The post September is Digital Detox Month at Devasom Khao Lak appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This September, Devasom Khao Lak Beach Resort  invites guests to step away from their screens and embrace a month of mindful living with its  dedicated Digital Detox Month.

Digital Detox at Devasom is a conscious break from constant connectivity wherein one can be freed from emails, notifications, and  endless scrolling by reconnecting with nature, culture, and self.

Guests are encouraged to engage in  screen-free activities and take part in curated experiences that promote awareness, relaxation, and  inner balance. 

By doing so, they can fully experience the beauty of  the present moment: from lush tropical gardens and golden shores to the calming rhythm of the sea.

What to expect

The event’s activity slate includes the following:

• Devasom Cultural Journey: Guided storytelling, Thai cooking classes, and immersive  visits to local temples and markets; 
• Nature-Based Activities: Kayaking through lagoons, cycling scenic paths, and barefoot  beach walks;
• Thai Gastronomy at Takola: Authentic Thai flavours crafted with heritage recipes and fresh  local ingredients;
• Mindful Wellness at Devasom Spa: Art of Thai and Asian healing, Himalayan Sound Bath,  and Aqua Sound Bath; and
• Sunset Rituals & Dining by the Sea: Laid-back luxury at Devasom Beach Grill | Bar, open  all day for poolside calm and oceanfront serenity.

Immerse your senses

Digital Detox Month also introduces a Sensory Calendar designed to awaken all five senses:

• Sight – Witness the Andaman’s endless blues and shifting light. 
• Taste – Mindful dining that celebrates herbs picked at dawn, today’s catch, and hand-ground  spices.
• Scent – Sunrise air, fresh teas, and dew-dropped leaves. 
• Sound – Aqua Sound Baths, Calm Music Therapy, and the natural rhythms of the sea. 
• Touch – The textures of Ikebana flower arranging, the breeze while kayaking, the grounding  flow of yoga. 

As part of its holistic approach to wellbeing, Devasom also encourages guests to make sleep a true  priority, not only during their stay but also as part of their daily lives. 

To support restorative rest, the  resort has created a specially curated Calm Playlist on Spotify, a mindful sound journey designed to calm the nervous system, promote deep relaxation, and guide listeners into a more restorative night’s sleep. 

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The post Royal Caribbean begins building fourth Icon Class vessel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Royal Caribbean celebrated a key milestone for an iconic new vacation vessel earlier this week.

The global cruise line held a keel-laying ceremony for the fourth addition to its Icon Class lineup at the Finnish shipyard Meyer Turku.

This milestone event heralded the beginning of construction on the ship and will continue until it makes its debut in 2027. 

Joining the ranks of Icon, Star and Legend of the Seas, the yet-to-be-named fourth Icon Class vacation will deliver more of the unmatched combination of experiences that defines the game-changing Icon Class. 

Each bold adventure brings together plenty of ways for every type of family and vacationers to make memories across adrenaline-pumping thrills and unmatched ways to chill, a variety of ways to dine and drink, and more.

First steps

At the celebration, the very first building block was put into the dry dock, where construction of the ship will take place. 

The teams at Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku sealed the deal and sought to draw in good fortune by placing a layer of freshly minted coins.

This was done before the keel, an enormous steel block, was lifted and placed.

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The post Chris Carter-Chapman is new event director for WTM London 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

RX’s World Travel Market London announced that it has named Chris Carter-Chapman as the new event director of WTM London.

WTM London is the world’s most influential travel and tourism event, and it is set to be staged at Excel London from 4th to 6thNovember.

He was appointed to the role previously held by Juliette Losardo, following her transition to RX Arabia. 

In this capacity, Carter-Chapman will report directly to RX UK’s travel portfolio director Jonathan Heastie.

A welcome addition to the team

According to Heastie: “I am excited to announce Chris’ appointment as we work towards WTM London 2025 which marks 45 years since our first WTM in 1980. He has a very successful track record in running B2B trade shows and conferences, and his achievements show that he has the commercial and management skills to lead the WTM London team as the tourism and travel sector goes from strength to strength. I look forward to working with him and the team to build on the growth and success we saw in 2024 and deliver an outstanding WTM London 2025.”

For his part, Carter-Chapman remarked: “I am delighted to be joining RX as the new Event Director for WTM London at what is an exciting point in its evolution. As the world’s most influential travel event, WTM plays a vital role in the lives of travel industry professionals across the globe.

Carter-Chapman added that he is acutely aware of the immense responsibility that comes with leading an event of WTM’s stature and the significant potential it holds for continued growth.

He said: “At RX, we place a strong emphasis on delivering value to our customers.  We are constantly listening to our event partners and attendees to ensure that every aspect of WTM London 2025 is tailored to meet their needs and objectives.” 

He further pointed out that WTM London’s venue, and the opportunities it offers is a key part of this, especially because Excel London’s latest phase of expansion will make it the largest integrated event space in Europe, enabling RX to host WTM on a scale not seen before.”

Carter-Chapman concluded by saying: “WTM London is an opportunity to celebrate global travel as a force for good and to exchange ideas on the next steps in our collective journey towards sustainable, experience-led tourism: a journey that is more important than ever in today’s complex and evolving international landscape. I am deeply privileged to be able to play a role in making this vision a reality.”

Meet Chris Carter-Chapman

Carter-Chapman joins WTM London after almost five years at event specialist Intelligence Squared and, before that, as Event Director at Centaur Media. 

An accomplished business leader, Carter-Chapman worked in the media and events industries in a variety of sectors over the past 15 years. 

He held several senior roles including as head of content, commercial director, and event director with experience of launching and running events across Europe, North America and South America. 

At Centaur, Carter-Chapman oversaw the marketing portfolio which included responsibility for two large-scale events, the Festival of Marketing and Marketing Week Live, as well as several one-day events.

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The post GST rate cut strengthens India’s travel sector with affordable stays appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Previous forecasts for travel and hospitality predicted positive growth which were disrupted by the Pahalgam Terror Attack on tourists, Indo Pak escalated tensions and the Air India crash. Just in time for the festive season the Govt has given succour to the hospitality and travel industry by slashing the GST rates.

The GST Council’s 56th meeting on 3rd September, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, announced key reforms to India’s indirect tax structure. Let us find out what the industry has to say…

Quality stays now more accessible to a wider base of Indian travellers

 Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group. Stated: “We appreciate the GST Council’s progressive step in rationalizing tax rates for hotel accommodation up to INR 7,500. This is a timely and welcome reform that will make quality stays more accessible to a wider base of Indian travellers and at the same time strengthen the country’s positioning as a high-potential tourism hub. By reducing the tax burden on mid-scale and upper mid-scale hotels, the government has unlocked new opportunities for stronger domestic travel, weekend leisure breaks, and business mobility – factors that are critical to the hospitality sector’s growth. This move reflects a deep understanding of industry dynamics and traveller aspirations, and we are confident it will accelerate momentum across the hospitality landscape while reinforcing India’s ambition of becoming one of the world’s leading travel destinations.”

More reform needed to make the framework more equitable

Dr. Sanjay Sethi, MD & CEO, Chalet Hotels Limited said: “The recent GST announcements are progressive and in line with the larger vision of nation building and sabka vikas. They will undoubtedly provide a positive impetus to the Indian economy. A big positive for Chalet and the hotel industry in general.

Placing room tariffs below INR7,500 in the 5% GST slab is a welcome step. At the same time, it is important to address a key concern for the smaller and budget hotels. Simultaneous withdrawal of Input Tax Credit (ITC) creates an unintended anomaly.

To ensure the intent of the reform is fully realised, I would urge three corrective measures:

1. Retain the benefit of ITC for this segment.
2. Revise the tariff threshold upward to INR12,000, with ITC, in line with current market dynamics.
3. Link future tariff thresholds to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), so that periodic resets are not required.

These changes will make the framework more equitable, growth-friendly, and aligned with the government’s vision for tourism as a driver of inclusive development.”

Rajesh Magow, Co-Founder and Group CEO, MakeMyTrip said: “The rationalisation of GST slabs is a welcome move that will act as a stimulus to the Indian economy by boosting discretionary income and fuelling consumption across sectors. For travel and tourism, the cut in GST on hotel rooms priced below INR7,500 will make stays more affordable for a large share of Indian travellers, reinforcing demand in the domestic market.”

This reform will directly boost tourism demand

K Syama Raju, President, FHRAI said: “We welcome the GST Council’s decision to simplify hotel room tariffs into two slabs of 5% and 12%. Reducing the tax on rooms up to INR7,500 to 5% will make Indian hotels more affordable and attractive to both domestic and international travellers. This reform will directly boost tourism demand, increase occupancy, and encourage more spending across the hospitality value chain. As a sector that already contributes over 5% to India’s GDP and is among the largest job creators, this step will further strengthen our role in driving economic growth, generating employment for youth and women, and enhancing India’s global competitiveness. We see this as a progressive move that will help Indian tourism achieve its true potential and contribute significantly to the Government’s Vision 2047. While the hotel industry had been requesting a 5% slab with input tax credit (ITC), as is the practice in several other countries, we believe that even this initiative by the GST Council will benefit the hospitality sector substantially.”

Healthier growth in the hospitality sector

Neha Kapoor, GM, Hyatt Place Gurgaon stated: “We welcome the government’s decision to slash the GST rate to 5% on room tariffs up to INR7,500. It makes quality hotel stays more affordable and accessible to a wider base of travellers while adding real value to their experience. We anticipate this change will translate into stronger demand and improved occupancy levels. Beyond the immediate benefits, it also paves the way for healthier growth in the hospitality sector, supports tourism, and strengthens the industry’s contribution to the economy.”

Reinforces the vital role of the mid-market segment in India’s tourism growth story

Perkin Rocha, Founder & CEO, ECKO Hotels & Resorts said: “We at Ecko Hotels & Resorts applaud the GST Council’s move to reduce the tax rate on hotel rooms priced up to INR7,500 per night from 12% (with input tax credit) to 5% (without ITC), effective September 22. This timely reform is poised to make quality accommodations more accessible to India’s growing domestic traveler base, particularly as we enter the festive and wedding season. While the removal of input tax credit presents operational challenges for hoteliers, this rationalization is an important step toward stimulating demand, boosting occupancy, and reinforcing the vital role of the mid-market segment in India’s tourism growth story.” 

Will help hoteliers increase occupancy across budget and mid-scale segments

Rikant Pittie, CEO and Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip stated: “The GST reforms effective September 22nd are transformative for India’s travel and tourism sector. The simplified tax regime, which has reduced the earlier four GST slabs to just two – 5% and 18% – will make travel more affordable for people and boost overall demand. The reduction to 5% GST on hotel rooms up to INR7,500 will not only encourage tourism but also help hoteliers increase occupancy across budget and mid-scale segments. These changes come at a perfect time ahead of the festive season and will significantly stimulate domestic tourism while bringing much-needed operational clarity to the industry.”

 Will encourage corporate travel to tier-2 and tier-3 cities

Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & MD, Cygnett Hotels and Resorts said: “”The GST overhaul marks a turning point for India’s hospitality sector. By reducing GST on hotel stays under INR7,500 to 5%, the government has effectively democratised travel. This will boost domestic tourism, encourage corporate travel to tier-2 and tier-3 cities, and improve occupancy for mid-scale hotels, which form the backbone of our industry. However, luxury hotels remain at 18%, which keeps India aligned with global practices, where premium stays are taxed at a higher rate. The challenge will be balancing this benefit with the loss of input tax credit (ITC), which could compress margins for some operators. Overall, the move signals a clear policy direction, making travel more affordable and inclusive, while still protecting the exclusivity of luxury experiences.”

Broadened affordability in domestic tourism

Sumit Mitruka, CEO and founder, Summit Hotels & Resorts stated: “The reforms announced at the 56th GST Council are far more than a matter of taxation; they represent a structural reset in the way India approaches housing, travel, and consumption. By placing mid-scale hotel accommodation within the 5% bracket, the government has significantly broadened affordability in domestic tourism, ensuring that demand in emerging destinations can flourish. At the same time, the simplification of GST for residential real estate,  through reduced construction costs and clearer slab structures, is poised to stimulate housing supply and bolster confidence, particularly across tier-II and tier-III cities.

Hospitality and real estate are inextricably linked: affordable housing underpins urban growth, whilst accessible travel fuels mobility and commerce. A streamlined GST regime allows these sectors to reinforce one another, creating a powerful multiplier effect on employment, consumption, and investment. The task before industry leaders now is to harness these efficiencies and translate them into greater value not only for guests and homeowners, but for the wider economy.” 

Lower room rates mean longer stays

Dinesh Yadav, Founder & MD of Fine Acers stated: “The decision to bring down GST from 12% with input credit to just 5% on hotel rooms priced under INR7,500 is a welcome move. This change will drive a wave of consumers, especially the mid-market travellers, who usually take a step back because of price considerations. Occupancy is projected to go up by 5%-7% in leisure markets and 3%-5% in business hubs, while revenue at large is expected to go up by at least 10%.
With increasing demand, there is positive pressure on businesses to improve consumer experience and provide better service, drive repeat consumers, increase loyalty programs and increase outreach to consumers from the Tier 2 and 3 markets. Moreover, it quite simply works for compliance and ensures lesser tax disputes that have been plaguing the sector for long. Lower room rates mean longer stays, thereby driving domestic tourism, building investor confidence.” 

Strengthens our commitment to ‘Make in India’ with ease in input costs

Ahmed Abdel Wahab, General Manager, Mars Wrigley India stated: “We welcome the GST Council’s decision to move a wide range of FMCG products, including chocolates, to the 5% tax slab. The reduction of GST on many raw materials from 12% or 18% down to 5% is also a significant relief that will ease input costs and strengthen supply chains for manufacturers like Mars Wrigley. This forward-looking reform comes at an ideal time during this festive season, helping make everyday treats more affordable for consumers preparing to celebrate. With these tax reductions, the industry can respond quickly – restoring value in packs, innovating new formats, and supporting retailers nationwide. Importantly, this step further strengthens our commitment to ‘Make in India’ by reinforcing trust in the government’s vision of creating a supportive manufacturing ecosystem and a mutually beneficial environment for all players to invest and grow. We believe this landmark step will empower the entire FMCG sector to deliver greater choice, freshness, and value for Indian families during this festive period and beyond.”

Airfares across both economy and business classes have become lighter

Hari Ganapathy, Co-founder of Pickyourtrail, said: “The government’s move to lower GST on flights and hotels is more than just a tax revision, it’s an invitation to travel. Airfares across both economy and business classes have become lighter, while the majority of hotel stays, which fall in the INR 1,000 – INR 7,500 bracket, now carry less tax weight. For everyday travellers, this directly translates into more accessible journeys.

When these savings flow through to travellers, the impact is immediate: a family may choose to stay an extra night, a business traveller might upgrade for comfort, and groups could explore new destinations without stretching budgets. Timed with India’s festive calendar and the busy travel months ahead, this step sets the stage for stronger demand both within the country and abroad.

When flights and stays become easier on the wallet, travellers are able to design journeys around experiences rather than compromises. That’s where the true benefit of this reform lies.”

Travel remains accessible

Mahesh Iyer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said: “At the Thomas Cook India Group, we welcome the Government’s simplification of the GST structure across sectors — from daily essentials and healthcare to education, electronics, automobiles as well as travel and hospitality. The elimination of the 12% slab and the lowering of several categories to the 5% bracket, marks a decisive shift towards boosting affordability and driving increased consumption. Additionally, the earlier income tax exemption for income up to Rs. 12 lakhs, coupled with this GST reduction, is expected to result in higher disposable income. For the travel and tourism industry, this is a very positive development across B2C & B2B segments.  With hotel tariffs up to INR7,500 per down to 5% from 12%, the domestic travel and tourism sector especially in the mid and upper-mid market stands to benefit significantly. Additionally, retaining economy airfares at the lower 5% slab, ensures that travel remains accessible. The reform thus delivers a two-pronged impact: directly, through lower GST rates on travel-related services, and indirectly, by enhancing consumer purchasing power via reduced rates across several consumption sectors – at a strategically opportune time, just ahead of the festive season.”

Sandeep Arora, Director, Brightsun Travel, India said: “We welcome the government’s decision to reduce the GST rates from 12% to 5% on budget hotels and economy flights, a relief to both travel industry and the consumer. This move will make travel more affordable and accessible to a large number of Indian travellers, boosting the domestic travel and encouraging more people to explore different destinations. We are excited to help customers take advantage of these savings and plan memorable trips without breaking the bank.”

Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Group stated: “The forthcoming GST changes, which will go into effect from September 22, 2025, will have a positive impact on the Indian residential, retail, and office real estate sectors.

Residential Real Estate

• Lower construction costs – Reduced GST on construction materials like cement can reduce construction costs by as much as 3-5%. Developers, especially those engages in creating affordable housing, will get major relief in terms of cash flows and margins. ANAROCK Research reveals that the affordable housing category (below Rs 40 lakh) has seen its share of total sales decline from 38% in 2019 to just 18% in 2024. The share of new supply dropped even more dramatically from 40% in 2019 to just 12% in H1 2025. The reduced construction costs, if passed on to homebuyers, can boost demand in these segments.

• Clearer taxation – The simplified GST structure does away with the old five-slab system and now has only two primary slabs of 5% and 18%, in addition to a 40% rate on luxury and so-called ‘sin goods’. The resultant pricing clarity will go a long way in improving overall consumer confidence. The simplified framework will make the tax implications of buying homes clearer and this clarity can potentially bring significant numbers of first-time buyers and fence-sitters to the market. This would have an especially notable impact in tier-II and tier-III cities.

Commercial Real Estate

Commercial real estate currently attracts 12% GST with Input Tax Credit (ITC) available. However, recent developments have complicated the landscape a bit. The elimination of ITC on commercial property leasing implies that developers will no longer be able to claim ITC on project-related costs. This retrospective amendment may increase operational costs and rental prices for office spaces and other commercial properties.

The Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM) for commercial property rentals by unregistered suppliers, which requires tenants rather than landlords to pay 18% GST on such rentals, adds compliance burden for businesses renting commercial spaces. 

Retail Real Estate

• Better project viability – The reduced GST on building materials will result in lower input costs for developers and help speed up the supply of retail real estate projects. Since shopping centres and retail complexes will now incur reduced construction costs, this may result in more competitive rental rates.

• Supply chain benefits – The GST rationalization will bring down logistics costs and help streamline supply chains, benefiting retail real estate operations. However, retail properties used for commercial purposes will continue to attract 18% GST on rental income.

Sector-Wide Boost

These reforms are major positive shift for the Indian real estate industry. Apart from improved transparent and ease of compliance, this simplified GST system will remove most classification confusion and disputes. Since developers will now face lower administrative burdens, they will be able to focus on what really matters – timely completion of projects and overall customer satisfaction – rather than on ways on means to save on taxes.

We can logically expect this major reform to attract more institutional investment into the Indian real estate sector, while also boosting housing supply across the country. The government is dovetailing these reforms with the festive season to maximize their positive impact on consumption. This is a major relief amid the ongoing macro-economic challenges and their impacts on sentiment and business outcomes.

The reforms are especially positive news for affordable housing. India currently has a shortfall of nearly 1 crore budget homes in urban markets, and this number could rise to 2.5 crore by 2030 without focused interventions. These GST reforms bring lower construction costs and improved ease of compliance, which can go a long way towards reversing this trend making homeownership more accessible to middle-class families.”

 

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The post VNGOS 2025 to be held for the first time from 30-31st Oct, 2025, at Laguna Lăng Cô Resort, Hue City in Vietnam appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Vietnam Golf Course Owners Summit 2025 (VNGOS 2025), focusing on the sustainable development of golf tourism and the golf economy in Vietnam, will be held for the first time on 30 – 31, October 2025, at Laguna Lăng Cô Resort, Hue City. This event opens a new chapter in the development of golf tourism and the golf economy in Vietnam. The summit is considered a foundational milestone for the 2025-2030 period, while also setting a broader vision for 2040, affirming golf as a strategic driver within the national tourism ecosystem.

For the first time, golf course owners, government leaders, international experts, and global partners will converge in an official forum to unify their vision, build development standards, and establish long-term directions for the industry. The summit is expected to become a significant milestone, contributing to Vietnam’s rise as a leading golf destination in the region, while also opening new cooperation opportunities between the fields of sports, tourism, and the economy.

The event is governed by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Hue City People’s Committee. It is supported by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, Vietnam Sports Administration, Hue City Department of Culture, Sports, and the Hue City Department of Tourism, with 54 The Global Sports and Entertainment Agency serving as the managing and executing organization. This event will be a key part of Wellness Tourism Week, within the framework of the National Tourism Year in Hue 2025 – Vietnam Golf Festival.

Marking 65 years of tourism development (1960–2025), Vietnam welcomed nearly 14 million international visitors in the first 8 months of the year, a 21% increase compared to 2024. In this growth context, golf tourism has become a key product, attracting luxury visitors, extending their stays, boosting spending, and creating a ripple effect on the local economy—covering accommodation, cuisine, commerce, real estate, and employment. To capitalize on this potential, Vietnam’s golf industry needs to standardize services, align infrastructure, and develop a sustainable strategic plan. Vietnam Golf Course Owners Summit 2025 was created to meet this urgent need and provide a unified vision forum for the entire industry.

Greg Norman, Vietnam’s Tourism Ambassador for the 2025 – 2030 term, who will also attend the event, shared: “Vietnam offers an unparalleled blend of world-class golf courses, natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local hospitality. Now is the time for golf course owners and industry stakeholders from across the public and private sectors to unite in growing and promoting this one-of-a-kind destination to the world. With the focus first and foremost on long-term sustainability, this summit will be a milestone event as Vietnam embraces the potential of golf as an economic driver and tourism anchor.”

The summit content will focus on strategic topics: promoting inbound golf tourism; positioning Vietnam as a leading golf destination in Asia; unifying sustainable environmental development standards; discussing the development roadmap and future of 100 new golf courses; discussing preferential investment policies, public-private partnerships, and FDI models for comprehensive development; and laying the foundation for establishing the Vietnam Golf Course Owners Alliance.

Additionally, the summit will introduce and discuss the Vietnam National Golf Star-Rating System, a groundbreaking initiative designed to standardize service quality, enhance golfer experience, and strengthen Vietnam’s competitiveness on the international golf map.

Jed Moore, Group CEO – 54, stated: “We are honored to be entrusted with implementing this event. We see VNGOS 2025 as a catalyst to elevate Vietnam’s golf industry. This forum is where service standards will be shaped, public-private partnerships will be fostered, and high-quality investment will be attracted, aiming toward a professional, sustainable golf ecosystem deeply integrated with the international market.”

VNGOS 2025 also serves as an opportunity to position Hue as a strategic golf hub, where heritage, resorts, and sports converge in its five-year development journey.

In addition to the main summit sessions, the event will feature a Gala Dinner and the Vietnam Golf Industry Awards. Following this, from November 1 – 2, the Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF) will hold its conference and golf tournament at Laguna Lăng Cô Golf Club.

Laguna Lăng Cô Golf Resort, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, is renowned for harmonizing natural terrain with environmental preservation, making it the ideal venue for a sustainability-focused summit. Greg Norman, Vietnam’s Tourism Ambassador for the 2025 – 2030 term, who will also attend the event, shared, Jed Moore, Group CEO – 54

 

 

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The post Hurtigruten Appoints Lisa Warner as New Chief Marketing & Digital Officer appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hurtigruten has announced the appointment of Lisa Warner as its new Chief Marketing & Digital Officer (CMDO). Lisa joins Hurtigruten with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, having held senior leadership positions with Saga Travel Group, Abercrombie & Kent, Cox & Kings, G Adventures and Trailfinders. Drawing on her extensive background in global marketing, digital transformation, and customer experience, Lisa will lead Hurtigruten’s marketing and digital strategy, reinforcing the brand’s position on the Norwegian coast, while driving growth across international markets and engaging key global customer groups.

“We are delighted to welcome Lisa into the newly created role of Chief Marketing & Digital Officer, bringing a wealth of knowledge from leading global travel brands. She joins us at a time when demand for authentic travel is accelerating, and her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our brand in Norway, driving international growth, and inspiring travellers worldwide with unforgettable journeys along the Norwegian coast,” said Hedda Felin, Chief Executive Officer of Hurtigruten.

“I’m excited to join this incredible company that connects travellers to Norway in such an authentic and immersive way. We have a real opportunity to build on our rich 132-year history and powerful storytelling to grow this iconic Norwegian brand into a globally recognised name and small cruise line of choice,” commented Warner. “What excites me most is working with the team to harness data, insights and technology to elevate the customer experience and unique journeys we offer.”

Following the announcement of impressive results for H1 2025, Lisa’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Hurtigruten as the company reinforces its commitment to innovation and growth. Her leadership will help enhance Hurtigruten’s digital capabilities, elevate the guest experience, and extend the reach of its iconic coastal voyages to travellers around the world.

 

 

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The post Trip.com Launches Free Layover Tour Service in Hong Kong for Long Haul Travellers appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

To improve the experience for long-haul travellers transiting through Asia and following the success of its Shanghai Express and Beijing Express free layover tours, Trip.com, has announced the launch of its brand-new “Free Layover Tour Service” in Hong Kong, including transport and tour guides. This service is designed for international long-haul travellers transiting through Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) with layovers of seven hours or more.

The Free Layover Tour Service offers six curated routes all with transport and an English-speaking guide, three of which are free, perfect for travellers looking to explore more of Asia without breaking the bank. Travellers do not need to have booked any element of their holiday with Trip.com in order to partake. The layover tours can be booked for free via the Trip.com mobile app or official website or register on-site at the airport to embark on a short journey into the heart of Hong Kong’s vibrant culture.

Andy Washington, General Manager for Europe says: “Travelling with a layover is a fantastic way to fit even more culture and discovery into your trip. Trip.com is dedicated to opening up travel without breaking the bank, and the Hong Kong Free Layover Tour Service is the perfect way for Brits to discover more of Asia and soak up the city’s unique charm with total ease and peace of mind that they won’t miss their next flight.”

Six Curated Routes, Three Free Tours Now Open for Registration 

The free layover tour features three curated routes, showcasing Hong Kong’s nostalgic cityscapes, natural beauty, and vibrant nocturnal arts scene. To further enhance the traveller experience, Trip.com has introduced three premium paid itineraries, offering deeper exploration of Lantau Island and the traditional fishing village of Tai O — revealing the city’s rich cultural diversity. All routes are selected from Trip.com’s Trip.Best rankings, powered by AI analysis of real user reviews, ratings, and booking data to highlight the city’s most iconic attractions.

Each tour is scheduled to align with peak transit hours, allowing transit passengers to make the most of their time in Hong Kong. Travellers can enjoy hassle-free transport, expert English-speaking guides, and all the essentials taken care of — all arranged and fully funded by Trip.com. Best of all, the entire experience is completely free for passengers, with no planning stress, no hidden costs. Simply travel light, hop on board, and take in the vibrant sights of Hong Kong.

Three Free Itineraries

Tour Name	Time	Dates & Frequency	Highlights
Serenity & Stories: A Harmony Journey	09:00 – 13:00	December: Daily departures	Ideal for families – Visit Inspiration Lake near Disneyland and Ma Wan Village for a peaceful blend of nature and history.
Heritage and Local Lifestyle Citywalk	12:00 – 16:00	From 5 Sep: Daily departures	Explore the Pei Ho Street Market in Sham Shui Po and visits the iconic Wong Tai Sin Temple.
Victoria & West Kowloon Waterfront Journey	17:30 – 21:30	From 5 Sep: Daily departures	Tour the West Kowloon Cultural District and Avenue of Stars, enjoying the fusion of cinematic heritage and harbour night views.

Three Premium Itineraries (advance booking required by 12:00 noon the day before; minimum 6 participants):

Tour Name	Time	Dates	Highlights
Lantau Island Half-Day Tour	10:00 – 15:00	From 5 Sep: Daily departures	Ride the award-winning Ngong Ping 360 cable car, visit the Big Buddha, Ngong Ping Village, and Wisdom Path.
The Peak Half-Day Tour	14:00 – 20:00	From 5 Sep: Daily departures	Explore colonial architecture at Stanley Police Station and Murray House, then ascend Victoria Peak via the Peak Tram.
Tai O Water Village Tour	10:00 – 15:00	From 5 Sep: Daily departures	Discover century-old stilt houses and the charm of Hong Kong’s traditional fishing village.

Top transit routes from the UK with layovers in Hong Kong

Trip.com data shows that UK travellers are turning to Asia-Pacific in record numbers this year.

The three most booked routes from the UK to the region are London–Bangkok, London–Hong Kong and London–Manila, reflecting both popularity and rapid year-on-year growth (+37%, +46% and +60% respectively).

Beyond the top three, Japan and China are also driving demand, with London–Tokyo (+53%), London–Shanghai (+52%) and London–Beijing (+66%) all ranking among the most popular routes. With Thailand already in the lead, this confirms that China, Japan and Thailand remain cornerstone destinations for UK travellers.

Hong Kong stands out with a dual role — ranking as the second most booked Asian destination after Bangkok, while also acting as a key gateway hub.

Stopover data highlights the impact: UK–Thailand bookings routed via Hong Kong are up 96% year on year.

To better understand which air routes will best benefit from the Hong Kong Free Layover Tours, Trip.com has collated a list of its top ten most booked transit routes from the UK with layovers in Hong Kong in 2025:

1. London-Manila
2. London-Tokyo
3. London-Bangkok
4. London-Taipei
5. London-Sydney
6. London-Osaka
7. London-Cebu
8. London-Hanoi
9. London-Bali
10. Manchester-Bangkok 

How to register: 

Traveller can choose a suitable itinerary based on their arrival and layover time. Booking is available now via the Trip.com mobile app, official website, or in person at HKIA’s transit counters E134 and E135 and Trip.com Travel Services Counter (A03 and A04) in Arrival Hall A.

After clearing immigration, participants will meet their guide at Trip.com Commercial Services Counter. Each tour accommodates up to 20 guests, lasts approximately four hours, and includes thoughtful airport transfer arrangements. Upon completion, participants will receive a fast-track pass to re-enter the restricted area and seamlessly connect to their onward flight.

 

 

 

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The post Emirates to extend Premium Economy to all A380 services to New York appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has announced that its A380 services to New York JFK will all feature four cabin classes, including the award-winning Premium Economy cabin. In addition, Emirates’ other daily services via Milan, operating as EK205/206, will feature the signature Premium Economy experience from 10 November. Customers travelling between Dubai and Milan will now have the freedom to select Premium Economy seats from two daily flights, including its other service on EK091/092.

The new upgrades to Emirates’ Dubai – New York service will complement flights EK203/204, which already serve customers daily with the Premium Economy cabin, promising exceptional levels of comfort on long-haul journeys.

Tickets in Premium Economy can be booked immediately on emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via both online and offline travel agents as well as at Emirates retail stores.

The re-configured A380 aircraft to operate as EK201/202 and EK205/206 will offer seats in First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy Class, providing expanded options for customers to choose from, whether travelling for business or leisure.

These additions will expand Emirates’ network of destinations offering Premium Economy on its fleet of A380s, B777s and A350 aircraft to 68 global points by March 2026, underscoring the airline’s commitment to investing in the very best customer experience in the sky and adding more premium cabin options, consistency and choice across geographies.

Emirates’ latest cabin features onboard the four-class A380 are available on key routes to Australasia and Asia including Sydney, Singapore, Osaka, Mumbai, Bangalore, and more.

On a four-class Emirates A380, the Premium Economy cabin is located at the front of the main deck with 56 seats laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration. Each seat offers generous pitch and width for working and relaxing, as well as customised features like in-seat charging points and a side cocktail table. The onboard experience is rounded off with meticulously selected in-flight amenities, a curated menu, and extensive beverage options, including the Chandon Vintage Brut 2016, a global exclusive to Emirates Premium Economy passengers.

 

 

 

 

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The post Travelex renews tenure at Muscat International Airport appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Foreign exchange brand Travelex has renewed its contract with Muscat International Airport (MCT), extending its 22-year presence in Oman for a further five years. Travelex will now be the only airside foreign exchange operator in Muscat International, the first for any foreign exchange provider in the airport.

Alongside winning the extension, Travelex has opened four new stores at Muscat International across the departure and arrival terminals. Travelex now has nine locations including traditional and ‘on-the-move’ mobile stores, catering to passenger demand throughout the airport.

Batu Dölay, Managing Director, Travelex Middle East and Türkiye, said: “We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Muscat International Airport, and will build on the 20 years of experience we have in the region to continue to serve the millions of travellers who transit through the hub. Today’s travellers expect convenient access to travel money, and our store locations enable customers to purchase travel money at a time and place that suits them.”

Travelex has also welcomed 15 new Omani colleagues to support its expansion across Muscat International.

“Travelex is proud to welcome 15 talented Omani colleagues to our team at Muscat International Airport, reflecting our commitment to nurturing local talent and contributing to the growth of Oman’s financial services sector.” Dölay added.

Travellers can purchase over 20 currencies from Travelex at its Muscat International stores on their day of travel or collect pre-ordered cash from the Travelex website. Travelex also operates a remittance service in the region, enabling international money transfers to over 350,000 payout and bank locations which customers can do directly instore at the airport. In April 2025, Muscat International Airport reported a 9% on-year increase in passenger numbers. Oman has stated it plans to invest $31 billion in its tourism sector by 2040 to attract more international visitors.

Ahmed Al Amry, CEO of Oman Airports, said: “We are pleased to extend our long-standing partnership with Travelex, a trusted brand serving our passengers for many years. This renewal reflects our commitment to enhancing the travel experience at Muscat International Airport by offering high-quality, convenient services to our passengers. Such collaborations play a vital role in providing world-class airport services and contributing to the nation’s economic growth.”

 

 

 

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The post Qatar Airways to Welcome The Red Sea to its Global Network appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Qatar Airways announces the upcoming launch of operations at The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia with three weekly flights from 21 October 2025, making it the 12th destination in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to be served by the airline.  Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Qatar Airways’ addition of The Red Sea route to our global network is yet another example of our dedication to providing diverse destinations that the discerning global traveller demands. The Red Sea – our 12th destination in Saudi Arabia – offers a wide range of distinct and enriching Middle East experiences. With this announcement, these travel experiences are now accessible with the World’s Best Airline through our award-winning hub – Hamad International Airport.”

Red Sea Global Group CEO, John Pagano, said: “The launch of these new flights with Qatar Airways is a significant step in our journey to establishing The Red Sea as a premier luxury destination on the world stage. As we continue to open more hotels and attractions, this route makes it easier than ever for travellers to experience unparalleled luxury, explore the rich local Saudi culture, and learn about our pioneering regenerative tourism approach.”

The new route is set to open greater regional connectivity and boost travel from Asia and Europe to Saudi Arabia, making Qatar Airways the only airline connecting The Red Sea to more than 170 global destinations. Additionally, the World’s Best Airline, as voted by Skytrax in 2025, operates more than 130 weekly flights across Saudi Arabia, offering passengers from six continents seamless access to the Kingdom’s incredible destinations.

The Red Sea offers more than 90 pristine islands, rugged canyons, ancient landscapes, and one of the largest barrier reef systems in the world to travellers seeking wellness, adventure, history, and scenic getaways. It now counts five luxury hotels that are open and welcoming guests. This year Shura Island, the heart of The Red Sea, will begin opening the first of its 11 resorts, as well as an 18-hole championship golf course, dining and retail options, signature experiences and cultural programming.

Qatar Airways’ inaugural flight will take place on 21 October 2025:

Doha (DOH) to The Red Sea (RSI) – Flight QR1226: Departure 09:15; Arrival 12:15
The Red Sea (RSI) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR1227: Departure 14:15; Arrival 16:45

Qatar Airways flights will depart every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday:

Doha (DOH) to The Red Sea (RSI) – Flight QR1226: Departure 07:45; Arrival 10:45
The Red Sea (RSI) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR1227: Departure 11:45; Arrival 14:15

The Red Sea International Airport is architecturally inspired by its desert environment. The airport aims to serve over a million passengers per year by 2030. Since its launch in 2023, the Red Sea International Airport has been operated by daa International.

 

 

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