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Philippines secures over US$21 million in leads at Arabian Travel Market
The Philippines secured more than US$21 million in sales leads during its participation at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. In a news release issued by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) on Monday, 19th May, the Philippine delegation led by now-former tourism secretary Christina Frasco showcased the Southeast Asian nation’s rich culture, natural beauty, and diverse tourism offerings. During the opening of the Philippine Pavilion, Frasco expressed the country's readiness to welcome more visitors from all over the world, including those from the Middle East and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. She declared: "The Philippines is a nation on the rise, a country of 7,641 islands, each a doorway to beauty, opportunity, and connection; it is a destination where travelers from the Middle East and the GCC find not just luxury, but belonging. The Middle East and GCC are not just important markets for us, they are true partners in building a future of sustainable, inclusive, and meaningful tourism.” Significantly higher than last year The TPB said that the sales leads generated from ATM 2025 show an increase of 233 percent from last year. This was construed as proof of renewed global confidence in the Philippine tourism sector, and likewise symbolises the highest sales achievement ever from this event. Representatives from a wide range of Filipino travel and hospitality businesses joined the delegation, including travel agencies, resorts, hotels, and airlines. Also present during the event were special envoy for trade and investments Kathryna Yu-Pimentel and special envoy for culture and the arts Karen Santos. This collective presence leveraged ATM as a platform to expand market access and showcase the Philippines as a top-tier tourism and investment destination. Furthermore, the country’s participation demonstrated its strong presence in the global tourism arena, showing promising opportunities for inbound travel from key markets. TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Nograles said high-value business meetings were also conducted at the Philippine Pavilion throughout the four-day exhibition. She said these meetings forged new partnerships focused on the tourism sector stakeholders, such as those offering beach leisure, family holidays, and halal tourism to travelers from the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Asia, and other regions. Nograles said: “We recognise the Middle East as a dynamic market seeking enriching family experiences and authentic cultural immersion. To meet this demand, our Philippine delegation is ready to curate unique journeys for different kinds of travelers in the Middle East and to promote the dynamic destinations found within our 7,641 islands.”
Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Nidhi Berry as Commercial Director
Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru announces the appointment of Nidhi Berry as its new Commercial Director. With over two decades of distinguished experience across India’s premier hospitality brands, Nidhi brings a nuanced understanding of the country’s dynamic travel landscape, coupled with a strategic commercial acumen and an empathetic, people-centric leadership style. Her appointment marks a significant step forward in the luxury major’s journey, perfectly mirroring the brand’s ethos of intuitive luxury and heartfelt hospitality. “Nidhi’s appointment marks an exciting chapter,” says Biswajiy Chakraborty, General Manager. “Her strategic clarity, authentic leadership style, and nuanced understanding of the luxury hospitality landscape make her an exceptional addition to our executive team. With a proven track record across key markets and a sharp commercial instinct, Nidhi is positioned to lead our commercial efforts with both precision and purpose.” Among her notable accomplishments, Nidhi played a pivotal role in securing the Vande Bharat business for hotels during the first wave of the pandemic—an achievement that ensured 80% of the segment’s market share remained with her properties. She also led the seamless rollout of key platforms such as CRS SynXis, Opera PMS, and IDeaS RMS across multiple hotel chains—bringing in both innovation and efficiency at scale. Her work has been recognised with multiple accolades, including being named Best Sales Person of the Year, and she holds a Gold Certification as an assessor for the Tata Business Excellence Model. Since joining Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru in July 2024 as Director of Revenue Management and Yield, Nidhi has played a pivotal role in crafting the hotel’s commercial strategy. In her expanded capacity as Commercial Director, she will now oversee Sales, Marketing, Revenue Management, and Reservations—bringing a unified, strategic vision to the hotel’s growth trajectory and market positioning.
Qatar Airways Group profit grows by more than 28% to over QAR7.85bn (US$2.15bn)
Qatar Airways Group has announced the strongest set of financial results in its history. Profits for the Group, which includes cargo, catering and Qatar Duty Free, reached QAR7.85bn (US$2.15bn) in the 24/25 fiscal year – an increase of more than QAR1.7bn (US$0.5bn) on the year before. Qatar Airways Cargo shows 17% in growth Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading cargo carrier, has delivered a remarkable financial performance, recording a 17% growth in revenue and achieving the best financial results since the COVID period. This is attributed to its agility in adapting to shifting market conditions, a focus on investing in digitalisation, deeper data-driven analyses, and its best-in-class reliability. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “These record-breaking results are a testament to the hard work, skill and dedication of teams across all of Qatar Airways Group. I know that none of the outstanding results we’re announcing today would be possible without our people – more than 55,000 of them across the globe - and it’s our focus on fostering that talent, which has been a core focus of our Qatar Airways 2.0 strategy. “We have also successfully implemented strategic partnerships throughout the industry, in order for the Group to remain agile in the face of ever-shifting world events, whether political, economic or environmental. “All of this means we continue to offer and develop exceptional service in the skies, whether it’s the award-winning Qsuite, fine dining, or super-fast complimentary Starlink internet connectivity for all passengers.” Key achievements of Qatar Airways Group over the last financial year include: Record-breaking 28% increase in profit in 24/25 financial year. Expansion of Hamad International Airport, enabling it to cater for 65m passengers annually. First global airline, and first in MENA region, to install Starlink super-fast WiFi on its Boeing 777 fleet. 25% minority stake in Virgin Australia. 25% acquisition of South African premier regional airline, Airlink. Introduction of conversational AI into its world-first digital cabin crew, Sama. A range of technical MoUs future-proofing and diversifying the business across the sector, as well as working to fulfil the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030. Looking ahead, Qatar Airways also recently made historic aircraft and engine orders, ensuring that its already modern and technologically-advanced fleet remains at the forefront of commercial aviation, providing world-leading service to passengers across the globe.
Preferred Hotels & Resorts Announces 2025 GIFTTS Pineapple Award Winners at 2025 Global Conference in Singapore
Preferred Hotels & Resorts announces Rosen Hotels & Resorts, Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa, Kasbah Tamadot, and Inn by The Sea as the winners of the 2025 GIFTTS Pineapple Awards. As a key event of the 2025 Preferred Global Conference, The GIFTTS Pineapple awards ceremony took place during a celebratory dinner at Gardens by the Bay, the iconic landmark of Singapore and celebrates these hotels that showcase an outstanding commitment to philanthropy, sustainability, and social responsibility. “We are incredibly proud to recognize those who are setting the standard in our industry through their dedication to purpose-driven leadership and impactful community engagement,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, Chief Executive Officer at Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “These trailblazers continually inspire us with their commitment to initiatives that create lasting value for both people and the planet. The GIFTTS program aligns closely with our Climate Action Plan, and together with our exceptional hoteliers around the world, we are advancing meaningful progress toward a more sustainable future.” Every year Preferred Hotels & Resorts recognizes member hotels that take the meaning of genuine hospitality beyond the lobby and into their communities by showcasing an outstanding commitment to philanthropy, sustainability, and social responsibility as part of its GIFTTS program, which stands for Great Initiatives for Today's (Tomorrow's) Society. With nearly 100 property submissions across four categories, the 2025 winners are as follows: Philanthropy: Kasbah Tamadot (Asni, Morocco), Legend Collection Sustainability: Inn by The Sea(Cape Elizabeth, United Sates), L.V.X. Collection & member of Beyond Green Overall Hotel: ErinvaleEstate Hotel & Spa (Cape Town, South Africa), L.V.X. Collection Overall Corporate Entity: Rosen Hotels & Resorts, including Rosen Plaza Hotel(Lifestyle Collection), Rosen Shingle Creek (Lifestyle Collection), Rosen Centre Hotel (Lifestyle Collection).
Brad Sheehan appointed as new S.V.P. of Corporate Safety, Security and Compliance in Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines announces the appointment of Brad Sheehan as the new S.V.P. of Corporate Safety, Security and Compliance, effective 2nd June. Brad is a seasoned aviation safety leader with over 25 years of industry experience. He will succeed David Garrison, who has decided to retire after an illustrious 34-year career at Delta. Brad currently serves as V.P. of Flight Operations, and he flies as an A320 captain. His extensive background overseeing training, technology and flight standards also includes leading Delta's Flight Safety team. During his tenure, he has furthered our safety culture and worked collaboratively with industry partners and the FAA to bring about national airspace improvements. Before joining Delta, Brad held senior leadership roles in operations and safety at several other airlines. His expertise and dedication to safety have earned him appointments to five FAA-required positions, including Director of Operations and Director of Safety at other airlines and his current role as System Chief Pilot for Delta. In his new role, Brad will serve as the FAA-designated Director of Safety, advising Delta leadership and liaising with regulators on all safety matters. “In 2017, Delta became one of the first airlines to have our safety management system approved by the FAA,” said Delta’s E.V.P. and Chief of Operations John Laughter. “Brad has been a key leader in turning that system into a culture here at Delta.” Brad graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and holds several certificates in business management from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. David Garrison will retire at the end of June following a one-month transition period. He has been a cornerstone of Delta's safety initiatives throughout his career, leading efforts to lower injury rates, secure significant operational safety investments and foster Delta’s safety culture.
Air Astana marks its 23rd anniversary
Kazakhstan flag carrier Air Astana released an infographic detailing its progress to mark its 23rd anniversary today, 16th May. The airline takes pride in servicing 111 routes, 78 of which are international and 33 are domestic, giving it one of the most extensive route networks in the aviation sector. At present Air Astana Group, made up of Air Astana and its low-cost carrier FlyArystan, boasts of a 60-unit strong fleet. The company plans to expand its fleet to a total of 84 by the end of the current decade. The award-winning airline has ferried over nine million passengers to date and assures its loyal clientele of even better service offerings in the years to come.
Qatar Airways creates history with the Largest Boeing Widebody Order
Qatar Airways announced that the carrier has placed the largest aircraft order in its history with manufacturing partner Boeing. As part of its strategic fleet growth plan, the landmark order includes up to 210 Boeing widebody jets – 160 firm and 50 option – which is the largest widebody order and the largest 787 Dreamliner order in the American aerospace company’s history. Qatar Airways has also signed an agreement GE Aerospace for more than 400 engines, including 60 GE9X and 260 GEnx engines, with additional options and spares, to power its next-generation Boeing 777-9 and Boeing 787 aircraft – the largest widebody engine purchase in the history of GE Aerospace. Qatar Airways’ Historic Boeing Widebody Order Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: “We are happy to announce our agreement with Boeing and our partnership in the largest widebody aircraft order in Boeing’s history and the biggest aircraft order in our history. This is a critical next step for Qatar Airways on our path as we invest in the cleanest, youngest and most efficient fleet in global aviation. This is so we can meet the strong demand in the airline as we seamlessly connect passengers to the world better than anyone.” He continued: “After two consecutive years of record-breaking commercial performance and with this historic Boeing aircraft order – we’re not simply chasing scale; we’re building strength that will allow us to continue to deliver our unmatched products and customer experiences. We thank our partners at Boeing for answering the call and look forward to a future of continued smart growth together.” The order includes: 130 787 Dreamliners, the long-range, ultra-efficient widebody airplane family that has delivered a 25% fuel-use improvement and superior comfort for passengers. 30 777-9s, the world’s largest twin-engine airplane that is designed to set new standards in efficiency by reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces, while elevating the passenger flight experience. Options for an additional 50 787 and 777X airplanes Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO, Stephanie Pope, said: “We are deeply honoured that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing, one that solidifies their future fleet with our market-leading widebody airplane family at its centre. Our team is looking forward to building 787s and 777s for Qatar Airways into the next decade as they connect more people and businesses around the world with unmatched efficiency and comfort.” Qatar Airways currently operates more than 150 Boeing airplanes, including 777 and 787 passenger jets and 777 Freighters. With this new purchase, Qatar Airways will become the largest Dreamliner operator in the Middle East. Qatar Airways’ Largest Widebody Engine Deal in GE Aerospace History The new GE Aerospace agreements solidify the company’s commitment to Qatar’s thriving aviation industry and build on the previous order for 188 GE9X engines, bringing the total to 248 engines. The addition of GEnx engines for the Boeing 787 fleet supplements their existing 124 engine order, further strengthening the national carrier’s commitment to efficiency and performance. The two deals also include service agreements to cover the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the GEnx and GE9X engines. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Our latest agreement with GE Aerospace reflects our confidence in the performance of the GE9X and GEnx engines to power our fleet of Boeing 777-9 and 787 aircraft. These next-generation engines are critical components in our strategy to ensure our fleet remains modern and efficient. Qatar Airways has ambitious plans for the future, and we value our continued partnership with GE Aerospace and their commitment to supporting our operational needs.” GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO, H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., said: “We are extremely honoured to deepen our relationship with Qatar Airways and grateful to them for placing their trust in us with our largest ever widebody engine deal. Our widebody engines – the GE9X and GEnx – are marvels of modern engineering, with the durability and reliability to power flight across the longest distances. We appreciate President Trump’s support for this historic agreement.” Qatar Airways has one of the most modern fleets in the industry and these historic orders with Boeing and GE Aerospace will solidify that leadership for years to come.
Minor Hotels reports resilience in its financials for Q1-2025
Minor Hotels released its financial report for the quarter that ended on 31st March today, 14th May. The Thai hospitality firm reported a resilient start to 2025, shrugging off seasonal softness and currency volatility to post a four percent year-on-year increase in core revenue, as well as a seven percent jump in core EBITDA. Buoyed by robust leisure and business demand, Minor Hotels cut its first-quarter core loss to THB 493 million, marking an improvement of 57 percent from 2024. The sharp turnaround underscores both the earning power of the group’s diverse global portfolio and its disciplined cost controls. System-wide occupancy across Minor’s global portfolio of more than 560 properties edged up one point to 64 percent while average daily rate (ADR) rose three percent year-on-year, lifting global RevPAR by five percent. Group CEO Dillip Rajakarier remarked: “Delivering such a strong first-quarter performance in what is traditionally our toughest season shows the power of our trusted brands and the agility of our people. We will keep building momentum through ‘asset right’ expansion and sharper distribution while maintaining strict discipline on operating and capital costs, with a clear focus on further debt reduction to strengthen our balance sheet.” Performance by market Thailand continued to outperform, with owned hotels in the country recording a ten percent RevPAR increase as international arrivals accelerated, flight connectivity improved and global exposure thanks to the third season of HBO’s The White Lotus which was filmed across four Minor resorts thereby boosting brand visibility. Europe also exceeded expectations despite its traditional low season, with owned hotels in the region delivering eight percent RevPAR growth, led by strong trading in Spain, Italy, and the Benelux region, underscoring demand resilience across the continent. Strategic pricing and stronger direct-booking initiatives, notably the debut of the new Minor Hotels masterbrand in March, combined to sharpen top-line momentum. Total system sales for the entire portfolio held steady in the first quarter at THB 40.5 billion and rose three percent on a like-for-like basis once foreign-exchange effects and recent openings or exits were stripped out. Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East and Africa saw a combined two percent uplift in system sales, with the Maldives and Sri Lanka helping to offset pockets of softness elsewhere in those regions. Hotels owned by Minor but operated by third parties grew like-for-like system sales by six percent, buoyed by robust demand in Africa and Thai resorts, while the mixed-use division which includes Anantara Vacation Club, The Wolseley Hospitality Group, residential, spa, and retail businesses expanded system sales by 16 percent.
Tourism sales mission boosts ties between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia
Tourism Malaysia’s recent sales mission to Saudi Arabia has been instrumental in boosting ties between the two nations. Held from 4th to 8th May in the cities of Jeddah and Riyadsh, the sales mission was a side event to the recent launch of Visit Malaysia 2026 and the opening of Malaysia Culture Week 2025. Likewise, the mission highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to boost its visibility in the booming Saudi tourism market. Led by Malaysian minister of tourism, arts, and culture Tiong King Sing, the 37-member delegation was made up of representatives from hotels, resorts, travel agencies, tourism products, and state tourism boards. Tiong declared at the opening of the mission: "We extend a warm invitation to our Saudi friends to experience the wonders of Malaysia, especially as we gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026. Discover our rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. We are confident that Malaysia will offer unforgettable experiences and make you feel right at home.” Relevant statistics Malaysia recorded 68,382 visitor arrivals from Saudi Arabia between January and December 2024, a significant 23.7% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth was further supported by enhanced air connectivity, with 41 weekly flights from Jeddah and Madinah to Kuala Lumpur, offering a total seating capacity of 12,747. The increased accessibility has played a key role in positioning Malaysia as a preferred travel destination among Saudi visitors. Malaysia remains committed to attracting more Saudi visitors by offering diverse travel experiences, exceptional hospitality, and seamless connectivity. The best Malaysia has to offer This initiative sought to showcase the best of Malaysia in order to generate more visitor arrivals from the region through a showcase of the country’s unique hospitality, diverse attractions, and engaging experiences. Tourism Malaysia presented specially curated travel packages, promotions, and new attractions tailored for families, luxury travellers, honeymooners, and Gen Z. To further strengthen the relationship with the local tourism industry players, the mission also featured seminars, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, and networking sessions. In doing so, it served as a valuable platform to showcase Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings, including its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine.
IWTA Awards 2024 cont.
Photos from the Inspiring Women in Travel Awards 2024, held at Intercontinental Bangkok
Inspiring Women in Travel Awards 2024
Photos from the Inspiring Women in Travel Awards 2024, held at Intercontinental Bangkok
Photos from Travel Daily’s Inspiring Women in Travel (Asia) 2023 Awards
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Maximum Occupancy 2022: Sheraton Grand Sydney, 5-6 April 2022
Maximum Occupancy is Australia’s premier hotel and accommodation industry conference, designed for and by the hotel industry's leaders. Suited for all types of hotel and accommodation providers and sizes, it will feature over 35+ leading industry experts and speakers from around Australia and the globe. This is THE event for any hotelier that wants to achieve maximum occupancy month after month.
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