The post Auckland International Airport appoints new representative to Queenstown Airport board appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Auckland International Airport announced the appointment of a new director to the Queenstown Airport board effective 1 January 2025.

Incumbent director Mark Thomson confirmed his intention to resign from the board effective on the first day of the new year, and Auckland Airport chief planning and strategy officer Mary-Liz Tuck is slated to take his place.

In her current position, Tuck holds leadership responsibility for master planning, strategic capital planning, strategy, regulation, and sustainability. 

She is also a trustee for the airport marae Te Manukanuka o Hoturoa.

Tuck said of the appointment: “Queenstown Airport plays a vital role in the community, connecting Kiwis and overseas visitors to and from the region, and supporting the local economy. I’m delighted to be joining the board at an exciting time for the airport as it looks to progress delivery of its Master Plan and lean into the challenge of decarbonising aviation.”

A warm welcome, a fond farewell

Queenstown Airport chair Simon Flood welcomed Tuck’s appointment even as he acknowledged Thomson’s service to the board.

Flood said: “Mark has made a valuable contribution to the QAC board over several years. We’ve greatly appreciated Mark’s airport-specific knowledge, as well as the breadth of his property and retail experience. I look forward to welcoming Mary-Liz to the board table as the Auckland Airport shareholder representative in the new year. At Queenstown Airport, we are embarking on a significant infrastructure delivery programme and Mary-Liz’s airport master planning and sustainability expertise will be welcome.”

Queenstown Lakes District mayor Glyn Lewers added: “On behalf of the community and QLDC, as Queenstown Airport Corporation’s majority shareholder, I extend a warm welcome to Mary-Liz. The airport continues to perform strongly in a highly competitive market and earlier this year delivered a record dividend to the Council of $14.7 million. Mary-Liz’s proven track record at Auckland Airport will add fresh insight and governance skills to the board to help it build on this success. I’d also like to thank Mark for his huge contribution as AIAL’s representative on the board since 2017, especially as it navigated some unprecedented global challenges.”

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The post IATA: Governments blocked US$1.7 billion in airline funds appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reports several governments have blocked up to $1.7 billion in airline funds from repatriation as of the end of October 2024. 

The Association states that this is a small improvement compared to the $1.8 billion reported at the end of April.

According to IATA director general Willie Walsh, there has been a significant reduction in blocked funds in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Algeria, and Ethiopia. However, it was also noted that amounts are rising in the XAF/XOF zones and Mozambique. 

Bolivia is also emerging as a problem zone as repatriating sales revenues is becoming increasingly difficult and unsustainable for airlines. 

Walsh remarked that these actions were unacceptable, and that governments must remove all barriers for airlines to repatriate their revenues from ticket sales and other activities in accordance with international agreements and treaty obligations.

Walsh said: “No country wants to lose aviation connectivity, which drives economic prosperity. But if airlines cannot repatriate their revenues, they cannot be expected to provide a service. Economies will suffer if connectivity collapses. So, it is in everyone’s interest, including governments, to ensure that airlines can repatriate their funds smoothly.”

Problem zones as of 31st October 2024

At present, nine countries account for 83 percent of the global airline industry’s blocked funds, amounting to $1.43 billion.

Pakistan continues to top the list of blocked funds countries at $311 million. This is an improvement from $411 million in April 2024. The main issue is the system of audit and tax exemption certificates which is causing long processing delays.

Bangladesh has seen the amount of blocked funds decrease to $196 million (from $320 million in April). The Central Bank needs to continue to prioritize airlines’ access to foreign exchange in line with international treaty obligations.

About $1 billion of airline money blocked from repatriation is in African countries. That is about 59 percent of the global tally. Over the last six months, there were significant reductions in blocked funds in Algeria ($193 million from $286 million April) and Ethiopia ($43 million from $149 million in April). At the same time, XAF Zone (+$84 million), Mozambique (+$84 million) and XOF Zone (+$73 million) contributed to the largest increases.

Bolivia is new to the list of blocked fund countries. A further deterioration in the availability of foreign exchange, particularly the US dollar, has resulted in an estimated $42 million in airline funds being blocked in the country.

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The post Namia River Retreat opens its doors on 15th December appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Namia River Retreat formally opens to guests on Sunday, 15th December, offering a sanctuary filled with healing traditions, mindful serenity and deep cultural connections.   

Here, guests are invited to embrace a journey of inner peace and restoration, as the resort offers a peaceful sanctuary where nature, mindfulness and wellness converge.

Namia River Retreat elevates the concept of luxury, with just 60 spacious villas each equipped with a private pool  that ensures privacy and tranquility.  

Daily rates start from USD700 ++ and include: a Pool Villa on an islet in Thu Bon River (with either Nipa Palm Forest or River Views); All-Day Breakfast and complimentary mini-bar excluding alcohol for two guests; Daily Wellness Journey per person, per night (herbal steam & traditional spa therapy for 90 minutes); Complimentary Cultural Experiences (bamboo bicycle trail and sundowner cruise); and Personalised ‘Meet a Local ‘in Hoi An (craft your own story via the app or in-person).

The art of mindful wellness

At Namia River Retreat, guests can experience traditional Southern Vietnamese Herbology wellness therapies using fresh, local herbs for healing.

Every guest is welcomed with a 90-minute wellness journey per person per night to nourish their mind, body and soul, starting with a herbal remedy prescription prepared in Namia’s own in-house apothecary, followed by a 30-minute herbal hammam and 60-minute treatment. 

Signature treatments will include Dien Chan facial reflexology techniques to balance the body’s energy.  

Complementing therapies include Vietnamese massage, cupping and acupressure to further support the wellness journey.  

Each guest will be offered a choice from two complimentary wellness pathways during their stay: Deep Rest Pathway  for stress relief, better sleep and mental clarity;  or  Body Balance Pathway to ease tension, improve circulation and reduce inflammation.  

To finish the day guests will enjoy an in-room ritual of a soothing mugwort and cajeput bath soak, inviting deep relaxation as they unwind from a day of healing.

Other mindful moments during their stay will include starting the day with a Vietnamese Duong Sinh: a gentle flow of breath and movement techniques or a Silent Walking Meditation inspired by Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh inviting guests to connect with nature and immerse themselves in stillness.

An exquisite location

Located on a tranquil islet overlooking the Thu Bon River, the resort is just a short bicycle ride from the UNESCO Heritage Town of Hoi An.  

Here, visitors can explore vibrant streets adorned with colourful facades and lanterns, relax in quaint cafes serving authentic Vietnamese coffee and witness local artists beautifully capturing daily Vietnamese life on canvas.

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The post LOT Polish Airlines announces addition of Thessaloniki to its global network appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

LOT Polish Airlines announced its plan to add the Greek city of Thessaloniki to its global route network next year.

Daily flights to Thessaloniki commence on 17th June 2025 from LOT’s global hub in Warsaw.

To provide passengers with a maximum of flexibility, there will be two different departure times from Warsaw: Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:40h; Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 14:10h. 

Flight time will be approximately two hours and twenty minutes.

LOT Polish Airlines will operate the new service with modern aircraft providing passengers the choice between LOT Business Class and LOT Economy Class.

All year round

According to an official statement, LOT will be serving Thessaloniki year-round. 

During the winter, however, services will be reduced to four flights per week: Sundays and Wednesday with departure from Warsaw at 9:45h; Mondays and Thursdays with departure from Warsaw at 14:05h.

LOT Polish Airlines’ head of global corporate and strategic sales Amit Ray said of the route expansion: “We are pursuing a sustainable growth strategy, particularly with regard to our route network. Accordingly, we are selecting new destinations that are of great interest for leisure and/or business purposes. After resuming our flight to Athens earlier this year, we are now proud to announce the new service to Thessaloniki, a destination not to be underestimated, offering our Indian passengers even more choices when they travel across Europe.”

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand welcomes the 7th One Belt One Road Colourful Yunnan Car Rally to Thailand appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently welcomed the delegation of the 7th One Belt One Road Colourful Yunnan Car Rally in Thailand, an 18-day journey exploring major and hidden-gem destinations across the country. The delegation was warmly welcomed in Nakhon Ratchasima on 3 December 2024. 

Hosted by TAT, the reception dinner featured a traditional Bai Sri Su Kwan welcoming ceremony, where sacred threads were tied around the wrists of guests to bring blessings, protection, and strengthen bonds. 

The event also included cultural performances, such as a traditional Isaan music show and a lively folk-dance session, offering guests an authentic taste of Thai culture.

This significant event heralds the upcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China in 2025, celebrating the enduring bond between the two nations.

TAT East Asia regional director Chuwit Sirivachkul said: “The Chinese market, especially car rally tourists, plays a vital role in enhancing Thailand’s tourism infrastructure and services. This initiative not only promotes travel to Thailand’s hidden-gem destinations but also offers visitors the opportunity to experience our country’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural diversity, and the warm hospitality of the Thai people.”

An extensive journey

Comprising 45 vehicles and 120 participants from the People’s Republic of China, the rally began its journey from China on 19th November, entering Thailand through the Second Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge in Mukdahan on 22 November. 

Over the next 18 days, the rally will visit multiple provinces, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Lampang, Ayutthaya, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Songkhla, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Saraburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, and Nong Khai. 

Throughout their journey, participants will engage in tourism activities that support local economies in both major cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

The rally is part of a broader effort to enhance bilateral cooperation under the ‘One Belt, One Road initiative. 

The event underscores the shared goals of economic, cultural, and tourism exchange, while embracing the Chinese phrase Zhong Tai Yi Jia Qin: translated as China and Thailand Are As Close As One Family, further strengthening the ties between the peoples of both nations.

With Chinese arrivals to Thailand surpassing 6.2 million between 1 January and 1 December 2024, China remains the leading source of international visitors. 

The warm welcome, beautiful sights, and delicious food make Thailand a preferred destination for Chinese tourists. 

Amid challenges such as limited flight availability, promoting alternatives like car rally tourism helps diversify travel opportunities and supports achieving this year’s target of 7.3 million Chinese visitors.

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The post Avantio appoints Shaun McCorry as its strategic sales leader in North America appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Short-term rental property management software developer Avantio announced the appointment of Shaun McCorry as its strategic sales leader in North America.

An industry veteran, McCorry brings over a decade of expertise in vacation rental and smart home technology, most recently as vice-president of sales at Ciirus Vacation Rental Software, and previously at automation platform PointCentral. 

McCorry’s extensive experience working with short-term rental property managers across the region gave him a deep understanding of the unique problems they face, making him ideally placed to drive forward Avantio’s presence across North America. Shaun is based in Destin, Florida, and well-connected within the Florida vacation rental sector and nationally.

He said of his new role: “It’s tougher than ever before to be a vacation rental manager, and that means that managers need better tech and smoother operations to increase profit margins. I’m excited to bring Avantio’s best-in-class software to more property managers across North America, enabling them to reduce costs, increase guest satisfaction, and most importantly, eliminate stress.”

A necessary part of expansion

This latest strategic hire promises to help Avantio expand as a trusted partner for property managers in the US and Canada, bringing the company’s over 20 years of European leadership across the pond. 

According to Avantio founder and CEO Manuel Giner Nadal: “Vacation rental is a sector that’s always innovating and moving forward, and the guest experience should always be at the sector. Shaun’s collaborative and positive spirit is just what Avantio needs in order to empower even more property managers with our all-in-one software across North America.” 

With a clear focus on being a partner to customers and providing ongoing support and education, Avantio’s efforts are paying off in client satisfaction and revenue growth. 

The customer support team received an impressive average satisfaction score of 4.86 out of 5 in 2023, up from 4.6 in 2022. 

Meanwhile, Avantio grew its revenue by 30 percent from 2022 to 2023, reducing churn by half.

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The post Could Samoa be Pacific tourism’s star in 2025? appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Samoa is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for 2025, with a surge in European visitors and exciting new developments. 

The Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) European office reports a 45.4 percent rise in European arrivals for July–September 2024 compared to 2023, making Europe one of Samoa’s top-performing long-haul markets.

This growth contributed to a total of 50,830 arrivals for the quarter, reinforcing Samoa’s appeal as a unique and unforgettable Pacific destination.

Samoa’s cruise tourism is also booming, with 27 cruise ships scheduled to visit in 2025, promising an exciting year ahead.

In 2024, 24 ships have already visited, with two more expected in December. November saw a historic milestone with Samoa welcoming its first-ever overnight cruise ship visit, highlighting its growing popularity among cruise travellers.

Significant improvements

Whether exploring lush islands or enjoying vibrant local culture, Samoa is ready to make waves with travellers in 2025.

Samoa’s commitment to tourism continues with the recent upgrades to the Togitogiga Waterfalls.

Known for its lush beauty and dramatic waterfalls, the site has received a makeover aimed at improving accessibility and safety.

New pathways, reinforced viewing platforms, and additional resting areas ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors, making the Togitogiga Waterfalls even more enchanting.

Rethinking hospitality

In addition to these improvements, Samoa’s hospitality sector continues to flourish, with the opening of new hotels and resorts.

The Moanalei Villas, set to be Samoa’s premier boutique luxury accommodation, are nestled in the foothills of Mount Vaea, just five minutes from Apia.

The seven-villa resort will offer unparalleled luxury, with private infinity pools and breathtaking views from the mountains to the ocean.

The first three villas and the restaurant are set to be completed by the end of 2024, with the full property operational by 2026.

In Apia, the newly opened Fugalei Motel adds a stylish and affordable option to the city’s accommodation options, with self-contained, air-conditioned units and more under construction, scheduled for completion by February 2025.

Additionally, the Survivor Beach Resort, a prime filming location for Survivor USA, is now open to the public.

Set at Falelatai, this stunning resort offers state-of-the-art facilities, luxurious villas, and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean.

The resort adds to the growing list of high-end accommodation options on the island.

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The post St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort attains Green Globe Certification appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort recently received the prestigious Green Globe Certificate, the world’s leading certification for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism worldwide.

This achievement reflects the resort’s steadfast commitment to environmental conservation, responsible tourism, and sustainability, reinforcing its dedication to protecting the natural beauty of the private island and its surrounding marine ecosystem.

General manager Vincent Pauchon said of the certification: “We are deeply honoured to receive the Green Globe Certification, which reflects the dedication of our team in embracing sustainability at every level of our operations, Our commitment to preserving the natural environment of this island is at the heart of everything we do. Sustainability is not just a practice; it is a promise we make to future generations, ensuring that luxury and conservation go hand in hand.”

An integrated approach to sustainable operations

The resort’s sustainability efforts are deeply integrated into its operations.

In partnership with Reefscapers, the resort plays an active role in coral reef restoration, inviting guests to participate in hands-on coral planting initiatives.

The resort also employs a comprehensive waste management strategy that includes advanced recycling and composting systems.

To support local communities and reduce its environmental footprint, the resort sources organic, locally grown produce and sustainable seafood.

Quenched with Fen

A key milestone in the resort’s sustainability journey is the introduction of Fen, the resort’s signature still and sparkling water, named after the Maldivian word for “water.”

Sourced from the pristine sea surrounding the island, Fen is filtered and desalinized on-site through the resort’s newly installed, eco-conscious bottling plant, designed to minimize carbon emissions.

For every bottle sold, USD $3 is contributed to the resort’s Blue Fund, which directly supports coral propagation projects with Reefscapers.

Fen water is available as a complimentary offering during breakfast and at the beach. It is also featured on all restaurant and bar menus, enhancing the guest experience while actively reducing single-use plastic waste.

The resort is also proud to feature local products and endorse Maldivian artisanal crafts, further enriching the cultural connection between guests and the island.

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The post Malaysia Aviation Group’s first A330neo arrives in Kuala Lumpur appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of national carrier Malaysia Airlines, welcomed the arrival of its first Airbus 330-900 (A330neo) aircraft on 29th November. 

Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo is part of the Group’s fleet modernisation strategy and MAG is set to receive 20 such aircraft up to 2028.

MAG’s A330neo aircraft comprises 297 seats (28 in Business Class and 269 in Economy Class, of which 24 seats come with extra legroom) and will be deployed on long-haul routes across Asia and Australasia.

In August 2022, MAG signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Avolon for the acquisition of 20 A330neo aircraft which are scheduled to be delivered through to 2028.

A ceremonial arrival

The aircraft, bearing registration number 9M-MNG, departed from the Airbus Delivery Centre in Toulouse, France on 28 November 2024 at 8:52pm local time and safely arrived at its home base at KL International Airport (KUL) on 29 November 2024 at 4:52 pm local time. 

Prior to its arrival, the aircraft was escorted by a Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jet and performed a spectacular flypast, offering plane spotters an extraordinary sight. Upon arrival, the aircraft was greeted with a water salute.

The journey of flight MH5039 took a total flight time of 13 hours and was flown by Captain Khairul Syukri Khalid, Captain Azim Sham Che Din, Captain Zainuddin Hussein and Captain Najwan Reshan Nahdan Rengganathan.

 

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