The post Amy Poehler to appear at Vivid Sydney 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

The Golden Globe and Emmy Award winning actress and comedian, Amy Poehler will join this year’s Vivid Sydney line-up for a special Vivid Ideas event at the Sydney Opera House on Monday 27 May.

Poehler, who is one of Hollywood’s most versatile and sought-after talents, with credits including actress, writer, director, producer, and bestselling author, will front Vivid Sydney Presents – In Conversation with Amy Poehler plus a special first look at Disney and Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’. The event will be moderated by Zan Rowe.

“I’m really looking forward to taking part in Vivid Sydney this year, a place that welcomes Joy in every way,” said Poehler. “I can’t wait to share a little of Inside Out 2: a movie that lets Joy and Sadness, Anxiety and Envy—all try to work together in hilarious and touching ways.”

Appearing for the first time in Sydney since 2015, Poehler’s not-to-be-missed In Conversation will be preceded by an exclusive 30-minute look of select scenes from the highly anticipated ‘Inside Out 2’, the sequel to Disney and Pixar’s Academy Award® winning and critically acclaimed ‘Inside Out’ (2015), which sees Poehler once again voice the role of Joy.

Poehler has built a remarkable career spanning comedy and writing and is best known for her role in the Emmy-nominated NBC comedy series ‘Parks and Recreation’. Her portrayal of Hilary Clinton during the 2008 Presidential Election on ‘Saturday Night Live’ (SNL) received widespread acclaim, leading up to her final season as the beloved co-anchor of ‘Weekend Update’. In 2015, Poehler’s return to SNL alongside Tina Fey resulted in an Emmy win for “Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series”. Additionally, her literary debut ‘Yes Please’ topped the New York Times Best Sellers list in October 2014, staying there for over 23 weeks.

Vivid Sydney Festival Director, Gill Minervini said: “Amy Poehler is comedy royalty and the perfect person to join us as part of Vivid Ideas for this year’s Vivid Sydney. We’re so proud to add her to the growing list of guests set to captivate visitors throughout 23 nights of the festival. Amy’s new film ‘Inside Out 2’ ties in perfectly with the theme of this year’s festival, Humanity, with an accessible take on how the human mind makes decisions and processes emotions. Allowing audiences to have an insight to how one of the world’s great writers and performers operates is sure to be a great thrill. I encourage everyone to get their tickets as soon as they can for this not-to-be-missed event.”

The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Kylie Watson-Wheeler, said: “We’re excited to share a first look at Disney and Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’ and a conversation with the incomparable Amy Poehler. Vivid Sydney is the perfect way to celebrate this colourful and captivating storytelling with Australian audiences ahead of the film’s June 13 release in cinemas.”

Vivid Sydney Presents – In Conversation with Amy Poehler plus a special first look at Disney and Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’ will be staged at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, on Monday 27 May from 7.00pm. Red Carpet arrivals will take place from 6.00pm.

Following the Vivid Ideas event, a bespoke ‘Inside Out 2’ projection will light up Customs House at Circular Quay for a one off, 30-minute projection.

Vivid Sydney will be held from Friday 24 May to Saturday 15 June.

 

The post Amy Poehler to appear at Vivid Sydney 2024 appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Hyde Bodrum opens with 212 keys appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Hyde invites guests to its Turkish debut, bringing a bohemian-chic flair and infectious energy to the chilled-out shores of the Bodrum Peninsula. Hyde Bodrum brings beat-filled days and carefree nights, with varied programming ranging from yoga sessions to gigs and DJ sets to match the vibes.

Hyde Bodrum is an adults-only, all-inclusive destination with 212 rooms and suites, including four villas, with five vibrant restaurants and bars. Guests can lounge by the palm-fringed swimming pool and beach venue, which will also welcome locals for music and happenings via day passes.

Design

Framed by the lush, pine-scented national park and flowing down to the golden sands and turquoise waters of Torba Bay, Hyde Bodrum encourages guests to connect with the spectacular natural beauty of its setting and each other. Signature Hyde elements like monumental art installations and endless sofa in the lobby inspires spontaneous interaction and conversation between both strangers and friends. Oversized windows and expansive open spaces created inviting, light-filled guest areas defined using textural organic materials, and a tonal sun-bleached colour palette.

Rooms

Hyde Bodrum’s rooms, suites and villas feature bohemian chic designs and range from General Admission and VIP party-perfect rooms to the sprawling Headliner Villa with private pools. Each room has been designed to recharge and revitalise, with affluent furnishings and thoughtful amenities throughout, perfect after a day of exploration.

Guests can choose from a range of rooms to suit their individual needs, including VIP Rooms, which provide everything guests need for a free-spirited stay with amped up amenities, to suites like the All Access Pool View, offering spacious rooms with easy access to the Bungalow Pool Bar and restaurants, to the more elevated Platinum Suites, which even include a Swim Up option along with generous proportions and ample space to unwind and rejuvenate. The Platinum One Bedroom Suite is designed for the traveller seeking a spacious retreat offering the perfect blend of comfort and privacy.

Unlock the ultimate Hyde Bodrum experience with Headliner One Bedroom Suites and Villas. The Headliner Villa with Private Pool is perfect for an up-levelled Bodrum getaway featuring three bedrooms, a private pool, a lush garden, and breathtaking sea views with space to sprawl out, the Villa holds the key to an unforgettable Hyde stay.

 Restaurant and Bars

With five different restaurant and bar offerings, guests can enjoy global flavours and all-inclusive offerings from sunrise to sundown.

La Rebelle is a stylish Parisian inspired restaurant, celebrating the food and flavours of the French Riviera with a rebellious twist. Offerings include grilled calamari and Côte de Boeuf for food, along with the delectable Rebelle Rebel and Mauresque for cocktails.

Greater Palms serves up various cuisines and local specialties in a playful way featuring the Make Your Own Cocktail, Detox and Smoothie corners, plus à la minute cooking for freshly grilled food delights. Daily features include buffet selections, a recovery bar complete with vitamin-boosting ingredients, and a fruit-filled ice luge for guests to re-nourish after days spent partying away at the beach.

The Bungalow offers a vibrant all-day pool bar experience, blending the cosmopolitan flavours of Türkiye and the Mediterranean Coasts. Guests can enjoy sophisticated mixology that complements the local flavours found in the region that are artfully presented, including signature cocktails Pom Pommes and Recovery Spritz.

Hyde Beach is a vibrant destination offering an eclectic beat-filled atmosphere fused with its cool and laid-back vibe. With Hyde’s signature festival feel, Hyde Beach is the place to see and be seen, with a varied schedule of day parties, live music, and DJs.

Sun & Moon is all-day coffee and cocktail bar serving light bites and refreshing drinks with a focus on superior coffee, artisan patisserie, bright Mediterranean-inspired comfort foods, and local bar culture. The space evolves from serene mornings to seductive evenings with cocktails and local wines.

Entertainment Programme

At Hyde Bodrum, the entertainment has been curated with up-and-coming local musicians, wellness experiences and creative gatherings, inspired by the freedom of festivals – that feeling when the right music, people, and places come together to create a sense of belonging.

Anything can happen from laid-back sundowner sessions to pool party gigs that pulse with energy. Weekly events range from the hottest artists and DJs including HVMZA, Tuğçe & Santi, Aaron Sevilla, to more relaxing acoustic sets by musicians like Allen Hulsey.

The resort also offers a range of wellness experiences designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. Guests can embark on a journey of self-discovery with morning yoga sessions against or   practice breathwork therapy and aura readings for a state of inner balance and harmony.

For those seeking an artistic outlet, creative workshops led by resident artists provide the perfect opportunity to explore their artistic talents and embrace creativity. On Mondays, Hyde Beach is the perfect place to escape for an open-air, indie movie nights.

An All-Inclusive Experience

The first hotel within the Hyde series to offer an all-inclusive adults-only experience, Hyde Bodrum puts a fresh spin on the concept, cutting through conventional restrictions so that all elements of a guest’s stay are included within the room rate.

All-inclusive Hyde-style is immersive, granting limitless access to musical programming as well as holistic and wellbeing sessions including yoga, meditation, sound baths, chakra healing and aura readings. For fitness fanatics, a Pilates studio, gym facilities and yoga studio are located within the hotel’s central Courtyard.

 

 

 

The post Hyde Bodrum opens with 212 keys appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post The Meetings Industry Association exhibits at IMEX for first time appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

The Meetings Industry Association (mia) is exhibiting at IMEX Frankfurt for the first time in its history when it returns 14-16 May.  The trade association will be using Europe’s largest trade show for the global business meetings and events sector to raise the profile of its AIM accreditation to international buyers and industry peers.

Members joining the mia on its mia Pavilion stand throughout the three days include The Celtic Collection, ICC Wales and The Belfry Hotel and Resort.

The Meetings Industry Association’s chief executive Kerrin MacPhie said: “We’re delighted to be taking a stand for the first time at IMEX Frankfurt. By hosting the mia Pavilion – we’re not only offering our members a great cost-effective way to exhibit internationally but it’s a chance for the mia to share news with a global audience about our latest initiatives while helping to continue to spread the word about the range of quality venues and suppliers we have available in the UK.”

She added: “Attending trade shows like IMEX always provides a great opportunity for us to gain further intelligence on industry developments, challenges and opportunities. This helps inform and drive future mia activities as well as our quarterly state of the sector research mia Insights.”

The post The Meetings Industry Association exhibits at IMEX for first time appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Walk Japan launches the KYOTO: MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Walk Japan launches the Kyoto: Mountains to the Sea tour  exploring Kyoto Prefecture, a bucolic rural region, where the contrast with Kyoto’s urban  landscape could not be more stark. Yet, it is here that much of the sublime foods and crafts the city is famed for have been sourced for over a millennia. 

Kyoto: Mountains to the Sea is a fully-guided, eight-day tour that ventures through Kyoto’s  backcountry; a lovely countryside where the pace of life is still measured by seasons and a  multitude of colourful festivals throughout the year. Here, however, visitors, Japanese and  from overseas, are few and far between. 

The tour follows ancient trails, once vital for commerce and communication, that weave their  way through valleys and over high passes until culminating on the rugged Sea of Japan coast  at Amanohashidate, rightly considered one of Japan’s three classic vistas. En route, it passes  through little-known villages and aside historic temples and shrines, some grand and some  very rustic. Accommodation each night is in Japanese inns, where friendly hosts provide warm welcomes  and mouth-watering meals composed of locally-sourced and grown ingredients such as  Kyoyasai heirloom vegetables, Miyama ayu sweetfish, Tanba buri yellowtail, and saba mackerel. These are the self-same staples that are celebrated in the cuisine of Kyoto City’s  famed high-class ryokan inns and restaurants. 

The Kyoto: Mountains to the Sea tour is an eight-day, seven-night, fully-guided walking tour  for up to 12 participants starting in Kyoto City and concluding at Amanohashidate. Daily  walking distances range between eight to 16 kilometres following mountain trails and quiet  country lanes. A Level 4 tour, it is suitable for anyone who leads a reasonably active lifestyle.  Prices start from JPY430,000 Japanese yen based on double occupancy.  

. 

 

 

 

The post Walk Japan launches the KYOTO: MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Singapore Airlines Group orders sustainable aviation fuel from Neste appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group has signed an agreement with Neste to purchase 1,000 tonnes of neat Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. This will make SIA and Scoot, the two airlines in the Group, the first carriers to receive Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), produced at Neste’s refinery in the country, at Singapore Changi Airport.

Neste will blend the SAF with conventional jet fuel according to the required safety specifications, and deliver the blended jet fuel to Changi Airport’s fuel hydrant system in two batches – once in the second quarter of 2024 and once in the fourth quarter of this year. 

This milestone will also mark the first direct supply of Neste’s SAF to airlines at Changi Airport, reinforcing their end-to-end SAF supply chain capabilities in Singapore. This follows the completion of the expansion of Neste’s Singapore refinery in May 2023. The refinery has the capacity to produce a million tonnes of SAF each year, making it the world’s largest SAF production facility.

 Neste’s SAF, which is made from 100% renewable waste and residue raw materials, reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% over the fuel’s life cycle. 

Blended with conventional jet fuel, it seamlessly integrates with existing aircraft engines and fuelling infrastructure. 

Alexander Kueper, Vice President Renewable Aviation, Neste, said: “We are proud that Singapore Airlines and Scoot are our first customers benefiting from our integrated supply capabilities into Changi Airport. This supply of locally produced SAF to Changi Airport is a milestone in our journey of supporting the aviation industry and governments in the region to achieve their emissions reduction goals. Singapore is a leading aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific region and this delivery of SAF, as well as the recently announced national SAF target, will hopefully encourage the wider adoption of SAF across the broader Asia-Pacific region. We are looking forward to expanding our cooperation with Singapore Airlines as well as supplying visiting carriers at Changi Airport.”   

Lee Wen Fen, Chief Sustainability Officer, Singapore Airlines, said: “This agreement with Neste is an important milestone in the SIA Group’s journey to have a minimum of 5% sustainable aviation fuel in our total fuel uplift by 2030. Close collaboration with our partners and stakeholders, both in Singapore and globally, plays a critical role in our long-term decarbonisation goals. A more sustainable aviation industry will ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the global connectivity, economic prosperity, and people links that air travel fosters.”
 

Starting from May 2024, SIA will offer 1,000 SAF Book & Claim Units (BCUs) for purchase by its corporate travellers, shippers, and freight forwarders. Each BCU represents one tonne of neat SAF with its associated carbon dioxide reduction benefit. Purchasing SAF BCUs allows corporate travellers, shippers, and freight forwarders to claim the associated environmental benefits for flights related to their business travel and operations, validating the demand for SAF BCUs and supporting the development of the nascent SAF industry. The Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) Book & Claim system, a trusted industry standard, ensures the traceability and credibility of these transactions. 

 

 

 

The post Singapore Airlines Group orders sustainable aviation fuel from Neste appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Experiencing the ‘wellness’ culture in Koh Phangan Island, Thailand appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Koh Phangan Island is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist spots, the island is well known for scuba diving and snorkeling. Yet another boisterous night-long celebration, the Full Moon Party, which is tied to the lunar calendar, draws revelers to its southeastern peninsula. The island offers a plethora of opportunities for wellness, meditation and yoga.

Gary Marshall CEO, Brand TD by Travel Daily Media talks to Eddy Kukreja, Producer, Stayfly Studio Co. Ltd,  Koh Phangan Island  about the wellness and wellbeing Industry on Koh Phangan Island.

Brand TD by Travel Daily Media (Brand TD). How does the unique environment of Koh Phangan Island contribute to the overall wellness and well-being of its residents?

On Koh Phangan Island, the unique environment contributes to residents’ wellness and well-being, highlighted by the island’s natural beauty, community focus, and crystal composition, which enhances manifestation of wellness. There is a large local population and acceptance of expatriates, traditional practices, and cultural rituals.

In neighboring Koh Tao, Thailand, the wellness and cultural exchange scene is thriving, with a reputation also for world class diving.

Brand TD: The Full Moon Party is a well known and significant event, attracting many overseas visitors; however, what wellness initiatives or programs are currently in place on Koh Phangan Island to support the community’s mental and physical health?

I would like to emphasize the island’s spiritual side, including ecstatic dances and sound healing. Our Yoga culture is prevalent on the island, with daily practices and rituals considered essential for achieving wellness. Music has a way of creating healing power so we encourage and integrate local and expat musicians with uplifting performances.

Food and music are universal languages that promote wellness, with a focus on healthy eating and sound healing and at the same time taking care of the environment is always on the forefront of our minds as locals.

Sharing a family vibe, supporting each other, avoiding competition and confrontation is key to healthy living and I have noticed a more sharing and caring mentality in Koh Phangan Island post-COVID, with expats and locals bonding over food and music particularly.

Brand TD: Can you tell us about curating the wellness festival program to find a balance between spiritual practices and making events accessible to all community members.

Festival organizers aim to create a comfortable and inclusive environment for all. We research ways to better promote cultural events like Chakra to overseas visitors interested in local traditions. Our wellness festivals emphasize personal growth and community service and the residents of Koh Phangan Island value nature and community, with a focus on wellness and yoga.

We promote an emphasis on the importance of daily practice and lifestyle change in healing. Further integrate local Thai culture and traditions into annual wellness festival events to make all attendees feel comfortable.

 

The post Experiencing the ‘wellness’ culture in Koh Phangan Island, Thailand appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post WebBeds partners with TAT to unveil creative Bangkok destination videos at ATM appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

This proactive initiative with the Tourism Authority of Thailand marks the company’s latest strategic collaboration to stimulate travel all across the Asia Pacific region.

WebBeds, a global marketplace for the travel trade, has joined forces with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) once again to create a series of attractive and inspiring destination marketing videos that will highlight what’s new in Bangkok and stimulate inbound travel to Amazing Thailand.

The result of this strategic collaboration is a new series of 10 dazzling destination videos that showcase a diverse selection of activities and experiences in Bangkok, including what’s new and exciting in the Thai capital. The aim is to encourage visitors to rediscover Thailand and fall in love with this captivating country all over again. These uplifting videos follow eight distinct themes: Eat, Nourish, Play, See, Shop, Explore, Relive and Indulge.

Eat features the best places to savour Thailand’s world-famous cuisine, from street food to fine dining, while Nourish focuses on organic wellness, spa treatments, singing bowl therapies and yoga classes. Play highlights traditional cultural activities such as muay Thai boxing and local handicrafts, as well as Bangkok’s intriguing bars and clubs, and See showcases the city’s most eye-catching sights that are sure to illuminate Instagram!

Shop is dedicated to Bangkok’s amazing array of retail options, from iconic brands to mesmerising malls and markets, Explore uncovers the city’s rich cultural heritage, including its immersive museums, Relive reminds international travellers of their favourite attractions and activities, such as Chatuchak Market, and finally, Indulge focuses on newly opened five-star hotels and a fine dining cruise along the Chao Phraya River.

These videos will be aired for the first time at the Arabian Travel Mart in Dubai, which runs from 6-9 May 2024, and can also be viewed on WebBeds’ “Bangkok Unboxed” YouTube playlist. WebBeds will be providing all its partners with exclusive access to the content. To learn more, please reach out to our marketing team at apac.marketing@webbeds.com.

“We are delighted to be working with the TAT once again to provide a boost to Thailand’s tourism sector. With our ability to monitor global booking data, WebBeds is in a unique position to identify trends even before they occur. Due to our long-standing relationship, we were able to advise Thailand’s tourism authorities of potential opportunities and take proactive steps to capitalise on them. These marketing videos are the result of this collaboration, and we are very happy to work side-by-side with the TAT to ensure the continued strength of tourism in Thailand. We are always stronger when we work together,” said Daryl Lee, CEO, WebBeds.

“We are appreciative of WebBeds’ continued support and steadfast commitment to stimulating the travel industry, not only in Thailand but all around the world. In recent years, the planet has faced a series of challenges that have impacted the ability of destinations to attract tourists. Throughout these times, WebBeds – one of our key wholesale partners – has been ever-present, supporting the TAT with market analysis and creative efforts to drive demand. This video marketing campaign is the latest example of this highly beneficial partnership,” commented Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, TAT.

WebBeds and the TAT have enjoyed a long-standing relationship. Last year, the two partners came together to stage the IMPACT Summit, a high-level event in Bangkok which was attended by more than 900 travel and hospitality professionals, either in person or via a live stream.

WebBeds’ destination videos will now support the TAT in its efforts to achieve its full-year target of 35 million visitors in 2024, while positioning the kingdom’s tourism industry for a prosperous future.

 

The post WebBeds partners with TAT to unveil creative Bangkok destination videos at ATM appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Robust infrastructure and accessibility to provide impetus to ‘Wed in India’: Manisha Saxena appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Along with cultural aspects of India, the rapid infrastructure development happening across the country, especially improvement in accessibility thanks to number of airports getting doubled in last few years and improvement in digital and physical connectivity are aiding destination weddings across the world, said Manisha Saxena, IAS, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

She was speaking during the inaugural of 1st ‘Wed in India’ expo being organised from 5th May to 7th May, 2024 in at Rambagh Palace in Jaipur.

An initiative of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the ‘Wed in India’ expo is being organised jointly with Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) alongside the Great India Travel. It is also supported by Hotel and Restaurant Association of Rajasthan (HRAR), Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA) and Rajasthan Association of Tour Operators (RATO).

“With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural traditionswhich can actually invoke magic in weddings, Rajasthan along with Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Haryana, Kerala, and Goa are favourite destination for Wed-in-India. The Northeast is also fast emerging as a preferred destination especially the tea gardens of Assam, Darjeeling, Siliguri, Mizoram, and Manipur,” Manisha Saxena added.

Citing the experience of one of the G20 Tourism Group meetings held in Goa during India’s G20 Presidency, Saxena said, “We catered to all the ministerial delegates in a 500-years old house which keeps its 200 years old cutlery. India has several such kinds of assets. We, in the Ministry of Tourism, are in process of documenting this repository of assets both tangible and intangible.”

Delivering her address during inaugural session, Gayatri Rathore, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan said, “Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan is delighted to hold first ever ‘Wed in India’ expo. Rajasthan has long been a preferred destination for celebrity weddings due to its luxurious and opulent settings. The state’s magnificent palaces forts and havelis converted into luxury heritage hotels provide a regal backdrop for extravagant celebrations. Rajasthan’s world-class hospitality, traditional cuisines and vibrant entertainment create unforgettable experiences for the couples and their guests. ”

Setting the tone of the expo, Chetan Vohra, Chair, FICCI Wedding Tourism Taskforce & Managing Director, Wedding Line said, “Hospitality runs in the veins of every Indian and we were raised with one belief, to open our hearts and our homes to every guest as if they were God – something we call “Atithi Deva Bhavo”. The Wed in India summit is a testament to our commitment in making this dream a reality.”

Dipak Deva, Chairperson, FICCI Tourism & Culture Committee & Managing Director, Travel Corporation of India said, “This initiative shall act as an inclusive platform for the diverse stakeholders of the wedding tourism industry, including wedding planners, hoteliers, destination management companies, state governments and policymakers.”

Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI & CMD, Lalit Suri Hospitality Group said, “This expo is going to be a long way towards making it international. Besides Rajasthan, India has a lot of enticing wedding destinations which are equally beautiful and appealing.”

Sabbas Joesph, Past President, Event & Entertainment Management Association (EEMA) spoke at length about India’s charm, opportunities and challenges to make India world’s wedding destination.

Proposing the Vote of Thanks, S.K. Pathak, Secretary General, FICCI said, “Indians, both in the country and the diaspora globally, are getting more prosperous. Better to spend more in our own country to benefit our own people and economy. That’s why ‘Wed in India’ is a great initiative.”

During the inaugural session, a ‘Wed in India’ film titled ‘Say I do In India’ was premiered showcasing India’s enchanting destinations and architectural marvels for weddings which attracted huge applause by the audience.

With leading cities of Rajasthan, such as Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur already popular for wedding amongst Indians and foreigners, an audio-visual presentation titled ‘Romance in Rajasthan’ was played showcasing the potential of rural Rajasthan for wedding as well as honeymoon.

A number of panel discussions, including ‘India Awaits you: ‘Evaluating the readiness of India’s wedding ecosystem to face international competition’, ‘Local But Global: India in the NEWS’, ‘Session with International Wedding Planners’ and ‘Getting Inspired: Analyzing success stories and challenges’ are scheduled to take place during the day, wherein the experts will discuss India’s preparedness and opportunities for making India a wedding destination.

Policymakers, key players from the tourism and hospitality industry and tour operators from over 50 countries are participating in the ‘Wed in India’ expo.

It will have sessions on the readiness of India’s wedding ecosystem, dynamics of wedding tourism and its impact on India’s larger tourism industry as well as comparative study of national and international tourism destinations, a thought-leadership address, a roundtable with national and international wedding tourism stakeholders, networking dinner, and cultural evening.

Representatives of Tourism Boards from various states, including Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, too are participating alongside stalwarts from India’s tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors.

 

The post Robust infrastructure and accessibility to provide impetus to ‘Wed in India’: Manisha Saxena appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post ‘Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady hits the high seas in September 2025  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

 There’s a reason the world’s No. 1 cruise line named its fourth ship “Brilliant Lady.”  Richard Branson’s brilliantly disruptive travel company, Virgin Voyages, is making waves with the announcement and debut of its fourth vessel, Brilliant Lady. Hitting the high seas in September of 2025, this ship will embark on the ultimate cross-country sea trip with a series of longer itineraries up to 14 nights, unlike anything Virgin Voyages has offered before. For her inaugural season, Brilliant Lady’s North American Tour will feature highly requested homeports and iconic ports of calls like New York City to Bermuda and Canada, Los Angeles to Mexico, Miami to the ABC Islands, and Seattle to Alaska, along with one epic voyage through the Panama Canal.

Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin Group, said: “Virgin Voyages started as a simple idea for me and has blossomed into the world’s top cruise line with a full fleet of ships. This ship is going to be brilliant in every possible way, and that includes the incredible new places we can travel to. Alaska, LA, New York – here we come!”

As Virgin Voyages’ final vessel in its current fleet of Lady Ships, Brilliant Lady will carry through many of the signature touches Sailors have grown to know and love. Making its return are Virgin Voyages’ thoughtfully designed interior spaces, red balcony hammocks, 20+ award-winning eateries – everything from Korean BBQ to red hot Mexican food – a Happenings Cast in lieu of a traditional cruise director, and a collection of high-end wellness spaces ranging from a yoga perch with sweeping ocean views to a mermaid-inspired spa. What’s new, however, is the adapted frame, meaning Brilliant Lady is designed to sail through the Panama Canal and to navigate rugged new landscapes including the vast glaciers and fjords of Alaska.

Virgin Voyages’ CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu said: “The world has been waiting for us to announce Brilliant Lady’s debut, and she’s almost here. At Virgin Voyages, we’re constantly innovating and looking for opportunities to provide even better value for our Sailors with greater choice. Virgin fans have been asking for years if we’d consider sailing from places like New York, Los Angeles or Alaska, so it’s wonderful to give our Sailors and First Mates what they wanted: fresh itineraries spanning North America from 5- 14 nights in length with new experiences that they will remember forever. As the fourth and final ship in our fleet for now, Brilliant Lady will not disappoint.”

Like her sisters before her, Brilliant Lady will feature a beautiful new mermaid. Designed by Toronto-based illustrator Janice Sung, Brilliant Lady’s mermaid takes inspiration from both historic Renaissance paintings as well as traditional Japanese and Chinese art, fashion and beauty. Along with Brilliant Lady’s stunning and courageous new guardian, Virgin Voyages will slowly release details on all new dining and entertainment options available on its newest vessel.

Saverimuttu added, “We’re fortunate to see some of the highest repeat rates in the industry, proving that our Sailors truly fall in love with the on-board experience and understand the intrinsic value we offer. They know that stepping onboard a Virgin vessel means eating Michelin-inspired foods at no extra cost; awakening the senses during a complimentary morning yoga class; walking away fulfilled without feeling nickelled and dimed. We’ll always challenge ourselves to keep things fresh and exciting, and that starts with expanding into extraordinary new destinations, while simultaneously inviting new artists, chefs, and musicians to enhance that quintessential Virgin vibe.”

Commencing in September 2025 from New York City, Brilliant Lady’s epic inaugural season includes routes from:

New York City || September 2025 – October 2025

Five voyages from 5-13 nights || MerMaiden: September 5, 2025

Bringing it back to where it all started, Virgin Voyages kicks off the Brilliant Inaugural Season tour in the city that never sleeps. Following a premiere showcase for New Yorkers, Brilliant Lady will sail from Manhattan Cruise Terminal with itineraries ranging between five and 13 nights. The glittering archipelago of 100+ islets and cays await in Bermuda while Canada’s Quebec City shines for its charming European ambience, rich history and incredible architecture. Other new ports of call include Maine, Charleston, Boston, Halifax, and New Brunswick.

Miami || October 2025 – April 2026

17 voyages from 7-12 nights || MerMaiden: October 17, 2025

Warming up for the winter season, Brilliant Lady will embark on a collection of extended Caribbean getaways with options between seven and 12 nights. Sailing from the company’s LEED-gold Terminal V in Miami, the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire & Curaçao) in the Southern Caribbean, along with Cartagena, are standouts. Sailor favourites like Turks & Caicos, Antigua and Grand Cayman are back to delight, along with newcomer Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Its lush tropical rainforests, pearly shores and cascading waterfalls turned this small fishing village into Jamaica’s most coveted port.

Panama Canal Crossing || March 2026

One epic voyage for 16 nights

This crossing from Miami to Los Angeles spanning 16 nights is just one of several options in the brand’s Sea Change Series, what Virgin calls its legendary, bucket-list repositioning voyages. Departing on March 21, 2026, Brilliant Lady will say adios to Miami, sailing south towards Colombia and Panama before her eight-hour passage through the iconic Panama Canal. After a day at sea, Sailors can discover pura vida amid Costa Rica’s lush jungles before immersing themselves in the culture of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking Guatemala’s acclaimed Lake Atitlán. One final stop in Los Cabos takes Brilliant Lady to LA, arriving April 6th.

Los Angeles || April 2026 – May 2026

Four voyages from 5-8 nights || MerMaiden: April 7, 2026

While sunset used to refer to Virgin Voyages’ sailaway times and daily Moët happy hours at Richard’s Rooftop, now Sailors can cruise down Sunset Boulevard or catch Santa Monica’s famous orange skies when Brilliant Lady docks in LA. Five- to eight-night itineraries along Cali’s West Coast include calls in Baja California, Puerto Vallarta and San Diego. California’s coastal gems like Santa Barbara and Catalina Island put the classic Spanish architecture, golden beaches and waterfront promenades on full display.

Seattle || May 2026 – September 2026

Voyage details coming soon || MerMaiden: May 2026

Summer 2026 will take Brilliant Lady to the vast landscapes of Alaska’s woody shores. Wildlife is abundant, giving Sailors ample opportunities to spot some of America’s most elusive animals including bald eagles, orca, seals, bears and humpback whales. Departing from Seattle, Virgin Voyages will offer a mixture of itineraries from May through September.

Alaska Front(ier) of the Line Pass

Given the anticipated high demand for Alaskan voyages, starting May 8, 2024, Sailors can submit an early deposit to secure their priority window to book one of the limited Alaskan itineraries before they open to the public. Placeholders are $500 for Sea Terraces, $1,000 for RockStar Quarters and $2,500 for Mega RockStar Quarters.

Brilliant 4 You Pass

Following the overwhelming success of its Summer Season Pass – which sold out in less than 48 hours – Virgin Voyages is introducing a “Brilliant 4 You Pass” with unprecedented access to all of Brilliant Lady’s MerMaiden voyages. Digs in a RockStar Suite (Seriously Suite) are complemented by one Shore Thing per voyage. Possible options to range from fresh-water fishing in Alaska to a catamaran sail to Cabo’s famous Arch.

 

 

 

 

The post ‘Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady hits the high seas in September 2025  appeared first on Brand TD.

Source: traveldailymedia