The post CSMIA International Cargo grows 17% over CY2023 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) capped off 2024 on a high note, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of India’s air freight network by achieving significant milestones in cargo operations. International cargo volumes rose by an impressive 17 percent. Demonstrating continued efficiency, the airport’s cargo operations achieved the highest-ever daily tonnage of 204 MT, marking another milestone in the airport’s commitment to enabling seamless global trade.

CSMIA’s Cargo Terminal achieved remarkable growth across both international and domestic cargo categories. In March 2024, the cargo operations set a new milestone by handling a record-breaking 60,659 metric tonnes (MT) of international cargo, underscoring its strategic significance and operational excellence.

Throughout the year, CSMIA significantly enhanced global connectivity, now serving 687 international destinations. This expansion included new destinations such as Tripoli, Khabarovsk, Kaliningrad, Zhukovsky, Tyumen, Damascus, Honinabi, and Chisinau. Domestically, the airport reinforced its position as a vital logistics hub, prioritising pharmaceuticals, automobile goods, and dangerous goods (DG), thereby strengthening its role in a comprehensive air cargo ecosystem. Notably, international cargo volumes at CSMIA were split between 55 percent of exports and 45 percent of imports, with London, Frankfurt, Chicago, Dubai, and Amsterdam emerging as the top global destinations.

On the international front, pharmaceuticals, agro products, and automobile goods emerged as key drivers, recording year-on-year increases of 24 percent, 22 percent, and 20 percent, respectively. On the domestic front, automobile goods led the surge with a remarkable 31 percent growth, followed by engineering goods at 22 percent and post office mail at 15 percent. The festive season further amplified the e-commerce boom, with international shipments witnessing a 53 percent year-on-year growth and domestic e-commerce goods achieving an 11 percent increase. Agricultural exports also reached new heights, with mango shipments hitting approximately 4,700 MT.

The year was also marked by key infrastructure enhancement, including the installation of a 10 MT weighing scale in the export section and the renovation of the main gate with advanced security and vehicle management systems, enhancing operational efficiency and safety. CSMIA was honoured with the prestigious “Cargo Airport of the Year Award” at Air Cargo India for the sixth consecutive year, reinforcing its industry leadership. Sustainability efforts stood out with the destruction of 151 MT of uncleared cargo, exemplifying the airport’s commitment to environmental responsibilities.

CSMIA’s robust cargo operations were further bolstered by the addition of six new cargo airlines in 2024, including Kenya Airways, SF Airlines, and SolitAir, enhancing connectivity and capacity.

The airport’s ongoing digital transformation played a pivotal role in handling increasing cargo volumes. Systems like the Air Cargo Community System (AMAX) and the D-Cube platform for digital import delivery streamlined operations, reduced paper usage, and minimised dwell time. Additionally, the Turant mobile application offered real-time shipment tracking for temperature-controlled cargo, ensuring seamless operations.

CSMIA’s strategic investments in infrastructure, digitisation, and operational excellence position it as a global leader in air cargo logistics. As India’s air cargo industry anticipates continued growth in 2025, CSMIA remains committed to advancing its capabilities, driving efficiency, and setting new benchmarks in the global cargo landscape.

 

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The post Cebu Pacific celebrates Philippine tribal traditions with its QR Flight Codes appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cebu Pacific encourages everyone to discover more of the Philippines’ diverse cultural heritage as it unveiled its latest initiative to promote Philippine tourism: the QR Flight Codes patterned after the traditional weaves of various local communities. 

Developed in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Textile Research Institute, these codes underscore CEB’s commitment to enhancing domestic tourism while shining a light on the artistry and cultural heritage of Filipino weaving communities. 

Chief marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog said: “Cebu Pacific takes pride in honoring the rich tapestry of our nation’s cultural heritage. Using our business as a platform for inclusive and sustainable growth, we celebrate the artistry of our local weaving communities, ensuring their timeless traditions are preserved and their stories are appreciated by every Filipino.”

Five distinctive weaving styles

The QR Flight Codes highlight five unique weaving styles from different parts of the country: the intricate and nature-inspired markings of Ilocos Norte’s Binakol, the elegantly-colored stripes of Occidental Mindoro’s Ramit, the bright hues and iconic plaid design of Iloilo’s Hablon, the bold and colorful checkered patterns of Antique’s Patadyong, and the striking geometric patterns and vivid colors of Zamboanga’s Yakan.

Scanning these QR Flight Codes, placed strategically on billboards along major thoroughfares and airports across the country and in select magazines, will allow travelers to learn more about these traditional weaves and discover more attractions in the destinations where they originate. 

Cebu Pacific collaborated with local weaving communities across the country to ensure that the history and significance of these fabrics are preserved in making the QR Flight Codes. 

These include the Paoay Weavers of Ilocos Norte supported by Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU); the Hanunuo Mangyan of Occidental Mindoro supported by the Awati Ti Kape Community Development Program; the Baraclayan Weavers Association of Iloilo; the Patnongon Multipurpose Cooperative and Bagtason Loom Weavers Association of Antique; and the Yakan by Oriental Weaves of Zamboanga supported by MMSU.

Iyog explained: “Every weave is a community’s cultural fingerprint with a story to tell, just as every destination has a unique offering and experience. We encourage every Juan to scan the QR Flight Codes to explore more of the Philippines and learn about our rich culture and heritage.”

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The post ibis Styles Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang officially opens appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Design-forward hospitality brand ibis Styles has formally opened ibis Styles Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang, a vibrant new addition to Malaysia’s capital. 

Designed for curious travellers and creative minds, this exciting destination celebrates individuality through a dynamic blend of affordability, style, and comfort.

Accor’s chief operating officer for its premium, midscale, and economy division in Asia Garth Simmons said: “We are delighted to welcome ibis Styles Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang into Accor’s growing portfolio in Malaysia. This opening underscores our commitment to offering vibrant and accessible hospitality in key destinations, showcasing Kuala Lumpur’s unique energy and cultural richness.”

Hotel manager Fadzil Fizanee added: “ibis Styles is all about inspiring exploration and embracing individuality. We look forward to welcoming guests to experience the creative charm, heartfelt service, and thoughtful design that define our hotel.”

Where comfort and chic meet

Located in the lively Bukit Bintang district, the hotel places guests in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s entertainment and retail scene. 

Steps away from iconic landmarks such as Pavilion KL, Sungei Wang Plaza, and Berjaya Times Square, and with the MRT Bukit Bintang station just minutes away the hotel offers effortless access to the city’s cultural and commercial hotspots.

The hotel features 168 stylish and colourful rooms, thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and convenience for leisure and business travellers alike. 

Guests will appreciate creative interiors, cosy bedding, and essential amenities tailored to modern travel needs.

Those staying in can also enjoy diverse dining options at the hotel’s lively restaurant, featuring dishes inspired by local and international flavours. 

For those seeking to stay active, a fully equipped fitness centre is available, while long-stay guests will appreciate the convenience of a self-service laundromat.

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The post Mang Inasal, Philippine Department of Tourism bring “Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines” campaign to Cebu appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Mang Inasal and the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) kicked off the  2025 leg of their joint Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines campaign at this year’s Sinulog Festival in Cebu City.

The annual event is a vibrant celebration religious festival honouring the Child Jesus in the guise of the Santo Niño, the patron of the city

In support of gastronomic tourism, Mang Inasal treated both locals and tourists to a range of exciting freebies, promos, and fun activities throughout the festival.

Week-long delights 

The celebrations began with a special one-week Sinulog Fiesta Feast at Mang Inasal’s Cebu City stores. 

Customers were treated to a free small drink with every order of the Solo Fiesta Chicken Inasal paired with Extra Creamy Halo-Halo, making their festive experience even more enjoyable.

The festivities extended to Mactan International Airport as Mang Inasal kept the excitement going by serving free Extra Creamy Halo-Halo and Crema de Leche Halo-Halo to hundreds of visitors. 

The event also featured special appearances by Mang Inasal endorser actor Coco Martin and his fellow cast members from the television series FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, making the celebration even more memorable.

In addition to the delicious offerings, Mang Inasal took time to honor Sinulog Festival Queen Sofi Maxim Grenmo from Lapu-Lapu City with the “Unli Ganda” award and supported the Banauan Cultural Group during the lively Street Parade, further enriching the cultural experience.

With the Sinulog Festival wrapped up, the “Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines” campaign is set to continue its journey, with the next stop being the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo later this month.

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The post Accor shows a different side of Japan with Grand Mercure and Mercure Hotels appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

For those seeking more than Japan’s well-trodden tourist paths, Accor invites travellers to uncover the authentic charm of the country’s lesser-known destinations through enriching stays at Grand Mercure and Mercure hotels. 

These hotels serve as gateways to the unique traditions, natural beauty, and warm hospitality of local communities across Japan, from the northern reaches of Hokkaido to the tropical allure of Okinawa.

Accor’s Hanare Tabi travel initiative celebrates the hidden beauty of Japan’s remote corners. 

Central to this experience is Musubi-Bito, a program featuring local guides who provide guests with meaningful connections to their destinations. 

These guides, deeply rooted in their communities, share intimate insights into local culture and traditions, enhancing every journey.

The art of regional exploration

Explore Kannawa Onsen Town with Spring Hunter Kiriko Toyoshima

In the hot springs capital of Japan, guests at Grand Mercure Beppu Bay Resort & Spa can join a “spring hunter”, Ms Kiriko Toyoshima, to explore the Kannawa Onsen’s steam-filled alleys and learn about the history and benefits of hot springs. Along the way, participants can experience the famous traditional mushi-yu (steam baths) and savour jigoku-mushi also known as “edible onsen”, a unique dish prepared using the natural hot spring steam.

Walking the Historic Kumano Kodo in Pilgrimage Attire

At Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort & Spa, guests can walk the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route with a Musubi-Bito guide in traditional pilgrim attire and gain insights into ancient paths and the history of sacred sites along this UNESCO World Heritage trail. A lesser-known path on modern maps, this route was a well-travelled pilgrimage path during the Heian and Kamakura periods, showcasing how pilgrims journeyed from Kyoto to sacred sites.

Indulge in Shinsu’s Unique Flavours and Secret Healing Bath

At Mercure Nagano Matsushiro Resort & Spa, guests can savour local delicacies like Japanese yam, vegetable-filled oyaki dumplings, and fragrant Shinshu soba noodles. The historic Matsushiro Onsen, once favoured by Buddhist monks and samurai, is said to have been discovered by Nichiren during his exile, who praised its healing properties. During the Battle of Kawanakajima, it served as a secret retreat for soldiers seeking recovery and rejuvenation, adding to its storied legacy.

Tranquillity and Flavours in Zao’s Majestic Setting

At Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa, guests can savour Zao specialties like the famous Sendai gyutan (beef tongue) and zunda mochi, a sweet dish made from edamame paste, both crafted using traditional techniques. The resort’s onsen facilities, including a Japanese-style outdoor bath with stunning mountain views, offer an oasis of tranquillity. According to legend, a revered monk discovered a healing bath in the area, attracting pilgrims seeking restoration. This legacy, combined with Zao’s majestic nature, provides a deeply rejuvenating experience.

Expansion in an exquisite location

The allure of Japan’s regional destinations has grown, with a 36.1 percent increase in international visitors to these areas since 2019, according to the Japan Tourism Agency. 

Destinations such as Oita Prefecture’s Beppu and Wakayama Prefecture are captivating travellers, while Nagano’s Matsushiro has gained popularity among Australian visitors for its winter sports and serene charm.

Accor expanded its footprint in Japan with the opening of over 20 hotels in 2024, and these new properties are thoughtfully located near hidden treasures, offering a perfect base for exploration. 

Grand Mercure celebrates local heritage through immersive experiences that celebrate national culture and stimulate the senses, while Mercure unveils the treasures surrounding each address, inviting guests to experience the vibrant charm of the local neighbourhood.

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The post The Westin Jakarta announces new appointments to its F&B department appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Westin Jakarta welcomes Daniel Chaney as its new executive chef, and Martin Weise as the director of food and beverage. 

In his new role, Chaney will take charge of the overall culinary experiences at The Westin Jakarta.

Weise, on the other hand, will handle all food and beverage operations of the hotel, including Seasonal Tastes, Henshin, Daily Treats, as well as the Events and Banquet team.

Meet Daniel Chaney

Prior to joining The Westin Jakarta, Chaney was an Executive Chef at The Stones Hotel – Legian Bali, Autograph Collection for two years, where he managed the culinary aspects of four restaurants and banquet as well as menu planning. 

He has extensive experience covering over two decades, including a stint in Rosewood Phnom Penh as a Chef De Cuisine; Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort in St. Lucia as Chef De Cuisine; and Aryaduta Bali as the Executive Chef.

He has also worked in professional kitchens in Hong Kong, Dubai, Bermuda and the United States. 

Throughout his career, Chaney managed numerous award-winning establishments and was hailed Chef of the Year in 2013 by Foodie Hong Kong.

He said of this latest assignment: “I am honoured to be taking up the position of Executive Chef at The Westin Jakarta. I am excited about enhancing the culinary offering and ensuring that every dish is of the highest quality and caters to the diverse tastes of our guests. As the Executive Chef, I will strive to motivate my team to reach their full potential and create an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to excel. By working together, we will positively impact the entire hotel’s culinary offerings and elevate the dining experience for our guests.”

Meet Martin Weise

Previously, Weise was also an F&B director at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place for two years, where he led the restaurant operations and the largest ballroom in town that caters up to 8,000 people. 

Before shifting his career to food and beverage management, he was the executive chef at the JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta for three years.

Prior to moving to Asia, Weise honed his culinary skills at  other five-star hotels in Australia and Europe, including the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, The Savoy Hotel in London, The Westin Sydney, and Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Berlin among others.

With more than 20 years of experience in the luxury hotel industry, Weise is passionate in creating exceptional guest experiences and driving business through innovative strategies and strong leadership. 

He said of his new role: “My vision for Food and Beverage at The Westin Jakarta is to set a new standard of excellence with innovative culinary experience, exceptional service tailored to every guest’s needs with Henshin and Seasonal Tastes positioned as the best restaurants in Jakarta.”

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The post Malaysia Airlines brings its “Time For” campaign to London’s streets appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Malaysia Airlines takes its new Time For campaign to the streets of London, unveiling a fleet of branded taxis to captivate the city’s vibrant audience. 

This initiative positions Malaysia as the ultimate gateway to Asia, showcasing the nation’s warmth and cultural diversity to inspire wanderlust while strengthening its presence in a key international market like the United Kingdom.

The global campaign aims to invite global travellers to embrace the joy of travel, rediscover connections, and explore the best of Asia and beyond.

Embossed over London’s iconic black cabs, the striking campaign design reflects Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to offering world-class hospitality, seamless connectivity, and unforgettable travel experiences. 

According to Dersenish Aresandiran, chief commercial officer of airlines at the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG): “This campaign is more than just a marketing effort; it represents a transformative approach to how we engage with our customers and the broader market – focusing on showcasing the unique value of our exceptional products and unparalleled travel experiences. By shifting the narrative to emphasise our distinctive offerings, we aim to inspire a deeper emotional connection with our brand and usher in a bold new era in our commercial marketing strategy: one that not only elevates the Malaysia Airlines brand but also strengthens our position in the market, driving sustainable growth and delivering significant value to our bottom line.”

Prelude to expansion

This unique London showcase heralds the launch of Malaysia Airlines’ strategic initiative to solidify its commercial footprint in the European market, transitioning beyond price-driven messaging to establish itself as a premier global airline. 

As part of its efforts, the airline plans to roll out consumer activation and partnership campaigns throughout the year, including exciting flight giveaways, underscoring its dedication to elevate the travel experience for its customers.

A key anchor of the showcase is the focus on Malaysia Airlines’ acclaimed ‘Bonus Side Trip’ product, reaffirming its commitment to offering enriching travel opportunities to passengers. 

This unique offer allows passengers to enjoy complimentary domestic return flights between Kuala Lumpur and one of seven diverse Malaysian destinations, with only applicable taxes to pay. 

The product provides an opportunity for travellers to explore the cultural and natural beauty of Malaysia on either the outbound or return leg of their journey. 

The strategic placement of the messaging seeks to educate UK travellers about this distinctive stopover option while reinforcing Malaysia Airlines’ commercial footprint in the market.

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The post Harness the Four Elements: A guide to wellness in Arizona appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The universal elements of air, water, earth and fire are commonly incorporated into wellness journeys. Each element helps improve mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing in transformative ways.

 

From meditation to heart-racing adventure, embark on these Arizona-centred wellness journeys to become the best version of yourself.

Air

Air-inspired wellness journeys can range from finding inner peace to embracing new perspectives or experiences. Soar into the sky on a Foolish Pleasure Hot Air Balloon sunrise ride above Tucson to take in rare breathtaking views of the vast Sonoran desert draped in vibrant hues of orange and yellow. Discover serenity by mastering mindful breathing techniques, listening to healing singing bowls and perfecting aerial yoga poses at Civana, a wellness resort in Carefree that promotes lifelong wellness habits. The Tubac Tree House at the Historic Shankle Ranch in Tubac perches visitors 21 feet above ground to appreciate fresh air, chirping birds and an elevated perspective of the working cattle ranch.

Enjoy the adrenaline rush of flight cruising in a weight-shift control aircraft over Lake Havasu on a Hangin’ Over Havasu Flight Tour to soak in panoramic views of the city and ignite your spirit of adventure as you fly. Feel the wind in your hair while ziplining alongside pine trees at Flagstaff Extreme, an aerial obstacle course. Feel the thrill of flying through the air by sky diving in Eloy, an international sky diving destination thanks to year-round sunshine and temperate climate.

Water

While famous for its desert landscapes and monsoon season, Arizona offers numerous water-based wellness adventures encouraging inner reflection, healing and positivity. Witness the strength of the Colorado River while rafting through stunning Horseshoe Bend in Page. On this adventure, rafters are reminded of their own inner resilience and ability to create beauty out of unexpected challenges after learning how the steady flowing river created this famous natural landmark. Known to inspire self reflection, kayaking along the Black Canyon Water Trail in Lake Mead National Recreation Area allows adventurers to go inside the one-of-a-kind Emerald Cave while marvelling at the bright green water below.

Experience water’s healing properties while unwinding in crystal clear hot springs at Castle Hot Springs or renew through a cold plunge at Arizona’s first Nordic Spa at High Country Motor Lodge in Flagstaff. Go with the flow to the hidden gem waterfall at Picture Canyon Natural and Culture Preserve in Flagstaff to and enjoy the serene sound of cascading water. Or, burst with joy when swimming, paddleboarding or jet skiing at Clear Creek Reservoir near Williams, a secret desert oasis for water recreation.

Earth

Get your hands dirty with these transformational activities centred on spiritual healing, reconnecting with nature and slowing down to appreciate the Earth’s beauty. Visit Sedona, a unique town surrounded by red rocks with a well-deserved reputation for evoking spiritual renewal in visitors through its numerous vortexes, where many sense Earth energy inspiring healing and self-reflection. Absorb the spiritual energy of Sedona’s vortexes by embarking on Sedona Mystical Tour jeep ride or enjoying a spa treatment at Mii amo, a world-renowned destination spa located within Boyce Canyon.

Escape the fast pace and digital distractions of modern life to explore the whimsical rock formations of the Chiricahua National Monument in Willcox. Reconnect with nature at wellness resort Miraval in Tucson, which offers desert bathing, horse therapy and farming classes. Take a moment to notice how Earth creates beauty at Petrified Forest National Park in Holbrook, where visitors can marvel at the world’s largest concentrations of petrified wood.

Fire

Rise from the ashes and be reborn by engaging in fire and heat-inspired adventures centred on revival, pushing physical limits and pursuing passion. Restore your energy at Canyon Ranch in Tucson, a resort dedicated to reigniting guests’ spiritual, physical and mental wellbeing via hot stone massages, sun salutation yoga at sunrise and even a fire-making class. Simply sitting around a campfire at Roam America’s campsites in Page will spark deeper conversations between families as everyone shares their personal goals over S’mores. Stay at JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson to welcome the day with “Mitakuye Oyasin Morning Ritual,” a traditional American Indian ceremony where guests think positive thoughts as they create a cloth satchel filled with sage then burn it to release their positive intentions to the world.

 

Set your muscles ablaze while soaking in the sun by mountain biking up the White Mountains in eastern Arizona, rock climbing at Mount Lemmon in Tucson or hiking within Papago Park in Tempe. With warm weather all year round, passionate runners looking to smoke their competition and experience the blissfulness of accomplishment will enjoy racing the Rock N’Roll Marathon in Metro Phoenix, Mesa Marathon, or RunSedona half marathon. After a long day of burning energy, enjoying the sun’s warmth by either sunbathing poolside or watching Arizona’s one-of-a-kind sunsets paint the sky in vibrant colours.

 

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