The post Kickstart 2025 with a wellness break to Geneva appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

For those looking to start the new year in the right way, a wellness escape to Geneva, Europe’s leading city break destination, is sure to tick all the boxes. With a range of wellness experiences on offer, from winter saunas to luxurious spas, Geneva offers something for every kind of wellness traveller.

For a 360-degree approach to wellness…

Offering a unique wellness experience on the shores of Lake Geneva, Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa Genève Plage invites travellers to enter into a world of relaxation. This lakeside haven is the perfect place to take some time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life, with over 3,000sqm of indoor and outdoor treatment areas to enjoy. Taking a 360-degree approach to wellness, Bain-Bleu’s wellness journey leads guests through a series of pools, steam rooms, and an Oriental-inspired hammam, as well as offering a dedicated spa area with treatments focused on encouraging a feeling of deep relaxation.

For a luxury wellness escape…

Whether looking to relieve stress, tone their body, or slow down the effects of time, Spa Nescens at La Réserve Geneva will be sure to leave guests feeling reinvigorated, with a range of treatments on offer to help guests to live better, for as long as possible. Guests looking to further elevate their wellness journeys can opt for one of the holistic wellness programmes, comprising a carefully curated selection of treatments as well as a healthy, balanced lunch at Café Lauren. While parents unwind in the sumptuous setting of Spa Nescens, their little ones will be entertained at La Petite Réserve, ensuring that parents’ worries are taken care of as they take some time out to relax.

For the ultimate Genevan experience…

Travellers looking to delve deeper into the Genevan wellness scene can head to Bains des Pâquis, where locals head to take a dip during winter. Guests can opt to take a revitalising dip in the iconic Lake Geneva, before hopping into the Turkish baths for a winter warmer or opting to warm up in the winter sauna. The destination’s restaurant, Buvette des Bains, is also home to one of Geneva’s best fondues, perfect for those who want a moment of indulgence after a day of relaxing lakeside.

 

 

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The post Phocuswright Europe moves to Barcelona’s Palau de Congressos de Catalunya for 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Phocuswright announced a major evolution for its flagship European conference.  Phocuswright Europe 2025 will take place from June 10-12, 2025, at the prestigious Palau de Congressos de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain.  This strategic move to a larger, more modern venue marks a significant upgrade for the event and reinforces Phocuswright’s position as the premier curator of cutting-edge content and experiences in the travel industry.  In 2024, more than 600 people attended the European event.

Under the theme “The New Age(nts),” Phocuswright Europe 2025 will explore the transformative forces reshaping the travel landscape. The conference will delve into a new era for travel, examining the evolving roles of intermediaries, the impact of emerging technologies, and the changing expectations of travelers in this dynamic landscape.

“Our move to the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya is a game-changer for Phocuswright Europe,” said Pete Comeau, Managing Director of Phocuswright. “This world-class venue provides the perfect platform to elevate the event to new heights.  It’s more than just a bigger space; it’s about creating a more immersive, dynamic, and impactful experience that reflects Phocuswright’s commitment to driving innovation and shaping the future of travel.  This move signals a bold new chapter for Phocuswright, and we’re confident that the 2025 event will be our most influential yet.  It allows us to set the stage for the travel industry’s future.”

The Palau de Congressos de Catalunya offers several key advantages that will enhance the Phocuswright Europe experience:

 

• Increased capacity: The larger venue allows for greater attendance, bringing together a more diverse and influential audience of travel leaders.
• State-of-the-art facilities: The Palau’s modern facilities will enable more interactive session formats, cutting-edge technology demonstrations, and enhanced networking opportunities.
• Enhanced networking: Real exchange with meaningful relationships.
• First-class location: Situated in one of Barcelona’s most prestigious areas, the venue provides a sophisticated and inspiring setting for the conference.
• Immersive experiences: Opportunities to shape their professional journeys.
• Inspiration and insights: A focus on not just addressing current trends but anticipating future shifts.
• Full carbon offset: A commitment to sustainability, offsetting the carbon footprint of the entire event, including attendee travel and emissions.

Speakers and a full agenda are expected to be announced shortly.

Registration for Phocuswright Europe 2025 is now open. Early bird pricing starts at €1095.

 

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The post 4.5 million Irish passengers experienced flight disruptions in 2024: AirHelp appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

AirHelp, the travel tech company supporting passengers with flight disruptions, unveils the major disruption events that took place in Ireland and Europe in 2024.

AirHelp recorded that 19.1 million Irish passengers travelled on a plane last year, with 130,000 flights departing during this period. Of these passengers, 24% were disrupted (4.5 million) and 240,000 people were eligible for €600 compensation under the EC 261 regulation.

“Our 2024 Disruptions Report aims to put a spotlight on the ongoing challenge of flight disruptions and help passengers understand the resources that are available to them when they face flight cancellations or delays in the future. As an industry, we must take note and identify areas for improvement to reduce the number of impacted passengers, as well as improve the overall customer experience,” states Tomasz Pawliszyn, CEO of AirHelp.

Whilst there is still significant room for improvement across the industry, it is promising to see that disruption rates are decreasing year on year. When comparing figures over the past two years, the number of disrupted passengers has improved from 5.2 million (34%) in 2022 and 5.3 million (28%) in 2023. The number of passengers eligible for compensation has also declined from 270,000 in both 2022 and 2023.

Best and worst times to travel

Unsurprisingly, July saw the highest number of flight disruptions in Ireland, with over 32% of passengers facing delays or cancellations. This is closely followed by 29% in June and September 2024. AirHelp’s data also revealed that the 1st of March and 6th of April were the most disrupted days across Irish airports, with 36,400 people (74%) and 39,300 (74%) people experiencing disruptions respectively.

Those travelling in February last year were the most fortunate, with only 13% of passengers experiencing disruptions when departing from an Irish airport. When looking at the dates with the most on-time departures, the 10th of November and 11th of January came out on top with only 5% of air travellers disrupted.

Departures from Irish airports

Looking specifically at Ireland’s airports reveals that Dublin Airport was ranked as the busiest airport with over 16.1 million people travelling there last year. The Irish airport with the highest rate of disruptions was Ireland West Airport Knock at 37%, impacting over 145,000 passengers throughout 2024. In contrast, the airport with the best on-time performance was Donegal Airport with only 16% of its passengers facing delays or cancellations. Despite being the second busiest Irish airport, with 1.3 million passengers, Cork Airport fared well last year with a disruption rate of 19%.

Analysing routes in Ireland

AirHelp’s data reveals that the 28 busiest routes all departed from Dublin Airport. The airport’s routes to London Heathrow (913,000 passengers) and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (594,000 passengers) take the top spots, closely followed by its routes to Manchester International Airport 546,000 passengers) and London Gatwick Airport (489,000 passengers).

When looking at the most disrupted routes from Irish airports, Dublin Airport to Cairo International Airport ranked the highest with over 89% of flights disrupted, impacting over 25,000 passengers last year. 59% of passengers were also disrupted on routes from Dublin Airport to Abu Dhabi International and Dalaman Airport, closely followed by 58% on routes to George Enescu International Airport.

On the other hand, the most fortunate passengers were those who travelled from Dublin Airport to Frankfurt-Hahn Airport, with 99% of the flights last year departing on time. Kerry County Airport to Frankfurt-Hahn Airport and Shannon Airport to Krakow-Balice International Airport also scored high punctuality rates of 98% and 94%.

Performance across Europe

Over 963 million people travelled in Europe (including the UK) in 2024 and 30% of these passengers were disrupted (287 million people). The highest disruption rates were found in Greece (37%), Portugal (34%) and Germany (34%), in comparison to only 19% of passengers facing delays or cancellations when travelling from Norway last year. Additionally, over 19.5 million European passengers could claim compensation based on eligibility criteria in the UK, EU, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Brazil.

 

 

 

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The post Riyadh Air technical spare aircraft Boeing 787-9 set for arrival appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In a hugely positive move, Riyadh Air is preparing for the arrival of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The leased aircraft, painted in the airline’s resplendent pearl livery and set to be used as a technical spare and for training purposes, will be unveiled at the airline’s home airport at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.

With the airline’s highly anticipated cabin interiors set to be revealed soon, this aircraft will not feature the new cabin but does have a high-specification interior to meet guests’ expectations when flying with a world-class modern airline.

This aircraft is separate from the original Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft order of 72 aircraft and will be utilized over the coming months for training purposes. It will continue the process of Air Operator Certificate (AOC) with the General Authority of Civil Aviation before operating as Riyadh Air’s technical spare to allow operations to commence later in 2025.

The opportunity to lease this plane demonstrates the innovative nature of Riyadh Air to create solutions and start serving the people of Riyadh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2025.

 

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The post Nine must-have Luxury travel experiences for 2025: Virtuoso appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Virtuoso is unveiling tomorrow’s epic experiences courtesy of its 2025 Luxe Report, an annual forecast highlighting how, where and why savvy travellers will be exploring in the year ahead. Renowned as a trusted trend predictor, Virtuoso tapped into its elite force of travel advisors from around the world to share their top recommendations for every jetsetter’s wish list.

Virtuoso’s nine must-have experiences for 2025:

1. See Spot … Fly First Class: With many high-end airlines and hotels rolling out the red carpet for pets, including animal-friendly accommodations, exclusive amenities and even business or first-class travel options, pet owners are happily splurging to ensure their beloved fur babies travel in ultimate comfort. And it’s not just the cost that’s a non-issue – distance isn’t, either. Whether a weekend getaway or an international romp, travellers are ready to unleash their furry friends on the world.
2. Soak up Slovenia: This rising European gem is an adventure lover’s playground. Cliff dive into the Soča River, paddle along the enchanting shores of Lake Bled and explore the depths of Postojna Cave. When snow falls, hit the slopes at Krvavec and Vogel, then unwind with a soothing soak in one of Slovenia’s natural thermal springs. It’s an alluring new place to make a splash.
3. Unplug in the Amazon: Leave behind the digital world and step into the heart of the Amazon, where the hum of the rainforest replaces the buzz of notifications. Virtuoso’s 2024 Brand & Travel Tracker, conducted in partnership with YouGov, found that 57 percent of luxury travellers prioritise awe and wonder of nature as their top emotional driver when planning a trip. With no Wi-Fi, no distractions and no pressure to be “on,” nothing is standing in the way of reconnecting with nature and oneself.
4. Say Olá to Portugal: Globetrotters are turning away from overcrowded, pricier European hotspots and setting their sights on Portugal, the Luxe Report’s top destination to watch in 2025. With its warm hospitality and mild climate, it promises a refreshing blend of laid-back charm and unbeatable value.
5. Chill with Cool Creatures: For the second consecutive year, wildlife conservation and interaction lead the Luxe Report’s sustainable tourism trends. Adventurers are heading to polar regions to observe precious wildlife facing the effects of climate change in their natural habitats. Polar safaris offer intimate encounters with penguins in Antarctica, polar bears in South Georgia and narwhals in Canada, all while supporting vital conservation efforts that help preserve their environments.
6. Get Down and Yurt-y: For those looking to venture off the beaten path, a stay in a Mongolian yurt combines rugged wilderness with a bit of refinement. Digital nomads can experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle in these yurts, an authentic way to interact with local traditions, appreciate the beauty of the vast steppe and get closer to nature without giving up comfort.
7. Cruise the Canals: According to the Luxe Report, river cruising is a top trend for the solo set in 2025, and there’s no better way to explore Europe’s best than on a scenic voyage through its storied waterways. Cruise from Amsterdam to Bucharest, taking in iconic landmarks while connecting with fellow voyagers or savouring solitary moments. Relish the freedom of exploration on one’s own terms.
8. Ditch the Script, Trust the Expert: Embrace the magic of serendipity by leaving room for the unexpected. Partner with a professional travel advisor to make the most of a destination without over-scheduling every moment. They’re skilled in creating the perfect balance, providing enough structure to capture the can’t-miss highlights, while staying flexible enough to let the journey unfold in surprising and memorable ways.
9. Circle the Earth in Style: Intrepid travellers are ready to circumnavigate the globe in one extraordinary journey – the only question is at what pace. Travelling by private jet means speed, flexibility and exclusivity, with tailored itineraries and premium service. For those who prefer a slower tempo, world cruises permit a more leisurely, in-depth experience, combining months of discovery with all-inclusive luxury and stunning ocean views. Either way, adventure has never felt so glamorous or been more personal.

More than 2,200 travel advisors across 48 countries contributed to the Luxe Report, using their extensive knowledge to identify the top trends for 2025. Working with a professional advisor unlocks a host of benefits, including special access, customised amenities and collaborative planning, backed by expertise and worldwide connections. This year, Virtuoso has seen a 76 percent increase in the number of people seeking out advisors through its website.

 

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The post Air India Express announces ‘Flash Sale’ with fares starting at INR1498 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 Air India Express announces a ‘Flash Sale,’ with fares starting at just INR 1498. Travellers can book flights on these attractive fares through the airline’s website www.airindiaexpress.com, mobile app, and other major booking channels. The sale is valid for domestic flight bookings made until 13th January 2025, for travel between 24th January and 30th September 2025.

Air India Express also announced exclusive Xpress Lite fares with further discounts starting from INR 1328 as well as ‘Zero Convenience Fee’ for logged-in members on its award-winning website, airindiaexpress.com. Xpress Lite fares come with added benefits, including the option to pre-book an additional 3 kg of cabin baggage at no extra cost and discounted check-in baggage rates, with 15 kg available for ₹1,000 on domestic flights and 20 kg for INR 1,300 on international flights.

As a part of its proposition of fab deals for loyalty members on airindiaexpress.com, the airline offers 25% off on Xpress Biz fare. Xpress Biz is the business class equivalent of Air India Express, with an industry-leading seat pitch of up to 58 inches. Biz seats are available on 35 brand new Boeing 737-8 aircraft that Air India Express has recently inducted as part of its rapid expansion, with a new aircraft joining its fleet every week. Loyalty members also get 25% off ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, seats, and Xpress Ahead priority services.

Additionally, students, senior citizens, doctors and nurses, and members of the armed forces and their dependents can book special discounted fares on the airline’s website.

 

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The post Get tech-agile with AI-driven Hospitality Solutions from Agilysys appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is raising the competitive index for hotels as they vie to get hold of the best tech-savvy hospitality solutions available. These AI empowered solutions play a critical role in enhancing guest experiences with real-time data patterns, increasing revenue and optimising operations. Let us understand how Artificial Intelligence is changing the ‘learned’ Standard Operating Systems (SOPs) in hospitality. Hoteliers can utilise AI backed Agilysys tools to analyse guest preferences to suggest tailored dining, activities, or room upgrades.

Using AI to build guest loyalty

Hotels are using data insights not only to enhance guest satisfaction but also to ensure guest loyalty by creating consistent and personalised experiences. This data-driven approach to hospitality is creating memorable moments that encourage guests to return time and time again.

The 2024 Agilysys study revealed that 68% of guests are more likely to spend more when hotels effectively personalise their stay, highlighting the role data plays in shaping loyalty.

Small gestures, such as remembering a guest’s dining preferences or providing them with their favourite room, can have a surprising impact on loyalty. 30% of guests will spend more when staff recall previous conversations, and 28% of guests will increase spending when restaurant staff remember their food and drink preferences.

AI is also playing an increasingly vital role in personalising guest experiences. “AI’s ability to analyse guest data in real-time is a game-changer,” Tony Marshall, Tony Marshall, VP and MD for APAC, Agilysys says: “It can turn guest data into actionable insights that drive satisfaction and revenue. For example, AI can help identify patterns in real-time, predicting the kinds of experiences guests are likely to appreciate.”

However, while AI provides significant benefits, Marshall stresses that technology should complement, not replace, the human element. “46% of travellers value friendly staff who go the extra mile,” he says. “The most successful AI implementations are those that empower staff to create better guest experiences.”

AI-powered tech optimised revenue

Agilysys exclusively delivers state-of-the-art software solutions and services that help organisations achieve High Return Hospitality by maximising Return on Experience (ROE) through interactions that make ‘personal’ profitable. For Revenue Management AI can be used to adjust room rates based on demand, seasonality, and competitor pricing. It can also offer predictive analytics by forecasting booking trends, helping hotels maximize occupancy and revenue.

Take for instance GUESTSENSE.AI technology which powers revenue management and operating efficiency in PMS, POS, GOLF and SPA solutions

Agilysys has embedded in its POS, PMS, Golf and Spa solutions Guestsense.ai, AI-powered analysis and decisioning capabilities hospitality businesses can use to optimise cross-property revenue and to improve how they offer pricing and amenity availability.

Guestsense.AI uses contextual variables; real-time data on capacity, demand, guest profiles and more; and user-controlled rules to optimise upgrade and pricing offers, amenity availability, demand forecasting and other elements. Application examples include:

A Dynamic Upgrade Engine presents room upgrade availability and pricing and amenity add-ons for guests to select as they check-in. Offers are dynamically presented based on check-in time; real-time availability and capacity; staffing status; guest-supplied preferences; guest preferences inferred from past stay behavior; guest status, such as loyalty program membership; and other property-defined rules.

Dynamic Availability and Dynamic Pricing intelligently manage amenity reservations presented for guests to book, as well as associated pricing, based on contextual variables the property defines. For example, when golf demand is forecast to be high, popular tee times and preferred golf courses can be presented only to course members and loyalty program on-property guests. Amenity prices offered can reflect real-time demand and capacity calculations, such as adapting poolside cabana pricing based on utilisation. Likewise, the system can prevent low-revenue and low-margin spa services from being presented in high-demand time periods. The same real-time intelligence guides Minimum Gap Restrictions, which dynamically avoids unbookable gaps in therapists’ schedules by matching service time requirements with booked schedules to present only therapists and services that minimise unsold time.

Conversational Reservation Booking offers a Generative AI-assisted concierge to guide guests through availability inquiries and booking experiences. Available now in Agilysys Spa and soon in other solutions, this technology enables around-the-clock end-to-end live booking experiences without additional staff, elevating revenue by making it easy for guests to book whenever they are ready to buy.

Customers around the world use Agilysys Property Management Systems (PMS), Point-of-Sale (POS) solutions and Inventory and Procurement (I&P) systems and accompanying hospitality ecosystem solutions to consistently delight guests, retain staff and grow margins.

AI and streamlined operations

AI can be used for task automation, routine tasks such as check-ins, check-outs, and room cleaning schedules. It can also help in inventory management.  AI can optimize stock levels for food and beverages, reducing waste and costs.

Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: Offer 24/7 support to guests for booking, inquiries, and concierge services. ChatGPT and similar AI tools can assist in managing bookings by handling customer inquiries, processing reservations, and even upselling additional services like spa treatments or room upgrades. This level of automation reduces the workload on front desk staff, allowing them to focus on providing a more personalised experience for guests.

AI is also revolutionising how hotels approach marketing. ChatGPT can generate content for social media, respond to online reviews, and even assist in creating personalised email campaigns. By leveraging AI in marketing, hotels can engage with potential guests more effectively and efficiently.

For instance, ChatGPT can analyse customer reviews to identify common pain points or areas where the hotel excels. This information can then be used to refine marketing strategies and improve guest satisfaction. Additionally, AI can help hotels target specific demographics with personalised offers, increasing the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.

To find out more about the preferences and expectations of Asian travellers, download a copy of the APAC travellers impact study here.

 

 

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The post U.S. Virgin Islands sets New Tourism Record in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism announces new record-breaking passenger arrival numbers, which highlight the continued growth of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John as a leading tourism destination.  

Closing out the year on a high, December 28 recorded 4,606 passenger arrivals, surpassing the single-day arrival record set earlier in March 2024. This achievement also led to a new weekly passenger arrival record, with over 24,000 arrivals, marking a 5.92% increase over the previous record.

“As a destination, we continue to explore, elevate, and improve, which further supports the ongoing goal to build upon our commitment to be a premier Caribbean destination,” shares Commissioner Joseph Boschulte of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.

In 2024, combined airline arrivals at Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas and Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix totaled 932,265 passengers. This figure surpassed the previous record set during the COVID-19 pandemic by over 100,000 passengers and represented a 16.5% increase compared to 2023.

The newly released numbers culminate a year of exponential tourism growth for the U.S. Virgin Islands, including a record-breaking month of arrivals in March with 106,026, and the introduction or return of airline routes from American Airlines, Cape Air, Delta Air Lines, Frontier, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country, and United Airlines.

The Territory also experienced a significant boost in cruise passengers, welcoming 1,770,922, resulting in a 9.8% increase compared to 2023. This growth was driven by the maiden voyages of several ships, including Scarlet Lady, Icon of the Seas, Disney Treasure, Explora I, Sun Princess, Explora II, Emerald Azzurra, Celebrity Apex, and Rhapsody of the Seas. The increase in cruise arrivals highlights the ongoing efforts of the Department of Tourism and local partners to strengthen and foster relationships across the industry.

In addition to welcoming more visitors, the territory also received several prestigious industry honors, including:

• Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine: Best Caribbean Cruise Destination 2024
• Caribbean Journal Caribbean Travel Award:
• Caribbean Culinary Destination: St. Croix
• Caribbean Yachting Destination of the Year
• Event Destination of the Year
• USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards:
• Top 10 Best Beach: Honeymoon Beach, St. John
•  The World’s 50 Best Beaches presented by Banana Boat:
• Number 1 Best Beach in the World 2024, Trunk Bay, St. John
• Expedia 2024 Summer Outlook
• Number 1 Domestic Trending Summer Destination, St. Thomas
• HSMAI Adrian Awards:
• Experiential Marketing Bronze Award- The U.S. Virgin Islands’ Caribbean Way of Sports & Lifestyle Tourism Integrated Campaign

“As we look to 2025, we will continue to push the creativity of our marketing strategies, which includes advertising, social media, public relations, and partnerships to connect with and keep the U.S. Virgin Islands top of mind for new and returning travelers,” adds Commissioner Boschulte.

Commissioner Boschulte and the Department of Tourism team continue to set their sights on an ambitious future, positioning the U.S. Virgin Islands as the premier destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality.

 

 

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The post Cathay Pacific elevates the travel experience with a Premium Economy cabin on Chennai-Hong Kong flights appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hong Kong’s home carrier Cathay Pacific has announced the introduction of a Premium Economy cabin on flights from Chennai to Hong Kong. This underscores Cathay Pacific’s commitment to investing in not only its network, but also its customer experience. The airline will operate its state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft, featuring Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins, to cater to diverse traveller preferences.

Cathay Regional Head of Customer Travel and Lifestyle Anand Yedery said: “We are excited to introduce our Premium Economy cabin to the Chennai market. This addition reflects our dedication to offering customers greater comfort and choice. Chennai is a key destination for us, and our focus is on delivering unparalleled service and travel experiences. Travellers’ needs have evolved over time. In the past, there wasn’t an option between Business and Economy classes, but with the introduction of our Premium Economy cabin, travellers can opt for extra comfort and personalised services, especially on medium- and long-haul flights. Our aim is to enhance the air travel experience for our customers.”

Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy cabin redefines comfort and sophistication, offering thoughtfully designed seats with enhanced recline, extra legroom, and ergonomic headrests for unparalleled relaxation. Features include full-length calf rests, leather-padded footrests, and larger meal tables that enhance work or and dining. For added convenience, personalised storage spaces keep essentials within easy reach. Customers can also enjoy Disney+ Originals along with a refreshed user interface, ensuring an immersive experience that sets a new standard for air travel.

Furthermore, the airline will be increasing its flight frequencies from Chennai to Hong Kong. From 2 January to 1 March 2025, flights on the Chennai-Hong Kong route will run four times weekly, rising to five flights per week from 2 March to 30 March 2025, to meet growing demand and enhance connectivity.

By offering a seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and a premium travel experience, Cathay Pacific continues to elevate the travel experience for its customers from India.

 

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The post Fliggy releases 2024 Buy Now, Plan Later insights report appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Online travel services platform Fliggy released its 2024 Buy Now Plan Later Travel Insight today, 10th January. 

The insight shows the booking volume for the platform’s buy-now / pay-later (BNPL) travel products in 2024 has increased by over 20% compared to the previous year. 

This growth is largely driven by a younger demographic, with Generation Z consumers accounting for nearly a quarter of those utilizing this purchasing model. 

Planning travel through BNPL is now a mainstream method of travel consumption.

A flexible way to plan that leads to savings

BNPL travel involves consumers purchasing single or multiple travel products in advance. 

This model allows travelers to secure these options for future use, redeemable once they finalize their travel dates and destinations. 

Generally, this approach provides greater cost savings compared to conventional direct booking, with many options offering the flexibility of full refunds without restrictions before the reservation is finalized.

Fliggy’s head of BNPL product operations Acton Chou said: “Looking ahead in 2025, the recreational tourism market is expected to experience steady growth in both scale and consumer spending. Our primary objective for travel companies is to expand our customer base and tap into the incremental demands of our existing customers. The inherent advantages of the BNPL model which include flexible pricing, adaptable benefits, and versatile usage make it a strategic tool for enhancing customer willingness to spend.”

Significant trends in 2024

The insight indicates that the share of outbound tourism within the BNPL travel segment in 2024 has increased by 10 percentage points compared to the previous year, with hotel booking fulfillment rates for outbound travel surging by 70 percent year-on-year. 

A noticeable trend is the expansion of popular travel destinations from a four-hour flight radius to a twelve-hour flight radius from China. 

The top destinations for BNPL orders in 2024 include Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, the Maldives, New Zealand, Australia, the United States, and Indonesia. 

Additionally, there is growing interest in emerging destinations such as Iceland, Norway, Kenya, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand, which all have experienced rapid growth.

At the same time, travel experiences continued to diversify in 2024, with consumers exploring breathtaking landscapes such as Bomi in Tibet, embarking on self-driving tours across New Zealand, and taking luxury cruise ships to see albatross and penguins through polar tours. 

According to data from Fliggy, there has been a rapid increase in demand for international cruises, overseas car rentals, and tickets to overseas amusement parks. 

Indeed, the volume of international cruise bookings saw a near threefold increase year-on-year.

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