The post Royal Jordanian Airlines resumes route between Amman and Damascus appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

This new non-stop service four times weekly will be an addition to the existing daily bus routes offered by Royal Jordanian in the last 2 years between Amman Airport and Syria. By April 2025, the airline plans to increase the frequency to daily flights. The short flight time of 25 minutes between Amman and Damascus will be the shortest route from Damascus by air allowing fast and seamless connectivity throughout the RJ international route network of over 45 destinations. Flight tickets for the new route can be purchased as of today through www.rj.com or any travel agent.

Samer Majali, CEO of Royal Jordanian Airlines, stated: “Resuming our new flights to Damascus emphasize our commitment to be one the first airlines to offer international connectivity to the Syrian market. Amman has long served as the gateway to Syria, enabling travelers from the U.S. and Europe to connect to the region. We are pleased to announce the resumption with four weekly flights, expanding to daily service in April, and look forward to reconnecting Syria to the world. ”

This development aligns with Royal Jordanian’s strategic plan to establish Amman as the leading gateway to the Levant. In line with Royal Jordanian’s ambitious expansion plan set to grow from 25 aircraft in 2024 to 41 aircraft by 2027, the airline is adding 20 brand new aircraft within the next 2 years, focusing on the A320Neo and Embraer E2 Jets on the narrowbody fleet while adding the B787-9 for their widebody operation. The new A320 Neo aircraft entering in March 2025 will be equipped with brand new economy and business class leather seats, new inflight entertainment screens on every seat and WIFI connectivity.

 

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The post Cambodia working to draw in Muslim tourists appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Following a 23 percent rise in foreign tourist numbers in 2024, Cambodia is working to welcome a greater number of Muslim tourists this year.

While China remains Cambodia’s primary source market, tourism authorities are working to entice travellers from Arab states to balance the numbers.

Of the 6.7 million foreign nationals who came to the country in 2024, around 7.3 percent were from the Middle East, up 20 percent from 2023.

Muslims from Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim nation, made up for more than 123,000 visitors in the past year.

As of Friday, 24th January, Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism has designated working teams to prepare strategies on how to make the country more attractive to Muslim tourists.

Making necessary adjustments

While Cambodia is predominantly Buddhist, there are communities with sizable Muslim populations.

Muslim communities in Phnom Penh and Kampot are predominantly Cham Muslims with their own unique culture which they share with tourists looking into immersive, halal-friendly experiences.

At the same time, major hotels in the country’s largest cities now have kitchens specifically for the preparation of halal food; these also offer prayer spaces specific to Muslims among their amenities.

According to Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), they are working with authorities to enhance facilities for Muslim tourists, including the establishment of prayer rooms at airports, the provision of culturally-sensitive services, as well as halal-compliant menus at restaurants.

Sivlin said: “Many Middle Eastern travellers are high-spending tourists who can contribute significantly to the national economy.”

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The post Sofitel and MGallery hotel restaurants honoured by Australian Good Food Guide appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Five Sofitel and MGallery hotels in Australia were recently honoured with Chef’s Hat rankings by the Australian Good Food Guide.

These accolades are a prestigious recognition of exceptional culinary talent, creativity, and dedication to excellence.

At the same time, they highlight a strategic and intentional shift by Accor to elevate food and beverage offerings as an essential part of the guest experience. 

The intersection of food and travel has never been more important, and the recent relaunch of the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is the perfect example of this evolution. 

Following a complete renovation, the Sofitel Wentworth now offers four bars and restaurants by House Made Hospitality, which bring the old-school glamour back to hotel dining while incorporating the latest trends in food and drinks.

This renewed focus on culinary excellence speaks to the growing trend of travellers seeking authentic regional flavours and unique gastronomic experiences when they visit new places.

Taking an art form to a new level

David Fraser, vice-president of operations for Sofitel, MGallery and Emblem hotels in the Pacific, said: “At Sofitel hotels, cuisine is an art form and an expression of local flavours, often with a touch of French zest; while MGallery hotels are known for delivering memorable and meaningful moments with a focus on mixology that is inspired by local culture and flora. These Chefs Hats are a testament to our teams, who excel at the culinary arts and who deliver outstanding experiences to our guests every day.”

As guests increasingly seek authentic, region-specific culinary experiences, these award-winning hotel restaurants are proving that travel is as much about the flavours as it is about the destinations. 

From the crisp, fresh air of the Blue Mountains to the glamour of Sydney’s Darling Harbour, each hotel and restaurant offers a distinctive taste of the region that leaves a lasting impression.

Along with a renewed focus on dining, Sofitel and MGallery Hotels are also in the midst of a strategic expansion phase, which includes 32 Sofitel and Sofitel Legend hotels in the pipeline including in Prague, India and Egypt and 26 percent of the Sofitel network under renovation. 

Meanwhile, the MGallery boutique brand is unfolding a new chapter with 48 hotels in the pipeline including in Japan, the Caribbean, and Mexico.

Who’s on the honour roll?

2 Hats: Atelier by Sofitel – Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

Atelier by Sofitel is a true culinary masterpiece located in one of Sydney’s most spectacular hotels. The restaurant’s refined French-inspired menu, crafted by an exceptional team of chefs, showcases a blend of artistry and technique. Guests can expect impeccable service, stunning harbour views, and a creative culinary journey that delights the senses. The restaurant’s two-hat achievement is a testament to its exceptional dedication to fine dining.

1 Hat: Newmarket Restaurant – The William Inglis Hotel
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious William Inglis Hotel, Newmarket Restaurant is a vibrant, modern eatery that draws inspiration from the rich history and local produce of its surroundings. The kitchen’s commitment to contemporary Australian flavours, paired with seasonal ingredients, creates a dining experience that captures the essence of the region in every bite.

1 Hat: No.1 Sublime Pt – Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Mountains, No.1 Sublime Pt offers a fresh take on modern Australian cuisine. This intimate, elevated dining experience highlights local produce and celebrates regional flavours in dishes that are both inventive and grounded in tradition.

1 Hat: Garcon Bleu – Sofitel Adelaide

With a refined yet approachable atmosphere, Garcon Bleu at Sofitel Adelaide transports guests to the heart of French culinary tradition. The restaurant emphasises both technique and simplicity, creating dishes that reflect the elegance and artistry of classic French cooking, with a distinctly local twist. Each plate is a celebration of seasonal Australian produce and French-inspired finesse.

1 Hat: Luma Restaurant – The Playford Adelaide

Luma Restaurant offers a sophisticated yet welcoming setting for guests to explore modern Australian cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. The menu is a tribute to the rich diversity of South Australian produce, with flavours that are bold, balanced, and reflective of the region’s unique terroir. Luma’s commitment to sustainability and its innovative approach to food make it a standout among Adelaide’s dining scene.

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The post Radisson Hotel Group expands its footprint in the Philippines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Radisson Hotel Group announced the signing of Radisson Serviced Apartments Salcedo Makati, an upscale new property in the heart of Makati, Manila’s premier Central Business District. 

Scheduled to open in 2026, this new property will be the Group’s first Radisson-branded hotel in the country and an upscale serviced apartment in Metro Manila. 

The new establishment is also the Group’s 16th property in the Philippines, in operation and under development, highlighting its commitment to expanding its footprint in this key market.

Comfortable spaces

Radisson Serviced Apartments Salcedo Makati will feature at least 162 spacious, contemporary apartments designed for corporate and long-stay guests, offering comfort and convenience in one of the region’s most dynamic commercial and cultural hubs. 

Set amidst Makati’s bustling financial and entertainment districts, it boasts a prime location surrounded by multinational headquarters, major banks, embassies, shopping centers, and premier entertainment venues.

Radisson Serviced Apartments Salcedo Makati will likewise offer a contemporary dining outlet with a selection of local and international cuisines in a stylish setting. 

Guests will also be able to enjoy flexible meeting spaces ideal for business gatherings, corporate functions, and social events. 

Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art gym and a refreshing pool, allowing guests to unwind and recharge, making this property a top choice for extended stays.

A new chapter

Cactus Realty Corporation vice-president Denise Lieuson said: “The signing of this hotel management agreement represents a new chapter in our journey, and we are excited to embark on this venture with Radisson Hotel Group. Radisson’s expertise and global reach will undoubtedly elevate our property’s standards and will enable us to tap into new markets, explore fresh opportunities, and create lasting value for our stakeholders.”

For his part, Radisson Hotel Group APAC chief development officer Ramzy Fenianos remarked: “This milestone reflects our strong commitment to the Philippines, where we see significant long-term potential. We continue strengthening partnerships with local developers as more owners entrust our brands to deliver world-class hospitality experiences. This property represents Radisson Hotel Group’s first upscale offering in the country and is a significant step in our growth here.”

Radisson Hotel Group plans to develop additional properties in key cities across the Philippines in the coming years. 

With six operating hotels and ten under development, including Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences, Cagayan de Oro, and Fridays Boracay, A Radisson Collection Resort, the first property under the Radisson Collection brand in the Philippines, both set to open in 2028, the Group is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for quality hospitality experiences in one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting destinations.

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The post Vietnam breaks into top five of Agoda Gold Circle Awards appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Vietnam has broken into the top five of Agoda’s prestigious 16th Gold Circle Awards, even as Thailand remains in the top spot.

The Agoda Gold Circle Awards celebrate exceptional hospitality within the Greater Asian region.

In addition, this year’s awards further underscore Southeast Asia’s exceptional performance with four out of the top five accolades awarded to markets within the region, a feat last witnessed in 2021. 

The national ranking is based on how many hotels win a prestigious award within each market.

Agoda senior vice-president of supply Andrew Smith said:  “Our Gold Circle Awards serve as a tribute to the dedication and remarkable achievements of our global accommodation partners. Achieving excellence in guest service is ever challenging, yet our partners rise to the occasion year after year. Vietnam’s entry into the top five showcases its efforts to enhance service quality, reflecting the growing potential of Southeast Asian hospitality.” 

Japan took second place with 432 hotels followed by Indonesia (3rd) with 365 hotels, Vietnam (4th) with 315 hotels and Malaysia (5th) with 311 hotels, rounding out the top five for 2024.

A higher number of winners

This year, the awards ceremony witnessed a 53 percent increase in Gold Circle Award winners compared to 2023, recognizing a record-breaking 3,545 exceptional properties across the globe in 2024. 

Notably, nearly 50 percent of the awards went to independent hotels, highlighting the growing appreciation for unique, personalized guest experiences that emphasize creativity and individuality.

Vietnam’s groundbreaking climb from 9th place in 2023 to securing a spot within the top five this year highlights its 209 percent increase in award-winning accommodations, as well as the hard work of accommodation providers across the market in ensuring that their customers receive the highest level of service.

Meanwhile, Thailand’s retention of its top spot from 2023 is testament to its enduring excellence. The adaptability of Thailand’s hospitality sector to shifting traveler expectations demonstrates strong reliability and leadership within the industry.

Over the past five years, Agoda has celebrated more than 2,500 unique winners, cementing its reputation for recognizing unparalleled service across the hospitality sector.

The Agoda Gold Circle Awards are presented to properties that excel in several key areas, including offering value-based pricing for customers, providing outstanding traveler experience, and engaging with Agoda’s programs and campaigns.

These criteria ensure that the winners represent the best in the industry, offering guests an outstanding experience.

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The post Oceania Cruises brings its French restaurant Jacques aboard the Allura in July appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Oceania Cruises is slated to bring its signature French restaurant Jacques aboard its newest ship Allura when it sets sail this July.

Named after renowned chef Jacques Pépin who founded Oceania Cruises’ culinary philosophy and was also its first-ever executive culinary director, this sophisticated restaurant is already a crowd favourite with passengers sailing on the Marina and Riviera.

Jacques will also make its debut aboard Allura’s sister-ship Vista this October, joining the Polo Grill steakhouse, Italian restaurant Toscana, and pan-Asian Red Ginger on all four of the line’s over 1,200 guest ships.

All hail to the patriarch

Oceania Cruises president Frank A Del Rio said: “Jacques is our culinary patriarch, having been a member of the culinary team since day one. His creativity and expertise form the very heart of our philosophy The Finest Cuisine at Sea, which drives everything we do. Bringing this fabulous restaurant to Allura as she launches this summer, and to Vista later in the year, means the world to me, and the entire Oceania Cruises family.”

Oceania Cruises’ two executive culinary directors who are also master chefs of France Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale will be working with Pépin to bring new flavours to the menu.

They will also hone the well-loved dishes that have been on the menu since Jacques was first introduced to the fleet when Marina was launched.

Opening a new chapter

Pépin commented: “I am so excited to be writing the next chapter of Jacques with my friends and colleagues Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale. This is the perfect opportunity to experiment with some delicious new dishes and to explore unique ways to serve some of the classics that our guests have come to know and love. We have lots of exciting plans for this latest iteration of Jacques. I cannot wait to share them.”

Quaretti added: “It is wonderful to bring Jacques to our two newest ships, and I am thrilled to be working alongside the man himself to create this latest version of our signature French restaurant. When considering this new generation of Jacques, it was very important for me to introduce recipes from personal childhood memories and to share my vision of French family food as well as honoring the classic French bistro experience.”

Guests can look forward to more experiential dining in Jacques through the introduction of tableside service for a range of new dishes, including beef tartare. 

This, plus new, carefully chosen crockery, glassware, and silverware to reinforce the importance of l’art de la table, augments the authentic Parisian bistro experience.

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The post Philippines generates close to US$7.5 million in sales leads at ASEAN Tourism Forum appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

More foreign tourists are expected to visit the Philippines after the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) generated close to a record US$ 7.5 million in sales leads at the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025 in Malaysia.

In a statement released on Monday, 27th January,  TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Nograles said the figure represents an 8.38 percent increase from last year’s participation.

She said: “The record-breaking sales leads reflect not just the interest in our destinations but also the trust international buyers have in the Philippines as a tourism hub, which represents a strong foundation for sustained collaboration and growth in the years to come.”

An enchanting showcase

At the ATF Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) 2025, the Philippines showcased its pristine beaches and vibrant cultural heritage.

The country also underscored its commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

The Philippine delegation included 17 local exhibitors representing travel agencies, hotels, resorts, MICE venues, and an airline engaged with 355 international buyers.

Cultural performances and a musical medley by homegrown Filipino talents Acapellago, Sindaw Performing Arts Group, and violinist Juleous Gacang were featured.

Guests were also treated to a four-course Filipino menu by chef Don Baldosano, as well as a diverse selection of Asian-inspired international dishes prepared by the Renaissance Hotel.

Nograles said: “This commitment to creating experiences that connect people across borders is something we all share, and tonight’s dinner is our way of saying salamat (thank you) for your partnership, friendship, and support in championing Southeast Asia as a world-class tourist destination.”

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The post Wall Street Journal names Delta ‘Top U.S. Airline’ for the fourth consecutive year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Delta has been named the Top U.S. Airline of 2024 by The Wall Street Journal. It’s the fourth consecutive year Delta’s people have powered their airline to the top of the Journal’s ranking.

The Journal tracks seven important operations and customer metrics among nine U.S. airlines. WSJ noted that Delta stood out in nearly every category. Delta placed first in on-time arrival and in fewest involuntary bumpings (Delta calls this involuntary denied boardings). The airline also placed a close second in fewest canceled flights.

“This honor is a reflection of our people’s dedication to providing safe, reliable service and delivering a premium experience for our customers,” said John Laughter, Delta Chief of Operations. “Every flight, every innovation and every memory we create for our customers is thanks to our team of resilient aviation professionals who constantly strive for excellence. An award is never a finish line in this business. We have our sights set even higher in 2025 and beyond.”

The recognition by The Wall Street Journal comes just weeks after Delta was recognized for its operational excellence by Cirium. Delta retained its status as North America’s most on-time airline in 2024, and its people earned the Platinum Award for Operational Excellence from Cirium for the fourth consecutive year.

Cirium’s Platinum Award is presented to airlines that deliver outstanding on-time performance while navigating complex operations — all while limiting the impact of disruption to its customers. The recognition underscores the airline’s reputation for and commitment to reliability.

Delta is consistently recognized for excellence in everything from  customer service to operational performance to workplace culture.

 

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