From Visa Application to Arrival Card: Action-Visas Streamlines Travel Formalities


© Depositphotos

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At a time when preparing an international trip no longer stops at obtaining a visa, travelers and travel agents must now contend with a growing number of digital formalities, each tailored to the destination’s specific requirements.

In an international context marked by certain tensions, attention to entry conditions and pre-departure procedures has grown stronger. Digital arrival cards, health forms, or advance declarations are now added to traditional steps, each with its own timelines and modalities.

Anticipating and coordinating all these obligations has thus become essential to avoid any difficulty at boarding or on arrival.

In response to these new requirements, Action-Visas supports travelers and tourism professionals by simplifying the management of formalities, from visa to digital arrival cards. Requests can be initiated well before departure, with no urgency constraint, and the teams handle submission at the most appropriate moment according to the deadlines specific to each destination.


China: a digital arrival card deployed since late 2025

Launched on November 20, 2025, the digital arrival card for China fits into the authorities’ aim to modernize entry procedures into the country. Available up to 90 days before arrival, it enables the pre-submission of information related to the stay, within a framework of reinforced control and better anticipation of flows.

This system applies to all travelers, whether they require a visa or not, and it complements existing procedures. It does not replace consular obligations, but adds to them, which requires good coordination of the formalities.

At Action-Visas, the arrival card can be ordered alone or integrated into a visa application, to facilitate the management of formalities before departure.


India: imminent end of paper arrival cards


© Depositphotos

Introduced on October 1, 2025, the Indian e-Arrival Card marks a key step in the digitalization of entry formalities. Available up to four days before arrival, it operates with a differentiated process depending on when it is submitted: forms completed more than 72 hours before departure do not require a QR code to be presented on arrival, while those submitted closer to departure must be presented in this format at entry into the country.

After several months of coexistence between paper and digital formats, the transition accelerates with the announced removal of paper cards by March 31, 2026, notably at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Action-Visas enables this formalities to be completed on its own or integrated into an e-Visa application, depending on the traveler’s needs.


Cambodia: the Cambodia e-Arrival, now an essential step before departure

In Cambodia, the digital arrival card now fully forms part of the traveler’s entry process. To be completed up to seven days before arrival, the Cambodia e-Arrival enables authorities to collect the necessary information in advance and to streamline controls at the airport.

This system can be linked with an e-Visa application when required, which calls for good coordination of steps before departure.

Action-Visas also offers to order the Cambodia e-Arrival alone or to directly pair it with an electronic visa application, thereby consolidating the formalities within a single process.


Cuba: a form at the heart of the entry system

In Cuba, the D’Viajeros form occupies a central place in entry formalities. To be completed up to seven days before departure, it is not limited to a simple travel declaration, as it also validates the traveler’s electronic visa.

This system illustrates a push toward centralizing procedures while maintaining a distinction between the different required documents. For travelers, this means clearly identifying the role of each step to avoid any difficulty at boarding.

The electronic visa and the D’Viajeros form can be managed jointly by Action-Visas, in order to simplify pre-departure procedures.



Dominican Republic: the e-Ticket, a mandatory form since 2021

Since April 1, 2021, the Dominican Republic requires all travelers to complete an e-Ticket before arriving on the territory. This single digital form replaces three previously distinct documents related to immigration, customs and health declarations, thereby simplifying procedures both before the trip and on arrival.

Accessible up to 60 days before departure, the e-Ticket centralizes the information needed by the authorities while reducing airport formalities. For travelers, this simplification nonetheless relies on upfront preparation to avoid any difficulty at boarding.

The e-Ticket can be completed before departure through Action-Visas, to ensure the accuracy of the information transmitted to the authorities.

Indonesia, South Korea, Laos, Taiwan, Malaysia, and many Caribbean destinations have also implemented digital arrival cards, reflecting a gradual globalization of these systems on an international scale.

Group Travel Reclaims Its Value in an Uncertain Global Context as Calafell Evasión Takes Charge to Drive Change


Le groupe en voyage sur la péninsule Ibérique © Calafell Evasión / Image générée par IA pour illustration promotionnelle

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Today, travelers place greater emphasis on safety, the proximity of services, and the reliability of the organizations they rely on for their trips.

In this new context, group travel regains its full relevance. More structured, more reassuring and easier to organize, it meets a genuine need for serenity. For agencies and organizers, choosing an experienced local partner also becomes essential to ensure smooth stays that align with clients’ evolving expectations.


Le voyage de groupe : une réponse aux nouvelles attentes des voyageurs

For several years, traveler behavior has evolved. Where some once sought distant destinations or very rapid trips, many now favor experiences that are more accessible, more human, and better organized.

The current international context accelerates this trend. Groups want to travel to stable destinations, easily reachable and equipped with solid infrastructure. They also seek more active guidance, capable of securing every phase of the stay and responding quickly in case of unforeseen events.



© Calafell Evasión / Image générée par IA pour illustration promotionnelle

In this dynamic, group travel emerges as a reassuring solution. It helps pool costs, simplify planning, and above all, provides genuine peace of mind for both participants and organizers.

This shift also highlights the importance of human connection in tourism. Travelers no longer seek merely to “see” a destination, but to experience a collective, convivial, and authentic moment together.


Espagne et Portugal : des destinations adaptées aux réalités actuelles


© Calafell Evasión / Image générée pour illustration promotionnelle

In this context, the Iberian Peninsula naturally emerges as a particularly relevant destination for groups.

Spain and Portugal offer a rare balance between accessibility, safety, cultural diversity, and high-quality tourism infrastructure. Their geographic proximity helps limit travel times and the impact of rising fuel costs, while ensuring a genuine sense of change of scenery.

Another major advantage is the variety of possible experiences. Cultural stays, tours, hiking, gastronomy, traditional or seaside events… the Iberian Peninsula meets a wide range of expectations, with the possibility to travel almost year-round thanks to a particularly favorable climate.

In a world where uncertainty increasingly shapes travel decisions, Spain and Portugal appear as destinations that are both reassuring and inspiring.


Le rôle essentiel du réceptif local

More than ever, agencies and organizers need strong local partners who can anticipate difficulties and guarantee reliable execution.

The role of the DMC is no longer limited to mere logistics. It becomes a trusted ally, capable of securing operations, ensuring on-site responsiveness, and guiding groups through a tourism landscape that is continually evolving.

At Calafell Evasión, this close proximity to on-site realities has been one of the company’s cornerstones for over 30 years. The teams collaborate daily with carefully selected local partners to ensure the quality and stability of the services offered.

The integration of Promenade in Portugal now strengthens this presence across the entire Iberian Peninsula and enables agencies to obtain even more comprehensive coverage of the destination.


Et demain ?



Dans un contexte mondial incertain, le voyage de groupe reprend toute sa valeur. Calafell Evasión décide de prendre les choses en main et d’initier le changement…
Calafell Evasion, Espagne et Portugal

[email protected]

(+34) 977 37 30 15

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Experience Asia Differently: Khiri Travel Launches Ultra-Luxury Tailor-Made Trips





From the shores of Sri Lanka to the royal heritage of Laos, passing through the ancestral skies of Myanmar, these experiences go far beyond the traditional luxury journey. They are carefully crafted moments that allow travelers to move at their own pace while forming authentic connections with the destinations they explore. It is not merely about seeing more, but about feeling more — through enriching encounters, discreet exclusivity, and immersive experiences that leave a lasting imprint.


Sri Lanka

Sea voyage: a marine expedition



© Khiri Travel  - Sri Lanka

Along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Khiri Travel offers an exclusive marine expedition across the Indian Ocean aboard a private catamaran. Designed to steer clear of the crowds gathered for whale watching, this experience provides a calmer, more intimate and privileged connection with the ocean and its wildlife.

Chathurika, a passionate marine biologist dedicated to environmental protection, accompanies this journey to share her knowledge and the stories gathered from years of ocean exploration. As the catamaran glides toward the horizon, the coastline fades away, giving way to a profound sense of calm and escape. A light breakfast is served on board while travelers observe dolphins roaming freely at sea. With a touch of luck, majestic whales may appear to elevate the experience, offering unforgettable moments in their natural habitat.

After several hours at sea, the catamaran anchors in a peaceful setting where guests can swim or enjoy a stand-up paddle session. Champagne, wine, cold beers and non-alcoholic beverages are served on board, while a refined lunch celebrating the flavors of the sea concludes this experience with elegance.

This journey also reflects Khiri Travel’s commitment to regenerative tourism. The trip includes a contribution to the OCEA project for restoring seagrass beds in Kalpitiya, supporting marine conservation while offsetting the environmental impact of the cruise. The result is a luxurious experience that combines relaxation, discovery and environmental responsibility.


Laos

A night at the museum: a private tour



© Canva - Khiri Travel - Laos

In Luang Prabang, Khiri Travel turns a visit to the National Museum into an intimate and exclusive cultural experience. Housed in the former royal palace of King Sisavang Vong, constructed in 1904 during the French colonial era, this palace stands today as one of Laos’ most important historic monuments.

Since the museum closes to the public in the evening, guests are invited to a private guided tour through the salons and apartments of the former royal residence. For a privileged hour, the residence becomes entirely exclusive, giving travelers the opportunity to discover this place steeped in history in a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. Visitors explore remarkably preserved spaces, including the majestic throne room, the queen’s apartments, and the reception rooms once used to host foreign dignitaries. Each room reveals a facet of Laos’ royal heritage, blending tradition, diplomacy and cultural legacy, offering a rare glimpse into the kingdom’s past. The palace architecture elegantly showcases the meeting of Lao traditional style with the refinement of French Beaux-Arts. Delicate glass mosaics, gilded ornaments and refined interiors are bathed in the soft evening light, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance and sophistication.

Among the palace’s most treasured works is the sacred Phra Bang Buddha, a statue gilded with gold leaves and a major spiritual symbol of Laos, after which the city of Luang Prabang takes its name. Elegant collections of paintings, silverware, diplomatic gifts and cultural frescoes enrich the visit, while the private apartments of the royal family offer an intimate glimpse into life at the palace in former times.

From the main residence, visitors can also discover the royal barge shelter, the collection of vintage cars and the palace’s tranquil gardens, far from the bustle and crowds. More than a simple museum tour, this experience provides a privileged immersion into the soul of Laos, blending royal heritage, exclusivity and discreet elegance.





Découvrez l'Asie autrement : Khiri Travel lance des voyages ultra-luxueux sur mesure

For more information, visit khiri.com or contact us at [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you and helping you create enriching journeys across Asia.
>> Khiri Travel Laos in the DESTIMAG Directory

>> Khiri Travel Sri Lanka in the DESTIMAG Directory


Record Year for Canada’s Largest Travel Trade Show


Stand de Destination Canada au salon Rendez-vous Canada 2026 © Destination Canada

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Rendez-vous Canada est le plus grand salon touristique professionnel organisé par Destination Canada, l’office de tourisme du pays.

« In three days of meetings in Toronto, more than 60,000 appointments took place between international buyers and Canadian sellers, generating CAD 100 million in sales. » Gloria Loree, Senior Vice President of Marketing Strategy and Chief Marketing Officer for Destination Canada.

More than 500 international buyers traveled, 100 more than last year, from 24 countries including Destination Canada’s nine strategic markets: France as well as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Japan, China, South Korea, and Mexico. The invited buyers represent tour operators, travel agencies, OTAs and Canadian receptive operators.


Fifteen French buyers traveled to Toronto

Among the fifteen French buyers attending Rendez-vous Canada this year were the major players in travel distribution and tailor-made journeys: Cercle des Voyages, eDreams ODIGEO, FRAM, Imagine Canada / JMB Voyages, Interkal’Air, Kuoni / Vacances Fabuleuses, La Route des Voyages, lastminute.com, Les Maisons du Voyage, Naar, Travel Abroad and Voyage Privé.

One of them, Antony Enault, explains: “As Head of North America Production at Cercle des Voyages, I find Rendez-vous Canada essential for developing new partnerships with Canadian suppliers, discovering the latest trends in North American tourism, and enriching our product range through direct exchanges with key players in the Canadian travel industry.”

This French delegation illustrates the growing interest of the hexagonal market for a destination that focuses on authentic, immersive experiences deeply connected to nature, vast spaces, and human encounters that define Canada’s identity.


A strategic meeting for tourism professionals

The event is built on pre-scheduled ten-minute business meetings between buyers and sellers. An efficient organization that allows professionals to concentrate months of sales prospecting into just a few days.

“This year, buyers were able to meet more than 900 sellers representing 628 Canadian companies: destinations, receptive operators, accommodations, carriers and experience providers from across the provinces and territories. It’s a unique opportunity!” comments Cyrielle Bon, Chief Executive Officer of Destination Canada in France.

In addition to the business meetings, participants could discover the province of Ontario through several familiarization trips before and after the fair, and through tours of Toronto during the event. These programs allowed international buyers to experience authentic experiences, open to nature and the human encounters that characterize the Canada brand.


Toronto, Ontario © Destination Canada


Toronto and the province of Ontario: a showcase of contemporary Canada

A cosmopolitan city and international gateway to the country, with direct air access from France, Toronto provides an ideal setting for urban explorers. A multicultural and dynamic metropolis, it fully embodies the image of modern Canada: open, creative, and oriented toward human experiences.

Wildlife watching, slow mobility, nature-based accommodations, Indigenous experiences, and multi-activity stays were among the products most sought by the French buyers in Toronto.

The host city treated them well: it is an ideal starting point for exploring Ontario, with Niagara Falls and wineries just 1.5 hours by road; the Muskoka chalet region 2 hours north; exploring lakes, rivers and streams on the way to Kingston and Gananoque toward the neighboring province of Quebec; and of course a visit to Canada’s federal capital: Ottawa!


Calgary, Alberta © Destination Canada


Meetings scheduled for 2027

Rendez-Vous Canada 2027 will celebrate the event’s 50th anniversary: we look forward to welcoming many of you from April 28 to May 1, 2027 in Calgary, Alberta!

Travel agencies, OTAs, and tour operators based in metropolitan France, please contact Maryse Normandeau, head of trade partnerships for Destination Canada in France: [email protected]. She will provide you with all the essential information to plan your visit to this fair.


Porto: A Timeless Charm City with Travel One Portugal


© Travel One Portugal

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Porto, an immersion between stone, river and light

Porto is a concentrated blend of culture, history and traditions.

Its historic center, Ribeira, invites wandering through a maze of cobbled lanes, lined with colorful houses and flowering balconies.

From the majestic Sé Cathedral to the famous Dom Luís I Bridge, passing by the São Bento station and its magnificent azulejos portraying Portuguese historical scenes, every corner of the city tells a story.


But Porto is not stuck in the past.

It also stands out for its vibrant cultural scene: contemporary art museums, independent galleries, music festivals, urban design, and iconic bookstores like Lello, thought to have inspired J.K. Rowling.

The city appeals to history enthusiasts, art lovers, casual strollers, and those keen on modernity.


© Travel One Portugal


Gastronomic experiences not to be missed

It is impossible to visit Porto without diving into its rich and tasty culinary scene. Northern Portugal is renowned for its hearty and convivial cuisine. Among the must-try specialties are, of course, the francesinha, a indulgent toasted sandwich drenched in a spicy sauce, tripas à moda do Porto, bolinhos de bacalhau, and the famous cod-based dishes.


© Travel One Portugal


Traditional markets like Mercado do Bolhão or the numerous traditional restaurants and taverns allow you to taste the local cuisine in a warm, convivial atmosphere. For the more curious, culinary tours also let you discover the secrets of this gastronomy by taking part in cooking workshops with passionate chefs. A unique way to immerse yourself in the culture of northern Portugal.


An exceptional wine-tasting getaway in Vila Nova de Gaia

No visit to Porto would be complete without a stop in Vila Nova de Gaia, the twin city located on the other side of the Douro River. It is here that the famous Port wine cellars stand, aging the region’s finest vintages. These historic cellars – such as Sandeman, Graham’s, Taylor’s, or Ferreira – open their doors to visitors for guided tours and tastings in a enchanting setting.


© Travel One Portugal



Porto, a city to explore according to your desires


Porto’s Nightlife: An Unmissable Festive Destination

Porto also captivates with its vibrant nightlife. After dark, the city becomes a hotspot for celebration.

From trendy bars on Rua Galeria de Paris to rooftop terraces and outdoor clubs, the city offers an eclectic nightlife, spanning electronic music, reimagined fado, and alternative atmospheres.


How to Get to Porto from France?

By plane : The fastest option. Many French cities (Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Nantes, etc.) offer direct flights to Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport. Expect about a 2-hour flight and a time difference of one hour less upon arrival.

Whether you are a culture hunter, a history buff, a nature fan, or a foodie, Porto awaits with open arms and Travel One Portugal will guide you there with professionalism and passion.



Porto, une ville au charme intemporel avec Travel One Portugal

Alexandre Richard

Director of Sales

Offices in Lisbon / Madeira / Algarve

Email : [email protected]

Phone : +351 291 707 280 (call from the national landline)

Website : www.travelone.pt

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Thailand: What We Know About THIM, the New Travel App Set for October 2026


Thaïlande : que sait-on de THIM, la nouvelle appli pour les voyageurs annoncée pour octobre 2026 ? - Photo Appli ios

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Thailand continues the digitization of its entry procedures.

According to several Asian media, including The Straits Times, the Thai Immigration Bureau is preparing the deployment of THIM (Thailand Immigration Management System), a new mobile application designed to simplify and speed up the entry formalities for international travelers.

Presented at the AWS Summit Bangkok 2026, the application should enable travelers to input their information before arrival, notably through automated passport reading and the creation of a reusable digital profile. According to The Straits Times, THIM is part of the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) system, which has become mandatory for foreign visitors.

« The THIM app would complement the TDAC portal, which until now did not have a mobile app version. It would serve to optimize immigration procedures in Thailand », also explains Nicolas Lepage, head of Sales and Communications at Action-Visas.


The THIM app already available on Android and iOS

The app is already available on the Thai Immigration Bureau’s iOS and Android stores. Descriptions published on these platforms highlight the management of digital arrival cards, traveler registration, and the reception of travel-related notifications.

For now, Thai authorities have not published a detailed deployment schedule. Several local media, however, mention an experimental phase starting on October 1, 2026.

At this stage, no official communication suggests that the TDAC web portal will disappear in favor of the mobile application. Observers instead expect the coexistence of the two channels to allow travelers to choose between a traditional online process and smartphone-based usage.

Únia Travel Joins DestiMaG, the DMC Directory


Únia Travel rejoint l’annuaire des DMC, DestiMaG - ©Collage destinations Únia Travel / Unsplash License

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Únia Travel est née de l’union de deux acteurs historiques du réceptif : VSJ Travel (Voyages Sant Julià) et Sol i Muntanya.

Cette fusion, officialisée le 1er décembre 2025, donne naissance à une structure renforcée, combinant deux cultures du terrain et une même philosophie du voyage sur mesure.

Avec plus de 40 ans d’expérience cumulée, l’équipe met aujourd’hui son savoir-faire au service des professionnels du tourisme, avec une promesse claire : transformer chaque demande en voyage fluide, cohérent et parfaitement adapté aux attentes des clients finaux.

Positionné comme partenaire des professionnels du tourisme, Únia Travel conçoit des séjours entièrement personnalisés à destination des groupes loisirs, seniors, associations, incentives ou MICE.

Son rôle couvre l’ensemble de la chaîne de production : sélection des hébergements, restauration, visites, guides, transferts, assistance locale et coordination opérationnelle. L’objectif est de proposer des programmes clé en main, sécurisés et adaptés aux contraintes des agences.

Les destinations couvertes incluent : l’Espagne, le Portugal, l’Andorre et l’Occitanie.


Une expertise terrain au service de la qualité et de la proximité

Fortement ancrée dans le terrain, l’équipe de Únia Travel met en avant une approche fondée sur la proximité, la réactivité et la connaissance fine des marchés francophones.

Cette expertise permet de construire des programmes adaptés au rythme des groupes, notamment les groupes seniors, avec des itinéraires équilibrés, des prestations adaptées et une logistique maîtrisée. L’accompagnement s’étend également aux voyages culturels, circuits thématiques, séjours festifs ou combinés multi-destinations.

L’approche d’Únia Travel repose sur une logique simple : aucun voyage n’est standardisé. Chaque projet est construit en collaboration avec les agences partenaires, en fonction du cahier des charges, du profil du groupe et des objectifs commerciaux.

Cette méthode permet de proposer des solutions ajustées, à la fois compétitives et qualitatives, tout en garantissant une expérience fluide du premier brief jusqu’au retour du groupe.


Une offre structurée autour de collections de voyages

Pour répondre aux différents besoins du marché, Únia Travel développe plusieurs gammes de produits :

Únia Signature : des programmes originaux et immersifs pour valoriser la découverte

Únia Classics : les circuits incontournables, équilibrés et faciles à commercialiser

Únia Essentials : des séjours accessibles, optimisés pour les budgets maîtrisés

Cette segmentation permet aux agences partenaires de disposer d’une offre claire, flexible et adaptée à chaque typologie de clientèle.



Únia Travel rejoint l’annuaire des DMC, DestiMaG
contactez Gentiane ROMANET, directrice commerciale :

– EMAIL : [email protected]

– TEL. +33 6 76 50 55 75

Travel Insurance: Medical Assistance, a Must-Have for Peace of Mind


© Adobe Stock

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For a long time, travel insurance was seen as an optional choice or a “plus” reserved for distant destinations. Today it is an essential reflex, both for travelers and for tourism professionals. At Allianz Travel, the daily experience of complex medical cases underscores a simple truth: a medical contingency can turn a dreamed trip into a challenging ordeal, emotionally and financially.

Why have medical assistance covers become indispensable? What concrete risks do uninsured travelers face? And how can tourism professionals guide their clients toward the right protections? An analysis.


Medical expenses often underestimated by travelers

When planning a trip, clients devote substantial time to selecting the destination, the accommodations, and the activities. Health, however, is not always prioritized, especially for short trips or destinations perceived as “safe.”

Abroad, the handling of medical costs varies greatly from one country to another. In the United States, Canada, or Japan, a simple emergency room visit can run into thousands of euros. Hospitalization, or even surgery, can send the bill soaring into the tens or hundreds of thousands of euros. Even within Europe, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitles access to medically necessary care during temporary stays in the European Union, but it does not cover everything: it does not replace travel insurance or comprehensive assistance, notably for repatriation.

In this context, traveling without appropriate coverage is a risky bet, with potentially considerable financial and personal consequences.


Medical expense coverage: avoiding a substantial financial burden

The emergency medical expenses reimbursement guarantee covers, within the ceilings defined by the contract, health costs incurred abroad: consultations, medications, tests, hospitalization, surgery, and emergency dental care. It often complements social security schemes that partially reimburse care carried out outside France.

At Allianz Travel, policies are designed to reflect the realities of today’s destinations, with high ceilings for medical expense coverage. This protection also allows travelers to be guided toward medical facilities suited to their situation, thereby sometimes avoiding abusive practices, depending on the destination. This is why contacting Allianz Travel’s medical teams before incurring any expenses is essential.


Medical repatriation: a medical decision that centers on the patient

Contrary to common myths, medical repatriation is never a comfort-driven decision. It is assessed exclusively according to medical criteria, in the patient’s best interest.

A repatriation may involve: a commercial flight with medical escort, a medical evacuation by air, and specific equipment (stretcher, oxygen, monitoring).

Its cost can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of euros depending on the destination and the patient’s condition. Without insurance, this expense falls entirely on the traveler and their family.

Allianz Travel teams rely on a global network of doctors and partners, capable of rapid intervention. This operational capacity makes all the difference when every hour counts.


Telemedicine: immediate access to a doctor, even thousands of kilometers away

Medical teleconsultation is another major asset offered by travel insurance. Unsure about a symptom? Need guidance on what to do next? It enables travelers to consult with a doctor 24/7, in their own language, without traveling, and to receive a prescription in many countries if necessary. This solution, now widely adopted in the market, provides reliable and immediate medical input for many minor situations, reassuring and guiding travelers, and sometimes avoiding unnecessary consultations or hospitalizations.


Travel insurance as a trusted partner


Example of a real medical case handled by Allianz Travel teams

While vacationing in Senegal, a 68-year-old patient alerted our platform after being admitted to a local hospital 150 km from the capital. The facility was not suitable for his pathology, so the medical teams evacuated the patient to Dalal Diam Hospital in Dakar, which has an intensive care unit dedicated to contagious diseases.

As the patient’s condition deteriorated, we quickly decided to charter a medical aircraft to repatriate him to France as quickly as possible. With the help of our contractor, the patient was placed on a stretcher and isolated in a bubble to protect the accompanying medical team and the flight crew.

Within a few hours the medical aircraft reached Grenoble University Hospital Center, where the patient could be readmitted to the intensive care unit.


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Assurance voyage : l’assistance médicale, un indispensable pour voyager l’esprit léger
Allianz Partners is the world’s leading B2B2C provider in the fields of assistance, travel insurance, international health, and car insurance.

The group employs more than 22,500 people in 70 countries, speaking 70 languages and handling 95.4 million cases every year, and is committed to going further to bring peace of mind to clients worldwide.

Global Assistance, Allianz Travel and Allianz Assistance are trademarks of Allianz Partners France.

24/7, 365 days a year, we operate worldwide to provide our corporate and private clients with assistance solutions in the areas of automotive, travel, leisure, mobility, housing, employment, health, and services.

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Africa Travel Indaba 2026: The Must-Attend B2B Travel Event Opens in Durban, May 12–14


A growth dynamic driven by a pan-African ambition

L’Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre © Africa's Travel Indaba

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L’édition 2025 du salon Africa’s Travel Indaba a marqué un tournant historique avec une fréquentation record de 9 990 participants et 1 348 exposants venus de tout le continent. Les 24 500 rendez-vous d’affaires structurés lors de ces trois jours ont confirmé l’attractivité croissante de la destination. Avec 27 pays rassemblés, dont l’arrivée remarquée du Tchad, de Sainte-Hélène et du Burkina Faso, le salon illustre parfaitement sa volonté de faire rayonner toute la richesse touristique du continent africain, portée par le thème Unlimited Africa.

Pour 2026, cette montée en puissance se confirme avec une densité d’exposants allant de l’hôtellerie de luxe aux start-ups technologiques. Cette volonté d’ouverture traduit une ambition forte : celle de faire du tourisme un levier majeur de croissance et d’emploi. En rassemblant des acteurs venus de tous horizons, Indaba s’affirme comme la plateforme de référence pour connecter l’offre touristique africaine aux marchés internationaux.

Les professionnels y retrouveront les piliers incontournables du continent, tels que South African Tourism, la Zimbabwe Tourism Authority ou encore le Namibia Tourism Board, véritables moteurs de la promotion des destinations. Côté hôtellerie, les leaders du secteur comme Sun International, Tsogo Sun ou Wilderness Safaris seront également présents. Cette force de frappe internationale est complétée par une mosaïque de PME et d’opérateurs spécialisés, tels qu’Access Southern Africa pour la gestion de destination ou Amazing Africa pour le sur-mesure, indispensables à la diversification des catalogues des acheteurs mondiaux.


An economic engine serving SMEs and employment


Conférence sur le développement durable © Africa's Travel Indaba

L’impact de l’Africa’s Travel Indaba dépasse largement les murs du centre de congrès pour irriguer toute la région. Pour la ville de Durban et la province du KwaZulu-Natal, l’événement est un catalyseur économique majeur. En 2025, le salon a généré plus de 232 millions de rands de dépenses directes et a contribué à hauteur de 574 millions de rands au PIB local, démontrant ainsi le poids réel du secteur dans le développement des territoires.

Cette dynamique bénéficie tout particulièrement aux petites, moyennes et micro-entreprises sud-africaines. Grâce au « Sustainability Village » et aux espaces dédiés, près de 400 SMEs et micro-entreprises ont pu, lors de la précédente édition, exposer leur savoir-faire et nouer des contacts avec des acheteurs internationaux. Cette inclusion est essentielle pour soutenir la création de plus de 2 000 emplois, profitant directement aux jeunes et aux communautés locales qui constituent le socle de l’industrie.


A long-term vision for Africa’s tourism

L’Africa’s Travel Indaba s’inscrit dans une stratégie nationale ambitieuse : atteindre 2,2 millions d’emplois dans le secteur touristique d’ici 2030. En cherchant à augmenter la contribution du tourisme à 10 % du PIB national, l’événement se positionne comme le fer de lance de cette transformation économique. Il ne s’agit plus seulement de vendre des séjours, mais de bâtir une industrie résiliente et innovante capable de traverser les cycles économiques.

Les professionnels présents lors de cette nouvelle édition auront l’opportunité de participer à cette vision commune. Que ce soit par l’adoption de nouvelles technologies ou par la promotion de destinations aux cultures uniques, le salon permet de concrétiser des accords durables avec des partenaires de classe mondiale. C’est en cultivant cette passion partagée pour le continent que les acteurs du voyage transforment, ensemble, les objectifs de croissance en une réalité concrète et durable pour tout le secteur.

À la veille de l’ouverture, les opportunités de réseautage et la richesse de l’offre exposée promettent des échanges fertiles, essentiels pour répondre aux nouvelles attentes des voyageurs internationaux. L’Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 s’annonce comme une étape décisive pour tous les acteurs désireux de s’ancrer durablement sur le marché africain et de prendre part au développement d’un secteur touristique plus innovant, plus inclusif et résolument tourné vers une croissance durable.


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Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 : Le rendez-vous B2B incontournable ouvre ses portes à Durban du 12 au 14 mai


Declined Cards, Delayed Reconciliation: Business Travel Deserves Better


Pliant © Adobe Stock

Top of Travel


Mathieu, let’s start with a general observation. Why does payment management in business travel still seem so underdeveloped compared to other areas of corporate finance?

Mathieu Volondat : It’s a finding shared by many CFOs and travel managers. The operational burden linked to payments accumulates gradually, until a significant portion of the finance team’s time is spent handling exceptions rather than steering expenses. What appears to be a simple constraint for the traveler becomes, at the organizational level, a structural problem. The payment tools and processes have not kept pace with the maturity reached by other financial functions.


Quelles en sont les causes profondes ?

Mathieu Volondat : The principal cause is structural. Travel bookings, expense reporting, and accounting typically rely on separate tools that were not designed to interlock with each other. Each transfer between systems creates a friction zone where data gets lost or travel policy rules are not transmitted.


À quoi ressemble cette configuration unifiée ?

Mathieu Volondat : Rather than forcing companies to choose between a corporate card solution and an expense management tool, Pliant weaves together three complementary levels:

The centralized payment for preferred suppliers, airlines, hotels, rail operators, with visibility on each transaction at the moment it occurs

Business expenses with virtual cards parameterized by supplier or by team, tailored limits, and automated reconciliation of transactions

Collaborator cards, physical and virtual, for teams needing travel flexibility, with a mobile app enabling receipt capture

The result is a setup in which the traveler moves without friction, while the finance leadership retains its control levers without tying up its teams on an ongoing basis.


L’authentification forte est devenue un vrai point de friction en Europe. Vous avez évoqué les exemptions SCA/3DS prévues pour le secteur du voyage. Qu’est-ce que cela change concrètement ?

Mathieu Volondat : It changes one key thing: the ability to run automated payments without human intervention. In travel, many transactions occur when the traveler is not available, for example during late check-ins, after schedule disruptions, or at the moment of a rebooking. A 3DS challenge at the wrong moment breaks the chain.

When travel purchasing cards can be used without 3DS challenges, companies can build truly reliable workflows. The payment goes through, the data is captured immediately, and the back office no longer has to chase after exceptions. The result is fewer manual interventions and, most importantly, a higher acceptance rate where it matters.


La lutte contre la fraude est toujours un exercice d’équilibre. Quels contrôles sont les plus utiles en travel sans dégrader l’acceptation ?

Mathieu Volondat : The most effective controls are those that are specific and easy to understand: merchant and MCC restrictions, clear limits, validity windows, and time-based rules when needed. In travel, a one-size-fits-all policy creates many false positives. Legitimate transactions get blocked, and teams end up relaxing controls to keep operating.

The pragmatic approach is to contextualize. If a card is intended for a hotel chain or a TMC, restrict it to that scope. If it is linked to a travel period, align the dates. You reduce the risk surface and preserve a good approval rate, because the authorization logic matches the use case.


Même quand les paiements passent, c’est souvent la réconciliation qui fait dérailler les programmes. Quelles données et quels reportings faut-il pour une réconciliation rapide et fiable, y compris sur les refus et les remboursements ?


Les dépenses de voyage sont par nature difficiles à anticiper. Comment maintenir un cadre de politique voyage dans cet environnement ?

Mathieu Volondat : It is indeed the central challenge. The solution we offer relies on configurable controls that adapt to context without adding friction to workflows. With Pliant, each card can be configured to reflect the company’s travel policy: per-transaction or per-period limits, merchant category restrictions, usage windows, validation levels. These parameters can be adjusted at any time, without delay.


Qu’est-ce que cela change concrètement pour les équipes financières au quotidien ?

Mathieu Volondat : For teams managing business travel, the real cost is not limited to the expenses themselves. It includes the time spent handling anomalies: following up with employees for receipts, processing reimbursement requests, reconciling card statements with invoices that sometimes arrive weeks after the transaction, correcting data before the monthly close.

With Pliant, every transaction is visible as it happens. Payment refusals come through in real time. Policy breaches are blocked at the source rather than detected afterwards. And because each card is configured with its own rules, the system enforces policies without the finance team having to intervene systematically.

The reduction in administrative burden is measurable: less time spent on reconciliation, fewer expense reports to process, and a consolidated view of travel spend available at any point during the month.


Pour un directeur financier qui évalue des solutions, quels sont les critères de sérieux à prendre en compte, et que représente Pliant sur ce plan ?

Mathieu Volondat : In business travel, where compliance and risk management are ongoing priorities, the robustness of the infrastructure is a prerequisite. Pliant is a licensed electronic money institution and a principal Visa member, PCI DSS and ISO 27001 certified. We issue Visa cards in 12 currencies across more than 30 countries, and our solution is already deployed at thousands of companies in Europe. Deployment typically takes about two weeks.

For CFOs, the benefits are concrete: better control of spend, more reliable data, streamlined reconciliation, and a simplified traveler experience without requiring a overhaul of existing systems. The solution also includes a cashback mechanism on card spend, which provides a direct financial return on top of operational gains.


Un dernier mot pour les travel managers et directeurs financiers présents au Forum des Pionniers ?

Mathieu Volondat : Solutions exist. The question companies face today is more about when they will take the leap. We will soon enrich our offering in France with a hosted card solution dedicated to centralized travel payments, which will complement our setup for travel and finance teams. This is a milestone we are eagerly looking forward to.

👉 Discover the Pliant solution for business travel.


Contacter Pliant


Cartes refusées, réconciliation tardive : le voyage d'affaires mérite mieux
Mathieu Volondat

Managing Director France

[email protected]

+33625762525