The post Hidden Facts About The View at Palm Jumeirah You Didn’t Know appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Okay, let’s be real—Palm Jumeirah is one of those sights that makes you go, “Wow, Dubai really outdid itself.” I mean, from above or even from the shore, it’s jaw-dropping. But here’s the thing: most people just see the obvious—the fronds, the luxury hotels, the coastline—and totally miss some of the hidden gems that make the view seriously mind-blowing. I’ve spent way too much time staring at this artificial marvel, so let me spill some hidden facts you probably didn’t know.

The Palm Looks Different From Above

The Aerial Illusion

Ever noticed how perfect the palm shape looks from, say, a helicopter or a drone shot? That’s no accident. The view from above is designed to impress. The engineers carefully calculated the curves of each frond to maximize visual symmetry. Honestly, it’s like Dubai’s showing off its Photoshop skills, but in real life.

Optical Tricks

Here’s a fun tidbit: the island looks bigger from certain angles thanks to perspective and the way the fronds fan out. Stand on the balcony of one of the crescent hotels, and it suddenly feels tiny. FYI, this isn’t magic—it’s pure design genius.

Hidden Gems in the View

Nature Meets Luxury

While everyone notices the swanky resorts, few realize the Palm supports real marine life. From above, you might spot turquoise waters teeming with fish near the fronds. It’s like Mother Nature snuck in a cameo in Dubai’s most famous construction project.

Unique Architectural Details

Take a closer look at the hotels and villas. Each frond isn’t just a copy-paste. Designers made tiny variations in villa layouts and landscaping to avoid the “cookie-cutter” feel. Next time you fly over, try spotting patterns that break the monotony—you’ll feel like a detective.

Why the View Changes With the Light

Sunrise vs. Sunset

Here’s the thing: Palm Jumeirah transforms depending on the time of day. Sunrise gives the sand and water a golden shimmer, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Sunset? Everything glows with deep orange and pink tones. IMO, sunrise is underrated, but sunset is totally Instagram-ready.

Weather Effects

Clouds, haze, even wind patterns can subtly alter how the Palm looks from above. I’ve seen fog make it appear like the island is floating—kind of surreal. Ever thought a man-made island could look like it’s hovering in the sky? Yeah, Dubai made that happen.

Fun Facts You Probably Didn’t Expect

• It’s visible from space! Astronauts actually see it from orbit. No big deal, just casual human achievement vibes.
• It’s expanding. Dubai keeps adding small extensions and islands nearby, tweaking the overall aerial view.
• Birds love it. Apparently, some species treat the fronds as temporary nesting spots. Nature + luxury = unexpected combo.

Final Thoughts

So, next time you’re admiring the Palm Jumeirah view, remember: there’s more than meets the eye. From subtle design tricks to hidden marine life and changing light effects, the island is full of surprises. Honestly, even after multiple visits, I still notice something new every time I look down from above. Dubai didn’t just build an island—it created a masterpiece that keeps revealing secrets.

Don’t miss the chance to experience these hidden wonders yourself—grab your The View at The Palm Tickets today and see Dubai from a whole new perspective!

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The post Rising Tourism in Gir National Park – Latest Trends appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Rising Tourism in Gir National Park – Latest Trends
Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, India, has emerged as one of the most sought-after wildlife destinations in Asia, attracting tourists from across India and the world. Known as the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion, the park is witnessing a steady increase in visitor numbers every year. Improved infrastructure, better road connectivity from Rajkot, Junagadh, and Veraval, and the advent of online Gir National Park safari bookings have made it more convenient for travelers to plan trips.
Tourists are increasingly drawn to the park for its unique biodiversity. Apart from Asiatic lions, visitors encounter leopards, hyenas, jackals, sambar deer, chital, and over 300 bird species. Eco-tourism Gir, guided Gir National Park safaris, and curated wildlife experiences have made Gir National Park tourism a popular choice for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Experts believe that responsible tourism contributes positively to conservation efforts. By channeling tourism revenue into habitat preservation and community engagement programs, Gir National Park is balancing the dual goals of promoting wildlife tourism in Gujarat and protecting its fragile ecosystem.

2. New Conservation Efforts for Asiatic Lions in Gir
Gir National Park is widely celebrated as a global model for successful Asiatic lion conservation, especially for the Gir National Park lions. Once on the brink of extinction, Gir lion population numbers have steadily increased thanks to decades of meticulous Gir wildlife conservation efforts.
Recent initiatives have focused on lion habitat protection and creating wildlife corridors in Gir to reduce human-wildlife conflict and ensure safe movement of lions between protected zones. Advanced monitoring technologies such as camera traps, GPS collars, and drone surveillance allow conservationists to track Gir National Park lions and study their behavior.
Community participation plays a critical role in these efforts, with the local Maldhari population actively engaged in Maldhari community conservation programs. Conservation programs are complemented by ecological measures such as maintaining prey populations, managing water sources, and reforestation. The park’s success story demonstrates how science, policy, and community involvement combine to protect endangered species while maintaining Gir biodiversity preservation.

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The post Recap: Day 1 of BE @ Penang appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Encouraging business event professionals and students to change the game, BE @ Penang 2025 opened with great fanfare and hopes expressed for impactful changes in both regional and global MICE.

We at Travel Daily Media were privileged to be part of the event’s landmark ninth edition and heard first-hand some unique insights that stand to change the face of the MICE sector in both the near and distant future.

From greater accessibility for the differently abled, to the more widespread use of innovative technologies in events planning and management, to training the next generation of event professionals, BE @ Penang certainly embodied its theme Be the Wave as lessons from the first day swept through delegates’ minds, inspiring them to be part o moulding a sustainable and inclusive industry in the times to come.

That said, we share a number of key moments from today’s events.

 

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The post HBX Group and Mastercard launch virtual payment programme appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

HBX Group, a prominent B2B travel technology marketplace, and Mastercard have unveiled a new virtual payment programme designed to streamline travel payments worldwide. The programme, which utilises the Mastercard Wholesale Programme, offers travel intermediaries a more efficient, flexible, and secure method of managing payments.

The virtual cards are tailored for high transaction volumes, multiple currencies, and distributed operations. This allows HBX Group’s partners in the EU, UK, and US to process supplier payouts instantly, automatically track and reconcile transactions, and enjoy improved cash-flow visibility and fraud protection. Additionally, the cards provide flexible financing and payment guarantee options, enhancing liquidity and reducing operational complexity.

Daniel Nordholm, Chief Information Officer at HBX Group, highlighted the challenges faced by travel intermediaries, stating, “Managing payments in travel remains one of the industry’s biggest challenges. By combining Mastercard’s global payment expertise with our deep understanding of the travel industry, we are creating payment solutions that are not only efficient and secure, but truly designed around the operational needs of our partners.”

The integration of Mastercard’s virtual card technology into HBX Group’s network, which connects over 54,000 travel distributors and 330,000 travel products across 170 countries, marks a significant advancement in the B2B travel sector. Chiara Quaia, Senior Vice President of B2B Travel at Mastercard, remarked, “The launch of this new virtual card programme with HBX Group is a major step towards digitising the B2B travel industry.”

HBX Group plans to expand the programme to the Asia-Pacific region in the first half of 2026, with further expansion to Latin America anticipated later.
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The post Agoda reveals Asia’s cheapest holiday flights appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Digital travel platform Agoda has announced that the Udon Thani to Bangkok route is the most affordable domestic flight in Asia for the upcoming holiday season. Based on bookings made between 1 September and 19 November 2025 for departures from 20 to 31 December 2025, the fare for this route starts at just 190 THB. This revelation comes as travellers prepare for the busy Christmas and New Year period, a time when many seek cost-effective travel options.

Thailand emerges as a top destination for budget-conscious domestic travellers, with the Udon Thani to Bangkok route offering an economical way to experience the city’s vibrant holiday festivities, including the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 at IconSiam. Other affordable domestic routes include Jeju to Seoul in South Korea and Bario to Miri in Malaysia, with fares starting at 285 THB.

For international travel, Malaysia and Indonesia lead with the cheapest fares, such as Johor Bahru to Phuket and Pontianak to Kuching, both starting at 795 THB. Thailand follows closely with Krabi to Kuala Lumpur flights available from 895 THB. Additional budget-friendly international routes include destinations in South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, and India.

Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director, Thailand at Agoda, stated: “Our mission is to make travel accessible to everyone. With an extensive network of flight routes and a variety of affordable options, we’re committed to helping travellers explore the world without stretching their budgets.”

Agoda offers over 130,000 flight routes and more than 6 million holiday properties, ensuring travellers can plan their festive getaways conveniently through its platform.
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The post Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan Lagoon to open in 2026 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan Lagoon is set to open in the first quarter of 2026, offering a luxurious beachfront experience on Bintan’s northern coast. Just a short ferry ride from Singapore, the resort aims to blend Swiss sophistication with Indonesian hospitality, featuring 420 rooms and suites, including 52 Premium Terrace Rooms with ocean views.

The resort will introduce six new dining concepts and Mövenpick’s signature daily Chocolate Hour. Designed for families, couples, and groups, it boasts a beach club, spa, multiple pools, kids’ splash zones, sports courts, creative playrooms, and a Recreation Village. For events, the resort offers a 900 sqm Grand Ballroom and 1,100 sqm of flexible space across 12 function rooms, along with access to two championship golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Ian Baker-Finch.

With its world-class facilities and easy access from Singapore, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan Lagoon is poised to redefine island hospitality in 2026, promising moments of discovery and delight for every traveller.
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The post Le Méridien opens first hotel in Navi Mumbai appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts has launched its first property in Mumbai, marking a significant milestone for the brand. The new Le Méridien Navi Mumbai, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extensive portfolio, is strategically located within Navi Mumbai’s rapidly evolving urban landscape. The hotel aims to cater to culturally curious travellers with its art-inspired design and emphasis on savouring the moment.

The 129-key hotel is one of the tallest in the city, offering expansive views and easy access to key business hubs and the soon-to-be-completed Navi Mumbai International Airport, just 12 kilometres away. This makes it an attractive option for bleisure travellers seeking a blend of business and leisure.

Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President of South Asia for Marriott International, highlighted the city’s growth potential, stating, “Navi Mumbai is on the cusp of tremendous growth, especially with the new airport nearing completion and opening the city to even greater opportunity.”

The hotel features rooms and suites designed with mid-century modernism, complemented by a bespoke art installation in the lobby. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including the Tattva Spa, a fitness centre, and an outdoor pool. Culinary options abound with the Hill View Café, Mizuki restaurant, and Tasse et Café, offering diverse dining experiences.

Le Méridien Navi Mumbai also provides over 20,000 square feet of event space, making it ideal for conferences and social gatherings. General Manager Saurabh Chowdhury noted, “Le Méridien Navi Mumbai is an invitation to experience this dynamic city through a new lens.” The hotel aims to connect guests with the local culture through various programmes and activities.
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The post Jim Thompson and Thai Airways unveil new in-flight collection appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Jim Thompson and Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) are set to launch their latest in-flight collection in January 2026, marking the third year of their collaboration. This new collection introduces 14 exclusive prints for amenity bags and, for the first time, comfort wear sets for Royal Silk Class passengers, designed to enhance in-flight comfort and showcase Thai craftsmanship.

The partnership, which began in 2023 with premium amenity kits, has evolved to meet the needs of modern travellers by offering immersive cultural experiences. The latest collection is a testament to this, featuring Jim Thompson’s renowned fabrics and designs that celebrate Thailand’s heritage. Highlights include prints like “House on the Klong,” “Orchids Bunch,” and “Elephant Legacy,” each reflecting elements of Thai culture and identity.

Kittiphong Sansomboon, Chief Commercial Officer of THAI, emphasised the airline’s commitment to sustainability and authentic Thai identity, stating, “Our collaboration with Jim Thompson reflects Thai Airways’ commitment to elevating our in-flight products and services whilst showcasing authentic Thai identity on the global stage.”

Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO at Jim Thompson, expressed pride in the ongoing partnership, noting, “The latest in-flight collection elevates the passenger journey with a range of rich fabrics and innovative designs in celebration of Thailand’s heritage.”

The collection aligns with both companies’ dedication to sustainable practices, featuring eco-friendly fabrics and biodegradable materials. The new amenity kits and comfort wear are exclusive to Royal Silk Class passengers on international routes, offering a distinctive and culturally rich travel experience.
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The post BE @ Penang 2025 dares MICE professionals to “Be The Wave” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The ninth edition of BE @ Penang challenges today’s MICE professionals to change the game by making the most of the latest innovations whilst taking both sustainability and inclusivity into consideration.

The event officially opened today, 10th December, at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.

Centred on the theme Be the Wave, discussions and interactive sessions at the event will revolve around game-changing concepts that will drastically revamp the way business events are staged in Asia and beyond.

From the use of artificial intelligence in events planning to a frank discussion on leadership and management in the 21st century, this year’s event is giving participants much to think about to create, stage, and promote highly effective events.

Becoming the wave

In the science of physics, a wave is essentially a force that comes rushing in, essentially sweeping everything in its path and changing the form of the area it surges through.

In the context of MICE, being the wave is about changing the way things are done, revising processes involved in the organisation, management, and presentation of events, regardless if these are small meetings or expositions on a grand scale.

Penang is currently riding the crest of this wave, given how it has evolved into a major hub for commerce and industry, particularly where information technology is concerned.

In his opening remarks Penang Convention and Exhibitions Bureau CEO Ashwin Gunasekaran remarked: “Penang continues to evolve as a powerhouse of innovation and economic progress. This reflects the same wave of progress that is reshaping the business events industry, where new technologies, creative strategies, and global connections are opening up to unprecedented opportunities.”

PCEB chairman Wong Hon Wai echoed these sentiments whilst inviting delegates to embrace the spirit of this year’s conference .

Wong said: “Be the wave, the wave that carries new ideas across borders, the wave that lifts and empowers others; the wave that inspires transformation not only within the organisation but across the communities we love and serve.”

Pride of place

Cutting-edge ideas notwithstanding, the exhibitions aspect of BE @ Penang made a strong case for Pulau Pinang as one of Malaysia’s centres for cultural tourism.

The exhibition hall immediately outside the convention venue featured booths touting indigenous crafts from wayang kulit puppetry and the intricately designed crafts of the region, to traditional sweets and batik garments that present indigenous patterns in a more contemporary form.

Inclusivity was also part of the exhibition through basketry produced by visually impaired artisans, a women’s empowerment advocacy pushing for gender budgeting on both community and national levels, and a coffee company that offers cups for two ringgit apiece, with all proceeds going to local youth charities.

BE @ Penang runs until tomorrow, 12th December; Travel Daily Media will be posting from the floors of the event, so keep posted on our site for fresh updates.

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The post DXB welcomes 1,500 athletes for Asian Youth Para Games appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Dubai International (DXB) has opened its doors to over 1,500 young athletes from 35 countries for the Asian Youth Para Games 2025. The event, running from 10 to 13 December, highlights DXB’s commitment to accessibility and inclusive services, with full operational readiness across its three terminals.

The airport has deployed specialised People of Determination (PoD) teams and conducted pre-event awareness sessions for staff to ensure a seamless experience for all delegations. Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, emphasised the importance of accessibility, stating, “Accessibility shapes how we design and deliver every part of the airport journey.”

This year’s Games, the largest in its history, will feature 11 sports across eight venues, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for Para sport. Dubai Airports employees are volunteering to support the athletes, reflecting the organisation’s dedication to inclusion for People of Determination in the UAE.

The 2025 edition marks the second time Dubai hosts the Games, following a successful event in 2017. This initiative not only underscores DXB’s operational excellence but also its role in promoting inclusivity and accessibility on a global stage.
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