The post China gets ready for May Day travel period appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

China is battering down the hatches in anticipation of the eight-day travel rush for the May Day holiday.

The rush is expected to run between 29th April and 6th May, and authorities expect passenger flows to peak on Labour Day, 1st May.

In a statement released on Tuesday, 15th April, the China State Railway Group Co, Ltd (China Railway) announced that tickets for rail travel for the holidays are now available and that railways throughout the country will be operating under a peak schedule throughout the holiday.

China Railway expects to operate at least 12,000 trains a day and hopes to meet the upsurge in demand by adding more passenger trains, operating overnight high-speed trains, and attaching additional carriages to previously scheduled trains.

Authorities pointed out that the upcoming holiday will see strong travel demand for family visits, tourism, and spring outings.

The lure of overseas travel

Interestingly, many Chinese are opting for both short- and medium-haul trips overseas, contributing to the surging demand for more diverse travel experiences.

According to a Tuniu Travel report released on Monday, 14th April, group tour bookings are up by 60 percent this year, along with a 29 percent increase in independent travel among tourists from both the mainland, as well as special autonomous regions Hong Kong and Macao.

Authorities have noted over 750,000 outbound and inbound flight bookings for the May Day holidays, with reservations for Japan and South Korea up by 28 percent year-on-year.

While considerably fewer, there are still those who opt for longer journeys to Europe, particularly to Greece, Italy and Norway.

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The post Qantas marks 90 years in Singapore appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Australian national carrier Qantas marks nine decades of operations in Singapore today, 17th April.

The airline first made its way to the city-state on 17th April 1935 when Qantas de Havilland DH86 aircraft set off from Brisbane carrying just two passengers bound for Singapore. 

The flight took three and a half days, making 16 stops en route to the Kallang Airport whose location was adjacent to the current site of Singapore’s National Stadium.

This was the milestone that kickstarted Qantas’ global network, and Singapore remains the airline’s largest hub outside of Australia.

Qantas executive vice-president in Asia Nick McGlyn declared: “With over 100 flights per week into and out of Changi, Singapore is more important to Qantas than ever and is now our largest international operation outside of Australia. We are proud of the role we have played in the history of aviation here in the Lion City, and look forward to serving Singaporeans for many years to come.”

Today, nearly a century on, Qantas flies over 150 flights weekly, connecting Singapore with Brisbane, Darwin, Perth, and Sydney, as well as London, UK via its flagship QF1 service aboard the Airbus A380.

Likewise, the Qantas network spans 56 routes making their way to 34 destinations in 25 nations throughout the globe.

A touch of history

To commemorate this milestone anniversary, Qantas gives the world a unique look at its history through a one of a kind collection of historical content from its official archives.

These artefacts provide a fascinating snapshot of Qantas’ inaugural operations to Singapore, as well as the aviation industry over the past 90 years.

The collection includes a photo taken in May 1935 of members of the Nanyang Students Society prior to boarding a scenic Qantas flight around Singapore, a ticket from Singapore to Brisbane dated June 1935, the Qantas check in desk at Raffles Singapore, as well as a Qantas DH86 aircraft parked in front of the passenger terminal at Kallang Airport, which still stands today.

McGlyn was moved to remark: “It is incredible to think that the Flying Kangaroo has been here in Singapore for over nine decades, launching operations before the start of World War II. From just two passengers on the inaugural service in 1935, to the thousands of passengers we now fly every day to and from the Lion City, the story of Qantas in Singapore represents the incredible development of the aviation industry.”

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The post Fairmont Golden Prague opens with 320 keys appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the hospitality group Accor, is pleased to announce the debut of Fairmont Golden Prague, bringing a new chapter to one of the city’s most iconic and historic buildings. Located at the gate of prestigious Pařížská Boulevard on the banks of the Vltava River, the hotel unveils a multi-million euro renovation of the landmark building of brutalist architecture it occupies.

With its commitment to preserving cultural and artistic history, the renovation, spearheaded by chief architect Marek Tichý, will honor the architecture of the structure – originally designed by Czech architect Karel Filsak in the brutalist style in 1974 – while introducing an entirely new hospitality approach into the space and the city. All the internal preserved arts and craft elements, including blown glass chandeliers, gilded light fixtures, and ornate ash wood posts, will be restored, seamlessly incorporating Czech influences into an otherwise contemporary design. Guests arriving at the new hotel will find an atmosphere of sophistication and cultural significance alongside modern comfort, heartfelt service, and immersive local experiences.

“The opening of Fairmont Golden Prague is a significant milestone for Fairmont as we continue to grow our presence in Europe. Prague is a city with an incredible story to tell, and we are honored to play a part in preserving its great heritage. Blending Fairmont’s celebratory spirit with the property’s architectural grandeur will bring a captivating new luxury hotel experience to the Czech capital, and its innovative restaurant concepts – an exciting new offering to the city’s vibrant culinary scene,” said Omer Acar, Chief Executive Officer, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

The hotel features 320 elegant rooms, suites, and serviced residences, blending modernist aesthetics with warm tones of rich dark wood contrasted against lighter elements. This harmonious design creates a calming sanctuary, where the beauty of the Czech capital takes center stage. Drawing inspiration from the building’s original architecture, the interiors seamlessly integrate traditional Czech glass artistry into structural elements, enhancing room partitions and spatial lighting that create a distinctive, refined touch.

Six diverse locations to drink and dine in style will ensure guests have an array of choices. On the rooftop, Zlata Praha will offer a seasonally driven, fine dining experience complemented by breathtaking panoramic views of Prague. For a taste of modern Asian cuisine, Golden Eye will present a sleek cosmopolitan ambiance inspired by the 1970s, featuring stunning skyline views.

In the lobby, Coocoo’s Nest—named after the Academy Award-winning film from Czech-American Miloš Forman, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, will serve as a stylish social hub. Connected to the ground-floor art gallery and adorned with a mix of 1970s and contemporary artwork, it will provide the perfect setting for a morning coffee, light meal, or an evening cocktail. Those looking to experience the iconic Czech beer culture should not miss Greenhouse, the hotel’s all-day venue where guests can enjoy Czech pilsner, fine wines, and snacks prepared on the restaurant’s Josper grill while taking in views of the riverbank and the Prague Castle.

Renowned as a work of art in and of itself since its construction in the 1970s, the building will now also house one of the country’s most impressive and extensive art collections, driven by its owners’ deep passion for Czech art and film. Pieces from the 1960s and 1970s will seamlessly blend with contemporary works, creating a harmonious dialogue between past and present while complementing the hotel’s historical features. Among the treasures awaiting guests are chandeliers by René Roubíček that evoke thistle flowers; Miroslav Hejný’s sculpted wooden colonnades; or Čestmír Kafka’s gilded ceiling sculptures.

Guests seeking a respite from exploring the city of Prague can relish in tailored wellness experiences at the property’s signature 1,400 sqm Fairmont Spa & Wellness center which combines luxury, nature, and state-of-the-art technology. Skilled therapists take a holistic approach to healing, blending traditional techniques with modern innovations to create truly personalized treatments. The spa features five serene treatment suites, a tranquil garden, three saunas, a steam bath, and a world-class fitness studio. A one of its kind in central Prague, their L-shaped pool fuses indoor and outdoor spaces for a truly immersive experience.

Fairmont Golden Prague will also offer the exclusive Fairmont Gold experience, a ‘hotel within a hotel’ that provides guests with exceptional privacy, personalized service, and access to premium amenities.  Benefits will include a private check-in upon arrival and access to the elegant Fairmont Gold Lounge, featuring a complimentary healthy breakfast, afternoon tea, evening canapés, a late-night dessert buffet, and an honor bar.

Additionally, the hotel will have a 600-square meter column-free ballroom, exemplary event spaces, and three exclusive C-Suite rooftop boardrooms, all offering private terraces, the latest audio-visual equipment, customized catering, and an experienced events team.

As part of Accor’s unrivaled luxury portfolio, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts continues to inspire with destinations that celebrate culture, heritage, and timeless elegance. With Fairmont currently operating more than 10 properties across Europe including, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace in Switzerland, The Savoy in the United Kingdom, and the recently launched Fairmont La Hacienda Costa Del Sol in Spain, Fairmont Golden Prague sets to enhance this portfolio continuing to make special moments happen throughout the region. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has a notable pipeline of more than 30 hotels under development, with openings planned in Udaipur, Bangkok, Tokyo, Hanoi, New Orleans and in the English countryside over the next year.

 

 

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The post Silversea to open ‘The Cormorant at 55 South’ 150-room luxury hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Silverseahas unveiled the first spaces and name of The Cormorant at 55 South, its new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, scheduled to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season. Upon completion, Silversea’s new hotel will create the most convenient, comfortable and seamless way to visit Antarctica.

“The Cormorant at 55 South is a tribute to the rich culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and storied history of Puerto Williams, immersing guests in their destination before embarking on their journey to Antarctica,” said Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea. “Every aspect of The Cormorant is thoughtfully designed with our guests in mind, ensuring a comfortable and uniquely Silversea experience. Each room offers panoramic views of Patagonia, and the hotel creates a deep connection to the local community, providing specially designed experiences that will allow our guests to begin their expeditions sooner than ever, all in uncompromised comfort.”

The Cormorant at 55 South

The Cormorant is a nod to the unique location of the property at 55° S – making it the southernmost hotel on Earth – and an acknowledgement of the location’s history. Paying homage to Lakutaia, which is the indigenous Yahgan word for cormorant, the aquatic bird is a symbol of the seafarer and intended to bestow good fortune on guests embarking on their greatest adventure.

Rooms designed to immerse guests in the destination

The Cormorant will feature two distinct room views, including serene forest views and tranquil water vistas overlooking the Beagle Channel. This design brings guests closer to the breathtaking natural beauty of Patagonia, immersing them in the landscapes that define this region.

Each room is thoughtfully designed with expansive windows that frame sweeping views, filling the space with natural light and creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The interiors feature warm wood tones and earthy elements, deepening the connection to the destination while creating an authentic and calming environment. To further this connection, every room will incorporate handcrafted items created by regional artisans, adding a unique touch that celebrates local and regional culture.

Welcoming guests from the moment they arrive will be The Cormorant’s own dedicated staff – all trained in The Silversea Way to provide the high level of service that is synonymous with Silversea.

Enhancing the experience through destination leadership

The hotel will facilitate a uniquely frictionless journey to Antarctica, allowing guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalized service and warm hospitality throughout their entire experience. Silversea’s innovative six-day Antarctica Fly Cruise expeditions allow guests to fly over the Drake Passage, providing a shorter option without compromising on the time spent in the destination.

Having pioneered luxury expedition cruising in 2008, Silversea became the first travel brand to offer luxury Antarctica expeditions. With its experience in the region, Silversea now offers the most enriching and personalized adventures on the continent, with an industry-leading expedition team that comprises up to 28 experts in their field, knowledgeable kayak instructors, world-class onboard lectures and some of the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the industry, among other enriching features.

Silversea’s expedition experts host guided walks ashore, identifying wildlife species, unique glacial and geological structures, and other fascinating features only found on an Antarctic expedition. Back on board, the team’s insightful lectures provide an overview of the day’s sightings and experiences.

Follow along with stories by Silversea

Silversea also announces the launch of Stories by Silversea, its new content series featuring authentic storytelling and resources. Silversea is releasing the first two episodes, “Embrace the Unknown” and “A Legacy in the Making: Part 1.”

Designed to speak to the topics that matter most to its guests, Stories by Silversea will publish new content focusing on different topics, stories and moments unique to Silversea, establishing an important educational tool to learn more.

Included in the series will be a multi-part highlight on the development of The Cormorant at 55 South, including new resources and information, regular updates and a behind-the-scenes look at creating the southernmost hotel in the world.

 

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The post Antigua and Barbuda launches ArriveAntigua.com appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, in collaboration with the Antigua Department of Immigration and the Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division,  announces the official launch of www.ArriveAntigua.com a modern Arrival and Departure System designed for travelers using V.C. Bird International Airport.

“We are committed to continuously improving the visitor experience in Antigua and Barbuda. The launch of ArriveAntigua.com is a major step in creating a smooth and seamless experience from the moment visitors arrive, allowing travellers to spend less time in the terminal and more time enjoying our 365 stunning beaches”, said Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Transportation, Charles Fernandez.

The fully integrated, electronic system significantly enhances convenience and efficiency for visitors, reducing the time between gate and beach.

Key Features of ArriveAntigua.com include:

• Simple, Dynamic Interface: No app download required. Travellers can quickly complete the online form using their mobile or tablet devices.
• Automatic Passport Scanning: By simply taking a photo of their passport, visitors allow the system to automatically populate personal details, simplifying the process.
• Quick Questionnaire: Within 72 hours of their scheduled flight, travellers answer a few brief questions about their stay and customs declarations.
• Effortless Arrival and Departure: Upon completion, travellers receive a QR code, which can be saved via screenshot, added to an iPhone Wallet, or accessed through email confirmation. This QR code expedites processing at Immigration and Customs, ensuring a swift entry and exit experience.

ArriveAntigua.com will soon expand to include seaport arrivals and private jet passengers at Fixed Base Operators (FBO) across Antigua and Barbuda.

 

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The post IndiGo inaugurates its office in Gift City Gandhinagar, Gujarat appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

InterGlobe Aviation Financial Services IFSC Private Limited (GCE), a wholly-owned subsidiary of India’s most preferred airline IndiGo, announces movement from an existing office to a new, modern and bigger office in view of the expansion of the financing activities, marking a significant milestone in its strategic expansion in India’s growing financial and business hub.

The GCE office located in GIFT City, Gandhinagar, will serve as a critical base for IndiGo to enhance its financing capability in supporting the growth of its operations and providing an unparalleled travel experience to its customers.

Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo said: “We are delighted to move to our new office at GIFT City, Gandhinagar. In line with the government’s vision to create a world-class, self-reliant ecosystem for aircraft leasing and financing through Gift City, this expansion supports our growth strategy, enabling us to enhance services and explore new opportunities. We look forward to collaborating with GIFT City stakeholders to drive our ambitions and cater to new India’s evolving travel aspirations.”

At the office opening the company senior leadership with CEO, CFO, Chief Fleet Acquisition and Financing had a Puja ceremony and welcomed representatives from the international leasing companies to IndiGo Gift city office.

GCE, received its captive finance company license from the International Financial Services Centre’s Authority (IFSCA) on June 26, 2024, and commenced operations on July 15, 2024. With the first aircraft delivered through GCE to IndiGo on 22nd August 2024, GCE has already successfully financed over 30 Airbus A320neo family aircraft, as of 31st March 2025 and acquired few ATR aircraft which have been leased to IndiGo.

In future, GCE will finance majority of the aircraft for IndiGo.

 

 

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The post Tickets now available for Devasom Sol Festival appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Organisers of the Devasom Sol Festival announced that tickets are now on sale for the event which is slated for next month.

The ten-day holistic retreat is slated to run from 1st to 10th May at the Devasom Khao Lak Beach Resort in Thailand.

The Devasom Sol Festival offers over 90 hours of transformative sessions in mindfulness, wellness, arts, and nature, guided by 28 renowned specialists from across Thailand and the world.

It is the perfect opportunity for those who want to slow down and reconnect with nature, as well as those who want a meaningful beachfront escape with a touch of luxury.

Soulful sounds on the shore

Event organisers also announced the confirmed attendance of renowned Thai indie artist Phum Viphurit at the Devasom Sol Festival.  

The exclusive acoustic session will take place poolside on 10th May from 17:30 to 18:30, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience Phum’s soulful sound in an intimate beachside setting.

Phum Viphurit rose to international acclaim with his 2018 hit single “Lover Boy,” and has since performed to sold-out audiences in cities across Asia, Europe, and the United States. 

Known for his heartfelt lyrics and laid-back charm, Phum’s music blends indie-pop, soul, and funk, resonating with a global fanbase.

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The post Jazeera Airways launches ‘Summer Experiences’ campaign appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Jazeera Airways has launched its largest ever summer campaign to promote its exciting summer destinations. With 700,000 seats on offer and multiple direct routes to breathtaking destinations like Budapest, Sochi, Yerevan, Rize, Sarajevo, Hurghada, Prague, and Krakow, Jazeera is setting the stage for an exciting and vibrant summer season to offer great summer experiences across the network.

The “Summer Experiences” campaign highlights brand storytelling and travel marketing in a fresh and enticing style with a strong emotional appeal. It is backed by a multi-layered, country wide activation that puts creativity at the heart of aviation.

Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer, Jazeera Airways said, “Our new ‘Summer Experiences’ campaign is an out of the box approach to the simple concept that – travel is not only about the destination, it’s about the journey and more importantly, the experiences. Our latest campaign is more about invoking emotions. We want our passengers to feel the excitement of travel the moment they spot a Jazeera billboard or bus wrap or scroll past our ad online.”

A Broad Multi-Channel Execution

This campaign reflects Jazeera’s unwavering belief that every detail of travel—across the entire customer journey—should feel personal, seamless, and inspiring.

To ensure that the message hits home, Jazeera has launched a 360° campaign including social media and digital platforms, a visual takeover of billboards, digital screens, bus wraps, airport advertising, digital advertising and fresh video content — making the campaign unmissable.

 

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The post Red Sea Global unveils Laheq appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has unveiled Laheq Island, a new residential community at The Red Sea promising to bring island-lifestyle to Saudi Arabia for the first time

Laheq marks the first plans beyond Phase One of The Red Sea that have been revealed to date. The destination welcomed the first guests in 2023 and now has five hotels open, plus an airport welcoming a regular schedule of domestic and international flights. Laheq, which is scheduled to open in 2028, is also the first development at The Red Sea with a primary focus on residential property ownership supported by an exceptional hospitality offering.

“Whether it’s for guests visiting or residents who choose to own a piece of The Red Sea, at Laheq they will experience luxury living with an enriching resort community that brings people together and fosters life-long bonds,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global

Just beyond the western shore of Saudi Arabia is the world’s fourth largest barrier reef. It surrounds an archipelago of 92 pristine islands and is home to more than 2,000 species of fish, many found nowhere else in the world.

Of all the islands in the archipelago, RSG chose the intimate jewel that is Laheq to become an extraordinary island community. It is 400 hectares of white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs and clear blue waters.

New opportunities to own at The Red Sea

Private residences on Laheq take their cues from the character of the land, sea, sky and flora of the island. Natural timbers create elegant, shaded canopies, pergolas, and garden courtyards.

Laheq Island offers extensive amenities, entertainment and activities for residents and guests. A 115-berth marina, and sailing and watersports schools serve the seafaring set while a racket club, fitness center, sports field, picturesque 18-hole golf course and well-appointed park satisfy those inclined toward land-based activities. A bustling souq offers an amazing tapestry of sights and sounds with carefully curated products and essentials.

Additionally, residents and guests can indulge in a diverse range of premium beach clubs and dining experiences, each offering its own unique atmosphere from laid-back, barefoot settings to more refined venues. These establishments will highlight the best of local and international cuisine, with a focus on freshly sourced ingredients and exceptional culinary craftsmanship.

The island will also have two luxury resort hotels, with one focused on wellness and the other providing a more energetic and lively lifestyle offering that will resonate with adventurous and curious travelers.

“To date, we have established our reputation as a developer of regenerative tourism destinations, but we are more than that. We are a vertically integrated real estate developer and operator. This includes creating luxury private residences, delivering on Vision 2030’s goal to make Saudi Arabia a top destination to live, work and travel, while further driving economic diversification and jobs growth,” added Pagano.

Sustainable design

Foster + Partners, one of the world’s leading architectural firms, led the design of Laheq Island with a concept called “Forever Garden” because of its abundant use of plant life and vivid greenery.

The centerpiece is “The Ring”. The 800m diameter structure encompasses luxury apartments, hotels and retail, which encircle the white sand beaches of the island’s lagoon.

Norman Foster, Founder and Executive Chairman, Foster + Partners, said: “Our vision is grounded in a deep appreciation for Laheq Island’s outstanding natural beauty. Residents and visitors are invited into a serene garden that engages all the senses and offers panoramic views of the magnificent surroundings.”

Regenerative tourism

The opening of The Red Sea and its natural wonders is made possible by RSG’s commitment to regenerative tourism. The developer coined the term to describe destinations that not only preserve but enhance their natural surroundings.

RSG has committed to planting and enhancing the condition and habitats of 50 million mangroves and vowed to protect and regenerate corals in the Red Sea and beyond. When fully complete, The Red Sea – including Laheq Island – will become the world’s largest destination to run on 100% renewable energy.

RSG is on track to compete all 16 hotels that make up Phase One of The Red Sea. Upon full completion in 2030, The Red Sea destination will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The dedicated international airport, Red Sea International, means residents always have quick and easy access to their homes.

Laheq is a key element of RSG’s expanding residential portfolio, managed by Red Sea Residences.

 

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