A Global Celebration Awaits at the World Travel Awards 2025 Grand Final in Bahrain

Himasha Dissanayake, JadeTimes Staff

H. Dissanayake is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Travel & Tourism

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Source: World Travel Awards 2023

The global tourism community is gearing up for one of the most anticipated nights in international hospitality as the World Travel Awards 2025 Grand Final prepares to take center stage on December 6th at the spectacular Grand Hall of Exhibition World Bahrain.

Following a remarkable year marked by groundbreaking participation, innovation, and unforgettable regional galas across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, the spotlight now shifts to Bahrain. Each regional winner arrives with a story of excellence—representing destinations, airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and travel innovators who are redefining the global tourism landscape.

The venue itself reflects the spirit of the event. Known for its striking contemporary architecture, the Grand Hall will welcome guests with an ambience infused with Arabian elegance and hospitality, blending rich tradition with world-class modernity. Bahrain’s deep maritime history and ambitious tourism vision make it an ideal host for a celebration that unites cultures and honors global achievement.

This year’s finale will bring together influential leaders and rising pioneers who continue to shape how the world explores new horizons. Under glittering chandeliers and vibrant red-carpet moments, the event will recognize the best in luxury escapes, boutique hospitality, aviation excellence, cruise innovation, destination development, and more.

More than a ceremony, the World Travel Awards Grand Final symbolizes the power of global connection—a night where shared ideas, renewed partnerships, and future journeys begin. As anticipation builds and the official countdown starts, the world eagerly awaits the revelation of those who will be crowned the industry’s finest.

On December 6th, in the heart of Bahrain, the travel world will shine brighter than ever.

Takeoff of China’s flying taxis hits turbulence amid rapid low-altitude growth

Himasha Dissanayake, JadeTimes Staff

H. Dissanayake is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology

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Source: AP Photo/NG Han Guan

China’s efforts to commercialize flying taxis and low-altitude aviation are accelerating, yet safety challenges, battery limitations, and strict airspace rules are slowing the industry’s full takeoff. In Guangzhou, an unmanned oval-shaped flying taxi by EHang hovers over a riverside technology zone, symbolizing a future where urban aerial mobility could become a daily reality. Nearby in Shenzhen, drone-delivered food has already become a novelty tourist attraction, hinting at the commercial potential of low-altitude services despite higher costs.

Industry analysts say China’s “low-altitude economy,” which ranges from delivery drones to electric flying vehicles, generated 506 billion yuan (USD 70 billion) in 2023. Driven by government incentives, it is projected to soar to 3.5 trillion yuan (USD 490 billion) by 2035. Guangdong province leads this boom, home to major players such as DJI, XPENG’s flying car unit ARIDGE, logistics drone provider Phoenix Wings, and EHang, which recently received regulatory approval to offer pilotless passenger flights.

Still, the skies are far from clear. Battery technology limits flight duration, and access to airspace below 1,000 meters remains restricted, with less than one-third currently available for general aviation use. Safety concerns intensified after two XPENG eVTOL aircraft collided during a rehearsal in September, resulting in a fire that forced other exhibitions to cancel flying demonstrations. Some global peers have already faltered: German air taxi makers Lilium and Volocopter faced financial fallout, with the latter later bought by a Chinese-owned company.

Authorities are loosening airspace controls, and reforms in civil aviation law are being drafted to support commercialization. Experts predict that passenger-carrying tourism flights may begin around 2030, with rooftop terminals and citywide mobility networks envisioned as part of China’s future urban infrastructure.

Despite risks and regulatory hurdles, China’s centralized planning, strong manufacturing base, and growing investment suggest a promising takeoff ahead. As Hong Kong Polytechnic University researcher Chen Wen-hua notes, “The future for the low-altitude economy is bright — however, the road leading to that bright future might be treacherous.”

Heavy Rains and Strong Winds Expected as Low-Pressure Area Forms in the Bay of Bengal

Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani, jadetimes staff

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Image Source: The Official Government News

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka is bracing for a significant shift in weather patterns as a low-level atmospheric disturbance in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a low-pressure area. Located to the southeast of the island, this system is expected to trigger enhanced showery conditions and strong winds across several provinces starting from January 8th.

Regional Rainfall Forecast

Meteorological reports indicate that the impact will be most severe in the Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva, and Central provinces. Residents in these areas should prepare for intermittent showers throughout the day.

Specific attention is drawn to the Uva province and the districts of Nuwara-Eliya, Matale, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa, and Ampara, where heavy falls of approximately 100 mm are likely. These heavy rains could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas and increased mist in the hill country.

In other parts of the island, weather conditions remain unstable, with showers or thundershowers expected to develop at several locations during the afternoon, particularly after 1:00 p.m.

Wind Speeds and Affected Districts

In addition to the rain, the low-pressure system is generating significant wind activity. Strong gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph are anticipated at times. The most affected regions will include:

• The Eastern slopes of the central hills.

  
  

• Northern, North-Central, North-Western, and Eastern provinces.

• The districts of Hambantota, Gampaha, Colombo, and Monaragala.

  
  

The inclusion of the Western Province (Colombo and Gampaha) in the wind warning suggests that even areas not receiving the heaviest rain may still face hazardous conditions.

Safety Precautions and Public Advisory

The Department of Meteorology has issued a cautionary note to the general public, urging everyone to take adequate precautions to minimize potential damage. Key safety recommendations include:

• Lightning Safety: Seek sturdy indoor shelter during thundershowers and avoid using wired electrical appliances.

  
  

• Wind Hazards: Be wary of falling trees, branches, and unsecured structures or billboards, especially in the high-wind districts mentioned.

• Road Safety: Drivers are advised to be cautious of reduced visibility during heavy rain and the danger of slippery roads.

As the system develops, authorities will continue to monitor the Bay of Bengal closely. Citizens are encouraged to stay tuned to official weather updates and local news for further instructions.