The post Saudi Arabia’s first ultra-luxury train to launch by late 2025, redefining rail travel in the region appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Saudi Arabia is pushing forward in luxury rail travel with the unveiling of the Dream of the Desert Train, a five-star rail experience that is set to redefine high-end tourism in the Middle East. Developed by Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) in collaboration with Italian hospitality company Arsenale, the train is designed to offer an ultra-luxurious, immersive journey through the Kingdom’s breathtaking landscapes.

The project follows an agreement signed in 2024 between SAR and Arsenale, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player in the global luxury rail market. The 14-car train will feature 34 exquisitely designed suites, providing an intimate and exclusive experience for travelers.

The introduction of the Dream of the Desert Train is a strategic move aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an ambitious initiative aimed at diversifying the nation’s economy and positioning it as a world-class travel destination.

SAR CEO Bashar bin Khalid AlMalik has reiterated the importance of integrating global investment, transport innovation, and luxury tourism experiences to support Saudi Arabia’s long-term economic growth. He described the train as a model for how private and public sectors can collaborate to create transformative tourism projects.

A Luxury Destination on Rails

SAR has emphasized that the Dream of the Desert Train is more than just a mode of transportation—it is a five-star destination in itself. Designed by architect Aline Asmar d’Amman and her studio, Culture in Architecture, the train blends Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage with modern sophistication.

The interiors are inspired by the vast desert landscapes and traditional Saudi design elements, creating a space that is both luxurious and deeply rooted in local identity. The train’s design incorporates earthy color palettes, intricate detailing, and high-end materials, ensuring that every aspect of the journey reflects elegance and authenticity.

A Route Through History and Culture

The Dream of the Desert Train will operate along SAR’s Northern Railway, departing from Riyadh and passing through some of Saudi Arabia’s most historically and visually striking regions. The experience is being enhanced through a partnership with the Ministry of Culture, which will introduce curated cultural programming for passengers.

Travelers will have the opportunity to engage with Saudi Arabia’s rich history, art, and cuisine during their journey. Onboard experiences will include historical storytelling, live entertainment, and gourmet dining that highlights the Kingdom’s culinary traditions. These elements aim to transform rail travel into an immersive cultural journey, offering travelers more than just a scenic ride.

Competing with the World’s Top Luxury Trains

Saudi Arabia is now entering the elite club of countries offering luxury train travel, placing itself alongside some of the most renowned rail experiences in the world. The Dream of the Desert Train is set to compete with legendary high-end train journeys, such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Europe, the Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru, and the Maharajas’ Express in India.

With its blend of exclusivity, culture, and cutting-edge design, Saudi Arabia aims to attract high-net-worth travelers and set a new standard for luxury tourism in the Middle East.

Future Expansion and Industry Impact

While the train will initially operate along SAR’s Northern Railway, there is growing speculation about potential expansions. Industry experts suggest that future routes could extend to key destinations such as AlUla and Diriyah, integrating the train with Saudi Arabia’s growing luxury hospitality sector.

SAR has also hinted at the possibility of cross-border luxury rail routes, potentially connecting the Kingdom with other GCC countries and introducing a regional network of high-end train travel. Ongoing discussions with global investors and tourism stakeholders will determine how the project evolves in the coming years.

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The post Thailand’s CH7HD forges partnership with Columbia Pictures Aquaverse appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Channel 7 HD (CH7HD) just inked a strategic new partnership with film-centric theme park Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, teaming up for the creation of a fresh full-scale entertainment experience. 

The agreement was formally signed between the network and Columbia Pictures Aquaverse’s operator Amazon Falls, represented by CH7HD managing director Patthanapong Nupan and Amazon Falls CEO and chair Liakat Dhanji, at a press conference held today, 4th February, at Studio 8, Building 7, CH7HD Headquarters in Bangkok.

As a key partner, CH7HD will collaborate in terms of content development, production, as well as entertainment events on a national scale.

The partnership will commence with a special campaign that offers audiences the chance to win exclusive prizes by watching Sony Pictures films on CH7HD.

A stellar lineup of guests and performances

Present to witness the signing were Rachata Theerabutr, director and general manager of Sony Pictures Entertainment (Thailand); Tero Entertainment Public Company Ltd managing director Brian L Marcar; Heliconia H Group Company Ltd CEO Kitikorn Penroj.; Dr Chonlachit Worawangsowirakul, assistant secretary general for economic regulation and the Service Industry Office of the Eastern Economic Corridor Office of Thailand; ApichayaSrikacha, acting director of the Service Industry Office, Eastern Economic Corridor Office of Thailand (EECO); the Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited’s senior regional director for medium-sized SME business clients Usa Jangboon; Putchachat Srinisakorn, chief marketing officer for MBK Public Company Limited; MBK Public Company Limited marketing consultant and Seven Star Studio Co Ltd producer Boriphan Chaiphumi; Dida Video Production Co Ltd’s Sayom Sangwaributr; and Mark Gwa Fun Co Ltd’s Siripitch Vimonnon.

Their presence underscored the significance of the collaboration and its potential to drive groundbreaking developments in the Thai entertainment industry.

Aside from the signing, the event also presented a vibrant entertainment showcase featuring top celebs Mik Thongraya, Pinkploy-Paphawadee, and a stellar lineup of CH7HD talents.

Teaming up to change the game in the Thai entertainment scene

This particular understanding revolves around the key theme Breaking Waves: CH7HD and Columbia Pictures Aquaverse Dive Into an Unprecedented Partnership.

This partnership aims to serve as a strategic alliance that seeks to develop and produce high-quality content, on top of organising large-scale entertainment spectacles throughout Thailand.

Among the key highlights is an exclusive Muay Thai competition set within the world’s first movie-themed amusement and water park, along with a series of on-ground concerts, events, and other thrilling activities. 

Aside from this, the new partnership will also offer exclusive fan meet-and-greet sessions, giving audiences unparalleled engagement opportunities with their favourite stars. 

Through this collaboration, CH7HD will extend its entertainment reach across multiple platforms, including television, streaming services, and live experiences at Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, solidifying its position as a world-class entertainment destination. 

 

Staying in the lead

According to Nupan, the network is constantly striving to deliver quality content to its audience through a diverse range of programmes.

CH7HD’s programming slate covers a wide range of genres, and features shows related to learning in an most entertaining manner.

The channel’s dedication has captured the hearts of viewers, securing its position as Thailand’s leading television network for years. 

Likewise, the signing marks another key milestone towards the network’s future success, aligning with its vision to introduce innovative entertainment experiences to audiences nationwide.

Nupan said of the partnership: “We recognise that Columbia Pictures Aquaverse is an internationally renowned amusement and water park, offering immense potential for collaboration with CH7HD’s diverse activities. These include events such as the ONE LUMPINEE Muay Thai competition, which promotes the art of Muay Thai on a global stage, exclusive fan meetings with CH7HD artists, and the integration of digital opportunities through platforms like Bugaboo.TV, one of the top 20 most downloaded apps in Thailand. We firmly believe that this collaboration will expand the boundaries of entertainment in all dimensions while creating new growth opportunities for both companies.”

Dhanji likewise added that the signing marks a significant milestone in creating new opportunities between two industry leaders. 

This partnership aims to strengthen and elevate business strategies for both parties, driving mutual growth.

Photo Credit: All images taken on site by Gary Marshall

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The post Norwegian Cruise Line presents travel agents fresh options for any sort of traveller appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) presents a broad variety of itineraries for 2025 with something to suit the diverse tastes of travel agency clients.

Developed with the rising interest in immersive experiences, Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest offerings are centred on its European and Caribbean seasons where travellers can enjoy everything from jaunts through historic locations to exceptional beachfront nightlife.

To entice would-be-travellers, Norwegian Cruise Line offers passengers impeccable on-board services, a greater amount of time in port to experience different locations, as well as exceptional leisure and dining experiences.

Where to go in 2025

Among the highlights of Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2025 offerings are journeys into the Greek Isles, the heart of the Mediterranean, and the diverse cultures of the Caribbean.

• Greece: Santorini, Rhodes & Mykonos seven-day cruise aboard Norwegian Viva, round-trip from Athens (Piraeus) via Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, Bodrum, Rhodes and Heraklion (Crete), departs 10 August 2025, from £1,655pp;
• The Mediterranean: Italy, France & Spain nine-day cruise aboard Norwegian Breakaway, round-trip from Barcelona via Cannes, Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Ibiza and Palma (Majorca), departs 19 September 2025, from £1,345pp; and
• The Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Dominican Republic seven-day cruise aboard Norwegian Aqua, round-trip from Miami via Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola and Great Stirrup Cay, departs 11 January 2026, from £990pp.

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The post Rotorua, Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa to host World Indigenous Cancer Conference appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Rotorua and Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa are bringing indigenous voices, knowledge, and innovations to the world’s attention as they are slated to host the World Indigenous Cancer Conference (WICC) 2026.

This landmark event is expected to draw in 600 health professionals, researchers, clinicians, and advocates from around the globe to Aotearoa New Zealand to collaborate on culturally grounded solutions for cancer care.

Now in its fourth iteration, the bi-annual conference provides a unique platform for Indigenous communities to address the disproportionate cancer burden they face, identify research priorities, and exchange transformative approaches tailored to their unique needs.

Government support for a historic event

The successful bid to host the 2026 conference was led by Hei Āhuru Mōwai, with support from Tourism New Zealand Business Events and RotoruaNZ.

Hei Āhuru Mōwai CEO Gary Thompson emphasises the significance of Indigenous representation in driving global solutions.
He said: “Aotearoa New Zealand has a wealth of knowledge to share in Indigenous cancer care, including Māori providers delivering hauora services. Hauora, our Māori view of health, embraces the physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of well-being, placing whānau (family) at the heart of care.”

Thompson added that this holistic approach ensures that hospital cancer services and community providers are seamlessly connected to improve outcomes for our people. 

Through this conference, his organisation seeks to share these innovations with other Indigenous nations while learning from their experiences to foster mutual growth and collaboration.

A unique focus

Thompson likewise highlighted the stark inequities faced by Māori, who are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and experience poorer outcomes compared to non-Māori.

He said: “This conference is about solutions: turning these disparities around and empowering Indigenous communities worldwide. We aim to build a strong international network of Indigenous cancer leadership and formalise our collective efforts through the WICC.”

The conference will be structured around Māori tikanga (protocols), values, and storytelling, ensuring Indigenous perspectives are embedded in every aspect of the event. 

Beyond academic and scientific presentations, the programme will celebrate Māori culture, incorporating Rotorua’s world-renowned attractions and authentic cultural experiences to provide delegates with a meaningful and enriching visit.

Into the heart of Rotorua

Thompson added: “We were adamant that this conference be held in Rotorua. It’s one of the major cultural centres of Aotearoa, and as an Indigenous conference, it’s vital to host it in a vibrant environment that reflects our heritage. This is a unique opportunity to showcase the incredible work we’re doing here, while sharing our culture and stories with the world.”

RotoruaNZ business events manager Vanessa Wallace, Business Events Manager said: “By hosting this conference, Rotorua proudly showcases its rich Māori culture, offering delegates an authentic and immersive experience in a city that celebrates its heritage.

She added that the event will generate significant economic opportunities for Rotorua, with local businesses benefiting from increased tourism and engagement, ensuring long-term growth for the region.

The influx of 600 health professionals with their families in April 2026 is expected to deliver an estimated economic benefit of NZ$1 million.

For her part, Tourism New Zealand global manager for business events Penelope Ryan added: “Hosting the World Indigenous Cancer Conference will enhance New Zealand’s reputation as a leader in Indigenous knowledge and innovation. Additionally, it supports year-round tourism to New Zealand by bringing international visitors to our shores in April, after our peak summer season.  I hope the delegates get a chance to enjoy our manaakitanga and all that Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer while they are here.”

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The post Japanese tour bus operator Kochi Ekimae Kanko to launch double-decker sleeper bus service appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Japanese bus operator Kochi Ekimae Kanko announced that it will commence the country’s first-ever double-decker sleeper bus service from 4th March.

The new service will ply a direct route between Tokyo and Kochi, a city on the southern island of Shikoku.

Referred to on Kochi Ekimae Kanko’s website as a mobile capsule hotel, the service was created for domestic travellers who are shying away from the way hotel costs have risen due to the surge in foreign inbound tourism.

As an introductory offer, the one-way cost per overnight trip is at just US$47; note that this is a limited-time offer.

All aboard the Sommeil Profond

Named Sommeil Profond, French for deep slumber, the new service comes on the heels of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s implementation of safety regulations for bus operators running overnight routes in November of last year.

True to its name, Sommeil Profond will enable passengers to arrive fully rested at their destination, attend the event they need to be at, and head back without needing to book accommodation in either Kochi or Tokyo.

The road trip stands to run for 13 hours at the most.

Kochi Ekimae Kanko officials say they expect the highest demand from younger travellers who are heading out to attend one-day / one-night-only events such as concerts or conferences.

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The post Spend Valentine’s at the newly launched Corinthia Brussels appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

This Valentine’s Day, couples looking for a sophisticated, art-filled and memorable celebration are invited to indulge in a luxurious weekend in Brussels, effortlessly reachable from London in just two hours via Eurostar. Known as The City of Art Nouveau – with some of the most impressive buildings and museums dedicated to this movement, which started in the city – Brussels is also celebrating the 100^th anniversary of Art Deco in 2025, with events throughout the year. Art lovers can stay at the newly opened Corinthia Brussels, the restored grande-dame hotel of the city built in the Art Nouveau style, first opening in 1910. With its opulent rooms and suites, exquisite dining offers, including the highly artistic Palais Royal, indulgent spa treatments featuring Sisley, and the enduring charm of Belgium’s capital, it sets a new standard for elegance and romance in Brussels.

As part of this year’s Art Deco celebration, on Valentine’s Weekend, there will be a Dare to Sing/Dare to Love singing workshop, where guests will learn opera arias by Bizet and Monteverdi, in the Art Deco La Monnaie, one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in Brussels.

Romance in Bloom

The Corinthia Brussels offers its “Romance in Bloom” package, designed to create a serene and intimate retreat. Guests are welcomed with a bottle of Ruinart Champagne and a stunning floral arrangement crafted by Belgian florist Daniel Ost. The experience continues with a 60-minute body treatment per person at the Corinthia Spa featuring Sisley, a tranquil haven in the heart of the city. To complete the stay, an exquisite breakfast served in the heritage ballroom, Salon Elisabeth, and a Sisley Black Rose collection gift are prepared in the room, ensuring every detail reflects the hotel’s signature sophistication.

Elevated Dining Options and Experiences

Palais Royal – Guests can indulge in an artistic gourmet dining experience with an 11-course menu at Palais Royal, which offers an exclusive Valentine’s menu. Chef David Martin’s plates are a real work of art, as he allies design and culinary excellence. This journey starts with dishes elevating delicate ingredients like truffle and caviar and finishes with the chef’s signature Lemon Soufflé. The menu is available for lunch on 14th February and both lunch and dinner on 15th February for €250.

Le Petit bon bon – Le Petit bon bon provides a contemporary dining option with a Valentine’s menu crafted by Chef Christophe Hardiquest. Alongside an à la carte selection, the 4-course Valentine’s Day menu starts with homemade foie gras, followed by scallops from Dieppe, gratinated with Champagne and ends with a pink praline floating island. Reservations can be made for lunch on 14th February and for lunch or dinner on 15th February for €110.

Casual Elegance at Palm Court – The Palm Court at Corinthia Brussels offers an inviting space to enjoy special Valentine’s desserts and expertly crafted cocktails. This relaxed yet sophisticated setting is perfect for a leisurely afternoon, or an evening cocktail, A Lover’s Punch or mocktail, The Very Valentine, crafted by the award-winning Mixologist Hannah van Ongevalle.

 

 

 

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The post Cost concerns weigh in key markets for international travel plans to Europe in 2025: LHTB appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Long-haul travel sentiment globally and to Europe has weakened for 2025, as reported in the latest Long-Haul Travel Barometer (LHTB) 1/2025, published by the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail BV. This report provides valuable insights into long-haul travel sentiments for 2025, along with trends and plans for the year’s first four months. The barometer reveals cautious travel intentions, driven by affordability concerns and changing preferences, but also highlights opportunities to enhance Europe’s global competitiveness by better managing its tourism assets.

The report shows that 63% of respondents across key overseas markets – Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States – intend to travel long-haul this year. Among them, 44% plan to visit Europe, highlighting its strong position despite current challenges. However, this reflects a decline from 49% in 2024, with weakening sentiment reported in markets such as South Korea, the US, Brazil and Australia. In contrast, Chinese travellers demonstrate growing interest, with 61% intending to visit Europe in the next twelve months.

Affordability remains the most significant barrier to international travel, cited by 46% of respondents not planning a European trip. In addition to affordability, travellers cited interest in visiting other overseas regions or limited vacation time as factors influencing their plans.

Miguel Sanz, President of ETC, commented: “The findings highlight the ongoing challenges of maintaining Europe’s competitiveness as a global destination in an increasingly saturated market. To remain a top choice for international travellers, Europe must focus on managing Brand Europe strategically. By tracking consumer trends, promoting more competitive off-season and off-the-beaten-path travel options, and improving sustainable connectivity, Europe can offer richer, more rewarding travel experiences to our visitors”.

Safety Shapes Destination Choices

Safety remains the most important factor when choosing a destination, followed by iconic landmarks and well-developed infrastructure. This report explores travellers’ perceptions of safety for the first time. According to long-haul travellers, the top factors that make a destination safe are low crime rates, clean and well-maintained tourist establishments, visible security, political stability and friendly locals.

Travellers from each market tend to define safety differently. While political stability is viewed as paramount by travellers from certain markets, such as Japan (57%), Australia (44%), and Canada (42%), visible security takes precedence in others, especially in South Korea (55%), Brazil (51%), and China (42%).

Navigating Crowded Hotspots

Europe’s iconic attractions remain a major draw for international travellers in 2025, often leading to overcrowding, especially during peak seasons. Survey results indicate that long-haul travellers remain flexible in such situations—nearly one-third would adjust their plans to visit at quieter times, 28% would proceed despite long queues, 25% would explore less crowded areas within the destination, and only 5% would consider changing destinations entirely. These insights highlight the need for better travel flow management across Europe to ease congestion while boosting alternative destinations economically.

Multi-Destination Travel Gains Momentum

Despite affordability challenges, travellers are showing a growing preference for multi-destination trips. The report shows that 94% of respondents planning to visit Europe in the first four months of 2025 intend to explore more than one country. On average, long-haul travellers are looking to visit 3.4 countries, with South Korean travellers leading the trend, aiming to visit an average of 5.2 countries per trip. This trend is growing across all key markets, especially among Australian travellers, who have seen a 15% increase from 2024. The shift highlights the appeal of Europe’s connectivity and the need to ensure more seamless and sustainable transport options for travellers.

Evolving Budget and Experience Priorities

The report also highlights changing spending habits. In the first four months of 2025, 42% of respondents plan to allocate between €100 and €200 per day, showing a 14% increase compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, the percentage of travellers planning to spend over €200 per day has decreased to 30%, reflecting a 13% decline.

Food and drinks are emerging as the top spending category for most travellers (67%). However, market priorities vary: for Chinese travellers, shopping leads their budget (67%), while for US travellers, accommodation ranks second (55%), significantly higher than in other markets (24%). This highlights the diverse spending preferences across key markets.

 

 

 

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The post Amex GBT and Lufthansa Group expand partnership to accelerate NDC rollout appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) has announced an enhanced agreement to expand and accelerate availability of new distribution capability (NDC) fares with Lufthansa Group (LHG). 

John Bukowski, Amex GBT’s Vice President, Content Acquisition & Strategic Sourcing, said: “This new agreement reflects our joint commitment with Lufthansa Group to create more value for our corporate customers by enabling NDC content at scale while supporting the integrity and strength of their corporate travel programs.”

Heinrich Lange, Lufthansa Group’s Vice President Digital Retailing, said: “We are excited to strengthen our continued partnership with Amex GBT, as we work together to deliver robust, NDC-enabled solutions for our joint corporate customers. This collaboration empowers us to enhance servicing capabilities, offering a seamless and personalized experience, while providing better value fares and exclusive offers.”

Amex GBT has been pioneering NDC implementation in corporate travel for more than five years – in 2019 becoming the first travel management company (TMC) to connect to global distribution systems (GDSs) for online NDC content.

Amex GBT currently has more than 20 carriers in its NDC program, with NDC content available to more than 15,000 of its customers, and NDC sales in 2024 into the hundreds of millions of dollars, across 16 point-of-sale countries.

The partnership with Lufthansa Group has shown exceptional growth, with NDC-enabled content currently available to Amex GBT customers in multiple countries across Europe, generating millions of dollars of Lufthansa Group NDC sales in 2024.

The renewed, expanded agreement will accelerate NDC content availability across Amex GBT’s proprietary platforms, offline booking, and third-party booking tools. The partnership emphasizes delivering enhanced customer value through NDC, including access to NDC-only rates and special promotions with Lufthansa, Swiss International Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Austrian Airlines and Discover Airlines.

 

 

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