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AirAsia remains the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for the 16th consecutive year

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AirAsia was hailed by Skytrax as the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for a 16th consecutive year at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025 held on Tuesday, 17th June.

The accolade reaffirms AirAsia’s reputation as the global gold standard in low-cost travel.

At the awards ceremony, Skytrax’s chief executive officer Edward Plaisted declared: “We congratulate AirAsia on this fabulous achievement at the 2025 World Airline Awards. This success for a record sixteenth time is a clear reflection of their dedication to providing quality, affordable travel options to customers. This is a most competitive and fast growing market for low cost airlines, and this award demonstrates AirAsia success.”

Likewise, the award reflects the airline’s unmatched reach across ASEAN and beyond, underpinned by a vast network connecting over 130 destinations, affordable fares, and a strong commitment to operational excellence. 

Indeed, AirAsia continues to redefine connectivity, making travel accessible, affordable, and seamlessly integrated across Asia leveraging its multi-hub strategy across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Cambodia.

Still meaningful after all these years

In accepting the award at a ceremony at the Paris Air Show 2025, Capital A chair and AirAsia co-founder Kamarudin Meranun was moved to remark on how, 16 years on, this recognition remains just as meaningful as ever to the company. 

Meranun declared: “We started with a simple dream to make flying affordable for everyone. To be recognised for the 16th time reaffirms that we have stayed true to that mission and continue to soar high in the minds of the many millions of passengers who choose to fly with us each year. While this award is truly another fantastic achievement, we never rest on our laurels and it inspires us to go even further.”

Capital A chief executive and AirAsia co-founder Tony Fernandes likewise declared that this win is one he considers emotional on a personal level.

Fernandes said: “From flying just 200,000 guests in our first year to aiming to welcome our one billionth guest this year, this journey has been made possible by the unwavering support of our guests, and the tireless dedication of our incredible Allstars. Every challenge we have faced, every comeback we have made, was made possible by their trust and effort. We thank the Skytrax team for recognising our work, and I would like to share the award with my Allstars: it belongs to them. Thank you for believing in the dream.”

A winning model

The award also serves as a testament to the airline’s contribution to connecting both primary and underserved secondary and tertiary cities. 

This model has enabled the launch of unique and strategic routes such as Kuala Lumpur-Labuan Bajo, Bangkok-Narathiwat, Manila-Tagbilaran, Jakarta-Silangit, and others expanding access to emerging travel corridors and tourism growth areas. 

At the same time, AirAsia’s continued emphasis on guest experience sets it apart: having flown close to one billion guests, the airline maintains high levels of customer loyalty and brand advocacy across its key markets. 

Looking ahead, the airline is set to deepen its connectivity across Central Asia and the Middle East, marking a significant step forward in its ambition to become the first truly global low-cost network carrier.

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Taiwan puts its best foot forward for British travel pros

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Taiwan Tourism recently took over London’s iconic venue Outernet London on Tottenham Court Road to show the British travel industry why the country has so much to offer UK travellers.

Trade guests were immersed in the sights and sounds of Taiwan at the event held on Thursday, 12th June. 

Inspired by Taiwan Tourism’s 3.0 theme Taiwan: Waves of Wonder, it celebrated the island’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, and fare offered to guests included night market delicacies and cocktails celebrating Taiwanese flavours.

A resounding success

Linda Lin, director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA)’s London office, declared: “The Outernet event was a resounding success and kicked off a two-day takeover of Taiwan in one of central London’s most iconic venues. The trade event really showcased the best of Taiwan: the spirit of the people of Taiwan and our beautiful scenery.”

Lin pointed out how Taiwan is a vibrant island destination that effortlessly blends rich cultural heritage with stunning natural beauty and modern convenience. 

From bustling night markets and centuries-old temples to lush mountains, hot springs, and scenic coastlines, the country offers something for every type of traveller. 

Renowned for its safety, cleanliness, and efficient public transportation, Taiwan is especially welcoming to families, solo adventurers, and digital nomads alike.

Lin added: “Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic cultural experience, such as calligraphy workshops, traditional tea ceremonies, and homestays in rural villages, while also enjoying world-class dining, lively festivals, and high-quality yet affordable accommodation. With its warm hospitality, compact size, and diverse attractions, Taiwan is an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and connection.”

A strong wave of enthusiasm

For his part, Taiwanese ambassador to the UK Vincent Ching-Hsiang Yao found himself impressed by the UK’s palpable enthusiasm for Taiwan. 

He remarked: “I am proud that the UK is embracing many facets of Taiwanese culture, and to see the travel trade wholeheartedly support the efforts of our Tourism team at this event demonstrates the very special relationship Taiwan continues to have with the UK travel industry.”

During the event, specialist tour operator Wendy Wu Tours gave away a holiday prize to guests at the Taiwan Outernet takeover, with members of the public also able to enter during the daytime activities held during the two-day event.

Sara Dolan, head of air and partnerships for Wendy Wu Tours, said of the event:“Taiwan has so much to offer as a destination, which is why Wendy Wu Tours was thrilled to get involved with this pop up. Thanks to creative Taiwan exposure like this, I am sure greater numbers of UK travellers will discover why Taiwan is a truly unique and enchanting holiday destination.”

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Shuttered: The potential impact of recent closures on the global aviation sector

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At this time last year, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) declared that the global aviation sector had fully recovered from the impact of the pandemic, seeing how passenger traffic and revenues recorded in February 2024 already surpassed the total from 2019.

However, there seems to be a reversal of fortunes in global aviation: over the past 12 months (and, indeed, the past few weeks alone), we’ve seen several airlines terminate their operations or whose assets have gone into administration.

Just last week, Qantas Group announced the closure of Jetstar Asia; while Silver Airways in the US was bought out and its new owners shocked passengers through the immediate cessation of flights.

Given how a significant number of these closures have involved low-cost carriers (LCCs) which have, over the past decade, been responsible for the massive surge in commercial passenger traffic, could these closures have a significant impact on the world of commercial aviation?

First of all, why are companies shuttering their airlines?

Industry professionals attending this year’s Paris Air Show which runs till Sunday, 22nd June, have gone on record to say that there is a great deal of tension in the air at the event.

While it’s understandable in light of the recent airstrikes seen in the Middle East which led to the shuttering of the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) booth by the French government, as well as the disaster that was Air India Flight 171, the recent closures of Silver Airways, Jetstar Asia, and THAI Smile have made professionals wonder if the global aviation sector needs to do some considerable rethinking on the corporate side.

Running an airline means getting involved with a business that calls for substantial investment for constant innovation, a significant amount of manpower, and an equally significant outlay for operational expenses.

Costs are definitely a cause for concern, given how the industry is known for its high fixed and variable costs, especially where fuel, human resources, and maintenance are concerned.

At the same time, especially following the reopening of the world post-pandemic, competition in the industry is fiercer than ever, and this can seriously impact the prices airlines offer to potential passengers, as well as their overall bottom line.

Also, external factors need to be taken into account: public health issues like pandemics rank high among these as they lead to the closure of international borders; international armed conflict is another, along with environmental factors such as greater turbulence and stronger storms that have resulted from climate change.

What needs to be done?

Based on our observations of recent trends in global aviation, we would like to point out several things that airlines may need to seriously consider in order to stay afloat in today’s increasingly competitive industry.

First of all, especially in light of air accidents and armed conflict in international airspaces, flight safety and security are the main points of consideration. Admittedly, aircraft maintenance is one of the biggest expenses for any airline, but it is an area where cutting costs may prove fatal for not only for the passengers and crew onboard, but also the airline itself. Inability to safeguard the overall wellbeing of passengers and crew through basic maintenance has been the death knell for several airlines throughout the history of the corporate aviation sector, so constant vigilance and proper investment into relevant modalities are a necessity rather than a mere option.

Second, service matters; over the past several years, one of the more adverse things said about Jetstar Asia was that the quality of its inflight services needed some serious revamping. Experts point out that, in terms of service quality, there ought to be no difference between that offered by the crew of a full-service airline and that of an LCC. While there can be disparity with regard to amenities offered, treating passengers with cordiality and compassion is something many people keep an eye on when flying. That said, maybe airline need to rethink their training strategies for their inflight crews.

Third, could codeshare agreements be in your airline’s future? Tying up with other key players in the industry has enabled a number of airlines to expand their offerings without too great an outlay on fleet or network expansion. Codeshare agreements also serve to promote airlines to their partners’ core markets, and this also cuts down on marketing costs.

Fourth, innovation is always key. Staying abreast of current trends in the industry is all well and good, but if you’re not looking into these to boost the performance of your airline, then you need to rethink your strategy. Going back to item number one on this list, innovation is also a way by which airlines can boost the overall safety of their aircraft, on top of fuel efficiency, speed, and passenger comfort.

And speaking of fuel efficiency, sustainability and environmental adjustments come in fifth on our list. While the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is still in its early stages and the cost of both production and procurement remain considerably expensive, it will go a long way in terms of improving engine flight performance on top of reducing an airline’s carbon footprint. Also, with regard to item number four on innovation, taking environmentally-driven design will also be a key consideration in the future, protecting aircraft from the buffeting of severe turbulence and more intense weather conditions.

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Emirates A350 makes its debut at the 2025 Paris Airshow

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Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is participating in the 55th edition of the International Paris Airshow until 19 June. After an over 15-year hiatus from the show, Emirates is showcasing its newest aircraft – the Airbus A350 – featuring the airline’s next-generation cabin design, latest interiors, and technologies.

Visitors can experience Emirates’ upgraded Business Class and Premium Economy cabins, as well its sleek and spacious Economy Class.

Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline, said: “We’re pleased to be at the Paris Airshow, showcasing the very best of air travel on one of the most important platforms in the aerospace exhibition calendar. Coming back to France’s most important aerospace show demonstrates how committed Emirates is to supporting the country’s aviation industry – not just through our day-to-day operations, but through ongoing investments across the entire aerospace supply chain.”

The airline serves Paris with 21 weekly flights, including 3 daily A380 flights; a daily A380 service to Nice; and a daily A350 flight to Lyon. Emirates is the first and only international airline to operate an A380 to Nice Côte d´Azur Airport.

For over 30 years, Emirates has played a key role in expanding France’s aviation sector and enhancing trade and tourism flows. Key Emirates investments in France over the last three decades include:

  • Emirates’ A350 and A380 purchases have supported thousands of jobs at Airbus, Safran, Thales as well as other parts of the aerospace value chain in France.
  • Since its inception in 1985 – Emirates has invested more than €114 billion (US$ 130 billion) to purchase 254 Airbus aircraft including the, A300, A310, A330, A340-300, A340-500, A380 and A350 aircraft.
  • The airline is a key customer for French aerospace manufacturers, sourcing Michelin tyres, Safran aircraft components and seating, and Thales avionics systems, among other parts to support its fleet.
  • In 2023, the airline announced a series of contracts with Safran, worth over €1.0 billion (US$1.14 billion) combined. This includes a €896 million (US$1.0 billion) deal for the latest generation Safran Seats for Emirates’ new fleet of Airbus A350, Boeing 777X-9 and existing Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
  • The airline has also invested over €322 million (US$367.5 million) in Thales’ AVANT Up system for its new A350 aircraft.

  • Emirates SkyCargo offers cargo capacity to customers in France on a weekly rotation between Dubai World Central (DWC), Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Lyon Saint-Exupery airports. The UAE is France’s largest export partner in the Middle East.
  • Emirates directly contributes over €189 million (USD $215 million) to the French economy each year through operational expenditures such as fuel uplift, over-flight charges, inflight catering, aircraft landing and handling fees, crew layover, staff salaries, advertising, and sponsorship.
  • France is also Emirates’ top source market globally for the procurement of wines, and 58% of the red wine consumed in Emirates’ First and Business Class comes from Bordeaux.

The Emirates A350 on display features three spacious cabin classes including 32 next-generation Business Class lie-flat seats, 21 Premium Economy seats, and 259 generously pitched Economy Class seats.

Visitors at the Paris Airshow can get a glimpse of the airline’s new and enhanced ‘fly better’ experience including more space and storage with extra high ceilings and wider aisles in all classes; next generation Business Class cabin with 1-2-1 seat configuration; latest generation of in-flight entertainment with a cinematic viewing experience, enhanced cabin lighting, faster Wi-Fi, and improved seat ergonomics.

By the end of this year, the Emirates A350 is expected to serve 17 destinations. The airline has welcomed 7 A350 aircraft with 58 more units to join its fleet over the coming years.

 

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SOTC Travel enters Chhattisgarh market with first outlet in Raipur

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SOTC Travel has inaugurated its first franchise outlet in Raipur and in the state of Chhattisgarh, reiterating the Company’s strategic focus to expand its retail footprint across India. Chhattisgarh is emerging as a strong source market for the Company’s holiday business and is witnessing promising travel demand with Raipur and its surrounding catchments being key growth drivers. SOTC’s new franchise outlet is strategically situated in the city center, to serve both leisure and business segments.

The Raipur outlet offers end-to-end travel solutions with an array of services, including International & Domestic Holidays (Group tours, Personalized Holidays, Cruises, etc.); Value Added Services like Travel Insurance; Visa Services, etc.

Raipur/Chhattisgarh Travel Trends

Top destinations:

  • International: Europe, Australia-New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Egypt and South America
  • Domestic & Indian Subcontinent: Ladakh, Andaman Islands, Sri Lanka & Bhutan
  • Unique preferences: high interest in experiential holidays such as witnessing Northern Lights in Norway/ Scandinavia/ Murmansk, black water rafting in New Zealand
  • Holiday duration has increased from 3 days to 5 – 8 days for short trips; from 5 days to 10 -15 days for longer trips
  • Strong demand for spiritual journeys and darshans: Ayodhya, Char Dham, Varanasi, Prayagraj
  • Top traveller segments: Multi-generational families, couples, Young India’s millennials & GenZ, GenS (seniors) and working professionals

Rakesh Bawa – Senior Vice President & Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited said: “Chhattisgarh is strongly emerging as a viable source market for SOTC and we are witnessing promising demand from the region. Hence, we are delighted to announce the opening of our first franchise outlet in the city of Raipur. The new outlet is centrally located and allows us to target valuable segments of families, millennials, business owners, Gen Z and seniors. Over our 75 years as a company, we firmly believe that, ‘No one understands the Indian Traveler better than SOTC. And we look forward to welcoming our Raipur customers designing their perfect holidays.

 

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Qatar Airways Retain Skytrax Airline of the Year Title for a Record Ninth Time

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The national carrier of the State of Qatar continues to lead the aviation industry with multiple top awards including World’s Best Business Class, Best Airline in the Middle East and Best Business Class Airline Lounge

 Qatar Airways has once again been named the World’s Best Airline by the prestigious international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax, retaining the top position for a record-breaking ninth time. This achievement reaffirms the airline’s steadfast commitment to delivering excellence across every touchpoint of the travel experience.

In addition to securing the airline industry’s highest accolade, Qatar Airways was also awarded:

World’s Best Business Class

Best Airline in the Middle East

Best Business Class Airline Lounge (Al Mourjan Lounge – The Garden at Hamad International Airport)

Skytrax Five-Star Airline recognition

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Being named the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax for the ninth time is an extraordinary honour. This recognition is far more than an award, it is a celebration of the passion, precision and purpose that defines who we are as an airline. To retain this title in a highly competitive and ever-evolving global industry reflects the relentless efforts across every part of the business, from the frontline to behind-the-scenes, the passion and commitment of our people continue to set new standards in aviation.

“We are equally proud to have been named the Best Airline in the Middle East, to once again hold the title of the World’s Best Business Class, and to be recognised for offering the Best Business Class Airline Lounge experience globally. These accolades reaffirm our ambition not only to lead, but to redefine what exceptional service means in aviation. Whether on the ground or in the air, we strive to deliver a seamless, elevated journey that anticipates the needs of our passengers and reflects the highest standards of quality, comfort, and innovation.

“Being continuously recognised as a Skytrax Five-Star Airline further underscores our mission: to set new benchmarks for the industry and to ensure that our passengers feel genuinely cared for, valued and inspired to return. These awards are not just wins for us, they are a tribute to the trust of millions of travellers who choose us every year and a clear validation of our vision to shape the future of air travel.”

Skytrax CEO, Edward Plaisted, said: “It is a fabulous achievement for Qatar Airways to win the World’s Best Airline title for 2025, the ninth time they have triumphed in the awards history. Qatar Airways achieved excellent results across many award categories, with their Business Class winning the World’s Best Business Class, and their Al Mourjan Garden Lounge named the World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge. We congratulate Qatar Airways on these successes which should be a source of great pride and satisfaction for the airline management and staff.”

These recognitions are the latest milestones in what has already been an exceptional year for Qatar Airways, as the airline continues to enhance its network, product offerings, and service innovation across its global operations.

 

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Amex GBT appoints Becky Power as Vice President & General Manager, Global Client Management SME

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American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) appoints Becky Power, who will join the senior leadership team of its Global SME division.  Becky joins the company as Vice President & General Manager, Global Client Management SME, bringing a distinguished track record of more than two decades delivering commercial growth and digital transformation.

Prior to joining Amex GBT, Becky held key leadership roles at Google, including as Country Sales Director for the Travel and Retail business, and was a member of the UK management team. Most recently she was EMEA Managing Director for Corporate Strategy and Operations.

In her new role, Becky will be responsible for strengthening global client management capabilities within Amex GBT Select and Ovation, with a focus on client retention and business growth strategies.

“We are excited to welcome Becky to our team,” said Jason Geall, Executive Vice President, Global SME at Amex GBT. “Her proven experience in building partnerships and driving commercial performance in a technology environment brings added strength to our focus on growth as a software and services company in the vast SME sector.”

Becky added: “I am thrilled to join the Amex GBT team, who are driving transformation and innovation in the industry. With over 20 years of experience spanning technology, retail and travel, I’m excited to be part of a company that’s focused on tech-driven progress in the business travel ecosystem to bring greater efficiencies, value and experiences to our customers.”

 

 

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Malaysia Airlines, MYCEB and LADA Host Global TES 2025 in Langkawi

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Malaysia Airlines, in strategic collaboration with the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MYCEB) and the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), successfully hosted the second edition of its flagship Trade Elevation Summit (TES) from 10 to 12 June 2025. As the largest airline trade event in Malaysia, TES 2025 brought together key industry stakeholders on the stunning island of Langkawi – the jewel of Kedah and a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Following the resounding success of the inaugural summit in Kuala Lumpur last year, TES 2025 continued its momentum with over 300 delegates in attendance, including airline representatives, trade partners and key stakeholders from 68 cities across the globe, creating an exceptional platform for collaboration, innovation, and strategic dialogue. Against the breathtaking backdrop of Langkawi, attendees were immersed in curated experiences that celebrated the best of Malaysian culture, tourism offerings, and the national airline’s latest products and services. The summit also serves as a timely and strategic catalyst in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026), reinforcing Malaysia Airlines’ role as a national flagbearer and global connector.

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officerof Airlines of Malaysia Aviation Group, said, “Malaysia is more than a destination—it is a story of rich culture, warm hospitality, and global potential. As the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines carries this story across continents, serving as a bridge between nations and a proud ambassador of everything Malaysia stands for. Langkawi has long been a cornerstone of our network—one of our earliest and most iconic leisure destinations. With 56 weekly flights connecting the island to key cities across Malaysia and beyond, we continue to champion Langkawi’s role as a vital tourism gateway and catalyst for regional growth.

Hosting the Trade Elevation Summit here reflects our long-standing commitment to uplifting Malaysia’s key tourism hubs and aligning our efforts with national goals. Through initiatives like the Bonus Side Trip, and ongoing investments in connectivity, product innovation, digital platforms, and customer experience, we are strengthening our foundations and positioning Malaysia Airlines as the top-of-mind carrier in the region. This summit is a strategic milestone in our journey towards Visit Malaysia Year 2026—where we will continue to champion Malaysia as premier global destination.”

As an annual flagship initiative by Malaysia Airlines, TES reinforces the airline’s mission to champion Malaysia as a preferred travel destination, drive innovation in aviation, and foster closer cooperation between international stakeholders and local industry players. Delegates engaged in curated business-to-business (B2B) sessions, immersive product showcases, and strategic forums focusing on aviation growth, regional connectivity, and destination marketing. This year’s edition in Langkawi not only reinforced Malaysia’s position as a premier travel destination in Asia but also underscored the airline’s commitment to supporting state-level tourism through strategic alignment with the nation’s tourism goals.

The summit also featured product showcases, business-to-business sessions, and forward-looking discussions on aviation growth, connectivity, and destination marketing. It was a testament to the strong alignment between Malaysia’s tourism strategy and the airline’s global network ambitions.

With strong support from MYCEB and LADA, TES 2025 underscores a unified national effort to strengthen Malaysia’s tourism and aviation industry —driven by strategic collaboration and shared ambition. With Malaysia Year 2026 on the horizon, the TES 2025 served as a timely and strategic move to energise the tourism ecosystem, build lasting partnerships, and reaffirm Malaysia Airlines’ role as the nation’s proud flagbearer.

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Tourism is a Tool, not a Target: BEDO Forum Leads Mainstreaming Biodiversity-Based Tourism in Thailand

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BANGKOK — Thailand took a bold step toward sustainable tourism transformation at the Mainstreaming Biodiversity-Based Tourism in Thailand: Policy, Practice, and Partnership Forum, hosted by the Biodiversity-Based Economy Development Office (BEDO) on June 12, 2025, at the Centara Life Government Complex. Organized in collaboration with UNDP Thailand and supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the forum brought together leading voices, changemakers, and innovators committed to reimagining tourism as a driver of biodiversity conservation and inclusive community development.

The forum was officially opened by Mrs. Suwanna Tiansuwan, Director-General of BEDO, who spoke passionately about the need to position biodiversity at the heart of sustainable economic development.

H.E. Dr. Weerasak Kowsurat, Former Minister of Tourism and Sports and Vice-chair of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee, delivered a powerful and visionary keynote address. Widely respected as one of the leading voices for sustainable tourism in Thailand, Dr. Weerasak shared insights drawn from years of public service and policy leadership.

Tourism is a tool, not a target,” he emphasized, calling for a shift toward low-impact, high-value tourism that genuinely benefits local communities and protects ecosystems. His words resonated deeply with the audience.

Designing for Outcomes, Not Just Arrivals

The morning’s first panel explored strategic tourism planning and policy. Moderated by Mr. Rachai Cholsindusongkramchai (MBT Project Manager, BEDO), it featured insights from Athuek Prasenmun (Department of Tourism), Siripakorn Cheawsamoot (DASTA), Preeda Sukjai (Deputy Provincial Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan), Martin Venzky-Stalling (JFCCT, Ennova), and Robert Steele (Systainability Asia). Martin shared insights on transitioning to high-value tourism models that use tourism income to sustain—and even regenerate—natural ecosystems while supporting local communities, saying “The GSTC standards offer valuable guidance for destination management. Biodiversity credits and green finance mechanisms can complement tourism revenue to protect natural habitats and support communities.”

In the second panel, “Awareness Raising, Incentivizing Change & Scaling Biodiversity-Based Tourism”, Carol Liew, Managing Director of the ECCA Family Foundation, added a grounded yet aspirational perspective. “Tourism can protect biodiversity and strengthen livelihoods—but only if it’s community-led, low-impact, and deeply rooted in local cultures.”

She shared two powerful project stories:

In Ban Muang Noi, Pai Seedings Foundation is helping hilltribe farmers shift from monoculture farming to regenerative agriculture – while building a homestay model that shares both food systems and cultural heritage as supplementary income to support this transition.

In the south, the Thai Sea Witch Foundation is helping coastal fishing communities lead marine conservation efforts – linking these to sustainable tourism and environmental education.

Khun Wanvipa Phanumat, Chief Operating Officer of Local Alike, shared how their organization has helped transform rural communities across Thailand through regenerative, low-impact travel experiences co-designed with local stakeholders.

But Fellow panelist Khun Suthep reminded us it took over a decade to shape Ban Tham Suea into today’s thriving homestay community. Communities need time to see value in what they already have, and to build pride by telling their own stories, in their own words.

Significant Shifts and Trends

Assumption University’s Dr. Scott Smith noted the evolution of tourism language—from “good” to “responsible,” “sustainable,” “regenerative,” and now “transformative.” This shift, he explained, reflects how traveler’s values have deepened over the years. He encouraged attendees to look beyond headcounts and rethink tourism metrics: “We no longer ask how many tourists came—we ask who benefited, and who was left behind.”

He illustrated this transformation with the Rainforest Rising program at YAANA Venture’s Anurak Lodge, situated on the edge of Khao Sok National Park, where visitors help replant native trees, giving back to the ecosystem they’re enjoying. He also emphasized that today’s travelers are vocal, and want to align their trips with values—authenticity, community well-being, and environmental accountability.

A Shared Vision for Thailand’s Tourism Future

Tourism can uplift—or it can undermine. It depends on how we design it. A good place to visit must first be a good place to live. This isn’t a slogan—it’s a strategy.

With participation from local communities, policymakers, NGOs, and academics, the BEDO forum advanced a unified vision for a more inclusive and environmentally responsible tourism sector. It was an honor for AU to contribute to this important dialogue and to stand beside leaders committed to a more sustainable and equitable future.

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Australian government releases statement on Rex Express Holdings Ltd

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It has been announced that the voluntary administrators for Regional Express Holdings Limited (Rex Holdings) will express their intention to apply to the Federal Court of Australia to extend the convening period of the voluntary administration to December of this year.

This development comes in light of Ernst & Young (EY)’s failure to secure a new owner for the regional carrier.

However, authorities have remarked that the sale process is progressing positively, with the administrators having narrowed the bidding field.

It is expected that this will give administrators additional time to secure a market-led solution. 

The decision to grant an extension is, nevertheless, a matter for the Federal Court.

What happens now?

According to the statement released earlier today, 17th June: “If approved, the Albanese Government will continue to assist regional communities in maintaining access to critical aviation during this time by extending the ticket guarantee on regional routes. 

“The existing loan of up to $80 million provided to the administrators, which is yet to be fully expended, would remain available to ensure the airline can continue to operate.

“In order to support the extension, if an application is granted by the Federal Court, additional financing of up to $30 million from the Australian Government to the administrators will also be made available should it be required to keep regional routes in the air until December. 

“The Government continues to work closely with the Administrators during their sale process for Rex. Further details of the bid process cannot be disclosed at this stage due to ongoing negotiations and commercial confidentiality.”

The government is not a buyer

Australian authorities have, nevertheless, made it clear that the government is not a bidder in the sale of Rex Holdings.

Instead, it is merely undertaking necessary work on contingencies should a market-led solution not be achieved.  

The statement further declared: “Any potential government support for a successful bidder will be conditional on commitments to provide an ongoing, reasonable level of service to regional and remote communities, the need to provide value for money to taxpayers and good governance. 

“The Albanese Government remains committed to maintaining access to aviation services for regional and remote communities that are essential to their health, education and economic outcomes, and we recognise the critical role of the Rex network to local economies.”

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