The post DidaTravel reveals key insights from this year’s Golden Week holiday appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel distribution firm DidaTravel presented a report on key hotel booking trends observed during China’s recent Golden Week holiday period.

Based on findings, China’s outbound travel continues its rapid recovery, with hotel bookings for trips abroad showing impressive growth.

According to DidaTravel’s latest data, during the Golden Week holiday, when many Chinese travellers take a seven-day break from 1 to 7 October, hotel bookings surged across various regions compared to last year: up by 190 percent in the Americas, 78 percent in Europe, 77 percent in Asia-Pacific, and 106 percent in the Middle East.

Also, the average hotel stay duration for international travellers remained stable at around two nights, consistent with pre-pandemic trends. 

While Average Daily Rates (ADR) showed a slight increase in the Middle East, they were marginally lower in other regions compared to last year.

According to DidaTravel president Stone Fan: “The evolving preferences of Chinese travellers signal a new era for the global travel industry. At DidaTravel, we not only prepared for the resurgence of outbound tourism but are also helping to shape it. By leveraging our insights and technology, our commitment remains steadfast in redefining how the world connects with Chinese travellers, creating seamless, enriching journeys that reflect their growing desire for exploration and discovery.”

Where did travellers go during the holiday? 

As of 8th October, the top 20 most popular international destinations for Chinese travellers during the Golden Week holiday were Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia, Singapore, the United States, Italy, Vietnam, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Australia, Turkey, Iceland, the Philippines, and New Zealand. 

Among international cities, the most booked destinations were Bangkok, Tokyo, Singapore, Osaka, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Pattaya, Kyoto, Kota Kinabalu, Jeju, Karon, Dubai, Paris, Patong, Phuket, Abu Dhabi, Chiang Mai, Rome, Milan, and London. 

For domestic travel, top destinations included Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Macau. 

These destinations provide a wide variety of experiences, ranging from breathtaking natural landscapes to vibrant cultural heritage, world-class events, gourmet dining, and exceptional shopping.

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The post Taiwan showcases indigenous heritage and exclusive promotions at ITB Asia 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Taiwan’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions took centre stage at ITB Asia 2024, currently ongoing in Singapore. 

This year, three Taiwanese exhibitors, including the Taiwan Tourism Administration (B05), MICE One-stop Service, Taipei City Government (B05), and the Council of Indigenous Peoples (D35), teamed up to promote Taiwan’s unique tourism resources to travel industry professionals from the Asia-Pacific region. 

They showcased travel packages aimed at attracting international travellers to explore Taiwan’s stunning natural landscapes, indigenous cultures, and vibrant urban attractions.

The Taiwan exhibitors at ITB Asia 2024 also highlighted two attractive offers to enhance the travel experience for international visitors. 

Through the Accelerated Plan to Attract International Tourists, foreign travellers can take advantage of exclusive promotions, such as the “Take THSR with 2 for 1 One-way Ticket for Non-Taiwanese Passport Holders” promotion, making it easier to explore Taiwan’s stunning landscapes via high-speed rail. 

Additionally, Taiwan provides generous subsidies for corporate incentive travel, offering financial support for groups of 500+ staying 3 days/2 nights or 300+ staying 4 days/3 nights, with extra per-person subsidies available for longer stays, encouraging participation in cultural activities and local experiences.

An island-wide adventure

Taiwan offers international travellers an abundance of experiences, from modern urban attractions to deep cultural roots and breathtaking natural beauty. 

Under the theme “Mountains, Waters, and Island Fun,” the Taiwan Tourism Administration highlighted the island’s diverse landscapes, which range from majestic mountains to serene coastal areas. 

These features provide ample opportunities for eco-tourism, outdoor adventures, and immersive cultural experiences.

Getting into indigenous culture

A special focus was placed on Taiwan’s indigenous tribes and their sustainable tourism practices, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s rich heritage and traditions. 

Taiwan is home to 16 indigenous tribes, each with its own unique culture, language, and customs. 

Travellers can embark on tribal tours, participate in traditional dances, taste local cuisine, and explore scenic landscapes, all while supporting sustainable tourism and local communities.

At ITB Asia’s main stage, the Council of Indigenous Peoples introduced Taiwan’s Truku Tribe, showcasing traditional attire, inviting the audience to join Taroko dance steps, and offering interactive experiences with the Truku xylophone, with participants receiving local handmade crafts as gifts.

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The post Norwegian Cruise Line gives details on new onboard experiences appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Innovative global cruise firm Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) released additional information regarding a new slew of onboard experiences and expanded venues.

These will be available aboard sister ships Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, the first two vessels in the cutting-edge Prima Plus Class set to launch in April 2025 and 2026, respectively.

NCL president David J Herrera said of the new amenities: “We provide our guests with more to do with a variety of fun, exciting and elevated experiences for every type of traveller. The two sister ships will introduce a brand-new venue to the fleet, the Aqua and Luna Game Zone, along with thoughtfully redesigned spaces and bringing back many more of our best-in-class offerings, beloved by our guests and inspired by their feedback. We look forward to our guests enjoying more of what they love on board and creating unforgettable memories aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.”

What can passengers expect onboard?

The new ships will feature the Company’s first-ever Aqua and Luna Game Zone, an all-new gaming experience and evolution of NCL’s popular Galaxy Pavilion and arcade venues. 

The sister vessels will boast even more expanded and redesigned spaces, including Bull’s Eye Bar, a now complimentary experience with interactive dart games and a new full-service bar; and Tee Time, a supercharged version of mini golf where guests can play 12 interactive holes across two decks.

The Mandara Spa and Salon and Pulse Fitness Center will also be refreshed to include sophisticated design updates, and new revitalising service additions including a clay sauna, IV drip therapy and thalassotherapy loungers aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.

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The post In Photos: ITB Asia 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

We bring you first glimpses from ITB Asia 2024, being held in Singapore, alongside MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia from 23 -25 October 2024.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The post Sentosa Development Corporation and STIC Travel Group sign new understanding appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and STIC Travel Group (STIC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today, 23rd October.

This new understanding aims to enhance Sentosa’s standing as a sustainable destination in the Indian market. 

The one-year partnership will seek to create innovative educational experiences targeted at students in India, highlighting Sentosa’s  sustainable practices and diverse ecosystems. 

Living classrooms for sustainability education

Likewise, the memorandum signifies a joint effort to design immersive learning experiences that utilise Sentosa’s unique environment as a living classroom to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainability. 

These programmes will emphasise key concepts such as the United Nation’s  Sustainable Development Goals, carbon footprint reduction and biodiversity conservation. 

This partnership builds upon STIC’s broader efforts to boost educational tourism in Singapore by  offering Indian students an opportunity to explore Singapore’s heritage, sustainable development  initiatives and interactive learning experiences. 

A learning adventure

Central to this partnership is the launch of the Unchartered Sentosa tour designed to inspire  students to become advocates for positive environmental change in their own communities.

Slated to roll out in November 2024, Unchartered Sentosa offers Indian students a hands-on  exploration of sustainability principles through a diverse range of activities that includes intertidal exploration of the Southern Shores to learn about marine conservation and  coastal ecology; guided nature walks along Serapong and Imbiah Trail to discover native flora and fauna  in Sentosa; an Amazing Race-inspired adventure on Sentosa and St John’s Island to educate participants on the  importance and relevance of responsible consumption; interactive workshops that equip participants with ocean survival skills at Lazarus Island; visits to Sentosa’s sustainable attractions such as the Cable Car and Skyline Luge; as well as an Eco Tour of Siloso Beach Resort demonstrating real-world applications of sustainable design and green technology 

STIC Travel Group CEO Isha Goyal said of these initiatives: “Our partnership with SDC aligns perfectly with STIC’s mission to offer innovative and meaningful  travel experiences. By combining our  expertise in educational tourism with Sentosa’s world-class sustainable practices, we’re creating  a truly distinct offering for Indian students. This initiative not only enhances their global  perspective but also equips them with practical knowledge about sustainability that they can bring  back to their communities.”

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The post 17th ITB Asia 2024 opens at Marina Bay Sands with 60+ exhibitors from 23-25 October appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

ITB Asia 2024 begins in  Singapore, alongside MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia bringing together travel trade for business, networking and conferences from 23 -25 October 2024.

Addressing the attendees at the opening of the ITB Asia 2024, Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO, Messe Berlin stated: “A very warm welcome to our 17th edition of ITB Asia, where, here in Singapore in Marina Bay Sands alongside MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia. Thank you all for joining us for powerful meetings of good discussions. ITB Asia 2024 is a key platform that brings together thought leaders from different areas to discuss travel and tourism, opportunities for proliferation and industry growth.”

 

“This years’ show promises to be the biggest and most diverse till now. The show is spread across 17,000 square metres filled with exhibitors from all over the world and guests,  showcasing everything from destinations, airlines, hotels to cruises and MICE. Cutting edge and groundbreaking technologies for the years to come would be showcased there. Over 60 Tourism organisations and convention bureaus have joined us. There is an increase of more than 75 per cent from exhibitors joining from the African region compared to the last year’s show. The European region also has an increase of over 25 per cent. We see new participants from the Asian countries, America and from ME. Among the exhibitors we have the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism from the Sultanate of Oman, Visit Norway, Tourism Armenia, Visit Jordon, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and many more.”

He concluded: “ITB Asia 2024 is all about innovating for tomorrow, strengthening future resilience in travel and tourism, we will be diving into critical discussions  and into leisure and corporate travel, MICE and rapidly evolving technologies. With over 160 speakers, 100 sessions and nearly 70 hours of fully packed programs. There remains a wealth of information to be imbibed.”

 

The Guest of Honour at ITB Asia 2024, Alvin Tan, Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, and the Ministry of Trade & Industry, Government of Singapore, he thanked all for coming and stated that the city is open for many events.

He said: “Singapore is a place to experiment. If you have new ideas, you have new suggestions and you need to try them out, then Singapore is the destination. We recently held the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2024 night race, that is extremely popular. We also we were also asked to hold the first international Olympic E ports week in Singapore. If you have a good novel idea, and you want to execute in Singapore, we are open for business. Thank you very much for your time and your confidence in Singapore, and have a great idea to be ITB Asia 2024.”

This was followed by the keynote address from Liz Ortiguera, Managing Director Asia-Pacific and Sr Advisor to CEO World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Lodging, CapitaLand Investment Limited and Chief Executive Officer, The Ascott Limited.

The premier event is covering key verticals in the travel industry – MICE, Leisure, Corporate Travel, and Travel Technology. Under this year’s theme “Innovating for Tomorrow: Strengthening Future Resilience in Travel and Tourism”, the agenda of the three-day conference comprises knowledge and insights across three focused tracks on how to adapt to changing consumer expectations, improve operational efficiency and create more sustainable and immersive experiences

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The post TransNusa signs agreements with three Malaysian medical centres appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

TransNusa formally signed three agreements with hospitals owned and operated by Malaysian companies Sunway Medical Centre and Asia OneHealthCare.

The medical centres are Sunway Medical Centre, Subang Jaya Medical Centre and Ara Damansara Medical Centre. Subang Jaya Medical Centre and Ara Damansara Medical Centre are owned by Asia OneHealthCare.

All three medical centres are close to Subang Airport, with Ara Damansara Medical Centre being the closest. The medical centre is only 7.9km from the Subang Airport, which is also known as the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport. Meanwhile, Sunway Medical Centre is 14 km from the airport and Subang Jaya Medical Centre is 13km from the airport.

Through these agreements, the airline aims to provide its passengers with additional healthcare options. By doing so, TransNusa also expands its operations into the medical tourism sector.

An expansion of services

TransNusa Group CEO Bernard Francis said, “We feel privileged to be able to expand our service offerings to include healthcare. Our passengers will be eligible to purchase specialised and customised healthcare packages at three renowned medical centres in Malaysia”.

TransNusa passengers can now enjoy two Signature Elite Health Screening Package, which is valued at US$348 and at around US$174 at Sunway Medical Centre. The package price is being offered at a 50 percent discount for TransNusa’ passenger. In addition to the discount, passengers will be able to enjoy free seat upgrades.  

At the same time, passengers who fly TransNusa will also be able to enjoy a 20 percent discount for all medical check-ups at Subang Jaya Medical Centre and Ara Damansara Medical Centre. Free airport transfers from the Subang Airport to the Subang Jaya Medical Centre and Ara Damansara Medical Centre are also offered to eligible passengers.

Francis added: “In order to be eligible for these packages, our passengers need to showcase their boarding passes when registering for them.”

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