The post China’s New Travel Power Duo: Gen Z Explorers and Golden-Age Globetrotters appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

China’s outbound travel segment is undergoing a seismic shift, according to the ITB China Travel Trends Report 2025-26. The report highlights two rapidly growing groups driving outbound tourism: tech-savvy young adventurers and high-spending senior travellers seeking immersive experiences. This evolving demographic barbell is prompting global travel brands to rethink product design, accessibility, and marketing language to meet the divergent expectations of both segments.

Trip.com Group data shows that millennials and Gen Z travellers (born in the 1980s and 1990s) accounted for 67% of outbound travel in 2024. Yet by the end of 2025, over 100 million ‘active seniors’ are projected to enter the travel market, with the senior tourism economy expected to exceed RMB 1 trillion ($140 billion). These dual segments are shaping a more personalised, culturally rich form of travel. The younger generation prefers emotionally resonant, lifestyle-driven experiences, while seniors seek curated, slower-paced trips with deep cultural meaning.

Bleisure and MICE on the Rise

The report also found that 83% of Chinese travel buyers identified “bleisure”—a combination of business and leisure—as a major opportunity. Corporate clients are increasingly seeking value-driven trips that mix meetings with relaxation and cultural immersion. This evolution is pushing destinations to rethink their MICE offerings and focus more on wellness, team-building, and storytelling.

Tech and Personalisation Define the Future

More than half of ITB China Buyer Circle members reported using AI tools in their operations—ranging from customer service and product recommendations to dynamic pricing. The challenge for the industry now lies in balancing AI efficiency with human-centred experiences that resonate across age groups. Visa facilitation, mobile payments, and improved air connectivity are accelerating China’s outbound recovery. But destinations must evolve: offering emotionally rich experiences and flexible packages that cater to both independent Gen Z travellers and experience-focused seniors.

China’s Inbound Revival and Domestic Shift

China’s inbound tourism is also gaining momentum. Visa policies are easing, flight capacity is growing, and cities are investing in FIT-friendly (free independent traveller) infrastructure. Social media influence and lifestyle-led trip planning are reshaping domestic and inbound travel behaviours alike.

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The post VFS Global begins passport renewal services for South Africans in Dubai appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

VFS Global has announced the launch of passport renewal services for South African nationals living in the UAE. Starting now, eligible applicants can now submit renewal requests at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Wafi City, Dubai, or at the South African Embassy in Abu Dhabi. The move marks a new phase in the long-standing partnership between VFS Global and South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs. VFS Global is now the sole outsourced service partner handling South Africa passport renewals in the UAE.

“We are excited to be offering passport renewal services for South African nationals living in the UAE. We thank the Department of Home Affairs for their steadfast faith in our services over the last 15 years,” Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head – UAE at VFS Global.

The new service is expected to enhance convenience for South Africans residing in the Emirates, offering an upgraded experience at what VFS claims is the world’s largest visa centre. The Dubai centre is part of a wider VFS Global network that offers South Africa passport services through eight centres in four countries and visa services through 47 centres in 19 countries.

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The post Showcase your standout travel initiatives at TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Hong Kong appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Join the industry’s top travel, tourism, and hospitality leaders and be recognised for your success.

Hong Kong remains a leading destination in global travel, where innovation, service, and experience drive the sector’s continued growth. As the industry evolves, businesses across the region are leading the way with bold ideas and performance.

In celebration of this progress, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Hong Kong, presented by Travel Daily Media, is set to honour the finest across the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors.

Recognising outstanding achievements from top hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators, travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, the awards programme spotlights the companies and initiatives that redefine customer experiences and set new industry standards.

Amongst the distinguished winners from last year’s awards programme was ATPI Travel (Hong Kong) Limited, which earned the Global Travel Management Company of the Year – Hong Kong accolade for its unmatched blend of global reach, sector-specific expertise, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional client care in modern travel management.

“This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional travel management services that combine cutting-edge technology with personalised attention,” said Kelly Jones, Managing Director of ATPI Hong Kong.

Gain recognition for your exceptional contributions to the industry. Submissions of entries are now open until 24 October 2025. Nominate now!

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Hong Kong is presented by Travel Daily Media. To view the full list of last year’s winners, click here.

For more information about the awards programme, you may contact Danica Avila at +(65) 3158 1386 or awardshongkong@traveldailymedia.com.

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The post Smiles and Etihad Guest partnership takes off appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Smiles, e& UAE’s everyday rewards Super App that also houses its loyalty programme, has launched a partnership with Etihad Guest, the loyalty programme of Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates. Now offering customers of both programmes a fully integrated experience through the Rewards Exchange on the Smiles app, and soon via the Etihad website and mobile app.

Customers can now link their loyalty accounts to transfer between the programmes and instantly convert Smiles points to Etihad Guest Miles and vice versa. Unlocking greater flexibility, enhanced rewards earning potential, and more ways to spend points and miles across both programmes.

Masood Mohamed Sharif, Chief Executive Officer, e& UAE, said: “This collaboration brings together two of the UAE’s most trusted homegrown brands to deliver even more value to our loyal customers. By enabling seamless Smiles points and Etihad Guest Miles exchange, we’re not only growing the rewards ecosystem but also making benefits more accessible. It reflects our focus on creating smarter, more connected experiences that meet the evolving expectations of our customers.”

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer Etihad Airways, said, “This partnership showcases our commitment to delivering extraordinary customer service for our guests, offering enhanced redemption flexibility and membership benefits. We are delighted to be collaborating as two of the UAE’s most successful and international, Emirati brands, offering our loyal Etihad Guest members greater options to collect and redeem Miles, through this collaboration with e&.”

This partnership allows loyalty members of both brands to maximise the value of their rewards. Via the Smiles App, Etihad Guest members can now transfer their Etihad Guest Miles to Smiles Points and enjoy access to over 55 lifestyle services on the Smiles app, including food and grocery delivery, home services, e& bill payment and recharge, as well as exclusive deals across shopping, dining, entertainment and more. In turn, Smiles customers can transfer their points into Etihad Guest Miles to increase their balance and redeem their miles on flights across the airline’s expanding network, upgrades, worldwide hotel stays and holidays, and shop from a huge range of products at the Etihad Guest Reward Shop.

To initiate the exchange, customers of both programmes must link their accounts through the “Rewards Exchange” section on the Smiles app and will be able to instantly transfer their loyalty currencies from one programme to the other.

This strategic collaboration between two of the UAE’s most prominent homegrown brands offers existing loyal customers more ways to benefit—and invites new customers to explore the best of both worlds: everyday lifestyle rewards through Smiles, and extraordinary travel experiences through Etihad Guest.

The integration is available exclusively through the Smiles app now, with the opportunity for members to transfer via the Etihad website and newly launched mobile app in the near future.

 

 

 

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The post International Tourism in Brazil grows 47.5%, attracting nearly 6 million foreigners in seven months appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

International tourism in Brazil continues to grow strongly. Between January and July 2025, the country welcomed 5,952,254 foreign tourists, a historic record that represents a 47.5% increase compared to the same period last year. This impressive number is equivalent to twice the entire population of the Federal District, currently estimated at 2,982,818 inhabitants.

In July alone, Brazil recorded 620,143 international arrivals, an increase of 41.9%, or 183,000 more tourists, compared to July 2024. This increase reflects the strengthening of the country’s image as a tourist destination and the joint efforts to promote Brazil abroad.

According to Embratur’s president Marcelo Freixo, these figures are the result of Embratur’s work, carried out “with strategy, integrity, and passion”. “Brazil today enchants the world, and this is not only good news for tourism; it is a victory for our people. Reaching nearly 6 million international tourists in just seven months is a direct result of the work we have done at Embratur to promote our destinations with strategy, integrity, and passion. Every tourist who chooses Brazil boosts the economy, generates jobs, stimulates local commerce, strengthens culture, and creates new business opportunities across the country. This growth is not by chance: it is the result of a public policy that understands tourism as a driver of development, inclusion, and appreciation of our diversity”, he celebrated.

For Tourism Minister Celso Sabino, the figures reflect a shift in the sector’s status. “Welcoming nearly 6 million foreign tourists in seven months is a historic achievement that shows that Brazil has returned to prominence on the international stage. This means more jobs, more income, and more opportunities for our people. The world is rediscovering Brazil, and we are prepared to welcome even more visitors”, Sabino stated.

South America continues to lead the ranking for the main tourist sending countries to Brazil, with 3.7 million visitors, especially from Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay. The United States also stands out, with 465,192 American tourists visiting the country until July. From the European continent, 532,242 travellers have arrived in Brazil, with emphasis on France, Portugal, Germany, and the United Kingdom. In total, 109,299 British tourists have visited Brazil in the first seven months of 2025, in comparison to 90,976 tourists from the UK for the same period in 2024, an increase of 20.13%.

These data reinforce the potential of tourism as a driver of economic development, job creation, and the appreciation of Brazilian diversity. This positive performance is a result of the promotional strategies adopted by the federal government, with actions aimed at expanding air connectivity, strengthening Brazil’s image abroad, and investing in tourism infrastructure.

Gateways

São Paulo leads the way in receiving foreign tourists in 2025. The state welcomed 1,582,286 foreign visitors between January and July, solidifying its position as the main gateway for international tourism in Brazil. Rio de Janeiro is closely behind, with 1,324,515 arrivals, followed closely by Rio Grande do Sul, which secured third place with 1,256,132 tourists from abroad.

 

 

 

 

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The post Antara Cruises Joins Serandipians appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Antara Cruises, India’s pioneering luxury river cruise line, is pleased to announce its partnership with Serandipians, a distinguished global network of bespoke travel designers, luxury hotels, and curated experiences. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Antara’s ongoing journey to redefine luxury travel in India and elevate its offerings to a discerning international clientele.

Serandipians is renowned for curating the world’s most refined collection of luxury brands and experiences. Membership is by invitation only, reserved for companies that uphold the highest standards of bespoke service, creative excellence, and authentic storytelling—qualities that Antara Cruises embodies through its elegant river journeys across India’s most iconic waterways.

“We are proud to join the Serandipians community, as it represents a shared commitment to delivering extraordinary, culturally immersive experiences,” says Raj Singh, Chairman of Antara Cruises.“This partnership opens new pathways for global travelers seeking authentic, intimate, and transformational voyages, directly connecting them with India’s rich heritage from a truly luxurious vantage point.”

Antatra Cruises’ meticulously designed all-suite vessels offer a seamless blend of heritage, sustainability, and refined elegance. Curated itineraries explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, immersive excursions, and authentic cultural encounters, showcasing India’s diverse heartland through an exceptional lens.

As a part of the Serandipians network, Antara will collaborate closely with top luxury travel designers worldwide and travel trade partners to craft tailor-made journeys, providing heightened visibility within the high-end travel sphere and reinforcing India’s position as a premier destination for river cruising.

 

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The post Virgin Red announces points transfer partnership with RBN Rewards appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In a groundbreaking move set to reshape the luxury real estate industry and loyalty space, Virgin Red, the rewards club from Virgin has announced a points transfer partnership with RBN Rewards.

The deal means that individuals buying or selling property through an RBN Participating Agent can now convert their transaction into rewards with Virgin Atlantic Flying Club for members globally and with Virgin Red for U.S. members. Whether it’s a home in The U.S., Europe or The Caribbean, a single transaction can earn a significant number of points – unlocking some of the world’s most luxurious travel experiences and rewards.

RBN members can now transfer RBN Reward Points at a 1:1 ratio into Virgin Points, opening the door to premium travel across the Virgin portfolio, including Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Hotels Collection, Virgin Voyages and a network of global affiliates such as SkyTeam, one of the major global airline alliances. The partnership provides access to Virgin Red giving members a range of redemption options, from award-winning cruises and flights to exclusive private island escapes and luxury safaris.With a standard earn rate of up to 1 point for every $2 in transaction value, and the ability to transfer points at a 1:1 ratio into Virgin Points, RBN members can unlock access to some of the most extraordinary rewards Virgin Red has to offer*.

 

Example experiences include:

• An all-inclusive, seven-night escape for two on Necker Island, Virgin Limited Edition’s private paradise in the British Virgin Islands (from 2,000,000 points).
• A stay at Mahali Mzuri, Virgin Limited Edition’s award-winning luxury safari camp in Kenya (from 330,000 points).
• A five-night Caribbean voyage with Virgin Voyages, featuring Michelin-inspired dining and a private balcony with ocean views (from 310,000 points).
• Experience the brand-new Clubhouse at LAX with an Upper Class ticket from Los Angeles to London on Virgin Atlantic (from 40,500 points one way).

Kipp Lassetter, CEO of RBN Rewards commented: “This announcement marks a defining moment for the global real estate and loyalty industries and the next step in our mission to revolutionize the way individuals can earn rewards through property. By connecting home purchases and sales to Virgin’s world-class group of companies, we’re creating a new kind of lifestyle advantage, one that converts a necessary transaction into life-enhancing benefits. From cruising the Caribbean, flying first class or planning a dream trip, our members can now access aspirational travel through Virgin Red – all powered by the sale or purchase of their home.”

Andrea Burchett, Chief Loyalty Officer and Managing Director for Virgin Red commented: “This partnership with RBN brings together real estate and travel rewards in a bold way. Driven by innovation, a belief in putting customers first, and a shared commitment to delivering extraordinary experiences, RBN and Virgin can’t wait to see how members take advantage of this partnership. Together, we’re enabling property buyers and sellers to earn Virgin Points through high-value transactions, unlocking some of the most coveted rewards Virgin Red has to offer. This collaboration with RBN is redefining what loyalty looks like, turning milestone moments into unforgettable travel experiences.”

RBN has become a preferred referral platform for high-net-worth clients by enlisting trusted real estate agents from industry leading brokerages. It offers buyers and sellers the freedom to choose their agent – or invite their existing one to join – and delivers a seamless, privacy-first experience with no cold calls or data reselling. With its affiliation with Forbes Global Properties, RBN is well positioned to serve international clientele.

“RBN’s referral network means homebuyers and sellers can earn and redeem points no matter where they live” said Billy Nash, RBN-accredited agent of Nash Luxury / Forbes Global Properties. “Providing access to Virgin Red will transform the real estate journey, allowing families to turn one of life’s biggest transactions into unforgettable rewards. From first class flights to private island escapes, this game-changing deal will open a gateway to the world for our clients.”

The exclusive collaboration marks a shift in how real estate can deliver value far beyond the transaction, whereby buyers and sellers are gaining access to a lifestyle that extends across borders, brands and experiences. By partnering with Virgin Red, RBN is setting a new benchmark for rewards, offering meaningful, premium benefits that speak to today’s discerning, globally minded buyer.

“This partnership reflects a wider trend that’s reshaping luxury real estate; the move from transactional to experiential value, where modern homeowners can now realise tangible lifestyle returns. By linking premium property with premium rewards, we can create a new standard in how loyalty and luxury intersect,” concludes Kipp Lassetter.

 

 

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The post IHG marks one million open hotel rooms milestone appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global hospitality firm IHG Hotels & Resorts announced today, 8th August, that it has surpassed one million open rooms across the globe as demand for its brands continues to grow.

Buoyed by an expanding travel industry and a proven global strategy, IHG has experienced remarkable growth, opening hundreds of hotels every year and doubling its brand portfolio to 20 in the past decade to offer a stay for every occasion in over 100 countries. 

Helping fuel this expansion is one of the world’s largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG One Rewards, and an industry-leading suite of technology that provides more choice and incredible experiences than ever before for millions of guests and thousands of hotel owners worldwide.

Hitting one million open rooms is much more than just a milestone; it represents the countless unforgettable moments unfolding for over a million guests in IHG hotels every day. 

From new discoveries and encounters, family weddings and reunions with loved ones, to business connections and breakthroughs, and global diplomacy, IHG’s more than 6,700 hotels serve as welcoming spaces filled with laughter, handshakes, vows, cheers, and friendship.

Delivering on a gracious promise

To mark the achievement, IHG is celebrating these special moments as part of its enduring promise to provide True Hospitality for Good.

IHG chief executive Elie Maalouf declared: “Reaching one million rooms reflects the deep trust and confidence our guests, owners and investors place in IHG and our brands. But more than that, it’s a celebration of our colleagues, who help millions of guests live their best lives every single day: be it with a warm welcome the minute they walk through our doors or helping make memories in life’s big events. If it matters in life, it happens in our hotels.”

Maalouf expressed great excitement regarding the growing number of special moments which IHG properties will be a part of in the years ahead. 

He concluded by saying: “With a strong, growing development pipeline spanning world famous beloved heritage brands and rapidly growing new brands, the future is bright for IHG.”

Marking a period of expansion

IHG opened a record number of rooms in the first half of 2025 whilst attaining several key achievements throughout 2024.

These include the chain hitting the 4,000 open hotels milestone in the US, its 800th open hotel in Greater China as it marks its 50th anniversary in the region, and record levels of openings and signings in EMEAA. 

Looking ahead, IHG has strong momentum, with a development pipeline of over 2,200 hotels set to increase its presence in high growth markets globally.

New openings throughout the globe

Kimpton Mas Olas Resort & Spa, Mexico

Kimpton Mas Olas is a serene coastal retreat in Todos Santos, just north of Los Cabos, offering 103 guest rooms and 12 oceanfront villas with private plunge pools and immersive natural surroundings. 

Guests can enjoy panoramic views, expansive wellness amenities including a 25,000 sq ft spa, and locally inspired cuisine across three restaurants. 

Designed as a haven for both connection and personal exploration, it offers an authentic, eco-luxury escape.

Holiday Inn Kyoto Gojo, Japan

Holiday Inn Kyoto Gojo brings the iconic brand back to Kyoto half a century after the first Holiday Inn opened in this historic city. 

The hotel boasts 183 bright and modern guest rooms, a Japanese public bath with sweeping views of Kyoto’s cityscape, a gym, and a café and bar. 

The hotel also offers the signature Holiday Inn Kids Stay and Eat for Free programme.

voco Malta

Located in the lively heart of St. Julian’s, voco Malta offers a stylish urban retreat just steps from St. George’s Bay. 

Guests can indulge in culinary delights at Lumi restaurant and unwind at the rooftop pool or spa. 

Surrounded by shopping, nightlife, and culture, voco Malta combines modern comfort with sustainability practices for an elevated, eco-conscious stay.

Hotel Indigo Hainan Clear Water Bay, Greater China

Hotel Indigo Hainan Clear Water Bay brings IHG’s neighbourhood-inspired ethos to life. 

Its 174 rooms echo the region’s Tanka maritime heritage through pearl-toned hues, wave-like textures, and artful local details. 

Signature restaurant intrigue elevates island flavors with dishes paired with the exclusive Neighborhood Craft Beer, while curated neighborhood experiences connect travelers with the authentic spirit of Hainan.

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The post Philippines’ Marcos: Let development of Sangley Airport be unimpeded appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jnr ordered relevant government agencies to fast-track the development of Cavite’s Sangley Airport.

Marcos issued the call on the third day of his state visit to India on Wednesday, 6th August, whilst meeting with top executives of  Indian infrastructure mega-firm GMR Group.

The GMR Group is a strategic partner of the Sangley Aerocity Project, and is currently developing an international airport and surrounding aerotropolis at the former Sangley Point Air Base.

Aside from the Sangley Airport project, GMR is also looking into upcoming bids for regional airports expected to open later this year, as well as other infrastructure projects throughout the Philippines. 

Once operational, the Sangley Point International Airport will help decongest Metro Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

A step in the right direction

Jonvic Remulla, secretary of the interior and himself a former governor of Cavite province, hailed the President’s call as another positive step towards the development of Sangley Airport as a supplemental hub for the country’s biggest gateway.

Remulla remarked in the vernacular: “Within two and a half years, we will have another runway in use; 20 million more passengers can be accommodated there within the next two years. We’ll be able to decongest NAIA to make travel more comfortable for Filipino travellers and also draw in more foreign tourists.”

As of press time, the President ordered full support from all concerned agencies to ensure that the developmental initiative is completed within schedule.

What came before

At present, the Sangley Airport project is being developed under a public-private partnership led by the Cavite provincial government.

Prior to the President’s state visit to India, the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) cleared a proposed joint venture for the development of Sangley Airport in October of last year.

At the time, the PCC said the proposed partnership between the Cavite provincial government and the private consortium for the development of the airport was highly unlikely to result in a substantial lessening, restriction, or prevention of competition in the relevant markets.

Under the terms of agreement, this public-private partnership (PPP) will develop, own, operate, manage and maintain Sangley Airport.

The cost of the developmental initiative is currently estimated to be US$11 billion.

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The post Nobuki Sato to take over as president of Tiger Resort Leisure and Entertainment Inc appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Okada Manila’s operating firm Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment, Inc (TRLEI), the operator of Okada Manila announced an upcoming transition in its leadership team today, 7th August.

Effective 15th September, Universal Entertainment Corporation senior executive officer and chief financial officer Nobuki Sato will take over from Byron Yip as TRLEI’s president and chief operating officer.

Having held the post for seven years, Yip is all set to embark on the next chapter of his career, but will continue to oversee daily operations and support the leadership transition throughout next month.

Sato, who has sat on the TRLEI Board of Directors since March 2023, brings over two decades of extensive leadership experience in the fields of hospitality, finance, and strategic operations.

In the name of operational excellence

This leadership transition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and long-term value creation.

Universal Entertainment Corporation president and representative director Tomohiro Okada said of the upcoming transition: “Byron’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing Okada Manila as a leading destination in the region, exemplified by our achievement of the Forbes 5-Star rating, the largest Forbes 5-star Integrated Resort in the Philippines to receive this distinction for the sixth consecutive year, and the successful execution of key expansion initiatives. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for Byron’s contributions and are pleased that he will continue to support the organization to ensure a seamless transition.”

Okada likewise expressed confidence that Sato’s proven expertise in operational and financial management will guide Okada Manila into its next phase of strategic growth and innovation.

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