The post A&K Travel Group appoints Debra Fox as Managing Director for UK and APAC appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) announces the appointment of Debra Fox as Managing Director for AKTG, UK and APAC, effective April 2025. This strategic move aligns with AKTG’s ongoing global expansion and commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences in key markets.

Fox, who has served as Managing Director for AKTG’s APAC region from Melbourne since 2022, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to her expanded role. Her leadership was instrumental in navigating the challenges of the post-pandemic travel industry and strengthening AKTG’s presence in the APAC market.

AKTG CEO Cristina Levis commented on the appointment “Debra’s deep understanding of both the UK and APAC markets, coupled with her exceptional leadership skills, makes her the ideal candidate to drive our growth and expansion strategies in these key regions”.

Fox’s move to the UK marks a return for the seasoned travel professional, who previously held leadership positions with a footprint in the UK. Her extensive knowledge of the travel landscape and trade, combined with her recent experience in the dynamic APAC market, will be invaluable in fostering collaboration and innovation across both regions.

“I am honoured to take on this expanded role and excited to lead the talented teams in both the UK and APAC”, said Fox. “I look forward to leveraging my experience and insights to further strengthen AKTG’s position as a global leader in luxury travel.”

 

 

 

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The post Surge in China inbound and outbound travel spending for 2025 Chinese New Year: Alipay appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

During the 2025 Chinese New Year, Alipay recorded a significant increase in China’s outbound and inbound travel spending.

Outbound travel: Visa-free and long-haul travel destinations saw a surge in Alipay spending while Chinese tourists sought local experiences.

Through the Alipay+ cross-border mobile payment and digitalization solutions, Chinese travellers, along with users of the other 34 e-wallets in Asia and Europe, can use their own home payment app across 66 markets without the need to exchange currency or carry cash.

Global Alipay+ merchants have joined Alipay in an exclusive CNY campaign to lure travellers during the country’s longest national holiday. From January 28th to 30th, the number of transactions made by Alipay users in overseas destinations increased by 30% compared to the same period last year.

Friendlier visa policies in major destinations bring substantive impact. In Singapore, total spending of Alipay rose by 56% year-on-year, making the Garden City the most popular destination. Japan also emerged as a favored spot, with a 40% increase in Alipay spending, driven by eased visa policies and a weakened yen. Malaysia, Hong Kong SAR, and South Korea also rank among the top five destinations.

Long-haul travel rebounded. Alipay users made 30% more transactions in Europe over CNY 2024. In addition to traditionally popular destinations like the UK, France, and Italy, emerging destinations such as Switzerland, Austria, and Turkey also saw a notable rise in number of transactions.

Thanks to Alipay+’s diverse global merchant network, Chinese tourists are increasingly seeking more personalized and local experience. Beyond shopping and entertainment, Alipay spending in cosmetic surgery rose by 449% year-on-year. Food spending via Alipay also shows a varied pattern, with spending on meals, snacks, and desserts increasing by 33%, 36%, and 54%, respectively. Greater interest in immersive local travel trends also drives local transportation usage. Total Alipay spending on overseas bus, subway and ride-hailing trips grew by 139% year-on-year.

Inbound travel: Visa-Free policies and new payment options drew international travellers to China to experience CNY traditions

With China’s recent visa-free policy updates, Alipay has launched new campaigns to double the number of Chinese merchants accepting payments with international card-enabled Alipay accounts and a total of 13 overseas e-wallets.

Through Alipay’s expanded partnerships with Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover®, Diners Club International®, and UnionPay International, travellers can link their international credit or debit card to their Alipay e-wallet for seamless payments and diverse digital services such as ride-hailing, hotel bookings, and purchasing plane and train tickets in China.

Between January 28th and February 1st, travellers spent 150% more using Alipay at merchants across the Chinese mainland over 2024. Spending from visa-free origins rose by 200% year-on-year.

Since September 2023, the Alipay+ solutions have supported 13 leading payment apps in Asia to serve their roaming users across Alipay’s 80-million-strong merchant network in China. During the first four days of the CNY holiday, the number of overseas e-wallet users making payments in China increased by 94% year-on-year. AlipayHK users topped the list, followed by Malaysia’s Touch ’n Go e-Wallet, Macao SAR’s MPay, Kazakhstan’s Kaspi.kz, and Thailand’s TrueMoney.

 

China native: New digital traditions drive consumer enthusiasm

 

In China, Alipay’s flagship Fortune Cards Campaign has become a new tradition for celebrating the Chinese New Year. Users collect digital fortune cards for good wishes and potential monetary rewards. With 28 sets of fortune cards—from Marvel heroes to Pop Mart stars—this year’s campaign has attracted 600 million participants. Utilizing technologies such as AR, AI, and Alipay Tap!, it continues to help merchants of all sizes—from street vendors to major brands—enhance consumer interactions. Now in its tenth year, the campaign has cumulatively reached over one billion users.

 

 

 

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The post Float parade dazzles along with fireworks for the ‘Year of the Snake’ in Macao appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As one of the major Chinese New Year festivities, the “Parade for Celebration of the Year of the Snake”was grandly unveiled at Sai Van Lake Square on the 3rd day of Chinese New Year, followed by the first dazzling show of the Chinese New Year Fireworks Displays. Many local and visiting spectators enjoyed the extravaganzas, immersed in the festive air that permeated the square.

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai; Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region, Huang Liuquan; Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Macao Special Administrative Region, Liu Xianfa; Secretary for Economy and Finance, Anton Tai Kin Ip; Director of Asia Tourism Exchange Center of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Zhang Dong; Director of Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes; Chairman of Administration Committee on Municipal Affairs of Municipal Affairs Bureau, Chao Wai Ieng; Director of Economic and Technological Development Bureau, Yau Yun Wah; President of Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute, Vincent U; President of Cultural Affairs Bureau, Leong Wai Man; Director of Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Li Ziwei, and Acting Vice President of Sports Bureau, Lei Si Leng, officiated the opening ceremony together with other guests.

Guided by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the “Parade for Celebration of the Year of the Snake” (the “Parade”) is organized by MGTO and co-organized by Asia Tourism Exchange Center, Municipal Affairs Bureau, Economic and Technological Development Bureau, Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute, Cultural Affairs Bureau, Sports Bureauas well as Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. The Parade, together with the 2025 Chinese New Year Activities and the Chinese New Year Fireworks Displays, are once again listed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism as part of the “Happy Chinese New Year” celebrations this year, which manifests the strengths and appeal of Macao’s “tourism + events”.

Secretary for Economy and Finance, Anton Tai Kin Ip, remarked that thanks to the concerted effort of different entities and sectors, the Parade for Celebration of Chinese New Year has grown into a prestigious brand of festive event in Macao. This year, the Parade is themed as the golden Snake that dazzles for the joyful Spring Festival. It conveys blessings in the Year of the Snake for Macao to walk into a bright future towards economic prosperity as the pearl on the palm of the Motherland. The “Happy Chinese New Year” celebrations greatly manifests the strengths and appeal of Macao’s “tourism + events”. He hopes that Macao residents and visitors can experience a joyful festival teeming with the harmonious symphony of diverse cultures Macao has nurtured.

Culture Cities of East Asia 2025 lift curtain upon the Parade with great performances

An opening ceremony lifted the curtain upon the Parade at 8 p.m. The artistic troupes from the four Culture Cities of East Asia 2025, namely Macao SAR (China), Huzhou of Zhejiang (China), Kamakura (Japan) and Anseong (Korea) took the lead to present an artistic and cultural symphony of East Asia. Local singers Germano Guilherme, Cátia de Jesus Pinto and Ariel Mendonça as well as local band FIDA captivated the audience and sparked lively ambience.

Celebrity hosts from Hong Kong and Macao, Jarvis Chow, Germano Guilherme and Sabrina Mendes emceed the event. Artists Owen Cheung, Karl Ting and Chantel Yiu delivered great singing performances. 17 floatsthen came into the limelight, alongside about 1,300 performers from near and far. Making a finale debut, MGTO’s float came onto the center stage for a 360o display for the first time. Audience could behold the spectacular float from all angles. Around the float, the enchanting performances of Hong Kong singer Jeffrey Ngai and girl group Beanies ignited a new pinnacle of great vibes. The dazzling floats were marching forward with the artistic troupes who presented wonderful performances, keenly welcomed by residents and visitors along the route.

The 17 floats will enliven the northern district at 8 p.m. on the 11th day (8 February) of Chinese New Year, setting off from Estrada Marginal da Ilha Verde. A cultural and artistic show will start at Iao Hon Market Garden at 8:15 p.m. Hong Kong artists Amy Fan and Alex Kwong, Macao singers Sean Pang and Kane Ao Ieong will present impressive performances in celebration of Chinese New Year.

Fireworks ignite festive happiness 

Following the stage performance, the first show of Chinese New Year Fireworks Displays lit up the sky for 15 minutes, conveying the best wishes for Macao’s economic prosperity as well as wealth, good health and happiness for residents. The second and third fireworks shows will take place above the sea overlooked by Macau Tower at 9 p.m. on the 7th day (4 February, “Renri”) of Chinese New Year and Chinese Lantern Festival (12 February) respectively, to create more sparkling memories.

Splendid floats on two showcases for free admission 

There are a total of 17 floats, including the ones designed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and MGTO, as well as those presented by Municipal Affairs Bureau, Economic and Technological Development Bureau, Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute, Cultural Affairs Bureau, Sports Bureau,Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Wynn Macau, Limited, Sands China Ltd., SJM Resorts, S.A., Melco Resorts & Entertainment, MGM, Galaxy Entertainment Group, Prudential Hong Kong Limited (Macau Branch), Chimelong Group and Multinational (Holdings) Group.

The floats will be on display at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf from tomorrow (1 February) to 7 February, and at Tap Seac Square from 9 to 16 February. Illuminations of the floats will light up from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Residents and visitors are welcome to enjoy the splendor of the floats.

 

 

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The post Odin Hills in Niseko unveils two iconic designs appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Odin Hills, the premier luxury residential destination in Niseko renowned for architectural excellence and harmony with nature, has unveiled two new villa designs adding to its growing residential collection. Nestled amidst breathtaking views of Mount Yotei and the serene Hokkaido landscape, this development masterfully blends modern design with traditional Japanese aesthetics, offering a living environment that exudes elegance and tranquility.

Building upon Odin Hills’ ethos of alpine design, exceptional craftsmanship and timeless sophistication, the latest villa concepts seamlessly blend contemporary style with modern functionality. Designed to meet the refined tastes and expectations of modern families, the new residences provide attractive all-inclusive land + house packages and an elevated lifestyle in one of Japan’s most coveted alpine retreats.

Multigenerational Luxury Living in the Heart of Hokkaido

The J-Series epitomises Alpine sophistication and flexibility with a four to five-bedroom luxury chalet facing the stunning view of Mount Yotei to the front, and serene forests, and Hanazono ski pistes, at the back. The design brief was to focus on comfort and functionality while embracing the natural beauty of Hokkaido, and the all-ensuite arrangement makes it a perfect house for multiple generations to spend quality family time together while preserving a high level of personal privacy.

The first floor is dedicated to indulgent comfort, featuring spacious king-size bedrooms, each accompanied by a luxurious ensuite bathroom for ultimate comfort and privacy. The tranquil onsen-inspired spa destination with an integrated sauna offers the ultimate retreat for wellness and wellbeing. Ascending to the upper level, expansive open-plan living spaces are designed to foster family connection and effortless entertaining. An additional fifth bedroom or entertainment room can be customised to accommodate diverse lifestyles and preferences. Enhancing the outdoor experience, a bespoke fire pit and BBQ deck in the private back garden provide an idyllic setting to savor Niseko’s pristine forest vistas in unmatched serenity.

Contemporary Elegance Refined

The four-bedroom K-Series spans two levels and are designed to offer an elevated living experience at a more accessible price-point for this level of luxury. With expansive windows and soaring ceilings, they foster a sense of boundless space, perfectly framing the breathtaking, iconic views of Mount Yotei. The state-of-the-art kitchen, intelligent design solutions, and impeccable finishes elevate the living experience, offering a seamless blend of functionality and elegance that caters to the most discerning residents.

To enhance the living experience, residents can indulge in various bespoke features tailored to their unique lifestyle. A mezzanine bedroom offers an intimate retreat, providing additional space and enhanced privacy. For those who cherish outdoor leisure, an inviting fire pit and BBQ deck create a perfect setting for relaxed gatherings, allowing residents to immerse themselves in Niseko’s tranquil natural beauty. Every aspect of the K-Series is thoughtfully designed to reflect a commitment to luxurious living, where exceptional functionality and refined elegance coexist for an unparalleled environment of comfort and sophistication.

Harmonious Fusion of Mindful Luxury and Wellness

The J-Series and K-Series reflect Odin Hills’ core values, integrating authentic Japanese design inspiration, such as onsen-style spa rooms and traditional Genkan entryways into a truly international and contemporary lifestyle proposition. These private family sanctuaries combining warm and natural materials with thoughtful and practical layouts, provide the perfect blend of comfort, function and wellbeing.

As part of the Odin Hills community, residents gain exclusive access to the iconic Odin Hills Clubhouse, a year-round sanctuary offering an array of seasonal activities both within and beyond the compound. The Clubhouse features an entire floor dedicated to wellness, featuring authentic communal and private Japanese onsen, a cold plunge, a swimming pool with one of the best views in Niseko, a world-class gym, multi-purpose space, and an all-day dining lounge and bar for social connection and relaxation around an open fire.

Odin Hills also provides seamless and comprehensive management services, estate upkeep, and personalised concierge services for the owners, completing the all-inclusive and hassle-free spirit of the collection. The villas are now available for purchase and the owners who finalise their design preferences by March 2025 can expect to see their bespoke homes completed by early 2026. This timeline ensures ample time for customization, allowing each villa to be tailored to the owner’s exact specifications for an unparalleled living experience in Niseko.

 

 

 

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The post IATA releases updated 2025 manuals reflecting latest industry standards  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released the 2025  edition of key industry manuals for cargo and ground handling operations, which incorporate over 350  changes and revisions needed to align with evolving industry standards and state and operator  variations. 

“Global standards have made flying safe and reliable. For eight decades IATA’s member airlines have worked with the industry value chain, including regulators, on standard setting and best practices which  are critical to daily operations. This year’s IATA manual offering includes over 350 changes, many of which reflect the constantly modernizing technology, regulations and evolving customer needs, along  with the industry’s priorities of digitalization and sustainability,” said Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice  President of Commercial Products and Services.

Highlights include:

• Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) 

o Ten additional new dangerous goods, such as sodium-ion batteries and fire suppressant  dispersing devices.

• Three new entries for battery powered vehicles, depending on the type of battery  providing the power.
• Additional safety mitigation is being introduced with the “State of Charge” at which  batteries are shipped.

Battery Shipping Regulations (BSR) 

• Previously called the lithium battery shipping regulations, this manual has been expanded  to include other battery types, such as:
• Sodium-ion batteries with organic electrolyte,
• Wet, spillable batteries, filled with acid or alkali,
• Non-spillable and other lightly regulated batteries.

Live Animals Regulations (LAR) 

• CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora)  and IUCN (The International Union for Conservation of Nature) species database references included.
• Updated specifications for containers used for animal transport.

Airport Handling Manual (AHM) 

• Contactless travel, including digitalized travel documentation, updates included. o Unruly Passengers and Travel Document Checks policy changes incorporated.
• 1 IATA Releases Updated 2025 Manuals Reflecting Latest Industry Standards
• IEnvA (IATA Environmental Assessment) reference included for environmental  management.
• IATA Training Passport (ground handling skill recognition across employers) updates.

Compassionate Transportation Manual (CTM) 

• New best practices, up-to-date guidance and checklist for the repatriation of human and  animal (pet) remains by air.
• References added for IATA Cargo iQ and ONE Record.

Supplementing the information contained in the manuals, IATA’s ONE Source platform offers free  industry access to validate aviation capabilities and infrastructure—including temperature-controlled  rooms and special handling facilities—further improving the handling of special cargo shipments.

Key stakeholders in the aviation value chain—including airlines, airports, ground service providers,  freight forwarders, shippers, and manufacturers—rely on IATA standards to promote safe, sustainable  and efficient operations. In addition to IATA’s standard-setting work, the IATA manuals reflect the  Standards and Recommended Practices agreed by governments through the International Civil Aviation  Organization (ICAO) and other recognized standard-setting bodies.

IATA has also released reports providing a comprehensive overview of developments and critical issues  related to Dangerous Goods, Special Cargo, Cargo Operations, and Ground Operations. These serve as  a foundation for driving operational change and improvement.

 

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The post Sawadee Reizen is now part of Intrepid Travel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Australia’s Intrepid Travel acquired Sawadee Reizen, The Netherlands’ leading tour operator, from Travelopia on Friday, 31st January.

Sawadee is one of the largest experiential tour operators in the Netherlands, delivering more than 250 trips across 100 countries through its global team of 180 people.

This makes this particular milestone deal the largest in Intrepid Travel’s history and marks its debut into the European market, amplifying its drive to bring its brand of responsible small group travel to the region.

Intrepid Travel’s latest acquisition is set to add $100 million in revenue, as well as up to 20,000 customers more per year. 

Likewise, the acquisition will boost Intrepid’s EBITDA by an extra $5 million. 

Both Intrepid and Sawadee achieved record financial results in 2024 and share a strong cultural alignment in their commitment to customers and their teams. 

Also, Sawadee has a 4.5-star rating on TrustPilot, while Intrepid has a world-leading NPS of 81.5. 

Working together

Intrepid chief executive James Thornton said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Sawadee team to Intrepid after more than a decade working successfully together.Intrepid aims to be the world’s largest vertically integrated experiential travel company and bringing our two brands together is a major step towards that. We also both believe that travel can be a force for good in the world.”

Travelopia chief executive Andy Duncan likewise expressed his optimism that this acquisition will lead to even better growth for all parties concerned.

Duncan said: “Sawadee is passionate about delivering exceptional experiences for its customers, expanding horizons and connecting communities. We wish the team success and continued growth under Intrepid ownership.”

Sawadee’s managing director Berend Simons also remarked: “Intrepid is a leading global travel business, with exceptionally strong values. We’re excited about the next part of the Sawadee journey and growing together. Our leading position in the Dutch market, coupled with Intrepid’s global expertise, means we will continue to deliver amazing trips for our customers and create impact for the communities we visit.”

Thornton added that Sawadee will work towards becoming B Corp certified, building further on its sustainability credentials, which includes it having the highest level of Travelife certification since 2014. 

Intrepid has been a B Corp since 2018, achieving a score of 100+, meaning its social and environmental credentials are among the best in the world. 

Both Intrepid Travel and Sawadee are signatories of Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency, as well as numerous other sustainability initiatives.

Moving forward

Under the deal, Sawadee will continue to be led by Simons, who will report to Zina Bencheikh, Intrepid Travel managing director for EMEA. 

Sawadee will remain based in Amsterdam and will continue to operate with its existing name and brand, which is well-recognised in the Netherlands.

It should be noted that this latest acquisition supports Intrepid’s ambitious 2030 Strategy, which aims to grow to more than $1 billion over the next five years. 

The acquisition also makes the Netherlands Intrepid’s fourth largest source market after Australia, the US, and the UK.

Prior to the acquisition, Intrepid and Sawadee have already enjoyed a successful working partnership since 2011. 

Intrepid DMC operates a number of Sawadee’s trips to deliver high-quality, locally focused, immersive travel experiences, with a commitment to responsible travel. 

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The post Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam slated to become Thai capital’s new events hub appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam officially opened the doors to its newly-enhanced meeting spaces, all of which are designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern business and social gatherings.

Strategically located in Bangkok’s bustling Pratunam district, the new meeting spaces offer flexible layouts, state-of-the-art technology, and hybrid meeting capabilities to ensure every event is both seamless and memorable.

Hotel general manager Cindy Delhomel said of their new event spaces: “The introduction of our newly designed meeting spaces at Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam marks an exciting step forward in our commitment to delivering exceptional event experiences in the heart of Bangkok. With versatile venues, state-of-the-art technology, and a dedicated team to ensure every detail is perfect, we are confident that our enhanced offerings will meet the diverse needs of both business and social event organisers. Whether hosting a corporate meeting, a private dinner, or a grand celebration, Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam provides a modern, inspiring environment where connections are made, and moments are created.”

Spaces and services for any sort of function

The newly designed venues can accommodate a variety of event formats, from small boardroom discussions and workshops to grand banquets and conferences.

Each space offers state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, including high-definition LED screens, advanced laser projectors, interactive presentation systems, and hybrid meeting capabilities that seamlessly connect in-person and virtual participants.

Also, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and ample on-site parking ensure a convenient experience for all attendees.

Plus, to ensure seamless event execution, the hotel’s team of professional event planners is available to support organisers at every step, from customising venue layouts and coordinating technical support to creating bespoke catering solutions.

Exceptional and expansive

The meeting spaces range from the intimate Amber Room at 34 square metres, ideal for small discussions, to the expansive Sapphire Suite at 285 square metres, that can accommodate up to 300 guests in a theatre-style setting.

The versatile Topaz Suite, at 90 square metres, is perfect for mid-sized workshops, seminars, or private dinners.

All these spaces reflect Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam’s dedication to creating memorable experiences which extends beyond meetings.

The hotel also provides tailored solutions for private celebrations, including weddings and gala dinners.

Whether hosting an intimate rooftop event with stunning city views or a grand reception in the spacious Sapphire Suite, each occasion is crafted to perfection with personalised service and meticulous attention to detail.

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The post Iloilo City significantly increases festival budget for 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Iloilo in the Central Philippines recently raised its budget for various festivals in 2025 to around US$891,000, significantly higher than the US $689,000 from last year.

Funds for such events are coursed through the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc (IFFI).

In a press conference held on Monday, 3rd February, city mayor Jerry Treñas explained that the need for higher allocation has been driven by the growing scale of festivals held in the city.

The widely-popular Dinagyang Festival held every fourth weekend of January, in particular, has grown considerably since the city reopened for tourism following the pandemic.

Treñas  said: “For the seven days we celebrated Dinagyang, More Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) got an additional four megawatts of power demand every day due to an increased number of events related to the festival.”

The mayor also lauded the IFFI during the conference for its role in organizing the recent five-day Chinese New Year celebration, which concluded on Saturday, 1st February.

Aside from Dinagyang, Iloilo is also home to the Paraw Regatta Festival in March, the Festival of Food in April, the Bike Festival in July, and the Art Festival in October.

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The post Fliggy presents its travel insights for the Lunar New Year / Spring Festival appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With the Lunar New Year celebrations in full-swing, Alibaba Group’s online travel platform Fliggy released its key insights regarding seasonal travel for this year among the Chinese.

Cultural tourism, in particular came to the fore as UNESCO recently recognised this year’s Lunar New Year / Spring Festival celebrations among its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Indeed, experiential tourism focussed on cultural experiences rose by around 40 percent compared to last year, with travellers seeking trips to heritage sites or immersive activities.

There was also a 36 percent increase in terms of tickets purchased for folk performances, half of which were booked by families or friend groups.

Speaking of family, most Chinese travellers opted for outings that celebrate cultural heritage. Among the most popular seasonal activities were attendance at lantern festivals and temple fairs, donning traditional attire, rice cake making, and firework displays. 

Longer leaves = more holiday time

Fliggy also noted that many travellers extended their holiday trips because of more favourable leave policies implemented by companies.

Encouraged by leave policies that allow as many as an extra two days off for an 11-day holiday, travelers chose to go on longer trips. 

This subsequently led to a ten percent increase in terms of per capita spending compared to last year, and the average length of stay increased by around five percent.

Also, highway toll exemptions paved the way for a significant increase in the number of self-driving trips, chartered tours, and customized tours during the holiday.

Where people went on their holiday

Top travel spots for the Lunar New Year include Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Chongqing, Xi’an, Nanjing, and Wuhan. 

Likewise, cities like Jingdezhen, Zhaoqing, Ili, Altay, Kaifeng, Huangshan, Ulanqab, Meizhou, Ganzhou, and Zunyi are experiencing rapid visitor growth.

For those heading overseas, Hong Kong (SAR), Macau (SAR), East Asia, and Southeast Asia were among the favoured destinations, followed by the United States, Australia, and France. 

Interestingly, there was a notable increase in those flying off to Hungary, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Iceland, and Austria.

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