The post Jumierah appoints Xander Labuschange as General Manager of Hospitality for Jumeirah Thanda Safari appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, has announced the appointment of Xander Labuschagne as General Manager of Hospitality for Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa.

Xander brings more than two decades of diverse hospitality experience, with a career spanning humanitarian work, luxury safari lodges, residences and international operations across South Africa, Botswana, UAE, and Europe. Most recently, he served as General Manager of Atzaro Cape Town – Boutique Hotel and was involved in Atzaro Okavango Camp in Botswana, overseeing procurement, operations, guest experience, commercial performance and project delivery.

In his new role, Xander will be responsible for the day-to-day hospitality operations of Jumeirah Thanda Safari and will play a key role in building on the property’s unique positioning while supporting the brand’s evolution through the delivery of distinctive and purposeful guest experiences.

In December 2024, Jumeirah announced its entry into Africa with the opening of Jumeirah Thanda Safari and Jumeirah Thanda Island in Tanzania.  The launch, in partnership with the Thanda Group, marks a significant milestone in Jumeirah’s growth journey, offering a distinct proposition and meaningful experiences for travellers rooted in culture and connection.

Located in one of Southern Africa’s private Big Five game reserves, Jumeirah Thanda Safari spans 16,500 hectares of wilderness in KwaZulu-Natal province. At its centre is The Royal Thanda Club Estate, a 386-hectare private, access-controlled enclave. The estate is home to The Royal Thanda Club at Jumeirah Thanda Safari and five branded Jumeirah Residences. These are also joined by Villa iZulu which sits within the wider game reserve. Guests can take part in game drives, bush walks, starlit dining experiences, and a junior ranger course for younger visitors. Guests also benefit from wildlife experiences guided by expert trackers and cultural programmes that reflect Zulu heritage, with 90% of its staff hailing from neighbouring communities.

Jumeirah Thanda Safari is involved in conservation and sustainability initiatives such as landscape rehabilitation, alien vegetation removal, cheetah breeding, and rhino protection through projects including Project Rhino KZN and the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. Through The Thanda Foundation Trust, it supports programmes such as Star for Life, a youth empowerment initiative that has reached over 500,000 young people in South Africa and Mafia Island in Tanzania. The reserve is accessible via King Shaka International Airport in Durban, with transfers by road or a one-hour helicopter flight directly into the reserve.

About Jumeirah

Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, operates an exceptional portfolio of 31 properties across the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa. In 1999, Jumeirah changed the face of luxury hospitality with the opening of the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and the brand is now renowned worldwide for its distinguished beachfront resorts, esteemed city hotels and luxury residences. From the contemporary Maldivian island paradise at Jumeirah Olhahali Island to the art-inspired Jumeirah Capri Palace in Italy and the modern twist on a British classic at Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London, the brand has become synonymous with warm and generous service and the ability to craft distinctive and purposeful experiences that bring joy to guests from across the world.

www.jumeirah.com
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The post “Seeking journey’s that forge connections”… Wegener decodes experiential travel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The way consumers are seeing travel has been changing, they are now looking for immersive experiences, understanding and being a part of the local cultures. Iconic landmarks no longer drive decision making. Destinations need to showcase the full spectrum of experiences that they offer. Mixing adventure, learning, healing and celebration. It’s a  paradigm shift from “I was there” to “I was changed there.”

Scott Wegener, Head of Asia Pacific at Tripadvisor, while addressing the audience during the opening keynote at ITB India 2025 shares more about Experiential Travel.

Postcards for the Soul

The search for meaning and transformation is redefining travel in 2025 and beyond. It is no longer just a trip it’s a postcard for the soul.  Wegener states: “Leisure travel is no longer about just buying holidays, flights, hotel stays. It’s about seeking journeys. So, what is experiential travel in 2025? It’s a shift from passive sightseeing to active engagement. It’s about immersing yourself in a local way of life, forging connections with people and truly understanding a place’s essence. Say goodbye to rushed itineraries and crowded bus tours and shallow checklists, say hello to slow travel. It’s about immersing yourself in the local way of life, forging connections with people and truly understanding a place’s essence.”

Key fundamentals of Experiential Travel

P is for personalization: Travellers are looking to curate an itinerary that aligns with their interests, whether it’s a pottery class in Jaipur for those that are interested in arts and crafts, or a home cooked meal in Hanoi for those who are interested in cooking, a wildlife trek in Sri Lanka for the more adventurous types, or maybe even a tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, for those that are into sports.

A is for Authenticity: Experiences must be genuine and true to the local culture. Travellers are after real culture, real rituals, real people, not staged for Instagram moments.

L is for the local interaction: Travellers are wanting to engage with local people, learn from local artisans, join a local festival, volunteer for a community project, even sit with the locals and simply have a chat over Chai.
S is sensory immersion: Travellers are looking to engage all of their senses. Taste a spicy wada pao in Mumbai, listen to local folk music in Jaipur. Inhale the aromas of the old Delhi spice market. See and maybe even wear vibrant sarees in Varanasi. Or touch and feel handmade crafts in Kolkata. Travel is now lived not just watched.

Travel used to be about collecting places, now it’s about collecting moments!

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The post IWTA interviews Francesca Giunti on “Homestays for change “ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

 

IWTA interviews Francesca Giunti on “Homestays for change”

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you know of any female leaders or up and coming superstars in the Travel and Hospitality industry you would like to hear their story, please visit our page and complete a nomination form!

 

NOMINATE SOMEONE

 

NOMINATE YOURSELF

 

 

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The post ITB India 2025 opens with 400+ exhibitors, 600 buyers and expected 8,000+ visitors appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

ITB India 2025 officially opens today at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, connecting international industry leaders with India’s booming tourism market.

ITB India 2025 has officially opened its doors today at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, bringing together a robust international presence and a curated conference agenda. The third in-person edition of the three-day B2B trade show and conference, co-located with MICE Show India and Travel Tech India, boasts more than 400 exhibitors and 600 high-calibre buyers, with over 8,000 trade visitors expected from MICE, Leisure, Corporate, and Travel Technology. Reflecting this momentum, the show will spotlight the surging demand for experience-driven travel, with a strong focus on wellness, culture, cinematic storytelling, and adventure tourism.

“ITB India 2025 demonstrates the vitality of the Indian and South Asian travel markets, serving as an essential platform for global engagement and collaboration,” said Darren Seah, Executive Director, Messe Berlin Asia Pacific and organiser of ITB India, MICE Show India, and Travel Tech India. “This year’s edition places a strong emphasis on experience-led travel while fostering fresh opportunities for dialogue, innovation, and partnerships across MICE, Corporate, Leisure, and Travel Technology. We are delighted to welcome our Official Partner States – Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh –whose participation brings India’s diversity and cultural depth to the forefront, further cementing ITB India’s position as a gateway to the future of travel.”

Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh Shine as Official Partner States at ITB India 2025

ITB India officially welcomes Madhya Pradesh Tourism, Chhattisgarh Tourism, and Andhra Pradesh Tourism as its esteemed Official Partner States. Their participation reflects ITB India’s strong commitment to showcasing the depth and diversity of India’s landscapes and cultural heritage, while positioning these states at the forefront as destinations offering authentic, immersive, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences.

International Participation on the Show Floor

This year’s edition welcomes strong participation from across the tourism value chain, bringing the global travel industry together under one roof. With NTOs, leading MICE companies, OTAs, hospitality brands, travel technology providers, and travel agents represented on the show floor, ITB India 2025 offers a comprehensive marketplace for meaningful networking, strategic collaboration, and business exchange.

Among this year’s key exhibitors are Wonderful Indonesia, Visit Northern Finland, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism Oman, Sarawak Tourism Board, Ha Noi Tourism Information and Promotion Centre, Destination 2 Italia, Fly24hrs, Galaxy Expeditions, Infiniti Software Solutions, Pearl Mara, Prince Hotels & Resorts, and VEGA Hotel and Convention Center.

 ITB India Conference 2025

Running alongside the exhibition, the ITB India Conference 2025 will deliver a dynamic programme across two stages with four curated tracks – Knowledge Theatre, MICE & Corporate, Travel Tech, and Experiential Travel. Featuring more than 40 sessions, the conference will provide actionable insights, thought leadership, and forward-looking strategies anchored in this year’s theme, as global industry leaders and decision-makers convene to address the pressing issues and opportunities shaping the future of travel.

Scott Wegener (Head of Asia Pacific at Tripadvisor) will deliver the opening keynote, highlighting South Asia’s pivotal role in shaping global tourism growth. Despite ongoing challenges around sustainability and workforce capacity, the region’s expanding middle class and rapid digitalisation are transforming traveller expectations and unlocking new opportunities for destinations worldwide.

The Knowledge Theatre will explore India’s rise as one of the most influential outbound travel markets globally, with tourism leaders from global destinations – such as Austria, France, Ras Al Khaimah and Switzerland – discussing strategies to capture this fast-growing market. A panel with Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel Limited will decode the evolving behaviours of Indian travellers across family, luxury, leisure, and corporate segments, while Nikhil Sharma from Radisson Hotel Group, will highlight how weddings and MICE are driving hospitality growth through personalisation, hybrid formats, and rising demand in Tier 2 and 3 cities.

The MICE & Corporate track will highlight how innovation, sustainability, and technology are reshaping events and business travel. Sessions feature Parveen Chander from IHCL on redefining hospitality for MICE, a panel with Asian Paints, CRISIL, Nayara Energy moderated by Vikash Kejriwal (SKIL Travel) on seamless, traveller-centric design, and a fireside chat with Deepesh Jethwani and Varun Mahajan from Tripjack on building proactive, personalised Duty of Care programmes for India’s fast-evolving corporate travel landscape.

The Travel Tech track will showcase how AI, analytics, and digital innovation are transforming the industry. A panel with thought leaders from Amadeus, RezLive.com, Skyscanner, and TBO.com will explore trends shaping the future of travel. Anurag Jain (RateGain) will reveal how hotels can streamline systems, harness AI, and accelerate sustainable growth in the digital era. Leaders from Musafir.com, Riya Tours & Travels, Volaron Tech (a TripJack subsidiary), and Zetexa Global will highlight how AI, airline distribution, and ancillary services are reshaping customer engagement and unlocking new revenue streams.

Experiential Travel Track will explore India’s shift from products to transformative journeys. Cruise industry leaders including Cordelia Cruises, MakeMyTrip, and StarDream Cruises India will discuss how cruising is moving mainstream, moderated by Buzz Travel Marketing, while panels on luxury expeditions with Cruise Professionals, Polarverse, STIC Travel Group, and Thomas Cook India spotlight small-ship and yacht experiences. A C-Suite talk with Vandana Vijay (Offbeat Tracks) will spotlight how authentic, purpose-driven travel can be created that will empower communities and delivers deeper, more meaningful experiences.

 

 

 

 

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The post DERTOUR completes acquisition of Hotelplan Group appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

DERTOUR Group completed the acquisition of four of the five business units of the Hotelplan Group, having received approval from the relevant authorities.

DERTOUR’s acquisition encompasses the whole of Hotelplan’s travel retail and tours business in Germany, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

However, Hotelplan’s holiday home specialist Interhome was taken over by another company: the HomeToGo Group.

Nevertheless, Hotelplan’s most popular and oldest brands have joined DERTOUR’s extensive tourism network which is comprised of 180 companies with a strength of 13,000 employees.

What next?

Thanks to the acquisition, the DERTOUR Group now takes pride in an extended selection of tour operator brands and specialist travel providers offering even broader range of travel options for guests.

According to DERTOUR chief executive Christoph Debus: “After months of intense preparation, the acquisition has now been completed. We would like to thank all teams involved who have worked tirelessly over the past few weeks to make this step possible. We are excited to officially welcome our colleagues from Hotelplan Group to the DERTOUR Group. This marks the beginning of growing together as a team, which we are approaching with great energy and a clear vision for further profitable growth.”

Debus added that the Group can now focus chiefly on the individual needs of travellers.

He said: “We want to inspire them with an even wider choice of offers. At the same time, we promise to continue to provide seamless, high-quality service. As an internationally renowned travel company and a subsidiary of REWE Group, we stand for a high level of reliability, excellence and professionalism.”

Changing of the guard

As Hotelplan’s UK holdings change hands, a change has also come for its leadership team as chief executive Joe Ponte steps down and hands over the reins.

In a post on professional networking site LinkedIn, Ponte stated that he will be pursuing new opportunities whilst turning over leadership to Francis Torilla.

As the outgoing CEO puts it, the acquisition marks not only a new beginning for the company, but also a new chapter for himself.

He said: “Leading Hotelplan UK over the past five years has been an absolute privilege, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved. More than any particular milestone, what I will remember most is the collaboration, dedication, and commitment of the people I’ve had the privilege to work with in our great businesses Explore Worldwide | B Corp, Inghams, Inntravel | B Corp and @Santa’s Lapland. I will always be proud of what we built together.”

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The post Thomas Reynaert takes charge of IATA’s global advocacy appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the appointment of Thomas Reynaert as its new senior vice-president for external affairs.

Reynaert’s appointment took effect yesterday, 1st September, and he will take charge of the Association’s global advocacy from its office in Brussels, Belgium.

Reynaert joins IATA from IBM where he held the post of vice-president for government and regulatory affairs from 2023.

IATA director-general Willie Walsh said of the new vice-president: “It is critical that governments understand the value aviation creates and the challenges that airlines face as they connect people and economies. Thomas brings knowledge and experience that will help IATA increase the effectiveness of our work with governments and regulators. Although Thomas will be based in Brussels with an immediate focus on EU matters, he will be responsible for leading IATA’s team of advocates globally, including in Washington and at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Together the IATA advocacy team’s goal is to make it easier for airlines to sustainably generate the economic and social benefits that governments, businesses and people depend on.”

Dedication to facing challenges

Reynaert has pointed out that today’s global airlines face many challenges.

He said: “Safely transporting five billion people and 3.2 percent of GDP each year is a modern miracle. While doing this critical work, airlines face the burden of onerous taxation, the imperative of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and the fragmentation of global standards with novel and potentially value-destroying approaches to everything from slots to passenger rights.”

With that in mind Reynaert willll be working with governments worldwide for a more productive regulatory environment.

In this refreshed scenario, airlines can efficiently compete and grow as they deliver the global connectivity that makes the world a better place.

 

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The post IWTA interviews Kiranjeet Kaur on “Hospitality Built on Values” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

 

IWTA interviews Kiranjeet Kaur on “Hospitality Built on Values”

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you know of any female leaders or up and coming superstars in the Travel and Hospitality industry you would like to hear their story, please visit our page and complete a nomination form!

 

NOMINATE SOMEONE

 

NOMINATE YOURSELF

 

 

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The post CBRE’s Dick Bernardi emphasises that good infrastructure is the backbone of tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

He highlights how sustainability, collaboration, and innovation can strengthen Indonesia’s travel and tourism industry.

Tourism and hospitality are amongst the most dynamic drivers of Indonesia’s economy, with innovation, sustainability, and guest experience at the core of its competitiveness. From infrastructure design to business strategies, the sector must adapt to global trends whilst protecting local culture and communities.

Offering his invaluable insights is Dick Bernardi, Head of Projects, Project Management, Indonesia at CBRE. With a background in mechanical engineering, he has broadened his expertise to encompass project management, business development, environmental sustainability, and finance.

He is certified as a mechanical engineer professional by LPJK and as a green building professional by both the International Finance Corporation of the World Bank Group and the Green Building Council Indonesia, reflecting his commitment to sustainable and innovative project delivery.

As a judge at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Indonesia, Bernardi discussed how sustainable projects, effective collaboration, and emerging trends can shape the future of the industry in Indonesia.

With your expertise in project management, how can well-designed and sustainable infrastructure projects enhance the growth and competitiveness of Indonesia’s travel and tourism sector?

Good infrastructure is the backbone of tourism. When projects are designed sustainably, they not only enhance visitor experiences but also protect Indonesia’s cultural and natural assets. This creates long-term value for investors, communities, and the destination itself—making Indonesia more competitive globally.

Which business development strategies have proven most effective in delivering successful tourism and hospitality projects?

Collaboration is key. Successful projects are built on early engagement with all stakeholders, including developers, operators, government, and local communities. Having a clear guest journey, backed by market insights, and the flexibility to adapt ensures lasting success.

What are the most effective ways to embed sustainability into tourism operations to create lasting benefits for destinations and communities?

Sustainability must be part of the DNA, not an afterthought. Standard practices like eco-friendly design and waste reduction are essential, but so is empowering local supply chains and communities. Education for both staff and guests creates long-term impact.

In your view, what elements define an exceptional customer experience in travel and hospitality?

Seamless service and genuine human touch. Guests want efficiency, but they also remember warmth, authenticity, and thoughtful design. In the end, it’s the people and small gestures that make a stay unforgettable.

Looking ahead, what emerging trends should Indonesian travel companies focus on to stay competitive?

Digital transformation and AI are reshaping the traveller journey. Wellness and sustainability are becoming decisive factors for travellers, especially younger ones. Domestic tourism is also growing fast—quality and authenticity will set the winners apart.

As a judge at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Indonesia, what key qualities will you prioritise when evaluating the nominees?

Innovation with measurable results, strong sustainability practices, and customer-centric thinking. I’ll also value collaboration and how projects inspire the wider industry. The best nominees will show how Indonesia can shine on the global stage.

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The post Banyan Group kicks off 100 Journeys to lead up to its 100th property appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global hospitality firm Banyan Group announced the launch of its celebratory programme 100 Journeys earlier today, 1st September.

100 Journeys encompasses a hundred days of global celebrations across the Group’s portfolio in the lead-up to the grand opening of its 100th property. 

This milestone reflects three decades of growth and purpose-driven hospitality, from the Group’s first resort in Phuket to 100 resorts and hotels under 12 brands across 20 destinations, including its latest landmark, Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree in Singapore.

Deputy chief executive Ho Ren Yung declared: “As we celebrate the Grand Opening of our 100th property later in November, 100 Journeys reflects how far we’ve come and how we’ve grown. It’s a tribute to the communities that shaped us and a promise to continue creating meaningful, place-led experiences that stay with our guests long after the journey ends. The Banyan experience has always been rooted in care: for people, for place, and for purpose. It redefines the value of travel as something measured in the lasting connections formed and new perspectives gained.”

Commemorating the people and places instrumental to success

Honouring the people, places, and communities that have shaped Banyan Group’s portfolio over the years, the celebrations will culminate in a week-long festival at Mandai Rainforest Resort from 27th November to 3rd December.

The festival’s highlights include discovery trails, wellbeing sessions, and community activities. 

Driven by Banyan Group’s commitment to stewardship and shared impact, and supported by the Group’s corporate partners, proceeds from the festival tickets will be matched 1:1 by Banyan Group and donated to the President’s Challenge, an annual initiative led by the President of Singapore to support local charities and social service organisations.

Celebrating the Banyan Group’s lasting impact

Slated from today until 9th December, 100 Journeys is a global celebration of shared stories, personal discoveries, and lasting impact shaped by guests, associates, and communities. 

Each destination invites travellers to engage in authentic cultural exchanges, make personal discoveries, and experience how thoughtful hospitality supports local communities, with every property contributing to a larger narrative of respectful exploration and collective storytelling.

Across its portfolio of resorts and hotels, Banyan Group has curated 100 experiences that immerse travellers in the culture and character of each location. 

Highlights include Tibetan black pottery-making at Banyan Tree Ringha, cooking local meals at Cassia Phuket, and practicing zen meditation at a temple near Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto. Guests may also explore ancient rock formations at Banyan Tree AlUla, stroll through Vietnam’s golden rice terraces at Garrya Mu Cang Chai, join bamboo rafting at Banyan Tree Yangshuo, or dive a sunken shipwreck in the Maldives at Dhawa Ihuru. 

At Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree, new nature and photography workshops celebrate Singapore’s biodiversity, while at Angsana Corfu, guided eco-walks through olive groves and historic trails invite guests to give back to nature through mindful conservation. 

Each discovery is crafted to spark curiosity, deepen cultural understanding, and inspire personal reflection. 

100 impacts of careful stewardship

Guided by the ethos of Embracing the Environment, Empowering People, Banyan Group integrates its business with natural and cultural heritage while building partnerships that create meaningful impact across its destinations. 

These efforts come to life through the voices of associates and communities who embody and advance this mission. 

In the Maldives, the refreshed Marine Lab engages guests in coral conservation and marine education. 

In China, the Group supports bird conservation near Banyan Tree Suzhou, where more than 170 species now thrive. 

On Bintan Island, over 5,800 sea turtles have been released since 2008, alongside guest-led rewilding tours.

The Group’s commitment extends beyond conservation. Initiatives include clean water access for villages near Banyan Tree Yangshuo, artisan collaborations through Banyan Tree Gallery, and youth mentorship via the Seedlings Programme, which equips young people with education and vocational skills. 

Through the Stay for Good initiative, guests are also encouraged to participate in community engagement that honours culture and fosters meaningful exchange.

As seen through the world’s eyes

At the heart of 100 Journeys are the voices of guests, associates, and communities. 

Through digital postcards and personal reflections, 100 Stories captures moments of transformation and connection that define the travel experience. 

From today till 9th December, guests are invited to contribute their own stories to this growing library of memories. 

A hundred submissions will be recognised with a US$100 Banyan Group e-gift card, and the top three storytellers will receive a complimentary three-day, two-night stay. 

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