The post New Direct Flights to Bali: TransNusa Connects Perth to Denpasar appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

West Aussies have reason to celebrate as they welcome an exciting new travel option to their favourite holiday destination. TransNusa, the only Premium Service Airline in Asia Pacific, is set to launch direct flights between Denpasar and Perth starting 20 March 2025.

A Testament to Perth’s Leisure Market

Kate Holsgrove, Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer at Perth Airport, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming TransNusa to Perth, highlighting the significance of the leisure market. “The introduction of TransNusa to Perth will provide a new option for our passengers to visit the popular holiday destination of Bali in 2025. The Airbus A320 service will provide more than 127,000 seats into this popular market per year,” said Holsgrove. She added that with a flight time of just over 3 ½ hours, it’s easy to see why Perth residents have a love affair with Bali and why they return regularly.

Expanding Travel Choices

TransNusa Group CEO, Datuk Bernard Francis, introduced the new international route to provide passengers with additional travel choices. He noted that the Bali-Perth international route is a golden route, with the highest number of tourists in Bali almost every year coming from Perth. The demand for this route is significant, and the airline aims to meet this demand with its Airbus A320, which offers a comfortable 174-seat configuration with about 30 inches of legroom.

“Our passengers will enjoy check-in baggage of between 15kgs to 30kgs, depending on the product purchased, over and above the 7kgs limit offered as a hand carry,” Francis explained. The highest package, FLEXI-PRO, includes additional services such as 30kgs of free baggage, free seat selection, free food and drinks, and priority check-in and boarding.

Flight Schedule and Future Plans

Initially, TransNusa will operate three scheduled flights a week on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Starting from 12 April 2025, the frequency will increase to four times a week with an additional flight on Tuesday. By 1 June 2025, the airline plans to operate daily flights to accommodate growing demand.

Following the inaugural flight, TransNusa’s service will arrive at Perth Airport’s Terminal 1 International at 12:50pm and depart at 1:35pm.

Book Your Tickets

Passengers can book their TransNusa flight tickets at transnusa.co.id or through any secure online travel agent.

With the introduction of TransNusa’s direct flights, Perth residents now have a fantastic new option to visit Bali, making travel to this beloved holiday spot more convenient and enjoyable. Get ready to explore Bali in comfort and style with TransNusa!

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The post W Koh Samui treats guests to a Fusion of Iron appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Lovers of Japanese cuisine are in for a feast as W Koh Samui presents prizewinning culinary masters at its Fusion of Iron this February.

Scheduled for Sunday, 2nd February, the event is a four-hands dinner presided over by Iron Chef champion Seiya Masahara and Takayasu Ono, resident Japanese chef at W Koh Samui’s NAMU.

The dinner begins at 6:00pm.

A delectable fusion

Meticulously crafted with precision and passion, Fusion of Iron features an eight-course set menu that will beguile guests with experimental dishes served alongside familiar flavours of Japan. 

Each dish tells diners a story through the delicate flavours of the sea, as well as the boldness of premium Japanese ingredients. 

Highlights of the menu include Iwate A4 Wagyu and yuzu citrus grilled barracuda.

This set menu is complimented by four small-batch sakes with very unique flavor profiles. 

Some of the sake is available only in New York, Singapore, and Thailand, while the fourth is considered a rarity thanks to its unique ageing process.

All spirits served at Fusion of Iron are delivered by the Sake Merchant and GOEN.

 

Meet the chefs

Winner of the original Japanese televised cooking competition Iron Chef, Seiya Masahara, is the esteemed chef at Hakkei Onsen Ryokan in Japan and Odashi Hakkei in Bangkok. 

He is renowned for his traditional Kaiseki-style cuisine, which draws on the very fundamentals of Japanese cooking, such as dashi stock-making, to create heartwarming and authentic dishes.

Joining him in the kitchen for the event is Takayasu “Taka” Ono (Taka), a native of Kamakura, a seaside city south of Tokyo known for its unique cuisine which includes delicacies like shirasu, (raw young anchovies and sardines) and an extensive array of wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets.)

Taka’s upbringing in this culinary-rich environment profoundly influenced his style in the kitchen.

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The post Japan reports 36.78 million foreign arrivals in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Japan’s Immigration Services Agency reported on Friday, 24th January, that foreign arrivals hit a record high of 36.78 million in the past year.

The total is considerably higher than the pre-pandemic high of 31.19 million last seen at the end of 2019.

Authorities say that arrivals numbers rose due to the weakened yen, as well as an increase in international flight services following the relaxing of pandemic restrictions.

Of the 2024 total, 33.36 million came to Japan as tourists or on business, while around 170,000 were students on academic visas.

Other trends

Approximately 150,000 foreign individuals came into the country on technical internships, reflecting a decrease of 19 percent from 2023’s numbers.

Meanwhile, the number of foreign arrivals holding visas for specialised skilled workers rose by 48 percent to approximately 60,000.

South Koreans made up the majority of Japan’s foreign arrivals for 2024, numbering 8.63 million.

Taiwan came in second with 5.69 million, Mainland China in third at 5.49 million, and the United States in fourth with 2.67 million.

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The post Cunard set to celebrate 185 years of ocean travel with its collaborative “Sea of Glamour” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As it marks 185 years of ocean travel, Cunard is calling on the public to help preserve precious moments in Sea of Glamour, a new physical exhibition curated by renowned British photographer Mary McCartney.

The cruise line invites guests, employees, and celebrities to share their unforgettable images from on board its ships. 

These contributions will form part of the exhibition, which makes its debut at Liverpool’s famous Liver Building in May of this year.

Cunard president Katie McAlister emphasised the importance of this initiative: “For 185 years, our ships have been at the heart of unforgettable moments for millions of guests and crew. This is a chance to celebrate those memories and the stories they tell. By sharing your experiences, you’ll help Mary McCartney create something truly unique: an exhibition that brings Cunard’s incredible history to life for everyone to enjoy.”

Encompassing nearly two centuries at sea

The exhibition will feature a stunning collection of photos of Hollywood icons, musicians, politicians, and royalty from the Cunard archives, alongside newly curated images from the public to form a timeline of iconic moments that will immerse visitors in the magic of nearly two centuries of transatlantic travel.

Mary McCartney will take the final photograph for the exhibition herself, capturing a portrait of Queen Anne’s Icons in Liverpool on the day it opens. 

This unique image will offer a fresh, captivating perspective on Cunard’s iconic link to Liverpool.

That said, the Sea of Glamour will become a global exhibition, set to travel the world on board the Cunard fleet to celebrate the 185th Anniversary.

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The post Global Cruises makes its Asian debut appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cruise experience firm Global Cruises announced that it has commenced operations in Asia.

Global Cruises’ first-ever Asian port of call is Singapore where it offers an unparalleled portfolio of experiences designed to showcase the very best of this dynamic destination.

Beyond Singapore, the cruise line’s Asian portfolio extends to other incredible ports, including Benoa (Bali), Keelung, Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), Busan, Jeju, Incheon, Bangkok / Laem Chabang, Phuket, Ha Long, Penang, and Manila. 

These destinations promise a diverse array of cultural, historical, and scenic adventures, ensuring every cruise guest can discover something extraordinary.

Curated tours for memorable experiences

Global Cruises’ Singapore debut included a carefully curated selection of tours and activities that cater to every kind of traveler. 

Guests were offered the line’s iconic #SelfieTour, designed to capture unforgettable moments at the city’s most renowned landmarks, ensuring memories that last a lifetime. 

Those seeking authentic and traditional experiences found themselves immersed in the Authentic Chinese Tea Tasting which offered a variety of handpicked teas at the oldest and largest teahouse, celebrating a time-honored cultural practice.

Another highlight was Global Cruises’ signature “How Was It Built?” Tour which uncovered the captivating stories behind Singapore’s architectural marvels and its ingenious urban planning. 

Additionally, the Cultural Treasures and Green Escapes provided an exceptional experience, transitioning from the vibrant daily scenes of Singapore to the tranquil ambiance of its natural sanctuaries. This journey is a perfect showcase of the city’s rich cultural heritage and lush landscapes.

Each of these experiences was meticulously designed to provide cruise guests with the perfect blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and picture-perfect moments, all delivered with a touch of luxury that elevates every journey, while maintaining the authenticity of the destination.

Singapore marks the beginning of an exciting journey for Global Cruises in Asia. 

With the continent’s reputation as a hub for the most avid travelers, the firm plans to offer more unique experiences that celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of Asian destinations.

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The post AirAsia announces plan to establish an aircraft maintenance facility in the Philippines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippine Department of Finance announced that AirAsia plans to establish a maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) facility in the country.

Finance secretary Ralph G Recto recently met with Capital A chief executive and AirAsia founder Tony Fernandes to discuss the matter whilst both were at the recently-concluded World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

Should AirAsia push through with its plan, the upcoming  MRO facility is expected to create more jobs and position the Philippines as a regional hub for aviation services.

What’s in it for AirAsia?

On the other hand, putting such a facility in the Philippines would enable AirAsia to meet its need for better aircraft availability.

This is a considerable advantage, given the aftermath of the global aviation supply chain issue which led to a lack of spare parts and insubstantial maintenance.

Through AirAsia’s proposed MRO hub, the potential of flight cancellation or suspension due to aircraft issues may be significantly reduced.

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The post Destination NSW presents spectacular Sydney events in February appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Destination NSW announced a slate of activities in Sydney to bring fun, excitement, and entertainment throughout the month of February.

Sydney is set to host a number of illustrious events and, in mid-February, five spectacular events line up to make an unforgettable summer weekend. 

Whether its sport, musicals or festivals, Sydney brings together the greatest events.

Sporting events for February

An Olympic-standard sailing event within Sydney harbour 

Summer sees Sydney’s Harbour at its dreamy, sunny best and on the weekend of 8-9 February, it’s the spectacular frame for round three of one of the world’s most anticipated sailing events, the KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix Sydney. Some of the world’s greatest sailors (the same names that occupy the America’s Cup and the Olympics rosters) are set to race around the spectacular waters between Bradleys Head, Point Piper, Clark Island and Steele Point (within Vaucluse’s Nielsen Park). Last season Australia won the home leg, but Spain narrowly edged the Aussies in the end of season leaderboard. This season the Aussies will be looking to lock down the Sydney race to help them reclaim a title they won three times in a row before last season.  

The return of the world’s most prestigious combat event 

After the 13-minute sell-out success of UFC 293, the most valuable worldwide combat sport returns to Sydney on 9th February. The iconic stage, The Octagon, will once again transform Qudos Bank Arena into a battle spectacle for UFC 312, featuring Australia’s best fighters taking on world champions and the UFC’s hottest new prospects across a range of weight classes. After the fireworks of 2023’s Middleweight Championship bout between Adesanya vs Strickland, expect upsets, glory, agony and new storylines delivering a new champion their place in history.  

The return of the world’s greatest hockey league 

For the first time in two years, the most prestigious annual hockey competition, the Men’s FIH Pro League, returns to Sydney. From 4th to 9th February, Sydney Olympic Park’s Hockey Centre will be the epic stage for one of the most important rounds of the 2024/2025 season, with last year’s champions, Australia, taking on their rivals and last season’s runner up, the Netherlands. Joining the round robin is Spain, a dark horse who will be eager to avenge their thrilling 4-3 losses to both Australia and the Netherlands last season. If any of the three countries can take maximum points from the six clashes, odds will be on for them to take the coveted FIH Pro League title. 

Offerings for a tuneful month

Charli XCX to bring Brat Summer to Centennial Park 

Since Laneway Sydney launched in 2006 with the Broken Social Scene and Gossip playing to a modest crowd at Circular Quay, it has exploded into a festival of international renown, moving to the famous grounds of the Centennial Parklands and inviting names like Billie Eilish, Fred Again, Stormzy, Aldous Harding, and Florence and the Machine. On 9 February this year, the irreverent, youth-championing music festival continues on the same path, as its stage will be graced by none other than pop culture phenomenon Charli XCX, along with huge indie names Clairo and Beabadoobee, and electronic innovators Bicep and Barry Can’t Swim.  

Hadestown makes its Australian debut

Winner of a Tony Award for best musical in 2019 and behind only Hamilton as one of the most nominated musicals in a single year, Hadestown‘s Sydney premiere is one of the most anticipated shows to hit Australian shores. Opening on 10 February in the historic Theatre Royal Sydney, which first opened in 1833, the musical retells the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice in a modern context. Bringing the myth to the stage is a star-studded cast including multi-ARIA award winner Christine Anu, and The Unlisted and Miss Saigon star Abigail Adriano.

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The post THAI brings its Royal Silk Class aboard the Airbus A320 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) hosted an event at its Maintenance Hangar at Suvarnabhumi Airport to showcase its new Royal Silk Class cabin aboard the Airbus A320 aircraft, offering an exclusive experience for passengers.  

Titled THAI A320: Elevating Travel Experience, the event was attended by the airline’s chairman of the plan administrator Piyasvasti Amranand, plan administrator Chansin Treenuchagron, chief executive Chai Eamsiri, THAI Chief Executive Officer, chief technical officer Cherdphan Chotikhun, and chief commercial officer Korakot Chatasingha, along with other members of senior management

Chatasingha said at the event: “THAI remains committed to implementing our Commercial Excellence strategy to achieve sustainable revenue and profitability. In 2024, we successfully executed our strategy under the ‘One THAI One Fly’ campaign, which effectively integrated Thai Smile Airways into the THAI brand. This has led to significant improvements in revenue, aircraft utilization, and the creation of a seamless travel experience for our passengers.”

He added that the new Royal Silk Class aboard the A320 aircraft demonstrates THAI’s ongoing commitment in product and service development, in alignment with its customer-centric approach to enhance passenger travel experience.

Chatasingha concluded by saying: “This upgrade reflects our dedication as Thailand’s flag carrier to set new standards in air travel, particularly for short-haul routes. We’re offering comprehensive full-service features, including spacious seats designed for maximum comfort, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, premium dining, and exclusive privileges that will make every flight memorable, both domestic and international. The service, launched this January, will be available in all 20 aircraft by the second quarter of this year.”

What business class flyers can expect on board the A320

The new Royal Silk Class cabin features 12 exclusive seats (currently available on selected flights) arranged in a 2-2 configuration across the first three rows. 

Each meticulously designed seat offers a spacious personal area with adjustable headrests and legrests for enhanced comfort. 

The seats are equipped with fold-away tray tables for dining and personal device use, complemented by conveniently positioned beverage holders near the armrests.

Another distinctive feature of THAI’s A320 aircraft is the wireless entertainment system , giving it the distinction of being the first airline in Thailand to offer wireless entertainment in every seat on domestic routes, enabling passengers to enjoy diverse content on their personal devices. 

Royal Silk Class passengers are also treated with gourmet meals and a curated beverage selection. 

On flights longer than 3.5 hours, they will be offered exclusive amenity kits designed by Jim Thompson, available in 12 unique designs that elegantly capture Thai heritage.

Royal Silk Class passengers will likewise enjoy an array of exclusive privileges including Fast Track immigration service, Priority Boarding, Priority Baggage handling, access to the Royal Orchid Lounge, 40kg checked baggage allowance with 7kg carry-on, plus up to 150 percent bonus Royal Orchid Plus miles.

Royal Silk Class service utilizing A320 aircraft is available aboard eight domestic routes from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Phuket, Hat Yai, and Krabi. 

The service also extends to 22 destinations in Asia, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

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The post Philippines generates US$193.4 million in tourism sales leads in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) of the Philippines reports that the country’s participation in various global tourism events generated around US$193.4 million in sales leads.

TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Nograles remarked that this shows an increase of 44.8 percent from 2023, and is the result of the government drive to offer tourists an authentic experience in the country.

Nograles said: “Last year, we hit our biggest sales leads ever in the agency at 11.3 billion just from our trade shows. So, this year, what we would like to do is really craft unique and world-class experiences and authentic experiences into the Philippines, and that is our focus.”

She added that the TPB sees solid global interest in the Philippines.

Into the mideast

According to Nograles, the TPB is also gearing up to further enhance its presence in the Arabian Travel Mart as the country seeks to draw more inbound tourists from the Middle East.

She said: “We cannot lose presence in Dubai, at the Arabian Travel Mart, we cannot. So, as we have a budget, we will enhance our presence there.”

Aside from its participation in trade events overseas, the TPB also sustains its domestic promotions, including through its community-based tourism program.

Nograles also assured that the TPB provides an equal amount of promotions to all Philippine destinations.

She said: “We are focused and following the direction of our secretary that we are to give equal promotions to all our destinations, and let us not forget Boracay is an award-winning island, so we continue on promoting Boracay.”

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