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Savills Hotels’ Meet the Experts session reveals trends shaping the Vietnamese hospitality and real estate industries

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Savills Hotels and WeHub successfully hosted the 2025 run of Meet The Experts (MTE), the region’s largest annual real estate and hospitality conference, on 1st October in Hanoi, Vietnam.

The event aims to enhance networking, create collaboration opportunities, and provide valuable insights for developers, hotel owners, operators, and industry professionals.

Throughout the course of this year’s event, experts pointed out several key trends that are driving the growth of Vietnam’s hospitality and real estate sectors.

Savills Hotels senior director in Southeast Asia Mauro Gasparotti remarked at the conference: “Vietnam is gradually establishing itself as one of the preferred destinations for Asian travellers. Tourism and accommodation offerings are becoming increasingly diverse, with the entry of new hotel brands across multiple segments catering to different demand groups.”

Sharing valuable insights

In the real estate-focused sessions, representatives from Savills, Indochina Capital, MIK Group Vietnam, GroupGSA, Club Med, The Ascott Limited, and Kusto Home Vietnam exchanged insights on the essential elements of luxury projects and shared experiences in integrated development.

Speakers also evaluated the outlook of branded residences in Viet Nam, particularly in Ha Noi and HCMC, and emphasised the critical role of branding throughout project development and operations.

The discussion further underlined the importance of sustainability, aiming to deliver holistic experiences in living spaces and service quality.

Representatives from VinaCapital and Savills Hotels were on hand to share macroeconomic perspectives, essentially presenting an overview of Vietnam’s hospitality sector, and key movements in the Branded Residences market.

In addition, senior speakers from The Ascott Limited, Dewan Architects + Engineers, Minor Hotels, and Haskoning discussed emerging models such as experience-led social living concepts, the application of AI in design, and creating value through dining, wellness, and premium experiences.

These experts offered a closer look at opportunities, risks, and global case studies of reclamation projects.

Panellists also noted the growing role of foreign investors in reshaping Vietnam’s real estate and hospitality landscape.

Finally, they emphasised that for the market to grow sustainably, it is vital to build strategic partnerships and enhance the regulatory framework to strengthen investor confidence.

Working to achieve an ambitious goal

Vietnam set itself an ambitious 2025 target of welcoming 25 million international visitors, a 40 percent growth compared to 2024.

Currently, the country continues to actively review and relax visa policies, expand international flight routes, upgrade tourism infrastructure, and strengthen destination marketing, encouraging competitiveness against regional peers.

It should also be noted that Vietnam saw a strong rebound in international arrivals and is among the fastest-growing markets in Southeast Asia.

Previously, the hospitality market faced a risk of oversupply in certain destinations, and from 2015 to 2019, new supply increased by 20 percent CAGR, outpacing many regional markets.

However, post-pandemic, new annual supply growth slowed significantly to only five percent.

These developments prompted Gasparotti to remark: “Future supply will remain concentrated in coastal destinations, with Da Nang and Phu Quoc leading in room count. Hanoi continues to see growth in the upscale and luxury segments, mainly driven by branded international hotels. Meanwhile, HCMC faces a shortage of new projects, creating opportunities for existing hotels, especially in the upper-upscale and international-branded segment, to sustain performance growth.”

Relevant trends seen in 2025

During the panel on Viet Nam’s hospitality market, senior representatives from Accor, BIM Group, Masterise Group, T&T Hospitality, Sun Group, and Radisson Hotel Group discussed hotel operations in Viet Nam, the momentum of different sectors, and future opportunities.

Speakers also pointed out the ongoing rise of integrated mixed-use projects near major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, aimed at sustaining investor interest.

These developments often combine hotels, resorts, convention centres, retail, and leisure facilities to create multifunctional ecosystems that appeal to both international and domestic markets.

In addition to mixed-use projects, the all-inclusive resort model is also gaining momentum.

This particular model’s key advantages include access to large land banks, improved connectivity, and growing traveller demand for “all-in-one” experiences.

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Kaziranga Adventure: A Complete Travel & Wildlife Experience

The post Kaziranga Adventure: A Complete Travel & Wildlife Experience appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, is one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in India. Famous for its population of the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros, this national park is also a sanctuary for tigers, elephants, swamp deer, and an incredible variety of migratory birds. A Kaziranga Adventure is not just about spotting wildlife—it’s about immersing yourself in the lush landscapes, cultural richness of Assam, and the spirit of India’s wilderness.
In this detailed guide, we will walk you through every aspect of planning and experiencing the perfect Kaziranga Adventure, from safari types to accommodation, best times to visit, travel tips, and much more.

The Charm of Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga is spread across the floodplains of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The park’s landscape is a mix of tall elephant grasses, marshes, and dense tropical forests, making it a paradise for wildlife lovers. Established in 1905 as a reserve forest, it later became a national park in 1974 and now spans across 430 sq. km.
The highlight of any Kaziranga Adventure is undoubtedly the one-horned rhinoceros, but that’s just the beginning. The park is home to over 2,400 rhinos, the highest population in the world. Apart from rhinos, visitors can encounter elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, leopards, and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

Safari Options in Kaziranga Adventure
No Kaziranga Adventure is complete without experiencing a safari. The park offers two main types of safaris: Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari, both offering unique perspectives on wildlife exploration.
1. Jeep Safari
Best for: Covering larger areas of the park.

Experience: Jeep safaris let you venture deep into the park’s different zones. You’ll pass through grasslands, riverbanks, and forest areas, increasing your chances of spotting diverse wildlife.

Duration: About 2–3 hours.

Zones Covered: Kohora (Central), Bagori (Western), Agaratoli (Eastern), and Burapahar.

2. Elephant Safari
Best for: Close encounters with rhinos.

Experience: Elephant safaris are conducted early in the morning when the animals are most active. Riding on elephant-back allows you to approach rhinos and other herbivores quietly, without disturbing their natural behavior.

Duration: 1–1.5 hours.

A well-planned Kaziranga Adventure should ideally include both safari options to fully experience the park’s wildlife diversity.

Zones of Kaziranga Adventure
Kaziranga is divided into four main zones, each offering a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Kohora (Central Zone):

Most popular and accessible.

Great for spotting rhinos, swamp deer, and bird species.

Bagori (Western Zone):

Famous for rhino sightings.

Rich elephant grasslands.

Agaratoli (Eastern Zone):

Best for birdwatchers.

Frequent tiger sightings.

Burapahar Zone:

Perfect for trekking and guided walks.

Scenic beauty with hilly terrain.

When planning your Kaziranga Adventure, consider exploring multiple zones to maximize your chances of encountering different animals.

Wildlife Encounters During Kaziranga Adventure
A Kaziranga Adventure guarantees a fascinating list of species. Some of the highlights include:
One-Horned Rhinoceros – The star attraction.

Royal Bengal Tiger – Though elusive, Kaziranga is a designated tiger reserve.

Wild Water Buffalo – Over half the world’s population resides here.

Asiatic Elephant – A common sight during safaris.

Swamp Deer & Hog Deer – Seen grazing in open fields.

Birdlife: Kaziranga is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 450 species including pelicans, hornbills, storks, and migratory birds like bar-headed geese and grey pelicans.

The diversity of fauna ensures that every safari feels like a new chapter in your Kaziranga Adventure.

Cultural Experience in Kaziranga Adventure
A Kaziranga Adventure is not limited to wildlife—it also introduces you to Assam’s vibrant culture.
Local Villages: Visiting nearby Assamese villages gives you a glimpse into the rural lifestyle.

Tea Gardens: Assam is world-famous for its tea, and a guided tour through lush tea estates is an enriching experience.

Traditional Dance & Music: Performances of Bihu, the folk dance of Assam, add a festive touch to your journey.

By combining wildlife with cultural immersion, your Kaziranga Adventure becomes truly holistic.

Best Time to Plan Kaziranga Adventure
The park remains open for visitors from November to April.
November to February (Winter): Cool and pleasant, ideal for safaris.

March to April (Spring): Slightly warmer but excellent for birdwatching.

May to October: Park remains closed due to heavy monsoons and flooding.

For the most rewarding Kaziranga Adventure, plan your trip between December and March, when wildlife sightings are most frequent.

Accommodation for Kaziranga Adventure
Kaziranga offers a wide range of stay options:
Luxury Resorts: For those seeking comfort and luxury amidst wilderness.

Eco Lodges & Jungle Camps: Perfect for an authentic jungle feel.

Budget Hotels & Guesthouses: Affordable stays near the park.

Government Lodges: Run by Assam Tourism, offering basic facilities at prime locations.

Some popular choices include IORA Resort, Wild Grass Lodge, and Diphlu River Lodge. Staying close to the park gates makes your Kaziranga Adventure hassle-free.

Travel Tips for Kaziranga Adventure
To make the most of your journey, here are some essential tips:
Advance Booking: Safaris often sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Book in advance.

Clothing: Wear earthy colors like green, brown, or beige. Avoid bright shades.

Photography: Carry telephoto lenses for wildlife photography.

Guides: Always hire certified guides for safaris—they enrich your experience.

Health & Safety: Carry insect repellents, sunscreen, and water bottles.

A little preparation ensures your Kaziranga Adventure remains smooth and enjoyable.

Responsible Tourism in Kaziranga Adventure
While exploring Kaziranga, it’s important to respect its delicate ecosystem.
Do not litter inside the park.

Maintain silence to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Keep a safe distance from animals.

Avoid plastic bottles and bags.

Support local communities by purchasing handicrafts and using local services.

A responsible Kaziranga Adventure ensures that future generations can also enjoy this natural treasure.

Itinerary Suggestion for a 3-Day Kaziranga Adventure
Day 1:
Arrival in Kaziranga.

Evening cultural program at a local village.

Day 2:
Morning elephant safari at Kohora.

Afternoon jeep safari at Bagori.

Explore tea gardens in the evening.

Day 3:
Morning jeep safari at Agaratoli for birdwatching.

Visit Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park.

Departure.

This short itinerary offers a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and relaxation—ideal for a memorable Kaziranga Adventure.

Why Choose Kaziranga Adventure?
A Kaziranga Adventure is more than just a wildlife trip—it’s a chance to:
Witness the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos.

Explore diverse landscapes shaped by the Brahmaputra River.

Experience Assamese hospitality, cuisine, and culture.

Connect with nature in its purest form.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or casual traveler, Kaziranga offers something for everyone.

Conclusion
Embarking on a Kaziranga Adventure is like stepping into a living wildlife documentary. From the thrill of spotting a rhino grazing in the tall grass to the excitement of a tiger’s distant roar, every moment in Kaziranga leaves an indelible mark. Coupled with Assam’s culture, tea gardens, and warm hospitality, the park offers a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just a safari.
So, if you’re planning your next great escape, let a Kaziranga Adventure be at the top of your list. It’s a journey where the wild meets the cultural, where adventure meets serenity, and where memories are made for a lifetime.

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Akasa Air commences operations from Kozhikode, Kerala  

The post Akasa Air commences operations from Kozhikode, Kerala   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Old ruined sea piers in Calicut Kozhikode beach in Kerala India. Silhouettes of sea piers during the sunset

Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, commenced operations from Kozhikode (Calicut) connecting it with Mumbai with daily direct flights. The maiden flight on 1st October 2025 departed Kozhikode International Airport at 1955hrs and arrived at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai at 2140hrs. The route fortifies Akasa’s presence in Kerala and offers travellers enhanced accessibility to the Malabar region.
Since commencing operations from Kerala in 2022, Akasa Air has progressively scaled its presence in the state. The airline now operates total 28 weekly departures from Kochi and Kozhikode connecting Kerala with four key destinations across India and beyond – Mumbai, Bengaluru, Jeddah, and Abu Dhabi. In just under three years, the airline has expanded its capacity through a combination of new routes and increased frequencies, providing travellers with greater choice and convenience. Kerala continues to be a priority market in Akasa Air’s growth strategy, and the airline remains focussed on strengthening air connectivity to support the state’s travel, tourism, and trade sectors.
At a ceremony held at Kozhikode International Airport to flag off the maiden flight, a ceremonial lamp was lit in the presence of Akasa Air representatives. The occasion was graced by the leadership of Kozhikode International Airport, and a special boarding pass was presented to the first passenger on the inaugural flight by senior government officials along with the Akasa Air team. This expansion complements Akasa Air’s services from Kochi and reinforces the airline’s commitment to serving India’s diverse regions with reliable and affordable air travel.
Flight schedule*:
Flt.
Number
From
Departure
Time
To
Arrival
Time
Operating
Days
Non-stop/
Through
Commenced 1 October 2025 
QP  1701
Mumbai
1735 hrs
Kozhikode
1920hrs
Daily
Non-stop
QP  1702
Kozhikode
1955 hrs
Mumbai
2140hrs
Daily
Non-stop

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Data sharing remains a key barrier to scaling AI in hospitality: Ireckonu

The post Data sharing remains a key barrier to scaling AI in hospitality: Ireckonu appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A new study AI & Automation in Hospitality: Navigating Today’s Challenges, Shaping Tomorrow’s Gains, led by by h2c GmbH and sponsored by Ireckonu along with other industry leaders, reveals that while 78% hotel chains have already adopted AI (but efforts largely remain limited to pilots or public tools), data sharing and integration remain key challenges for scaling its impact. The research shows that most travel organizations still lack the structure and consistency needed to fully support AI initiatives, with 41% of hotels facing barriers to effective data usage, 32% struggling with cross-departmental data sharing, and 29% hampered by departmental data silos.

Furthermore, only 22% of hotel chains have a centralized data structure supporting AI and automation tools, and just 21% use a centralized content or data platform to maintain consistency across departments.

“AI is no longer optional. Hoteliers who fail to embrace it risk being left behind. While most have begun adopting AI, many still struggle to use it effectively. Building a unified data foundation and developing specialized expertise are key to unlock its full potential, enabling personalized guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and driving sustainable revenue growth across their properties.” said Jan Jaap van Roon, CEO of Ireckonu.

This report – which gathers insights from 189 quantitative responses and 26 executive interviews with industry leaders including hotel chain executives and IT vendors across 171 hotel chains, representing over 11,000 properties and 1.3 million rooms worldwide – also highlights:

  1. AI adoption is widespread but tactical: efforts are largely focused on early stages with only 7% of hoteliers having a wider AI strategy. Chatbots are the most common current use (42%), while Customer Data Management leads future plans (50%). Only 1% see AI as central to their business model, showing adoption is still tactical, not strategic.
  2. AI adoption remains early-stage: Most hotel chains are still experimenting with general-purpose tools like ChatGPT or early hospitality-specific platforms. Few have structured, enterprise-wide strategies in place, and only 1% report AI as central to operations.
  3. AI in guest experience is poised for growth: 72% of hotel chains use AI to enhance interactions, and 84% plan to roll out additional applications. Upselling (54%) and personalized booking (49%) are projected to expand most rapidly, while automated guest communications remains the only application with higher current adoption (44%) than planned growth.
  4. Barriers to Scaling AI Persist: The study identifies the main obstacles preventing hotel chains from fully leveraging AI: lack of expertise (62%), unclear strategy (51%), and integration challenges (45%). Notably, insufficient expertise is twice as significant as organizational resistance to change, which affects 31% of chains.

 

 

 

 

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Ayesa and HBX Group launch an AI-powered voice channel

The post Ayesa and HBX Group launch an AI-powered voice channel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

HBX Group  has announced the global launch of an innovative AI-powered voice channel for customer service, in collaboration with Ayesa, a global provider of technology and engineering services and a specialist partner in Artificial Intelligence and user experience. This represents the definitive modernisation of HBX Group’s customer support ecosystem, completing the integration of AI across all key channels: chat, email, helpdesk and now, telephone.

“Our goal is to offer our customers a faster, more intuitive and modern experience, while simplifying management and reducing response times. This improves both team efficiency and customer satisfaction. This launch also marks an important step forward in embedding artificial intelligence into HBX Group’s processes, and demonstrates our commitment to constant innovation, where technology and the expertise of our teams always go hand in hand,” said Xabier Zabala, Chief Operations Officer at HBX Group.“With this innovation, we are transforming the telephone support experience, setting ourselves apart from traditional systems and creating real value for those who rely on us.”

The project, led by Ayesa’s new AI – Data & Digital Experience division, is built on Google Cloud’s Contact Center AI (CCAI) platform. At its core, it integrates components such as Dialogflow for advanced virtual agents, along with the latest Gemini generative AI models from Google Cloud. The result is a voice channel capable of eliminating background noise, transcribing with high accuracy, and mantaining conversations that flow naturally, as if speaking to a real person.

A revolution in telephone customer service

The new solution offers a more natural and seamless customer service experience. As soon as the customer contacts the system by telephone, it will ask them a simple question: ‘How can I help you with this booking?’ From there, they can explain what they need in their own words, without having to navigate through menus.

Key features include:

  • Natural language interaction: customers can speak freely, and the AI interprets their intent.
  • Automated resolution: the system can instantly handle routine tasks such as booking reconfirmations, enabling more than 30% of requests to be resolved without human intervention.
  • Intelligent transfer to agents: when human support is required, the AI directs the call to the right team and provides a full transcript of the request, avoiding repetition and reducing handling time.

This change addresses the two main objectives of the project: modernising the customer experience by offering a faster, more intuitive and less frustrating service; and increasing operational efficiency by automating high-volume, low-complexity queries, freeing up agents to focus on more complex cases.

This new service creates clear added value for both customers and the company: customers get the help they need more quickly, explaining in their own words and receiving either an immediate solution or a seamless connection to the right expert without repeating their case; while the company benefits from greater operational efficiency and higher customer satisfaction through automation of routine calls and the creation of a modern, frictionless telephone experience.

Victor Fernandez, Director of AI – Data & Digital Experience at Ayesa, states that “the launch of the voice channel for HBX Group is not just a technological milestone; it is the realisation of our vision of a truly unified and frictionless customer experience. This project demonstrates the ability of our new AI – Data & Digital Experience department to orchestrate complex technological ecosystems and deliver transformative business value.”

While many companies still rely on basic telephone menu systems, HBX Group is taking a step forward with a truly conversational interface. The integration of natural language, automation and intelligent transfers sets a new standard in customer service, far above traditional systems.

Global phased rollout

The launch began in September 2025 and will continue with a phased rollout across markets and call volumes until November.

During implementation, key performance indicators (KPIs) such as AI accuracy, customer satisfaction and containment rates will be closely monitored to guide service adjustments and optimisation at each stage.

 

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Hilton Announces Partnership with INSPIRE Entertainment Resort in South Korea

The post Hilton Announces Partnership with INSPIRE Entertainment Resort in South Korea appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Chen Si, President of INSPIRE Entertainment Resort (left) and Clarence Tan, Senior Vice President, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton (right) at the signing ceremony

Hilton announced the signing of a landmark agreement between its flagship brand, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and INSPIRE Entertainment Resort, one of Asia’s premier leisure destinations. INSPIRE Entertainment Resort will continue to manage the property under a franchise agreement.

South Korea is a premier destination for leisure travel within Asia, attracting a growing number of visitors each year. The nation’s vibrant tourism industry shows no signs of slowing down, with increasing interest from both domestic and international travelers.

This strategic partnership introduces Hilton to one of South Korea’s most dynamic destinations and is poised to further accelerate South Korea’s tourism sector, drawing a diverse array of guests and elevating the country’s appeal as a world-class travel hotspot.

INSPIRE, an expansive integrated entertainment resort featuring 1,275 rooms, is ideally situated just a 15-minute drive from Incheon International Airport. The property boasts three uniquely themed hotel towers, South Korea’s first 15,000-seat performance arena, an indoor water park beneath a stunning glass dome, extensive MICE facilities, a vibrant outdoor entertainment park, a casino, a 150-meter digital entertainment street, and a lively selection of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts is renowned for hosting some of the world’s most iconic experiences and events, making guests feel connected and re-invigorated. Guests will have the opportunity to discover INSPIRE’s distinctive resort experience, nestled in the scenic Yeongjong Island area of Incheon, where five-star hospitality and a wide array of entertainment options are offered within a single integrated destination.

“This partnership highlights our unwavering commitment to expanding Hilton’s footprint across South Korea, while introducing our largest property in the Asia Pacific region. By uniting Hilton’s century-long legacy of exceptional hospitality with INSPIRE’s visionary destination, we are poised to redefine the guest experience—delivering unforgettable moments for both international travelers and local guests alike,” said Clarence Tan, senior vice president, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton.

“We are thrilled to partner with Hilton, a hospitality leader with global reputation and powerful loyalty ecosystem, which will enable INSPIRE to connect more deeply with travelers across Asia and beyond,” said Chen Si, president of INSPIRE Entertainment Resort. “This collaboration will mark a crucial milestone in INSPIRE’s journey to becoming a world-class entertainment destination, delivering extraordinary experiences that transcend borders and generations”.

“Hilton was one of the first international hotel brands to enter South Korea in 1983. For over 40 years, Hilton has set international hospitality standards for the country as well as contributing significantly to the growth of tourism. Our partnership with INSPIRE continues Hilton’s journey and momentum to provide unparalleled travel experiences for guests from South Korea and abroad,” said Joseph Khairallah, area vice president, head of Japan, Korea & Micronesia, Hilton.

INSPIRE Entertainment Resort, A Hilton Partner Hotel, will participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard WiFi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.

 

 

 

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Etihad Airways to fly from Abhu Dhabi to Zanzibar with Four weekly flights from 14 June till 6 Sept 2026

The post Etihad Airways to fly from Abhu Dhabi to Zanzibar with Four weekly flights from 14 June till 6 Sept 2026 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Aerial view of the boats on tropical sea coast with white sandy beach on summer sunny day. Vacation in Kendwa, Zanzibar.

Etihad Airways is bringing back a favourite with the relaunch of seasonal flights to Zanzibar, the Indian Ocean’s legendary spice island. From 14 June until 6 September 2026, Etihad will operate four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Zanzibar, giving travellers the perfect gateway to palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant Swahili culture.

Zanzibar becomes Etihad’s 30th destination announced this year, reinforcing the airline’s ambitious global expansion. The decision to return has been facilitated by Etihad’s larger and more complete European network, with multiple double-daily services now feeding Abu Dhabi. With two major European banks creating efficient connections in both directions, Zanzibar is now more accessible than ever for guests from Europe and the GCC. The seasonal service taps into strong summer demand for the destination from across these regions and complements Etihad’s growing global network.

Flights will be operated by Etihad’s Airbus A320, offering Business and Economy cabins designed for comfort on the medium-haul journey.

“Zanzibar is the perfect summer escape and we are thrilled to welcome it back to our growing network,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “From world-famous beaches and spice markets to rich history and culture, Zanzibar has something for everyone. We know it’s a destination our guests have been eager to see return, and we can’t wait to connect them to this unique island paradise.”

Part of Tanzania’s idyllic archipelago, Zanzibar is celebrated for its UNESCO-listed Stone Town, spice plantations and some of the world’s most spectacular beaches. From diving in coral reefs to exploring centuries-old alleyways, the island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery. The island also serves as a gateway to East Africa’s iconic safari destinations, making it an ideal twin-centre holiday with the Serengeti or Kilimanjaro.

With Palma de Mallorca also joining the network this summer, Etihad guests now have the choice of both Mediterranean escapes and Indian Ocean retreats, reinforcing Abu Dhabi as a hub for sun-soaked adventures.

Zanzibar Flight schedule from 14 June 2026

Flight Number Departure Airport Departure Time Arrival Airport Arrival Time Frequency Aircraft
EY791 Abu Dhabi 9:10 Zanzibar 13:50 Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun A320
EY792 Zanzibar 17:50 Abu Dhabi 00:30 (+1) Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun A320

 

 

 

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Your next Hong Kong Uber Taxi ride could earn you more Asia Miles with Cathay

The post Your next Hong Kong Uber Taxi ride could earn you more Asia Miles with Cathay appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Every Uber Taxi ride in Hong Kong now helps customers earn Asia Miles with Cathay in their latest joint promotion.

Uber Taxi recently partnered with premium travel lifestyle brand Cathay to reward daily journeys with miles that bring your next adventure closer.

This ongoing promotion also includes trips to and from the airport for the benefit of intrepid travellers. 

Asia Miles general manager Flora Hui remarked: “This collaboration gives our members even more ways to earn Asia Miles in their everyday lives. Whether it’s a quick ride across town or a journey to/from the airport, Uber Taxi trips now help our members get closer to their next adventure with added convenience and rewards.”

Likewise, Uber Hong Kong general manager Estyn Chung said: “We’re excited to partner with Cathay, a brand synonymous with Hong Kong travel, to make every Uber Taxi ride more rewarding. From daily commutes to airport trips, this partnership brings ground and air travel closer together, offering our riders a seamless way to earn miles as they move through the city.”

How to earn more miles with every ride

Here’s how Uber Taxi riders can earn Asia Miles:

  1. Daily rides: Earn 20 Asia Miles on every Uber Taxi trip in Hong Kong;
  2. Airport trips: Earn 40 Asia Miles on rides to and from the airport; and 
  3. Welcome bonus: First-time Uber App users get 500 extra Asia Miles on their first Uber Taxi trip

Note that standard terms and conditions apply for earning and redeeming Asia Miles

Throughout the partnership, Uber Taxi may roll out bonus miles and limited-time offers, giving Cathay members and Uber app users even more ways to earn. 

From everyday journeys to airport rides, every trip with Uber Taxi is now a little more rewarding and a little closer to your next adventure.

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Accor set to change the travel loyalty sector with ALL Accor+ Explorer

The post Accor set to change the travel loyalty sector with ALL Accor+ Explorer appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global hospitality group Accor announced that its subscription business Accor Plus has launched its new premium global travel subscription, ALL Accor+ Explorer. 

Launched on Wednesday, 1st October, ALL Accor+ Explorer is the first  subscription to feature the new ALL Accor+ global brand, as the business looks to expand into new  key markets next year. 

The launch of ALL Accor+ Explorer sets a new standard for travel loyalty subscriptions globally.

According to Accor Plus chief executive Emilie Couton: “Membership success in the modern subscription economy comes down to one thing: consistently delivering value. With ALL Accor+ Explorer, we’ve designed  a powerful new model that integrates the benefits of Accor’s free global loyalty programme and  elevates them with the exceptional value, generous benefits and exclusive access of a paid  subscription. It’s an offering that gives our most engaged members more than ever.”

The  subscription is the next evolution of the successful Accor Plus business, which has been carefully  refined over three decades. 

What began in Australia to boost restaurant patronage has evolved  into a driving force across the Asia Pacific region and has been fully owned by Accor since 2017. Its  thriving community of highly engaged members has grown to over 450,000 members.  

While the name of the travel loyalty subscription programme has recently changed to ALL Accor+,  the company behind it will still operate as Accor Plus. 

As such, it will be responsible for developing, selling  and managing ALL Accor+ in Asia Pacific and future markets. 

Changing the game

Recently, Accor evolved its paid subscription loyalty framework with a unified global brand: ALL  Accor+, something the has prompted Coutin to say: “The evolution of our travel loyalty subscription programme to ALL Accor+ unifies and consolidates  the global loyalty model, allowing us to deliver a more seamless customer journey. With global pricing and greater brands worldwide, we’re expanding our footprint to meet our  members wherever their travels take them.” 

That said, the enhanced programme is a clear driver of loyalty for Accor and offers tangible advantages for hotel owners  and partners. 

Last year alone, Accor Plus members stayed five times more nights than non-members,  with over 3.1 million nights at Accor hotels in 2024. 

Through direct bookings, incentivised repeat  stays, and on-property spend, the subscription delivers exceptional benefits to members while  generating incremental revenue for participating hotels. 

At the same time, Accor Plus formed partnerships with leading brands across Asia Pacific, such as American  Express, Qantas Business Rewards, Woori Card, CIMB Niaga, and Axis Bank, providing  differentiated value that enhances the partners’ own offerings. 

These collaborations help partners  acquire, retain, and engage high-value customers in the premium travel lifestyle category, while  also supporting new member growth across the Accor ecosystem.

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Philippine broadband firm Converge Introduces Content Plus

The post Philippine broadband firm Converge Introduces Content Plus appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Filipino broadband and tech company Converge ICT Solutions Inc officially launched Content Plus, an innovative in-room entertainment solution specifically designed to elevate the guest experience in hotels and healthcare facilities. 

Poised to transform how businesses engage their guests while enhancing operational efficiency, Content Plus leverages the 100 percent fibre network and HD channel assets provided through its network.

Converge’s chief technology officer Paulo Martin Santos remarked: “Our mission is to empower the hospitality industry in its quest for a superior guest experience. By leveraging our robust fiber network, we provide a holistic solution that delivers premium digital content and enables seamless integration with their property management systems. This allows our hospitality partners to not only delight their guests but also significantly enhance their operational efficiency.”

Making a significant difference in a dynamic industry

Converge is dedicated to helping the hospitality sector navigate its evolving landscape. 

The introduction of Content Plus serves as a prime example of this commitment, offering a bespoke solution that combines premium content with seamless integration capabilities. 

Indeed, the platform gives establishments the tools they need to enhance the guest experience, boost productivity, and secure a competitive edge in a demanding market.

With guest satisfaction increasingly tied to seamless digital experiences, Content Plus caters to rising expectations for both quality entertainment and innovative services. 

This solution enables hoteliers to modernize amenities while driving operational efficiency during high-occupancy periods and seasonal demand cycles.

What exactly is Content Plus and what does it do?

Content Plus is a robust solution that provides tailored HD channel packages and enables seamless integration with a hotel’s Property Management System (PMS). 

A key capability is its integrated in-room e-commerce, which allows guests to conveniently order food and services directly from their rooms. 

These charges are automatically posted to the guest’s folio, streamlining hotel operations and enhancing the overall guest experience. 

The solution also provides an intuitive interface for guests to access their preferred Over-The-Top (OTT) subscriptions, creating a personalized entertainment experience.

The solution’s key features include:

  • Access to top-tier Skycable HD channels such as HBO, Warner Bros, CNN and more delivered on the high-speed, reliable fibre network of Converge; 
  • Intuitive integration with existing Property Management System (PMS) systems to streamline hotel operations and improve guest convenience; 
  • E-commerce functionality for in-room ordering, boosting in-room service revenues; and
  • Compatibility with popular OTT content platforms to meet diverse guest preferences.

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Source: traveldailymedia