The post Philippine province of Biliran to promote Higatangan Island as cruise destination appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The first visit of a cruise ship to Higatangan Island in Naval, Biliran inspired its local government unit to step up its effort to draw more tourists to the picturesque island.

The local government reported on Monday, 4th November, that Australian expedition cruise firm Coral Expeditions’ Coral Geographer visited Higatangan Island on Thursday, 31st October, with 40 Australian guests on a cultural immersion experience.

In a statement, the local government said: “[We aspire] to promote [the island’s] esteemed attractions not only throughout the Philippines but also to a global audience, as Higatangan Island is truly a source of pride for us.”

Upon the guests’ arrival, locals offered them halo-halo, a popular local iced dessert, in coconut shells as a warm introduction to the locals’ hospitality, according to the Department of Tourism.

The guests joined the Tangan-Tangan Festival, where young dancers showcased Higatangan’s heritage. They also observed and experienced mat weaving, relaxing herbal massage, traditional fishing, traditional boodle fight, and relaxing on the iconic sandbar.

Higatangan is an island within Naval, the capital town of Biliran province. It has two villages, Mabini and Libertad, with a population of around 2,000 people.

The island is popular for its shifting sandbar; the Capilla del Mar, an underwater chapel with a 12-foot cross and eight benches that represent the eight municipalities of the province; a cliff diving spot; as well as areas suitable for scuba diving.

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The post SITA digital travel solutions revolutionise passenger experience at Singapore Cruise Centre appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel and transport technologies developer SITA is set to revolutionise the ferry passenger experience in Singapore with its digital travel solutions.

SITA recently signed an agreement with the Singapore Cruise Center (SCC) to revamp the passenger experience at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT) and HarbourFront Ferry Terminal (HFFT). 

As part of this project SITA will deliver its advanced technology solutions, Smart Path hardware and Flex as a Service, to SCC.

SITA president in the Asia Pacific Sumesh Patel said: “Seamless travel, by air, sea, or land will be one of the drivers of growth for the travel and transport industry, with transport hubs seeing a need to quickly digitise their infrastructure to remain ahead of the curve. At SITA, we help these transport hubs do just that through our innovative solutions. Singapore Cruise Centre is a clear example of this, as it shows how technology can make passenger processing more efficient, secure, and enjoyable.”

What does the agreement include?

The project involves the installation of 45 SITA Smart Path Kiosks across both terminals, also providing a platform for biometric authentication implementation in the future as part of OneID initiative. 10 SITA Smart Path Bag Drop solutions will streamline the bag check-in process with SITA’s cutting-edge TS6 Kiosks, and 13 new SITA Smart Path Gates will be used for efficient boarding procedures.

SCC will integrate its new cloud-based Departure Control System (Cruise and Ferry Operation System) via SITA Flex. This project will significantly improve passenger processing capabilities and unlock future possibilities for the maritime passenger industry.

SITA’s Smart Path technology, including biometric-ready kiosks, self-bag drop, and gates, will modernise the passenger experience at TMFT and HFFT. 

SCC is also adopting SITA’s Flex as a Service across all passenger processing touchpoints, which enables agile and responsive passenger processing, and creates a platform for SCC to build custom passenger-facing applications. 

The upgraded ferry terminals, which serve as Singapore’s gateway to the Riau Islands and south-eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, are expected to handle over 7 million passengers annually.

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The post Atlas Ocean Voyages introduces expedition teams for new Antarctica season appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Atlas Ocean Voyages begins its 2024-2025 Antarctica season with three vessels, each staffed with an expanded team of 17 seasoned polar expedition guides led by expert expedition leaders. 

Cruise line president and CEO James Rodriguez said: “This season, we’re excited to expand the team even further with additional experts on each expedition. Their knowledge and dedication help us deliver the immersive, top-quality experience our guests expect both on board and ashore, ensuring each polar expedition is truly exceptional.”

Each vessel’s team is made up of specialists, including naturalists, geologists, marine biologists, and historians, who enrich the journey through engaging lectures, guided Zodiac landings, and onshore hikes. 

Their insights and personal interactions foster genuine connections with guests, creating a memorable, immersive experience enhanced by the attentive shipboard staff. Atlas’ dedicated team ensures a truly exceptional polar expedition.

Meet the teams

Led by Expedition Leader Aaron Strahlke, World Voyager’s expedition team delivers expert knowledge and immersive experiences. With a background in geology and extensive polar experience, Aaron brings a passion for wildlife and exploration. Supporting him is Assistant Expedition Leader Christophe Bassous, who brings expertise in microbiology, sailing, and polar expeditions.

The team aboard World Voyager includes Gabriele Lamartina (Kayak Master); Gino Pereira, Carlos Segura, Jan Tiddo and Alejandro Ursino (Naturalists); Beatriz Camara (Geologist); José Junior (Expedition Photographer); Rodrigo Rocha, Anais Buily, Florencia Juarez (Marine Biologist & Naturalists); Xiuyang “Margarette” Yan, Liya Gu and Ting Gu (Expedition Guides and Translators); Nathalie Ansel (Expedition Historian); and Thomas Silcock (Kayaking Guide and Photographer).

Aboard the World Navigator, expedition Leader Jonathan Zaccaria brings over a decade of polar experience to his role. With a background in spectrometry, his career began with research in Antarctica, where he spent months at the remote Dumont d’Urville and Concordia Stations. Since then, he has led more than 170 polar voyages, pioneering new exploration sites and working closely with Emperor penguin colonies. 

Supporting him aboard World Navigator includes Christian Garwood (Assistant Expedition Leader); Marcos Sperr (Kayak Master); Fernando Drew (Kayak Guide); Hernán Cabria, Malany Ferrufino, Susan Ellison, Fiona Johnson, Mélanie Magnan, Susannne Polap and Martin Jimenez (Expedition Guides); Ignacio Canepa (Expedition Guide & Photographer); Janel Saydam (Expedition Guide & Ornithologist); Mara Unkefer and Louisa Mooij (Expedition Guides & Marine Biologists); Shao-Wei Peng (Expedition Guide and Interpreter); and Fernando Terapow (Expedition Guide & International Law Expert).

Ekaterina Uruypova heads the expeditions aboard World Traveller. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences and extensive experience across the Arctic and Antarctic, Katya brings a wealth of expertise in polar exploration, environmental studies, and leadership.

The expedition team aboard World Traveller includes José Sanchez Martinez, Lizelle Naude (Expedition Guides & Naturalists); Luis Turi (Kayak Master); Mats Erik Svendsen (Kayak Guide & Naturalist); Elsa Ross (Kayak Guide); Olena Bulych (Kayak Guide & Photographer); Sasha Zulas (Expedition Guide & Polar Meteorologist); Eber Gomez Berrade (Expedition Historian); Malcolm Pringle, Alejandro Sanz (Expedition Guides); Fabrice Jonckheere, Sergey Shirokiy, Selby Wilkinson (Expedition Guides & Photographers); Zhang Sicong (Expedition Guide and Translator); Maria Borodavkina (Expedition Guide & Ornithologist); Michaela Tremblay (ORCA Expedition Guide).

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The post Pacific Tourism Organisation to develop digital platform to drive sustainable tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) is currently working with Trove Tourism Development Advisors to develop the Digital Measurement and Benchmarking Platform (DMBP) which contains sustainable and digital marketing indicators. 

This activity is funded by the New Zealand Government under the Pacific Digital Tourism Transformation Project (Phase 2). The DMBP is an innovative tool that facilitates data collection, analysis, and reporting in real-time.

Earlier this month the online virtual training DMBP training was conducted by SPTO’s lead digital specialist Danny Cohanpour and Shubham Kathuria from Trove Tourism Development Advisors and attended by SPTO staff including Prashil Parkas, Kiniviliame Raicebe, Shayneel Narayan, Tarusila Ratuvakalevulevu, Catherine Mara, and John Rosa.

As the platform is set to launch this month, the purpose of the training was to familiarise the SPTO team with the features of Power BI including the Frontend (User Interface and Visualization) and the Backend (Data Management and Processing). 

Power BI is a business analytics tool developed by Microsoft that enables users to connect to various data sources, transform data, and create interactive reports and dashboards.

The DMBP will be launched on 13th November and will enable tourism stakeholders to gather valuable insights into tourist behaviour, resource utilisation, and destination performance, thereby supporting informed decision-making and policy formulation. 

What exactly does the DMBP do?

Through its user-friendly interface and customizable features, the DMBP empowers destinations to influence data-driven strategies for enhancing sustainability and competitiveness in the global tourism market.

The DMBP are a set of measurable metrics, including environmental, social, economic, and digital marketing indicators, designed to monitor and assess the overall impact of tourism across Pacific Island nations, promoting sustainable and responsible development in the region.

SPTO CEO Christopher Cocker mentioned that the training ensures that SPTO staff are well-equipped to maintain the dashboard independently.

Cocker said: “The dashboard simplifies data reporting through visualisations, making complex information more accessible and engaging. Displaying sustainable indicators in an online dashboard allows for real-time monitoring and decision-making, helping National Tourism Offices and Tourism Organizations in the Pacific Region to track progress and identify areas for improvement.”

Later this year, national tourism organisations (NTOs) across the Pacific will get a demo and training of the platform, specifically around how they can use the platform to visualise their marketing, sustainability and statistics data and benchmark their performance against the region.

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The post Bali International Convention Centre reveals result of extensive renovations appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Bali International Convention Centre (BICC) announced the completion of extensive renovations, further positioning it as a leading choice for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in Bali. 

This latest refurbishment enhances BICC’s standing as a key player in Bali’s thriving MICE hotel and convention scene, offering an unrivalled blend of state-of-the-art technology and rich cultural heritage. 

Managed by The Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali, the BICC is considered one of Bali’s most prestigious convention and event venues.

For over three decades, BICC has been a cornerstone of Bali’s MICE industry, hosting major international events such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) conferences and the Asia-Africa Summit. 

This latest refurbishment honours that legacy while integrating cutting-edge features such as LED screens and sustainable initiatives like electric vehicle charging stations and plastic-free amenities, cementing BICC’s position as Bali’s leading convention hotel.

The Mangupura Hall revitalised

As BICC’s largest venue, the newly refurbished Mangupura Hall has undergone significant upgrades, including modern wall panels, cutting-edge LED installations on both sides of the existing stage, and a sleek, upgraded stage design. 

In line with BICC’s commitment to sustainability, the lighting system has been enhanced with eco-friendly LED solutions. Additionally, the hall features a grand new carpet, bringing a fresh, sophisticated atmosphere ideal for high-profile conferences, exhibitions, and social events.

Extensive refurbishment

The BICC renovations extend beyond Mangupura Hall, with the entire venue now featuring artistic enhancements such as the Ramayana epic depicted in intricate wall reliefs, offering guests an authentic Balinese cultural experience. 

LED signage throughout the BICC also ensures smooth navigation for attendees, while practical improvements like anti-slip flooring in the loading dock area provide a safer and more efficient environment for event organisers.

Nusantara Hall, BICC’s second-largest venue, now boasts premium tiled flooring in its foyer, replacing the previous carpeting for a brighter, more exclusive ambiance. 

A new carpet and lighting system have also been installed to elevate the hall’s aesthetic and functionality. Meanwhile, Jakarta Hall has received similar upgrades, with new carpeting and LED lighting ensuring that every space at BICC aligns with modern standards of luxury and comfort.

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The post Renaissance Hotels celebrates its 10th Global Day of Discovery appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Renaissance Hotels is gearing up to celebrate its tenth annual Global Day of Discovery on 19th November. 

In celebration of this special occasion, all 170+ Renaissance Hotels properties around the world will reimagine their Evenings at Renaissance program with a dynamic Evenings Market, spotlighting local retailers and businesses.

For a decade, Renaissance Hotels’ Global Day of Discovery has been the one day in the year when all 170+ Renaissance Hotels around the world activate an elevated, on-property experience, underscoring Renaissance Hotels as one that connects locals and travellers to the DNA of the neighbourhood through its unexpected design, entertaining programming, and engaging Navigators, the brand’s neighbourhood ambassadors. 

Introducing R Finds

This year, Global Day of Discovery 2024 continues to demonstrate Renaissance Hotels’ promise to make a measurable impact through supporting local enterprises, not just on Global Day of Discovery but every day, with the launch of R Finds, a global marketplace for local discovery.

Renaissance Hotels’ chief sales and marketing officer for APEC John Toomey said of the new programme: “We are excited to introduce a new way for our guests and consumers to connect with local communities and discover unique treasures from small businesses around the world with the launch of R Finds. This further reinforces Renaissance Hotels’ brand values of authenticity, culture and the joy of discovery, appealing to travellers who seek more than just a place to stay.”

Crafting enchanting evenings

Guests visiting Renaissance Hotels around the world on Global Day of Discovery can look forward to witnessing the transformation of the signature Evenings at Renaissance program into a vibrant Evenings Market, an elevated edition of a night market featuring local vendors, street-fair, delicious food and beverages, and live performances that bring Renaissance’s theatricality to the forefront. 

Travellers and local guests alike are welcome to browse bespoke, artisanal products and experience local culture in a lively, night-market-inspired atmosphere.

Everywhere in Asia

In the true spirit of Global Day of Discovery, Renaissance Hotels across the Asia Pacific honour what makes their local neighbourhoods unique by going hyperlocal.

Besides a captivating duet performance between electric violinist and bartender Vu Ngoc, Renaissance Saigon is all set to host a vibrant, sophisticated evening with a special edition of the Punch Bowl ritual and Beverage Rituals, reimagined with Vietnamese flavours. 

Renaissance Hoi An will transport guests to the ancient past and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage with the Cham Island Cocktail, inspired by an ancient well built by the Cham people over a millennium ago. 

Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort is preparing to immerse guests in the heart of Balinese culture through signature beverage rituals and opportunities to experience the traditions of indigenous communities. 

Likewise, guests visiting Renaissance Hotels across the region are invited to embrace their journey of spontaneous discovery through bold, authentic local experiences expertly curated by each Renaissance Hotel that will feed the soul, inspire the mind and energise the senses.

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand launches WOW! Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges campaign appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand officially launched its WOW! Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges campaign on Friday, 1st November.

TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool, alongside senior executives from Suvarnabhumi Airport, the Immigration Bureau, and Thailand Privilege Card, warmly welcomed tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport on the day to mark the beginning of the campaign which runs until 10th December 2024.

Kiatphaibool said: “The campaign is a joint initiative by TAT and our partners to increase international tourist spending by offering an exceptional shopping experience. Travellers can enjoy exclusive discounts and privileges on a range of top tourism products at participating businesses.”

Officials greeted new arrivals at the airport with iconic “Must Do” Thai souvenirs that capture the essence of Thailand’s rich culture. These souvenirs span categories such as Must Taste (Thai cuisine), Must Try (Muay Thai martial arts), Must Buy (Thai textiles and handicrafts), Must Seek (notable tourism sites and cultural heritage), and Must See (traditional Thai performances).

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The post Tourism Malaysia holds Malaysia Midnight Sale 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Malaysia successfully held its first-ever Malaysia Midnight Sale 2024, in collaboration with Mastercard, Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru, and GCH Retail (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.

The inaugural Malaysia Midnight Sale ran from 30th October to 2nd November, providing both local and foreign tourists with a unique opportunity to shop late into the night. 

Shoppers took advantage of the opportunity to score exclusive deals, discounts, and special giveaways from participating retailers.

Tourism Malaysia director-general Manoharan Periasamy emphasised the importance of attracting tourists, particularly from Singapore, stating: “We hope this campaign will entice visitors from Singapore to extend their stay in Johor Bahru, supporting local businesses and contributing to the local economy.”

This initiative likewise marked the beginning of the Malaysian Year-End Sale, which will run from 15th November 2024, to 1st January 2025, and is designed to support the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign by invigorating the shopping tourism sector and attracting international visitors.

Multiple venues and activities

The event kicked off at Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru on 30th and 31st October 2024. Known as one of the largest shopping centres in southern Malaysia, Paradigm Mall is ideally located near Johor Bahru City and Singapore, making it a prime venue for this large-scale event.

From 1st to 2nd November 2024, the sale made its way to GCH Retail outlets around Johor Bahru, including Mercato Garden Square, Mercato Plaza Pelangi, and several Giant stores. Daily shopping hours began at 10:00 AM, with the biggest discounts of up to 80 percent available between 10:00 PM till midnight.

Aside from shopping, visitors encountered a variety of activities catering to all age groups, including exhibitions featuring travel packages, live performances, hourly lucky draws, local fruit festivals, and children’s entertainment.

Additionally, 10 hotels around Johor Bahru, namely the Ramada Straits Johor, Trinidad Suites Johor, Shama Suasana Johor Bahru, Holiday Inn Johor Bahru, Opero Hotel Southkey Johor Bahru, Hyatt Place Johor Bahru, Holiday Villa Hotel Johor Bahru, Thistle Johor Bahru, Grand Paragon Johor Bahru, and Trove Johor Bahru, offered special room rates with discounts of up to 72 percent, encouraging tourists to extend their stay.

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The post ABTA LifeLine launches Winter Warmth support appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

ABTA LifeLine recognises that for many in the industry this can be a difficult time of year. Higher energy and food costs can force people who are financially struggling to make the terrible choice between warmth or food.

Lifeline is launching its Winter Warmth support initiative so that no one has to make this awful choice.

The initiative will provide fuel and food vouchers, warm clothing and energy efficient appliances. Support is open to individuals and their families who currently work for, or have worked for, an ABTA member. Lifeline is reminding people that if you have previously received help from the charity you are still welcome to apply for this winter support.

Key features of the Winter Warmth support are:

1. Fuel vouchers: to help individuals keep their homes warm during the winter months.
2. Food vouchers: to ensure that nutritious meals are within reach for those facing financial hardship.
3. Warm clothing: to ensure those struggling have warm and winter proof clothing in the colder months.
4. Energy efficient appliances: to help keep household energy costs low.

Trudie Clements, Director of ABTA LifeLine said: “ABTA LifeLine remains strongly committed to help individuals and families within the travel industry, addressing their most critical needs, and fostering a supportive community.

For those who are facing the awful choice between ‘heating or eating’ that no one should have to make, we’re here to provide vital support. I invite all eligible individuals to apply for the Winter Warmth support to receive the help they need during these challenging times.”

 

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