Blue Elephant Master Chef Nooror Pays Tribute to WWF Healthy Rivers Series

Blue Elephant Master Chef Nooror Pays Tribute to WWF Healthy Rivers Series - TOP25 RESTAURANTS BANGKOK BEST RESTAURANTSBangkok, Thailand, November 30, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / In her recent appearance on Episode 2 of the Healthy Rivers Series “River of Inspiration” by WWF, Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, co-founder and director of the Blue Elephant Group, spoke about the linkages of a healthy river and one of Thailand’s most famous “Tom Yum Goong”. This collaboration has inspired Master Chef Nooror to craft a “Magical Rivers New Year’s Eve Menu” comprising Thai Rivers treasures amongst other Blue Elephant culinary gems, on New Year’s Eve for the Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant, Bangkok and Phuket.

“Only 3% of the water on our planet is fresh. Yet these precious waters are rich with surprise. All life on land is ultimately dependent on fresh water.”
– Sir David Attenborough, WWF Ambassador –

“Human food comes from nature, from rivers and canals. Because of this, we humans must preserve rivers and canals. I’m a chef who’s proud of ingredients from rivers and canals.”
– Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe –

On Sunday, 31st December 2023 from 5.30 pm, diners are invited to join Master Chef Nooror on a magical night of exquisite flavours and rich bounties of the river and show a commitment to sustainable luxury.

Some of the highlights of the “Magical Rivers New Year’s Eve Menu” comprise ‘Duo Jaeng Lon’ made from fresh pink organic lotus petals filled with Banana Prawn; ‘Auspicious Duck Laab’; ‘Foie Gras Tomato Dip’; ‘River Prawn Tom Yum Bisque’, a specially created recipe of creamy soup made from Ayutthaya River Prawn; “Ravioli Kao Soy’; ‘Hor Mok Blue Crab Curry’; and ‘Thai Wagyu Beef Salad & Grape’; and the legendary ‘Bespoken Massaman Lamb’; “Khao Yum’ amongst other flavourful selections.

The ”Magical Rivers New Year’s Eve Set Menu to be served on Sunday, 31st December 2023 from 5.30 pm to 11.00 pm is @Baht 6,800 plus plus per person.

For bookings or more information please call tel. 02 673 9353-8

About Blue Elephant
The story of Blue Elephant began as a result of the great passion for Thai food of Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, founding chef and director of the Blue Elephant Group.

Blue Elephant opened its first restaurant in Brussels, Belgium in 1980 with Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, her husband Karl Steppe, who has always been passionate about Thai culture and Thai cuisine, and their good friends and partners Chai Wayno & Somboon Insusri. Initially extremely popular among the citizens and expatriate members of Brussels, Master Chef Nooror’s Thai food soon gained its reputation in other parts of Europe, the Middle East and other countries in Asia.

From her love of cooking and of Thai cuisine and culture, Master Chef Nooror has become a staunch advocate and ambassador by promoting Thai cuisine and culture to the rest of the world. Sourcing from only the finest and premium produce from the Royal Project and from all over Thailand with emphasis on products with health benefits, Master Chef Nooror has created the most palatable, authentic and, most important of all, healthy Thai menus.

In 2002, Master Chef Nooror returned to Thailand to further explore her heritage and bring back to life forgotten recipes from bygone eras as well as to share her precious heirloom recipes handed down from generation to generation. Blue Elephant Cooking School and Restaurant Bangkok opened its doors in 2002; and the Phuket branch in 2010.

In 2006, Blue Spice Company Limited was established to manufacture and export premium spices, curry pastes and sauces amongst others under the Blue Elephant brand. Today, Blue Elephant products are available in almost 45 countries worldwide as well as in leading supermarkets throughout Thailand.

In 2020, the Blue Elephant Group celebrated 40 years of continuously achieving milestones in the culinary world both locally and overseas.

Bangkok Uncovered and Beyond

Bangkok Uncovered and Beyond V04 - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, November 30, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sukhothai Bangkok cordially invites you to attend a fundraising charity event, “Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond,” to support the social development projects of endangered communities in Bangkok. For the forth year of the project celebration, The Sukhothai Bangkok and its preferred partners, including the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) – Tourism Division, are planning to expand the scale of the event. Hence, the project is now called “Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond Vol.4” and this marks our fourth event since 2017.

The project has evolved from our creation of the APPEAR concept to preserve disappearing communities and cultures, making them reappear through sustainable tourism. We have partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) – Tourism Division. The Sukhothai Bangkok has collaborated in this project to promote sustainable activities within six disappearing communities while improving the livelihoods of the locals. The six endangered communities include Koh Sarn Chao, Bang Lamphu, Hua Takhe, Bang Kradi, Ban Bu, and Nang Loeng.

In addition to these six communities, we also have another communities joining in the event: Talad Noi, Hala Market at Charoenkrung 103, Klong Ladmayom Market, Taladname Song Klong in Taling Chan, Bangkok Dee Jung, Talad Mod Ta Noi and Lumpoo Community. This year, we are also open to private companies interested in showcasing their products at the event.

We anticipate an attendance of approximately 1000 guests per day over the weekends. This event represents a significant milestone, and we are committed to making it even more remarkable than before. We would like to invite you to participate in this end-of-year charity event. Not only will you have the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Bangkok’s old neighborhoods, but you will also support community social projects and experience the different traditions of twelve local communities. You can participate in a range of fascinating cultural activities, many of which are slowly being forgotten and lost in time, including:

• Creative Thai arts and crafts workshops by community artisans, such as sustainable kites made from leaf-gilded black lacquer (Lai Rod Nam), hand embroidery of Mon shawls, Mon paper crafts, and self-portrait drawing.
• Rare musical, dance, and craft performances, such as banana trunk carving, vintage stone powder flower garland (Pang Puang) creation, Mon music, and Chatree dancing.
• Learning secret recipes from community grandmas, such as golden threads and kanom Jak.
• Shopping for unique gifts or simply enjoying an endless assortment of delicious food and desserts, including Mon caramel and mung bean marzipan.
• Trying the ancient Rae Rai, bale jelly, and Thai steamed red lotus stem cake.
• Enjoying special deals with vouchers from the luxurious five-star hotel, The Sukhothai Bangkok, including room, Food & Beverage, and spa packages.
• Discovering unusual artifacts and participating in the community auction to bid on art pieces by community artists and handmade bronze knives.
• Display and showcase service and product from multiple sponsors at the event.

We are excited to announce that at the upcoming Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond Vol.4 event, all proceeds from sales will be dedicated to supporting community-driven social projects. Once event costs are covered, the entirety of the sales revenue will be directed towards the following impactful initiatives:

Children’s Library: Promoting a love for learning and literacy among the young minds of our community.
Playground: Creating a safe and vibrant space for children to play, explore, and make cherished memories.
Study Center: Providing a conducive environment for students to excel in their education.
Museum Refurbishment: Breathing new life into a local museum, preserving and showcasing our cultural heritage.

Your attendance at Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond Vol.4 on 16-17 December 2023 will not only offer you a unique and enriching experience but will also contribute significantly to the betterment of our community. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing in this collective endeavor to make a positive impact. Together, we can make a difference.

For more information about the event and to stay updated on our progress, please contact:
Chutima Limpasurat
Director of Marketing Communications
02 344 8888 or Chutima.l@sukhothai.com

Telefonica and UNWTO to Promote Digital and Sustainable Tourism

Telefonica and UNWTO to Promote Digital and Sustainable Tourism - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, November 30, 2023 / TAVELINDEX / The collaboration agreement will run until 2026 and will focus on digital entrepreneurship, innovation, application of new technologies (big data, artificial intelligence, etc.) and talent development.

Telefónica and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have followed through on their commitment to cooperate by signing a new collaboration framework, valid until 2026, with the aim of promoting tourism development that is more digital, sustainable and inclusive.

The United Nations’ specialized agency for tourism and Telefónica will continue to work together at the global level and will focus on three strategic axes of digital transformation: nurturing global and regional innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems; boosting technological adoption in tourism; and promoting capacity building for a more digital, sustainable and competitive tourism sector that leaves no one behind.

New projects, new scopes

In this regard, Telefónica Tech, the telecom operator’s strategic digital business unit, and the UNWTO will promote the ‘Digital Futures’ programme, which seeks to accelerate the tourism sector’s economic recovery by scaling up small and medium-sized enterprises with the incorporation of new technologies such as big data, IoT, AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and cloud-based solutions. These digital tools have the ability to transform companies and make them more competitive, sustainable and resilient, as they help them make better business decisions based on exhaustively analysed data. Such technologies also allow them to offer more personalized and competitive products and services, optimize resources, and increase the profitability of the tourism sector.

As part of an effort to identify disruptive projects that help enhance the sustainability of the sector, Wayra Hispam, Telefónica’s open innovation area that connects the entrepreneurial ecosystem around the world, is collaborating in the development of the World Tourism Organization’s Community Tourism Innovation Challenge in Colombia, with the support of the Vice-Ministry of Tourism of Colombia. Its mentoring support generates connections with the business and venture capital ecosystem, which is essential for all entrepreneurs who are working to offer innovative solutions and promote development, taking into account local communities as well as natural and cultural heritage.

Furthermore, training processes (reskilling and upskilling) will be addressed so that employees can develop and take advantage of all the potential that digitalization brings to an industry that is so important to the economy of many countries.

To this end, training cycles will be carried out on the application of technologies to tourism. These will be offered by reference stakeholders that aim to help those who are beginning to take their first steps or wish to evolve their projects. For their part, Telefónica and UNWTO will collaborate in learning initiatives through accessible content as the Tourism, Gastronomy and Hospitality 4.0 Nanodegree developed by Fundación Telefónica and CEOE through the UNWTO Digital Futures programme, focused on accelerating the economic recovery of the tourism sector through the growth of innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

About Telefónica

Telefónica is one of the world’s leading telecommunications service providers. The company offers fixed and mobile connectivity services, as well as a wide range of digital services for individuals and businesses. It is present in Europe and Latin America, where it has more than 383 million customers. Telefónica is a fully private company whose shares are listed on the continuous market of the Spanish stock exchanges and on the New York and Lima stock exchanges.

Luxe Riverfront December Escape at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel

Luxe Riverfront December Escape at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 26, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Indulge in the magic of the holiday season with our exclusive ‘Luxe Riverfront December Escape’ package at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers by the Chao Phraya River. Revel in the enchanting evening with complimentary dinner and sundowner package at the iconic Siam Yacht Club restaurant to make your December unforgettable.

Book a minimum 2-night say, and treat yourself to an enchanting riverside escape.

Package Highlights:
• Room with river view guarantee include with a delectable breakfast for 2 persons
• One-time international buffet to enjoy a sumptuous dinner for two at Feast restaurant
• One-time sundowner package, savor the moment on sipping your favorite beverages and watching the sun dip below the horizon for a memorable experience by the Chao Phraya River at the iconic Siam Yacht Club.
• Complimentary rate check out at 16.00 hrs.
• Room rates start from THB 5,100++
• Package available from stay period until 17th December 2023.

Luxe Riverfront December Escape’ is available for book now for stay period from 3rd December to 17th December 2023. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your December unforgettable. Treat yourself to a riverside retreat and create lasting memories at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers.

To make a reservation or book now, please click visit website www.royalorchidsheraton.com

About Sheraton® Hotels & Resorts
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts makes it easy for guests to feel welcome at over 430 hotels and resorts in nearly 70 countries and territories around the world. As the most global brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of extraordinary hotel brands sitting at the center of hundreds of communities around the world, Sheraton has a rich heritage in creating a sense of belonging for guests, wherever they are in the world. Sheraton is currently undergoing a major brand transformation, creating a signature community experience for the next generation of travelers and locals alike at properties across the globe. The new vision for Sheraton features intuitive design, tech-forward experiences, and upgrades to everything from public space and F&B to flexible meeting space.

Sheraton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,700 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program.

Sustainable Tourism Observatories are Transforming the Sector

Sustainable Tourism Observatories are Transforming the Sector - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, November 28, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Members of the International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) have met to exchange insights on the importance of governance, participatory approaches and timely data in advancing sustainability in destinations.

Made up of leading destinations, members of the World Tourism Organization’s INSTO network are at the forefront of work to conceive and implement sustainable development practices at the ground level. These practices, which focus on inclusivity and making decisions based on evidence, are leading to a positive shift towards tourism development that is both resilient and inclusive.

Data-driven transformation

The meeting showcased the Observatories’ efforts in various measurement areas such as local satisfaction levels, destination carrying capacity, and environmental and social aspects of tourism. INSTO members emphasized the challenges they face in monitoring, underscoring the importance of reliable data obtained through partnerships with diverse providers. They also highlighted the selection of relevant indicators tailored to each destination’s specific needs, making it easier to compare between destinations.

The INSTO destinations emphasized the importance of timely and evidence-based policy actions that support the ongoing transformation of the tourism sector. Discussions centred around real-world examples and experiences from leading destinations as well as progress in the Measurement of Sustainable Tourism and One Planet initiatives and the efforts related to biodiversity climate action.

New Members welcomed

The INSTO network continues to expand, welcoming four new Observatories during this week’s meeting: Gifu Prefecture in Japan, Cali in the Valle de Cauca in Colombia, the Centro de Portugal, and the Atlantic Coast of Ireland. These destinations have demonstrated their work towards sustainable tourism through participatory approaches, evidence generation and transparency – essential requirements for INSTO membership. Additionally, three members have joined since the beginning of 2023: Yucatan and Tlaxcala in Mexico and the Monitoring Centre from the Batanes Islands in the Philippines, bringing the total INSTO membership to 42.

All INSTO members are committed to assessing the impact of tourism in 11 mandatory areas spanning economic, environmental and socio-economic dimensions. This commitment aligns with the new Measuring Sustainable Tourism (MST) framework UNWTO is developing, which goes beyond broad indicators such as GDP.

Phuket Welcomes World Sailors for Phuket King’s Cup Regatta

Phuket Welcomes World Sailors for Phuket King’s Cup Regatta - VISITPHUKET.orgPhuket, Thailand, November 28, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Set against the azure seascape of Phuket, the prestigious Phuket King’s Cup Regatta returns from December 3th to 9th, 2023. A testament to the competitive spirit of sailing and a significant booster for Thailand’s sport tourism, the event, taking place at Beyond Resort Kata. One of Southeast Asia’s most prestigious international sporting events, the regatta is renowned for its perfect blend of high-calibre sailing and rich social experiences, contributing significantly to the local economy and tourism industry.

The event also underscores Thailand’s commitment to nurturing young talent with the Dinghy Series, especially through the Optimist Challenge for sailors under 15. Over five exhilarating days, participants and visitors can look forward to a series of races interwoven with cultural festivities and opportunities for community engagement, all set within Phuket’s breathtaking maritime backdrop.

The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is not merely a competition but a celebration of Thailand’s marine splendour and a catalyst for cross-cultural camaraderie and exploration.

About the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
Asia’s legendary yacht race under Royal Patronage was inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the event has been held during the first week of December. Under Royal Patronage, the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is organized by the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

Growing Wine Tourism for Inclusion and Sustainability

Growing Wine Tourism for Inclusion and Sustainability - TOP25VINEYARDS.comLa Rioja, Spain, November 27, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism has been held for the first time in La Rioja, one of the world’s leading wine tourism destinations, with the focus placed firmly on inclusion and sustainability for local communities and territories.

Paving the way towards inclusive growth, especially in rural areas, requires clear policies and a commitment to embracing digital transformation and innovation. Recognizing this, the Conference brought together key stakeholders and leaders from across the growing wine tourism sector to address priorities including education, skills development and the effective use of data.

Unlocking Excellence in Wine Tourism

The 7th edition of the UNWTO conference welcomed thought-leaders from both emerging and established wine destinations, including Argentina, Armenia, Chile, France, Germany, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and the United States of America. As well as celebrating the growing interest in wine tourism, the event made clear the challenges for building more competitive destinations and transforming demand into economic growth and social inclusion. Over two days, workshops and masterclasses focused on:

Skills development and a better understanding of the impacts and trends of wine tourism were identified as crucial elements to create value and promote wine regions, ultimately enhancing their competitiveness.

With the impact of climate change affecting the sector, experts debated how to progress sustainability in wine tourism as well and progress digitalization for better processes. Participants discussed the need to harmonise data collection, the use of new data sources and innovative strategies for expanding new products, outreach on social media, utilizing cutting-edge digital tools, and leveraging new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to create knowledge and a seamless experience.

Inclusion and sustainability: Creating partnerships for growth 

Navigating the complex network of stakeholders in wine tourism, the event also put the spotlight on the importance of having national and local wine tourism strategies while fostering the debate on new, innovative forms of collaboration. A series of masterclasses allowed participants from over 40 countries to exchange and expand their knowledge on the links of wine tourism with gastronomy, arts and culture, communication and branding, new technologies, product development and sustainability.

During the closing ceremony, La Rioja handed over the symbolic amphora to Armenia, marking the country’s status as the next host for the 8th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism in 2024.

UNWTO Holds Executive Training Programme for Asia Pacific

UNWTO Holds Executive Training Programme for Asia Pacific - TOURISMMEKONG.comDanang, Vietnam, November 27, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO welcomed high-level officials from the Tourism Administrations of 19 countries as it put the focus on navigating human resource development challenges in tourism in a post-pandemic world.

The 17th UNWTO Executive Training Programme for Asia and the Pacific (Danang, Vietnam, 13-16 November 2023) set a new benchmark for human resource development in the tourism sector for the region, emphasizing the urgent need for innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.

HR and the tourism of tomorrow

Organised in collaboration with Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the support of Duy Tan University and the sponsorship of the government of the Republic of Korea, the training event featured four sessions, each focused on a key issue around education for the tourism of tomorrow. These included a shift in consumer expectations and its impact on HRD; upskilling and reskilling and digital adaptability; and building greater resilience to crisis.

Across the four days, experts presented and shared valuable experiences on training, hiring, and post-pandemic recovery strategies. In turn, delegates demonstrated a keen interest in tackling post-pandemic challenges and common HR development issues prevalent in developing countries. In particular, Member States agreed that the increasing competition for talent highlights a mismatch between what the sector can currently offer and employee expectations in the post-pandemic era.

The discussions also underscored the importance of adapting to emerging megatrends in technology; talent acquisition and retention; the importance of soft skills like critical analysis, problem solving, and teamwork in tourism education. At the same time, the event explored strategies for making destinations more resilient and how climate change can be a catalyst for job creation, including through adaptation and mitigation strategies, showcasing the dynamic and evolving nature of the sector.

British Couple Triathletes Champions at 29th Laguna Phuket Triathlon

British Couple Triathletes Champions at 29th Laguna Phuket Triathlon - TRAVELINDEX - VISITPHUKET.orgPhuket, Thailand, November 25, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2023, Southeast Asia’s longest-running final competition, concluded on November 19, 2023, at the integrated lifestyle destination of Laguna Phuket on Phuket Island. With over 1,000 Thai and international triathletes representing 30 countries, the event created a vibrant and enjoyable phenomenon, showcasing Phuket’s potential as a world-class sports event destination. Once again, it demonstrated to the world the allure of organizing top-tier sports events in the picturesque setting of Phuket.

The competition kicks off at 6:30 a.m. with the commencement of the Triathlon, featuring men’s and women’s pros. Following this, the sprint triathlon and duathlon participants dive into the Andaman Sea at Bang Tao Beach for the swimming leg.

Triathlon competitors face challenging stages, conquering a 1.8-kilometer swim in the Andaman Sea and lagoon, a rigorous 55-kilometer cycling route navigating mountain trails, and a demanding 12-kilometer run within Laguna Phuket. All races conclude at Laguna Grove, with the cut-off for each distance set at approximately 12:30 p.m.

In the men’s category this year, the victorious athlete was “Max Stapley,” the British triathlete, marking his debut in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon. He claimed the top spot by completing the race with an impressive time of 2 hours, 32 minutes, and 53 seconds. Securing the second position was “Max Studer” from Switzerland, finishing in 2 hours, 34 minutes, and 09 seconds, while the third-place finish went to “Anthony Costes” from France, recording a time of 2 hours, 35 minutes, and 32 seconds.

In the women’s division, the title of champion was claimed by “Kate Waugh” from the United Kingdom, securing victory in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon. She completed the challenging course in 2 hours, 46 minutes, and 04 seconds. The second position was earned by “Julie Derron” from Switzerland, finishing the race in 2 hours, 47 minutes, and 45 seconds, while the third spot was secured by “Sophie Malowiecki” from Australia, posting a time of 2 hours, 52 minutes, and 12 seconds.

In the midst of a strong representation by Thai triathletes in this year’s competition, Thanadol Wisarutsin, an 18-year-old from the Thai national team and the youngest competitor, secured the Thai championship with an impressive time of 2 hours, 51 minutes, and 51 seconds. Meanwhile, Jaray Jearanai, the Thai championship 11 times, completing the race in an impressive 2 hours, 53 minutes, and 33 seconds. Another noteworthy participant was “Tao-Somchai Khemglad,” a favorite from the teenage era in the ’90s. Making his debut in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, he impressively conquered the challenge. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone, fulfilling his dream of participating in a premier global triathlon program.

Mr. Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of Laguna Phuket said, “We extend our congratulations to the triumphant triathletes of this year’s championship. Our heartfelt thanks go to all participants, across various sectors, for their dedicated contributions that culminated in the success of the 29th Laguna Phuket Triathlon, showcasing a splendid victory for Phuket, Thailand. This achievement mirrors the unity and spirit of community efforts, paving the way for the continued growth and success of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon in the years ahead. We invite everyone to anticipate its return, promising that its 30th year will undoubtedly be grander than ever.”

The Laguna Phuket Triathlon” is renowned worldwide as Southeast Asia’s longest-running and most successful triathlon event. Over the years, it has attracted a multitude of highly skilled triathletes from various corners of the globe.

Half of all Global Destinations Now Offer Digital Nomad Visas

Half of all Global Destinations Now Offer Digital Nomad Visas - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, November 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The number of destinations offering Digital Nomad Visas has risen significantly over recent years, with almost half now offering visas for at least one year.

According to a new analysis by the World Tourism Organization covering 54 destinations, the rise in Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) has gone hand-in-hand with an increase in digital nomads, with destinations in all regions working to meet the market trend.

Destinations Welcoming Digital Nomads

The UNWTO Brief examines the DNV programmes in seven areas: Application process, Duration of visa, Taxation, Insurance, Accommodation, Minimum income requirements and criminal records check. The brief  looks at the background and current state of digital nomadism trends and provides an analysis of existing DNVs worldwide in five regions. Key findings include:

  • 47% of destinations offer visas for up to one year.
  • 39% of destinations exempt digital nomads from tax payments.
  • 17% of destinations do not have minimum income requirements.
  • 76% of destinations have online applications for DNV programmes.
  • 80% of destinations process applications within one-month period.
  • Only 6% of destinations have no visa fees for application.

Embracing the future of work

A DNV allows individuals to live and work in a foreign country while maintaining employment or conducting freelance work for employers or clients in their home or another country. With this visa, digital nomads can continue their professional pursuits while embracing the opportunity to immerse themselves in the host destination’s unique lifestyle in line with much of the trends of the future of work. Furthermore, destinations use DNV to attract professionals from creative and technology areas to stimulate these areas nationally.

Flexibility and digital access key

At the same time, the UNWTO Brief highlights the key considerations for destinations when offering or expanding their DNV programmes:

  • Digitalization of destination: Due to the importance of well-connectivity and productivity, the host destinations tend to invest in robust digital infrastructure. High-speed internet, co-working spaces, and comfortable accommodations are available to facilitate optimal remote work conditions.
  • Balancing Work and Lifestyle: By offering a flexible visa framework, host destinations empower digital nomads to create the work environments while immersing themselves in local culture and lifestyle.
  • Future Impact Assessment: The brief underscores the importance of establishing impact assessment for  DNV programmes as a new mechanism.