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Shakira’s Mexico Summer Concerts to Generate $106.4 Million Impact

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Representative Image

The Colombian artist’s Las Mujeres No Lloran tour, returning to Mexico between August and September, is breaking attendance records and generating substantial revenue for the country’s tourism industry. As Mabrian highlights, this case illustrates how destinations can fully capitalise on music tourism—provided they have access to predictive tools and data intelligence that enable them to plan service offerings, accommodations, and air connectivity strategically, encouraging longer stays and greater spending on complementary experiences.

Just days before the launch of Shakira’s Las Mujeres No Lloran tour in Mexico, the firms Mabrian, The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, and PredictHQ have analysed the expected tourism impact of the concert series, estimating it at $106.4 million across the 10 Mexican cities hosting the Colombian singer’s performances.

The tour, which began in February 2025, already made a stop in Mexico in March and will return between August and September, with one million tickets sold for 17 concerts scheduled in Tijuana, Hermosillo, Chihuahua, Torreon, Monterrey, Querétaro, Guadalajara, Puebla, Veracruz, and, once again, Mexico City.

The study examines the distribution of the additional tourism spending expected to be generated in the host cities thanks to this concert series, based on projections by PredictHQ* regarding expenditures on accommodation, dining, and transportation. This predictive AI tool has been integrated by Mabrian and The Data Appeal Company to assess the reach of major international events.

Additionally, Mabrian, the global travel intelligence and destination strategy partner, analysed year-over-year variations in flight and hotel prices during the weeks of the concerts, along with air capacity to the Mexican cities where Shakira is scheduled to perform.

Beyond the Stage: The Tourism Impact of a Record-Breaking Tour

As Carlos Cendra, partner and director of Marketing and Communications at Mabrian, explains, Shakira’s tour in Mexico highlights how “music tourism is a rapidly growing global segment, thanks to its considerable economic impact on destinations and its ability to drive spending across a wide range of tourism services surrounding the main event.”

Indeed, according to data from PredictHQ, the 17 concerts of Las Mujeres No Lloran in Mexico are projected to generate an economic impact of $106.4 million in tourism-related spending alone. This total is distributed across $59.1 million in hospitality spending (including hotels, vacation rentals, and other accommodation options), $42.3 million in food & beverage, and $5 million in transportation.

Among the tour’s stops, Mexico City stands out for its outsized economic contribution: each of the five scheduled concerts in the capital is expected to draw around 65,000 attendees, with an estimated impact of $8.7 million per show. In Querétaro, each of the two performances will generate a combined $8.5 million, while in Jalisco, with two shows, is projected to contribute $8.4 million in tourism spending each.

41% of the Tour’s Tourism Impact Concentrated in Mexico City 

The five concerts scheduled in Mexico City during this leg of Shakira’s Las Mujeres No Lloran tour underscore the significant economic impact on the capital. The city will account for 41% of the tour’s total tourism spending in Mexico, including 57% of all food & beverage-related expenditures and 28% of transportation spending.

Hospitality spending in Mexico City alone will reach $3.6 million—nearly one-third of the total lodging expenditure associated with the tour. This surge is also reflected in hotel pricing trends for key concert dates.

“Our data shows that 4-star hotel rates will rise by +4%, and 5-star hotels will see a +6% increase during the week of the first four shows in August,” notes a Mabrian spokesperson. “The rate increase is even more pronounced during the week of the fifth concert in September, when 5-star hotels are projected to surge by 32%, clearly indicating rising demand.”

International air capacity to Mexico City is also expected to grow, with a +4.4% year-over-year increase in available seats between August 25 and 31, and a +3.8% rise between September 15 and 21—both aligning with key tour dates. As Carlos Cendra explains, “While not all of this air seats increase can be directly linked to the tour, it’s clear that airlines adjust their schedules to meet potential demand generated by events of this scale,” particularly from nearby markets such as Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala.

Music Tourism, a Strategic Segment for Latin America

“Music and major sporting events are powerful tourist attractions that Latin American destinations can further capitalise oneither boosting increased spending, and better distributing it among various complementary services and regions of the country,” highlights Cendra, who cites Lady Gaga’s recent concert in Rio de Janeiro, held in May of this year, as an example.

On that occasion, The Data Appeal Company dived deep in key demand data, and revealed that short-term rentals occupancy increased by +22% and rates by +55% compared to the same period last year; whereas in hotels, occupancy increased by +14% and nightly rates by +12.8%. Moreover, air bookings to Rio de Janeiro during the week of the event grew by +73%.

“Although this type of demand is usually concentrated in a few days, destinations have the opportunity to offer additional experiences that extend the stay and maximise tourism benefits: to achieve this, it is essential to have data and forecasts that allow for strategic planning,” concludes the Mabrian spokesperson.

 

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InterContinental Singapore partners with NuCalm 

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Luxury Hotel Innovates Wellness Tourism with Global-First Sleep Enhancement Offering

InterContinental Singapore announces a global-first within the IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio: a partnership with NuCalm, a cutting-edge, neuroscience-based wellness technology designed to support deep rest, stress recovery, and peak mental performance. This revolutionary offering marks a bold step in redefining restorative travel in the luxury space.

As the first IHG property worldwide to integrate NuCalm’s full Sleep Performance Suite including the acclaimed DeepSleep program, InterContinental Singapore transforms every guestroom into a personalized haven for physical and mental rejuvenation. NuCalm uses neuroacoustic software and patented frequency stimulation to gently guide the brain into desired states of relaxation, focus, or deep sleep, empowering guests to recover from jet lag, prepare for important meetings, or prioritize self-care while travelling.

A Revolution in Rest: Deep Sleep at Your Fingertips

NuCalm’s DeepSleep program is a cutting-edge, patented neuroacoustic software designed to guide the brain into its most restorative states of sleep. By gently synchronizing brain waves, DeepSleep allows users to fall asleep with ease, sleep deeper, and wake up feeling truly refreshed and renewed. With sleep deprivation on the rise due to stress and travel fatigue, DeepSleep offers an accessible and highly effective solution for both business and leisure travelers.

At InterContinental Singapore, DeepSleep will be available via in-room sound bars, transforming the guestroom into a sanctuary of sleep. Guests may select the DeepSleep journey on the NuCalm mobile app or in-room interface, letting the program work effortlessly in the background throughout the night.

Andreas Kraemer, General Manager at InterContinental Singapore shares: “Wellness continues to be a key priority for our guests, so we are proud to bring NuCalm’s transformative technology to InterContinental Singapore. By offering innovative, science-backed tools like the DeepSleep program, we can offer more ways for our guests to feel their best; whether that’s better sleep, more focus, or improved recovery. This isn’t just about elevating luxury; it’s promoting holistic wellbeing at every stage of the guest journey.”

Elevated Wellness Through NuCalm’s Full Suite of Offerings

In addition to DeepSleep, guests will have access to the full NuCalm suite of products, each designed to support different aspects of performance and wellbeing:

  • Rescue – For the deepest recovery and restoration, ideal for rebalancing the nervous system after stress or exertion.
  • Ignite – Powers up the mind into a peak mental state and elite performance, perfect before workouts or high-energy tasks.
  • Focus – Boosts clarity, concentration, and comprehension, a go-to track for studying, planning, or detailed work.
  • FlowState – Promotes creativity, calm, and relaxation, excellent for writing, brainstorming, or decompressing.
  • PowerNap – Delivers the ultimate quick recharge, ideal during mid-day energy slumps.
  • DeepSleep – The most immersive rest experience for restorative sleep and recovery.

These tracks will be available via the in-room sound bar or through the NuCalm mobile app, with guests able to pair the app with their own headphones for an immersive and personalized experience.

Jim Poole, CEO of NuCalm shares: “We’re thrilled to partner with InterContinental Singapore to bring NuCalm’s neuroscience-based wellness technology to the hospitality space in a truly integrated way. By embedding NuCalm into the guest experience, we’re expanding the reach of our mission: to make deep rest, mental clarity, and stress recovery achievable for anyone, anywhere, even while on the move.”

Tailored Guest Access

  • Complimentary VIP EDGE Access for Suite Guests: Guests staying in One-Bedroom Suites and above will enjoy complimentary access to the full NuCalm VIP EDGE program, which includes all NuCalm’s products.
  • Easy Purchase for Guests: Guests in all other room types can easily access the DeepSleep program via a QR code provided by the Front Office for the Premium package or use the QR code displayed on the in-room TV for the General package.

The NuCalm Sleep Performance Experience is now available at InterContinental Singapore, setting a new global benchmark for wellness-focused hospitality within the IHG portfolio.

 

 

 

 

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American Airlines to Connect Prague with Philadelphia

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Václav Havel Airport Prague will expand its long-haul flight offer to North America. American Airlines will launch operation on a direct route between Prague and Philadelphia next year. The regular seasonal service will be operated daily from 21 May to 5 October 2026. American Airlines will deploy the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft on the route.

 “Operation of the direct service between Prague and Philadelphia was among our priorities. We are therefore very pleased about our successful partnership with American Airlines; this was also thanks to the coordinated support and cooperation with our partners. This route represents one of the milestones in our strategy of developing long-haul flights and strengthening direct connections between the Czech Republic and North America. We firmly believe that the route will be successful and beneficial for both Czech passengers and tourists and business travellers heading to Prague. We greatly appreciate the cooperation with American Airlines and look forward to the launch of the direct connection,” said Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Prague Airport Board of Directors.

The direct service to Philadelphia will offer passengers a quick connection to one of American Airlines’ main hubs on the East Coast of the USA, as well as convenient connecting flights to more than 100 other destinations across North America. The flight from Philadelphia International Airport is scheduled to depart at 6:40 p.m. local time and arrive in Prague at 8:45 a.m. the following day. The return flight from Prague will depart at 11:00 a.m. with arrival in Philadelphia at 2:00 p.m. local time

“The customer demand for flights to and from cities rich in culture continues to grow. We’re increasingly seeing customers flock to cities they can step back in time, exploring history and culture beyond anything experienced before,” said José A. Freig, Vice President – International and Inflight Dining Operations. “With this route, our customers in the Czech Republic will also have access to one of our fastest growing U.S. hubs in Philadelphia, from where they can explore more than 100 destinations in the U.S. and beyond.”

The launch of direct flights between Prague and Philadelphia was supported not only by the standard Prague Airport incentive program, but also by marketing campaigns implemented on the US market in cooperation between Prague Airport and the key tourism industry stakeholders, CzechTourism and Prague City Tourism, as well as by coordination of activities within the working group on direct air connections to the U.S., whose additional members were representatives of the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Czech embassy in the USA.

 

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Andaz Lisbon to open with 170 keys in Q4 2025

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Andaz Lisbon is proud to announce the upcoming opening of the brand’s first property in Portugal, set to welcome guests in Q4 2025. Discreetly leading the launch of this iconic property, nestled on Rua do Comércio, just steps away from Lisbon’s most emblematic landmarks, including the majestic Rua Augusta Arch and the historic Praça do Comércio, Cajetan Araujo has been carefully curating every luxury detail, with his dream team. Together, they will shape a vibrant and immersive experience that reflects Lisbon’s rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit, welcoming both locals and global travelers alike.

Cajetan Araujo, a well-traveled global hotelier with over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, brings a dynamic leadership style and a deep passion for design, culture, culinary and guest experience.

“Andaz Lisbon is more than a hotel, it’s a statement of intent,” said Cajetan Araujo. “It’s the first of a new generation of Andaz properties, designed to reflect the soul of its surroundings, inspire meaningful connections, and empower guests to explore with curiosity and confidence. I’m honored to lead this exciting journey and together with the team we are super excited to soon welcome our guests who can now book their stay with us”

Andaz Lisbon will blend seamlessly into the city’s architectural and cultural fabric. The hotel will showcase a curated mix of local and international artists, offering immersive experiences that reflect Lisbon’s creative pulse. Every element, from design to guest experience, will reflect the new Andaz visual identity, which emphasizes authenticity, artistic expression, and a sense of place.

As the first of its kind, Andaz Lisbon will serve as a living expression of the brand’s evolution, offering a hospitality experience that is not only visually striking, but also deeply meaningful.

Praça do Comercio

Hotel Highlights

  • 170 stylish guestrooms and suites, ranging from 22 sqm to 99 sqm, with views of Lisbon landmarks including São Jorge Castle, Praça do Comércio and Tagus River.
  • A sophisticated rooftop restaurant and terrace serving modern Lusitanian cuisine inspired by Portugal’s heritage, with live music, DJ sets, and crafted cocktails under the stars.
  • Andaz Lounge, a social hub inspired by Lisbon’s beloved kiosks, offering Portuguese street food, artisan coffee, and hand-crafted local beers and spirits.

 

 

 

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Princess Cruises set for an expansive Japan season in 2027

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Princess Cruises is all set to make history with its most expansive Japan season ever come 2027.

Itineraries will be sailing from Tokyo aboard two Japanese-built sister-ships, the Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess, for the duration of the season.

Marking a major milestone for the brand’s legacy in Asia, the 2027 programme includes 78 departures across 50 unique itineraries, with voyages ranging from seven to 28 days, making it Princess’ most robust Japan deployment to date. 

The March to December 2027 Japan season opens for sale on 20th August 2025

Princess Cruises president Gus Antorcha said of this exciting development: “This upcoming 2027 season is more than an expansion: it’s a homecoming. Our story in Japan has deepened over time and experience and in 2027, we return promising unforgettable experiences, including the renowned Cherry Blossoms, seven spectacular festivals and journeys that immerse you in the awe and wonder of this destination.”

Highlights for the upcoming journey

  • Cherry Blossom Voyages (9–24 days): Timed to follow the blooming season from south to north across all four of Japan’s main islands.
  • Festival Cruises (8–24 days): Celebrate Japan’s most vibrant summer festivals including the Aomori Nebuta, Tokushima Awa Odori, and Kochi Yosakoi with late-night stays.
  • Circle and Grand Japan Voyages (9–28 days): Circumnavigate the country with visits to Osaka, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and more.
  • Okinawa & Taiwan Itineraries (9–18 days): Explore the subtropical beauty of Okinawa and the cultural richness of Taipei and Hualien.
  • Japan Explorer Cruises (9–13 days): Discover iconic cities like Shimizu (for Mt. Fuji), Kobe (for Kyoto), and Kagoshima.

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AirAsia soars into the colourful world of Roblox

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As a pioneering brand within the region, AirAsia expands its reach in the digital space with the official launch of AirAsia World on Roblox.

This vibrant and immersive metaverse experience is designed for fun and digital adventure.

AirAsia World offers players a fun and rewarding virtual journey through the ASEAN, blending gamified challenges with cultural exploration.

Highlighting regional diversity

Built around two core pillars, ASEAN Exploration and Rewarding Experiences, the platform brings to life the region’s cultural diversity in an interactive, engaging format.

With ASEAN Exploration, gamers will be able to explore ASEAN with vibrant environments and cultural touchpoints that depict the region in a virtual world.

At the same time, they will be able to explore the region at their fingertips before experiencing it in real life.

Rewarding Experiences, on the other hand, includes mini-games, journal entries, and seasonal updates.

Through gameplay, it offers players exciting incentives while they discover and learn about ASEAN in fun, creative ways.

Expanding its reach through creative approaches

AirAsia World follows the IP Development team’s recent forays in the entertainment space, with the successful launch of the AirAsia Buds Adventures series on YouTube and the third year of the game development challenge RedGames Jam.

The game is developed by AirAsia brand co. (Abc), Objekk and Lumiworks Sdn Bhd, through an IP 360 Metaverse grant from the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), an initiative designed to drive national investment and development opportunities for Malaysia-based creators and studios in digital content creation and creative technology.

Roblox is a free-to-play online game where users can play and create games with millions of user-generated games called ‘experiences’ spanning various genres, from racing to role-playing.

Players can now search for “AirAsia World” on Roblox to begin their adventure. 

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Nok Air to resume Mumbai and Hyderabad flights to Bangkok in October

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Thai low-cost carrier Nok Air announced the resumption of its direct flights from Mumbai (daily) and Hyderabad (four times weekly) to Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok beginning 26th October of this year.

The reintroduction of these routes marks a significant step in the airline’s ongoing commitment to the Indian market, following a brief suspension during the summer season.

DEX Group director Ramesh Marwah said of the upcoming resumption: “We are excited to restart Nok Air’s India–Thailand services just in time for the upcoming peak season. The relaunch adds great value for leisure travelers and holidaymakers. We will focus on close collaborations with trade partners, OTAs, and industry federations like TAAI, TAFI and OTOAI to drive awareness and bookings. There is tremendous potential in the MICE, wedding, and golf tourism segments from India to Thailand, and we remain committed to supporting these key verticals.”

What the schedules will look like

Nok Air will operate daily flights between Mumbai and Bangkok, with Flight DD939 departing Mumbai (BOM) at 02:10 hrs and arriving at Don Mueang International Airport, Bangkok (DMK) at 08:05 hrs, while the return flight DD938 will depart Bangkok at 22:10 hrs and arrive in Mumbai at 01:10 hrs the following day.

With regard to the Hyderabad route, the airline is set to operate four weekly flights. Flight DD959 will depart Hyderabad (HYD) at 00:45 hrs and arrive in Bangkok at 06:05 hrs, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. 

The return flight DD958 will depart Bangkok at 21:30 hrs and arrive in Hyderabad at 23:45 hrs, operating on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

The relaunch comes just in time for the commencement of the winter travel season and is expected to significantly enhance connectivity for Indian travellers seeking leisure, cultural immersion, wellness experiences, and access to key Thai destinations such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Chiang Rai.

All these destinations are accessible via Nok Air’s extensive domestic network from Bangkok.

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Oceania Cruises redefines luxury exploration with its new Kangaroo Route

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Culinary- and destination-driven luxury cruise line Oceania Cruises is all set to redefine luxury global exploration with its new Kangaroo Route sailing.

The Kangaroo Route is an extraordinary 129-day Around the World voyage visiting more than 80 ports across 34 countries and four continents, aboard the critically acclaimed Oceania Vista. 

Featuring overnight stays in Cairns, Shanghai, Tokyo, Singapore, Mumbai, Luxor and Bordeaux, bookings for this epic journey, a new segment of the 2027 Around the World cruise, are available now.

Oceania Cruises’ chief luxury officer Jason Montague said of the new itinerary: “Our new Kangaroo Route, crafted from the epic 2027 Around the World cruise, is much more than a voyage – it’s a rare invitation to experience a vast part of the world with the comfort, warmth, sophistication and exceptional cuisine that Oceania Cruises is renowned for. We’re thrilled to offer this immersive new journey of exploration in 2027, aboard Oceania Vista, spanning four and a half remarkable months. Our guests crave enriching journeys, and this itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to effortlessly blend diverse continents, vibrant cultures and authentic cuisines into one utterly unforgettable experience.” 

A once-in-a-lifetime voyage 

Departing 26th February, 2027, the 1,200-guest ship will embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 129-day sojourn from iconic Sydney, Australia, traversing some of the world’s most captivating coastlines, cultural marvels and hidden gems. 

Over the course of four and a half adventure-filled months, luxury travellers can explore some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, inviting them to discover renowned cultural and natural wonders across the globe.

Guests will begin their journey along the magnificent coastlines of Australia before spending more than two months exploring the cultural and natural wonders of Asia, from the idyllic isles of Indonesia to the captivating contrasts of ancient and modern Japan and on to the vibrant, spiritual landscapes of India. 

The spectacular voyage continues to the desert metropolises of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, followed by a journey onward to mythical Egypt as a prelude to the spectacular Mediterranean.

In timeless Europe, a treasure trove of legendary destinations awaits: from the sun-kissed shores of Greece and Italy to the medieval cities of Croatia, the vibrant villages of Sicily and the Italian Riviera, the chic French Riviera and Spain’s Costa del Sol, and the heart of France’s fabled wine country, this voyage offers an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of cultures and cuisines before concluding in London, United Kingdom.

Exquisite and prestigious

Starting at US$61,099 per person, Oceania Cruises’ new Kangaroo Route sailing features the Exclusive Prestige Package, a generous array of additional complimentary amenities, including a choice of Free Unlimited Wine, Beer and Spirits or a generous Shore Excursion Credit, plus Exclusive Shoreside Events, a Free Visa Package, and Free Luggage Delivery. 

These extra inclusions are in addition to the luxury cruise line’s Your World Included amenities, which include all gourmet speciality dining, in-stateroom dining, unlimited Starlink WiFi and shipboard gratuities.

Likewise, an epic journey calls for an equally exceptional onboard experience, and Oceania Vista delivers with unmatched elegance.

Among its amenities are:

  • The 1,200-guest luxury ship offers all-veranda accommodations, featuring the most spacious standard staterooms at sea, at an astounding 291 square feet.
  • Oceania Vista boasts two crew members for every three guests, ensuring an unparalleled level of warm, personalised service.
  • One chef for every eight guests, meaning half of the onboard crew is dedicated to culinary experiences.
  • From immersive Culinary Discovery Tours™ ashore to hands-on cooking classes on board in The Culinary Center, guests can savour the flavours of the world and learn new skills as they sail.
  • Oceania Vista features 11 exceptional dining venues, including Aquamar® Kitchen, serving wellness-inspired dishes, The Bakery at Baristas, the classic Polo Grill Steakhouse, Italian Toscana, pan-Asian Red Ginger and the elegant French restaurant, Jacques.
  • Oceania Vista offers an elegant onboard experience with eight sophisticated bars, lounges, and entertainment venues.
  • Guests can unwind at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center and its serene Aquamar Spa Terrace, ensuring every moment at sea is as enriching as the destinations themselves.
  • Thousands of immersive small-group shore excursions and tours to choose from in destinations across the globe, offering the opportunity to see destinations through a new lens, whether the focus is food, wine, art, history or architectural design.
  • Diverse onboard enrichment, including art classes at Oceania Cruises’ much-loved Artist Loft and numerous guest speakers.
  • Food and wine pairing experiences, including demonstrations during exclusive Sommelier’s Choice and Cellar Master’s Classic Wine Pairing Luncheons, plus a brand-new Gérard Bertrand experience.

Three additional itineraries are also available as part of Oceania Cruises’ 2027 Around the World voyage: the mesmerising 180-day world journey from Miami to London; a 244-day Epic Global Adventure from Miami to New York, the luxury cruise line’s longest option ever offered on a world cruise; and the shorter 127-day Continental Explorer sailing from Miami to Doha.

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National Museum of the Philippines boosts funding for restoration of the Campanario de Dumaguete

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The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) allocated additional funds for the second phase of restoration and site development of the iconic centuries-old Campanario de Dumaguete in the southern province of the same name.

The secondary allocation is worth slightly over US$105,000.

Monsignor Julius Perpetuo S Heruela, head of the Committee on Church Cultural Heritage of the Diocese of Dumaguete, expressed gratitude to the NMP for taking on the arduous task of restoring the bell tower to its closest original state.

Heruela said: “The diocese, headed by Bishop Julito Cortes, is thankful to director Jeremy Barnes of the National Museum, for their painstaking and thorough research in digging up additional photos, information, and other materials needed for an accurate restoration of the bell tower.”

The second phase of the project covers 180 calendar days and will include more restoration works and site development.

The restoration initiative began last year with an initial funding of nearly US$1.5 million.

A symbol of a people’s faith

The bell tower is not just a Spanish era attraction, but is symbolic of the people’s faith, heritage, and history, as it has withstood centuries of challenges, natural or man-made, he added.

A pre-construction meeting featuring updates on the bell tower restoration project was held by NMP officials in Dumaguete on Thursday, 7th August. 

Attendees included members of the heritage committee as well as representatives from the city government and the provincial tourism office.

During a recent virtual briefing, architect Benjamin Empleo Concepcion, NMP’s project-in-charge, said the restoration project is already 91.4 percent complete.

Concepcion remarked: “The restoration was stalled in the past months after the contractor and NMP experts found new information that impacted the original plan, triggering further research on the tower.”

Built in the 1800s, the Dumaguete bell tower was declared an Important Cultural Property by the National Museum before the pandemic.

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Studies show the growing acceptance of digital wallets as travel payment solutions

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Several global studies show that younger travellers are embracing the use of digital wallets as their primary mode of payment throughout their journeys.

A recent study published by global payments infrastructure company TerraPay noted that real-time transactions using global wallets will account for around 27 percent of all global payments by 2028.

Indeed, it can easily be said that Gen Z is leading the charge when it comes to transforming the global travel industry, particularly in terms of finance and technology.

TerraPay’s vice-president of payments Koert Grasveld explained: “With 79 percent of Gen Z using digital wallets, they are truly the instant generation; driving travel towards a mobile-first, real-time experience. With an estimated attention span of just eight seconds, Gen Z expects payments to be as fast and effortless as scrolling through their phones. Digital wallets perfectly meet these demands, enabling real-time payments that deliver lower costs, broader access, increased inclusion, and new business models.”

What’s driving the surge?

Social media is one of the key factors that has driven the use of digital wallets as the travel payment of choice among Gen Z.

More than that, however, social media is also the primary source of travel inspiration for younger travellers thanks to travel-centric channels and influencers whose opinions push them towards decisions in terms of travel planning.

Indeed, around 40 percent of Gen Z travelers booked their trips directly thanks to TikTok content, demonstrating the platform’s growing influence on purchasing travel decisions.

On the other hand, about  49 percent of Gen Z look to Instagram for travel inspiration.

Wait, what exactly is a digital wallet?

Digital wallets refer to a secure electronic application that enables users to make contactless payments. 

These may be installed onto a smartphone or any other device, including wearable tech like smartwatches, allowing users to make payments using their devices rather than cash or conventional credit or debit cards.

One of the key benefits offered by a digital wallet is that it can store both credit and debit cards, vouchers for online or brick-and-mortar retailers, tickets for various purposes, HMO and insurance cards, as well as memberships for retail clubs, fitness centres, and the like.

Related applications for these financial instruments may be downloaded from relevant app stores for both Apple and Android devices, though some smartphone manufacturers like Oppo and Samsung have them pre-installed on a number of their models.

Why would you even get a digital wallet?

Having a digital wallet accords the following benefits for users:

  • It makes payments more convenient Digital wallets allow for easy and quick payments., so one needn’t bring cash or too many cards;
  • They are more secure Many of today’s digital wallets provide advanced security feature to reduce the risk of financial fraud;
  • You need not worry about currency exchanges With a digital wallet, you can effortlessly handle currency exchange without visiting exchange offices anywhere in the world;
  • Consider the ease of access Users can store all of their important cards, tickets, and passes in one place, making travel more convenient and streamlined.
  • Contactless are a breeze One can easily make safe and contactless payments in stores and restaurants, as well as for other purposes;
  • Budget management becomes easier to do Many digital wallets offer tools to track and manage a user’s spending; and
  • Many wallets offer a range of rewards and discounts A number of globally-recognised digital wallets provide access to exclusive rewards and discounts to enhance one’s travel experience.

There is, however, still some resistance

Despite the rapid digital adoption of digital wallets throughout the globe, a significant part of the travel industry remains slow to embrace real-time payments.

The hospitality sector is one such area, and the resistance primarily comes from independent operators or smaller properties.

As Grasveld puts it: “Small property owners often struggle with managing international payments due to limited access to advanced digital tools and the high costs associated with traditional banking systems.”

He added that these challenges include slow transaction times, high fees, and complex processes that hinder cash flow and create barriers to competing effectively on a global scale. Many small-scale operators, particularly those managing just one or a few properties, are aware that these inefficiencies can significantly impact their ability to capture and serve international guests smoothly.”

How hospitality providers become more open to the use of digital wallets

In a report published in January 2024, hospitality management service provider GuestService offered some insights on how hotels could gradually open themselves up to the use of digital wallets.

The report pointed out that digital wallets like PayPal and Venmo store users’ payment information securely and allow for easy online transactions. 

By integrating these wallets into their booking systems, hotels enable guests to make reservations and payments with just a few clicks.

But getting into mobile payments and digital wallet integration goes beyond mere convenience, given how these enhance security. 

These technologies utilise encryption and tokenization methods to protect sensitive information, ensuring that guests’ financial details remain safe throughout the transaction process.

For his part, Grasveld hopes that the more widespread use of digital wallets in the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors could persuade more providers to change their minds, if only for the sake of faster, more secure transactions.

As he puts it: “With 97 percent of transactions on the TerraPay platform completed instantly, sending money in real time regardless of amount or location is no longer a pipe dream.”

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Source: traveldailymedia