Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 28, 2020 (travelindex.com) – With close to 1,000 submissions and a total of 340 hours of playtime, the Asia Destination Film Awards received much attention from international filmmakers, tourism boards, travel companies, and content creators. Thirty-four finalists in the categories Tourism Boards, Travel Industry, Filmmakers, User-generated Content, and Sustainable Travel were shortlisted, and the final winners in each category are determined by a panel of judges as well as by public vote on www.destinationfilmforum.com/asia-destination-film-awards/. Voting will be open until 29 January 2020.

To highlight the role of visual content in destination marketing and sustainability, the 2nd Asia Destination Film Forum and Awards will take place in Bangkok on 30 January 2020 under the co-chairmanship of H.E. Mr. Itthipol Khunpluem, Minister of Culture, Thailand, and Dr. Sorajak Kasemsuwan, Secretary General of the National Federation of Motion Pictures and Contents Associations, Thailand. An impressive line-up of speakers from Thai filmmakers such as Mr. Ekachai Uekrongtham (“The Stranded” – Netflix) and Mr. Tom Waller (“The Cave”) to producers of Hollywood movies such as Mr. Nicholas Simon (“Avengers: Endgame”, “Kong: Skull Island”), and Mr. Nick Ray from Cambodian film production company Hanuman Films (“The Last Reel”) will present on the importance of locations for filming and the role of Asian destinations.

Presenters from tourism boards, such as Mr. Raymond Kim (Busan, South Korea), Mr. Tanes Petsuwan (Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, Tourism Authority of Thailand), Mr. Jens Thraenhart (Executive Director, Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office), Mr. Joe Choo (Area Director Thailand, Singapore Tourism Board), and Ms. Bayasgalan Saranjav (Director General Department of Tourism Policy Coordination, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Mongolia) will look into the role of destinations in movie tourism. In addition to the public sector, the forum will also look into how screen tourism can benefit the private sector, by Mr. Deepak Ohri, CEO Lebua Hotels & Resorts (“The Hangover Part II”), as well as how bloggers can impact tourism through visual content.

The aspect of sustainability of film tourism is analyzed by a panel of experts, including Mr. Gabriel Kuperman (Executive Producer, Mekong 2030), Mr. Roi Ariel (General Manager, GSTC), Mr. Graham Harper (Director, PATA, Sustainability and Social Responsibility), Mr. Tuan Pham (Head of Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility Agoda), and Ms. Janet Salem (Programme Manager, Sustainable Consumption and Production, United National Environment Programme (UNEP).

The Asia Destination Film Awards will take place after the Asia Destination Film Forum and will be followed by the Film Festival BBQ Party, sponsored by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism Mongolia, featuring authentic Mongolian BBQ, cultural performances, and films.

More information about the event and tickets are available on

Films shortlisted to the Asia Destination Film Awards 2020

Film Name	Producer	Destination Featured
Tourism Board Category
ท่องเที่ยววิถีไทย เก๋ไก๋ไม่เหมือนใคร (Discover Thainess) – version 2 นาที	Tourism Authority of Thailand	Thailand
Komodo National Park and Alor: The Miracles of Living	Ministry of Tourism of Republic of Indonesia	Indonesia
Malaysia “Amazing”	Tourism Malaysia	Malaysia
Enjoy my Japan | Broaden your world| JNTO	Japan National Tourism Organization(JNTO)	Japan
Be Part of the Fun #ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines	Department of Tourism Philippines	Philippines
Incredible India – Director’s Cut – Travel | CNN	Ministry of Tourism, Government of India	India
Singapore – Where Passion is Made Possible	Singapore Tourism Board	Singapore
Filmmaker Category
Hit the Road: India	Manana Films, UK	India
Becoming Thai Chinese	Sarah Lam, Hong Kong	Thailand
The State of Skateboarding in Mongolia	Jefferson Elliott, USA	Mongolia
Rockumentary: Evolution of Indian Rock	Abhimanyu Kukreja, India	India
The Magic of Hong Kong	Timelab Pro, Russia	Hong Kong
The Kingdom of the Lion Tailed Macaque – A Wildlife Documentary by Poorna Kedar	Poorna Kedar, India	India
Raja Ampat: The Last Paradise	GLP Films, USA	Indonesia
Branches and Brushes	Komeil Soheili, Iran	Korea
Travel Industry Category
Singapore Airlines: New In-flight Safety Video	Singapore Airlines	Singapore
Shinta Mani Wild	Shinta Mani Wild	Cambodia
InterContinental Danang – Our Resort Concierge ‘Thinks Beyond’	InterContinental Danang	Vietnam
Vietnam Airlines Safety Video	Vietnam Airlines	Vietnam
Singapore In 3 Minutes	TripZilla	Singapore
Cardamom Tented Camp	Cardamom Tented Camp	Cambodia
Rosewood Luang Prabang	Rosewood Luang Prabang	Laos
User-generated Content Category
Watchtower of Turkey	Leonardo Dalessandri, Italy	Turkey
Phatthalung: Thailand’s Hidden Gems	Art Thomya, Thailand	Thailand
In Japan	Vincent Urban, USA	Japan
Loving Lanka	Sebastian Linda, Germany	Sri Lanka
Thailand	Georgy Tarasov, Russia	Thailand
The road story Vietnam	Georgy Tarasov, Russia	Vietnam
Tokyo Roar	Brandon Li	Japan
Sustainable Travel Category
The Giant	Palau Visitors Authority	Palau
Save Our Spots	Department of Tourism Philippines	Philippines
The Tourism Decade – Women Rafters	Department of Tourism Philippines	Philippines
Sustainable Tourism	Ministry of Tourism of Republic of Indonesia	Indonesia
A Day In A Buddhist Temple	Travel and Tourism Foundation and Travelindex	Laos

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 23, 2020 (travelindex.com) – Celebrate the arrival year of the Rat at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel. Bring family and friends for truly scrumptious dining experiences with various offers across our award-winning restaurants. Dramatic Lion Dance shows on 25 January signify the good fortune and prosperity coming to you and your family.

Shintaro: 18 – 31 January 2020, from 11.30 am – 2.30 pm for lunch and 5.00 pm – 10.30 pm for dinner.

Relish the delectable flavour of lobster menu, available for a limited time only. Guests can dine on “Yubiki Tsukuri” – Umami Poached Lobster, Kaiso Sea Salad Mustard Miso, Yuzu Tabasco Sauce, “Tenbiyaki” – Teriyaki Grilled Lobster, Sea Urchin, White Miso Sauce or “Donabe Gohan” – Lobster, Scallop, Hijiki Seaweed on Truffle Butter Rice, Onsen Egg in clay pot, to name a few. Prices start from THB 1,350++

The Lobby: 25 – 31 January 2020, from 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm.

Indulge in a special Chinese New Year afternoon tea featuring our finest gourmet savouries and sweet treats inspired by the Year of the Rat, paired with premium Mariage Fréres teas. Spend your afternoon in the blissful comfort of our plush chairs and sofas, with the gentle tinkling of a live piano as your soundtrack to the sweet and savoury delights.

• Afternoon Tea Buffet, 25 – 26 January 2020

THB 888++ per person, including two drinks of coffee or tea

• Afternoon Tea Set, 27 – 31 January 2020

THB 888++ per set, including one drink of coffee or tea

Spice Market: 25 – 31 January 2020, from 6.00 pm – 10.30 pm.

Join us to celebrate the year of The Rat with a special oriental feast. The delicious dinner begins with a buffet selection of delectable appetisers, including “Thod Mun Pla Krai” – Deep-fried Thai Fish Cakes and “Som Tum Thord” – Deep fried spring rolls filled with papaya salad. A main course menu of classic dishes includes “Goong Kua Prig Gluer” – wok-fried prawns, garlic, bell pepper, and chili, and “Pu Nim Ob Woon Sen” – soft shell crab casserole with glass noodles. Complete the treat with seasonal fruit or mango sticky rice. Priced at THB 888++ per person.

Aqua: 25 – 31 January 2020, from 6.00 pm – 11.00 pm.

Mark Chinese New Year festivities in the elegant al fresco surroundings of Aqua bar and indulge in a sumptuous treat. Sit back and let us present an iced bowl of succulent seafood, from oysters and lobster to mussels and clams, served with your choice of complementary condiments and two hours of bottomless Prosecco.

Chinese New Year Sunday Brunch: 26 January 2020, from 11.30 am – 3.00 pm

Begin the Year of the Rat with a spectacular Chinese New Year Sunday Brunch. Savour Chinese delicacies and favourites from live cooking stations. Raise a glass of sparkling wine or Champagne. Marvel at the live entertainment in the spirit of the season.

• Chinese New Year Sunday Brunch Package including free flow soft beverages, juices and mocktails. Priced at THB 2,999++ per person.
• Champagne Package including free flow Billecart-Salmon Champagne, as well as house red and white, beers, house spirits, juices and soft beverages. Priced at THB 4,100++ per person.

 ** Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax.

Reserve your Chinese New Year experience at any one of our restaurants now by calling 0 2126 8866 Ext. 1201 or email: dining.asia@anantara.com

 

Papeete, Tahiti (French Polynesia) – January 27, 2020 (travelindex.com) – On Tahiti Tourisme’s Board of Directors meeting held on January 13, 2020, it was decided to appoint Jean-Marc Mocellin as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for The Islands of Tahiti. His nomination was suggested by Maïlee Faugerat, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Tahiti Tourisme, and the Minister of Tourism, Nicole Bouteau.

Following the departure of former CEO, Paul Sloan in October last year, a local and international call for applications was launched by Tahiti Tourisme.

Within the large number of submitted applications, the recruitment agency Michael Page hired by the DMO, pre-selected 6 applicants who were then interviewed by the Minister and the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Tahiti Tourisme at the end of last year.

Following these interviews, Mr Jean-Marc Mocellin’s application was retained and presented to the board members of Tahiti Tourisme. He is well-known in French Polynesia and within the local tourism industry, and is currently the CEO of Nouvelle Calédonie Tourisme, the DMO for New Caledonia.

Born in New-Caledonia, Jean-Marc Mocellin left after graduating from high school in order to pursue his studies at the Hotel Management and Tourism School of Nice from where he graduated with a “BTS” diploma (the only higher national diploma available at that time) by presenting a memorandum on “Sustainable development of tourism while respecting the environment”.

He pursued a career in international luxury brand hotel chains which first brought him in London where he was hired straight after his studies by the Sheraton Group. Trained for 2 years, he was then sent to Africa, Benin, Nigeria, Gabon and Egypt specializing in opening hotels, while climbing the ladder from one rung to the next.

After 6 years in Africa, he joined the Shangri-la hotel chain which, after an upgraded training in Penang-Malaysia, sent him to Fiji for 4 years in order to manage the operations of the biggest resort at that time, the Shangri-la’s Fijian resort (436 bedrooms/ 650 staff) and then the General Management of the Shangri-la Mocambo in Nadi.

He Subscribe while Past then taking Issues  came the to management Tahiti where of he the became legendary passionate Beachcomber about that Polynesia he renovated, during expanded 23 years  and converted into an Intercontinental Resort Tahiti.

The need of new challenge and the call for a professional experience in Asia made him leave Tahiti to take the lead of the Intercontinental Hua Hin in Thailand for 2 years.

End of 2016, the opportunity to take the lead of Nouvelle-Calédonie Tourisme on his native island while the local tourism sector was expanding, pushed him to accept the proposal of the Caledonian government. He got involved in destination marketing as the CEO of Nouvelle-Calédonie Tourisme, where he developed new skills during 3 years and actively contributed to the elaboration of the tourism strategy development of New Caledonia.

« Polynesian by heart, Jean-Marc Mocellin knows the destination The Islands of Tahiti perfectly and as well as its inbound markets. He is passionate about Polynesian culture and very sensitive to sustainable tourism. It’s therefore with great satisfaction that we welcome his nomination” said Nicole Bouteau, Minister of Tourism. “His knowledge of The Islands of Tahiti and his experience in Asia and in the region will be very useful to the destination”.
Mr Mocellin will take up the position at the beginning of April. Until then, the interim general management of Tahiti Tourisme will be ensured by Vaima Deniel, the Chief Local Operations Officer.

Shanghai (China) – January 24, 2020 (travelindex.com) – ITB China, the largest B2B exclusive travel trade show in China, has announced a partnership with the China Business Exhibition Federation (CBEF) to strengthen the participation of association buyers. CBEF is an organization set up by CCOIC (China Chamber of International Commerce) that acts as a cooperation platform between business event organizations and relevant well-known experts throughout China.

The cooperation between CBEF and ITB China will involve CBEF organizing and leading a delegation of senior association buyers to attend ITB China, set to take place from 13 to 15 May 2020 in Shanghai. Among other activities, the federation will also be organizing an educational panel discussion on the topic of association meeting management at the ITB China Conference 2020, which will be held parallel to the show. During the trade show, a guided tour will be organized for CBEF association buyers to meet the target MICE suppliers according to their purchasing needs.

“Our aim is to promote China’s economic development by promoting the development of corporate and association meetings, exhibitions and event industries as well as MICE tourism. CBEF aims to strengthen national and international exchanges and cooperation in the business events industry, drive sustainable and inclusive development of the global business events industry”, said Zeng Yafei, President of CBEF. “We are delighted to be working with ITB China, which is in line with our core philosophy. We hope to thoroughly understand Chinese MICE tourism inbound and outbound through communication with exhibitors and buyers and to serve the government as a reference for the formulation of MICE tourism development plans.”

About China Business Events Federation (CBEF)
As a comprehensive platform, China Business Exhibition Federation (CBEF) integrates the resources of the conference and exhibition industry, buyers and suppliers. CBEF strives to provide members with professional services, a platform for dialogue, exchange and collaboration between members, and to promote business partnerships and exchange of experience between members. In addition, CBEF aims to carry out communication campaigns for business fairs, to promote the exchange of resources and cross-border and cross-sector cooperation and to organize annual CBEF conferences, forums, exhibitions and other events and activities. The aim is to develop a platform for exchange and joint efforts between governments and the public.

 ITB China 2020 buyer registration is now live, buyers can apply under the following link: <a href="http://reg.itb-china.com/Pages/web/buyerRegister.shtml?language=en" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=

About ITB China and the ITB China Conference
ITB China is China’s largest B2B exclusive travel trade show. ITB China 2020 will take place from Wednesday to Friday, 13 to 15 May, at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre. ITB China is a three-day business to a business travel trade fair that focuses exclusively on the Chinese travel industry. The ITB China Conference will take place parallel to the show and is co-organized by the leading conference organizer TravelDaily.

Madrid (Spain) – January 27, 2020 (travelindex.com) – SUNx, the Strong Universal Network – a legacy program for the late Maurice Strong advocating Climate Friendly Travel, has again called for a moon-shot approach to 2050 zero carbon air transport.

During FITUR, the annual Spanish global Tourism Fair, Professor Geoffrey Lipman said that the focal aviation decarbonization pledge – for 50% of 2005 levels – was now more than a decade old and no longer in the mainstream of Climate Resilience thinking.

Introduced at the Copenhagen COP in 2009 as part of IATA’s 4 Pillar strategy, it has been left behind by the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC Carbon Neutral 2050 drive.

The core underpinning that envisages an adequate supply of safe, sustainable fuel, focused on biofuels, also deserves challenging – with fossil fuel companies coming to the game with not only too little, too late, but also too deficient in terms of full life-cycle. It’s time for them to up their game and create an ambitious pathway for 100% synthetic aviation fuel well in advance of 2050 – starting now.

“This is crazy” Lipman said “Given air transport’s dominant global socio-economic contribution, with unique support for island and landlocked countries – particularly developing states. It cannot be that aviation is looking at an ultra-conservative 2050 ambition pathway – when the rest of the world is looking to net zero carbon.

Lipman added “We need a moon-shot approach – like the intense decade long collaboration activated by President Kennedy, to put Neil Armstrong on the lunar surface. We can build on the sector’s relatively modest CORSIA initiative but integrating a Climate Neutral 2050 target. It also needs the fossil fuel companies to radically increase their commitment to this sector and massively increase the money allocated to R&D in this area.”

Noting that major airlines like Etihad; EasyJet and IAG; as well as the world’s airports had declared their Climate Neutral 2050 goal and the EU is advocating its Green New Deal priority encompassing aviation: Lipman said “it’s time for the rest of the sector to follow suit and for the aviation community to embrace the moon-shot drive.”
Geoffrey Lipman is President of SUNx Malta – committed to Climate Friendly Travel.

About Universal Network SUNx
The Strong Universal Network SUNx is a program of the EU-based, not for profit Green Growth and Travelism Institute, and a legacy to the late Maurice Strong – Sustainable Development Pioneer. Its goal is to promote Climate Friendly Travel with good & bad effects measured and managed coherently: with Green Growth at the core and, 2050-proof in line with the Paris Accords, and the W.E.F. 4th Industrial Revolution.

For more information, please contact:
Olly Wheatcroft, SUNx Program Manager
olly@thesunprogram.com +44 (0) 7765 132408

Professor Geoffrey Lipman, SUNx Co-founder
glipman@thesunprogram.com

Phuket (Thailand) – January 27, 2020 (travelindex) – The 26th edition of Phuket Bike Week 2020 and for the 3rd consecutive year, returns to Phuket’s Most Lively Marina this April 2020. To be held on 17th and 18th April 2020, at the field, across Phuket Boat Lagoon’s Boat Arcade Mall.

The roaring sound of over 2500 big bikes and over 80 classic cars, attracts bikers from over 15 countries. A host of activities and shows, comprising of Motor-bike exhibition, Miss Phuket Bike Week 2020, Custom Bike contest, Charity Ride & Ride for Peace, Display of motor-bike accessories, souvenirs, rock music concert and many more fun activities are in store for the Phuket Bike Week 2020.

Organized by Phuket Bikers Association, in support with Phuket Provincial Office, Tourism Authority of Thailand and other supporting agencies. Phuket Boat Lagoon is the venue host for the 3rd consecutive year.

The grand highlight of this year’s Phuket Bike Week is on Saturday, 18th April, the rock band concert by the all-famous Thai Rock Band – ‘Carabao’.

Prior to the weekend at Phuket Boat Lagoon, the 1st part of Phuket Bike Week 2020 will be held at Patong Beach from 11th until 13th March 2020.

For room booking, kindly contact Boat Lagoon Resort at:
Tel: +66 76 239 888 and/or email: rsvn@phuketboatlagoon.com

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 22, 2020 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels and Resorts in Asia has introduced an exciting promotion that will make 2020 an EPIC year for guests traveling to its remarkable Asian destinations!

Under the new EPIC Sales promotion, guests can kick start the new decade in style with dazzling discounts at hotels all across Asia.

Whether you’re seeking a blissful beachfront vacation, a fast-paced city break or a relaxing getaway, Best Western Hotels & Resorts has the perfect choice for your 2020 getaway.

Guests who book between now and February 29, 2020, for stays taken between April 1 and November 30, 2020, will enjoy an amazing 30% off the Best Available Rate at hotels and resorts in eight exciting countries: Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, The Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos and Indonesia.

Best Western Rewards® members will also earn points or miles on their bookings. Not a member yet? Sign up for free at www.bestwestern.com/rewards.

To take advantage of this enticing offer, simply visit the Best Western Hotels & Resorts website, choose your ideal destination and book your stay direct using the promotional code “EPIC30”. Select the “Best Western EPIC Sales” rates and pre-pay for your stay in full*. Then simply sit back, relax and start looking forward to your first vacation of the new decade!

So, what are you waiting for? Book now and give yourself a great start to 2020!
For more information and reservations, please visit www.BestWesternAsia.com.

Terms and conditions:
• All reservations must be prepaid in full with valid credit card at the time of the online reservation.
• Reservations are non-changeable, non-refundable and cannot be cancelled.
• Hotels reserve the right to make changes to the promotion without prior notice.
• This promotion will bookable until Feb 29 2020 for stays taken between Apr 01 2020 and Nov 30 2020.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts:
Best Western Hotels and Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel GroupSM global network. With 17 brands and approximately 4,700 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through recent acquisition, WorldHotels® Luxury, WorldHotels Elite and WorldHotels Distinctive brands are also offered. Completing the portfolio is SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay StudioSM franchises**. For more information visit www.bestwestern.com or www.bestwesterndevelopers.com.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
**All Best Western, WorldHotels and SureStay branded hotels are independently owned and operated.

Contact information:
Sirimanas Maungrod (Cake) | Senior Regional Marketing Communications Manager | Asia
Email: sirimanas.maungrod@bestwestern.com

Phanintorn Tangtrongjit (Dream) | Assistant Marketing Communications Manager | Asia
Email: phanintorn.tangtrongjit@bestwestern.com

Best Western Hotels and Resorts
BWI (Thailand) Co., Ltd. | Unit 5A-2 | 5th Floor Gaysorn Place Office Building
999 Ploenchit Road Lumpini Phatumwan | Bangkok | 10330 | Thailand
Phone: +662.656.1260 | Fax +662.656.1252| www.bestwesternasia.com

Madrid (Spain) – January 22, 2020 (travelindex.com) – 1.5 billion international tourist arrivals were recorded in 2019, globally. A 4% increase on the previous year which is also forecast for 2020, confirming tourism as a leading and resilient economic sector, especially in view of current uncertainties. By the same token, this calls for such growth to be managed responsibly so as to best seize the opportunities tourism can generate for communities around the world.

According to the first comprehensive report on global tourism numbers and trends of the new decade, the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, this represents the tenth consecutive year of growth.

All regions saw a rise in international arrivals in 2019. However, uncertainty surrounding Brexit, the collapse of Thomas Cook, geopolitical and social tensions and the global economic slowdown all contributed to a slower growth in 2019, when compared to the exceptional rates of 2017 and 2018. This slowdown affected mainly advanced economies and particularly Europe and Asia and the Pacific.

Looking ahead, growth of 3% to 4% is predicted for 2020, an outlook reflected in the latest UNWTO Confidence Index which shows a cautious optimism: 47% of participants believe tourism will perform better and 43% at the same level of 2019. Major sporting events, including the Tokyo Olympics, and cultural events such as Expo 2020 Dubai are expected to have a positive impact on the sector.

Responsible growth

Presenting the results, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stressed that “in these times of uncertainty and volatility, tourism remains a reliable economic sector”. Against the backdrop of recently downgraded global economic perspectives, international trade tensions, social unrest and geopolitical uncertainty, “our sector keeps outpacing the world economy and calling upon us to not only grow but to grow better”, he added.

Given tourism’s position as a top export sector and creator of employment, UNWTO advocates the need for responsible growth. Tourism has, therefore, a place at the heart of global development policies, and the opportunity to gain further political recognition and make a real impact as the Decade of Action gets underway, leaving just ten years to fulfill the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The Middle East leads

The Middle East has emerged as the fastest-growing region for international tourism arrivals in 2019, growing at almost double the global average (+8%). Growth in Asia and the Pacific slowed down but still showed above-average growth, with international arrivals up 5%.

Europe where growth was also slower than in previous years (+4%) continues to lead in terms of international arrivals numbers, welcoming 743 million international tourists last year (51% of the global market). The Americas (+2%) showed a mixed picture as many island destinations in the Caribbean consolidated their recovery after the 2017 hurricanes while arrivals fell in South America due partly to ongoing social and political turmoil. Limited data available for Africa (+4%) points to continued strong results in North Africa (+9%) while arrivals in Sub-Saharan Africa grew slower in 2019 (+1.5%).

Tourism spending still strong

Against a backdrop of global economic slowdown, tourism spending continued to grow, most notably among the world’s top ten spenders. France reported the strongest increase in international tourism expenditure among the world’s top ten outbound markets (+11%), while the United States (+6%) led growth in absolute terms, aided by a strong dollar.

However, some large emerging markets such as Brazil and Saudi Arabia reported declines in tourism spending. China, the world’s top source market saw outbound trips increase by 14% in the first half of 2019, though expenditure fell 4%.

Tourism delivering ‘much-needed opportunities’

“The number of destinations earning US$1 billion or more from international tourism has almost doubled since 1998,” adds Mr Pololikashvili. “The challenge we face is to make sure the benefits are shared as widely as possible and that nobody is left behind. In 2020, UNWTO celebrates the Year of Tourism and Rural Development, and we hope to see our sector lead positive change in rural communities, creating jobs and opportunities, driving economic growth and preserving culture.”

This latest evidence of the strength and resilience of the tourism sector comes as the UN celebrates its 75th anniversary. During 2020, through the UN75 initiative the UN is carrying out the largest, most inclusive conversation on the role of global cooperation in building a better future for all, with tourism to be high on the agenda.

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 21, 2020 (travelindex.com) – Mongolia, one of the main partners of this year’s Asia Destination Film Forum (DFF 2020), which will take place in Bangkok on 30 January 2020, is showcasing the natural beauty of their country by screening the award-winning film ‘The Steed’.  The film plays at the beginning of the 20^th century and tells the story of a boy and a horse whose extraordinary bond to each other and the land give them the courage to find each other after being cruelly separated. The epic story about family, love, and devotion showcases the vast beauty of Mongolia, its culture, and people.

Director and producer Mr. Erdenebileg Ganbold, who has produced many films that broke box office records in Mongolia and is the winner of three Mongolian Academy Awards for Best Director, Best Picture, and Best Producer will talk about the film and the importance of locations for film production at DFF 2020.

H.E. Mr. Tserenbat Namsrai, Mongolia’s Minister of Environment and Tourism, who is also on a panel at the forum, says that “Mongolia is a country swept in history and full of pure natural beauty. Films are the best way to show our country to audiences worldwide and make them aware of what Mongolia has to offer. We want to inspire travelers from Southeast Asia, to experience adventures, be part of our community, explore Mongolian culture, spirituality, and our many festivals.” With consistent growth in tourism arrivals in recent years, the country is developing its tourism infrastructure and experience with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity.

To bring Mongolia to Bangkok, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism of Mongolia will also host the Film Festival BBQ Party, which will include authentic traditional Mongolian food, cultural performances, and music.

Jens Thraenhart, founder of the Destination Film Forum says: “Mongolia, which is still one of these rather unknown destinations for many, is very smart in leveraging film and visual storytelling to inspire people from all over the world to experience an adventure of a lifetime.”

More information about the event and tickets are available on <a href="http://www.destinationfilmforum.com/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 21, 2020 (travelindex.com) – Preparations are being finalised for the prestigious 2020 Global Summit of Women (2020 GSW) that is scheduled to take place at the Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld in Bangkok, from 23 to 25 April, 2020.

The opening ceremony will be presided over by Thai Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha, who will also deliver the keynote speech. The opening ceremony is expected to be attended by key women ministers from several countries from around ASEAN, plus from as far away as Africa and South America.

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“We look forward to bringing a global gathering of women to Thailand, world-renowned for its beauty, but not yet as well-known for its dynamic economy, where many women lead enterprises of all sizes,” Ms. Irene Natividad, President of the Global Summit of Women said. “That Thailand rank high in women’s economic participation, both regionally and globally, making it an ideal venue under the 2020 Summit theme: ‘Women: Revolutionise Economies’. This reflects women’s roles in raising national GDP globally, as they entering the workforce as managers and altering business models and practices now and in the future.”

Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, former Minister of Tourism and Sports and Chair of the Thai Host Committee, agreed. “We are confident that the 2020 GSW has made the right decision to host its 30th anniversary in Thailand, the country where Thai women play a pivotal role in creating and impacting development in all sectors – agricultural, community, industry, banking and finance, technology, transportation, energy, tourism and hospitality, as well as meetings and events. Thailand can be another notable case study and inspire global women leaders to move forward together, using their capabilities to help develop nations. More importantly, Thai women leaders will continue to move forward in developing a strong Thailand.”

Mrs. Srisuda Wanapinyosak, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, Middle East and Americas, Tourism Authority of Thailand, which supports the hosting of the 2020 GSW in Bangkok, said, “Thailand’s positive image as a preferred destination will be strengthened with the hosting of the 2020 GSW. The event will showcase the kingdom as a female-friendly destination, spotlighting TAT’s ongoing marketing activities for this particular tourist segment. Women not only have more purchasing power, but are often the primary decision-makers for destinations, length of stay and budgets.”

Mrs. Nichapa Yoswee, Senior Vice President – Business, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, said, “TCEB is pleased to support the hosting of the 2020 GSW in Bangkok and welcome over 1,000 female leaders from all over the world. The event, which is estimated to generate 80 million Baht revenue to the Thai economy, is in line with TCEB’s strategy to help drive the Thai economy through providing support to the hosting of global events in Thailand. We hope that delegates attending the 2020 GSW will realise the important role of Thai women leaders in developing the nation, as well as the capabilities of Thailand as a leading destination for international events.”

At the same time, the Thai host committee believes that the 2020 GSW will help Thai women leaders learn and enhance their strengths from other global women leaders while building and expanding personal networks based on a foundation of passion, understanding and friendship. All endeavours have been done to make this meeting a very special one to mark its 30th anniversary by placing focus on making it a ‘carbon neutral’ event with all participants from around the world having a hand in environmental conservation. The event will also invite local communities from around Thailand to present their products, thus creating new business opportunities for local communities to expand internationally.

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