The post Travel and tourism sees resilient M&A activity amid 5% dip in overall deal volume in Q1 2025: GlobalData appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Deal-making in the travel and tourism sector showed signs of cautious optimism in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, with overall activity experiencing only around 5% year-on-year (YoY) dip. While venture financing and private equity deals declined, mergers and acquisitions saw modest growth, highlighting investor selectivity and regional resilience as key themes amid the evolving macroeconomic conditions and shifting strategies across global markets, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While the overall decline may reflect a more cautious investment climate as dealmakers reassess their strategies in light of prevailing market conditions, several countries maintained steady deal volumes and some also managed to register notable improvement, indicating resilience in these markets.”

The US, which is the top market globally in terms of deal activity, experienced approximately 25% YoY drop in the number of deals announced during Q1 2025. The UK also witnessed slight decline in deal volume. Meanwhile, Japan showcased notable improvement and the deal volume for India and Australia remained mostly at the same level.

An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that the composition of deals showcased a mixed picture with M&A deal volume registering growth while the number of private equity deals and venture financing deals decreased.

Venture financing deals volume fell by around 44% during Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024 and private equity deal volume was down by around 25%. Meanwhile, the number of M&A deals announced in the sector globally were up by around 9%.

Bose concludes: “As travel demand stabilizes and digital innovation reshapes the sector, investors are likely to focus on scalable opportunities and resilient markets. The near-term outlook points to a selective but steady recovery in deal-making momentum.”

 

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The post JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort partners with BABOR appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort announces its exclusive partnership with BABOR, the globally renowned German expert skincare, marking a new era of luxury wellness in the Maldives. This collaboration brings BABOR’s unparalleled skincare expertise to the Overwater Spa by JW, offering guests an exclusive range of treatments that blend high-performance formulations with island-inspired relaxation.

“At JW Marriott, we curate experiences that celebrate the art of mindful living, sustainability and our partnership with BABOR reflects our commitment to unparalleled luxury and holistic well-being,” says Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. “Together, we are redefining wellness with transformative treatments at Spa by JW, that harmonize precision skincare with the serene beauty of the Maldives.”

A First for the Maldives: BABOR’s Exclusive Spa Treatments

Guests at JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort will be the first in the Maldives to experience BABOR’s innovative treatments, featuring the brand’s most prestigious anti-aging range, SeaCreation. Infused with powerful active ingredients from the depths of the ocean, SeaCreation harnesses marine-based biotechnology to deliver a rejuvenating experience that revitalizes the skin and restores radiance.

Signature Treatment: Ocean Bliss treatment, designed exclusively for the Overwater Spa by JW at the resort, epitomizes indulgence and renewal. This immersive ritual combines BABOR’s scientifically advanced SeaCreation products with soothing maritime elements, drawing inspiration from the surrounding azure waters to deliver visible results and deep relaxation. The treatment is available within the resort’s four expansive overwater treatment villas (featuring 6 treatment rooms), each designed to enhance the connection between the senses and the natural beauty of the Maldivian seascape.

Haven of Luxury and Tranquility

Nestled in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and just 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offers a sanctuary where luxury and nature exist in perfect harmony. Its 80 thoughtfully designed private pool villas—including 47 overwater pool villas—blend traditional island aesthetics with contemporary sophistication, creating an immersive retreat that fosters balance, renewal, and connection. Savor worldly flavors at five inspiring dining outposts and two bars that also celebrate the island’s produce from the JW Garden.

For BABOR, this collaboration represents a significant milestone in its global expansion, reinforcing its presence in the luxury spa and wellness space while bringing its award-winning skincare solutions to one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

“In today’s fast-paced world, true luxury lies in moments of tranquility and self-care,” says Tim Waller, Co-CEO of BABOR BEAUTY GROUP. “Our partnership with JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort allows us to craft those moments, offering guests a skincare experience that is as indulgent as it is results driven.”

With a shared passion for excellence, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort and BABOR invite guests to embark on a wellness journey like no other—one where nature’s beauty and advanced skincare expertise converge in perfect harmony.

 

 

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The post Kansai Airports, ANA Cargo and NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS to sponsor PLMC 2025 in Japan appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Kansai Airports, ANA Cargo Inc. and NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC. are joining forces as platinum sponsors for the Pharma Logistics Masterclass 2025 (PLMC), a key industry event taking place in Osaka and Kyoto from 16-19, September 2025. This commitment is spearheaded by Yoshiyuki Yamaya, representative director and CEO of Kansai Airports; Kenichi Wakiya, president of ANA Cargo Inc.; and Satoshi Horikiri, president and representative director of NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC.

PLMC is an advanced training program designed to deepen logistics expertise in the pharmaceutical industry. Organized by Pharma.Aero* and the University of Antwerp, the program is held annually in various locations around the world. Japan, being one of the world’s top five pharmaceutical markets and a key player in the life sciences and medical technology supply chain industry, has been selected as the host for this year’s event.

The program unites industry experts and academics to explore the latest challenges and technologies in the pharmaceutical supply chain, offering a collaborative platform for sharing insights. Additionally, the program’s alliance with educational institutions creates a critical venue for strengthening robust industry-academia partnerships.

*Pharma.Aero: A joint alliance (non-profit organization) consisting of pharmaceutical companies, the CEIV Pharma-certified community, airport companies, and other stakeholders in the air cargo industry.

The PLMC key programs include:

・Market trends and future prospects

・Value chain strategy

・The role of technology in the sustainable life science logistics

・Impact on Japan’s global life science industry

・Life science supply chain ecosystem

・Conclude the program with a visit to the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, an opportunity made possible through PLMC’s partnership with the Expo.

Kansai Airports, ANA Cargo and NX Group will continue to support the development of the pharmaceutical industry through logistics.

 

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The post Travelgoogoo launches first eSIM Travel Club appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travelgoogoo, a  Singapore-based company redefining travel connectivity, introduced the Travelgoogoo365, a game-changing membership program offering the simplest, most affordable eSIM experience to date.

Travelgoogoo365 is a travel club that offers members free texting, data voice calls, and photo sharing on their favorite messaging apps across 123 destinations, 365 days a year — without the need to purchase a data plan. Powered by a lifetime global eSIM, Travelgoogoo365 removes the hassle of installing a new eSIM for every trip. Members also enjoy member-exclusive rates on additional data roaming purchases.

Richard Bok, Founder and CEO at Travelgoogoo, commented: “We want to be the last eSIM travelers will ever need to install. With Travelgoogoo365, there is no need to mull over what data roaming plan to get or swap eSIMs every trip. One membership, one eSIM, 123 destinations, and a full year of messaging and data voice calls that just work. That, to us, is brilliant basics — simple, affordable, and built for what travelers truly need: reliable access. We are not just introducing a product. We are rewriting the rules of roaming.”

Revolutionizing Connectivity with Travelgoogoo365

Travelgoogoo365 membership, priced at just USD14 (SGD19) per year, offers travelers basic data roaming across 123 destinations for 365 days. As part of an introductory offer, members receive a FREE 3GB high-speed data starter pack, usable in any one of the 123 destinations. After the initial data roaming is used, members continue to enjoy unlimited basic connectivity — ideal for staying in touch via messaging apps like WhatsApp, LINE, or Telegram — on all future trips within the year. For travelers who need more, full-speed data for other apps can be unlocked anytime through on-demand top-ups at exclusive member-only rates.

Key benefits of Travelgoogoo365:

• Ease of Use: A single global eSIM model eliminates the hassle of juggling multiple SIM cards or dealing with complex setup processes.

• Unlimited Messaging: Stay connected with WhatsApp, LINE, Telegram, Viber, WeChat, Zalo, and other popular messaging apps through unlimited texts, data voice calls and photo sharing.

• Flexible Data Roaming: Unlock full-speed travel data on demand at member-exclusive rates, allowing members to purchase or add data roaming only when they need it.

Travelgoogoo365 also includes 24/7 chat support, available should members encounter any connectivity issues when they are traveling.

Reliable Connectivity and Robust Network 

Travelgoogoo provides international travelers with reliable connectivity by partnering with an established telecommunication service provider that offers robust infrastructure and high-performing network coverage.

This arrangement allows the Company to secure connectivity with multiple local carriers in key travel destinations, ensuring travelers enjoy reliable, high-speed data coverage at competitive rates. The strategic approach also enhances network redundancy, optimizes performance and eliminates roaming hassles, delivering a seamless mobile experience without the need for physical SIM cards.

A Global Vision Rooted in Expertise

Key members on the Travelgoogoo founding team also include Julian Wong, who assumed the role of CFO, and Tony Chew, who is Chief Partnerships and Investment Lead.

Julian emphasized: “At Travelgoogoo, we are revolutionizing connectivity with a frictionless eSIM solution designed for both our B2B2C partners and D2C users. Our focus on conversational commerce allows us to engage customers on their preferred messaging channels, starting with key platforms and expanding over time to ensure a seamless experience. Whether embedding connectivity into partner ecosystems or providing a direct, hassle-free journey, we are redefining how people stay connected, no matter where their journeys take them.”

Tony explained: “Travelgoogoo365 embodies our vision of uniting telecommunications, travel and digital services to deliver smarter, more connected experiences. Through strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations, we are embedding seamless connectivity where it matters most — in the journeys people take, the platforms they use, and the communities they engage with. This is just the beginning of a more collaborative, borderless future for travel.”

As seasoned travelers and experts in international data roaming, the Travelgoogoo team is committed to redefining global travel connectivity.

 

 

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The post Greater Bay Airlines’ direct service to Guilin takes off appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Greater Bay Airlines (GBA)’s new scheduled direct service to Guilin, China officially took off today, 15th April.

This new direct route between Hong Kong and Guilin further expands the airline’s network in Mainland China. 

Passengers of the inaugural flight were representatives from GBA, together with assistant general manager for air network development Ricky Chong of Airport Authority Hong Kong.

This new direct service flies twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

A warm welcome

The maiden flight arrived at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport at 9:00am this morning.

Passengers and crew were warmly welcomed by Wang Zixi, director-general of the Guilin Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism; and GBA chief operating officer Stephen Loh at a ceremony held on the apron.

Located in the northeast of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin is renowned for its spectacular natural scenery that is highly reckoned as incomparable with any other place on the planet.

The region’s most popular attractions include Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill, Riyue Shuangta (Sun and Moon Pagodas) Cultural Park, Seven Star Scenic Area, Jingjiang Palace, Yangshuo Park,  and the Big Banyan Tree.

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The post Cebu Pacific welcomes first aircraft delivery for this year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific took delivery of its first aircraft for the year, an A330neo, last 28th March.

The delivery marks another step in strengthening the carrier’s operations and further modernising its fleet.

The 459-seater aircraft was delivered to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila and is the first of four A330neos expected to join the Cebu Pacific fleet this year. 

The airline is expecting a total of seven aircraft to be delivered in the later months of 2025.

Airline president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao said of the delivery: “We are thrilled to welcome our first aircraft delivery for 2025. The arrival of our latest A330neo strengthens our operational resilience, allowing us to serve more passengers while continuing to offer affordable and sustainable air travel. We look forward to bringing dream destinations closer to everyone with this addition to our fleet.”

Flexibility for all manner of routes

Currently, Cebu Pacific operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with its diversified commercial fleet mix of 11 Airbus 330s, 39 Airbus 320s, 26 Airbus 321s, and 15 ATR turboprop aircraft enabling the widest network coverage in the Philippines.

The Airbus A330neo provides CEB with the flexibility to serve regional and long-haul routes, as well as high-demand sectors. 

With increased range and capacity, the aircraft enables the airline to optimize its operations while maintaining cost efficiency.

Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn 15 percent less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. 

The reduction in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions.

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The post Conrad Centennial Singapore rebrands as Conrad Singapore Marina Bay appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Conrad Centennial Singapore will now go by the name Conrad Singapore Marina Bay beginning today, 15th April.

The name change reflects the hotel’s connection to the evolution of Marina Bay as a global destination whilst staying true to its legacy of hospitality. 

For over two decades, the hotel has been a landmark, growing alongside the dynamic transformation of Marina Bay and delivering the thoughtful, intuitive service that defines Conrad.

A natural progression

This name change marks a natural progression that embraces the energy of its surroundings and captures the vibrant spirit of the area. 

As a cornerstone of the district’s development, the hotel remains committed to innovation in service and excellence in experience. 

Come early next year, Conrad Singapore Marina Bay will launch a reimagined dining concept to take the place of its current signature restaurant Oscar’s.

The hotel is also slated to unveil a remodeled lobby that redefines the arrival experience while preserving its identity as a living gallery.

These changes will be complemented by guest programming that offers deeper connections to Marina Bay’s cultural, artistic, and culinary vibrance,

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The post Delta takes lessons from nature to drive fuel efficiency appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

From Airbus’ fello’fly technique which takes inspiration from migrating geese to MicroTau’s ‘shark skin’ addition to planes – the airline industry continues to look to nature for innovation inspiration.  

Delta Air Lines is adding a new partner to its Sustainable Skies Lab that is driving fuel efficiencies inspired by an unlikely source: sharks. MicroTau is an Australian aerospace technology company developing a ‘Riblet Modification Package’ that mimics shark skin to drive drag reduction.

Delta will begin testing MicroTau’s “shark skin” riblets on the Boeing 767 fleet. This “shark skin” technology can be applied to an aircraft’s fuselage, wings and tail, and once applied, can improve fuel efficiency by up to 4%, according to MicroTau’s estimations.

 

Despite their smooth appearance, the skin of sharks is covered in a layer of microscopic grooves called dermal denticles, which help a shark swim more efficiently and expend less energy. Applying these microscopic grooves, often called riblets, to the exterior of an aircraft can reduce drag by smoothing air flow, which helps reduce fuel consumption.

Delta’s Sustainable Skies Lab is an innovation incubator, partnering with disruptors Delta believes will help revolutionize how the industry flies more sustainably. Since its 2023 inception, the Lab is comprised of a number of partnerships, including Airbus, Boeing, JetZero and Joby Aviation.

“Delta’s Sustainable Skies Lab bridges the gap between ideas and proven innovation by accelerating research, design and testing for a more sustainable future of air travel,” said Sustainable Skies Director, Sangita Sharma. “Collaborating with innovative partners lets us explore both changes that can be implemented in the near-term, and longer-term initiatives that will revolutionize how we think about flying for years to come.”

Every year, Delta’s Sustainable Skies Lab welcomes new partners capable of helping Delta make changes within its control today to save on jet fuel and reduce carbon emissions, while innovating with others on revolutionary aircraft of the future.

INSPIRATION FROM NATURE 

From Airbus’ fello’fly technique which takes inspiration from migrating geese to MicroTau’s ‘shark skin’ addition to planes – the airline industry continues to look to nature for innovation inspiration.

 

Another example is finlets. Finlets are fins, similar to the ones fish have, that can be installed on the back of an aircraft on the fuselage to reshape airflow and reduce drag, ultimately leading to reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Delta has been working with Vortex Control Technologies (VCT) to install and test finlets on select aircraft in Delta’s 737 fleet. The science behind finlets is similar to winglets – which Delta has added to all existing fleets that can be modified – in that when they are added, they can reduce drag by minimizing the effects of vortices that form in specific regions around the aircraft.

With approximately 90% of Delta’s carbon emissions coming from jet fuel each year, every decision and modification can drive fuel savings that add up, and these decisions are indicative of Delta’s commitment to make changes within its control on existing fleet, while also purchasing next-gen fleet that’s more fuel-efficient and supporting research into aircraft that will help Delta reach its decarbonization goals.

 

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The post Elite Havens offers the perfect places to say “I DO” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Asian luxury villa management and rental service provider Elite Havens invites couples to celebrate their love in some of the region’s most memorable locations.

From Balinese shores to tropical Thailand, lovers can select from an extensive portfolio of exclusive wedding villas throughout Indonesia and Thailand and turn their destination wedding dreams into glorious reality.

Indeed, these villas are more than just venues: they are gateways to a love story told against the backdrop of nature’s finest beauty. 

Each villa offers something extraordinary, whether perched dramatically on a clifftop with sweeping sea views, nestled on a secluded beach, or hidden among lush rice fields, whispering age-old tales of romance.

With the allure of stunning locations, vibrant local culture, and the exceptional value Southeast Asia offers, destination weddings in Bali and Thailand are now more accessible than ever.

The Elite Havens difference

What makes an Elite Havens wedding truly exceptional is the privacy and flexibility it offers. 

Couples have the entire venue exclusively for them and their guests: absolutely no shared spaces, no outside interruptions, so they can relish their special moment in total seclusion. 

With so many luxury villas to choose from, whether grand and expansive or charmingly intimate, there is always the perfect villa for one’s vision. 

Every detail can be personalised in collaboration with our expert wedding team or a planner of the couple’s choice, from decor and layout to cultural elements and culinary experiences. 

The best part of it all is that, despite the luxury and exclusivity, hosting a wedding in Southeast Asia often proves to be significantly more cost-effective than traditional venues elsewhere in the world.

Imagine walking barefoot down a path lined with tropical blooms, the ocean breeze carrying the soft rustle of silk drapes and the scent of jasmine in the air. 

Palm trees sway gently overhead as vows are exchanged beneath the warm glow of the setting sun. 

Whether it’s an intimate celebration with those closest to you or an elopement just for two, every detail is meticulously crafted by Elite Havens’ dedicated wedding team to reflect your unique love story.

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The post Vincent Durier appointed general manager of Alila Villas Uluwatu appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Bali’s Alila Villas Uluwatu announced the appointment of Vincent Durier as its new general manager. 

Durier brings over two decades of international hospitality experience to the esteemed Bali resort, renowned for its innovative design and commitment to sustainable luxury.

Bringing his people-focused and strategic leadership approach to his new role with Alila, Durier aims to curate unique, genuine, and unexpected experiences for both guests and team members while continuing to elevate the resort’s commitment to sustainable luxury. 

Inspired by Hyatt’s ‘World of Care’ concept, he looks forward to positively impacting people, the community, and the planet, and is committed to strengthening Alila Villas Uluwatu’s position as one of Asia’s premier resorts.

A career rooted in the traditions of hospitality

A native of Bordeaux, France, Durier’s passion for hospitality was ignited by his grandfather, a baker, who inspired him to pursue a career that blends the culinary arts with exceptional guest service. 

Since he began his professional journey back in 2002 as a waiter, the industry veteran has accumulated a wealth of knowledge across all aspects of hospitality operations from rooms, to food and beverage, and even finance.

From luxury city hotels to idyllic island retreats, his career includes notable roles at prestigious properties such as InterContinental Bora Bora, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, Hotel Icon Hong Kong, W Beijing Chang’an, Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, COMO Point Yamu in Phuket, and COMO Maalifushi in the Maldives. 

In 2021, Durier took on his first general manager posting at COMO Cocoa Island in the Maldives, followed by a tenure at Nawa Bajo in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province in January of last year.

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