The post Why consider hospitality investment? appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Five years since the world needed to shut down to keep a pandemic at bay, the global hospitality sector has bounced back and is indicating that it is better than ever.

Indeed, over the past three years since global travel restrictions were relaxed, accommodations providers throughout the world have been working double-time to draw travellers back in, offering amenities that range from traditional comforts to innovative solutions geared towards keeping both guests and the environment healthy.

In which case, many potential investors are wondering if now would be a good time to consider putting their money in the hospitality sector.

We have a quick answer to that: yes, it is; and today’s feature will show you just why you ought to consider hospitality investment in your portfolio.

First things first: what is hospitality investment?

Simply put, hospitality investment means putting capital into businesses or properties within the hospitality sector.

This is a means to an end, namely generating financial returns from room, villa, or bedspace rentals, and related areas such as food and beverage, spas and fitness centres, as well as the use of event spaces within a property.

Hospitality investments come in several forms, and the following are the most common:

• Direct ownership which could mean establishing the brand itself, buying a specific property, or building the business from the ground up. Direct ownership also means that the investor has a hand in actively managing the brand or the property, or is responsible for hiring personnel to manage the premises;
• Hotel development is related to direct ownership, but skews more towards putting one’s money into the act of design and construction of hospitality properties and spaces;
• Adaptive reuse and/or conversion is related to hotel development, but refers to investing in the conversion of existing properties such as vintage homes or buildings with historical value into hotels or other hospitality businesses. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in the Philippines which saw the refurbishment of several heritage structures into hospitality spaces is a prime example of this;
• Real estate investment trusts (REITs) call for putting one’s money in trusts that own and manage income-generating hospitality properties, including hotels and hostels; and
• Stocks and funds involve publicly-traded shares in hospitality firms in the first, and collective investment pools related to several related assets in the latter.

The advantages of investing in the hospitality sector

As to why hospitality is a sector into which one should invest, The Private Office’s founder and principal Anjar Kusumadinata believes that there are 11 points to consider.

These are:

Hotels and related hospitality businesses offer steady cash flow

Consider this: a hotel or inn generates income via space rentals for rooms and events, food and beverage services, and wellness services. While revenues may fluctuate, keep in mind that they provide a higher return than, say, renting out your home on platforms like AirBnB. That said, the revenues coming in are continuous and a good bet for those seeking steady income;

Consider how property value can appreciate over time

The property value for hospitality structures stands to appreciate significantly throughout the years, and this is especially true for those located in prime destinations or city centres. As the areas around them grow thanks to a boost in tourism promotion, commercialisation, and overall area development, so too will their value. Likewise, renovations and upgrades are also instrumental in boosting the value of a given property.

Getting into hospitality investment can significantly diversify your investment portfolio

As Kusumadinato points out: “Investing in hotels offers a means of diversifying an investment portfolio. Real estate investments, in general, can balance out more volatile asset classes like stocks. Hotels, with their unique revenue models and market dynamics, provide further diversification within the real estate sector, helping to spread risk and stabilise returns.”

Investing in hospitality offers tax benefits

Kusumadinato also pointed out that hotel investments come with several tax advantages. Owners can take advantage of depreciation deductions, which can offset income and reduce taxable earnings. Indeed, many operational expenses, including maintenance, staffing, and marketing costs, can be written off, delivering additional tax relief.

They’re a natural barrier versus inflation

Think about it: room rates and service prices can be adjusted regularly, allowing hotel operators to pass on increased costs to customers. This ability to adjust pricing helps maintain profitability even as inflation rises, protecting the value of the investment.

Hospitality investment gives you more operational control

Investing in hotels often grants more operational control compared to other types of real estate investments. Owners can influence the efficiency of operations, customer service quality, and overall guest experience. Effective management can lead to higher occupancy rates, better reviews, and increased profitability.

Such investments allow you to leverage opportunities

Financing options for hotels can be advantageous, allowing investors to leverage their investment. By using borrowed funds, investors can purchase larger properties or multiple hotels, amplifying potential returns. This leveraging can significantly boost investment performance if managed prudently.

Signing with well-known hotel brands or firms boosts your credibility

Of late, we’ve seen a number of hotels tying up with companies like Accor, IHG, and Dusit, and there is a very good reason behind that. Signing up with a well-known hotel brand or franchise accords recognition, trust, and a loyal customer base. In turn, this could translate into higher occupancy rates. Major global names also provide marketing support, operational guidance, and training, enhancing the overall efficiency and profitability of the hotel.

Hospitality investments = multiple revenue streams

Hotels can generate income from a variety of sources beyond room rentals. Restaurants, bars, spas, conference rooms, and event hosting services all contribute to the revenue mix. This diversification of income streams can stabilize earnings and increase the overall profitability of the investment.

You play a role in boosting tourism which means tourism helps you grow your business

Hotels are among the key beneficiaries in countries that are amping up their tourism promotion efforts. An increasing number of tourists translates to higher occupancy rates and potentially higher room rates. Locations with strong tourism appeal can offer substantial growth potential, making them attractive investment targets.

Hospitality investments are resilient

Certain segments of the hotel industry, such as budget and mid-scale hotels, tend to be more resilient during economic downturns. As travelers look for more affordable accommodation options, these hotels can maintain steady occupancy rates even in challenging economic times.

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The post Air India Express starts ‘Flash Sale’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air India Express has announced a limited-period ‘Flash Sale’ on both domestic and international flights. On domestic routes, Xpress Lite fares—the airline’s exclusive zero check-in baggage fare available only on its website—start from ₹1,250, and Xpress Value fares start from ₹1,375. The sale for domestic flights is valid for travel until 19th September 2025, and travellers can book their flights on these attractive fares through the airline’s award-winning website, airindiaexpress.com mobile app, and other major booking channels.

For international routes, ‘Flash Sale’ fares start at ₹6,131 for Xpress Lite, ₹6,288 for Xpress Value, and ₹7,038 for Xpress Flex. These discounted international fares are valid for travel on 6th, 12th, and 20th August 2025. Bookings for both domestic and international sectors are open until 25th May 2025.

The airline offers Zero Convenience Fees on Xpress Lite bookings made through its award-winning website, airindiaexpress.com. Xpress Lite fares also offer added benefits, including the option to pre-book an additional 3 kg of cabin baggage at no cost and discounted check-in baggage rates – ₹1,000 for 15 kg on domestic flights and ₹1,300 for 20 kg on international flights.

Additionally, the airline’s website offers fab deals for loyalty members, including 25% on Xpress Biz fares and upgrades. Xpress Biz is the airline’s business class equivalent with an industry-leading seat pitch of up to 58 inches. Biz seats are available on over 40 brand new Boeing 737-8 aircraft that Air India Express has recently inducted as part of its rapid expansion. Additionally, logged-in members enjoy 25% off on 10 kg Xcess Check-In Baggage and 25% off on 3 kg Xtra Carry-On Baggage. Loyalty members also get 25% off on ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, standard and prime seat selection, and Xpress Ahead priority services.

Furthermore, the airline continues to offer special discounted fares and advantages on its website for students, senior citizens, doctors, nurses, members of the armed forces, and their dependents, ensuring a wide range of benefits for flyers.

 

 

 

 

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The post White Desert Launches New South American Itineraries appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

White Desert, Antarctica’s  expedition company, is proud to announce The Dr. Jones Collection. In September 2025, the first of a series of new South American itineraries is being launched — Peru to Patagonia.

Venturing outside of the Polar Regions for the first time, these bespoke journeys combine the glamour of 1940s aviation and movie-set adventure. Guests will travel on a luxuriously-refitted ‘Dakota’ aircraft which can land on highly remote airstrips. This enables them to access some of the least explored locations on the continent, seamlessly and in style.

Each destination has been specifically chosen because it is nearly unknown, and guests will experience an array of utterly diverse landscapes in just 12 days.

Starting point: Peru. By the towering waterfall of Gocta, the third highest in the World, guests hike through Amazonian cloud forests to discover ancient mummies. A short flight and they are at our newly-created Dune Camp, nestled beside an incredible oasis, where they can dive for prized fan shells.

Amongst the salt flats of the Atacama Desert, guests have access to unparalleled star gazing before hiking through a canyon to volcanic hot springs. In Patagonia, at the Torres del Paine, they ride horses with authentic gauchos, encircled by tumbling glaciers that cascade into the open sea.

‘Just as we have done in Antarctica, I wanted to create a journey that was as adventurous as it was luxurious — and in Dr. Jones, we have found the perfect balance’, said White Desert Founder, Patrick Woodhead. ‘Even on the reconnaissance for the journey, we visited landscapes that I never knew existed. They were just so surreal!’

Highly-experienced pilots and crew, along with a White Desert guide, accompany guests every step of the journey, ensuring a level of comfort and safety one can expect from a world-class Antarctic operator with 20 years of experience.

 

 

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The post GB by Novotel Hyderabad Airport is Now Open 24×7 for Round-the-Clock Indulgence appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Novotel Hyderabad Airport is redefining the dining experience for travellers and city dwellers alike with the exciting announcement that its GB by Novotel Hyderabad Airport will now be available 24×7. This move ensures that guests can indulge in their favourite cuisines and signature dishes at any hour of the day or night, offering unparalleled convenience and comfort for those arriving or departing at odd hours.

To further elevate this experience, NHA is also introducing an exclusive new beverage menu titled “Sips from the Sources.” In line with the hotel’s sustainability initiatives, this innovative menu features craft beverages made using fresh, hand-picked ingredients sourced directly from NHA’s in-house patch garden. By cultivating their own herbs, fruits, and botanicals, Novotel Hyderabad Airport is not only enhancing the authenticity and quality of its beverages but also taking a significant step toward reducing its carbon footprint and embracing a more eco-conscious approach to hospitality. The “Sips from the Sources” menu includes Green Goddess, Muddled Mary, Cilantro Smash, Earth Power, and Agronomist, each crafted to highlight the fresh and organic flavours from the patch garden, offering guests a unique and sustainable drinking experience.

“We are thrilled to make GB by Novotel Hyderabad Airport available round the clock, ensuring that our guests have access to premium dining and beverage experiences whenever they need them. With the launch of ‘Sips from the Sources,’ we are reinforcing our commitment to sustainability while offering a fresh take on beverage craftsmanship. By sourcing ingredients from our very own patch garden, we ensure that every sip is not only delicious but also environmentally responsible,” said  Sukhbir Singh, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport.

The GB by Novotel Hyderabad Airport, known for its inviting ambiance and curated menu, offers an array of signature dishes, global cuisines, and handcrafted beverages that cater to diverse palates. Whether travellers are looking for a quick bite before a flight, a late-night indulgence, or a refreshing beverage infused with garden-fresh flavours, the 24×7 GB by Novotel Hyderabad Airport ensures that exceptional dining is always within reach.

With a perfect blend of culinary innovation and sustainability, Novotel Hyderabad Airport continues to set new benchmarks in hospitality, providing guests with not just a meal, but an experience that is both indulgent and responsible.

 

 

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The post IndiGo reports a net profit of INR 72,584 million for the financial year ended March 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Driven by strong demand for air travel and execution of our strategy, for the financial year ended  March 2025, IndiGo reported a healthy net profit of INR 72,584 million. Excluding the impact of  foreign exchange, IndiGo reported a net profit of INR 88,676 million, maintaining similar strong  performance to the last year. For the quarter ended March 2025, IndiGo reported a net profit of INR  30,675 million, the highest fourth quarter ever.

Pieter Elbers, CEO, said: “We are proud to report healthy financial performance for this quarter and the financial year 2025 as we  reported a net profit of INR 72,584 million. Our sustained performance is the result of record passenger  volumes, operational efficiencies, agility and commitment demonstrated by IndiGo employees. A big thank  you to our 118.6 million customers in FY25 for placing their trust in us and to all my IndiGo colleagues for  their great work and relentless dedication.

As we build on this momentum, we will continue to focus on cost leadership and further Internationalization  with the start of our European operations.

I am very pleased that the trust and continued support of our shareholders during the challenging covid  period and beyond can now be rewarded with a recommended dividend of 10 rupees per share. Further, our  continued performance and strong balance sheet has also been recognized by a leading International credit  rating agency by assigning an Investment grade credit rating”

InterGlobe Aviation Ltd. (“IndiGo”) reported its fourth quarter and fiscal year 2025 results.

For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared to the same period last year

• Capacity increased by 21.0% to 42.1 billion
• Passengers increased by 19.6% to 31.9 million
• Yield increased by 2.4% to INR 5.32 and load factor improved by 1.1 pts to 87.4% • Revenue from Operations increased by 24.3% to INR 221,519 million
• Reduction in fuel CASK by 6.6% to INR 1.60
• EBITDAR of INR 69,482 million (31.4% EBITDAR margin), compared to EBITDAR of INR  44,123 million (24.8% EBITDAR margin)
• Net profit of INR 30,675 million, compared to net profit of INR 18,948 million For the year ended March 31, 2025, compared to year ended March 31, 2024
• Capacity increased by 13.1% to 157.5 billion
• Passengers increased by 11.1% to 118.6 million
• Yield increased by 1.3% to INR 5.15 and load factor was 86.0%
• Revenue from Operations increased by 17.3% to INR 808,029 million
• Reduction in fuel CASK by 3.1% to INR 1.66
• CASK ex fuel increased by 12.5% to INR 3.00
• EBITDAR of INR 212,520 million (26.3% EBITDAR margin), compared to EBITDAR of  INR 175,447 million (25.5% EBITDAR margin)
• Excluding foreign exchange loss, profit amounted to INR 88,676 million, compared to profit of INR 88,897 million
• Net profit of INR 72,584 million, compared to net profit of INR 81,725 million  • Basic earnings per share of INR 187.93

Revenue and Cost Comparisons 

Total income for the quarter ended March 2025 was INR 230,975 million, an increase of 24.8% over the  same period last year. For the quarter, our passenger ticket revenues were INR 195,673 million, an increase of 25.4% and ancillary revenues were INR 21,525 million, an increase of 25.2% compared to the same period  last year.

Cash and Debt 

As of 31^st March 2025

• IndiGo had a total cash balance of INR 481,705 million comprising INR 331,531 million of free cash and INR 150,174 million of restricted cash.
• The capitalized operating lease liability was INR 479,801 million. The total debt (including  the capitalized operating lease liability) was INR 668,098 million.

Network and Fleet

• As of 31^st March 2025, fleet of 434 aircraft including 40 A320 CEOs (14 damp lease), 195 A320 NEOs, 135 A321 NEOs, 48 ATRs, 3 A321 freighters, 3 B777 (damp lease), 9 B737  (damp lease) and 1 B787 (damp lease); a net decrease of 3 passenger aircraft during the quarter.
• IndiGo operated at a peak of 2,304 daily flights during the quarter including non-scheduled  flights.
• During the quarter, provided scheduled services to 91 domestic destinations and 40  international destinations.

Operational Performance

For the period January-March’25

• IndiGo had a Technical Dispatch Reliability of 99.92%.
• IndiGo had an on-time performance of 81.3% at four key metros and flight cancellation rate  of 0.8%.

Future Capacity Growth

• First quarter of fiscal year 2026 capacity in terms of ASKs is expected to increase by mid teens as compared to the first quarter of fiscal year 2025.

 

 

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The post MPTS 2025 welcomed a record 13,000 attendees from 50 countries appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The UK’s most powerful hub for the creative industries united for two days of engaged networking, passionate debate and exceptional insights into AI, the creator economy, production craft and more – helping attendees stay ahead-of-the-curve for the year ahead. 

After two exceptional days of conversation, collaboration and community, the biggest and buzziest MPTS yet welcomed a record 13,000 attendees from 50 countries, uniting the UK’s media and entertainment industry together in the heart of London, like never before. The exhibition is organized by Media Business Insight (MBI) Ltd, a GlobalData company.

Hosted at London’s Olympia on 14-15 May, the red-hot editorially driven program delivered 100+ free-to-attend sessions across eight theatres, showcasing the insight and passion of more than 350 expert speakers and guest keynotes. The bustling show floor was packed with more than 300 exhibitors and sponsors, showcasing imagination, determination and standout talent of the UK’s creative and technical communities – at a time of both global challenge and immense opportunity.

Setting the agenda for MPTS, a State of the Nation Production keynote outlined a media and entertainment landscape in which storytellers had to embrace screens, formats and creators of all kinds.

Kate Beal, CEO, Woodcut Media, asserted: “TV doesn’t exist anymore in the way we knew it.”

Derren Lawford, CEO, Dare Pictures, said: “We are in the middle of a decade of profound transition, and we are past the tipping point. TV is part of a wider, connected series of industries around the creation and distribution and funding of content.”

Headliners at MPTS include:

• Producer and presenter Ross Kemp, who took us on an exhilarating tour of investigative documentaries on the front lines of conflict, drug cartels and organised crime gangs. “They will know in a second if you are not telling the truth,” he said. “I specialize in telling the truth, it is as simple as that.”
• Georgie Holt, whose company Flight Story produces the world’s second biggest podcast ‘Diary of a CEO’, declared: “We are in the era of the Founder Creator — creators who are now in charge of media content and able to monetise spectacularly outside of traditional gatekeepers.”
• NFL professional turned American Football broadcaster Jason Bell explained how sports coverage was evolving into the F1 Drive To Survive model, in which athlete personalities and back stories were the keys to growing audiences.
• Blockbuster editor Eddie Hamilton gave a masterclass about the precision involved in making Top Gun: Maverick and five Mission: Impossible movies with Tom Cruise. He said: “Every nuance is refined hundreds of times. Sometimes we watch a 10-minute scene 40 times in a day, checking to see where your eye is moving in the frame.”

Diverse representation is a vital sign of the industry’s health and MPTS is proud to set the benchmark to secure equal representation and attendance from the next generation, not only across the program, but also something clearly witnessed across the show floor amongst exhibitors and attendees.

MPTS also prioritizes the crucial importance of sustainability and, in continuing association with BAFTA albert brought this conversation to the fore with experts including Peter Okell, Sky Studios Elstree; Luke Seraphin, Sky Studios and Claire O’Neill, A Greener Future speaking in the Sustainability Series.

Sam Street, Marketing Officer, BAFTA Albert commented: “MPTS is a really key moment in our calendar. It is always so great to connect with suppliers, companies, studios and creatives who share our common passion for sustainability within screen industries. It has also been really valuable to curate our sustainability series of panels across this year’s show, we’ve had some really insightful discussions and emphasised the importance of environmental focus throughout the screen industries.”

We did not need a machine to predict the high demand for news and information about AI. The brand-new ticketed AI Training program and the expanded AI Media Zone drew exceptional attendance, with exhibitors such as Dot Group, Moments Lab and Software. Conversations in these packed-out sessions revolved around the impact of AI from ideation to VFX, featuring real-world insights and discussions on bridging the gap between theory and practice from speakers including Pete Archer, BBC; Jon Roberts, ITN and Damien Viel, Banijay Entertainment.

With a record number of exhibitors already rebooking for 2026, MPTS continues to prove its value as the UK’s number one event for media and production professionals, where brands, creatives and decision-makers come together to connect, collaborate and grow.

Jane Shepard, Senior Channel Marketing Manager, Sandisk, said: “MPTS 2025 was a spectacular showcase of innovation, bringing together the brightest minds and cutting-edge technology in the industry. An unforgettable experience for all attendees.”

Tom Rundle, Application Engineer, Yamaha Music, said: “It has been very busy for us. We have seen a huge mix of customers from the broadcast sector here, but also customers from the other industries which we serve, whether that’s live or theatre who have deliberately come to the show to seek us out to speak to us. Will we be back next year? Yes, absolutely, this is the first year for us, so it was always a bit of a toe in the water, but it’s been vastly more successful than we thought it was going to be.”

Peter Alderson, Business Manager, Nikon, said: “This is our second year at MPTS, we’ve gone a little bit bigger on our stands, almost doubling it, and I think it’s definitely been worthwhile doing. We’ve partnered with RED, who we recently purchased, and MRMC so it’s making a lovely statement about where we are in the market, and I think we’re in the right place to make that statement here at MPTS.”

Jennifer Hudson, Marketing Executive, Videndum, said: “This show is really important in our calendar – we attend nearly every year and find so much value in it. We get to meet with so many different professionals within the industry, and this year has been really, really positive for us. We’ve walked away with quite a few leads and made new relationships. It’s a fantastic show, and we would thoroughly recommend anyone thinking about coming and having a stand here to definitely do it – you won’t regret it.”

Will Pitt, Head of Sales Solutions, Techex, said: “My impression of the show is that it’s been incredibly busy and very positive. Techex particularly specialise in solving some of the headaches that a lot of the broadcast industry is grappling with at the moment, namely, how they transition into an IP-led architecture from a legacy architecture and what that journey looks like. As such, our standards have been packed pretty much throughout the show to come and look at products, but also to come and talk about ideas and lean into what that journey looks like specifically for them. So not a generic journey, but specific to their drivers and their wants and needs in the short and medium term. We particularly like MPTS because it’s London based and many of the engineers that we speak to and collaborate with are based here and therefore it’s an easy journey for them to take half a day, a day out to come and investigate what we have to offer, but also to have those conversations. And so for organisations like WBD or Sky, the BBC, ITV, etc. They can come here quite easily and engage with us, spend some time talking in real life and not over teams or Zoom.”

Charlotte Wheeler, Event Director, MPTS said: “Without doubt, 2025 was the most stimulating, ahead-of-the-curve MPTS yet. At a time when we are seeing the industry under real pressure from budget cuts to talent shortages and perpetual change, the conversations and connections on the show floor were positive and demonstrated infectious community spirit. The level of attendance and the quality of attendees from across all sectors of the industry was incredible – not just stakeholders in technology but representatives from production and commissioning, the creator economy, those new to the industry and freelancers were all brought together by MPTS under one roof.

“A huge amount of work goes into making sure that there is equal representation across our extensive conference programme. I am proud that MPTS is one of – if not the – most diverse shows both in terms of attendees and panellists.

“Thank you to everyone for exhibiting, sponsoring, speaking, attending and engaging with the show to make MPTS such a thrilling success. We are already planning for 2026, which marks MPTS’ 10th edition, so look forward to a landmark celebration!”

Save the date for MPTS 2026 when we return to Olympia Grand Hall, London on 13 – 14 May 2026.

The conversation does not stop when the doors close. MPTS is more than just two days a year – it is a connected, year-round community for the broadcast and media industry.

 

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The post IndiGo opens bookings for its long-haul debut on Mumbai-Amsterdam route starting 02 July 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IndiGo announced groundbreaking expansion into Europe with its first-ever non-stop flight from Mumbai to Amsterdam, set to launch on 02 July 2025. Upgrading its in-flight dining experience, IndiGo also announced that complimentary hot meals and beverages will be served to all customers on this route. The thrice weekly service, operated with IndiGo’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, marks the airline’s strategic foray into long-haul operations to meet the growing demand for air travel between India and Europe, facilitated by Indian operators. The flights are open for bookings across channels, including IndiGo’s official website www.goIndiGo.in, mobile app, and authorized travel partners.

 

Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo, said, “I am thrilled to announce IndiGo’s long-haul debut to Amsterdam. We are stretching our wings further to enhance accessibility and convenience to customers traveling to Europe for leisure, business, and education, as well as unlocking IndiGo’s unparalleled domestic network, showcasing ‘India by IndiGo’ to foreign travellers. Celebrating India and its unique cuisine, we’re very proud to announce specially curated complimentary hot meals and beverages, by iconic home-grown Indian brands, will be served to all our customers on this route. This will a major milestone in our international growth journey as we move towards our vision to become a global aviation leader, propelling India’s ambition of transforming into a global aviation hub. The Netherlands and India share a strong and thriving bilateral relationship, and this new non-stop, thrice-weekly service between Mumbai and Amsterdam will only deepen the growing ties between the two nations. We are closely working with Schiphol Airport to provide customers with our quintessential seamless and hassle-free travel experience. With this route, we continue to bridge economies, cultures, and communities, while tapping into new exciting markets rich in history and potential. With every new global connection, IndiGo is taking India to the world and bringing the world to India.”

 

The airline has made consecutive announcements of its debut long-haul routes from Mumbai, with Amsterdam and Manchester being added to its growing international network.

 

This is the start of a truly exciting new chapter in IndiGo’s growth journey with Amsterdam and Manchester being the initial long-haul destinations. With the introduction of more 787-9 from Norse, and the arrival of IndiGo’s A321XLRs starting this year and A350 from 2027 will usher a new era enabling the airline to offer long-haul flights with IndiGo’s unique value proposition.

 

Aircraft configuration

To give wings to its long-haul dreams, IndiGo recently signed agreements with Norse Atlantic Airways, to damp lease four Boeing 787-9 aircraft. The first Norse-operated flight for IndiGo took off in March 2025 on the Mumbai-Bangkok route. With the three additional aircraft IndiGo is planning to lay a strong foundation for intercontinental growth, while the airline awaits the delivery of its A321XLR from this year and A350-900 aircraft from 2027 onwards.

 

The wide-body aircraft boasts a spacious double-aisle design, featuring 56 IndiGoStretch seats in a comfortable 2x3x2 configuration, with an impressive 43-inch seat pitch. The economy class offers 282 seats in a 3x3x3 configuration, providing a generous 31-inch seat pitch for a relaxed travel experience.

 

The IndiGoStretch experience:

IndiGoStretch customers on this new route will enjoy an elevated in-flight dining experience with specially curated complimentary hot meals served with finest alcohol catered by award-winning iconic Indian brands, promising a journey that’s as enjoyable as the destination. IndiGo’s tailor-made business product, IndiGoStretch – offers extra legroom, comfortable seating, and increased recline, designed to elevate comfort during long-haul journeys. In addition to complimentary benefits like priority check-in, anytime boarding, advance seat selection, and zero convenience fee, Customers will also get additional baggage allowance starting from 30 kgs in check-in and one bag weighing up to 12 kgs in the cabin.

 

Specially Curated in-flight Dining:

In its first, IndiGo is offering complimentary hot meals on-board for all customers in IndiGoStretch and Economy cabins on this route. The food and beverages (alcoholic + non-alcoholic) will be complimentary for the IndiGoStretch customers. While in economy, the meals and non-alcoholic beverages will be served on a complimentary basis, however the alcoholic beverages can be purchased on-board. The high-quality meals will be vegetarian by default, although an option to pre-book non-vegetarian meals will be available at the time of booking.

 

Flight Schedule: Flight No.	Origin	Destination	Frequency	Effective	Departure	Arrival
6E 0021	Mumbai	Amsterdam	Wednesday, Friday, Sunday	02-July-25	05:25	11:00
6E 0022	Amsterdam	Mumbai	Monday, Wednesday, Friday	02-July-25	14:00	01:55

 

 

Pieter Elbers, IndiGo

 

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The post Tokyo Skytree: A Summer Escape Above the City   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 This year, say Konnichiwa to Japan and make sure Tokyo Skytree is right at the top of your itinerary. Soaring 634 metres high, this iconic landmark is not just the tallest structure in Japan, but it is the world’s tallest freestanding broadcast tower. Thus, making it an unforgettable experience that brings the whole family together, from kids to grandparents.

Tokyo Skytree is not just an observation tower; it is an experience. Families can begin their journey by taking in 360-degree panoramic views of Tokyo from the Tembo Deck (Floor 350) and Tembo Galleria (Floor 450). On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Fuji. For the adventurous, the Glass Floor on Floor 340 gives a thrilling view of the city directly below your feet, a moment that is both thrilling and unforgettable. Do not forget to capture the moment with the Skytree photo services, perfect for turning your family day out into a frame-worthy memory.

Families and kids alike will love participating in the W1SH RIBBON activity, where they can write their wishes and tie them to a designated space within the tower, a uniquely Japanese cultural moment filled with charm and hope. Inspired by Japanese traditions, this thoughtful little experience lets visitors pen their hopes on a colourful ribbon and leave it fluttering among hundreds of others, a beautiful way to bond, reflect and share a quiet wish together.

For those families wanting more than just sightseeing, Skytree Enjoy Pack offers engaging, cultural programs and curated experiences that allow children to learn about Japanese traditions while having fun. It is an easy way for parents to blend education and entertainment into their travel plans.

The adventure does not stop at the tower. Just a short 15-minute scenic walk from Tokyo Skytree lies Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic and culturally rich neighbourhoods. Here, families can visit the famous Senso-ji Temple, explore traditional Japanese streets and sample local street food, making it a delightful extension to the Skytree experience.

From unforgettable views to hands-on cultural fun, Tokyo Skytree is the perfect summer escape for Indian travellers seeking something truly special in Japan. This summer, make it the highlight of your family’s Japan holiday

 

The post Tokyo Skytree: A Summer Escape Above the City   appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Emirates adds 46 additional flights for Hajj and Eid Al Adha appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Emirates is ramping up its operations for this year’s Hajj season, with 33 special flights to Jeddah and Medina operating until 31 May and between 10 and 16 June to support the thousands of pilgrims traveling for their once-in-a-lifetime journey to the holy city of Mecca.

Emirates will also operate 13 more flights to/from regional destinations including Amman, Dammam, Kuwait and Bahrain to meet high demand during the Eid Al Adha period, as travellers venture to summer leisure destinations, or visit their loved ones for Eid celebrations.

Emirates will be transporting nearly 32,000 Hajj passengers over the next three weeks from key points within its network like USA, Pakistan, Indonesia, South Africa, Thailand, and Côte d’Ivoire.

The onboard pilgrim experience

The Hajj experience with Emirates begins on the ground once pilgrims arrive in Dubai as dedicated airport teams seamlessly guide them through arrivals, connections, and hotel transfers.

Onboard, pilgrims across all cabins will receive distinctive ‘Hajj’ luggage tags, alongside a newly introduced Hajj kit featuring a prayer mat, tasbih beads for prayer, mindfulness and constant remembrance, silicon water bottles, and cushioned non-slip socks — ensuring a reverent, comfortable journey.

All special Hajj flights offer a customised experience for pilgrims, including ablution-friendly amenities, unperfumed towels, special announcements marking Al Miqat zones, and dedicated Hajj content on ice. All passengers returning from Jeddah and Medinah can also check in up to 5 litres of holy water (Zamzam), to be placed in the aircraft’s designated cargo area.

Customers traveling on special Hajj flights are encouraged to explore the complete Hajj experience on Emirates’ website for the latest requirements and what to expect on ground and onboard their flights to/from Jeddah and Medinah.

Emirates’ Eid Al Adha traditions 

Keeping with Eid Al Adha traditions, flights to select destinations across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, Far East, Europe and Africa will offer a special Eid menu across all travel classes.

Customers can enjoy traditional dishes like Lamb Madfoon and Chicken Zurbian in First, Business and Premium Economy Class. First, Business and Premium Economy Class customers can indulge in Pistachio and Chocolate Nammoura Cake as well as White Chocolate and Rahash Mousse cake. In Economy Class, customers can tuck into Pistachio Cake and Coffee Cake.

First and Business Class customers traveling on the Emirates A380 can expect a rich selection of Emirati desserts and unlimited Arabic Coffee in the Onboard Lounge.

Customers across all travel classes will also be treated to desserts wrapped in unique, celebratory boxes. These will include bite-size specialities like Cake Rangeena, Pistachio Rehash Cake, and Date Mamoul cookies.

Customers traveling in First and Business Class from Jeddah will be spoilt for choice with a selection of delectable dishes and desserts like Lamb Mathlouta, Lamb Saleeg, Henaini and Cheese Kunafa in the airline’s dedicated lounge.

Customers traveling during Eid Al Adha can also enjoy on-demand entertainment on ice, including 2,000 movies from around the world – more than 75 of them in Arabic with classics and new releases like such as Abo Nasab, Al Mazra’a and Al Ankaboot.  There are also up to 50 Arabic series channels, along with Shahid exclusives such as Al Bath, Trad and Sadaf. Customers can also look forward to enjoying Turkish series – dubbed in Arabic – like Tout El Aswad and Al Uqda.

On demand entertainment also includes 15 Arabic podcast and audiobook channels, The Holy Qur’an, and over 500 Arabic music channels including pop, classics, Khaleeji, Maghrebi, and fusion genres.

Customers rushed for time who missed buying gifts for friends and family can easily and conveniently shop luxury duty-free products with Emirates RED’s new summer catalogue featuring 200 products from brands like Hermes, Cartier, Tom Ford, Creed and Jo Malone, and others.

Customers looking to save time can pre-order duty-free items on EmiratesRED.com, which will be delivered directly to their seat onboard. The service is available on most flights, with shopping open from 21 days to 40 hours before departure. During Eid Al Adha, Emirates RED is offering an exclusive 10% discount for customers using the code ‘REDMAG’ at checkout.

 

 

The post Emirates adds 46 additional flights for Hajj and Eid Al Adha appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Jet2.com and Jet2holidays expand Samos programme for Summer 26 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have announced a brand-new route to Samos from Birmingham Airport for Summer 26.

Following continued demand from customers and independent travel agents looking for some Greek sunshine, the leading leisure airline and UK’s largest tour operator have added a new route to Samos, with flights and holidays now available from Birmingham Airport.

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays will operate a weekly Monday service from Birmingham Airport to Samos from 4^th May to 26^th October 2026, representing nearly 10,000 extras seats on sale and giving customers plenty of choice and flexibility when it comes to enjoying an authentic slice of Greece in early, peak or late summer.

As a result of the expansion, the companies will operate to a total of 15 airports across Greece from Birmingham Airport in Summer 26, making them the biggest operator to Greece from the airport. These include Athens, Corfu, Chania (Crete), Heraklion (Crete), Kefalonia, Halkidiki, Kos, Kalamata, Lesvos, Preveza, Rhodes, Skiathos, Santorini and Zante.

When travelling to Samos, holidaymakers can also choose from over 30 new 3-5 star hotels that Jet2holidays has on sale across the laid-back island. The hotels are available to book now and are located in the sun-kissed resorts of Samos Town, Kampos, Kokkari, Pythagorion, Karlovasi and Balos.

The beautiful Greek island of Samos lies just off the coast of Turkey and is bursting with charm, from its golden-grained beaches to its lush green hills. Holidaymakers can spend their days lounging by the glittering Aegean Sea, hiking through ancient ruins or enjoying delicious Greek fare at a cosy taverna. Between the charming town of Pythagorion or the peaceful village of Kokkari, there is always something to explore, with public transport links making it easy to access the variety of resorts and beaches. With stunning sunsets and a laid-back vibe, Samos is the ultimate place to relax, unwind and soak up the tranquillity of Greece.

The launch of flights and holidays to Samos from Birmingham Airport gives customers in the Midlands the opportunity to enjoy award-winning flights and holidays to the Greek island for the first time with the airline and tour operator. Holidaymakers can choose from a flight-only booking with Jet2.com, or a package holiday with Jet2holidays while enjoying the companies’ award-winning customer service.

ATOL-protected package holidays with Jet2holidays include VIP customer service and return transfers, along with a generous 22kg baggage allowance and friendly flight times with Jet2.com, all for a low £60 per person deposit.

When flying with Jet2.com, customers receive that very same industry leading customer service, a 10kg hand luggage allowance, great flight times and friendly low fares.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “The launch of flights and holidays to the beautiful Greek hotspot of Samos from Birmingham Airport means we are now giving customers in the Midlands the chance to enjoy an authentic slice of Greece. We are confident that the addition of the Greek destination to our flying programme from Birmingham Airport will prove popular with customers looking for an off the beaten track style holiday.”

Tom Screen, Aviation Director of Birmingham Airport said: “We’re delighted that Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have directly responded to our customer’s needs and are exclusively launching a new route to Samos for Summer 2026. Samos is a brand-new destination on our departure board and brings Jet2.com’s number of operating routes to Greece from BHX to a total of 15, providing our customers with even greater choice for beach breaks and cultural trips alike.”

 

The post Jet2.com and Jet2holidays expand Samos programme for Summer 26 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia