Category: Latest Travel News

Geneva, Switzerland, November 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), in joint collaboration with NOAH Regen, has taken a further step forward in rethinking tourism financing with the launch of the UN NetZero Facility and Re-PLANET Capital Fund Ecosystem. The launch took place on 14 November 2023 at the United Nations Headquarters, Geneva, marking a pivotal moment in the global campaign against climate change following the adoption of the Paris Agreement by 196 parties.

A new era of finance governance

The UN NetZero Facility and Re-PLANET Capital Fund Ecosystem aspire to foster a new era of global finance governance. This transformative initiative aims to unlock carbon value, incorporating concepts such as Blue Carbon and circular business models. The ecosystem is dedicated to catalysing positive change in the Blue and Green Economy sectors, transforming regeneration into not just an ecological necessity but also a profitable endeavour.

Tourism’s transformation to low-carbon operations is our compass, let’s make Net Zero our destination by 2050 – a journey for prosperity and a healthy Earth

Key highlights of the framework include:

• Blended Financial Ecosystem: A collaborative approach that integrates diverse funding sources, providing a solid foundation to address pressing climate challenges.
• Blockchain Technology: Utilizing energy-efficient blockchain technology for transparent fund raising and transfer, ensuring real-time tracking and accountability.
• Transparency and Accountability: Committed to unparalleled transparency, accountability, and auditability, ensuring the traceability of funds from inception to implementation.

Announcing the launch

The Director-General of the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG) Tatiana Valovaya said: “The UN NetZero Facility is designed to resonate with the 2030 Agenda which reflects the interconnectedness between human well-being and the health of the planet.”

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Tourism’s transformation to low-carbon operations is our compass, let’s make Net Zero our destination by 2050 – a journey for prosperity and a healthy Earth.”

Frederic Degret, CEO of Noah adds: “We stand at a pivotal moment. The Re’planet Capital Fund, in compliance with Article 9 of SFDR, is not just a fund; it’s a catalyst for change, empowering investors to drive sustainable growth.”

Blended finance model

UNWTO’s Multi-Partners Trust Fund, within the UN system, will offer advisory services and grants to accelerate global progress toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The Facility will operate on a blended finance model and is set to leverage investments to transition toward building a climate-conscious economy.

The UN NetZero Facility and Re-PLANET Capital Fund Ecosystem will address some of the most capital-intensive climate issues, such as carbon credit quality and integrity, regulatory and market dynamics, and the monetization of sovereign nature-based and carbon credits.

Bangkok, Thailand, November 13, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), becoming dedicated partners in establishing meaningful connections between the two organisations.

The MOU was signed in conjunction with the 62nd ICCA Congress in Bangkok hosted by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). This is the second time Thailand played host to the ICCA Congress, with the first time in 2007 in Pattaya. The agreement was signed on Sunday, November 12 by PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath in the presence of the President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, PATA Chair Peter Semone and ICCA President Marta Gomes, on the first day of the ICCA Congress 2023 taking place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand.

“Our collaboration with ICCA underscores the unwavering commitment of both organizations to foster responsible and sustainable growth within the travel and tourism industry, not only in the Asia Pacific region but also on a global scale. This partnership holds great promise for the expansion of business opportunities in the region as there is important synergy between the travel and tourism industry and business events, as both relate to travel and economic impact for destination and industry players. We eagerly look forward to sharing valuable insights and best practices with them,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

Under the MOU, both parties plan to create joint programme content designed to nurture the ‘Business Travel’ sector in the Asia Pacific region, emphasise sustainability in future activities and events, and begin cross-participation in flagship events between the Associations, among other priorities.

“ICCA is proud to sign this important MoU agreement with PATA which reinforces how closely linked our organisations are. We both share values around sustainability, education, legacy, and advocating for the global significance of international collaboration and partnership. Asia Pacific is an amazing place, culturally diverse and endlessly fascinating. It offers so much to the world in terms of travel and business. Yet it is the people here that are key to developing new opportunities, and ICCA salutes the collective energy, efficiency, and boundless desire to create unique event experiences for all,” said ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath.

ICCA is a global community and knowledge hub for the international association – and governmental – meetings industry. Founded in 1963, ICCA specialises in the international association meetings sector, offering data, education, communication channels, as well as business development and networking opportunities. Today, ICCA continues to advocate for the world of international meetings. The ICCA Association Community offers associations across the world education, connections, tools and resources to help them organise more effective and successful meetings.

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 includes government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) 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 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 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.

Geneva, Switzerland, November 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / In the lead-up to the UN’s COP28 climate conference, the world’s largest CEO-led community committed to accelerating the net-zero transition today calls on businesses and governments to further slash global carbon emissions to meet the Paris Climate Agreement goals.

According to a report by the Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, in collaboration with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), emissions must be cut back by 7% each year from now until 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5°C, as agreed in Paris in 2015.

“The urgency and scale of the climate crisis demand immediate and coordinated action at a global level,” said Pim Valdre, Head of Climate Ambition Initiatives at the World Economic Forum. “The cost of inaction is simply too high, and our shared responsibility is to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

The report, The State of Climate Action, says that “dramatic action” is needed to close the gap. This includes shorter-term net-zero national and corporate commitments, faster deployment and funding of green technologies, and stronger global collaboration to ensure a just transition. The report follows an open letter from more than 100 CEOs and senior executives from the Alliance to world leaders ahead of COP28 urging for a phase-out of fossil fuels and a massive scale-up of renewable energy and carbon removal.

“The findings in this report are a wake-up call to the world, reaffirming that the status quo is no longer an option,” said Rich Lesser, Global Chair of Boston Consulting Group and Chief Advisor to the World Economic Forum’s Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders. “Governments, companies and other stakeholders must act in lock step to meet our ambitious climate goals. It is our collective responsibility to build a more resilient and greener future for generations to come, and we are unwavering in our mission to make that a reality.”

The Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, facilitated by the World Economic Forum, consists of more than 120 top companies from diverse industry sectors and regions, representing more than $4 trillion in total revenues and 12 million employees.

Tackling insufficient national and corporate commitments

According to the report, as of mid-2023, the share of global emissions covered by national net-zero targets exceeded 80% – up from virtually zero only a few years ago. However, only a third of global emissions are covered by net-zero targets for 2050, the estimated timeframe required to maintain a 1.5°C limit, with most national net-zero targets set for longer timelines. The shorter-term gap is even more significant, with only 20% of emissions also covered by Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aligned to a 1.5°C ceiling.

Stronger commitments and actions are most critically needed from the 10 largest national emitters, which account for half of the gap.

On the corporate side, progress in recent years has been substantial. The total number of companies with commitments to 1.5°C science-based targets has increased more than six-fold between the end of 2020 and August 2023. However, fewer than 20% of the world’s 1,000 largest companies have set this type of target, and almost 40% have no net-zero commitment at all.

Addressing the technology and funding gap

Most green technologies required to achieve net zero exist already, but those that are or soon will be cost competitive would only cover around 55% of global emissions. Others, including “deep decarbonization” technologies – such as hydrogen, carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS), and direct air capture – are still in early stages of development and scaling too slowly. To catch up, innovation and industrial scaling need to accelerate at nearly unprecedented levels.

Among key root causes, an over $2 trillion gap in yearly climate funding remained in 2022, with critical gaps in early technologies and infrastructure: bioenergy, hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel, CCUS and battery storage collectively received only around 2% of 2022 global mitigation funds. The gap is also twice as large in lower-income countries as in higher-income ones, with the former subject to lower capital availability and higher perceived risks.

Major course corrections needed

Several near-term priorities are put forward in the report to keep the 1.5°C limit within reach. These actions include the need to:

– Unlock bolder, more rapid national commitments and actions
– Deploy carbon pricing and border taxes, and support actions in nature, agriculture and food
– Remove obstacles to the transition, such as permitting times, supply chain risks and skill gaps
– Shift corporate focus to bolder targets and transparency for themselves and their supply chains
– Strengthen incentives to massively scale up high-impact technologies and necessary infrastructure
– Raise climate financing for the Global South, conditional on ambitious mitigation action

Bangkok, Thailand, November 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Crafting luxury one thread at a time, Jim Thompson’s exquisite fabrics have woven their magic into the very fabric of the world’s most prestigious hotels. From the serene banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River to the opulent suites of the global elite’s favoured establishments, these iconic textiles set the gold standard in some of the World’s 50 Best Hotels.

Setting the stage for world-class luxury, Thailand’s iconic global lifestyle brand, Jim Thompson, is delighted to reveal its integral role in enhancing the interior elegance of some of the world’s leading hotels, as celebrated by The World’s 50 Best Hotels. Establishments of repute, such as Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, The Siam, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Cheval Blanc Paris, The Savoy – London, and One & Only Mandarina – Mexico that feature on this coveted listing have seamlessly woven the unmatched quality and design of Jim Thompson fabrics into their opulent settings and luxury offerings.

With a storied history stretching over half a century, Jim Thompson’s reputation as a leader in Thai silk remains unchallenged. Its dedication to vertically integrated craftsmanship, ranging from yarn manufacturing to designing, weaving, printing, and fabric treatment, ensures both durability and luxury in every strand. “Our expertise in creating silks as well as high-performance fabrics tailored for residential and hospitality projects while maintaining uncompromised quality and design remains at the forefront of our business,” adds Sasaya N Vesanen, Chief Commercial Officer – Home Furnishings of Jim Thompson

Through collaborative efforts across departments, Jim Thompson continuously innovates bespoke textile products which are tailored to each project’s unique design requirements. This commitment extends to their range of wallcoverings, which meet the highest safety requirements. These standards are met without compromising the luxurious nature of the designs, harmoniously merging safety and splendour.

From the storied corridors of the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, which boasts 147 years of history hosting luminaries, to the urban sanctuary that is The Siam with its historic Thai teak house, Connie’s Cottage, Jim Thompson’s fabrics grace the interiors, adding a layer of understated luxury and the riverside beauty of Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, both incorporate Jim Thompson’s touch, bringing Thai artistry and the glory of Thai silk to their global clientele. Beyond Thailand, adding to this glorious roster is Cheval Blanc in Paris, which offers a secluded retreat with panoramic city views framed by Jim Thompson fabric, while London’s iconic Savoy resonates with a century-old hospitality tradition and Jim Thompson fabrics. Meanwhile, nature takes the front seat at One & Only Mandarina in Mexico, where guests immerse themselves in Riviera Nayarit’s vibrant landscapes – transitioning from rainforests to white-sand beaches with Jim Thompson fabrics.

Building on legacy and continuous innovation, Jim Thompson’s collaborations with some of the world’s foremost architects and interior designers range from luxury hotels to private jets and super yachts. This enduring partnership with global hospitality titans solidifies Jim Thompson’s reputation as the unrivalled choice for luxurious interior textiles and wallcoverings.

About Jim Thompson
No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an art collector, a socialite, and an entrepreneur who has been famously recognized as the driving force behind the revival of the Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains the largest mystery in South East Asia until today. Today, Jim Thompson is the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand with a reputation for beautiful silks and “Beyond Silk”.

Macao, Macao SAR, November 15, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced that the bid for hosting the PATA Annual Summit 2024 has been awarded to the Macao Government Tourism Office. This prestigious annual event will be supported by SJM Resorts, S.A. and will be held from May 15 – 17, 2024 at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. The event is set to bring together international thought leaders, industry shapers and senior decision-makers who are professionally engaged in driving tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.

The extensive programme, comprised of plenary sessions, breakout sessions, the PATA Executive Board and Board meetings, and Annual General Meeting, will provide a platform for PATA’s public and private sector members and partners, and most importantly PATA Chapters and PATA Youth from around the world to discuss the challenges, issues and opportunities facing the industry as it looks towards the responsible and sustainable growth, value, and quality of tourism in the region.

“All of us at PATA are excited to be returning to Macao for the PATA Annual Summit 2024 and receive first-hand updates about the significant developments in the destination since having previously organising successful PATA Travel Marts in 2010 and 2017, as well as the PATA Annual Conference in 2005,” said Mr. Semone. “The Macao Government Tourism Office has been a strong partner of PATA since 1958 and they are our major sponsor for the PATA Gold Awards for the past 28 consecutive years. Next year’s event provides Macao with the perfect opportunity to showcase their destination and the Greater Bay Area to all delegates.”

Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office, Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, said, “It is an honor for Macao to host the PATA Annual Summit 2024. PATA holds a special place in the heart of our tourism industry, and we are happy to once again be granted the opportunity to welcome delegates from near and far to meet in our city. Especially as this will be the first PATA event we host after the pandemic, allowing us to showcase to participants the current dynamic change in our destination towards more diversification for a memorable meeting in Macao.”

Macao, a special administrative region of China, harmoniously blends cosmopolitan style with a rich cultural heritage. Its historic district, known as “The Historic Centre of Macao,” is home to over 20 monuments and urban squares, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005. This district is a testament to the unique integration of Eastern and Western cultures over centuries, offering visitors the chance to explore magnificent heritages and their fascinating stories. Macao’s cultural tapestry is a result of over four centuries of coexistence and interaction between Chinese and Western influences, culminating in a distinctive cultural landscape and a wealth of intangible cultural heritage.

Macao’s intangible cultural heritage encompasses a diverse range of practices, expressions, knowledge, and skills passed down through generations. This includes oral traditions, performing arts, social customs, rituals, and the know-how behind traditional crafts. The designation of Macao as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2017 adds a powerful international branding to the city’s portfolio. As of June 2020, Macao boasts a total of 70 items recorded on the Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, with 12 items inscribed on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Additionally, 11 items from Macao are recognized on the Representative List of National Intangible Cultural Heritage, including the likes of Cantonese Opera, Herbal Tea Brewing, Woodwork – Religious Figure Carving, and Macanese Gastronomy, showcasing the rich tapestry of traditions that make Macao a cultural crossroads.

About the Venue

The Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau celebrates the grand union of the best from East and West, emanating cross-cultural and legendary heritage. A property of SJM Resorts, S.A., this newest member of the widely recognised Lisboa brand sets a new standard for hospitality excellence. Situated in Cotai, Macao, the resort brings together world-class brands and distinguished styles of accommodation, gastronomy, retail, entertainment, and wellness indulgence, complemented by one-of-a-kind wedding, event and meeting venues. The Grand Lisboa Palace, uniting world-class excellence and visionary aesthetics in one integrated resort, will redefine travelling and leisure experiences, giving new meaning to what’s already legendary.

For more information, please visit www.PATA.org/pata-annual-summit-2024 or email events@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 includes government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) 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 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 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.

Bangkok, Thailand, November 14, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Embark on a Culinary Journey this Loy Krathong at Celadon, The Sukhothai Bangkok. This Loy Krathong Day, immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Thailand with an exclusive Family Thai Set Menu at Celadon, curated by the esteemed Chef Rosarin Sriprathum. Tailored for groups of colleagues, friends, and family, this dining experience is designed to celebrate the richness of Thai cuisine and create lasting memories.

Savor the essence of Thailand through a meticulously crafted 7-course set menu:
• Crabmeat Filled, Steamed Rice Dumpling
• Grilled Thai Free-Range Chicken Skewers
• Soup Of Assorted Vegetables, Aromatic Herbs
• Grilled River Prawn
• Green Curry Thai Free-Range Chicken
• Wok-Fried Morning Glory
• Fried Rice Egg, Pork Or Chicken

Each dish is a masterpiece, carefully prepared to transport your taste buds to the heart of Thailand, offering a delightful journey from savory to sweet.

Price: THB 1,800++ per person, including a complimentary krathong.
Availability: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
As part of the festivities, guests can also revel in the captivating Sukhothai Traditional Dance performance at the chedi pond, commencing at 6:00 PM.

For reservations or more information, please contact:
Tel: 02 344 8888

Celebrate Loy Krathong with us at Celadon, where each dish tells a story, and every moment becomes a cherished memory.

About Chef Rosarin Sriprathum
The Thai Chef, Rosarin Sriprathum is at the helm of the gourmet restaurant Celadon at The Sukhothai Bangkok hotel. She began her career as a chef at the age of only 20. Since childhood, she has been enthusiastic about the subtle complexity of Thai cuisine and draws on the secrets passed down by her forebears, themselves former chefs and pastry chefs, to infuse a bold touch of originality into traditional Thai food. She joined Celadon restaurant at The Sukhothai Bangkok, where her creativity brings character to Thailand’s finest traditional food; her dishes take guests’ taste buds on a journey from the North to the South of this exotic country.

About Celadon restaurant
Celadon embodies Thai elegance and sophistication. The restaurant draws inspiration from the Sukhothai era, after which the hotel is named. Associated with art and prosperity, its elegant pavilions overlook lush gardens with a lotus pond. The Celadon’s cuisine is recognised by the Michelin Guide and is an ode to the authentic flavours of Thailand. Each dish is served in celadon ceramics as a reference to the name of the restaurant and to Thai legends: celadon stoneware was once believed to have mystical powers, causing poisoned food to change colour. Celadon is regarded as one of the finest Thai restaurants in Bangkok.

Kampung Naga, Indonesia, November 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels has expanded its portfolio in Indonesia with the launch of Alhambra Hotel & Convention, BW Signature Collection, which puts guests in the heart of West Java’s Mount Galunggung tourist area – famed for its spectacular natural scenery, hot springs and Sundanese cultural heritage.

Nestled between the city of Tasikmalaya and the authentic village of Kampung Naga, this contemporary hotel is surrounded by rolling green landscapes and dramatic volcanic peaks. Within this stunning setting, visitors can unwind and enjoy immersive leisure breaks or stage outstanding out-of-town events, including weddings. Just three hours’ drive from Bandung, this enchanting destination is also accessible by air via Wiriadinata Airport.

A selection of 116 modern rooms and suites feature stylish interiors, comfortable king or twin beds and the latest technology, including complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. With panoramic views from every room, travelers are able to experience complete tranquility.

The hotel’s culinary concept focuses on Middle Eastern cuisine, along with traditional Sundanese, pan-Asian and international dishes, all expertly crafted by talented chefs. An extensive in-room dining menu is available 24 hours a day, so guests can enjoy a memorable meal in the comfort and privacy of their room. The Sky Rooftop Pool Bar is a great place to take a dip, sip cool drinks and grab light bites, overlooking Mount Galunggung.

Alhambra Hotel & Convention is also the perfect option for unforgettable events. With its extensive function space, including a 1,000-delegate convention hall equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, this scenic hotel sets the stage for every occasion, from large-scale conferences and business meetings to lavish weddings and social gatherings.

“Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting destinations, with an amazing array of natural and cultural attractions for domestic and overseas visitors. Increasingly, guests are looking to explore new parts of the country and the Mount Galunggung tourist area has the potential to attract leisure travelers and meeting planners alike. Alhambra Hotel & Convention, BW Signature Collection blends authentic Indonesian charm and hospitality with the international standards of a Best Western branded hotel,” said Mr. Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

BWH Hotels is one of the leading hotel groups in Indonesia, with an extensive nationwide portfolio that now comprises 17 hotels and resorts in urban and resort areas including Jakarta, Bali, Bandung, Surabaya, Batam, Manado and more. Alhambra Hotel & Convention marks the debut of the BW Signature Collection in Indonesia.

For more information about BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit www.bestwesternasia.com.

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.

London, United Kingdom, November 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO celebrated the biggest Ministers Summit on record as it brought tourism leaders together on the opening day of the World Travel Market in London to focus on education and skills development.

Welcoming a record 40 Ministers of Tourism, representing every global region and destinations of all sizes, UNWTO Executive Director Natalia Bayona underscored the vital importance of investing in education.

The Summit, hosted at WTM for the 17th time, also featured inputs from key private sector players and from co-organizer the World Travel and Tourism  Council (WTTC).

Education for a better tourism

According to UNWTO with 1.2 billion people worldwide aged between 15 to 24, tourism can establish itself as a top employer of youth and driver of youth empowerment. However., according to the Office for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) around 10% of that demographic are unemployed and 14% hold only basic qualifications.

Outlining how UNWTO is leading the way in promoting tourism education, Executive Director Bayona emphasised the need to support education and skills development at every stage.

• UNWTO launched its Education Toolkit in October 2023. The landmark resource will enable countries everywhere to introduce tourism as a high school subject.
• The Bachelors Degree in Sustainable Tourism Management offered by UNWTO and the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts will welcome its first students in 2024.
• Currently, 30 universities worldwide contribute content to the UNWTO Online Academy. And on the ground, the Riyadh School of Hospitality and Tourism in Saudi Arabia and the Tourism Academy in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, train thousands of tourism professionals.

Ministers share education policies

The United Kingdom’s Minister for Tourism, Sir John Whittingdale, stressed the importance of platforms like the Ministers Summit to provide a dialogue on how different countries are tackling common challenges, including advancing tourism education. With more than double the number of Ministerial-level participants than 2022 highlighting the strong interest in the topic, participants shared their insights on the place of education in the future of tourism.

• The Ministers of South Africa, Egypt, the Philippines and Jordan all made clear the importance of supporting education at every stage. For example, South Africa has launched a tourism equity fund to bridge the gap between student skills and employer needs, and in the Philippines , tourism education extends from high school to vocational degrees. At the same time, Jordan is working to boost the abilities of tourism workers, including in language skills.
• The Ministers from Mauritius, Malta and Indonesia stressed the vital need to upskill new and existing tourism workers. Mauritius noted that all Least Developed Countries were hit hard by the pandemic and face a challenge to boost literacy and numeracy rates, potentially with bilateral and multilateral support. For Malta, a new Skills Card will aim to elevate professional standards in the sector for better career prospects for workers and service for tourists, while Indonesia will prioritise innovation and adaptation as it creates 5 million tourism jobs in the next decade.
• Highlighting the vital importance of education for tourism sustainability, the Minister for Colombia outlined how the sector is bringing peace, jobs and youth opportunity to areas afflicted by insecurity, while Ethiopia shared its work investing in young people as well as in tourism infrastructure.

Alongside the Ministerial voices, the private sector was represented by leaders from Riyadh Air and JTB (Japan Tourism Bureau) Corp. They echoed the Ministers’ focus on  the importance of public-private partnerships, stressing that governments need to work with businesses to ensure training meets the needs of employers.

Ministers takeaways from Summit

On the back of the expert inputs from tourism leaders from every global region, Ministers were able to take away key lessons from the London Summit. Chief among them was the shared nature of the challenges facing destinations everywhere, with a common need for more and better-skilled workers.
Concluding, UNWTO Executive Director Natalia Bayona noted the urgent need to make tourism an aspirational sector for young people everywhere, with public-private partnerships essentially for bringing the current skills gap in the sector.

Bangkok, Thailand, November 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sukhothai Bangkok is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Frederic Legras as the Executive Pastry Chef. Chef Frederic brings over two decades of rich experience in the pastry industry, having worked with prestigious international hotel chains such as The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, Payard Patisserie & Bistro New York, Conrad Hotel Bangkok, and Le Cordon Bleu Bangkok.

Before joining The Sukhothai Bangkok, Chef Frederic held the position of co-owner at Canelé by 10, where he honed his remarkable skills and expertise in creating new recipes and organizing customized celebratory events. His vast experience and exceptional talent in pastry and event design make him a valuable addition to The Sukhothai Bangkok’s Pastry Kitchen team.

Chef Frederic Legras’ arrival at The Sukhothai Bangkok couldn’t be more timely, as he is already hard at work, revamping the Chocolate Buffet and enhancing the entire pastries selection, including an array of festive celebratory offerings that are set to surprise and delight our guests. His creative touch and innovative pastry designs promise to elevate the dining experience for both residents and visitors alike.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Frederic to The Sukhothai family,” said Alexander Schilling, General Manager of The Sukhothai Bangkok. “His expertise and dedication to delivering unique and memorable experiences align perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional service and cuisine to our esteemed guests. With his creative vision, we are excited to offer a new level of indulgence and celebration at The Sukhothai Bangkok.”

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Chef Frederic Legras, and stay tuned for the exciting and delectable surprises he has in store for all our guests during this upcoming festive season and in 2024.

About The Sukhothai Bangkok
The Sukhothai Bangkok is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Bangkok, renowned for its timeless elegance and commitment to providing guests with an authentic Thai experience. With a rich heritage of culinary excellence and an unwavering dedication to service, The Sukhothai Bangkok continues to be a symbol of luxury and sophistication in the vibrant capital city. Chef Frederic Legras’ appointment as Executive Pastry Chef further enhances the hotel’s reputation for excellence in cuisine and special celebrations.

Barcelona, Spain, November 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Catalonia was officially awarded the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2025 by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) for their commitment to work across sectors to ensure a healthy, safe and resilient food future through sustainable actions.

The award ceremony took place on 8 November 2023 in the framework of the Gastronomic Forum Barcelona, and saw the participation of Councillor for Business and Labour of the Government of Catalonia, Roger Torrent i Ramió; Councillor for Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda, David Mascort i Subiranas; and local stakeholders involved in the World Region of Gastronomy candidacy and programme, including President of the Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition, Carles Villarubí, and Director General of Alícia Foundation, Toni Massanés.

President of IGCAT, Diane Dodd PhD officially presented the award to the regional stakeholders and applauded “the many, many people in Catalonia that have been working for decades to ensure that Catalan cuisine, culture and culinary heritage is available and relevant in the minds, hearts and stomachs of Catalan citizens. This is undoubtedly why Catalonia is such an interesting destination for foodie travellers. Well-deserved and congratulations!”

Councillor Torrent explained that with this award “we are opening up a new scenario for Catalonia and we are positioning ourselves around the world as a reference food and wine destination, generating new economic opportunities in the territory while involving different sectors, from the primary to the restaurants, through the food industry. The World Gastronomy Region title reinforces the transformation towards a more sustainable, balanced and diversified tourism model, which we are promoting through our National Commitment for Responsible Tourism.”

Councillor Mascort emphasised that “from now on we will start working to show the world that gastronomy and agriculture are two sides of the same coin,” and highlighted that “behind the kitchens that dazzle the world, there is a farming community committed to environmental, economic and social sustainability.

“We will be ambitious and we will work to set up a programme and a legacy for Catalonia. We have a unique proposal not only because of our culinary uniqueness, but also because it reflects every corner of our territory and its people,” he concluded.

Moderated by gastronomic journalist, Carme Gasull, the event was closed by a conversation with chef of Disfrutar restaurant, Oriol Castro and livestock farmer Mònica Soler, from Masiets Perich who offered their perspectives as regional stakeholders of

Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy 2025 manifesto

During the event, the Government of Catalonia launched a manifesto to which regional stakeholders and citizens can sign up in order to join and support the World Region of Gastronomy 2025 programme. The document includes a series of commitments such as (to name a few). promoting the heritage linked to gastronomy and the agri-food landscapes; promoting Catalan cuisine; opting for a change of model towards regenerative and quality food and wine tourism; promote the professionalization of the food sector; and encouraging the circular economy. The manifesto is accessible on the dedicated website together with a link for stakeholders to sign up.

New initiatives to position Catalonia as a benchmark for food and wine tourism

The event marked the starting point for the preparation of new initiatives that, throughout the coming year, will be organised across the region with the aim of highlighting food production, Catalan cuisine and Catalonia as a quality tourist destination. These include for example:

The International Week of the World Gastronomy Region, to take place in the main cities and countries hosting delegations of the Government of Catalonia, and which will include various activities such as promotions in shops or restaurants, wine tastings, cultural evenings, debates, food and wine experiences, chef exchanges, and many more.

Àpat Catalunya, a people’s dinner to be celebrated in an emblematic street or public space in Barcelona, featuring the most iconic dishes and recipes of Catalan gastronomy.

The Som Gastronomia Tour 2025, a series of presentations to be held in the main outbound markets of food and wine tourism in Catalonia, aimed at operators, the press and influencers, with a technological and innovative component.

Moreover, 130 unique Catalan landscapes and their gastronomic offer will be highlighted; activities will be organised to connect art, sport, culture and Catalan cuisine; the National Food Awards will be promoted; and an intense international agenda will be offered so that Catalonia’s farming, food companies and gastronomy can be presented across the globe.

Gastronomic Forum Barcelona: the perfect setting for Catalonia’s renewed commitment to sustainability

A point of reference for professionals in the hospitality and gastronomy sector, the Gastronomic Forum Barcelona 2023 focused on transformative cuisine and its role in preserving biodiversity and boosting social transformation.

Celebrated on 6-8 November at the Montjuïc venue of Fira Barcelona, the event included around 120 activities that involved over 200 chefs, pastry chefs, sommeliers and other experts in gastronomy. Many of them presented their initiatives supporting the use of local products, the revival of traditional techniques, and the reduction of food waste, among other urgent challenges.

Catalonia’s path to the title

In 2016, Catalonia was among the first two regions to be awarded European Region of Gastronomy by IGCAT. During that year, over 500 stakeholders in the region committed to promote Catalan gastronomy and celebrated over 500 activities related to local products, local cuisine and the territory. Eager to deepen the work started in 2016, Catalonia presented their bid for the World Region of Gastronomy 2025 title.

After evaluating the bid book Catalunya, the European Mosaic of Gastronomy, presented on 7 February 2023, a jury of international IGCAT experts visited the region (8-12 May 2023) to meet local stakeholders and assess Catalonia’s readiness to hold the World Region of Gastronomy title.

The jury was very impressed by how the legacy from Catalonia, European Region of Gastronomy 2016 has reinforced the benefits of inter-sectoral working to ensure that gastronomy, culture, food production and biodiversity have a strong focus in the region. They also appreciated the detailed action plan presented by the region including projects, events and development proposals for the title year and beyond, to ensure a legacy of the Award.

On this basis, they recommended the region for the title to the IGCAT Board, that officially approved Catalonia to be awarded World Region of Gastronomy 2025.

Thanks to this title, the Catalan Government will invest 9 million euros to support a series of new initiatives and projects with the aim to position Catalonia as worldwide food and wine reference.

The Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy 2025 candidacy and programme have been created by a cross-sectoral consortium including stakeholders from the public, private, third and knowledge sectors. Founding stakeholders include: Directorate-General for Tourism (Ministry of Business and Labour, Government of Catalonia); Catalan Tourist Board; Directorate-General for Food Industries, Food Quality and Gastronomy (Ministry of Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda, Government of Catalonia); PRODECA; Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition; Alícia Foundation; elBUlliFoundation.

About the World and European Regions of Gastronomy
Candidate and awarded World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.

About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.

IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.