lyf Cebu City: Paving the Way for Co-Living in the Visayas Mindanao Region

Following the launch of the first lyf property in Malate, Manila, The Ascott Limited is thrilled to announce its expansion into the Visayas and Mindanao (VisMin) region with the opening of lyf Cebu City, the first international co-living serviced residence in the city. The latest property sets the tone for lyf’s continued growth and commitment to providing the new generation of travelers with a unique and vibrant co-living experience.

lyf Cebu City aims to bring its unique and distinct brand of co-living spaces and community-centric service to the Queen City of the South. Last December 16, 2023, lyf Cebu City extended an invitation to local media and influencers from Visayas, treating them to an unforgettable experience at "lyf of the City." The event offered an exclusive sneak peek into the property through fun activities, live entertainment, an interactive tour, and a delicious spread of food and drinks. 

Among the key personalities present were Rey Vergel Mulat, lyf Cebu City’s POP Champion, and Eunice Lodripas, the Director of Communications at The Ascott Limited, who shared insights into the brand's vision.

#TisTheSeasonForStays: Airbnb reveals the top holiday spots for Filipinos

• Sorsogon is the top trending domestic destination for Filipinos this holiday season, while Japanese cities like Taito, Shinjuku, and Osaka are the most popular international destinations

 

Airbnb is wrapping up 2023 by revealing its annual holiday season trends^[1], revealing trending domestic and international destinations, as well as the Airbnb Categories that are popular among Filipinos. With travel returning in full swing this year, Filipinos are exploring more off-the-beaten-path destinations or crossing borders to soak up different cultures.

 

Domestically, Filipinos are gravitating towards the country's pristine waters, with the laidback city of Sorsogon City in Bicol as the leading trending^[2] destination for the holiday season. Following closely are beach destination San Felipe in Zambales and urban retreat Las Piñas City in Metro Manila. Hotspots Puerto Princesa in Palawan and Boracay in Aklan remain popular among locals.

 

Filipinos are also looking to cross borders this holiday season, with a particular fascination for various cities in the Land of the Rising Sun. Taito has notably claimed the top spot as the most searched international destination, celebrated for its multifaceted charm. Hong Kong follows closely behind, with more Japanese cities such as Shinjuku and Osaka completing the list of sought-after destinations.

 

Tropical stays are the top of Pinoy travelers’ itineraries, making it the most booked Category^[3] of the season. Iconic Cities take the second spot, while outdoor enthusiasts drive the popularity of Amazing Pools, National Parks, and Golfing categories, reflecting a growing trend among Filipino travelers seeking unique outdoor experiences.

 

With the holiday season fast approaching, Filipinos can take advantage of the new major upgrades including Guest Favorites, Revamped ratings and reviews, and Listings tab. Here are some Airbnbs in both domestic and international trending destinations to get those planning started!

Check out these festive events and activities lined up for December at the GH Mall, Tiendesitas, and Estancia Mall

Make your holiday celebration Larger Than Life! Check out these festive events and activities lined up for December at the GH Mall, Tiendesitas, and Estancia Mall.

Enjoy a magical and sun-sational Winter in Dubai with Emirates

Travelers can enjoy attractive deals on flights and exclusive discounts at retail, leisure, and dining outlets

From stunning sandscapes and a winter wonderland, to a sneak peek into the future, a winter in Dubai promises to invigorate and delight all travelers. For a limited time only, travelers from the Philippines can enjoy special fares to Dubai when flying with Emirates, with all-inclusive Economy Class fares from Manila, Cebu, and Clark to Dubai starting at USD 517 and Business Class fares starting at USD 1883. Bookings have to be made from December 4 to 17, 2023 for travel from December 5, 2023, to June 30, 2024, both dates inclusive.

Elves wanted! Spend the Holidays at Santa’s Official Post Office, Now on Airbnb

• Santa’s Official Post Office in Rovaniemi, Finland, is expected to receive over 30,000 letters daily from children and adults around the world this Christmas.
• To help the elves, Santa Claus’ Cabin has been listed on Airbnb for guests - free of charge - to roll up their sleeves, lend a hand with the letters, and experience the joy of the holiday season from the Arctic Circle.
• Booking for this especially festive stay opens December 11 at 12pm EET/December 11, 6pm PHT at airbnb.com/santa.

 

 

Santa’s Official Post Office¹ in Rovaniemi, Finland, is expected to receive over 30,000 letters daily from children and adults around the world this year. In a bid to attract novice elves, Santa Claus’ Cabin has been listed on Airbnb for guests - free of charge - to roll up their sleeves, lend a hand with the backlog of letters and experience the joy of the holiday season from the Arctic Circle.

Artbox Returns With Artbox Avenue, Uniting Cultures and Creativity In A Tapestry Of Urban Expression

Largest Indoor All-Day Night Festival marks its comeback this January 2024

Singapore’s Largest Indoor All-Day Night Festival, ARTBOX, marks its comeback this January 2024 with ARTBOX AVENUE. Covering 105,000 sqft at Singapore Expo Hall 6, the event ingeniously recreates an immersive tapestry of bustling streets, showcasing an explosive fusion of global street culture.

Kicking off 2024 as one of the first events of the year, ARTBOX emerges as a beacon of cultural celebration and artistic innovation. Spanning two consecutive weekends from January 26th to 28th and February 2nd to 4th, this year's instalment promises an even grander spectacle – ARTBOX AVENUE will be 50% bigger as compared to its 2023 edition. 

7th World Travel Expo Holds Dynamic Metro Manila Show from December 8 to 10

One of the biggest and most anticipated annual travel and tourism trade shows in the country is set to hold its much-awaited expo in Metro Manila this December.

On its 7th year, the World Travel Expo is holding its annual event in Metro Manila for the first time in One Ayala, the newest retail, dining, and shopping landmark and hub at the gateway of Ayala Center in Makati City. The annual show will occupy the Second Level Concourse of the building from December 8 to 10, 2023.

Around 80 booths will showcase the latest and most enticing travel and tourism offers from various exhihitors coming from the hotel. airlines. cruise. travel booking, and other related industries. The 7th Word Travel Expo is committed to remain as the ultimate event for local and international travels, catering to jetsetters and travelers in the country and nearby regions.

Emirates world’s first airline to operate A380 demonstration flight with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel

First time drop-in SAF is used on an A380 with full compatibility across the aircraft’s existing system

Cross industry collaboration brings in expertise from Airbus, Engine Alliance, Pratt & Whitney, ENOC, Neste and Virent

Landmark flight was powered by 100% SAF in one of four engines to test performance

Emirates has become the world’s first airline to operate an A380 demonstration flight using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Today’s flight, proudly commanded by Captain Khalid Binsultan and Captain Philippe Lombet, took off from Dubai International Airport (DXB) with one of four engines powered on 100% SAF, helping demonstrate its potential as a drop-in replacement that matches jet fuel’s technical and chemical requirements, while being a more sustainable alternative. SAF can reduce carbon emissions by up to 85%* over the fuel’s life cycle when compared to conventional jet fuel. 

Savor the flavors of Thanksgiving in the skies with Emirates

Emirates will be offering special menus on flights from Dubai - USA - Dubai, between November 23 to 30 to celebrate the occasion of Thanksgiving. Traditional festive fare will also be served in the lounges of Dubai, Boston, New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco from November 18 to 25.

Customers in First Class are invited to savor elevated traditional dishes like sweet potato soup with succulent poached lobster and chives, followed by Thanksgiving turkey leg roulade with pumpkin purée, cranberry jus lié, Brussels sprouts, steamed green beans, glazed baby carrots, veal bacon strips and roasted pecans. For dessert, First Class customers can sample the seasonal flavors of warm apple fritters with mascarpone cream and cinnamon sugar, key lime tart accented with raspberry coulis, or toffee apple and pecan cake doused with vanilla curd, cherry compote, marshmallows, and pistachios.

Yes! It’s Christmas at Robinsons Department Store: Shop the perfect gift for you and your loved ones

Treat yourself and your loved ones with the right gift from its Holiday Collection

The holidays are all about treating our loved ones and ourselves. As Christmas nears, many have started ticking off items on their gift shopping lists, making sure that they find the perfect presents. These can range from stylish clothing and shoes to useful home items.

In the spirit of bringing joy to all, Robinsons Department Store opened its doors for holiday shopping with its Holiday Collection. It offers a diverse range of products for thoughtful gifting and personal indulgence. You can enjoy exclusive promos at all Robinsons Department Store branches nationwide, as well as its online marketplaces in GoCart, LazMall, and Shopee.

The Traveler’s Guide to Celebrating Thailand’s Festival of Lights (Loy Krathong) this November

Thailand is set to sparkle this November as the country celebrates one of its most colourful and picturesque cultural festivals – Loy Krathong, also known as the Festival of Lights.

 

To celebrate the water goddess Phrae Mae Khongkha, millions of Thais float (loy) a little raft (krathong) commonly made from banana trunk and topped with flowers and candles. The krathongs carry the hopes, wishes, and gratitude of individuals, and represent the act of letting go of the old and ushering in the new.

 

Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide every year, on the night of the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar. The festival takes place on 27 November this year, and is a special occasion for both Thais and travellers who flock to the country for this dazzling festival.

Airbnb 2023 Winter Release: Introducing Guest Favorites, a collection of the 2 million most-loved homes on Airbnb

Plus revamped ratings & reviews, and the new Listings tab featuring a set of tools to help Hosts better showcase their homes

 

 

Airbnb has more than 7 million homes all over the world. Each home is one-of-a-kind, and this uniqueness is what sets Airbnb apart. But guests have told us that with so much variety, it can be hard to know what they’re going to get. This is why many people prefer hotels, and it’s the #1 obstacle preventing them from booking on Airbnb.

Get Hundreds of Offers in Dubai this Winter with My Emirates Pass

Enjoy some winter sun and use your Emirates boarding pass for five months of exclusive offers at hundreds of locations in Dubai and the UAE

Emirates has today announced the return of its popular My Emirates Winter Pass. Starting from November 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, My Emirates Winter Pass enables customers to use their boarding pass to enjoy exclusive discounts at restaurants, luxury spas, big-name stores, private pools and beaches, and more across Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

Emirates customers flying to or through Dubai can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identification to unlock incredible offers to some of the biggest family attractions for less, including At The Top Burj Khalifa, Aquaventure waterparks at Atlantis The Palm, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubia Parks & Resorts, City Sightseeing, and much more. 

Curated Home’s ‘Fantastical Christmas’ decor line brings a nice blend of elegance and practicality

Bring new life to your home this holiday season

When it comes to decorating our homes for the holidays, we usually go with what we’re familiar with. We bust out Christmas decorations from years past – some even passed down by our elders – to add a festive vibe to each room and the outside of the house. Of course, there will also be moments when we mix the old with something fresh and modern to change things up at home.

Citadines Bacolod City: Unlocking Potential in Panay Region’s Hospitality Sector

The Ascott Limited, a leading international hospitality company, will be redefining the industry once again with Citadines Bacolod City, the newest addition to its roster of properties. Located in the heart of Bacolod.  The premier-serviced residence, which marks Ascott's maiden entry into the city, is positioning itself as a game-changer in the local hospitality scene.

Bacolod City, known as the "City of Smiles" is a vibrant and progressive urban center located in the province of Negros Occidental, Philippines. It is the capital city of the province and serves as its economic, cultural, and administrative hub. The city’s rapid urbanization has had a significant impact on its tourism and hospitality sector, transforming it into a thriving destination that attracts both domestic and international travelers.

Revolutionizing Travel Experiences Worldwide via Travereel – Book, Travel, Connect, and Earn!

Don't miss out on this exciting new chapter in travel. Download Travereel today and let the journey begin. Get ready to book, travel, connect, and earn! 

Today marks a remarkable occasion in the world of travel with the official launch of Travereel, a groundbreaking and revolutionary travel mobile application that promises to transform how people explore and experience the world.  

Selcouth’s Travereel mobile app is set to change the way you plan and enjoy your travel experiences, providing a seamless, one-stop solution for all your travel needs. 

This game-changing travel app lets you book your stay or destination seamlessly by just clicking and watching the reels shared by fellow travelers. Travel offers you an incredible variety of options, whether you wish to stay in a stylish metropolitan apartment, an opulent beach resort, or a cozy B&B in the countryside. 

Ready for Halloween? Ortigas Malls is bringing the treats in the most enchanting way

It’s time to show off your most magical royal and villain-like costumes this Halloween. Kids and adults alike can dress up and get treats at HalloweenChantment: A Wicked Good Time at Ortigas Malls on October 29, 2023 at GH Mall, Tiendesitas, and Estancia Mall.

HalloweenChantment will be open for all Ortigas Community Card holders. It will be an afternoon filled with treats and spooky fun as little princes and princesses can join the Trick or Treat event, watch a Magic Show, and even get a unique Face Painting. Flaunt your creative Halloween costumes and get a chance to take home goodies in the Costume Contest.

Ortigas Malls wants to make sure that their shoppers don't feel the FOMO and experience the vibrant HalloweenChantment party. You can drop by at GH Mall (G/F Atrium, South Wing), Tiendesitas (Level 2, Food Village), and Estancia (G/F East Wing) from 1:30pm to 5pm to have a wicked good time with the fam.

Christmas magic comes alive with Robinsons Department Store’s Enchanting Christmas Shop

Bring in the holiday cheer with a wide selection of Christmas décor for every design inspiration

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, you know the season of joy and splendor has begun. There’s no better time to spruce up your home than now to avoid the Christmas rush.

This year, Robinsons Department Store (RDS) is pulling out all the stops to make your Christmas shopping magical and stress-free with the opening of its Celebrate Christmas Shop—in stores and online.

Get a chance to win an overnight stay and fun prizes at Rizal Park Hotel’s Halloween Party!

Get ready for an unforgettable Halloween kids party as Rizal Park Hotel once again opens its ballroom doors on October 29, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The hotel is bringing back the magic of Halloween, turning up the excitement this year to a whole new level with a thrilling lineup of activities and surprises that will keep children and parents alike entertained throughout the day.

For just ₱1000, which admits one kid and one adult companion, attendees will enjoy access to all the festivities including a magic show, puppet show, and a bubble show. Don't forget to try your luck at the Wheel of Treats, where fantastic prizes await the lucky spinners!

But the fun doesn't stop there – this Halloween Kids Party is packed with exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy. From the treats parade and photobooth to face painting, inflatables, and a scavenger hunt that will have kids and parents working together to solve riddles and uncover hidden treasures.

Redefining the Staycation Experience with lyf Malate Manila

As the concept of staycations continues to evolve, lyf Malate Manila, emerges as the ultimate destination for those seeking high-quality yet budget-friendly urban getaways. Nestled in the heart of Manila, lyf Malate Manila introduces a refreshing approach to staycations, combining top-tier amenities, versatile room options, and a vibrant atmosphere to cater to both professionals and travelers.

The property’s commitment to affordability without compromise remains unwavering. Begin your staycation at the budget-friendly price of only PHP 2800, and enjoy lyf’s thoughtfully designed spaces from its cozy lounges, spacious co-working areas, and artful rooms, to its complete set of gym, laundry, and kitchen amenities; You can also dig into a hearty breakfast for two for only an additional P500 with your room. 

8 things you (probably) didn’t know existed at Estancia Mall

Estancia opens new stores for avid shoppers, foodies                                                       

Malling in Estancia just got more exciting with the addition of a slew of new dining outlets and shops that opened in May and June of this year. Known for its array of curated stores and restaurants and for being a family-friendly hub for art and culture, Estancia in Pasig City now features Locavore, ALC Bistro Sportslines, Paper Moon, Dizon, Novo Dental, Modern Shang, and Yalo. 

Locavore

Locavore Kitchen & Drinks has made a name for itself for locally grown, locally crafted and locally produced food made with love and a passion for good food. Diners love Locavore’s take on Filipino cuisine because it always has something extra to make familiar dishes more special.

New report shows Airbnb contribution to the Philippines economy and jobs since post pandemic travel reshuffle

Airbnb activities contributed USD$840 million (45.7 million pesos) to Gross Domestic Product and supported almost 103,800 jobs in the Philippines in 2022* alone. 

In 2022*, one in every 77 jobs in the tourism industry in the Philippines was associated with Airbnb.

Report also explores dispersal of tourism away from urban areas, and long-term stays driven by the emergence of flexible work arrangements since the pandemic.

New research from Oxford Economics found Airbnb is an important pillar of the Philippines’s tourism industry, with its activities contributing USD$840 million (45.7 million pesos) to Gross Domestic Product and supporting almost 103,800 jobs in the Philippines in 2022* alone. 

Spend the night in Shrek's Swamp, now on Airbnb

• This Halloween, Donkey is swamp-sitting for his best pal, DreamWorks Animation’s SHREK, and he’s rolling out the welcome mat to host fairytale creatures of all kinds while he’s there.
• Shrek’s mud-laden, moss-covered, murky-watered swamp is situated among the rolling hills of Scotland where guests can stay up late, swap stories, and eat like an ogre – because in the morning, Donkey’s making waffles!
• Onion and ogre enthusiasts can request to book this fairytale stay in Shrek’s Swamp beginning October 13 at 6 p.m. BST / October 14 at 1 a.m. PHT.

 

 

Once upon a time, a very chatty donkey agreed to swamp-sit for Shrek. Before he hits the road again, Donkey is inviting guests near and far, far away to sleep like an ogre in Shrek’s Swamp, only on Airbnb.

 

Located among the hills of the Scottish Highlands, Shrek’s Swamp is a stumpy, secluded haven fit for a solitude-seeking ogre – and for the first time ever, a handful of his biggest fans.

 

“Shrek’s Swamp is lovely. Just beautiful. The perfect place to entertain guests,” Donkey said. “You know what I like about it? Everything. The overgrown landscaping, the modest interiors, the nice boulders, all of it. I can’t wait for guests to experience this muddy slice of paradise for themselves.”

airasia Digital announces next MOVE, unveiling new era of travel innovation

Capital A CEO and MOVE Executive Chairman Tony Fernandes (center) together with new airasia Move CEO Nadia Omer (left) and BigPay CEO Subin Rada Krishnan (right) during the big announcement in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In a strategic move to emphasise its commitment towards travel, the digital arm of Capital A, airasia Digital announces its transformation into MOVE Digital (MOVE). This rebranding marks an exciting chapter in its next phase of growth through both its businesses, airasia Superapp and BigPay. 

MOVE’s travel platform business, airasia Superapp will also undergo a brand refresh and change its name to ‘airasia move’ in the near future as part of the ongoing transformation. 

‘Tis the Season for Stays: Embrace the Holiday Spirit with Airbnb Stays in the Philippines

As the Philippines welcomes the ‘ber-months’, there’s a palpable shift in the atmosphere — a familiar scent of the holiday cheer that warms the air. It's a time when Christmas carols resonate through bustling malls and streets, and homes transform into glittering wonderlands adorned with festive lights and parols, marking the arrival of the most enchanting season of the year.

 

With domestic travel continuing to be popular among Filipinos, the holiday season offers an irresistible opportunity for creating more meaningful travel moments. Whether you are adventuring with a travel buddy, relishing the joy with family, or embarking on a solo escapade — this is an Airbnb Stay for everyone. Discover some of the perfect Airbnb Stays to make your holiday travel dreams come true.

Airbnb sees strong travel interest to the Philippines among Southeast Asian travelers

Latest data highlights a surge in interest among Chinese travelers looking to visit the Philippines, and more dispersed travel amongst domestic travellers to off-the-beaten-path destinations

 

 

Latest data from Airbnb reveals that Airbnb Hosts and guests are emerging as key drivers of economic activity in destinations and communities across the Philippines.

 

While the pandemic had caused unprecedented disruption to global tourism and international visitor numbers to plummet by more than 70 percent^[1], Airbnb is seeing a strong rebound in both international and domestic guest arrivals across the Southeast Asian region, including the Philippines.

Solo travel and private room stays on Airbnb gain momentum in the Philippines

• Latest Airbnb data shows solo travel by Filipinos on the platform grew over 185% year-on-year in 2022
• Airbnb nights booked in private rooms in the Philippines grew by over 200% in 2022 when compared to 2021
• Last year, private room Hosts in Philippines earned over PHP 540 million through hosting on the platform
• Airbnb’s dedicated Solo Traveller Safety feature is now available in over 50 languages, including Tagalog 

 

New Airbnb data reveals that Filipino travelers are increasingly going solo, as solo travel by Filipinos on the platform increased over 185% year-on-year in 2022^[1] as compared to 2021.

 

Platform data also revealed that Airbnb nights booked in private room listings in the Philippines surged over 200% last year^[2]. At an average rate of approximately PHP 2,200 per night, private rooms on Airbnb are an increasingly popular option amongst solo travelers^[3].

 

Hosting serves as an economic lifeline for many, with the typical private room Host^[4] earning more than ever. Last year, private room Hosts in the Philippines earned over PHP 540 Million. 

Step into sporting history with a stay at the home of the founder of the modern Olympics, now on Airbnb

• Airbnb is proud to announce its position as an Official Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays, and to celebrate, is opening the doors to an iconic stop on the Olympic torch route.
• The childhood home of Baron Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympic Games, is now available on Airbnb.

 

 

With almost a year until Paris 2024, the childhood home of Baron Pierre de Coubertin has been transformed to take guests on a journey through time. For one night only guests will get the opportunity to immerse themselves in Olympic history in Château de Mirville, an iconic stop on the Olympic torch relay in 2024.

 

Built in the 16th century, Château de Mirville is where the young Coubertin developed a love of sports that would eventually inspire him to revive and evolve the ancient Olympic Games into the modern Games as we know them today. And on July 18, one night in the historic home - recently restored to its original grandeur with the support of the IOC and Airbnb’s Heritage and Local Tourism program - will be opened to a unique stay on Airbnb for €24* in honor of Paris 2024.

The Manila Hotel Celebrates 111 Years of History and Heritage

The Manila Hotel, a symbol of elegance, grandeur, and Filipino hospitality, proudly celebrates its 111th anniversary. Since its founding in 1912, the Grand Dame has been an iconic landmark reflecting the rich history and heritage of the Philippines. To commemorate this significant milestone, The Manila Hotel is delighted to present exciting offers to its valued patrons. 

111 Memories at The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel invites guests and patrons to share their cherished memories at the hotel over the years, whether it’s a captivating photograph of their celebration or a memorable keepsake with a heartwarming story. Participants can submit their entries on the hotel’s official website from July 4 to 18. The first 111 entries will each receive a regular Prestige card, while the Top 11 entries,selected by a set of judges, will each receive a staycation voucher and an exclusive The Manila Hotel coffee table book. 

marhaba expands offering in the Philippines

Airport hospitality brand launches Meet & Greet services in Clark

marhaba, part of dnata and a leading global airport hospitality brand, has significantly expanded its presence in the Philippines. In addition to its popular airport lounges at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), it has launched its globally renowned Meet & Greet services and will open additional facilities at Clark International Airport (CRK).

Starting from May, arriving, departing and transiting passengers can take advantage of marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services at the airport’s new Terminal 2 building. marhaba’s dedicated agents will provide a warm welcome to customers and fast track them through the airport formalities, right up until the arrival area or departure gate.

Grab Philippines makes Filipinos’ travel more seamless and worry-free with Travel Cover in-app insurance feature

Grab users are set to enjoy worry-free travels with the leading superapp’s latest insurance offering

Grab Philippines and Chubb, the world’s largest publicly traded property and casualty insurer, officially launch Travel Cover – an extensive in-app travel insurance product that will help make Filipinos’ travel more seamless and worry-free.

With both international and domestic travel back in full swing, there is simply no stopping the wanderlust calls. Research group The Economist Intelligence forecasts a 30 percent increase in global tourism arrivals in 2023, following a growth of 60 percent in 2022. However, concurrent with the return of tourism is the rise of travel-related challenges such as flight delays and cancellations, unforeseen medical problems, and last-minute plan disruptions. Dedicated to improving the lives of Filipinos via the use of technology, Grab Philippines is equipping traveling kababayans with insurance coverage –  a necessary safety net – to protect them against the unexpected while traveling.

Beating the heat: how dnata keeps perishable goods farm fresh in Dubai

Mangoes, strawberries and tomatoes most popular amongst 135,000 tonnes of goods handled annually at Dubai airports

Advanced temperature-controlled ‘cool dollies’ used to transport goods from aircraft to storage facilities, maintaining integrity of perishable items in extreme heat

dnata’s cool chain facilities were instrumental in the global handling of Covid-19 vaccines

dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, handled 135,000 tonnes of perishable goods through its advanced cool chain facilities in Dubai in the 12 months up to March 31, 2023.

Rediscover Japan from a historic Gassho home in World Heritage Site Gokayama, now on Airbnb

• For the first time in decades, Suganuma village - a World Heritage Site - is opening its doors to overnight guest
• Following three years of border closures and travel restrictions, this picturesque village in Japan – typically only open to residents once the sun goes down – offers travelers the opportunity to experience the history and heritage of a cultural time capsule.
• For two nights only, the Nakashima family – fifth generation locals – are hosting guests under the 170-year-old thatched roof of their family home for an authentic stay immersed in the rich traditions of the area.

 

 

Situated on the shores of the Sho River and surrounded by high, rugged mountains, the nine-home village of Suganuma is one of the most beautiful and charming places in Japan. It is also one of the country’s best kept secrets.

 

This summer, Airbnb is offering guests the opportunity to experience this World Heritage Site in a way no one else has in over 20 years – with an overnight stay in one of its historic homes.

 

With great support from Nanto City and the Nakashima family – fifth generation locals – are listing their centuries-old, thatched-roof house on the platform, Airbnb will enable guests to explore Suganuma village in an incredibly authentic way.

 

Following three years of travel restrictions, lockdowns and isolation, locals and travelers alike are seeking connection with the world around them. In a recent survey^[1], over 60 percent of respondents said they felt traveling on Airbnb provided a closer connection to the local culture than staying in a hotel or resort. Often regarded as a “hidden village” because it is without tourist accommodations (and typically, only residents are permitted to enter after dusk), Suganuma is a cultural time capsule. This unique Airbnb stay offers guests the opportunity to experience the village in a way that upholds its traditions and preserves its heritage for generations to come. 

 

   

 

The village’s Gassho-zukuri style farmhouses, like the Nakashimas’ family home, are particular to the region, with their pitched, thatched roof structures enabling these homes to withstand heavy winter snowfall and the test of time. The thatching technique is a local tradition that requires a great deal of time and effort, so locals work together based on the system of yui, the spirit of mutual support, in which Suganuma and its preservation are rooted.

 

“We are honored to offer a truly unique experience in Suganuma village, a World Heritage Site, through our collaboration with Airbnb. The rich history and vibrant culture of this charming small town, coupled with the warm hearts of the people who live there, will make for a fascinating and restorative stay. We hope this campaign brings attention to this beautiful destination for both Japanese residents and guests from around the world,” stated Mr. Mikio Tanaka, Mayor of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture.

 

“I am delighted to open my family’s home for a unique stay that will enable guests to enjoy the traditional life of our beautiful village of Suganuma. Through our collaboration with Airbnb, my family and I look forward to providing guests with unique experiences that have been part of our village for centuries,” commented Mr. Shinichi Nakashima, Airbnb Host.

 

About the stay

A beautiful example of living in harmony with nature, Suganuma is a feast for both the eyes and the soul. The Nakashima family are proud to invite one group of two guests* to see their peaceful valley for themselves for a two-night stay from July 17 - 19, 2023 for $0** – a nod to the priceless nature of the experience.

During their stay, guests will:

• Enjoy a traditional welcome tea and local dishes prepared by Mr. Nakashima including Gokayama tofu, mountain vegetables and freshly-caught river fish.
• Learn about local traditions that have been sustained for centuries, such as the making of washi, a paper made of local fiber, and the creation of sasara, a traditional instrument featured in one of the region’s oldest folk songs.
• Enjoy a magical evening light show and folk song experience, where locals illuminate their traditional homes and local song and dance is showcased.
• Participate in a hands-on workshop crafting thatched roofs emblematic of local Gassho-zukuri building techniques.
• Explore the sanctity of the village’s lush surroundings with a relaxing guided bike ride.

 

To facilitate disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature while on site, guests will receive a “Disconnect to Connect” kit that includes a  stationary set made of traditional washi paper, an instant camera and local aromatherapy kit. 

 

How to book

Those interested in exploring one of Japan’s hidden gems like a local can request to book this stay beginning Friday, June 30 at 9 a.m JST (Thursday, June 29 at 8 p.m. ET) at airbnb.com/gassho.

 

Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Suganuma village, and should note that this stay’s rules require following applicable local rules and guidelines as well as Airbnb’s COVID-19 Safety Practices, which will include wearing a mask and practicing social distancing when required by local laws or guidelines. On-site staff will also comply with local rules and guidelines while on-site, and will abide by our five-step enhanced cleaning process.

 

Interested in becoming an Airbnb Host? Learn more at airbnb.com/host.

 

*This two-night stay is available for one participant and their fellow guest and is not a contest.

**Inclusive of taxes and fees

 

Airbnb is closely monitoring Japanese COVID-19 infection rates and government policies. Airbnb will determine if it is necessary to cancel the stay.

Cebu Pacific Air's Opening Statement At The Senate Hearing And Media Statement

Cebu Pacific acknowledges the difficulties and frustrations that our passengers have been experiencing lately. This is primarily driven by fleet availability issues affecting the global aviation industry along with specific environmental factors.

We empathize with our passengers, and we sincerely regret the inconvenience that we have caused.

Emirates unveils new closed loop recycling initiative to reduce plastic

Emirates is unveiling a new closed loop recycling initiative this month, where millions of onboard items such as plastic trays, bowls, snack and casserole dishes, will now be recycled in a local facility and remade into fresh, ready-to-use Emirates meal service products.

Marking United Nations’ World Environment Day on 5 June, and the theme of #BeatPlasticPollution, Emirates will introduce the new recycled utensils onboard from June 2023 onwards.

Gateway Mall 2’s Quantum Skyview Takes Center Stage

The newest mall in Araneta City boasts a first-of-its-kind LED-powered ceiling

All eyes are on the opening of Gateway Mall 2, the highly-anticipated new lifestyle destination in Araneta City. People of all ages are looking forward to the countless surprises and delights it has in store. But aside from the shopping, dining, and entertainment options to watch out for, one of the things to be excited about to is the groundbreaking Quantum Skyview!

The Quantum Skyview is a pioneering LED-powered ceiling that is the first of its kind in any mall in the country, offering visitors a captivating visual experience like no other. Positioned as one of the mall's major highlights, Quantum Skyview presents visitors with an innovative visual spectacle through its state-of-the-art LED display.

“We are redefining how our customers experience live events here at Araneta City. The Quantum Skyview provides us with an immersive visual experience that will surely thrill and delight our customers,” Marjorie Go, AVP for Marketing of Araneta City, said.

Discover Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City, on Airbnb

With his new film set to land in cinemas this month, Wes Anderson’s distinctive aesthetic is as popular as ever. This roundup of cinematic stays perfectly fits the vibe.

So many people are creating their own version of Wes Anderson’s iconic symmetry and colour scheme on social media using the hashtag #wesanderson. The trend has amassed over 977M views. 

For anyone wanting to star in their very own Wes Anderson movie, Airbnb and Universal Pictures today reveal 10 listings from around the world that perfectly fit the aesthetic — from The Grand Budapest Hotel to his much anticipated new film Asteroid City — giving fans the opportunity to recreate their own Wes movie moment, just like Jason Schwartzman and Scarlett Johansson.  

Set to land in cinemas this month, Asteroid City takes place in a fictional desert town circa 1955. In the film, a Junior Stargazer/Space Cadet convention – organized to bring students and parents together from across the country for a scholarly competition – is spectacularly disrupted by world-changing events. Get ready for the film by checking out the Airbnb homes below, which offer the ideal setting for anyone who dreams of recreating their own Wes Anderson-inspired moments.