Starfish Travel Corporation Team

Yosemite Mariposa Country unfolds into a bewitching beauty as the leaves change color and the crisp fall air settles in, providing a singular and unforgettable experience. Here are six enticing things to do during the fall season in this charming location: Yosemite Falls Lower and Upper Trail Discover some of the valley’s top Yosemite hikes. This Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is a nice choice for hiking in the fall and winter when the temperatures are reasonably cool because of its favorable sun exposure. Check out the straightforward one-mile Lower Yosemite Falls path after doing the Upper Yosemite Fall walk. Take a trip to Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. About 500 mature big sequoia trees can be found at the Mariposa Grove of big Sequoia Trees, which is close to Yosemite’s south entrance. This is an autumn adventure must-see as some of the biggest and oldest trees in the world shed their leaves. Visit places including the Three Graces, the Bachelor, the California Tunnel Tree, and the Grizzly Giant. Riding a horse at Wawona Stables Take one of the Wawona Stables Rides to explore the park’s natural beauty and fauna. Participate in both beautiful Trail Rides and qualified guides that cater to bikers of all levels. As you travel the gorgeous paths, learn about the region’s history, geology, and animals while taking in the breathtaking views and stunning fall colors. Investigate the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. Experience the sights and sounds of a bygone era by boarding covered or open-air cars drawn by a historic Shay steam engine. One of the greatest ways to experience Yosemite’s autumn beauty and animals is to travel along the old Madera Sugar Pine Railroad route into the Sierra National Forest. Visit Bridalveil Fall and El Capitan. Bridalveil Fall is one of Yosemite’s most recognizable waterfalls and was made famous by Ansel Adams’ photograph of the Yosemite Valley taken from Inspiration Point. The massive façade of El Capitan towering above, creating the ideal backdrop for a stunning autumnal scene. Fly fishing and fishing at Lakes McSwain and McClure find sun-drenched On the western border of Mariposa County, Lake McClure and its smaller brother Lake McSwain are tucked away in the oak-studded Sierra foothills. These twin treasures are one of several undiscovered California fishing locations, making them the ideal location for an autumnal pastime if you’re seeking for fishing in Mariposa County. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/6-amazing-autumn-activities-in-yosemite-mariposa-county/

Q2-2023 is divided into two halves, according to the most recent Global Trends Report from FCM Consulting. While the rest of the globe reaches a plateau in one scenario, the Northern Hemisphere pushes travel demand over the summer. Though there is still disruption from extreme weather and personnel shortages at airports, the number of business trips rises and travel patterns stabilize. According to Gaurav Luthra, Managing Director of FCM India, “although airfares and hotel room rates remained high in Asia, businesses can still stretch their travel budget with the guidance from their travel management consultants, by planning ahead, as well as utilizing technology.” Domestic Flight Prices Have Increased Most major markets, including China, have strong domestic air travel demand that is only 1% lower than in 2019. India has experienced an increase of 13%, while Japan has seen a 20% increase. This rise is the result of rivalry between airlines, staffing levels, the state of the economy, and supply and demand. Forecast for airline seat return of 93% The number of domestic seats available globally has surpassed 2019 volumes and is anticipated to increase by an additional 4.1% over 2019 volumes. In terms of domestic seats, the Asia Pacific area has witnessed a growth of 6.9%, while its international seat count is still 22.5% lower. A 93% increase in seats was predicted across the 20 largest airlines in 2023 compared to 2019. In terms of market share, China Eastern leads with 103%, followed by LATAM and United Airlines with 102%, American Airlines with 99%, and Qantas and Qatar Airways with 98%. China Eastern Airlines has the highest projection in Asia (103%) followed by Singapore Airlines (97%) and Cathay Pacific (72%). Business Class Fares in Asia Have Increased By 19% The Middle East experienced a business class fare increase of 29%, followed by Australia and New Zealand (27%), and Asia (19%). Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport to Singapore flights increased by 37%, Mumbai to London flights increased by 20%, and Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Singapore flights increased by 20%. Asia’s demand for rooms is still high. Average hotel prices rose by 3–12% during Q1-2023 and Q2-2023, with increases of 12% in Europe, 5% in North America, and 3% in Latin America. Reductions of 19% were seen in the Middle East and Africa, 2% in Asia, and unchanged rates in Australasia. Tokyo continued to be the most expensive city in Asia to stay in, with average prices of USD$286 per night. Singapore was the next most expensive city, at USD$260 per night. As a result of China’s border opening up again, Hong Kong has surpassed Seoul to become the third most expensive hotel room night in Asia. Beijing witnessed the largest increase in hotel room costs in China, rising by 12% to US$175 per night compared to Q1-2023. Shanghai experienced a rise of 5% to USD$140 per night, while Hong Kong saw an increase of 10% to USD$246. Bangalore continues to be the priciest city in India, with average hotel rates of USD$146, Delhi at USD$120, and Chennai at USD$101. 63.3 percent of rooms were occupied globally as of June 2023, which is 96 percent higher than in 2019. India had the greatest occupancy in Asia, with Mumbai reaching 101% and New Delhi at 97%. China was next with Shanghai at 95% and Beijing at 93%. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/airfares-and-hotel-room-rates-higher-in-asia/

The flagship property of the Pan Pacific Hotels Group, Pan Pacific Singapore, has undergone a S$30 million transformation to highlight the company’s new vision of Graceful Luxury. This transformation includes a range of improved guest experiences that reflect the brand’s commitment to excellence. The Pan Pacific, Reimagined odyssey comes to an end with the renovation project, which got under way in April 2023, marking the most recent milestone in their illustrious existence. The opening of Pacific Emporium, a new eating and shopping space with authentic local flavors, artisanal products, and specially curated gifting options from local manufacturers and designers, heralds the great reveal of the renovated Pan Pacific Singapore. Along with newly remodeled hotel rooms and suites, the Ocean Ballroom is also being refreshed as part of the renovation. All of these changes were specifically made to infuse the Panache of Singapore into everything the hotel has to offer. “We are excited to report that today marks the achievement of our last milestone in the Pan Pacific, Reimagined journey. “Jeremy Aniere, General Manager of Pan Pacific Singapore, explained that this initiative was intended to honor Singapore’s rich culture and legacy while enhancing the experience we provide to our loyal clients. We are very excited at Pan Pacific Singapore to keep sustaining our dedication to providing Pan Pacific’s distinctive gracious elegance and gracious hospitality. 1 of 7 pages A Celebration of Singapore’s Culture, Heritage, and Creativity: Pacific Emporium Several dishes from the Pacific Emporium menu at Pac Pacific Singapore Through a bright display of regional flavors and workmanship, Pacific Emporium is a cutting-edge dining and shopping destination that celebrates Singapore’s distinctive culture and history. The area is divided into four sections: The Kitchen, The Bar, The Deli, and The Gifting, each of which offers a unique experience that captures the panache of Singapore. The Pacific Emporium combines a touch of luxury with warm comfort to create a pleasant location for all hotel guests. It features a colorful open space decorated with fresh produce, comfortable and inviting sitting options, and elegant marble accents. The Kitchen – Award-winning Executive Chef Nicholas Shadbolt’s menu at The Kitchen highlights Singapore’s rich culinary heritage and takes diners on a gastronomic tour of Singaporean flavors. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/pan-pacific-singapore-reveals-captivating-transformation-pacific-emporium-debut/

As it gets ready for its busiest summer season yet in 2024, international leisure operator TUI is expanding its trade interaction team to 14. To increase product expertise of the many TUI products and offerings, the 14-person team will collaborate closely with independent agents. With team members stationed in Northern Ireland, Scotland, the Midlands, the North, and the South of England, five Trade Relations Manager posts have been created. Additionally, a position for a training delivery manager will be created to assist agents with their training requirements. “As I stepped into my new role as TUI CMO, I knew that our trade relations team needed to grow to ensure that our agent partners were getting as much from TUI as they possibly could,” said Neil Swanson, TUI’s Chief Marketing Officer. In order to establish relationships with independent agents who are interested in learning more about TUI goods and how they can market them to their clients, our newly established team will travel the length and width of the UK. “By fostering our current relationships and establishing new ones, we will be able to better understand our valuable trading partners and how we can help them. From all-inclusive beach vacations to hotel-only deals, city breaks, and cruises down the Nile, we feel we have vacation alternatives for everyone and look forward to sharing these with our independent agent partners and their clients in the future. The recruitment process for the new trade team, under the direction of Head of Trade Relations Andrew Isherwood, has begun. The team is expected to be in place by the fall. Andrew joined the TUI team about 20 years ago, beginning his career in the contact center and spending the last 15 years working in trade relations.Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/tui-uk-to-grow-trade-team-to-further-support-independent-agents/

Verdant Leisure, a company that operates vacation parks, is excited to announce that it has been recognized as the best hospitality and leisure company to work for in the UK in this year’s Best Companies awards. This praise was provided by the company’s employees, who responded to private questionnaires and provided reflections on their working relationships. This prestigious award recognizes companies in the leisure and hospitality industry who offer a great workplace. The team members of Verdant Leisure cast their votes for the company in a variety of categories, including trust in the leadership team, chances for personal development, and encouraging peer management. The Best Companies awards make sure that workplaces get the credit they merit by honoring an organization’s dedication to its staff and level of workplace engagement. We are overjoyed to be selected the Best Leisure and Hospitality Company to Work For by Best Companies, said Graham Hodgson, CEO of Verdant Leisure. Most importantly, we’re overjoyed that this praise came from our esteemed team. Every member of our staff has put in a lot of effort throughout the year to provide visitors and owners a special time each time they come to one of our parks. This is evidence of our Team’s dedication and hard work, of which we are immensely proud. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/uk-holiday-park-operator-ranked-best-leisure-and-hospitality-company/

Dohop, the market leader in Europe for alternative interline solutions, has announced that it will now allow Thai Vietjet and Norse Atlantic Airways to provide seamless and connected travels to its customers. The move, which comes after the start of Norse’s twice-weekly service from Oslo to Bangkok, will make it easy and simple for Norse customers to connect to a variety of well-liked domestic locations throughout Thailand, including Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai. The new alliance between Norse Atlantic Airways and Thai Vietjet is built on Dohop’s technology, which uses a streamlined booking process to provide passengers with the best ticket options and prices depending on their departure and arrival airports.Dohop oversees the connection and provides immediate support in the case of flight cancellations or delays to make sure passengers get to their destinations as quickly and easily as possible. Norse Atlantic Airways’ Zoe Osborne, Head of Commercial Partnerships, said: “We are delighted to further enhance our connection offering to our guests. We will be able to offer travellers looking to cross the Atlantic even more options and convenience when combined with our previously announced airline partners. Thai Vietjet’s Head of Commercial, Pinyot Pibulsonggram, stated: “We are delighted to announce our cooperation with Norse. As we expand more flight connections to various destinations throughout the Asia-Pacific region, Thai Vietjet will be able to offer our passengers a more convenient connection to a number of destinations around the world via our Bangkok Suvarnabhumi base thanks to the collaboration between both parties. The partnership between Norse and Thai Vietjet, according to David Gunnarsson, CEO of Dohop, “is the ideal illustration of how alternative interlining may help airlines tap into new pools of demand and service more consumers. Without the restrictions of conventional interline or codeshare agreements, both airlines will be well-positioned to take advantage of new business prospects while providing their customers with even more options. “We look forward to seeing more Norse customers explore the beauty of Thailand’s regional destinations with Thai Vietjet and are thrilled to be empowering two forward-thinking carriers to explore the benefits of a new way to partner.” Dohop’s technology enables carriers like Thai Vietjet and Norse Atlantic Airways to grow their network by enabling access for their passengers to places they don’t directly serve. They can enhance revenue through a straightforward and profitable airline alliance while keeping ownership of their clients by utilizing the potential of alternative interlining. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/dohop-empowers-norse-atlantic-airways-and-thai-vietjet-to-offer-connected-journeys/

In its commercial results for the first half of 2023, Trevolution Group, the industry leader and operator of Asaptickets, Skyluxtravel, Dreamport, and other travel services, reported record performance in flight sales. Over the last six months, the Group’s overall gross bookings increased by 43% over the same period last year to 623.57 million USD, selling over 435,210 tickets under its travel brands. This shows an almost 92% increase in the quantity of tickets sold for Trevolution Group, which has been expanding its market and providing direct ticketing to customers in the UK and the Philippines since the beginning of this year. Gross travel bookings totaled USD 623.57, up 43% from 1H of the previous year, which is the total dollar value generally inclusive of taxes and fees;435,210 distinct tickets were issued, a 43% increase from H1 in 2022;The demand for premium economy class has significantly increased, rising by 130%; the percentage of one-way tickets sold made up 23% of total ticket sales; the number of auxiliary goods and services climbed by almost 30% compared to 1H2022.For almost 20 years, Trevolution Group has led the world’s expert markets and amassed in-depth knowledge in the visiting friends and relatives market. The top five most visited countries so far in 2023 are the Philippines, India, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States, all of which are strongly indicative of the VFR mode of travel. Italy and the United Kingdom had increases in ticket sales of almost 40% and 36%, respectively, over the prior year. India and the Philippines saw increases of 39% and over 13%, respectively. The number of Trevolution Group customers visiting Thailand and Indonesia has significantly increased in recent years, more than twice the previous estimates. These countries have emerged as emerging travel destinations. Economy class ticket prices have increased by 4%, premium economy by 19%, business class by 22%, and first class by a significant 30+% compared to the first half of last year due to the global economic climate. In first class, where customers are less sensitive to changes in airfare and can quickly adjust to ongoing inflation, the price increase is most noticeable. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/trevolution-groups-airfare-sales-cross-usd-623-million-milestone/

According to Max Schmidt, Head of CamperDays, the booking.com of campervans, “the sun has made an unexpected but very welcome return just as Brits were ready to give up on having a proper summer and retire their flip flops and sun cream for the year in exchange for raincoats and jumpers.” “It appears that Britons are prepared to take advantage of the second round of summer sunshine by booking those impromptu, last-minute vacations. In fact, we discovered that, in July, last-minute reservations made up over a quarter (24%) of all camper trip reservations made in the UK. During the month of August, the percentage already accounts for 43% of all reservations made in Britain. “It’s easy to understand why last-minute reservations have increased by over 20% since the return of the sun. For those who prefer to spend time in the woods without going to great lengths to prepare a full-on, back-to-basics camping itinerary, taking a summer road trip with family or friends is a fantastic choice. There is no need to dig out the Trangia or struggle with flimsy tents when traveling in a motorhome equipped with a working kitchen, a functioning bathroom, and a proper bed. “The recent lifting of the wild camping restriction in England in response to the Dartmoor plea may also have contributed to an increase in last-minute bookings, as many people realized there is once again chance to explore the wild from the comfort of a campervan. And more than simply last-minute reservations are increasing. Booking data reveals that the average total number of bookings in the last two weeks climbed by 21% compared to the preceding four weeks, proving that the sun has undoubtedly motivated Brits to plan for next vacations as well. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/20-rise-seen-in-last-minute-campervan-holiday-bookings/

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) has been investing in a number of sustainability projects and new environmentally friendly initiatives that aim at minimizing emissions and promoting the future of sustainable flying in an effort to improve its environmental performance and promote sustainable flying. SAUDIA was the first company in the world to introduce the Green Points program, which awards travelers for contributing to environmental protection. By choosing their meals in advance at online check-in, SAUDIA passengers can avoid food waste and landfill contributions. This will also lighten the load on the ship and conserve fuel. Additionally, passengers can choose to fly with less luggage through the Program, which is encouraged by a substantial distribution of Green Points. Fuel efficiency is significantly improved by this method. SAUDIA and Lilium, a German-based aerospace business, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to purchase 100 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircrafts. The Lilium Jets’ zero operational emissions will make sustainable and time-saving travel possible, enabling the national flag-carrier to contribute to the nation’s development strategy for sustainable air mobility. With this acquisition, SAUDIA plans to provide business class passengers a cutting-edge service that includes brand-new electric point-to-point connections and smooth feeder links to SAUDIA’s hubs. Participation in the Skyteam Sustainable Flight Challenge 2023 (TSFC): As an alternate fuel source is being investigated, SAUDIA pledges to share its sustainable ideas and insights that help lower its environmental effect. The “best customer engagement” and “best employee engagement” prizes from the previous edition went to SAUDIA. SAUDIA was a finalist in three other categories, including “best sustainable innovation (in-flight),” “lowest CO2 emissions ground-handling,” and “greatest CO2 reduction medium-haul.” A321neo aircraft: SAUDIA announced the addition of new A321neo planes to its fleet. By 2026, the airline, which debuted with the tagline “A neo-way of living,” plans to have added over 20 additional aircraft to its fleet. The airplane was bought mostly because of how little fuel it need to operate. Since the A320neo entered global service in 2016, the A320 family of airplanes have prevented the emissions of 20 million tons of CO2. Captain Ibrahim Koshy, the CEO of SAUDIA, has said, “At SAUDIA, we are continuously seeking to reduce our environmental effect and to encourage sustainable travel, and over the years, we have introduced a number of environmentally friendly projects. We have made investments in purchasing fuel-efficient aircraft, such as Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Lilium EVOL planes, and CFM International LEAP-1A engines to power our new fleet of Airbus A321neo. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/saudia-is-working-towards-minimizing-emissions-and-promoting-sustainable-flying/

In the first half of 2023, Dubai International Airport (DXB), the biggest international airport in the world, welcomed 41.6 million travelers, up more than 100% from H1 2019. The second quarter saw DXB have a strong performance, with passenger traffic increasing by 42.7% year over year to 20.3 million. With 6.9 million visitors, May was the busiest month during Q2. DXB’s H1 traffic totaled 41.6 million visitors, up 49.1% over the 27.9 million guests registered in H1 2022 thanks to a robust Q2. In H1 2023, DXB’s luggage performance grew by 7% over pre-pandemic H1 2019 levels, maintaining its position as a global leader. DXB has handled almost 37.2 million bags so far this year without interfering with the delivery of luggage to consumers; 92% of all baggage was delivered to clients within 45 minutes. For its continued efforts to ensure a safe and inclusive airport experience for visitors with both physical and hidden disabilities, DXB received multiple honors, including a certification from Airports Council International – a significant accomplishment. It welcomed a number of fresh airlines to the DXB family, enhancing connectivity to further new locations and nations. DXB handled 201,800 flights in total in the first half, up 13% from H1 2019 and up 30.2% year over year. During the first half, there were an average of 214 passengers each trip, with a load factor of 77%. Source- Travel daily Link-https://www.traveldailymedia.com/dxb-welcomed-41-6-million-guests-in-the-first-six-months-of-2023/