Tag Archive for: Booking

Crystal new ship’s steel cutting will take place in May 2026

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Crystal has announced two key milestone dates in the construction of the first new ship scheduled for delivery in May 2028.  This is the first new build for the brand in 25 years and under the ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.

The ship’s steel cutting will take place in May 2026, with the keel laying occurring in December 2026, officially commencing the next chapter in Crystal’s storied legacy.

“Behind the scenes, our teams have been working diligently on every element of this extraordinary project—from design and craftsmanship to technical innovation. These milestones represent more than construction progress; they are a testament to our shared commitment with Fincantieri to deliver the most exceptional ship at sea, on schedule and with an unparalleled attention to detail.” Said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group

The name of the new ship will be announced shortly, with details on her inaugural voyages and new suite categories to follow by the end of the year. Her inaugural 2028 season is set to go on sale next spring, with the waitlist opening in advance.

 

 

 

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Travelsphere launches new Arctic tour and cruise itinerary

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Escorted tour operator Travelsphere has unveiled a new 10-night Arctic tour and cruise as part of its 2026 programme. The ‘Arctic Explorer – Land of the Polar Bear’ itinerary includes visits to Oslo and Longyearbyen in Svalbard, before a seven-night expedition cruise through the Svalbard archipelago onboard G Adventures’ 128-guest ‘Expedition’. Prices start from £7,599pp, departing July 10 and 17.

Highlights include:
* Oslo city tour, with Holmenkollen Ski Museum
* A visit to the Fram Museum, which focuses on polar exploration
* Overnight in Longyearbyen with a visit to Svalbard Museum
* Seven nights sailing the Svalbard archipelago
* Zodiac excursions led by expert expedition guides, specialising in ornithology, marine biology, glaciology and polar history
* Opportunities to spot wildlife such as Arctic foxes, reindeer, whales and polar bears
* Lectures and educational programmes

A flexible itinerary will be adapted to ice and weather conditions.
Stuart Perry, head of product at Travelsphere, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that blends culture, nature and discovery. Beginning with a land stay in Oslo, guests will dive into the heart of Nordic charm before embarking on an expedition cruise through the Svalbard archipelago. This unique journey offers front-row views of glaciers, remote fjords and the chance to witness polar bears in their natural habitat, in one of the world’s last great wildernesses.”
The itinerary includes return flights from London, overseas transfers, three-nights in four-star hotels, 26 meals, a welcome dinner, and seven nights onboard the ship full board, in addition to a Travelsphere holiday director and local and expedition guides.

 

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Cruise Planners Travel Franchise Launches Fresh Marketing Tools

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Cruise Planners unveiled several new franchise marketing initiatives during its annual convention. Cruise Planners’ award-winning marketing program inspires travel, provides exclusive offers, and streamlines the advisor-client experience. These enhancements are part of the free marketing support included with Cruise Planners franchise ownership.

“Each year at convention, we roll out fresh tools and programs to help our advisors stand out with customers and prospects—and this year is no different,” said Michelle Fee, Founder and CEO of Cruise Planners. “Our redesigned corporate website, along with upcoming new advisor websites, will provide the added visibility and business platform our advisors need to drive their success.”

Highlights include:

New corporate website: Cruise Planners is launching a newly redesigned, modern, mobile-first corporate website designed to quickly connect travelers to a Cruise Planners advisor. New visitors will be paired with an advisor based on trip type—such as cruises, tours, or resorts—making it easier than ever to find a travel advisor for their specific needs. The site also features a robust “Get Inspired” section with blogs, videos, and travel offers.

New advisor websites: Cruise Planners advisors will soon benefit from newly redesigned websites that align with the corporate site but offer customization to match their personal specialties. These sites feature travel-inspired visuals, streamlined navigation, and easy access to special offers, travel content, and vacation search tools, helping advisors showcase their expertise to current and prospective clients.

Timeless romance – a new travel brochure for couples: Cruise Planners is introducing a romance travel brochure designed for honeymoons, anniversaries, destination weddings, and getaways. The guide showcases cruises, resorts, and unique experiences while positioning Cruise Planners advisors as experts in honeymoon and couples travel planning.

Port shopping program: Cruise Planners clients will gain access to exclusive shopping perks in popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, Alaska, and Hawaii. Discounts, free gifts, and special offers will be available directly through clients’ MyTrips accounts and can be redeemed easily at participating stores by showing a mobile device.

 

 

 

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Momentum is continuing into the final stretch of our Centennial year says Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian

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Delta Air Lines reported financial results for the September quarter and provided its outlook for the December quarter and full year 2025. “Delta’s competitive advantages and differentiation have never been more evident, and thanks to the hard work of our people, we continue to elevate the customer experience and extend our industry leadership.  We delivered September quarter results at the top end of our expectations on a combination of strong execution and improving fundamentals,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer.

“Momentum is continuing into the final stretch of our Centennial year, positioning us to deliver strong December quarter earnings.  Looking to 2026, Delta is well positioned to deliver top-line growth, margin expansion and earnings improvement consistent with our long-term financial framework.”

September Quarter 2025 GAAP Financial Results

  • Operating revenue of $16.7 billion
  • Operating income of $1.7 billion with an operating margin of 10.1 percent
  • Pre-tax income of $1.8 billion with a pre-tax margin of 10.7 percent
  • Earnings per share of $2.17
  • Operating cash flow of $1.8 billion
  • Payments on debt and finance lease obligations of $459 million
  • Total debt and finance lease obligations of $14.9 billion at quarter end

 

 

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United partners with Instacart

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United MileagePlus members get $0 delivery fees on orders placed right before, during or shortly after domestic flights – a simple and fast way to stock the fridge at a rental, add items that were forgotten or just place an order that’s ready when you get home.

MileagePlus members who are new to Instacart can also enjoy 5,000 bonus MileagePlus bonus miles when they sign up and complete four orders, and can earn an additional 5,000 miles if they enroll in an Instacart+ membership

United and Instacart launched a new collaboration that gives the airline’s loyalty members even more ways to save time, earn rewards, and unlock exclusive benefits when they shop with Instacart. In a first for an airline, Instacart is offering United MileagePlus members $0 delivery fees* on orders placed right before, during or shortly after they take a domestic flight – making it effortless to replace forgotten items on the go or restock their fridge the moment they arrive home. Additionally, MileagePlus members who link their United MileagePlus and Instacart accounts can also enjoy mileage rewards across a variety of offers found at United.com/Instacart. This new suite of benefits builds on United’s existing relationship with Instacart; earlier this year, United and Chase refreshed their portfolio of co-branded credit cards and announced Instacart benefits for eligible Chase United Cardmembers.

“With Instacart, travelers can spend less time running errands and more time enjoying the journey and the destination – and now, United MileagePlus members can enjoy added benefits when they link their account to Instacart,” said Ryan Hamburger, Vice President, Commercial Partnerships for Instacart. “We’re excited to make the convenience of Instacart – whether shopping at home or while traveling – even more rewarding for United MileagePlus members. This partnership solidifies Instacart’s position as a critical piece of the journey, ensuring our customers have everything they need, wherever they are.”

“We’re always looking for new ways to make our loyalty program even more valuable for our members and the partners we choose go a long way towards making travel –and life—easier and more rewarding,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus. “This Instacart collaboration gives members the peace of mind to know they can add groceries and other essentials at just about any stage of their trip – from making sure that order is waiting for them when they check into their rental property to stocking up at home so they can hit the ground running when they return. All while earning miles along the way.”

Unbeatable Benefits and Rewards: Exclusive Perks for Every Journey

Starting today, United MileagePlus members can effortlessly earn miles and unlock special offers when they use Instacart, making it easier than ever to enjoy the convenience of online grocery delivery at home or on the road. With the Instacart collaboration, United MileagePlus members can access benefits like:

  • $0 Delivery Fees with Instacart, Every Time You Travel: MileagePlus members who book a domestic U.S. United flight can enroll in a $0 delivery fee* offer to make it easier to get last-minute essentials before a trip, snacks and forgotten items at a destination, or have groceries waiting at the door when returning home.
    • Once activated, United MileagePlus members receive seven days of $0 delivery fees.
  • Miles Just for Getting Started: MileagePlus members who are new to Instacart, can earn 5,000 miles when placing four grocery orders of $35+ each within eight weeks.**
    • Members who already have Instacart accounts will also receive 500 additional miles when they link their United MileagePlus and Instacart accounts and place an order $35+ within 60 days.
  • Even Bigger Rewards: After completing the Getting Started offer, MileagePlus members can earn an additional 5,000 miles if they enroll in a paid, annual Instacart+ membership and maintain the membership for at least 30 days.
    • When United MileagePlus members become annual Instacart+ members through the United offer, they’ll unlock even more benefits, making it easier to save time and money at home, on the road, and everywhere in between.

Instacart and United are both focused on making travel and daily life easier for millions of consumers. As the leading online grocery marketplace, Instacart connects consumers to over 1,800 retail partners and nearly 100,000 stores across the U.S. and Canada. United Airlines rewards travelers across the globe through MileagePlus, the airline’s free to join loyalty program with millions of members, and makes travel easier for customers through the United app, one of the most-used airline apps in the world. Together, Instacart and United are delivering meaningful benefits to U.S. travelers: more miles, more convenience, and more reasons to stock their fridge with Instacart, whether they’re at home or on the road.

 

 

 

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JTB Corporation’s Eijiro Yamakita takes the floor at Web in Travel Singapore

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Following the recent acquisition of Northstar Travel Group, JTB Corporation president and chief executive Eijiro Yamakita took the stage at Web in Travel (WiT) Singapore 2025 to share his perspective on the future of global travel.

Yamakita’s participation at WiT Singapore underscored the strategic importance of Asia in this new chapter.  

He joined a heavyweight lineup of speakers from Expedia, Agoda, Booking.com, Google, as well as JTB Corp, reflecting WiT’s role as a platform where the industry’s most influential leaders gather to debate the forces shaping the next era of travel.

A formidable event

This year’s conference was held from 6th to 8th October at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, and the event also marked WiT’s 20th anniversary under the bold theme The Next 20. 

Looking forward rather than back, the programme explored the seismic shifts set to define the next two decades of travel from the acceleration of AI to shifting demographics and societal change.  

Sessions challenged delegates to consider how travel must reinvent itself to remain relevant, resilient, and human.

Web in Travel founder and editor Siew Hoon Yeoh said: “Having Eijiro Yamakita with us this year, so soon after JTB’s acquisition of Northstar, is symbolic of the new bridges being built across the industry. It reflects the scale of the conversations we’re curating as we look to The Next 20 years of travel. WiT has always been about connecting the dots between global forces and local realities, and this year’s programme is no exception.”

With regard to the Northstar acquisition

JTB’s recent acquisition of Northstar means that the latter will operate as a wholly owned but independent subsidiary of JTB.

Likewise, it marked a significant milestone in JTB’s growth strategy, expanding its reach into B2B travel events, media, and market intelligence.  

With Northstar’s portfolio including iconic brands such as Travel Weekly, Business Travel News, ALIS, The Meetings Show, and Phocuswright, the move strengthens JTB’s influence across the global travel ecosystem.

Yamakita said: “Northstar brings outstanding expertise and fresh perspectives that perfectly align with JTB’s strategic vision. Appearing at WiT Singapore is a chance to continue that conversation, exploring how we can collectively drive innovation, deliver superior customer experiences, and shape the future of global travel.”

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ONYX Hospitality Group casts spotlights on MICE properties at ITB Asia

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Southeast Asian hospitality management company ONYX Hospitality Group confirmed that it will be among those showcasing at ITB Asia 2025, Asia’s leading travel trade show. 

The event takes place from the 15th to 17th October at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

This year, ONYX will showcase its expanding portfolio of MICE-focused properties, reinforcing its vision to be the best medium-sized hospitality management company in Southeast Asia. 

The event will highlight versatile venues designed to meet the diverse needs of corporate clients, event planners, and incentive organisers. 

From intimate retreats to large-scale conferences, each property is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and supported by dedicated event teams to ensure smooth, memorable experiences.

A spectacular showcase

At the core of ONYX’s offering are its Amari MICE-ready properties, capable of hosting events from 20 to over 1,000 participants. 

Equipped with advanced AV technology, flexible seating, high-speed internet, and tailored catering, these venues ensure every event is executed efficiently while leaving a lasting impression, complemented by the warm hospitality and commitment to excellence the Amari brand is known for.

  • Amari Bangkok: located in the heart of the city, boasts the expansive Watergate Ballroom, capable of accommodating up to 1,200 guests. This versatile venue is perfect for large-scale conferences, exhibitions, gala dinners, and even vehicle launches, with the added convenience of direct vehicle access into the ballroom. The space is equipped with state-of-the-art AV technology, flexible seating arrangements, and customisable catering options, ensuring that every event is executed flawlessly.
  • Amari Don Muang Airport Bangkok: Offering unparalleled convenience, this property provides direct walkway access to Don Muang International Airport, making it an excellent choice for events requiring easy airport connectivity. The Don Muang Ballroom can host up to 800 guests, with additional meeting rooms catering to various group sizes.
  • Amari Pattaya: Located along Thailand’s eastern seaboard, Amari Pattaya features the Grand Ballroom, accommodating up to 600 guests, along with Ballroom I and Ballroom II, each hosting up to 250 guests. These spaces are complemented by Prego Event, a 407 sqm venue perfect for corporate retreats and social gatherings.
  • Amari Vientiane: Opened in 2025, Amari Vientiane introduces modern MICE facilities to the Laotian capital. The grand ballroom accommodates up to 600 guests, supported by three versatile meeting rooms and a VIP room, all equipped with modern audiovisual technology.
  • Amari Colombo: In Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial hub, Amari Colombo offers a 160 sqm ballroom holding up to 250 guests, with additional flexible meeting rooms accommodating 70 to 150 attendees. This venue is ideal for both business functions and intimate celebrations.
  • Amari SPICE Penang: Strategically positioned next to one of Malaysia’s premier convention centres, Amari SPICE Penang features a 266 sqm pillarless event hall, complemented by five meeting rooms and expansive outdoor spaces, catering to a variety of event formats.
  • Amari Kuala Lumpur: This eco-certified hotel offers a total event space of 552 sqm, with seven versatile function rooms accommodating up to 200 guests. Its commitment to sustainability adds value to corporate events seeking eco-friendly venues.
  • Amari Johor Bahru: Located in the heart of Johor Bahru, this property offers a versatile range of event spaces, including the spacious Lido & Rex function room, which can accommodate up to 400 guests, ideal for conferences, meetings, and social gatherings.

Three of ONYX’s Amari properties in Thailand, namely Amari Phuket, Amari Don Muang Airport Bangkok, and Amari Buriram, all recently announced renovation programmes, which will also be showcased at ITB Asia 2025. 

These upgrades will further strengthen their offering for both business and leisure travellers, with enhanced facilities and elevated experiences.

Beyond the flagship

Beyond Amari, ONYX will also spotlight the dynamic OZO brand, including OZO North Pattaya, a vibrant beachfront hotel offering flexible event spaces, modern AV technology, and facilities designed for incentive groups, team-building programmes, and leisure-focused gatherings.

Moreover, ONYX’s portfolio features Oriental Residence Bangkok, which provides a refined, elegant setting for exclusive events, featuring versatile function rooms and the newly introduced Prestige room category, ideal for high-end meetings, intimate celebrations, and bespoke corporate experiences.

In addition, ONYX is preparing to introduce the ONYX Rewards Bookers & Planners programme, designed to enable corporate clients, bookers, and event planners to enjoy loyalty benefits, turning every booking into an opportunity for lasting recognition.

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Cebu Pacific hosts launch for Women in Aviation International – Philippines

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Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific recently hosted the official launch of Women in Aviation International – Philippines (WAI-PH).

WAI-PH is the first organisation in the country that aims to empower women across the aviation industry.

According to airline vice-president for engineering and fleet management Shevantha Weerasekera: “Cebu Pacific is proud to support this initiative that empowers women in aviation. It aligns perfectly with our goal of fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone can take flight.”

The launch, sponsored by CEB Engineering and Fleet Management (EFM) and the People Department alongside the chapter’s founding officers, comes at a pivotal moment as the Philippine aviation sector modernizes fleets, embraces digital transformation, and addresses workforce gaps.

As part of the event, WAI-PH also celebrated Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD), inspiring young Filipinas through hands-on activities; career talks led by female pilots, engineers, mechanics, and cabin crew; aircraft tours; and resource kits from WAI-USA. 

This initiative gave the participants an early glimpse into the exciting world of aviation, encouraging them to consider careers in the aerospace industry.

What exactly does this organisation do for women in the aviation sector?

The Philippine chapter is the local arm of Women in Aviation International (WAI), a nonprofit with over 20,000 members worldwide. 

WAI provides mentorship, scholarships, and networking opportunities for women in aviation, with a mission to educate and empower women across all sectors of the industry.

Looking ahead, WAI-PH aims to expand beyond its founding members Cebu Pacific, Aplus, and Airlink Aviation College.

To do so, it will engage other airlines, aviation schools, and maintenance organisations (MROs) nationwide. 

Through mentorship, leadership programs, and outreach initiatives, Cebu Pacific seeks to inspire more Filipinas to pursue aviation careers and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive industry.

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Holiday Inn Express helps guests rise and shine with The Breakfast Alarm Clock

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Given how global travellers are struggling to wake up fresh on the road, IHG Hotels & Resorts brand Holiday Inn Express introduces a playful new way to get up and go with The Breakfast Alarm Clock.

Now available for a limited time at participating Holiday Inn Express hotels in Singapore, Thailand, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, the in-room device is the world’s first scent-based alarm clock created and designed by a hotel brand, waking guests not with loud beeps, but with the irresistible aroma of breakfast favourites. 

Guests will be gently roused each morning by their chosen scent, a fragrant reminder of one of the brand’s most loved hallmarks: the Express Start Breakfast, included with every stay. 

According to IHG Hotels & Resorts’ vice-president of commercial in East Asia and the Pacific Dean Jones, the experience was designed to help guests reclaim their mornings and how even small comforts can make a big difference when travelling. 

Jones said: “We know from the research that travellers across the Asia Pacific region are struggling with sleep, and many skip breakfast when they travel: sometimes to save money. We’ve intentionally designed the Holiday Inn Express experience with the best of both worlds: everything needed for a proper night’s sleep, plus a free hot breakfast. We want guests to maximise their stay with us, whether it’s for work or leisure, or both, and the research has been a great way to direct our attention to do more of what matters most.   

All in the numbers

In Holiday Inn Express’ commissioned study The Great Asia Pacific Wake-Up, experts found that restless sleep, chronic snoozing, and skipped breakfasts are common themes across the region. 

Indeed, even with the best intentions, travel can throw well-established routines off track. 

The research revealed 73 percent of travellers across Asia Pacific lose part of their morning routine when away from home, with the most commonly dropped habits being exercise, catching up on emails or news, and eating breakfast. 

The Breakfast Alarm Clock concept was inspired by insights from the study, which found that 58 percent of Asia Pacific travellers felt a pleasant smell helps, or would help, them feel better when they wake up. 

When asked which scents would lift their morning mood, respondents named coffee or tea, baked goods, and fresh fruit. 

These top picks have now been bottled into three deliciously familiar wake-up scents available with The Breakfast Alarm Clock: Coffee, Blueberry Muffin, and Mango.  

As Jones puts it: “Waking up and maintaining a routine while travelling can be harder than it sounds, which is something the research underscored for us. But we also know the power of scent: that first whiff of coffee or smell of fresh pastry can work wonders especially when it’s free.” 

Where to experience The Breakfast Alarm Clock

The Breakfast Alarm Clock experience is rolling out in Singapore, Japan and Australia, and participating hotels in Thailand. 

For a burst of local flavour, guests in Singapore and Thailand will be woken with a buffet of coffee, blueberry muffin or mango scents to choose from, while guests in Japan will have the choice of coffee, nashi pear and blueberry muffin. 

When in Australia and New Zealand, guests may opt for the scent of bacon, blueberry muffin, or coffee. 

These scents have been inspired by local research that also found fresh fruit and pastry were among the top three favourite buffet items in the region.  

The experience adds to the brand’s commitment of delivering a sensational sleep experience, including everything from the choice of soft and firm pillows to black out blinds, power showers and bedside charging ports so guests are sure to receive an Express Recharge, every stay.  

The Breakfast Alarm Clock experience is available for a limited time till 22nd October in Singapore and from  6th to 27th November in Thailand.

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Tamil Nadu to showcase its wonders at ITB Asia 2025 in Singapore 

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The state well connected to ASEAN region, brings forth a rich seam of tourism opportunities, unveils its captivating landscapes and vibrant heritage at the prestigious show, inviting global adventurers to explore its wonders

Tamil Nadu, the southernmost state of India, renowned for its Ancient Temples, Rich History, Literature, Architecture, Diverse Landscapes, and vibrant Cultural Heritage, will participate in the ITB Asia 2025, at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore from October 15 to 17, 2025. Through its participation in ITB Asia 2025, the Tamil Nadu tourism aims to position the state as a leading outbound destination in the APAC region, particularly the ASEAN and the East Asia regions, deepening and fostering strong trade relations with the regions outbound trade.

ASEAN countries, like Singapore and Malaysia, and Tamil Nadu, share a deep-rooted cultural and historical connection that has naturally evolved into a strong tourism link. Tamil culture had a significant influence on Singapore’s heritage for centuries, reflected in vibrant areas like Little India and in major festivals such as Thaipusam and Deepavali celebrated with grandeur. Many Singaporean Tamils trace their ancestral roots to Tamil Nadu, fostering emotional and cultural travel between the two regions. Tourists from Singapore are drawn to Tamil Nadu’s rich temple architecture, classical arts, and heritage towns, while Tamil Nadu visitors explore Singapore’s modern attractions and multicultural experiences.

Similarly, Malaysia too boasts of a significant Tamil population and shares deep historical and cultural roots with the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This blend of shared heritage and contemporary tourism makes the ASEAN–Tamil Nadu connection both traditional and dynamic, encouraging cultural exchange and sustainable tourism growth.

Commenting on Tamil Nadu’s participation at the prestigious ITB Asia, T. Christuraj, I.A.S., Director of Tamil Nadu Tourism and Managing Director of Tamil Nadu, said: “A dedicated Tamil Nadu Tourism pavilion in the event will promote the State’s rich tourism offerings and serve as a hub for exploring partnerships. Additionally, efforts will be made to strengthen ties, attracting investments in tourism, and create synergies with industry agents and partners. Visitors can explore opportunities in heritage tourism, eco-tourism, adventure travel, and cultural experiences, all highlighting Tamil Nadu’s unique appeal to global travellers.”

A team of senior officials from the Tourism Department will participate in the event, bringing along the reputed Tour Operators, DMC’s and Hoteliers from Tamil Nadu to facilitate the B2B discussions with the key industry stakeholders.

Heritage

Tamil Nadu is a land woven with centuries of living narratives—each heritage site, mountain, and monument resonates with stories that continue to captivate, educate, and inspire. From sacred temples where devotion thrives, to biodiverse highlands, ancient urban settlements, and aristocratic homes—every corner narrates a timeless tale. Tamil Nadu’s rich and diverse heritage is reflected not

only in its iconic monuments but also in its ancient Sangam literature, which flourished between 200 BCE and 300 CE. This literary legacy identifies five distinct ecological landscapes—Kurinji (hilly and mountainous), Mullai (forest), Marutham (agricultural), Neithal (coastal) and Palai (arid)—each offering a unique biodiversity and cultural significance. Tamil Nadu, rich in cultural heritage, is home to Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites namely the Great Living Chola Temples (Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, and the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Ariyalur), the Group of Monuments at Mamallapuram, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Western Ghats and the Gingee Fort. The State’s spiritual dimension is equally compelling, with its remarkable pilgrimage sites drawing visitors from near and far.

Festivals & Celebrations

Tamil Nadu is home for variety of vibrant celebrations, like the Indian Dance Festival (Dec to Jan), Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival (Jan), and Tamil Nadu International Kite Festival (Aug). The biggest festival in the Tamil calendar, Pongal is celebrated over a period of four days in the middle of January each year. Pongal is the people’s way of giving thanks for the new harvest, it also marks the beginning of the auspicious Tamil month of Thai.

A highlight of Pongal are the many traditional games that are played during the festival, especially in rural Tamil Nadu. These include sugarcane breaking, tug of war, Silambam (martial art), Uri Adithal (breaking a hanging mud pot, blindfolded) and kolam-making competitions among the womenfolk. One of the most entertaining games is Vazhukku Maram, literally meaning ‘slippery pole’. Played in village squares across Tamil Nadu, during this game young men try to outdo each other in climbing up a greasy pole.

Undoubtedly, the most exciting of the traditional Pongal sports is Jallikattu, a bull is released into a crowd of people who then try to grab the bull’s hump for as long as possible. Recognizing its socio-cultural significance, the Tamil Nadu Government has taken extensive measures to protect and promote Jallikattu within a regulated, safe, and heritage-conscious framework. A Jallikattu Heritage Museum, set up in Madurai, documents the sport’s ancient origins, traditional gear, bull-breeding practices, and its portrayal in Tamil literature and temple art.

Culture and Nature

Tamil Nadu is a vibrant tapestry of culture and nature, captivating travellers with its ancient temples and historical monuments, which stand as a testament to the architectural prowess of its ancestors. Visitors can also explore the bustling urban landscapes, serene hill stations, pristine beaches and diverse wildlife.

The State’s natural environment, featuring the Biosphere Reserves (Nilgiris, Agasthiyarmalai, and Gulf of Mannar), National Parks and Mangroves, is an oasis for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts. Activities such as trekking, water sports, and safaris await those eager to explore. Coastal tourism in Tamil Nadu is equally enticing, with the convergence of the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea offering stunning maritime experiences. A key highlight is the majestic 133 feet Thiruvalluvar Statue with India’s only Glass Bridge constructed on the sea, illuminated with Laser & Sound show during nights, standing tall off the coast of Kanniyakumari, symbolising the region’s rich literary heritage while offering visitors breathtaking views to witness both sunrise and sunset from its vantage point.

Culturally, Tamil Nadu is rich with traditional dances, folk arts, flavourful cuisine, and exquisite handicrafts, including brass and bronze items, sarees, embroidery, jewellery, and pottery. The State is also renowned for its Geographical Indications (GI) tags, with a total of 69 distinct GI-tagged products that highlight its rich artisanal heritage and unique regional specialities. In the heart of the region, amid tea and spice plantations and traditional villages, travellers can immerse themselves in the authentic Tamil way experience of life by staying in Homestays hosted by the local communities.

In addition, the destination is developing tourism segments such as adventure tourism, with a variety of water sports along its nearly 1,076 kilometres of coastline; and niche segments such as Rural Tourism, Medical & Wellness Tourism and Eco-Tourism. The State’s stunning natural environment is crowned by mountain ranges ideal for a summer getaway to its hill stations, where lesser-known destinations such as Kolli Hills, Jawadhu Hills and Yercaud are being developed.

We are thrilled to present our destination at ITB Asia 2025, committed to expanding our tourism network while upholding our dedication to environmentally and culturally sustainable practices, perfectly aligning with the evolving needs of travellers.

 

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