Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok, January 10, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson unveils exclusive upcycled silk iPhone cases in collaboration with Revested Milano – a marriage of Thai tradition and Italian innovation. This pioneering alliance brings forth a sustainable premium line, showcasing the legacy of Thai silk-making and Italian design

Jim Thompson, the iconic global lifestyle brand from Asia renowned for its exquisite Thai silks and “Beyond Silk” offerings, announces a ground-breaking collaboration with Italian fashion innovator Revested Milano. This partnership celebrates the launch of a unique line of iPhone cases, each crafted from upcycled Jim Thompson fabrics, embodying both sustainability and unparalleled craftsmanship.

In a bold move aligned with its international expansion, Jim Thompson has forged a collaboration that reflects a shared ethos with Revested Milano; a bond with their respective territories, a dedication to reviving and enhancing craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality. This collaboration seamlessly blends Thai silk tradition with Italian design ingenuity, utilizing silk in unconventional ways while paying homage to artistic, interior, and fashion influences. Revested Milano is the first brand to produce iPhone accessories in fine Italian fabrics, setting a new standard in premium tech accessories.

“Through our collaboration with Revested Milano, we are not only creating a product that stands out for its design and quality but also makes a statement about the importance of sustainability in fashion. These iPhone cases represent the innovative spirit of both brands and our dedication to preserving the environment,” said Nunnapat Verojanavat, Marketing Director at Jim Thompson.

Each iPhone case is a testament to the brands’ shared values; they are distinctly individual, with the placement of fabric patterns varying on each piece, ensuring exclusivity for the discerning customer. Echoing the approach taken with the Jim Thompson X Panpuri collection packaging, these products represent a responsible choice for consumers.

These silk-covered iPhone cases are tailored for the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max (Magsafe; 3 cameras) models and are available in two exquisite patterns, each inspired by the beauty of elephants. The ‘Baby Elephant’ theme set against a classic navy backdrop, features charming baby elephant silhouettes depicted in a variety of delightful poses. The second pattern showcases a ‘Raised Trunk Elephant’ motif in a vibrant yellow, where the elephant motif is repeated to create an engaging pattern that seems to dance across the case. Both patterns are a celebration of these magnificent creatures, offering not just protection for your device but also a statement of style. The cases are lined with a soft grey microfiber to ensure protection.

Andrea Bianconi, the visionary behind Revested Milano, has long been driven by an enduring passion for fashion, style, and the high standards of Italian craftsmanship. With a minimalist philosophy, he cherishes quality over quantity and his innovative spirit is fuelled by cutting-edge technology. His creations are a homage to Italy’s historical expertise in textiles, drawing inspiration from the renowned wool of Biella and the celebrated silks of Como. It is this reverence for heritage and commitment to sustainable innovation that has shaped Revested Milano’s ethos. Speaking on the collaboration with Jim Thompson he said, “This is not just about fashion or accessories; it’s about legacy, sustainability, and the art of surprise. We are thrilled to bring together the best of our worlds – the finesse of Thai silk and the excellence of Italian craftsmanship.”

This latest offering from Jim Thompson, in collaboration with Revested Milano, is more than a product; it is a narrative of shared history, creativity, and forward-thinking vision. The iPhone cases are available now, providing a tangible piece of art for those who appreciate the confluence of tradition and modernity.

About Jim Thompson
No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an architect, art collector, socialite, and entrepreneur who is recognized as the driving force behind the revival of Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries. Today, Jim Thompson is the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand with a reputation for beautiful silks and “Beyond Silk”.

Madrid, Spain, January 16, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The recovery of the global tourism sector in 2023 and the good prospects for 2024 were the focus of the meeting held today between the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, Zurab Pololikashvili, and the Minister of Industry and Tourism of the Kingdom of Spain, Jordi Hereu.

During the meeting, the priorities of the sector for this year were also analyzed, identifying challenges shared by both entities, including, among others; innovation, education, as well as social and environmental sustainability. In short, tourism for development focused on people, the planet and prosperity.

At the meeting, the Spanish Minister also informed Secretary-General Pololikashvili of the progress of the construction of the future UNWTO headquarters, at the Palacio de Congresos y Exposiciones in Madrid. The new building, which will replace the headquarters that have homed UNWTO for 50 years, will have an exhibition hall and three floors that will house the offices and other services.

This meeting comes just days before FITUR, a major meeting point, especially for the Spanish and Latin American tourism sector. This year’s FITUR brings together representatives from 160 countries.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, January 15, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Vietjet has been once again listed in the world’s safest airlines for 2024, the global airline safety and product rating website. In making its annual evaluation, AirlineRatings monitored 385 global airlines by considering the airlines’ incident records in recent years, fleet age, results of audits conducted by the governing body of aviation, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and other aviation authorities. Vietjet and other notable low-cost peers in the world have been honored in the top 10 for many consecutive years, rewarding their excellent performances in flight safety for flight crew and passengers.

AirlineRatings, Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas said: “Vietjet’s dedication to maintaining a culture of safety across all aspects of operations is commendable, especially when it is actively expanding the flight network. The implementation of robust safety management system and strict compliance with international regulations have contributed to the airline’s excellent technical reliability indicators. This, in turn, ensures the highest level of safety for their operations in many years.”

AirlineRatings also rates Vietjet at seven-star level, the highest ranking for aviation safety in the world for many consecutive years since 2018.

Vietjet has continously added new aircraft to its modern and fuel-efficient fleet, with technical reliability at 99.72% among top operators in the region and the world. The airline is constantly investing into training, aircraft engineering and MRO services to ensure the highest standard in terms of safety and quality. In recent moves, Vietjet Aviation Academy (VJAA) has officially become a training partner of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to ensure high quality aviation workforce. In addition, Vietjet and Lao Airlines have joined forces to operate an aircraft maintenance center at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, Laos. This collaboration enhances the airline’s proactive approach to aircraft maintenance management.

AirlineRatings rates the safety, in-flight product, and has been used by millions of passengers from 195 countries and has become the industry standard for safety, product rating.

About Vietjet
The new-age carrier Vietjet has not only revolutionized the aviation industry in Vietnam but also been a pioneering airline across the region and around the world. With a focus on cost management ability, effective operations and performance, Vietjet offers flying opportunities with cost-saving and flexible fares as well as diversified services to meet customers’ demands.

Vietjet is a fully-fledged member of International Air Transport Association (IATA) with the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certificate. As Vietnam’s largest private carrier, the airline was awarded the highest ranking for safety with 7 stars in 2018 and 2019 by the world’s only safety and product rating website airlineratings.com and listed as one of the world’s 50 best airlines for healthy financing and operations by Airfinance Journal in 2018 and 2019. The airline has also been named as Best Low-Cost Carrier by renowned organizations such as Skytrax, CAPA, Airline Ratings, and many others.

Geneva, Switzerland, January 12, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Architect and educator Diébédo Francis Kéré, Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme and Oscar-winning actor Michelle Yeoh, and producer, guitarist, composer and humanitarian Nile Rodgers are the recipients of the 30th annual Crystal Award, the World Economic Forum announced today.

The winners will be honoured at the opening session of the Forum’s Annual Meeting 2024 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, on the evening of Monday, 15 January. The award celebrates the achievements of leading artists who are bridge-builders and role models for all leaders of society.

The Crystal Award is presented at Davos each year by Hilde Schwab, Chairwoman and Co-Founder of the World Economic Forum’s World Arts Forum. The cultural leaders receiving the 2024 Crystal Award were chosen for their ability to connect us to each other, help us reflect on the human condition and provide visions of the world that can cut through the limitations of short-term or linear thinking.

Diébédo Francis Kéré
Kéré receives the 2024 Crystal Award for his exemplary leadership in providing the Gando community with the means to create a socially, economically and ecologically sustainable future through projects that focus on education, health and the environment.

Kéré is a native of Burkina Faso and studied at the Technical University of Berlin. Parallel to his studies, he established the Kéré Foundation to support the development of his home village. In 2005, he opened the architectural office Kéré Architecture. His architectural practice has received national and international recognition, including the Pritzker Prize (2022), the Praemium Imperiale (2023) and the Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2004), awarded for his first building, the Gando Primary School in Burkina Faso.

Kéré has developed innovative construction strategies that combine traditional building techniques and materials with modern methods. His use of local materials, local knowledge and local technologies creates holistic and sustainable design solutions. He is currently working on the Benin National Assembly, the Goethe-Institut Senegal in Dakar and a mausoleum for Burkinabè revolutionary Thomas Sankara in Ouagadougou. He has held professorships at the Harvard Graduate School of Design and the Swiss Accademia di Architettura di Mendrisio. Since 2017, he is professor at TU Munich and Yale University (2019).

“I have witnessed the power of architecture as a tool for social transformation, from laying the bricks for a school building in my native Gando, to designing a new national parliament for Benin,” he said. “Regardless of wealth, we must be conscious of our environmental impact and strive to bring comfort and a sustainable future to all.”

Michelle Yeoh
For over four decades, Yeoh has built an iconic career that has made her one of the most prominent Asian actors in Hollywood. In 2023, she made history becoming the first actor of Asian descent to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. She has starred in over 60 films, including the James Bond Tomorrow Never Dies; Oscar-winning Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Memoirs of a Geisha; Sunshine; The Lady; Crazy Rich Asians; Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings; and sci-fi franchise TV series Star Trek: Discovery. Through her work, she has challenged the traditional views of Asian women by creating strong female roles.

Appointed in 2016 as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for the Sustainable Development Goals, Yeoh is committed to raising awareness and mobilizing support for the SDGs, sustainable fashion and disaster-preparedness. In addition, she is a strong advocate for road safety and has recently participated in a UN campaign #StreetsForLife with JCDecaux to raise awareness in response to the global road safety crisis.

Yeoh has visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China to help launch the Pandas for the Global Goals campaign and has collaborated with National Geographic to produce the documentary, Among the Great Apes with Michelle Yeoh, while emphasizing the importance of responsible consumerism and ethical business practices. Her appointment as a member of the International Olympic Committee in October 2023 has given her the power to promote global understanding and goodwill through sports.

“Our true identity as human beings lies not in our differences but in our collective ability to embrace and include every individual, regardless of their background or beliefs,” she said. “It is through this acceptance and unity that we uncover the essence of our shared humanity.”

Nile Rodgers
Nile Rodgers receives the 2024 Crystal Award for his extraordinary efforts to make the world a more peaceful, equal and inclusive place through his music, his exemplary commitment to fighting systemic racism, inequality and injustice, and by championing innovative youth voices to decision-making tables.

Rodgers is a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement winner, Apple Music Producer-in-Residence, Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman, and Hipgnosis Songs Co-Founder. With CHIC, Rodgers pioneered a musical language with hits like “Le Freak” and sparked hip-hop with “Good Times” and “Rapper’s Delight”. His work in The CHIC Organization – including Sister Sledge (“We Are Family”) Diana Ross (“I’m Coming Out”), David Bowie (“Let’s Dance”) and Madonna (“Like a Virgin”) – has led to sales of 500+ million albums, while his Grammy Award-winning collaborations with Daft Punk (“Random Access Memories”) and Beyoncé (“Renaissance”) are at the vanguard of contemporary hits.

Rodgers’s activism began as a teen Black Panther in New York. He participated in Live Aid in 1985 and the Concert for Ukraine in 2023. After 9/11, he co-founded the We Are Family Foundation, promoting cultural diversity while empowering young people to change the world.

“My parents socialized me to care about people and give to others though we were ourselves financially poor,” he said. “When music gave me the opportunity to reach hearts the world over, I realized I’d been given a priceless gift. When I give that gift to others, I get back more than the wealthiest person on earth.”

Phuket, Thailand, January 9, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Having retired following 25 years with Banyan Tree Holdings, Ravi Chandran has never been busier. It is not exactly what was planned by the affable former chief executive of Laguna Phuket. But the explosion of growth post-Covid in the hospitality and real estate sectors combined with a savvy business reputation has had his phone ringing off the hook. So, what is he up to these days?

Your name seems to be popping up a lot again these days?

I have always been keen to make a positive contribution to society. This is really what drives me. My father, Cpt. Chandran MBE OBE was a passionate campaigner for social housing who spent his life trying to help those in need. Before he passed away, he set up the Chandran Foundation, which was his way of giving back and making a difference to people’s lives. Now led by my sister, Chitra, the foundation focuses on the welfare of young people in areas of education, nutrition and family. I have been a Special Project Manager for the Chandran Foundation for the last 15 months, and this has been a very rewarding and fulfilling time in my life.

So why did you step down after 25 years with Banyan Tree Holdings?

I loved my time with Banyan Tree Holdings and it was an honour to work directly with founder KP Ho. But after 25 years and Covid I just wanted to slow down a little and move away from the day-to-day. I enjoyed wonderful years with Banyan Tree and Laguna – and though the last two to three years were tough I am proud that we were central to supporting the “Phuket Sandbox” initiative and helping restart Thailand’s tourism industry upon which so many people depend.

After leading Asia’s top integrated resort destination how were you able to relax?

It was a strange experience to start with. After 25 years, I was not used to not working. But I tried to focus the things I never previously had time for. For six months I travelled, exercised and ate well. I am fortunate to live in Phuket, so I took long early morning walks every day, which helped to refocus. I thought I might be bored, but actually I wasn’t – I enjoyed this time immensely and had plenty to keep me busy. Most importantly, I was able to spend time with Waticha Chandran (Chon), my wife, as well as with my cats!

So how and why did you start working again?

Over the years I have been fortunately to make many good friends and it was through this that out of the blue came Urasaya Beachfront Residences, an eco-sensitive project at Sichon Beach in Nakhorn Si Thammarat province. A friend in the music business told me he was planning to develop a collection of high-end beachfront pool villas at Sichon Beach, a stunning sandy strip voted by Lonely Planet last year as one of Thailand’s best. Yet no one knows about it. The project is aimed at people who love Thailand, but want an escape from the main tourist areas. He invited me to visit, and I was sold. Sichon has so much potential; it feels like Thailand 30 years ago – peaceful, authentic, natural. Crucially, the development has coincided with the opening of a new international terminal at Nakhorn Si Thammarat Airport, which paves the way for an exciting new era of sustainable tourism in the province.

How about Phuket where you live?

Again, things have opened up as a result of friends and family. My wife knows the owners of Amora Hotels & Resorts, a family-run hotel group which operates six properties: three in Thailand and three in Australia. The young owner Earp Siriphatrawan contacted me for some help. We spoke and I quickly realised they share my own values; they value people and invest in their team members, many of whom have been with the group for decades. I have agreed to help them move from a traditional legacy hotel group to a modern hospitality company, with plans for expansion both in Thailand and Australia. This February will be the grand opening of Amora Beach Resort Phuket following a THB 500 million investment.

I hear you are also working in real estate – advising on a large 73 rai destination-wellness concept

That’s correct. I was contacted by a former colleague who asked me for some help. Gardens of Eden is an interesting project, a nature-inspired concept that blends wellness, luxury and sustainability. Located on Bangtao Beach, 70% of the total area will be retained as green space, setting a new benchmark for large-scale developments on the island. It is a project that will have a positive impact on Phuket.

So, what’s next?

I am happy enjoying what I’m doing at the moment, having the ability to pick and choose which projects to get involved with that are geared to making positive change. Plus of course enjoying family time.

Macau, Macao SAR, January 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Wynn is starting the New Year by inviting an incredible line-up of five culinary artists for the “Celebrity Chef Pop-Up Kitchen at Wynn Macau” and Four-hand Collaboration dinners in January. 2020 MasterChef UK Finalist Sandy Tang will be the first to proudly present her own culinary heritage of Macau with British flair; Executive Head Chef Nilas Corneliussen of Villa Frantzén will showcase his native Nordic dishes with a Thai twist; and Head Chef Wang Xiaofeng of Guan Yan Liu Jin in Hangzhou will craft delicacies from his hometown of Chaoshan. Two resident chefs at Wynn Palace and Wynn Macau will also partner with two guest chefs to host Four-hand Collaboration dinners. Executive Chef Helder Sequeira Amaral of the Forbes Five- Star SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace will partner with Chef-owner Eric Räty of the 2-MICHELIN- star Arbor, while Executive Chef Hironori Maeda of the 2-MICHELIN-star Mizumi at Wynn Macau will work with Executive Chef Mitsuru Konishi of the MICHELIN-starred ZEST by Konishi. These high quality, monthly dining events at Wynn aim to bring exceptional culinary talent to Macau, continue raising the bar in gastronomy and promote Macau as a “Creative City of Gastronomy”.

At the age of 24, Chef Sandy Tang entered the 2020 MasterChef UK competition just to see how far she could go, and she made it all the way to the finals! Originally from Macau, she moved to the UK when she was just 13 and grew up surrounded by a unique fusion of cultures. Having spent half her life in Asia and half in the UK, she embraces the ideas and techniques of both East and West when working in the kitchen, producing innovative fusion concepts that are still grounded in tradition. From January 4 to 6, Chef Tang will create a variety of special delicacies at Wynn Macau including: Salted Cod and Scallop served with Tomato Consommé Granita and Grouper Broth, a Lotus Pastry filled with Hawthorn Berries Paste served with 24 Herbs Ice Cream and Crumble, and much more.

Originally from Sweden, Executive Head Chef Nilas Corneliussen of Villa Frantzén in Bangkok has always been fascinated by Thailand. He initially pursued Thai boxing before discovering his true

calling in culinary. He worked his way up from all sections of Stockholm’s trattoria to the MICHELIN- starred Esperanto, while simultaneously winning silver for the Swedish team in the Bocuse d’Or finals, not just once, but twice! Geeky about Thai cooking and fluent in Thai, Chef Nilas seamlessly blends the Frantzén Nordics, pan-Asian influences and Siam flavors, and elevates them to an entirely new level. From January 12 to 14, he will showcase his creative culinary talents at Wynn Macau through these innovative dishes: Oyster 63.4C with gooseberries and Kavring bread; Scallop and caviar; Cured Norwegian salmon and beer poached king crab and more.

Portuguese native Chef Helder Sequeira Amaral has worked for many renowned restaurants in his home of Portugal and many other countries before moving to Macau more than a decade ago. Chef Helder has successfully attained the Forbes Five-Star award for SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace, where he will join Chef-owner Eric Räty from the 2-MICHELIN-star Arbor, in a four-hand dinner collaboration from January 18 to 20. Chef Eric honed his skills in culinary while in Europe working for the 2-MICHELIN-star Chez Dominique and the 3-MICHELIN-star Restaurant Aqua at The Ritz- Carlton, Wolfsburg. Craving for new challenges, he headed to Hong Kong. Now, as chef-owner at Arbor, Chef Eric uses his extraordinary talent to create refined Nordic-Japanese cuisine. During their time together in Macau, Chef Helder and Chef Eric will combine their culinary skills to prepare American classic steaks and Nordic-Japanese dishes such as: Bresse Chicken Ravioli, Japanese Wagyu Cross Breed B3, and more at SW Steakhouse.

Originally from Chaoshan, Head Chef Wang Xiaofeng is now at the helm of Guan Yan Liu Jin. Throughout his culinary career, he has worked alongside and trained under many famous chefs, gaining a deep understanding and true appreciation for the authentic flavors of Chaozhou cuisine. At Guan Yan Liu Jin, he selects just the right Chaozhou ingredients and prepares them with the traditional and extremely meticulous cooking techniques of Chaoshan. He prepares each one of his dishes with such perfection, his refined delicacies at Guan Yan Liu Jin have garnered a mention in the inaugural edition of The MICHELIN Guide Hangzhou in 2023. During his time at Wynn Macau from January 19 to 21, he will introduce the gastronomy of his hometown, by capturing the original flavors, colors, and aromas of Chaoshan cuisine.

For dining reservations and enquiries at Wynn Macau, please call: (853) 8986 3663.

About Wynn Macau
Wynn Macau is a luxury hotel and casino resort in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China with two iconic towers featuring a total of 1,010 spacious rooms and suites, approximately 294,000 square feet of casino space, over 64,300 square feet of retail space, 14 food and beverage outlets, two spas, a salon and a pool. The resort proudly boasts three distinct entertainment experiences, including Macau’s only choreographed Performance Lake, blending lofty plumes of water, gracefully choreographed music from Broadway tunes to renowned Chinese songs, powerful LED lights and fire effects.

Wynn Macau is operated by international resort developer Wynn Resort s , recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. Wynn Macau continues to hold the distinct honor of being the only resort in the world with 8 Forbes Five-Star Awards for seven consecutive years. Wynn Macau opened on September 6, 2006 and its second tower – Encore opened on April 21, 2010.

About Wynn Palace
Wynn Palace is the second luxury integrated resort from international resort developer Wynn Resorts in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, following the launch of Wynn Macau. Located in the Cotai area, it features a 28-storey hotel with 1,706 exquisitely furnished rooms, suites and villas, versatile meeting facilities, approximately 107,000 square feet of renowned luxury retail, 14 food and beverage outlets, Macau’s largest spa, a salon, a pool and approximately 468,000 square feet of casino space. The resort also features a variety of entertainment experiences, including the dazzling 8-acre Performance Lake that mesmerizes guests with a choreographed display of water, music and light, the unique SkyCab, spectacular, large-scale floral displays and an extensive collection of art works by some of the world’s leading artists.

Wynn Resorts is the recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. Wynn Palace is the first and only resort in the world with more than one thousand rooms to receive Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards. Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

Pak Thong Chai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, January 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / As the crisp breeze of winter envelops Thailand, Jim Thompson Farm extends a warm invitation to everyone to partake in the excitement of the annual Jim Thompson Farm Tour Marking nearly two decades of tradition, the ‘A Love Letter To You’ tour, scheduled during the winter season, promises a captivating exploration of nature and an immersive experience into the roots of local Isan culture. This year, the farm tour is opened for public from December 9, 2023, to January 2, 2024.

This year’s event, themed ‘A Love Letter To You’ draws inspiration from the poignant song composed by Ajin Panchapak and beautifully sung by Manee Maneewan in 1967. The song, often overlooked in history, captures the essence of Isan during the Cold War era, reflecting nostalgia and shared emotions among the Isan people. Aligning with Jim Thompson Farm’s mission, the event aims to provide an authentic travel experience reminiscent of ‘Isan locals,’ fostering a unique identity that resonates with pride of the local people.

Visitors to the event will be treated to the picturesque landscapes of Jim Thompson Farm, offering opportunities to capture the beauty of flower fields, rice fields, Isan village, and iconic landmarks. Beyond the scenic views, attendees can engage in a myriad of activities and exhibitions showcasing diverse facets of Isan identity, encompassing history, lifestyle, entertainment media, and cultural beliefs.

All activity details for ‘Jim Thompson Farm 2023 A Love Letter To You’ are as follows:

1. Lam Loke, The World of Molam Exhibition: Embark on a journey to Isan and be captivated by Mor Lam stories that promise to enhance your appreciation for this unique musical genre. Visit this exhibition to delve into the rich history and stories that make Mor Lam truly enjoyable.

2. American-Isan Exhibition: Explore the connection between Isan and the Western Culture through this exhibition. From historical images to the roots of Isan’s way of life, this exhibit invites visitors to understand the cultural fusion between Isan and Western influences.

3. Monmhai Mulberry Silk Exhibition: Uncover the sericulture life cycle and witness demonstrations of local silk weaving methods. Engage in a hands-on workshop to learn the art of silk-making using traditional wisdom—an ideal experience for craft enthusiasts.

4. Rice is Life Exhibition: Immerse yourself in the diverse world of Thai rice varieties. Experience the heart-to-heart journey from rice production to consumption, exploring creative possibilities in turning rice into various products. Discover that rice is not just a staple for Isaan people but a way of life passed down through generations.

5. Workshop Activities: Immerse yourself in Isan culture through complimentary educational workshops at Jim Thompson Farm. Choose from activities such as silk threading, silk weaving, traditional Isan dessert making, ceramic sculpture, and various art activities within the farm.

6. Talk Activities: Beyond exhibits, Jim Thompson Farm hosts insightful talks. Listen to speakers share in-depth stories about the Isan way of life, covering topics like rice cultivation, Northeastern-American memories, rituals, and more.

7. Music Stage: Conclude your day with soothing music amid the natural surroundings of Jim Thompson Farm. Choose between two stages: ‘American Isan Stage’ featuring folk and country bands like The Hopper, SUNDER, Hang Over, and Aod Ban Chang, or ‘Molam Music’ (8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) showcasing contemporary Mor Lam artists, including Isan Fusion, Tontrakul Kaew Yong x Narisara Sakpunjachot, Rasmee I-San Soul, and All-Thidsa Molam Band x Aof Surapol.

8. Restaurants and Souvenirs: Indulge in a variety of delicious menus, including Isan and comfort food, at selected restaurants within Jim Thompson Farm. Explore unique souvenirs and products from the farm, featuring special prices on items from Jim Thompson. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for exclusive souvenirs at Farm Jim as you bid farewell to the year.

Jim Thompson Farm promises not only a delightful retreat amid the cold breeze but also an opportunity to create lasting memories and foster a deeper understanding of the vibrant Isan way of life. Come explore, capture, and embrace the cultural richness that defines the unique identity of the Isaan people.

About Jim Thompson Farm
Jim Thompson Farm is a tourist destination located in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, operating annually from December to early January. Recognizing the significance of mulberry cultivation and sericulture in sustaining farmers’ livelihoods, we focus on fostering regular income for agricultural practitioners. Our commitment extends to promoting agricultural and cultural tourism, offering delightful experiences for both visitors and local farmers.

We strive to enhance the joy and novelty of travel by orchestrating diverse activities and art exhibitions within the region. Through these initiatives, Jim Thompson Farm aims to not only entertain tourists but also contribute to the prosperity of local communities. Our dedication to creating happiness is evident in every aspect of the farm experience, ensuring a memorable journey for all who visit and supporting the sustainable development of agriculture in the region.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, January 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has continued to scale up its support for its Members across the Americas, with plans for a first Regional Office for the region advanced during an official visit to Brazil.

Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili led the UNWTO delegation to Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia (13-17 December), recognizing Brazil’s strong support and commitment to tourism for development. In Brazil, Secretary-General Pololikashvili enjoyed bilateral meetings with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and with the country’s Minister of Tourism Celso Sabino.

First UNWTO Office for the Americas

At the 25th UNWTO General Assembly (Samarkand, Uzbekistan, 16-20 October), Member States voted to establish a first Regional Office for the Americas in Rio de Janeiro. The office will further enhance UNWTO’s global presence on the ground, adding to a Regional Office for the Middle East in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a Regional Office in Nara, Japan, and its headquarters in Madrid, Spain.

The UNWTO Regional Office for the Americas will help guide tourism development not only in Brazil but across the whole region

• Secretary-General Pololikashvili joined Minister of Tourism Celso Sabino and other high-level delegates to visit the location and oversee the first plans for the Regional Office.
• Building on the plans set out at the General Assembly, UNWTO and the Government of Brazil hosted a special ceremony to celebration the official agreement for the Regional Office.
• The start of the project has been heralded as a major opportunity to enhance Brazil’s status as a tourism leader for the Americas as well as one of the leading global destinations.
• The Regional Office for the Americas will focus on strengthening the promotion of investments. One of the first key outputs will be guidelines aimed at boosting green investments, recognizing the importance of biodiversity for tourism in the Americas. The Rio office will also develop a strategy around technical training for youth, allowing them to gain the professional skills they need to grow the sector throughout the region.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The UNWTO Regional Office for the Americas will help guide tourism development not only in Brazil but across the whole region. Rio de Janeiro will be a true hub of leadership and ideas, with a focus on growing and targeting investments into the sector and harnessing tourism’s power for sustainable and inclusive growth.”

UNWTO talks tourism with President Lula

Reflecting the recognition of UNWTO’s mission at the very highest political level in Brazil, Secretary-General Pololikashvili was warmly welcomed by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Their bilateral talks focused on shared priorities, including growing investments in tourism in both Brazil and across the region, and making the sector a driver of growth and opportunity.

In bilateral talks with Minister of Tourism Celso Sabino, UNWTO emphasized the enormous potential of tourism in the Americas…

Celebrating Tourism Excellence in Brazil

During the official visit, the UNWTO delegation joined in celebrations of the best tourism talent and leaders in Brazil. The National Tourism Awards ceremony (Brasilia, 16 December) recognized individuals and initiatives transforming the sector. UNWTO also joined the official opening of National Hall of Tourism.

London, United Kingdom, January 8, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Hotel Sustainability Basics is set to end if first year on a high with more than 1,300 hotels verified, across more than 30 countries from around the world.

The Hotel Sustainability Basics is an independent global sustainability verification programme, overseen by internationally recognised verifiers, Green Key and SGS.

The aim is for hotels around the world, regardless of their size, to follow a 12 step programme to reduce carbon emissions, protect and promote nature, and ensure local communities benefit from the hotel.

It is achievable for all hotels to implement as a bare minimum, and crucially, they serve as a stepping-stone to more complex sustainability schemes.

In its first year, Hotel Sustainability Basics has been endorsed by destinations around the world such as the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, Abu Dhabi, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador.

The ‘Basics’ has also been adopted by a number of major hotel brands around the world such as Jin Jiang, the world’s second biggest hotel group with more than 10,000 hotels, European hotel giant Louvre Hotel Group, and Radisson Hotel Group.

Other major brands which have signed up Hotel Sustainability Basics include adventure travel specialist Intrepid, British Airways Holidays, HBX Group, WebBeds, Biosphere, and Abercrombie & Kent.

Together, this underscores a global commitment to sustainable Travel & Tourism from across the hospitality industry, and the global tourism body expects thousands more hotels from all four corners of the globe will adopt Hotel Sustainability Basics next year.

Significantly, the recently announced partnership between WTTC, the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (SHA) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has cemented a clear pathway in the hospitality sustainability journey.

This collaboration will establish a structured framework from the Basics towards advanced global standards for hotel sustainability.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “Basics is a global programme to support hotels to cut emissions, support local communities and protect nature. Launched last year, it is the only independent scheme that gives hotels a helping hand to look at their environmental impact. The take up of Basics is going from strength to strength with whole countries committed to make real, lasting change.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains on strengthening these efforts, ensuring that every step we take brings us closer to a unified vision of sustainability in hospitality. Hotel Sustainability Basics has gone from strength to strength in its first year and we’re expecting thousands more properties to adopt the initiative throughout 2024.”

Satu Rouhiainen, Sustainability Manager, British Airways Holidays said: “Working closely together with our industry and value chain partners is paramount to British Airways Holidays. We are delighted to be supporting the Hotel Sustainability Basics, offering our hotel partners a fair and industry recognised criteria to start their sustainability journey.

“Not only does it give us visibility of the hotels’ progress, but it also provides our customers a way to search for hotels that are committed to progressing in sustainability.”

WTTC is committed to leading the charge in sustainable Travel & Tourism. Continuously fostering collaborations and setting new sustainability, the global tourism body global is committed to ensuring a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for the Travel & Tourism sector.

Madrid, Spain, January 2, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The 2022-2023 UNWTO Students’ League concluded with a celebration of young tourism talent. The Grand Final of the flagship event for supporting students in tourism bought together high School and undergraduate students from Switzerland and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Tourism for rural development challenge

The 2022-2023 Students’ League challenged students to create support rural development through tourism by creating Instagram accounts to promote a rural destination in their countries.

For this Grand Final, the jury panel was made up of national and international experts from UNWTO, Academia and private sector stakeholders. In making their decision, the expert jury judged elements such as innovation, and feasibility of the idea as well as their potential to contribute to the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The winning team in the High School category was Team Rose Brandis from Mješovita srednja škola Travnik in Bosnia & Herzegovina. In the Undergraduate category, the jury named Team VS-TIM, Visoka škola za turizam i menadžment Konjic from Bosnia & Herzegovina and Team SHL from Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern in  Switzerland as joint winners.

Journey to the final

After successfully passing through the initial phase on the National Final4 competitions in their countries during 2022 and 2023, three teams made it through to the Grand Final, Team Rose Brandis, representing Bosnia and Herzegovina – Team Rose Brandis from Mixed Secondary School Travnik and Team VS-TIM from Konjic College of Tourism and Management, and representing Switzerland – Team SHL from the Swiss Hotel Management School Lucerne.

For this first Grand Final, UNWTO counted on the partnership of the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Affiliate Member and part of the Affiliate Members Board. The Universidad Complutense de Madrid has been a true knowledge leader for almost 800 years and has a long and proud history of producing the best minds and developing the best young talent. The Ayuntamiento de Madrid also contributed by showing the teams the beauty and hidden gems of Madrid.

Youth empowerment for tourism’s future

The UNWTO Students League provides students with a platform that empowers and motivates them, by giving them real-time knowledge on our sector and experience by working on creating innovative and sustainable solutions for the challenges that the sector is facing. This initiative not only brings Tourism closer to younger generations but, by bringing together these young people with government officials, representatives of tourism industry, experts and other major stakeholders, it also bridges the gap between the realities of the sector and students’ education and training, enabling young people to enter the labour market in the future as highly qualified and skilled professionals.