The post JTB Corporation’s Eijiro Yamakita takes the floor at Web in Travel Singapore appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

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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The post ONYX Hospitality Group casts spotlights on MICE properties at ITB Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

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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The post Cebu Pacific hosts launch for Women in Aviation International – Philippines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

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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The post Tamil Nadu to showcase its wonders at ITB Asia 2025 in Singapore  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

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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The post Intra-ASEAN Air Travel grew from 37% in 2019 to 45% in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Travel within ASEAN countries accounts for the largest share of international arrivals into the region, growing from 37% in 2019 to 45% in 2024. With the ever-increasing uncertainty of geopolitics and the economic outlook, this dependence on regional travel may be Southeast Asia’s ace card, insulating it from potential longer-haul market disruptions.

In Summer 2025, Malaysia leads with 19.3 million scheduled seats

Like everywhere, intra-ASEAN seat capacity was impacted during the pandemic, and while the numbers are recovering steadily, they have not reached 2019 levels, indicating there is still room for growth.

In Summer 2025, there were 46 million scheduled seats available for travel between the ASEAN countries. Although this is a 7% increase compared to Summer 2024, it remains 6% below Summer 2019’s level of 50 million seats.

For many years, Singapore was the centre of the Southeast Asian aviation sector, with Changi Airport serving as a major hub for international long-haul travel from neighbouring countries. Looking at intra-regional capacity in Summer 2025, Malaysia leads with 19.3 million scheduled seats to other Southeast Asian countries (5.5% behind Summer 2019 levels). And Singapore follows closely with 19 million seats (10% below Summer 2019 levels).

 

Out of ten of the busiest intra-Southeast Asian routes still start or end in Singapore.

Looking at flows within the Southeast Asian region at country level shows that there are pockets of strong growth taking place.

Vietnam is rapidly expanding its aviation footprint, recording the fastest growth in seat capacity to other Southeast Asian countries among all ASEAN members. Seat capacity from Vietnam is up by 21.8% in Summer 2025 compared to Summer 2024, and a strong 8.5% ahead of Summer 2019.

In particular, total seat capacity between Vietnam and Indonesia, Philippines, and Laos is seeing significant growth compared to 2019. Vietnam has 51 route connections to other Southeast Asian destinations as of Summer 2025, up from 45 in 2019.  Aside from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, secondary cities Danang and Phu Quoc have seen more routes added in 2025, with five and three new routes added, respectively.

With the majority of ASEAN’s capital cities already connected to one another, the opportunity for growth is capital city-secondary city, or secondary city-secondary city.

Looking at capacity growth for Summer 2025 versus Summer 2024 shows that in that secondary city market, growth in capacity within Southeast Asia has been highest, at 18%, suggesting that there is growing activity and reasons for travel between these cities.

Analysis of airport pairs within the region reveals 50 new intra-ASEAN connections in Summer 2025 compared to Summer 2019, with the highest growth coming from connections between secondary cities.

22 of the new intra-ASEAN routes operate to/from Indonesian airports.

• • Ten are connections to Malaysia, including four new routes from Kuala Lumpur to Indonesian secondary cities, and three from Kota Kinabalu.
  • Bali also saw new connections with Hanoi and Phuket.

With Timor-Leste set to join ASEAN by the end of this year, Southeast Asian airlines are starting to ramp up their connectivity to the country. Batik Air Malaysia opened a new direct route from Kuala Lumpur to Timor-Leste’s capital, Dili, in June 2025. Whilst Singapore – Timor-Leste connectivity saw the biggest growth of seat capacity with an increase of 2,697% to 9,900 seats in Summer 2025 compared to 354 seats in Summer 2019. However, the number of absolute seats means Timor-Leste remains significantly below its regional peers.

In Vietnam, the resort island of Phu Quoc is becoming increasingly popular:

• Its flight route to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport showed 265% growth in seat capacity in Summer 2025 compared to Summer 2019. The route was initially operated by Bangkok Airways in 2019, but Thai Vietjet became the sole operator in Summer 2025, with seats jumping from 56,880 in Summer 2024 to 107,368 in April 2025.
• Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion Air have also launched new Bangkok Don Mueang-Phu Quoc routes, bringing the total number of seats between the two cities to 183,403 in Summer 2025.

Airlines in the region continue to grow amidst Geo political tensions

With proposed protectionist policies, uncertain global economic conditions, and geopolitical tensions affecting outbound travel sentiments, it may be wise for Southeast Asia to shift its tourism focus closer to home. Even land borders are proving to be hot spots for tension within ASEAN itself, as a dispute over Thailand and Cambodia’s border demarcations led to the closure of land border crossings from mid-June for the majority of travellers, leaving air travel as the only reliable way to cross between the two countries.

Airlines in the region have an opportunity to continue growth through expanding intra-ASEAN routes and seat capacity, striving for a full recovery back to pre-pandemic levels and beyond with further connectivity between secondary cities.

Source: OAG

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The post Philippine authorities report no major impact on tourism sites in quake-hit Davao Oriental appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) reports that the recent earthquake that shook the southern province of Davao Oriental had no significant impact on tourism areas and establishments.

In a public advisory released hours after the tremor hit on Friday, 10th October, the DOT said its crisis team was activated to provide impact assessment and assistance to local authorities.

Department officials declared: “Initial reports from Davao Oriental and neighboring provinces indicate no recorded damage to tourism sites or establishments. Local government units and tourism offices are continuing inspections and monitoring for aftershocks and possible secondary hazards such as landslides and infrastructure issues.”

Ongoing assessment

The DOT likewise reported that assessments in the CARAGA region are ongoing, specifically in the Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

Officials also reminded tourists to exercise extreme caution and follow relevant advisories from local authorities and disaster response units.

The DOT advisory warns: “Avoid entering damaged or potentially unsafe structures and comply with safety procedures, especially in landslide-prone areas. The DOT remains focused on ensuring the safety and welfare of travelers and tourism stakeholders.”

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The post Turkish Airlines to expand partnership with Air Algérie   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Turkish Airlines, the flag carrier of Türkiye, and Air Algérie, the flag carrier of Algeria, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and revise Codeshare Agreement with a broadened scope. Agreements were signed by the Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi and Air Algérie CEO Hamza Benhamouda at Air Algérie’s Headquarters in Algiers with senior executives from both airlines in attendance.

The MoU establishes a framework for enriched cooperation, including an expanded codeshare agreement. In addition to increased connectivity, the two carriers will explore joint initiatives in cargo interline services, aircraft leasing, catering, lounge access, maintenance and ground handling operations. Turkish Airlines and Air Algérie also plan to cooperate on environmental projects, sustainability initiatives, and training programs. The partnership aims to support business growth while fostering cultural, social, and economic exchange between Türkiye and Algeria.

Commenting on the agreement, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi stated: “Our continuing partnership with Air Algérie reflects our commitment to long-term, sustainable collaboration. This agreement marks a key step in deepening ties between both airlines. As the airline flying to  more countries than any other, we remain committed to expanding cooperation across multiple areas to provide greater benefits and options for our guests. We are confident this partnership will enrich cultural and economic connections between Türkiye and Algeria and drive mutual growth.”

Air Algérie CEO Hamza Benhamouda said: “We are honored to welcome the Turkish Airlines delegation to our headquarters in Algiers, as we continue to strengthen the ties between our two airlines and our two coutries. We are very pleased with this new milestone in our strategic partnership with Turkish Airlines. This comprehensive agreement, covering multiple areas of cooperation and the exchange of expertise, will undoubtedly bring mutual benefits to both our companies and to our passengers.”

 

 

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The post AI in Travel, Simplified: Agoda’s Andrew Smith Shares Insights Ahead of ITB Asia 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and other technologies that stand to change the way the world travels are among the hot topics for discussion at this year’s ITB Asia which opens on Wednesday, 15th October, in Singapore.

For this reason, we at Travel Daily Media had the opportunity to speak to Andrew Smith, senior vice-president of supply at global online travel platform Agoda, who shared some fresh insights on how these technologies are shaping the contemporary travel and tourism sectors.

Smith pointed out the ways by which Agoda has used technology to its advantage, serving as tools with which to craft a better, more efficient, and more engaging online experience for its customers.

In the beginning

As Smith recalls: “At Agoda, we approached AI by asking a very simple question: what real problems can this solve for travelers and partners today? A few concrete points guided us before rolling anything out.”

These touchpoints included the following:

• Pain points first, technology second: The company focused on areas where customers or partners felt friction: particularly finding the right hotel in seconds, resolving common booking issues, or helping a small hotel manage pricing and content without extra staff;
• Internal usage before external delivery: To get things started, Agoda initially used AI to make its own teams more productive. Among the measures involved were the shift from manual to automated reporting, the development of rapid creatives for social media, as well as faster internal escalation flows so that the platform could deliver better outcomes to travelers and partners faster;
• Empowering partners: It is pretty much a given that hotels and property managers, especially smaller independents, don’t always have marketing teams or data science resources. Smith said: “We considered how AI could level the playing field, making it easier for them to promote themselves, optimize pricing, and reach new demand;” and
• Scalability: AI can’t just be a demo feature, so to speak; hence, Agoda prioritised use cases that could work across millions of travellers and tens of thousands of partners, getting into applicable real-world scenarios as opposed to the controlled environment of a testing lab.

As Smith puts it: “The outcome is that AI is embedded into our business with practical use cases that show immediate value. It simplifies how partners work with us and makes travel planning more fun and less stressful for customers.”

Does technology matter when it comes to personalisation?

Of late, we have seen the term personalisation banded around with AI and other technologies under discussion, especially in the context of hospitality.

We have seen how major hotel chains and even some smaller groups use contemporary technologies to determine where they can improve overall customer service, offer a better guest experience, and ensure repeat bookings for the future.

Smith said of the application of AI and similar innovations in hospitality: “AI is rapidly transforming hospitality, with adoption and investment across the industry projected to grow significantly in the coming years. At Agoda, we see AI as a tool to personalize travel in two ways: creating better experiences for travelers and helping partners attract even more guests.”

He went on to point out that AI is a powerful equaliser, particularly among Agoda’s growing number of global partners.

According to Smith: “Hotels and tour operators, regardless of size, can now compete more effectively by leveraging AI-driven tools, enabling them to attract travelers at the right moment in their search journey.”

He cited how partners can generate tailored content automatically for their specific properties, highlighting search parameters like family-friendly near Disneyland for one segment and romantic Left Bank escape to another, all on top of a plethora of segmentations with little effort. 

Smith added: “What’s more, AI is unlocking the potential for smart pricing and promotions, with Deloitte reporting that AI-powered dynamic pricing in hospitality can improve revenue per available room (RevPAR) by up to ten percent.” 

While that’s all well and good for hospitality companies, would AI have any significant benefit to the ordinary traveller?

For Smith, the simple answer is yes.

He explains: “For travelers AI enables a more intuitive and relevant discovery process. Rather than relying solely on simple filters like price or location, at Agoda we leverage AI to surface options that align with each traveler’s unique preferences and past behaviors. For example, a traveler searching for Tokyo may see a capsule hotel for a solo trip, a boutique hotel near Shibuya shops and nightlife for a couple, or a family suite close to Ueno Zoo for parents traveling with kids.” 

Even after the trip or hotel has been booked, AI can anticipate the needs of individual travellers throughout their journey.

AI can generate relevant suggestions for those on tour or contemplating any activities on their slate based on interests as well as data from previous trips.

In doing so, the overall experience becomes deeply personal for travellers, essentially enabling them to put their own stamp on every experience.

Smith opined: “Looking ahead, the real opportunity lies in translating the power of AI-driven personalization into engaging and intuitive experiences for both travelers and partners. Our focus is on ensuring that every interaction feels relevant and effortless, so travelers discover options that truly resonate with them, and partners see stronger conversion and more bookings.”

Tread carefully: technology and cultural sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity is a serious touchpoint at the moment for the global travel and tourism sectors, especially in the context of overtourism and the disrespectful way that some travellers have been behaving in various parts of the world.

In which case, how can artificial intelligence change the game when it comes to developing more culturally diverse offerings without being offensive to local sensibilities or diluting the merits of local culture?

Smith replied that, for Agoda, AI has the potential to strengthen localisation, making cultural relevance easier to achieve at scale. 

But he was also quick to point out that AI is most powerful when it enhances, rather than overshadows, local traditions and experiences and when its application is guided by human judgement. 

As he explains: “For travellers, AI allows us to surface options and guidance that align with local customs and etiquette. For instance, travelers booking a stay in Japan might receive suggestions for ryokans with private onsen baths, while those heading to Bali could be prompted about temple dress codes. Agoda’s multilingual AI tools localize both tone and content: a deal described as ‘awesome’ in English becomes ‘great value’ in Japanese, reflecting cultural communication norms. This approach has helped Agoda maintain over 40 active language sites, each tuned to local tone and nuance rather than literal translation.”

On the other hand AI empowers Agoda’s hotel partners to express their identity authentically to a global audience. 

For example: a Thai boutique resort can automatically translate its listing into Korean or Arabic without losing the warmth of Thai hospitality. 

AI can also detect cultural mismatches from guest reviews in order to prompt clearer explanations in future listings.

Across regions, AI helps partners understand demand patterns: breakfast-inclusive stays in Japan, for example; or flexibility in Australia; even family-friendly options in the Middle East. 

Such insights lead to the development of more relevant and appealing offers without diluting cultural distinction.

Smith opines:”Ultimately, AI is helping travel become more respectful, as travellers engage with local cultures more thoughtfully, and partners can showcase what makes them unique to a global audience.”

Technology = streamlined service

Within the Agoda experience, AI and other technologies have been a great help for streamlining operations, particularly customer service.

According to Smith: “AI plays an important role in assisting much of our frontline support. For example, our Property Ask-Me-Anything (AMA) Bot provides travelers with instant, reliable information about hotels and amenities directly on property pages across desktop, mobile, and app. Since its launch, the bot has handled over 30,000 hotel-related questions daily, reducing uncertainty and helping travelers make quicker booking decisions. For more routine support needs, our virtual assistant handles increasing amounts of requests monthly, resolving common issues such as date changes, refund eligibility, or booking confirmations in seconds. When an issue is complex, AI routes it to the right human team with full context, so customers don’t need to repeat themselves. This has reduced response and resolution times while improving satisfaction.”

Indeed, AI has significantly improved how Agoda supports its hotel partners on a daily basis, and the creation of a virtual assistant on its YCS partner platform has made it easier to meet vital needs.

To date, Agoda is in the process of expanding its relevant investments in technology to extend coverage and offer solutions in more languages.

It should be noted at this point that one of the more complex and time-sensitive support issues is using technology to deal with is payment re-issuance. 

To date, Agoda has fully automated related processes, resulting in quicker response time and improved satisfaction. 

Smith recalls: “Even for internal support we used to deal with over 40different internal flows for escalation which is now replaced by a single AI workflow ultimately benefiting our partners and customers. We’re still learning and improving. Some partner or traveler situations require emotional intelligence or nuanced negotiation, areas where human empathy remains irreplaceable. Our focus now is refining AI’s ability to detect when to escalate to a human early, ensuring we balance speed with sensitivity.”

Looking to the future

For Smith, Agoda’s direction with regard to the use of AI and other technologies is clear: Agoda is building toward an even more connected trip experience powered by AI.

He said: “The next stage of travel innovation isn’t just about showing the right hotel or flight. It’s about having an assistant that understands context and timing, suggesting a room upgrade when it makes sense, helping you rebook automatically if your flight is delayed, or recommending a great local restaurant once you’ve checked in. all without you needing to ask.”

The application of such technologies will ensure that journeys feel proactive and personal for travellers anywhere.

For partners, on the other hand, it will lead to improved demand prediction, smarter merchandising, along with a host of ways with which to engage guests throughout their stays.

Smith concluded by saying: “We’re deeply focused on responsible innovation. AI can only succeed if customers and partners trust how it’s used. So, our approach is to innovate quickly but deploy carefully. In short, we’re aiming for the kind of travel experience that feels effortless end to end: intelligent, human, and connected.”

Agoda’s Andrew Smith will be leading the ITB Asia session Real World Applications of AI and Strategies for Hotels on Thursday, 16th October, at 1:30pm SGT at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Singapore. 

To know more about the upcoming discussion, click here.

The post AI in Travel, Simplified: Agoda’s Andrew Smith Shares Insights Ahead of ITB Asia 2025 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Railbookers Group flagship brands make their way to Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Independent rail holiday provider Railbookers Group announced the launch of its two flagship brands, Railbookers and Amtrak Vacations, in the Asian market today, 13th October. 

This marks a significant milestone in the company’s global growth, bringing its expertise and wide portfolio of rail journeys to Asia and its dynamic and fast-growing travel markets by hiring Singapore-based staff in the sales and business development departments, with additional growth expected in 2026 and beyond.

With Asian travellers known for their strong appetite for international journeys, this expansion provides access to curated, independent holidays by rail. 

Travellers may now explore iconic destinations in Europe, the United States, Canada and beyond, all with the flexibility of booking and travelling any day the train goes from last-minute to two years out, the convenience of expertly arranged itineraries inclusive of rail, hotel, sightseeing, transfers and more, as well as dedicated on-trip customer care.

A much-anticipated debut

Railbookers Group president and chief executive Frank Marini expressed pleasure at finally being able to bring the company’s flagship brands to Asia whilst setting up shop with an entirely local staff.

Marini said: “Travellers here have a deep passion for exploring the world, and we are proud to offer them unforgettable rail holidays across six continents as independent travellers or perhaps in small unescorted groups. This expansion is part of our continued global growth and commitment to bringing our complete rail holidays to more customers around the world.”

Indeed, with the addition of Singapore as its Asian hub, Railbookers Group is now serving customers in six global source markets: United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. 

The Railbookers difference

Through Railbookers, guests and travel agents across Asia can book journeys aboard world-renowned trains such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Rocky Mountaineer and Glacier Express, with flexible departure dates and hand-picked hotels, choosing from 3-, 4-, and 5-star options at each destination. 

The offering includes Amtrak Vacations, the official tour operator for Amtrak in the United States, who create scenic rail adventures across America from national parks like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone to iconic cities including New York, Chicago and San Francisco. 

Railbookers brands enable travellers to easily shop for their ideal rail journeys, packaged together with the hard work and logistics already handled. 

The expert sales support team can also customise journeys to suit each travellers’ own pace, with the reassurance of Railbookers Group’s expertise in planning rail holidays that take the hassle out of travel while maximising experiences on and off the train. 

The post Railbookers Group flagship brands make their way to Asia appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia