The post EU delays Entry/Exit System launch appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The European Union has decided to delay once again the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES), which was set for November 10 of this year. As informed by a news report in  Schengen News.

The news on the postponement of the EU’s new border system was announced by the Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson during a meeting of the EU interior ministers. Commissioner Johansson said that the November 10 launch date is no longer on the table. As informed by a report in Schengen News.

She further noted that this date is no longer being considered as Germany, France, and the Netherlands have expressed their unreadiness. The three countries have said that their border computer systems cannot be ready in time.

Expressing concern about the situation, Commissioner Johansson said that she hopes that the EU can start with the implementation of the EES as soon as possible while stressing that there is no new timeline so far.

As an alternative, Johansson noted that the EU is now considering launching the EES in a phased-in manner. However, she emphasised that even if such a decision is taken, the gradual introduction will not start on November 10, 2024.

A German Interior Ministry spokesperson previously said that three countries – Germany, France, and the Netherlands – which represent around 40 per cent of the affected passenger traffic, were not ready to

implement the new border system because the needed central system to be provided by EU-Lisa is not in place yet.

What is Entry/Exit System & how will it work once it is implemented

The Entry/Exit System, which has been delayed several times now, is an automated IT system that will modernise border control and replace passport stamping.

Once launched, the system will require all foreign travellers entering the Schengen Area for short stays, whether they are eligible for visa-free travel or not, to register by providing their biometric data – facial images and fingerprints – and other personal information.

The data will be stored in a safe database for a period of three years, and this information will be used to keep track of foreigners entering and leaving the zone, prevent irregular migration, identify individuals using fake identities, and detect overstayers, among others.

The system is expected to affect around 700 million travellers to the EU every year and, at the same time, will contribute to a smoother travel process once the registration process is completed.

 

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The post Croatia intends to prolong EU Blue Card validity period to 4 years appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As explained by the authorities of the country,  changes to the Aliens Act are being planned and as soon as they are approved, the EU Blue Card will remain valid for a period of four years instead of the current two, as informed by a news report in Schengen News.

Such a change would significantly highly qualified foreigners who want to reach Croatia for work purposes as they will be able to remain in the country’s territory for a longer period.

Commenting on the move, the Prime Minister of Croatia, Andrej Plenković, said that the extension of the EU Blue Card validity would help the country resolve workforce shortage issues and, at the same time, offer better opportunities for foreign workers.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Croatia, Davor Božinović, also shared his comments on the matter, saying that the main purpose of this measure is to attract highly qualified workforce.

As the portal explains, in addition to working to extend the EU Blue Card’s validity period, Croatia also wants to expand the document’s eligibility criteria. The authorities have said that as part of the changes, Croatia will enable foreigners who do not hold an educational qualification but have the necessary skills in the IT sector will be able to obtain the EU Blue Card.

However, this group of foreign workers will be required to prove that they have work experience in the field to be granted the document. Their applications will be assessed by a committee that will be appointed to carry out these matters.

Data show that since the beginning of this year until September 30, Croatia issued a total of 158,837 residence and work permits to foreign nationals.

The largest number of permits during this period was granted to nationals of Bosnia and Herzegovina (30,424), Nepal (25,392), and Serbia (23,862), with the majority of beneficiaries needing the document to work in construction, tourism and h, industry, traffic and connections, and trade.

 

 

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The post Vietnam Airlines joins 2024 SkyTeam Aviation Challenge appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Vietnam Airlines participated in SkyTeam’s Aviation Challenge 2024 last month, organising a special flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Paris on 16 September. 

This flight also sought to support the United Nations’ International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. 

To operate flight VN11 in line with SkyTeam’s challenge, Vietnam Airlines utilised a Boeing 787-9 equipped with next-generation engines that significantly reduce emissions and noise pollution. 

It also optimised the flight path to Europe, which not only shortened travel times but also lowered fuel consumption and minimised environmental impact. These strategies utilised a modern fleet and optimised flight paths are crucial to Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to sustainable development. 

Participating in The Aviation Challenge aligns with Vietnam Airlines’ development strategy in response to the environmental challenges facing both the global and domestic aviation industries.

As the national flag carrier, Vietnam Airlines is committed to its social and environmental responsibilities, including collaborating with the Government to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, while actively engaging as a responsible member of the SkyTeam alliance. 

Moreover, flight VN11 significantly reduced the use of nylon and single-use plastics, a practice that Vietnam Airlines has committed to across its network for years. This initiative has led to the elimination of tens of millions of plastic items and bags each year.

The gift of sustainability

Passengers aboard the special flight received an emblematic plush toy: the critically endangered white-cheeked gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys), one of the most highly threatened primates in the world. 

This gift also served to highlight the “Contribute Leaves to the Forests – For a Green and Sustainable Vietnam” campaign organised by Vietnam Airlines in partnership with MoMo and Pan Nature.  

The initiative aims to restore 50 hectares of forest in the corridor between Mai Chau District (Hoa Binh Province) and Van Ho District (Son La Province) in Northwest Vietnam. 

As well as focusing on reforesting the area and cutting CO2 emissions to combat climate change, the campaign also seeks to raise awareness on forest protection within local communities and conserve the region’s unique biodiversity, particularly the white-cheeked gibbon of which only 14 individuals remain. 

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The post Hotel Granbaita Dolomites unveils new look appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The five-star Hotel Granbaita Dolomites, located in the Dolomite Mountains in the heart of Selva Val Gardena, debuts a stylish new look and renovated rooms and suites with new imagery available. 

Owned by the Puntscher – Perathoner family for over 60 years, the hotel was radically reconstructed by the third generation in 2019. Now, the final chapter of their design journey is complete, unveiling a refreshed and refined exterior with the addition of revamped garden rooms.

Running through the interiors are deep, rich colour hues paired with natural materials, a mainstay of the hotel’s opulent style. With six different room and suite categories designed with the same colour palette, each offers comfort and style with spectacular views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With a choice of two restaurants, the Main Restaurant and Granbaita Gourmet Restaurant, guests can explore flavours inspired by the culinary traditions of Trentino – Alto Adige – created with locally sourced ingredients. The Gourmet restaurant, a reserved dining-room with just seven tables surrounded by scenic views, allows guests to enjoy a modern interpretation of South Tyrolean classics with Mediterranean influence curated by Chef Andrea Moccia.

End the evening with a signature cocktail or select from over 500 locally sourced fine wines in the bar and lounge, a modern and atmospheric space which welcomes local artists for a display of live music and entertainment.

For those looking to relax and refresh, the 2000sqm Savinela Spa offers an oasis of wellness inspired by the natural elements of the Dolomites, complete with a fitness area, sauna, swimming pools and ‘saline’ tub where guests can float almost weightlessly. Enrich the senses by choosing from six pampering spa treatment packages rooted in local tradition, with products rich in natural ingredients from the Alpine region.

Whilst the new season offers the perfect time to watch the landscape change into its Autumn dress with a hike, in the winter, pick from a range of experiences from skiing, sledging to snowboarding, or conquer the ice glazed mountains in a pair of snowshoes. With top quality facilities and private hire of ski equipment, the snow-covered peaks offer a playground of adventure. Or for a relaxing and invigorating activity whatever the weather, guests can take part in Yoga and Pilates in the Savinela Spa.

During the warmer months, guests can relish all the adventures that Selva Val Gardena has to offer. For those with a taste for exhilaration, opt for a thrilling electric bike tour through the ‘Sella Ronda’, or alternatively, explore the encapsulating beauty of Val Gardena on foot with a guided hike. With free guided e-bike and walking tours offered daily, along with complimentary equipment, the views are not to be missed.

It’s now easier than ever to travel to the region, with SkyAlps announcing the launch of a direct flight from London Gatwick to Bolzano, taking place on Wednesday’s and Saturday’s.

 

 

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The post Philippine tourism department to boost promotions in Japan, South Korea, and US appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) is focusing its efforts to draw in more tourists from South Korea, the United States, and Japan in a bid to hit its 7.7 million arrival target by the end of the year.

In an interview on the sidelines of the Philippine Hotel Industry Strategic Action Plan (PHISAP) on Wednesday, 16th October,  tourism secretary Christina Frasco admitted that external factors and limitations in visa policies are affecting the country’s projected numbers for 2024.

Frasco said: “We do have challenges in terms of chasing after the projected number, especially in light of external factors that include geopolitical stresses upon these arrivals, over which we have little control now.”

The secretary pointed out that another factor is the limitations the Philippine government has imposed on visa policies in comparison to those of its ASEAN neighbours.

She added: “[That] is why we continue to advocate for a liberalised visa system to be instituted by the Department of Foreign Affairs in partnership with a Bureau of Immigration.”

Current figures

Based on the latest DOT data, the Philippines has so far reached 4.43 million in international visitor arrivals as of September 2024, with South Korea as the top market contributing more than one million.

With a more stringent visa policy toward China, Frasco said the country cannot expect an influx of Chinese travellers returning anytime soon.

The secretary said: “The simple reality is that the issuance of visas to the Chinese market has been publicly declared to be more stringent. So with a more stringent visa policy towards Chinese travelers, I don’t think we can expect a flourishing market from that jurisdiction.”

Prior to the onslaught of the pandemic in 2020, the Chinese market ranked as the Philippines’ second largest source market, bringing in 1.35 million visitors from January to September 2019.

In the same period this year, the number of Chinese visitors to the Philippines plunged to 260,134.

Frasco said: “That is why the DOT, respectful of these realities on the ground, is actively pursuing number one our top source, markets including South Korea, the US, Japan, as well as markets for which we have massive opportunity, including India.”

Meanwhile, she said comparison of tourism arrivals must be put side by side with the country’s visitor receipts, which has already reached over 100 percent recovery from 2019.

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The post Milan Bergamo Airport upgrades infrastructure appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Milan Bergamo Airport has taken on a series of transformative infrastructure development projects aimed at enhancing the travel experience and operational efficiency. These upgrades will solidify the airport’s position as an important hub in Northern Italy, providing improved services for both commercial and business aviation.

Terminal expansion

The ongoing terminal expansion project, which is being implemented in multiple phases, is set to redefine the passenger experience at Bergamo Airport. The first phase involves the expansion of the check-in hall, which will nearly double the current capacity by increasing the number of check-in counters from 33 to 60. This phase is scheduled to be completed during Q2 2025, significantly reducing waiting times and enhancing passenger flow.

The second phase focuses on a new state-of-the-art security control area located on the first floor of the expanded terminal. Equipped with the latest security technology, dedicated family lanes, and a fast-track service, this facility aims to streamline security screening processes. The expected completion for this phase is Q4 2025.

Additionally, as part of the expansion, the airport will inaugurate two new non-Schengen gates during Q1 2026, while optimising the current 25 gates -15 for Schengen and 10 for non-Schengen traffic. On the other hand, during Q1 2025, one additional Schengen gate will be opened to cater for the growing passenger numbers.

Improved accessibility and connectivity

Accessibility to Milan Bergamo Airport is also being enhanced through various road and rail projects. In summer 2024, a new P1 East parking area was opened for efficient passenger pick-up and drop-off. In the coming months, a new access point will be launched, providing an additional vehicle entrance to the airport, facilitating smoother traffic flow.

The highly anticipated train connection to Bergamo, Milan, Monza, and Lecco is progressing as planned and is expected to be operational during the second half of 2026. This direct train service will offer quick and convenient access to the airport, connecting it seamlessly with major cities and tourist destinations, such as Lake Como. A dedicated underground tunnel linking the terminal to the future train station has already been completed.

New general aviation facilities and apron expansion

The north area of the terminal has seen the completion of the north apron expansion, now featuring 14 C-class stands and a new taxiway B. This will significantly enhance operational capacity and flexibility. During Q1 2025, new general aviation facilities will also be available, including a dedicated security and customs area, completely separated from commercial passenger traffic, food and beverage facilities and separate road access.

Commitment to sustainability and green initiatives

Milan Bergamo Airport remains committed to minimising its environmental impact. As a result, a new solar plant has been installed atop the P3 carpark, contributing to the generation of green power for airport operations. This initiative aligns with the airport’s sustainability strategy and efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

New hotel and enhanced passenger services

Plans are underway to build a new airport hotel in the P3 parking area, set to be managed by an international hotel brand. Construction is expected to begin in the coming months, adding another layer of convenience for travellers.

Giacomo Cattaneo, Director of Commercial Aviation, SACBO, said: “These infrastructure projects represent a major step forward in Milan Bergamo Airport’s commitment to providing an enhanced travel experience for our passengers and partners. The phased expansions will not only support the increasing passenger traffic but also place us at the forefront of sustainability and innovation in the aviation sector. We are excited to continue serving the growing needs of our passengers while strengthening our role as a gateway to the Lombardy region.”

 

 

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The post Poor travel planning is causing over a third of UK business travellers to lose between 4-8 hours of productivity   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

87% of those who find travelling for business stressful claim to lose at least one hour of productive time once they arrive due to the impact of this stress. As business travel bounces back, with the sector poised to hit a record spending high by year-end, a new report, “Premium experiences meet productivity: the changing face of travel and work”, uncovers the impact that travel planning is having on business travellers’ productivity.

With 85% of UK businesses looking to maintain or increase business travel spend over the next year, the report, launched by global chauffeur services provider Blacklane, reveals how the dynamics of business travel are evolving in relation to wellness and productivity, and how the evolution of premium amenities has the potential to improve professional’s overall productivity.

Blacklane’s report, “Premium meets productivity: the changing face of travel and work” explores how the current approach to global business travel planning causes executives to lose productive work hours as a result of fragmented journeys: 86% of global participants claimed to lose at least one hour of productive time across their trip, rising to 87% in the UK. Of that, over a third (34%) of UK business travellers reported losing between four and eight hours, equating to a full working day. The impact on UK C-level executives is higher, with 38% losing between four and eight hours of productive work time due to travel stress.

In order to enhance work productivity, up to 90% of business travellers are combining work and leisure, and are seeking out more premium experiences, such as travelling with a chauffeur.

Dr. Jens Wohltorf, CEO and Founder at Blacklane, said: “This report highlights a significant shift in business travel, where enhancing comfort and ensuring safety is not just a perk, but essential for boosting productivity, especially among executives. Understanding these evolving expectations is crucial for the industry and businesses overall to better meet the needs of today’s executive travellers.”

The Rise of Premium Experiences: A key to productivity 

Over the past year, the majority (59%) of business travellers in the UK have noticed cuts when it comes to travel budgets. For two thirds (62%) of travellers, these cuts have negatively impacted their productivity and performance when travelling for business. Interestingly, this increases to 74% among business owners and 79% among C-level executives. These results highlight an opportunity for travel planners to reconsider priorities in order to optimise productivity on business trips.

Blacklane has a unique perspective on the UK travel market, with millions of kilometres of chauffeured journeys taking place annually across the country. Early mornings, particularly between 6-8am on Mondays and Fridays, are peak times for travel. With these periods being among the most congested and stressful times to travel, ensuring comfort is essential to reducing stress and boosting productivity.

When it comes to business travellers’ priorities, the most important elements of the journey are arriving on time (38%), travelling in comfort (33%) and convenience (30%). Meanwhile, the most sought-after premium amenities when on-the-move are flying premium or business class (38%), WiFi access to allow work on-the-go (37%) and pre-booked private airport transfers (35%). These experiences when travelling for business would not only reduce stress but nine out of ten (89%) believe they would actively contribute towards their productivity and success when travelling for business.

Where Business Meets Leisure

Bleisure is here to stay after millions of Brits took to the beach to work this summer. In Blacklane’s latest report, 86% highlight they have combined business and leisure while travelling for work. Similarly, during trips dedicated to business, almost all (92%) said that they prioritise time for personal activities and relaxation at some point.

When asked what the attraction of such travel is, almost half (45%) said they wanted to explore the locations they visit for business, while 38% said it makes the business side of a trip more exciting. Importantly, three quarters of respondents (75%) believe “bleisure” travel either makes them more productive or does not have a negative impact on work performance. However, there are signs that a stigma around “bleisure” remains, with one in three (33%) believing strict rules around this type of travel will be implemented by business in the next five years.

Blacklane is dedicated to providing a high quality experience that meets the needs of its guests everywhere and ensures that they arrive better. The company offers a portfolio ranging from airport transfers to City-to-City routes connecting metropolitan areas, Chauffeur-by-the-hour services as well as In-city mobility to address all needs and is one of the safest mobility services globally, showcasing 60% less incidents than taxi services.

Interestingly, Blacklane data shows weekend mornings are also a popular time for Blacklane journeys, with early Saturday and Sunday trips comparable to mid-week demand, highlighting the growing trend of blending business with leisure.

James Dow, Blacklane’s UK general manager, comments: “Poorly planned business travel has a stark impact on the UK’s productivity. Traveller wellbeing needs to be carefully protected. Blacklane is supporting travellers to ensure all stages of a journey are high quality which means comfortable, reliable, memorable and most importantly delivering a successful business trip in all senses.”

 

 

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The post Thai hospitality and Japanese tradition at Dusit Thani Kyoto appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

At Dusit Thani Kyoto, graceful Thai hospitality and subtle Japanese tradition meet in a luxurious environment where guests enjoy a unique and personalised accommodation experience. An urban sanctuary in the heart of Japan’s ancient capital for business and leisure travellers alike, it is among the leading luxury hotels in Kyoto.

Opened in September 2023, it received a coveted One Key distinction from the 2024 Michelin Guide.

Located in the peaceful Hanganji Monzen-machi district within walking distance of bustling Kyoto Station, Dusit Thani Kyoto boasts a harmonious fusion of Thai and Japanese influences throughout its architecture and interior design, sustainable dining and culinary offerings, engaging cultural activities and world-class wellness spa.

Rooms And Suites Of Elegance

The 147 meticulously appointed rooms and suites at Dusit Thani Kyoto offer an inviting balance of elegance and charm. All feature satellite TV with entertainment system, complimentary Wi-Fi, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, in-room safe, hairdryer, toiletries and bath amenities.

The choice of room categories includes: Deluxe Room; Premier Room; Premier Garden View; One Bedroom Suite; One Bedroom Corner Suite; Premier Suite; and Imperial Suite.

Dining To Delight the Palate

Thai cuisine and Japanese culinary traditions are celebrated in exquisite style at Dusit Thani Kyoto, with a range of enticing options for memorable dining and socialising. The different concept restaurants serve tantalising dishes using the freshest sustainably sourced ingredients.

Ayatana

Ayatana offers a multi-sensory fine dining experience that blends the authentic flavours of Thai cuisine with the finest Japanese traditions. Helmed by acclaimed chefs Duangporn ‘Bo’ Songvisava and Dylan Jones – who earned a Michelin star for their previous Bangkok restaurant Bo.lan – the restaurant takes guests on a culinary voyage inspired by the Shojin Ryori philosophy with its connection to seasonal ingredients and sustainability.

At Ayatana, sustainability is practically an ingredient that is woven into the dishes. Ensuring farm-to-table freshness, the restaurant uses herbs and vegetables grown in the farming village of Ohara in its dishes. Guests can even visit Ohara to harvest these ingredients themselves, to then enjoy them during dinner at Ayatana.

Koyo

At Koyo – open for lunch and dinner – the artistry of Japanese cuisine is on full show with talented chefs headed by the esteemed Chef Kondo meticulously crafting sublime dishes right in front of guests in Chef’s Table fashion. While a carefully curated a la carte menu is also available, the true focus is on the superbly designed omakase menu, where each dish is a testament to the chef’s culinary prowess and creativity.

Koyo means ‘autumn leaves’ in Japanese, and the restaurant embodies the essence of its name. It sources fresh seasonal produce from the revered Kansai region along with special and rare ingredients, the chefs sharing stories as they create each flavourful dish. A bespoke ‘Omakase Wine Pairing’ option is available featuring sommelier-selected wines, as is tea pairing with the teppanyaki.

Koyo also has three Chef’s Table exclusive private rooms, offering luxury and privacy for between six to eight people each.

Kati

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Kati showcases traditional Thai and Japanese flavours with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients. The regional dishes and eclectic array of culinary delights on offer promise to tantalise the taste buds.

The Gallery

Open from mid morning til mid evening, The Gallery provides an elegant setting in which to indulge in refined pleasure and where the signature afternoon tea experience is a must-do. An exquisite assortment of confections and other delectable offerings are available, along with the artfully concocted classic cocktails of expert mixologists.

Den Kyoto

This funky social bar welcomes night owls with upbeat music, and is open from 4pm til 11pm. An array of bespoke spirit-forward libations and rare spirits are on offer, along with tasty bites.

Tea Salon

Known as ‘chanoyu’ or ‘sado’ in Japanese, the tea ceremony is a highly ritualised way of preparing and serving matcha (green tea). A city deeply connected to the history and cultural significance of this practice, Kyoto is one of the best places to experience a tea ceremony and the Tea Salon at Dusit Thani Kyoto is the ideal setting in which to do so. By appointment only and led by a tea master hailing from Kyoto, it is a memorable exploration into Japan’s legendary tea culture.

Remarkable Cultural Experiences

An impressive choice of unique local experiences gives Dusit Thani Kyoto guests the chance to explore the fascinating history and modern culture of Kyoto and the surrounding region.

Kyoto is home to no less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and from the hotel it’s easy to travel to Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle, Toji Temple and Nishi-Honganji Temple and other famous locations. Organic tea picking can be enjoyed in Wazuka, a nearby town with an 800-year history of producing exquisite Uji tea. As can be vegetable harvesting in Ohara, a short drive away.

At the hotel itself, there are maiko performance afternoons and tea ceremonies to enjoy, and demonstrations on traditional Japanese art forms like kumihimo, kintsugi, shakyo, wagashi and origami. There are also experiences designed for families and younger guests, such as nurie colouring and hiragana drawing.

Inspirational Spa Offerings

The signature Devarana Wellness centre, an indoor swimming pool, and 24-hour fitness centre with cardio machines and free weights as well as a yoga studio provide plenty of opportunity for guests to relax, rejuvenate and replenish during their stay.

At Devarana Wellness a unique fusion of ancient Thai massage therapies and traditional Japanese rituals is delivered by expert therapists. Signature treatments include the 90-minute Ancient Thai Massage, 60-minute Green Tea Body Scrub and 120-minute Body & Mind Synergy package. Holistic wellness, meditation and skin health facials are available, and heat and water experiences are included with all Devarana spa services.

Visit the hotel’s website to book a stay now or to learn more about the unique and personalised blend of Thai hospitality and Japanese tradition on offer at Dusit Thani Kyoto.

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