Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, November 24, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The SOLD OUT Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF) concluded with resounding success, bringing together over 250 of the world’s most traveled people from six different continents. It was held from November 14th to 17th, 2024 in Bangkok at the Ambassador Hotel. Besides delivering world class content, the festival showcased the vibrant culture of Thailand, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for travel enthusiasts.

The ETF was an opportunity for brands to connect with the world’s most traveled people. Some of the sponsors included NomadMania, the ultimate hub for passionate travelers eager to explore the world meaningfully, Most Traveled People which connects the extreme travel community, Golden Team, a travel agency known for curating exceptional journeys in Syria, and Tribes of Papua New Guinea, who focuses on tribal experiences.

The ETF gathered over 30 inspiring speakers over 3 days who informed and inspired all attendees, including:

– Randy “R Dub!” Williams, the Sultan of SlowJamastan, who created his own nation.
– Luisa Yu, a remarkable 79-year-old traveler who has visited all 193 countries.
– Thor Pedersen, known for his ‘Once Upon a Saga project, where he visited every country on earth without flying.
– Renee Bruns, a Guinness World Record Holder and former Fortune 500 executive, who has traveled to 124 countries and all seven continents despite the challenges of being in a wheelchair.

These speakers, alongside many others, shared their insights and experiences,
inspiring attendees to explore the world more deeply and meaningfully.
The festival was an incredible opportunity for networking and overall sharing and
exchanging each other’s experiences and ideas among a community of passionate
travelers. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing
their eagerness to participate in the next Extraordinary Travel Festival.

A key highlight of the festival was the partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand
(TAT), which sponsored a spectacular gala party at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok
Sukhumvit. Attendees enjoyed breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline from the
Spectrum Lounge at the top of the Hyatt. Participants were treated to captivating performances of traditional Thai dance and Muay Thai, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of Thailand’s regions better known as Amazing Thailand.

ETF has already began its search for its next host city/destination.

About the Extraordinary Travel Festival
The Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF) is the perfect place for avid, accomplished and adventurous travelers to connect and meet fellow adventurers, including those who have only known or spoken to virtually. It brings together a diverse group of passionate travelers from around the world from the age of 22-80 and hailing from 6 different continents. Attendees are already clamoring for the unannounced details of ETF III.

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Bangkok, Thailand, November 24, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, an internationally acclaimed steakhouse brand known for its top-quality USDA Prime steaks, is set to open its first location in Thailand.

The new outlet in Bangkok marks a significant step in its global expansion particularly in Asia where the New York-based restaurant chain has made its presence felt.

With Bangkok as its 40th location worldwide, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse continues to solidify its position as the largest high-end steakhouse chain focused on USDA Prime beef.

The brand currently operates 30 restaurants in Asia, including locations in China, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

The Bangkok opening is a strategic step towards achieving Wolfgang’s ambitious 2025 expansion plan, which aims to open ten more locations across the globe, including new outlets in Mexico, Europe, and the Middle East.

The opening of Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Bangkok, scheduled in December 2024 at the prestigious One Bangkok complex, the 120-billion-baht mixed-use development in the city’s business district, comes after a 3-year search for the right location and local partnership.

It represents an investment of about 100 million baht, supported by local investors in a joint venture partnership.

“The decision to open a Wolfgang’s Steakhouse in the Thai capital represents a critical milestone in strengthening our Asian expansion,” said Peter Zwiener, President and Co-founder of Wolfgang’s Steakhouse. “Bangkok is a city with a booming restaurant scene and a thriving tourism industry, making it a natural fit for Wolfgang’s Steakhouse.”

“We’ve been visiting Bangkok for a while and have seen the city’s tremendous potential as a high-end dining destination,” he added.

Mr. Zwiener acknowledged Bangkok’s competitive restaurant scene but viewed it as an opportunity rather than a challenge.

“Every city has a lot of intense competition, and we embrace that. It allows diners to compare different cooking styles and appreciate the unique quality of our steaks,” he said. “The market will absorb and enjoy what we bring to the table.”

Despite the involvement of local partners, the operations will be fully managed by the Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Group, ensuring that the brand’s globally recognised standards for quality and service are upheld and accepted.

“We retain significant equity and closely manage operations to guarantee that Wolfgang’s Steakhouse in Bangkok matches the level of excellence that our customers experience in New York, Japan, and our other locations worldwide,” he noted.

Mr Zwiener emphasised that Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is not just another steakhouse in Bangkok.

“What sets Wolfgang’s Steakhouse apart is our distinctive approach that stresses on tradition, quality, and craftsmanship. The restaurant will serve exclusively USDA Prime beef, flown in – chilled – directly from the United States,” said Mr. Zwiener.

“The beef will be aged on-site for over 28 days in a carefully controlled environment to enhance its flavour and tenderness.

“This in-house dry-aging process is a key differentiator, allowing the restaurant to maintain strict quality standards and deliver a steak that stands out in a city with no shortage of dining options.”

The cooking method further distinguishes Wolfgang’s from other steakhouses.

Steaks are cooked at extremely high temperatures in specialised broilers, ensuring a perfect sear and a juicy interior.

“Additionally, Wolfgang’s chefs are trained rigorously to replicate the precise cooking techniques used at the original New York location, providing diners in Bangkok with a truly authentic experience,” he explained.

In addition to its famous steaks, Wolfgang’s Bangkok will offer a variety of appetisers, side dishes, and desserts, including seafood towers, German potatoes, creamed spinach, signature New York-style cheesecake, apple strudel a la mode (apples wrapped in filo pastry, folded and baked until crisp), pecan pie (pie made with pecans mixed with eggs, butter and sugar), and the classic Hot Fudge Sunday combines warm, rich chocolate fudge mixed with slightly melted frozen ice cream. amongst others.

Local sourcing will also play a role in the menu, with fish and vegetables sourced fresh from Thailand to complement the steak-focused offerings.

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Bangkok spans 625 square metres, capable of accommodating up to 150 guests and features a charming outdoor seating area, a whisky bar, and an impressive wine cellar boasting over 2,000 bottles.

The wine list is curated to offer 40% U.S. wines, particularly from Napa Valley, while the remaining 60% includes selections from France, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, and South America, making it one of the most comprehensive wine collections in the city.

The Bangkok restaurant’s design reflects Wolfgang’s signature style, classic and sophisticated, yet evolving to incorporate modern touches that resonate with Bangkok’s contemporary dining scene.

Though Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is a premium brand, it aims to offer value for money, with portions that are generous and designed for sharing.

The restaurant’s family-style service is intended to create a convivial dining experience where guests can enjoy multiple dishes together.

“For lunch, diners can expect an average spend of 1,800 baht, while dinner will range between 3,600 and 4,000 baht, depending on the wine selections,” Mr. Zwiener explained.

“We’ve made sure the prices are attractive and reflect the quality of our offerings.”

Steak enthusiasts can look forward to signature dishes such as the 1,000-gramme steak for two, while other cuts like the petit filet mignon, ribeye, and sirloin will also be available.

Side dishes are designed to serve three to four people, encouraging a shared dining experience.

Meanwhile, Wolfgang’s is exploring the possibility of opening more locations in Thailand in the future, potentially expanding to popular beach destinations or other major cities.

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse was founded by Wolfgang Zwiener, who spent over 40 years working as a head waiter at the renowned Peter Luger Steakhouse in New York.

Founded in 2004, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse has quickly become a leading name in the high-end steakhouse segment, known for its commitment to USDA Prime beef and traditional steakhouse dining.

It is Wolfgang’s son, Peter Zwiener, who leveraged his background in banking and business to help grow the brand into an international phenomenon.

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Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, November 24, 204 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism’s Executive Council has met again to jointly advance the transformation of the sector. With the latest UN Tourism Data showing that the sector is on track to reach 96% recovery of pre-pandemic numbers by the end of the year, the 122nd Session of the Executive Council looked to the future, with investments and innovation high on the agenda. The Session welcomed representatives of 47 countries, including 21 Ministers and Vice-Ministers of Tourism, alongside key strategic partners from the private sector, civil society and international finance.

Opening the session, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili welcomed the example set by Colombia in “betting on tourism” to provide a better future for the country, including for previously-marginalized groups. He said: “Colombia has chosen to invest in tourism, not in weapons or war, and as the only country to have hosted every major UN Tourism event, including two General Assemblies, it is a testament to the power of tourism as a force for change.”

The Secretary-General then presented his report to Members. The report sets out the progress made in advancing the Organization’s work since the Council last met, again with a special emphasis on the shared priorities of investments into tourism, education and accelerating innovation across the sector.

Colombia has chosen to invest in tourism, not in weapons or war, and as the only country to have hosted every major UN Tourism event, including two General Assemblies, it is a testament to the power of tourism as a force for change

Advancing shared goals

In Cartagena, the Members of the Executive Council advanced plans to build a more inclusive, resilient and forward-looking sector, with a focus on:

• Innovation: UN Tourism is the global leader in innovation in the sector. Executive Council Members were given an overview of key achievements in this area, including the continued success of its Challenges and Competitions, designed to identify and support the best new ideas and talent. In Cartagena, the winners of two new competitions, the Green Projects Challenge and the Community Tourism Challenge, were formally announced.
• Investment: In Cartagena, UN Tourism will present its Tourism Doing Business Guidelines: Investing in Colombia. The publication series continues to grow, with a further 28 editions, each focusing on investment opportunities in a specific destination, now planned. Also in Cartagena, UN Tourism will host a landmark Global Forum on Investment and Innovation to conclude the Executive Council meeting.
• Education: Executive Council Members were brought up-to-date with UN Tourism’s leading work in promoting tourism education and training at every level. Key advances include the continued rolling out of the Education Toolkit, designed to help Member States introduce tourism as a subject in high schools, as well as the ongoing success of the UN Tourism Online Academy and the growing global network of International Academies in Association With UN Tourism.

Strengthening strategic partnerships

Within the framework of the 122nd Executive Council, UN Tourism further advanced its work building strong partnerships around shared goals. A special networking session of the UN Tourism Affiliate Members focused on Tourism of the Future: Moving Towards the Sustainable Development Goals, bringing together destinations, private sector leaders and civil society stakeholders.

Best Tourism Villages 2024 announced

During the Executive Council, UN Tourism announced the latest additions to its growing Best Tourism Villages network. For the 2024 edition, a further 55 rural destinations were awarded the title, recognizing their leading work in harnessing the power of tourism to create local opportunities as well as preserving and celebrating natural and cultural heritage.

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Bali, Indonesia, November 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / A Balinese resort known for its deep connection to Indonesia’s art scene and scenic location amid the rice paddies of Ubud is highlighting two of its most important attributes with the launch of four New Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villas this January. With a current collection of just twenty villas and suites the addition of a new room category and four villas is a significant expansion for the boutique property.

Overlooking the rice paddies and Mt Agung in the distance, each 250-square-meter abode makes the most of its natural outlook with a 14-meter long private plunge pool that appears to extend into the surrounding landscape.

While many parts of the new villas stay true to the resort’s original Balinese design aesthetic, there are additions not available in the property’s other 20 suites and villas. One new element is an outdoor dining pavilion that features a full complimentary mini-bar (restocked daily) with rattan chairs and a dining table for an alfresco meal or drink.

Families will appreciate a built-in sofa bed, not available in the standard One Bedroom Club Pool Villa, that creates an extra bed for a more comfortable stay. Couples may enjoy the spacious outdoor soaking tub. Digital nomads will benefit from a more spacious working desk with universal plug adapters and a bluetooth sound system.

“With our late founder being one of Indonesia’s most prominent architects and art collectors, we wanted a design that honored our heritage but also looked to the future of how our aesthetic is evolving,” explained Deasy Swandarini, general manager of Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana. “We opted for a more contemporary approach to design elements in the interior and the addition of modern touches and conveniences.”

All furnishings are bespoke and designed by the House of Hadiprana. These include unique hanging and standing lamps, a coffee table, and armchairs. Original artwork adorns the new villa’s walls and a vast collection of local sculptures and paintings can also be found throughout the property. The late Hendra Hadiprana’s art collection still remains at the resort and the grounds are a treasure trove of sculptures and paintings collected over a lifetime and added to by his family since his passing.

Club benefits offered with the Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villa include:

• Welcome drink
• Butler service
• Evening turndown service
• Daily a la carte breakfast
• In-villa check in and check out service
• Daily seasonal fresh fruits delivered to your villa or suite
• Daily afternoon tea from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Panen Padi Lounge
• Daily sunset cocktails from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Tempayan Restaurant
• Complimentary minibar including alcohol selections (replenished once daily)
• Espresso coffee and tea-making facilities
• Daily laundry service up to six pieces per villa per day (excluding dry cleaning)
• Car service to/from Ubud Centre with private car equipped with Wi-Fi
• High-speed internet connection in accommodation and public areas
• Yoga classes as per hotel schedule
• Access to wellness facilities
• A guided rice paddy trekking along the rice fields and neighboring village
• One time photo session and one complimentary digital photo.

The spacious resort, with 24 villas and suites spread out over six hectares, is available for buyouts for corporate groups, wellness retreats, incentives, and weddings. The property is large enough to offer guests plenty of space but also intimate enough that the entire resort can be booked by one group.

Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villa rates start from USD 780 per night.

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Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, November 21, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Rural destinations consolidate their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development as UN Tourism announces its Best Tourism Villages 2024. From Caviahue-Copahue in Argentina to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Viet Nam, discover the 55 new Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism.

Rural destinations consolidate their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development as UN Tourism announces its Best Tourism Villages 2024.

In this fourth edition, 55 villages from all regions received the recognition, chosen from over 260 applications from more than 60 UN Tourism Member States. Another 20 villages were chosen to join the Upgrade Programme.

The Best Tourism Villages initiative not only recognizes the remarkable achievements of these villages but also highlights the transformative power of tourism

“Tourism is a vital tool for inclusion, empowering rural communities to protect and value their rich cultural heritage while driving sustainable development,” said UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. “The Best Tourism Villages initiative not only recognizes the remarkable achievements of these villages but also highlights the transformative power of tourism. By leveraging their unique assets, these communities can foster economic growth, promote local traditions, and enhance the quality of life for their residents. We celebrate the villages that have embraced tourism as a pathway to empowerment and community well-being, demonstrating that sustainable practices can lead to a brighter future for all.”

The Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism initiative was launched in 2021 to advance tourism’s role in rural areas, preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions. The Best Tourism Villages (BTV) Network grows every year, and with the announcement of its 75 new members, 254 villages are now part of the largest community of rural destinations in the world.

Uniting Rural Destinations for Sustainable Development

The Best Tourism Villages initiative is part of the UN Tourism for Rural Development Programme. The Programme works to foster development and inclusion in rural areas, combat depopulation, advance innovation and value chain integration through tourism, and encourage sustainable practices.

As in previous editions, the villages were evaluated under nine key areas:

1. Cultural and Natural Resources
2. Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources
3. Economic Sustainability
4. Social Sustainability
5. Environmental Sustainability
6. Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
7. Governance and Prioritization of Tourism
8. Infrastructure and Connectivity
9. Health, Safety, and Security

The initiative comprises three pillars:

• Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism: Recognizes outstanding rural tourism destinations with accredited cultural and natural assets, a commitment to preserving community-based values, and a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
• Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Upgrade Programme: Supports villages on their journey to meet recognition criteria, helping them improve in areas identified as weakness during evaluation.
• The Best Tourism Villages Network: A space for exchanging experiences and good practices, learning, and opportunities among its members, and it is open to contributions from experts and public and private sector partners engaged in the promotion of tourism as a driver for rural development.

The 55 Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism 2024 are (in alphabetical order):

From Fast Track to Recognition

This year seven villages from the Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme have achieved recognition as Best Tourism Villages. Through the Upgrade Programme villages received mentorship to improve their lowest-scored areas of evaluation and were able to apply through a fast-track process and qualify for Best Tourism Village recognition.

These outstanding villages include Capulálpam de Méndez (Mexico), Grand Baie (Mauritius), Kalopanagiotis (Cyprus), Pissouri (Cyprus), Ruboni (Uganda), Bo Suak (Thailand), and Trevelin (Argentina).

The 20 villages selected to participate in the Upgrade Programme this year are:

The call for submissions for the fifth edition will take place in early 2025, opening a new opportunity for rural destinations to share their inspiring initiatives and get global recognition as rural development champions.

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Botum Sakor National Park, Cambodia, November 21, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Cardamom Tented Camp, set within the pristine wilderness of Cambodia’s Botum Sakor National Park, has enhanced its eco-conscious accommodation offering with the addition of three premium river view tents.

The three new tents, now available, feature larger balconies, offering guests riverside views and a unique opportunity to experience nature up close.

One of the new tents is set 70 metres apart from the others at the end of a 220-metre walkway, providing an exclusive retreat perfect for couples seeking extra privacy. Each tent is perched on an elevated frame, featuring amenities such as fan-cooled double or twin beds, hot water bathrooms, and spacious balconies designed for relaxation, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.

“The new riverfront tents offer an unparalleled connection to nature,” says Lodge Manager Allan Michaud. “The serene setting, coupled with opportunities for bird and wildlife spotting right from your balcony, will make these tents a popular option among guests looking for tranquillity and immersion in the wild. Our guests don’t just visit, their stay helps protect this incredible environment.”

Surrounded by lowland mixed forests, the 12 tents at Cardamom Tented Camp circle a natural grassland glade. The camp is a key player in conservation, with profits from its accommodation, riverside restaurant, and eco-activities such as kayaking and guided hikes supporting 18 forest rangers. These rangers patrol the national park, drastically reducing illegal hunting and protecting wildlife such as Asian elephants, silver langurs, and smooth-coated otters.

Guests can engage in the camp’s conservation efforts or simply enjoy the peace and beauty of one of Cambodia’s most remote and untouched environments.

As Michaud puts it, “Cardamom Tented Camp appeals to visitors who want to contribute to a real front-line conservation effort while enjoying the physical and spiritual benefits of being in nature.”

The award-winning camp, accessible only by boat, maintains a five-star rating on TripAdvisor based on 90 reviews. The camp’s motto, “Your Stay Keeps the Forest Standing,” reflects the ecolodge’s commitment to preserving the unique biodiversity of Botum Sakor National Park.

About Cardamom Tented Camp
Cardamom Tented Camp is an ecolodge located in the foothills of the Cardamom Mountains in Cambodia. The 12-unit tented camp, with restaurant pavilion, staff dormitory, ecotourism equipment and boat pier, uses solar power to run lodge amenities. The camp has its own waste water filtration process. There is no road access. The camp is accessible only by river boat – or forest hike.

The lodge aims to minimise the human footprint on the natural world and serve as a role model in promoting sustainable ecotourism practices within both the national park and Cambodia as a whole. Located on an 18,000-hectare (180 sq km) concession, the lodge and its surroundings are home to pristine lowland and coastal habitats linking wildlife corridors to the Cardamom Mountains. Eco-friendly trekking and kayaking packages are available for adventure enthusiasts who are keen to be a part of real conservation work.

Cardamom Tented Camp is a three-way initiative between Minor Group, YAANA Ventures and Wildlife Alliance to ensure the land and its biodiversity does not fall into the hands of loggers, poachers and sand dredging operations.

About Cardamom Tented Camp operator YAANA Ventures
YAANA Ventures is an owner, partner and operator of entrepreneurial travel and hospitality ventures in Asia. YAANA Ventures distinguishes itself by sharing real experiences that are grounded in the cultural richness of Asia. In all its operations, the company strives to champion the 4 C’s: best practice in conservation, community, culture, and commerce. Visit yaana-ventures.com/

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Baku, Azerbaijan, November 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Baku Initiative for Climate Finance, Investment, and Trade (BICFIT) launched at COP29, the 29th UN Climate Change Conference , to bring together finance, investment, and trade to respond to the urgent need for climate action as the window for impactful action narrows. The initiative aims to strengthen and coordinate the response to climate challenges, fostering economic development and meaningful climate action. Climate finance is the backbone of any effective climate response, making it possible to mobilize resources where they are most needed.

• Unified climate action: Finance, investment, and trade for climate action.
• Global partnership: Led by Azerbaijan’s COP29 presidency, with UNCTAD, UNDP, and key international partners.
• Policy coherence: Trade, finance, and climate policies must go together.
• Support for developing nations: To bridge investment gap for countries most affected by climate change.
• UNCTAD’s focus: Transition investments, financial architecture reform, integrating trade and investment for climate action.

The initiative is led by the COP29 Presidency of Azerbaijan, co-facilitated by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and UN Development Program (UNDP), in collaboration with other United Nations agencies and global partners, like the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC).

“Trade, investment, and finance has to come together,” said UN Trade and Development Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan alongside Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov and UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner.

Developing countries, despite being on the frontlines of climate impacts, receive minimal climate finance – only 1-2% of foreign direct investment in renewables, for instance, reaches Africa. This investment disparity is a serious barrier to the green transition, as high borrowing costs prevent low-income countries from accessing the capital needed to make impactful climate progress.

“We must have a policy coherence framework that will make these three very important elements, trade, investment and finance, for the future of the global economy to reinforce each other and allow developing countries to thrive and grow appropriately”, Ms. Grynspan said.

Coherence towards climate action

Weak coherence creates bottlenecks and hinders progress towards the scale and speed of transformation when the world is racing to rein in climate change.

Despite calls for sustainable initiatives, “we have trade practices that perpetuate unsustainable patterns – for example, clean energy technologies facing tariffs that are on average twice as high as those on fossil fuels”, said Ms. Grynspan.

Developing countries are on the frontlines of the climate crisis but at the back of queue for climate support. The annual sustainable investment gap across the developing world is about $4 trillion , up from 2.5 trillion a decade ago.

That is why, for example, reforming the international financial system is essential to enable private investment to reach where it is most needed. Multilateral development banks and development finance must scale up, share more risk, and crowd in private funds to support developing countries at long-term and affordable costs.

How UN Trade and Development can help

Looking ahead, UN Trade and Development can support countries in attracting climate foreign direct investment and knowledge sharing and capacity building for national climate and sustainable development ambitions.

It will assist countries in developing “green free economic zones” that seamlessly integrate sustainable development principles within free economic zones, while collaborating with the sustainable investment community.

The organization will also work to restore trust in sustainable finance. A recent decline in sustainable fund investments highlights concerns around greenwashing and transparency. UNCTAD will partner with leaders in sustainable finance to ensure that these funds genuinely support the green transition, directing resources to the sectors and regions where they are needed most.

It will continue advocating for structural reforms to the international financial architecture to help ensure that key players – such as multilateral development banks – are fit for purpose and ready to contribute to finance sustainable development.

The organization will also support countries to prepare their updated national climate action plans to better incorporate a trade and investment policy perspective.

About UN Trade and Development
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is dedicated to promoting inclusive and sustainable development through trade and investment. With a diverse membership, it empowers countries to harness trade for prosperity.

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Cartagena de las Indias, Colombia, November 21, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The heightened importance of boosting investments and innovation was underscored as public and private sector leaders met to shape the future of the global tourism sector.

Further advancing UN Tourism’s leading role in these two key pillars of change, the Global Investment and Innovation Forum welcomed Ministers of Tourism, alongside key players from global finance and business. Alongside UN Tourism, the Forum was supported by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism of Colombia, ProColombia, Invest in Cartagena and CAF (the Investment Bank for Latin America and the Caribbean). Underscoring the high-level discussions was a recognition of the vital need to increase investment into the sector while at the same time injecting it with new ideas and energy through promoting innovation at every level.

Opening the Forum, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “There is both an urgency and an opportunity to build sustainable and inclusive destinations that support local economies, empower communities, and preserve their invaluable cultural heritage. This Forum makes clear the vital importance of connections: both between public and private sector players and also between countries, to increase and better direct investments into tourism, and to accelerate its digital transformation, with innovation at the heart of everything we do.”

This Forum makes clear the vital importance of connections: both between public and private sector players and also between countries, to increase and better direct investments into tourism, and to accelerate its digital transformation, with innovation at the heart of everything we do

In a show of high-level political support for UN Tourism’s work, Colombian President Gustavo Petro addressed the Forum. President Petro made clear the important role the sector is playing in diversifying the country’s economy while also advancing goals around sustainability. To further advance this potential, he said, “We not only need money, we need innovation and a lot of it. And innovation has to focus on the decarbonization of tourism activities, integrally. Colombia can replace its coal and oil currencies in large part with tourism, and we would move forward.”

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism of Colombia, Luis Carlos Reyes, said: “This 122nd Session of the Executive Council of UN Tourism was proof that as a country, we have the capacity to work together to carry out events of great magnitude. It has also been a very productive three days, in which we have shown the world our commitment to strengthening community-based, sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism. Tourism can be the central axis for the protection of nature, and we are pleased that the countries that are part of this Council share this purpose.”

UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona said: “More investments and greater innovation are essential to take tourism to the next level. They can unlock many new opportunities, for businesses, jobs and building more resilience and inclusivity. Colombia shines as a top example of how investment in tourism really delivers, not least for rural communities, for women, youth and post-conflict societies.”

Partnerships the key

UN Tourism serves as the bridge, connecting governments and destinations with investors of all sizes. In Cartagena, the Forum put the spotlight on such collaboration, with a Leaders’ Dialogue emphasizing the role partnerships can play in driving growth and transforming tourism. Joining Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Tourism of Bahrain, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Zambia,

The Forum also provided a platform for enhanced cooperation between global regions. High-level conversations focused on investment strategies for tourism, including the growing relevance of free zones, financial instruments and reformed governance as a means of increasing levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) into tourism, both in the Americas and globally.

Investing in Colombia, “Land of Beauty”

The hosts of the Forum, Colombia, stands out as a leading destination for tourism investments. Between 2018 and 2023, 1 billion US dollars were invested in tourism projects in Colombia. That has made Colombia the second-largest destination for tourism investments in the whole of the Latin American and Caribbean region. Furthermore, this strong level of investment has helped to created more than 4,700 jobs in the sector over the same period.

To better showcase the country’s significant potential on the global stage, UN Tourism officially presented its updated guidelines, “Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Colombia”. They provide a comprehensive overview of investment infrastructure and systems in the country, outlining opportunities for growth as well as potential challenges and solutions for overcoming them. UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona said: “Colombia, the “Country of Beauty” is also a land of opportunity for investors. Its tourism sector is one of the strongest in the whole region, with new projects set to create many thousands more jobs and drive further economic growth.”

Also in Cartagena, the “Tourism Investment 2024: Global Greenfield Investment Trends in Tourism” report was launched, a joint collaboration between the FT and UN Tourism, which provides an unrivalled global picture of where the sector is going, including new areas of growth and opportunity for investors.

Innovation for the future of tourism

Alongside the huge importance of investments, the Forum made clear the key role that innovation will play in shaping the future of tourism, including through offering more inclusive and resilient growth. Highlighting the huge pool of talent across the Americas, UN Tourism celebrated the finalists of its Innovation in Green Projects Challenge, organized with CAF. The Challenge attracted ideas from more than 500 young entrepreneurs more than 20 countries from across Latin America and the Caribbean. Of them, more than 180 are based in Colombia. Natoure, from Mexico, which promotes innovation for nature conservation, was named as the winner.

Also looking to the future, a concluding panel on Innovation and Leadership, focused on the part future generations will play in transforming tourism, emphasizing the need to nurture young talent today through education, training and funding and networking opportunities.

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Bangkok, Thailand, November 19, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Vivaldi Public Relations, Thailand’s leading PR agency and marketing consultancy, has been honoured with two prestigious awards at the PRCA Thailand Awards 2024, held on 12 November. The wins —Consumer Campaign Award for “Jim Thompson – Beyond Silk” and PR Leader of the Year for Chief Operating Officer Pattaranit Imampai — come as the agency celebrates its 20th anniversary, reinforcing two decades of innovation and excellence in Thailand’s PR industry.

Organised by the Thailand chapter of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), the PRCA Thailand Awards celebrate PR excellence across the country. PRCA, the world’s largest professional PR association, represents over 35,000 professionals globally. This year’s awards highlighted Thailand’s top talent, with winners selected by a panel of industry experts.

Joseph Henry, CEO & Co-Founder of Vivaldi Public Relations, attributed the wins to the agency’s dedication and creativity. “Winning the Consumer Campaign Award for ‘Jim Thompson – Beyond Silk’ and having Pattaranit recognised as PR Leader of the Year are monumental achievements. These awards underscore the expertise and passion that every member of Vivaldi brings to our clients. We are constantly pushing boundaries to exceed expectations and drive meaningful engagement.”

The Consumer Campaign Award for “Jim Thompson – Beyond Silk” celebrates Vivaldi’s innovative approach to revitalize one of Thailand’s most iconic brands. The campaign went beyond traditional narratives, reimagining Jim Thompson as a dynamic cultural symbol that appeals to both local and international audiences. Emphasising craftsmanship, heritage, and modern relevance, “Beyond Silk” captivated consumers with a fresh perspective.

Honoured as PR Leader of the Year, Pattaranit Imampai said, “This recognition is a great honour and reflects the achievements of the entire Vivaldi team. We are committed to setting new standards and driving impactful change across various industries. Our focus on innovation, strategic thinking, and results-driven solutions ensures the continued success of our clients.”

With a focus on culture and purpose, Vivaldi Public Relations continues to lead the industry by creating PR and communications campaigns that inspire, connect, and set new benchmarks. These recent recognitions reflect Vivaldi’s dedication to excellence and its commitment to delivering meaningful results that resonate across Thailand and beyond.

About Vivaldi Public Relations
Vivaldi Public Relations is an award-winning PR and Marketing agency based in Thailand. Renowned for its innovative digital strategies and real-time audience engagement, Vivaldi PR connects brands with audiences to drive success and growth. Established as a media-centric PR agency, Vivaldi PR has evolved into a key player at the intersection of all brand media communications, never losing sight of its foundational principles.

We firmly believe that effective communication is greater than the sum of its parts. Therefore, we not only foster a collaborative environment within our team but also extend this team spirit to our partnerships with clients. This unity of purpose consistently yields superior results as we all strive towards a common goal.

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London, United Kingdom, November 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Greenfield investments into the tourism sector continue to rise, with a growing interest in projects related to sustainability and innovation.

The latest fDi Tourism Investment Report 2024 (“Global greenfield investment trends in tourism”), released by the Financial Times in collaboration with UN Tourism and with the support of the Diriyah Gate Company, offers an in-depth look at global greenfield investment trends in tourism, emphasizing recovery from the pandemic and outlining current developments.

According to the report, the tourism sector (international tourist arrivals and receipts) showed strong growth in 2023, with international tourism receipts already +3% up compared with the level of 2019 (a record high for the sector).

More and better-targeted investment will be key to transforming the tourism sector, creating jobs, and driving inclusive and sustainable growth.

Foreign investors announced a total of 1,943 FDI projects in the tourism cluster between 2019 and2023 according to fDi Markets, the greenfield investment monitor of the Financial Times. These projects garnered an estimated $106.7bn in capital investment and created an estimated 259,800 jobs. Even though tourism investments have not fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, the future of the sector looks positive.

Regional Highlights and Trends

The fDi Tourism Investment Report underscores the regional differences in FDI recovery within the tourism sector:

• Europe: Leading in global tourism FDI projects, Europe attracted 867 projects between 2019 and 2023, accounting for 44.6% of total global investment, highlighting its resilience in a cautious investment climate.
• Asia-Pacific: The number of tourism FDI projects in the region grew by 59.5% between 2022 and 2023, from 42 to 67, with capital investment rising by 125.3%, a positive sign taking into account that the Asia and the Pacific Region has just received 65.4% of the international tourist arrivals registered in 2019.
• Latin America and the Caribbean attracted 221 tourism FDI projects between 2019 and 2023. This resulted in $20.5bn in capital investment and approximately 73,400 jobs. As the region has already surpassed 2019 international tourist arrives levels, this gives a positive investor confidence in the region’s tourism sector’s long term profitability
• Middle East and Africa: Between 2019 and 2023, the Middle East and Africa recorded 314 tourism FDI projects, totalling an estimated $18.1bn in capital investment and creating approximately 40,700 jobs. The number of tourism FDI projects in the region increased by 16.1%between 2022 and 2023, from 62 to 72, with capital investment growing by 12.2%.

Sustainability and Innovation in Focus

The report identifies an increasing focus on sustainable tourism investments, as destinations leverage innovation and technology, including AI and blockchain, to reduce environmental impact while enhancing visitor experiences, and the growing involvement and appetite of sovereign wealth funds, as they believe that the long term future of the tourism sector looks positive and profitable.

A Call for Sustainable Growth

In light of the industry’s complex recovery, the fDi Tourism Investment Report 2024 advocates for quality over quantity in tourism. It suggests that diversification of destinations, implementation of eco-friendly policies, and advancements in sustainable infrastructure are essential for ensuring long-term growth in global tourism.

Jacopo Dettoni, Editor-in-Chief at fDi Intelligence, emphasized the significance of sustainable tourism, noting, “The world we live in has changed, and so must our approach to tourism. Climate change and resource management are reshaping how and where people travel, which calls for a responsible shift toward sustainable investments.”

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The rise of new technologies and the need for greater sustainability are constantly impacting the tourism sector, presenting both opportunities and challenges that call for innovative approaches. More and better-targeted investment will be key to transforming the tourism sector, creating jobs, and driving inclusive and sustainable growth.”

UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona adds: “This report offers a comprehensive, data-backed perspective on the state of play in greenfield tourism investments, enabling policymakers and industry leaders to make sound, future-oriented decisions for sustainable growth. Investing in people, particularly younger generations, is key as the tourism industry employs more than 50% of the global workforce under the age of 25. As we move forward, our focus on innovation and strategic investments will adapt to the evolving needs of travellers, support community wellbeing, and ensure the sustainability of the sector and our planet.”

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