The post StarCruises offers six new 2-night weekend cruises aboard Star Voyager appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

StarCruises announced the launch of six exclusive 2 Night Weekend Cruises, departing Fridays aboard the Star Voyager today, 29th July.

These new voyages offer  travellers a brand-new way to explore the coastal beauty of Xiamen over the weekend. 

These limited-time voyages will complement the popular Weekend Sea-cation High Seas Cruises and are set to become the highlight of this fall’s short-getaway options from Hong Kong. 

Weekend escapes

Departing from the conveniently located Ocean Terminal in the heart of Hong Kong, guests  can set sail on Friday evening at 8:00 PM on one of six special departures: 19th and 26th  September; 3rd, 17th, and 31st October; and 14th November. 

Guests will return on Sunday at  2:00 PM, feeling rejuvenated and ready to start the workweek refreshed. 

These will replace the previously announced Weekend High Seas Cruises scheduled for the selected dates.  

Short but exquisite getaways

StarDream Cruises president Michael Goh said of the new offering: “We’re thrilled to introduce these exclusive weekend Xiamen cruises that give guests the  chance to unwind and discover Xiamen without taking extra days off work, turning an ordinary  weekend into something truly special. The Star Voyager’s Hong Kong to Xiamen itinerary is designed to combine convenience, comfort and adventure – perfect for anyone looking to make the most of their weekends this fall. With only six departures, this exclusive journey offers something fresh, flexible and  unforgettable.” 

Likewise, this exclusive cruise experience offers the perfect blend of relaxation at sea and cultural  exploration ashore. 

After an overnight sailing, guests will arrive in Xiamen, one of China’s  most charming coastal cities.

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand introduces its Thailand Green Tourism Collections appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officially launched the Thailand Green Tourism Collections, a flagship initiative under the Thailand Green Tourism for Sustainability programme.

This project features 20 sustainable travel routes across ten designated Green Cities; as such, this unique campaign advances Thailand’s commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Tourism Goals and The New Thailand Vision 2026.

Developed in collaboration with tour operators from the European Union (EU) and Thai public-private partners, the initiative signals Thailand’s readiness to meet the EU’s evolving sustainability regulations. 

These include the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which will require EU companies to partner only with suppliers that demonstrate transparent, measurable sustainability performance. 

The Collections are designed not only to meet these expectations but to give Thai operators a strategic edge in an increasingly competitive global travel market.

According to TAT deputy governor for marketing in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas Chiravadee Khunsub: “We developed the Thailand Green Tourism Collections in direct response to shifts in the EU market. It brings together certified, credible operators across the tourism supply chain, empowering Thai businesses to stay globally competitive and build long-term partnerships with the world’s most forward-looking travel sectors.”

Seven primary categories

The Collections are built on seven categories of Sustainable Experiences: Green Accommodations, Attractions, Activities, Restaurants, Goods, Logistics, and Tour Operators. 

Each featured operator meets international benchmarks, such as certification from Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Green Globe, and Green Destinations, or national recognition through the Thailand Tourism Awards, TAT’s STGs STAR, and CF-Hotels.

The Green Cities, namely Chiang Mai, Nan, Sukhothai, Loei, Nakhon Ratchasima, Bangkok, Trat, Krabi, Phang-Nga, and Surat Thani, were selected based on input from 26 travel platforms and tour companies, including EU-based, regional, and global partners recognised for their sustainability expertise and market insight. 

These destinations were identified for their potential to deliver low-impact, inclusive tourism experiences. 

The 20 curated routes within them are designed around TAT’s “5 Must Do in Thailand” strategy” cultural heritage, local cuisine, soft adventure, sustainable luxury, crafts, and immersive community-based travel.

Pushing for local engagement

To drive local engagement, TAT also launched the Green Mayor initiative in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Krabi. 

This programme embeds sustainability at the municipal level through route design, community participation, and destination branding.

Natthapong Meepokakij, director of Chom Thong District in Bangkok and one of the programme’s early champions, said: “As Green Mayor, I see this as a real opportunity to improve quality of life in a balanced and sustainable way. Chom Thong’s cultural roots, canal-side lifestyle, and strong community offer the perfect foundation for a tourism model that protects the environment, celebrates heritage, and brings income back to local people.”

The official launch event at Phumjai Garden brought the concept to life, featuring a panel discussion with the Green Mayors and an experiential journey along one of Bangkok’s featured routes. 

Guests explored Bang Khun Thian canal by electric boat, toured a century-old orchard, visited the Khlong Bang Luang Artist House, and experienced sustainable farming in action at Uncle Ree’s Farm.

To build international momentum, a series of global-facing activities are now underway. These include online product presentations for TAT’s overseas offices and strategic partners, product showcases, as well as familiarisation trips for agents and media. 

Targeted promotions will follow across the EU and US, in collaboration with trade allies. They will be amplified through key opinion leaders (KOLs), including influencers, bloggers, and nano-creators on social media platforms.

The Thailand Green Tourism Collections will be officially introduced to global buyers at WTM London 2025, marking a major milestone in Thailand’s transition toward a sustainability-led tourism future.

Khunsub concluded by saying: “Green tourism is not just a concept: it’s a national commitment. Through cross-sector collaboration, we’re not only making sustainability a reality, but we’re also making it scalable. Our goal is clear: to lead the world as a top-tier sustainable tourism destination.”

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The post Four Seasons Hotel Singapore gets sporty with its Summer Smash appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This summer, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore sets the pace for a sporty season with its first-ever Summer Smash.

The event is a two-day padel and pickleball tournament set to take place on 30th and 31st August at the Four Seasons’ new outdoor padel and pickleball courts. 

Designed to unite racquet sports enthusiasts in an elegant setting, participants can look forward to spirited competition and community, all complemented by the world-class service and hospitality that Four Seasons is known for.

According to hotel general manager Peter Draminsky: “Summer Smash heralds a new chapter at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, reflecting the rapidly growing popularity of padel and pickleball among the millennial generation. Our outdoor courts embody our aspiration to be the premier destination for discerning racquet sports enthusiasts seeking both exhilarating competition and sophisticated hospitality. More than just a tournament, this event celebrates community and reflects Four Seasons’ commitment to inspiring guests to be their best selves by cultivating a wellness sanctuary where athleticism, tranquillity, and meaningful connection come together in perfect harmony.”

Summer Smash in the works

The event kicks off on 30th August with the opening matches and round-robin play, while 31st August brings on the semi-final and final rounds for the event.

Matches will be led by Ken Smith, owner and director of 40XV, a former ATP and US collegiate player with nearly two decades of international playing and coaching experience. 

Players will compete in a “Best of 3” sets format, with the third set played as a super tie-break. 

Those wishing to join need to register in pairs, with eight pairs expected to compete across both padel and pickleball disciplines respectively.

Participation in Summer Smash requires a registration fee of SG$98 nett per person, which includes access to all matches, fringe activities and light refreshments. 

All participants will also receive a complimentary goodie bag valued at approximately SG$200, featuring exclusive Four Seasons Hotel Singapore branded merchandise as well as exclusive products from sponsors such as Jääde’s, Clé de Peau Beauté, SUPERnatural+, and local active wear brand Anya Active.

Participants will compete to win a series of prizes, including a two-night stay with breakfast for two at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, a two-night stay with breakfast for two at Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta, weekend brunch for two at the award-winning Jiang-Nan Chun, and more.

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The post Jim Thompson brings a taste of adventure to afternoon tea at The OSS Room appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This season, The OSS Room unveils an exciting new chapter in its afternoon tea offering, reimagining its signature sets through the lens of Jim Thompson’s adventurous life. 

The Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience and Jim’s Pinto sets invite guests on a spirited culinary journey that blends Thai heritage with international flair.

While the names of the afternoon tea sets remain unchanged, the menus have been updated to capture the essence of exploration, and both sets are served with a curated selection of teas.

What’s in the box, Jim?

The Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience begins with a curated selection of savoury creations. 

Blue swimmer crab is paired with creamy Thai chili paste mayo in the Crab & Chili Bliss open sandwich, while slow-cooked Thai Kurobuta pork is layered with a sweet and aromatic spice blend inside a brioche to form the Pulled Pork Harmony Sandwiches. 

The Chicken Satay Ball reimagines the Thai street food favorite as a golden-fried croquette, served with a traditional cucumber and chili relish. 

Miang Khum Pla Yarng rounds out the savoury section with grilled fish of the day on betel leaves topped with a tangy herbal dressing and cashew nuts.

On the sweet side, the menu features the Mulberry Fig Muffin with clotted cream and Jim Thompson mulberry jam, followed by the Cashew Nut Financier that delivers a rich, buttery bite with a subtle nutty sweetness. 

The Lychee Blossom Cake, pays tribute to one of Thailand’s most beloved fruits, while the Zesty Lime Meringue Tart adds a refreshing note with its tangy filling. 

The Mung Bean Dumpling Delight, Pa Ka Krong, brings a traditional touch, and The O.S.S. Macaron ties it all together with a bold Thai bitter lime filling inside a classic French shell.

Guests may also opt for Jim’s Pinto, a playful, tiffin-inspired set that offers a rotating assortment of light bites and sweets, each layer telling its own delicious story. 

This set celebrates Thai-style presentation and culinary nostalgia while remaining refreshingly modern.

Both afternoon tea sets are perfectly complemented by over 20 exceptional tea selections from Thailand and around the world. 

The highlight is the Jim Thompson Exclusive Blend, a distinctive Thai green tea artfully combined with mulberry leaves, lychee, and floral notes, offering a refreshing experience that perfectly accompanies the culinary journey.

An exquisite setting for an exceptional experience

Known for its unique setting and storytelling approach, The OSS Room offers more than just an afternoon tea: it’s a cultural experience steeped in history, mystery, and unmistakable Thai charm. 

With interiors that nod to espionage-era elegance and service that reflects warm Thai hospitality, it sets the stage for a culinary journey filled with surprises.

The elegant and atmospheric surroundings of The OSS Room are a space that echoes Jim Thompson’s legacy of intrigue and cross-cultural connection and here, the updated afternoon tea menus are a must. 

Rich in flavour, rooted in tradition, and shaped by imagination, this is afternoon tea redefined.

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The post The Shilla Hotels & Resorts raises the bar for luxury hospitality in South Korea appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Shilla Hotels & Resorts reported how a new wave of luxury travel to Korea is seeing strong momentum among Chinese-speaking tourists in 2025.

This resulted in a sharp rise in demand for high-end accommodations, fine dining, and culturally immersive experiences. 

According to officials from The Shilla H&R, visitors from Greater China, spanning Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, are increasingly opting for premium stays that reflect a deeper interest in Korea’s luxury-driven wellness and lifestyle.

Introducing the K-Luxperience

In light of this shift, the term K-Luxperience has emerged to describe a distinctive pattern of travel behavior, where luxury is not only desired emotionally but actively pursued through spending choices. 

From luxury hotels and Michelin-starred dining to personalized spa and beauty treatments, travelers from Greater China are showing a clear preference for experiences that are refined, curated, and unmistakably Korean. 

The concept blends “luxury,” and “experience” in Korea, capturing both the emotional richness and tangible quality that define the new era of high-end travel.

How it looks online

This shift in traveler behavior is mirrored in digital activity, as data from leading platforms including Baidu, RED, and Douyin indicates that mainland China travelers are increasingly drawn not only to the Korea-related travel content but also to more refined, experience-based premium travel in Korea. 

In Q1-2025, year-on-year content volume related to five-star and luxury hotels rose by 21 percent, while interest in Korea’s Michelin culinary experiences and restaurants surged by 37 percent. 

Cultural performance-related content also climbed by 56 percent, with medical aesthetics and premium facial treatments seeing notable increases of 54 percent and 25 percent, respectively, signaling deeper interest in indulgent, high-touch experiences beyond just where to stay.

Paradigm shift

Driving this growth were users in their 20s to 40s from Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, indicating a generational shift toward high-end travel that blends indulgence with identity. 

For this emerging cohort of travelers, luxury is no longer defined solely by price or prestige; it is reflected in how emotionally engaging and culturally rich each aspect of their journey feels, from accommodations and dining to wellness and beauty. 

These are the very qualities at the heart of what The Shilla Hotels & Resorts defines as K-Luxperience.

According to The Shilla H&R head of marketing communications Jooyoung Lee: “The concept of K-Luxperience is emerging as a defining keyword among travelers from Greater China visiting Korea. Rather than simply seeking one-dimensional pleasures, today’s travelers are pursuing elevated, multifaceted experiences that touch every aspect of their journey.”

She added that, to cater to these evolving preferences, The Shilla Seoul offers a series of emotionally resonant experiences tied to personal milestones. 

The Everlasting Moment package includes a romantic suite stay with floral in-room décor, champagne, and private in-room dining. 

The An Enchanting Memory experience features a curated French tasting menu with wine pairings at a candlelit table, designed exclusively for proposals. 

For weddings, the Dynasty Hall provides a refined setting for up to 600 guests, blending scale with elegance. 

Lee remarked: “At Shilla, we recognise this shift and are committed to expanding our offerings to meet the evolving expectations of our guests by delivering high-end moments that are thoughtful, culturally immersive, and distinctively Korean.”

Shifting preferences

Reflecting this momentum, The Shilla H&R has observed tangible shifts in guest behavior. In the accommodations category, premium room usage among Chinese guests rose modestly year-on-year, showing a steady sign of changing booking preferences. 

The proportion of guests spending over KRW 1 million during their stay has also increased, signaling stronger demand for personalized and high-value experiences.

Among them, Taiwanese travelers stood out with a 26.4 percent rise in high-spending behavior, indicating a growing appetite for investment in luxury experiences they find emotionally meaningful and culturally enriching. 

This signals a deeper shift toward intentional luxury, where value is measured not just in price, but in personal resonance and authenticity.

Seeking the taste of luxury

This growing appetite for intentional luxury is also evident in the food and beverage sector. 

At The Shilla Seoul, Chinese guest visits to fine dining restaurants rose by 8.1 percent at La Yeon and surged by 40.6 percent at Palsun, highlighting gastronomy as a core value in the premium travel experience.

Further illustrating this growing affinity, new member sign-ups for the Shilla Rewards program from Greater China rose significantly year-on-year. 

Among Greater China regions, the highest growth in sign-ups came from mainland China, followed by Hong Kong and Taiwan. 

More than just a numerical increase, this surge reflects a rising desire among travelers to return, not merely for a one-off stay, but to build an ongoing, emotionally resonant relationship with Korean hospitality. 

For many, joining Shilla Rewards represents a step toward a lifestyle that values consistency, elegance, and curated meaning.

Among The Shilla H&R’s guests from Greater China, there has been a marked rise in those fully embracing the spirit of K-Luxperience: spending a relaxing day in a luxurious room with a view of Namsan, savoring a tasting menu at the Michelin two-star restaurant La Yeon, receiving treatments at the world-exclusive Clé de Peau Beauté spa, or enjoying a sip of whiskey at the private whiskey boutique and lounge, The Distillers Library. 

What were once seen as rare indulgences have become part of a growing pattern of emotionally resonant, high-end travel choices among Chinese-speaking visitors.

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The post Thai MICE sector gains momentum in Chiang Rai appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The vision of the northern Thai city of Chiang Rai to become a major MICE destination for the F&B sector took a significant leap forward with its successful hosting of the Global Coffee and Tea Association Forum 2025: Shaping the Future Together from 17th to 20th July. 

Showcasing the city’s MICE potential, this landmark event featured a combination of insightful presentation and discussions, dynamic exhibitions, and immersive site visits. 

The Forum brought together 211 delegates consisting of 165 Thais and 46 overseas participants from 11 territories, namely Australia, Cambodia, Mainland China, Colombia, Denmark, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Myanmar, Japan, Singapore and Vietnam.

During the forum, participating industry professionals engaged in knowledge exchange, networking, and business development. 

Participants also engaged directly with local plantations, processing facilities, and tasting experiences, brewing substantial opportunities to drive growth across Chiang Rai’s tea and coffee sectors.

Strong support

Building on the momentum of two international Tea and Coffee symposia in 2023 and 2024, the forum was supported by strong multi-institutional collaboration among the Tea and Coffee Institute of Mae Fah Luang University, Singha Park Chiang Rai Co Ltd, and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

According to TCEB acting president Puripan Bunnag, Acting President of TCEB, Chiang Rai has proven its capacity as a secondary city capable of hosting major business events. 

Bunnag declared: “MICE serves as a powerful driver for the local economy. The success of the Global Coffee and Tea Association Forum 2025 not only reinforced the city’s ambition to become a destination for quality tea and coffee on domestic and regional levels but also supported Chiang Rai’s goal of emerging as a center for national and international tea and coffee festival events.”

Fostering dialogue within a global industry

The forum commenced with a convention at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, bringing together experts and entrepreneurs from China, Japan, Indonesia, Myanmar, Singapore, Denmark, Australia, Vietnam, and Thailand. 

Key topics explored a broad spectrum of issues, ranging from prevalent challenges and product innovation to sustainability, carbon footprint, blending and flavouring, and wellness-oriented consumption. 

Sessions were complemented by showcases of product development, processing research, and production solutions.

Following the convention, the Chiang Rai Brewtopia Green Season exhibition at Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park which ran from 18th to 20th July 18 to 20 was inaugurated by Bunnag together with Chiang Rai vice-governor Rutisak Rangsri, and Dr Piyaporn Chueamchaitrakun, head of the Tea and Coffee Institute at Mae Fah Luang University. 

The exhibition featured around 40 coffee and tea entrepreneurs providing overseas delegates with direct access to uniquely blended teas and coffees crafted by ethnic hill tribes, emerging local talents, and artisanal creators. 

Complemented by workshops, business talks, and product showcases, the event highlighted Chiang Rai’s growing influence and innovation within the industry.

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The post Skytrans rebrands into SmartLynx Australia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Australian passenger airline Skytrans, part of the world’s largest Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) provider Avia Solutions Group, will now be known as SmartLynx Australia. 

Earlier this year, the company expanded its fleet with new aircraft types: Dash 8-200 and Airbus A319 aircraft, making the airline ready to expand existing operations and introduce ACMI services. 

Both developments mark a new phase in the company’s integration into the Avia Solutions Group’s growth strategy for the Asia-Pacific region. 

Avia Solutions Group acquired Skytrans in March 2024. 

As an Australian Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holder, the company has helped to solidify the group’s market position and address the challenges of seasonality by providing valuable leverage to counterbalance the reduced seasonal demand in Europe. 

The obtained AOC has brought the total number of air operator certificates held by the group to 12.

Significant changes

With this rebranding, the company will benefit from a new visual identity coherent with that of EU-based SmartLynx Airlines and Thailand-based Thai SmartLynx, which are both parts of Avia Solutions Group.

According to Gytis Gumuliauskas, managing director and CEO of SmartLynx Australia, the move also provides deeper integration with the group, allowing for seamless access to resources and expertise:

Gumuliauskas remarked: “The new brand marks a new stage for the business – one that bridges the quality transportation services Skytrans was known for locally and ACMI, the new line of business that Avia Solutions Group has perfected.”

Jonas Janukenas, CEO of Avia Solutions Group, added that SmartLynx Australia plays an important role in the group’s plans in the region:

He said: “Our global expansion strategy is built around geographic diversification. By establishing operations across different continents and time zones, we create a natural hedge against seasonal fluctuations that affect individual markets. SmartLynx Australia represents a key piece of this puzzle, offering us the opportunity to both optimise our fleet use and serve the growing demand in the Asia-Pacific region.”

Business as usual

Skytrans’ rebranding will not affect its existing services, and all client commitments remain valid.  

The company will continue to provide scheduled air transport and charter services, however, its strategic focus will be on establishing itself as an ACMI provider of both turboprop and narrow-body jet engine aircraft. 

This is in line with the group’s overall goal of becoming a leader in the Asia-Pacific ACMI market.

Taking into account its growing operational needs and long-term expansion goals, SmartLynx Australia is actively increasing the number of aircraft it operates. 

With the new aircraft, SmartLynx Australia will have a fleet of 13 aircraft. 

According to Gumuliauskas: “Our fleet size fluctuates throughout the year based on seasonal demand and operational requirements. However, we plan to expand our total fleet by the end of 2025 to provide greater operational flexibility and enhanced solutions for our clients. In the long term, we are oriented toward ambitious growth, which includes increasing the number of aircraft, expanding the team, and adding new markets and business directions.”

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