The post EU paves the way for investments in Timor-Leste’s water, waste, and forestry sectors appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The European Union Delegation to Timor-Leste and the European Investment Bank (EIB Global) have worked closely with the Government of Timor-Leste to prepare investment projects aimed at improving the country’s infrastructure and fostering sustainable development. The three proposals resulting from this collaboration focus on water supply, solid waste management, and forestry, and are now ready to be transformed into tangible investments.

The three projects include a commercial forestry initiative in the municipalities of Covalima and Bobonaro, a national solid waste management project including a health waste management component, and a water supply project for selected municipalities. The forestry project aims to transform underutilised state lands, generating essential resources like firewood and timber, while creating thousands of jobs for local communities. The national waste management project introduces solutions for the safe and efficient management of waste thus reducing significantly the pollution discharged into the environment. The water supply project focuses on improving access to clean water in key municipalities, addressing both urban and rural needs for better sanitation and reliable water sources. Together these initiatives require a total investment of about €260 million.

The preparation of the three investment projects was made possible through the Project Preparation and Implementation Programme (PPIP), which concluded today with the final Steering Committee meeting where these projects were presented. Managed by EIB Global, the PPIP was supported by a €5 million budget, including €4.75 million in technical assistance from the EU and €250,000 from the Cotonou Partnership Agreement.

The final Steering Committee meeting was chaired by H.E. the Minister for Planning and Strategic Investments, Gastão Francisco de Sousa, and attended by representatives from the Government of Timor-Leste, EIB Global, the EU Delegation to Timor-Leste, and other stakeholders.

The Ambassador to the European Union Delegation to Timor-Leste, Mr Marc Fiedrich said: “If converted into a loan, the Project Preparation and Implementation Programme opens a new era of cooperation. Until today, our support, although significant in terms of funds, consisted of limited instruments: grants, technical assistance, and budget support. With this programme, we add loans and guarantees, and maybe later private investments. This is the new trend of cooperation promoted by the EU, the innovative Global Gateway strategy that may become the norm in the near future.”

The Vice-President of the European Investment Bank Ambroise Fayolle said: “Alongside our EU partners on the ground, we have been supporting the Government of Timor-Leste in identifying and preparing investment projects. By focusing on strategic sectors such as forestry, water supply, and waste management, these initiatives will not only address immediate community needs but also lay the groundwork for sustainable economic growth. We look forward to turning these project proposals into tangible investments. As the EU’s financial arm, the EIB stands ready to provide the necessary financial support to make these projects a reality, in line with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.”

Minister for Planning and Strategic Investments, Gastão Francisco de Sousa said: “All three projects have the potential to make significant and long-term contributions to Timor-Leste’s development, and to improved rural and urban environments. The projects comply with and support our national development objectives for their respective sectors.” He emphasised the role of the Ministry of Planning and Strategic Investments in facilitating and coordinating efforts across the sectors.

Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, Marcos da Cruz said: “I would like to thank the EIB, the EU Delegation and COWI for the design of the Timor-Leste Commercial Forestry Project. We welcome this innovative approach to the development of commercial forestry in Timor-Leste, using currently unproductive land. In addition, the project is expected to provide jobs for people living in the target areas, re-green vulnerable areas, increase incomes from forest products, and increase Government’s income.”

Minister of State Administration, Tomás do Rosário Cabral said: “We are grateful for the European Investment Bank’s support for waste management projects. Providing adequate and affordable waste services to the entire population is of great concern for the Government. It will improve public health and is much needed for protecting the terrestrial and marine environment. Specifically, better healthcare risk waste management is urgently needed. In this respect, the EIB project proposal provides a modern, efficient, and sustainable solution that should be implemented as soon as possible.”

Background information:

Project Preparation and Implementation Programme (PPIP) is an EU-funded and EIB-managed project designed to assist the Government of Timor-Leste in the identifying, preparing and implementing projects that are technically sound, financially viable, and environmentally and socially responsible, and are ready for investments. The programme has identified potential projects in the three sectors — water, solid waste management and forestry — by conducting prefeasibility studies for six projects and completing three feasibility studies. Investment projects in forestry and solid waste are now ready for the Government of Timor-Leste to request loan from the EIB and EU grant funding, should they choose to move forward with these initiatives.

Steering Committee of the Project Preparation and Implementation Programme is chaired by the Ministry for Planning and Strategic Investments. The committee also includes representatives from several key government entities of Timor-Leste, such as by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of State Administration, the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry and Bee Timor-Leste public utility company.

The European Union (EU) is a unique economic and political union between 27 European countries that cover much of the continent together. In Timor-Leste, the EU is the second largest donor of development aid (grant funding). The EU is committed to supporting Timor-Leste’s 2011-2030 Strategic Development plan, which aims to transform Timor-Leste into an upper-middle-income country by 2030 based on rapid, inclusive growth enabling it to improve infrastructure, worker skills, education, training and health systems, and combat poverty and malnutrition. The EU assistance focuses on green and sustainable economic recovery and development, rural development, good governance for sustainable development and gender equality.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term financing institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. EIB Global is the EIB’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance outside the European Union. EIB Global is a key partner of the EU Global Gateway strategy, and is designed to foster strong, focused partnerships within Team Europe, alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society.

Global Gateway is the European Union’s strategy to reduce the worldwide investment gap, boost smart, clean and secure connections in the digital, energy and transport sectors, and strengthen health, education and research systems. The Global Gateway strategy embodies a Team Europe approach that brings together the European Union, EU Member States and European development finance institutions. It aims to mobilise up to €300 billion in public and private investments between 2021 and 2027, creating essential links rather than dependencies, and closing the global investment gap.

 

 

 

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The post 27,194 flights scheduled to depart UK during October half-term appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As many get ready to jet off for the October half-term holidays, Cirium has revealed that over 27,194 flights are set to depart UK airports during the period. The number of available seats from UK airports is also up 5% during half-term 2024 compared to 2019, as airlines use larger aircraft on their UK services.

Cirium Data – October half-term

• During October half-term 2024*, 27,194 flights are scheduled to depart UK airports – equating to over 4.9 million seats.

• Tomorrow, Friday 25 October, is set to be the busiest day for departures over the holiday period, with 3,080 departures from UK airports, as many families jet off

• The number of available seats from UK airports is up 5% during half-term 2024, from the 4.6 million pre-pandemic

• However, departures from UK airports during half-term 2024 remain 4% down compared to the same period in 2019 (when there were 28,351 departing flights)

• Departures are down 3% compared to October half-term 2023, as post-pandemic demand plateaus

• The most popular international destinations for UK departures will be Amsterdam, Dublin, Alicante, Paris CDG, Malaga

• easyJet is projected to be the largest airline during the holiday period, followed by British Airways, Ryanair and Jet2

• Heathrow Airport will see the largest number of departures, followed by Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted, and Edinburgh.

 

 

 

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The post Mar-Bella Collection to open Avali, in the Summer of 2025. appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Mar-Bella Collection, the family-owned Greek luxury hospitality brand (meaning ‘beautiful sea’), will be opening its fourth property, Avali, in the Summer of 2025.

Nestled in Agios Ioannis Peristeron on Corfu’s southeastern shore and less than 600 metres from the brand’s established MarBella and Nido hotels, Avali promises an unforgettable beachfront experience that combines laid-back luxury with a premium all-inclusive offering that is ideal for couples, friends, and solo travellers alike.

The hotel will feature 76 beautifully appointed rooms and suites with breathtaking mountain or sea views, an expansive infinity pool, three-acres of lush gardens and a Beach House on a secluded pebbled beach.

Guests will be able to choose from two restaurants as well as three bars featuring bespoke cocktails. At the centre of the hotel will be Zardini Restaurant (Tzardini in Corfiot, meaning ‘small garden’) an all-day Mediterranean-Asian fusion restaurant. Its open kitchen will serve a buffet breakfast that showcases local ingredients, followed by an la carte fusion menu of Mediterranean and Asian dishes for lunch and dinner. In the evening, guests can also enjoy dining at Stiá (meaning ‘fireplace’ in Corfiot), an a-la carte grill restaurant.  As an addition, guests can take advantage of a Dine Around programme, allowing them to dine at the Collections other two Corfu properties.

For guests seeking a wellness focused break, Avali will offer indulgent body massages and outdoor fitness activities. Adventure enthusiasts can explore the local area through hiking, stand up paddle boarding (SUP), canoeing and boating – all an excellent opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic of the surrounding Posidonia marine life.

 

 

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The post 2,842,000 visitors for Parc Astérix in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

To mark its 35 th anniversary, Parc Astérix, the Compagnie des Alpes group’s leisure destination, has set a new attendance record, with 2,842,000 visitors in 2024 (2,814,000 in 2023). It has consolidated its position as the second most visited theme park in France.
The 35th anniversary year featuring La Tour De Numérobis and the 1st ever Gaulish Musical
This exceptional year was marked by 2 major new attractions: La Tour de Numérobis, an attraction located in the Egyptian Zone, and the first ever Gaulish musical, C’est du Délire !

Parc Asterix, a true short breaks destination

Parc Astérix has confirmed its status as an ideal short-stay destination with a constantly improving accommodation offer.
3 hotels, Les Trois Hiboux, La Cité Suspendue and Les Quais de Lutèce, maintained an exceptional occupancy rate of over 90% during the summer, reflecting the Park’s growing appeal as a destination in its own right.

A bright future with Peur Sur Le Parc and Christmas In Gaul

The seasons of  Peur sur le Parc ( from 5 October to 11 November) and Noël Gaulois ( from 21 December to 5 January) are also looking promising, with a host of new features.

“The continuing growth in our visitor numbers and the enthusiasm surrounding our new attractions are testament to the quality of our offer and our ability to renew ourselves,” says Delphine Pons, General Manager of Parc Astérix. “We remain committed to investing in exceptional experiences that will captivate our visitors year after year.”

A new attraction in 2025
The Parc Astérix’s Gaulish zone is expanding to include the garage of the Village’s famous blacksmith: Cetautomatix. The Gaulish character is embarking on a new activity, offering a brand-new range of never-before-seen chariots. Visitors will have the privilege of discovering and testing this range of ‘irreducible’ chariots in a world preview, subject to rigorous testing on a test track. With its steep inclines, tight bends and unpredictable acceleration, this new Cétautomatix family attraction is sure to delight young and old alike.

 

 

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The post Delta Vacations is offering a new giveaway available through 15 Dec  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Travel advisors have the chance to win two (2) Virgin Atlantic roundtrip tickets in Upper Class from any Virgin Atlantic U.S. origin to London (LHR). 

Eligibility

To qualify for this giveaway, agents must:

• Book Virgin Atlantic Packages: Secure Virgin Atlantic air-inclusive vacation packages originating from a Virgin Atlantic U.S. origin to London (LHR), including roundtrip air and a minimum 3-night Delta Vacations hotel stay.
• Meet Revenue Goals: Achieve a minimum of $15,000 in total Delta Vacations booked revenue through December 15, 2024.
• Participate Individually: Only individual booking agents are eligible; group bookings do not qualify.
• No Pooling: Pooling of bookings is not allowed; any violations will result in disqualification.

 

 

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The post EaseMyTrip opens first franchise store in Bhubaneswar, Odisha appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

This is the 19th store under the flagship EaseMyTrip Franchise program, further strengthening the brand’s offline presence across India

EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s leading online travel tech platforms, announces the launch of its first franchise store in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This marks the 19th store unveiled under the company’s flagship program, EaseMyTrip Franchise, further solidifying its commitment to connecting with offline customers through a wide-reaching network of retail stores.

Located at the prime address of S/O Ratnakar Routray, Plot No.437, Near N.H-16, P.S-Varatpur, Aiginia, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, PIN-751030, the store offers a comprehensive range of travel services including flight, hotel, bus, and railway reservations. Customers can also book luxurious vacation packages, cruises, and avail visa-related services. The store’s vibrant interiors and customer-first approach embody EaseMyTrip’s ethos of delivering seamless, high-quality travel experiences.

Rikant Pittie, co-founder of EaseMyTrip, commented: “We are excited to bring EaseMyTrip’s services closer to our customers in Bhubaneswar. The EaseMyTrip Franchise program is part of our broader vision to establish a strong presence in key markets across India, providing travellers with unparalleled travel solutions both online and offline. Bhubaneswar is a significant market, and this store launch is a vital step in catering to its growing travel community.”

Launched in 2023, EaseMyTrip’s Franchise program aims to establish a network of 100 retail stores by FY25. The program has seen consistent growth, with the Bhubaneswar store following the most recent launch in Hyderabad.

 

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The post Bangkok listed among National Geographic’s Best of the World appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand announced that the city of Bangkok has been included in National Geographic’s list of the Best of the World for 2025.

TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said: “We are honoured that Bangkok has been included in National Geographic’s much-anticipated annual list of awe-inspiring destinations. Bangkok’s inclusion reflects its vibrant atmosphere, world-renowned street food, majestic temples, and bustling markets, all the elements that make it a unique city for visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation.”

According to National Geographic, Bangkok was selected as one of the Best of the World 2025 by its team of travel experts following a rigorous nomination, research, and reporting process.

A must-visit destination

In its official announcement on the official Best of the World webpage on 22nd October, NatGeo editors hailed Bangkok as a must-visit destination to “Explore a temple reborn.”

The feature praised Bangkok as “an intoxicating blend of old and new,” where glittering skyscrapers intermingle with luxury shopping malls like Siam Center and upscale hotels such as Innside by Meliá Sukhumvit. 

The city was also lauded for its growing status as an art and design hotspot, with cultural events like the Bangkok Art Biennale and the Bangkok International Film Festival, particularly in the up-and-coming Bang Rak neighbourhood.

A gateway to ancient wonders

Also cited was Bangkok’s significance as a gateway to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, drawing attention to Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a 17th-century Buddhist temple just outside the city. 

Located in Ayutthaya and described as one of Thailand’s most important monuments, the temple has been undergoing extensive restoration after suffering damage from flooding in 2011. 

Recent efforts, including 3D laser scanning and the construction of a flood wall, are aimed at preserving the temple and transforming it into an educational site that highlights Thailand’s cultural heritage.

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The post Bakuun Holdings announces new appointment for Samyra Krooswijk appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel and hospitality tech provider Bakuun Holdings announced the appointment of Samyra Krooswijk as its new vice-president of sales for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. 

This strategic move aligns with the company’s vision to accelerate growth and strengthen its presence in these key regions known for travel and hospitality innovation.

Bakuun CEO Nigel Horne said of the new vice-president: “Her deep understanding of the MEA and South Asian markets, coupled with her extensive experience in the travel industry, will play a key role in our expansion efforts and in driving the adoption of our solutions.”

Meet Samyra Krooswijk

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, most recently as director of sales for MEA & South Asia at Hotelbeds, Krooswijk brings a wealth of expertise in driving sales growth, building strategic partnerships, and securing new business. 

Her leadership will be pivotal as Bakuun expands its innovative solutions across the MEA and South Asia regions.

Krooswijk said of her appointment: “I’m eager to lead Bakuun’s sales efforts in these fast-growing regions. I look forward to collaborating with our partners and clients to help businesses streamline operations, reduce costs, and unlock new growth opportunities with Bakuun’s groundbreaking solutions.”

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The post Phoenix India Light Festival presents a world of immersive light and wonder appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Phoenix Mall of Asia has officially begun the festive season with the opening of the Phoenix India Light Festival (ILF). 

Designed by Surreal Design Studio, this is the country’s first immersive lighting experience taking place at the heart of Bengaluru; promising to redefine the convergence of art and technology into a mesmerising, interactive sensory experience, evoking a sense of storytelling, imagination and unbound happiness. 

The dazzling display of vibrant and interactive lights at the mall’s stunning plaza area, will transform the premises into a magical wonderland from October to December 2024, celebrating the festive spirit.

A milestone in the art of celebration

The festival marks a significant milestone in India’s cultural celebration, as it displays the transformative power of light through the combination of technology and creative brilliance like never before. 

ILF also features a curated collection of interactive light displays ranging from stunning tunnels of colours to psychedelic visual experience. Each is crafted to engage the senses and ignite wonder. 

The launch of this first edition of India Light Festival during Diwali signifies the power of hope and connection fostered by the festival of light all across the country and ways Phoenix is committed to elevate the experience of its visitors to enjoy the festivities at its fullest and create lasting memories with loved ones.

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The post ITB Asia 2024 concludes with 45,000 meetings and 18,500 attendees from 85 countries appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ITB Asia to expand its Travel Tech Asia cluster next year, providing deeper insights into cutting-edge hotel technology. The dedicated platform will showcase the latest advancements in reservation systems, equipment, AI tools, CRM platforms, design, and sustainability initiatives — set to redefine the future of accommodation and guest experiences.

National Tourism Organisations Reflect on ITB Asia’s 2024 Success

Exhibitors from around the globe praised ITB Asia for its ability to bring together the travel industry’s key players under one roof. Ingunn Sakshaug, Market and Travel Trade Specialist at Visit Norway, expressed her enthusiasm: “ITB Asia provides us with a unique opportunity to connect with travel organisers from multiple countries in one place, and this year’s event exceeded our expectations”. Similarly, Thorleifur Thor Jonsson, Senior Manager, Trade Delegations, at Visit Iceland, stated: “ITB Asia is an invaluable platform for Iceland to engage with the Southeast Asian market. The highly efficient meeting system ensures we maximize results.” Xiaolong Wu, Marketing Manager – APAC and MENA Market, at the Malta Tourism Authority, added: “ITB Asia is one of the best platforms for connecting with Asia-Pacific travel trade partners. We look forward to deepening these relationships further.”

Joyce Wang, Executive Director of Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, stated: “ITB Asia remains the leading platform for the travel industry in the Asia-Pacific region. The remarkable growth and innovation displayed this year highlight the resilience and forward-thinking nature of our global travel community. We are excited to continue shaping the future of travel together, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”

Knowledge Theatre: Exploring Travel Trends and Innovations

In the Knowledge Theatre, industry leaders engaged in thought-provoking discussions on a range of important topics such as travel behaviour, customer loyalty, sustainability in hotels, or the evolution of extended stay experiences in Asia Pacific:

Scott Wegener, Head of Asia Pacific at Tripadvisor, led a session on How Life Stages Influence Travel Behavior, exploring how different life stages affect travel decisions, with a special focus on Japanese travellers. In a Fireside Chat on Customer Loyalty, Todd Handcock, Global Chief Commercial Officer & President Asia Pacific, Collinson International, discussed how brands can use travel experiences to drive customer loyalty, revealing key regional and global travel trends in Asia Pacific. Ananth Ramchandran, Head of Advisory & Strategic Transactions, Hotels & Hospitality, Asia, CBRE, presented on Mainstream and New Hotel Brands Embracing Sustainability, showing how sustainability has moved from a “nice to have” to a core part of hotel brand identity. Chew Hang Song, Deputy COO, Frasers Hospitality, and Sophie Brinsley, EVP – APAC, SilverDoor, joined a Fireside Chat on the Evolution of Extended Stay Experiences, examining the impact of digital transformation and flexible living solutions on the hospitality industry.

MICE Show Asia: Insights on Digital Transformation and AI

At MICE Show Asia, digital transformation took the spotlight with several key discussions:
Errol Lim, COO of Jublia, James Kang, Managing Director of MEPS International Korea, and Dylan Sharma, Co-Founder of TRICOM Events, explored the Role of Digital Transformation in MICE, with a focus on AI-driven tools like personalisation and data analytics that are reshaping event management. Abel Zhao, CEO of Connexus Group Holdings, discussed Globalisation and Localisation in Travel Management Companies (TMCs), highlighting how organisations can successfully integrate localisation into their global strategies to meet evolving market demands. Rita Kuan, Market Development Manager at GSTC, Ian Gan, Chief Sustainability Officer at Singapore EXPO, and Adam Piperdy, Founder of Unearthed Productions, delivered actionable strategies in Driving Sustainability: Strategies for a Greener Future in the MICE Industry, outlining how the industry can adopt sustainability standards and collaborate for long-term impact.

Travel Tech Asia: Shaping the Future of Travel Technology

Innovation was front and center at Travel Tech Asia, with sessions highlighting the evolving needs of today’s tech-savvy travellers:

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President of Supply at Agoda, delved into Redefining Travel with digital and localised solutions, emphasising the need for hyper-localised experiences to meet customer demands and improve satisfaction. Apo Ozkececi, Senior Vice President at Accelya Group, introduced the New Distribution Capability (NDC), discussing its potential to transform airline retailing and deliver more personalised offers and transparent pricing. David Hughes, Managing Director of Asia Pacific at Uniglobe Travel International, led an insightful session on Building a Travel Programme Fit for the Future, revealing how emerging technologies like Generative AI and Web 3.0 are reshaping the travel management landscape. Yoshiyuki Takano, Group Managing Executive Officer at Rakuten Group, explored Japanese Travel Trends with data-driven insights, showcasing Japan’s growing inbound travel market and addressing challenges like overtourism and environmental changes.

 

Investment Insights for the Travel and Hospitality Sector

The Investment Panel brought together experts like Rayner Loi, Co-Founder & CEO of Lumitics, Nicholas Cocks, Managing Partner at Velocity Ventures, and Bennett Lee, Partner at Velocity Ventures, to discuss Strategic Outlooks for the travel and hospitality sector. The panel highlighted key opportunities in data-driven innovations and sustainability, positioning the industry for long-term growth.

The 18th edition of ITB Asia will take place on 15–17 October 2025 in Singapore.

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