The post Marriott’s Sheraton enters Al Khobar, strengthening Saudi presence appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marriott International is bringing its Sheraton brand to Al Khobar for the first time, through a partnership with Aleph Hospitality and Ashaad Company. The 580-room Sheraton Al Khobar Al Hamra, set to open near Al Shbaily Mall, will cater to the growing demand for business and leisure travel in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

With easy access to the King Fahd Causeway, linking Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, the hotel will feature three distinct dining concepts, state-of-the-art wellness facilities, and expansive event spaces designed for corporate meetings and social gatherings.

“Sheraton has a strong legacy in the Kingdom, and we are excited to expand its footprint in Al Khobar,” said Chadi Hauch, Regional VP of Lodging Development, Marriott International. Meanwhile, Ali bin Mohammed Al Ali, Chairman of Ashaad, emphasized the project’s alignment with Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.

Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management firm in the Middle East and Africa, will oversee operations. The Sheraton Al Khobar Al Hamra is expected to reinforce the city’s reputation as a key commercial and tourism hub.

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The post Bahrain teams up with Wego to supercharge global tourism appeal appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Bahrain is stepping up its global tourism marketing efforts, partnering with Wego, the Middle East’s leading travel platform, to highlight the Kingdom’s attractions. The collaboration comes at a crucial time, as Bahrain expands its luxury hospitality offerings and cultural tourism experiences.

Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Gulf”, Bahrain is leveraging Wego’s digital reach to showcase top destinations like the UNESCO-listed Bahrain Fort, Bab Al Bahrain Souq, and the Bahrain International Circuit, home to Formula 1. The initiative also highlights eco-tourism efforts, including the preservation of Hawar Islands and pearl diving experiences.

“Bahrain is a treasure trove of cultural and modern attractions,” said Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego. Meanwhile, Maryam Toorani, Director of Marketing at Bahrain Tourism Authority, emphasized how this partnership will expand Bahrain’s reach to a broader international audience. With immersive virtual tours, smart tourism solutions, and sustainability initiatives, Bahrain is crafting a tech-forward travel experience, positioning itself as a must-visit destination in the Middle East.

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The post From 5K to 40K: UAE becomes one of Moscow’s fastest-growing tourism markets appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Moscow is setting its sights on an ambitious tourism boom, with the goal of welcoming over 50 million visitors by 2030, according to Bulat Nurmukhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. Speaking at a press meeting in Dubai, Nurmukhanov highlighted the city’s strategic focus on the UAE, emphasizing the rapid growth in Emirati visitors.

In 2022, Moscow saw just 5,000 tourists from the UAE. By the first nine months of last year, that number had surged to over 40,000, a nearly 700% increase. “The Gulf region, especially the UAE, is a key market for us,” Nurmukhanov stated, underlining Moscow’s commitment to maintaining this momentum.

The Moscow delegation, including federal and foreign affairs representatives, expressed gratitude to Emirati businesses and travel operators for their role in strengthening Moscow’s tourism appeal. Mayor Sergey Sobyanin’s vision aligns with this push, setting a target to double annual tourist arrivals by 2030.

As Moscow positions itself as a premier global travel destination, stronger tourism ties with the UAE signal new opportunities for cultural and business exchanges, shaping the future of tourism in the Russian capital.

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The post Virtual Safari: OurAfrica.Travel sets new course for tourism in 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

When Storm Napier and Allie Hunt launched OurAfrica.Travel during the pandemic in 2020, few could have predicted how this virtual platform would transform African tourism networking. Now, as they prepare for their 2025 edition scheduled for February 17-21, the platform stands as the continent’s premier virtual travel trade show.

“The show was born through the pandemic when we were looking for ways to connect Africa and the Indian Ocean islands back to the wonderful trade around the world,” explains Hunt during our exclusive interview. What started as a crisis response has evolved into an innovative solution for connecting African tourism suppliers with global buyers.

“African tourism has shown remarkable resilience,” notes Napier. “This virtual show isn’t about replacing traditional trade shows – it’s about complementing them. We’re creating additional touchpoints that strengthen existing relationships and forge new ones.”

The 2025 edition promises enhanced interactivity, maintaining the platform’s unique selling point – allowing participants to connect from their preferred location and time zone through carefully scheduled 20-minute meetings. This format has proven particularly effective for bridging the geographical divide between African suppliers and international buyers.

A notable addition to this year’s program is the pre-show Spotlight Webinar Week. “We’re tackling crucial industry topics,” Napier shares. “From the role of AI in travel to the power of storytelling in tourism marketing, these sessions will equip participants with insights and tools to navigate the evolving tourism landscape.”

The 2025 show will connect exceptional African and Indian Ocean Island suppliers with global buyers, facilitating strategic discussions and updates in a convenient, accessible format. For an industry that once relied heavily on physical trade shows, OurAfrica.Travel demonstrates how digital innovation can create new opportunities for tourism growth and collaboration.

Recent trends in African travel have shown a marked shift towards more purposeful journeys. “We’re seeing a surge in active holidays and conservation-focused experiences,” Hunt explains. “Travelers aren’t just visiting Africa; they’re engaging with its wildlife, contributing to conservation efforts, and seeking meaningful connections with local communities.”

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The post Hong Kong Disneyland hosts The Most Magical Party of All this summer appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary starting this summer with The Most Magical Party of All.

Everyone is invited to join the year-long celebration that promises unparalleled joy and enchantment.

HKDL is set to throw a magical party hosted by everyone’s favourite Disney friends and numerous celebrities.

Guests can enjoy Disney magic from day to night all year round at this star-studded celebration where glitter and glamour will transform the park into a fabulous wonderland, across every themed land, stage, and corner as the most magical party unfolds only at HKDL.

The celebration extends beyond entertainment experiences: even more magic and excitement await throughout the entire resort.

Guests can anticipate a wide array of party elements to make HKDL’s 20th anniversary experience truly memorable.

Mickey and Friends, along with Duffy and Friends, will be dressed in exclusive 20th Anniversary outfits, making for the perfect photo opportunities.

Everywhere you look, the park will be brimming with party decor, turning every corner into a beautiful photo backdrop for capturing moments of magic and joy.

An extravaganza at the castle

Guests will be welcomed by Mickey and Friends, Duffy and Friends, and Disney princesses in a brand-new anniversary-only castle stage show.

This daytime extravaganza brings together beloved Disney friends for a high-energy, fun-filled party experience in front of the Castle of Magical Dreams.

This electrifying limited time celebration will energise guests with captivating rhythms, dance moves, and visually spectacular theatrics.

Be spellbound by the most magical show on earth

No celebration is complete without The Most Magical Show on Earth, the “Momentous” nighttime spectacular.

As the grand finale to each exhilarating day, guests will experience a special edition of this guest favorite nighttime spectacular.

This special 20th Anniversary edition of “Momentous” will elevate the magical party to new heights, offering an unforgettable climax to the day-to-night celebration.

With even more Disney stories, majestic projections that extend down all of Main Street, U.S.A., and enchanting drone choreography, the enhanced “Momentous” will be even more magical.

As the night sky is filled with dazzling lights and Disney magic, “Momentous” will become a heartfelt memory for every guest to take home from the 20th Anniversary, and treasure forever.

Get friendtastic at the Main Street parade

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is unveiling the brand-new “Friendtastic!” Parade, the largest ever in scale at HKDL.

This daytime parade will take over and energize the entirety of Main Street, U.S.A.

Jumping into an empowering party atmosphere, this long-anticipated parade will be full of spectacular theatrics, positive energy, and toe-tapping beats.

Featuring 11 party floats with 11 groups of beloved Disney friends, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and many others, alongside parade dancers adorned in vivid costumes; guests can immerse themselves in the excitement, and grooving to the beats.

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The post Crystal unveils Stories of the South Seas, its 2027 World Cruise appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Experiential cruise line Crystal announced its 2027 World Cruise aboard Crystal Serenity today, 6th February. 

The 140-night journey spans 83 destinations, inviting travellers to discover the rich cultures of Central and South America, the idyllic islands of French Polynesia, New Zealand and Australia, the ancient wonders across Asia, and the majestic scenery of Alaska. 

The Stories of the South Seas cruise opened for bookings last 27th January, and the waitlist is now available.

This bucket-list voyage promises a blend of cultural discovery, world-class service and curated global itineraries crafted exclusively for Crystal guests.

A&K Travel Group chief executive Cristina Levis said: “Crystal continues to redefine what it means to embark on the journey of a lifetime, offering innovative and educational ways to explore the world while delivering the highest levels of service. This thoughtfully designed World Cruise itinerary, developed in collaboration with Abercrombie & Kent, exemplifies our commitment to create exceptional experiences that inspire at every turn.”

An unforgettable expedition

Departing from San Diego on 8 Jan 2027, and culminating in Vancouver, British Columbia, on 28 May 2027, the Pacific Rim World Cruise, “Stories of the South Seas,” offers an unforgettable expedition to 29 countries, four continents and will cross the International Date Line twice. 

Fernando Barroso de Oliveira, Crystal’s chairman and brand ambassador himself, will accompany the 2027 World Cruise voyage, sharing his expertise and passion for travel.

Barroso de Oliveira said: “Sailing on more than 30 world cruises has been the journey of a lifetime,” said Barroso de Oliveira, who is currently on the 2025 World Cruise aboard Crystal Serenity. “Each voyage is unique: a tapestry of unforgettable destinations, inspiring cultures and the cherished connections made along the way. No matter how often I embark on a world cruise, the sense of wonder and discovery remains just as vivid as the first.”

Revisiting standout destinations, such as Tasmania, American Samoa, and Indonesia from Crystal’s acclaimed 2019 itinerary, the 2027 voyage will feature several immersive experiences curated by Crystal’s sister brand Abercrombie & Kent. 

Highlights include guided culinary tours in Thailand, private access to Indonesia’s historic temples, and intimate cultural moments such as Fijian firewalking ceremonies. 

Guests will also journey to Mexico’s vibrant coasts, uncover Central America’s hidden gems, marvel at the mysterious statues of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and bask in French Polynesia’s turquoise lagoons. 

The adventure continues with stops in New Zealand, Australia, Southeast Asia, China, South Korea, and Japan, before winding down in Alaska with visits to Sitka, Ketchikan, and Hubbard Glacier.

Key highlights for a global journey

• January: Depart from San Diego, sailing down Mexico’s vibrant coasts before exploring Central America’s cultural gems, such as El Salvador’s Acajutla and Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Visit South America with stops in Manta and Guayaquil, Ecuador.
• February: Cross the South Pacific to French Polynesia’s Bora Bora, Tahiti and Moorea, famed for their lagoons and volcanic landscapes. Continue to Samoa and Fiji for cultural ceremonies, tropical beaches and lush rainforests.
• March: Explore New Zealand’s fjords, Maori heritage, and cities including Auckland and Christchurch. Sail on to Australia, visiting Tasmania, Sydney’s Harbour and the Great Barrier Reef.
• April: Discover Southeast Asia’s treasures, from Indonesia’s ancient temples to the vibrant streets of Singapore and Bangkok. Experience Thailand’s cuisine, Vietnam’s history in Ho Chi Minh City, and China’s landmarks in Shanghai and Xiamen.
• May: Visit Busan, South Korea, then explore Japan’s Hiroshima, Kobe and Tokyo. End in Alaska and visit glaciers, forests and ports such as Sitka before arriving in Vancouver, BC.

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The post Agoda reveals five top travel habits among young Asian travellers appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Digital travel platform Agoda shares the results of their most recent study, showing the top five travel habits of Asian Gen Z.

These show that the younger generation finds inspiration in the digital realm, embraces spontaneity, and values shared experiences whilst on the go. 

The survey highlights the unique ways travelers aged 18-27 are shaping the future of travel in Asia with a fresh perspective, not only by influencing travel trends but also by setting the stage for future generations to explore the world in innovative ways.

Agoda senior vice-president for supply Andrew Smith said: “Gen Z is redefining travel with their digital-first approach and spontaneous spirit. At Agoda, we’re thrilled to support their adventures with diverse options and the best deals in accommodations, flights and activities, ensuring every trip is as unique as they are.”

Social media is the new travel guide

Gen Z is blazing a trail on social media, with TikTok leading the way as their top source for travel inspiration. 

While Millennials lean on friends and family as their preferred source of recommendations, Gen Z is scrolling through TikTok and Instagram to discover their next adventure. 

Despite the digital influence, personal recommendations remain a close second, proving that word-of-mouth still holds sway.

Getting spontaneous with last-minute bookings

In a world where plans can change in an instant, Gen Z embraces the thrill of last-minute travel more than any other generation. 

Around 20 percent of Gen Z book flights less than a week in advance, outpacing Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers. 

Accommodations follow suit, with one in four Gen Z travelers making bookings at the eleventh hour, showcasing their penchant for spontaneity.

Travelling in twos

For Gen Z, travel is a shared experience, with 38 percent preferring to explore the world with a partner. 

Group trips with friends and family vacations also rank high, highlighting the importance of connection and companionship in their journeys. 

Millennials, on the other hand, prioritise family trips, reflecting a generational shift in travel dynamics.

Becoming cost-savvy when it comes to travel

When it comes to travel spending, Gen Z and Millennials are on the same page. Both generations prefer to keep accommodation costs under US$50 per person per night, with Gen Z more inclined to do so than their Millennial counterparts. 

Meanwhile, 32 percent of Gen Z plan to spend between US$51 to $100 per person per night compared to 41 percent of Millennials. This trend underscores a shared commitment to affordable travel without compromising on experiences.

Wanderlust draws generations together

Despite differing preferences in where different generations find travel inspiration, when they book their travels, and who they go with, the desire to explore the world is universal. 

Nearly half of Gen Z and Millennials plan to embark on one to three trips this year, while a third are aiming for more with four to six adventures. 

This shared wanderlust bridges generational gaps, proving that the love for travel knows no bounds.

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The post Cathay Pacific announces collaboration with Mott 32 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cathay Pacific announced a gastronomic partnership with leading global restaurant brand Mott 32 today, 6th February.

The partnership will deliver an exquisite dining experience to passengers staying at The Pier, the first-class lounge at Cathay Pacific’s home hub Hong Kong International Airport.

This collaboration exemplifies Cathay Pacific’s commitment to providing customers with an unmatched level of service and hospitality, not just in the air but also on the ground, as it sets sights on becoming the world’s best premium airline.

Cathay general manager for customer experience and design Vivian Lo said of the partnership: “As a world-renowned fine-dining establishment, Mott 32 is deservedly celebrated for its innovative approach and dedication to true Chinese flavours. This deeply resonates with our commitment to pursuing quality and service excellence at Cathay, and offering our customers a truly memorable dining experience by partnering with premium, award-winning brands that share our values.”

Lo added that the collaboration also reflects their shared roots in Hong Kong as well as a similar passion for delivering a culinary experience that not only delights the palate, but also enriches customers’ journeys even before they set off for their next destinations. 

She said: Our home city’s rich heritage and culinary vibrancy are front and centre in the dishes and drinks we serve, highlighting the diverse flavours and traditions that make Hong Kong unique.”

For his part, Mott 32 co-founder Malcolm Wood expressed his delight at the partnership, seeing it as an opportunity to work with a Hong Kong icon by bringing the restaurant’s authentic Chinese cuisine to The Pier.

Wood said: “This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to showcasing the vibrant flavours and traditions of our home city. Together, Mott 32 and Cathay Pacific are proud to share the essence of Hong Kong with travellers from across the globe, elevating their journey with an unforgettable taste of its culture and cuisine.”

Mott 32 co-founder Xuan Mu added: “For this partnership, we’ve carefully crafted a menu that reflects the essence of Mott 32 while tailoring it specifically for Cathay Pacific’s discerning guests. Featuring signature favourites like our crispy crab meat puff and Sichuan-style dumplings, alongside new creations inspired by Hong Kong’s culinary diversity, each dish has been reimagined to suit the elegant lounge setting. We focused on delivering an authentic yet innovative experience that embodies the harmony of traditional techniques and contemporary flavours, just as Mott 32 has always done.”

Exquisite flavours expertly crafted 

The thoughtfully crafted tasting menus have been introduced and are now on rotation alongside The Pier’s monthly ala carte menus, featuring Mott 32’s iconic dishes reimagined for the lounge setting. 

Embracing seasonality, variation and a sense of balance, the dishes offer a sophisticated taste of contemporary Chinese cuisine that honours the rich culinary heritage of the airline’s home city, Hong Kong.

Customers can look forward to an amuse bouche of crispy mushrooms with green beans and sesame, chilled tofu with roasted green chilli sauce, or crispy crab puff. 

Each dish masterfully creates an irresistible fusion of textures and flavours, setting the perfect stage for what is to follow.

A touch of authentic regional tastes

A tantalising selection of starters has been crafted to showcase the bold and invigorating flavours of Sichuan cuisine. 

The free-range chicken with Sichuan peppercorn and chilli sauce features delicate, tender chicken, heightened by the unique numbing spice of Sichuan peppercorns and the zesty kick of chilli sauce.

Just as enticing are the hand-wrapped Sichuan pork dumplings with chilli sauce,, which are filled with savoury minced pork and enveloped with rich, fragrant chilli oil. 

This mainstay of Sichuan cuisine delivers a comforting balance of spice and umami to make each bite as satisfying as the last.

The free-range chicken with black truffle and coriander presents an elegant balance of flavours, where earthy notes of the black truffle dressing enhance the succulent chicken, and the fresh coriander adds a bright, herbaceous touch.

Mains made magnificent

For the main course, the braised wagyu beef with aged tangerine peel features melt-in-your-mouth beef to enhance its rich, savoury flavours. The unique tangerine peel sauce adds a refreshing citrusy kick to the dish, enriched by hints of chilli and the aromatic essence of tangerine. 

Mott 32’s innovative spirit shines through as it blends traditional Chinese cooking techniques with modern culinary artistry.

Meanwhile, the crispy black cod with golden garlic and chilli is infused with robust notes of deep-fried garlic and a hint of red chilli, with a golden crust encasing its tender and flaky interior. Paying homage to the traditional typhoon shelter cooking style, the dish embodies the community spirit of local fishermen in a symphony of savoury and spicy aromatics.

The pan-fried prawn with pickled ginger and chilli bean paste is a treat for seafood lovers. 

The dish showcases tender and succulent prawns, complemented by zesty pickled ginger and a rich fermented chilli bean paste in a harmonious blend of savoury, sweet and spicy flavours.

A sip of Hong Kong

To further elevate the gastronomic experience, customers are treated to a specially crafted aperitif that celebrates the vibrancy of Hong Kong. 

A twist on one of the most popular drinks in the airline’s home city, the Hong Kong Iced Tea is a refreshing concoction of tea and blackcurrant, finished with a kick of tequila and mellowed by Lillet Blanc. 

The use of basil seeds, inspired by the tapioca balls in Taiwanese bubble tea, offers a more sophisticated and healthier alternative.

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The post Atiom launches its APAC Hotel Service Index appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Atiom, a digital behavioural change platform, debuted its first-ever Hotel Service Index report for the Asia Pacific today, 6th February.

Atiom is an AI-powered behavioural change platform that provides an all-in-one solution for the hospitality industry to boost service, employee performance, and daily operational efficiency. 

Atiom chief executive Matthew Spriegel said at the launch: “Guest expectations are evolving faster than ever, and staying ahead means understanding the nuances of what makes a truly exceptional experience. Atiom’s Hotel Service Index: 2024 APAC report is a vital resource for hospitality leaders committed to continuously raising the bar. Our goal at Atiom is to support the hospitality industry in significantly enhancing service excellence, ensuring that both employees and guests are at the heart of every improvement. By fostering a culture of continuous growth and engagement, we can create sustainable, exceptional experiences that drive long-term success for all.”

What is the index for?

The Hotel Service Index aims to help professionals in the sector understand where their service may be falling short compared to industry standards or competitors while empowering them to benchmark performance and enhance customer satisfaction. 

By evaluating service quality, Atiom’s report can guide hotels, resorts, and other hospitality establishments in aligning their operations with customer expectations, leading to better guest experiences. 

The debut report was built by conducting a complete analysis of publicly available reviews for hotels from the region’s most popular online travel platforms. Comprising a total of 1,623 properties across mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macao, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Korea, and Japan, Atiom created a ranking of key performance indicators based on average service scores by country.

It should likewise be noted that the report is a tentpole initiative for Atiom’s lead-generation efforts. 

The plan is to publish it on an annual basis and expand it into other regions, such as the Middle East. 

What makes this report different from others?

With unique insights, the report aims to enable hospitality leaders to assess their own service levels against industry benchmarks. 

This will allow them to cater their services to meet customer expectations and raise satisfaction and loyalty levels. 

In addition, Atiom’s report provides insights into emerging service trends, customer preferences, and new operational practices that can offer a competitive edge.

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