Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, August 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ministry of Culture, Department of Cultural Promotion and B. Grimm Group Ltd., will present a concert titled “Sergei Babayan plays Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 24th, at the Thailand Cultural Centre. This concert will be on the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty the Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother’s Birthday on August 12th, 2024.

The Armenian-American pianist Sergei Babayan was born into a musical family in Armenia, Babayan began his studies there with Georgy Saradjev and continued at the Moscow Conservatory with Mikhail Pletnev, Vera Gornostayeva and Lev Naumov. Following his first trip outside of the USSR in 1989, he won consecutive first prizes in several major international competitions, including the Cleveland International Piano Competition, the Hamamatsu Piano Competition, and the Scottish International Piano Competition. Babayan regularly performs at many of the world’s most prestigious venues, including the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Carnegie Hall, London’s Wigmore Hall, the Vienna Konzerthaus and Munich’s Prinzregententheater, Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, the Maison de la Radio in Paris, Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, Alte Oper Frankfurt, and the Zurich Tonhalle. Mr. Babayan performs with the world’s foremost orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Warsaw Philharmonic, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Orchestre National de Lille, Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

This concert will be conducted by maestro Tomàs Grau, the Chief Conductor and Artistic Director of the Franz Schubert Filharmonia, the RBSO will perform Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5 and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3.

Rachmaninoff was one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. Thus, when he composed his concertos, he wrote them for himself. The third concerto was written for his first visit to America, and its second performance was conducted by no less a legend than Gustav Mahler himself, with the composer at the piano. Today, the voluptuous melodies, the massive chord sonorities and the luscious Romantic dimensions seem old-fashioned for a 20th-century composer. But more and more people recognise that they have an irresistible dramatic force, no matter their generation.

Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony, first performed in November 1937, was simple and had direct musical language, extended well-shaped melodies, and, above all, a positive fanfare at the end. At the same time, it has a seriousness and complexity that lifts it. The first movement displays great ingenuity in controlling tempo from slow to fast and back. In contrast, the finale gives the brass and percussion a chance to flex their muscles and hammer home the message of triumph in the major key.

Tickets are available at Thaiticketmajor:
https://www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2024-sergei-babayan-plays-rachmaninoffs-piano-concerto.html

Bangkok, Thailand, August 22, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / For the first time, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) will hold a media conference at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand (FCCT) to share its travel outlook for the region and establish new channels of communication with the world’s leading publications and broadcasting outlets. The event will kick off PATA Travel Mart 2024 (PTM 2024) to be held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok between August 27-29.

Now in its 47th edition, PATA Travel Mart is one of Asia Pacific’s longest-standing international travel trade exhibitions. This year marks the 25th anniversary of PATA’s establishment in Thailand, adding to the event’s significance.

In addition to the Travel Mart, the event also includes:

– The PATA Youth Symposium & Career Fair to be held at Dusit Thani College on August 27
– The PATA Knowledge Forum at QSNCC on August 27
– The PATA Gold Awards Lunch and Awards Presentation hosted by Macao Government Tourism Office on August 28

Based in Bangkok, the FCCT is Southeast Asia’s premier club of foreign journalists comprising senior editors and reporters for BBC, CNN, the New York Times, The Economist, Nikkei Asian Review, the Singapore Straits Times, Bernama, Xinhua and many more.

“It is very important for PATA and the Asia Pacific travel and tourism industry to reach out to global media, as the industry in the region has still not fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. The operating environment, while generally positive, is still marked by pockets of turbulence. PATA is well placed to be a part of the solution, which makes it very critical at this juncture to take our message to a wider audience,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

Mr Hamid said the establishment of this important channel of communication has been long overdue.

“I believe global media can play a very positive role in helping us reach decision-makers at the highest levels in both the public and private sectors. Sharing PATA’s rich knowledge-base on regional issues and trends, plus toolkits of policy prescriptions on topics such as sustainability and technological change, will help many of the influential consumer, business and economic media better understand the challenges facing the travel and tourism sector and upgrade the quality of their coverage,” he added.

He noted that in addition to the media conference, PATA has invited the FCCT members to register for PTM 2024 and attend both the opening ceremony and the PATA Gold Awards Lunch and Awards Presentation. They have also been allowed access to the trade show floor to network with the PTM buyers and sellers on condition they do not interrupt the business sessions.

Mr Hamid thanked the PATA Executive Board and Board for supporting this important strategic communications move, especially PATA Chair Peter Semone. A special thanks is also due to the Sanya Tourism Board for agreeing to host the media briefing at the FCCT.

He said the link with the FCCT will also help raise PATA’s profile in the region and give value-added benefits to PATA membership.

“Both the FCCT and PATA are based right here in Bangkok. Therefore it makes sense for us to forge a win-win partnership, using PTM 2024 as a launchpad. We hope to hold many more events at the FCCT in future. PATA members visiting Bangkok are also welcome to hold media events at the FCCT, which PATA will be happy to coordinate.”

He expressed hope that the event will add to the overall success of the PTM 2024.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

Jayapura, Indonesia, August 9, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, the global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, has continued its international expansion with the launch of the Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura, the brand’s inaugural hotel in the Papua province.

Nestled in the center of Jayapura, the province’s largest city which lies on the north coast of the island of Papua, the Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura is a modern midscale hotel comprising 72 rooms and suites with interiors that blend contemporary design with indigenous cultural elements.

Throughout their stay, guests can unwind in the social lobby lounge, and savor local, pan-Asian, and international cuisine at the all-day dining restaurant, with its vibrant open kitchen concept. Business travelers can also host productive meetings in one of the six outfitted meeting rooms.

The Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura is surrounded by the city’s main landmarks and attractions, including Hamadi Beach, lush mangrove forests, and Jayapura City Tower’s viewing platform. Sentani International Airport which offers direct flights to Jakarta and other Indonesian cities – is just 30 kilometers away, and the border crossing between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea can be reached in just 2.5 hours by road.

“We are excited to announce the opening of the Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura, which represents a significant milestone in our Indonesian expansion strategy. We have made a commitment to provide our brand’s quality standards and services to guests all across this diverse country. As our first property in Papua, this reflects the ability of BWH Hotels’ diverse brands to cater to the needs of owners and travelers in every market,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

With the opening of the Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura, BWH Hotels now offers 17 hotels and resorts all across Indonesia, ranging from key cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bandung to the resort islands of Bali, and regional hubs such as Palangkaraya, Manado, Makassar, Palu, and Singaparna.

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

Bangkok, Thailand, August 8, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / H.E. Mrs. Sibille de Cartier d’Yves (3rd from left), Ambassador of H.M. the King of the Belgians to Thailand, graciously bestowed the “Officer of the Order of Leopold” Royal Decoration, the highest of the three national orders of Belgium, upon Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe (3rd from right), founder of the world renowned Blue Elephant Group, and her husband Mr. Karl Steppe (4th from right) at a cocktail reception at the Ambassador’s residence recently. Amongst the many distinguished guests in attendance was Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt (2nd from right), Bangkok Governor.

The “Officer of the Order of Leopold” honour has been conferred upon Master Chef Nooror and Mr. Karl Steppe for their over 40 years of meritorious service to the Belgian state and society and for Master Chef Nooror’s spreading the soft power of Thai cuisine and Thai culture across the globe from Belgium to Thailand since the opening of the first Blue Elephant Restaurant in Brussels in 1980.

Named in honour of its founder King Leopold 1, The Order of Leopold, Belgium’s oldest and highest honorary order of knighthood, was established on 11th July 1832.

Pictured from left are: Mr. Kim Steppe, CEO of Blue Elephant Group; Ms. Ines Chardonnet, Managing Director of Blue Spice Co., Ltd.; H.E. Mrs. Sibille de Cartier d’Yves; Mr. Karl Steppe; Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe; Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt; and Mr. Thaviseuth Phouthavong, Vice President of Blue Elephant Group.

About Blue Elephant
Blue Elephant’s story began with the passion of Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, founding Chef and Director, who opened the first restaurant in Brussels in 1980. Since then, Blue Elephant has been a torchbearer of Thai cuisine globally, emphasizing health-conscious recipes using premium, locally sourced ingredients. Master Chef Nooror’s dedication has made Blue Elephant a significant cultural ambassador, promoting Thai cuisine worldwide. The Blue Elephant Cooking School and Restaurant in Bangkok opened in 2002 and in Phuket in 2010, continuing to celebrate and evolve Thai culinary traditions. In 2006, Blue Spice Company Limited was established to manufacture and export Premium Thai Products, curry pastes and sauces amongst others under the Blue Elephant brand for retail and food service.

Exuma, Bahamas, August 18, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Situated on a 124-acre private island, Rosewood Exuma marks the brand’s latest expansion in the Caribbean. Set amidst a pristine archipelago of 365 islands in the Bahamas, the private retreat will comprise of just 33 suites, each offering dramatic views of the island’s pink and white sands and turquoise waters, with several sitting directly on the beach.

Guests are invited to explore six dining outlets showcasing local delicacies, including ingredients grown from the resort’s organic garden, and immerse in the 20,000 square foot Asaya® wellness sanctuary, complemented by an outdoor sports center featuring tennis, padel and pickleball courts.

Rosewood Exuma will be home to a fully serviced beach club with a grill restaurant, beach and pool bars. Two marinas with slips are planned to accommodate yachts, encouraging those traveling around the nearby islands to enjoy the beach club. In addition, the resort will offer two other pools exclusively for overnight guests, including one dedicated to families. Young guests will also be invited to discover the unique ethos of the Exumas at Rosewood Explorers, the brand’s culturally inspired children’s club.

Reflecting a commitment to positive impact, Rosewood will prioritize sustainable building practices throughout the development of the property including solar powered energy resources. Through visionary planning, the resort will be designed to not only preserve the beauty of the island but to ensure a legacy of responsible and conscious development.

Exuma, a pristine archipelago of 365 islands in the Bahamas, has long been a haven for sophisticated globetrotters and seafarers. Today, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® is pleased to name the destination as the latest addition to the brand’s Caribbean portfolio with the announcement of Rosewood Exuma, a private island experience that will fuse together the best of both ultra-luxury and adventure travel. Imagined in partnership with Yntegra Group, a Miami-based private investment company, the new development will advance Rosewood’s evolution as a global leader in luxury lifestyle along with Yntegra’s long-term strategic vision of unlocking the unrealized investment and economic potential of the Exumas region.

Situated on a 124-acre private island referred to as East Sampson Cay within the Exumas, Rosewood Exuma will comprise just 33 suites, all offering dramatic views of the island’s pink and white sands and turquoise waters and several sitting directly on the beach. Visitors will encounter an extensive range of amenities that will be brought to life according to Rosewood’s A Sense of Place® philosophy, with all elements of the look and feel inspired by the destination. Six unique food and beverage outlets will showcase local delicacies, including ingredients grown from the resort’s organic garden. Rosewood’s signature Asaya® concept will immerse guests in time-honored Bahamian wellness traditions. The 20,000 square foot sanctuary will boast six treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy facility, outdoor tranquil pool, and fitness center. It will be complemented by an outdoor sports center featuring tennis, padel and pickleball courts, as well as watersports equipment.

An anticipated highlight for both resort guests and passersby, Rosewood Exuma will be home to a fully serviced beach club with a grill restaurant, beach and pool bars, and a private dining room. Two marinas with slips are planned to accommodate yachts up to 150 feet, encouraging those traveling around the nearby islands to enjoy Rosewood Exuma’s beach club and various restaurants and bars. In addition to the beach club pool, the resort will offer two other pools exclusively for overnight guests, including one dedicated to families. Young guests will also be invited to immerse themselves in the unique ethos of the Exumas at Rosewood Explorers, the brand’s signature children’s club concept where activities are designed to spark discovery, inspire imagination and foster social responsibility.

“It’s immensely exciting to be partnering with Yntegra Group to bring Rosewood’s signature blend of luxury and authenticity to the breathtaking Exumas,” said Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. “We have conceived Rosewood Exuma to offer a next-generation luxury experience – one that honors the quintessential character of this pristine archipelago and invites guests on a journey of discovery and adventure.”

Reflecting a shared commitment to positive impact, Rosewood and Yntegra will prioritize sustainable building practices throughout the development of Rosewood Exuma. On the island, just 25% of the 124 acres will be developed, and initiatives such as solar powered energy sources will be implemented with the aim of minimizing impact to the island. Through visionary planning, the resort will be designed to blend into the natural island landscapes, not only to preserve the beauty of the Exumas but to ensure a legacy of responsible and conscious development for future generations to enjoy.

“We are enthusiastic about the partnership with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and believe that the brand’s iconic hospitality expertise will help to redefine the industry in Exuma,” said Felipe MacLean, CEO of Yntegra Group. “This partnership represents our shared vision to create exceptional experiences that inspire and delight our guests while being good community partners who are committed to Exuma.”

“Exuma is the ideal destination for the new Rosewood resort,” said The Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism for the Bahamas. “The introduction of Rosewood Exuma, in partnership with Yntegra Group, represents an exciting milestone for our tourism industry. We are thrilled about the expansion of the Rosewood brand and the immense potential for growth in Exuma. This development highlights the unmatched luxury and adventure that Exuma offers while emphasizing our commitment to sustainable and balanced growth.”

About Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages a global collection of 34 one-of-a-kind luxury hotels, resorts and residences in 21 countries. Each Rosewood property embraces the brand’s A Sense of Place® philosophy to reflect the individual location’s history, culture and sensibilities. The Rosewood collection includes some of the world’s most legendary hotels and resorts, including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas and Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, as well as new classics such as Rosewood Hong Kong and Rosewood São Paulo. For those who wish to stay a little longer, Rosewood Residences offer a distinct opportunity for the ownership or rental of properties co-located with a Rosewood hotel or resort and of standalone for-sale residences. Rosewood Residences are defined by the brand’s commitment to Enriched Living through thoughtful details and experiences that enhance the quality of life while evoking a sense of discovery and inspiration.

About Yntegra
Founded in 2006, Florida-based investment firm Yntegra Group has evolved into a multifaceted investment firm, with a special focus on real estate development and hospitality . Through their financial arm, Yntegra Capital actively engages in high-yield opportunities, leveraging their expertise as a leading private equity investor. With a combined investment experience of the principals exceeding $3 billion of deployed capital, and over $1.2 billion on a discretionary basis, Yntegra is more than an investment firm – it’s a testament to innovation, sophistication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. For more information please visit .

Bangkok, Thailand, August 15, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is delighted to announce the organisation of the inaugural PATA Youth Symposium & Career Fair on August 27 in Bangkok, Thailand. This event, now open for registration, is held in conjunction with PATA Travel Mart 2024 and the 25th anniversary of the Association’s establishment in Thailand.

In addition to a dynamic one-day programme filled with interactive activities, the upcoming PATA Youth Symposium proudly features a special career fair segment, offering students the chance to explore various career paths and meet experts in their fields of interest. Seven leading organisations from the Asia Pacific travel and tourism sector, including Dusit Careers, Khiri Travel, Rama Gardens Hotel Bangkok, and Travel Compositor, will be part of the event.

“We are witnessing a new era of young trailblazers whose passion and dedication are set to revolutionise the tourism industry,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “To support their journey, it is essential to bridge the gap between their potential and the workforce opportunities available to them. The PATA Youth Symposium is crafted with this purpose in mind. It will not only broaden young people’s understanding of the current tourism job market through professional presentations and mentorship sessions but will also offer practical opportunities through the career fair.”

He continued, “PATA is grateful to our host, Dusit Thani College, and all participating organisations for sharing the Association’s commitment to nurturing these future stars. Their dedication stands as an inspiring model for the entire tourism sector.”

Graciously hosted by Dusit Thani College, the event will be held at Srinakarin Hall on the college’s campus grounds. As an educational institution renowned for shaping generations of talent in hotel management, culinary arts, and business administration, Dusit Thani College is the ideal venue for youths to engage with industry leaders, share insights, and learn the latest tourism trends through expert presentations, panel discussions, roundtable talks, and mentorship opportunities.

Dusit Thani College’s Dean of Hospitality Management Program Simon Lloyd said, “Creating a strong network amongst students and a space where they can share, build and shape their ideas is vital for an innovative and sustainable tourism industry. The PATA Youth Symposium and Career Fair is an important platform to create a safe space for students to challenge the status quo and share their ambitions for the future!”

Tourism.co.th and Me2 Travel, distinguished members of the Association, are this year’s PATA Youth Sponsors. The organisations are supporting 40 Thailand-based students from PATA Education-Premium Member institutions to participate in PATA Travel Mart 2024, providing representatives of the youth community with a unique opportunity to gain insights and skills by engaging directly with the B2B trade show. This initiative not only reflects Tourism.co.th and Me2 Travel’s dedication to empower the next generation of industry leaders but also highlights the significant impact of real-world exposure in shaping future professionals.

In the morning of August 27, the Symposium will feature presentations addressing insightful topics, including ‘Current and Future Trends of AI & Technology’ and ‘Trends on Human Capital Development’.

During the programme, participants will have the opportunity to engage in roundtable discussions and deliver presentations on the following questions:

– Are you interested in pursuing a career in tourism and hospitality-related sectors?
– Why are you interested/not interested in pursuing a career in tourism and hospitality-related sectors?
– What is the #1 topic that the youths want to discuss with the industry?

The panel discussions are set to navigate a variety of less-known professions and ways to secure employment in the tourism industry, diving into the essential elements necessary for young talents to build successful careers.

Following these sessions, recruiters from various organisations will present available career opportunities within the sector. Attendees may freely interact with recruiters and gain in-depth insight into diverse aspects of the workforce. Participating organisations include:

– DTH Travel Thailand
– Dusit Careers
– Khiri Travel
– Navigate Journeys
– Rama Gardens Hotel Bangkok
– SO/ Bangkok
– Travel Compositor
And more to be confirmed

To register for the PATA Youth Symposium & Career Fair, please access the following link www.pata.org/pata-youth-symposium-2024-bangkok. For more information on the event, contact Eunkyu Chun (Nick), Executive – Membership & Youth Programme, PATA at Nick@PATA.org

PATA remains committed to nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals. For more information on sponsorship opportunities for future youth programmes, please access www.pata.org/youth or contact YTP@PATA.org.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing.

Dusit Thani College
Dusit Thani College, a private educational institution specializing in tourism and hospitality management under operating of Thailand leading hospitality group ‘Dusit International’ was established to meet the industry’s high demand for well-trained professionals. The college offers nationally and internationally recognised Thai and International degree programs, an MBA program as well as non-degree programs in all aspects of hospitality, culinary arts, and tourism management. With its aspiration of prominence as Asia’s premier international educational and training institute, Dusit Thani College sustainably develops and offers high quality education producing highly competent graduates who have acquired first-rate professional skills, creativity and an innovative outlook.

Tourism.co.th
Tourism.co.th is leading the transformation of travel in Thailand, utilizing Thailand.org to showcase the country’s lesser-known gems and empowering local businesses with innovative online marketing techniques. At the heart of its mission is a commitment to presenting authentic and high-quality Thai experiences to travelers worldwide.

Diversifying tourism across Asia and the Pacific, alongside promoting more and better education, will be key to building a more resilient and sustainable sector.

According to UN Tourism’s data, the sector is experiencing a rapid recovery in Asia and the Pacific, with arrivals reaching 82% of pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter of 2024, boosted by the re-opening of many destinations throughout 2023. Now, with full recovery on the horizon, the latest joint meeting of UN Tourism’s Commission for Asia and the Pacific (CAP) and its Commission of South Asia (CSA), focused on the challenges and opportunities for creating a positive and lasting transformation.

As our data shows, tourism’s recovery is close to complete here in Asia and Pacific. We worked together to face the crisis head on.

Guiding transformation and building resilience  

The 36th meeting of the CAP-CSA welcomed more than 130 delegates from 25 countries and territories. All Members were provided with a comprehensive overview of UN Tourism’s work and achievements since the last meeting, with key priorities then presented for the years ahead.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “As our data shows, tourism’s recovery is close to complete here in Asia and Pacific. We worked together to face the crisis head on. And now we must work together to focus on our priorities for the future. That means supporting education, driving investments into our sector and further strengthening the ties between public and private to build resilience and advance sustainability and inclusive growth.”

Education the top-level tourism priority  

Reflecting the high-level support given to tourism and to UN Tourism’s mission to guide the sector forward, Commission host the Philippines was represented by President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr, at the meeting. In his opening remarks President Marcos commended UN Tourism’s focus on education and training for the sector and stressed his commitment to wider sustainability efforts. “Education is always going to make any industry better and certainly tourism is no different,” President Marcos said. “We need to raise the standards and practices in this crucial sector by investing in education, training, and skills upgrading of all the personnel who are working in this industry.”

Emphasising his Government’s recognition of the importance of education, President Ferdinand Marcos expressed interest in opening a new Academy in Collaboration with UN Tourism in the Philippines. The institution would add to UN Tourism’s growing network of Academies, with education centres focusing on the specific needs of regions or on key skills needed for the future of tourism.

Resilience via green transformation  

Within the framework of the joint Commission meeting, Member States in the region tabled a thematic discussion on product development emphasizing the need for green transformation to enhance the tourism sector’s competitiveness, while bolstering its resilience through the promotion of innovative and green solutions.

Untapping Gastronomy Tourism’s Potential   

In Cebu, the spotlight was put on gastronomy tourism as one of the sure routes to progress product diversification to add value to the sector and accelerate  recovery in the region. Here, UN Tourism hosted its first Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific, connecting public and private sector leaders with top entrepreneurs and leading chefs from the region and beyond. Discussions concluded with the Cebu Call to Action on Gastronomy Tourism, urging public and private leaders to integrate gastronomy tourism into policy, foster cross-sector cooperation, namely with agriculture and creative industries, support small businesses, and promote sustainable practices.

Secretary-General Polikashvili challenged tourism players to further capitalize on the region’s growing reputation as both a destination and leader in the field of gastronomy tourism. “My proposal is to leave a legacy… to create something an education center or gastronomic center here in Cebu,” he said.

Looking ahead to Indonesia 

The meetings concluded with Members agreeing to accept Indonesia’s offer to host the 37th Joint Meeting of UN Tourism’s 2 Asian Commissions in 2025. The exact dates will be confirmed in due course.

Valletta, Malta, July 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Together with Malta’s Institute for Tourism Studies, SUNx Malta, is delighted to offer 50 Scholarships once again for our 2024 online graduate Diploma in Climate Friendly Travel which starts on September 30, 2024. Majority of the scholarship is allocated to Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and a few to other developing countries around the world.

We would like to seek your support to help find a top class scholarship candidate from your country who would be awarded free entry into our 2 year online Climate Friendly Travel Diploma programme and help bring the benefits to you.
We’re prioritising applications from these countries:
Americas: Bahamas, Belize, Costa Rica, Cuba, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica and St Kitts and Nevis.
EMEA: Cape Verde, Eritrea, Jordan, Mauritius, Namibia, Israel, Palestine, Tunisia and Yemen.
Asia Pacific: Afghanistan, Bhutan, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Singapore, Tonga and Tuvalu.

Apply today: https://bit.ly/sunxdiploma2024
Deadline: 15th August, 2024

At SUN x Malta, Our core mission is to advance Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) in every UN country, starting, where Climate Change is most threatening and where Tourism is most needed – in the world’s Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The Climate Friendly Travel Diploma is a world first and trains students to support Travel & Tourism companies and communities in becoming sustainable and climate resilient; as well as in transforming to achieve Zero GHG emissions by 2050.

In year one, students will receive 300 hours of in-depth teaching about the Climate Crisis and Sustainability as they relate to Climate Friendly Travel – Paris 1.5, SDG linked and nature positive. Interactive lectures will be given by 25 of the leading tourism academics in the world. Students will review carefully curated top journal and online source material, to bolster knowledge of Transport, Hospitality and Travel Services exposure and response to the existential Climate Crisis. In year two students will undertake an internship with SUN x Malta, as a Climate Friendly Travel Chapter leader, where they will apply their learning from first year to help build a climate resilient tourism community. They will be involved in recruiting Strong Climate Champions in their communities and assisting tourism companies to sign on to our free Climate Friendly Travel Registry. They will also be encouraging travellers to be a member of our Climate Friendly Travel Club and enjoy special travel benefits.

The ideal candidate will be a graduate, with a firm grounding in Travel & Tourism. They must be able to commit to two years of online engagement and be ready to work with us to help build Climate Friendly Travel community in your country. The application deadline is AUG 15, 2024.

You can reach out to Pratishtha (pratishtha@thesunprogram.com) who would respond to all your queries you may have on the program.

Kyoto, Japan, August 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Located near Kyoto Station in the heart of Japan’s ancient former capital, Dusit’s first luxury hotel in the country has been officially recognised for offering ‘A very special stay. Dusit Thani Kyoto, a luxury urban oasis operated by Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has been named among the first hotels in the world to receive a coveted Michelin Key from the Michelin Guide 2024.

Similar to the Michelin Star system for exceptional culinary experiences, the Michelin Key acknowledges hotels that deliver outstanding stays with One, Two, and Three Key distinctions. Introduced by the Michelin Guide in April 2024, Michelin Keys are awarded only to establishments demonstrating the ‘best of the best’ across five key areas – excellence in architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the neighbourhood or setting.

To date, Michelin Keys have been awarded to hotels in France, Italy, Spain, and select locations in the United States. Japan is the first Asian country to receive Michelin Keys, and Dusit Thani Kyoto is one of only 85 hotels in the country to be named a One Michelin Key establishment. It is also the first Thai-branded hotel in Japan to receive this accolade.

Opened in September 2023, Dusit Thani Kyoto is located in the ancient former capital’s peaceful Hanganji Monzen-machi district, only 850 metres from the bustling Kyoto Station. Uniquely blending Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with Japan’s deep-rooted culture of omotenashi (meaning to wholeheartedly look after guests), the elegant hotel also features a distinctive design that masterfully blends the rich heritage of Kyoto with subtle Thai influences. This includes chedi-inspired motifs referencing the ancient Thai city of Ayutthaya, alongside the clean lines, natural materials, and subtle colour palette for which Kyoto is renowned. This unique fusion extends to the 147 meticulously appointed guest rooms, offering a harmonious balance of timeless elegance and contemporary charm.

Set around a serene and beautiful courtyard, Dusit Thani Kyoto offers a tranquil oasis for business and leisure travellers alike. Alongside elegant event spaces accommodating up to 240 guests, the hotel features the signature Devarana Wellness centre, where expert therapists deliver a unique fusion of ancient Thai massage therapies and traditional Japanese rituals. Additional well-being focused facilities include a well-equipped fitness centre and an inviting indoor swimming pool.

Contributing to the hotel’s ‘outstanding’ Michelin Key distinction is a diverse range of unique culinary experiences. Guests can embark on a vibrant and interactive omakase journey at Kōyō, where the finest ingredients celebrate Kyoto’s unique 24 ‘micro-seasons.’ For a sophisticated evening experience, Den Kyoto beckons with its handcrafted cocktails served in a stylish ambience.

A truly one-of-a-kind experience awaits at Ayatana, the hotel’s signature Thai fine-dining restaurant, which features a unique multi-sensory culinary journey inspired by the rich cultures of both Thailand and Japan. This immersive concept was created exclusively for the hotel by acclaimed Thai chefs Duangporn ‘Bo’ Songvisava and Dylan Jones – a husband-and-wife team who earned global recognition, including a Michelin Star, at their former Bangkok restaurant, Bo.Ian.

The hotel’s dining experiences are further elevated by Dusit’s commitment to supporting local suppliers and destination-specific initiatives. This includes collaborating with TeaRoom Inc., a renowned sustainability-focused tea manufacturer, to set up the Dusit Tea Garden in Wazuka, a town on the southern edge of Kyoto Prefecture, to produce organic tea for the hotel’s restaurants. Dusit has also teamed up with OHARA FARMY, which supports the development of organic farms and sustainable land use, to create Dusit Farm, an expansive organic farm just 20 minutes by car from Kyoto. Alongside growing vegetables for use in the hotel’s restaurants, it also serves as a venue for memorable and meaningful guest activities, including hands-on vegetable harvesting experiences.

“Dusit Thani Kyoto is honoured to be among the first hotels in the world and the first Thai-branded hotel in Japan to receive One Michelin Key for the quality of service and experiences offered,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “This recognition is a tribute to the dedication of the hotel team and our unwavering commitment to exceeding guest expectations at every touchpoint. This award also serves as a testament to the refreshed Dusit Thani brand, and a promise of the same high standards to be expected at our reimagined flagship Dusit Thani Bangkok, reopening on 27 September 2024, and other luxury Dusit Thani properties worldwide. As we follow our vision to uniquely deliver Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, we look forward to pursuing further Michelin Key success at other Dusit destinations in the future.”

Dusit’s portfolio now includes 301 properties operating across 18 countries, including 57 properties operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 244 luxury villas under Elite Havens, the leading provider of luxury villa rentals in Asia, which Dusit acquired in September 2018. More than 60 Dusit Hotels and Resorts are in the pipeline.

About Dusit Hotels and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

Phuklet, Thailand, August 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / One of the world’s most inspirational green advocates will headline PHIST this year as Asia’s pioneering sustainability event enters its 8th year.

Unsung hero of sustainability Andrew Dixon, former banker turned green activist, owner and operator of two private island resorts in Indonesian waters – Nikoi Island and Cempedak Island – will discuss his broad sustainability platform that takes in not only conservation – but critically culture, community and commerce.

Register here

Stories will cover everything from micro-financing and cultural integration to a school that now numbers over 600 students – providing vital support and development systems that go much further than tree planting and the banning of single use plastics. He will be interviewed by David Johnson, former journalist and founder of Delivering Asia, one the region’s leading integrated communications firms and a keen proponent of the travel industry as a force for positive social change.

Other highlight speakers include Jerawan (Blue) Srepetchdanond, a formidable green champion and Director of Intrinsics, the pioneering firm behind the Magnolia Quality Development Corporations ground-breaking of Forestias in Bangkok.

As well as the leadership sessions and range of 18 workshops and learning platforms, is an exhibition space showcasing the region’s best-in-class innovators in sustainability. These include Winnow, leading exponents on the opportunity food waste provides in terms of driving efficiencies and margins by using AI; Diversey, a global firm excelling in hygiene and cleaning solutions, and outdoor accommodation experts Escape Nomade.

“We are excited to broaden the learning experience this year – and establish ourselves as a leading regional platform for the industry to educate themselves about not only positive social and environmental change – and how they can make a contribution – but learn how this can have a positive impact on their bottom line,” said co-founding partner Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks.