Search Results forAustralia
Princess Cruises Reveals Epic 2027-28 Australia Season: Three Ships, 80 Departures, Endless Adventure
In an exciting announcement for cruise lovers, Princess Cruises is set to launch its expansive 2027-28 summer season, bringing three world-class ships—Royal Princess, Grand Princess, and Sapphire Princess—to Australian waters. This standout program features nearly 80 departures and 63 unique itineraries, providing an incredible array of choices for every type of traveller. Princess Cruises Australia: Explore Almost 60 Destinations Across 13 Countries Whether you’re dreaming of a short escape or a multi-country journey, Princess Cruises’ new program has you covered. From convenient homeports in Fremantle, Sydney, and Brisbane, plus select departures from Melbourne and Adelaide, you can find easily accessible embarkation points across Australia. The 2027-28 cruise itineraries showcase almost 60 destinations, promising unforgettable adventures in Australia, Southeast Asia, North America, and the South Pacific. Season Highlights: Sapphire Princess Returns to Fremantle & Kimberley Coast Cruises A major highlight is the return of Sapphire Princess to Fremantle, Western Australia, with a series of diverse roundtrip itineraries. Guests can enjoy everything from short seacations and voyages to Indonesia’s tropical beauty, to extended journeys along the iconic Kimberley Coast. Overnight stays in Broome offer the chance to experience the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Grand Princess: 94-Day Circle Pacific Cruise For those seeking the ultimate oceanic grand tour, Grand Princess presents a 94-day ‘Circle Pacific’ exploration, visiting 44 destinations across 13 countries. This epic adventure includes visits to French Polynesia, Fiji, Hawaii, North America, Vietnam, and Japan, with 14 extra nights and 12 additional ports compared to previous programs—making it Princess Cruises’ most comprehensive Circle Pacific cruise yet. Unmatched Variety for Every Cruiser “With 80 total departures across 63 unique itineraries, ranging from quick three-day getaways to epic 43-day explorations, there’s something for everyone—from seasoned cruise travellers to families planning their first adventure,” says Princess Cruises Vice President APACA Matthew Rutherford. Ready to plan your next cruise holiday? Discover all the details of Princess Cruises’ 2027-28 Australia program and secure your dream voyage at Princess Cruises.
Cathay Pacific’s Service to Adelaide Takes Off: Hong Kong to South Australia Nonstop
Excitement was in the air as Cathay Pacific made its highly anticipated return to Adelaide with the launch of a new seasonal, thrice-weekly service connecting Hong Kong and South Australia’s vibrant capital. The inaugural flight departed Hong Kong International Airport on 11 November, marking a significant milestone for international travel, trade, and cultural connections between Asia and Australia. Reestablishing a Vital Link Between Hong Kong and Adelaide With Adelaide’s rich blend of world-class food, renowned wine regions, and stunning natural attractions, Cathay Pacific’s renewed direct service is set to boost tourism and business opportunities for both cities. Lavinia Lau, Cathay’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, shared, “We are delighted to return to Adelaide, a city we have a long history with since 1992. We look forward to welcoming customers onboard to experience our signature Cathay Pacific service, whether they are flying to this dynamic city, our home hub, or beyond.” A Premium Travel Experience Aboard the Airbus A350-900 The route is operated by Cathay Pacific’s state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900, offering travellers a premium journey in every cabin: Fully flat beds in Business Class Spacious comfort in Premium Economy Award-winning Economy seating Enjoy Michelin-starred inflight menus on flights departing Hong Kong, cutting-edge entertainment, and complimentary Wi-Fi for Business Class and Cathay Diamond members among other tiered benefits. Flight Schedule: Hong Kong – Adelaide (11 Nov 2025 – 27 Mar 2026) Flight Route Departure Arrival Days of operation CX173 Hong Kong → Adelaide 23:30 10:30+1 Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday CX174 Adelaide → Hong Kong 12:00 17:45 Wednesday, Friday, Sunday Now flying to six Australian cities—Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Cairns—plus Auckland and Christchurch in New Zealand, Cathay Pacific is operating nearly 100 weekly return flights to Australasia during the summer season. Beyond Passengers: Benefits for Cargo Customers Cathay Pacific’s Adelaide service also offers increased cargo capacity between Australia, Hong Kong, and world markets. These flights complement dedicated Cathay Cargo freighter services, supporting exporters and importers across the region. Explore More and Book Today For the latest schedules, cabin details, and to book your next flight, visit Cathay Pacific’s website.
Murray River Paddlesteamers launches Australia’s first five-star overnight river cruise
Murray River Paddlesteamers is launching Australia’s first five-star, overnight riverboat PS Australian Star on the iconic Murray River this summer in Echuca, Victoria. The river cruise line is thus offering 20 percent savings on early-bird bookings till 31st December of this year for seven-night cruises in 2027. Including the 20 percent saving, fares for 2027 start at A$5240 per person, twin-share, for a seven-night cruise Fares include return rail transfers from Melbourne to Echuca, onboard meals, daily shore excursions and experiences, cruise transfers, Wi-Fi, gratuities, selected beers and wines with dinner, as well as soft drinks, bottled water, tea, and coffee throughout the cruise. Elegance and comfort in a single vessel Beginning in early 2026, the industry-changing, 38-guest PS Australian Star, will fuse heritage and contemporary elegance as the first five-star river vessel in Australia, the largest paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired, five-star, accommodated paddlesteamer in the world. Built to replicate an authentic, 19th Century paddlesteamer but with modern-day luxuries, the new $11 million Australian Star will boast a deluxe lounge offering sweeping river vistas, a gourmet restaurant, multiple outdoor relaxation areas and 19 sleek staterooms, all opening to a deck and offering an ensuite, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, luxury linen and ever-changing river views. The modern-day paddlesteamer will also sport a modern, energy-efficient, hybrid diesel/steam propulsion system featuring a 1907 wood-fired steam engine, adding a touch of nostalgia and authenticity to the journey. Weaving through the timeless landscapes of the Murray River in contemporary comfort, Australian Star will offer intimate and immersive journeys through history, culture and nature, with daily excursions to farm stations, wineries and heritage towns and riverside barbecues beside crackling campfires and under starlit skies From 2026, the striking, new vessel will offer year-round cruises of between three and seven nights on the Murray River from Echuca.
Journey Beyond introduces its Opera Australia on Sydney Harbour package
Journey Beyond announced the launch of a new eight-day Opera Australia on Sydney Harbour package that promises to captivate both rail and opera enthusiasts. This unique experience pairs the iconic Indian Pacific rail journey with the timeless allure of opera, offering your clients a rich tapestry of storytelling, scenery, and sound. The centrepiece of this exclusive package is premium reserved seating at Opera Australia’s performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary Phantom of the Opera, staged on Sydney Harbour’s spectacular outdoor stage. Marking its 40th anniversary since captivating the West End, this iconic production promises an unforgettable night under the stars. Journey Beyond’s executive general manager for rail David Donald said of the new offering: “Traversing the vast Australian continent from coast to coast, the Indian Pacific is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and immersive onboard and Off-Train Experiences. Now, with the added elegance of Opera Australia’s famed Handa Opera on the Harbour experience woven into the itinerary, your clients will be transported not only through geography but through emotion and imagination.” For her part, Journey Beyond executive general manager for sales and partnerships Alicia Triggs declared: The scenery on the Indian Pacific can be as dramatic as an opera’s plot. Both evoke a deep sense of romance, history, and adventure, making this package a truly unforgettable experience.” Sweeping panoramas Passengers get to experience the full sweep of Australia’s beauty and diversity as the Indian Pacific transports them between Perth and Sydney. From vast desert plains to the majestic Blue Mountains, this is a journey that stirs every sense, as this all-inclusive sojourn features fine wine and regionally inspired dining along the way. The rail journey concludes with three unforgettable nights in Sydney, where the highlights continue beyond the tracks. Guests will experience the harbour from multiple vantage points, beginning with a leisurely lunch cruise aboard Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney, savouring an all-inclusive two-course menu. As evening falls, the magic intensifies with Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour by Opera Australia, where the stirring sounds of ‘Phantom of the Opera’ will soar across the harbour. The package also enabled travellers to explore Sydney at leisure before a guided tour of another icon, the Sydney Opera House. The tour takes them behind the scenes, with insights into its history and architecture. Key inclusions The Indian Pacific - Opera Australia on Sydney Harbour package includes: 4 nights aboard the Indian Pacific, Perth to Sydney, including all meals, beverages and Off Train Experiences in Kalgoorlie, Cook, Barossa Valley, Broken Hill, and the Blue Mountains. Transfer from Sydney Central Station to hotel 3 nights’ accommodation at Swissotel Sydney, including breakfast daily Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise Return coach transfers from hotel to Opera Australia performance venue Premium Reserve seat at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour Sydney Opera House Guided Tour 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Australia’s FACTS Summit & Expo hits three major milestones
The FACTS Summit & Expo recently hit three significant milestones over the past week by way of its 100th confirmed speaker, 100th exhibitor, and 1,000th registered delegate. These milestones are helping boost anticipation for this year’s event which has been scheduled for 25th and 26th November at ICC Sydney. FACTS co-founder Derek Sadubin said the triple milestone reflects the growing importance of collaboration and innovation across the corporate travel sector. Sadubin declared: “Hitting 100 speakers, 100 exhibitors and 1,000 delegates milestones in the past week shows there’s a big appetite for fresh thinking and practical dialogue across our business travel and events community. It’s proof that travel, events, and aviation are not just bouncing back: they’re reinventing themselves. We can’t wait to welcome our industry to what’s become Australia’s largest business travel and events expo and summits in just four weeks’ time.” Who’s who As the countdown continues, the FACTS team is preparing for record attendance and a vibrant program of keynotes, debates, and networking sessions across the two-day event. Described as “the meeting place for the business travel and events community in Australasia”, FACTS 2025 brings together leaders from corporate travel procurement, business events, aviation, travel payments and technology to explore the industry’s most dynamic year yet. The 100-strong speaker lineup includes industry heavyweights and innovators from across Australia and the region, including: Cam Wallace, Chief Executive Officer, Qantas International and Freight Suzanne Neufang, CEO, Global Business Travel Association Tony Fernandes, CEO, AirAsia Group Simon Baptist, Principal Economist Asia Pacific, Visa Melissa Elf, Global COO, and MD ANZ, Flight Centre Corporate Simon Hickey, CEO, Western Sydney Airport Jo Sully, CEO Australia & New Zealand, Corporate Travel Management Roger Sharp, Chair, Technology Queenstown Massimo Morin Global Head of Travel, AWS Travel & Hospitality Each of these speakers brings deep expertise on topics ranging including: The future of aviation and new energy Corporate travel sustainability and climate alignment Procurement reimagined: dynamic sourcing and value creation The rise of travel technology and data-driven program management Showcasing the future of business travel FACTS 2025 will also feature Australia’s largest dedicated Business Travel & Events Expo, showcasing over 100 providers of travel technology, hotels, airlines, meetings, and sustainability solutions shaping the future of corporate travel. It’ll be a vibrant marketplace for travel procurement, meetings & events buyers, and industry to connect. Big hitters in the FACTS Expo include, Accor Pacific, Amadeus, American Express, American Express Global Business Travel, AWS, Corporate Travel Management, Cvent, Destination NSW, Enterprise, Europcar, FCM Travel, Marriott, Mastercard, NAB, Qantas, SAP Concur, Singapore Airlines, Uber for Business, Virgin Australia, Visa, Webjet Business Travel, Westpac, and many more.
Great Walks of Australia expands collection to include Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kangaroo Island Signature Walks
Great Walks of Australia has expanded its collection to 15 guided walks nationwide with the addition of the Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk and the Kangaroo Island Signature Walk, both operated by the Tasmanian Walking Company. Launched in 2013 as part of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences of Australia program, Great Walks of Australia represents the pinnacle of premium, nature-based tourism. Every walk in the collection meets strict criteria for inclusion, offering safe, all-inclusive, multi-day hiking experiences that showcase Australia’s most spectacular landscapes, wilderness areas, and cultural heritage. Genevieve Matthews, Executive Officer of Great Walks of Australia, said the group was elated to welcome the two new walks, which add both heart and a new edge to the collection. “Uluru-Kata Tjuta Signature Walk and Kangaroo Island Signature Walk offer guests an extraordinary combination of nature immersion, expert guides, comfort, culture, and storytelling, which defines what makes a Great Walk of Australia truly great. “One experience has guests journeying through the ancient landscape of Australia’s Red Centre, and the other set along the spectacular rugged coastline of South Australia. “Tasmanian Walking Company, who are pioneers of nature-based tourism in Australia, consistently deliver world-class experiences. These new additions to the collection extend the offering to our loyal walking community, showcasing some of the most globally recognised and breathtaking landscapes in the country.” Ms Matthews finished. Tasmanian Walking Company now operates six Great Walks of Australia, including the acclaimed Cradle Mountain, Bay of Fires, Three Capes, and Twelve Apostles Signature Walks. Brett Godfrey, Co-Owner of Tasmanian Walking Company said it’s a privilege to share these iconic landscapes with walkers, and to continue the trusted partnership with Great Walks of Australia. “Both Uluru-Kata Tjuta Signature Walk and Kangaroo Island Signature Walk represent not only world-class hiking experiences, but also a profound respect for the landscape, cultural heritage, and environment in which they take place,” Godfrey said. “A decade in development, but 500 million years in the making, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Signature Walk is a five-day, fully guided, premium hiking experience inside Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park that was developed in partnership with Aṉangu Traditional Owners,” Mr Godfrey said. “Guided by both indigenous partnership and a culture more than 40,000 years old, it has been a long-held dream to be granted overnight access within the World Heritage-listed National Park. Our guests will journey across Country, staying in our new flagship, environmentally sensitive, high-quality private camps and lodge. It’s an experience that unites comfort with a genuine connection to the heart of Australia. “The Island is back! Kangaroo Island Signature Walk invites guests to explore the wild beauty of Kangaroo Island on a four-day guided journey combining rugged coastal cliffs, pristine bushland, and abundant native wildlife. This all-inclusive experience features heritage lighthouse accommodation, chef-prepared meals, and expert guides who bring the island to life.” Godfrey finished. Robin Mack, Acting Manager Director, Tourism Australia said today’s announcement strengthens the world-class nature-based tourism offering Great Walks of Australia represents. “Great Walks of Australia is a collection of safe, all-inclusive, multi-day hiking experiences that allows visitors to be immersed in the country’s most spectacular landscapes and wilderness areas,” Mr Mack said. “Kangaroo Island Signature Walk and Uluru-Kata Tjuta Signature Walk provide both domestic and international tourists with an invitation to deeply connect with nature, culture and place.”
Ponant Explorations Group supports up and coming Australian seafarers
PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP is in the process of expanding its support for the next generation of Australian seafarers. Since 2014, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP has operated in Australia with a clear mission: to explore differently and to support local communities. In 2025, that mission takes a bold new step as the Asia Pacific division partners with the Australian Maritime College (AMC) to provide invaluable sea time for cadets aboard its fleet of small capacity expedition vessels. In a significant expansion, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP will now offer up to thirty cadet placements each year across its global fleet, exclusively to AMC students, the only maritime institution in Australia offering a university-level degree. According to PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP chief executive in the Asia Pacific Deb Corbett: “It is often a challenge for Australian cadets to secure sea time. I am incredibly proud of this initiative as we open our fleet to these future maritime professionals. This programme allows us to extend the company's ethos beyond our community of travellers and give back to the Australian seafaring community in a meaningful and lasting way.” AMC's principal Mal Wise expressed enthusiasm over the opportunity presented to his students, saying: “For those students embarking upon a sea-going career, the largest hurdle is often finding an initial sea service opportunity. The cadetships offered by PONANT EXPLORATIONS are simply fantastic, in that they not only present that opportunity, but do so within a modern and safe working environment, along with the adventure of a maritime career on a global scale.” Hands-on training with the very best The Group's extensive fleet of luxury and sustainable vessels is equipped to host up to four cadets at a time, offering immersive hands-on experience from day one. Whether on the bridge or in the engine room, cadets become integral crew members, learning directly from seasoned officers. Indeed, many of PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP's senior Deck and Engine Officers, including Staff Captains and Captains, began their journeys as cadets onboard. It is a legacy of mentorship that continues to shape the company's future. Cadets can now apply for deck and engine positions to complete their required internships across the Group's award-winning, environmentally advanced fleet. These ships navigate some of the world's most remote and iconic regions to offer an extraordinary training ground for emerging talent. Gaining experience in navigating the challenges of polar icy regions and the tidal variances of tropical areas will provide cadets with invaluable training. Operating under the French flag, the Group's vessels are held to some of the highest maritime safety, environmental, and social standards in the world. For AMC cadets, it is not just an opportunity to clock sea time; it is a launchpad to a world-class career.
Experience the diversity of Australian landscapes with ‘Journey Beyond the Tracks: from Adelaide to Perth’
Journey Beyond, the South Australian Tourism Commission and Tourism Western Australia have partnered to bring an Australian garden to the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London in May 2026. The bid to present a small show garden was accepted by the Royal Horticultural Society and award winning gardener Max Parker-Smith is working to bring his design to life. Nature cities of Adelaide and Perth Celebrating the Indian Pacific, one of the world’s epic rail journeys, and the nature cities of Adelaide and Perth; the garden will convey the diversity of Australian landscapes along the route. The ‘Journey Beyond the Tracks: From Adelaide to Perth’ garden will be a rich storytelling vehicle that blends travel, horticulture, and Australian innovation; promoting tourism, sustainability and regional identity through the design. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show attracts over 140,000 visitors over five days and the BBC coverage of the show reaches an average audience of over 22million people. 88% of the visitors to the show earn above the national average household income in the UK and the number one interest by market segment for RHS members is Travel, providing Chelsea Flower Show Garden sponsors in the tourism sector a unique opportunity. Latest tourism data for the year-ending June 2025, shows visitors from the UK contribute $141 million to South Australia's visitor economy and $381 million to Western Australia’s visitor economy. From wine regions to vast arid plains Max Parker-Smith says: "I see ‘Journey Beyond the Tracks: From Adelaide to Perth’ garden as a compelling platform to celebrate the diverse landscapes of South Australia and Western Australia. By incorporating distinctive materials and the warm, earthy hues of the outback, alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of native inspired planting, the garden aims to evoke the spirit and identity of both states. Inspired by the iconic rail journey that links Adelaide and Perth over two nights, this design reflects the ever-changing scenery — from world-renowned wine regions to vast arid plains. It’s a moving tapestry of contrasts, and I feel privileged to bring this unique journey to life through landscape.” At the heart of the garden sits a striking central structure, echoing the form and interior of an Indian Pacific train carriage. One side captures the expansive shrub plains of the Western Australian outback, featuring tiered sand beds and resilient native plantings. In contrast, the opposite side reflects Adelaide’s identity as a National Park City, showcasing its green urban vision with trees, natural water corridors, and layered vegetation. Sustainable materials are used throughout, including reclaimed timber, ochre-toned eco-concrete, natural stone, aggregate, and low-carbon metals — grounding the garden in both environmental responsibility and regional character. Emotionally rich landscapes Chris Tallent, Journey Beyond CEO says: “We’re delighted to be collaborating with Max Parker-Smith who has a proven track record of creating emotionally rich landscapes that connect people to places through his garden designs. We look forward to seeing Max’s design come to life, especially as he draws inspiration from his journey on board the Indian Pacific in November. This remarkable 4,352 Kilometre transcontinental crossing is one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, and is hugely popular with international travellers, including those from the United Kingdom. Max is sure to find inspiration as there is no better way to experience the spectacular landscapes of Australia. Highlights of the journey include the unique Off-Train Experiences in the charming outback town of Cook and a signature dinner under the stars at Rawlinna located on the fringe of one of Australia’s largest sheep stations, both of which promise an unforgettable experience. Our garden of all Australian flora at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2026 provides a very special opportunity to share the Indian Pacific’s 55 years of transcontinental journeys on an international stage and to celebrate the romance of train travel.” Rich tourism experiences which connect people with place Minister for Tourism in South Australia, Zoe Bettison, says: "The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a global brand and presents an excellent opportunity for us to partner with Journey Beyond and Tourism Western Australia to share the story of the Indian Pacific, inspiring UK travellers to book this exceptional rail adventure. The garden we’re presenting will shine a light on the National Park City of Adelaide and how our parklands, wineries, river systems, bushland and beaches all offer up rich tourism experiences which connect people with place.” Emma Terry, CEO, South Australian Tourism Commission says: “British holidaymakers visit, on average, at least two states or territories when they visit Australia and those travelling here are always looking at exciting ways to connect different parts of the country. The Indian Pacific offers a wonderful way to combine the National Park City of Adelaide with the nature city of Perth, and our garden at the Chelsea Flower Show will share that story - inspiring people to book this epic trip. “Our involvement in the project also allows us to share the wider story of Adelaide and South Australia – our commitment to sustainable and regenerative principles, the city’s proximity to world class wineries and national parks teeming with native wildlife and our welcoming locals who value living well instead of living large.” Western Australia Tourism Minister, Reece Whitby MLA, said: “Western Australia’s beauty will be showcased on the world stage at the iconic RHS Chelsea Flower Show. “Through our partnership with Journey Beyond and the South Australian Tourism Commission, we hope to give the UK a taste of WA and inspire travellers to visit and explore our unique state. “Perth is Australia's closest city to the UK and the only Australian city offering direct flights – we hope to see you here soon.” Once the RHS Chelsea Flower Show concludes The Journey Beyond the Tracks garden will be re-homed sustainably. All the plants will be replanted by The Royal Parks in Kensington Gardens London, part of the most famous collection of urban parks in the world. This partnership shines a light on the changing climate and the horticultural opportunities around effective urban planting in a warming planet. The hard structural elements of the garden will be used by the horticultural team at Longleat in Wiltshire, an organisation dedicated to reversing biodiversity decline. They will create an Australian garden space to complement their existing Koala Creek experience, which is home to koalas from South Australia as part of ongoing work to protect the species and support research. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show runs from 19-23 May 2026.
NSW leads Australia in visitors, nights and expenditure: TRA
Aerial view of Lake Cathie Beach in the Mid-North Coast of NSW looking south towards North Haven NSW has cemented its position as Australia’s number one visitor economy, leading the nation in visitors, nights and expenditure in the financial year ending June 2025, according to Tourism Research Australia (TRA). The results align with the Minns Labor Governments ambitious NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, which sets targets of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure, 40,400 new accommodation rooms, 8.5 million new airline seats and 150,000 additional jobs by 2035. Total visitor expenditure reached $55.9 billion, up 5.7 per cent year on year. International visitor expenditure grew even faster, rising 15.1 per cent to a record $13.9 billion. Other highlights included: 124.6 million international and domestic visitors - 9.7 million more than Victoria and 44.8 million more than Queensland. 3.9 million international visitors (+5.4 per cent year on year) — 1.1 million more than Victoria and 1.7 million more than Queensland. Four international markets surpassing 2019 visitor levels: South Korea (140 per cent), India (111 per cent), Philippines (132 per cent) and Vietnam (140 per cent). International expenditure reaching 123 per cent of 2019 levels. Average accommodation occupancy across NSW reached 74.6 per cent, up 1.2 per cent year on year and 2.7 per cent ahead of the national average (71.9 per cent). New England North West (+3.5 per cent) and the Blue Mountains (+2.7 per cent) recorded the strongest regional growth in occupancy. Sydney peaks included 94.5 per cent occupancy on New Year’s Eve and 89.1 per cent during Vivid Sydney. Total accommodation takings reached $7.1 billion, up three per cent year on year. China was the largest contributor to NSW’s international visitor growth (+23.7 per cent), followed by the United States and New Zealand. Sydney Airport recorded the highest seat capacity from mainland China of any Australian airport, welcoming its ninth mainland carrier, Juneyao Air, in December 2024 under the NSW Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund (AAF). Destination NSW has also supported more than 75 events across Sydney and regional NSW. Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said: “The numbers are in, and NSW remains the number one destination for domestic and international tourists. These record results confirm the NSW Government is firmly on track to achieve its goal of $59 billion in visitor expenditure by 2026. “The Minns Labor Government is focused on growing our visitor economy. Our strategy aims to build aviation capacity by adding 8.5 million seats through our Take Off Funds, and unlocking more than 40,000 new accommodation rooms through the new IDA pathway for hotel investment. “We already have the most outstanding destinations, experiences and events, and we will continue to drive investment in our visitor economy and strengthen NSW’s position as Australia’s leading destination for domestic and international visitors. FAST FACTS 1.2 million international visitors to NSW engaged in a food experience during their trip (up 10.7 per cent year on year) 3.3 million international visitors to NSW engaged in nature and outdoor-based activities during their trip (up 5.5 per cent year on year)
MasterChef Australia champ Nat Thaipun appointed F&B ambassador for Pullman Hotels
Pullman Hotels & Resorts announced a new culinary partnership with Nat Thaipun, celebrated chef and 2024 winner of MasterChef Australia. As food and beverage ambassador for Pullman in Australia, New Zealand and across Asia, Thaipun will bring her creative flair and cultural influences to an exciting series of dining experiences throughout the region. As Accor Pacific chief operating officer Adrian Williams puts it: “Nat Thaipun brings an inspiring mix of creativity, authenticity, and modern flair that perfectly complements Pullman's bold approach to food and beverage. Her ability to draw from her Thai heritage and international experiences to create dishes that surprise and connect aligns seamlessly with Pullman's ethos. We are thrilled to introduce her talent to our guests across the Pacific and Asia.” Through this partnership, creativity will take centre stage across Pullman hotels, with events designed to highlight local ingredients, reinterpret regional dishes, and celebrate the playful and modern spirit of dining that is at the heart of the brand. Coming soon: creative gastronomy This latest collaboration underscores Pullman's commitment to elevating its food and beverage offering. Thaipun said of the partnership: “For me, cooking has always been inspired by my curiosity. Every ingredient and every dish can tell a new story. It's about evoking feelings. Partnering with Pullman gives me the perfect canvas to create something exciting in a space that reflects authentic hospitality. There's nothing I love more than immersing myself in the food and hospitality of a region, and I can't wait to share that joy with guests.” From early 2026, guests will be invited to experience exclusive pop-ups, restaurant takeovers, and a curated selection of Thaipun’s signature creations at Pullman addresses in the Pacific and Asia. Among the highlights will be her reimagined Satay Skewers, featuring a macadamia satay and ash made from leek, onion or garlic skin, accompanied by pickles. Reflecting her commitment to local sourcing and diverse palates, the dish is offered with variations ranging from kangaroo and pork to vegetarian options such as courgette. Members of ALL Accor, the Group's lifestyle loyalty programme, will enjoy privileged access to behind-the-scenes encounters with the chef, from intimate chef's table dinners to immersive cooking workshops.
South Australian Tourism Commission
250 Victoria Square, Adelaide
AIME 2026: 9–11 February 2026 | Melbourne, Australia
Where the business events world meets in Asia Pacific The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event – AIME – is
AIME 2025 – 10 – 12 February 2025 • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is the leading trade event for the meetings and event industry in the Asia Pacific region. AIME is where industry decision makers connect, create and do business. We bring together international and local event planners and connect them with the best destinations, venues and event suppliers from around the world. AIME 2025 will be held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre from 10 – 12 February.
AIME 2024 – 19 – 21 February 2024 • Melbourne, Australia
The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is the leading trade event for the meetings and event industry in the Asia Pacific region. AIME is where industry decision makers connect, create and do business. We bring together international and local event planners and connect them with the best destinations, venues and event suppliers from around the world. AIME 2024 will be held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre from 19 – 21 February.
Maximum Occupancy Melbourne – 11th November 2025
Maximum Occupancy Melbourne 11th November 2025 Maximum Occupancy stands as APAC’s foremost hotel conference, tailored by industry leaders for
Asian Hotel Industry Conference & Exhibition (AHICE) – 24-26 February, 2025 Singapore.
Join the conversation where deals get done at AHICE South East Asia 2025 Monday 24, Tuesday 25 & Wednesday 26 February 2025 Pan Pacific Singapore
Vietnam Tourism Open 2024
The Vietnam Tourism Open 2024, hosted by GolfLux, is set to be a remarkable event in the world of amateur golf, taking place from March 17 to 21, 2024, in Hanoi, Vietnam. This tournament, organized in collaboration with the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, aims to showcase Vietnam's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, alongside promoting its burgeoning tourism industry.
AHICE SE Asia 2024 – 27 to 29 February 2024, Singapore
The Asian Hotel Industry Conference & Exhibition (AHICE), hosted by HM Magazine is set to make its South East Asia debut in February 2024 on Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 in Singapore.
Webinar: Small Ship Expeditions – Antarctica 23/24 + New Arctic 23
Dive right into Aurora Expeditions' brand new 2023/24 Antarctic season and updated 2023 Arctic & Global season by joining us at our series of Launch Events across Australia and New Zealand.
Webinar: Small Ship Expeditions – Antarctica 23/24 + New Arctic 23
Dive right into Aurora Expeditions' brand new 2023/24 Antarctic season and updated 2023 Arctic & Global season by joining us at our series of Launch Events across Australia and New Zealand.
Win the ultimate luxury experience worth over $25,000NZD
In partnership with Queenstown Tourism, here is your chance to spend a week experiencing the best Queenstown has to offer for your clients.
Maximum Occupancy 2022: Sheraton Grand Sydney, 5-6 April 2022
Maximum Occupancy is Australia’s premier hotel and accommodation industry conference, designed for and by the hotel industry's leaders. Suited for all types of hotel and accommodation providers and sizes, it will feature over 35+ leading industry experts and speakers from around Australia and the globe. This is THE event for any hotelier that wants to achieve maximum occupancy month after month.
March: Fitz Club’s Popular Annual Tennis Tournament Returns on 27-29 March 2020
Mark your calendars! Royal Cliff Hotels Group will be staging its popular 12th Fitz Club Tennis Tournament from 27 – 29 March 2020. This year’s category is 35+ Men Singles & ladies Open for tennis players of all skill levels.
How does a night of luxury including breakfast for 2 sound??
In conjunction with Westin Grande Sukhumvit, TD is giving you the opportunity to experience a night of luxury just by answering this one simple question
Luxury Oceanfront Pool Villa seeks fun-loving travellers! Apply within
In partnership with TD, Conrad Koh Samui is giving you the opportunity to win two nights in a Oceanfront Pool Villa including breakfast for two all by answering one easy question.
Win 2 nights in a Ocean front Balcony Pool Suite at SALA Samui Chaweng Beach!
SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort is Koh Samui’s stunning new 5-star pool suite and villa beach resort and spa. Replete with a white sandy beach, luxury pool villas and all the amenities needed to create a magical getaway drenched in sunshine -- it really is the quintessential Asian paradise.
Win two nights at the AVANI Atrium Bangkok
Travel Daily Asia has teamed up with AVANI Atrium Bangkok to offer travel professionals the chance to win a 2-night