The post Air New Zealand boosts long-haul travel for summer in the southern hemisphere appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air New Zealand is turning up the volume on long haul travel from October 2025 to March 2026, with more choice and comfort on key international routes.

Customers travelling to North America will have access to more than 34,000 additional seats, alongside a boost of 20,500 premium seats across the wider long haul network. 

The airline is also bringing up to seven newly retrofitted 787 Dreamliners into service by the end of the year, offering a completely refreshed inflight experience from nose to tail.

Overall, the airline will operate eight percent more seats to the United States and Canada compared to the previous year, including a 15 percent increase in premium seating.

With premium demand continuing to rise, Air New Zealand is delivering, with an additional 4,300 premium seats on Asia services alone.

Catering to a strong demand for international air travel

Air New Zealand’s chief commercial officer Jeremy O’Brien remarked that New Zealanders’ desire for travel is strong, and international visitor demand continues to grow.

O’Brien said: “We’re seeing strong demand, including growing popularity of our premium cabins. Customers want a more comfortable and seamless experience, and we are responding by increasing premium availability and growing flight frequencies across our long haul network.”

He added that more of the airline’s retrofitted 787 aircraft will enter service, bringing a refreshed experience to destinations such as San Francisco, Honolulu, Vancouver, and Shanghai. 

He concluded with: “With strong summer demand on the horizon, we are pleased to be offering even more options to our customers, whether they are travelling for business, leisure, or reconnecting with friends and whānau.”

More flights for those heading to North America

Customers heading to the United States and Canada later this year will spot additional flights added to key routes and more opportunities to book in premium cabins:

• Auckland to Los Angeles will see 11 to 12 flights per week between December and March, adding nearly 24,000 more seats than the same period last year, including an additional 6,800 premium seats.
• Auckland to Houston returns stronger this summer, with Air New Zealand adding 4,500 seats between January and March.
• Auckland to Vancouver maintains up to seven services per week with the larger 777 added to the schedule over the December to early February peak, just in time for the Canadian snow season. Premium seating will increase by 25 percent, including a 30 percent increase in Premium Economy and an 18 percent increase in Business Premier.
• Auckland to San Francisco will see 1,800 additional seats and 2,700 more premium seats, as daily services continue into mid-February and March frequencies rise from five to six flights per week.

Increasing capacity in Asia

Customers flying to and from Asia will benefit from increased availability and schedule refinements this summer, resulting in more premium seats to key destinations:

• Auckland to Taipei expands from three to four flights per week between December and February, adding 11,800 seats, timed to serve both the Christmas peak and Chinese New Year travel.
• Auckland to Bali sees a 49 percent increase in premium seats, an additional 2,400 premium seats on the route.
• Auckland to Hong Kong will see a 28 percent rise in premium seats as the airline adds 3,700 Business Premier and Premium Economy seats on the route.
• Auckland to Shanghai will see 35 percent more premium seats compared to the same period last year.

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The post Trafalgar releases its latest impact report appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global guided vacation company Trafalgar continues to lay the foundation for transparency and accountability within the travel industry by advocating for a balance of tourism that provides value and support for local communities. 

The release of its 2024 Impact Report showcases the culmination of Trafalgar’s efforts against its five-year sustainability strategy, the achievement of seven of its goals, as well as a demonstration of its ongoing commitment to addressing overtourism, reaching net zero, responsible consumption and production, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

Sharon Guihan, chief sustainability officer for Trafalgar’s parent firm The Travel Corporation (TTC), said: “As travellers return in greater numbers, the conversation must shift from growth to balance, a change we have been advocating for at TTC. That is why, across our brands, we are taking meaningful steps to reduce pressure on overcrowded destinations and to ensure our trips bring benefit, not burden.”

Relevant findings

The brand’s continuous efforts to encourage responsible travel and mitigate pressure on overcrowded destinations have achieved the following, as reported in the 2024 Impact Report:

85 percent of itineraries include at least one local dining experience

By prioritizing local and organic dining experiences, Trafalgar supports sustainable agriculture, preserves local food systems, and promotes local businesses. 

On many of Trafalgar’s itineraries, travellers will participate in a Be My Guest Experience and meet with locals to break bread while learning about traditional cuisine and gaining new perspectives. 

On Classic Japan, guests have lunch with a local farmer and their family on a traditional tea plantation in the Nara area, to gain insights into their way of life. 

On Best of France, guests meet with Alexandra and Beatrice at their 17th-century farm, Domaine de la Giraudere, and learn about how they produce some of the region’s famous goat cheese while they enjoy a traditional Tourangelle dinner.

Achieved emissions reductions while actively engaging the tourism supply chain in pursuit of its zero-emissions targets

As TTC’s largest brand, Trafalgar has led the way in the group’s efforts to curb carbon emissions. 

Specifically, TTC has reduced Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 23% and Scope 3 emissions by 20 percent from a 2019 baseline year. 

Through its net zero roadmap, the business is prioritizing biofuels and actively engaging its supply chain to enable the sector to tackle tourism emissions through collaboration. 

2024 saw Trafalgar and sister brands launch its Partner Sustainability Hub, showcasing guidance and tools designed to enable a more sustainable supply chain. 

Further proof of the group’s commitment is its investment of $353,307 in decarbonization projects across its business via the industry-first Carbon Fund in 2024, for a total of over $2.23 million invested since the Carbon Fund began implementation in 2023.

98 percent of Trafalgar itineraries include at least one Make Travel Matter experience 

These immersive and impactful experiences are selected for the positive social or environmental benefits they have for the people and places that Trafalgar takes its guests. 

They’re identified for how they actively advance at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). 

Examples of these experiences include visiting the award-winning organic vineyard Vale da Capucha and sampling its organic and biodynamic wines, which support the UN SDG of Responsible Consumption and Production, as featured on Best of Portugal. 

On Best of Scotland, guests will meet with a conservation expert in the Scottish Highlands and learn about the powerful place of nature in Gaelic culture and the reintroduction of native tree species such as the Caledonian Pine at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre.

Taking a destination-led approach

According to Guihan: “What we need is a systemic approach, and so I’d like to be clear: we support destination-led approaches. We believe that thoughtful, community-informed policies are essential to preserving the very qualities that draw travellers in the first place.”

She added that the value that tourism can bring to communities when managed in partnership with key stakeholders, as, ultimately, tourism shouldn’t happen to a community; it should happen with them. 

Guihan continued with: “We not only welcome collaboration with governments, destination management organizations, and local leaders to build smart frameworks that ensure tourism delivers real value, limits harm and supports communities, we are seeking it out. If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that tourism must evolve proactively, transparently, and together.”

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The post Phuket Dining Festival 2025 hailed as a resounding success appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has declared that the recently concluded Phuken Dining Festival 2025 was a success worth celebrating.

Indeed, the festival brought together top local restaurants and leading food and beverage brands in a showcase of sustainability, creativity, and culture.

Held on 30th and 31st May, the event was organised by the events team of Tatler Thailand with support from TAT

TAT deputy governor for marketing communications Nithee Seeprae said of the festival: “Phuket Dining Festival 2025 was a shining example of how Thailand can lead the way in sustainable tourism. By highlighting Green Gastronomy and Responsible Tourism, this initiative not only celebrated the richness of local cuisine but also reinforced our commitment to meaningful, community-based travel experiences. We are proud to support events that elevate Thailand’s position on the global stage while promoting long-term sustainability.”

Interweaving sustainability and luxury

The festival responded directly to the rising demand for conscious travel experiences. 

Backed by partners including Evian, Jagota, PRAKAAN, PHRAYA, Ruang Khao Siam Sapphire, as well as Phuket establishments BaBa Lee, Heh, hom, Jaras, KHAAN, Royd, Samut, Su Va Na, and Tamarind, the event demonstrated the strength of collaboration in advancing sustainable tourism.

Phuket’s culinary heritage was reimagined throughout the event by way of Green Gastronomy which promotes mindful consumption, celebrating local ingredients, and supporting community livelihoods. 

Sustainably scrumptious

The festival aimed to reinforce Phuket’s reputation as a world-class food destination while putting the principles of Responsible Tourism into practice.

Each restaurant offered bespoke menus that reflected Phuket’s culinary roots while embracing Zero Waste Restaurant practices in alignment with Thailand’s national target to reduce food waste in the hospitality sector.

The festival also echoed findings from the Sustainable Travel Study by Expedia Group and Wakefield Research, which show that 69 percent of travellers seek environmentally responsible holidays and 66% want to support local communities. 

These trends closely align with TAT’s mission to shape a more sustainable and experience-rich future for Thai tourism.

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The post SITA releases 2025 Baggage IT Insights report appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

SITA released its SITA Baggage IT Insights 2025 report today, 12th June, detailing progressive improvement in the global baggage handling sector.

The SITA Baggage IT Insights 2025 report reflects the views and data of 280 airlines and IATA passenger traffic. 

SITA applies a weighting system, based on IATA passenger traffic statistics, to its WorldTracer data to calculate the baggage mishandling rates.

Improvements in Europe and elsewhere

Per the report, Europe’s air transport industry handled record passenger volumes in 2024, with airports and airlines managing soaring baggage loads with increasing precision. 

Interestingly, Europe’s baggage mishandling rate dropped to 12.3 bags per 1,000 passengers in the past year, marking a 26 percent improvement compared to 2007 and an impressive recovery from 15.7 in 2022.

Globally, despite the 8.2 percent increase in worldwide traffic in 2024, the overall mishandling rate dropped to 6.3 bags per 1,000 passengers, down from 6.9 the previous year and 67 percent lower than in 2007. 

The total number of mishandled bags decreased to 33.4 million, compared to 33.8 million the previous year.

Of the 33.4 million mishandled bags, over 66 percent or 22 million cases in all were resolved and closed in SITA WorldTracer within 48 hours, underscoring the industry’s ability to quickly reunite passengers with their luggage. 

Specifically, out of the 22 million, 25 percent were resolved within 12 hours, 38 percent within 24 hours, and another 38 percent within 48 hours.

Mishandling remains an issue 

But while these results show clear improvement, baggage mishandling still cost the industry an estimated US$5 billion in 2024 and passengers are increasingly expecting more from the industry. 

The costs, from courier returns and customer service to claims handling and lost productivity, highlight the urgency of continued investment in real-time, automated, and data-driven baggage systems.

SITA chief executive David Lavorel opined: “In air transport, transformation isn’t a phase, it’s the norm. The industry is constantly evolving, driven by technology, passenger expectations, and global change. We’ve seen a radical shift with automation and the widespread use of real-time tracking. Passengers now expect their baggage experience to be as easy and transparent as using a rideshare or delivery app. It’s no longer just about moving bags, it’s about delivering a smooth, connected journey.”

Lavorel further pointed out that many airlines are ready to tap into technology that improves the passenger experience while keeping costs down and being simple to roll out. 

He concluded by saying: “Together with our partners, we’re reimagining baggage handling to give passengers full visibility and control from departure to arrival, giving them peace of mind Time for long-term solutions rather than band-aids

Given how airports and airlines are now handling greater baggage volumes with more precision, it is clear that real-time tracking, AI-powered analytics, and self-service solutions are becoming standard on a global scale.

This shows the real impact of investing in smart, data-driven baggage systems.

In 2024, 42 percent of passengers had access to real-time baggage updates, up from 38 percent the year before. 

Nearly half of travelers say mobile tracking would boost their confidence in checking in a bag, and 38 percent value the addition of digital ID tags.

Airlines have responded by prioritizing visibility across the baggage journey. 

Currently, 66 percent offer automated bag drop, and another 16 percent plan to by 2027. 

On the airport side, 65 percent plan to roll out biometric self-service bag drop by the same year.

Incidentally, one of the standout innovations in 2024 was the integration of Apple’s Share Item Location feature with SITA WorldTracer. 

Passengers can share the location of their Apple AirTag with airlines, allowing quicker baggage recovery. British Airways, Lufthansa, Qantas, Cathay, and Virgin Atlantic are among the adopters.

This integration also powers WorldTracer’s Auto Reflight, which automatically reflights bags on the original bag tag, identifies the cause of mishandling, and begins resolution with no human intervention required.

It should also be noted that airports like Red Sea International in Saudi Arabia are already implementing next-generation baggage solutions, including off-airport check-in and real-time tracking, powered by SITA Bag Journey.

Where most bags go missing and how the industry is responding

Delayed bags remain the most common issue, accounting for 74 percent of mishandled baggage, down from 80 percent in the previous year. 

Lost or stolen bags made up eight percent, while damaged or pilfered bags increased to 18 percent, up from 15 percent in 2023.

Transfer mishandling was the biggest contributor at 41 percent, showing improvement from 46 percent the previous year. 

Tagging or ticketing errors, security issues, and similar factors rose slightly by three percentage points to 17 percent, while loading failures remained steady at 16 percent. 

Meanwhile, operational issues such as customs delays, weather, or capacity constraints increased to ten percent, up from eight percent previously.

SITA’s director of baggage Nicole Hogg remarked: “We’re making progress, but baggage still causes stress. Passengers want reassurance. The future of baggage is rapidly evolving with automation, computer vision, and mobile tools, we’re making the experience much more reliable.”

New regulations to help reduce mishandling

Earlier this year, the air transport industry approved the new Modern Baggage Messaging (MBM) standard. 

Designed to enhance data quality, MBM Version 2 is expected to reduce mishandling by another five percent.

These improvements build on IATA Resolution 753, which mandates baggage tracking at four key stages. 

The focus now is on using shared data to predict and prevent issues, not just report them.

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The post Regent Seven Seas Cruises raises the bar for onboard luxury with the Skyview Regent Suite appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises proudly unveiled the Skyview Regent Suite, the largest all-inclusive, ultra luxury cruise ship suite in history. 

This exceptional set of accommodations will sit right on top of the brand’s newest ship, the Seven Seas Prestige.

The 8,794 sq ft Skyview Regent Suite is one of 12 suite categories onboard Seven Seas Prestige.

Magnificence on the water

This offers privileged guests panoramic ocean views and an extraordinary array of features, including 3,703 square feet of wraparound balcony space, two bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, an elegant living room, a floating natural stone staircase.

Key amenities include a private in-suite elevator, a personal gym and sauna, an expansive walk-in closet, and a formal in-suite dining area complemented by a glass-enclosed bar.

Guests booked in the suite also get exclusive access to The Study, a private dining venue for up to 12 guests, located on Deck 11, nestled between restaurants, Chartreuse and Prime 7.

Regent’s chief luxury officer Jason Montague said of the suite: “We are committed to setting new standards in ultra-luxury travel, and the Skyview Regent Suite is a true embodiment of that promise. At nearly 9,000 square feet, this breathtaking two-level suite delivers the most exclusive and elevated experience at sea, complete with every imaginable luxury included in the voyage fare.”

Montague added that the ship’s 12 suite categories, including the Skyview Regent Suite, will offer guests a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience the world, with all the comfort, elegance, and Heartfelt Hospitality that defines Regent.

Elegance by design

Accommodating up to six guests, the 8,794 square feet Skyview Regent Suite is a masterpiece of refined design and meticulous craftsmanship. 

Every element, from integrated edge lighting to custom-designed furnishings and a harmonious blend of materials, has been thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere of understated elegance. 

As the most spacious suite ever conceived by Studio DADO, the designer of many of the ship’s spaces, the Skyview Regent Suite embraces sophistication, brought to life through clean architectural lines and a tranquil palette of neutral tones with pops of colour.

According to Studio DADO senior associate Elias Sol: “In the Skyview Regent Suite, we aimed to capture the essence of modern Italian design, combining clean, elegant lines with exquisite craftsmanship to create a truly unforgettable experience.”

What to expect from the Skyview Regent Suite

Upon entry, guests are greeted by a grand foyer featuring sculptural leather wall elements and integrated lighting, leading into a reception area anchored by a dramatic floating natural stone staircase and a private in-suite elevator. 

The main level centers around a formal dining area, flanked by built-in serving credenzas and a cozy library-style seating nook. 

A dramatic skylight draws in natural light and amplifies the suite’s breathtaking forward-facing views. A sleek ocean-facing bar connects to a spacious living room adorned with a bar cart and plush sofas. A secondary full guest suite completes the lower floor.

The upper level is entirely dedicated to the expansive main suite, beginning with a quiet sitting area that transitions into a serene bedroom where a handcrafted bed by renowned Italian bedmaker Flou faces the sea for uninterrupted views. 

The spa-inspired main bathroom offers twin vanities, a hand-carved floating tub, sauna, and an immense walk-in shower. 

A large walk-in wardrobe, complete with a central island and glass-front cabinetry, provides ample storage in a boutique-style setting.

Additional features include a private gym outfitted with multifunctional training equipment, a stationary bike, yoga space, and dedicated massage room.

Through these exceptional features, Regent offers its guests a fully immersive wellness experience without ever leaving their suite.

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The post WTTC: Tourism contributions to Philippine economy to rise by 13.5 percent appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In its recently released Economic Impact Research (EIR) report for 2025, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) forecast that the Philippine tourism sector’s contribution to the national economy will rise by 13,5 percent this year.

The forecast was received warmly by the country’s Department of Tourism (DOT).

The WTTC report showed how the tourism sector is projected to inject PHP5.9 trillion into the national economy this year, representing a 13.5 percent increase from 2019.

The Council added that this will set a new all-time high and will represent 21 percent of the country’s national gross domestic product (GDP), cementing the industry’s place as a pillar of the Philippine economy.

Building a tourism powerhouse

In a statement released yesterday, 11th June, tourism secretary Christina Frasco commented that the projections affirm the DOT’s resolve to elevate the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse within the region.

She said: “We are grateful that the strategic shift to elevate the status of Philippine tourism by leveraging on our culture, diversifying our tourism products, introducing innovations, and focusing on quality and sustainability in tourism, is bearing fruit, with tourism spending and employment now in record high numbers.

Frasco added that the DOT is committed to working even harder as we continue to roll out initiatives that will elevate the industry to new heights, creating a vibrant landscape for growth and sustainable livelihood for Filipinos.

Soaring to greater heights

In the same report, the WTTC added that the Philippines is on course to build on its record-breaking performance in 2024, with its forecasts pointing to even greater heights by the end of this year.

Likewise, tourism employment will continue to reach record levels, with 11.7 million livelihoods expected to be supported by the sector this year, accounting for almost a quarter or 23.8 percent of all national employment.

International visitor spending is also on the rise, projected to reach PHP709.2 billion, up 2.1 percent on the previous high in 2019. 

Meanwhile, domestic visitor spending is anticipated to reach PHP4.1 trillion, a 9.3 percent increase over its previous peak.

According to WTTC president and CEO Julia Simpson: “The Philippines is a standout example of how Travel & Tourism, when supported by a clear, long-term vision, can deliver real economic impact and long-term opportunity. This success speaks to the country’s extraordinary appeal, its policy focus on tourism as a growth engine, and the energy of its people and private sector.”

The WTTC further remarked that the industry is poised to transform the national economy as the country continues to strengthen air connectivity, invest in infrastructure, and prioritize destination resilience.

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The post TPConnects Technologies launches its International Reseller Programme appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

TPConnects Technologies announced the launch of its International Reseller Programme yesterday, 11th June.

This new programme aims to help facilitate the global distribution of TPConnects’ travel solutions.

Likewise, it will enable established travel industry organizations to offer Iris (for Travel Sellers) and Astra (for Airlines) solutions in their local markets. 

Prior to the announcement, TPConnects already signed Gerry’s Travel Group (Pakistan), Al Irtehal Group (Oman), and Maas Travel and Tours (Bangladesh). 

That said, the programme is now ready for global expansion.

Offering easier ways

TPConnects’ vice-president for global sales Giuseppe Candela said: “Travel sellers are looking for simpler ways to access and sell air content from multiple sources. Our International Reseller Program is designed for organizations with strong industry connections and deep market expertise. By partnering with us, these organizations can make Iris and Astra more accessible to businesses that stand to benefit from our solutions.”

Company chief executive Eric Dumas added that partnerships and collaborations are essential for driving rapid sales growth and creating lasting value. 

Dumas said: “Having successfully onboarded resellers in the Middle East and Asia, we are now ready to expand our International Reseller Program globally. These initial partnerships have demonstrated how our collaborative approach creates value for all parties involved. We welcome travel industry organizations worldwide to join our program and help us extend our market reach, while we continue to develop strategic alliances with key industry players and associations.” 

Indeed, TPConnects is actively expanding its presence in markets with growing demand for modern airline distribution and retailing solutions, leveraging the advantages of IATA NDC standardization. 

Vital technologies 

Iris is one of the leading aggregators, with a worldwide customer footprint. 

Travel agencies using Iris can access Airlines’ NDC content alongside traditional EDIFACT, LCC, and aggregator content, providing a single interface for all airline bookings. 

Iris enables seamless shopping and servicing of air content and ensures that travel sellers can offer the best available fares and products to their clients. 

On the other hand, Astra is one of the few leading NDC API Gateway solutions available in the market that gives airlines complete control over their distribution. 

Coupled with the Astra B2B portal, it enables travel agencies to seamlessly access and sell exclusive airline content.

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The post C9 Hotelworks: Koh Samui tourism and hospitality grew steadily in early 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hospitality and travel consultancy C9 Hotelworks reports that the Koh Samui hotel and tourism market is demonstrating solid growth through the first four months of 2025.

Per the Samui Hotel & Tourism Market Review 2025, growth in the sectors was supported by strong air and cruise arrivals, stable hotel performance metrics, and impressive European market engagement.

Between January and April of this year, Koh Samui International Airport recorded 1,127,832 passenger arrivals, representing a nine percent increase over the same period in 2024. 

This follows a strong performance in 2024, which saw total air arrivals reach 2.78 million, reflecting an increase of 21 percent year-on-year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Cruise tourism also contributed to overall growth, as the island welcomed 35 cruise ships carrying 65,792 passengers in the first four months of 2025, marking a six percent year-on-year increase. 

In 2024, Samui hosted 50 cruise liners, nearly doubling the number of arrivals compared to the prior year.

C9 Hotelworks managing director Bill Barnett said: “Koh Samui is increasingly attracting wellness-focused travelers who are contributing to a shift in the island’s tourism profile. Properties such as Kamalaya continue to lead the way in capturing this segment, characterized by year-round visitation and longer average stays. We’re seeing Thailand, and Samui in particular, benefiting from a global uptick in wellness tourism, which offers strong potential for sustainable, high-value growth in the hospitality sector.”

Resilience as 2025 came in

Hotel sector performance remained resilient, as occupancy levels peaked in January 2025 with an 8% increase year-on-year. 

While there was some softening in Q1 during the Chinese New Year period, overall 2024 occupancy rose 12 percent compared to 2023. 

Average Daily Rate (ADR) continued to climb, with a nine percent year-on-year increase in 2024 and a notable 21 percent year-on-year rise recorded in April 2025

STR’s Asia Pacific area director Jesper Palmqvist remarked: “Koh Samui’s hotel performance in early 2025 reflects a steady and encouraging trend. We’re seeing meaningful growth in both occupancy and average daily rates, signaling sustained demand in key source markets and a positive pricing environment. The market is not only recovering but also showing signs of structural stability, supported by disciplined supply growth and targeted international connectivity.”

Europe remains the leading international source region, accounting for 56 percent of arrivals in 2024, driven by travelers from Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. 

Growth in these markets has been supported by expanded codeshare agreements between Bangkok Airways and 30 global carriers. 

Another boost to airlift is the Singapore Airlines Scoot service which not only services regional travelers but links into SQ’s Lion City hub for long-haul passengers’ easy transit.

Remko Kroensen, area general manager for Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi, weighed in, saying: “The long-haul market has performed exceptionally well for us this year. It’s been a key strategic focus, and we’re pleased to see that effort translating into strong results.”

In the pipeline

Meanwhile, the hotel development pipeline within the area signals continued investor confidence, and Koh Samui currently has 634 registered accommodation providers with 24,188 keys. 

While overall supply has remained stable with a five-year CAGR of one percent, new branded properties are scheduled to open in the near term, including Nivata Koh Samui (Tapestry Collection by Hilton, opening Q4 2025) and SO/ by Sofitel and Fivelements Samui (both expected in 2026).

Centara Reserve Samui’s director of sales and marketing Thansita Sirapastuwanon said: “The pandemic challenged us to rethink luxury through safety, sustainability, and innovation. As travel rebounds, demand from both traditional and emerging markets continues to strengthen Koh Samui’s position as a leading luxury destination.”

With regard to further prospects for this year, Barnett remarked optimistically: “Barring any external disruptions, sustained demand from European and Asian source markets, combined with limited new hotel supply and ongoing infrastructure investment, are expected to support continued growth in arrivals, hotel occupancy, and rates throughout the remainder of the year.”

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The post Dubai’s Queen Elizabeth 2 introduces two new heritage experiences appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Queen Elizabeth 2, one of Dubai’s most treasured landmarks and the only floating hotel of its kind in the region, recently unveiled two exceptional additions to its onboard heritage experience: QE2 Making Headlines and QE2 Majestic Moments. 

The launch was officiated by Accor vice-president of operations for luxury brands Mark Sawkins and QE2 general manager Ferghal Purcelll.

Set against the backdrop of one of the most storied vessels in the world, these two installations provide guests and visitors with a deeper, more immersive encounter with the history of the QE2, a liner that defined an era of luxury ocean travel and hosted some of the greatest names of the 20th century.

More than a ship but a glorious experience

Purcell declared at the opening: “The QE2 is more than just a ship, it is a floating museum of memories, a vessel of stories that span generations. With these new attractions, we aim to bring our rich legacy to life, from her royal beginnings to her iconic status as a global voyager, in ways that are interactive, educational, and emotionally engaging.”

He added that, whether one is a maritime enthusiast, a student of history, or a curious traveller, the QE2 offers an experience like no other in the region. 

Purcell concluded by saying: “With these additions, we invite guests to relive her most iconic moments and celebrate the timeless grandeur of maritime history right here in the heart of Dubai.”

Indeed, the Queen Elizabeth 2 continues to draw guests from around the world who wish to step into a chapter of history, and these new attractions mark the latest milestone in an ongoing effort to preserve, interpret, and celebrate the ship’s legacy.

 

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The post Soha Ali Khan teams up with Hyatt to redefine the Hyatt Dining Club appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hyatt is set to redefine and elevate fine dining in India through its upcoming collaboration with acclaimed actor, author, and lifestyle influencer Soha Ali Khan for the launch of its revitalised Hyatt Dining Club.

The Hyatt Dining Club is an exclusive membership programme designed to elevate guest experiences across its participating hotels in India. 

This exciting collaboration celebrates the art of culinary indulgence and memorable moments, perfectly aligning with Soha’s passion for refined, fine dining, and curated experiences that embody modern elegance and sophistication.

Hyatt’s regional vice-president for operations in India and Southwest Asia Lokesh Sabharwal said of the collaboration: “At Hyatt, hospitality is about creating unforgettable moments and story-worthy experiences. Hyatt Dining Club is our way of showing appreciation to our valued guests, with a programme designed to enhance their way of experiencing Hyatt, from dining and stays to wellness and more”

Hyatt’s head of marketing in the region Deepa Krishnan added: “Our collaboration with Soha adds a personal, heartfelt touch to this celebration of togetherness. With Hyatt Dining Club, guests can `Own the Privilege` of fantastic experiences in F&B, Stays and wellness. Our Marketing campaign is targeting connoisseurs of food and lifestyle and aims at driving preference for Hyatt Dining Club”

Soha herself remarked: “Dining out, for me, has always been about more than what’s on the plate. It’s about the laughter, the conversations, and those small, unforgettable moments that turn into cherished memories. Hyatt Dining Club reflects all of that elegance, warmth, and the magic of togetherness.”

The collaboration with Soha Ali Khan adds a graceful narrative to this exclusive dining journey, as her effortless elegance and genuine love for meaningful experiences embodies the spirit of the Hyatt Dining Club where every meal is more than just cuisine; it’s a connection.

Enter a world of elevated luxury

The new Hyatt Dining Club offers a world of exclusivity and privileges, offering members a blend of the finest dining and rejuvenating wellness privileges. 

The annual membership is available in three bespoke tiers— Platinum (INR 18,999 + taxes) Gold (INR 13,999 + taxes) and Silver (INR 6,780 + taxes), —each designed to provide unique and elevated experiences. 

Members of the Hyatt Dining Club can enjoy a wide range of exclusive privileges at participating hotels in India; up to 30 percent off on food and beverages, unparalleled brunch experiences, and buy-one-get-one offers on select drinks. 

In addition, members can enjoy suite upgrades, spa discounts, and even savings on an annual gym membership. 

Whether it’s a casual coffee, a celebratory brunch, or a rejuvenating spa day, Hyatt Dining Club ensures every moment for our members is filled with delight, pride and a touch of something extra. 

Membership is available for purchase online and redemptions across participating Hyatt hotels in India, offering a new standard of lifestyle and privileges to diners and travelers. 

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Source: traveldailymedia