Global

‘ATM Start-Up Pitch Battle’ calls for final entries till 21 March

Kanchan Nath Mar 13, 2025

Providing a platform for the regional entrepreneurs who will shape the future of travel, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will host the ATM Start-Up Pitch Battle in association with Intelak…

Cruise

‘Start-ups’ in focus at the ‘The Innovation Hub’ at the Dubai International Boat Show

Kanchan Nath Feb 24, 2025

Dubai International Boat Show, the global luxury yacht and lifestyle show, has once again underscored its position as a global assembly space attracting visitors and exhibitors from more…

Awards

InterLnkd crowned winner of the ATM 2024 start-up pitch battle, held in association with Intelak 

Kanchan Nath May 10, 2024

InterLnkd overcame stiff competition on the final day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 to win the third ATM Start-up Pitch Battle, which was held in association with Intelak.

Technology

Wayra (Telefónica) and HBX Group announce the winning start-ups to join the TravelTech Lab

Kanchan Nath Mar 10, 2024

HBX Group, a leading B2B ecosystem in the TravelTech space, and Wayra, Telefónica's Corporate Venture Capital, announced the winners of the second TravelTech Lab by HBX Group challenge after…

Global

SITA technology to power French start-up Alltheway’s new doorstep baggage delivery service

Kanchan Nath Sep 12, 2023

SITA technology is powering a new and convenient baggage service from French start-up Alltheway, enabling passengers traveling from Paris to check in and drop off their bags from their home…

Global

J2 adventures introduces a start-up touring concept for luxury Jewish travel adventures  

Kanchan Nath Aug 25, 2023

J2 adventures (which stands for Jewish Journeys) is the latest, hippest tour operator to  rethink how its clients experience Jewish culture around the world.

Road

roadsurfer, Europe’s #1 RV/Camper van rental start-up, sees remarkable growth in its first year in the USA

Kanchan Nath Jun 27, 2023

Munich-based outdoor travel expert expands operations, gains popularity in Europe and the U.S., and secures a 21 million euros investment. 

Hotels

Hotelbeds and Wayra (Telefónica) announce first start-ups to be part of the TravelTech Lab 

Kanchan Nath Jun 13, 2023

Hotelbeds and Wayra, Telefónica's open innovation initiative, have announced the winners of the first TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds challenge.

Associations

UNWTO announces winning start-ups for ‘Awake Tourism Challenge’

Kanchan Nath Feb 3, 2023

UNWTO has announced the winners of its 'Awake Tourism Challenge', celebrating the start-ups that are reshaping the sector in every global region.

Spain

Spain introduces new visa for foreign start-ups & digital nomads

Kanchan Nath Nov 9, 2022

The Spanish Parliament has approved the new law for start-ups and digital nomads, which regulates who is eligible for this visa and anticipates reducing the Corporation Tax for these…

Airlines and Aviation

Airline Start-Up In Australia: What Makes It So Challenging?

Joe Cusmano Jan 6, 2022

Bonza, a new low-cost airline with big plans for Australia, will launch in mid-2022.

Global

AmexGBT buys AI start-up 30SecondsToFly

Megha Paul Oct 14, 2020

American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) has acquired 30SecondsToFly, a technology start-up specialising in artificial intelligence (AI) and messaging for business travel

Eturbo News

Technology Will be Game Changer for Travel Start-ups

Anil Mathur Oct 3, 2020

The Additional Director General of the India Ministry of Tourism, Ms. Rupinder Brar, said that technology will be a game-changer for the travel start-up industry and government is ready to…

Travel start-up breathes life to struggling hotels

Kristin Mariano Sep 21, 2020

With the travel industry under threat and the off-peak season looming, the travel platform behind the ‘daycation’ trend is pioneering an innovative way to breathe life into empty hotels:…

Startups

Tech start-ups lay off thousands of employees amid COVID-19 pandemic

Kristin Mariano Jul 7, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is a health crisis that no one anticipated and it devastated many industries, especially the travel sector.

UNWTO and Basque Culinary Centre launch 2nd gastronomy tourism start-up competition

Megha Paul Feb 11, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and Basque Culinary Center have joined forces again for the second edition of the Global Gastronomy Tourism Startup Competition. After the…

Uber’s former CEO Travis Kalanick finances 3D-printed hotel start-up

Kristin Mariano Feb 10, 2020

Travis Kalanick, the co-founder of Uber, is among the backers of a new hotel start-up Habitas that makes 3D-printed hotels.

Technology

Travel tech this week: Aussie founder dedicates start-up to support bushfire-affected businesses

Kristin Mariano Jan 16, 2020

For travel tech this week, speaking of making lemonade out of lemons; one start-up in Australia has transformed itself into a travel tech platform that aids businesses affected by the fire…

Tourism start-ups focus on innovation and sustainability

Megha Paul Jan 13, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), in association with Globalia, a tourism group in Spain and Latin America, has selected the finalists of the 2nd Global Tourism Startup…

Travel Tech 4 Good announces winners of start-up initiative in Cairo

Megha Paul Jan 6, 2020

Halla Travel and Blue Odysea are the winners of the Travel Tech 4 Good start-up initiative for the tourism sector in Egypt. It was launched jointly by the TUI Care Foundation and…

Technology

Travel tech this week: Start-ups raised millions for expansion

Kristin Mariano Dec 26, 2019

For travel tech news this week, it is indeed happy holidays for some start-ups as they raised millions to fuel their expansion.

Technology

E-scooter start-up Neuron Mobility raises USD 18.5 million in Series A

Kristin Mariano Dec 10, 2019

Singapore-based e-scooter start-up Neuron Mobility has closed an USD 18.5 million in Series A funding round aiming to expand in international markets.

Startups

A different kind of mobility start-up receives USD 10.1 million to grow operations

Kristin Mariano Nov 29, 2019

Singapore-based smart mobility start-up Ministry of Movement has received a USD 10.1 million from its Series A funding round to grow and expand overseas.

Technology

Amadeus Ventures to lend a hand on travel tech start-ups in APAC

Kristin Mariano Nov 19, 2019

Amadeus is expanding Amadeus Ventures to help travel tech start-ups in APAC starting 2020.

OTAs & Tour Operators

“We speak the language and we love this country”: How one start-up cracked Thailand’s biggest tour guide association

Alastair Newport Nov 8, 2019

Invited as a friend of the European run, Thai based global start-up iZZi guide, who were presenting their plans to evolve the world of destination management to the PGAT membership that…

World’s most disruptive sports tourism start-ups meet in Macau

Megha Paul Oct 15, 2019

The growing sports tourism sector took centre stage at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macau, SAR with the first 'SPORTSTECH' edition of the UN World Tourism Organisation’s Tourism…

Battle of the best: 2019 Mekong innovative start-ups in tourism finalists announced

Megha Paul Oct 3, 2019

The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office has announced that 10 innovative start-ups from across the Mekong Region will compete in the Mekong Innovative Start-ups in Tourism (MIST)…

Startups

Softbank’s Masa-san has a message to start-ups after WeWork didn’t work

Kristin Mariano Sep 27, 2019

If you have been living under a rock and is oblivious to what happened to WeWork’s controversial IPO, let us jog the timeline of events.

UNWTO and Globalia launch second global tourism start-up competition

Megha Paul Sep 16, 2019

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has joined Globalia, a tourism group in Spain and Latin America, to launch the second edition of the UNWTO Global Tourism Start-up Competition.…

Startups

Ride-hailing start-up Bolt enters food delivery business to rival Uber

Kristin Mariano Aug 22, 2019

Uber rival in Europe Bolt, formerly known as Taxify, has entered the already-crowded field of food delivery.

TAT ties up with local start-ups to woo Nordic tourists

Megha Paul Aug 7, 2019

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is collaborating with 24 Thai start-ups to break into the Nordic market under a project entitled ‘Bringing New Shades of Thailand to Nordic…

Tourism

UNWTO launches start-up competition in sports tourism sector

Megha Paul Jun 17, 2019

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with Barça Innovation Hub (BIHUB) and with the support of the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC), has announced the launch…

Startups

Go-Jek acquires another Indian start-up

Kristin Mariano Jun 13, 2019

Ride-hailing giant Go-Jek turned to another Indian start-up to further its growth. The company announced that it has acquired AirCTO, a recruitment platform based in Gurgaon.

Startups

Start-up Fairbnb is Airbnb but with a heart

Kristin Mariano May 20, 2019

Fairbnb is a new start-up in the quad that allows you to rent your home to guests and will collect 15% commission on bookings. Where that commission will go sets the two start-ups apart. In…

Startups

Airbnb-like start-up for business travellers Mint House raises USD 15 million

Kristin Mariano May 14, 2019

Start-up Mint House, Airbnb-style for business travellers, raised USD 15 million in Series A funding led by Revolution Ventures.

Technology

Travel tech this week: Start-ups funding and new partnerships

Kristin Mariano Feb 28, 2019

This week, we saw travel start-ups getting funding to further their growth. Some companies also facilitated new partnerships to expand their services.

Technology

Travel tech this week: New start-ups and groundbreaking updates

Kristin Mariano Feb 21, 2019

This week, we saw new start-ups launch worldwide KIWIride, SensorFlow, and Bounce. Zudu cooked up digital strategies while Egencia updated its platform to enhance customer experiences,…

Startups

Travel tech this week: It’s raining green for start-ups

Kristin Mariano Jan 17, 2019

This week we saw numerous travel tech start-ups receive millions of funding from different funding rounds. Start-ups rely on investments to foster growth.

Technology

Travel tech this week: Start-ups Grab, Nezasa, AvantStay secure millions and more

Kristin Mariano Jan 3, 2019

It is that time of the week again. This time, we saw millions being secured by start-ups hinting the forthcoming innovations in various sectors.

Technology

TravelgateX acquires the start-up REVVA

Kristin Mariano Nov 7, 2018

TravelgateX, a global marketplace for the travel trade, has acquired start-up REVVA in order to strengthen its position in the business intelligence sector.

OTAs & Tour Operators

Tours and activities M&A continues as TUI Group acquires tech start-up Musement

Tian Tolentino Sep 17, 2018

To strengthen its position in the excursions, tours and activities business, TUI Group has acquired the Italian tech start-up, Musement.

River Cruising

Five new Rascals for Indonesian cruise start-up

Alastair Newport Sep 10, 2018

Indonesian cruise line Rascal Voyages may have only been established in 2017, but in the few months they have been in action the new kids on the block created more than a few ripples with…

Hospitality

Chinese media giant Tencent to invest in Indian budget hotel start-up OYO Rooms

MILI SEMLANI Semlani Jul 26, 2018

Tencent Holdings Ltd. is in talks to lead a financing round of between US$300 million to US$500 million in Indian budget hotel brand OYO Rooms, valuing OYO at over US$2 billion, according to…

Global

Start-up OTA Hey! Belgium partners with Booking.com

Alastair Newport Jun 13, 2018

Last month, while attending ITB in Shanghai, my boss and Travel Daily’s editor-in-chief broke the news of the brand new online travel agent HEY! Belgium, who simultaneously opened for…

Asia

Philippine start-up enables travellers to explore 7,641 islands like a local

Kristin Mariano May 14, 2018

Despite having more than 7,600 tropical islands, 300 volcanoes, 400 languages and thousands of colourful festivals, the Philippines is still yet to maximise all its of its many advantages…

Entrepreneurs

Experience beyond itineraries: we talk to a ‘serial start-up founder’

Simon Willmore Apr 24, 2018

We previously posted the first part of our interview with Experience Philippines founder and CEO Giancarlo 'Gian' Gallegos, who has made us want to round up a few companions for a Random…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia takes off to Silicon Valley to find best start-ups in the world

Kristin Mariano Apr 2, 2018

AirAsia is making its way into US Silicon Valley in search of the best start-ups in the travel industry.

Airlines and Aviation

Airbus BizLab signs Indian start-ups in new push for ‘Make in India’

Alastair Newport Mar 8, 2018

Neewee and EFLIGHT, two start-ups accelerated at Airbus Bizlab India, have signed their first contracts with Airbus and subsidiary NAVBLUE to bring to life their unique innovative ideas in…

Entrepreneurs

‘I built a travel data start-up because of a selfish desire to keep in touch’

Simon Willmore Mar 2, 2018

Andres Fabris earned a finance degree from the University of Texas at Austin in the hopes of working in the finance side of the IT industry. Instead, he has spent 23 years growing, then…

Entrepreneurs

Start-up led by ‘wonder twins’ keeps vacation rental managers in touch with guests

Simon Willmore Feb 14, 2018

Twins & former vacation rental hosts Amiad & Koby Soto realised the need for an all-in-one technological solution to manage & automate logistics in Guesty.

Corporate & Business

Start-up carves its own niche in the alternative accommodations scene

Simon Willmore Feb 9, 2018

We recently touched base with Valéry Linÿer, CEO and founder of MagicStay, to show us how a rental platform dedicated to business travellers holds its own.

Mobile & Social

“Every musician is born an entrepreneur” – how piano theory helps the founder of a messaging start-up

Simon Willmore Feb 6, 2018

We got in touch with Unified Inbox CEO and founder Toby Ruckert, to figure out how seemingly disparate interests could create a platform that allows for a harmonious relationship between…

Technology

European start-up GoEuro reaches 20mn visitors per month

Jill Sayles Jan 15, 2018

GoEuro, the European platform for travel by train, bus and flight, today revealed it has reached 20 million visitors per month. The European start-up, which has built a platform for…

Technology

CBInsights reviews 2017 trends in travel tech start-ups and investments

Simon Willmore Jan 10, 2018

Tech analyst company CBInsights argues that travel tech is evolving faster than Pokemon.

Consumer

NYC start-up keeps customer care real on chat, social and mobile

Simon Willmore Jan 8, 2018 20

Bad travel and hospitality services. Scripted customer care messages. Slow assistance. Mix them all together with social media, and you have a potential customer service hot spot for travel…

Startups

Packdat start-up! Disrupting the travel market with Felix Lee

Simon Willmore Jan 3, 2018 6

Felix Lee Zheng De looks like any other Singaporean engineering student: lanky, bespectacled, wearing jeans and trainers, raring to go anywhere. What sets this twenty-something apart is that…

Technology

New tech start-up Sujester pilots with first travel agencies

Jill Sayles Jul 5, 2017

London based travel technology start-up Sujester has launched its web platform with Travel Four Seasons and Mark Bratt Travel for them to use with their customers in retail stores and…

United States

New Tech Start-Up, Criton, Introduces First Self-Build Digital Concierge for Travel Sector

Simon Willmore Apr 21, 2017 0

Travel tech start-up, Criton, has launched a digital concierge for the UK’s thousands of property owners and small businesses offering holiday accommodation to transfer the guest information…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia acquires stake in travel planning start-up

Mark Elliott Apr 20, 2017

AirAsia is acquiring a 50% stake in Touristly Travel, the Malaysian online travel planning start-up. The deal, which will consist of an asset injection and loan valued at MYR11.5…

Airlines and Aviation

easyJet and Founders Factory grant funding to start-ups

Aaron Greenwood Feb 14, 2017

easyJet and Founders Factory have announced the first two travel start-ups selected for their Travel Tech accelerator programme. In October 2016, easyJet announced a strategic investment…

United States

TTE Show Doubles Launchpad To Support 15 Start-ups

Simon Willmore Jan 24, 2017 6

Travel Technology Europe has increased its investment in innovation by doubling the size of the show’s Launchpad. This means that up to 15 travel start-ups could exhibit for free at next…

Travel Trade Show

ATM 2025 sees 104% increase in registrations vis-à-vis 2024

Kanchan Nath Apr 4, 2025

ATM is on course to attract a record number of high value visitors, with registrations up 104% compared to the same time last year, reinforcing its position as an essential platform for…

Global

DOT, TIEZA, CHED collaborate to use HEDF to boost tourism-related courses

Kanchan Nath Mar 26, 2025

The Department of Tourism (DOT), its infrastructure arm, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), signed a Joint…

Airlines and Aviation

Delta partners with JetZero to design the future of air travel

Kanchan Nath Mar 25, 2025

Delta Air Lines is partnering with JetZero on a revolutionary, more sustainable aircraft that looks and feels like nothing flying today’s commercial skies.

Air

AIM Congress 2025 to showcase the future of mobility

Kanchan Nath Mar 25, 2025

AIM Congress 2025, in its 14th edition, will highlight the latest global innovations in the mobility sector under the Future Cities Portfolio, bringing together industry leaders, investors,…

Tourism Boards

DET partners with Amadeus

Kanchan Nath Mar 12, 2025

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology, to facilitate a city wide…

Airlines and Aviation

United Sustainable Flight Fund invests in Heirloom to scale DAC

Kanchan Nath Mar 3, 2025

United has announced that the UAV Sustainable Flight Fund has made an investment in direct air capture (DAC) company Heirloom, adding Heirloom's measurable, quantifiable carbon reduction…

Religious Tourism

Massive surge in transportation for Maha Kumbh 2025

Kanchan Nath Feb 24, 2025

Sciative Solutions released a Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 travel trends analysis through their deep-tech start-up which focuses on AI-enabled automated price optimization solutions.

Appointments

Andrew Steele appointed managing director of Raffles Doha & Fairmont Doha

Kanchan Nath Jan 22, 2025

Raffles Doha and Fairmont Doha are delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Steele as Managing Director, ushering in a new era of luxury and excellence for two of Qatar’s most iconic…

Technology

Pakistan Travel Mart 2025 opens 31st January

Marga Manlapig Jan 3, 2025

Pakistan Travel Mart 2025 is slated to open on 31st January and will run till 2nd February at the Expo Centre in Karachi.

Guest Column

How to Choose the Best Flight Booking Software

Mohit Singh Dec 30, 2024

Choosing the right flight booking software is key for online travel agencies (OTAs) to simplify their operations and improve customer experience. An affordable flight booking software for…

Air

myPlane reports 300% growth in digital charter enquiries

Kanchan Nath Dec 24, 2024

myPlane has announced that charter enquiries via its innovative booking engine for commercial charter flights grew by 300% in 2024

Technology

NaviSavi trial proves UGC travel videos get up to 9X more clicks than professional videos

Kanchan Nath Dec 5, 2024

Travel themed user generated content (UGC) gained up to nine times more click throughs than professional videos when used in trial marketing campaigns, short-form video travel marketplace …

Technology

The Trip Boutique AI joins forces with Amadeus

Kanchan Nath Nov 27, 2024

Global commercial partnership will bring AI-powered personalization and efficiency to travel agencies worldwide. 

Technology

Cygnett announces partnership with Luxury Escapes

Marga Manlapig Nov 8, 2024

Australian tech accessory brand Cygnett entered a new partnership with travel firm Luxury Escapes to keep travellers powered and connected on their next escape.

Appointments

Virtuoso’s continued worldwide expansion leads to strategic executive realignment

Kanchan Nath Nov 5, 2024

Thatcher Brown Joins Virtuoso as Senior Vice President, Global Products and Jennifer Campbell is named Senior Vice President, Global Events.

Airlines and Aviation

IndiGo Ventures gets SEBI approval to launch Venture Capital Fund

Kanchan Nath Oct 17, 2024

IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, announces that IndiGo Ventures, its corporate venture capital fund, has received the Alternative Investment Fund approval from Securities and Exchange…

Hospitality

Hotel Toranomon Hills brings The Unbound Collection by Hyatt to Tokyo in grand fashion

Mark Glanville Oct 9, 2024

Opened in December 2023, Hotel Toranomon Hills brings The Unbound Collection by Hyatt to Tokyo, with a unique character and charm all its own.

Transport

Uber launches Earthshot Prize partnership with international ENSO deal

Kanchan Nath Oct 1, 2024

Uber has launched a strategic partnership with The Earthshot Prize Finalist, ENSO to roll out their range-extending and low-emission electric vehicle (EV) tires across the UK and USA. 

Tourism

WTTC reveals pandemic’s heavy toll on woman and youth in travel & tourism jobs

Kanchan Nath Sep 24, 2024

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism, launched a new report revealing the stark impact of the pandemic on…

Airlines and Aviation

IndiGo to commence Bengaluru-Jeddah direct flights from 30 September

Kanchan Nath Aug 30, 2024

IndiGo, India’s preferred carrier, has announced the launch of daily direct flights connecting Bengaluru to Jeddah w.e.f. September 30, 2024.

Technology

Digitaltravel.io hits £1m annual revenue in time for third birthday

Kanchan Nath Aug 13, 2024

North West-based technology start-up based in the heart of Liverpool, digitaltravel.io is celebrating its third birthday with the news it has quadrupled in size financially since its…

Airlines and Aviation

Riyadh Air introduces Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s first 47 seat electric coach in commitment to sustainability

Kanchan Nath Aug 12, 2024

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new digitally native airline is fully committed to sustainable aviation practices and today launched the first in a fleet of electric coaches for employee…

Global

Farnborough International Airshow 2024 delivered the apex of aviation

Kanchan Nath Aug 5, 2024

Farnborough International Airshow 2024 cemented its positioning as the must-attend event in the aerospace calendar and delivered its busiest event in recent decades, with a 33% increase on…

Awards

C9 Hotelworks founder: ‘Anything is possible’ amidst hospitality build-up in Asia

Marga Manlapig Jul 23, 2024

Considered one of the foremost experts in the hotel residences sector, Barnett is a globally recognised hospitality, tourism, and real estate advisor.

Technology

Sabre implements distribution agreement with Air Moana to expand access to French Polynesia

Kanchan Nath Jul 19, 2024

Air Moana is now able to connect global leisure travellers to one of the most beautiful parts of the world through Sabre’s distribution marketplace.

Airlines and Aviation

IndiGo announces direct flights from Bengaluru to Abu Dhabi

Kanchan Nath Jul 1, 2024

IndiGo, India’s preferred carrier, has announced new direct flight between Bengaluru and Abu Dhabi.

Global

dnata showcases advanced robot to serve exquisite Asian cuisine at WTCE

Kanchan Nath May 31, 2024

Visitors to dnata Catering & Retail’s stand at the World Travel Catering and Onboard Services Expo (WTCE) in Hamburg will be treated to some of the best dishes of Asian cuisine – all…

MICE

Virtuzone set to host the second edition of LaunchPad 2024 event in Dubai

Kanchan Nath May 24, 2024

Following the success of the first LaunchPad event, Virtuzone, a leader specialising in business setup and corporate services, announces its highly anticipated second edition, LaunchPad…

Cruise

Seatrade Maritime reveals strategic industry collaborations for UAE Maritime Week

Kanchan Nath May 23, 2024

The maritime and logistics industry's overwhelming commitment has led to a record-breaking number of organisations signing up as partners for the UAE Maritime Week and its associated events,…

MICE

ATM 2024 sees 15% year-on-year growth, setting a new show record with more than 46,000 attendees across four days

Kanchan Nath May 10, 2024

More than 46,000 industry professionals from over 160 countries – including 33,500 visitors – attended the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which concluded in Dubai, UAE.

MICE

Arabian Travel Market 2024 returns on 6 May with 41,000 + expected 

Kanchan Nath May 5, 2024

The organisers of Arabian Travel Market 2024 (ATM) and representatives from the exhibition’s strategic partners, which include the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Emirates,…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates partners with Aviation Impact Accelerator

Kanchan Nath May 2, 2024

Emirates has become an industrial partner of the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA), based at the University of Cambridge.

Awards

IWTA Awards 2024 celebrates women shining in the travel industry

Kanchan Nath Apr 29, 2024

With the theme: “Speak Up. Stand Out. Be the Voice that Inspires Inclusion” the highly anticipated Inspiring Women in Travel – Asia (IWTA) Awards 2024 returned to recognise and celebrate…

Airlines and Aviation

Wizz Air partners with InterLnkd to launch intelligent shopping platform

Kanchan Nath Apr 24, 2024

InterLnkd, the travel industry’s intelligent shopping mall partner, and Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest-growing airline, have announced the launch of the carrier’s pioneering WIZZ SHOP&FLY…

Hotels

Global Hotel Alliance celebrates 20th anniversary at IHIF EMEA in Berlin

Kanchan Nath Apr 23, 2024

UAE-headquartered Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, celebrated its 20th anniversary this week in Berlin at the International Hospitality…

Technology

Sabre and InterparkTriple announce strategic technology partnership

Kanchan Nath Apr 15, 2024

The fast-growing Online Travel Agency and Sabre will collaborate to attract millions more visitors to South Korea through AI-powered innovation. 

Global

IWTA speaks with Mary Li, Founder and CEO, Atlas

Michaela Connor Apr 12, 2024

In conversation with the IWTA Committee, Mary Li, Founder and CEO, Atlas shares more about her transformative journey through travel. Going ahead from tough Covid times to build an inclusive…

Mergers & Acquisitions

Lindner Hotel Group and 12.18. Group merge hotel operations

Kanchan Nath Mar 27, 2024

The Lindner Hotel Group (LHG) takes over the operation of five hotels previously managed by the 12.18. Group (12.18.).

MICE

ATM 2024 to see an unprecedented 56% growth in its Travel Tech area

Kanchan Nath Mar 26, 2024

 The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, scheduled to be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from May 6 to May 9, is poised to be a pivotal event for the global travel and tourism…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand seeks innovators in global search for sustainable aviation fuel 

Kanchan Nath Mar 20, 2024

Air New Zealand has launched a global open invitation to innovators and start-ups in the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) sector to become a supply partner to the airline

MICE

ATM 2024 will address sustainability and innovation in the aviation sector

Kanchan Nath Mar 14, 2024

Exploring the future of aviation, Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which takes place from 6-9 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will host prominent international airlines and aircraft…

Corporate & Business

Amex GBT unveils new initiative to drive AI Innovation and Governance

Kanchan Nath Mar 6, 2024

American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT), a leading software and services company for travel and expense, revealed the creation of a new artificial intelligence (AI) initiative.

Global

SATTE 2024 second day witnessed record participation from buyers and exhibitors

Kanchan Nath Feb 26, 2024

On the second day, SATTE Awards was organised which is a unique initiative intended to recognize industry stake holder from across the travel, tourism and hospitality industry along with…

Global

LIBF Expo 2024 Unprecedented Showcase of Global Innovation, Startups and Commerce

Kanchan Nath Jan 2, 2024

LIBF Expo, 2024 - being held at the Helipad Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat from 18th to 21st January 2024, aims to create a unique platform- wheret Representatives from…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

WebBeds partners with BeCause to increase the availability of eco-certified properties

Kanchan Nath Dec 18, 2023

WebBeds, the global marketplace providing accommodation ground product distribution services to the travel industry, has partnered with BeCause to provide WebBeds users with certified…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates Group unveils Ebdaa, fostering creativity at the heart of aviation innovation

Kanchan Nath Dec 18, 2023

The Emirates Group lifted the curtains on Ebdaa, its sparkling new, high-tech aviation innovation hub. Ebdaa, which means creativity in Arabic, is housed in what was the Emirates Pavilion at…

Airlines and Aviation

Pegasus Airlines is establishing Silicon Valley-based Technology Innovation Lab

Kanchan Nath Dec 6, 2023

Having launched its digital transformation program in 2018 under the motto Your Digital Airline, Pegasus Airlines is taking a significant leap in the technology arena to secure the…

Hotels

RoomRaccoon acquires Irish Hotel Management Software Company, iHotelligence

Kanchan Nath Dec 5, 2023

The global hotel tech company RoomRaccoon is reinforcing its presence in Ireland with the completion of its first acquisition, iHotelligence.

MICE

Kolkata to raise a toast to Asia’s largest sports and  fitness `Kumbh’ through FITEXPO INDIA 2023

Kanchan Nath Nov 27, 2023

Kolkata is gearing up to host one of Asia’s largest sports, fitness and wellness trade Expo through FITEXPO INDIA 2023 (December 1 to 3) at the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan in Kolkata.

Air

This New Airline Buys Cheap Super Jumbos to Fly Across the Atlantic

Joe Cusmano Nov 23, 2023

According to Global Airlines founder and long-haul carrier proponent James Asquith, the popularity of the Airbus A380 among travellers, pilots, and airports is the key to the company’s…

Technology

Virtuzone pioneers the world’s first business setup AI chatbot: ChatVZ

Kanchan Nath Nov 22, 2023

Building on the successful launch of its suite of AI-powered tools, Virtuzone further cements its position as a leading innovator in the company formation and corporate service industry by…

MICE

TiE Global Summit 2023 debuts in Singapore, fuelling entrepreneurial innovation and collaboration

Kanchan Nath Nov 21, 2023

TiE Global Summit (TGS) 2023, the eighth edition of the flagship event organised by TiE, hosted over 2,000 attendees with a series of thought leadership as well as panel sessions led by…

Airlines and Aviation

Special Air Canada and Dreams Take Flight, departs Montreal

Kanchan Nath Nov 10, 2023

The first Air Canada and Dreams Take Flight from Montreal since 2019 took off with 150 children to Orlando to experience the trip-of-a-lifetime.

MICE

Top three key business lessons for success  

Kanchan Nath Nov 9, 2023

Reggie Aggarwal, CEO and Founder of Cvent, delivered an inspiring opening keynote offering an optimistic outlook on the future of the events industry during the company’s annual industry and…

Inspiring Women in Travel (IWTA)

IWTA speaks with Nguyen Thi Huong Lien, CEO of I Love Hue Tour Company

Michaela Connor Nov 8, 2023

Nguyen Thi Huong Lien was a girl with big dreams. With 100USD in hand, she put up a small tour company knowing that it will provide a lot of opportunities to practice her…

Training

TUI Futureshapers Programme empowers leaders in Portugal and Senegal

Kanchan Nath Oct 9, 2023

The TUI Futureshapers Programme wants to fuel an impact-minded entrepreneurship culture that innovatively tackles social and environmental problems and turns tourism into a key solution to…

Air

Australia’s New Low-Cost Bonza Launches Bonza Holidays

Joe Cusmano Oct 1, 2023

Australia’s newest low-cost carrier has launched a significant new offering, ‘Bonza Holidays’. From yesterday, Aussies can book tailored packaged holidays via the Fly Bonza app to any of…

Food & Drink

National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) Indian Restaurant Summit 2023: A Beacon of National Transformation

Kanchan Nath Sep 26, 2023

The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) has successfully concluded Day 1 of the landmark NRAI Indian Restaurant Summit 2023 in Kolkata, marking a significant moment in the…

MICE

The Advantage Travel Partnership announces its 2024 conference is to be hosted in Mexico 

Kanchan Nath Sep 13, 2023

The Advantage Travel Partnership has announced that its 2024 flagship annual industry conference will be hosted in Mexico, selected as an opportunity to showcase the destination as a market…

MICE

ATM 2024 to explore how entrepreneurship is empowering innovation in ME’s travel industry

Kanchan Nath Sep 12, 2023

Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the Middle East’s leading event for inbound and outbound travel and tourism professionals, has unveiled its next theme: ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming…

Hotels

Hotels need to leverage Sustainability and grasp “The Green Premium”: PHIST

Kanchan Nath Sep 8, 2023

Hotels and resorts around Southeast Asia are failing to understand the “green premium” and how to leverage it to attract quality guests, according to leading figures in the region’s…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Flight Centre Travel Group records strong profit turnaround during 2023 Fiscal Year

Kanchan Nath Aug 31, 2023

FLT's corporate travel business continued to out-perform, comfortably out-pacing broader industry recovery and delivering record TTV during FY 23.

Global

Swan Hellenic welcomes Anna Wolfsteiner to New European Role

Kanchan Nath Aug 28, 2023

Alfredo Spadon completes his pivotal contribution to relaunching the pioneering brand, passing the reins to Patrizia Iantorno in the expanded strategic role of Chief Commercial Officer

Global

Travellers willing to pay more for eco-tourism

Kristin Mariano Aug 24, 2023

Nearly 80% of travellers will pay at least 10 per cent more for sustainable travel features despite the cost of living crisis, a Euromonitor International report has revealed.   41% of…

Hospitality

Some iconic train journeys around Asia, and where to stay

Kristin Mariano Aug 22, 2023

Whether you’re trying to cut down on your carbon footprint or you’re simply looking for new layers of adventure, slow travel might just be the perfect trend to jump onto when planning…

Reports

Travellers will pay 10% extra for sustainable travel despite cost-of-living crisis: Euromonitor report 

Kanchan Nath Aug 16, 2023

Nearly 80% of travellers will pay at least 10 per cent more for sustainable travel features despite the cost of living crisis, a Euromonitor International report has revealed.  

Guest Column

Time to think “Swisstainable” at the Meeting Trophy 2023

Ramy Salameh Aug 7, 2023

The Belgium team shrieked with delight as they were announced 2023 winners of the ‘Switzerland Meeting Trophy’. The announcement was made beside Lake Zurich, at ‘8008 See Lounge’s’ largest…

Travel Agents

Travel Republic celebrates its 20 year anniversary with new brand identity

Kanchan Nath Jul 23, 2023

Travel Republic has revealed a new look for its ‘iconic’ brand across all its customer-facing activities, including its website  and social media channels.

Airports

Emirates Group places innovation at the heart of its headquarters

Kanchan Nath Jul 13, 2023

Aviation innovation is hardcoded into the Emirates Group’s DNA and this was brought to life at the new Innovation Majlis unveiled by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman &…

Tourism

10 places that will pay you to move there

Kristin Mariano Jul 13, 2023

With more people working remotely than ever, it’s perhaps no surprise that there are increasing numbers of people keen to experience the expat or digital nomad lifestyle. However,…

Tourism

Sydney, The Future City Now

Joe Cusmano Jul 10, 2023

Ever evolving, Sydney is moving into the future and planning for the 22nd century now. The New South Wales state government has invested in major developments that will enhance the…

Global

Take your events to Sydney, the future city

Kanchan Nath Jul 6, 2023

Ever evolving, Sydney is moving into the future and planning for the 22nd century now. The New South Wales state government has invested in major developments that will enhance the…

MICE

SEAHIS 2023 successfully concludes in Bangkok

Kanchan Nath Jul 4, 2023

SEAHIS 2023, the 6th edition of the Summit, was held in Bangkok on 26-27th June at the Westin Grande Sukhumvit, with the first night reception on the rooftop at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Joyned and NexusTours announce strategic partnership

Kanchan Nath Jul 3, 2023

Israeli start-up Joyned and NexusTours, a destination management company serving the Caribbean, Central America, and North America, jointly announced their strategic partnership.

Features

Garuda Aerospace bags Odisha Mining Corporation Mapping Project

Kanchan Nath Jun 26, 2023

Garuda Aerospace, India’s most valuable drone service provider, proudly announces its success in the area of large-scale mapping.

Eturbo News

Canada Jetlines Appoints Charles McKee as Commercial Head

Binayak Karki Jun 23, 2023 0

eTurboNews: Canada Jetlines has appointed Charles McKee as the leader of the company's commercial activities, starting from June 28, 2023. Read more: Canada Jetlines Appoints Charles McKee…

Features

Cutting carbon pawprints: Byway launches flight-free trips for dogs

Kanchan Nath Jun 22, 2023

Travel start-up Byway, dedicated to combating tourism’s impact on the planet by simplifying flight-free travel, has launched an exciting new collection of sustainable holidays for dog…

Global

Velocity Ventures rallies travel and hospitality industry to recalibrate and strengthen

Kanchan Nath Jun 14, 2023

Velocity Ventures, Southeast Asia’s leading travel and hospitality tech investor has announced a subscription-based  Corporate Partners Program (CPP) so that corporates in the travel and…

Eturbo News

Middle East Tourism Leaders Meet in Jordan

Harry Johnson Jun 7, 2023 0

eTurboNews: Tourism leaders from across the Middle East have met in Jordan to guide the sector’s development across the region. Read more: Middle East Tourism Leaders Meet in Jordan…

OTAs & Tour Operators

GetYourGuide secures USD194 million in funding

Kanchan Nath Jun 3, 2023

Since their humble beginnings in 2009, at GetYourGuide they have been in the business of helping more people unlock unforgettable experiences.

MICE

Shaping the Future of HoReCa: THAIFEX – HOREC Asia soft launch unveils Next-generation trends in Bangkok, Thailand

Kanchan Nath May 31, 2023

The highly anticipated soft launch of THAIFEX - HORECA Asia took place at THAIFEX - Anuga Asia, offering an exciting preview of what the official launch in March 2024 has in store. 

Global

AI boom: Don’t miss out, but avoid the frenzy

Kanchan Nath May 30, 2023

Investors must take a cautious approach to the Artificial Intelligence (AI) boom to avoid getting ‘burned says Nigel Green

Train

Cutting train Wi-Fi threatens sustainable travel: Byway

Kanchan Nath May 26, 2023

Tech start-up, Byway, dedicated to combating travel's impact on the climate by simplifying flight-free travel, raises concerns over the Department For Travel’s proposal to remove train Wi-Fi…

Hospitality

YOTEL announces debut in Thailand with YOTEL Bangkok

Kristin Mariano May 17, 2023

YOTEL – the non-stop, global hospitality brand known for challenging the status quo – has announced its debut in Thailand with the signing of YOTEL Bangkok.  The new-build hotel, opening…

Hotels

Hotelbeds join forces with NYU SPS Tisch Center of Hospitality

Kanchan Nath May 10, 2023

Hotelbeds and the NYU School of Professional Studies (NYU SPS) Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality have launched a collaboration to explore and inspire the next generation of tech…

Technology

Joyned and Amadeus unveil new agreement to enhance travel booking experience 

Kanchan Nath May 10, 2023

Israeli start-up Joyned has today announced a commercial agreement with leading global travel technology company Amadeus. 

MICE

ATM to welcome over 2,000 exhibitors, representatives from more than 150 countries and an expected 34,000 attendees to Dubai

Kanchan Nath Apr 28, 2023

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023 is ready to welcome the global travel, tourism and hospitality community to the UAE from Monday 1 to Thursday 4 May. The 30th edition of the show will host…

Finance

Mastercard and DIFC partner with FinTech companies

Kanchan Nath Apr 24, 2023

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, has signed a strategic collaboration agreement with…

Technology

Accredify closes Series A funding round to bring digital trust to APAC and beyond

Kanchan Nath Apr 21, 2023

Accredify, APAC’s leading verifiable technology solutions provider,  announced that it has raised USD$7 million during its Series A funding round, co-led by top venture capital firms iGlobe…

Guest Column

Travel Talent Cliff – Real or Imagined?

Simon Nowroz Apr 21, 2023

I thought I mis-read it. I hadn’t. Once a day I scroll through my LinkedIn feed. Today it included a link to an open vacancy at a household name in the travel and leisure sector. I skimmed…

MICE

World leaders to shape the future of sustainable tourism at ATM 2023

Kanchan Nath Apr 7, 2023

Travel professionals and policymakers from across the globe will explore how the tourism sector is ‘Working Towards Net Zero’ at the 30th edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will…

MICE

Tech and AI will challenge travel status quo

Kanchan Nath Apr 3, 2023

AI, robots and connected apps will improve the efficiency of the travel industry whilst also improving the customer experience, innovation leaders told attendees at the MarketHub Europe by…

Travel Agents

B2B wholesaler Elan Experiences opens office in Delhi

Kanchan Nath Mar 17, 2023

In line with its conviction-driven growth plans and development of capabilities that are designed to address its expansion into yet newer markets, Elan Experiences has now opened a new…

MICE

Karnataka Tourism marks its presence at ITB Berlin 2023

Kanchan Nath Mar 15, 2023

Karnataka Tourism aimed to promote its inbound tourism, particularly its heritage, culture, wildlife, beaches, and adventure activities at ITB Berlin, which was held on March 7 to 9, 2023 in…

Cruise

Cruise Saudi Buys HK Genting World Dream

Joe Cusmano Mar 9, 2023

Dream Cruises’ World Dream, the last remaining vessel from the defunct Genting Hong Kong operation, was sold in Singapore. Cruise Saudi has confirmed that it has bought the ship; while…

Inspiring Women in Travel (IWTA)

Calling for nominees: TD IWTA to honour inspiring women in a prestigious award ceremony

Kristin Mariano Mar 9, 2023

We know women in the travel industry whom we admire and feel inspired by. Perhaps it is someone who has succeeded against all odds, someone whose courage defied biases or whose…

Cruise

Silversea To Deploy Silver Cloud To The Kimberley

Joe Cusmano Mar 8, 2023

Silversea Cruises will deploy its hybrid expedition ship Silver Cloud to Western Australia’s Kimberley region in 2024, increasing capacity for the ultra-luxury cruise company in the…

Global

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka to open its doors on June 21

Kristin Mariano Mar 8, 2023

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka will open its doors on 21 June 2023, welcoming guests to the prefectural capital of Fukuoka on the island of Kyushu in southern Japan with the Ritz-Carlton legacy…

Eturbo News

IATA: Airline Industry is on the March to Net Zero 

Harry Johnson Mar 8, 2023 0

by: Harry Johnson | Sustainable propulsion partnership formed in New Zealand to assess and drive the introduction of flights powered by green hydrogen Full article: IATA: Airline Industry…

Startups

With 500% revenue growth: wndr is democratizing the travel industry

Chris Head Mar 3, 2023

With over 500% growth in just six months, wndr is a travel start-up that is making waves in the industry. The company is on a mission to democratize the power of mega-booking brands among…

Eturbo News

Oscar the Grouch named Chief Trash Officer of United Airlines

Harry Johnson Mar 2, 2023 0

by: Harry Johnson | United has enlisted Oscar to help us educate the traveling public of all ages about SAF and rally them to the cause of fighting climate change Full article: Oscar the…

Partner content

5 reasons why Cross Hotels & Resorts is APAC’s hotel operator of choice

Kristin Mariano Feb 16, 2023

Cross Hotels & Resorts is committed to delivering value, distinction and, most importantly, memorable experiences in all of the properties it manages. Since its rebranding, Cross…

Technology

Seeking innovation: Hotelbeds and Wayra launch TravelTech Lab

Kristin Mariano Feb 16, 2023

Hotelbeds and Wayra, Telefonica’s Open Innovation Hub, have formed a partnership to establish the TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds to reshape the future of travel. The companies – leaders in…

Visa updates

Go for your ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ in Spain

Kanchan Nath Feb 14, 2023

The Spanish government announced that it officially approved a new digital nomad visa dedicated to remote workers. 

Spas & Treatments

Spa services market is expected to grow to USD140.28 bn by 2032

Kanchan Nath Jan 24, 2023

The spa services market  is estimated at USD 105.18 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 140.28 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 10% during the forecast period. 

Hotels

Expo Inn ready to welcome delegates

Kanchan Nath Jan 20, 2023

The all new EXPO INN, SUITES & CONVENTION is getting ready to host delegates of some of the biggest and the best in international shows.  

MICE

Registration now opens for 30th edition of ATM 2023

Kanchan Nath Jan 19, 2023

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023 will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 1-4 May.

Airlines and Aviation

Avalon 2023 outlook: Global aviation traffic to reach pre-pandemic levels by June

Kanchan Nath Jan 19, 2023

The aviation sector is set to thrive in 2023 with global traffic to reach pre-pandemic levels by June, according to a paper published today by international aircraft leasing company Avolon.

Hotels

Well-being culture from Accor

Kanchan Nath Jan 18, 2023

Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, announced the release of its highly anticipated white paper, exploring eight key pathways for navigating business, society and leadership toward a…

Eturbo News

Arabian Travel Market opens registration for its for 30th edition

Harry Johnson Jan 16, 2023 0

by: Harry Johnson | copyright: eTurboNews - Travel & Tourism News Tourism and hospitality professionals from around the world can now register to attend Arabian Travel Market (ATM)…

Associations

OYO writes to NCLT to expedite MCA inquiry on FHRAI EC

Kanchan Nath Jan 16, 2023

Global travel technology company, OYO in a recent letter to National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) requested the tribunal to expedite the Ministry of Corporate Affairs' (MCA) investigation on…

Consumer

Mahendra Singh Dhoni launches Garuda Aerospace’s first-ever digital film

Kanchan Nath Jan 5, 2023

Garuda Aerospace, India’s leading drone manufacturing company launches its first-ever digital brand film #KhetonKeKaptanwhich is aimed at encouraging youth and farmers to be captains of…

Technology

‘The Thaiger Cage’ to debut at the Conrad Bangkok on 16 Jan

Kanchan Nath Dec 27, 2022

Thai digital media outlet The Thaiger is launching a new start-up technology pitch event ‘The Thaiger Cage’ on 16th January 2023 at the Conrad Bangkok.

Airlines and Aviation

AeroBid is launching ‘The Empty Leg Marketplace’ 

Kanchan Nath Dec 27, 2022

UK-based start-up, AeroBid, is launching an exciting new add-on to its platform “The Empty Leg Marketplace”.

Technology

Amadeus powers Thai super-app Robinhood’s expansion into travel

Kanchan Nath Dec 20, 2022

Super-apps have grown to define the consumer experience in large parts of Asia, with the ‘one-app-fits-all’ model playing a leading role in the digitalisation of the region.

Corporate & Business

Top 20 countries for expanding a business overseas

Kristin Mariano Dec 15, 2022

Recent data shows that nearly half of company CFOs are currently in the process of expanding their business to overseas markets, or planning to do so soon. As well as capturing a greater…

Visa updates

Spain to launch digital nomad visa in January 2023

Kanchan Nath Dec 7, 2022

Spain is planning to launch its Digital Nomad visa for international remote workers in January 2023 as part of the new Startup Act, which is also expected to pass in January next year

MICE

Arab Health to showcase the USD5 billion healthcare metaverse

Kanchan Nath Nov 8, 2022

Arab Health has underscored its commitment to showcasing the latest advances in healthcare technology and innovation with the launch of the Intelligent Health Pavilion and the return of the…

Inspiring Women in Travel (IWTA)

IWTA speaks with Sukeerti Raikwar – Founder Soulful Safaris

Sumi Soorian Nov 7, 2022

Sukeerti has been working in the travel and tourism industry for almost 20 years in different roles and capacities. An explorer, product developer and travel designer, Sukeerti has also…

Interviews

Transforming hospitality for all: Cross Hotels & Resorts vies to be ‘relentlessly relevant’

Kristin Mariano Oct 25, 2022

TD spoke to Paul Wilson, executive vice president, Cross Hotels & Resorts, who oversees both commercial and operations for hotel management company, about the changes the company are…

Airlines and Aviation

Akasa Air launches Agartala-Bengaluru flight via Guwahati on Oct 21

Kanchan Nath Oct 24, 2022

Akasa Air has launched its daily flight services in the Agartala-Bengaluru route, via Guwahati.

Airlines and Aviation

Will supersonic aircrafts be the ‘speed savior’ game-changers?

Kanchan Nath Oct 18, 2022

As American Airlines becomes the third major carrier to place an order for Boom Supersonic’s new Overture jets, Jim Scott, co-founder at aircraft component supply specialist Artemis…

Train

EasyMile wins deal for driverless shuttles at Terhills, Belgium

Kanchan Nath Oct 13, 2022

EasyMile has won a project worth €4 million (approx. USD 38,81,040.00) for a fleet of autonomous shuttles at Belgian tourist site Terhills. The shuttles will run 7 days a week, for up to 10…

Technology

TakeMe raises USD1.8 million to expand its Japan’s restaurant reservation service for international tourists

Kristin Mariano Sep 23, 2022

Japan’s cross-border payment start-up TakeMe has announced a total of JPY260 million (USD1.8 million) funding. The round was led by New Economy Ventures and individual investors.…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Expedia Group launches new global social impact & sustainability strategy

Kristin Mariano Sep 20, 2022

Expedia Group has announced its new global social impact and sustainability strategy to advance a travel ecosystem that is responsible, open, and accessible to all. Combining the…

Air

United Wagers $15 Million On Air Taxis’ Future

Joe Cusmano Sep 16, 2022

United Airlines has placed a $15 million wager on the electric flying taxi market by placing a conditional order for 200 electric vertical take-offs and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from…

Global

Travel Un’chained’ with blockchain

Kanchan Nath Sep 16, 2022

Around 230 players from 150 leading international tourism and tech companies representing more than 30 countries came together in Mallorca to jointly lay the foundations for the further…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand Delays B787 Deliveries

Joe Cusmano Sep 6, 2022

Due to the production delays at Boeing, Air New Zealand has delayed the delivery of further B787s by a year. Richard Thomson, the airline’s CFO, revealed on a recent earnings call that…

Global

Sabre plans large investment in India

Kanchan Nath Aug 31, 2022

American tech giant Sabre Corporation president has planned an incremental multimillion-dollar investment in India to tap its tourism potential in airlines and hotels.

Technology

Virtuoso launches its first-ever Travel Tech Summit

Kristin Mariano Aug 11, 2022

Virtuoso is hosting its first-ever Travel Tech Summit, taking place on 14 August at ARIA Resort & Casino during its Virtuoso Travel Week event. The summit will consist of three…

Carnival Luminosa to transfer to Carnival Cruise Line fleet

Harry Johnson Jun 15, 2022

Costa Luminosa cruise ship will join the Carnival fleet in September and will start guest operations as Carnival Luminosa in November 2022 from Brisbane, Australia, Carnival Cruise Line…

Ascott acquires first lyf coliving property in Sydney

Kristin Mariano Jun 7, 2022

CapitaLand Investment Limited’s (CLI) wholly owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is acquiring its first lyf-branded coliving property in Sydney, Australia.

wndr is taking over GenZ and Millennial travelers with short-form videos

Chris Head May 30, 2022

A new start-up company wndr is revolutionizing the travel discovery experience by focusing on short-form TikTok style videos, targeting Millennials and GenZ. wndr is focusing on bringing a…

Singapore to host largest tech event since reopening of its borders

Kristin Mariano May 30, 2022

Singapore is hosting Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG), Asia’s flagship technology event that convenes global leaders and decision-makers across the technological ecosystem.

Partner content

Here’s why India’s aviation sector is something to watch out for

Kristin Mariano May 24, 2022

Here are some of the reasons why India’s aviation sector is teeming with potential in the coming years.

Airlines and Aviation

Vueling becomes the first airline to sell flights in the metaverse

Kristin Mariano May 11, 2022

Vueling, an airline owned by IAG, will open a new sales channel in the metaverse.

Air

Taking Dubai’s vision of tomorrow to the skies, Emirates launches Museum of the Future A380 livery

Megha Paul May 9, 2022

Emirates’ Museum of the Future A380s will be deployed on routes to Europe as well as key Arab regional cities

Guest Column

Payment methods for post-pandemic travel and tourism success

Harry White May 4, 2022

Payment methods for post-pandemic travel and tourism success The relationship between the travel sector and the payments industry has always been complex, never more so than during the…

Eurowings and Cologne Airport join hands to plant 6000 trees in Königsforst

Megha Paul Apr 1, 2022

The initiative is the first of its kind in which a German airline and a domestic airport are working hand in hand

46% of travel app venture financing deals involved ridesharing, rental, or hailing companies in 2021

Kristin Mariano Feb 25, 2022

Out of the 26 travel app venture financing deals in 2021, 46% of them involved ridesharing, rental, or hailing companies, according to GlobalData.

Corporate travel spend in Middle East to rise 32% in 2022

Megha Paul Feb 10, 2022

Business travel expenditure in the Middle East is forecast to rise by 32% this year, following a predicted 49% increase during 2021

Ascott opens first coliving property in Singapore’s research and innovation hub one-north

Kristin Mariano Jan 26, 2022

CapitaLand Investment Limited’s (CLI) wholly owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott) has launched lyf one-north Singapore, its first coliving property in one-north,…

IATA’s new appointment to boost efficient global connectivity

Megha Paul Jan 25, 2022

International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Frederic Leger as the association’s senior vice president for commercial products and services

Inspiring Women in Travel (IWTA)

IWTA speaks with Chitra Gurnani Daga – co-found Thrillophilia.com

Caroline Tapken Jan 24, 2022

Chitra started with a Bachelors in Information Technology, and turned her back on a steady well-paid career to follow her passion for travel, which she has since built into a thriving…

Tourism

India gears up to announce new tourism policy

Megha Paul Jan 5, 2022

Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is coming out with a new tourism policy to strengthen and build capacity of tourism sector in order to provide better services and…

How G Adventures and Hostelworld are changing face of youth travel

Megha Paul Dec 10, 2021

Hostelworld and G Adventures to join forces to bring a new style of travel to 18 to 35-year-olds - Roamies

Interviews

How OAG is fuelling the future of travel with product innovation

Kristin Mariano Dec 1, 2021

As we enter a new era post-COVID, travel companies now focus on recovery looking for tech solutions to recapture the market.

Airlines and Aviation

Bonza surveys thousands to pick top destinations

Joe Cusmano Nov 24, 2021

Bonza, Australia’s new start-up airline, set to fly in early 2022, has received thousands of entries from Australians outlining their top travel destinations.

Air

Boeing 777X completes first international flight for Dubai Air Show

Joe Cusmano Nov 23, 2021

The 2021 Dubai Airshow ended last week. The biannual event was last hosted in November 2019, which was the same month when scientists discovered a new virus, which has since been named…

Technology

Hotelmize wins Front Runners Competition proving they have more to offer as the travel industry restarts

Kristin Mariano Nov 23, 2021

Hotelmize has proven that it is really a front runner in travel tech as the company has won the category of Hospitality for the Future at the recent Travel Forward Summit.

Tourism

These countries will pay you to move there

Kristin Mariano Nov 22, 2021

There are numerous places around the world that have schemes in place to tempt people to move there to boost their population and stimulate their economy.

South Korea and Singapore tourism boards to co-promote both destinations

Kristin Mariano Nov 19, 2021

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to co-promote both destinations, develop tech solutions to…

Boeing 777X completes first flight for Dubai Air Show

Joe Cusmano Nov 15, 2021

Boeing’s 777X aircraft has completed its longest and first international flight to Dubai for the biannual air show.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex’s deputy chairman claims, Bonza is doomed to fail

Joe Cusmano Nov 15, 2021

The prospective start-up airline Bonza has lately been one of Australia’s foremost aviation stories.

Oneworld in talks with several airlines to join the alliance

Joe Cusmano Nov 2, 2021

The Oneworld alliance is looking to expand its membership to catch up with rivals SkyTeam and Star Alliance. As a result, several new airlines could join.

Conference programme revealed! Blue chips and startups to share Travel Forward stage at WTM London

Megha Paul Oct 25, 2021

Travel Forward, the global event for travel technology co-located with WTM London, has revealed the line-up for this year’s conference programme which features one of the travel industry’s…

India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai: Here’s what you need to know

Megha Paul Oct 14, 2021

The theme for the India Pavilion is ‘Future is in India’, reflecting upon the country’s culture, heritage and technologies

New ultra-low-cost airline Bonza to launch in Australia next year

Joe Cusmano Oct 13, 2021

"Bonza" will be Australia's sole independent low-cost airline specialising in regional leisure destinations, with a fleet of Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets equipped with all-economy seats.

Neom and UNWTO join hands to boost Saudi tourism

Megha Paul Oct 11, 2021

UNWTO and Neom have partnered for new initiative focused on the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia with the Tourism Experiences of the Future challenge

Airlines and Aviation

ITA-Alitalia charters an Airbus A330 to start operations

Joe Cusmano Aug 20, 2021

The first aircraft of Italia Trasporto Aereo to start operations is "Il Tintoretto", the Airbus A330 of over nine years provisionally borrowed from Alitalia to be used in test flights to…

Technology

Microsoft continues to dabble in travel with its potential OYO investment

Kristin Mariano Aug 3, 2021

Indian hospitality start-up OYO found a new godfather as reports claimed that software giant Microsoft is in advanced talks to buy some stakes in the budget hotel chain ahead of its…

Airlines and Aviation

Funding shortfall for would be newest Australian airline “Brad”

Joe Cusmano Jul 30, 2021

Would-be Australian airline “Brad” is struggling to gain traction.

Airlines and Aviation

United Airlines to buy 100 19 seat electric planes

Joe Cusmano Jul 19, 2021

United Airlines announced on Tuesday that it will purchase 100 19-seat ES-19 electric planes from Swedish start-up Heart Aerospace, as the US carrier considers battery-powered aircraft for…

Airlines and Aviation

Plans for new Saudi airline to takes aim at Emirates and Qatar

Joe Cusmano Jul 8, 2021

Saudi Arabia plans to target international transit passenger traffic with its new national airline, going head-to-head with Gulf giants Emirates and Qatar Airways and opening a new front in…

Airlines and Aviation

UK ftart-up flypop’s CEO promises GBP99 flights to India

Joe Cusmano Jul 6, 2021

According to a report on Simply Flying, UK start-up airline flypop is eagerly planning its launch later this year.

Air

All you need to know about India’s first subscription-based airline

Megha Paul Jun 14, 2021

Prince Air, a New Delhi-based start-up is now offering a one-of-a-kind subscription-based airline service for unlimited travel on its private jets

Tourism

Oyo, Airbnb, EaseMyTrip and Yatra come together to launch CHATT

Megha Paul Jun 10, 2021

Leading players of the OTA industry in India have come together to back and enable an industry association - Confederation of Hospitality, Technology and Tourism Industry (CHATT)

Hospitality

OYO to cover COVID-19 vaccination costs for employees and families in India

Megha Paul Apr 2, 2021

OYO Hotels & Homes announced that it would be covering vaccination costs for all employees in India and their families, across locations and levels

Global

This is the right time to beat the queues and start your tour business

Megha Paul Mar 29, 2021

With entrepreneurs looking to change the industry and focus on innovation, experience and sustainability, the current times provide the right opportunity to start a business in tours and…

Tourism

Why a July reopening is ideal for vaccinated tourists to travel freely in Thailand

Kristin Mariano Mar 5, 2021

TD (virtually) sat down with Willem Niemeijer, CEO of YAANA Ventures, and talked about why July is the ideal date for Thailand reopening and for vaccinated tourists to travel freely across…

Reopening updates

Expats rejoice! Abu Dhabi unveils new long-term visa campaign

Megha Paul Feb 16, 2021

Abu Dhabi is encouraging professionals, students and investors to move to the emirate through a new campaign to develop the capital’s culture, healthcare, research and development and real…

Reopening updates

How digital transformation and AI will lead future development of aviation in post COVID-19 era

Megha Paul Feb 9, 2021

Dubai Airshow 2021 will serve as a platform to showcase the role of cutting edge technologies in bolstering the recovery of the aviation, aerospace and defence industries following the…

Airlines and Aviation

Greater Bay Airlines, New Low Cost Launching in Unfavourable Time

Joe Cusmano Feb 4, 2021

Budget airline Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) applied for the rights to fly 104 routes across Asia, according to a Hong Kong government gazette.

Startups

Grab mulls IPO this year

Kristin Mariano Jan 21, 2021

Southeast Asian ride-hailing giant Grab is considering entering the United States stock market this year, according to Reuters citing sources familiar with the matter.

Technology

Trivago acquires weekend.com

Megha Paul Jan 19, 2021

Online travel company Trivago has acquired weekengo and weekend.com, a start-up focused on finding travellers inspirational getaway packages

Global

Tough people last. Tough times don’t! Travel startups that survived and thrived amid the pandemic year of 2020

Megha Paul Dec 31, 2020

Bravely defying the misery of the Covid-19 calamity, some startups have managed to not just survive but literally thrive and ride the waves of 2020. We bring you a list of these startups and…

Technology

How the ingenious combination of AI and financial practices can increase profitability in travel

Alastair Newport Oct 29, 2020

Travel Daily sits down to speak with the Dor Krubiner, founder and CEO of Hotlemize one of the most exciting new companies to arise in travel in the last few years.

Agents of change: How can APAC’s travel industry come together to solve the contactless conundrum?

Alastair Newport Oct 28, 2020

The technology already exists to render most parts of the travel experience contactless – from voice-activated screens, biometric scanners and automated gates at airports, to robot check-in…

Hong Kong Secures Multiple First-Ever MICE Events Amidst COVID-19 Challenges

Linda Hohnholz Sep 10, 2020

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has announced that Hong Kong has been chosen as the host city for four international MICE events, including the city’s first-ever events of high strategic…

Phocuswright Europe beams live straight to you in 2020

Alastair Newport Sep 2, 2020

One of the biggest events in the Travel Industry is coming directly to you- this year, in its European version. Phocuswright Europe 2020, which will be streaming live, will focus on finding…

Global

4 reasons ‘flexibility’ is critical for APAC airline recovery

Alastair Newport Aug 27, 2020

From tsunamis to ash clouds, travel has seen its share of setbacks over the past few years. COVID-19 is an altogether challenge. APAC airline recovery...

Holding strong: How these two European travel startups not only survived the COVID-19 crisis but raised funding

Megha Paul Aug 25, 2020

Despite of being hit hard and being brought to a complete standstill by the ongoing pandemic, there are start-ups that are holding strong and raising fresh round of investments, too

8 Israeli technologies that will help us travel again

Kristin Mariano Jul 14, 2020

When the global Coronavirus crisis broke out, many Israelis came together to think of technological solutions to fight the virus and restore life to normal.

JetBlue for London

Malcolm Ginsberg Jun 16, 2020

Talking in a webinar sponsored by the World Aviation Festival last week Joanna Geraghty, COO and President of JetBlue, was very positive regarding a London start-up in 2021 writes Malcolm…

Inspiremyholiday eyes UK growth with enhanced tech and consumer polls

Megha Paul Jun 11, 2020

Start-up holiday destination search engine inspiremyholiday.com has ramped up its commercial team in expectation of a surge of business once the COVID-19 travel restrictions ease. The…

Singapore

How one travel tech startup will help prepare businesses for the “new normal”

Alastair Newport Jun 2, 2020

Singapore-based travel tech start-up, iko.travel, is providing a solution to the industry during some of its darkest days in generations by offering its technology and booking platform at no…

Technology

Travel tech this week: Ride-hailing companies grow and expand worldwide

Kristin Mariano Feb 28, 2020

Ride-hailing companies worldwide are having a moment recently. With investments poured into companies to fuel growth and expansion as well as drivers’ fear of coronavirus.

The luxury ski chalet operator that rewards you for being sustainable

Kristin Mariano Jan 15, 2020

What if I tell you that there is a ski operator that will reward you for making ethical choices? Lagom is set to disrupt the luxury ski industry across Europe by giving customers the option…

Festival of the future to become focus of Southeast Asia’s sauciest tech conference

Megha Paul Jan 10, 2020

The theme for South East Asia’s largest tech conference, Techsauce Global Summit has just been announced. Techsauce Global Summit’s ‘Festival of the Future’ will take place at Centara…

Technology

Travel tech this week: Flying taxis by 2023 and more

Kristin Mariano Jan 9, 2020

For this week’s travel tech stories, Uber and Hyundai showed a glimpse of the future of transportation with flying taxis. Companies strive for expansion with start-up The Guild raising new…

Technology

Is it worth it for Uber to acquire Careem for USD 3.1 billion?

Kristin Mariano Jan 7, 2020

After a tumultuous 2019 ending with former CEO and co-founder Travis Kalanick cutting ties with the company, Uber welcomed the New Year with a bang confirming the official close of the…

Features

After numerous scandals, Mafengwo to lay off 40% of staff

Kristin Mariano Dec 19, 2019

Rumours are circulating that Chinese OTA Mafengwo may be laying off 40% of its employees following several scandals involving the company.

Technology

Travel tech this week: The ‘Everyday Essential’ app and more

Kristin Mariano Dec 12, 2019

Omio is awarded by Google as 'Everyday Essential' app. An ex-Googler created a car subscription start-up, Carasti.

More Chinese to travel overseas on Spring Festival holiday in 2020, says Trip.com

Kristin Mariano Dec 12, 2019

China’s online travel agency Trip.com has revealed that Chinese tourists will travel more to overseas destinations for the Spring Festival holiday in 2020.

May the best ideas win: It’s time to break down silos to create better journeys

Alastair Newport Dec 6, 2019

Remember when online shopping still made us nervous? When online dating seemed outlandish at best and dangerous at worse? Or how normal it was to walk to a rental store to watch a movie?…

Technology

Travel tech this week: The first airline ticket on the blockchain and more

Kristin Mariano Nov 28, 2019

This week in the travel tech industry, the first airline ticket through a blockchain has been issued. TripAdvisor has launched self-service advertising and Amadeus for Developers offers…

Startups

Oyo receives USD 1.5 billion investment amid losses

Kristin Mariano Nov 27, 2019

Indian start-up superstar Oyo has received a nod from its board for a USD 1.5 billion investment from Softbank and RA Hospitality.

New initiative to promote Karnataka on e-bikes

Megha Paul Nov 20, 2019

B: Live, an eco-tourism start-up which has pioneered the concept of electric vehicle (EV) tourism in India has launched its services in Karnataka. It offers immersive experiential tours…

Technology

Is Uber copying Grab, Go-Jek?

Kristin Mariano Nov 18, 2019

Uber may have created the concept of ride-hailing, but it seems that it is trailing behind its Asian counterparts when it comes to growth. In recent months, Uber has been mirroring the…

Startups

Travelio raises USD 18 million in a Series B funding round

Kristin Mariano Nov 15, 2019

Travelio, an Indonesia-based start-up that aims to disrupt the real estate sector, has raised USD 18 million in a series B funding round co-led by Temasek subsidiary Pavilion Capital and…

YOTEL: “We’re planning to shake up the scene in Noord”

Alastair Newport Nov 1, 2019

Innovative hospitality brand YOTEL has announced Amsterdam, as the location of its latest property to come online. As of 4 November Amsterdam Noord will fling open its doors to welcome…

Startups

MyProGuide proves tour guides is the key of every tour

Kristin Mariano Oct 28, 2019

The tourism industry is ever-changing and we have seen some ground-breaking innovations in the space such as the use of robots in airports and the inception of Internet of Things in hotels…

Hot hotel openings: The Fullerton arrives in Sydney and more

Tian Tolentino Oct 25, 2019

On this Friday’s hotel openings round-up, Singapore’s The Fullerton Hotels arrives in Sydney, The Standard opens in the Maldives and more.

Tourism

Tel Aviv to host 2020 Global Wellness Summit

Megha Paul Oct 18, 2019

The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the USD 4.5 trillion global wellness economy, closed its 2019 conference by announcing that next…

Technology

Travel tech this week: DiDi Japan expands in 20 cities

Kristin Mariano Sep 26, 2019

DiDi Japan plans to service more Japanese as it expands in more cities by the end of the year.

Special Reports

Cruise news: Celebrity Apex, MS Roald Amundsen’s godmother and more

Tian Tolentino Sep 25, 2019

On TD’s cruise radar this week, Celebrity Cruises announces its latest ship, Hurtigruten reveals MS Roald Amundsen’s godmother and more.

Global

Put your Hahns together and say yeah: “20 years of passion and dedication”

Alastair Newport Sep 18, 2019

The ticketing expert and distribution specialist, Hahn Air, is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year. Travel Daily sat down with Hahn Air’s vice president of sales & agency…

STB unveils global INSPIRE to enrich MICE experience

Megha Paul Sep 12, 2019

Singapore Tourism Board has unveiled In Singapore Incentives & Rewards (INSPIRE), an incentive programme to attract potential visitors from the global Meetings, Incentives,…

Austrian Airlines relies on innovative drone technology

Megha Paul Sep 9, 2019

Since the middle of the year, Austrian Airlines has been testing a completely new technology for the purpose of carrying out technical inspections of its aircraft fleet. The aircraft are…

‘Make it Edinburgh’ boosts business tourism

Megha Paul Sep 9, 2019

Edinburgh reinforces its status as the fastest growing tech hub in Europe as the city hosts ESOMAR Congress 2019 - The Global Data & Insights Summit at the Edinburgh International…

Building capacity for the future, the IATA way

Megha Paul Sep 4, 2019

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2019 Global Airport & Passenger Symposium (GAPS) will focus on the theme of building capacity for the future.…

IATA’s Billing and Settlement Plan now in Myanmar

Megha Paul Sep 2, 2019

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) in Myanmar from September this year. The introduction of BSP operations will ease…

Startups

TourDragon: Giving back the power to travellers

Kristin Mariano Sep 2, 2019

Every once in a while, a disruptive platform or app comes along that changes everything in travel. TourDragon gets local tour operators to bid live in a reverse auction for the first time in…

Startups

Amazon to augment SEA presence by investing in Go-Jek

Kristin Mariano Aug 30, 2019

Sources claimed that Amazon is reportedly in talks with Go-Jek for a plausible investment. This move could bolster the presence of the e-commerce giant in Southeast Asia.

Air

“Ease and speed of travel will become major differentiators”: The smart future of Thailand’s travel industry

Alastair Newport Aug 22, 2019

Airline and travel tech firm Amadeus, in partnership with Thailand’s Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), announced the release of a…

RedDoorz raises USD 70m from investors including Rakuten to battle Softbank-backed OYO

Kristin Mariano Aug 20, 2019

Singapore-based hotel start-up RedDoorz has raised USD 70 million from investors, including Japanese e-commerce giant Rakuten.

Tourism

ITE HCMC surpasses record with 350 exhibitors & 30,000 expected visitors for its 15th year

Kristin Mariano Aug 1, 2019

To celebrate its 15th year milestone, the International Travel Expo, Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC) is introducing a bundle of new features and special highlights to make the annual event an…

HR & Careers

Genting HK announces new Dream appointment

Alastair Newport Jul 26, 2019

Genting Hong Kong (“Genting HK”) has revealed the identity of its new president of Dream Cruises as Michael Goh, today. Goh, who will also act as the head of international sales for…

Features

Cruise news: The ancient temple city, sailings on the Rhine and more

Tian Tolentino Jul 24, 2019

On our cruise radar this week, AmaWaterways celebrates its new passenger vessel, The Strand Cruise launches sailings to an ancient temple city and more.

Startups

Go-Jek adds Visa as one of its investors

Kristin Mariano Jul 18, 2019

Indonesian start-up superstar Go-Jek has announced that global payment technology provider Visa is the latest investor to back its ongoing Series F funding round.

Tourism

Chinaboo: A deeper look at Chinese tourism in SEA

Kristin Mariano Jul 15, 2019

Chinese tourists are ubiquitous across the globe. Anywhere you turn, Chinese is present; even in the most remote tourist area in Africa. It could almost be said that there is no tourist spot…

Startups

Women travelling solo are truly “wanderful”

Kristin Mariano Jul 12, 2019

More women are heading out of their comfort zone and seek high-octane adventures that provide an opportunity to develop new skills and passions.

Hospitality

OYO ventures in Vietnam; allots USD 50 million to reach 20K rooms in 2020

Kristin Mariano Jul 5, 2019

Hospitality rockstar Oyo Hotels and Homes has launched its services in the newest darling of Southeast Asia – Vietnam. The start-up also announced that it will invest USD 50 million for its…

Air

Vietnam’s Bamboo Airways plans to launch US flights

Megha Paul Jul 4, 2019

Vietnamese start-up carrier Bamboo Airways is aiming to launch direct flights to the US using a leased Airbus A380 superjumbo. Trinh Van Quyet, chairman and chief executive of FLC,…

Technology

CEO Travala.com: The power of social media in the travel industry

Tian Tolentino Jun 26, 2019

Matt Luczynski, CEO and co-founder of Travala.com, shares insights on social media, smartphones and other trends that are shaping the way we travel.

Startups

Ex-Google employees want AI to help travellers find the perfect vacation rental

Kristin Mariano Jun 25, 2019

VacationRenter is a metasearch for all vacation rentals. The company brings all the rental options from the leading travel sites together in one place and showcase only the best results.

Hospitality

Battling Yourself: OYO Rooms CEO Ritesh Agarwal on how to succeed in China

Kristin Mariano Jun 19, 2019

Within a span of 18 months, OYO is now the second largest hotel chain in China boasting 450,000 rooms in 10,000 OYO hotels present in 320 cities. The fast-growing hospitality start-up is…

Air

The future of air travel lies in Artificial Intelligence

Megha Paul Jun 14, 2019

With one of its 300 aircraft taking off from somewhere in the world every 90 seconds, British Airways runs a hugely complex global operation, 24-hours a day. Alex Cruz, chairman and…

Technology

Travel tech this week: New travel tech launches

Kristin Mariano Jun 13, 2019

This week, three new players enter the travel tech field and will battle it out in the space with the old timers.

Hospitality

SaffronStays hits century with 100 unique homes

Megha Paul Jun 11, 2019

India’s network of private vacation homes, SaffronStays has announced its milestone of curating an exclusive club of 100 hand-picked villas across India. SaffronStays was launched in…

Startups

BookMeBus wants an ecosystem around transportations

Kristin Mariano Jun 10, 2019

Buses are the preferred form of inter-provincial transportation in Cambodia. The same can be said for most countries in Southeast Asia. Backed with his decade of experience in the ICT…

Technology

Travel tech this week: Bird to buy a competitor and Grab PH deactivates 8,000 drivers

Kristin Mariano Jun 6, 2019

This week in the travel tech sector, we see a larger company planning to eat up a smaller competitor as well as Grab Philippines clamping down on driver.

Hospitality

OYO, Ctrip sign strategic partnership

Kristin Mariano May 27, 2019

OYO founder and CEO Ritesh Agarwal has announced at the Skift Forum that OYO and China’s OTA juggernaut Ctrip formed a strategic partnership.

Technology

Travel tech this week: Starting a small revolution and more

Kristin Mariano May 16, 2019

This week, road transportation takes centre stage with Uber sharing speed data and Amadeus including Heycars in its system. A new app is launched that combines tech’s best products – social…

Startups

Neuron scoots in Bangkok

Kristin Mariano May 8, 2019

I first saw the orange scooters parked right outside Park Regis Singapore when I stayed there. Now, it will be seen cruising the streets of Bangkok.

Technology

Travel tech this week: DXB Entertainments new B2B platform and more

Kristin Mariano May 2, 2019

This week, travel booking sites eSky and DXB Entertainments moved forward with their businesses. Meanwhile, UDrive and Rentals United received millions of funding.

Startups

GetYourGuide bags EUR 500 million led by Softbank

Kristin Mariano Apr 29, 2019

Travel activity platform GetYourGuide has raised EUR 500 million from investors led by Japanese conglomerate Softbank.

Startups

Go-Jek quietly rolls out e-commerce feature Go-Mall

Kristin Mariano Apr 23, 2019

Indonesian unicorn Go-Jek quietly introduced Go-Mall, a new feature that allows users to browse and shop for various items from electronics to groceries through the app.

Technology

Google in travel – slowly but surely

Kristin Mariano Apr 19, 2019

There is no denying the relevance of Google in our travel preparations that is why the tech giant is slowly encroaching in the travel space by launching products bit by bit.

OTAs & Tour Operators

Traveloka’s secret sauce for unicorn success

Kristin Mariano Apr 17, 2019

There is no denying that Traveloka is one of the most successful start-ups in Southeast Asia being one of the first unicorns in the region.

Tourism

5 reasons why the travel industry is always talking about China

Kristin Mariano Apr 16, 2019

The travel industry is obsessed with Chinese travellers trying to attract millions of travellers.

Startups

Go-Jek and Traveloka mull over going public

Kristin Mariano Apr 16, 2019

Indonesian unicorns Go-Jek and Traveloka are reportedly thinking of holding an IPO, which could be the first for Indonesia Stock Exchange.

Tourism

WiT ME 2019: Middle East is the “golden goose” of travel

Tian Tolentino Apr 15, 2019

Movers and shakers of the Middle East online travel industry gathered at WiT Middle East 2019 in Dubai on 9 April to unlock the potential of a fast-changing market being driven by youths.

Startups

Oyo says konnichiwa

Kristin Mariano Apr 5, 2019

Fresh from receiving a significant investment from Airbnb, Indian unicorn Oyo has struck a joint venture with Softbank Corp. to launch a hotel business in Japan.

Technology

Travel tech this week: Settling in Singapore

Kristin Mariano Apr 4, 2019

This week, we saw a lot of activity in Southeast Asia, which has been a fertile ground for start-ups. Two companies have set up offices in Singapore, which is still the best place to manage…

Hospitality

US consumers spend more in Airbnb than Hilton

Kristin Mariano Mar 26, 2019

Airbnb has long been a threat to hotel companies as it offers cheaper accommodation. The start-up also enables hosts to earn money by opening their homes to travellers.

Startups

Shop now, pay later: Grab pushes for post-paid payment feature

Kristin Mariano Mar 20, 2019

Grab is the first ride-hailing platform that is giving banks a run for their money. The Singapore-based start-up has announced new fintech features focusing on SME micro-loans and insurtech…

Hospitality

Generator COO: “The cookie-cutter approach to hospitality is over”

Tian Tolentino Mar 15, 2019

In this exclusive TD interview, Generator's COO, Andre Guettouche, tells all about the group’s modern-day approach to hospitality.

Technology

Big Game: The hunt for an ‘end-to-end’ booking platform

Kristin Mariano Mar 12, 2019

There has been a long quest for that one name in travel that caters to the need of a traveller from beginning to end. That is the dream!

Air

Autonomous aircraft market worth USD 23.7bn by 2030

Tian Tolentino Mar 11, 2019

According to new market research, the autonomous aircraft market is projected to grow from an estimated USD 3.6 billion in 2018 to 23.7 billion by 2030.

Corporate & Business

Phenomenal females: Wise words from the top women in travel

Kristin Mariano Mar 8, 2019

In celebration of International Women’s Day, I asked several women holding top positions in the travel industry how they managed to achieve their success and the advice they will give to…

Startups

Unstoppable: Grab receives USD 1.5 billion fund

Kristin Mariano Mar 8, 2019

Yes, Grab is unstoppable as it just added another USD 1.5 billion in its stash by raising USD 1.46 billion from SoftBank’s USD 100 billion Vision Fund.

Startups

Drive safe: Go-Jek partners with Doctor Anywhere

Kristin Mariano Mar 7, 2019

Go-Jek cares for the welfare of its drivers in Singapore as it partners with local start-up Doctor Anywhere.

Startups

The race is on: Why Uber, Lyft IPO is pure gamble

Kristin Mariano Mar 6, 2019

Lyft has pulled ahead of Uber after it went public before its rival. While Uber’s paperwork has yet to become public, it would eventually go public. Despite being valued for more than a…

Startups

Like Chuxing raises ‘tens of millions’ of funding

Kristin Mariano Feb 27, 2019

Chinese car-sharing start-up Like Chuxing reportedly has secured “tens of millions” of dollars for its series B+ round of financing from a group of investors including Ant Financial, the…

Startups

Grab teases on big partnerships this year

Kristin Mariano Feb 21, 2019

Grab is not yet done as the ride-hailing app Grab has plans to expand into business ranging from health care to insurance to video streaming through big partnerships and raised funding.

OTAs & Tour Operators

These OTAs put element of surprise in travel

Kristin Mariano Feb 19, 2019

Anywhr and ATO Tours are two companies that are continents apart, but are sending travellers on surprise trips.

Startups

Roads less travelled: Didi Chuxing expands in South America

Kristin Mariano Feb 18, 2019

Chinese ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing is reportedly expanding in Latin America based on the job postings and a company official.

Global

Aviation round up: Full stream ahead!

Alastair Newport Jan 29, 2019

This week’s aviation round up eyes up the first commercial Gulfstream G500 service,  SIA's digtial innovations lab and a team up from two giants of the flying world.

Startups

Travelstop marks major expansion in Asia

Kristin Mariano Jan 23, 2019

Singapore-based business travel start-up Travelstop is launching in seven markets including Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam.

Hotels

Hotel x coworking space: The future of hospitality

Kristin Mariano Jan 21, 2019

Coworking spaces are something you do not expect in a hotel but they are becoming more popular as more employees embrace flexible jobs and more entrepreneurs and start-ups are building their…

Startups

How TripClub values women and their need of work and life balance

Kristin Mariano Jan 18, 2019

For TripClub CEO and founder Menchie Dizon, women deserve to have both worlds so she created a program that will enable women to work and take care of their personal affairs. As a woman, she…

Technology

Travel tech this week: Google and Airbnb’s new acquisitions and more

Kristin Mariano Dec 20, 2018

This week, we saw travel tech giants acquire smaller companies to fuel their growth and industry leaders drive innovation.

Global

20/20 Vision: Wyndham’s APAC president’s plans for 2019 and beyond

Alastair Newport Dec 19, 2018

Following the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts split from parent company Wyndham Worldwide earlier this year, it was necessary to install a new head honcho for APAC. Opting to recruit internally…

Startups

A smarter way to site-see: Now offered by Vidi Guides

Kristin Mariano Dec 18, 2018

75% of Millennials rely on Wikipedia or Google as their source of information, but these are not designed for sightseeing. So how does one filter the information especially while in a new…

Global

Founders and CEOs share their tips for finding the right team members

Kristin Mariano Dec 14, 2018

For the past year, I have spoken with founders and CEOs of various travel companies on how to find the right team members.

HR & Careers

Here’s why the younger generation want to work in travel and why you should hire them

Kristin Mariano Dec 12, 2018

70% of the respondents opined they have a strong desire to travel and is a major reason why they work.

Technology

Hotelbeds: Year-end review and forecast trends for 2019

Tian Tolentino Dec 11, 2018

Tech provider and distributor Hotelbeds has released industry comments and insights about the year in travel and its forecasts for 2019.

Road

Uber, Lyft IPO in 2019: The Ali-Frazier of Wall Street

Kristin Mariano Dec 10, 2018

Dubbed as the most-anticipated IPO filing, Uber and Lyft generated excitement among investors with their news about going public.

Technology

In travel tech this week: THAI, Babbel, Hahn Air and more

Kristin Mariano Dec 6, 2018

Latest technologies are continuously transforming the travel industry. This week, airlines and airports turn to technology to improve their services, a language app that dives into travel,…

Technology

Deal or no deal: eNett CEO on his once-in-a-lifetime pitch in a taxi

Kristin Mariano Dec 3, 2018

They say that you should know your business inside out for you will never know when an opportunity strikes. Learn from Anthony Hynes, founder and CEO of payment firm eNett, who seized his…

Technology

Taking the next step: Bidroom co-founders bring new leadership to fuel growth

Kristin Mariano Nov 28, 2018

One of the major challenges for start-ups is how to take the business to the next level and foster growth. The two common reasons why start-ups fail are lack of funding and lack of…

Global

The sexiest company in travel: TD asks 5 questions for rapid industry insight

Simon Willmore Nov 25, 2018

In the world of travel, the phrase ‘NDC’ is on everyone’s lips at the moment. It represents a paradigm shift in the way airline tickets are retailed globally – and yet, surprisingly few…

Technology

VLeisure’s one-stop B2B travel platform: Answer to Vietnam’s fragmented market

Kristin Mariano Nov 22, 2018

VLeisure CEO Phan Le saw that the booking process was a pain and inefficient and in dire need of a solution via technology.

Technology

+en Travel Envoys seeks travel agents

Kristin Mariano Nov 20, 2018

+en Travel Envoys is a new initiative backed by the Singapore Tourism Board that provides individuals with the digital platforms, training, expertise, network and resources to start a travel…

Technology

Pausing but not giving up: Spacebase CEO on recalibrating your business

Kristin Mariano Nov 19, 2018

Unproductive and uncreative are how Spacebase co-founder and CEO Julian Jost described the conventional board meeting culture. Working as a strategy consultant for years, Julian has…

Technology

Where pawns become queens: 5 underrated Asian markets

Kristin Mariano Nov 5, 2018

Asia and the Pacific is a massive market and a fertile ground for travel start-ups.

Hospitality

DayBreakHotels CEO Simon Botto on making luxury hotels “more accessible”

Kristin Mariano Oct 18, 2018

DayBreakHotels makes it possible for guests to enjoy lavish rooms, spas, swimming pools, and other amenities for a ‘day break’ instead of booking an overnight stay.

Airlines and Aviation

Primera Air bankruptcy: 5 truths why this Danish airline folded its wings

Kristin Mariano Oct 9, 2018

Primera Air shocked everyone last week when it halted all operations following its filing for bankruptcy, leaving thousands of angry passengers and crew stranded throughout North America,…

Technology

Ctrip x Splyt = Global mobility for Chinese travellers

Kristin Mariano Oct 1, 2018

Going around during your trip has never been this easier for Chinese travellers as they can now book a ride anywhere through their Ctrip app after the China’s largest travel agency partnered…

Hotels

Performance-enhancing AI and data science in hospitality

Altexsoft Team Sep 20, 2018

One hotel provides facial recognition check-in and a chatbot that answers your questions in a couple of seconds, while the latter has only comfortable rooms to offer. What hotel would you…

Technology

PassRight: The “Airbnb” of the complex US immigration process

Kristin Mariano Sep 13, 2018

Liran Rosenfeld experienced the Kafkaesque immigration process in the United States. His first-hand experiences with the immigration system have inspired Rosenfeld to create a platform that…

Podcasts

The workforce of the future: When AI meets HR

Brett Henry Sep 12, 2018

TD spoke to Jitender Panihar on this week's podcast about how AI will affect the role of HR professionals and indeed the global workforce.

Technology

“Travelling has never been as hassle-free” says Klook COO, after highest-ever funding round

Kristin Mariano Aug 21, 2018

After closing USD 200 million Series D funding, Klook has become the most-funded company in the tours and activities sector. The new unicorn company now has the ammunition to expand…

Global

The one-stop-shop for stress-free travel planning

Kristin Mariano Aug 9, 2018

We go on a trip to get away from stress at home and work and to take a break from the day-to-day routine, but travel planning and the travel itself can be quite stressful.

How to – and how not to – use OTAs as partners

Brett Henry Jul 31, 2018

Dan Lynn is the co-founder of ZUZU Hospitality Solutions, a distribution and revenue management company for small independent hotels.

Technology

Will we ever see a single platform for booking travel?

Kristin Mariano Jul 27, 2018

A number of companies claim that they provide the best single platform for travel, but it seems that there is still a void in the market that needs to be filled.

Technology

Travltalk: Changing the way we travel, chat and socialise

MILI SEMLANI Semlani Jul 27, 2018

The newly launched location-based mobile app Travltalk is aiming to change the way millennial explorers, backpackers that roam the world seeking adventure and authentic local experiences.

Attractions

KKday – a tour company of millennials for millennials

Kristin Mariano Jul 24, 2018

If there is Booking.com for hotels and Skyscanner for flights, there is KKday for tours and activities. KKday avoids “one-size-fits-all” tours and targets younger travellers.

Interviews

CEO of Swayy on solving the injustice in hospitality

Tian Tolentino Jul 20, 2018

We talk to David Gabriele, founder and CEO of Swayy, on the challenges of creating a disruptive tech company and how he turned frustration into an innovative platform.

Podcasts

Using the cloud before it was even called ‘the cloud’

Brett Henry Jul 20, 2018

I spoke to Andrew McGregor, CEO of Guestline, about life in Asia, the early days of e-commerce, and how to expand into new markets.

Entrepreneurs

Turkey has highest number of new startups registered in Europe

Tian Tolentino Jul 12, 2018

Through data gathered by Statista, the card processing company, Paymentsense, has revealed the countries seeing significant growth in start-ups between 2013 and 2017.

Entrepreneurs

Project Deepblu dives into adventure travel

Simon Willmore Jun 29, 2018

We talk to marketing professional and Bitcoin-based entrepreneur James Tsuei about his new environment project

Technology

Western companies go east: Overcoming the Great Firewall of China

Kristin Mariano Jun 29, 2018

China’s population of 1.4 billion has attracted companies from all over the world. Even a slice of this statistics would do wonders for a company. However, travel tech companies must first…

Technology

Travel tech companies that employ women are more likely to succeed

Kristin Mariano Jun 28, 2018

A tech company benefits from having women in the team because they possess skills that are crucial to growing a business, says the CEO of Booking.com

Technology

7 head-turning travel tech startups at Techsauce Global Summit 2018

Kristin Mariano Jun 26, 2018

Southeast Asia is a treasure trove of some of the most innovative travel tech start-ups today.

Technology

Techsauce Global Summit proves fertile ground for startups

Kristin Mariano Jun 26, 2018

Start-ups are the lifeblood of this year’s Techsauce Global Summit with hundreds of up and coming tech companies in the exhibitors’ area, not including the current or to-be business owners…

Technology

RideSafe offers insurance for Uber and Lyft rides

Kristin Mariano Jun 19, 2018

Accidents happen even during your normal Uber ride. Now, you can buy insurance simply on your smartphone when you book rides from Uber or Lyft.

Technology

Here is why we should see more women in the boardroom

Kristin Mariano Jun 15, 2018

Diversity is necessary for any industry, particularly the tech industry. Women are strong when it comes to project management and negotiation, both of which are very important in tech.

Technology

Evolution of urban mobility: Where does the road lead?

Kristin Mariano Jun 12, 2018

We have a rich history of mobility, documented and immortalised by technologies whose sole purpose is to take us where we are going. We have come a long way, from horse-drawn carriages and…

OTAs & Tour Operators

‘Preserving something special by sharing it’ – Explora.ph founder on the challenges of bespoke travel

Tian Tolentino Jun 8, 2018

Last month, we featured Explora.ph, a travel platform that partners with locals to offer bespoke travel experiences in the Philippines. Here’s the inspiration behind the company, and some of…

Hospitality

Hospitality wars: DayBreakHotels vs home-sharing platforms

Tian Tolentino Jun 7, 2018

Rome-based tech start-up DayBreakHotels has introduced its day use booking service to the UK with an aim to help the traditional hotel model fight back against the rising popularity of…

Technology

Grab x Cargo to set up retail stores in cars

Kristin Mariano Jun 7, 2018

Ride-sharing company Grab has thought of a way to further monetise a cab ride by partnering with US start-up Cargo in creating Grab&Go, a retail service inside the vehicles of Grab…

Hospitality

Airbnb donates €1.25 million to Community Tourism Programme

Alastair Newport May 31, 2018

Airbnb has released details concerning the first recipients of its €5 million Community Tourism Programme. More than €1.25 million has been awarded to 24 community projects from London to…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Livingbridge now holds major stake in Loveholidays

Kristin Mariano May 31, 2018

Private equity firm Livingbridge has invested in online travel agency Loveholidays that will enable the business to explore further growth opportunities in the UK and across the globe.

Technology

“I wanted to create the Airbnb of tourism”

Alastair Newport May 30, 2018

Arriving in a new city, in a country you have never been to before, can be an overwhelming experience. You may have all the right plans to discover ‘the real’ Bangkok, for example, but once…

Hospitality

The two biggest battles in hospitality: How will Marriott compete?

Kristin Mariano May 30, 2018

Marriott International is determined to win the race by ensuring it covers all bases. The hotel giant made two important launches in the first quarter – its joint venture with Alibaba and…

Airlines and Aviation

airXcoin to launch new blockchain platform for the air travel industry

Kristin Mariano May 28, 2018

A new player will join the ranks of tech companies offering products and services that use digital-ledger technology. However, airXcoin aims to streamline the payment process in the air…

Transport

Go-Jek makes international debut with $500 million in its pockets

Tian Tolentino May 24, 2018

In the coming months, daily commuters in Southeast Asia will soon get the chance to join the Indonesian way of travel as Go-Jek expands into Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, and the…

Technology

There are not enough women in travel tech and what can we do about it?

Kristin Mariano May 22, 2018

Hundred years after women gained the right of suffrage, there is still a lot of work needed to be done to achieve gender balance in all aspects of society like the travel tech sector.

Transport

Europcar changes name; stays positive for the future

Kristin Mariano May 22, 2018

Europcar Group is now Europcar Mobility Group that shareholders think embodies the visual identity of the company.

Europe

New Visa deal gives 522.6 million cardholders six month free access to Bidroom.com

Alastair Newport May 17, 2018

Hotel booking platform Bidroom.com has announced a new three year contract with Visa, to give all European cardholders six months free access to the site’s exclusive range of offers and…

Road

Lime’s ‘transit pods’ could be the newest tool for urban mobility

Kristin Mariano May 16, 2018

Lime is a start-up company that aims to provide a viable solution to traffic congestion in urban cities. The company dropped thousands of scooters in key cities allowing anyone who downloads…

Crowdvilla ushers ‘real’ sharing economy in hospitality industry, says co-founder

Simon Willmore Apr 24, 2018

Darvin Kurniawan believes that the blockchain can democratise the hospitality industry. In the last part of our interview with the Indonesian-born, Singapore-based start-up co-founder, he…

Entrepreneurs

Vietnamese traveltech startup Triip raises new funding round, readies itself for ICO

Simon Willmore Apr 23, 2018

Ho Chi Minh City-based travel tech startup Triip has announced that it has raised an undisclosed funding round from Japanese strategic investor Gaiax and Vietnamese angel investor Nguyen…

Entrepreneurs

Building connections through Random Road Trips

Simon Willmore Apr 18, 2018

We sat down with EXPH founder and CEO Giancarlo 'Gian' Gallegos, who explained how taking friends and strangers off the tourist grid goes beyond business:

Tourism

App wars: Klook vs. Viator vs. Airbnb – who offers the best tour-booking experience?

Alastair Newport Apr 18, 2018

With Klook, the new kid on the tour-booking block, raising 60 million USD in funding at the end of 2017 , the popular Hong Kong based company has started making waves beyond Asia, and into…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Booking.com’s battle to claim OTA market share in India

Simon Willmore Apr 12, 2018

The fight for market share in India is heating up as the Amsterdam-headquartered OTA lists more non-hotel options. This is in light of Booking.com’s recent announcement that it offers five…

Entrepreneurs

The rebirth of the timeshare – for the cryptocurrency generation: we talk to the CEO of Crowdvilla

Simon Willmore Apr 12, 2018

Darvin Kurniawan, the Indonesian co-founder and CEO of Singapore-based start-up Crowdvilla, entered the alternative accommodations industry by way of blockchain-powered cryptocurrency. …

Global

NASA’s X-Plane to revive air travel faster than speed of sound

Kristin Mariano Apr 6, 2018

NASA just awarded Lockheed Martin a $247.5 million contract to build the X-Plane, an aircraft faster than the speed of sound. The contract states that LM will refine, build and test the…

Air

SimpliFlying launches airline crisis command centre as subscription service

Alastair Newport Apr 4, 2018

The 21st century and the rise of the internet and social media has made the world more connected, and, on many occasions, a lot more judgemental. Whereas it once took a natural disaster to…

Train

UK travellers set to go loco as Skyscanner launches train bookings

Tian Tolentino Apr 4, 2018

To diversify the travel search engine’s offering to UK travellers, the Skyscanner app has launched the train bookings feature, now available on iOS and soon to follow on Android systems.

Summit

TD Executive Summit: 3 August 2018

Thoe L-Khan Apr 2, 2018

50 Five-Star Hotel GMs, 6 Start-up Executives No promotion, no panels, no corporate pontification. Just executive-level education, on the six most important categories for hotel GMs in…

Air

Conversocial adds WeChat support

Simon Willmore Mar 29, 2018

WeChat represents an audience of over 1 bilion users in China, many of whom use it as their sole access to news, information and social networking. However, for many international…

Consumer

Airbnb empowers disabled guests with new accessibility features

Tian Tolentino Mar 19, 2018

To help guests with disabilities, Airbnb has launched 21 new accessibility features and filters to find homes which better fit their needs.

Airlines and Aviation

Why India needs US$255 billion of aircraft by 2036

Alastair Newport Mar 9, 2018

The demand placed on Indian aviation, for both passenger and freight traffic,  seems unable to stop growing. So, it should come as no great surprise that the industry needs to seriously…

Startups

Startup brings the heat to Vietnam’s hospitality, tech industries

Simon Willmore Mar 2, 2018

BedLinker is a Vietnamese joint stock company providing technology solutions that allow hotels, travel agents and tour operators to work together. The start-up founded by Thuan Dao, whose…

Startups

MakeMyTrip Ltd renews OYO partnership

Simon Willmore Feb 28, 2018

India’s largest online travel services provider, MakeMyTrip Ltd, formally announced that it entered an agreement with award-winning budget hospitality company OYO. The agreement entails…

Entrepreneurs

‘Opaque booking format works for both hoteliers and guests’ – Travelspice co-founder

Simon Willmore Feb 27, 2018

We sat down with Travelspice co-founder and CFO Ankit Manglik for a short chat on the success of its opaque booking format, its future plans, and why its team chose “Kitney Mein Chahiye?” as…

Startups

Startup that lets multiple travel groups meet halfway hailed in 2018 Business Travel Show

Simon Willmore Feb 26, 2018

Group trip organisers and business travellers in multinational organisations can now breathe easier thanks to a new platform where they can plan multi-origin group travel for face-to-face…

Hotels

Online auction system empowers hotel guests to trade up

Simon Willmore Feb 23, 2018

Hotel ICON is the first in Hong Kong to partner with UpsellGuru to offer online bidding for upgrades and ancillary provisions to its direct booking guests. 

Technology

Swayy wins 2018 Travel Technology Disrupt Award

Tian Tolentino Feb 22, 2018

Swayy, a new service that allows hotels and travel companies to connect with digital influencers, has won the 2018 Travel Technology Disrupt Award.

Entrepreneurs

Reclaim adventure by going Anywhr

Simon Willmore Feb 22, 2018

Anywhr, an opaque bespoke tour booking start-up under the National University of Singapore’s NUS Enterprise programme, operates on the belief that “travel is more than just recycling…

Hotels

New revenue stream dawns for luxury hotels with DayBreakHotels

Simon Willmore Feb 22, 2018

DayBreakHotels, a Rome-based travel tech start-up launched by Simon Botto, Flavio Del Greco, Lorenzo Stabile and Michele Spadone in 2013, recently caught the attention of Hotel Jumpstart,…

Face‑to‑Face

Book, bid and win: UpsellGuru enhances up-selling strategy for hoteliers

Simon Willmore Feb 19, 2018

UpsellGuru, based in Germany with a satellite office in Malaysia, has become a favourite of boutique chains and independent brands in the luxury side of hospitality for this reason. Launched…

Entrepreneurs

Young travel tech rock star seeks to connect traveller and hotelier needs

Simon Willmore Feb 13, 2018

We sat down with Tink Labs founder and CEO Terence Kwok to learn why this sharp-eyed Hong Kong native and his product have both reached rock-star status in the hospitality and tourism scene.

Startups

Filipino startup bares tech updates, celebrates gains

Simon Willmore Feb 12, 2018

Tripkada, the Philippine curated trip-joining start-up platform, launched its joiner app for iOS, gave stakeholder updates and revealed its expansion plans.

Face‑to‑Face

‘Talk less, listen more:’ Harnessing data out of customer sentiment with Twistar

Simon Willmore Jan 28, 2018

Twistar, a mobile device that harnesses feedback into actionable data, provides engagement that businesses can customise & customers can enjoy.

Corporate & Business

Demystifying air travel with Mystifly

Simon Willmore Jan 23, 2018

Mystifly has become the definitive anywhere-to-anywhere B2B global airfare marketplace.

Indonesia

SEAsians #GoLoka for Traveloka

Simon Willmore Jan 22, 2018

Traveloka appears to be crushing Expedia in core SE Asian markets despite their late entry. Will it continue to do so in 2018?

Technology

Do as the locals in Asia do with the Be app

Simon Willmore Jan 16, 2018 23

Ryan shared that the Be app’s secret lies in keeping the balance between what visitors want and what locals recommend. ‘It’s important that the Be app stays authentic in terms of locations…

Entrepreneurs

Travel tech innovation race at full speed with ‘Hotel Jumpstart’

Simon Willmore Jan 15, 2018

Five companies recently pitched for Hotel Jumpstart, a mentorship-driven accelerator programme to support the most innovative travel tech startups.

Face‑to‑Face

Opening Asia to branded budget stays, one RedDoorz at a time

Simon Willmore Jan 15, 2018

RedDoorz aims to be the Uber of budget accommodation: its ecosystem allows owners of unbranded spaces to showcase their properties & reach out to travellers who want to avail of quality…

Technology

Hospitality technology trend predictions for 2018

Jill Sayles Jan 12, 2018

As technology evolves, hospitality accommodation providers are continuing to invest in cloud-based solutions, platforms and apps, and increasingly expanding on the installation of intuitive…

Technology

Buddy up on budget adventures with Tripkada

Simon Willmore Dec 31, 2017 1

Friendly, generous, caring, adventurous. These make us Filipinos the best chums or ‘barkada’ in virtually everything, particularly when travelling. Now, a local start-up weaponises these…

Family & Group Travel

Plan your group adventure with Packdat

Simon Willmore Dec 22, 2017 24

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Events

ITB Asia 2017: bigger, better and bolder

Alastair Newport Nov 3, 2017 8

Asia's leading travel trade show, ITB Asia 2017, organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd, has completed its milestone anniversary event with record-breaking numbers. The tenth edition…

United States

Adapt to digital or perish, airline leaders warn

Mark Elliott Sep 8, 2017 0

Attendees at this week’s Aviation Festival in London received strong advice from fellow business leaders to sharpen up not only their digital platforms but also their data management…

Technology

Brain Waves: the travel industry’s latest innovations

Mark Elliott Aug 22, 2017

Shanghai airports offer check-in by QR code Domestic passengers in Shanghai who only have carry-on luggage can now check in for their flight using a QR code on their mobile phone.…

Asia

The latest appointments from Jet Airways, Sabre, Rosewood and more

Mark Elliott Aug 16, 2017

VINAY DUBE has been announced as the new chief executive officer of Jet Airways. An experienced aviation professional with almost three decades of experience, Dube has held roles with…

United States

Leadership: Mindy Hall, Leading with Intention

Mark Elliott Jul 24, 2017 0

Leading with Intention challenges you to make a profound, deliberate mark on both your organization and the world around you. Informed by over 25 years of experience with leaders in…

Face‑to‑Face

Face to Face: Paul Fakley, ABTOT

Maria Airey Jun 16, 2017

Travel Daily sits down with Paul Fakley, Development Director, ABTOT What differentiates you from your competitors? ABTOT is a unique association in the UK travel market. We work primarily…

Serviced Apartments

Ascott breathes new Lyf into Singapore and China

Mark Elliott Jun 15, 2017

Ascott has unveiled plans for the first three properties under its new brand, Lyf, which is designed for the millennial market. Having unveiled the new concept last November, and set…

United States

Sabre challenges developers to reinvent travel at Hackathon:TTX, the biggest travel innovation game in Las Vegas

Mark Elliott Jun 14, 2017 8

Coders will have first access to Sabre’s newest developer toolkit and APIs to create new capabilities for frictionless travel experiences, unified e-commerce and personalized offers…

Technology

Travel app Tineri acquired by Open Destinations

Mark Elliott Jun 13, 2017

Open Destinations, the travel technology company, has acquired a majority stake in Tineri, a mobile itinerary app designed for tour operators. Founded by Tim Russell in Bangkok in 2016,…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Bruno Laranjeiro

Mark Elliott Jun 5, 2017

Q)           How was 2016 for Travellanda? Have you seen an increase in the number of travel agencies and tour operators using your online hotel booking services? 2016 has been…

Airlines and Aviation

Cambodia’s newest airline spreads wings across Asia

Mark Elliott May 15, 2017

JC International Airlines, the Chinese-backed Cambodian carrier that launched earlier this year, has started adding a series of new routes across Asia. Previously the only overseas route…

Corporate & Business

CWT targets India’s SMEs with new business travel tool

Mark Elliott Apr 26, 2017

Carlson Wagonlit Travel has launched a new business travel solution designed especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India.   The travel management company's new…

Hotels

Brain Waves: NASA-inspired bedding, remote baggage drops, and more…

Mark Elliott Apr 18, 2017

AccorHotels enables mood-based searching AccorHotels has started enabling guests to search for stays based on what kind of mood they are in. Whether they are feeling romantic, chilled out…

UK

Virgin Trains refreshes onboard retail offering

Aaron Greenwood Apr 3, 2017

Virgin Trains has revealed more than 25 new products will be available from its onboard Foodbar, located in Standard Class, on the east coast route. The move is in response to customer…

United Arab Emirates

Travel Counsellors makes key appointments to drive company growth

Gemma Greenwood Mar 24, 2017

Maggie Bootsman has been appointed to lead the growth in the UAE of Travel Counsellors, the provider of bespoke leisure and corporate travel. Maggie has many years’ experience in the…

Technology

Amadeus invests in airfare locking tool

Mark Elliott Mar 14, 2017

Amadeus has invested in a tool that allows bookers to lock in the price of their flight prior to purchase. A common complaint of travellers is that the price of their desired flight…

UK

Record-breaking year for TTE Europe as organisers report 7% visitor hike

Gemma Greenwood Feb 28, 2017

Travel Technology Europe has reported a record-breaking year with initial figures showing a 7% increase in visitor numbers: 6,392 attendees compared to 5,900 in 2016. Taking place at…

UK

Business Travel Show 2017 attracts bumper turn-out

Aaron Greenwood Feb 24, 2017

Visitor numbers have risen again for the Business Travel Show, which took place at Olympia London last week amid two busy days of networking for buyers and suppliers across the European…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas forms Asian connections with Israel

Mark Elliott Feb 23, 2017

Qantas and El Al have formed a new partnership aimed at improving flight connectivity between Australia and Israel. Under the new agreement, the national carriers will connect with…

UK

Nine reasons not to miss Travel Technology Europe

Aaron Greenwood Feb 21, 2017

Travel Technology Europe kicks off today in London. Here are nine reasons why this year’s show in an unmissable event: Keynotes from Google, easyJet, Contiki, Decode, Button and…

United States

RME on Travel Technology Europe Disrupt Award Finalists Announced

Simon Willmore Feb 18, 2017 0

Five of the most exciting and disruptive travel technology start-ups have been unveiled as finalists in this year’s Travel Technology Europe Disrupt Award. The final will take place at…

United States

ENTREPRENEURIALISM: Stephanie Breedlove – ALL IN

Chicke Fitzgerald Feb 15, 2017 0

Stephanie Breedlove-All In: How Women Entrepreneurs Can Think Bigger, Build Sustainable Businesses, and Change the World Listen to this 52-minute interview with Stephanie to learn how to …

UK

2017 Business Travel Disrupt Award finalists revealed

Aaron Greenwood Feb 15, 2017

Five business travel start-ups have been unveiled as finalists in this year’s Business Travel Disrupt Award. The final will take place at the Business Travel Show at 4pm, Wednesday 22 …

United States

Travel Technology Europe 2017: Media Guide

Simon Willmore Feb 15, 2017 0

Travel Technology Europe will bring together more than 6,000 professionals February 22-23. This year marks the 14th annual conference and will be held in Olympia London. Deciding if you…

Airlines and Aviation

Brain Waves: Room service robots, airport jackets, and more…

Mark Elliott Feb 14, 2017

Singapore hotel employs room service robot The M Social Singapore hotel has started employing a robot to deliver room service to its guests. Developed by Savioke, the robot can navigate…

UK

Eight reasons not to miss Business Travel Show 2017

Aaron Greenwood Feb 6, 2017

Keynote presentations from travel and technology visionaries Travis Bogard, Global Head of Uber Enterprise, and Wade Jones, Interim President, Sabre Travel Network, who will…

UK

TRAVEL AGENT PROFILE: YOUR TRAVEL’S SUCCESS STORY

Gemma Greenwood Jan 20, 2017

Travel Daily finds out how offering a bespoke service has paid dividends for Your Travel, part of The Global Travel Group Name: John Stephenson Title: Director Agency: Your Travel…