The post The Ascott Limited brings The Crest Collection to Japan appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Ascott Limited and Japanese real estate firm Tokyo Tatemono Co Ltd announced their strategic partnership to launch SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection in Tokyo, Japan. 

Slated to open in the second half of 2029 in the Yaesu district near Tokyo Station, the lodging property will mark the debut of Ascott’s luxury brand The Crest Collection in Japan and become the 13th property in the brand’s global portfolio. 

This partnership also marks the first collaboration between Tokyo Tatemono and Ascott.

A historic redevelopment

Tokyo Tatemono’s representative director Katsuhito Ozawa said of the luxury development: “Tokyo Tatemono considers this redevelopment project to be of utmost importance, as the Yaesu area, where the project is located, is the founding site of our company. Additionally, we anticipate a synergistic effect from the multiple redevelopment projects we are currently undertaking in the surrounding area. We are extremely honoured to have the opportunity to introduce The Crest Collection, a luxury brand by Ascott, with the opening of the brand’s first property in Japan.” 

Ascott Japan country general manager Christian Baudat added: “We are delighted to introduce The Crest Collection brand to the Japanese market through our first joint project with Tokyo Tatemono. Located in the Yaesu area near Tokyo Station at the heart of Tokyo, a destination that has increasingly gained global attention, this marks an exciting milestone for Ascott’s asset-light expansion in Japan. The Crest Collection offers guests from around the world a captivating stay experience that blends heritage with curated hospitality. SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection is ideally positioned to immerse guests in the rich history of the locale and the essence of Japanese culture, while also offering the flexibility of stay options that Ascott’s properties are known for.”

Luxurious residences in the heart of Tokyo 

SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection is a luxurious hotel-in-residence occupying four levels of the Yaesu 1-Chome North District Type 1 Urban Redevelopment Project spearheaded by Tokyo Tatemono, a member of the redevelopment association. 

The property will feature 92 guestrooms, ideally suited for both short visits and extended stays, exemplifying the unique advantages of Ascott’s flex-hybrid operating model. 

With a grand atrium and a lounge offering sweeping views of the Nihonbashi River, the property is primed to provide guests with a unique opportunity to savour special moments in the heart of Tokyo.

Traditional inspirations 

Embodying The Crest Collection’s brand ethos of celebrating heritage through storied stays, SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection takes its name from the concept of a kimono shop in the Edo period. 

“SEN” symbolises Dyeing, Fibre and Selection, while “KA” means House in Chinese characters. 

This name pays tribute to the property’s location, historically known as Gofuku-cho (Kimono Fabric Town), which flourished as the home of the shogunate during the Edo period. 

With a design that weaves together tales of yore and reflects the rich local culture, guests can expect to be transported back in time for a one-of-a-kind stay experience, all while enjoying the prestige and comfort of Ascott’s hotel-in-residence concept.

 

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The post Taiwan-Thailand Tourism Talent Exchange Programme seeks to upgrade sustainable tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Taiwan’s Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) held the first Taiwan-Thailand Tourism Talent Exchange Programme from 2nd to 8th December.

The programme featured diverse courses and field visits to discuss issues such as bilateral tourism resource integration, digital transformation, and sustainable tourism development. 

The goal of the programme was to jointly promote the upgrading of the tourism industry and market expansion. 

Tourism Administration deputy director-general Lin Hsin-Jen presented completion certificates to the participants of the programme, together with Taiwan Visitors Association chair Chien Yu-yen and Huang Chun-yang, deputy director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s office in Taipei.

The event sought to bring in the private-sector to further promote bilateral exchanges.

Transformation on the agenda

The exchange event was centered around Taiwan’s Dual Axis Transformation With Three Guiding Policies concept, focusing on regional tourism and diverse theme tourism programs. 

The Tourism Administration specially invited several renowned professional organizations and experts from units including the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), the Mae Fah Luang Foundation Under Royal Patronage, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), the Tourism Authority of Thailand Division Taipei Office (TAT), and the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA).

The first two days of the event were dedicated to courses, covering key topics such as “Marketing and Promoting Tourist Destinations,” “Digital Transformation of Tourism and Smart Applications,” and “Current Development in the Cruise Industry.” 

Taiwanese experts and scholars shared practical experiences. The last three days included field visits, such as exploring Heping Island Geopark, cycling tourism in Shen’ao, a cultural tour of the Dajia Zhenlan Temple, a DIY black tea experience, and a guided tour of Dihua Street shopping district. 

These activities showed Taiwan’s diverse appeal in nature and cultural tourism while facilitating exchanges between Taiwan and Thailand on sustainable tourism market development.

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The post Mexico holds off implementation of new cruise tax appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The Mexican government announced that changes to its Federal Law of Rights tax aimed at cruise passengers has been put off until June 2025.

While this fee charged on non-residents has been in effect since 1999, those travelling to Mexico aboard cruise ships were exempted from paying it.

However, the Mexican government decided to begin charging guests of cruise ships disembarking in Mexican ports US$42 each from January 2025 onwards.

An uproar from the cruise sector has led to the postponement of the implementation for at least another six months.

Potential repercussions

Most of the protests against the tax were raised by the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA).

FCCA officials pointed out that the tax could cause a 15 percent drop in cruise calls to Mexico, as cruise lines may opt to avoid Mexican ports.

They reminded authorities that most guests do not wish to pay up to US$168 in taxes for groups of at least four members. 

This sentiment was echoed by the Mexican Association of Cruises (AMANAC) which warned of a progressive drop in arrivals that would hurt employment and income for various sectors in Mexico, particularly those in related fields like accommodations, retail, and transportation.

An unnecessary expense?

At $42 per person, the new tax would make Mexico one of the most expensive cruise destinations anywhere in the world.

As it stands, the proposed tax is already 213 percent higher than any charged in any part of the Caribbean.

It should be pointed out, however, that the Mexican government stood to earn substantial income from the imposition of the tax, particularly in light of projections that up to 10 million cruise passengers will be making their way to Mexico in the coming year.

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The post Hakuba Ryujin Onsen RYOKAN SUI reopens this month appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Abest Corporation’s Hakuba Ryujin Onsen in Hakuba Village, Nagano is slated to reopen this month following extensive renovation.

Renamed Hakuba Ryujin Onsen RYOKAN SUI, the inn is set to offer a newly-transformed winter experience. 

Renovations to the facility included extensive upgrades to the main building’s guest rooms and onsen (hot spring) facilities. 

Located in Hakuba Village as a well-known international tourist destination, the revitalised RYOKAN SUI offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comfort to deliver an unforgettable stay.

Weaving together tradition and modernity

The inn’s name was changed with the aim to enable more international guests to experience Japan’s culture, beauty, and healing through the ryokan (Japanese-style inn) concept. 

Additionally, the hotel features the hotel brand SUI Series operated by the Abest Group.

The SUI Series is inspired by the Edo-period aesthetic of iki (stylishness) and sui (elegance). 

As such it is characterised by sophisticated design, high-quality facilities, service that evokes Japan’s traditions, and warm hospitality. 

The new RYOKAN SUI will incorporate even more wa (traditional Japanese) elements and transform itself into a more refined “wa-modern” accommodation to offer a unique space that blends with the natural beauty of Hakuba Village.

A sensory experience

The renovations are based on the concept of Wa-kon Modan (Modern Japanese Spirit), which was born from Ryujin Onsen’s perspective of incorporating the essence of Japanese culture and spirit without being bound by just traditional elements. 

The newly designed reception area and guest rooms in the main building have high black ceilings decorated with traditional Nishiki-woven Japanese brocade to create a sense of luxury and strength. 

The spacious rooms, which can accommodate up to six people, also include loft-type bedrooms and rooms with bunk beds, making them ideal for groups and families to spend a comfortable stay.

With their serene design, the onsen and bedrock bath area has been transformed into a more relaxing space for healing the body and mind. 

The tatami-matted changing rooms with impressive dragon-inspired lamp shades provide a relaxing place to unwind after enjoying the hot spring baths.

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The post Belmond presents luxurious plans for 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Belmond shares its strategic outlook for 2025: plans that mark its expansion in several aspects of luxury travel to diversify its portfolio.

The luxury travel firm plans to expand its world-leading railway offering with the launch of a new sleeper train; further enhance and diversify its remarkable portfolio by taking it to greater heights; amplify its range of cultural and culinary experiences.

The strategy behind these plans aims to bring the concept of Slow Luxury to life.

What is Slow Luxury? 

With Slow Luxury, each property’s identity is steeped in the value of time and promotes mindful living. It is crafted through the thoughtful curation of an outstanding portfolio and the attentive creation of memorable life experiences. 

Slow Luxury celebrates exceptional craftsmanship, local sourcing, curated exclusivity, genuine encounters and cultural richness. 

The concept cultivates a sense of time that allows for deeper connections: with cultures, with nature, with people, and with oneself.

Belmond CEO Dan Ruff said: “Our properties’ identity is rooted in Slow Luxury. In 2025, we will elevate this further by inviting guests to discover a new pace of travel, allowing for deeper connections with the destination. They can embark on the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, or indulge in our first private summer residence in Portofino. We continue to build a new legacy as we enhance our properties, focusing on celebration, epic journeys, wellness in nature and creative terroir.”

Luxury on the tracks

In July 2025, Belmond will launch the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales: Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, UK. 

It will fuse a celebration of exceptional rail history and epic touring with contemporary British gastronomy, culture and style, offering three or six-night journeys with a selection of three captivating routes through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales. 

Fine dining experiences will be designed by acclaimed Michelin star Chef Simon Rogan, pioneer of the farm-to-fork movement. 

A considered cultural programming will offer exclusive access to some of the nations’ rare or hidden gems. 

Wilderness will be enjoyed through open-water swimming and invigorating hikes. 

The train, crafted in England with elegant interiors by Albion Nord, will feature 18 cabins (15 Suites and three Grand Suites), a wellness suite, two restaurant cars and a bar located in the Observation Car.

The Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, UK will introduce a majestic seven-night new journey, the Grand Tour of Scotland, a new Grand Suite carriage named Heron in July 2025 and Chef Tom Kitchin will be back on board for a unique gastronomic experience on the rails.

In March 2025, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe’s most extraordinary new carriage will join the rake, redefining the modern luxury rail experience and setting a new milestone and legacy for the future of the industry. 

L’Observatoire by artist JR is the train’s first carriage designed by an artist, and is its most exclusive and spacious accommodation type, encompassing an entire carriage. The interiors flow through several micro-environments, from the bedroom featuring a free-standing bathtub, a bathroom, a lounge with a daybed, library, hidden Tea Room, with never-seen-before oculus-shaped skylights. 

This artwork in motion pays tribute to the train’s rich history of timeless craftsmanship and its myriad mythical journeys: inspiring wonder and curiosity, it adds a new dimension to time travel and invites travellers to reconnect with their creative selves. 

The Venice Simplon-Orient Express will continue to launch new itineraries pairing the Art Deco journey on board with a lavish stay in storied Belmond Italian properties to convey a sense of time-travelling grandeur. 

The highly acclaimed Paris to Portofino route launched in 2024 will return and can be combined with a stay at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino. In spring 2025, a Paris to Tuscany route will launch and the journey can be extended to Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany.

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The post ATIA and Australian Travel Education part ways after 17 years appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) and the Australian Travel Education Pty Ltd (ATE), owned by Rick Myatt, announced that they are pursuing individual paths, after 17 years of collaboration on training initiatives for the travel-and-tourism sector.

These changes reflect the evolution of the travel-and-tourism sector and the need for both ATIA and Rick Myatt to focus on their respective strengths in delivering value to the industry.

ATIA will continue to advocate for the industry and support its members through accreditation and the recently announced Project A30. 

Myatt, on the other hand, will continue to pursue his work at the Australian Travel Careers Council (ATCC), focusing on fostering the next generation of travel professionals through education, career programs and advocacy for industry-relevant training frameworks.

Nevertheless, both ATIA and ATCC remain aligned in their shared goal of advancing the Australian travel-and-tourism sector while embarking on their distinct next phases.

Guidance for the next generation

ATCC has been inspiring and guiding students into careers in Travel and Tourism, particularly in regional and rural areas.

Among the initiatives Myatt is championing through ATCC are:

• Travel Ambassador Programme: A long-running industry-education-engagement program targeting Tourism-pathway students in High Schools, encouraging them to choose Travel as their career of choice
• Overseas Technical Study Tours (OTST): A program offering international study tours for students in Years 10–12, VET colleges and universities. Following a successful pilot in Canada and the US this year, the next tour will visit Japan for the Osaka Exposition in 2025; and
• Addressing competency gaps: Working with GDS providers and the National Education Standards Authority (NESA) to streamline qualifications for HSC Travel students, ensuring smoother pathways into careers in the sector.

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The post Philippine tourism officials encourage Mongolians to visit their country appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine officials warmly invited Mongolians to come to the Philippines for the winter during the opening of a photo exhibition in Mongolia’s capital Ulaanbataar.

The exhibition features the tropical Southeast Asian nation’s famed beaches and diving spots.

Titled Explore and Love the Philippines, the exhibition opened on Monday, 9th December, and will be up until Saturday, 14th December.

Organisers hope to spark interest among the Mongolian public to visit the Philippines by showcasing the breathtaking tropical and underwater images of the country.

From snowy steppes to sandy shores

Philippine ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz declared in his opening remarks: “From your steppes to our shores; from your snow to our sand; come explore and love the Philippines. We invite you to snorkel in Boracay, dive in Palawan, swim with the sardines, or watch the whale sharks in Cebu.”

The ambassador noted the importance of introducing Philippine beaches, dive spots, coral reefs, and underwater wonders to Mongolians since their country is landlocked in Northeast Asia.

FlorCruz added: “Our country is the World’s Leading Dive Destination by the 2024 World Travel Awards six years in a row. Aside from this, the World Travel Awards recognized Boracay as the World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, and Amanpulo as the World’s Leading Dive Resort.”

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The post ibis Styles Manila Araneta City combines festiveness and sustainability for the Holidays appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

For the Holidays, ibis Styles Manila Araneta City invites merrymakers to unwind and make lasting memories with their exclusive staycation packages. 

From stylish getaways for two to fun-filled family celebrations, these offerings are designed to cater to every kind of holiday experience. 

Guests can enjoy the Stay & Bright Evenings Package with rates starting at PHP 3,499 nett; promotion is ongoing till 6th January 2025.

For a magical holiday celebration, the Christmas Eve Room Offer is available on 24th December, with rates starting at PHP 6,499 nett. 

To welcome the new year in style, the New Year’s Eve Room Offer starts at PHP 7,599 nett and includes access to a special countdown party at The Edge Skyview Bar. 

Each package is thoughtfully designed to ensure a stress-free and joyful holiday getaway, complete with delightful meals and added perks for an unforgettable experience. 

Guests at ibis Styles Manila Araneta City can also benefit from Accor’s lifestyle loyalty program ALL – Accor Live Limitless to discover a world of rewards, unique benefits, and exclusive events. 

Divine dining for the season

On the hotel’s fifth level, strEATs serves up a festive lineup of dining experiences to celebrate the holiday season. 

The Holiday Season Buffet is currently available till 23rd December, and resumes from 25 to 30 December, offering lunch at PHP 1,799 nett per person and dinner at PHP 1,999 nett per person, with an option to add free-flowing wine for PHP 500 nett. 

On Christmas Eve, enjoy a special buffet with lunch at PHP 1,999 nett and dinner at PHP 2,025 nett per person. Christmas Day starts with a breakfast buffet priced at PHP 1,299 nett per person. 

End the year with the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet on December 31, featuring dinner at PHP 2,025 nett or PHP 3,199 nett with access to the Countdown Party at The Edge Skyview Bar. Free-flowing wine can be added for PHP 500 nett. Celebrate the holidays with festive flavors and cheerful vibes. 

For laid-back workaholics, strEATs Coworking Café located on the fourth level spreads holiday cheer with a delightful selection of seasonal treats. Indulge in Christmas Tree Cupcakes and Chocolate Hazelnut Balls, or savor the Red Velvet Ensaymada and Forest Frolic Cookies. 

Sweeten the season with Chocolate Mint Gelato or a box of festive Gingerbread Cookies. These treats are perfect for adding a touch of joy to your celebrations.

Holidays a la Francaise

Savor the magic of Paris at Le Bistro, located on level 5, with Fêtes de Bon Goût, a festive celebration of French flavors by Chef Rhenner Alair. 

The Bistro Holiday Dinner Set Menu, at PHP 2,499 nett per person, features pumpkin soup, mains like Magret de Canard Aux Cerises, Filet de Bar a la Provençale, Coquilles Saint-Jacques, and a classic Bûche de Noël with sparkling wine or coffee. 

Festive drinks like Hot Salted Gingerbread Brûlée and Hot S’mores Chocolate start at PHP 220 nett, while the decadent Soufflé au Chocolat is available for PHP 499 nett. Experience the holidays with these delightful French-inspired treats.

To make this holiday even more memorable, The Edge Skyview Bar located on the roof deck, serves up festive cocktails with a creative twist. 

Enjoy the Jack Frost, a cool blend of rum, blue curaçao, pineapple, and coconut cream; the whimsical Christmas Donut Splash, a mix of vodka, white chocolate, and candy cane sprinkles; or the refreshing Tropic Winter Smash, featuring vodka, Midori, and citrus soda. Each drink is available for PHP 289 nett, adding a splash of holiday cheer to your celebrations.

A toast to the new year

Ring in 2025 with glitter, groove, and glamour at The Edge Skyview Bar’s Midnight Mirror: Disco Fever New Year’s Eve Bash. 

Dance the night away under the stars while enjoying five signature drinks, a sumptuous gourmet buffet and exclusive access to the Get Soaked Pool & Lounge. 

As the clock strikes midnight, raise your sparkling wine toast and celebrate in style. With live entertainment, a dazzling costume competition, exciting games, and fabulous raffle prizes, this is the ultimate New Year’s Eve party to kick off the year with a bang for only PHP 2,025 nett per person. 

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