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Qatar Airways to Begin Operations at The New Terminal One at JFK by 2026

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Qatar Airways has selected The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as its new home in New York. The award-winning carrier will move its operations to the state-of-the-art terminal in 2026 and unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge – the airline’s first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States.

The airline’s move to the New Terminal One and the opening of its first dedicated lounge at JFK Airport is in line with Qatar Airways’ commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience, and reflects the strategic importance of New York City in Qatar Airways’ global network.

Offering efficient direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways’ exclusive lounge, the new facility will provide an elevated experience featuring premium food and beverage options and best-in-class amenities including VIP check-in services, relaxation zones, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, premium dining options, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers.

In partnership with Qatar Airways, the New Terminal One will deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure. The terminal’s modern architecture, light-filled spaces and advanced technology will ensure a seamless and relaxing customer journey that complements Qatar Airways’ world-renowned onboard service.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We, at Qatar Airways, look forward to launching our operations at JFK Airport’s New Terminal One and welcoming Qatar Airways Business Class passengers to our first-ever exclusive lounge in the US. Our new state-of-the-art lounge will provide an enhanced experience at each touchpoint and complement our industry-leading Business Class travel experience. From dedicated airport transfers to VIP check-in to the finest of retail and dining options, premium passengers will be offered the World’s Best service at New Terminal One.

“Our move demonstrates the evolution of Qatar Airways’ long-standing commitment to connecting global travellers to New York and expanding our services in the destination integral to our network in the US.”

The New Terminal One CEO, Jennifer Aument, said: “We thank the Qatar Airways team for their confidence in us as we begin this exciting new chapter together at JFK. As an airline long synonymous with excellence, Qatar Airways’ decision to partner with the New Terminal One reaffirms the strong value we offer international carriers seeking to grow their presence in New York.”

The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernisation and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.

Qatar Airways launched operations in New York in 2008 at Terminal 8 at JFK Airport. The airline’s network in the US spans 11 destinations to serve more than 3 million passengers annually. With 18 weekly flights from JFK, Qatar Airways connects travellers from the US to over 170 destinations worldwide through its home and hub – Doha’s award-winning Hamad International Airport.

 

 

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Radisson RED Oslo City Centre debuts as a Verified Net Zero hotel

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Radisson Hotel Group proudly announces the opening of Radisson RED Oslo City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel. The hotel is a bold new addition to the Norwegian capital and one of the first two hotels globally to achieve Verified Net Zero status. Placing Radisson RED Oslo City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel at the forefront of climate-conscious travel, the hotel offers 118 reimagined guest rooms, vibrant social spaces, flexible meeting facilities, and a playful twist on Scandinavian minimalism.

Marking a major milestone in sustainable hospitality, the property reflects Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to reaching Net Zero by 2050, with the property already meeting the 2040 requirements of the Net Zero Methodology for Hotels—as verified by independent third party TÜV Rheinland.

Fresh from a full transformation of the former Park Inn by Radisson, the hotel now introduces 118 artfully redesigned guest rooms and social areas. Right in the heart of Oslo, the hotel offers instant access to the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Oslo Opera House to the Munch Museum.

Redefining city hospitality with creativity and community

In true Radisson RED style, the hotel blends high design with a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere. Rich dark wood, bold red and black tones, and tech-forward amenities define the guest experience, while the restaurant, bar, and lounge areas are designed for connection, inspiration, and community. Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests will find spaces tailored to their lifestyle—including a renovated gym and six versatile meeting rooms for up to 100 guests, all with modern audiovisual equipment and free high-speed Wi-Fi to keep everyone connected.

Just a stone’s throw from the hotel, visitors will find iconic landmarks such as the majestic Oslo Opera House and the lively Aker Brygge promenade. Guests can also take a stroll to the National Gallery and the Munch Museum or enjoy the lush Royal Palace Gardens. With world-class shopping, entertainment and dining right outside the door, the hotel is the perfect base for discovering Oslo’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.

At the forefront of climate-conscious travel

Radisson RED Oslo City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel is housed in a building dating back to 1939, built long before sustainability was part of the conversation. Through extensive renovation, the historic property has been transformed into a cutting-edge lifestyle hotel that meets the rigorous Verified Net Zero requirements. A Verified Net Zero hotel eliminates emissions from energy (called scope 1 & 2) and minimizes operational emissions (called scope 3). The Verified Net Zero transformation is visible to guests in three key areas: 100% renewable energy, low-carbon menus, and a commitment to minimal waste operations. It marks the second Verified Net Zero hotel by Radisson Hotel Group, following the opening of the first in Manchester earlier this summer.

Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability & Security Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, said: “Pioneering the first two Verified Net Zero hotels is a significant milestone for Radisson Hotel Group. By transforming hotels in operation to Verified Net Zero status, we are demonstrating that Net Zero conversion hotels are not only possible, they are essential. With 80% of the buildings that must reach Net Zero by 2050 already built, it is critical that we move quickly to transform existing properties. We are happy to be able to deliver the pinnacle of sustainable hospitality to our guests.”

To achieve Verified Net Zero status, Radisson RED Oslo City Centre is powered by 100% renewable energy, including 100% renewable electricity and city district heating sourced from sustainable sources such as waste-to-energy and data center heat recovery, thus eliminating Scope 1 and 2 emissions. In addition, the hotel significantly reduces Scope 3 emissions through a holistic approach to operations and supply chains—especially in Food & Beverage, Laundry and Waste Management.

Remaining emissions are compensated with carbon removal certificates from Nature Based Solutions in partnership with Agreena, supporting over 2,300 farmers in regenerative practices across 4.5 million hectares of farmland in Europe.

Guests will experience the property’s Verified Net Zero status through initiatives like:

  • 100% renewable energy sources, meaning that the hotel does not depend on using environmentally damaging fossil fuels for heating, cooling, hot water, and cooking. The hotel is powered by a combination of renewable electricity and heating provided by the city. Oslo is one of the few cities in Europe to use fully renewable energy for its district heating by using renewable heat generated from multiple sources such as city waste treatment, or data centers.
  • Low-carbon menus curated with Swedish partner Klimato, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients while reducing recipe carbon footprints up to 40%, without compromising on taste.
  • Zero-waste initiatives such as food waste tracking software (eSmiley), a partnership with Too Good To Go to make surplus food available on a community app and widespread recycling infrastructure including the use of glass bottles and Nespresso pod recycling
  • 100% bulk bathroom amenities and recycling of the packaging with Clean the World
  • Plastic free dry amenities and a program to minimize wastage of accessory amenities
  • Glass water bottles in guest and conference rooms, as opposed to PET plastic
  • Recycling bins in all guestrooms and main public areas including the lobby and conference rooms
  • Digital tools that reduce paper use, including the Stay E-concierge app
  • Guest facing initiatives like Dripdrop, which offers hotel umbrellas for reuse, and with a tree is planted every time a guest borrows an umbrella

The opportunity to stay in a Verified Net Zero hotel allows guests to become part of a forward-thinking movement that combines comfort and innovation with sustainability. Radisson Hotel Group’s Verified Net Zero properties give guests the unique opportunity to stay in a hotel knowing their stay has a net-zero carbon footprint.

“Radisson Hotel Group has always been a pioneer, right from the time when we opened the first design hotel in Copenhagen in the 60ies. Now we are pioneering again with Verified Net Zero. Radisson RED Oslo City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, demonstrates that energy-efficient transformations are possible for existing buildings. We aim to provide memorable experiences that support guests’ expectations for responsible stays, with every aspect—from design to service.” says Tom Flanagan Karttunen, COO, Leased Hotels for Radisson Hotel Group.”

 

 

 

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Hotel101 Global enters agreement to bring Hotel101 to Cambodia

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Philippine hospitality management firm Hotel101 Global entered into definitive agreements in order to bring the Hotel101  brand to Cambodia earlier today, 20th August.

The agreements were signed with leading Cambodian real estate developer Canopy Sands Development Co, Ltd and will entail the development of two Hotel101 projects in Cambodia.

These upcoming properties are expected to be among the largest hotels in the country by number of rooms upon completion.

These two Hotel101 projects in Cambodia are expected to generate US$109.55 million in sales revenue once fully sold.

Likewise, these are part of Hotel101 Global’s ongoing global expansion strategy, which includes its first three overseas projects under development in Niseko, Japan; Madrid, Spain; and Los Angeles, USA on top of affiliate Hotel101 hotels in the Philippines. 

The two Cambodian projects are set for completion by 2028, eventually contributing to Cambodia’s economic growth through job creation, foreign investment, and increased tourism, whilst attracting both local and international buyers under Hotel101’s hassle-free hotel unit ownership model.

Two exceptional developments

The upcoming landmark developments mark a pivotal step in Hotel101 Global’s long-term vision to operate 1 million hotel rooms across 100 countries.

As stated above, Hotel101-Phnom Penh and Hotel101-Sihanoukville are jointly expected to generate US$109.55 million  in sales revenues.

A new star rises in Phnom Penh

Hotel101–Phnom Penh, set to rise on 2,033 square metres of prime commercial land, is located in the Tonlé Bassac district of Phnom Penh, a vibrant riverfront economic and cultural hub. 

With a capacity of approx 700 rooms, this hotel is expected to be one of Cambodia’s largest hotels by number of rooms. 

Located near the upscale expatriate and corporate enclave Boeung Keng Kang (BKK), Hotel101–Phnom Penh is expected to feature Hotel101’s standardized 21sqm “HappyRoom” units, equipped with kitchenettes, alongside a range of signature amenities that include a swimming pool, fitness gym, all-day dining, a business centre, function rooms, and commercial spaces.

The property’s prime location positions the hotel to capture Phnom Penh’s growing demand for business and leisure accommodation. 

That said, this project is expected to enhance the current hospitality offering that are already operating in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

A grand addition to the Sihanoukville scene

On the other hand, Hotel101–Sihanoukville is set to rise on 4,623sqm of prime commercial land within the Bay of Lights, a groundbreaking US$16 billion, 934-hectare master-planned coastal development led by Canopy Sands Development in Sihanoukville, a key growing tourism hub with stunning beaches.

With nearly 700 rooms, Hotel101–Sihanoukville is expected to be the largest hotel in Sihanoukville in terms of number of rooms and is expected to feature the same standardized Hotel101 “HappyRoom” units and amenities as other Hotel101 properties globally. 

Likewise, Hotel101–Sihanoukville is strategically positioned right beside the proposed international convention and exhibition center in the Bay of Lights development. 

The new property is further enhanced by its proximity to the Sihanoukville airport, the third largest international airport in Cambodia.

It is also expected to complement Sihanoukville’s array of hotel offerings which presently include global brands like Accor’s Novotel and Wyndham.

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Wayfairer Travel launches a 10-day Japan ski & culture tour 

The post Wayfairer Travel launches a 10-day Japan ski & culture tour  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As Japan’s popularity among luxury travellers continues to  grow, Wayfairer Travel has launched a 10-day Japan Ski & Culture Tour to meet rising  demand. Japan is projected to become Wayfairer’s most popular destination in 2025,  with bookings increasing by 32% since 2024. Japan is the world’s most sought-after  skiing destination due to its exceptional snow conditions and unique cultural  experiences. Influenced by cold Siberian winds, the region consistently receives light,

dry powder snow known as ‘JaPOW,’ which, combined with Japan’s distinctive tree  skiing, sets it apart from other winter destinations around the globe.

Wayfairer’s new itinerary is packed with both metropolitan city exploration and off-the grid adventure – a fantastic tour for travellers seeking immersive travel in the land of  the rising sun during the snowy winter months. The itinerary has been curated by  Wayfairer’s Japan Travel Specialist, Malcolm Wellby, who has lived in Japan for five years.  Fluent in Japanese and deeply immersed in the country’s culture, Malcolm uses his  insider knowledge to hand select each unique experience within the itinerary.

“Skiing in Japan is quickly becoming one of Wayfairer’s most popular travel  experiences, and it’s easy to see why,” said Jason Stevens, CEO of Wayfairer  Travel. “With over 650 ski resorts, reliable snowfall, and an exceptional transport  network, Japan offers some of the best skiing in the world. What sets it apart is the  unique combination of incredible powder and rich cultural experiences, which  resonates strongly with today’s travellers. Since COVID, we’ve seen growing  interest from the US market, not just for skiing, but for exploring Japan’s traditions,  cuisine, and landscapes”.

 

10-day Japan Ski & Culture Tour 

Tailor-made from £8,799 per person.

Overview: 

The journey begins in Tokyo, where private guided tours delve into Shinto traditions,  cuisine and scenery of the capital.

From here, guests board the Shinkansen bullet-train up to a Japanese ski resort in the  Iwate Prefecture, spending five days discovering the iconic ‘JaPOW’, with back country  guided tours, snowmobile adventures and kilometres of epic skiing and  snowboarding runs. This region experiences its heaviest snowfall from late November to  early April, with consistently optimal snow conditions throughout the season due to the  cold climate.

After a week of skiing, the final three days are spent unwinding in Ginza, exploring one of  Northeastern Tohoku’s oldest hot springs and staying in a 1000-year old Japanese Ginzan Onsen, enjoying a traditional ryokan and Japan food tour and soaking in the  revitalising power of Japan’s volcanic landscape.

Tour highlights: 

Toyosu Fish Market | Shiga Kogen Ski Resort | Ginzan Onsen

  • Toyosu Fish Market Tour, Tokyo – one of the world’s largest wholesale seafood  markets
  • Guided Tour of TeamLab’s digital art museum, with fascinating, interactive  instalments
  • Floating Flower Gardens in Toyosu, Tokyo – featuring 2,300 living flowers  suspended from the ceiling that move in response to visitors’ movements. • Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo – Tokyo’s oldest-established temple
  • Shopping on the streets of Nakamise Dōri in the Asakusa district, Tokyo • Experience the Shinaknsen journey – Japan’s iconic high-speed bullet train  • Iwate Prefecture skiing & adventure – Back country guided ski and snowmobile  tours in Japan’s second largest prefecture
  • Traditional Ginzan Ryokan & Onsen – experience one of Northeastern Tohoku’s  oldest hot springs Ginza, staying in a 1000-year old Japanese Ginzan Onsen • Risshaku-ji Temple tour in Yamadera – 1,000 stone steps lead to exceptional cliff top panoramas

 

 

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IWTA interviews Catherine Edwards on Growing a Career in Hospitality Branding as a Woman in Asia

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IWTA interviews Catherine Edwards on Growing a Career in Hospitality Branding as a Woman in Asia

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you know of any female leaders or up and coming superstars in the Travel and Hospitality industry you would like to hear their story, please visit our page and complete a nomination form!

 

NOMINATE SOMEONE

 

NOMINATE YOURSELF

 

 

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Indonesia and China launch pilot programme linking QR payment systems

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Indonesia and China have jointly launched a pilot programme linking their QR code-based payment systems to boost trade and tourism.

This initiative marks the next phase of regional financial integration, and it was announced on Sunday, 17th August, just as Indonesia marked the 80th anniversary of its independence. It is marking a new step in regional financial integration. 

The programme is set to link Bank Indonesia’s Quick Response Indonesian Standard (QRIS) system with China’s digital payment infrastructure.

The trial involves the Indonesian Payment System Association (ASPI), UnionPay International, and several local payment providers. 

To date, agreements have been finalised with four ASPI members: Rintis Sejahtera, Alto Network, Artajasa, and Jalin.

All four will work with China’s UnionPay with regard to sandbox testing.

Evolving systems

QRIS has become Indonesia’s dominant cashless payment tool, and officials see cross-border compatibility as a way to boost trade, support small businesses, and attract more tourists.

As of mid-2025, QRIS has noted a significant increase in terms of both user adoption and transaction volume. 

In Q2-2025, transaction volume hit 6.1 billion, nearing the target of 6.5 billion. 

Likewise, the number of users has also grown to over 57 million.

According to Bank Indonesia governor Perry Warjiyo: “QRIS innovation continues to evolve to expand acceptance and support digital economic and financial inclusion. One such innovation is cross-border QRIS.”

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Philippine aviation fuel surcharge to stay at Level 4 in September

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In an announcement made late on Tuesday, 19th August, the Philippine Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) declared that the fuel surcharge will remain under Level 4 for September.

Fuel surcharge is the extra fee that airlines may collect in addition to the base fare to cover the costs incurred from the volatility of fuel.

Currently at Level 4, airlines may impose fuel surcharge rates of PHP117 to PHP342 for domestic flights, and between PHP385.70 to PHP2,867.82 for foreign destinations, depending on the distance.

According to CAB executive director Carmelo Arcilla, airlines wishing to collect a fuel surcharge from its passengers must file an application with the Board on or before the date of effectivity.

It should be noted that the conversion rate for the fuel surcharge in September is US$1 to PHP57.13.

For this year, the CAB first raised the fuel surcharge to Level 5 in March, then dropped to Level 4 in April.

The surcharge dropped to Level 3 in June, but has risen significantly due to the rising cost of aviation fuel.

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Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Shimonoseki to open this December

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Ahead of its opening on 11th December of this year, reservations are now open for Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Shimonoseki, the eighth property in the RISONARE portfolio and its first in the Kyushu-Yamaguchi area. 

Located in a prime location overlooking the Kanmon Strait, a narrow waterway separating Japan’s Honshu and Kyushu islands, the hotel offers panoramic views from every guest room, as well as from its terraces and pools within the facility.

The hotel’s architecture incorporates design elements inspired by the Kanmon Strait and Shimonoseki’s signature delicacy, fugu (pufferfish). The hotel also takes full advantage of its waterfront setting, offering immersive experiences that connect guests to the dynamic beauty of the strait.

Distinctively local

RISONARE Shimonoseki features 187 guest rooms across nine room types. 

Each room showcases emerald green interiors inspired by the colours of the strait itself. 

Guests can choose from a range of options, including rooms that accommodate up to five people and pet-friendly selections, catering to various travel needs and companions.

The “Strait Cabana Suite” features a private sandy beach within the living space, creating a secluded coastal retreat. 

Guests staying in this suite receive a “Strait Cabana Box” stocked with items like a telescope and seashells, inviting them to explore and unwind while enjoying stunning top-floor views of the strait.

Immersive recreation

The hotel’s infinity pool is designed to seamlessly merge the water’s surface with the sea and sky, with breathtaking views of the Kanmon Bridge, Moji Port on the opposite side, and passing ships, making it a tranquil setting for rest and relaxation.

The all-season indoor pool draws playful inspiration from fugu or pufferfish which are endemic to the region. 

A 30-metre water slide extends outdoors, offering a thrilling ride that mimics the currents of the strait. 

There’s also a shallow children’s pool, interactive water play equipment, and toddler-friendly slides, making it a fun and safe space for families.

The Nami Nami Terrace, designed with gentle wave-like curves, features a lawn, reclining benches, and counter seating. 

This makes the terrace an ideal spot for guests to relax while enjoying the ever-changing Kanmon Strait scenery.

For younger guests, the Captain Academy offers an exciting hands-on activity where children can experience life as a ship’s captain. 

Dressed in original RISONARE uniforms, participants explore the captain’s cabin and put their knowledge to the test while navigating the strait.

Where regional revitalisation comes first

In April 2022, Hoshino Resorts signed a “Partnership Agreement Regarding Regional Revitalisation” with Shimonoseki City. 

Beyond operating the resort, the company is committed to collaborating with the city to enhance the appeal of the Arukapoto and Karato areas.

The initiative focuses on creating experiences that celebrate the area’s natural and cultural assets, like the morning market and nighttime strait views, and activities such as cruising and fishing. 

The goal is to offer visitors multiple ways to enjoy the charm of Shimonoseki and the broader Kanmon area throughout the day.

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The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa successfully holds sea turtle release

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Playing its part in caring for the environment, The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa proudly announced the successful rescue, care, and release of 86 Olive Ridley sea turtles back into their ocean home last 5th August at 5 pm local time, in front of the Infinity pool at the beach area.

This heartwarming initiative began in mid-June when the resort discovered a nest of Olive Ridley eggs in front of the resort’s beach area. 

A dedicated team of staff carefully transferred the eggs to a specially constructed sand sanctuary on the resort’s property to ensure their safety and natural incubation.

After nearly 60 days of round-the-clock protection and care, the hatchlings emerged on August 5th. 

With the help of the resort’s team and guests, the baby turtles were safely released into the waves, marking a historic moment for the resort’s sea turtle conservation program.

Beyond luxury and into environmental protection

As an elegant beachfront resort, The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa is dedicated to supporting eco-friendly initiatives, including its ongoing turtle release program. 

As such, the resort warmly invites guests and the wider community to participate in future conservation efforts and experience the beauty of nature first-hand.

In a statement following the turtle release, the resort conservation team declared: “This isn’t just about saving turtles: it’s about reconnecting with nature and giving back to the environment that gives us so much.”

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SeaLink Marine & Tourism uses technology to improve customer accessibility

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Creating a brilliant experience for every customer, from the moment they go online to book, to the time they step onboard, is central to SeaLink Marine & Tourism’s customer-first approach. 

With an estimated 5.5 million Australians, around 21.4 percent of the population, living with a disability, and more than one billion people globally affected, digital accessibility is no longer optional, it’s essential. 

To meet the diverse needs of its customers and reduce barriers to information and travel, SeaLink has integrated UserWay, a global leader in accessibility solutions, across its entire suite of customer-facing websites. 

Activated via an icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen, the UserWay widget allows visitors to personalise their experience with features such as text size and contrast adjustments, screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, dyslexia-friendly fonts, and real-time language translation into 50 languages. 

Over the past 12 months, this tool has helped SeaLink identify and resolve nearly 40,000 online accessibility issues, also known as Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) violations, improving the usability of its sites for people with vision, hearing, cognitive or mobility impairments. 

As a result, SeaLink has achieved a digital accessibility score of 95 percent, well above the 80 percent industry benchmark. 

Global standards compliant

The WCAG standards are internationally recognised and designed to ensure websites are navigable and understandable for people of all abilities.  

SeaLink’s executive general manager for customer, sales, and marketing Phil Boyle said: that, through its active implementation of WCAG requirements, SeaLink is helping to remove barriers and enable more inclusive access to travel information, ticketing, and support services, aligning with its commitment to provide brilliant experiences to all guests. 

He said: “At SeaLink, our goal is to meet guests where they are, whether that means language, ability, or location. By improving accessibility across our websites and ensuring people can navigate them confidently, we’re making it easier for everyone to plan and enjoy a brilliant experience.”

Languages most frequently accessed through UserWay include Chinese, Japanese, and Italian, reflecting SeaLink’s global reach among culturally and linguistically diverse communities and international travellers. 

SeaLink’s commitment to accessibility goes beyond digital spaces. Across its operations, ferry terminals and vessels are being built or upgraded with accessible features including wheelchair-friendly ramps, accessible toilets, priority boarding, and trained crew.  

The company is a proud participant in the internationally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a global initiative that began at Gatwick Airport in the UK in 2016 and is now embraced by more than 200 airports, transport networks, and tourism providers worldwide. 

In Australia, the programme has been adopted by major airports including Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, Perth and Sydney, and is increasingly recognised across the transport and tourism sector. 

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