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IATA reports global air cargo demand rose in October

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for October 2024 global air cargo markets showing continuing strong annual growth in demand.

Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), rose by 9.8 percent compared to October 2023 levels (10.3 percent for international operations) for a 15th consecutive month of growth.

Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), increased by 5.9 percent compared to October 2023 (7.2 percent for international operations). 

Increased capacity was mostly driven by an 8.5 percent increase in international belly capacity. 

Likewise, dedicated freighter capacity increased by 5.6 percent, marking the seventh consecutive month of growth with volumes nearing 2021 peak levels.

According to IATA director-general Willie Walsh: “Air cargo markets continued their strong performance in October, with demand rising 9.8 percent year-on-year and capacity up 5.9 percent. Global air cargo yields (including surcharges) continue to rise, up 10.6 percent on 2023 and 49 percent on 2019 levels. While 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year for air cargo, we must look to 2025 with some caution. The incoming Trump Administration’s announced intention to impose significant tariffs on its top trading partners, Canada, China and Mexico has the potential to upend global supply chains and undermine consumer confidence. The air cargo industry’s proven adaptability to rapidly evolving geopolitical and economic situations is likely to be tested as the Trump agenda unfolds.”

What needs to be considered moving forward?

Several factors in the operating environment should be noted:

  • Year-on-year, industrial production rose 1.6 percent in September while global goods trade increased 2.4 percent for a sixth consecutive month of growth. The increase in trade is partly due to businesses stockpiling inventory ahead of potential disruptions, like the US port strike.
  • Global manufacturing activity rebounded in October. The Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for global manufacturing output was above the 50-mark, indicating growth. However, the PMI for new export orders remained below the 50-mark, suggesting ongoing uncertainty and weakness in global trade.
  • US headline inflation, based on the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose by 0.17 percentage points to 2.58 percent in October, ending a six-month decline. In the same month, the inflation rate in the EU increased by 0.24 percentage points to 2.33 percent. China’s consumer inflation fell to 0.29 percent in October, sparking concerns of an economic slowdown.

Performance per region

Asia-Pacific airlines saw 13.4% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased by 9.3% year-on-year.

North American carriers saw 9.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased by 5.8% year-on-year.

European carriers saw 7.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased 3.9% year-on-year.

Middle Eastern carriers saw 4.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased 0.8% year-on-year.

Latin American carriers saw 18.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October, the strongest growth among the regions. Capacity increased 5.8% year-on-year.

African airlines saw 1.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October, the slowest among regions. Capacity increased by 7.7% year-on-year. 

Trade Lane Growth: International routes experienced exceptional traffic levels for the fifth consecutive month with a 10.3% year-on-year increase in October. Airlines are benefiting from rising e-commerce demand in the US and Europe amid ongoing capacity limits in ocean shipping.

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New study shows Japanese locals keenly feel impact of overtourism

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Japanese research organisation Jalan Research Center recently conducted a study on the impact of overtourism in the country.

One of the key findings from their latest report shows that the number of international travelers to Japan has increased at a far more rapid pace than in 2019. 

According to the results, 59.7 percent of those in residential areas and 63.4 percent of those in business districts feel that they are being crowded in by tourists.

Many locals continue to complain at how the presence of so many foreigners has changed their way of life or has disturbed the relative peace of their communities.

Indeed, up to 57.5 percent of those surveyed complained of the ill behaviour of foreign tourists, while 42.6 percent pointed out issues regarding public transportation and entry in restaurants being hampered due to a crush of foreign nationals. 

Who’s feeling the crunch?

Regions that have felt the drastic change in their way of life include Kansai (72.9 percent), Kyushu, and Okinawa (66.3 percent).

Meanwhile, those in the Kanto region (60 percent) griped about how overtourism has driven up the cost of food and other basic commodities. 

Those surveyed suggested that the key countermeasures against overtourism would be to educate foreigners on how to behave in Japan, particularly through pre-trip modules in their respective languages.

At the same time, up to 44.9 percent of Japanese nationals said that solving issues regarding increased traffic due to overtourism will not be easy to resolve. 

An additional 44.5 percent remarked that there is a need to boost the country’s public transportation systems.

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Philippine Airlines reveals new promotional video

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Philippine Airlines recently launched a new promotional campaign created with renowned advertising agency BBDO Guerrero Philippines.

Titled The Care That Comes From the Heart, the new campaign breathes new life into PAL’s iconic slogan The Heart of the Filipino.

The centrepiece of the campaign is a short film titled Alaga which is the Tagalog word for “care.” 

The film casts the spotlight on the meaningful and sincere care provided by PAL’s crew and staff, an aspect deeply rooted in the traditions of Filipino hospitality.

According to PAL vice-president of marketing Alvin Miranada, Filipino care is unlike any other; it’s shaped by generations of shared experiences and a deeply ingrained culture of compassion.

Miranda said: “Collaborating with BBDO Guerrero on this campaign has been a seamless partnership: their creative vision delivered the perfect story about how we put our hearts into everything we do. That’s the message we’re proud to share with the world.”

Capturing the spirit of deep-seated care

BBDO Guerrero creative chair David Guerrero said of the film: “With Alaga, we aimed to capture the essence of Filipino care: a type of hospitality that is warm, intuitive, and inherently generous. It’s been a joy to work with Philippine Airlines to bring their unique service philosophy to our screens.”

Directed by Joel Limchoc, Alaga can be viewed via the official PAL social media channels.

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Tourism Authority of Thailand hails Saudia’s inaugural flight to Phuket

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted airport ceremonies to mark Saudia’s inaugural non-stop flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to Phuket. 

Saudia’s inaugural Riyadh-Phuket flight SV 852, which took place on 2 December 2024, departed Riyadh at 11:25 and arrived in Phuket at 22:30. 

Thai ambassador to Saudi Arabia Darm Boontham, TAT Dubai and Middle East office director Ahman Mad-Adam, and media representatives from the Middle East were aboard the flight.

On the other hand, the inaugural Jeddah-Phuket flight SV 850 flew from Jeddah today, 4th December, at 01:55, arriving in Phuket at 13:45. A similar welcome ceremony was held in Phuket.

These new direct routes reflect growing demand for travel between Thailand and Saudi Arabia, enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.

According to TAT deputy governor for international marketing Siripakorn Cheawsamoot: “The launch of Saudia’s non-stop flights to Phuket marks a significant milestone in the strengthening of the friendly relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. This new air link not only offers greater convenience for Saudi travellers but also fosters deeper cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges, further solidifying Thailand’s position as a preferred destination for visitors from Saudi Arabia.”

Saudia will operate the Riyadh-Phuket and Jeddah-Phuket routes with Boeing 787-9 aircraft, each offering three weekly flights through 28 February 2025. 

In addition, the airline currently operates up to five weekly flights from Jeddah to Bangkok, three from Riyadh to Bangkok, and three flights per week between Riyadh and Bangkok via Jeddah.

A timely expansion

According to Cheawsamoot, the introduction of these non-stop flights comes at a time of growing tourism and economic cooperation between Thailand and Saudi Arabia. 

He said: “Over recent years, our collaborative efforts, including joint campaigns, have attracted Saudi tourists to Thailand. Saudia’s new flights to Phuket will further enhance this partnership, offering Saudi travellers greater access to explore Thailand’s stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences.”

TAT and Saudia will continue their collaboration with joint marketing initiatives, including a special sales promotion targeting Saudi families and millennial travellers. 

The Amazing Thailand Post-ATM Roadshow 2025 in Riyadh will bring Thai businesses and tourism representatives closer to the Saudi market. 

TAT and Saudia have previously worked together on successful campaigns, such as the 2023 Phuket Roadshow to Saudi Arabia and a Memorandum of Cooperation in 2022 to promote luxury, wellness, and sustainable tourism.

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Crown Sydney ushers in a new era of refined dining

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Crown Resorts announced that renowned Sydney hospitality institutions Golden Century and Icebergs Dining Room and Bar are slated to open new outlets in the upcoming 2024-2025 summer season.

These new venues will join a list of world-class and award-winning home-grown and international restaurants, ushering in a new era of dining where tourists and locals alike can enjoy Crown as a one-stop destination for Sydney’s best culinary experiences.

Crown Sydney CEO Stanford Le said: “Crown Sydney is already a beacon of hospitality in this beloved city, so it feels natural to add to our repertoire two renowned offerings from Sydney itself. We are thrilled to become the new home of the iconic Golden Century, offering our guests an experience that is at once nostalgic and exciting, and to partner with Icebergs for a summer residency of their bar experience, bringing their Bondi expertise to the harbourside.”

Icebergs Harbour Bar will be open seven days a week and will be available for walk-ins. Reservations for Golden Century will open to the public in December.

Oriental delectables

In early 2025, Golden Century will move into level 3, continuing their 30 year legacy and reprising the original concept which has been unavailable to diners since their Sussex St location closed during Covid in 2021. 

The venue will pay homage to the original with a menu brimming with Golden Century’s signature dishes including XO pippies, live lobster cooked two ways, and abalone steamboat, as well as other signature classics like peking duck, salt and pepper squid, and a yum cha lunch offering.

Golden Century co-owner Billy Wong, co-owner of Golden Century said: “We feel that we have a great synergy with Crown’s approach to hospitality: focusing on quality and the guest experience, making them feel welcome and at home. Golden Century is where it all began and we are excited to once again welcome in our loyal customers, serving our beloved Cantonese classics in a picture-perfect location that overlooks Sydney harbour and beyond.” 

A toast to excellence

On the other hand, Icebergs Harbour Bar aims to open this month welcoming guests from the morning through to late night drinks, bringing an elevated and Euro-Australian version of Bondi’s bar offering to Barangaroo by taking over the TWR lobby bar space and outdoor terrace. 

Diners can expect Icebergs Bar favourites such as the Iceburger, fried school prawns with aioli and lime, and signature cocktails like the No. 147 with Ketel One vodka, coconut, passionfruit, pineapple, lemon and aromatic bitters.

Restaurateur and Icebergs co-owner Maurice Terzini said: “I have always had a love affair with great hotel bars; they’re transient and fun and you never know who you’re going to meet! This evolution of the Iceberg’s Bar will bring classic drinks and our signature bar food offering to Crown Sydney, matching the already decadent and luxurious guest experience.”

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Thai AirAsia X resumes direct flights to Sydney

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Thai AirAsia X officially resumed its direct flight services to and from Sydney, Australia on Sunday, 1st December.

Flights to and from the Australian city are being operated from Thai AirAsia X’s main hub at Don Mueang International Airport. 

The reintroduced route flies a total of six weekly flights for now.

 

The only LCC flying from Bangkok to Sydney

The new route launch makes Thai AirAsia X the only low-cost airline providing direct services from Bangkok-Don Mueang to Sydney, offering seamless connections for passengers traveling from Sydney to a wide range of destinations across the AirAsia Group network. 

These include favourite destinations among Australian travelers such as Krabi, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, as well as popular international destinations like Japan, South Korea, India and China.

According to Thai AirAsia X CEO Tassapon Bijleveld: “The return of Thai AirAsia X to Sydney comes along with an enhanced flight network within the AirAsia Group that will give travelers the much sought after convenience and seamlessness especially with our FlyThru connections to over 50 popular destinations. Guests from Australia will also find the flight schedules between Sydney and Bangkok very favourable and they can choose any flight from the increased frequency of six flights per week. As a show of appreciation to our valued guests, we are also introducing a new meal set exclusively for our Premium Flatbed guests.”

Bijleveld also pointed out how operating from Don Mueang greatly enhances connectivity with the AirAsia Group’s extensive network, particularly to destinations in India, where there is a strong and growing  demand for travel to Australia. 

He said: “Our FlyThru service also provides a hassle-free experience, allowing guests to travel seamlessly as they only need to clear immigration and collect their luggage at the final destination.”

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Jumeirah Burj Al Arab marks 25 glorious years

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Leading luxury hospitality firm Jumeirah commemorated the 25th anniversary of the famed Jumeirah Burj Al Arab on Sunday, 1st December.

Since it first opened its doors in 1999, the hotel has redefined and elevated the standards for luxury accommodations in the United Arab Emirates. Indeed, its iconic dhow sail shape has become a global symbol for excellence in tourism.

Today, the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab continues to draw visitors from around the world with its promise of unparalleled, personalised luxury, exceptional experiences and the warmth of Arabian hospitality.

Commenting on the anniversary, Jumeirah’s chief operating officer and interim CEO Thomas Meier remarked: “As we celebrate 25 years since we opened the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, we reflect on our legacy of excellence in luxury hospitality, inspired by the warmth and generosity of Arabian culture. This tradition of welcoming travellers to stay and share in culture and conversation is at the heart of our vision: to create not just beautiful destinations but spaces to connect the world. As we continue to expand internationally, we will embrace the future with the same pioneering spirit that redefined the industry.  Our properties will continue to be a global majlis, offering the purposeful and unique opportunities for cultural connection that Jumeirah is renowned for.”

A pivotal moment

The 25th anniversary of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab marks a pivotal moment for the brand. 

Following the launch of a new visual identity earlier this year, Jumeirah continues to look to the future, with a focus on sustainable growth, regionally and internationally in gateway cities and resort destinations, while reaffirming its position as a game-changing industry leader in the luxury hospitality sphere. 

In line with this growth strategy, Jumeirah recently announced new properties including Jumeirah Red Sea in Saudi Arabia, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in the United Arab Emirates and Jumeirah Le Richemond Geneva in Switzerland.

The art of spectacle

For 25 years, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab has captivated the world with dazzling events and awe-inspiring stunts that have defied expectations, imagination and gravity itself.  

Adrenaline seekers have used the hotel’s helipad as a literal jumping-off point for some of their most outrageous achievements, such as when His Excellency Nasser Al Neyadi of Skydive Dubai became the first skydiver to land on the helipad in 2013. 

The helipad has also provided the backdrop to multiple face-offs between sporting legends, from Andre Agassi and Roger Federer’s tennis match in the clouds in 2005, to Anthony Joshua and Seb Eubank’s sky-high fight in 2017.  

In recent years, the helipad has hosted iconic cultural moments such as David Guetta’s DJ set in 2021 as part of his United at Home series in aid of UNICEF and Dubai Cares, which raised funds for students and teachers affected by the pandemic. 

The ultimate in personal luxury

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab continues to set unprecedented standards of personalised luxury, from featuring butler service for every suite to its fleet of bespoke Rolls Royce motor cars. 

Skyview Bar once served what was at the time the world’s most expensive cocktail, the 27.321 (inspired by the bar’s location on the 27th floor, 321 metres high) which cost AED 27,321.   

Beyond its attention-grabbing opulence, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is also central to Jumeirah’s ongoing efforts to be a good neighbour and preserve the places it calls home.  

The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) is located at the iconic hotel, with thousands of critically endangered turtles rescued, rehabilitated and released back into the wild as part of Jumeirah’s ongoing ocean conservation efforts.

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Portugal’s D7 Visa attracting the attention of Americans

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Porto, Portugal old town skyline on the Douro River with rabelo boats at night.

 

The United States nationals are showing increased interest in obtaining Portugal’s D7 Visa and moving to the country. According to Ei! Assessoria Migratória, a company offering assistance in moving to Portugal, in November of this year, Americans interested in emigrating to the country have made four times more inquiries compared to the average of the previous three months. As per a news report from Schengen News.

As the company has shared, in November alone, a total of 95 visa and residence permit inquiries were made by American nationals, with the highest demand being recorded only one day before the US elections, on November 4.

Of the total number of these requests, almost 90 per cent of Americans who contacted the Ei! Assessoria Migratória were interested in the D7 Visa of Portugal. The D7 Visa of Portugal, also known as the Portugal Passive Income Visa, grants residency to non-EU nationals who have a steady passive income.

Taking this into consideration, retirees, those who have a regular and stable income, and investors have shown the highest interest in the D7 Visa of Portugal. As Politico notes, within the last month, 71 inquiries were made for this type of visa.

Ei! Assessoria Migratória data show that there was also interest in Portugal’s D8 Visa. A number of Americans made questions about this type of visa and the procedures that must be followed to obtain the document.

The D8 Visa of Portugal, widely known as the Digital Nomad Visa, allows remote workers to apply for a one-year temporary stay visa or a residence permit and legally reside in the country.

As soon as the announcement that Trump won the elections was made, American internet users started to search extensively for migration opportunities to the bloc.

VisaGuide.World said last month that the searches of American internet users for migration and relocation to the EU increased by 1,514 per cent.

While there was an increased interest in almost all EU countries, the most sought-after destinations among Americans were Ireland, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Portugal.

These destinations were explored by Americans due to some of them having great affordability, some having a warm climate, and some providing a smooth integration for English speakers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Top five Europe’s natural ice rinks

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An ice rink on frozen Weissensee lake in Austria

 

With winter around the corner and temperatures dropping below freezing, some of Europe’s lakes are transforming into stunning natural ice rinks – including Europe’s top-rated natural ice rink according to new research.

The tranquil Lake Weissensee in Austria is set to freeze over and once again be the continent’s favourite skating destinations after sub-zero temperatures.

A new Google search study by European ferry operator DFDS analysed the popularity of 75 natural and artificial ice rinks, revealing Lake Weissensee in Austria as the top-ranking natural skating spot.

It received 33,000 Google searches during the winter months, followed second by Switzerland’s Lake Saint Moritz and Slovenia’s Lake Bled in third. Both received 28,000 and 25,000 searches respectively.

The internet’s favourite outdoor winter ice rinks revealed – from London to Strasbourg to Amsterdam

  • Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is home to Europe’s most popular ice rink – three London ice rinks feature in the top 10
  • Budapest’s City Park ice rink (Városligeti Műjégpálya) and Strasbourg’s Christmas market ice rink take second and third spot overall
  • Lake Weissensee within Austria’s Gailtal Alps mountain range is Europe’s most popular natural ice rink

As the crisp, cold air sweeps across Europe, new research reveals the most popular outdoor ice skating rinks, both natural and artificial, for travellers to enjoy this season.

Europe ferry operator DFDS analysed 75 natural and artificial outdoor ice rinks in Europe and collated the average number of Google searches for each from December to February. This revealed which were most popular to create the rank. From frozen lakes in the heart of a picturesque village to vibrant city centres, these ice-skating spots offer a charming winter experience for all the family.

 

Europe’s most popular natural ice rinks

Rank Ice rink City Google search volume (avg. Dec – Feb)
1 Lake Weissensee Weissensee 33,000
2 Lake Saint Moritz St. Moritz 28,000
3 Lake Bled Bled 25,000
4 Nymphenburg Palace Canal Munich 23,000
5 Lake Mälaren Stockholm 18,500

Lake Weissensee – Weissensee, Austria
Known as Europe’s largest natural ice rink, Lake Weissensee transforms into a winter paradise each year. Skaters glide across pristine ice, surrounded by the stunning Austrian Alps. With its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, this natural wonder draws both casual skaters and professional speed skaters.

Lake Saint Moritz – St. Moritz, Switzerland
The frozen Lake Saint Moritz is an iconic natural rink located in one of Europe’s most glamorous ski resorts. Known for its winter sports events, including polo and cricket on ice, the lake offers a chic setting for ice skating against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps, attracting winter enthusiasts and luxury travellers.

Lake Bled – Bled, Slovenia

Famed for its fairytale-like setting, Lake Bled becomes an enchanting natural rink in winter. With the stunning Bled Island and medieval castle overlooking the lake, skating here offers a truly magical experience. Its unique location and picturesque beauty make it a hidden gem for winter travellers seeking a natural skating adventure.

Europe’s most popular outdoor artificial ice rinks

Rank Ice rink City Google search volume (avg. Dec – Feb)
1 Hyde Park Winter Wonderland ice rink London 115,000
2 Városligeti Műjégpálya Budapest 72,000
3 Strasbourg Christmas Market ice rink Strasbourg 68,500
4 Ice*Amsterdam Amsterdam 62,500
5 Skate at Somerset House London 61,000
6 Neptune Fountain Ice Rink Berlin 52,000
7 Ice Magic Munich 51,000
8 Vienna Ice World Vienna 49,500
9 Ice Park Helsinki 47,000
10 Hampton Court Palace ice rink London 45,500

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland ice rink – London
Set around a Victorian bandstand, this iconic rink is the centrepiece of a festive wonderland filled with rides, attractions, and seasonal markets. With twinkling lights and live music adding to the atmosphere, it offers a magical skating experience for both Londoners and visitors from around the world.

Városligeti Műjégpálya – Budapest
Nestled in Budapest’s scenic City Park, Városligeti Műjégpálya is one of Europe’s largest and most stunning outdoor ice rinks. The iconic rink transforms a drained lake into a vast skating space, offering breathtaking views of the historic Vajdahunyad Castle.

Strasbourg Christmas Market – Strasbourg
Strasbourg, the “Capital of Christmas,” hosts one of Europe’s oldest and most renowned Christmas markets in the UNESCO-listed old town, complete with a charming outdoor ice-skating rink. Nestled among festive stalls and illuminated by sparkling lights, the rink offers a quintessential winter experience.

Ice*Amsterdam – Amsterdam
Skating at the foot of the Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands, this rink brings Dutch tradition to life in a stunning cultural setting, making it a must-visit for winter travellers.

Skate at Somerset House ice rink – London
A timeless London experience, this elegant rink offers skating in a historic courtyard just off The Strand, with the added bonus of live DJ nights.

 

 

 

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Virgin Atlantic spices up festive & winter menu with a taste of India

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Virgin Atlantic’s new Autumn and Winter menu brings the spirit of India to life at 35,000 feet. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of the festive season, this special menu offers a delightful fusion of modern British cuisine and authentic Indian dishes across all cabins. From indulgent treats to lighter, wellness-focused choices, every bite promises a taste of India’s rich culinary heritage.

A Taste of Tradition:

Virgin Atlantic is the in-flight experience with a range of beverages designed to complement the delicious menu. From a comforting cup of spicy chai tea, available to all, to exclusive treats for Upper Class, there’s a perfect drink for every palate. Upper Class passengers will be greeted with the “Manipura,” a refreshing new welcome drink with lemon, ginger, and a masala-spiced lemon garnish. Onboard from October, Economy and Premium customers can also enjoy Lucky Saint, a refreshing non-alcoholic beer option.

Prepare your palate for a culinary adventure through India, right onboard your Virgin Atlantic flight. This festive season, travelers flying between London Heathrow and India can savor a selection of authentic dishes, including:

  • Lamb Dahwalla: A rich and aromatic lamb curry, served with tomato and coriander okra and flaky paratha
  • Mutton Lal Mass: A fiery Rajasthani specialty, featuring tender mutton in a spicy red gravy, accompanied by fragrant zafrani pilau, green pea masala, and dal tadka
  • Paneer Makhani: A classic North Indian dish, with creamy paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a buttery tomato gravy, served alongside bhindi masala, channa dal, and tadka pulao
  • Vegetable Korma: A fragrant and flavorful vegetarian curry, featuring a medley of vegetables in a creamy coconut sauce, paired with almond basmati rice, saag masala, and naan.

Enhanced connectivity for the festive season:

This culinary celebration coincides with Virgin Atlantic’s continued expansion in India. Currently, the airline operates five weekly flights between London Heathrow and India.

In addition to direct flights to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, Virgin Atlantic’s codeshare partnership with IndiGo, India’s largest airline, offers seamless connections to 34 additional destinations within India, including Ahmedabad, Goa, and Hyderabad. This partnership has already connected over 80,000 customers since its launch in September 2022.

 

 

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