The post Over 80% of international convention attendees intend to return to New Zealand for a holiday: Delegate Survey appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has marked another year of significant achievements, with strong event demand as well as industry-leading sustainability and standards contributing to a major economic, environmental and social impact for the region.

Te Pae attracted over 80,000 visitors to attend more than 220 events in the 2024-year, with a strong pipeline of bookings for 2025, 2026 and beyond. The convention centre is also making a broad contribution to the city and wider region – from promoting local businesses to increasing awareness of New Zealand as a destination. According to the organisation’s delegate surveys, over 80% of international convention attendees intend to return to New Zealand for a holiday over the next five years.

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre General Manager Ross Steele says the organisation takes the investment the community has made in developing the purpose-built convention centre very seriously.

“We recognise how significant our role is, both as a showcase for the region and as driver of economic development,” says Ross Steele. “We also see it as our responsibility to provide an international-standard platform for local businesses and organisations – from agri-tech to space exploration, and health sciences to education – to reach a national and international audience.”

Steele says Te Pae Christchurch also understands the importance of taking on a leadership role in the international events industry, especially when it comes to key issues like sustainability.

“That approach informs every part of our decision making, enabling us to demonstrate real leadership on issues that are vitally important to conference organisers, decision-makers and delegates, as well as our community,” Mr Steele says.

It is understood that Te Pae Christchurch is currently the only convention centre in the world to be a certified Toitū Net Carbon Zero venue, recently renewed for the second year running. The venue also takes proactive measures to reduce their environmental impact, reflected in their achievements of Toitū Environmark Gold Certification, as well as Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Accreditation.

Meeting these standards reflects considerable environmental improvements across the operation. The convention centre saw a 12% overall reduction in carbon emissions in 2024, including a 20% decrease in power consumption and a 35% decrease in transport emissions. The organisation offset scope 1 and 2 emissions, as well as the measured scope 3 emissions – beyond what was required to achieve the standards. The focus on sustainability is also reflected throughout the organisation, with a broad range of initiatives designed to reduce waste. These include replacing plastic milk bottles with kegs – saving over 2,400 plastic bottles from going to waste, the use of an eWater system for natural sanitisation and dehydration of food waste to create soil food for community gardens.

Belinda Mathers, Chief Science and Advisory Officer at Toitū Envirocare says, “Te Pae Christchurch sets an impressive example of climate leadership in the hospitality industry to reduce their emissions and environmental impact. They’re not afraid to try new ways of operating, and it’s this innovative approach and willingness to share their journey that sets them apart. The efforts by organisations such as Te Pae Christchurch is critical for New Zealand to meet its climate targets and make a positive difference.”

The venue has also been focused on continuous standards improvement, with the achievement of Gold Certification in the AIPC Quality Standards programme in December 2024, putting Te Pae Christchurch among a select group of only 30 convention centres worldwide.

Steele says the organisation is looking forward to demonstrating what it has achieved to the wider industry when Te Pae Christchurch hosts the Professional Conference Organisers Association (PCOA) conference in December.

“From the quality of our award-winning building to the outstanding flavours, sights and sounds of our dynamic region, we’re looking forward to providing the industry with a taste of what our team and our wider community have worked so hard to achieve over the past three years.”

 

 

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The post American tour operator Sky Vacations reveals its Japan slate for 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

North American tour firm Sky Vacations announced a slate of authentic travel experiences in Japan for this year. 

These thoughtfully designed journeys invite travelers to connect deeply with the spirit of Japan through its people, traditions, and landscapes. 

From participating in cultural rituals to exploring hidden trails and bustling cityscapes, each programme creates a meaningful bond between travelers and the places they visit.

What’s on for 2025?

The highlights include the nine-day From Tokyo Towers to Kyoto Temples, offering opportunities to meet maiko (geisha apprentices) during a traditional tea ceremony, savor regional cuisine through hands-on sushi-making, and walk alongside friendly deer in Nara Park. 

Other immersive options include the Nakasendo and Kiso Valley hiking tour, where guests stay in family-run inns, and the Land of Temples, Gardens and Wabi Sabi, which showcases the beauty of Japan’s sacred sites and natural wonders.

Sky Vacations director Richard Krieger said: “Travel should be transformative, and Japan offers the perfect canvas for those moments of connection. Our programs are not just about seeing Japan; they’re about feeling it: its warmth, its history, its innovation. From intimate exchanges with locals to the quiet serenity of a tea garden, our itineraries are crafted to ensure guests return home with memories that resonate deeply.”

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The post Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay celebrates first anniversary with a grand opening appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay celebrated its first anniversary on Monday, 10th February, with its formal grand opening.

The event marked the hotel’s full provision of all guestrooms, oceanfront villas, spa, 24/7 fitness center, two restaurants, one beach-club, six meeting rooms and an outdoor events space, and other extensive facilities. 

With this milestone, the hotel solidifies its position as a top choice for travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality in the serene heart of Bintan’s Lagoi Bay.

General manager Andi Bagistav Oddek said: “We are thrilled to officially celebrate the Grand Opening of Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay. Over the past year, we have had the privilege of welcoming guests from around the world, and today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Our commitment remains the same: to offer the perfect blend of comfort and style while showcasing Bintan’s natural beauty and rich culture. With a dedicated team providing personalized and uncomplicated service, we aim to create lasting memories for every guest, whether they’re here for a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo adventure.”

A tropical gem

With direct beach access, Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay boasts a spacious tropical outdoor swimming pool and a vibrant beach club setting. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Singapore Strait, the hotel offers a seamless blend of ultimate comfort and tranquility. 

Its prime location provides guests with beautiful ocean views and peaceful surroundings, completed by thoughtfully designed amenities for a truly memorable stay.

The hotel likewise features 300 stylish guest rooms and eight ocean-front villas. 

Exceptional accommodations

With every room now available for stay, guests can choose among various accommodations, including the standard Deluxe Room, Executive Suites, Cabana Ocean Suites with spacious terraces, and the luxurious Oceanfront Villas.

The Oceanfront Villa, in particular, offers an exclusive retreat with breathtaking sea views, perfect for honeymooners or those seeking greater comfort and privacy. 

Designed for ultimate relaxation, it features elegantly curated interiors with premium furnishings, a private pool for a secluded swim, and exclusive amenities, including high quality bath essentials, in-room dining, and personalized services. 

Guests can wake up to the soothing sights and sounds of the ocean, creating a serene and romantic ambiance—ideal for couples celebrating special moments.

Exotic flavours and ample space for relaxation and celebration

Guests can savor authentic Indonesian flavours at Rempah Kitchen, the hotel’s signature restaurant, or enjoy light snacks and beverages at Ararinda Lounge. 

For a more vibrant experience, El Lagoi Beach Club offers a lively atmosphere with live DJ sets, fresh seafood, grilled favorites, and signature drinks, including Indonesian craft beer on tap as part of Four Points’ Best Brews program.

With 800 sqm of flexible function space including six meeting rooms and an outdoor events space, Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay offers venues for all types of corporate or social gatherings. 

For relaxation, guests can visit Sa’kai Spa, featuring specially curated Indonesian treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. 

Those looking to stay active can enjoy the 24-hour fitness center, while families with children can take advantage of the complimentary and fully-supervised Kids Club.

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The post Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort offers an enchanting stay in fascinating northern Thailand appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The luxury hotel in Chiang Rai of choice, Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort promises an enchanting stay in a picturesque location beside the Kok River, blending the rich Lanna history, culture and landscape of Thailand’s northernmost province with traditional Lanna architecture and welcoming Thai hospitality.

The resort is just a 10 minute drive from the airport and 15 minutes from the city centre.

Charmingly Refined Rooms And Suites

The 159 rooms and suites at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort invite guests in with a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere. The comfortable furnishings, bold decor and sophisticated colour palette create a sublime and at the same time complementary juxtaposition to the natural beauty of the hotel’s surroundings.

Each features luxury signature bedding, a separate shower and tub, enriching amenities and a private balcony or terrace affording views of the picturesque resort grounds and Chiang Rai countryside beyond. They come with a writing desk, TV with cable/satellite, complimentary wireless internet, USB outlets, in-room safe, minibar, coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, and iron and ironing board.

Guests can choose from Deluxe Garden View, Deluxe River View, Grande Deluxe Pool View, Grande Deluxe Garden Terrace and Grand Suite room types. Some connecting rooms are available, providing an ideal option for families or friends travelling together who need that extra bit of space and flexibility.

Located on the resort’s top floor is the majestic 1 Bedroom Suite, covering a palatial 132 sq m and which boasts stunning views of the Kok River from two spacious private balconies. An absolute joy to stay in, the suite features a separate living room, dining area and bedroom, two elegant marbled bathrooms with rainforest shower and separate large deep sunken bathtub island, and walk-in closet with private dressing room.

Tasty Local Cuisine, Classic Italian Fare… It’s All Here

From morning to evening, each day spent at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort is a chance for guests to immerse themselves in a culinary experience that’ll have their tastebuds tingling.

Favola

The resort’s signature restaurant, Favola, is a contemporary mid-century Italian-designed venue that serves classic Italian dishes in an enchanting riverside setting. Open from 12pm til 10pm, it’s a lovely atmosphere for all dining occasions whether families on holiday, a gathering of friends or couples on a romantic date.

Latest Recipe

Open throughout the day from 6.30am til 10pm, the all-day dining Latest Recipe signature restaurant offers a choice of international cuisine. There’s an interactive buffet breakfast and an extensive a la carte array of Thai and Lanna favourites for lunch and dinner.

Latitude 19

Latitude 19 lobby bar is a haven of modern Lanna, a stylish and inviting spot in which to relax and savour a selection of specialty coffees, artfully crafted cocktails, wines and some unique beverage creations. And some pastries and cakes if it’s a sweet touch that’s desired. It’s open from 8am til 12am.

Exceptional Experiences

Indulging in a signature treatment at Parvati Spa or joining an inspiring yoga session on the landscaped lawn are two wonderful ways to relish the serenity and privacy of Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort.

Parvati Spa transports guests into a world beyond the everyday, where they can recharge, relax and rejuvenate. Parvati translates to “daughter of the mountain” and the spa aims to bring guests back to nature. The skilled therapists use sophisticated blends of natural spa products and East-meets-West massage techniques to melt away stress and bestow upon guests inner peace and tranquillity. The spa menu includes body scrubs and wraps, massages, couples massages and facials, and there is a steam room and therapy bath.

The resort also has a three-tiered swimming pool set alongside a tranquil lake next to the Kok River, and a 24-hour fitness centre equipped with the latest cardiovascular equipment, elliptical machines, weight machines, free weights, exercise bikes and treadmills.

Discover Chiang Rai’s Many Wonders

For guests wanting to explore Chiang Rai beyond the resort, there are many enriching experiences and memorable opportunities to do just that.

The concierge has information on excursions and tours that showcase the rich Lanna culture, heritage and natural beauty of northern Thailand. Visits to the region’s hilltribe villages, ethical elephant encounters, mountain bike adventures along scenic jungle trails, historical and cultural sightseeing trips, and local shopping expeditions are just some of the options.

Resort guests can also use their room key card for complimentary access to Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park. This is thanks to the Le Meridien UNLOCK ART initiative, in which Le Meridien properties use collectible keys that feature commissioned art and allow free entry to select cultural centres nearby.

Memorable Meetings And Events – Indoor And Outdoor

With almost 21,000 sq ft of venue space, Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort offers both indoor and outdoor options for meetings and events in Chiang Rai. Suitable for events of up to 1,000 people, Utopia is among the largest function spaces in northern Thailand and boasts a stylish blend of hilltribe-inspired decor, fibre-optic lighting, a 23 ft ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows.

For smaller events of up to 300 people, Utopia 2 also boasts floor-to-ceiling windows for views across the treetops. Chamcha Room is ideal for meetings and gatherings of up to 50 people, while the ceremonial Sala, pool deck, riverside terrace and manicured lawn are wonderful outdoor locations. The perfect wedding can also be held at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, whether it’s a traditional Lanna ceremony, Thai-inspired celebration or a completely unique theme.

Book your stay at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort and see why this luxury hotel in Chiang Rai has won over 40 international awards and accolades since its 2008 opening. Visit the resort’s website or call +66 53-603333.

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The post 675 exhibitors, 640 buyers and 4500 + attendees to make AIME 2025 a success appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) opened on Monday, 10^th February. Over three days AIME will host more than 640 buyers from around the world, welcome more than 4500 attendees and 675 exhibitors from various business events sectors from around Asia Pacific and the world.

20,000 + meetings taking place across AIME 2025

Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), there will be more than 200 new exhibitors attending AIME 2025, along with two new international pavilions, Singapore and Thailand, joining 30 countries and territories represented at the event.

There will be 170 hosted international buyers from New Zealand, Europe, UK, South-East Asia, North Asia, India, South America, USA, and Canada and more than 470 domestic buyers – with 3 in 4 hosted buyers attending AIME for the first time.

This builds on the exceptional growth of 2024 – where more than $330 million of business was forecast to be traded between exhibitors and buyers in the 12 months. The event is owned by Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and managed by Talk2 Media & Events, and this will be the fourth show delivered by AIME Event Director Silke Calder and her team.

With more than 20,000 meetings taking place across AIME – including more than 15,000 meetings pre-scheduled between highly vetted buyers and matched exhibitors – the expanded showfloor will be the place where the business events world meets in Asia Pacific to do business.

Largest contingent from New Zealand to ever attend AIME

Speaking at the press conference at AIME 2025 Matt Pearce, CEO Talk2 Media & Events announced that AIME 2025 will be the largest show the team has produced, building upon AIME 2024 that was the largest AIME in a decade. There will be 100 more exhibitors than last year as well as the largest contingent from New Zealand to ever attend AIME.

Pearce also announced the Knowledge Program has experienced five-fold growth over the past years – from a program with just a few hundred participants pre-COVID to more than 1500 people today.

The Positive Impact of Business Events Report

Julia Swanson, CEO, Melbourne Convention Bureau launched Melbourne Convention Bureau’s ‘The Positive Impact of Business Events Report’, which highlights the immense value that business events deliver to Victoria. The report features case studies from business events in Melbourne over the past decade, demonstrating the many ways in which these events have contributed to the Victorian economy as well as having far reaching impacts in terms of technological advancements, community involvement and lasting legacies of change.

AIME’s Knowledge Program is the launchpad for the global events industry to come together for learning and development. More than 1500 people are registered to attend Knowledge Program sessions held today (Monday 10 February) at Plenary at MCEC.

Growing Infrastructure

Elaborating on increasing connectivity, Pip Harrison, Managing Director Tourism Australia added: “December 2024 was the busiest aviation month on record for Melbourne, with 1.1 million people. Coming to a Melbourne Airport, Melbourne airports also announced plans to expand its international terminal, increasing capacity and allowing routes to service the destination. We were also pleased to welcome China Eastern, who began services for the first time from Nanjing to Melbourne and China Southern, who commenced a direct service between Beijing and Melbourne. Delta Airlines will also be flying direct to Melbourne later this year.”

Talking about the growth in the infrastructure in terms of number of rooms she said: “For new hotel openings, there’s now more than 26000 rooms in the city centre in Melbourne. And that’s bigger than any other city in Australia. And in the next two years, we’ll welcome another 2000 room, so another 9% capacity, so fantastic offerings right across the city. And this includes the 01 Hotel Melbourne in the dockland area just opposite MCEC, a luxury sustainable hotel.”

Extended opening hours 

The AIME trade expo takes place on Tue 11 and Wed 12 Feb. In 2025 AIME will have extended opening hours to allow hosted buyers and visitors more time to meet with exhibitors. AIME opens at 8.30am on both days and runs until 6pm on 11 Feb and closes at 5pm on 12 Feb.

 

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The post Revolutionizing aviation: Emirates implements Airbus Skywise tech appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Emirates is advancing its fleet operations by implementing Airbus’s Skywise Fleet Performance+ (S.FP+) predictive maintenance system and Core X3 analytics platform. The adoption of these state-of-the-art technologies aims to optimize aircraft reliability and improve operational efficiency across the airline’s Airbus A380 and A350 fleet.

The Skywise Fleet Performance+ system allows Emirates Engineering teams to monitor real-time aircraft performance, detect potential issues mid-flight, and execute proactive maintenance actions during turnarounds, reducing unscheduled downtime.

Ahmed Safa, Head of Emirates Engineering, emphasized: “Our focus on operational reliability and customer satisfaction drives us to integrate cutting-edge technology. Skywise Fleet Performance+ will transform our maintenance strategies into precision-led processes.”

Airbus VP for Customer Services Africa and the Middle East, Laurent Negre, added: “We are excited to collaborate with Emirates in implementing Skywise Fleet Performance+, enhancing fleet efficiency and ensuring top-tier passenger experiences.”

Emirates continues to innovate in aircraft maintenance, with ongoing projects including drone-assisted inspections and the exploration of virtual and augmented reality applications for engineering tasks.

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The post Etihad goes daily to Atlanta, strengthening UAE-US travel ties appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Etihad Airways is increasing the frequency of its newly launched Atlanta route, moving from four flights a week to daily operations starting November 1. This adjustment comes in response to high demand since the route’s initial launch announcement.

The direct connection between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) is the only non-stop link between the UAE and Atlanta, providing travelers with greater flexibility and convenience. The route will be operated using the Airbus A350-1000, featuring 44 Business Class seats and 327 Economy seats, promising a premium in-flight experience.

Jurriaan Stelder, Etihad’s SVP of Network and Alliances, commented: “The strong response to our Atlanta route has encouraged us to expand it to a daily service, allowing seamless connections to major South Asian cities and enhancing travel options for business and leisure passengers.”

Additionally, passengers traveling from Abu Dhabi benefit from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility, enabling them to complete immigration formalities before departure, streamlining their arrival in the U.S.

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The post Dubai breaks tourism records with 18.72 million visitors in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Dubai has once again set a new tourism benchmark, welcoming 18.72 million international visitors in 2024, a 9% year-over-year increase that surpasses the city’s previous record of 17.15 million in 2023, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attributed this success to Dubai’s strategic tourism initiatives, highlighting the city’s commitment to innovation, infrastructure development, and global outreach.

“Dubai’s exceptional tourism performance is a result of visionary leadership and strong public-private sector collaboration. We remain dedicated to elevating the city’s global standing as a top destination for business and leisure,” he noted.

Key contributing factors include increased international partnerships, high-profile events, and a growing hospitality sector, with Dubai’s hotel inventory expanding to 154,016 rooms across 832 establishments.

Looking ahead, major infrastructure developments such as the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and the Dubai Metro’s Blue Line extension will further enhance the city’s global connectivity and tourism appeal.

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