Category: Latest Travel News

 

Bangkok, Thailand, November 8, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Nobu Bangkok has opened its doors in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant capital, becoming the world’s highest Nobu restaurant and marking the start of a new era of elevated Japanese gastronomy in Bangkok, one of the world’s great culinary cities.

Perched on the 57th and 58th floors and the rooftop of The Empire, this spectacular three-level haven of gastronomy will let discerning guests discover Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s world-renowned style of contemporary Japanese cuisine with a dash of tropical Peruvian inspiration. Spanning a series of elegant indoor and outdoor venues, including sake and sushi bars, private dining areas, and crowned with a rooftop bar on a helipad, this dazzling restaurant is not only a place to dine – it is a destination in its own right.

As soon as visitors step into Nobu Bangkok, they will be immersed in an oasis of style and elegance. The visionary design team at Rockwell Group have created original interiors that highlight three of Thailand’s ecosystems: Urban, with traditional tiered roofs and golden hues; Jungle, with deep emerald green marble and textured stone; and River, with meandering outdoor terraces, natural materials and sunset tones.

Within this dazzling, multi-dimensional dining and social venue, Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s original epicurean concept will be brought to life by the highly skilled Executive Chef Andrew Bozoki, who most recently delighted diners at Nobu Doha, and renowned Sushi Chef Masami Ouchi, who has previously showcased his skills with Nobu in Lima and Kuala Lumpur. These culinary maestros will now use fresh local produce and the finest imported ingredients to craft unparalleled Japanese cuisine with unique Peruvian influences. Every dish is sure to excite the palate and stimulate the senses, including sublime hot and cold plates, A5-grade Japanese wagyu beef, Nobu’s signature tacos, and crisp tempura, plus hand-cut sashimi, sushi and nigiri. Naturally, every meal can end on a sweet note with a choice of delectable desserts crafted by talented Pastry Chef Jackie Teo.

Nobu Bangkok’s creative cuisine can be paired with an extensive beverage selection, including premium sakes and the world’s finest spirits, such as Scotch whiskies, French cognacs and rare wines from around the globe. Revelers can also explore a menu of classic and contemporary cocktails in a spectacular rooftop bar with panoramic views of Bangkok’s sparkling cityscape.

A choice of exclusive private dining rooms (Mori, Machi, Kawa, and Sancho) set the stage for special occasions, including business dinners and intimate family gatherings. So, whether guests are seeking a stylish setting for lunch with family and colleagues, an exciting evening meal with loved ones, an unforgettable celebration, or an uplifting evening of sunset cocktails and social drinks with friends, Nobu Bangkok will elevate every occasion.

“We are delighted to unveil Nobu Bangkok, which introduces one of the world’s most iconic culinary names to one of the planet’s most famous foodie cities. Ever since Chef Nobu Matsuhisa launched his eponymous restaurant brand in the 1990s, Nobu has tantalized guests’ taste buds around the world with its unique style of Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. We look forward to introducing these innovative flavors to Bangkok’s discerning diners and international visitors in a truly breathtaking rooftop setting,” said Leila Shina, the restaurant’s General Manager.

Directly accessible via Chong Nonsi BTS skytrain station, Nobu Bangkok is open for dinner (17.30 – 01.00 hrs.). The rooftop bar is open from sunset until the early hours (17.30 – 01.00 hrs.).

For more information and reservations, please call +66 (0) 2 407 1654 or email
ea-reservations@marriotthotels.com or simply connect with us via these channels:

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Phetchaburi, Thailand, November 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in conjunction with Phetchaburi City, the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Dusit Thani Hua Hin, held a press conference on October 16 for the upcoming PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 (PDMF 2024) which will be organised from November 12 – 14, 2024.

Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi Province, Wanpen Mungsri, highlighted Phetchaburi’s strategic position to advance as a MICE city, establishing itself as a premier destination for international meetings. Hosting PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 provides a valuable opportunity to elevate the province’s profile and demonstrate its capability to host global conferences, positioning Thailand prominently on the international stage.

Phetchaburi boasts a diverse range of natural and cultural assets, from its majestic mountains to its stunning coastline. Notably, in 2021, UNESCO designated the Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex as a World Heritage Site, the sixth in Thailand. Additionally, Phetchaburi has been recognised as a City of Gastronomy under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).

The PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 aligns with Thailand’s 20-Year National Strategy (2018-2037), which focuses on enhancing the country’s competitiveness by positioning Thailand as a leading destination for business tourism. The forum promotes Thailand as a hub for international conferences and exhibitions, supporting the government’s “Ignite Thailand” initiative. This policy aims to establish Thailand as a global tourism hub by connecting major cities with emerging destinations, fostering seamless regional and international travel. The emphasis is on creating a welcoming environment, ensuring safety, and facilitating smooth travel experiences, while also developing cities into prominent tourism destinations and strengthening ASEAN’s position as a key travel destination for global visitors.

Deputy Governor Wanpen also noted that Phetchaburi is preparing for its MICE City certification in 2025. The success of the forum, she stated, relies heavily on collaboration across all sectors to drive tourism, raise awareness, and stimulate the local economy. These collective efforts aim to ensure that Thai tourism remains sustainable and inclusive, advancing towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while leaving no one behind.

Salanroj Sutaschuto, Chief Operating Officer organizational management and development, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, remarked that TCEB has been working closely with Phetchaburi Province since the bidding process for PDMF 2024. Following its selection as a co-host, preparations have been made in collaboration with various partners.

Salanroj expressed confidence that the forum will showcase Phetchaburi’s potential as a leading MICE destination in Thailand. He emphasised that MICE events are instrumental in stimulating the local economy, not only within the host province but also in surrounding areas. These events promote high-quality, sustainable tourism, thereby contributing to the sustainable growth of Thailand’s tourism industry. The forum also presents an opportunity to further solidify trust and confidence in Thailand as an important destination for global events.

In her remarks, Duangjai Koomsa-Ard, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office, reaffirmed TAT’s commitment to promoting high-potential tourist attractions and enhancing tourism activities that foster sustainable development. These efforts aim to make destinations appealing to both domestic and international markets. Phetchaburi, with its wealth of natural, historical, and cultural assets, has already gained global recognition. Its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy presents further opportunities to integrate wellness tourism into its offerings. By collaborating with local hotels and restaurants, the province can create distinctive tourism experiences that elevate Phetchaburi’s profile as a premier destination.

Watcharee Churagsa, Assistant to Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), stated that as an agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, DASTA is committed to developing community-based tourism models and has worked to position Phetchaburi as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Gastronomy. In collaboration with various parties, DASTA is organising creative community-based technical tours to enhance awareness and support tourism marketing efforts during PDMF 2024.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore three key tourism routes: (1) Sweet and Sour Tastes of Phetchaburi, (2) Artisans and Delicacies, and (3) Biodiversity at Traditional Salt Fields. These routes, developed with the support of the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) and other partners, are aimed at becoming carbon-neutral tourism experiences. Additionally, the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand will lead birdwatching activities, and students from Phetchaburi Rajabhat University will assist in guiding participants throughout the tours.

Pipat Patthananusorn, General Manager, Dusit Thani Hua Hin, expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in the hotel to host this year’s PATA Destination Marketing Forum. He emphasised that Dusit Thani Hua Hin is proud to contribute to elevating Phetchaburi as an international MICE destination. This aligns perfectly with the hotel’s vision, mission, and clear commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. Furthermore, the hotel is dedicated to enhancing awareness of the region’s readiness to drive economic growth and support Thailand’s broader economic development.

As the final speaker, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted PATA’s successful organisation of the PATA Destination Marketing Forum (PDMF) in Thailand, having held the event in Khon Kaen (2018), Pattaya (2019), and Songkhla (2022). Each forum has served as a valuable platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry professionals. PATA wishes to make PDMF a unique platform for destination marketers and tourism stakeholders to discuss strategies for promoting responsible tourism, particularly in helping secondary and tertiary destinations grow into world-class attractions.

This year’s forum, themed “Authentic Prosperous Journeys: Nurturing Culture, Culinary Delights, and Community Wisdom,” will explore how destinations can effectively leverage their cultural heritage, culinary strengths, and community-driven wisdom to create authentic travel experiences that drive long-term prosperity. PATA is committed to empowering destinations to grow responsibly, while preserving the integrity of their natural and cultural assets. Phetchaburi stands as an exemplary model of how secondary destinations can evolve into globally recognised tourism hubs without compromising their unique character.

PATA is proud to bring international attention to Phetchaburi’s community-based tourism initiatives and to highlight the potential of similar destinations throughout the region. The forum is expected to draw over 200 delegates from 22 destinations worldwide, offering local stakeholders valuable opportunities to engage with and learn from international experts.

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 include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth 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 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 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.

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Singapore, Singapore, October 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has renewed its partnership with OAG, reaffirming the company as the Association’s Preferred Partner and exclusive aviation data provider for a three-year term.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “I am delighted to announce the expansion of PATA’s strategic collaboration with OAG to a three-year partnership, underscoring a long-term commitment between our organisations. This extended collaboration will greatly benefit PATA members, providing them with essential aviation data to monitor flight capacity and identify emerging trends shaping the tourism industry. With OAG’s world-class aviation data, our members are well-equipped to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving landscape.”

As part of the renewed agreement, OAG’s Schedules Analyser—a cutting-edge platform with comprehensive OAG’s airline schedules database and analytic tools— is available through PATAmPOWER. This grants PATA members access to vital flight frequency and seating data for personal and internal business purposes, helping to optimise destination management, refine marketing strategies, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Mayur Patel, Head of Asia, OAG, remarked “We are excited to announce this strategic data partnership between OAG and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing data-driven insights for travel and tourism in Asia-Pacific. By combining OAG data and expertise with PATA’s in-depth regional knowledge, the partnership will empower stakeholders with actionable intelligence that will foster innovation and growth in the travel and tourism sectors.”

About OAG
OAG is the leading data platform for the global travel industry, powering the growth and innovation of the air travel ecosystem. It has the world’s largest network of flight information.

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 include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth 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 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 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.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today released its Annual Tourism Report 2024, showcasing the robust recovery of international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across the Asia Pacific region in 2023. The report reveals that tourism numbers rebounded significantly following the pandemic, with IVAs nearly doubling compared to 2022. As the travel industry moves into 2024, this upward trend continues, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the region’s tourism sector.
Key Findings: Significant Increase in IVAs for the Asia Pacific region

In 2023, international visitor arrivals reached 522 million across 47 Asia Pacific destinations, marking a 94.3% increase from the previous year. This remarkable resurgence marks the most substantial recovery for Asia Pacific tourism since the onset of the pandemic, with IVAs nearing pre-2019 levels. Among the top-performing destinations were China, which welcomed over 82 million visitors, accounting for 15.7% of the region’s total, and the USA, which saw over 66 million arrivals (12.7%).

Türkiye has emerged as one of the top tourist destinations, reaching pre-pandemic visitor numbers in 2022. For 2023, international arrivals increased by another 10.4%, thanks to Türkiye’s rich cultural appeal, strategic location between Europe and Asia, and continued investments in tourism infrastructure and safety. This growth was also supported by targeted policies such as visa simplifications and digital nomad visas, making Türkiye one of the top recovery markets alongside Thailand and Macao, China.
Emerging Trends and a Bright Outlook for 2024

The momentum continued into early 2024, with IVAs rising by 22% year-on-year, reaching nearly 262 million arrivals by mid-year. The majority of growth has been driven by Asia, which accounted for eight of the top 10 destinations by volume, including Hong Kong SAR, Japan, and Thailand. Hong Kong alone saw a 64.2% increase in visitor numbers compared to the same period in 2023.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted, “Tourism in Asia Pacific saw a major recovery in 2023, and this momentum is continuing into 2024. With over 261 million visitors recorded this year, the region is rebounding quickly, led by strong growth in destinations like China and Japan.”

Countries like Thailand demonstrated significant success with innovative travel policies, including temporary visa exemptions for visitors from key markets like China, Kazakhstan, and India.

Furthermore, in 2023, Thailand launched two parallel tourism campaigns: “Thai Tourism Year 2023” for domestic tourism and “Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters” for international visitors. Through collaborations with digital travel platforms, airlines, and personalised content, the Thailand Tourism Authority (TAT) used data analytics to segment markets and adapt promotions to visitor preferences.

The Thai Tourism Year 2023 campaign aimed to boost domestic tourism by promoting lesser-known destinations within Thailand, enhancing travel experiences in secondary cities, and emphasising eco-friendly and culturally immersive trips.

The Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters campaign targeted international markets with a focus on unique, themed experiences, including wellness, adventure, and luxury travel. The Digital Nomad program – a special visa initiative offering a 10-year visa for remote workers – appealed to long-term visitors drawn to cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, known for their affordable living costs and robust coworking facilities. Thailand’s Muslim-friendly travel sector also expanded through tailored, halal-certified services, supporting the country’s goal of becoming a top destination for Muslim tourists within the next five years. Additionally, with its scenic beaches and luxury resorts, Thailand saw a significant influx of Indian weddings and large gatherings in 2023, which boosted local industries such as catering, hospitality, and event planning.

These campaigns helped drive over 28 million international arrivals in 2023, representing a 154.4% year-on-year increase. Thailand’s success is further highlighted by its efficient handling of airport congestion and infrastructure improvements.

Similarly, Türkiye saw its tourism industry flourish, driven by strategic policies targeting Russian and European tourists. By focusing on popular destinations like Antalya and Istanbul, Türkiye attracted millions of high-spending visitors, contributing significantly to its economic growth.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

The report underscores that while growth remains strong, there are still challenges on the horizon. The reemergence of health risks, such as potential new SARS variants, and geopolitical tensions could affect the pace of recovery. However, the industry’s resilience, adaptability, and innovation offer a strong foundation for overcoming these hurdles.

As Mr. Hamid noted, “We must stay adaptable amid uncertainties. The global travel and tourism sector is stronger when we collaborate, ensuring our recovery is both swift and sustainable. Ultimately, tourism thrives when there is peace and respect for humanity.”

Conclusion: A New Era for Asia Pacific Tourism

The PATA Annual Tourism Report 2024 highlights the remarkable strides made in revitalising the travel sector across Asia Pacific. With continued recovery expected into 2024 and beyond, the region is poised to surpass pre-pandemic levels, ushering in a new era of responsible, resilient, and innovative tourism.

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 include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth 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 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 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.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 18, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson and Italasia proudly present the Zwiesel Glas Festive Collection, featuring an exclusive set of beautifully crafted wine glasses designed to elevate any celebration.

The JIM THOMPSON x ZWIESEL GLAS Festive Collection by ITALASIA embodies the rich heritage of three iconic brands, each recognized for their unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative design. Teaming up with Italasia, the Thai import specialist and distributor of Zwiesel Glas, Jim Thompson presents a selection of premium silk fabrics that adorn each decorative box in the collection, meticulously crafted to elevate any celebration, merging tradition, innovation, and elegance in a way that is both timeless and contemporary.

Zwiesel Glas has been manufacturing exquisite glass products for more than 150 years and is the world market leader for the upscale hotel and restaurant industry.

Nunnapat Verojanavat, Marketing Director of Jim Thompson, said, “For over 70 years, our journey has been one of constant evolution, preserving tradition while pushing the boundaries of design and craftsmanship to go beyond silk. This unique collaboration with Italasia to create the Zwiesel Glas Festive Collection is a true reflection of our ethos. The master craftmanship of the wine glasses presented in decorative Jim Thompson silk boxes makes each set a must for the connoisseur, and a highly desirable collector’s piece.”

The collection includes the Zwiesel Glas hybrid glasses, a composite of crafted handwork fused with state-of-the-art machine precision, blending tradition with modern techniques from this master glassmaker. Suitable for both red and white wines, these exquisite glasses are a testament to the versatility and timeless appeal of the collection. Jim Thompson and Zwiesel Glas logos are elegantly placed at the base of each glass, adding a touch of sophistication. The beautifully crafted ornamental boxes, decorated with the finest Jim Thompson fabrics and intricate design detail, make the collection a perfect gift for any wine connoisseur.

Fa Benedetti, Hospitality Director of Italasia, said, “The Jim Thompson and Italasia partnership represents the perfect union of creative artistry. The Zwiesel Glas Festive Collection delivers an experience that enhances the joy of gathering, celebrating, and sharing special moments together. The legacy of this unique collaboration can be enjoyed with each sip from this evocative collection.”

The exclusive collection includes 3 limited edition box sets:
– Box for 2 Set of Wine Glasses in Orange (11,850 THB inc. VAT) includes two hybrid glasses suitable for red and white wine.
– Box for 2 Set of Wine Glasses in Blue (11,850 THB inc. VAT), similar to the Orange set, this elegant blue version includes two hybrid glasses. Box for 4 Set of Wine Glasses, (12,750 THB inc. VAT) perfect for larger gatherings, extends to four hybrid glasses, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship that can be enjoyed to celebrate those big occasions in style.

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”.

Bangkok, Thailand, October 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / FLOW Restaurant invites you to a magical evening of celebration in honour of Loy Krathong 2024. Nestled along the picturesque Chao Phraya River, this one-of-a-kind experience offers guests the chance to enjoy breathtaking fireworks and an exquisite four-hour dinner buffet, blending the best of Thai and European cuisine.

Join us on Friday, 15 November 2024, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, at FLOW Restaurant on the lobby level, where you’ll be treated to an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests will indulge in a wide array of gourmet dishes, including Thai Wagyu Sirloin, Thai Chimichurri, BBQ Pork Ribs, Roasted Sea Bass, and Roasted Duck. The buffet also features premium sushi and sashimi, alongside Seafood on Ice, showcasing King Crab, blue crab, prawns, and a variety of shellfish, including local and international oysters. For cheese lovers, a curated selection of cheeses will be available, paired with delectable desserts served continuously throughout the evening.

Early Bird Special: Reserve by 10 November 2024 to enjoy a 20% discount on dining packages:

 Indoor Seating: THB 2,119 net (from THB 2,590 net)

Outdoor Seating: THB 2,950 per person

Children (6-11 years): THB 1,060 net

*Children under 6 year-old dine for free

Special offer: Free Krathong for couples to float along the river as part of the Loy Krathong tradition.

Don’t miss out on this spectacular evening of culture, cuisine, and celebration. Space is limited, so reserve your seat early!

Book now > bit.ly/LoyKrathong2024

 

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Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, October 29, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson Farm 2024: Isan Calling invites everyone to experience this once-a-year celebration across its sprawling 600-rai grounds, offering a complete immersion into Isan culture from December 7, 2024, to January 1, 2025, in Nakhon Ratchasima.

This year, Jim Thompson Farm presents “Isan Calling” as its theme, inviting visitors to reconnect with Isan roots and reunite after nearly a year apart. Transformed into an Isan Culture Oasis, the Farm promises an unforgettable celebration in a unique setting that captures the heart and soul of Isan. Through carefully curated highlights and activities, visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Isan ways of life, traditions, and cultural artistry – all woven together to tell the enchanting story of Isan heritage.

A highlight of this year’s festival is the collaboration with 19 renowned artists from Isan, Northern and Central Thailand, and beyond. They have turned the Farm into a large art space, mixing Isan’s unique identity with modern elements. Visitors can explore public art installations that beautifully showcase Isan culture throughout Jim Thompson Farm.

Visitors to Jim Thompson Farm can explore beautifully decorated zones filled with fun activities, all included with admission. Highlights of the experience include:

The Vibrant Flower Fields are a timeless favorite, captivating visitors with colorful displays of cosmos and native Isan flowers. Guests can enjoy the fresh air and snap beautiful photos at every corner.

“Art on Farm” brings together 19 renowned artists from Thailand and abroad, merging Isan heritage with modern expression. The farm turns into a sprawling canvas, celebrating Isan’s charm with nature-inspired art. Trees become living sculptures, and breathtaking installations fill the sky, making this an experience you can’t miss!

The Joyful Music Stage comes alive beside the rice fields from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, where celebrated Molam artists fill the laid-back farm setting with authentic Isan vibes. Featured performances include:

– December 20, 2024: Bo Dam Lam Sing and Wiang Na Naruemon
– December 21, 2024: Ku Khaen

“Lam Loke – The World of Molam” Exhibition takes visitors on a deep journey into the heart of Isan culture through its traditional music and performances, perfectly setting the stage for the live Molam concerts to follow.

Complementing this experience, the “Molam Bus Exhibition” features a historic 32-seat bus – once used to transport Jim Thompson’s textile workers – now transformed into a mobile gallery bus that has taken the artistry of Molam to many festivals and events across the country.

The “Rice is Life” Exhibition unveils the remarkable diversity of Thai rice, showcasing 50 unique varieties and traditional farming methods. On weekends, visitors can join Rice Tasting Workshops while daily features include explorations of the traditional rice mill, demonstrations of local processing techniques, and displays of innovative rice-based products. The journey extends to the vibrant rice fields, highlighted by an impressive 14-meter Rice Castle – a towering tribute to Isan’s life-giving grain.

The Jim Thompson Silk Pavilion reveals the allure of Thai silk heritage through an immersive journey of discovery. Here, visitors witness the complete lifecycle from silkworm to finished fabric, observe weaving demonstrations, and experience hands-on silk weaving guided by friendly local artisans.

The American-Isan Exhibition reveals a captivating blend of cultures from the Vietnam War era, highlighting the unexpected meeting of East and West. Through rare photographs and artifacts, visitors explore unique cultural exchanges, including heartwarming moments where American soldiers took part in traditional Isan merit-making ceremonies.

The Art Trail “Lan Siao Home” (“Friends’ Gathering Space”) weaves through cosmos fields, offering an imaginative adventure for families. Young visitors can interact with cartoon characters along the path while exploring, thinking, and creating. QR codes enhance the adventure, unlocking character stories through Sound Cloud and transforming art appreciation into a heartwarming family experience.

Isan Kitchen and Farm Store offers a delightful journey through flavors – from authentic Isan cuisine to creative fusion dishes – alongside exclusive Jim Thompson Farm products, Jim Thompson items, and special merchandise available only at the farm.

For over two decades, Jim Thompson Farm has stood as a cherished cultural destination eagerly anticipated at each year’s end. Through collaboration with local communities and artists, the Farm continues to bring Isan culture to life. Now, the Farm once again opens its doors with signature Isan warmth, offering a harmonious blend of stunning natural beauty, soul-stirring contemporary art, rich cultural traditions, and unforgettable creative experiences. This special journey, “Jim Thompson Farm 2024: Isan Calling,” welcomes visitors from December 7, 2024 – January 1, 2025.

Early Bird tickets are available through December 6, 2024
– Weekdays: Children & Seniors THB 90 | Adults THB 150
– Weekends: Children & Seniors THB 90 | Adults THB 200

About Jim Thompson Farm
Jim Thompson Farm, a tourist destination in Nakhon Ratchasima province, welcomes visitors annually during December through early January. The Farm was established with a deep recognition of sericulture’s importance – the cultivation of silkworms and mulberry trees – which provides a steady income for local farmers. Combining agricultural and cultural tourism, the Farm creates joyful and novel experiences for both visitors and its farming community. The visitor experience is further enriched through various activities and art exhibitions integrated throughout its grounds.

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Manchester, United Kingdom, November 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / ATPI, the leading travel management company, and Nomadic, a global short-term immigration provider for businesses and corporate travellers, have announced a new partnership to support the global energy sector with travel compliance and workforce planning. 

The collaboration will utilise the industry-leading knowledge and innovation of Nomadic to mobilise the energy sector’s workforce for global projects with greater ease. Backed by the world’s leading provider of immigration services Fragomen, Nomadic helps to process and corroborate visa applications for multinational and domestic corporations. 

ATPI will utilise Nomadic’s extensive insight and technology to streamline activity for workforces which require specialised visa permits to perform work in international regions. 

Recognizing a gap in the market, the two companies are committed to developing technology solutions that streamline international travel for the energy sector. This collaboration aims to provide workforces with the tools and support needed to maximize operational efficiency. 

As the preferred business travel services provider to ATPI, Nomadic helps individuals remain compliant with regional requirements via visa and passport services, and the notarising, procurement, and securing of essential records for immigration applications. 

Nomadic’s services will now be available to ATPI’s Energy and Marine clients in the UK, via the homepage of ATPI ‘s TravelHub – the all-in-one travel dashboard. 

ATPI’s General Manager Scotland, Zara Higgins commented: “Our new agreement with Nomadic is a natural progression to the excellence we deliver. Through our shared vision, we are – and have been – 100% committed to creating innovative solutions to support the Global Energy Sector. By integrating Nomadic’s proven immigration and visa services to strengthen our offering, we will have solutions available to help our clients navigate the ongoing complexities associated with travel in the energy sector. This is an exciting development for both companies, and we look forward to seeing the positive difference it will make.” 

Neil Thomson, Director at Nomadic, added: “Our agreement with ATPI is a new benchmark of smart collaboration and synergy. The chance to integrate our support into ATPI’s travel management systems will alleviate some of the challenges and inconveniences often faced by those who travel globally for work. By streamlining, and hopefully accelerating the process, we will take the burden off of individual operators and organisations, enabling them to focus on the efficiency and success of their energy activities.” 

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Tokyo, Japan, November 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / This holiday season, Palace Hotel Tokyo is presenting travelers with the opportunity to celebrate ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ in splendor and style, replete with artful Christmas cakes and a host of fine-dining experiences to choose from.

As one of the city’s most lauded hotels, Palace Hotel Tokyo is also one of the most elegant each festive season. This year, the centerpiece, 16-foot Christmas tree standing tall in the lobby moat-side will be decked out in red and gold baubles while elsewhere, installations inspired by snow-kissed treetops reflecting the golden hues of moon-lit nights bring a hint of the outdoors in.

Designed to bring a touch of home to a luxurious holiday getaway, ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ includes:

• One night’s accommodation in a choice of a Deluxe with Balcony or Grand Deluxe room
• Choice of breakfast in-room or at Grand Kitchen
• An assortment of home-made Christmas cookies presented in a limited-edition tin
• A 5.5-foot-tall, in-room Christmas tree decorated with lights and red and gold ornaments

Available for stays between December 20-25, rates for ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ start at JPY 183,000.^*

*Inclusive of consumption tax, excludes 15% service charge & accommodation tax of JPY 200 per person, per night

Additional festive touches on offer include Champagne or a beautiful Christmas bouquet in-room as well as a Gâteau aux Fraises resembling a snow-kissed flower and made with strawberries grown at a farm in Ibaraki prefecture especially chosen by the hotel’s pastry chef.

At Esterre, the hotel’s one-Michelin-starred contemporary French restaurant in partnership with DUCASSE Paris, a six-course Christmas dinner menu will feature lobster bisque, steamed ezo awabi (abalone) with barigoule-style vegetables, and beef tenderloin with truffled winter vegetables.

At Wadakura, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s signature Japanese restaurant, its exquisite winter kaiseki course menu will be all about crab – including Kobako hairy crab, crabmeat dumpling, sashimi with Matsuba crab, and grilled Taraba crab with crab cream croquette. At GO, the hotel’s popular teppanyaki grill, a Christmas menu featuring seared red bream, Zuwai crab and Matsusaka beef will be served up.

Those who enjoy European-style Christmas breads and cakes but expect to miss out on them while spending the holidays in Japan will be delighted to discover that the hotel’s pastry shop, Sweets & Deli, presents an array of home-baked stollen, kugelhopf, berawecka and panettone each December – including some with a uniquely Japanese twist.

In addition to classics – such as berawecka packed with nuts and liquor-soaked dried fruits, and panettone with orange peel and sultana raisins baked with home-made panettone yeast – there’s a bohnen stollen made with yuzu-flavored marzipan and kinako (soybean flour), a ruby stollen made with dried rambutan, cranberries and almonds, and a limited-edition praline stollen featuring fruits soaked in litchi liqueur. There’s also a kugelhopf de Noël baked with sweet chestnuts mixed into its moist matcha dough and finished with a raspberry chocolate glaze.

Located in the city’s upscale Marunouchi district, Palace Hotel Tokyo is situated a stone’s throw away from Marunouchi Naka Dori, the tree-lined boulevard that’s breathtakingly illuminated each winter season along the 1.2 kilometers that stretches from the hotel past the landmark Tokyo Station to Yurakucho, at the edge of Ginza.

About Palace Hotel Tokyo
As the anchor to a billion-dollar, mixed-use development which debuted in 2012 following a re-build entirely from the ground up, Palace Hotel Tokyo commands some of the city’s most exclusive real estate as well as incomparable views of the verdant Imperial Palace gardens and the surrounding skyline.

Located in the capital’s prestigious Marunouchi district, the property features 284 rooms & suites, an evian SPA, and 10 distinctive restaurants and bars – including an exquisite range of Japanese cuisines, fine dining Shanghainese & Cantonese at MICHELIN One-Star Amber Palace and contemporary French haute cuisine at MICHELIN One-Star Esterre in partnership with DUCASSE Paris.

As heir to a legacy going back more than half a century as one of Tokyo’s most iconic properties, the hotel remains firmly rooted in its commitment to offering Japanese hospitality at its finest. In addition to receiving a prestigious Three Keys from MICHELIN Guide, the multi-award-winning hotel has held Forbes Travel Guide’s coveted Five-Star status for nine consecutive years and achieved a Five-Star rating for its spa in 2024.

Drawing deeply from the country’s history, culture and art, Palace Hotel Tokyo continues to redefine luxury in Japan with sophistication and authenticity.

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Bangkok, October 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, the leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay® Hotels, has continued its impressive winning streak at the travel industry’s most illustrious award ceremonies, as it was honored with two titles in the Lifestyle + Travel Awards 2024.

At a stylish gala evening staged in Bangkok on October 25^th, 2024, Best Western Hotels & Resorts was named as the best “Mid-Range Hotels Brand” and WorldHotels was presented with the honorary “Influential Asia Pacific Hotel Collection” award.

The “Mid-Range Hotels Brand” award for Best Western, which was collected on stage by Rodney Simpson, BWH Hotels’ Managing Director, Operations – APAC, reflects the continued strength and success of this iconic midscale hotel brand, which has been delighting guests around the world for more than 75 years. Today, Best Western offers over 130 hotels and resorts across Asia Pacific with many more in the pipeline, covering a series of innovative and intuitive brands.

For WorldHotels, the “Influential Asia Pacific Hotel Collection” award reflects this industry-leading hotel company’s outstanding reputation in the region. The collection offers a selection of highly unique upscale and luxury properties under four distinct collections: WorldHotels Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Crafted, and WorldHotels Distinctive. This esteemed award was presented on stage to Olivier Berrivin, BWH Hotels’ Vice President – APAC.

Organized by Lifestyle + Travel magazine, one of Asia’s most popular consumer publications, the Lifestyle + Travel Awards 2024 celebrates the leading providers of tourism, hospitality and lifestyle services who consistently raise the bar for excellence.

“We are overjoyed to have won these two accolades in the Lifestyle + Travel Awards 2024. Best Western Hotels & Resorts continues to drive the midscale sector forward with its timeless combination of comfort, convenience and complete connectivity, while WorldHotels elevates every stay with its seamless blend of luxury, authenticity and individuality. I would like to thank Lifestyle + Travel magazine for these awards, and our entire team for their tireless commitment to creating exceptional guest experiences,” said  Olivier Berrivin.

These awards mark the latest honors for BWH Hotels, which recently received the “Best Midscale Hotel Chain” for Best Western Hotels & Resorts at the Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards, and the “Travel Hall of Fame” award in the TTG Travel Awards 2024.

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