The post Arvie Delvo appointed executive chef at Capella Ubud, Bali appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Capella Ubud, Bali has appointed Arvie Delvo as its new executive chef, and he brings impeccable credentials to the position. 

With extensive experience in fine dining and upscale establishments in Auckland, New York, Manila, Dubai, and most recently as executive sous chef at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi, Delvo brings a unique culinary perspective and international flavours to the camp.

General manager Mark Swinton said of Delvo: “He has a deep respect for food and an appreciation for the purity of nature’s flavours. With a diverse background in the hospitality industry, he has crafted culinary magic while honing his skills under the guidance of celebrated chefs throughout his 17-year career. He brings an unmatched passion for cooking and creating unique dining journeys to Capella Ubud, Bali.

The Philippine-born chef’s passion for cooking stems from the joy it brings to others and the opportunity to create memorable experiences through food. 

He draws inspiration from his childhood summers spent on his grandparents’ farm in the Philippines and his experiences working with notable Michelin chefs such as Bjoern Alexandre Panek, Nathan Outlaw and Ross Shonhan.

Interactive gastronomy

At the camp’s signature restaurant, Api Jiwa, Delvo introduces an interactive culinary experience emphasising respect for the environment. 

He uses seasonal ingredients to infuse dishes with natural smokiness and celebrates the rich resources of the land.

The camp’s culinary offerings are diverse; the Mads Lange restaurant features menus inspired by spice trading across the archipelago, while the Mortar & Pestle Bar provides a serene alfresco setting in the heart of the rainforest. 

Drinks here are made using traditional methods, and the bite-sized delicacies promote a healthy lifestyle.

The Campfire invites guests to enjoy a classic bonfire experience under the stars while watching documentaries about Bali’s history. 

In addition, Delvo and his culinary team curate bespoke private dining experiences, ranging from candlelit dinners to private picnics in the rice fields, catering to the delight of Capella Ubud’s esteemed guests.   

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The post Plaza Premium Group recognised with three awards in China appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global airport hospitality service provider Plaza Premium Group (PPG) announced its recent achievement of receiving three industry awards in China.

PPG’s Aerotel Beijing at Beijing Daxing International Airport received two recognitions from online travel platforms Agoda and Fliggy respectively, on the heels of its recent win as the “Best Airport Hotel Award 2024” at the CHA China Hotel Awards.

These awards demonstrate PPG’s commitment to deliver excellent service for passengers: 

PPG regional general manager for North Asia Jenny Zhang said: “We are honoured to have received these invaluable industry awards, these recognitions motivate us to keep making travel better. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to our partners, customers, and team members. As we continue to expand our presence across China, we remain committed to enriching our offerings, creating award-winning airport experiences, and setting a new standard for excellence within the country and beyond.” 

Rising star

Alibaba’s travel arm Fliggy honoured Aerotel Beijing with the “Star Hotel” award. 

This award is judged based on the quality of guest experiences and reviews which aims to recognize hotels with outstanding performance in service quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation capabilities. 

Aerotel Beijing was previously awarded by Fliggy for two consecutive years with the “Best Partner of the Year” in 2019 and 2020.

The hotel also received Agoda’s Gold Circle Award by Agoda, the first time that it has received the distinction. 

Since 2009, Agoda has selected and recognized a small, elite group of property partners who have distinguished themselves with superior value for customers, world-class service, and a strong partnership with Agoda over the past year. 

Aside from these awards, guest service officer Cheng Dan of the Plaza Premium Lounge Chongqing received Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport’s Customer Service Star Award for 2024.

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The post CapitaLand Ascott Trust makes it into S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

CapitaLand Ascott Trust (CLAS) was included in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025, making its debut in the prestigious index as the only lodging trust included from the Asia Pacific.  

CLAS is also the only Singapore-listed trust under the Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts category.  

The Trust also achieved Industry Mover status in the rankings, as it was recognised for accomplishing the strongest improvement in its industry.

Out of over 7,690 global companies assessed, only 780 companies have been recognised in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook for 2025.  

Inclusion in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook is based on the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA).  

The CSA measures a company’s performance on and management of material environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks, opportunities and impacts, making the link between sustainability and business strategies.

Operating with sustainability at its heart

CapitaLand Ascott Trust Management Limited and CapitaLand Ascott Business Trust Management Pte Ltd CEO Serena Teo remarked that sustainability lies at the core of all of their initiatives.

She said: “As CLAS continues to expand as the largest lodging trust in Asia Pacific, we endeavour to grow responsibly.  We integrate sustainability in every stage from investment to design, development and operations.  We have established systems and processes to ensure that we are on track to achieving our rigorous sustainability targets.  CLAS is also one of the few listed trusts in Singapore to publish a sustainability report that is externally assured to give our investors and stakeholders confidence in the quality of our data and reporting.  We remain committed to enhancing our ESG efforts as we deliver stable returns to our Stapled Securityholders.”

Teo added that guests staying at Ascott properties are also keen on sustainability, thanks largely to visible measures actively being implemented.

She said: “We have greened over 50 percent of our global portfolio and CLAS remains on track to green 100 percent of our portfolio by 2030.  We continue to partner our operators and lessees to green our operations.  In addition, our asset enhancement initiatives (AEI) not only uplift the value and profitability of the properties but also improve the energy and water efficiency of these properties.”  

Six of the eight properties in CLAS’ AEI pipeline are already green certified; the rest will undergo the certification process over the next few years.

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The post Elevate DMC expands into Thailand and Southeast Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Leading independent destination management company (DMC) Elevate expands its presence in Southeast Asia with the recent opening of its office in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. 

This milestone marks the first step towards the company’s entry into Thailand, expanding its footprint across the region, and reaffirming its commitment to providing world-class destination management services.

Elevate Thailand is slated to become a comprehensive DMC that offers diverse products and services throughout the entire country.

With a focus on delivering high-quality, personalised customer service, the company aims to cater to the needs of its expanding clientele base.

A key milestone in expansion

Elevate DMC founder and chief executive Samir Hamadeh commented: “The opening of our office in Bangkok marks an exciting milestone in Elevate’s journey of expansion. We are thrilled to establish a presence in Thailand, a market rich in diversity and opportunity. Our aim is to provide exceptional, tailored destination management services that cater to the unique needs of travelers, while growing a team that is passionate about delivering remarkable experiences across the entire country. This is just the beginning of a new phase, and we look forward to the road ahead.”

As part of its growth journey, Elevate Thailand is actively enhancing its team to support its expansion and ensure seamless service delivery. 

Elevate DMC promotes a portfolio of over 1,000 directly contracted hotels, including renowned brands such as Accor, IHG, Marriott, and Hilton Hotels.

Leveraging cutting-edge technology, Elevate connects these premium accommodations with a vast network of tour operator partners globally, ensuring a seamless booking and travel experience for clients.

In addition to its flagship services, Elevate’s specialised sub-brands cater to diverse travel needs, including Elevate Wellbeing, Elevate Cruises, and CONNECT Business Events further enhancing its comprehensive offerings.

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The post Dusit International and Grand Land Inc break ground for ASAI Cebu Oslob appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Dusit International and Philippine real estate firm Grand Land Inc formally broke ground for the ASAI Cebu Oslob on 3rd February.

This new development marks the ASAI Hotels brand’s entry into the Philippines, as well as its first-ever beachfront resort. 

Located in Barangay Lagunde, Oslob, a premier coastal destination known for its pristine beaches, whale shark encounters, and rich biodiversity both on land and at sea, ASAI Cebu Oslob is planned to open in late 2026. 

The resort will bring ASAI Hotels’ thoughtfully curated, experience-driven hospitality to a stunning beachfront setting, catering to modern, millennial-minded travellers who seek meaningful local connections and adventure.

Siradej Donavanik, vice-president for global development and head of culture at ASAI Hotels for Dusit International, said: “Building on the success of our city-based ASAI Hotels in Thailand and Japan, ASAI Cebu Oslob is all about creating an immersive, social, and seamless resort experience in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful coastal destinations.”

Grand Land Inc president Ryan Bernard Go added: “Our collaboration with Dusit International reflects our vision to create world-class hospitality experiences that go beyond traditional hotel offerings. ASAI Cebu Oslob will offer international standards of service while celebrating the heart of the community, providing guests with truly local and meaningful experiences. With sustainability at its core, this project will not only elevate Oslob’s appeal as a premier beach destination but also support its long-term growth by fostering deep connections between travellers and the local way of life.”

The launch of ASAI Cebu Oslob marks another key milestone in Dusit’s ongoing expansion in the Philippines, where the company already operates five properties, including Dusit Thani Manila, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, Dusit Thani Residence Davao, dusitD2 Davao, and Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort. 

Additionally, this project strengthens Dusit’s partnership with Grand Land Inc., which is also developing a Dusit Princess branded property in Cebu’s North Reclamation Area.

Gracious tropical hospitality

Thoughtfully designed with 98 compact yet functional rooms, most featuring private balconies with stunning ocean or pool views, the resort will also include a signature communal space integrating ASAI Hotels’ Eat/Work/Play concept: an open, flexible area designed for dining, socialising, and remote work. 

Guests will find a stylish beach bar serving craft cocktails and local beers, an inviting pool overlooking the beach, and a locally inspired dining experience showcasing the finest Cebuano cuisine.

Beyond the whale shark encounters Oslob is best known for, guests can immerse themselves in the region’s lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant island-hopping experiences, including tours to Sumilon Island, Cebu’s first marine sanctuary. 

To enhance the guest experience whilst fully embracing ASAI Hotels’ “Live Local” philosophy, the resort’s community ambassadors will also be on hand to curate personalised itineraries that uncover hidden gems, from secret snorkelling spots to cultural heritage sites.

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The post Frankie Mordi joins culinary team at City Cruises appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

City Cruises announced that culinary veteran Frankie Mordi is its new head chef, and will regale passengers with his signature dishes aboard each trip.

Known for his work across some of London’s finest restaurants, Mordi is set to bring a fresh perspective and expertise in classic French haute cuisine, as well as modern European and global gastronomy to the brand’s dining offerings throughout 2025.  

Mordi has garnered praise throughout the culinary world for his talent, having honed his craft at establishments including Village East, The Pigalle Club, Le Boudin Blanc, and Hamiltons Restaurant, where he led the kitchens to critical acclaim. 

He has a wealth of experience creating both formal à-la-carte menus and more relaxed brasserie-style offerings and has been at the helm of large teams that cater to hundreds of diners.  

City Cruises commercial director Ian Hailes expressed his excitement at having Mordi join the team, saying; “As one of the only dining experiences on the River Thames, we want to ensure we are providing our customers with the best experience possible starting with the quality of our food dishes onboard. Frankie joining the team promises to give our food that elevated feel.” 

Changing the game when it comes to dining on board

At City Cruises, Mordi aims to elevate the on-board dining experience with menus that celebrate his own background using both global and personal influences. 

Guests aboard the line’s different trips, including the Lunch Cruise, Dinner Cruise, and Afternoon Tea Cruise, can look forward to meticulously crafted menus, creative dishes and a commitment to culinary excellence that promises to elevate City Cruises’ dining offerings to new heights. 

Fresh, seasonal ingredients will be the star of the show as Mordi celebrates the best of local produce and the UK’s culinary heritage while offering a contemporary twist.  

The chef’s skills will be showcased throughout the City Cruises fleet: the Lunch Cruise invites guests to savour a sumptuous two-course meal while enjoying the best of London’s riverside landmarks. 

The Dinner Cruise on the Thames consists of a four-course dining experience accompanied by live music and signature city views, as the event’s VIP package includes premium seating, champagne, canapés, and a cheese board to top it all off. 

The Afternoon Tea Cruise is complete with a selection of culinary delights including delicate sandwiches, sweet scones, and macarons. 

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The post Philippine Ports Authority optimistic of growth in cruise tourism for 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) expressed optimism that the country’s cruise tourism sector is bound to get stronger this year.

Port authorities made the statement following the arrival of two international cruise vessels at key tourist destinations towards the end of January 2025.

Since the beginning of the year, a total of seven cruise vessels have made port calls at various destinations across the country, further signaling the Philippines’ growing appeal in the global cruise industry.  

Who’s been sailing in?

The Maltese-flagged cruise ship MS Europa 2 arrived in the Visayan province of Bohol last 31st January as part of its Asian itinerary. 

The vessel, which sailed from Indonesia, spans 225 metres in length with a Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) of 42,830, and carried 372 crew members and 453 passengers, mostly German and European nationals.  

Guests aboard MS Europa 2 explored some of Bohol’s most famous attractions, including Baclayon Church, the Chocolate Hills, and the Tarsier Sanctuary. 

The ship later set sail for Kalanggaman Island, Leyte.  

Meanwhile, the international cruise ship MV Norwegian Sky returned to Manila South Harbour on 30th January, following its previous call on the 17th of the month for a turn-around operation. 

Arriving from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, the vessel carried nearly 2,000 passengers, most of whom were Filipinos. 

Before docking in Manila, it made a stop in Currimao, Ilocos Norte.  

To ensure a seamless experience for its guests, ten buses were provided for guided tours around Manila. 

The ship remained at Manila South Harbour until sunset, before departing for its next destination, Boracay Island.  

Steadily rising numbers

The PPA recorded a remarkable 61.9 percent increase in cruise passenger arrivals in 2024, a total of 142,574 passengers.

This marks the highest post-pandemic figure for the country, and the agency projects continued growth in 2025, expecting 185,000 cruise passengers, a 29.8 percent increase from the previous year.  

In order to support this surge in growth, the PPA is investing in new and improved port infrastructure. 

Notable projects include the construction of dedicated cruise terminals in Coron, Aklan, and Camiguin, as well as a cruise ship port in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro.

Last year, the PPA completed the Jubang Port Cruise Ship Terminal in Dapa, Surigao del Norte.  

PPA general manager Jay Santiago said: “The PPA cruise dedicated terminals serve as the gateway between the international culture and the Filipino brand of service and warm hospitality, making the Philippines recognized as the Best Port Call and World’s Best Cruise Destination in Asia. With the cruise passenger arrivals and vessel calls increasing over the years, the local communities, businesses, and the economy will definitely thrive with the booming cruise tourism.”

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The post BizAway named Best European NDC Client for 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Italian travel management scale-up BizAway was recognised as the only Italian company to receive the prestigious Best European NDC Client 2024 award, alongside 15 other global travel agencies at FITUR in Madrid, Spain.

This acknowledgment highlights BizAway’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the travel industry, confirming the company as a key player in the adoption of NDC technology.

This recognition comes from the results BizAway achieved and for its strong growth in IB NDC adoption, reaching 70 percent from 29 percent in 2024. 

BizAway chief executive Luca Carlucci said of the distinction: “We are proud to have received this important recognition. Our commitment in this area is always high, and our goal is to continue to grow by offering the best possible experience to our customers, in line with market evolution. While the NDC standard continues to present challenges in Europe, we believe that this, combined with our customer care and the experience of our professionals, fits perfectly into a comprehensive and efficient solution. This also represents a significant driver of innovation for the future.”

A pioneer keeps winning

BizAway was among the first Italian companies to adopt the NDC standard.

Since 2021, the platform has provided its customers with more competitive fares and an increasingly diverse range of options. 

Today, 18 percent of bookings are made directly on the BizAway platform, resulting in an estimated 10 percent reduction in ticket costs.

Today, the company has eight operational locations in Italy, Spain, Albania, and Dubai. 

Likewise, BizAway has grown from just 150 employees in 2022 to over 300  as of end-2024, while revenues grew 40-fold from 2020 to 2025. 

The company recently closed a €35 million round in September 2024 to finance its further development, following the €10 million Series A round in 2022.

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The post ChristchurchNZ reveals initial results of The Conference Legacy Project appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The first phase of ChristchurchNZ’s three-year research programme The Conference Legacy Project revealed the positive impacts of four international conferences held in Christchurch, New Zealand in 2024.

Kath Low, head of visitor economy for ChristchurchNZ ,presented the findings today, 11th February, at AIME 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. 

Internationally-recognised business events researcher, Carmel Foley, professor of business events at University of Technology, Sydney conducted the surveys and compiled the 2024 Interim Report with her colleague Dr Anja Hergesell from UTS Business School. 

Their research was supported by ChristchurchNZ and Tourism New Zealand.

Low said: “We have seen some excellent results so far from the Christchurch conference surveys. These four conferences proved to be particularly strong facilitators of knowledge sharing and collaboration, driving scientific advancement and industry innovation.”

An insightful presentation

Delegates gave high ratings for scientific advancement, early career capabilities, and personal attendee impacts: 89 percent of respondents agreed the conference facilitated knowledge-sharing and collaborations while 85 percent reported the conferences were valuable platforms for advancing their fields.

According to the report, early career delegates benefited greatly, enhancing their knowledge, networks and capabilities, which supports the future health of key industry sectors in New Zealand.

The beyond-economic benefits of business events include attracting global talent; a 20 percent of respondents reported that they are actively seeking to relocate to Christchurch to live, work and/or study.

Attracting global talent enriches the local workforce, drives economic growth, and fosters a culture of innovation that can propel industries forward.

Low added: “Ōtautahi Christchurch has a thriving business events ecosystem and we recognise that evidence-based information has the potential to catalyse innovation in priority sectors and contribute to solutions for environmental and social issues. The research is going to provide insights to generate funding, inform strategies and global marketing.

Respondents likewise gave high ratings for the inclusivity of the conferences, the strategies used to minimise environmental impacts, networking and the sharing of knowledge. They equipped delegates with new knowledge, ideas and techniques which drove workplace innovation, benefiting communities.

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