The post Seamless payments via Alipay+ boost global travel for the Lunar New Year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Right on time for the Lunar New Year, Alipay+ teamed up with leading global merchants to launch exclusive campaigns for those travelling during the festive season.

In Singapore, for example, Alipay+’s collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board lets travellers purchase discounted vouchers for use with taxis or at shopping malls and attractions.

In Switzerland, on the other hand, the Geneva Tourism Board is using Alipay+ to enhance the travel experience for tourists coming to the country.

At present, Alipay+ supports more than 35 international wallet and bank payment partners, connecting 1.6 billion user accounts to more than 90 million merchants in 66 markets. 

According to Douglas Feagin, president of Alipay+ parent firm Ant International: “Tourism is playing an increasingly significant role in local economies, accelerating growth for merchants across sectors, but businesses need to adapt to new digital habits and preferences. Starting with mobile payments, Alipay+ offers merchants solutions to connect, engage and retain customers who want to leverage technology to enhance their travel experiences.”

Where in the world can people use Alipay+?

Alipay+’s partnerships with the likes of Resorts World Sentosa, Marina Bay Sands, Central Retail, King Power, Pavilion KL, and Lotte World have been instrumental in building up both in-store and in-app engagement through enhanced rewards.

Those travelling through China can use Alipay and 13 international payment apps to make seamless payments. 

Those using platforms like AlipayHK, Mpay, Touch ‘n Go eWallet, TrueMoney, and GCash have access to seasonal offers from more than a hundred Consumer Friendly Zones in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Likewise,over two  million merchants in South Korea accept Alipay+ whilst offering a number of discounts, while the nationwide NAMANE x Alipay+ Transit Pass Card programme makes it easier for tourists to travel via bus or commuter railway.

In Japan, Alipay+ is accepted by more than three million merchants, while in Southeast Asia, users can make payments via DuitNow in Malaysia, SGQR in Singapore, whilst availing of promotions at retailers like Pavilion KL and Central Retail in Thailand.

Alipay+ is also expanding its reach in the Philippines via retailers like SM Supermalls and resorts such as Hennan Group of Resorts.

The Alipay+ network also expanded recently to include Kazakhstan’s Kaspi.kz and the BigPay platform used in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

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The post New MCIA Runway to boost Central Visayas tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the establishment of the first parallel runway at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), one of the country’s major gateways located in the province of Cebu.

In 2024, the MCIA admitted a total of 11,315,225 passengers, a growth of 13 percent compared to 2023 data. Of the total, 8,506,299 were domestic passengers while 2,808,926 were international passengers.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the expanded MCIA runway would “strengthen Cebu’s position as a top tourist destination, cementing its standing as a premier gateway to the islands of Visayas and Mindanao, and boost tourism in Central Visayas by improving accessibility for international and domestic visitors”

An expanded runway is crucial for enhancing aviation safety, accommodating larger aircraft, and improving airport operational efficiency. It provides essential space for safe takeoffs and landings, especially under adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

“This is a major win for Philippine tourism with such an elevation of tourism infrastructure under the Marcos Administration. Increasing flight frequencies and passenger capacity up to 18 million at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport through the parallel runway benefits all stakeholders in the aviation and tourism sectors, with added accessibility to our island destinations in Cebu, the Visayas and Mindanao. This influx would not only bolster the local economy but also promote cultural exchange and foster greater global connectivity. We are grateful for this parallel runway at MCIA which would significantly improve the overall travel experience while driving growth and sustainability in the aviation and tourism industries,” said the Tourism Chief.

“The new runway of the MCIA would also help in Cebu’s potential to grow its tourism industry, especially in dive tourism and in the meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) wherein the province currently thrives. More importantly, this could support Cebu’s major tourism events and festivals such as the Sinulog Festival,” added the tourism chief referring to the celebration of the Sto. Niño de Cebu that draws millions of devotees and tourists each year.

The Tourism Chief attended the inauguration of the MCIA’s first parallel runway led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. In his speech, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. noted “There is something special about Cebu. It’s a place where history and progress come together very gracefully, where tradition converges with innovation, and where the grit and tenacity of its people shine brightly in every achievement.”

“This new runway at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport reflects the very essence of Cebu: it is dynamic, promising, and always ready to take on challenges. And just as Cebu has been a center of trade and tourism, this parallel runway symbolizes the unrelenting drive to connect, and to grow, and to lead,” The President added.

Frasco noted that “This landmark project perfectly aligns with the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028, wherein two of its three key strategies are connectivity and convenience. It will enhance accessibility and help improve the overall experience of tourists visiting our country’s breathtaking sites and immersing in our rich

cultural experiences.”

According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the inauguration of the first parallel runway at Mactan-Cebu International Airport marks a major milestone in Philippine aviation, improving air traffic efficiency and regional connectivity, and would result in an increased aircraft movement capacity of 30 per hour to 40 per hour as well as “decrease the wear and tear of the runways as two runways will now alternately be used.”

 

 

 

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The post A reimagined W Maldives offering nature-inspired 77 villas to reopen in March 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

W Maldives, the iconic luxury resort nestled in the North Ari Atoll, is set to welcome guests back on 1st March 2025 with a bold, full-scale transformation that redefines the island escape. After nearly two decades as a trailblazer in luxury Maldivian hospitality, the resort will reopen with an entirely reimagined design and elevated guest experience that combines W’s signature free spirit with the island’s natural splendour.

“We are excited to introduce a completely reimagined W Maldives to the world,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “This transformation is a bold step forward, blending the distinctive W spirit with the incredible natural beauty of the Maldives. We are confident that our guests will find not only a luxurious escape, but a dynamic and unforgettable experience that reflects the true essence of paradise.”

The Essence of the Transformation: The Original Wavemaker Returns

At the heart of this transformation lies a refreshed vision for what W Maldives represents: a place where W’s signature playful spirit meets elevated luxury. W Maldives remains as bold as ever, with a unique “Above and Below the Water” design philosophy that integrates the surrounding ocean and natural landscapes with cutting-edge architecture and interiors. This bold bio-boho aesthetic is inspired by the rich marine life and lush flora of the island, blending the island’s raw beauty with a sense of contemporary sophistication that is distinctly W.

The resort’s nature-inspired 77 villas—overwater and beachfront—have been meticulously redesigned to reflect the vibrancy of the island’s natural beauty while maintaining a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. Each villa—whether suspended above the lagoon or nestled along the pristine beach— has been carefully crafted to harmonise with the stunning natural surroundings, blending sustainable materials, natural tones, and ocean-inspired accents with splashes of colour and bold accents to create sanctuaries for an exclusive and immersive escape.

The Superior and Premier One-Bedroom Overwater Villas (149 sqm) feature spacious, open-plan layouts with private decks overlooking the turquoise waters, and floor-to-ceiling windows that connect guests to the island’s endless horizon. For beachside tranquillity, the Escape One-Bedroom Beach Villas (188 sqm) offer a lush, open-air retreat with mangrove-inspired accents, custom furnishings, and starlit outdoor bathrooms for a unique natural experience. Larger groups can indulge in the expansive Supreme and Oasis Two-Bedroom Overwater Villas (323-492 sqm) or Oasis Two-Bedroom Beach Villas (376 sqm), the newest addition to W Maldives’ villa categories, each with en-suite bathrooms, private whirlpools, extensive outdoor decks and two-story private water slides that slip directly into the pool. Each villa is fully outfitted with W’s MIXBAR, IPTV, and premium sound systems, ensuring an extraordinary balance of style, comfort, and connectivity.

A New Vision for Dining and Culinary Experiences

W Maldives is also redefining its culinary offerings, elevating the island’s dining experience with bold new concepts and global influences. At the core of this transformation is the resort’s signature restaurant, FISH, which will introduce an “Ocean-to-Table” experience that highlights the freshest local seafood, line-caught and sustainably sourced from local fishermen. Combining innovative techniques with global culinary traditions, FISH offers guests a chance to savour the rich flavours of the ocean while experiencing the dynamic vibrancy of Maldivian culture.

The resort’s refreshed concept, SIP, will offer a dining experience inspired by Latin America, blending its vibrant culinary heritage with a relaxed island setting. Guests can enjoy a selection of bold, flavor-driven dishes paired with signature cocktails, all set against the backdrop of stunning sunset views.

FIRE, the resort’s Beachside Smokehouse concept, will elevate the BBQ experience by offering wood-fired cuisine with high-quality steak cuts and chef’s table service in a stunning beachfront setting. This communal dining experience is designed to bring guests together over expertly grilled meats and seafood, infused with smoky flavours that create an intimate and lively atmosphere. Whether dining under the stars or watching the waves crash nearby, FIRE promises an unforgettable experience where food and the island’s natural beauty come together.

An Unmatched Collection of Experiences

In addition to its reimagined accommodations and dining offerings, W Maldives continues to redefine the island getaway experience with its exclusive programming and events. With a calendar filled with exciting, immersive experiences, the resort’s dynamic lineup will include Marriott Bonvoy Moments in 2025, along with a variety of planned collaborations with world-renowned chefs, mixologists, artists, and brands. One such highlight will be the exclusive W Presents event in March, which promises to deliver a unique cultural and social experience infused with the vibrant music that is signature to W Hotels. This carefully curated programming will offer guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in local and global creativity, adding an unforgettable layer to their stay.

Guests can also explore the vibrant marine life of the Maldives with a variety of exciting water experiences. Whether through snorkelling in the resort’s world-renowned house reef, diving with the DOWN UNDER Dive Centre, or indulging in water sports through the WAVE Water Sports Centre, guests are invited to dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant aquatic life just steps from the beach.

For those seeking ultimate privacy, Gaathafushi Island, the resort’s private island, offers a secluded escape where guests can disconnect from the world and experience the ultimate in luxury. Whether it’s spending the day enjoying the natural beauty of the island or booking a night for a Robinson Crusoe-style retreat, Gaathafushi provides a completely personalised experience.

Unrivalled Wellness and Fitness

W Maldives also offers a range of wellness and fitness experiences designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The AWAY Spa is the ultimate escape for relaxation, offering a wide range of treatments that combine natural ingredients with soothing therapies, all set against the backdrop of the island’s turquoise ocean. From massages to body scrubs, each treatment is designed to restore balance and enhance well-being.

 

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The post Flyadeal targets 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Flyadeal expects to carry over 75,000 pilgrims on dedicated international charters during this year’s Hajj season. The figure represents yet another significant milestone for flyadeal which has been scaling up the number of overseas Hajj flights since 2023.

From 35,000 pilgrims flown by flyadeal into the Kingdom last year – up 35 per cent on 2023 – the number is expected to more than double to 75,000 in 2025, with the airline operating additional widebody charters into Jeddah and Madinah, gateway to the Holy City of Makkah.

flyadeal is also stepping up its year-round Umrah services, which will continue to operate from Turkey, Iraq and Uzbekistan, with the UK, Thailand, India and countries in Africa and Central Asia set to be included for 2025.

The growth plans were announced during the 4th edition of the annual Hajj Conference and Exhibition that took place at the Superdome in Jeddah under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and organised by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

flyadeal joined sister companies Saudia and SGS (Saudi Ground Services) under the umbrella of parent Saudi Group – this year’s strategic sponsor – with a joint exhibition stand promoting products and services to visiting Hajj committees, ministries and tour operators from around the world.

Dr.Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah in the Kingdom, together with HE Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia, and HE Engr. Ibrahim bin Abdulrahaman Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, were among the many visiting dignitaries.

Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “This year’s Hajj forum was a perfect opportunity to give visiting delegations and travel companies an insight into flyadeal’s Hajj preparations for 2025, our year-round Umrah plans, and exciting growth of our scheduled operations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South Asia over the next 12 months and beyond.

“Having operated two successful seasons of Hajj charters with 120 flights from 15 destinations across seven countries last year, we now turn to 2025 during which we expect to carry around 75,000 pilgrims as we bring in more widebody aircraft dedicated to our biggest ever international Hajj uplift. In addition, we are conducting more year-round Umrah flights as widebody aircraft enable us to operate from further afield including the UK, Thailand and India.

“Running a Hajj operation during an intense one month period every year is effectively like running a separate business from our day-to-day scheduled services. Our dedicated teams work tirelessly in coordination with our travel partners in the Kingdom and overseas to provide a unique end-to-end experience.”

Rakan Alotaibi, flyadeal Director of Hajj & Umrah and Commercial Regulatory Affairs, added: “We signed a number of Hajj agreements with delegations last week followed by their visits to our Jeddah headquarters to learn more about flyadeal and our operations first hand as we gear up with national pride for what promises to be an extremely busy and gratifying summer season carrying so many pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

“flyadeal remains committed to the very important, yet complex, annual Hajj movements for which we put in tremendous effort beyond expectations ensuring they run as smoothly as possible to support the dreams and aspirations of first-time Hajj pilgrims, many of whom are are also first-time fliers.”

flyadeal was among a host of travel companies, including airlines, hotels, ground transport operators, agents and tour firms to showcase their products to delegates during the Jeddah event.

 

 

 

 

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The post Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort raises the bar for beachfront luxury appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is setting a new standard for beachfront luxury in Bali for everyone from family groups to the solo business traveller.

This vibrant Balinese getaway combines timeless elegance with modern comfort in the heart of Kuta, making it the perfect place for personal escapes and romantic jaunts.

From its prime location to its exceptional amenities, everything offered at Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort was crafted with each guest’s comfort and enjoyment in mind.

Ashley Lai, cluster general manager for both Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort and Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk, said of the resort: “It’s more than a place to stay, it’s a destination. With refreshed spaces, family-friendly experiences, and unmatched dining, we create moments that last a lifetime.”

Space to relax and have fun

At Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, guests are welcomed into spacious premium rooms offering the best in beachfront comfort.

All of these feature private balconies with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. 

Also, families can enjoy the outdoor pool with panoramic views, while kids explore the Kids Club, giving parents a well-deserved break. 

For an upgraded Suite Experience, the Family Suite includes a connected room with a sofa bed, kids’ tent amenities, buffet breakfast, Jewelry Box Afternoon Tea, and exclusive perks like a one-time minibar, VIP amenities, and a special family room setup. 

Kids dine free and guests receive 15 percent off dining, including Sunday Brunch, making every moment special.

A stunning new look

Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort was recently given a fresh new look.

The refurbishment resulted in welcoming spaces with a community vibe. 

The resort’s transformed lobby experience encourages guests to mingle, enjoying live music whilst relaxing into an exceptional evening at &More by Sheraton.

&More by Sheraton is the newest oceanfront venue perched high above the stunning Kuta Beach.

A home for culinary excellence

At this resort, Bene Italian Kitchen serves authentic Italian fare with a rooftop setting.

As stated above, &More by Sheraton is a social lounge featuring coffee, pastries, and creative dishes with oceanfront views and live music. 

Daily Social blends local and international flavors in a welcoming, community-friendly space. 

Every meal is more than just dining, each venue offers breathtaking views and the best sunset in Kuta, creating a true sensory journey.

An exquisite location

When one is at the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, one finds a home away from home in the Heart of Kuta.

Everything is within reach here from exciting nightlife to sipping beautifully mixed cocktails at the nearby WXYZ Bar at Aloft Bali Kuta.

One also has quick access to local markets and a world-class shopping mall at the Beachwalk.

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The post Japan Airlines takes the world’s first aircraft with large-scale riblet coating to the skies appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Japan Airlines Co, Ltd, in partnership with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and O-Well Corporation, has applied riblet-shaped coating to the majority of the fuselage of one of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

Applied onto aircraft JA868J, this marks the first time in the global aviation industry that the riblet coating has been used anywhere in the world. 

The aircraft will also be the first finished with such a coating to be used on international routes.

The riblet coating aircraft was taken up for its inaugural flight earlier this month.

Innovation towards decarbonisation

As JAL, JAXA, and O-Well are all promoting the decarbonisation of the global aviation sector, their joined teams applied the riblet coating to the aircraft’s exterior using the Paint-to-Paint Method, a technology continuously improved by O-Well and JAXA, and have been validating its durability and fuel efficiency improvement effects. 

The teams have been testing the durability of the riblet coating on JAL’s domestic Boeing aircraft since July 2022.

Since November 2023, they have confirmed the fuel efficiency improvement effects by applying the coating to a large area of the fuselage bottom. 

The Paint-to-Paint Method, which applies riblet shapes directly to the paint film, is expected to reduce weight and improve durability compared to riblet processing using decals or films.

This time, wind tunnel tests and numerical analyses by JAXA confirmed the drag reduction effect on international aircraft, and the development of a riblet coating system by O-Well that can accommodate larger aircraft has enabled the expansion of the application area to the upper fuselage of international aircraft. 

Long-haul flights on international routes are expected to yield further fuel efficiency improvements.

In the aircraft with the newly applied coating, the drag reduction rate during cruising is 0.24 percent, which is expected to result in an annual reduction of approximately 119 tonnes of fuel consumption and about 381 tons of CO2 emissions. 

This is equivalent to the annual CO2 absorption of approximately 27,000 cedar trees.

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The post FL Technics Indonesia gets approval from Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority has given its approval for FL Technics Indonesia to deliver various aviation maintenance services.

The company is now authorised to deliver a comprehensive range of aviation maintenance services at both I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali and Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. 

The approval underscores FL Technics Indonesia’s commitment to supporting the continued growth and development of the aviation sector, particularly in Bali which has grown over the past few years as a vital hub for international air travel.

FL Technics Indonesia chief executive Martynas Grigas said: “Receiving CASA approval is a pivotal moment for FL Technics Indonesia, as it not only strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive aviation services for Boeing 737s (Classic, NG, and MAX) and Airbus CEO and NEO models at both DPS and CGK, but also supports Indonesia’s broader goals for tourism and aviation.”

Grigas added that the approval is in alignment with the Indonesian government’s ongoing drive to boost the country’s tourist industry.

He said: “Our expanded capabilities will help ensure a safe and efficient travel experience for visitors to Bali.”

A necessary team for a booming global hub

As Bali is one of the world’s leading tropical destinations, it receives more than 250 flights from major Australian cities a week, roughly 40 flights a day.

This growing demand for air travel between Australia and Bali underscores the importance of reliable aviation services. 

By receiving CASA approval, FL Technics Indonesia is poised to support this demand, ensuring safe travel for tourists and bolstering the island’s tourism industry.

As the first company to offer extensive aviation maintenance services in Bali, FL Technics Indonesia leads the way in meeting the growing needs of airlines operating in the region. 

This approval enables the company to offer critical maintenance services, playing an important role in maintaining the safety and reliability of aircraft flying into Bali, which will have a positive impact on both the local economy and the broader aviation sector in Indonesia.

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The post Cebu Pacific to move several Cebgo flights from Manila to Clark appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific announced the gradual transfer of its domestic turboprop aircraft operations from Terminal 2 of Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

From 30th March of this year, Cebu Pacific’s domestic Cebgo flights for destinations Masbate and Siargao to and from Manila will be assigned to the Clark International Airport in the nearby province of Pampanga to the north of the capital.

This move is in compliance with a resolution issued by the Manila Slot Coordination Committee of the Philippine Department of Transportation last 3rd December 2024.

At the same time, services from Manila to Surigao will be cancelled and passengers will have the option to connect via the Central Philippine city of Cebu.

Helping passengers through the shift

Amidst these changes, Cebu Pacific recognises the importance of managing airport capacity effectively.

It is hoped that the changes will lead to improved passenger experience and greater public convenience.

At the same time, the airline announced that all passengers affected by this transfer will be notified in the coming days.

These passengers will also be offered the following options:

• Free Rebooking: Rebook without fare difference for travel up to 30 days from original flight date. The fare difference will apply if the travel period is beyond 30 days from the original flight date.
• Travel Fund: Store the amount in a virtual CEB wallet and use this to either book a new flight or pay for add-ons.
• Outright Refund: A full refund of the passenger’s ticket.

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