Travel News

According to a recent survey, the world’s most perplexing cuisines include kimchi from Korea, falafel from Egypt, pho from Vietnam, and even peanut butter and jelly sandwiches from the United States. To identify the cuisines that give diners the most trouble while eating the delicacies, Remitly examined 2,700 dishes from more than 165 nations. With roughly a million searches for information on the Korean delicacy, kimchi, it was determined to be the most perplexing meal. PB&J was the tenth most perplexing food in America, with hundreds of thousands of people searching for it on Google every year. A recent survey by Remitly, a top digital financial services company for immigrants and their families, identifies the international cuisines that confuse travelers the most. Researchers at Remitly developed a list of more than 2,700 meals from more than 165 nations to determine which cuisines are the most confusing in the world. These dishes were coupled with search phrases like “what is” and “how to pronounce” and analyzed to see which ones people had the greatest trouble understanding the previous year. The Top 25 Confusing Cuisines in the World With nearly one million (946,090) annual searches for the traditional Korean banchan (side dish), which is made comprised of salted and fermented vegetables, most often Korean radish or cabbage, kimchi ranks as one of the most perplexing cuisines. While kimchi originated in Korea, it is now available in shops all over the world. The tangy food can be used to elevate anything from salads and meat meals to soups and stews. Falafel, which is frequently cooked with fava beans and is said to have its origins in Egyptian cuisine, comes in at number two on the list of the most perplexing foods. The deep-fried balls, also known as fritters, are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and are very well-liked by vegetarian diners. Fava beans, broad beans, ground chickpeas, or a combination of all three, are frequently used to make falafel. Gyros, a specialty of Greece, comes in third with more than 660,000 searches per year. With salad, french fries, and tzatziki, gyros, a dish comprised of meat (typically chicken) roasted on a vertical rotisserie, are cut and wrapped in pita bread. Shawarma, a cuisine with Turkish origins that is identical to gyros in terms of ingredients and cooking preparation method with the exception of a hotter and more complex flavor, also ranks among the top ten most perplexing dishes. Other meals that appear in the top ten most perplexing dishes are Italian delicacies like gelato and gnocchi as well as the enormously popular pho dish from Vietnam. Asian foods like chai, fufu, and sushi also appear in the top twenty and receive over 280,000 searches each year. Even peanut butter and jelly, the traditional American sandwich filling, has a spot in the top 25, despite the fact that this flavor combination is notoriously difficult to pronounce. Source- Travel daily

The largest e-commerce company in Europe and the world’s leading travel subscription service, eDreams ODIGEO, reported that its most recent “Prime Days” campaign broke several records, including the highest daily mobile bookings, the most bookings by Prime members, and the most repeat bookings by subscribers in a single day. Travel subscribers embrace mobile-first on the go From October 2 to October 5, 2023, an exclusive three-day event for Prime members, eDreams ODIGEO once again demonstrated its continued leadership in mobile travel reservations as customers flocked to their mobile devices to grab their member-only travel discounts. The most mobile bookings have ever been processed through the company’s AI-powered mobile platforms, which are famous for their smooth and user-friendly interfaces. The company runs some of the travel sector’s most well-liked and highly regarded mobile apps under the prominent travel agency names eDreams, Opodo, GO Voyages, and Travellink. The Company’s significant investments and years of research have produced unique mobile platforms that are purposefully crafted to take use of the unique opportunities provided by the small screens of these devices. These developments provide almost limitless potential for improving the customer experience, differentiating the Company from its rivals and making it a pioneer in the industry. Fueling quality and repeat bookings with the subscription model The “Prime Days” campaign also set new records for the most repeat bookings made by subscribers in a single day and the most daily bookings made by Prime subscribers. These findings demonstrate the success of the Prime business model, which encourages long-lasting client connections and allows Prime members to book more frequently than non-members. Customers highly value the customized and affordable unique discounts provided through this approach, making it advantageous for both customers and the company. These successes highlight the Company’s successful transition to a subscription-based business model, which is already the greatest contributor to the Company’s revenue and earnings. With more than 5 million users as of late, Prime is on track to reach its target of 7.25 million members by the fiscal year 2025. “This edition of our ‘Prime Days’ was truly special as it coincided with the celebrations of another recent significant milestone for Prime – surpassing 5 million members,” stated Frédéric Esclapez, Chief Marketing Officer at eDreams ODIGEO. Even more reason to celebrate came from the outcomes of this special event for travel subscribers. During this promotion, subscribers flocked to their mobile devices in order to swiftly get the most alluring discounts available, which emphasizes the fervor and engagement of our Prime community even more. As the largest travel subscription service in the world, we are incredibly proud of our place in history. The popularity of events like our Prime Days and the continuous success of Prime, as evidenced by the membership’s exponential expansion, highlight the innovative nature of our subscription-led business model and how it is revolutionizing the travel booking process. We look forward to achieving greater successes with Prime, especially as we get closer to our own objective of surpassing 7.25 million subscribers by the fiscal year 2025. Launched in 2017, Prime offers customers exclusive access to a wide range of members-only deals and offers across a variety of travel products and services, including flights and lodging to package vacations and car rentals. It is currently accessible in 10 of the 44 markets where the Company operates. Customers who join the Prime program get access to 24/7 priority customer support and can enjoy all of the program’s perks starting with their first booking, without any restrictions on itineraries, travel dates, providers, or the amount of bookings. For instance, Prime makes it possible to choose from roughly 700 international airlines and access billions of travel permutations. Additionally, Prime members can get lower rates on the thousands of vehicle rental alternatives as well as the 2.1 million lodging options provided by eDreams ODIGEO brands. Source- Travel daily

Max Verstappen crossed the finish line in Qatar to win his 14th Grand Prix of the year, to the roars of Qatar Airways and Formula 1® fans alike, as well as the sparkling lights of the Lusail International Circuit and the sight of a waving checkered flag. Following the completion of the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix, Oracle Red Bull Racing was honored to receive its sixth Constructors’ Cup from Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker. Verstappen also received his third World Drivers’ Championship trophy from Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, after the Sprint Race in Doha on Saturday, October 7. In the aftermath of a spectacular Grand Prix weekend, Qatar Airways, the Official Global Airline Partner of F1® and the Title Sponsor of the Qatar Grand Grix, reaffirmed their dedication to bringing exhilarating racing to Qatar. After the race, renowned musician DJ Snake entered the stage and unleashed a frenzy that reverberated far beyond the finish line. The Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix coincided with the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS), which is being held in Doha for the first time ever until October 14; as a result, the national airline of the State of Qatar reached new heights. The motor show strives to arouse the enthusiasm of car lovers by showcasing and revealing a tapestry of luxury, sports, exotics, and vintage. “I first want to congratulate Max Verstappen on his victorious win on Saturday and Sunday and all the drivers for their valiant efforts,” said Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways Group. From start to finish, the Grand Prix was electrifying and forever changed Qatari motorsports. Even if the Qatar Airways Grand Prix 2023 is over, we encourage spectators to check out GIMS in Qatar to keep enjoying the best in motorsport. We are eager to assist F1® and the BWT Alpine F1 Team as they successfully finish the 2023 season. Before the Grand Prix, fans had the chance to experience the thrill of F1® while traveling on Qatar Airways flights, where they could enjoy a specially curated à la carte menu that included a delicious chocolate berry cake served with a tiny milk chocolate F1® car model. The celebration includes a special takeoff trailer for the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023, which is available to all passengers on the airline’s renowned Oryx One inflight entertainment system. While tickets for the Qatar Airways Ultimate F1® Fan packages for the Austin Grand Prix have sold out, there are still tickets available for the races in Sao Paulo (3-5 November) and Abu Dhabi (24–26 November). As part of a multi-year arrangement, Qatar Airways was introduced as the Official Airline Partner of the BWT Alpine F1 Team in September. Since then, the two have collaborated to publicize the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023. The airline’s association with the BWT Alpine F1 Team demonstrates its ongoing dedication to advancing motorsport both domestically in Qatar and internationally. Qatar Airways conducted a photo op at the Hamad International Airport hangar with the F1® branded aircraft and F1® show car to commemorate the special F1® decal livery and the airline’s collaboration with BWT Alpine F1 Team. His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, the group’s chief executive, Stefano Domenicali, the CEO and president of F1, Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Latif Al Mannai, the president of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon of the BWT Alpine F1 Team, and members of the Qatar Airways cabin crew were among those present for the photo opportunity. The brand of Qatar Airways is dedicated to promoting sports around the world and assisting fans in getting to their preferred events. The national airline of the State of Qatar is the Official Airline of Concacaf, Paris-Saint-Germain (PSG), the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon Series, the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), as well as numerous other sports, including Australian football, basketball, cricket, equestrian, motor racing, squash, and tennis. Source- Travel daily

Thai Vietjet, a well-known low-cost airline from Thailand with flights to locations all across Asia-Pacific, has signed a new multi-year deal with Travelport and Res2, a major provider of departure control systems and airport automation based in the Netherlands. According to the deal, the airline will be utilizing iPort DCS (Departure Control System) to manage passenger handling, baggage, boarding, and improve customer experience through iPort’s automation. We are very enthusiastic about our strategic alliance with Res2 and Travelport. Our airline needs a reliable partner to carry out its growth strategy, and we acknowledge the crucial function that iPort DCS will play in the modernization of our airport operations. According to Woranate Laprabang, CEO of Thai Vietjet, “We are confident that our partnership with Res2 and Travelport LP will enable us to elevate the travel experience for our customers.” The cutting-edge, end-to-end solution provided by iPort DCS is intended to enhance security and immigration regulatory compliance, enable full scale self-service capability, decrease wait times, and improve information management accuracy. The system can help airlines run more efficiently and spend less money by automating many of the regular operations related to check-in and boarding. Most significantly, the system enhances communication and offers a better overall customer experience by giving airline workers real-time information. The scope of iPort also includes ancillary sales, weight and balance, and biometric self-boarding. “We’re delighted to welcome Thai Vietjet to the iPort DCS Community of 110+ airlines and ground handlers around the world,” stated Hans van Engelen, CEO of Res2. We are eager to work with Thai Vietjet to develop a mutually beneficial collaboration and to support their rapid growth. “To support its global expansion, iPort offers Thai Vietjet market-leading scale and flexibility. According to Cormac Reilly, vice president and global head of travel partner solutions at Travelport, “Res2 and Travelport are thrilled to partner with one of the world’s airlines that is expanding at the quickest rates to improve their onboarding experience. This is a crucial component of the VietJet brand promise. Source- Travel daily

One of the suggestions made by the coalition-led investigation’s findings, which were made public on Monday afternoon, was for Transport Minister Catherine King to “immediately” review her judgment about Qatar Airways. Senator Bridget McKenzie of the Nationals has called for a prolongation of the investigation into the absence of former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce because of his vacation abroad. Labour Party senators issued a dissenting report in which they rejected the criticism they had received and criticized the coalition’s findings as “inaccurate,” “obviously biased,” and “lacked regard for the complexity of the issue at hand.” However, the committee failed to “make a meaningful contribution to the public debate” and instead “descended quite quickly into political antics.” Investigations were being conducted into Qantas’ participation in the decision to cancel the extra flights. The coalition has hinted that it may call Mr. Joyce to testify upon his return to the nation, threatening to worsen the situation and possibly arrest him if he refuses. The aviation industry must be safeguarded while it recovers from COVID, according to Ms. King, who also cited the need to reduce emissions. Five Australian women were subjected to invasive gynecological examinations at Doha’s international airport in 2020, which she referred to as “a factor” in her argument. During his testimony, Qantas’s chairman Richard Goyder insisted that the company’s key shareholders supported him. But because the airline needs new executives, the Australian Shareholders Association has repeatedly called for his departure. The Victorian government had earlier estimated that the addition of a second daily flight from Doha to Melbourne would result in the creation of 900 new employment; however, Qatar Airways estimates that the extra flights will help Australia’s economy by $3 billion. Next week, the Senate committee’s report on the nation’s bilateral air rights is anticipated to be released. Source- Travel daily

We’re about to experience one of the year’s most fascinating shifts. Endless hues of red, orange, and yellow accompany the change from summer to autumn, dramatically altering the landscape. This seasonal splendor is so motivating, in fact, that a great number of locations, works of art, and events may undoubtedly be said to capture the spirit of Fall itself. Given that prominent places and landmarks (44%) and magnificent landscape (56%) are both top priorities for Hong Kong tourists, In addition to providing the greatest sustainable lodging alternatives, Booking.com is thrilled to share 4 travel suggestions with you for the best ways to explore the autumnal splendor of Asia. Kyoto Mercure Station Due to the harmonization of traditional Japanese architecture with its seasonal hues, Kyoto, which is most well-known for its cherry blossoms in the spring, also has a spectacular display of autumn leaves. The Mercure Kyoto Station is a popular lodging option because of its excellent location, which makes it easy to walk to nearby sites including temples and shrines. The hotel is conveniently located 8 minutes’ walk from Kyoto Station. Inside, the opulent and cutting-edge architecture and design instantly put you at ease. The famed Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Tofuku-ji Temple are two must-see attractions in Kyoto. Try on a traditional Kimono for pictures or go on a self-guided audio walking tour for a taste of the local culture! Along with seeing several temples, you should also visit The Kyoto Gyoen (Imperial Palace Park) to take in the scenery. Take a Guided Evening Tour of the city at night to really immerse yourself in the culture. Mid-November through mid-December are the greatest times to visit Kyoto to witness the red hues in all their splendor. Gangnam’s Ananti Stay at Ananti at Gangnam, a hotel in the center of Seoul that is renowned for its elegant and sophisticated architecture with lofty arches, rounded edges, and private balconies for each room. It has both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, which are great for days when the weather is unpredictable, as well as a sizable gym and sauna that visitors can use. The hotel offers a special 10% discount to members of Genius, Booking.com’s loyalty program, as a dependable lodging partner. Due to its central location, it is also simple to take day trips to numerous sites outside of central Seoul to enjoy the natural beauty that South Korea’s countryside has to offer. A moon-shaped river island called Namiseom, often known as Nami Island, is situated in Chuncheon, South Korea. In addition to being a well-known location for K-drama production, the island is renowned for its autumnal colors when the time comes. The middle pathway of the island is lined with ginkgo trees, which together form a golden tunnel, making it a popular destination for travelers, particularly those looking to take a memorable snapshot. To enjoy the finest of both the city and the countryside, visitors may easily take a day trip from Seoul by renting a car through Booking.com. Alternatively, they can join a tour to visit other distinctive destinations, such as the island, on the same day.  The best time to see the autumnal foliage in South Korea is from mid-September to late-October. Meritel Vietnam    The well-known Old Quarter Streets, which are home to numerous historic sites including pagodas and temples, are renowned for their distinctive appearance that dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The architecture of old Hanoi has been conserved, and Meritel Hanoi has given it a contemporary makeover so that visitors can indulge in a luxurious stay. The hotel has been recognized for its dedication to sustainability with a level 3 Travel Sustainable Badge from Booking.com. Hanoi’s autumn is distinguished by its chilly temperatures and picturesque surroundings. The ideal location to take in the scenery is Hoan Kiem lake, which is close to the hotel. Hoa Sa, also known as milk flowers, adorn the streets during this time, giving Hanoi a landscape of crimson and gold. Why not take a guided city tour or street food tour to fully experience Hanoi’s splendor and learn about its rich history from a local guide? You may even hire a traditional Ao Dai for the day for an authentic experience and stunning images. From mid-September to late-October is the greatest time to visit Hanoi to see the fall foliage. District of the West, Green Hotel  Green Hotel – West District upholds the idea of eco-friendly and boasts the best clean and green way of living. The glass rooftop of the main atrium provides natural lighting, and the guest card can be used as a cardholder, postcard, or even a bookmark to promote waste reduction. Their amenities ensure a comfortable and environmentally friendly stay in the city while also offering a perfect location from which to explore the neighboring green spaces like Park Lane Taichung and Calligraphy Greenway. Nantou County is the perfect place to visit if you want a peaceful getaway outside of the city to view Taiwan’s famed crimson and orange autumn beauty. Qingjing Farm is renowned for its mountain views and variety of activities appropriate for all ages, making it one of the top destinations to visit. Feed the local sheep while you explore the farm and get a taste of farm life, or go to the hawker market next to its south gate for a variety of Yunan and local foods and snacks. The Qingjing Skywalk, a 1.68km sky bridge that offers a breathtaking view of the Nantou mountains, Lushan hot spring Village, and Qingjing’s grasslands, is the main attraction and method for viewing Qingjing’s Autumn colors, nevertheless. While others choose to remain close by, Booking.com’s car rental service makes it easy to take day trips from nearby Taichung city and gives 10% off through its Genius program with various car rentals. Taiwan’s autumnal splendor can be seen from mid-September through early-November. Source- Travel daily

With Travel Leaders, a global network that is a part of Internova Travel Group, one of the biggest travel service companies in the world and a premier corporate travel management company in North America, Kanoo Travel, the first IATA member agency in the GCC and a significant player in the Middle East’s travel sector, is proud to announce its partnership.  The strategic partnership expands Kanoo Travel’s global footprint, utilizing its in-depth topic expertise to guarantee ongoing premium client service and opening up new growth prospects within the global network. On October 5, the alliance was declared at a grand celebration held at the Museum of the Future in Dubai. An unmatched travel management experience is promised by the combination of Kanoo Travel’s personalized approach and Travel Leaders’ vast state-of-the-art technology options. Kanoo Travel will now have access to the full range of services offered by Travel Leaders, including online booking platforms, marketing tools, a network of international destination marketing companies, and privileged hotel programs, as a member of the Internova Travel Group. In-depth customer reporting, trip authorization, consolidated data analytics, advanced meetings technology, and profile management tools are all part of a comprehensive technology suite that will support servicing of both local and international customers. “We are thrilled about this collaboration with Travel Leaders, a renowned and revered brand within the Internova Travel Group portfolio,” said Zaeem Gama, Divisional CEO of Kanoo Travel. Through this agreement, Kanoo Travel has a rare chance to improve the level of service for its customers across the GCC. Our travel advisers will be able to provide our clients even more value and a wider range of services because to the abundance of resources, cutting-edge solutions, and industry best practices that Travel Leaders brings to the table. “While this alliance represents a turning point in our development, our fundamental concept has not changed. Our customers will always receive the same high caliber of individualized care and service. With cutting-edge digital tools at our disposal, we can improve the range of Corporate Services, M.I.C.E., and Leisure services we provide. With Travel Leaders International by our side, we are eager to see what the future brings. The cooperation with Travel Leaders International, according to Ali Abdulla Kanoo, Chairman of SBU Trading Divisions, “will be another significant step for Kanoo Travel.” It works in harmony with our most recent attempts at digitalization and opens up new avenues for us to better serve our clientele. “Kanoo Travel has advanced further, indicating our ongoing commitment to improve the travel experience. This year, we expanded our service with customized solutions by launching Kanoo Travel MORE. And now that we have this alliance, we are even better prepared to provide our customers an unrivaled travel platform. The head of Internova Travel Group’s corporate travel division, Gabe Rizzi, has occasionally said: “We are thrilled about our unique new collaboration with Kanoo Travel and the chance to expand our services to travelers across the MENA area. Travel advisers at Kanoo Travel will be able to easily provide their clients with extra services and better access to foreign partners thanks to the wide range of programs and resources our company offers, as well as new thinking and tried-and-true best industry practices. In its more than 80 years of existence, Kanoo Travel has consistently shown a dedication to excellence by putting together one-of-a-kind and unforgettable travel experiences for its customers. The company’s innovative mindset and ongoing drive to raise travel management standards are demonstrated by the cooperation with Travel Leaders International. Kanoo Travel confirms its position as a client-focused trendsetter in the GCC travel business by joining up with industry heavyweights and implementing cutting-edge tools. Source- Travel daily

According to research from Uswitch, collectively, Brits have racked up almost £539 million in unforeseen roaming expenses over the past year. It’s common for the ease of keeping connected to come at a high cost, but this doesn’t have to be the case. In this article, Hamish White, the founder and CEO of eSIM SDK provider Mobilise, discusses a way to avoid this frequent travel blunder and how travel agencies can benefit from the opportunity that roaming fees bring. Before the Brexit, British travelers could use their mobile devices without restriction inside the EU. The ‘roam like from home’ policies, however, have been gradually phased down since the UK’s leave. Despite the importance of this, particularly for individuals who travel extensively, UK mobile operators have been rather quiet about it and have had little interaction with customers. The world has changed. Numerous mobile service providers have started charging daily fees after the UK left the EU; while these fees may appear low at first, they can add up over the course of a trip to substantial sums. EU roaming fees of about £2 per day might seem reasonable, but over the course of a two-week vacation, this could easily mount up to an extra £28 in costs. When traveling outside of Europe, daily costs can reach £7. According to a recent Ofcom study, 18% of travelers do not check roaming fees before leaving, and nearly one in five vacationers are unaware they could incur additional fees when using their mobile device abroad. In order to guarantee that their clients are informed of the fees they now incur when roaming abroad, all UK mobile operators would be required to provide greater clarification to their clients, according to new rules and guidelines proposed by Ofcom. In accordance with the plan, mobile consumers would receive tailored alerts when traveling that would include information on the roaming fees that will be applied, any mobile expenditure limits the customer may have, and resources. However, as of right now, this system is still a suggestion, and Ofcom won’t make a final judgment until early in 2024. Meanwhile, ambiguous operators continue to sting consumers. Put in your travel eSIM. The trip eSIM has emerged as a viable answer to the problems with conventional roaming. By downloading network credentials directly onto the device, an eSIM, or embedded SIM, does away with the necessity for a conventional SIM card. Users can use this to change cell carriers without having to physically transfer SIM cards. Since 2016, eSIMs have been available for consumer applications, and an increasing number of cell carriers are including them as standard in mobile contracts. However, in addition to standard cell subscriptions, eSIM provides travelers with a further, more affordable, and practical method to stay connected through specialized travel eSIMs, with specialized roaming packages offered for a variety of international locations. Upon arrival, travelers can choose their location, buy a plan for a predetermined amount of time, and instantly connect to a local network without paying the exorbitant rates associated with conventional roaming. The main draw of travel eSIMs is their cost effectiveness. Travelers can choose data plans that are tailored to their needs, frequently at a fraction of the price of standard roaming fees. Travelers can experience clear pricing that is in line with local prices rather than paying exorbitant fees for each call or megabyte of data. This not only lessens the cost of keeping connected but also gives customers peace of mind knowing that there won’t be any unforeseen fees added to their regular phone bill when they go back to the UK. An inherent opportunity The market for trip eSIMs offers a substantial opportunity; according to a recent industry report from Kaleido Intelligence, it will grow by 500% and represent more than 80% of all travel SIM spending by 2028. In turn, this offers a fantastic opportunity for service providers across various industries to broaden their service portfolio and add eSIM as a new revenue source. Given their proximity to travelers, it stands to reason that travel businesses, including airlines, hotel booking websites, and any other service provider within the travel and tourism industry, would be the best travel eSIM providers. Customers are likely already in contact with a travel agency, who might provide eSIMs as an add-on service, if they are going abroad. A travel agency has two things to do if it chooses to integrate connectivity into its mobile application. It must collaborate with a connection provider, such as a roaming aggregator or a mobile network operator. Then, it needs to figure out how to link up with that connectivity service and offer a way for its consumers to access the internet. The first step is simple, but the second requires a lot of time, energy, and effort. Instead, by collaborating with an embedded connectivity provider, travel agencies could skip over these steps. In as little as two weeks, service providers can integrate travel eSIM functionality straight into their current mobile application thanks to Mobilise’s eSIM software development kit (SDK). The solution is ready to use and can be quickly integrated via APIs into any app. While it gives service providers another way to let travelers travel more easily, it also gives customers a simple way to set up their foreign connectivity. While the UK gets used to the loss of roam like at home, the adjustment period shouldn’t necessitate exorbitant fees when a less expensive alternative is available. The use of eSIMs offers both travelers and travel service providers the chance to generate new sources of income and connect without incurring additional costs. Source- Travel daily

2023 is shaping up to be another year of “revenge travel,” with advance reservations on the rise. The pandemic is now in the past. According to industry surveys, tourists are more confident about making reservations for their ideal getaways months or even years in advance to guarantee their places at the most sought experiences. Companies that specialize in luxury hotel barge cruises like European Waterways, which reports advance booking increases of up to 25% compared to pre-pandemic levels, are benefiting from the trend. According to Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways, “Our cabins and charters sold faster and more consistently through 2023, and they continue strong through 2024, 2025, and beyond. Call it’revenge travel’, ‘Fear of Missing Out,’ or simply a reflection of continuing, pent-up demand. The large fleet of his business travels through the canals and smaller rivers of Europe and the UK. Banks remarked that European Waterways is in a good position to accommodate these visitors. The company’s small, cozy boats go through some of the most picturesque terrain in the world, some with breathtaking, untouched vistas that haven’t altered in decades. Their daily excursions take visitors to opulent estates, castles, wineries, and distinctive local characters like aristocrats, canal lockkeepers, and gardeners. These characters may share a meal or afternoon tea with the guests, give them a private tour, or regale them with tales of romance, intrigue, and old-world lore and traditions. As people eventually come out of their epidemic “lockdowns,” travelers are looking for these kinds of in-country cultural immersions, according to Banks. In order to accommodate rising demand, the company recently launched the Kir Royale in the French Champagne region, he added. Putting Up a Glass Burgundy, a region of France, is well known around the world for its fine wines and magnificent landscapes that are rich in romance and history. The eight-passenger Renaissance, the flagship hotel barge of European Waterways, travels along the Canal de Briare, one of the nation’s oldest canals that links the Rhone and Saône rivers with the Seine valley. The voyage offers visitors a view of a picturesque landscape filled with opulent chateaux, peaceful towns, and Sancerre’s undulating limestone hills, which many believe create “the ultimate French Sauvignon Blanc.” A wine tasting at the La Perriere winery, famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, is one of the highlights of a cruise. At the privately held Château de La Bussière, there is additionally a cooking demonstration. Its meticulously renovated interior is home to a sizable collection of fishing-related artifacts and is known as “the fisherman’s castle.” The seven-lock flight at Rogny-Les-Sept-Ecluses, which is recognized as a national historic monument, and a cruise across the Gustave Eiffel-designed aqueduct over the River Loire are other highlights. Renaissance offers themed cruises for kids, sports fans, and wine lovers, among others, in addition to its traditional excursions on the Upper Loire and in Western Burgundy. A Higher Terrain The Scottish Highlands are among the most famous and dramatic places on earth. They have a rich history that has been the inspiration for innumerable pieces of literature and art, and they still draw millions of tourists every year. National Geographic has named it one of the “Best of the World” locations in 2023 for its stunning natural scenery and deep-water lakes, or lochs. The purpose-built 12-passenger Spirit of Scotland, one of European Waterways’ newest boats, has an open-air upper deck that is perfect for taking in the area’s splendor while the boat travels the magnificent Caledonian Canal. The canal, an amazing engineering achievement that was completed in 1822, runs from Inverness to Fort William, through charming towns and tranquil lochs that include the well-known Loch Ness. Highlights of the itinerary include a falconry display on the shores of Loch Ness, a tour and private tasting at the Ben Nevis whisky distillery, and excursions to castles like the recognizable Eilean Donan, the enigmatic Urquhart, and Cawdor, with its vibrant gardens. A visit of the Culloden battlefield, where British government forces defeated Prince Charles Edward Stuart’s soldiers in 1746 as they were seeking to restore the throne as the legitimate king, is one of the excursions that people remember. The Spirit of Scotland offers themed cruises for children and golfers, as well as garden cruises and whisky trail cruises, in addition to the traditional trip. Source- Travel daily

PARKROYAL Hotels & Resorts introduces a new brand experience that entices visitors to venture outside of the map and discover the culturally diverse neighborhoods surrounding its facilities. The ‘All Things Local’ experiences are an excellent example of how PARKROYAL’s network of properties can serve as a gateway to exciting places like Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, Australia, and beyond.  “The tradition of these local crafts and cuisine should continue to be appreciated today,” said Ms. Cinn Tan, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer for the Pan Pacific Hotels Group. We welcome visitors to join us in preserving cultures by learning about local history, participating in programs to appreciate local art, and supporting local businesses because PARKROYAL Hotels & Resorts is positioned as a gateway to exciting destinations. When our guests stay with PARKROYAL, we want them to have authentic, immersive, and creative ways to engage with other people and places.  The program is launched by PARKROYAL’s All Things Local stay packages at PARKROYAL on Beach Road in Singapore. These packages are a thoughtful selection of interactive and hands-on experiences for visitors, ranging from culinary explorations of the destination’s rich heritage to artisan workshops led by local entrepreneurs.  A lesser-known feature about Kampong Gelam, where the hotel is located, is that Haji Lane is Singapore’s smallest street. Kampong Gelam is recognized for its extravagant street art, ancient businesses, and Malay traditions. Now, guests who book a stay at the hotel can choose between stays that include visits to the private residence of local kueh mould collector Jasmine Adams or a workshop on making ketupat/bazhang leather.  The All Things Local stay packages at PARKROYAL on Beach Road start at SS$380++* and include a 2D1N hotel stay along with one activity of your choosing for two people. They are available from 6 October 2023 to 6 April 2024. The events are put up in collaboration with a local cultural curator, opening doors to uncommon, all-encompassing encounters in the location.   Visitors can reserve their accommodation package for the All Things Local Experience – Leather Crafting at PARKROYAL on Beach Road and the All Things Local Experience – Household Treasures with Jasmine Adams here.  *Conditions and limitations apply.  Finding Exciting Places  Tannery Lane, in particular, has a long history of serving as a center for leather tanning in Singapore dating back to the 1940s. The little city-state, which is currently jointly controlled by LVMH and famed Heng Long Leather, used to be the primary exporter of the world’s fashion businesses. In response to tales like these, PARKROYAL on Beach Road now offers packages that include a stay and a visit to the bustling Haji Lane location of the neighborhood’s Crafune leatherworking studio. Participants can try their hand at making a leather coin purse using weaving techniques that are modeled after the woven palm leaf packets of two iconic local cuisines, bazhang (a glutinous rice cake made in the style of China) and ketupat, a classic Malay meal.  A Taste of the Local Cuisine at PARKROYAL on Beach Road  Sambal balado, also referred to as “chili sauce with chili” and a common condiment in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, is a representation of the region’s many culinary traditions and is characterized by its rich, nuanced flavor. This is celebrated at Ginger Restaurant with classic dishes accentuated by Chef Low’s sambal balado, whether served with a modest tin of keropok crackers or a filling plate of crab bee hoon (rice vermicelli). At S$8++ a jar, Ginger’s sambal balado is also for sale.  The distinctive drinks at Club 5 are what make it so famous. They were inspired by the area’s long history of spice trading, which dates back to the 1950s. Club 5 takes customers on an educational tour through the past and present cultures of the Beach Road, Arab Street, and Bugis neighborhoods that make up the Kampong Gelam neighborhood with a menu that was imaginatively created by its resident mixologist.   Beach Road: These are only a few of the intriguing mixtures that each precinct produces. Nasi Lema’rgarita, a margarita with all the flavors of the well-known local nasi lemak breakfast, High Tide Swizzle, a refreshing and tropical vodka sour that transports guests to those sandy shores of Beach Road when it was a shoreline until 1843, Merchant’s Old Fashioned, a spiced rum old fashioned featuring spices that were once heavily traded in Singapore in open-air markets, and Pasar Malam  PARKROYAL Hotels & Resorts in Asia Pacific offers ‘All Things Local’ to experience.  With more than 40 hotels, resorts, and serviced suites spread around Asia Pacific, PARKROYAL acts as a point of entry to the region’s thriving cities, where visitors can expect to engage in hyper-local activities.  Visitors visiting PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport in Australia can start on an unforgettable journey by spending an amazing day at the famed Woodlands Homestead. The package includes a private guided horse tour of Melbourne’s Living Legends horses as well as up-close and personal encounters with past thoroughbred winners. The PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne offers guests a showcase of delectable regional craft beer innovations and a guided beer tasting experience by partnering with Melbourne’s independently owned local craft brewer, Two Rupees. As the entryway to Australia, PARKROYAL Darling Harbour in Sydney promises to immerse visitors in the best of Sydney with experiences like its Aboriginal guided walk with picnic lunch – where one learns about the most ancient human culture of Aboriginal Dreamtime, learns their languages, and sees how flora and fauna still have an impact on Aboriginal Sydney people’s lives today, providing an enlightening perspective of Sydney.   Visitors to the PARKROYAL Penang Resort in Malaysia can partake in the resort’s Garden Nature Tour, which is hosted by a friendly PARKROYAL’s ambassador three times per week.   Members of Pan Pacific DISCOVERY can also take advantage of carefully planned local experiences in their chosen location.   With a pipeline of six projects, PARKROYAL will continue to broaden its presence in the area over the next two years. PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Jakarta, Indonesia, will open in the first