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RedDoorz opens the 100th SANS property in Indonesia

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Southeast Asian multi-brand hospitality tech platform RedDoorz formally inaugurated its 100th property under the SANS brand SANS Vibes Hotel Seminyak located in the heart of Bali, Indonesia. 

This milestone underscores the brand’s rapid growth and its commitment to serving the evolving needs of modern travelers in Indonesia.

RedDoorz founder and chief executive Amit Saberwal said of this latest property: “Reaching 100 SANS Hotels is a proud milestone for all of us at RedDoorz. It reflects not just the strength of our brand, but also our ability to anticipate and respond to the changing needs of today’s travelers. Bali is the perfect location to mark this achievement, it embodies everything the SANS brand stands for: energy, creativity, and a lifestyle-first mindset. As digital nomadism and flexible travel continue to rise, we are excited to keep expanding our footprint with properties that offer style, comfort, and affordability across Southeast Asia.”

The launch of SANS Vibes Hotel Seminyak in Bali, Indonesia reflects RedDoorz’s strategy to tap into the rising demand for lifestyle-driven, flexible accommodation, particularly among millennials and remote workers seeking a balance of work and leisure in Southeast Asia’s most iconic destinations.

A welcome addition to the Balinese hospitality sector

With Bali emerging as a global hotspot for digital nomads, SANS hotels are purpose-built to cater to this lifestyle segment, offering stylish, affordable stays with strong Wi-Fi, vibrant communal spaces, and prime locations. 

RedDoorz’s expansion is well-timed: foreign tourist arrivals to Bali rose 20 percent year-on-year in 2024, reaching 6.3 million visitors. 

Indeed, Bali has become a top destination, particularly attracting travelers from countries like Australia, Russia, and Germany. 

Even today, renowned travel platforms like Lonely Planet still rank Bali among the Top 10 destinations for digital nomads.

The rebound of Bali’s tourism sector provides the perfect momentum for RedDoorz to introduce its new sub-brands, namely SANS Stay (a cheerful minimalist concept with competitive pricing), SANS Vibes (a vibrant lifestyle concept), and SANS Elite (a premium concept featuring elegant design, comprehensive facilities, and more exclusive services). 

This expansion strategy aims to address both property owners’ demands and travelers’ expectations for unique and differentiated stay experiences.

A chill place to stay

RedDoorz launched its brand of SANS Hotels in 2020 during the pandemic, a trendy, economy lifestyle hotel brand as part of its multi-brand expansion strategy. 

SANS, a name derived from the Indonesian word “santai” which roughly translates to “chill”, aims to provide a vibrant and cosy stay experience at a low cost. 

Properties under the SANS feature trendy furnishings and amenities, and are intended for consumers who value stylish comfort and modern design without having to pay a hefty price. 

Since its launch, SANS has already recorded over 1.3 million stayed nights across 35 cities.

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American Cruise Lines adds fifth itinerary to its Extended Cruises Collection

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American Cruise Lines recently added a fifth new itinerary to their 2026 collection of Extended Cruises commemorating the 250th founding anniversary of the United States. 

Next year, from 8th October to 8th November, American’s 32-Day Revolutionary War Cruise will operate between Albany, NY and Washington DC. 

Featuring Revolutionary War experts on board, this patriotic adventure will tell the story of America’s fight for independence as guests sail the Hudson River and sections of the East Coast during the region’s peak fall foliage season. 

Throughout the cruise, American’s small ships will dock directly in the heart of famous destinations like New York City, Boston, Annapolis, Yorktown, Sleepy Hollow, Newport, Plymouth, and Philadelphia.

This Extended Cruise itinerary also offers guests the unique opportunity to sail aboard all three of the newest cruise ships in the country: American Legend, which launched in October 2024; American Patriot, which began sailing in June 2025; and sister ship, American Pioneer, which launches in October 2025.

Daily enrichment and guided shore excursions will uncover famous destinations like West Point, Mount Vernon, Hyde Park, and the nation’s historic triangle, Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, pivotal places that defined the birth of the nation yet remain even more vibrant today. 

The itinerary also includes a stay at the Four Seasons in Washington, D.C., as well as a special visit to the Smithsonian’s Entertainment Nation exhibit which American Cruise Lines proudly sponsors.

Other available adventures

American’s other Extended Cruises for 2026 were previously announced at Seatrade in April and they include: a 52-Day Great United States Cruise (from Portland, OR to Boston, MA); a 51-Day Spring Across America Cruise (from Charleston, S.C. to Juneau, AK); a 55-Day Great American Fall Foliage Cruise (from Juneau, AK to Washington, D.C.); and a 36-Day Civil War Battlefields Cruise (from New Orleans, LA to Gettysburg, PA). 

All American’s 2026 Extended Cruises include a dedicated Cruise Concierge; all flights and hotels between cruise segments; daily excursions and entertainment; all cuisine and beverages on board, including alcohol; as well as Tips and Gratuities, Port Charges and Fees, and WiFi.

Reservations for the Extended Cruise adventures are open to book now. 

Pricing is dependent on itinerary and stateroom selection. 

The price per person for the 32-Day Revolutionary War Cruise starts at $30,105 per person; a deposit of $5,000 per person is due upon reservation.

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Angeles Yugdar is Virtuoso’s new general manager for Latin America and the Caribbean

The post Angeles Yugdar is Virtuoso’s new general manager for Latin America and the Caribbean appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global luxury and experiential travel network Virtuoso announced the appointment of Angeles Yugdar as its new general manager in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

A seasoned industry leader with more than 25 years of experience in the global luxury travel space, Yugdar steps into the role following Bea Sajon’s transition to general manager for Continental Europe.

Yugdar will lead the business strategy across the region, including member and partner growth and engagement. 

She will be based in Buenos Aires, Argentina and officially joins Virtuoso on Wednesday, 6th August.

Virtuoso senior vice-president for global operations Michael Londregan said of this newest appointment: “Latin America was Virtuoso’s first international market and continues to be a strategic priority for our global network. Angeles brings a wealth of experience to a region that is as diverse as it is dynamic. We look forward to supporting her leadership as she builds on the strength of our exceptional team in-market and joins our roster of nine general managers around the globe.”

Yugdar’s appointment reinforces Virtuoso’s presence of over two decades in Latin America, where the network includes more than 105 member agency locations across 16 countries. 

She will leverage her extensive experience in the region to manage teams in São Paulo, Buenos Aires and Mexico City.

Meet Angeles Yugdar

Yugdar’s career highlights include executive leadership at HRG Latin America, where she led marketing, branding and business development strategies, as well as serving as senior vice president of international markets at Travel Leaders Group. 

Most recently, she oversaw global expansion at Spotnana, a next-generation travel platform offering air, hotel, rail and auto content.

Her deep knowledge of the Latin American market, coupled with her ability to navigate the complexities of a multi-country region, positions her well for success. 

Indeed, she brings a unique dual perspective to the position, having held senior roles on both the supplier and agency sides of the business. 

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Cruise Traveller’s latest tour package to circumnavigate the UK

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An exclusive, new cruise tour package released by Australian small ship cruise specialist Cruise Traveller  features a complete circumnavigation of Great Britain and a land tour featuring iconic sights right through its heart.

The package likewise offers extensive savings and free hotel stays for bookings made with Cruise Traveller by 31st August.

Cruise Traveller managing director Joe O’Sullivan said of this latest offering: “What better way to discover the storied treasures of the British Isles than to journey right around them on a boutique ship and then to travel inland right through the heart of Britain? This very special package from Cruise Traveller offers all of Great Britain in one, value-filled holiday package.” 

In a nutshell, the tour package comes with the following inclusions:

  • 23-night package from 25 May 2026;
  • One free-night in a London hotel pre-cruise and one free night post-cruise;
  • 11-night, round-trip voyage from Southampton around Great Britain aboard Oceania Insignia;
  • Cruise includes free specialty dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, onboard gratuities, and a bonus beverage package for lunch and dinner; and
  • 10-night small-group land tour from London to Edinburgh including 15 meals.     

The 23-night package is available from A$13,995 per person, twin-share, in an Interior Stateroom, saving up to A$3870 per person. 

In an Oceanview Stateroom, fares are from A$14,780 per person, twin-share, delivering savings of up to A$2100 per person.  

Experience the UK by sea

As stated above, Cruise Traveller’s new 23-night ‘Great British Isles and Scotland’ package begins in England on 25th May 2026, with a free night in a London hotel followed by an 11-night voyage from Southampton that circles Great Britian aboard the sleek and stylish Oceania Cruises ship, Oceania Insignia, which carries 670 guests and boasts The Finest Cuisine at Sea and a refined yet relaxed experience. 

The itinerary brings travellers to Newcastle, UK and Edinburgh in Scotland, the remote Shetland Islands in the far north, the beautiful islands of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, Belfast in Northern Island, and Dublin and Cork in Ireland before returning to London, completing the circle of the British Isles. 

Guests will then spend another free night at a hotel in London before joining a 10-night, small group coach tour returning north, to Edinburgh, but inland this time, featuring the postcard-pretty hamlets of the Cotswolds, the Tudor town of Stratford-Upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was born, and the rugged and ancient landscapes of Wales. 

The tour also takes in the spectacular scenery of Snowdonia National Park, the Beatles home of Liverpool, magnificent Castle Howard where the famous 1980s TV show Brideshead Revisited was filmed near York, the sweeping Lake District, Beatrix Potter’s quaint holiday home on the English moors, and a traditional haggis dinner and bagpipe demonstration over the border in Scotland as the experience ends in Edinburgh.

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Minor Hotels breaks ground for Singapore’s first-ever Avani property

The post Minor Hotels breaks ground for Singapore’s first-ever Avani property appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global hospitality firm Minor Hotels marked yet another milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony of its first Avani property in Singapore. 

Taking place at 24 Peck Seah Street in the vibrant Tanjong Pagar district, the event marked the beginning of construction of the 14-storey lifestyle hotel, set to welcome guests in Q2-2027. 

The project is being developed through a strategic partnership between Minor Hotels, Singapore-based Kajima Development, and Abu Dhabi-based Al Wathba Investment, reinforcing continued international confidence in Singapore’s tourism market.  

A significant location

Located in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, the upcoming 200-key Avani Singapore will offer an elevated urban escape blending the heritage of Singapore’s historic shophouse precinct with Avani’s signature contemporary style. 

Facilities will include a pool deck, AvaniFit gym, vibrant dining concepts and a pedestrian link between Peck Seah and Tras Street. 

The property’s location, less than 200 metres from the Tanjong Pagar MRT Station and 350 metres from Maxwell MRT Station, will provide seamless access to the Downtown Core, Marina Bay and other key districts for both local and international visitors. 

Who’s who

Attended by more than 50 distinguished guests, the ceremony was officiated by key executives and project partners including Minor International’s founder and chairman William E Heinecke, Minor Hotels chief executive and Minor International group CEO Dillip Rajakarier, Al Wathba Investment’s managing director Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Kajima Development chief executive Shuichi Oishi, Kim Hua Construction Pte Ltd managing director Winston Zhu Wenting, and Angelene Chan, chairman of DP Architects. 

Among the guests of honour were Japanese ambassador to Singapore Hiroshi Ishikawa and Thai ambassador to Singapore Ureerat Chareontoh.  

The event began with a welcome address by Heinecke, who highlighted the strategic significance of the project and its role in expanding Avani’s presence in key global cities. 

This was followed by a project overview presented by representatives from the development team, offering insights into the vision behind the new hotel. 

A significant moment

Heinecke declared in his remarks: “Today’s groundbreaking is a proud moment for Minor Hotels as we introduce the Avani brand to Singapore. With our trusted partners Kajima and Al Wathba, we are bringing to life a project that not only reflects our shared commitment to innovation and excellence, but also celebrates the city’s unique blend of culture and modernity.” 

Guests then gathered for the ceremonial turning of the soil, marking the official start of this exciting new chapter for Avani Hotels & Resorts in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.  

Following the ceremony, Al Suwaidi remarked: “We are honoured to be part of this milestone occasion. This groundbreaking marks more than just the start of the construction: it represents a shared vision of creating a distinctive hospitality experience that embodies the spirit of Singapore and the strength of our collaboration.” 

Kajima Development’s Oishi added in a post-event statement: “This groundbreaking reflects our continued commitment to Singapore and our confidence in the long-term growth of its hospitality scene. Together with our partners, we are proud to embark on a project that contributes to the city’s future as a world-class destination.” 

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Shane Morley returns to Crystal Symphony as cruise director

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Experience-driven cruise line Crystal just announced the return of Shane Morley as cruise director aboard Crystal Symphony.

Morley’s appointment formally takes effect on Saturday, 8th August, in time for the vessel’s departure from Piraeus.

This marks a homecoming for the seasoned entertainment leader, who spent nearly 16 years with the brand before pursuing opportunities ashore.

Crystal’s vice-president for entertainment Keith Cox said of Morely: “Shane embodies the heart and spirit of Crystal. His dedication to creating unforgettable moments and his genuine care for guests and crew make him an extraordinary leader on board. We are pleased to welcome him back as we continue to elevate our entertainment offerings.” 

Morley himself remarked: “Crystal has always felt like home to me. After these wonderful years on land, I realized something was missing, and that something was Crystal. It’s where my passion for entertainment and guest experience found its true stage. No other place I’ve worked offers the same blend of luxury, connection and purpose. It feels good to be coming home.” 

Morley joins Vicki Van Tassel in rotation as cruise director aboard Crystal Symphony, while Russ Grieve and Raphael Derkson serve in rotation aboard Crystal Serenity.

Meet Shane Morely

Originally from Perth, Australia, Morley spent the past four years managing Swings & Roundabouts winery in the Margaret River region of Western Australia. 

Morley began his journey with Crystal in 2004 as a singer and dancer, progressing to line captain, world cruise coordinator, and assistant cruise director prior to being appointed cruise director in 2011.

His initial tenure was shaped by mentorship under industry legends and by leading countless guest programs that elevated Crystal’s reputation for award-winning entertainment.

He now returns to Crystal with a renewed passion for guest engagement and hospitality excellence.

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Allen Howden takes the helm at The Westin Yokohama

The post Allen Howden takes the helm at The Westin Yokohama appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Westin Yokohama, a next-generation lifestyle hotel focused on wellness, announced the appointment of Allen Howden as its new general manager.

Howden formally stepped into the role last 22nd July.

A citizen of the United Kingdom, Howden is widely respected across the industry for his authenticity, visionary approach, and unwavering commitment to exceptional hospitality.

He said of his recent appointment: “I look forward to working with an amazing team where we will build a culture of excellence, where we empower and care for our associates as the foundation of outstanding guest experiences. We will be dedicated to delivering warm, personalized service that exceeds expectations, creating unforgettable stays for every guest. By fostering a positive, inclusive work environment and a relentless focus on quality, we will strengthen our reputation and proudly solidify our place as Yokohama’s leading five-star hotel.”

Meet Allen Howden

With more than 25 years of international hospitality experience spanning Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America, Howden brings a global perspective and proven leadership to his new role. 

A seasoned member of the Marriott International family, he has held senior commercial positions at leading properties including W Bangkok, Swissôtel in London and Bangkok, and The Cadogan in London.

Most recently, he served as the general manager at The St. Regis Singapore where he oversaw record-breaking achievements in guest satisfaction, associate engagement, and financial performance. 

Under his leadership, the hotel received the prestigious Travel + Leisure “General Manager of the Year” award for two consecutive years in 2023 and 2024.

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Virtuoso Travel Week slated for this month in Las Vegas

The post Virtuoso Travel Week slated for this month in Las Vegas appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Luxury travel’s most iconic event returns to Las Vegas this month with the 37th run of the annual Virtuoso Travel Week.

Scheduled for 9th to 15th August, the Virtuoso signature event has long been referred to as the Fashion Week of Travel and will be staged in four venues: the Bellagio Resort & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and Vdara Hotel & Spa.

The week-long event will bring together thousands of the industry’s most influential agencies, advisors and travel companies from over 105 countries. 

The annual gathering also promises to generate excitement across the industry, spotlighting high-profile speakers, world-class entertainment, impactful development opportunities and meaningful insights. 

As the leading global network for luxury and experiential travel, Virtuoso continues to shape the future of high-end travel, cementing its expanding influence on a worldwide stage.

A focus on human connection

Known in the industry as a space to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships and determine what’s new and next, Virtuoso Travel Week focuses on enhancing human connection in the network, building relationships that enhance the traveller experience, and in turn, increase sales. 

Virtuoso revitalises the event format annually based on attendee feedback, and this year, it offers over 40 percent more matched appointments between advisors and preferred partners. 

Matched appointments allow attendees to submit preferences for the individuals they wish to meet, and they are then matched via a proprietary system to ensure curated, productive networking sessions. 

Another option is assigned appointments for those who prefer a more turnkey experience, where a full schedule of appointments is curated by Virtuoso, providing an opportunity to connect with individuals they may not otherwise meet. 

Lastly, self-selected appointments remain, ultimately giving attendees the ability to further tailor their networking schedule.

What’s new for 2025?

Two new activations are set to be introduced to the Virtuoso Travel Week campus, as well: Themed Connects and Mindfulness Rooms. 

Themed Connects offer three interactive networking sessions focused on unique niches including new-to-Virtuoso partners, LGBTQ+ travel and luxury golf. 

The goal is to give members a space to connect with a diverse range of Virtuoso preferred partners that specialise in these specific categories. 

Meanwhile, Mindfulness Rooms are designated spaces at both Bellagio and Aria that are designed to promote relaxation, emotional wellbeing and mental clarity during the stimulating week.

Returning favourites

Perennial guest favourites Community Globetrotting and Braindate will both return to this year’s event. 

Globetrotting spotlights the Virtuoso Communities from cruise, adventure, family, culinary, sustainability wellness, to ultra-luxe travel between 9th and 10th August.

Likewise, it provides Virtuoso members and partners with structured time to discover new product offerings in an immersive environment and has proven its success in engaging participants and driving sales. 

Braindate, on the other hand, offers one-on-one or small-group conversations on topics posted by attendees before and during the event. 

This platform allows participants to brainstorm, tackle challenges and gain insights with like-minded individuals. 

To be held daily from 11th to 14th August, Braindate fosters deeper connections through purposeful discussions, offering valuable knowledge that goes above and beyond event programming.

A full slate for the 37th edition

As always, Virtuoso Travel Week will begin with an inspiring Opening Session, where attendees will hear from this year’s guest speaker Will Guidara, former co-owner of the renowned Eleven Madison Park, which acquired three Michelin stars under his leadership philosophy of “unreasonable hospitality.” 

His best-selling book of the same name, Unreasonable Hospitality, explores how the pursuit of human connection can give people an experience they’ll remember forever. 

Additional noteworthy guests include award-winning actor, musician and writer Joel Jackson, who will serve as master of ceremonies for Virtuoso Week’s closing Awards Gala, plus entertainment from Hamilton’s Tony and Grammy-award-winning performer Leslie Odom Jnr.

Another highlight of Virtuoso Travel Week is the Travel Tech Summit, a one-of-a-kind event focused on utilising smart technology to elevate and enhance human connection, rather than replace it. 

Led by tech entrepreneur, investor and Virtuoso board member, Gilad Berenstein, the fourth annual Summit will address key trends and focus on developments in travel technology within the Virtuoso network. 

Due to high demand, Virtuoso has almost doubled the capacity of this year’s Tech Summit and is expecting 500 attendees.

An Editor’s Lounge will allow attendees to meet with the team behind the network’s award-winning Virtuoso, The Magazine, while the event’s dedicated press program will see attendance by more than 60 journalists from nine countries around the globe. 

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“The biggest challenge today is managing the pace of change”: Emilie Groleau

The post “The biggest challenge today is managing the pace of change”: Emilie Groleau appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Emilie Groleau, Director APAC, AVIAREPS Group; General Manager, AVIAREPS Australia & New Zealand

The world is constantly changing, whether it’s fluctuating market demand, evolving traveller behaviour, or the rapid integration of AI and digital technologies. Another key challenge is talent: finding, training, and retaining globally-minded professionals with local expertise. Emilie Groleau feels that the only way forward is with collaboration.

In an interview with Travel Daily Media (TDM), Emilie Groleau, Director APAC, AVIAREPS Group; General Manager, AVIAREPS Australia & New Zealand shares more about AVIAREPS, tourism trends in mid-2025 moving into 2026 and her journey of passion, resilience, curiosity, and constant growth in the tourism field.

Travel Daily Media (TDM): AVIAREPS today has become the global GSA leader. From legacy carriers to start-ups, they have over 120 airline clients and a global network of local experts. Can you tell us about this growth story in Australasia/APAC?
Emilie Groleau (EG): Absolutely. AVIAREPS has long been recognised for its deep local expertise combined with global scale, and nowhere is that more evident than in the Asia-Pacific region. Over the past two decades, we’ve strategically expanded our footprint across Australasia and the broader APAC markets. We started our growth in APAC in 2006 and today proudly run 20 offices across 19 countries in the region. Our ability to offer tailored market solutions, backed by data and decades of relationships, has helped our partners successfully enter and grow in complex markets such as Australia, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia – not only legacy carriers and new airlines but also destinations, hotels, DMCs and F&B brands. Today, APAC is one of the most dynamic growth regions for AVIAREPS globally – and our journey is just getting started.

TDM: As the Director of AVIAREPS Australasia you have recently established operations in the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Hong Kong for Etihad Airways. Can you tell us a little bit more about that?
EG: This has been one of the most exciting recent chapters for us. Etihad has already been a trusted partners of ours in the Baltic and Nordics European countries, where we represent the carrier since 2009. Recently Etihad expanded the partnership with us to Eastern Europe as well as to Asia. In close collaboration with the airline, we successfully launched dedicated sales, marketing, and representation operations in four high-potential APAC markets – the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Hong Kong – ahead of their new route launches to Abu Dhabi. We moved quickly to build expert teams on the ground, established local infrastructure, and engaged key trade and corporate stakeholders. This agile rollout has not only supported Etihad’s regional ambitions but also proven how AVIAREPS can deliver strategic impact fast in new and complex markets.

TDM: AVIAREPS claims to be the global leader in destination marketing. Which are the National Tourist Boards, States, regions and cities that you are working with in Australasia/APAC?
EG: Destination marketing is at the heart of what we do. In the APAC region, we are proud to represent a diverse portfolio of tourism clients – from national tourism organisations such as the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Dubai Tourism, and Brand USA, to regional and city-level boards like San Diego Tourism Authority and Ontario. Our work ranges from trade development and media relations to B2C campaign execution and influencer marketing. Each campaign and project is uniquely tailored to the market, and always focused on measurable impact.

TDM: What are the main challenges in International Development and Management today and what is the way forward?
EG: The biggest challenge today is managing the pace of change – whether it’s fluctuating market demand, evolving traveller behaviour, or the rapid integration of AI and digital technologies. Another key challenge is talent: finding, training, and retaining globally-minded professionals with local expertise. The way forward is collaboration. At AVIAREPS, we focus on being agile, data-informed, and hyper-local in approach – while maintaining a global perspective. A recent example of this is the opening of our Etihad office in the Philippines: From being appointed by the client to having an up and running local office, it took us not more than four weeks. We are proud of our agile and flexible teams, which are the key to our success and help us turn our clients’ visions into reality. For our partners, success means not just entering a market, but truly understanding and resonating with its people.

TDM: AVIAREPS is experienced in conducting primary and secondary market research. Can you share with us the top five travel and tourism trends in mid-2025 moving into 2026?
EG: Certainly. Based on our research and market monitoring, the top five trends we’re seeing are:

  • The rise of conscious travel– Travellers are prioritising sustainability, ethical tourism, and authentic experiences.
  • Boom in secondary cities– Less crowded, more immersive destinations are on the rise, especially in Asia and Europe.
  • Workations & Bleisure Travel– the line between business and leisure continues to blur.
  • AI-enhanced & on-the-go trip planning– Consumers are adopting AI tools to research, plan, and customise travel, and digitalization is revolutionizing the travel experience, offering easier, quicker booking options right from our phones and on the go.
  • Premium economy and ‘affordable luxury’– Value-conscious travellers are still seeking quality but are making more informed choices.

TDM: How well has AVIAREPS Australasia/APAC done till mid-2025? What remain your targets for 2026?
EG: Midway through 2025, I’m proud to say we’ve exceeded several strategic targets — especially in terms of market expansion, client acquisition, and revenue growth. We’ve launched new operations in key emerging markets, won major new airline and tourism accounts, and strengthened our B2B engagement across the region. For 2026, our focus is two-fold: deepening our presence in Southeast Asia and South Asia, and expanding our digital service offering to futureproof our value to clients. We are also focusing on increasing our presence across the Cruising and the Air Cargo industries and have recently appointed a Global Head of Cargo as well as a Global Head of Cruise to grow both business fields and offer an even more comprehensive service portfolio to our clients. Internally, we are also prioritising leadership development and succession planning across our APAC offices.

TDM: What has your journey been like in the tourism field? As a successful woman in this field, what wisdom would you like to share with young girls aspiring to be in your shoes?
EG: My journey in tourism & aviation has been one of passion, resilience, curiosity, and constant growth. It’s an industry that connects people, cultures, and possibilities — and I’ve been fortunate to work across continents, build teams from the ground up, and contribute to shaping brands in meaningful ways. To young women aspiring to enter this field: be fearless in your ambition, stay curious, and build your voice. Leadership is not about knowing everything (and I don’t!) — it’s about listening, adapting, and empowering those around you. And know that imposter syndrome is real — and common. Surround yourself with mentors, learn continuously, and remind yourself that you belong in the room — because you do. Confidence comes not from perfection, but from showing up consistently and doing the work.

 

 

 

 

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Dusit International expands its portfolio in Saudi Arabia

The post Dusit International expands its portfolio in Saudi Arabia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Thai hotel and property development firm Dusit International formally signed a hotel management agreement with the Al Ghadeer Group of Companies to operate dusitD2 Al Ahsa.

This latest addition to Dusit’s global portfolio is a higher upscale resort in the heart of Al Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.

The signing ceremony held under the esteemed patronage of Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr Al Saud, governor of Al Ahsa was attended by several notable dignitaries.

These included Tourism Development Fund chief business officer Naif Al Madi, Al Ghadeer Group chairman Sheikh Bassem Al Ghadeer, and Dusit International’s chief operating officer Gilles Cretallaz.

Cretallaz said of the signing: “This important signing reflects our strategic commitment to bringing Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to key destinations worldwide and our dedication to delivering sustainable value for the communities we serve. We are delighted to partner with Al Ghadeer Group to create a destination that celebrates Al Ahsa’s rich heritage and natural beauty while offering exceptional comfort, modern luxury, responsible design, and memorable experiences for guests of all ages.”

Inspired design in a unique location

Set to open in 2027, dusitD2 Al Ahsa underscores Dusit International’s continued expansion in the Middle East, where the company currently operates nine properties and continues to explore opportunities to deliver holistic hospitality experiences across the region. 

It is the second Dusit-branded property confirmed for Saudi Arabia, following the upcoming opening of Dusit Princess Al Majma’ah, Riyadh, scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year.

Located just 30 minutes by car from Al Ahsa International Airport and 90 minutes from Dammam, dusitD2 Al Ahsa is set amidst palm-fringed landscapes and dramatic mountain vistas. 

The resort will offer 120 spacious suites, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom configurations, each with a private terrace and plunge pool, providing an elevated sense of privacy and relaxation.

Designed by Cairo-based El Ghoneimi Architects, the resort’s masterplan draws inspiration from the desert’s timeless beauty, the nearby mountains, and the life-giving symbolism of the palm tree, more than 2.5 million of which thrive in Al Ahsa Oasis. 

Organic architectural forms, natural textures, and bespoke interiors that blend cultural authenticity with refined comfort will create a tranquil retreat rooted in local identity.

Thai hospitality in the heart of Arabia

Guests will enjoy a comprehensive range of premium facilities, including a wellness centre with private treatment rooms, meditation areas, and dedicated spaces for yoga and holistic healing.

For events, the hotel will offer an elegant 1,500 sq m ballroom and expansive outdoor event lawn for weddings and large social or corporate gatherings, as well as well-equipped meeting rooms for business travellers.

When it comes to dining, guests are spoilt for choice between a vibrant all-day dining restaurant and a lobby café offering light gourmet fare.

Likewise, a large outdoor swimming pool with an adjoining kids’ pool; and a dedicated kids club are all set to provide engaging activities in a safe and stimulating environment.

Surrounded by cultural and ecological treasures such as Al Qarah Mountain, Juatha Park, and the historic Qaisariah Souq, the resort is ideally positioned to serve as a gateway for domestic and international travellers seeking meaningful experiences and immersive stays amid the largest oasis in the world.

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Source: traveldailymedia