The post NIHI Sumba introduces its Equine Intuitive Awareness Retreat appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Indonesian resort NIHI Sumba offers a unique opportunity to participate in its new Equine Intuitive Awareness Retreat, an exceptional experience guided by Carol Sharpe, the original NIHI horse whisperer. 

Slated for 5 to 10 December 2024 and again from 13 to 18 February 2025, this retreat is part of NIHI’s overarching Wild Wellness concept and is a key component of its new Equine Connection programmes. 

Through this groundbreaking initiative, NIHI Sumba is the first spa in the world to have horses located on-site 24/7 for wellness purposes, providing an unparalleled setting for holistic equine healing.

Riding to wellness

The retreat itinerary has been designed to guide participants in connecting with their inner selves and the natural world through a variety of enriching activities that nurture a deeper bond with these gentle creatures. 

The program includes energy awareness sessions, meditation with horses, Reiki healing, and equine yoga, alongside “Sunrise Awakening the Senses” sessions with the main herd on the hills behind NIHI, and the opportunity to swim with horses or enjoy a sunset beach horseback ride, depending on weather conditions. 

Participants will also engage in a Fire Light Sound Meditation and visit a local village to witness the impactful work of the Sumba Horse Charity, where they can contribute by offering Reiki healing to ailing ponies—an exchange of healing energy that fosters both emotional and spiritual growth.

Steeped in tradition

A key component of the retreat is the exploration of the Pasola, an ancient Sumbanese ritual that features traditional horseback riding, symbolising the balance between life and death. This cultural immersion provides participants with a unique insight into the Sumbanese way of life and the deep significance of horses in their heritage.

The Equine Intuitive Awareness Retreat is more than just a wellness experience; it is a journey that redefines the relationship between humans and nature and offers a rare chance to explore the profound healing and spiritual connection between humans and horses, providing an unforgettable journey toward inner peace and well-being. 

By integrating horses into the spa environment, NIHI Sumba is setting a new standard in holistic healing, offering guests the opportunity to experience profound emotional and spiritual growth.

Sumba is an island rich in cultural and spiritual traditions which serves as the perfect backdrop for this transformative retreat. 

The Marapu religion, practised by the Sumbanese people, venerates ancestral spirits and natural forces, with horses playing a central role in their rituals and daily lives.

 Participants in the retreat will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in these traditions, gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s unique equine spiritual heritage.

Expert guidance

Carol Sharpe’s work at NIHI Sumba is deeply rooted in her understanding of the natural world and the spiritual significance of horses. 

Her journey with NIHI began over a decade ago with a single pony, which has since evolved into a groundbreaking wellness initiative that seamlessly integrates the healing presence of horses into the luxury spa environment. 

The retreat offers participants a rare chance to engage with these magnificent animals in a setting that honours the ancient traditions of Sumba while addressing the modern need for emotional and spiritual renewal.

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The post Cathay Pacific reveals September 2024 traffic figures appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cathay Pacific released its traffic figures for September 2024 on Tuesday, 22nd October. 

In the first nine months of 2024, Cathay Pacific and HK Express together surpassed the 20 million mark for passengers carried, having carried a combined total of over 21 million passengers during the period.

Cathay Pacific carried a total of 1,816,908 passengers in September 2024, an increase of 17.8 percent compared with September 2023. 

The month’s revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs) increased 18.4 percent year on year. 

A greater passenger load factor

Passenger load factor decreased by 2.3 percentage points to 81.4 percent, while available seat kilometres (ASKs) increased by 21.7 percent year on year. 

In the first nine months of 2024, the number of passengers carried increased by 28.4 percent to a total of 16,553,713, against a 34.2 percent increase in ASKs and a 27.8 percent increase in RPKs, as compared with the same period for 2023.

According to airline chief customer and commercial officer Lavinia Lau: “Although September is typically a quieter month for leisure travel, demand picked up towards the end of the month coinciding with the National Day ‘Golden Week’ holiday period. We saw significant demand from Hong Kong to cities in Japan as well as Bangkok, and from the Chinese Mainland to destinations in Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia and Europe around the holidays.”

Lau also pointed out that September marked the beginning of the peak season for business travel. As a result, there was increased demand for premium cabins driven by various events, conferences and exhibitions, most notably the Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. This resulted in September having the highest premium cabin load factor of any month so far in 2024.

Cargo statistics 

The airline carried 133,079 tonnes of cargo in September 2024, an increase of 10.9 percent compared with September 2023. 

The month’s cargo revenue tonne kilometres (RFTKs) increased 4.9 percent year on year. The cargo load factor decreased by 2.4 percentage points to 58.7 percent, while available cargo tonne kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 9.3 percent year on year. 

In the first nine months of 2024, the tonnage increased by 9.9 percent to a total of 1,103,576 tonnes, against an 8.9 percent increase in AFTKs and a 3.4 percent increase in RFTKs, as compared with the same period for 2023.

Likewise, September marks the beginning of the traditional peak cargo season, with tonnage 7 percent higher than August and 11 percent above September last year.

In terms of cargo carried, there was an increase in Cathay Fresh shipments from South West Pacific, Southeast Asia and North America into Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, driven by increased demand during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

There was also an increase in shipments through the Cathay Priority solution due to growing demand for time-sensitive shipments to the Americas and Europe. From the Greater Bay Area, e-commerce shipments continued to be the key driver of export tonnage.

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The post Pacific Tourism Organisation’s Kiribati Community Attitudes Survey in Kiribati shows local views on tourism development appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO)’s Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) completed its first-ever Community Attitudes Survey (CAS) in Kiribati.

The survey resulted in a number of invaluable insights into local residents’ views on tourism development and its impact on the country.

Conducted between 3rd July and 30th August, the CAS gathered input from 293 Kiribati residents aged 18 and above. 

The survey was made available both online and through face-to-face interviews, allowing respondents to voice their opinions and share suggestions for shaping the future of tourism in Kiribati. 

Forms were offered in both English and I-Kiribati and took just 11 minutes on average to complete.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) expressed gratitude to all the respondents who spared a few minutes to complete the survey.

Key findings

83 percent of respondents expressed their desire to see more tourists in Kiribati, citing potential benefits such as economic growth, job creation, better infrastructure, and an improved standard of living. 

14 percent of participants, on the other hand, emphasised the need for sustainable development, advocating for careful planning and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the country’s long-term readiness for tourism.

However, three percent preferred fewer tourists, stressing the need for more accommodation options and a concerted effort to clean up the environment and community before increasing tourist numbers. Other survey respondents also highlighted the importance of Government support in fostering tourism growth. 

Suggestions included providing leases for tourism businesses, offering training and awareness programs to communities, and implementing and enforcing policies related to business licensing and tourism standards.

TAK’s acting chief executive Reeti Onorio said: “The feedback has been clear, our community is ready for more tourism, but it needs to be done in a way that benefits both the people and the environment. This survey gives us a strong foundation to build on, ensuring that tourism development is aligned with the needs of residents.”

Necessary for policies

SPTO CEO Christopher Cocker commended TAK on completing its CAS survey, and added that such data-driven insights are crucial for shaping policies that foster sustainable tourism development, ensure effective resource distribution, and promote the long-term growth of the Pacific tourism sector.

Cocker also reiterated SPTO’s commitment to using this research to enhance the decision-making processes of member countries, promoting long-term resilience and growth in the tourism sector.

He said: “Data is king and is the cornerstone for decision making, developing plans and strategies. The CAS is one of three key surveys spearheaded by PTDI, as part of its broader mission to ensure that tourism growth is aligned with local community needs, values, and aspirations. By addressing key challenges identified in the survey, the region can better cater to both visitor needs and the well-being of locals.”

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The post Singapore Tourism Board’s new campaign casts the spotlight on the country as a culinary destination appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) recently launched the Made in Singapore (MIS) global positioning campaign that cements Singapore’s status as a Culinary Capital and food haven through the medium of song.

The social-first campaign showcases Singapore’s vibrant, diverse and innovative culinary landscape to a global audience, aiming to boost awareness, rekindle interest, and drive demand. It invites visitors to experience Singapore’s unique gastronomic offerings.

Created with BBH Singapore, Zenith Media, and Digitas of The Shophouse @ Publicis, this new campaign aims to showcase Singapore’s dynamic and diverse culinary landscape, targeting travellers from key markets including Australia, the US, Indonesia, India, and China who are adventurous and eager to expand their palates.

What do I eat first?

It begins with a 30-second video, with a song titled “What Do I Eat First?”, featuring popular local artist Paddy Ong, the lead vocalist of one of Singapore’s indie-pop bands Club Mild, and written and composed by audio production house FVSE.

The catchy original song captures the challenge of being spoilt for choice with food in Singapore, posing the question, “What do I eat first?”

The song’s infectious rhythms blend with vibrant visuals to take audiences on a culinary adventure through Singapore’s rich culinary tapestry, from traditional local favourites to cutting-edge fusion cuisine.

From the end of January 2025, STB will also launch a series of video assets on its Visit Singapore social media accounts. These will continue to spotlight Singapore’s unique interpretation of culinary trends worldwide, such as ‘Mukbang’ or ‘Coffee Culture’. 

This campaign is part of a series of global activations from STB and The Shophouse @ Publicis extending its master brand campaign, “Made in Singapore”. Publicis Groupe Singapore was first appointed by STB in January 2022, after The Shophouse @ Publicis was assembled to respond to integrated briefs as a consortium. This multi-disciplinary solution incorporates best-in-class creative (BBH), media (Zenith Media), digital, data (Digitas) and production (Prodigious).

Get it on your socials

Running on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, the 30-second introductory video will also be followed by several 15-second social clips showcasing different facets of Singapore’s culinary scene. Crafted in partnership with Abundant Productions, and content creator Thomas Goh, the series of videos captures the sensory experience of being overwhelmed by the sheer variety on offer in Singapore.

Kenneth Lim, assistant chief executive for STB’s marketing group remarked: “In today’s social-first environment, content creators wield significant power in creating awareness and shaping perceptions. Recognising this, our campaign harnesses their reach to position Singapore as a global Culinary Capital, inspiring foodies to explore our endless possibilities curated by both homegrown and international culinary talents. Their passion and commitment to pushing cultural and creative boundaries continue to enrich our vibrant food scene. Through this approach, we aim to drive greater awareness of Singapore’s diverse food and beverage offerings, by inviting foodies to explore and share their culinary discoveries.”

The videos are also accompanied by easy-to-use templates from TikTok’s CapCut and Instagram Reels, which will allow content creators to create their own user-generated content (UGC) using the song as a soundtrack for their culinary adventures in Singapore.

According to BBH Singapore executive creative director Khairul Mondzi: “Social media platforms and UGC have transformed the way food trends develop, giving everyone the ability to share their dining experiences, reviews, and recipes. This democratisation of food content shapes modern eating habits and brings culinary culture into the daily lives of millions. Through the campaign, we aim to join this conversation by showcasing Singapore’s dynamic food scene in a way that naturally resonates with how people engage with and create food content. This approach not only spotlights Singapore’s culinary diversity but also seamlessly integrates it into the broader global food landscape.”

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The post Trip.com Group reports surge in global cruise bookings appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Trip.com Group reported a remarkable surge in global cruise bookings, with a 344 percent year-on-year growth from January to October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. 

This rise reflects a global trend of travellers rediscovering the appeal of cruise vacations as they seek diverse destinations and experiences in a single journey. 

Experts say that this may be a renaissance for the global cruise industry as 2024 is getting to be a record-breaking year.

Fly-cruise bookings up by 520 percent this year

A standout trend is the substantial rise in fly-cruise bookings, with bookings from international tourists up by 520 percent year-on-year. 

The combination of air travel and cruising allows international travellers to start their voyages in exotic locations, contributing to the overall growth of the industry.  

Additionally, younger travellers are at the forefront of this growth. Bookings from millennial travellers skyrocketed by 857 percent, while those of Gen Z travellers increased by 450 percent. 

Older age groups also saw significant growth, with a 112 percent rise in bookings from those born in the 1950s and over 400 percent among those born in the 1980s. 

These figures underscore the expanding appeal of cruise vacations across a broader demographic than ever before. 

Longer trips are in vogue

Cruise trips are also becoming longer, with the average cruise duration rising from 4.53 days in 2023 to 4.81 days in 2024, highlighting the increasing preference for extended travel experiences. 

In addition, booking behaviours have evolved, with the average booking window lengthening by 10 days to 37 days in 2024, indicating that travellers are planning their cruise holidays further in advance. This reflects a shift towards making cruises a key part of family vacations and long-term holiday planning.  

Cruise bookings are particularly popular across key global hubs, with Singapore ranking top in international cruise destinations, followed closely by Port Klang, Barcelona, Jakarta, and Tokyo sharing fifth place.

Lining up for a Disney Adventure at sea

The upcoming launch of the Disney Adventure which is set to sail from Singapore in December 2025 also generated significant interest, reflecting the strong demand for family-friendly cruising options. 

This will be the first Disney ship to homeport in Asia, offering three- and four-night voyages with immersive Disney, Pixar, and Marvel experiences. 

So far, nearly 10,000 travellers have signed up on Trip.com’s exclusive waitlist for this cruise. 

With bookings set to open on 10 December 2024, the Disney Adventure is expected to attract a wide range of families looking for unforgettable holiday experiences at sea.

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The post Klook renews partnership with Wild Welfare appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Asian travel services platform Klook recently renewed its partnership with prominent international animal welfare charity Wild Welfare. 

The renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines the partnership’s commitment to promote responsible and ethical tourism practices. 

This significant collaboration will aim to elevate animal welfare standards within the travel and tourism sector; improving the standard of care and welfare of animals used for tourism across the world. 

Klook senior manager for sustainability Rebecca Keiller remarked:: “At Klook, we believe that travel should be a force for good. By renewing our partnership with Wild Welfare, we are reaffirming our commitment to promote responsible and ethical tourism practices. We are excited to continue working together to create a more sustainable and compassionate future for wild animals.” 

Likewise, Wild Welfare director Simon Marsh opined: “This partnership offers a unique opportunity to continue raising awareness of animal welfare issues within the tourism industry and to drive meaningful change. By working together, we can work towards making a positive and tangible difference to animals negatively affected by tourism activities around the globe.” 

By combining Klook’s global reach with Wild Welfare’s expertise, the two organisations are positioned to make a positive lasting impact on the lives of countless animals around the world. 

What is covered under the new understanding?

Expanding on the successful partnership, Wild Welfare will continue to offer educational resources, including webinars, to enhance Klook employees’ understanding of animal welfare best practices. 

The online programme trained participants how to recognise practices in which good animal welfare principles may be compromised within a touristic setting. Klook and Wild Welfare aim to leverage their combined expertise and influence to not only elevate welfare standards of partner location on the Klook platform, but also to drive positive change for the care and welfare of animals within the wider tourism sector. 

Both Klook and Wild Welfare are committed to continuing the development of staff training resources as the partnership grows. 

An evaluation process of partner activities featured on the Klook platform will also be developed. These assessments aim to highlight potential welfare concerns at listed facilities, in accordance with Klook’s animal protection policy. 

The initiative hopes to reassure customers that partner locations and tours are offering ethical and compliant experiences to tourists. Guidelines for these evaluations have been developed by Wild Welfare. 

Welfare-centric tourism

The partnership will continue to actively promote welfare-friendly tourism initiatives, such as responsible wildlife encounters, across Klook’s global platform. 

By increasing public awareness about the importance of making responsible choices, the programme hopes to encourage travelers to make informed decisions about the activities they pursue and the direct impact this may have on an animal’s welfare. 

This promotion of ethical tourism reaches across the board, from promoting responsible whale watching tours to the move away from traditional elephant riding experiences. 

Another key feature of this partnership will see Klook and Wild Welfare advocate for the development and implementation of stronger animal welfare regulations within tourism-related industries. 

This includes working with governments and associations to promote ethical practices, encouraging other travel agencies to adopt similar practices, and driving a broader shift towards sustainable options for tourists, when booking their next trip.

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The post Amanpulo presents new activities for October appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Amanpulo, an Aman Resort, in the Philippines announced a slew of new activities designed to further enrich the guest experience and celebrate the best of its spellbinding setting beginning October 2024.

These activities range from sumptuous culinary journeys to serene activities that are part of the Harmony by Nature retreat.

Along with this exciting new roster of activities, Amanpulo also introduces their new general manager Heinrich Morio who joined the team in May 2024. 

An international hotelier and an alumnus of the Florida International University (FIU) in Miami, FL, Morio comes to Amanpulo from Qatar, bringing over 25 years of experience leading hospitality teams across Asia and the Middle East.

Speaking on his appointment, Morio commented: “Harmony, kindness, fun, trust, and respect are essential ingredients for a positive work environment. These are the cornerstones of building a high-performance team, which in turn creates memorable guest experiences. I am humbled to join the Amanpulo team and bring this ethos to the shores of Pamalican.”

Adventurous dining options

Secluded locations for private picnics and romantic fine dining abound on the island, whether in an oceanfront cove or high on the hillside with views across the horizon. The cliff-top setting known as Gary’s Nest is one such venue, and several secret beachfront spots are also dotted around the coastline. It’s even possible to dine on the island’s runway, a one-of-a-kind setting for an evening under the stars. Enhancing its already extensive private dining offering, the resort is pleased to introduce a new Destination Dining Guide, designed to help guests curate personalised culinary journeys with effortless ease.

Choose from a collection of unique venues across the island, before selecting from a choice of new menus, with an option to suit every occasion. Awaken the senses with a multi-course Filipino feast; dine on fresh catch-of-the-day; or taste the island’s kitchen garden with a menu of vegetarian plates. There is also the opportunity to further enhance each menu, adding indulgent favourites such as lobster and A5 Waygu beef, perfect for celebrations. All that remains is to add a personal touch with music, entertainment and flowers, creating a personalised dining experience.

At the heart of the island is the resort’s convivial Clubhouse which welcomes a new culinary concept for the winter season ahead. Offering Filipino cuisine alongside Clubhouse classics and steaks, enjoy indoor or poolside dining in an ambiance enriched with solid wood columns and classic Filipino decor. Open all day, the Clubhouse is perfect for a nourishing breakfast, or a romantic evening serenaded by the soft sounds of a live guitar.

All set for active adventure

An exhilarating new experience on the Amanpulo runway, Go-Karting offers a unique way to embrace the beauty of the island’s surrounds. Guests aged eight and above can speed towards the horizon, feeling the rush of the breeze against their skin. While only ten-minutes in length, the experience leaves senses invigorated, and energy-levels lifted – ideal for families and groups.

The Amanpulo Climb, on the other hand, was designed to develop strength, flexibility, strategy and critical thinking, Amanpulo is pleased to introduce a new, state-of-the-art climbing wall, uniquely situated at the airport hangar. Guided by an expert, climbers of all levels and abilities can attempt a challenging ascent, with a mini climbing wall available for little ones also wishing to join the adventure. Standing at five metres tall, the wall is open daily from 9am to 6pm, with complimentary sessions available in the activity schedule on selected days.

Bubble up and unwind

Amanpulo’s renowned Kawayan Bar provides a serene and secluded spot for lounging, snorkelling and sunset cocktails, all while floating in the island’s turquoise waters. Reached by a short boat trip from Amanpulo’s shores, the entirely privatised Kawayan Bar Experience is now enhanced with the use of an iBubble watercraft, adding a new dimension to underwater adventures. With its dynamic controls, the iBubble allows guests to adjust their speed and effortlessly glide through the water, perfect for observing the rich marine life that surrounds.

Designed to harmonise body and mind through the healing power of sunrise and sunset, Amanpulo’s three-night Harmony by Nature retreat invites guests to reconnect with Mother Nature, promoting balance, relaxation and rejuvenation. Begin each day with Sunrise Yoga on the beach, or with a Nourishing Massage Ritual in the hilltop spa. Wind down at dusk with Sunset Canvas sessions, inspiring creativity, or a serenaded Sunset Cruise around the island. By night, Moon Yoga Meditation takes place on the sands, before Good Night Massages lull participants into a state of peaceful slumber in the comfort of their own pavilion or villa.

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