The post Gayla Guyse appointed general manager of Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Omni Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Gayla Guyse as General Manager of the highly anticipated Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel, the brand’s third property in Florida. With more than 25 years of dedicated service and operational excellence at Omni, Guyse brings a wealth of leadership experience to the property, set to open in Fall 2025.

The 29-story hotel development will be connected directly to the Broward County Convention Center, poised to be one of the premier convention venues in the country following its ongoing renovation and expansion. The property will offer 801 guest rooms and 82 suites, nine food and beverage outlets, a vibrant rooftop bar, a sprawling pool, a full-service spa, and fitness center. The hotel will also have over 120,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, including a 30,000 square foot Waterway Ballroom, a 15,000 square foot Port Everglades Ballroom, 27 breakout rooms, and multiple pre-function meeting spaces with waterfront views.

In her new role, Guyse will lead the opening of the hotel and oversee all departments including operations, sales and marketing, rooms, risk management, and food and beverage.

“We’re continually working to “grow the garden” by investing in the right talent who will not only empower teams but also prioritize their personal growth within the company,” said Vince Parrotta, Chief Operating Officer at Omni Hotels & Resorts. “Gayla’s strategic insights and consistent performance have played a key role in her rise at Omni, and we’re excited to have her lead the charge as we introduce the brand to Fort Lauderdale.”

Throughout her career, Guyse has held key leadership roles across multiple Omni properties, including positions as General Manager of Omni Dallas Hotel at Park West, Director of Sales & Marketing at Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, and Director of Catering and Conference Services at both Omni Fort Worth Hotel and Omni Dallas Hotel at Park West. Most recently, Guyse served as General Manager at Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, where she led with distinction for over two years. Prior to that role, she served as General Manager of Omni Houston Hotel, overseeing both the Houston property and Omni Houston Hotel at Westside during a pivotal period that included the transition and sale of the Westside property.

 

 

 

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The post Cathay Pacific Airways to start flying from Munich Airport to Hong Kong appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cathay Pacific announced that flights between the economic metropolis of Hong Kong and the Bavarian state capital will be introduced from mid-June 2025. As of then, it will be possible to fly four times a week to the city of over seven million inhabitants in southeastern China, at around lunchtime on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, on a modern and fuel-efficient Airbus A350-900.

With Cathay Pacific, a fourth Asian airline has decided to start flying to Munich in the last three years. With a total of eight Asian airlines, the Bavarian premium hub confirms its enormous significance as an economic and tourist hub joining Europe and Asia. The international airport in Hong Kong is also a well-connected hub for flights to the Asian region as well as to Australia and New Zealand.

“The fact that Cathay Pacific has chosen Munich Airport shows both the appreciation of our airport and the attractiveness and pulling power of the state of Bavaria. The reconnection with the economic metropolis of Hong Kong via the home carrier Cathay Pacific is a great success,” says Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “We are very excited to be adding Munich to our network for the very first time next year, marking our second port in Germany and 10th in Europe. Hong Kong is a world-class international financial, commercial and aviation hub, and these flights will provide our customers with a direct connection between our home city and one of Europe’s most important economic, tourism and transportation centers.”

 

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The post Top wellness trends for 2025: Accor appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Accor, a global hospitality leader, is proud to present its insights on the top 2025 Wellness Trends. Curated with the expertise of Emlyn Brown, Global SVP of Wellbeing, Strategy, Design, and Development at Accor, these trends provide an in-depth look at key advancements and innovations expected to influence the wellness industry in the coming year.

Wellness in 2025 will go beyond fleeting trends, grounding itself in science and authenticity. As consumers increasingly prioritise truth over hype, the future of health will be defined by a blend of technology, trust, and transparency. The path to genuine wellbeing is clear: informed choices, sustainable habits, and a holistic focus on the whole self,” said Emlyn Brown, Global SVP of Wellbeing, Strategy, Design, and Development at Accor.

Beyond the Hype: Backlash Against Biohacking

In 2025, consumers will move away from biohacking fads, quick fixes, and misleading health claims – or ‘health washing’ – that dominate on social media. With one study finding that only 2% of video nutrition content on TikTok is accurate, there’s a growing shift toward trusted, professional healthcare advice. Frustrated and confused by unreliable information, people are increasingly seeking evidence-based wellness solutions over influencer-driven trends. “At Accor, and across our spectrum of hospitality brands, we prioritise tested-and-true fundamentals and science-backed practices, such as our sleep research commissioned by Sofitel Hotels & Resorts that is published in the Journal of Sleep Disorders & Therapy,” states Brown. “We recognise that wellbeing thrives not in fleeting trends but in the steady pursuit of evidence and integrity.”

Athletic Wellness Escapes: The Rise of Transformational Sports & Nature Experiences

Wellness travel is evolving, shifting from passive relaxation to dynamic, athletic-focused experiences. Post-pandemic, there’s been a surge in outdoor, sports-based wellness activities – ranging from cycling excursions and hiking adventures to high-intensity challenges. Imagine joining a cycling club with a hundred fellow enthusiasts, tackling the scenic Route 14 of the Tour de France, or training at an elite soccer academy alongside professionals. This active engagement fosters a powerful sense of belonging and motivation, creating transformative experiences for participants. Accor is at the forefront of this trend, offering immersive outdoor experiences at hotels such as Fairmont Windsor Park, Fairmont Chateau Whistler and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise where guests benefit from access to elite training spaces in truly breathtaking locations. Another example from Accor is a partnership with Cinq Mondes for The Spartan Massage and Recovery Sequence at The Purist Retreat & Spa, Cures Marines Hôtel & Spa Trouville – MGallery Collection. These types of experiences promote physical endurance, build community, and inspire a sense of accomplishment through shared challenges.

Functional Wellness Drinks: The Future of Beverages

As alcohol consumption continues to decline globally, particularly among Gen Z, functional wellness beverages are taking center stage and reshaping social gatherings. Adaptogenic drinks infused with ingredients like collagen, magnesium, and herbs are becoming popular for their ability to improve focus, enhance cognition, and provide balanced energy without alcohol. These functional beverages are set to take a prominent role in hospitality. This trend is exemplified by Raffles London at The OWO and its Pillar Kitchen, where health-focused, nutritionally balanced juices and smoothies are crafted by wellness experts to optimise performance, inviting guests and members to enjoy healthy socialisation. Novotel has introduced signature teas available throughout their hotels, from guest rooms to lobby bars. These beverages are crafted to promote relaxation and wellbeing, aligning with Novotel’s holistic approach to guest wellness.

Brain Fitness: Optimising Cognitive Performance for a Longer, Healthier Life

With life expectancy on the rise, brain health has become a top wellness priority. Consumers across all age groups, from 25 to 75, are actively seeking ways to enhance cognitive function and mental clarity. In response, the market is focusing on four key trends: brain supplements, nootropic-infused drinks, high-tech brain devices, and personalised brainwave programs designed to optimise cognitive performance. From Bio Trust’s Eternal Mind supplement and Japan’s Sun Neuro product to Rebalance Impulse Tech, Accor is introducing innovative solutions to support memory and brain function. “Wellness offerings will increasingly integrate these brain-boosting technologies. As life extends, so does the quest for a sharper mind—wellness now means nurturing the brain as much as the body,” added Emlyn Brown.

Back to Basics: The Return to Wellness Fundamentals

In 2025, simplicity will take center stage, emphasising the core pillars of well-being: movement, nutrition, and mindfulness. Consumers are moving away from complex wellness regimens, embracing more accessible practices such as walking, nature-based retreats, sauna sessions, and open water swimming. For example, MGallery embraces mindfulness throughout its everyday guest experiences as well as regenerative retreat experiences that go beyond classical wellness practices. Whether in-room, at the restaurant or walking around the hotel, guests discover opportunities to align mind and body and breathe with consciousness. Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery Collection held a transformative three-day mindfulness retreat in 2024 – focusing on the fundamentals of self-care and setting the stage for similar retreats at select MGallery hotels in 2025. As one of the newest additions to the Ennismore collective, a creative hospitality company in which Accor owns a majority share, Our Habitas encourages a digital disconnect to enable guests to meaningfully reconnect with nature. This off-grid philosophy also fosters social connections that nourish the soul, with strangers becoming friends and friends becoming family. At Swissôtel Uludağ Bursain in Türkiye, guests can embrace nature’s offerings year-round, from invigorating summer hikes to world-class ski slopes in the winter.

Stealth Muscle: Shifting Focus from Aesthetics to Functional Fitness

The trend toward over-muscularity is fading as fitness enthusiasts shift their focus to balance, flexibility, and functional muscle development. This shift is evident in the 176% rise in low-impact workout bookings since 2022 on ClassPass. With an emphasis on ‘being fit rather than looking fit,’ workouts like Reformer Pilates are surging in popularity. Traditionally associated with women’s fitness, Pilates is now gaining traction among men as well, as seen in the rise of the hashtag #RealMenDoPilates, with men increasingly recognising its numerous benefits. Several Fairmont hotels across the Americas leverage their partnership with Three Sages, providing in-room wellness programs that guide guests through restorative yoga and meditation practices on demand.

Wellness, Your Way: The Continued Rise of Personalized Health Experiences

Customisation and personalisation are transforming the wellness industry, with 82% of consumers stating that tailored experiences are key to their brand choices. Advances in AI and wearable technology are making hyper-personalised wellness plans, real-time workout adjustments, and bespoke nutrition insights possible. This shift creates exciting opportunities for the hospitality sector to offer hyper-personalised wellness programs, create bespoke nutrition plans for guests, enhance spa treatments, and provide individualised sleep therapy, guided meditation, and dynamic bathing experiences—all powered by the latest technology. This is precisely what guests will encounter at The Purist Retreat & Spa, Cures Marines Hôtel & Spa Trouville – MGallery Collection, where the seaside resort’s traditional thalassotherapy experience is enriched with advanced diagnostics to create personalised wellness plans incorporating the four essential components of wellness: care, sport, nutrition, and sleep. At Pullman Hotels & Resorts, the brand is redefining personalisation within guestrooms to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers. The recently unveiled Transforming Room at Pullman Singapore Orchard exemplifies this vision, offering guests the flexibility to seamlessly convert their room into a functional wellness space for activities such as yoga or meditation.

Master Nutritionists: The New Celebrities of the Culinary World

As nutrition becomes central to wellness, expert nutritionists are taking the place of celebrity chefs. With the personalised nutrition market projected to reach $23.3 billion by 2027, individuals are increasingly seeking tailored dietary solutions to enhance both physical and mental health. At Accor, this trend is embodied by Pillar Kitchen at Raffles London at The OWO. Part of the Pillar Wellbeing concept, this health café puts plant-based food and nutrition at the forefront. With a menu crafted by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, the program also offers one-on-one nutrition coaching sessions, helping individuals deepen their understanding of diet and supplements to support a personalised nutritional strategy for members and guests. Similarly, Emilie Félix, a chef specialising in energetic cuisine, collaborates with Cures Marines Hôtel & Spa Trouville – MGallery Collection to create balanced, revitalising, and personalised menus. Her approach focuses on using five elements—ingredients, flavours, colours, textures, and cooking methods to provide a holistic, energy-boosting dining experience.

 

 

 

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The post FCM Meetings & Events appoints Victoria Deprez as UK & Ireland Business Leader appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

FCM Meetings & Events (FCM M&E), the long-standing event management specialist and flagship division of the Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), has announced the appointment of  Victoria Deprez as UK and Ireland, Business Leader. Deprez’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the M&E division as they recently announced a $20 million global investment to target worldwide growth for this segment of the business.

With over 18 years of leadership experience in the meetings and events industry, Deprez has built a reputation for delivering transformative client solutions across the technology and travel sectors.

“Our Meetings and Events division has seen significant investment as we focus on unlocking its full potential, and we’re thrilled to welcome Victoria as our new Business Leader for the UK and Ireland, said Frits De Kok, Head of FCM Meetings & Events, EMEA.  “With an incredible opportunity for growth ahead of us, her expertise in identifying strategic opportunities and delivering client-centric solutions will be instrumental in positioning us as the go-to travel management company for meetings, events, and event travel. Victoria’s dedication to innovation and her proven ability to create value make her a fantastic addition to our team as we continue to elevate our presence in this dynamic sector.”

Prior to joining FCM M&E Deprez worked for Leapwork, a Microsoft-backed tech startup, where she played an instrumental role in driving client engagement and building scalable, high-impact strategies. Before joining Leapwork, Victoria held senior roles at prominent industry players including The Institute of Travel Management, Travelport, Event Travel Management and Navan.

“I’m thrilled to join this exceptional team at such an exciting time for the Meetings and Events division. I’m eager to bring a fresh perspective to uncover strategic opportunities, enhance the client experience, and deliver meaningful value. It’s clear that this team’s commitment to excellence has established it as a trusted partner in the industry, and I’m looking forward to building on that foundation as we shape the future of meetings and events together, said Victoria Deprez, UK and Ireland, Business Leader, FCM M&E.

 

 

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The post IATA reports global air cargo demand rose in October appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for October 2024 global air cargo markets showing continuing strong annual growth in demand.

Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), rose by 9.8 percent compared to October 2023 levels (10.3 percent for international operations) for a 15th consecutive month of growth.

Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), increased by 5.9 percent compared to October 2023 (7.2 percent for international operations). 

Increased capacity was mostly driven by an 8.5 percent increase in international belly capacity. 

Likewise, dedicated freighter capacity increased by 5.6 percent, marking the seventh consecutive month of growth with volumes nearing 2021 peak levels.

According to IATA director-general Willie Walsh: “Air cargo markets continued their strong performance in October, with demand rising 9.8 percent year-on-year and capacity up 5.9 percent. Global air cargo yields (including surcharges) continue to rise, up 10.6 percent on 2023 and 49 percent on 2019 levels. While 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year for air cargo, we must look to 2025 with some caution. The incoming Trump Administration’s announced intention to impose significant tariffs on its top trading partners, Canada, China and Mexico has the potential to upend global supply chains and undermine consumer confidence. The air cargo industry’s proven adaptability to rapidly evolving geopolitical and economic situations is likely to be tested as the Trump agenda unfolds.”

What needs to be considered moving forward?

Several factors in the operating environment should be noted:

• Year-on-year, industrial production rose 1.6 percent in September while global goods trade increased 2.4 percent for a sixth consecutive month of growth. The increase in trade is partly due to businesses stockpiling inventory ahead of potential disruptions, like the US port strike.
• Global manufacturing activity rebounded in October. The Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for global manufacturing output was above the 50-mark, indicating growth. However, the PMI for new export orders remained below the 50-mark, suggesting ongoing uncertainty and weakness in global trade.
• US headline inflation, based on the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose by 0.17 percentage points to 2.58 percent in October, ending a six-month decline. In the same month, the inflation rate in the EU increased by 0.24 percentage points to 2.33 percent. China’s consumer inflation fell to 0.29 percent in October, sparking concerns of an economic slowdown.

Performance per region

Asia-Pacific airlines saw 13.4% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased by 9.3% year-on-year.

North American carriers saw 9.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased by 5.8% year-on-year.

European carriers saw 7.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased 3.9% year-on-year.

Middle Eastern carriers saw 4.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased 0.8% year-on-year.

Latin American carriers saw 18.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October, the strongest growth among the regions. Capacity increased 5.8% year-on-year.

African airlines saw 1.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October, the slowest among regions. Capacity increased by 7.7% year-on-year. 

Trade Lane Growth: International routes experienced exceptional traffic levels for the fifth consecutive month with a 10.3% year-on-year increase in October. Airlines are benefiting from rising e-commerce demand in the US and Europe amid ongoing capacity limits in ocean shipping.

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The post Philippine Airlines reveals new promotional video appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine Airlines recently launched a new promotional campaign created with renowned advertising agency BBDO Guerrero Philippines.

Titled The Care That Comes From the Heart, the new campaign breathes new life into PAL’s iconic slogan The Heart of the Filipino.

The centrepiece of the campaign is a short film titled Alaga which is the Tagalog word for “care.” 

The film casts the spotlight on the meaningful and sincere care provided by PAL’s crew and staff, an aspect deeply rooted in the traditions of Filipino hospitality.

According to PAL vice-president of marketing Alvin Miranada, Filipino care is unlike any other; it’s shaped by generations of shared experiences and a deeply ingrained culture of compassion.

Miranda said: “Collaborating with BBDO Guerrero on this campaign has been a seamless partnership: their creative vision delivered the perfect story about how we put our hearts into everything we do. That’s the message we’re proud to share with the world.”

Capturing the spirit of deep-seated care

BBDO Guerrero creative chair David Guerrero said of the film: “With Alaga, we aimed to capture the essence of Filipino care: a type of hospitality that is warm, intuitive, and inherently generous. It’s been a joy to work with Philippine Airlines to bring their unique service philosophy to our screens.”

Directed by Joel Limchoc, Alaga can be viewed via the official PAL social media channels.

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand hails Saudia’s inaugural flight to Phuket appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted airport ceremonies to mark Saudia’s inaugural non-stop flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to Phuket. 

Saudia’s inaugural Riyadh-Phuket flight SV 852, which took place on 2 December 2024, departed Riyadh at 11:25 and arrived in Phuket at 22:30. 

Thai ambassador to Saudi Arabia Darm Boontham, TAT Dubai and Middle East office director Ahman Mad-Adam, and media representatives from the Middle East were aboard the flight.

On the other hand, the inaugural Jeddah-Phuket flight SV 850 flew from Jeddah today, 4th December, at 01:55, arriving in Phuket at 13:45. A similar welcome ceremony was held in Phuket.

These new direct routes reflect growing demand for travel between Thailand and Saudi Arabia, enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.

According to TAT deputy governor for international marketing Siripakorn Cheawsamoot: “The launch of Saudia’s non-stop flights to Phuket marks a significant milestone in the strengthening of the friendly relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. This new air link not only offers greater convenience for Saudi travellers but also fosters deeper cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges, further solidifying Thailand’s position as a preferred destination for visitors from Saudi Arabia.”

Saudia will operate the Riyadh-Phuket and Jeddah-Phuket routes with Boeing 787-9 aircraft, each offering three weekly flights through 28 February 2025. 

In addition, the airline currently operates up to five weekly flights from Jeddah to Bangkok, three from Riyadh to Bangkok, and three flights per week between Riyadh and Bangkok via Jeddah.

A timely expansion

According to Cheawsamoot, the introduction of these non-stop flights comes at a time of growing tourism and economic cooperation between Thailand and Saudi Arabia. 

He said: “Over recent years, our collaborative efforts, including joint campaigns, have attracted Saudi tourists to Thailand. Saudia’s new flights to Phuket will further enhance this partnership, offering Saudi travellers greater access to explore Thailand’s stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences.”

TAT and Saudia will continue their collaboration with joint marketing initiatives, including a special sales promotion targeting Saudi families and millennial travellers. 

The Amazing Thailand Post-ATM Roadshow 2025 in Riyadh will bring Thai businesses and tourism representatives closer to the Saudi market. 

TAT and Saudia have previously worked together on successful campaigns, such as the 2023 Phuket Roadshow to Saudi Arabia and a Memorandum of Cooperation in 2022 to promote luxury, wellness, and sustainable tourism.

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The post Crown Sydney ushers in a new era of refined dining appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Crown Resorts announced that renowned Sydney hospitality institutions Golden Century and Icebergs Dining Room and Bar are slated to open new outlets in the upcoming 2024-2025 summer season.

These new venues will join a list of world-class and award-winning home-grown and international restaurants, ushering in a new era of dining where tourists and locals alike can enjoy Crown as a one-stop destination for Sydney’s best culinary experiences.

Crown Sydney CEO Stanford Le said: “Crown Sydney is already a beacon of hospitality in this beloved city, so it feels natural to add to our repertoire two renowned offerings from Sydney itself. We are thrilled to become the new home of the iconic Golden Century, offering our guests an experience that is at once nostalgic and exciting, and to partner with Icebergs for a summer residency of their bar experience, bringing their Bondi expertise to the harbourside.”

Icebergs Harbour Bar will be open seven days a week and will be available for walk-ins. Reservations for Golden Century will open to the public in December.

Oriental delectables

In early 2025, Golden Century will move into level 3, continuing their 30 year legacy and reprising the original concept which has been unavailable to diners since their Sussex St location closed during Covid in 2021. 

The venue will pay homage to the original with a menu brimming with Golden Century’s signature dishes including XO pippies, live lobster cooked two ways, and abalone steamboat, as well as other signature classics like peking duck, salt and pepper squid, and a yum cha lunch offering.

Golden Century co-owner Billy Wong, co-owner of Golden Century said: “We feel that we have a great synergy with Crown’s approach to hospitality: focusing on quality and the guest experience, making them feel welcome and at home. Golden Century is where it all began and we are excited to once again welcome in our loyal customers, serving our beloved Cantonese classics in a picture-perfect location that overlooks Sydney harbour and beyond.” 

A toast to excellence

On the other hand, Icebergs Harbour Bar aims to open this month welcoming guests from the morning through to late night drinks, bringing an elevated and Euro-Australian version of Bondi’s bar offering to Barangaroo by taking over the TWR lobby bar space and outdoor terrace. 

Diners can expect Icebergs Bar favourites such as the Iceburger, fried school prawns with aioli and lime, and signature cocktails like the No. 147 with Ketel One vodka, coconut, passionfruit, pineapple, lemon and aromatic bitters.

Restaurateur and Icebergs co-owner Maurice Terzini said: “I have always had a love affair with great hotel bars; they’re transient and fun and you never know who you’re going to meet! This evolution of the Iceberg’s Bar will bring classic drinks and our signature bar food offering to Crown Sydney, matching the already decadent and luxurious guest experience.”

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