The post ASEAN Explorer Pass by AirAsia MOVE highlighted at ASEAN Tourism Forum appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AirAsia MOVE’s signature travel subscription product the ASEAN Explorer Pass was featured during the closing ceremony for the 2025 ASEAN Tourism Forum in Johor, Malaysia on Monday, 20th January.

The product was hailed as an initiative that facilitates accessible and inclusive travel across the whole ASEAN region.

The ASEAN Explorer Pass by AirAsia MOVE is an annual travel pass which allows subscribers to explore the whole ASEAN region through AirAsia’s international and domestic flight network.

The Pass also enables holders to enjoy hotel discounts as well as connectivity on-ground through AirAsia Ride for a full year from the date of subscription, aside from seasonal perks throughout the year. 

AirAsia MOVE chief executive Nadia Omer said: “We are honoured to have the ASEAN Explorer Pass featured as an initiative that promotes travel across ASEAN, as part of the 2025 ASEAN Tourism Forum closing ceremony. We would like to thank Yang Berhormat Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia for launching this product with us in April last year, and now recommending the ASEAN Explorer Pass by AirAsia MOVE to the region’s key tourism stakeholders as a key enabler for everyone to discover the region’s diverse landscapes. I would also like to thank ASEANTA for championing the cause of a closer and more connected ASEAN, as well as Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chairman of ASEAN-BAC Malaysia and Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A for their immense support in making this unique ASEAN travel subscription product possible. 

A key to exploration

Omer added that, in line with the 2025 ASEAN Tourism Forum’s theme Unity in Motion: Shaping ASEAN’s Tourism Tomorrow, the ASEAN Explorer Pass will enable exploration of this region beyond the popular destinations and main Tier-1 cities, and showcase the hidden gems of each ASEAN member country. 

Aside from that, this would also indirectly contribute towards the economic growth of each local community and help curb overtourism at the main destinations. 

Since the Pass’ launch in April 2024, over 25,000 trips have been completed across ASEAN which include cities such as Makassar, Jogjakarta, Da Nang, Johor Bahru, Chiang Mai, and many more destinations.

Omer concluded by saying: “As an online travel agent (OTA), we hope each ASEAN country’s national flag carrier will consider being part of the ASEAN Explorer Pass, and look forward to having conversations with each of you. Let’s join hands to unlock even more destinations across ASEAN for the world to experience.” 

The post ASEAN Explorer Pass by AirAsia MOVE highlighted at ASEAN Tourism Forum appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post China completes initial phase of construction for second domestically-built cruise ship appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Chinese officials announced the completion of the first phase of the construction of the country’s second domestically-built large cruise ship on Wednesday, 15th January. 

The milestone is being hailed as another demonstration of the expanding prowess and capacity of the domestic shipbuilding industry.

The new cruise ship is being built for Adora Cruises, a Chinese company controlled by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), with Carnival Corporation as a minority investor, and the second time the CSSC yard has turned out a large ocean-going cruise ship. 

CSSC Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Company chair Wang Qi said of the vessel: “It took us less than nine months to complete the hull structure assembly, two months sooner than the first one.”

At 141,800 gross tons and 1,119 feet (341 meters) the new cruise ship which was named Adora Flora City in October 2024, will be 57 feet (17.4 meters) longer than the Adora Magic City, with a passenger capacity for up to 5,232 individuals.

On par with the west

According to authorities, the speed of construction for the cruise ship is on par with that of European shipbuilders, being achieved after initially mastering the key technologies. 

CSSC initially partnered with Italy’s Fincantieri to develop its cruise ship construction capabilities. 

The design for the cruise ships is based on a class developed by Fincantieri and Carnival that has been deployed for Carnival Cruise Line and Costa Cruises. CSSC invested heavily to create new fabrication facilities unique to cruise ships.

Refined for luxury on the high seas

The new cruise ship, which will operate with the colloquial name of Aida Huacheng, is a refined version of the original design. 

In addition to the enhanced length, the passenger cabin design was also optimised with a new variety of suites and the addition of 19 staterooms for a total of 2,144. 

The size of the atrium lobby is being doubled and the public spaces, entertainment, and leisure areas have been fully upgraded.

Among the unique spaces being highlighted aboard the next cruise ship is the Sea Street Garden. 

It will be an open multi-function social space reportedly inspired by its namesake city, Guangzhou in southern City near Hong Kong.

The post China completes initial phase of construction for second domestically-built cruise ship appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Sompo Insurance Thailand teams up with Collinson International for Sompo Smart Delay appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Airport experience solutions provider Collinson International has partnered with Sompo Insurance Thailand (Sompo) for Sompo Smart Delay.

Sompo Smart Delay brings a new level of ease to travellers, providing Sompo customers in Thailand instant access to over 1,600 airport lounges and travel experiences globally, making flight delays less stressful for travellers.

With the seamless integration of Collinson International’s SmartDelay solution into Sompo’s platform, Sompo TravelJoy, single and annual trip policyholders will be able to redeem access to airport lounges and travel experiences as soon as a flight delay occurs. 

Eligible policyholders will automatically be sent a digital lounge access voucher, through which they can easily redeem their real-time travel benefit.

A vital partnership

According to Sompo chief executive Aditya Vardhan Tibrewala, this new partnership with Collinson International is a strategic leap forward in redefining the future of travel insurance. 

Tibrewala said: “As the first Sompo entity to pioneer the innovative Sompo Smart Delay feature, we’re proud to lead this initiative that will soon be expanded across other Sompo entities in the Asia Pacific region. By offering exclusive perks like Sompo Smart Delay, we’re not just positioning Sompo Thailand as a trailblazer in the industry, we’re setting a new standard for the entire travel insurance in the Thai market to deliver an unparalleled travel experience. Collinson International’s global reach, strategic expertise, and innovative approach to customer benefits make them the perfect partner to elevate our offerings. Together, we’re excited to redefine what it means to be a travel insurance provider and deliver exceptional value to our customers.”

Collinson’s global chief commercial officer and executive chair for the Asia-Pacific Todd Hancock added: “With our recent research revealing that travellers in Thailand greatly value airport lounge access, particularly during the event of a flight delay, we are confident that our partnership with Sompo will provide a convenient and accessible solution that will alleviate travel stress and provide their valued customers a place to unwind and relax at the airport; enabling them to enjoy their upcoming travel with peace of mind. We look forward to welcoming eligible Sompo policyholders to our vast network of airport lounges and travel experiences internationally.”

The post Sompo Insurance Thailand teams up with Collinson International for Sompo Smart Delay appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Tourism Authority of Thailand launches Chinese New Year festivities appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) held a spectacular Chinese New Year lighting ceremony at The Chinatown Gate (Royal Jubilee Gate), Odeon Circle, on Sunday, 19th January.

Commemorating 50 years of Thai-Chinese diplomatic ties, the event marks the start of the Chinese New Year festivities at Yaowarat Road which will run until 9th February.

Wu Zhiwu, minister at the Chinese Embassy in Thailand, and TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool presided over the ceremony. 

Also in attendance were Wisit Limparnukorn, chairman of the Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival Organising Committee, senior TAT executives, representatives from the Chinese Embassy, and Bangkok city officials.

The event showcased the unity of Thai and Chinese traditions through vibrant performances, dazzling light displays, and cultural exhibits, symbolising the enduring friendship between the two nations. 

Locals and tourists alike are invited to experience this grand celebration of cultural harmony and the rich heritage of Thai-Chinese relations.

The post Tourism Authority of Thailand launches Chinese New Year festivities appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Soneva reveals its Ultimate Family Offer in the Maldives appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Soneva invites families to rediscover the joys of togetherness with the Ultimate Family Offer at its award-winning resorts in the Maldives.

Tailored to create unforgettable moments for families of all sizes, this exclusive offer combines exceptional savings with Soneva’s renowned service, ensuring every family escape is an extraordinary one.

The Ultimate Family Offer includes the opportunity to stay longer and savour more by booking three nights and enjoying a complimentary fourth night or reserving five nights and extending stays to seven nights. 

Remote yet accessible, both Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani offer an unparalleled setting surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. 

With the Ultimate Family Offer, families can design their ideal stay experience while creating lasting memories to treasure for a lifetime.

What perks can guests expect?

Families may choose to enjoy two hours of complimentary babysitting daily, giving parents the time to unwind as young ones immerse themselves in endless adventures. 

Additionally, the offer includes full-board dining for children and, for those seeking the pinnacle of luxury living, 25 percent savings on Soneva’s Residences featuring three or more bedrooms, offering unparalleled space and privacy for families. 

From indulgent relaxation for parents to exciting experiences for children, this offer ensures families can tailor their time together with their preferred benefits.

The three- to nine-bedroom Residences at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, available at an additional 25 percent discount with the offer, feature up to 3,048 sqm (32,808 sqft) of living space. 

These Residences are surrounded by lush jungle gardens or perched over the Indian Ocean, embodying the essence of opulence. 

Designed for the most discerning travellers, they feature private swimming pools, sprawling sun decks, expansive living areas and private gym and spa facilities.

Just for kids 

For Young Sonevians, both resorts offer endless opportunities for adventure, creativity and learning. 

The Den, Soneva’s dedicated children’s club, hosts a weekly programme of ever-changing activities, from arts and crafts to exploration and discovery. 

Beyond The Den, families can create cherished memories through rare and immersive experiences: explore the cosmos with the resident astronomer, snorkel alongside manta rays in Hanifaru Bay, picnic on a deserted sandbank or master the art of glassblowing at the Maldives’ only hot glass studio. 

Older children and teens can also join the Soneva Academy, which takes learning beyond the classroom with captivating courses inspired by the Maldives’ rich natural environment.

The post Soneva reveals its Ultimate Family Offer in the Maldives appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Royal Caribbean brings back its Artist Discovery Programme appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Royal Caribbean announced that its Artist Discovery Programme returns to the Caribbean, calling on brilliant artists across the region to showcase their work on the next combination of the best of every vacation, Star of the Seas. 

Set to debut in Port Canaveral in Orlando, FL this August, Star will provide a dynamic canvas for up-and-coming artists to capture and share the rich Caribbean spirit onboard with vacationers from all over the world for generations to come. 

Introduced aboard the Icon of the Seas, the programme highlights rising stars among local Caribbean artists featured in Star’s curated art collection, giving budding artists the opportunity to share their talent. 

Likewise, it aims to celebrate the destinations and people that make vacations with Royal Caribbean the vacation of a lifetime.

Chief product innovation officer Jay Schneider said: “We are excited for this next edition of the Artist Discovery Programme and can’t wait to be awestruck by visionary artists across the Caribbean. Last year, our first-ever call to artists received an overwhelming response with more than 140 artists across 25 Caribbean countries submitting pieces that told a unique story and captured the allure of the region.”

What will selected artists do?

The Artist Discovery Program’s next group of budding artists will be commissioned to paint large-scale murals in four highly visible locations including the Royal Promenade neighborhood representing the heartbeat of the new vacation, Star’s embarkation area which will be among the first sights guests see, and in the Suite Sundeck Lobby, and Suite Sundeck. 

Joining a collection onboard that includes an array of pieces created by local artists and inspired by the region, each creation will invoke the vibrancy of the Caribbean.

Every artist will receive a grant from the vacation company, ranging from $20,000 to more than $100,000, to see their vision through. 

As artists in residence, the winners will work closely with Royal Caribbean’s team later this year to bring their concepts to life in Turku, Finland, where Star is currently under construction.

This year’s selected artists will join the 2023 inaugural cohort that created iconic murals that are featured throughout Icon of the Seas. 

The distinguished artists in-residence include Angelika Wallace-Whitfield in The Bahamas, Phillipe Dodard in Haiti and Jason Hospedales in Trinidad & Tobago. 

To date, millions of guests embarking on Icon have had the privilege of experiencing these captivating works of art firsthand, celebrating the essence of The Bahamas.

The post Royal Caribbean brings back its Artist Discovery Programme appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post “Our next century of flight begins with you”: Ed Bastian appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

This month, Delta kicked off our Centennial year at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, celebrating their first 100 years of flight while offering our vision for the future of air travel. CEO Ed Bastian sent the following message to Delta SkyMiles members:

Over the decades, technology and innovation have propelled us forward, but we’ve always been guided by our values of putting people first in everything we do. As we embark on a new year, we’re committed to a bold vision that builds on our first century of excellence, driven by our goals of providing welcoming, elevated and caring service to you every time you fly.

Elevating the Power of SkyMiles

The future of SkyMiles Membership is about much more than earning rewards. It’s about access to travel and lifestyle benefits you can’t find anywhere else. Partners like American Express, Starbucks, and others broaden the range of benefits we provide to you. And as we shared at CES, we have a new partner to further enhance your experience: Uber. Beginning this spring, you’ll be able to start earning on eligible Uber rides to the airport as well as Premium and Uber Reserve rides. Plus, you’ll now earn on eligible Uber Eats deliveries, as we focus on providing value across your entire trip and beyond.

Making It All About You

For a century, the people of Delta have worked to make you and every single one of our customers feel special. Today, we’re building on that legacy to create a personalized experience for you that complements the signature, human touch that only our employees can provide.

At CES, we unveiled Delta Concierge, a digital tool built into the Fly Delta app as your own personal assistant, which uses generative AI to make your travel easier, reduce stress and inspire you to enjoy the journey. And we continue to evolve and personalize our Delta Sync platform, providing tailored entertainment and content directly to your seatback screen. We also announced that YouTube will be joining Delta, so SkyMiles Members will soon be able to enjoy their favorite creators, podcasts and music artists ad-free while on board most flights with Delta Sync Wi-Fi and on Delta Sync seatback.

Plus, coming soon, you can discover amazing destinations through the eyes of those who know them best. Delta Locals is a new, innovative platform connecting you to locally curated inspiration for your next trip.

Elevating Your Experience

We want every part of your trip to be enjoyable, whether on the ground or in the air. In the coming years, you’ll see everything from new cabin interiors designed to make you feel at home during your travels to next-generation aircraft. Delta also has ushered in a new era of premium travel for you with the opening of Delta One Lounges in New York-JFK, Boston, Los Angeles and, coming soon, Seattle. Our Lounges offer a variety of amenities for the premium traveler, from fine dining to spa-like wellness treatments and valet services. And we continue to invest in our Delta Sky Clubs, while opening new clubs, including our newest Club in Charlotte.

From its earliest days, flying has changed our world for the better, connecting people and communities in a way once unimaginable. We owe it to future generations to ensure that travel is accessible and sustainable as we bring the world closer than ever before. Together, we’re building a future of limitless possibilities.

Thank you for the trust you place in us and your continued loyalty as a valued SkyMiles Member. I’m inspired and exhilarated to have you on this journey with us.

 

 

The post “Our next century of flight begins with you”: Ed Bastian appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Finnair expands British Airways codeshare to target more UK customers appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Finnair has expanded its codeshare with oneworld alliance member, British Airways, as the Finnish airline continues to expand its reach in the UK and targets new customers in the Channel Islands and Gibraltar.

The expanded agreement will see Finnair add its code to an additional seven of British Airways’ domestic routes, enabling customers to benefit from increased connectivity when travelling to Finland and beyond.

With immediate effect, Finnair will add its code to British Airways flights between London Heathrow and Aberdeen, Belfast City, Gibraltar, Inverness, Jersey, Manchester and Newcastle.

The move will enable customers to book the above services directly via Finnair, allowing travellers to fly from their chosen regional airport with British Airways, before connecting onto Finnair flights at Heathrow Airport.

From there, customers can enjoy direct flights with Finnair from Heathrow to Helsinki, or choose to connect onto the airline’s wide-range of destinations in Lapland, the Nordics, and the Baltics. Those looking to travel further afield, can also benefit from Finnair’s network in the Far-East, including routes to Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Singapore and Seoul, among others.

The expanded codeshare means that customers based outside of Finnair’s current UK gateways of London, Manchester and Edinburgh can now enjoy connectivity to Finland and beyond, giving the Nordic airline a new pool of potential customers.

Anssi Partanen, Finnair Market Director Europe, said: “Over the past few years, we have seen a growing demand for our flights to Helsinki and beyond from destinations across not only the UK, but also the Channel Islands and Gibraltar.

“Therefore, we are extremely excited to be expanding our codeshare with British Airways, to ensure customers travelling from across the country can enjoy seamless connectivity onto Finnair’s flights from London.

“With the ability to now book end-to-end journeys with Finnair, while also collecting Avios as a British Airways Executive Club Member, we know this move will prove popular with customers planning their long and short-haul getaways for 2025.”

This news comes after Finnair launched its new expanded schedule from the UK in late 2024, adding 50% more flights between London Heathrow and Helsinki.

With this, Finnair will now offer customers six daily flights from Heathrow, double daily flights from Manchester and up to seven weekly flights from Edinburgh to the Finnish capital.

 

 

 

The post Finnair expands British Airways codeshare to target more UK customers appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia