Travel News

This season, celebrate the most alluring colours. Pink manages to capture the essence of this particular MOD Design Event in all its dazzling exuberance, timeless whimsy, and glitz. This season, MOD is focusing on its New Versailles Wedding as a way to celebrate the captivating power of pink. For the Lootah family’s exclusive and opulent wedding, a grandiose building modelled after the legendary Palace of Versailles was built. The narrative is continued inside this ivory building with a ceiling that was hand-covered in blossoming gypsum that flowed outward and merged into the custom columns with curving arches. From the fresh peonies on the coffee tables to the delicious sweets that seem to have come directly from Marie Antoinette’s royal patisserie, the event space is decorated in wavy tones of pink. While the custom-built structure that covered 17,000 square feet was hand-built at The Lootah’s family property involved on-site experts, builders, architects, and more to create an unforgettable architectural spectacle, the New Versailles ceiling that echoed waves of pink contained over eight million stems of gypsum, delicately dried, and hand-painted to embody the theme of the evening. Hand-crafted Parisian crystal chandeliers were also located inside the gleaming building, and they all reflected and mirrored light across the pink interiors in the finest crystal. The adaptability of this distinctive shade of PINK ultimately reflected the fusion of Parisian sensibilities and Arabian extravagance, which is what truly set this event apart. With never-before-seen peeks at mood boards, colour swatches, and intricate photographs that reflect the event’s complexity, we take a look behind the unusual process and creation of this project this week across our digital space. Pink is a feeling, not a colour. Source: traveldailymedia

Athens International Airport “El. Venizelos” and SKY express hosted a unique ceremony to welcome their partners and usher in the new travel season. Representatives of the largest travel agencies in the nation, the larger tourism industry, and the media were welcomed to an event co-hosted by Athens International Airport and SKY express at the Arion Veranda of the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens to celebrate and discuss the possibilities for this summer. Sky Express offers a novel method of flying travel. SKY express has operated and expanded its business in accordance with the sustainable mobility model during the course of its years of operation. This strategic choice places environmental protection at the centre of its daily operations. At the same time, traveling with SKY express, apart from a unique and personalized travel experience, is also an environmentally responsible choice for the passenger. In light of everything mentioned above, Eleanna Michalakopoulou, revenue products manager for SKY express, unveiled new goods and services that combine comfort, sustainability, and the most luxurious travel experience possible. BITES & DRINK – PREORDER The decision to use SKY express for transportation is one that the passenger can feel good about. The company’s customers choose whether and what meals they want to eat during the flight, thus they are not required to eat anything or pay for it as part of the cost of their ticket. In fact, the readily available meals don’t need to be heated, which further lowers energy requirements and the resulting carbon footprint. The new Preorder service, which eliminates food waste by allowing customers to choose and order their meal up to a few hours before the flight, will be made available alongside the updated catalogue in the coming days. The Preorder menu will be even richer and premium with special dishes and a wide variety of foods and drinks, catered to cover all the needs and eating habits of passengers. Bliss The Bliss Business class is unique. Bliss, I say. The new service will begin operating on international routes in July 2023. It will gradually cover the majority of the SKY express network and provide passengers with priority treatment at all times, free access to VIP Lounges, the ability to check additional bags and kilos in them, upscale dining options and in-flight entertainment. Forward Sky Another recent offering named SKY Forward is made available to travellers who wish to earn a specific amount of money for their annual air travel with the greatest level of freedom and flexibility. Through a very simple procedure the passenger can buy a SKY Forward package for the entire SKY express network. For example, by purchasing a package of €1,000, one pays only €800 and redeems it, wherever they want, whenever they want, on as many flights as they want and with whomever they want, simply by paying the taxes of the respective airport. It is worth noting that all new programs implemented by SKY express will now be linked to programs carried out within the framework of its corporate social mission. For this reason, these actions will always be related to a purpose to support targeted actions that respond to specific, mapped needs of the society. Therefore, part of the proceeds from said actions will be dedicated to a cause. During the event, Gerasimos Skaltsas, Chief Commercial Officer of SKY express, presented the company’s key figures during the first quarter of 2023, following a dynamic course that creates value for both Athens International Airport and all its shareholders. In detail: Total flights increased by 11% (compared to the same period in 2022) exceeding 10,000. Compared to the first quarter of 2019 (pre-Covid-19 period) the increase in flights is up to 69%. The company’s passengers increased by 50% (compared to the first quarter of 2022), reaching 730,000. Compared to the pre-pandemic period, the increase reaches 390% The total revenue of the company has increased by 73% (compared to the first quarter of 2022) reaching €48 million, driven by the higher growth of international flights. Compared to the pre-pandemic period, the increase reaches 489%. The exponential organic growth of the company’s size was supported by a strong increase in jobs that now exceed 660, with 390 new hires in the four-year period 2019-2022, which also includes the period of the pandemic. SKY express’s green fleet, which is the newest fleet in Greece and most environmentally friendly in Europe, travels to the largest network of domestic destinations (34) and to 29 international destinations in 12 countries. Of the domestic destinations, 27 are served through Athens International Airport with 5 exclusively served from/to Athens International Airport. Regarding international destinations through the “El. Venizelos”, 9 destinations in 8 countries are served. In addition, regarding the Athens International Airport “El. Venizelos”SKY express: For the fifth year in a row, it is the fastest growing airline with a market share of 13.5% in 2023, compared to 2.5% in 2019. Recorded an increase of 175% in seats on offer from / to “El. Venizelos” – compared to the corresponding summer season of 2019. This increase for the entire SKY express network corresponds to 200% Marks the 2023 summer season with a 22% increase in estimated passengers in Athens International Airport – from 1,910,000 in the summer period of 2022 to 2,330,000 in the corresponding period of 2023. Source: traveldailymedia

The breathtaking nation of Qatar is home to some amazing natural treasures that are sure to renew and revitalise visitors. While the breathtaking coastline, astounding cultural sites, and cutting-edge architecture are at their best, travellers seeking a respite from the city may discover the abundance at some of the most famous and well-known locations across the nation. Here is a list of things to do and places to visit in Qatar to get back in touch with nature and take in the beautiful scenery. Internal Sea: Khor Al Adaid Khor Al Adaid, popularly known as the “Inland Sea,” is a stunning location where the sand dunes meet the coasts of the sea. It is a UNESCO-recognized natural reserve with its own ecology. The Inland Sea is one of Qatar’s top attractions. is enjoyable to drive around, to simply observe, or to simply take in the dunes’ exhilarating 40-meter heights. Spending an afternoon in the desert, dune-bashing, stopping to ride camels along the route, and taking pictures with the nation’s fabled national bird, the falcon, are all great ways for families to make the most of this attraction. Dune Sand In Qatar, the sand dunes are a top attraction for both visitors and locals. A leisurely safari and taking in the breathtaking views in the desert are enjoyable. Mangroves of Al Thakira Mangroves at Al Thakira offer a unique contrast of flora to the parched environment. Kayaking is a significant enjoyable activity in this spot, which is surrounded by greenery that draws a variety of bird species, including herons and flamingos.Cave of Dahl Al Misfir A fascinating, 40-meter-deep gypsum-fibrous cave, the Dahl Al Misfir Cave sometimes emits a phosphorescent glow that resembles the moon. Gypsum crystals that resemble roses, or desert roses, blanket the peninsula as well. The temperature starts to drop as one enters the cave and walks along the trail. Heenat Salma Farms and North Sarda Exploring the North Sedra Farm, Qatar’s first agritourism site, is a magical experience for families. The farm has a mini zoo with various animals, including Arabian Oryx, zebra, ostrich, lama, and camels with a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables to handpick. The farm also sells top-quality Sedra honey produced in-house, in the winters. Another nature-based event that encourages social interaction and gorgeous vistas is Heenat Salma Farms. The farm attracts eco-conscious, sustainable living and farming enthusiasts who enjoy organic natural produce. Heenat currently grows around 30 different crop varieties, along with organic fruits, vegetables, dairy, eggs, honey, and meat. Source: traveldailymedia

The World Youth and Student Travel Conference (WYSTC) will take place this September, and the WYSE Travel Confederation, a non-profit membership organisation dedicated to advancing opportunities for the youth, student, and educational travel industry, has just unveiled its first influencer programme. For three days of trading, industry insights, development, and networking, WYSTC in Lisbon, Portugal, brings together more than 600 international suppliers, buyers, and service providers working in the youth and student travel business. Numerous travel influencers will have the chance to attend the conference and network with key decision-makers of youth and student travel brands and destinations thanks to the WYSTC Influencer Programme. The one-on-one business meetings give participants the chance to have focused discussions that may lead to collaborations, partnerships, and brand sponsorships with major companies in the sector. Organisations attending WYSTC will, in turn, have the opportunity to present their brand to influencers, exchange ideas, and forge connections. David Chapman, the director general of the WYSE Travel Confederation, stated that the WYSTC serves as a gathering point for the major businesses involved in youth and student travel. ‘Including an Influencer Programme is a natural step for the conference; we know that millennials and Gen Z’ers trust influencers and utilise social media as a source of inspiration when booking vacations, looking for interesting activities, or great locations to stay,’ the conference’s organisers said. Travel influencers who are invited to WYSTC not only learn more about our business, but also have the chance to form relationships with influencers who share their target demographic. Influencers who satisfy the requirements will get a free registration to WYSTC, a free four-night hotel stay in Lisbon, and assistance with their travel expenses. Additionally included are access to the entire educational programme, lunches, coffee breaks, and social events. Source: traveldailymedia

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has hired multi-platform technology company FOD Mobility Group to assist in the design, development, and delivery of a new, comprehensive mobility as a service (MaaS) app. The Mobilleo MaaS platform from the Yorkshire-based IT company will power the regional travel app, providing West Midlands residents and visitors access to all modes of transport in one location. The pioneering concept fits in with TfWM’s plans to provide a fresh perspective for clients going throughout the area by enhancing access to integrated transit. Users can schedule trips, get real-time travel updates, book and pay for all local transport alternatives, including taxis, Demand Responsive Transport (DRT), buses, trains, trams, e-Scooters, walking, cycling, car clubs and parking. The software provides users with the best practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly alternative for their desired destination based on their personal preferences. This is a significant step towards TfWM’s goal of providing users with access to one app and one account from any location they choose. It is intended to change public and shared transport in the West Midlands by making it quicker and simpler for users to obtain information, select more environmentally friendly modes of transport, and locate the most affordable rates. It will take the place of the current TfWM app. One account, one app, all the bases covered. TfWM is working on the initiative with a number of partners, including FOD Mobility Group, consultants Arcadis, who are offering guidance on behaviour modification, Brompton Bike Rental, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Car Club. Other project partners include ITO World, Euclid, and Unicard, who are in charge of integrating with TfWM’s Swift smart travel programme and who supply real-time public transport data for the West Midlands. On the development of the app, local authorities and transit service providers will also work together. The Future Transport Zone initiative of the Department of Transportation provided funding for the development.By improving the user experience, combining tickets and information, and assisting in the decarbonization of our transport systems, it is intended to achieve the objectives outlined in the Local Transport Plan. Transport for West Midlands executive director Anne Shaw stated: “TfWM is putting unprecedented investment into growing our Metro, rail, bus, and active travel networks.”Along with creating new travel options, we must carefully consider how to create smooth plan, book, and pay processes for transportation. This will promote the use of shared and public transport, active transport, and reduce the usage of private vehicles. “We want to accomplish just that with the help of this new mobility as a service platform. In order to create an app that is simple to use, practical, and economical, we are collaborating with some of the top British tech and mobility firms. Anyone searching for travel options in the West Midlands can stop here. We are excited to work on this fascinating project with FOD Mobility Group and other important partners. Justin Whitston, CEO of FOD Mobility Group, continued, “We are genuinely excited to be collaborating with TfWM on what will be an interesting and scalable mobility as a service initiative, powered by our Mobilleo platform. We look forward to delivering a novel travel strategy for the West Midlands over the long term. We are thrilled to be a partner in the project, said Oz Choudhri, head of mobility solutions for Enterprise UK and Ireland. Enterprise already has a strong presence throughout the West Midlands through our rental and car club operations.“We are certain that we will continue to expand this presence, allowing us to play a significant part in providing shared and sustainable travel. We will also be working with TfWM on a number of social value projects which will engage with residents and businesses.” Source: traveldailymedia

Satys Aerospace, established in Toulouse and a global pioneer in aircraft painting, is now expanding its operations into the space industry. The company has just put into operation a facility for painting satellite parts at its Blagnac location. Executives from Airbus and CNES attended its recent inauguration. This facility will be in charge of painting the deployable radiators for the OneSat programme, whose communications satellites will be put into service from geostationary orbit, as part of a partnership with Airbus. Programme manager Philippe Didier says, “The painting of deployable satellite radiators is subject to particularly demanding specifications.” The coatings employed have infrared emissivity-related thermo-optical characteristics. They must make it easier for heat to dissipate and sunlight to absorb. Satys Aerospace was required to certify the painters, logisticians, and inspectors assigned to this unit due to the particular paint specifications needed for space applications. An airlock system has been installed in the space to eliminate contamination risks when unpacking and packing painting component packages. Satys made a million euro investment. To design and construct this new production tool, two years of close collaboration with Airbus were invested in new machinery. Gregory Mayeur, Managing Director of Satys Aerospace, expressed his excitement for the new collaboration with Airbus during the ceremony: “We are really proud of the successful cooperation between our two teams. Despite having substantial experience in the aeronautics industry and the highly specialised technical requirements of the painting industry, we have learned a lot from this new sector for space applications. Technical expansion and improvement are ingrained in Satys’ DNA. Satys Aerospace aims to be able to form future agreements with other manufacturers to suit their demands for painting space equipment on the basis of this innovative industrial tool modified for use in space applications. Source: traveldailymedia

The eagerly awaited “Matterhorn Alpine Crossing” in Switzerland, which connects Switzerland and Italy in less than two hours, has been opened. It is the tallest three-string cable car in the Alps and the highest border crossing in all of Europe. For the first time ever, passengers will travel directly from the Matterhorn resort of Zermatt in Switzerland to Breuil-Cervinia in Italy while ascending over 4,000 metres, the biggest altitude difference in all of Europe. Travellers can stand with one foot in Italy and the other in Switzerland at the highest border crossing in all of Europe (3480 m), which is close to the Testa Grigia station. The reach of the Matterhorn Summer Paradise is increased by the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing. Visitors will be able to explore the Valle d’Aosta region’s breathtaking environment and learn about the charming residences in characteristic Walliser (Valaisan) architecture thanks to the new cableway. The available activities include golf, biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The new Testa Grigia valley station is adjacent to the Theodul glacier, where the August 2023 opening of the Plateau Rosa SnowXperience world of adventure is scheduled. Beginners in winter sports will have the opportunity to rent all the necessary gear and reserve ski instructors right away. The gondola’s 35 opulent cabins, each of which is outfitted for maximum comfort and is built to provide unrestricted panoramic views of the spectacular Matterhorn from various angles, will stop at nine mountain stations. Passengers can engage in a variety of activities at the five stops on the Swiss side and four on the Italian side, including SnowTubing, the SnowXperience novice ski area, Glacier Palace, Cinema Lounge, and Photo Points, to mention a few. In case of good weather, travellers can enjoy a breathtaking view of the 38 peaks that make up the Swiss Alps at the highest mountain station in Europe, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Though the cable run from Zermatt to Cervinia takes 1.5 to two hours, passengers can take their time experiencing different options along the way. One can purchase a one-way ticket with an optional start in Zermatt, Switzerland, or Cervinia, Italy, or a round-trip ticket and enjoy a day trip to any of the places in either of the two nations on each side of the Matterhorn. Source: travelbizmonitor

The B2B information, events, and marketing solutions provider in the travel sector, Northstar Travel Group, announces the opening of a significant hosted buyer driven expo for the Asia Pacific meetings sector. The Meetings Show Asia Pacific (www.themeetingsshow-apac.com), sponsored by the Singapore Tourism Board, will be held in Singapore from April 17–18, 2024 at the Marina Bay Sands Sands Expo & Convention Centre, inviting international exhibitors and a crowd of qualified and hosted buyers. Singapore serves as a hub for MICE and business in Global-Asia. Singapore was selected as the host city for the premiere of The Meetings Show Asia Pacific because it serves as a gateway to the rapidly developing Asia Pacific area and is home to a thriving business community, providing access to new partnerships and business ideas. The event will be backed by an exclusive hosted buyer programme, bringing senior meetings, conventions, events, and incentives buyers to a bustling tradeshow floor. It will feature Asian and international locations, venues, hotels, and other essential providers. Along with a conference offering a stimulating educational programme and a number of top-notch networking opportunities, a special prescheduled meetings platform will offer a private setting for conducting business. The Meetings Show Asia Pacific is a development of the venerable ‘The Meetings Show’ brand, which is held annually in London, and will further bolster Northstar Meetings Group’s global portfolio of media, events, information, and marketing solutions. “With our continued commitment to better serve the APAC region, our depth of industry knowledge, and the experienced meetings professionals who work in our UK, Singapore, and US offices, it became apparent there was an opportunity to bring our world-class experiences to the Asia Pacific meetings market under the established and successful brand of The Meetings Show,” said Jason Young, CEO of Northstar Travel Group. The Deputy Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, Yap Chin Siang, commented on the debut by saying: “We are thrilled to welcome The Meetings Show Asia Pacific’s debut in Singapore, a perfect venue for global MICE organisations to network, develop new relationships, and build their enterprises. The selection of Singapore as the host confirms our status as the region’s top location for MICE events. Participants from The Meetings Show Asia Pacific will be welcomed in Singapore in 2024. Meetings & Conventions (M&C), M&C Asia, Successful Meetings, Incentive, Association Meetings International (AMI), Meetings & Incentive Travel (M&IT), SportsTravel, as well as 22 hosted buyer events like The Meetings Show, SMU International, M&C/Asia Connections, the Global Incentive Summit, the TEAMS Conference and Expo, TEAMS Europe, and the Esports Travel Summit, will be joined by The Meetings Show Source: traveldailymedia

Using a Boeing 787-8, Qatar Airways has landed its first flight to Lyon, France. There will now be four flights each week, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. With the addition of this new route, Qatar Airways’ worldwide network of more than 160 destinations grows as well as its footprint in France. Both Business Class and Economy Class welcomed guests with traditional French fare and a carefully crafted menu of fine French cuisine to honour the voyage. Along with Qatar Airways Vice President of Sales, Europe, Mr. Eric Odone, M. Pierre Grosmaire, the airport’s Director of Commercial and Marketing, greeted the first flight from Doha. With the airline still operating to Paris and Nice, Lyon is the third location it serves in France. Lyon, which is renowned as France’s gastronomic capital, is dotted with numerous eateries that have earned Michelin stars. Due to its history as the home of cinema, the attractive city also draws fans of films. In a city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors are welcome to partake in amazing gastronomic adventures and film festivals honouring the silver screen. A Boeing 787-8 with 232 Economy Class seats and 22 Business Class seats will fly the new direct route to Lyon. The city also acts as an excellent entry point for exploring the nearby Alpine mountain range. “I am thrilled to announce the launch of Qatar Airways’ inaugural flight to the renowned French city of Lyon,” said Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways Group. A long-standing strategic cooperation between Qatar and France benefits both parties in a number of areas, including diplomacy, trade, and tourism. We are pleased to welcome French and European travellers to travel through our hub, Hamad International Airport, for seamless and enthralling journeys to more than 160 global destinations. Our expanding network in France is a monument to our successful cooperation. Tanguy Bertolus, the chairman of the Aéroports de Lyon management board, stated: “This new international destination from Lyon highlights the expertise of VINCI Airports in the development of new routes, as well as the calibre of its relationships with other airlines. By providing more alternatives to and from the Middle East and Asia, particularly in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand, this connection between the capital of Qatar and Lyon will increase the attraction of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and the Lyon metropolitan area. Source: traveldailymedia

As of December 24, 2024, Marella Cruises will homeport Marella Explorer 2 out of La Romana, Dominican Republic, for a number of winter sailings. returning to the Caribbean island for the first time since the winter of 2017, and starting on July 20, 2023, winter itineraries will be available for purchase, giving travellers more options for their travels. Three itineraries, including the Caribbean Classics itinerary, which calls on Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts, and the Colours of the Caribbean itinerary, which calls on Dominica, Antigua, St. Maarten, Tortola, and Samana — a new port for Marella Cruises in the Dominican Republic — before sailing back to La Romana, will be available from the new homeport. Additionally, starting on December 2nd, 2024, Marella Cruises will provide passengers with two new, shorter sailings out of the Mediterranean, giving them greater options. Customers will be able to reserve four-night voyages on The Canarian Escape 1 itinerary, which will sail on the Marella Explorer from Malaga in Spain and stop in Gibraltar and Casablanca in Morocco with a single sea day. The Spanish Getaway itinerary, on the other hand, will sail on Marella’s newest vessel, the Marella Voyager, from Palma in Majorca and stop at three well-known Spanish cities: Alicante, Almeria, and Malaga. Six-night voyages departing from Marmaris in Turkey, Corfu Town, and Malaga in Spain are among the new, shorter winter itineraries. “We’re always looking for new ways to improve our customer offering, whether that’s new destinations, new itineraries, or new ships,” said Chris Hackney, Managing Director of Cruise for TUI UK & I. As a result, we’re excited to introduce our new sailings from La Romana in the winter of 2024 to our passengers as a fresh experience. Customers will have the ability to take advantage of Marella’s cruise & stay offering, with the chance to enjoy a stay at one of the TUI hotels in the Dominican Republic, pre or post cruise, as well as the opportunity to tour some of the most well-known Caribbean islands while on board. Itineraries for La Romana, Dominican Republic’s winter of 2024 will be available for booking starting on Thursday, July 20, 2023. Prices start at £1799 (around $2,286.62 USD). Source: traveldailymedia