The post Plaza Premium Group shines at JUMPSTARTER 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global integrated hospitality services firm Plaza Premium Group (PPG) was the official hospitality partner for Asia’s biggest startup and tech event JUMPSTARTER 2025.

Held on 26th and 27th March at the Asia World-Expo, the event was organised by the Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund, drawing in innovative startups, investors, corporates, and industry experts to foster entrepreneurship and innovation.

PPG’s participation was marked by several key highlights: as the Hospitality Partner, PPG exclusively sponsored the VIP Lounge, offering a bespoke experience for high-profile attendees, including speakers, corporate leaders, and investors. 

The lounge provided a comfortable setting with curated food and beverage services, creating a welcoming atmosphere for networking and relaxation.

Leading with vision

PPG leadership also contributed significantly to the discussions held throughout JUMPSTARTER 2025.

Founder and chief executive Song Hoi See was called upon to deliver a keynote speech titled Leading with Vision: Pioneering Innovation and Transforming Global Travel, wherein he shared his journey of building a global airport hospitality company. Ms. Mei Mei Song, Chief 

Chief transformation officer Mei Mei Song, on the other hand, participated in a panel discussion on How AI is Reshaping the Future of Lifestyle, reinforcing PPG’s active engagement in innovation.

Toasting innovators

The “Celebration Drinks” event on the final evening was another standout moment which PPG hosted for over 200 guests. 

The event featured Intervals Bar’s signature cocktails and canapés. 

Intervals’ beverage manager Imelda Ng presented her award-winning cocktail, “Holiday Mood”, marking a memorable conclusion to the JUMPSTARTER Grand Finale.  

Furthermore, PPG offered three-hour complimentary lounge access to Plaza Premium First, a luxurious haven known for its personalized service and exquisite dining, to the top 5 teams from the One Earth Global Pitch Competition.

Through its involvement in JUMPSTARTER 2025, Plaza Premium Group reaffirmed its role as a champion of innovation and hospitality excellence in support of global entrepreneurship.

The post Plaza Premium Group shines at JUMPSTARTER 2025 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Vikramotsav 2025 unfolds at Red Fort appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A vibrant three-day cultural festival celebrating Madhya Pradesh’s heritage and the glorious legacy of Emperor Vikramaditya.

Jagdeep Dhankhar,  Governor of Madhya Pradesh Mangubhai Patel, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Delhi Rekha Gupta, and Sudesh Dhankhar, wife of the  Vice President, marked their presence on the inaugural day.

The majestic Red Fort in New Delhi came alive on Saturday evening with the grand inauguration of the three-day cultural celebration “Vikramotsav 2025.” The festival, organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism and Culture Department, aims to honor the glorious legacy of Emperor Vikramaditya while showcasing the rich heritage, tourism potential, arts, and crafts of Madhya Pradesh on a national and global platform. The event will run until 14 April 2025.

The inaugural day witnessed the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Vice President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Hon’ble Governor of Madhya Pradesh Shri Mangubhai Patel, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Delhi Smt. Rekha Gupta, and Smt. Sudesh Dhankhar, wife of the Hon’ble Vice President.

Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Sheo Shekhar Shukla, shared that under the guidance of Prime Minister  Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Vikramotsav 2025 is showcasing Madhya Pradesh’s vibrant traditions and tourism potential on a national platform. This initiative not only celebrates the historical and cultural significance of Emperor Vikramaditya but also brings global recognition to Madhya Pradesh’s arts, crafts, and tourism.

The festival features a captivating array of attractions, including the display of Madhya Pradesh’s traditional arts and crafts. Intricate Chanderi cotton silk saree embroidery, colorful Gond paintings depicting folklore, natural Bagh print sarees, and royal zari-zardozi craftsmanship are attracting significant attention. Additionally, visitors are mesmerized by Khajur leaf art, terracotta creations, Oraon tribal papier-mâché art, and the beautiful blend of Mandana art, nature, and tradition. Decorative items adorned with Kharad craftsmanship and exquisite Mrignayanee products are also garnering praise from attendees.

The food stalls at the festival are a major highlight, offering an authentic taste of Madhya Pradesh’s delicious cuisine, which has been warmly embraced by visitors. Meanwhile, AR/VR technology and a holographic display of Baba Mahakal are creating an immersive experience, connecting visitors with historical narratives. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Pavilion has also set up exhibitions focused on tourism circuits, innovations, and investment opportunities in the state.

The grand theatrical production on Emperor Vikramaditya’s life was the central attraction of the event, brought to life by 125 performers and 50 supporting crew members. The production, featuring horses, chariots, palanquins, and camels, is enhanced by multi-stage setups and LED graphic special effects, making it even more impactful. Scholarly discussions and lectures are also being held under the “Vikram Shodh Peeth” initiative.

The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Shri Dharmendra Lodhi, Minister, Madhya Pradesh, who expressed gratitude to all the dignitaries, participants, and attendees for making the celebration a resounding success.

Vikramotsav 2025 is serving as an outstanding platform for showcasing Madhya Pradesh’s cultural heritage and the immense tourism potential of the state to a national audience.

 

The post Vikramotsav 2025 unfolds at Red Fort appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Plan your Spring refresh in Washington, DC appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As winter melts away, Washington, DC blooms in spring, making this season one of the best times to visit the US capital. DC’s shoulder season offers the perfect balance of fewer crowds than the summer, comfortable temperate and a wealth of outdoor activities that showcases the city at its most vibrant.

With nature in full bloom, the National Mall and Tidal Basin transform into stunning landscapes, highlighted by the National Cherry Blossom Festival (20 March – 13 April), a signature event that draws visitors with breathtaking pink and white petals. Beyond the blossoms, the city’s markets, al fresco dining, and outdoor concerts make DC an incredible destination for temperate travel.

Why spring in D.C. is must-see:

• Ideal Shoulder Season Travel: Enjoy less crowds and easier access to DC’s top attractions before the peak summer rush.

• Comfortable Weather: With temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration, visitors can stroll through Rock Creek Park, visit Smithsonian gardens, or take in the sights on foot.

• Seasonal Highlights: From the National Cherry Blossom Festival to Passport DC (1-31 May) – a month of programming that celebrates international cultures – and lively food and art markets, the city is buzzing with unique events.

• Al Fresco Dining Revival: Rooftop bars, waterfront restaurants and café-lined streets welcome diners back outdoors in the spring. Restaurants like Smoke & Mirrors with incredible views of the US Capital Building or 12 Stories with panoramic views of the Washington Channel are perfect places for an al fresco meal in the sunshine.

• Free Things to Do in Spring: A long-haul city break doesn’t need to break the bank. In DC, visitors can see new giant Pandas at the Smithsonian National Zoo, explore the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail and experience many free events as part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival and Passport DC.

Washington, DC is the perfect place for a spring getaway, offering beauty, culture and mild weather without the summer heat or winter’s chill.

 

The post Plan your Spring refresh in Washington, DC appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post IndiGo became for a short time the ‘world’s most valuable airline’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IndiGo has achieved a rare feat in the global aviation industry, briefly becoming the most valuable airline in the world, with its market capitalisation touching INR 2 lakh crore (USD 23.3 billion). This surge places it ahead of global giants like Delta Airlines and Ryanair, marking a significant milestone for the low-cost Indian carrier. The stock’s impressive rally—up 13% in 2025 so far—comes amid a broader market downturn, with the Nifty index falling 6% this year.

With a dominant 62% share in India’s aviation sector, IndiGo’s improved financial performance has been a major factor in boosting investor confidence. Despite setbacks like the ₹987 crore net loss in Q2FY25, analysts are optimistic about the airline’s prospects. Projections for Q4FY25 show a potential PAT of INR 2,300 crore, driven by favorable fare structures, efficient operations, and a manageable crude oil environment. ICICI Securities has highlighted IndiGo’s cost competitiveness, strong order book, and sound balance sheet as core advantages.

The airline is set to expand its fleet further, aiming for a double-digit rise in Available Seat Kilometers (ASK) in FY26. Out of 439 aircraft currently, 50 are grounded, with plans to induct around 50 more by FY26. This reflects IndiGo’s focus on scaling capacity while maintaining operational efficiency.

 

 

The post IndiGo became for a short time the ‘world’s most valuable airline’ appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Explora Journeys: Setting Sail with Mediterranean Elegance appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Luxury ocean travel has reached new heights as Explora Journeys, the esteemed lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, unveils its Mediterranean Journeys Collection. Marking the inaugural voyage of the season, EXPLORA II departed from Barcelona on 3 April 2025, in tandem with the grand opening of the state-of-the-art MSC Barcelona Cruise Terminal.

A New Era of Luxury Travel

Combining elegance, comfort, and cultural discovery, Explora Journeys is inviting travellers to embrace the “Ocean State of Mind” aboard EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. Sailing through the Western and Eastern Mediterranean until November 2025, these journeys offer guests an unparalleled blend of iconic destinations and lesser-explored gems.

Ports of call include celebrated locations such as Portofino (Italy) and St. Tropez (France), as well as hidden treasures like Skiathos (Greece) and Mahón (Spain). Whether basking in the vibrant energy of the Riviera or uncovering the serene charm of Greece’s coastlines, each journey is a harmonious blend of cultural immersion and relaxed refinement.

The MSC Barcelona Cruise Terminal

Guests embarking or disembarking from EXPLORA II in Barcelona will enjoy a seamless experience at the newly inaugurated MSC Barcelona Cruise Terminal. Designed by the renowned Catalonian architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura, the terminal reflects the sleek sophistication of the Explora Journeys fleet. Expansive glass facades allow natural light to flood the terminal, creating a light and airy ambiance that beautifully connects travellers to the Mediterranean’s azure waters.

Highlights of the Mediterranean Journeys Collection

Eastern Mediterranean Adventures aboard EXPLORA I

• A Journey to Cypress-studded Hills and Cobble Harbours
  Dates: 7–14 June 2025
  Route: Piraeus (Athens) to Fusina (Venice)
  A 7-night journey exploring Greece and Croatia, featuring Corfu’s dramatic beaches and Rovinj’s timeless charm.
• An Extended Journey of Magical Greek Gifts and Turkish Treasures
  Dates: 21 June–5 July 2025
  Route: Piraeus (Athens) to Piraeus (Athens)
  A 14-night escape showcasing the vibrant islands of the Aegean, including a stop in cosmopolitan Istanbul.

Western Mediterranean Escapes aboard EXPLORA II

• A Journey of Golden Ibiza Days and Warm Riviera Nights
  Dates: 2–9 June 2025
  Route: Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome)
  A 7-night voyage visiting artistic Ibiza and the glamour of Portofino.
• A Journey of Picturesque Piazzas and Soulful Souks
  Dates: 9–16 June 2025
  Route: Civitavecchia (Rome) to Barcelona
  A 7-night experience exploring historic Trapani in Sicily and exotic La Goulette in Tunisia.

Travel Your Way: Flexible Journey Combinations

With flexible itineraries offering 7-, 14-, and even 21-night journeys, Explora Journeys ensures travellers can explore the Mediterranean at their preferred pace. Extended stays and overnight stops provide time to fully immerse in the culture and history of each destination. Onboard, guests enjoy world-class dining, holistic wellness programs, and spacious oceanfront suites designed for ultimate relaxation.

Discover the Mediterranean with Explora Journeys

Whether you’re marvelling at Greek harbours, wandering through Tuscan piazzas, or revelling in the laid-back luxury of Ibiza, Explora Journeys’ Mediterranean collection offers a voyage of discovery and elegance. With the newly launched EXPLORA II and its striking home at the MSC Barcelona Cruise Terminal, the 2025 season promises unforgettable experiences for those seeking the perfect balance of exploration and indulgence.

The post Explora Journeys: Setting Sail with Mediterranean Elegance appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post North Yorkshire Moors Railway launches charters for 2025 with expanded offering appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has announced its exclusive luxury rail charter experience for 2025, offering passengers the opportunity to charter the opulent Great Western Saloon carriage for a truly memorable event. Whether for a personal celebration or a business gathering, the unique venue provides the perfect setting for up to 18 guests to enjoy a scenic rail journey.

New for 2025, the NYMR is enhancing the experience by expanding the menu options for charter guests. In addition to the classic Signalman’s Buffet, guests can now enjoy a selection of freshly prepared side dishes crafted by the railway’s chef. New options include beetroot salad, spicy rice salad, pesto pasta salad, red cabbage coleslaw, Radford’s Butcher chicken, pork & stuffing layered pie, and vegan alternatives.

Available for hire between 3rd March and 4th November, 2025, the Great Western Saloon carriage is perfect for a variety of events, from corporate entertaining, team away days, and networking events to birthdays, anniversaries, and retirement parties.

Built in 1948, the Great Western Saloon boasts two luxurious seating areas, fine furnishings, and large observation windows, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning vistas of the North York Moors in comfort and style, all while being hauled by a historic steam locomotive.

The charter experience includes:

• A private return journey from Grosmont to Pickering aboard the Great Western Saloon for up to 18 guests.
• Signalman’s Buffet Lunch: Locally sourced savouries, freshly prepared salads, and speciality breads on the outward journey, followed by indulgent desserts, tea, coffee, and chocolates on the return.
• Complimentary mineral water throughout the journey.
• A dedicated member of staff to attend to your group and assist with catering.
• Option for a fully stocked bar, offering a selection of wine, local beers, lagers, and soft drinks.

To charter the Great Western Saloon, including the buffet for 18 people, pricing starts at £1,595.

 

Kathryn Watson, Head of Commercial at the NYMR, said, “We are thrilled to be able to offer the Great Western Saloon carriage for charters in 2025, with exciting new menu options to enhance the experience. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate with family, friends, or colleagues, and the beautiful surroundings of the North York Moors make it truly unforgettable.”

North Yorkshire Moors Railway, charters

 

The post North Yorkshire Moors Railway launches charters for 2025 with expanded offering appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Omio announces expansion into Southeast Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Multi-modal travel booking platform Omio announced its growing inventory in Southeast Asia today, 14th April. 

This marks a significant step in Omio’s global expansion plans and mission to digitise travel. 

International travellers may now seamlessly search, compare, and book tickets for over 14,000 bus routes from 1,800 local transportation providers across six Southeast Asian countries: Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Cambodia. 

Omio also announced that it will add ferry and rail services to the platform over the following months, aiming for comprehensive multi-modal coverage to be available before Q4-2025, just in time for the peak season of travel in the region.

According to Omio’s president for supply and B2C in Europe Veronica Diquattro: “Our offering radically simplifies the travel experience for international travellers in this vibrant key travel region. The transportation landscape in Southeast Asia – particularly for bus travel – is incredibly fragmented and complex for international visitors to navigate. We are excited to help them explore this beautiful region with ease, and we are working tirelessly to integrate further regional mobility providers into our travel platform to create an unparalleled multi-modal inventory for travellers to search and book.” 

With the addition of these new Southeast Asian nations, Omio now operates in 45 countries across three continents. 

With millions of bookable routes and 80,000 tickets sold daily, Omio is the leading global source of inventory for multi-modal travel.

An unparalleled booking experience

The Asia-Pacific region is the second-largest tourist destination in the world, following Europe, with Southeast Asia attracting approximately 120 million inbound tourists each year. 

Building on its presence in Europe and North America, Southeast Asia has added a new dimension to Omio’s global inventory and reflects the company’s mission to make travel by train, flight, bus, and ferry easy and enjoyable everywhere in the world

That said, travellers looking to explore the vibrant Southeast Asia region benefit from an unmatched booking experience, which includes navigating in their local languages, paying in their preferred currency and payment method, and selecting a seat via Omio’s Seat Map feature, along with 24/7 Customer Support. 

The post Omio announces expansion into Southeast Asia appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Etihad flew 1.6 million passengers during March 2025, a 14% increase vis-à-vis 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has released its traffic statistics for March 2025, continuing its positive performance as one of the fastest growing global carriers. The airline welcomed 1.6 million guests during the month, up 14% compared to the same period last year, as Etihad’s upward trajectory continued. The airline recorded a passenger load factor of 87% in the first quarter of the year, up from 86% in the same period in 2024, while expanding its capacity, and increasing its operating fleet size by 10%.

Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, said: “Our guest numbers saw further strong growth and across the 12 months to the end of March 2025, we have welcomed almost 20 million passengers.

“In the past month alone, we have announced two new routes and increased flight frequencies, bringing the total number of new destinations scheduled for 2025 to 16.

“I am very pleased to report we recorded our highest ever customer satisfaction scores in March, reflecting our continued commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience.”

The post Etihad flew 1.6 million passengers during March 2025, a 14% increase vis-à-vis 2024 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Nobu Hospitality announces Nobu Hotel, Restaurant, and Residences in Oman appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Nobu Hospitality, announces the launch of Nobu Hotel, Restaurant, and Residences Muscat, the latest addition to its growing portfolio of luxury mixed-use developments in the Middle East. This new project reflects the brand’s continued evolution, combining hospitality, upscale residential living, and lifestyle amenities in one distinctive destination.

Evgeniy Yakubovskii, CEO of Enevoria Development, said:  “We are absolutely delighted to continue our partnership with Nobu, resulting in a new landmark and visionary project in Muscat, Oman. Every Enevoria Development project is brought to life in collaboration with global stars in architecture, design, and hospitality. They are all united by a shared philosophy and purpose: to create an impeccable lifestyle for future residents. We are confident that Nobu Hotel, Restaurant, and Residences Muscat will be a tremendous success and a shining example of hospitality and luxury living in the Middle East.”

Trevor Horwell, CEO of Nobu Hospitality, commented: “We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with Enevoria Development, alongside OMRAN Group, on this second landmark mixed-use project. Oman is truly a special destination, offering an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, warm hospitality, and cultural depth. We are excited to expand our global footprint and strengthen our leadership in mixed-use developments, as we embrace a new era in luxury real estate.”

Set along the pristine shores of Yiti Beach, just 28 km from Muscat city center, the new development will span over 60,000 square meters, featuring an 80-room Nobu Hotel, a signature Nobu Restaurant, full-service spa and fitness facilities, swimming pools, and a Nobu-style beach club. Complementing the resort offering will be a limited collection of branded Nobu Residences, creating an elevated beachside community that blends the elegance of Nobu living with exclusive resident benefits and unparalleled coastal views.

Oman, known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, dramatic coastline, and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique setting for the Nobu experience. From the soaring Al Hajar mountains to the crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Oman and open embrace of the Indian Ocean, the country presents a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and modern luxury – making it an ideal location for the brand’s continued growth in the region.

Nobu Hospitality’s mixed-use developments continue to gain momentum across the Middle East, with projects underway in the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.

Since the opening of the first Nobu Hotel in Las Vegas in 2013, Nobu Hospitality has grown to encompass 46 hotels and 20 branded residences, both open and in development worldwide.

 

 

The post Nobu Hospitality announces Nobu Hotel, Restaurant, and Residences in Oman appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Aman officially names its new luxury motor yacht: the Amangati appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Luxury hospitality brand Aman formally announced that it has named its newest luxury motor yacht: the Amangati.

The naming of the Amangati follows the launch of Aman at Sea back in 2021, and the vessel is currently being built by T Mariotti SpA in Genoa, Italy.

Aman executives say that the Amangati will be ready for launch come 2027.

The naming of the vessel is another key milestone for Aman at Sea after the keel-laying ceremony in July 2024.

Aman group chair and CEO Vlad Doronin said: “Naming Amangati marks a pivotal and inspiring milestone for Aman. The vessel will embody the very essence of our brand’s DNA, providing exceptional privacy, best in class amenities, now synonymous with Aman, and our signature unparalleled service not yet experienced on the water. As construction progresses behind the scenes, our vision remains clear: to create a vessel that not only represents the highest standards of maritime engineering and design but that mirrors the tranquillity of our land-based sanctuaries.”

Set to redefine sea travel, Amangati will offer a floating sanctuary for those seeking the Aman way of life on water. 

Designed for peaceful motion

Its name meaning peaceful motion in Sanskrit, the Amangati symbolises forward movement, fluidity and the smooth flow of water. 

Designed by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, the vessel’s name signifies progress toward a goal or enlightenment, echoing the elegant lines of the design, offering a nod to the effortlessness and flow that will define the onboard experience.

Featuring just 47 spacious luxury suites, among the largest for a vessel of its 183 metres, each will feature its own private balcony. 

A one-of-a-kind experience, Amangati will be home to an array of best-in-class facilities including four international dining concepts, a Jazz Club, a spacious Aman Spa with its own Japanese garden, plus an expansive Beach Club that accords guests direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht.

Designed to be powered by a suite of green technologies, such as utilising battery power, to provide a more sustainable way of travel. 

This commitment to reducing the environmental footprint underscores Aman’s dedication to caring for the land and seascapes it calls home and innovating at every opportunity.

The post Aman officially names its new luxury motor yacht: the Amangati appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia