The post Madhya Pradesh is the best film-friendly state in the country: Shukla appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board participated in the 55^th IFFI (International Film Festival of India) in Goa from 20^th – 25^th November 2024, promoting the state’s film shooting facilities and the Film Tourism Policy. A knowledge series was also organised on 21^st November 2024 by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board featuring discussions on boosting film production in state.

The series on ‘Lights, Camera, Collaboration: Government and Industry partnership for filming in Madhya Pradesh’ included insights from Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department & Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Film Director Mr. Amar Kaushik, CEO Aamir Khan Productions Ms Aparna Purohit, Actor Mr Abhishek Banarjee, Actor Ms. Nitanshi Goel, Actor Mr. Sparsh Shrivastava & Actor and Producer Ms Vani Tikoo Tripathi. Principal Secretary Mr. Shukla informed about the various aspects of the MP Film Tourism Policy with the aim of promoting film shooting in the state, how government initiatives can help streamline processes and foster collaboration between various stakeholders in the industry and establishing the state as a major film-making destination. Filmmakers appreciated the Madhya Pradesh Film Tourism Policy showed interest in future projects in the state.

Sheo Shekhar Shukla said “Madhya Pradesh is proudly two times national award winner of most film friendly state 2017 & 2020. The state is undoubtedly a must-visit state for film shooting. The state government has created the Film Facilitation Cell to promote filmmaking and shooting within the state. Madhya Pradesh is undeniably a naturally stunning offbeat multispecialty destination and paradise for filmmakers seeking picturesque locations. The state’s diverse locations from rich cultural heritage, vibrant wildlife and sacred spiritual destinations provide a visually stunning film set making it a perennial favourite among filmmakers. Madhya Pradesh boasts excellent connectivity by road and air. Recognizing the industry’s needs and the state’s stunning locales, the government has implemented a film policy offering lucrative incentives to filmmakers. All these factors have solidified Madhya Pradesh’s position as a premier film shooting destination.”

Hints about multiple sequels of ‘Stree’ ahead in MP – Amar Kaushik 

Director Amar Kaushik has confirmed that the popular horror-comedy franchise ‘Stree’ is set to continue with multiple sequels. The announcement was made during a Knowledge Series seminar at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

Kaushik revealed that the upcoming sequels will be filmed primarily in Madhya Pradesh, a state that has become a popular filming destination due to its diverse landscapes and generous incentives. Interestingly, the original Stree was initially planned to be set in Goa but was eventually shifted to Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh. Kaushik explained that he wanted to avoid horror clichés and opted for a city setting rather than a traditional haunted house or beach location.

The Stree franchise, which includes the 2018 hit and its recent sequel, Stree 2, has been a massive commercial success. The films, starring Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, and Pankaj Tripathi, have garnered critical acclaim for their blend of humour, horror, and social commentary.

Film Tourism Policy 2.0 Soon – Principal Secretary Shri Shukla

Principal Secretary Shri Shukla said during the sessions that based on the suggestions received from filmmakers across the country, experts associated with the film industry, and stakeholders, changes are being made to the Madhya Pradesh Film Tourism Policy. Film Tourism Policy 2.0 will be released soon. This is a new and comprehensive policy designed to further promote film shooting in the state. Its objective is to provide additional facilities and incentives to filmmakers so that Madhya Pradesh can be made the top film-making destination in India. Changes are being made to the policy to attract international filmmakers, promote the state’s unexplored tourist destinations, and create employment opportunities for the local community and youth.

Cine Tourism & Film Production in Madhya Pradesh 

Film Facilitation Cell to promote Film Shooting

The state government has established a Film Facilitation Cell to encourage the film industry and film shooting. This cell will coordinate with film production companies and producers, understand their needs, and suggest necessary changes in the policy. The Film Facilitation Cell will be overseen by a committee composed of the Managing Director of the MP Tourism Board, the Advisor for Archaeology, the Deputy Director of Finance, a film industry expert, and heads of relevant government departments. This cell will review all applications for film production and grant necessary approvals. It will also evaluate grant proposals submitted by producers. Madhya Pradesh is the first state in India to integrate film shooting into its Public Service Guarantee Act (PSGA). This innovative approach ensures that film shooting permissions are granted within 15 working days, streamlining the process for filmmakers.

Single Window System

A streamlined one-stop-shop system is in place for filmmakers wishing to shoot in the state. All necessary permits are issued through this centralized system. The state government is boosting its economy by supporting the entertainment industry through the Film Tourism Fund. The goal is to create more opportunities for those involved in filmmaking. There are also plans to conduct tours for prominent Indian filmmakers.

Financial Incentives for Film Production in Madhya Pradesh

The state’s film production incentive policy offers financial incentives to filmmakers who shoot in Madhya Pradesh. The amount of the grant depends on the film’s budget and the percentage of shooting days spent in the state.

 

 

 

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The post NCL names Eric Stonestreet, as godfather to Norwegian Aqua appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel,  announced that the two-time Emmy® Award-winning actor, Eric Stonestreet, will serve as the godfather of NCL’s newest groundbreaking ship, Norwegian Aqua, launching in April 2025.

Eric Stonestreet is a beloved screen actor, best known for his work on the hit television show “Modern Family.” His unforgettable portrayal of Cameron Tucker earned him two Primetime Emmy® Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Stonestreet has also appeared in films including “The Secret Life of Pets” and “Identity Thief,” and has previously hosted Fox’s reality competition series “Domino Masters.” Currently, he can be seen in season two of The Santa Clauses, one of Disney+’s most-streamed original series.

As a charismatic and relatable celebrity figure, Stonestreet brings joy to audiences through his humor. Similarly, NCL brings joy to its guests with the variety of elevated experiences that empower guests to have their own best vacation with more of what they love across its 19-ship fleet and the 450 destinations it visits around the world.

“We are very excited to officially welcome Eric Stonestreet to the NCL team!” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We had an amazing time with Eric on one of our ships, and also got to spend some time with his charming family after. Over the past couple of months, Eric has become a true friend of NCL. Eric’s authenticity, wit, charm and genuine desire to bring happiness to the masses embodies the role of godfather for Norwegian Aqua, as well as who we are and what we stand for as a company. We are honored to have Eric as the godfather of Norwegian Aqua!”

 

Stonestreet will play a pivotal role in officially welcoming the beautiful new Norwegian Aqua to NCL’s fleet as the ship’s godfather. On April 13, 2025, in Miami, also known as the Cruise Capital of the World, Stonestreet will lead the time-honored tradition of christening the vessel by breaking a champagne bottle across its bow, a classic maritime custom performed by the ship’s godparent. This act is meant to bring good fortune for the life of the vessel and all the passengers that may sail on her throughout her journeys.

“Traveling the world to meet new people and explore new places is something I love to do, and after recently experiencing what Norwegian has to offer, I can attest that Norwegian truly makes it easy to do more of what I enjoy while on vacation,” said Eric Stonestreet, two-time Emmy® Award-winning actor. “I am honored to be named the godfather of Norwegian Aqua and to play my part in the journey of bringing this new ship to life. I am blown away by what’s in store for Norwegian Aqua and I cannot wait to take a ride on the Aqua Slidecoaster, indulge in some red curry at the all-new Sukhothai and most importantly create lifelong memories with my own family while on board this innovative new ship.”

After completing her christening voyage, Norwegian Aqua will depart on seven-day itineraries from one of the most popular cruise ports, Port Canaveral, Fla. beginning April 26, 2025. These fun-in-sun Caribbean voyages include calls to the beautiful island destinations of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas which will feature a brand-new pier in late 2025. Following the ship’s first cruise season, Norwegian Aqua will offer five and seven-day voyages to Bermuda from New York City from August 2025 through October 2025, and from May 2026 to October 2026. Norwegian Aqua will return to Miami to sail five and seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries from October 2025 through April 2026 and from November 2026 to March 2027.

As the first ship in NCL’s Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua will boast even more elevated amenities and experiences with guests able to indulge in a variety of bars and restaurants including the new upscale Thai specialty restaurant, Sukhothai; the plant-based eatery in Indulge Food Hall, Planterie; and the contemporary wine lounge, Swirl Wine Bar.

Additionally, Norwegian Aqua is home to NCL’s first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex suites within The Haven by Norwegian, the Brand’s premium keycard-access-only-complex, with an expansive, dedicated sundeck; a serene infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern; a private lounge and bar pouring rare spirits and vintages; and sweeping sea views available from every public space.

The ship will also feature the Aqua Slidecoaster, a first-of-its-kind hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide that will become the longest and fastest slide at sea, a new high-tech digital sports complex, the Glow Court, brilliantly engineered for immersive play as well as the Aqua Game Zone, a reimagined version of the Company’s beloved Galaxy Pavilion and arcade offerings.

For guests planning their next cruise vacation aboard Norwegian Aqua, or any ship in NCL’s fleet for sailings beginning on Jan. 1, 2025, the Company’s all-new package, More At Sea, offers travelers more value with an unlimited open bar featuring more premium beverage brands, more specialty dining credits and more Wi-Fi minutes with faster, high-speed internet powered by Starlink. The package also includes $50 shore excursion credits with free airfare for the second guest and third and fourth guests sailing free on select cruises. Additionally, guests can combine More At Sea with NCL’s current Black Friday sale of 50% off all cruises.

 

 

 

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The post The Leela collaborates with Sawai Padmanabh Singh of Jaipur appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

In the next phase of its collaboration with Icon of India HH Sawai Padmanabh Singh of Jaipur, The Leela unveils its latest campaign, “Time Travel with The Leela”, an initiative designed to connect with young, affluent travelers who seek experience-forward stays. This campaign celebrates a blend of Indian legacy and modern luxury hospitality, showcasing its commitment to curating meaningful journeys rooted in culture and heritage.

Announced earlier this year as an Icon of India by The Leela, HH Padmanabh Singh brings his unique blend of heritage, sophistication, and modernity to this campaign. As a custodian of Jaipur’s royal lineage, his involvement aligns seamlessly with The Leela’s ethos of creating moments that connect guests to India’s timeless history in ways that resonate with modern sensibilities.

Sawai Padmanabh Singh, the campaign is an opportunity to highlight the enduring relevance of India’s cultural legacy. “The Leela mirrors my passion for keeping India’s heritage alive while presenting it in a way that appeals to today’s discerning traveler. The thing about Indian heritage is that it is not frozen in time. It is alive, vibrant, it is a part of who we are and it needs to be seen, felt and lived” he said.

Time Travel with The Leela invites guests to embark on immersive cultural experiences and bespoke culinary explorations that evoke the mystique of India’s past. This initiative is crafted for the discerning global traveler, reflecting insights into their preferences for stays that go beyond luxury accommodations to meaningful connections with the destinations they explore.

“The Leela has always been a gateway to India’s illustrious past, where each property offers an invitation to explore a deeper connection with the country’s heritage,” said Shweta Jain, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer, The Leela. “Through this campaign, we continue to showcase what makes us unique: an unwavering focus on meaningful, immersive experiences that reflect ‘True Indian Luxury.’ With HH Sawai Padmanabh Singh, we bring India’s regal traditions to life, creating memories that are as timeless as they are extraordinary.”

Time Travel with The Leela brings alive the elegance of The Leela Palaces, juxtaposing their heritage with a fresh, contemporary perspective. The campaign’s aesthetic choices, from its visual language to the styling of HH Sawai Padmanabh Singh, reflect the brand’s commitment to honoring tradition while appealing to modern sensibilities.

With Time Travel, The Leela extends an open invitation to the world: come, live India’s legacy through the Leela’s lens of true Indian luxury.

 

 

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The post Hong Kong Airlines pursues international transformation with strengthening route network  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Hong Kong Airlines recently celebrated its 18th anniversary and unveils its strategic development plan. This milestone marks  the airline’s robust growth momentum and confidence in the Hong Kong aviation industry, as it  announces its return to the long-haul market in early 2025.

Going International: Returning to long-haul market 

Firstly, Hong Kong Airlines will resume its Gold Coast direct service on 17 January 2025 (four  times weekly), providing passengers with convenient travel options between Hong Kong, the  Greater Bay Area, and the Gold Coast. It will also resume its Vancouver route on the following  day, 18 January 2025 (two times weekly, ticket reservations will be available soon), which marks its official return to the long-haul international market. This strategic move signifies the airline’s  transformation from a regional carrier to an international airline, with a focus on expanding its  global route network.

Following a successful restructuring last year, Hong Kong Airlines has been actively improving its  services and expanding its business. Through strategic planning, the airline has demonstrated a  strong recovery capability by optimising its route network and adjusting its fleet structure, which now covers more than 30 destinations.

This year, the number of flight sectors has fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, with an  average passenger load factor of approximately 85%. The airline expects to reach its annual  traffic target of carrying more than 5 million passengers by the end of 2024. Additionally,  bookings for the Christmas and Lunar New Year period have already reached 85%, with that for  the ski resort routes in Northeast Asia reaching 90%. In response to this strong demand, the  airline will increase flight frequency on relevant routes from December.

Expands the fleet to increase carrying capacity 

To support its business growth, Hong Kong Airlines has significantly expanded its fleet this year,  introducing multiple Airbus A330-300 wide-body aircraft to support medium- to long-haul routes.  The airline has also introduced its first A321 aircraft, configured with 220 all-economy class seats,  to increase passenger capacity and operational efficiency. By the end of this year, Hong Kong  Airlines’ fleet is expected to grow to around 30 aircraft and the company will continue to expand  the fleet size as needed to further increase its capacity.

The diversified fleet configuration will support flight flexibility and coverage, facilitating passengers with convenient access from Hong Kong to popular tourist destinations in mainland  China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Australia, the United States, Canada, and Europe. In  addition to operating its own routes, the airline will continue to collaborate with partners to  expand its codeshare network, provide seamless sea-land-air intermodal transportation, and  strive to offer service diversity.

Capitalises on 3RS opportunity & expands intermodal transportation in GBA 

The third runway system (3RS) at Hong Kong International Airport is scheduled to fully  commence operations at the end of November, which will significantly enhance the airport’s  throughput, optimise flight departure and arrival processes, and improve operational efficiency  and passenger experience. Leveraging Hong Kong’s unique geographical advantages to, connect  mainland China with the rest of the world, as well as the opportunity brought by the 3RS, Hong  Kong Airlines will utilise the “airport city” infrastructure and surrounding aviation network to  deepen cooperation with cities in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), and promote intermodal  transportation, such as seamless “air-land-air” transfers via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge,  to provide passengers with a more convenient travel experience.

Starting this winter, the airline will increase flights to Seoul (twice daily) and Tokyo (five times  daily), while Sapporo will become a daily flight. It will also launch Sendai route in December and resume flights to the Gold Coast and Vancouver in January 2025, demonstrating its confidence  in the capacity of the 3RS and commitment to exploring more potential routes to strengthen ties  with Belt and Road countries and international markets.

Active recruitment to expand the workforce 

To cope with business growth, Hong Kong Airlines has recruited over 600 new employees this  year, many of whom have already filled the frontline positions, bringing the total number of  cabin crew to more than 1200. Looking ahead, the number of employees is expected to increase  by 60% next year, with a 60% increase in pilots and a 1.6-fold increase in cabin crew. Recruitment  will continue in the local market as well as the GBA, South Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia and  beyond.

Enhances passenger services for elevated travel experience 

Hong Kong Airlines is committed to providing passengers with safe, high-quality, and  comfortable flying experiences, and incorporates Hong Kong’s cultural characteristics into its  services. This year, the airline has optimised its cabin and airport lounge services to provide the  best passenger comfort possible.

To create a unique in-flight dining experience for business class passengers, the airline has  partnered with Michelin recommended local restaurant, Man Yuen, as well as Michelin starred  Cantonese restaurant, Ming Court, at the Cordis Hotel, to offer exquisite Chinese creative cuisine.  To start with, Man Yuen has been providing signature dishes since September, including its  renowned Steamed Pork Mince with Anchovies, King of Stir-fried with Stir-fried Garlic Chive with  Prawns and Dried Scallop Egg White Fried Rice, Braised Curry Beef Brisket with Potato and etc,  whereas from the second half of 2025 onwards, Ming Court will launch its innovative fusion  cuisine in Business Class, featuring dishes such as Pork Rib Trio Onion, Baked, Wagyu Beef Cheek,  15-year Aged Dried Tangerine Peel, Braised. Paired with the airline’s signature “Bauhinia  Blossom” welcome drink, desserts, and local brand chocolates, the overall dining experience has  been elevated. In parallel, Corelle’s eco-friendly, lightweight, and durable tableware has also  been introduced to Business Class, reflecting the airline’s commitment to green and  sustainability.

Meanwhile, to embody its “Very Hong Kong” brand positioning, the airline offers economy class  passengers a taste of Hong Kong’s unique specialties such as “Rice with Two Sides (This This  Rice)” and Nestle ice cream on selected routes, making inflight dining a pleasure of the journey.

Furthermore, this year, the airline has prioritised the restoration of in-flight entertainment  systems on multiple A330 aircraft, with some of them introducing wireless streaming technology,  allowing passengers to access and enjoy a wide range of content using their personal mobile  devices. The airline targets to fully restore full service by 2025.

Additionally, Hong Kong Airlines has reopened its VIP lounge Club Autus since 2023. Located at  the Hong Kong International Airport’s midfield concourse, Club Autus is the only lounge that  offers exclusive lounge services, including massage chairs, and traditional Hong Kong-style  delicacies such as cart noodles, egg tarts and congee, to make passengers’ travel experience more relaxing and enjoyable.

18th Anniversary Special Offer 

To celebrate its 18th anniversary, Hong Kong Airlines will launch a year-round upgrade service  from 28 November for passengers flying on their birthday with upgrades throughout their  journey. Passengers flying with Hong Kong Airlines on their birthday can enjoy buy-one-get-one free upgrades, priority boarding, complimentary lounge access, and birthday surprise gifts.  Children aged 3-11 who accumulate a certain number of flights will be invited to visit the Hong  Kong Airlines Training Academy.

 

 

 

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The post Customised vouchers ahead of the wedding season appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Keeping loved ones of the bride and groom engaged at their dream wedding destination is a task that every hotel, resort, homestay or five-star hotel needs to master. After all, weddings need to done right for hospitality players because they offer a lucrative, additional revenue stream for the owners. For hotel staff, manually planning and coordinating every little detail for medium to large-format weddings can leave room for errors and overlaps.

STAAH offers an effective solution to keep both guests and hotel owners happy this wedding season! Its customised vouchers are a game-changer for the hospitality industry and a powerful tool to build brand loyalty and expand guest reach.

Here’s everything you need to know about vouchers:

What are vouchers?

These are prepaid certificates that guests can redeem either themselves or gift to their loved ones by indulging in overnight stays, spa services, or even dining experiences. For guests, these offer the flexibility to experiences and services at the property and for hoteliers, these provide an upfront revenue.

How hoteliers can increase revenue through vouchers?

Personalisation is the key word when it comes to vouchers. Hoteliers can match the personal tastes of their wedding guests through a variety of vouchers. From spa packages to wine tastings and adventure tours, customised vouchers are more likely to be purchased and redeemed.

Hoteliers can even use vouchers as part of their loyalty programmes or as incentives for guests. Their word-of-mouth referrals will increase your voucher usage and encourage more guests to engage with your property. Hoteliers cab also think creatively and partner with local vendors for different guests experiences to enhance the value of vouchers.

Weddings are the ideal ‘special occasion’ to promote and spread the word about vouchers because during these gatherings, both gift-giving and keeping the wedding party engaged are a top priority for the organisers.

Weddings and Vouchers

The wedding season creates high demand for meaningful, memorable gifts. STAAH’s voucher system allows hotels to offer newlyweds unique experiences—from honeymoon packages to fine dining vouchers—that friends and family can gift. Custom branding these vouchers is a great way to   personalise the experience for the couple as well as for all who are a part of the celebrations. Couples have the flexibility to redeem their vouchers at their convenience, making them a practical yet indulgent gift choice.

STAAH’s straightforward and highly customisable platform helps hotels promote their vouchers through multiple channels and allows hoteliers to set specific promotions, encourage up-selling, and create seasonal campaigns that drive both immediate and future bookings. Due to its easy-to-use setup, hoteliers can launch their gift shop, set promotions, and analyse voucher performance to optimise campaigns.

By offering diverse gifting options, hotels build customer loyalty and attract a wider audience, positioning them for greater success during peak seasons.

 

 

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The post AOT reports a net profit of 19.18 billion baht for fiscal 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Airports of Thailand (AOT) reported a net profit of 19.18 billion baht for fiscal 2024, up 118% from the 8.79 billion baht profit in the same period of the previous year.

From October 2023 to September 2024, the total number of flights reached 732,688, a 14.5% increase year-over-year. This included 416,187 international flights and 316,501 domestic flights.

Passenger numbers totaled 119.29 million, up 19.2% compared to the previous year, comprising 72.67 million international passengers and 46.62 million domestic passengers.

Revenue from sales and services rose by 18.98 billion baht, or 39.4%, driven by a 39.2% increase in aviation-related revenue (up by 8.73 billion baht) and a 39.6% rise in non-aviation-related revenue (up by 10.25 billion baht). These gains were attributed to the higher number of flights and passengers. Other income increased by 401.91 million baht, or 131.9%.

Total expenses rose by 6.28 billion baht, or 18.3%, primarily due to higher depreciation and amortization, employee benefits, external service fees, repair and maintenance expenses, and other operational costs. In contrast, financial costs declined by 133.65 million baht, or 4.6%.

Income tax expenses increased by 2.67 billion baht, or 119.4%, reflecting the higher profitability during the fiscal year.

 

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The post Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok concluded successfully appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This year’s Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF) was a resounding success throughout its four-day run in Bangkok.

Held from 14th to 17th November, the festival drew more than 250 of the world’s most intrepid travellers from six continents to the Ambassador Hotel in the Thai capital.

Aside from serving as a platform for world-class travel-centric content, the ETF served as a great way to present the vibrant culture of Thailand, cementing its reputation as a global hub for tourism.

That said, the festival was an incredible opportunity for networking and overall sharing and exchanging each other’s experiences and ideas among a community of passionate travelers. 

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their eagerness to participate in the next Extraordinary Travel Festival.

As of press time, ETF has already begun its search for its next host destination.  

An opportunity to connect

The ETF gathered over 30 inspiring speakers over 3 days who informed and inspired all attendees, including:

• Randy “R Dub!” Williams, the Sultan of SlowJamastan, who created his own nation;
• Luisa Yu, a remarkable 79-year-old traveler who has visited all 193 countries;
• Thor Pedersen, known for his Once Upon a Saga project, where he visited every country on earth without flying; and
• Renee Bruns, a Guinness World Record Holder and former Fortune 500 executive, who has traveled to 124 countries and all seven continents despite the challenges of being in a wheelchair. 

Along with many others, these speakers shared their insights and experiences, inspiring attendees to explore the world more deeply and meaningfully.

At the same time, ETF gave global brands a platform on which to connect with the world’s most traveled people. 

Some of the sponsors included NomadMania, the ultimate hub for passionate travelers eager to explore the world meaningfully; Most Traveled People which connects the extreme travel community; Golden Team, a travel agency known for curating exceptional journeys in Syria; and Tribes of Papua New Guinea which focuses on tribal experiences. 

An amazing partnership

A key highlight of the festival was the partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which sponsored a spectacular gala party at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Attendees enjoyed breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline from the Spectrum Lounge at the top of the Hyatt. 

Participants were also treated to captivating performances of traditional Thai dance and Muay Thai, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of Thailand’s regions better known as Amazing Thailand.

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The post 76% of Americans want more “USE HEADPHONES” signs in airports appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Wth AAA’s new forecast estimating that nearly 6 million Americans will fly domestically this Thanksgiving – a 2% increase from last year – it’s time to get ready for the noisiest travel season yet!

From limited legroom to miserable middle seats, JBL, the audio brand, has released the first Tune out the Noise report filled with the biggest travel stressors this season.

Most travel annoyances have to do with the invasion of space and intrusive noises. The biggest travel peeves are when the person sitting ahead reclines their seat all the way back (29%), a neighbor doesn’t use earbuds/headphones on their computer or phone (27%), or when a person chooses to sit next to them on a nearly empty flight (18%). When it comes to noisy neighbors, 76% want more airport and train signage to discourage fellow travelers from playing music aloud with 58% saying that we’ve reached public crisis levels and more action should be taken to create quieter spaces.

Please find more survey highlights below:

• Americans report that earbuds/headphones are essential for mental health (75%). Travelers will use earbuds or headphones for streaming content (24%), pass the time with apps (22%), with the goal of drowning out as many distractions as possible (20%).
• Americans will go to great lengths to avoid a noisy seatmate. 68% would choose a dreaded aisle seat, 33% would take the responsibility of sitting next to an emergency exit, and 22% are resorting to the seats next to the restrooms.
• Americans want more airport and train signage to discourage playing audio or music aloud. 76% of Americans would like to see more “use headphones” signs in public places with 58% saying that we’ve reached public crisis levels and more action should be taken to create more quiet spaces.
• Friends are most unwilling to let out their earbuds/headphones. The next time you realize you’ve forgotten an item at home, don’t expect friends to be so generous – 47% will not lend a pair of earbuds/headphones, 36% will not lend out toiletries, and 34% will not lend out clothing.

• Are headphones the universal “do not disturb” sign? Maybe. 21% of travelers admit that they will wear earbuds/headphones to avoid speaking to people while traveling, while the majority are just passing the time with entertainment (51%) or drowning out the noise (24%).

• Americans are sick of overhearing strangers’ conversations. People who take phone calls on speaker phones in airport restaurants (24%) and conference calls in airport lounges (19%) are the most irritating.

• Noisy neighbors are (unfortunately) becoming more and more common. 35% of Americans admit to listening to audio without headphones in public when they really need to hear something, 26% consistently do but keep their volume low, and a shameless 6% do it all the time and see no problem with it.

• Who’s in charge of keeping audio volume low? Americans say it should be airline staff. 66% of Americans want airline staff to step in when someone plays a movie without earbuds/headphones on a plane. 72% think the easy-fix is that staff should suggest they use a complimentary pair of wired headphones.

 

 

 

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The post Scottish hospitality set to pay up to 70% more in business rates than England appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

UKHospitality Scotland is calling for the Scottish Government to introduce at least 40% business rates relief for hospitality businesses.

New analysis from UKHospitality Scotland reveals that Scottish hospitality businesses will be significantly worse off than their English counterparts, if the Scottish Government doesn’t act to introduce business rates relief in its Budget.

Compared to hospitality businesses in England receiving 40% relief, Scottish businesses would be at a significant disadvantage if they were denied business rates relief for a third year in a row:

• A local pub would pay almost £6,000 more – 66% more than an equivalent business in England.
• A town centre restaurant would pay almost £10,000 more – 66% more than an equivalent business in England.
• A hotel would pay £26,000 more – 70% more than an equivalent business in England.

UKHospitality Scotland is urging the Scottish Government to provide at least 40% business rates relief to hospitality businesses, using funding allocated through the Barnett formula. It is also calling for a clear roadmap to full business rates reform, which was committed to as part of the New Deal for Business.

It is also asking the Scottish Government to fulfil its long-standing commitment to reduce the Higher Property Rate to fall in line with the rate in England.

Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UKHospitality Scotland, said: “Scottish businesses need business rates support from the Scottish Government, especially after they have missed out on relief measures in the past two Scottish Budgets.

“Venues will continue to find themselves tens of thousands of pounds out of pocket, compared to their English counterparts, if this happens again. This time, it will hit even harder when combined with billions more cost hitting businesses in April through employer NICs.

“Introducing at least 40% business rates relief for hospitality businesses could be the difference between venues choosing to employ more people and making investments, or abandoning those plans in order to survive.

“Hospitality has so much potential to deliver for Scotland economically, socially and culturally. I know the Scottish Government recognises this and I hope that it chooses to implement some business rates support for our businesses, which is so crucial for them to both survive and thrive into the future.”

 

 

 

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The post Z Hotels announce opening of Leicester Square property in 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Z Hotels, renowned for offering affordable luxury in prime city locations, announces the opening of its newest property in Leicester Square is set for early 2025.

The latest property, located at Garrick House, 3-5 Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0HA, marks the 12^th addition to its capital portfolio, and 15^th across the United Kingdom, which include Bath, Glasgow, and Liverpool.

It will stand as Z Hotels’ new centre piece property, offering guests stylish, comfortable accommodation right in the heart of one of London’s most iconic and vibrant areas, perfect for travellers looking for a special city stop-over.

The new hotel will consist of 95 bedrooms, fitted to the highest standards, with a ground floor reception. There will also be brand-new, state of the art plant equipment and low carbon technologies, all essential components to improve the sustainable characteristics and energy efficiency of the property. All rooms will maintain Z Hotels signature style of compact luxury, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort without the hefty price tag.

Perfectly positioned in Leicester Square, guests will have immediate access to some of the city’s most popular landmarks, including West End theatres, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, and countless restaurants and entertainment venues. Whether traveling for business or leisure, visitors will enjoy unparalleled convenience, with excellent transport links just a short walk away.

Bev King, Founder and CEO of Z Hotels, said: “We are delighted to bring Z Hotels to Leicester Square, one of London’s most vibrant, iconic locations. Our aim is to provide guests with an exceptional experience that combines affordable luxury with an unbeatable location.

Whether our customers are here to explore London’s rich culture, attend a show, or simply enjoy a weekend getaway, our Leicester Square property will offer everything they need in a stylish and welcoming environment, which is a Z Hotels guarantee”.

Z Hotels are working with environmental partners to help make the property as sustainable as possible. The enhancement of the energy performance with overall carbon reduction is possible through energy efficiency improvements to the building, implementing low and zero carbon technologies. Water consumption will be reduced by using water saving devices including shower flow limiters and tap aerators in all rooms.

The strategic development of Z Hotels new hotel in Leicester Square is also reinforced by Heart of London Business Alliance (HOLBA), announcing that the Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus area has once again been awarded the Purple Flag accreditation for its evening and night-time economy (ENTE).

Z Hotels also offers a free membership programme. For those customers looking to spend lots a quality time in the city, whether it’s solo travel, family fun, making memories with friends, exploring sights with a significant other, or just simply for business, it’s a no brainer. Z Hotels offers an easy sign-up process that delivers benefits such as,10% discount from public rate in all Z hotels, complimentary cheese and wine, free room upgrade and early check in/late check out – subject to availability, 10% discount for F&B purchase (excl. breakfast), and complimentary tea & coffee any time of day.

 

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Source: traveldailymedia