

Olsen added that the people who live alongside and work on the Great Barrier Reef are encouraging people the world over to show their support by visiting the initiative’s official website and by sharing Great Barrier Reef social content to encourage others to join in.

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The post The passing of Pope Francis in the Jubilee Year: what it means for religious tourism in the weeks to come appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The passing of Pope Francis on Monday, 21st April, came as a shock to the world, one that will have an impact on various aspects of everyday life including travel in the context of religious tourism.

The Roman Catholic Church is currently marking a Holy Year, colloquially known as a Jubilee, and it does so every 25 years, giving pilgrims an opportunity to seek expiation for their sins by travelling to various designated and / or known sites to seek absolution through devotional prayer, acts of faith and charity, confession, and attendance at Mass.

Vatican City, the Church’s seat of power, ranks first among these sites and, prior to the Pope’s death, was anticipating the arrival of up to 35 million religious tourists throughout this year.

But the passing and funeral of a ruling Pontiff are, in and of themselves, events of historical significance for both religious and secular travellers.

If we are to look back 20 years to the passing of the much-loved Pope John Paul II, records show that over two million travellers made their way to Rome to pay their respects, and St Peter’s Square overran with four million attendees for the funeral itself on 8th April 2005.

Many of the travellers present actually stayed longer to witness another historical moment: the election of Benedict XVI as Pope on 19th April of that same year.

Now, going back to the present, what may travellers expect over the next few days and weeks as Pope Francis is laid to his rest and the Church convenes to nominate and elect his successor?

Not quite business as usual

As of press time, Vatican officials have not announced the date on which the late Pope’s body will be brought to St Peter’s Basilica to lie in state, but the faithful from all around the world have begun flocking to the Eternal City as early as noon of Monday, 21st April, almost as soon as the news broke regarding the death of Pope Francis.

It should be noted at this point that, per Roman and Vatican authorities, the majority of accommodations, dining establishments, museums, and transportation hubs will remain open throughout the nine-day Novemdiales [mourning period].

However, tourists are being advised to be more patient and forebearing, given how officials are beginning to see a surge in the number of travellers making their way to Italy and, subsequently, to Rome.

At the same time, tour operators are already issuing advisories to their clients regarding the closure of a number of areas within Vatican City, specifically parts of St Peter’s Basilica, St Peter’s Square, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (St Mary Major), and the Sistine Chapel.

The Sistine Chapel, in particular, will be closed to the public throughout the Conclave wherein eligible cardinals will convene to elect the next Pontiff by virtue of an extra omnes (everyone out) order; telecommunications within the area will also be prohibited or jammed to prevent external factors influencing the outcome of the election.

Also, given the magnitude of upcoming events, travellers should not be surprised at heightened police or military presence throughout the next three weeks, along with the placement of security checkpoints leading into Vatican City.

On events within Vatican City

Prior to the death of Pope Francis, the Vatican was supposed to host two upcoming events that have significance for Christian religious tourism: the Jubilee of Teenagers celebrating the faith of young people which was supposed to run from 25th to 27th April, and the canonisation of young saint Carlo Acutis.

The canonisation rites have been postponed, though authorities have yet to give a new date for them, and the programme for the Jubilee weekend has likewise been modified in light of recent events.

Pilgrims travelling to Rome for the event ought to check in with their pilgrimage organiser or travel agency to see if there are any significant changes to their itineraries.

For those wishing to pay their respects to the late Pontiff, his mortal remains are, at press time, in lying in state at the Domus Santa Marta where he lived throughout his pontificate.

He will be brought to St Peter’s Basilica where the faithful may pay their respects and where he will lie in state until the funeral which begins at 10am local time on Saturday, 26th April.

While admission to the funeral is free and open to all, it is prudent to reserve a place in advance as the capacity of St Peter’s Square only runs to around 300,000, though crowds are expected to spill over into city streets.

A final journey

While not as extensively travelled as Pope John Paul II who famously took 104 overseas trips to 129 countries in a papacy that spanned over two decades, Pope Francis made his way to the four corners of the earth 45 times in his nearly 13-year-long pontificate.

But both men considered themselves pilgrims making their way around the globe to express their faith by meeting the richness and diversity of human culture in person, using the medium of travel to bring hope and joy to those who needed it the most.

Pope Francis’ own final journey will be brief: the distance between St Peter’s and Santa Maria Maggiore can be traversed by car in a mere 21 minutes, but the intrepid traveller who so inspired many to make their own spiritual journeys, the one who ironically never made his way back home, will come to his well-earned rest at the end of a long journey from Argentina to the world.

 

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The post Virgin Voyages marks Earth Day with unique initiatives appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As the world commemorates Earth Day, Virgin Voyages celebrates our home planet and its colossal seas through the release of its 2024 Impact Report along with additional information on its upcoming Celebration Voyages.

This year’s report casts the spotlight on the brand’s environmental and social initiatives, its current progress regarding its sustainability goals, as well as its ongoing commitment to responsible tourism. 

The report is a reflection of the cruise line’s dedication to transparency and continuous improvement in its journey toward a more sustainable future.  

According to Virgin Voyages’ senior director of social impact and sustainability Jill Stoneberg: “Our Impact Report isn’t just a collection of achievements – it’s our promise to keep charting a course toward a brighter future for our Sailors, Crew members, partners, oceans and the communities that welcome us.”

Three brands join the celebration

With regard to the upcoming Celebration Voyages from Miami, Athens, and Lisbon, guests coming aboard will encounter products from three of Virgin Voyages’ most beloved brand partners during their sailing; namely Red Flower, Yellow Leaf Hammocks and Intelligentsia Coffee.

Brand representatives will also offer Sailors rare behind-the-scenes workshops, hands-on demonstrations and opportunities to connect with the founders and creators themselves. 

Get botanical with Red Flower

Renowned for creating Virgin Voyages’ in-cabin bath and shower amenities, Red Flower founder Yael Alkalay, and brand specialist Erin, will lead Sailors through immersive workshops celebrating Earth’s flora and fauna. 

The botanical wellness brand, whose products feature natural, healthy, biodegradable and cruelty-free ingredients in refillable dispensers, exemplifies Virgin Voyages’ commitment to reducing single-use plastics. 

During the hour-long workshops at The Test Kitchen, Sailors will craft their own version of Virgin Voyages’ signature “Ocean” scent, whip up an invigorating sea salt scrub or mix their own pre- and post-sun botanical care treatment. 

But these sessions offer more than just take-home treasures, as they are designed to blend creativity with consciousness and connect Sailors to the therapeutic benefits of plant-based wellness while at sea. 

Time to weave with Yellow Leaf Hammocks

Yellow Leaf Hammocks founders Joe Demin and Rachel Connors bring their Thai master weavers onboard to shine a spotlight on Virgin Voyages’ iconic balcony hammocks, present in 83 percent of cabins. 

Each handcrafted piece provides sustainable employment for artisans from rural Thai communities, preserving traditional craft while creating economic opportunity. 

This collaboration celebrates thoughtful design, global connection and environmental stewardship, all woven into one.  

Interactive workshops aboard the Celebration Voyages will teach Sailors the ancient art of hammock weaving. 

The one-hour class in The Manor provides Sailors with a rare opportunity to see firsthand how the beautiful, durable hammocks are made, and connect more deeply with the people, purpose and passion woven into every thread. 

Sustainable brewing with Intelligentsia Coffee

Completing the conscious trio is Intelligentsia Coffee, Virgin Voyages’ craft coffee partner, with coffee pro Justin Lacher at the helm. 

Sailors can elevate their coffee game with “Pour Overs with a View,” featuring special-selection coffees served with expert precision. 

They’ll learn what makes a truly exceptional cup, exploring topics like water’s surprising role in the process to tropical fruit origins hiding in every bean. 

The Grounds Club will also feature a Coffee Concierge Pop-Up where Sailors can sip curated coffee flights and get personalized brewing tips. 

These sessions transform ordinary coffee breaks into extraordinary sensory journeys, revealing the stories, science, and sustainability practices behind every perfect cup.

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand brings its country’s best to Bhutan appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted its first-ever Amazing Thailand Festival in Bhutan 2025 from the 19th to 20th April at Clock Tower Square in Thimphu. 

Part of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, the festival sought to boost Thailand’s image and attract Bhutanese travellers as part of a strategic push into high-potential South Asian markets.

According to TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool: “It is an honour to bring the Amazing Thailand Festival to the heart of Thimphu. This event is more than a celebration of Thai food, art, and tradition, as it is a meaningful exchange between two nations bound by mutual respect and shared cultural values. We hope this festival deepens the friendship between Thailand and Bhutan, and inspires many to discover the beauty, creativity, and warm spirit of Amazing Thailand.”

The opening ceremony on Saturday, 19th April, was graced by Thai ambassador to Bhutan Makawadee Sumitmor and Bhutan’s minister of industry, commerce, and employment Lyonpo Namgyal Dorj.

Also, Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay graced the festival with a visit on Sunday, 20th April, experiencing Thailand’s soft power first-hand through the 5 Must-Do Experiences and engaging with various cultural booths. 

His presence reaffirmed the close ties between Thailand and Bhutan and helped inspire deeper interest in Thai tourism among Bhutanese visitors.

A cultural cavalcade

The two-day event cast the spotlight on Thailand’s soft power through the “5Fs: Food, Film, Fashion, Festival, and Fight”, as well as the “5 Must-Do Experiences in Thailand,” all of which were brought to life through interactive activities and cultural showcases.

Visitors explored Thai culinary delights with cooking demonstrations of Phat Thai, tofu stir-fry with basil, Som Tam (papaya salad), herbal drinks, and Bua Loi (glutinous rice balls in coconut milk). 

Traditional arts and crafts, such as umbrella painting and tung making, were featured alongside Thai massage sessions and Muay Thai workshops.

Locally made Thai products and souvenirs, including elephant keychains and Muay Thai shorts, showcased the richness of Thai craftsmanship.

A themed photo zone featured iconic Thai elements such as tuk-tuks, beach scenery, Muay Thai fighters, and traditional dance.

Live performances throughout the festival offered immersive experiences of Thai heritage, from classical dance to the dynamic artistry of Muay Thai.

Small but mighty

While relatively small, the Bhutanese travel market holds strong potential for Thai tourism. 

In 2024, a total of 21,581 Bhutanese tourists visited Thailand, showing a 6.02 percent increase from 2023. 

Popular reasons for travel include leisure, education, and medical treatment, with beach holidays, wellness tourism, shopping, and family trips being top choices. 

Between 1st January and 9th April of this year, Thailand has already welcomed 9,545 Bhutanese visitors, indicating continued growth.

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The post Banyan Group brings the Garrya hospitality brand to Northern Vietnam appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global hospitality firm Banyan Group formally opened its new mountain resort Garrya Mu Cang Chai in the renowned mountain and rice terrace region of Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai province, Northern Vietnam. 

The opening also marks the Garry brand’s debut in the country.

According to general manager Thinh Phan: “We are delighted to introduce Garrya Mu Cang Chai, a perfect getaway from the city, surrounded by picturesque rice terraces. The resort embodies Garrya’s philosophy of finding beauty in simplicity. From thoughtful spaces that encourage stillness to a purposeful living approach, we want to offer our guests a meaningful escape from the demands of modern life. This is where guests can rest their body and mind, and find culture, nature and community converging in harmony.”

As the first international resort brand in the region and Garrya’s inaugural property in Vietnam, Garrya Mu Cang Chai covers 6.5 hectares of lush greenery. 

The resort features 110 rooms, suites, and villas with views of rice terraces and mountains. Accessible from Hanoi by a scenic six-hour drive, the resort is close to iconic sites such as Mam Xoi and Mong Ngua rice terrace hills, the Mu Cang Chai bamboo forest, H’Mong ethnic villages, and the Khau Pha pass.

Celebrated as one of Southeast Asia’s remarkable landscapes, this area is known for its majestic mountains and layered emerald rice terraces. Recognised as a national natural heritage site, Mu Cang Chai attracts visitors with its seasonal beauty and vibrant culture, located over 300 kilometres north of Hanoi.

Asian minimalism at its finest

The rooms, suites, and villas, ranging from 30 to 154 square metres, offer panoramic views of the tranquil countryside. 

The Mu Cang Chai Pool Suite and Mountain View Pool Villa feature bamboo accents, a cultural symbol of Vietnam, with brocade motifs typical of the H’Mong people. 

The Wellbeing Suite and Wellbeing Pool Suite cater to guests seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating escape, with access to the Hydro Wellbeing Area and inclusive spa treatments. Each villa is connected by tree-lined pathways and lush gardens with native flora, including the region’s iconic Tớ Dày flower.

Deliciously Vietnamese

Refresh, the all-day dining restaurant, offers nutritious cuisine alongside a selection of international, Asian, local, and Vietnamese dishes. 

The restaurant’s bright, airy interior, adorned with Vietnamese bamboo-inspired décor and high ceilings overlooking the surrounding mountains and rice terraces, creates a serene dining atmosphere.

On the other hand, Charcoal Grill offers an interactive dining experience with a live open kitchen, featuring a unique blend of Western, Asian, and Vietnamese dishes. 

The restaurant highlights traditional charcoal and dry wood cooking methods, adapted from the local ethnic groups, providing an authentic taste of the region. 

Underground Sport Bar provides a different atmosphere with gin-infused craft cocktails and light bites, accompanied by acoustic bands. 

Screening Rooms offer a space for music immersion. BZen Pool Bar, next to the outdoor pool, serves light meals, fresh juices, and kombuchas, while the Lobby Lounge is perfect for a coffee or tea.

Where contemplation holds sway

The property is home to the 8LEMENTS Spa, a relaxation cocoon. Banyan Group’s wellbeing philosophy emphasises the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul, as well as our connection to others and nature. 

Guests will have access to essential wellbeing products and a specialised area that nurture both individuals and the environment.

The Hydro Wellbeing Area offers a range of facilities including hot/warm and cold pools, shower experiences, a rain mist shower walk, an infrared sauna, and a herbal steam room. These amenities enhance wellbeing by improving blood circulation, aiding detoxification, and boosting metabolism. 

The Area provides both hot and cold treatments for a holistic experience. 

Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy ReCharge Gym, a comprehensive fitness centre, while those who prefer group activities can enjoy a variety of board games, including billiards and football, at the Social Zone. 

Garrya Mu Cang Chai features an 8-metre-high pillarless bamboo ballroom with panoramic views of terraced fields and mountains. 

The resort also offers an outdoor event area and smaller meeting rooms, equipped with the latest sound and lighting systems, ideal for both in-person and online meetings. 

Wedding couples can have a picturesque mountainous destination wedding in Mu Cang Chai, recognised as one of the world’s top 50 most beautiful destinations in 2020.

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The post Hebridean Island Cruises offers special savings for its Scottish sailings appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Small luxury cruise specialist Hebridean Island Cruises offers up to 15 percent in savings on select voyages until 30th May.

These cruises will take travellers through the wild and far-flung isles, lochs,and canals of Scotland.

Hebridean Island Cruises operates two vessels: the 48-guest Hebridean Princess and 38-guest Lord of the Highlands, both of which are akin to stylish country houses on water, celebrating the gentle pleasures of cruising with an ambience of relaxed elegance, luxurious décor, maritime tradition, personal service and shared conviviality.

Into storybook land

As the exclusive Australian representative for the boutique UK cruise line, small ship cruising specialist, Cruise Traveller, has paired a boutique cruise to quaint storybook hamlets and wild and remote stretches of Scotland with an extensive land tour from England to Scotland to create a unique and exciting 20-night cruise and tour package from the bottom of Great Britain to the top.

Likewise, Cruise Traveller handpicked one of Hebridean Island Cruises’ 2025 sailings that offers the special 15 per cent saving, a seven-night journey in Scotland , and added a 10-night land tour through the UK to create the new 20-night ‘Highlights of Britain and Secrets of the Highlands’ package.

The Scottish cruise this September is aboard the elegant, 38-guest, Lord of the Highlands, launched in 2021, and specially crafted to transit the intricate waters of the Caledonian Canal as well as navigate the sheltered, castle-dotted waters around Scotland’s fretted and hauntingly beautiful coastline.

From London to the Highlands

The holiday begins in London on 16th September, with a 10-night, small group coach tour to Edinburgh that features the postcard-pretty hamlets of the Cotswolds, the Tudor town of Stratford-Upon- Avon where Shakespeare was born, the rugged and ancient landscapes of Wales, the spectacular scenery of Snowdonia National Park, the Beatles home of Liverpool, magnificent Castle Howard where the famous 1980s TV show ‘Brideshead Revisited’ was filmed near York, the sweeping Lake District, Beatrix Potter’s quaint holiday home on the English moors and a traditional haggis dinner and bagpipe demonstration over the border in Scotland where the tour ends in Edinburgh.

After two nights in Edinburgh and one in Inverness, guests board Hebridean Island Cruises’ vessel, Lord of the Highlands, for a seven-night journey from Inverness through the heart of the spectacular Scottish Highlands. 

The adventure starts with a cruise down the historic, 100km-long Caledonian Canal which connects Scotland’s east and west coasts and takes guests on a fascinating passage through the Highlands via 29 locks and four lakes including the famous and mysteriously deep waters of Loch Ness. 

The journey along the storied canal includes the transit of Neptune’s Staircase, a set of eight, interconnected locks dropping 19m into the sea lock at Corpach.

The journey then takes in the dramatically beautiful islands of the Hebrides including the Isles of Mull and Skye with their quaint, brightly painted villages and ancient castles standing guard over them.

The cruise, which ends in the charming, seaside village of Kyle Lochalsh in north-west Scotland, is all-inclusive, embracing guided shore tours, gourmet cuisine, onboard beverages and gratuities. 

All cabins aboard Lord of the Highlands boast water views of Scotland’s ruggedly spectacular coastline.

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The post Abercrombie & Kent’s latest tours entice travellers to taste the world appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Luxury travel firm Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) presents a new series of culinary-inspired itineraries to give gourmets and gourmands the opportunity to taste the world, one nation at a time.

These three new Small Group Journeys invite travellers to explore the world through its most evocative and unifying language: food.

Taking off in August of this year, each journey is designed to showcase the vibrant flavors and rich cultural traditions of France, India, and Vietnam  

According to A&K director of global group product Suzanne Teng: “At A&K, crafting journeys that place local culture at the heart of the experience is not just our specialty, it’s our passion. We believe that the true essence of a destination is often found at the dining table through the flavours, traditions, and stories that come with each dish. Our team has curated exceptional culinary experiences that immerse travellers in the culture and history of each region, offering them the opportunity to savour both the food and the unforgettable moments it creates.”

These thoughtfully curated itineraries combine A&K’s signature blend of luxury, authenticity and insider access, promising an extraordinary journey through some of the world’s most celebrated culinary destinations. 

From the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence to the vibrant spice markets of Mumbai and the bustling street food scenes of Hanoi, these new journeys offer a feast for all the senses.

A tempting way to traverse the globe

These new journeys build on A&K’s already robust portfolio of culinary-themed travel experiences.

A Culinary Cruise through France

Nowhere is the legacy of France’s culinary excellence more entrenched than along the banks of the Rhône. Begin with a pre-cruise stay in Lausanne, Switzerland, featuring a tasting of local Chasselas and Pinot Noir at the fairytale-like Chillon Castle. Then set sail along the Rhône and Saône rivers, with immersive stops in the gastronomic heartlands of Lyon, Provence and Burgundy. Savour a Savoyard lunch on a mountain farm, a winemaker’s feast amid the vineyards of Beaujolais, and market-to-table experiences that celebrate regional flavours at every turn.

India: A Feast for the Senses

Dive into India’s kaleidoscope of flavour, colour, and tradition on an itinerary that explores the soul of the country through its cuisine. Discover Mumbai’s famed dabbawalla network, shop for spices in lively bazaars and dine at cutting-edge restaurants. Eat like a local with a street food tour of Jaipur, led by a local culinary expert, and learn the ins and outs of Indian cooking by preparing a meal with a family in their home.

Flavours of Vietnam

Experience the many layers of Vietnamese culture through its deeply rooted culinary traditions. Ride pillion on a Vespa through Ho Chi Minh City to discover hidden eateries, cruise through the Mekong Delta to meet local farmers, and enjoy unforgettable meals at Michelin-starred Anan in Ho Chi Minh City. In Hanoi, taste classic Hanoian street food and specialties, including pho and bun cha, paired with local beers or traditional drinks.

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