The post Travelbag named as the holiday prize provider for I’m A Celeb appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tailor-made travel specialists, Travelbag, has been announced as the holiday prize provider for the annual hit show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, and the prize could be life-changing. 

On screens every day from Sunday 17th November, the hit UK show  I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here is officially back with a whole host of celebrities that will be pushed to their limits in the Australian jungle. However, the trials are not the only jaw-dropping thing viewers can look forward to this season, as the holiday prize provider has officially been announced, and with it, the largest cash prize ever seen on the show.

For the second year running, tailor-made travel agents at Travelbag have been revealed as the holiday prize providers, maintaining a long-standing relationship with ITV.

The lucky winner will receive a whopping £100,000 cash prize, as well as a luxury trip to Australia.

The winner and three guests will get the chance to fly premium economy with Qantas Airways to Sydney where they will kick start their luxurious 12-night adventure.

The winner and their guests will stay at the Shangri-La, Sydney, and enjoy stunning views of the city’s harbour. They will enjoy a Captain Cook ‘Gold’ dinner cruise in the glow of the iconic Opera House before riding the legendary Ghan train, journeying through the Australian outback for two lavish nights. All meals and drinks are included too! The winner will then travel to the depths of the world’s oldest living rainforest and stay at the Daintree Wilderness Lodge, before finishing the trip near the stunning Great Barrier Reef.

Natalie Watson, Brand and Campaigns Marketing Manager, commented on their involvement in the prize draw: “We’re so pleased to announce that Travelbag will once again be the primary provider for this year’s  I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here grand prize. With £100,000 and a stunning trip to Australia up for grabs, we can’t wait to see who wins this life-changing prize!”

 

 

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The post MakeMyTrip introduces multi-currency payment options appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

MakeMyTrip recently announced its compliance with GDPR, enabling accessibility to the MMT Platform from more than 150 countries. Building on this progress, the company now offers multi-currency payment options, making it easier for users to book flights and hotels in the currency of their choice.  The launch of the multi-currency feature will help connect international travelers directly with the company’s extensive supply network, offering accommodation in over 2,100 cities across India.

Speaking about the development, Rajesh Magow, Co-founder & Group CEO, MakeMyTrip, said, “Travel is becoming increasingly borderless, and this step makes it easier for global travelers to engage with us seamlessly. This feature simplifies payments in the currency of their choice for the Indian Diaspora spread across the globe, as well as our international customers, while also laying the foundation for greater adoption of the MakeMyTrip platform among inbound international travelers.”

The new multi-currency feature allows payments in major global currencies, including the Bahraini Dinar, British Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollar, Danish Krone, EU Euro, Hong Kong Dollar, Indian Rupee, Japanese Yen, Kuwaiti Dinar, New Zealand Dollar, Qatari Riyal, Russian Ruble, Saudi Riyal, Singapore Dollar, South African Rand, South Korean Won, Thai Baht, UAE Dirham, and US Dollar.

MakeMyTrip’s launch of multi-currency feature allows travelers to receive travel vouchers and refunds in the currency used during payment, ensuring a seamless experience.

 

 

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The post IndiGo codeshares with Japan Airlines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This strategic partnership will enable JAL to expand its connectivity to India initially, while offering IndiGo customers more travel options on JAL’s extensive domestic and international network in later phases. IndiGo, holding over 60% market share as India’s leading airline, and JAL will begin codesharing on domestic routes within India that connect to JAL-operated flights to/from Delhi and Bengaluru.

Currently, JAL operates daily services between Tokyo (Haneda) and Delhi, and five times weekly services between Tokyo(Narita) and Bengaluru. Through this new partnership with IndiGo, JAL will be able to establish a comprehensive network across India, connecting to numerous major cities via JAL-operated flights.

Abhijit DasGupta, Senior Vice President Network Planning & Revenue Management, IndiGo said: “We are delighted to introduce new options for connectivity between India and Japan. This codeshare agreement will further strengthen business, trade and tourism related travel between India and Japan. It will also enable passengers of both airlines to explore some of the most culturally rich destinations in India and Japan, known for their history, culinary experiences, nightlife and significant landmarks. At a time when both the countries are strategically working together, this codeshare will add to the strengthening bilateral ties between India and Japan. This expansion is a part of IndiGo’s commitment to delivering on its promise of affordable, on-time, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience across an unparalleled network.”

Ross Leggett, Managing Executive Officer, Senior Vice President Route Marketing, Japan Airlines, said: “ We are thrilled to announce our new codeshare partnership with IndiGo, the airline with the largest domestic network in India, renowned for its high-quality service. This partnership will enable travelers between India and Japan to book their flights on a single ticket, enjoying the exceptional services of both IndiGo and Japan Airlines. India has seen remarkable economic growth in recent years, which is leading to a significant increase in air travel demand between Japan and India. Both carriers are excited to embark on this partnership, aiming to further contribute to the market by providing customers with more convenient and seamless travel options. We believe that this collaboration will not only enhance connectivity between the two countries but also foster stronger cultural and economic ties.

By leveraging these codeshare connections, customers will have access to 18 destinations in India, offering a wider range of options for tourists, business travelers, and leisure seekers. With IndiGo’s unparalleled network, on-time performance, and exceptional service, JAL is committed to delivering an outstanding travel experience to even more passengers. Both airlines look forward to further expanding their cooperation in the future, offering even greater convenience and travel options.

[Details on Japan Airlines marketed flights]

– For travel starting December 16, 2024 (Codeshare flights are subject to government approval)

– Reservation and ticket sales will be available from December 4, 2024

 

Applicable Routes Operated by IndiGo*

– Delhi-Ahmedabad

– Delhi-Amritsar

– Delhi-Bengaluru

– Delhi-Mumbai

– Delhi-Kolkata

– Delhi-Coimbatore

– Delhi-Kochi

– Delhi-Goa

– Delhi-Hyderabad

– Delhi-Leh

– Delhi-Lucknow

– Delhi-Chennai

– Delhi-Pune

– Delhi-Thiruvananthapuram

– Delhi-Varanasi

– Bengaluru-Ahmedabad

– Bengaluru-Amritsar

– Bengaluru-Mumbai

– Bengaluru-Kolkata

– Bengaluru-Coimbatore

– Bengaluru-Kochi

– Bengaluru-Goa

– Bengaluru-Hyderabad

– Bengaluru-Chandigarh

– Bengaluru-Lucknow

– Bengaluru-Chennai

– Bengaluru-Pune

– Bengaluru-Thiruvananthapuram

– Bengaluru-Trichy

– Bengaluru-Varanasi

 

Applicable Routes Operated by Japan Airlines*

– Tokyo(Haneda)-Bangkok

– Tokyo(Narita)-Bangkok

– Osaka(Kansai)-Bangkok

– Tokyo(Haneda)-Singapore

– Tokyo(Narita) -Singapore

* subject to government approval

 

【Planned Codeshare Routes】

 

 

 

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The post GlobalData reports 10 percent decrease in travel and tourism deal activity  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

GlobalData released its most recent report on global travel and tourism deal activity, noting a 10.4 percent year-on-year decrease in merger and acquisition activities.

The report showed a total of 583 deals announced in the travel and tourism sector between January and October 2024.

This marked a year-over-year decline compared to the 651 deals announced during the same period in 2023

According to GlobalData lead analyst Aurojyoti Bose: “Geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties significantly impacted the deal-making in the travel and tourism sector. However, some of the leading economies in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region saw improvement in the volume of deals.”

Key findings

Europe led in the number of deal announcements during January-October 2024 while also showing a YoY improvement of 7.5 percent in deal activity.

In contrast, North America, Asia-Pacific, South and Central America, as well as the Middle East and Africa regions saw YoY decline in deal volume by 33 percent, 6.4 percent, 20 percent, and 17.2%, respectively, during January-October 2024.

In contrast, the UK, India, Japan and Spain experienced YoY improvement in deal volume by 2.7 percent, 18.6 percent, 28.6 percent, and 69.2 percent respectively from January to October 2024.

An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that trend also remained a mixed bag across different deal types.

The deal volume for mergers and acquisitions, as well as venture financing deals fell by 4.9 percent and 29.4 percent respectively during the period compared to the same timeframe last year.

Meanwhile, the private equity deals volume saw a slight improvement during the review period.

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The post Alipay joins Nihao! China Tourism Partnership Programme appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Alipay announced the launch of a China Travel Voucher Pack for international travelers in collaboration with several partners, including online travel agencies Fliggy and DiDi, today, 26th November.

This is part of the Nihao! China Tourism Partnership Programme initiated by the Network of International Culturalink Entities of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China.

Alipay’s China Travel Voucher Pack provides each inbound tourist special offers worth RMB 200 (USD 28), applicable to a wide range of scenarios such as flights, hotels, train travel, and shopping.

Additionally, international tourists eligible for 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit, as well as those from countries with mutual visa exemption agreements with China, can access flight discount coupons from the pack.

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The post Star Alliance remains world’s leading airline alliance appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Star Alliance took the title of World’s Leading Airline Alliance for the fifth year in a row at this year’s World Travel Awards.

The event was held in Madeira, Portugal on Sunday, 24th November.

Theo Pangiotoulias, chief executive for the alliance, said of this most recent honour: “This enduring achievement reflects the collective dedication of Star Alliance and member airline employees, as well as their commitment to deliver seamless travel experiences.”

Aside from the alliance-level award, Star Alliance member airlines claimed individual honours at the event.

These airlines were hailed as World’s Leading Airline in the Africa, Asia, North America, and South America categories.

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The post Anantara Desaru Coast Residences plays host to the House of Robb appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Luxury real estate firm Minor Residences recently teamed up with Robb Report Malaysia for an exclusive event titled House of Robb last 8th November at the Anantara Desaru Coast Residences.

The event welcomed guests from AHAM Capital’s Future Leaders Programme, giving them exclusive access to the resort’s most exquisite residence.

The House of Robb was hosted by Minor Lifestyle and Real Estate chief operating officer Micah Tamthai, together with Robb Report Malaysia editorial director Kenneth Tan. Also in attendance were a number of esteemed partners.

Exquisite indulgences

After toasting with celebrity-backed Champagne Telmont, guests were free to exploreDolce & Gabbana’s Alta Sartoria creations, showcasing high-level handiwork, intricate details and luxurious fabrics. 

They were also the first in Malaysia to view Dolce & Gabbana’s Alta Gioielleria, a high jewellery line celebrating art, beauty and Italy’s renowned jewellery-making traditions. 

Additionally, innovative high-technology professional speakers from Italy’s K-array and the iconic 1965-designed Brionvega Radiofonografo turntable speakers were on display.

When it came to entertainment, hosts regaled their guests with a live performance from a duo of musicians. 

Guests were also invited to indulge in Thai inspired canapés by Anantara Desaru Coast’s culinary team, the legendary Louis XIII by Rémy Martin cognac, an assortment of Cuban cigars, by Cigar Kingdom, as well as Bruichladdich Single Malt Scotch from Islay.

The epitome of island elegance

Attendees enjoyed an elegant evening of fine gastronomy and Italian craftsmanship, surrounded by the opulence of the 13,000-sq ft duplex villa.

Indeed, the venue was a luxurious showcase: a well-appointed four-bedroom residence equipped with its own private infinity pool, sundeck, as well as direct access to the ocean.

Typical of all the villas at Anantara Desaru Coast Residences, this showplace offers a curated blend of luxury beachfront living and family-friendly leisure. 

Owners and residents of the three- and four-bedroom pool villas enjoy access to a wealth of attractions in Desaru Coast and five-star facilities at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas resort, with prices starting from 9,2 million MYR.

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The post Benjamin Vuchot to take helm at The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels Limited appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels Limited announced that Benjamin Vuchot will take the reins as its executive director and chief executive effective 3rd March 2025.

HSH, which owns and operates The Peninsula Hotels, also advised that Vuchot will take over from current CEO and executive director Clement King Man Kwok.

Aside from the aforementioned positions, Vuchot will also join HSH’s executive committee, finance committee, and its group management board. He will also serve as director at several of the company’s entities.

Vuchot said of the appointment: “I’m honoured and excited to be joining HSH. It is a privilege to be working for a company that has built a reputation for excellence in luxury hospitality and exceptional services for over 150 years. The Peninsula Hotels is a storied brand that embodies elegance and refinement. Building on this legacy and long-term vision, I look forward to working alongside the exceptional team to imagine and deliver the future of luxury hospitality that is both sustainable and responsive to our times, whilst upholding the values that have steered the group’s success and legacy.”

Meet Benjamin Vuchot

Vuchot is an alumnus of France’s ESSEC Business School where he earned the degree Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business and Marketing.

The 52-year-old has over 30 years’ experience in the luxury retail business, specifically with two leading global firms: Richemont and Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessey (LVMH.)

Keeping this in mind, he brings extensive experience in driving business growth and expansion through innovative strategies and initiatives. 

Vuchot began his career in sales and marketing at Cartier in Hong Kong and Singapore, later becoming communications director for the Far East. 

In 2002, he worked as managing director and president for the Asia Pacific at Van Cleef & Arpels. 

In 2011, he first joined DFS Group as managing director and regional president for North Asia, Hong Kong, holding the position until 2017. 

He was appointed as president of Asia Pacific for cosmetic and fragrance retailer Sephora before rejoining DFS Group in 2020 to become its chairman and CEO.

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The post Vietnam works to hit 2024 tourist arrivals target appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With less than a month and a half left to 2024, Vietnam is working to meet its target of welcoming between 17 to 18 million tourists before the end of the year.

As of 31st October, the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNTA) reported that international tourist arrivals hit 1.42 million, up almost 28 percent year-on-year. 

The total number of international visitors to Vietnam in the first 10 months of 2024 exceeded 14 million, up by over 41 percent from where it was at the end of October 2023. 

Given this most recent report, VNTA deputy director Nguyen Le Phuc is optimistic that the country will meet its arrivals target by the end of the year.

Nguyen said: “We expect international arrivals to Vietnam to continue growing dramatically in the remaining months of 2024.”

Hanoi Tourism Department director Dang Huong Giang added: “The autumn and winter seasons are the capital’s golden season for tourism. So Hanoi will accelerate product development and promotion activities to achieve its goal of welcoming five million international visitors for this year.”

Flying farther, cruising in

Aside from the work of national and local tourism boards, airlines are also making efforts to open more international routes into Vietnam. 

Vietravel Airlines, for example, recently increased flight frequencies, and also expanded routes to Taiwan, adding Phu Quoc-Taipei, Hue-Taichung, and Danang-Taichung to its route network.

Vietnam Airlines also recently opened a direct route between Hanoi and Chengdu, linking the capital with Sichuan Province; while Vietjet introduced two routes connecting Phu Quoc with Taichung and Kaohsiung in Taiwan.

Quang Ninh province, however, has gone on a different track as it is promoting cruise tourism.

The province now welcomes luxury tourists with high spending capacity. 

From now until year-end, cruise ships are expected to bring 2,000-3,500 international visitors for sightseeing and leisure in Halong, Quang Ninh province, with stays ranging from half a day to one day.

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