The post Philippine Department of Tourism foresees improvement in village tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippine Department of Tourism’s bureau in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) expects to see further improvement of village tourism in the north of the country.

DOT-CAR officials made the statement during the launch of the fourth annual Search for the Best Tourism Village on Wednesday, 12th February. 

During the press conference, DOT-CAR regional director Jovi Ganongan declared: “The search encourages villages to opt for sustainability and improve not just the destination but help prepare their fellow villagers for tourists arriving.”

The search began during the pandemic and is a programme unique to the DOT-CAR.

For the 2025 edition, at least 68 tourism villages have applied to join the search, which would allow them to obtain technical assistance to adapt to relevant standards.

It takes a community

Ganongan shared that village leaders who joined the search orientations have started to work on their community’s development to qualify.

She said: “Some did not even know they have tourism values but realized it when they joined the search.”

Ganongan added that the eagerness of the villagers to participate and conform their communities to the criteria that involves cultural, socio-economic and rural economic development, environmental protection and sustainability of the activity as highly palpable.

She said: “This is not just about bringing in tourists but also the community’s development and people’s livelihood and protection of the environment.”

For the environment

Linda Claire Pawid, chief of the Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-CAR, said the program helps in their goal of protecting the environment with villages learning the importance of implementing activities toward this end.

She said tourism and environment protection is an important aspect of the DOT-CAR’s search for the best tourism villages.

Pawid said Cordillera has unique villages endowed with natural attractions, thus the abundance of village destinations with stories and cultural significance.

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The post Campbell Gray expands in Middle East and Africa with luxury-focused growth strategy appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Campbell Gray Hotels is strengthening its presence in the Middle East and Africa, unveiling an ambitious expansion plan that will redefine luxury hospitality across the region. Over the past four years, the brand has undergone a significant transformation, evolving its offerings to align with shifting guest expectations and the growing demand for exclusive, experience-driven stays.

With a legacy of design-led boutique properties and a commitment to exceptional service, Campbell Gray Hotels is carving out a distinctive space in the global hospitality industry. The company’s expansion strategy is focused on delivering highly curated experiences, blending art, culture, and personalized service to create hotels that go beyond traditional luxury.

A pivotal moment in this growth trajectory is the recent strategic partnership with Valor Hospitality Partners, which will oversee the development and management of a diverse range of hospitality concepts. This collaboration allows Campbell Gray Hotels to expand beyond its signature boutique properties into larger-scale developments, including five-star and four-star hotels, serviced residences, branded villas, and exclusive beach clubs. By working closely with developers and property owners, the company aims to offer innovative hospitality solutions that maximize investment potential while maintaining its signature emphasis on style, comfort, and exclusivity.

The brand’s expansion into the Middle East and Africa is already taking shape, with Campbell Gray Hotels being selected to lead two major projects in Egypt: The Med on the North Coast and Hills of One in Cairo. Both developments will feature a boutique hotel alongside branded residences, offering a seamless integration of luxury living, world-class dining, wellness experiences, and bespoke hospitality services. These projects reflect the company’s ability to merge contemporary design with regional influences, creating spaces that resonate with modern travelers while preserving cultural authenticity.

Saad Audeh, Chairman of Campbell Gray Hotels, emphasized the company’s vision for growth, highlighting its dedication to individuality and innovation in hospitality. He noted that the brand continues to set new benchmarks in the industry by focusing on personalized service, striking architectural design, and a deep appreciation for local culture. As demand for unique, high-end accommodations grows across the Middle East and Africa, Campbell Gray Hotels is poised to introduce a new era of hospitality that is both sophisticated and deeply immersive.

With the Middle East and Africa becoming key markets for luxury travel and property development, Campbell Gray Hotels is well-positioned to bring its distinctive approach to the region. As it continues to expand, the brand remains committed to creating exceptional guest experiences, blending timeless elegance with cutting-edge innovation in every property it develops

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The post Meet ‘Sara’: Saudi Arabia launches AI-powered smart tour guide appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudi Arabia is taking a bold step into the future of smart tourism with the launch of ‘Sara’, an AI-powered virtual tour guide designed to transform the way visitors explore the Kingdom. Introduced by the Saudi Tourism Authority at LEAP 2025, Sara is not just another travel assistant—it is an interactive, multilingual companion that blends cutting-edge AI with Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage.

Developed as part of the Spirit of Saudi Arabia platform, Sara offers tourists a deeply personalized experience, responding to real-time queries and curating tailored recommendations based on individual interests. Whether a visitor wants to explore UNESCO-listed heritage sites, discover hidden culinary gems, or plan an itinerary around Saudi Arabia’s bustling festivals and events, Sara provides instant, AI-driven suggestions that ensure a seamless and immersive journey.

Beyond just navigation and recommendations, Sara integrates immersive storytelling, offering detailed insights into the history, traditions, and cultural significance of the Kingdom’s most iconic destinations. From the ancient wonders of AlUla to the vibrant souks of Riyadh and the breathtaking coastline of the Red Sea, the AI assistant enhances the visitor experience by weaving narratives that bring these locations to life. Available in multiple languages, Sara ensures that Saudi Arabia’s growing international visitor base can engage with the country’s heritage in a way that feels both intuitive and enriching.

The Saudi Tourism Authority emphasized that Sara represents a major milestone in the country’s commitment to harnessing technology to elevate its tourism sector, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. By integrating AI into the visitor experience, Saudi Arabia aims to not only provide tourists with seamless and informative journeys but also increase tourism spending, support local businesses, and drive investment into the travel sector.

Sara’s launch is expected to enhance the accessibility of Saudi Arabia’s diverse tourism offerings, ensuring that both first-time and returning visitors can navigate the Kingdom with ease. With its ability to provide real-time updates on major events, facilitate bookings, and offer cultural insights, Sara is set to become an essential companion for travelers seeking to experience Saudi Arabia in an intelligent, engaging, and effortless way.

As the Kingdom continues to establish itself as a global tourism hub, Sara stands as a symbol of its ambition, innovation, and dedication to enhancing the traveler’s journey.

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The post Landmark Dubai opening: Cheval Maison to open in Expo City in March 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The highly anticipated Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai is set to welcome its first guests in March 2025, redefining luxury serviced living in Expo City Dubai. Located in the former Leadership Pavilion, which hosted world leaders during Expo 2020 and COP28, this architectural gem has been transformed into a stunning 151-apartment residence, just steps away from Al Wasl Plaza and the Expo City Metro station.

This marks a key milestone in Cheval Collection’s expansion into the Middle East, following the success of Cheval Maison – The Palm Dubai, which won ‘Best Debut Hotel Apartments’ at the 2024 Arabian Travel Awards. The company is also gearing up for further expansion into Saudi Arabia with its upcoming Cheval Ladun Living in 2027.

Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai will offer a variety of luxurious accommodations, from Metro Rooms and studios to spacious one- to three-bedroom apartments and Royal Suites, many with private balconies overlooking Al Wasl Plaza. “We are thrilled to bring Cheval Maison to Expo City, blending luxury, convenience, and the legacy of Expo 2020,” said Mohammed Alawadhi, Managing Director at Cheval Collection.

With Expo City evolving into a dynamic hub for business, tourism, and residential living, Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai is set to become the premier choice for guests seeking a refined, serviced lifestyle in one of Dubai’s most exciting districts.

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The post Hyatt makes debut in Kenya with Nairobi property appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has officially debuted in Kenya with the grand opening of Hyatt Regency Nairobi Westlands, a five-star property designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. The 219-room hotel, located in Nairobi’s bustling Westlands district, marks a significant milestone for the hospitality giant as it expands its footprint in Africa.

Strategically positioned for convenience and adventure, the new Hyatt Regency offers travelers seamless access to Kenya’s most iconic attractions. Guests can explore Nairobi National Park, immerse themselves in history at the Nairobi National Museum, or unwind in the serene Karura Forest. For those looking for urban excitement, SARIT Shopping Centre and Westgate Mall are just moments away.

The property features a mix of 147 guestrooms and suites, along with 72 fully equipped apartments. Each accommodation is designed with contemporary elegance, drawing inspiration from Africa’s rich landscapes, featuring earthy tones and warm aesthetics. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as 65-inch smart TVs, high-speed WiFi, luxury bath products, an in-room coffee maker, a minifridge, and a dedicated workspace.

Hyatt Regency Nairobi Westlands is also setting new standards for corporate and social events. The property boasts over 2,000 square meters of meeting and event space, including one of the largest ballrooms in East Africa, offering 360-degree city views. The 10 versatile meeting spaces are outfitted with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, making them ideal for everything from boardroom discussions to large-scale conferences.

Stephen Ansell, Managing Director – Middle East and Africa for Hyatt, expressed enthusiasm about the brand’s entry into Kenya. “We are thrilled to debut our first Hyatt-branded hotel in Kenya, a key milestone in our strategic expansion across Africa. Nairobi’s dynamic energy and growing tourism appeal make it an exciting destination for business and leisure travelers alike.”

With this landmark opening, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts cements its commitment to growth in Africa, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury, culture, and business excellence in the heart of Nairobi.

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The post Thailand promotes itself as a premier global destination for the LGBTQIA+ community appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) staged the Amazing Thailand Out There event  geared towards LGBTQIA+ travellers on Tuesday, 11th February.

This launch is seen as a significant milestone in TAT’s efforts to promote Thailand as a premier LGBTQ+ travel destination. 

Marriott Thailand supported the initiative, highlighting the country’s world-class hospitality, rich culture, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity.

Arriving at a pivotal moment following the enactment of Thailand’s Equal Marriage Act in January 2025, the event further cemented Thailand’s reputation as a global leader in LGBTQ+ rights. 

With the LGBTQ+ travel market projected to generate US$1.5 billion in spending by 2025 and Thailand ranked fifth globally in tourism impact, TAT strategically engaged this thriving sector.

Driven by insight

TATA governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool emphasised the event’s significance, saying: “This initiative is shaped by insights from the Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Focus Group sessions held late last year in Phuket, Bangkok, and Koh Samui. These discussions helped us refine our strategies to better serve LGBTQ+ travellers while strengthening opportunities for Thai tourism businesses.”

Marriott International vice-president for Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar Brad Edman shared his enthusiasm: “W Hotels proudly supports celebrating diversity in thought, culture and experiences, and amplifies conversations by giving marginalized voices a platform and moving culture forward with vibrant celebrations of LGBTQIA+ rights, equity and inclusivity. This vibrant celebration reaffirms W Hotels’ mission along with Marriott International’s long-standing commitment to the LGBTQ+ community through equitable workplace policies and practices, a strong commitment to inclusion and respect for all.”

The Thailand Out There: Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Travel Trade Meet 2025 connected international buyers with 20 Thai tourism suppliers, fostering business networking and industry insights. 

The session also included a welcome address by TAT and a presentation by Marriott Thailand. 

Among the attendees were 18 travel agents specialised in the LGBTQ+ segment from the USA, Canada, and Brazil, who embarked on a week-long familiarisation trip across Thailand, with some extending their stay to explore further.

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The post ATIA: Federal government should be buyer-of-last-resort for Rex Airlines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) supports the idea that the Federal Government should be the buyer-of-last-resort for Regional Express Holdings (Rex), given the first option should always be for a private buyer.

According to ATIA chief executive Dean Long: “There’s no doubt that the ideal solution will always be a private buyer. If the Government does buy Rex, they must make good on the money owed to Australian travel agents and airports as a result of Rex’s collapse.”

With around $11.5 million in outstanding payments owed to travel agents, predominantly in regional and rural Australia, ATIA is also asking the Government to ensure that any public funds used to support Rex’s ongoing operation use a clawback mechanism for these outstanding debts over a 12-month period.

However, Long was also quick to point out: “The major issue for Rex is the age of the fleet, and this will be a major barrier for any buyer as there is a global shortage of aircraft. If we allow Rex to collapse, it’s going to lead to even higher prices for regional communities but, critically, also a huge loss of connectivity, which will have a significant impact on their economies.”

Support provided as necessary

As of today, 12th February, the Federal Government confirmed that additional support will be provided to help maximise the prospect of a successful sale, including a waiver of the “use it or lose it” test for Rex regional flight slots at Sydney Airport, which will ensure access until 24 October 2026. 

The Government also announced that, in the event there is no sale, the Government will undertake necessary work, in consultation with relevant state governments, on contingency options, including preparations necessary for potential Commonwealth acquisition.

Today’s announcement comes as an addendum to the Government lending up to $80 million to keep Rex’s regional routes operational until 30 June 2025 and acquiring $50 million of debt from Rex’s largest creditor, PAGAC Regulus Holdings Limited, earlier this year to ensure the airline could continue to operate.

ATIA continues to work closely with the Government to ensure the needs of the Travel Sector are considered throughout the process.

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The post Malaysia Airlines honoured twice at this year’s Cellars in the Sky Awards appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Malaysia Airlines secured two prestigious accolades for its Business Class wines at the annual Cellars in the Sky Awards by Business Traveller. 

The airline earned a Silver award in the Business Class Red and Bronze in the Business Class Fortified/Dessert Wine category, reaffirming its commitment to offering a world-class inflight experience. 

Beyond its award-winning wines, Malaysia Airlines’ Business Class delivers a seamless and luxurious travel experience, featuring thoughtfully crafted signature dishes and Chef-On-Call Menus; complimentary seat selection; and priority services throughout check-in, boarding and baggage collection. 

Enrich Platinum members, Business Suite, and Business class passengers can also enjoy access to the airline’s exclusive Golden Lounges at KL International Airport Terminal 1, along with the Private Terminal Transfer Service, featuring the recently introduced luxury fleet of Mercedes-Benz sedans, including the S 580 e Plug-in Hybrid and all-electric EQS 500 4MATIC. 

Award-winning vintages

The Silver-winning Kilikanoon Prophecy 2020, an elegant full-bodied Shiraz from Australia’s renowned Clare Valley, was meticulously selected to enhance the airline’s premium dining experience. 

Sourced from the Golden Hillside’s east and west ridges, this velvety red wine delivers bold notes of ripe red fruits, bramble, bay leaf, and clove, perfectly complementing Malaysia Airlines’ fine Business Class cuisine.  

Adding to its accolades, Malaysia Airlines also secured Bronze in the Business Class Fortified/Dessert wine category for its offering of Kopke 10 Years Old Tawny, a distinguished port wine from the oldest Port Wine House, established in 1638. 

Celebrated for its esteemed heritage and exceptional quality, this refined selection boasts complex aromas of spice, dried fruit, and hints of wood and honey, embodying the airline’s dedication to curating a sophisticated inflight experience.  

These awards are a testament to the airline’s dedication to providing a refined, world-class journey.  

Driven by its signature Malaysian Hospitality, Malaysia Airline’s wine selection has been hand-picked to elevate the inflight dining experience, ensuring passengers enjoy distinguished flavours that pair seamlessly with onboard cuisine. 

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The post Kazakhstan launches The Year of China Tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Kazakhstan formally launched The Year of China Tourism in Astana on Saturday, 8th February.

The tourism year was ushered in with a vibrant cultural spectacle held at the city’s foremost shopping centre. 

Among the highlights were a traditional dragon dance, musical and magic performances, as well as a banquet of authentic specialities.

The event, held at the city’s largest shopping center, showcased Chinese culture with a dragon dance, mask tricks, Chinese songs, and culinary delights.

An opportunity to learn

Han Chunlin, China’s ambassador to Kazakhstan pointed out that the Year of China Tourism offers a unique chance for Kazakhs to learn more about China and visit its most prominent destinations.

Han said: “We welcome Kazakh tourists and encourage them to visit more often, to experience the beauty of our landscapes and try our traditional cuisine.”

Tourism between China and Kazakhstan grew significantly in 2024, with more than 655,000 Chinese travellers visiting the Central Asian nation. 

That said, the Year of China Tourism is expected to further boost tourism and foster stronger ties between the two countries. 

During the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China held last year, over 30 major events were held in Chinese cities and over 200 agreements were signed between government and private enterprises.

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