Category: Latest Travel News

Male (Maldives) – December 19, 2018 (travelindex.com) – S Hotels & Resorts, a subsidiary Thailand’s Singha Estate PCL, will showcase the cultural charm and diversity of the Maldives as part of its most ambitious development to date and the first phase of the Crossroads Maldives integrated leisure and resort destination.

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Scheduled to open in summer 2019, this spectacular project will encompass three independent islands fringing the Emboodhoo Lagoon in the pristine South Malé Atoll, just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. Upon completion, Crossroads will offer two captivating hotels, SAii Lagoon Maldives and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, plus a wide range of facilities centred upon The Marina @Crossroads, an 11,000 square metre lifestyle, retail and dining destination.

Crossroads Maldives is aptly named and specifically master-planned as a global meeting place where travellers from around the world can experience authentic Maldivian culture from the past to the present. While many resorts focus solely on the country’s famous tropical scenery, Crossroads Maldives will also highlight its diverse cultural heritage.

The Maldives enjoys a unique geographical position in an historically significant area of the Indian Ocean. From being a stop-off point for trading ships between Europe, Africa and Asia, to its current status as a global tourism hotspot, the islands of the Maldives have always been a place where different cultures meet. Every nation and civilisation that has touched this isolated archipelago has left its influence, from Islamic traders to European voyagers. This melting pot, combined with local folklore and a unique, laidback way of life, creates the distinctive DNA of Crossroads Maldives and its resorts.

“The Maldives is a truly beautiful destination – a tropical island paradise where guests can fulfil their vacation dreams. But there is more to this enchanting country than just sun, sea and sand. The Maldives has a rich history that has been shaped by its unique maritime location at the crossroads of different cultures. The facilities that make up Phase One of Crossroads Maldives will encourage guests to delve deep into the diversity of the destination, whilst also embracing the country’s exquisite natural beauty,” commented Dirk de Cuyper, Chief Hospitality Officer, S Hotels & Resorts.

The architecture and design of Crossroads Maldives will also reflect the country’s historical influences and the developers will actively engage with local communities to create the win-win combination of authentic guest experiences and empowerment.

Central to this concept will be the Maldives Discovery Centre, a cultural attraction that will showcase Maldivian customs and cultures through interactive displays, video and hands on experiential adventures. The centre will also display and sell handcrafted products created by local people, women in particular. The overall aim is to create mutual and sustainable benefits for long-term prosperity of the entire area.

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Scheduled to open in June 2019, Crossroads Maldives will feature an array of world-class attractions. Hard Rock Hotel Maldives will feature 178 rooms, suites and villas, plus family-friendly experiences and Hard Rock’s branded concepts, including a Hard Rock Cafe®, Rock Spa® and a Rock Shop® selling merchandise and showcasing music memorabilia.

In addition, SAii Lagoon Maldives will offer an original and inspiring new resort concept featuring a range of distinctive rooms, beach villas and overwater villas, as well as extensive water sports, cultural activities, wellness and world-class dining. The resort will be part of the eclectic Curio Collection by Hilton®.

S Hotels & Resorts will play a key role in developing local talent in the hospitality sector, particularly through its two hotels. Overall, Crossroads Maldives will create approximately 1,000 jobs for local islanders, providing genuine benefits to the destination as a whole.

By showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage, engaging with local communities and preserving the pristine environment, Crossroads Maldives is weaving together the past, present and future of the Maldives and ensuring the sustainability of this captivating destination for generations to come.

About S Hotels & Resorts
S Hotels & Resorts, a subsidiary of Singha Estate Public Company Limited, is a new era Thai-inspired personalized hospitality brand that caters to upscale travelers with an independent spirit. The group offers guests a portfolio of 39 properties in 5 countries with a total of 4,647 keys and provides guests with the opportunity to experience the best destinations from a unique perspective while enjoying world class facilities and tailored services. S Hotels & Resorts’ properties are located in attractive, unspoiled locales to provide an exclusive playground built around nature, culture, wellness and adventure, with a generous helping of creature comforts and fine cuisine. Each property boasts its own distinctive, destination sensitive designs and unique signatures while also providing consistency thanks to a well-defined brand philosophy and a service culture that focuses on exceptional guest experiences backed up by Thai-inspired hospitality and global quality standards.

About Crossroads Maldives
Crossroads is the first and largest integrated tourist destination in the Maldives. The development will offer an extensive array of attractions for visitors, including Hard Rock Cafe; Café Del Mar, a 30-berth luxury marina; extensive retail, food and beverage outlets; a Maldives Discovery Centre supporting local arts and crafts, a Marine Discovery Centre, a multi-purpose event venue and a junior beach club.

Basel (Switzerland) – December 18, 2018 (travelindex.com) – From 2020, the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva (SIHH) and Baselworld in Basel, the two major events in the watch industry, will synchronise their calendars. In 2020, the SIHH will be held from 26 to 29 April in Geneva, followed immediately by Baselworld from 30 April to 5 May in Basel. The calendars have been synchronised until 2024.

The coinciding of these dates is good news for the whole industry. Until now, the SIHH took place in January, while Baselworld was held in March. This arrangement meant that the professionals, press, and clients shared by large watchmaking brands would have to travel to Switzerland twice in the space of just a few weeks. This calendar now coming closer together will be effective as of 2020 onwards.

Fabienne Lupo, President and Managing Director of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, which organises SIHH, stated: “Our two events have always been different, yet complementary. Resynching with Baselworld will further conf irm Switzerland as the foremost destination for watchmaking in the world. This is something we welcome wholeheartedly, as it is in the interests of all.”

“Baselworld and the SIHH are working for the industry and its clients. We have sought dialogue with t he SIHH and together have found a solution, which benefits visitors, the media, and the entire watchmaking industry enormously”, declared Michel Loris – Melikoff, Managing Director of Baselworld. “This partnership between the two most prominent exhibitions in the industry represents a major breakthrough for the future.”

A partnership that works for the industry
For visitors attending both events, and in particular those from other continents, these agreed dates will make their trips to Switzerland far easier. This important and essential breakthrough for the Swiss watchmaking industry is also welcomed by major players in the sector.

SIHH
Created in 1991, the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) focuses on Haute Horlogerie, and now welcomes 35 e xhibiting Maisons, 17 of which are part of the “Carré des Horlogers”. Over time, SIHH has become an unmissable platform for communication and a meeting place for the international watchmaking community: professionals, journalists, the media, collectors, en thusiasts and connoisseurs of fine watchmaking.

Baselworld
For over 100 years, Baselworld has been The World Watch and Jewellery Show. Amongst its exhibitors are Rolex, Patek Philippe, LVMH and Chopard, alongside exhibitors who are world leaders in the do mains of jewellery and precious stones, in addition to those of technical industries.

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 17, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Anantara Siam Bangkok is proud to present Carnival de Venice at Biscotti from 28 January – 11 February 2019. The festivities will unfold every evening with exquisite Italian food inspired by ingredients from Venice, the home of the Carnival.

The carnival is an annual cultural event in Venice, mostly known for the traditional masks worn throughout. This historic event starts in February each year with visitors from all over the world. This year you can celebrate at Anantara Siam Bangkok hotel, bringing an Italian tradition to Thailand.

Chef de Cuisine Andrea Buson at Biscotti will carefully prepare array of delectable dishes such as “Fritto Misto Alla Veneziana” – Venetian deep-fried mixed seafood, calamari, prawns, soft shell crab, fish fillet, vegetable sticks (THB 690++), “Spaghetti Alla Busera” – Traditional spaghetti with langoustine, tomato coulis, cherry tomato, parsley and chilli (THB 1,190++), and “Maialino Alle Mele” – Slow cooked Kurobuta pork belly, apple Sauce, Venetian style braised cabbage and sautéed turnip (THB 1,290++), naming but a few delicacies. (Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax).

Each evening, dinner will take place at Biscotti, 1st floor, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel (BTS Ratchadamri), open daily from 6.00 pm. – 10.30 pm. Add a fine Italian wine from our extensive cellar to enhance your carnival experience.

For more information or reservations, please contact biscotti.asia@anantara.com or call +66 (0) 2 126 8866 Ext. 1214 Website: www.siam-bangkok.anantara.com

Katowice (Poland) – December 14, 2018 (travelindex.com) – An SDG 17 Partnership, for Climate-Friendly Travel, was announced on 14th December at COP 24 in Katowice, Poland. The partnership between EXO Foundation who support Sustainable Development projects through responsible tourism in South East Asia and SUNx the Strong Universal Network, a legacy program for Maurice Strong responding to eXistential Climate Change.

It focusses on a shared commitment to develop the Maurice Strong Legacy Scholarship Program, under the SUNx “Plan for Our Kids” with EXO Foundation as the first regional sponsor.

Speaking from the COP 24, the UNFCCC Climate Change conference Professor Geoffrey Lipman, co-founder of SUNx said:
“We are delighted to announce our partnership with EXO Foundation as our first regional sponsor of our “ Plan for our Kids” and its Maurice Strong Legacy Scholarship Program. Together we have identified an opportunity to help strengthen education on Climate Resilience for Travel & Tourism in South-East Asia. Through our partnership EXO Foundation is supporting the lifetime learning of 21 graduates committed to Sustainable Tourism Development, with a focus on Climate Friendly Travel.

Our strategy is to create a cadre of 100,000 next generation of “Strong Climate Champions” by 2030, to help to drive the behavioural change and influence the fundamental government and industry actions needed to tackle Climate Change.

Strong Climate Champions will be graduates, who engage in the movement for Climate Friendly Travel, for transformation to the New Climate Economy. They will help to build the thinking; drive the behaviour, identify innovations and influence the fundamental government and industry actions needed.”

Lipman added that “The awardees, based on 1000-word essays on practical aspects of Climate Friendly Travel, will be linked with EXO Foundation through a certificate of excellence and lifetime access to the SUNx learning platform. This includes curated information on Climate Resilience, and a Climate Friendly Travel Course, supporting transformation of the sector to the New Climate Economy.”

Alexandra Michat, EXO Foundation Manager said:
“The vision of EXO Foundation is to use tourism to make destinations better places for people to live in, and for travellers to visit. We aim to be a driving force in actively fostering sustainable development and improving positive societal and environmental changes through the promotion of responsible tourism. Through our partnership with SUNx we want to support the next generation of climate change activists who will help shape the future of the Travel industry in SE Asia. Together we will identify academic partners to promote the call for nominations and support their work on Climate Resilience education to Tourism students.”

About Strong 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.

EXO Foundation is an apolitical, secular and not-for-profit organization officially registered under the Ministry of Interior of the Royal Government of Cambodia. It was established in 2011 by EXO Travel, a leading tour operator in Asia operating in 10 different countries: Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore. Although EXO Travel remains our major donor and covers all our operational costs, EXO Foundation acts as a separate and independent non-profit organization.

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 14, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Praya Dining at Praya Palazzo relaunches with an exquisite culinary journey through time. The cuisine at Praya Dining is curated to showcase the history, opulence of ingredients and culture of each Siamese era from the ancient Kingdom of Sukhothai until today’s prosperous Rattanakosin.

With the relaunch of Praya Dining at Praya Palazzo, Montara Hospitality stays true to its mission to re-imagine how lifestyle travelers encounter local heritage. Praya Dining has been reconceptualized to portray Praya Palazzo’s heritage as a century-old Palladian-style river mansion built in the reign of His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). Montara’s newest restaurant authentically presents Thai cuisines in manners that enable diners to appreciate the historical context of each dish. By doing so, Praya Dining builds upon the group’s momentum in other culinary destinations.

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Praya Dining guides diners on a culinary journey through Thai history. Each dish highlights how Thai cuisine evolved during each era throughout history. The journey begins with the Thai relish “Lon” (หลน). Pronounced “lohn” (in Thai meaning to simmer), the relish became prominent during the Sukhothai era. As the first Thai Kingdom, Sukhothai was a time when Thailand was self-sufficient in terms of food, which was cooked at its most simplicity. Served with fresh vegetables, variations of Lon include Salty Mackerel relish or Crab relish.
The culinary journey at Praya Dining continues to Ayutthaya era when Thai cuisine was influenced by foreign traders. This era saw the arrival of chili, which has since become the heart of Thai Cuisine, and of exotic spices from which the first curries were born. In addition, during Ayutthaya era, new cooking techniques such as stir-frying, frying and deep frying emerged and are reflected in dishes such as “Koong Sarong” (กุ้งโสร่ง Deep fried prawns wrapped with vermicelli noodles), “Nam Prik Kapi” (น้ำพริกกะปิ Shrimp paste relish with condiments and fresh herbs), “Khanom Jeen Nam Ya Pla” (ขนมจีนน้ำยาปลา Thin rice noodles served with Snake Head fish sauce) or “Massaman Beef curry” (แกงมัสมั่น).

Finally, diners at Praya Dining arrive to Rattanakosin era, the current kingdom which established Bangkok as the capital city of Thailand. This era marks the beginning of the Chakri dynasty leading to today’s modern metropolitan city. The period had great influence on Thai food today, from the emergence of street food which was initially influenced by Chinese settlers, to the creation of Thailand’s world-famous noodle dish, ‘Phad Thai’.

Throughout the culinary journey at Praya Dining, diners will discover rarefied Thai dishes derived from storied Thai poems, and literatures. The culinary team has researched and prepared the dishes derived from the epic love poem, “Kap Heh Chom Khrueang Khao Wan” (กาพย์เห่ชมเครื่องคาวหวาน), composed by King Rama II, “Tam Ra Kub Khao” (ตำรากับเข้า) by Lady Somjeen, “Khuu Meuu Maae Kruaa” (คู่มือแม่ครัว) by Lor. Phaehtraarat and ‘Chivid nai wang’ (Life in the palace) composed by M.L. Nueang Nilrat. The source materials have inspired the creation of Praya Dining’s signature dishes including “La Tiang” (ล่าเตียง Ancient snack of pork, shrimp and peanuts wrapped in egg mesh), “Sang Wa Kung Pla Duk Fu” (แสร้งว่ากุ้งปลาดุกฟู Roasted shrimp dipping with crispy shredded catfish salad), “Ran Juan Curry” : (แกงรัญจวน Traditional beef soup seasoned with shrimp paste), “Mu Pad Som Siew” (หมูผัดส้มเสี้ยว Stir-fried pork with our forgotten yellow chili pastes recipe) to the dessert like “Bua Loy Look Tarn” (บัวลอยลูกตาล Rice flour balls in coconut milk).

Praya Dining is located in the century-old Italian style river mansion Praya Palazzo. Today a luxury boutique hotel, Praya Palazzo is situated directly on Chao Phraya River and is exclusively accessible only by boat. The mansion’s shuttle boat provides a 24-hour service to and from either the Tha Phra Arthit Pier or Rajathiwas Temple Pier where parking is readily available.

Praya Palazzo
Situated on the prominent landmarks along the River of Kings or Chao Phraya River, Praya Palazzo offers guests the opportunity to enjoy history, elegance and river serenity in traditional style all in the heart of Bangkok. Constructed nearly 100 years ago as a private, Thai-Italian style mansion in the reign of His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), this boutique hotel, operated by Montara Hospitality Group, provides personalized services to discerning tourists seeking a unique experience in the gentle traditions of a bygone era. Opened since 2012, the recently revamped Praya Palazzo with further extensive renovations along with the relaunch of Praya Dining are done by November 2018.

With legendary heritage and architectural beauty, Praya Palazzo was honored with accolades including Prime Minister’s “2014-2015 Thailand Boutique Awards” under “Luxury Thematic River/Lake Hotel” category, and “2011 Architectural Conservation Award” selected by The Association of Siamese Architects under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King.

About Montara Hospitality Group
As a Thai family, we take pride in sharing our natural and cultural heritage. We want our guests to experience our most sincere and innovative services that will bring them joy. We invest in best-in-class hospitality platforms that connect investors, lifestyle travelers, and innovative hoteliers. Our properties include Phuket’s most exclusive pool villa beach resort Trisara, Bangkok’s only river mansion boutique hotel Praya Palazzo, and the innovative movie house-turn-hotel Prince Theatre Heritage Stay in Bangrak.

We developed, own and manage Phuket Island’s most special resort experience “Trisara”, in Sanskrit “The Garden in The Third Heaven”. Wrapped in a tropical forest and exotic gardens, the 60 spacious ocean facing pool villas and 2-7 bedroom private residences all embrace our own quiet bay on Phuket’s sophisticated and natural north-western coastline, just 15 minutes from Phuket Airport. PRU sources ingredients from PRU’s own farm and local purveyor communities of fishermen and farmers for the long-term sustainability as well as “Seafood at Trisara” inspired by authentic Thai family heirloom recipes passed through the generations in which also received the exciting Michelin Plate designation.

In late 2017, Praya Palazzo has become a family member of Montara Hospitality group, a century-old Italian style mansion directly on Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, with the newly revamped of the interiors and the restaurant in November 2018. We launched Prince Theatre Heritage Stay in early 2018. Prince Theatre is Bangkok’s only movie house turn boutique hotel. The 26-room, 130-bed property is located at the heart of Bangrak, Bangkok’s renowned street food paradise and creative district. Prince Theatre is the showcase property of Heritage Stay Company, which seeks to re-imagine how travelers connect with Thailand’s rich local heritage and to be a part in supporting the local community.

Buenos Aires (Argentina) – December 13, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Unidigital is the result of the collaboration between the public and private sectors to promote innovation in tourism. It will offer services, products and training in digital transformation in order to allow the most disruptive entrepreneurs in tourism in the Americas to develop their projects. The Hub was presented as part of the UNWTO Tourism Tech Adventure Forum, held on 11-13 December 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

“Today is a historic day because we have brought together many tourism authorities of the Americas to inaugurate this place, which is open to any entrepreneur, and where together we will do very interesting things and achieve excellent results,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. He added: “We are committed to helping them find investors and give them the opportunity to internationalize not only in the Americas, but also beyond the continent.”

The Minister of Tourism of Argentina and Chair of the UNWTO Executive Council, Gustavo Santos, stressed that “innovation and tourism are allies in generating life opportunities for our people and creating employment”. He added: “This reaffirms our commitment and responsibility towards this sector, which will lead human development in the years to come.”

Unidigital founder and CEO Felipe Durán thanked the authorities for their presence and said: “I am excited for Buenos Aires to be the gateway to the Americas, a place where art, technology and tourism come together; with our projects we are going to get involved in people’s tourism.”

The Unidigital Hub opened in the context of the UNWTO Tourism Adventure Tech Forum, the tourism and technology forum organized by the UNWTO and the Ministry of Tourism of Argentina. The winner of the UNWTO Data Challenge 2018 was also announced at the event, Diego Turconi. This project is organized in collaboration with the ieXL of IE University, whose objective is to demonstrate the ability to generate data-driven solutions.

The regional Startup Competition was won by Eduardo Zenteno del Toro, with his Nenemi project, a platform that seeks to bring Asian travellers to Mexico with potential for expansion in the Americas. He will now have the opportunity to avail Unidigital’s services valued at up to 100,000 dollars.

Participating in the UNWTO Tourism Tech Adventure Forum are leaders in innovation, top-level startups and key actors in the global innovation and digital transformation ecosystem.

It is an unprecedented platform for entrepreneurship and tourism innovation, with the aim of creating synergies between the different actors, exchanging success stories and fostering a venture capital investment culture. Likewise, this space provides solutions to challenges related to digital transformation as a source of employment generation, competitiveness and sustainable development.

In this same context, a seminar aimed at ministers of the Americas and Argentine national ministers was held on how to build successful digitalization strategies. A workshop for startups was also held, addressing the subject of motivation for tourism investors and entrepreneurship.

Quy Nhon (Vietnam) – December 12, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Minor Hotels announced the opening of Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, Vietnam. The property offers an upscale beachfront hideaway comprising 26 private pool villas inspired by the indigenous beauty of the Vietnamese coastline. Located in a secluded bay amidst 7.2 hectares of landscaped tropical gardens, the resort boasts a secluded Anantara spa, Sea.Fire.Salt beachside restaurant and dedicated host services.

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Highlights:
– Quy Nhon is an untouched destination where authentic local experiences and serendipitous moments abound
– Anantara Quy Nhon Villas is a boutique resort offering a complete escape with private pools in each of the 26 villas
– Anantara Quy Nhon Villas offers a comprehensive wellness concept with visiting practitioners, spa activities and seminars
– Guests at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas can look forward to an elevated service courtesy of a dedicated host in each villa
– The signature Dining By Design concept offers a range of settings and cuisines including the Castaway Sunset Dinner experience on an uninhabited island
– Local experiences include carefully researched itineraries and tours conducted by Anantara Quy Nhon guides.

Quy Nhon is one of the last untouched areas of Vietnam with vast green rice paddies, long stretches of picturesque beaches and ancient Cham era (11th – 13th Century) temples dotting the country side. The beauty of the destination speaks for itself and as yet remains relatively undiscovered by international tourists (for now).

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Bangkok (Thailand) – December 12, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Gin Mare, the first and authentic Mediterranean Gin, in partnership with B-Delicious and Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20, announced the launch of exclusive Gastromixology competition in Thailand, in partnership with, to discover the perfect food and beverage pairing creations developed by a chef and bartender team in the invited establishments as the selected country to debut the campaign for the first time in Asia.

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‘Gastromixology Sessions’ by Gin Mare aims to unite gastronomy and cocktails under one concept by selecting and inviting ten of Bangkok’s top tier of restaurants to express their interpretation and vision of the Mediterranean in a food and cocktail pairing under concept “Mare Nostrum”, which represents the Brand Values of “Lifestyle, gastronomy, climate and the unique feeling of escape” using Gin Mare as the highlight ingredient in the food and beverage pairing creation. During the period of December 3 to December 23, 2018 contestants will showcase their creations at their respective restaurants for the panel of judges to visit and taste, as well as commercial sales for broader audiences.

Customers are also invited to take part in and show their support of the ‘Gastromixology Sessions’ by Gin Mare by visiting the venues that are participating in the event, these are:
– Eat Me Restaurant, Modern International & Regional
– Marcel, French and tapas bars
– Odtomato, modern Australian dining
– Oskar Bistro Bangkok, Mediterranean-inspired multi-cuisine
– Q&A Bar, Speakeasy Cocktail bar
– SALT AREE, Fine Dining Asian Fusion
– Scarlett Bangkok, Authentic French Cuisine, Wine Bar, and Steakhouse
– Sky on 20, Rooftop with cocktails, craft beers, wines and tapas.
– The Bar Upstairs, Casual French dining and wine bar
– Vertigo/Moon Bar, Rooftop Al Fresco dining

Upon the completion of the timeline, the winning contestant will be announced, and there will be an award ceremony in which participants will introduce their pairings.

The panel of judges which include; Chef Andy Yang Michelin Star New York 2010 and Bib Gourmand Bangkok 2019, Sven Van Coillie from Gault & Millau Belux, Kanokwan Asawanuchit from Fashion On Food by Ching and owner ‘Rod-Saneh’ restaurant, the gin master of Thailand and owner of ‘Teens of Thailand’ gin bar Niks Anuman-Rajadhon and Enzo Comes, Gin Mare Global Brand Ambassador will score the pairings based on the following criteria: Inspiration, explanation, presentation, appearance, flavor, aroma, harmony of the ingredients and final result of the pairing. The prize will be a trip to attend the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants that will be held in Macau, where Gin Mare is the official gin partner.

About Gastromixology
The act of inventing cocktail recipes is an art in its own right and has over the years gained the attention of the food and beverage industry on a global scale as these concoctions have become more refined and more exquisite than ever before. Cocktails are no longer just made to be enjoyed on their own but made to be part of a meal and be enjoyed with food. The skillset and the ideas that go into making these modern cocktails have broadened and has redefined mixology across the globe. In recognizing this Gin Mare, the first and authentic Mediterranean Gin, has launched ‘Gastromixology Sessions’, a global campaign called in honor of celebrating the incredible experience that surrounds tasting food with cocktails. The restaurants chosen are those that the brand think will be able to support their objectives in demonstrating how out of the ordinary and incredible pairing food with cocktails can be. The campaign has already been successfully launched on another continents, notably in Spain and Mexico.

Gin Mare has played an invaluable role in the development of the gastromixology trend over the years with several initiatives done to highlight the incredible properties that their gin boasts and all of the different ways it can be used for both mixology and culinary purposes. Other campaigns have included collaborations with world renowned chefs, such as Angel León, the Adriá brothers and others, all in a bid to demonstrate the incredible experiences that can be had in pairing cocktails with food tastings.

About Gin Mare
Gin Mare, the first and authentic Mediterranean Gin is produced with the best of select botanicals from the Mediterranean Sea basin – Arbequina Olive, thyme, rosemary and basil. Given its unique and aromatic characteristics, Gin Mare is recognized as the leading brand among the Food and Beverage sector, while the special recipes distributed throughout the world through Gin Mare ambassadors are widely loved in all settings.

About B-Delicious
B-Delicious, Thailand’s leading importer and distributor of premium range of beers, spirits, tonic waters, and artesian waters from around the globe to Thailand’s world-class hospitality and retail sector. The team is committed promoting the responsible enjoyment of their products.

Contacts:
Didi Wiboonma
Tel: 089 200 3096
Email: didi@qccommunications.co
Siriporn Trachoo (Pan)
Tel: 092 624 5075
Emai: pan@qccommunications.co

Katowice (Poland) – December 11, 2018 (travelindex.com)- A Climate Resilience partnership, focussed on creating 100,000 Strong Climate Champions by 2030 was announced today at COP 24 in Katowice, Poland.

The partnership, which was made in the spirit of SDG-17, is between leading Canadian-based global travel risk management and travel insurance provider Ingle International Inc., and SUNx (Strong Universal Network), which focusses on Climate Friendly Travel. The partnership is founded on a shared commitment to develop the Maurice Strong Legacy Scholarship Program, with Ingle International as its first global sponsor.

Speaking from COP 24 – the United Nations Climate Change Conference, Professor Geoffrey Lipman, Co-founder of SUNx, said:
“We are honoured to announce our partnership with Ingle International to launch the global rollout of the Maurice Strong Legacy Scholarship Program. This will create 100,000 “Strong Climate Champions” by 2030, in every UN State, to help to drive the behavioural change and influence the fundamental government and industry actions needed to tackle Climate Change.

We need to realize the exposure to our children and grandchildren. We need to stop talking amongst ourselves and engage directly with future generations. SUNx – a legacy initiative for Maurice Strong, the father of global Sustainable Development Action – will spearhead a movement for 100,000 climate activists by 2030, responding creatively to the Paris Accords and SDG-13.

By the simple act of a Scholarship Plan for graduates committed to help society take action towards more stable temperature levels, we can empower the next generation, who are the ones that will have to really deal with the transformation to the New Climate Economy.”
Robin Ingle, CEO of Ingle International said:

“As a global travel risk management and insurance provider, we specialize in assessing risk, and there is no greater risk to our civilisation than Climate Change, as Sir David Attenborough pointed out at the start of the COP 24 meeting. At the same time, we identify ways to mitigate and respond to these risks positively, and we see no better means in doing this than to empower the next generation with the knowledge base that they will need to take action. Also, as a Canadian, I recognise the immense contribution that Maurice Strong made for half a century to help put in place the actions we are taking today. These are some of the reasons why Ingle International is proud to be the first global sponsor of this important program.”

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.

Ingle International specializes in delivering best-in-class health & travel insurance, international student insurance, special-risk insurance, travel risk management services, and technology solutions to anyone going anywhere in the world. It connects partners, members, and clients with the customized products, services, and information they need for safe, healthy, and secure travels. Ingle International is a market leader in product innovation for the travel, health, and security industries it serves.

For more information, contact:
– Jina Park, Director of Corporate Strategy, Ingle International
jpark@ingleinternational.com +1 416 640 5660
– Olly Wheatcroft, Program Manager, SUNx
olly@thesunprogram.com +44 7765 132408

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 11, 2018 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels & Resorts has launched a brand new website that provides essential information to hotel developers and owners in Asia.

The new website, which is now live at www.bestwesternasiadevelopers.com, is dedicated to hotel developers and owners, offering a complete source of content for any company or individual looking to harness the power of Best Western’s global brands to enhance the value and performance of their property.

The website offers in-depth information to all existing, new and potential development partners. This includes an interactive map that allows users to visualize the company’s existing portfolio of hotels and resorts in Asia, and an overview of Best Western’s regional pipeline of properties. Visitors to the website can also discover the strength of Best Western’s reputation by exploring the company’s many industry awards and extensive media coverage.

The “Why Choose Best Western” page reveals the many advantages of working with Best Western, such as the company’s highly profitable business models, which include management and franchise options with attractive fees. There are also details of the services provided by Best Western’s central support network, including global sales, marketing and distribution, revenue management, professional training, state-of-the-art technology, quality assurance and access to the award-winning loyalty program, Best Western Rewards®.

Developers can learn more about Best Western’s wide-ranging portfolio of brands. With 13 distinctive and innovative concepts to choose from, ranging from economy to upper-upscale, Best Western has an option to suit almost any property type or location.

The most recent of these brands, Sadie HotelSM and Aiden HotelSM, which launched in September 2018, are dedicated to conversion projects. These are now available alongside the timeless trio of classic brands, Best Western®, Best Western Plus® and Best Western Premier®. The brand portfolio also includes Vīb® and GLō®, the cutting-edge midscale concepts that are tailored to new-build projects; and two soft brands, BW Premier Collection® by Best Western and BW Signature Collection® by Best Western, which allow owners to retain their distinctive style and identity. Meanwhile, Executive Resid ency by Best Western® enables developers to tap into the modern trend for extended stays.

Finally, the recently launched franchise offerings, SureStay® Hotel by Best Western, SureStay Plus® Hotel by Best Western and SureStay Collection® by Best Western, provide three ideal options for owners and developers who want to avoid high costs, whilst also harnessing the power and support of a global brand.

“Demand for Best Western’s world-class hospitality has never been stronger, so we are delighted to unveil this new dedicated resource for hotel owners and developers in Asia,” commented Olivier Berrivin, Best Western Hotels & Resorts’ Managing Director of International Operations – Asia. “With our expanded portfolio of 13 intuitive brands, we now have a product to suit virtually any hotel, from urban conversion projects to out-of-town new-builds, upscale resort rebrands and many more. With our new website, we are putting our full collection of products and services at the fingertips of our Asian partners.”

Best Western currently operates a portfolio of 56 hotels and resorts across Southeast Asia and Japan, comprising more than 5,000 rooms across five of its brands. This region-wide inventory is set to more than double in the coming years, with over 6,800 comfortable and contemporary rooms expected to open across Asia. In total, Best Western has 37 hotels in its Asian pipeline, covering seven of the company’s 13 brands.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts:
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand with a global network of 4,200* hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Best Western offers 13 hotel brands to suit the needs of developers and guests in every market: Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Vīb®, GLō®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Sadie HotelSM, Aiden HotelSM, BW Premier Collection® by Best Western, and BW Signature Collection® by Best Western, as well as its recently launched franchise offerings: SureStay® Hotel by Best Western, SureStay Plus® Hotel by Best Western and SureStay Collection® by Best Western. Now celebrating more than 70 years of hospitality, Best Western provides its hoteliers with global operational, sales and marketing support, and award-winning online and mobile booking capabilities. Best Western continues to set industry records regarding awards and accolades, including 66 percent of the brand’s North American hotels earning a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award in 2018, Business Travel News® ranking Best Western Plus and Best Western number one in upper-mid-price and mid-price hotel brands, and Fast Company honoring Best Western Hotels & Resorts with a spot in the Top 10 Most Innovative Companies in the Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality category. Best Western has also won nine consecutive AAA®/CAA® Lodging Partner of the Year awards, recognizing the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional service and great value to AAA/CAA’s nearly 58 million members in the U.S. and Canada. Best Western-branded hotels were top ranked in J.D. Power’s 2017 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study – ranking first in breakfast (food and beverage category) for midscale; and second in overall guest satisfaction. Over 35 million travelers are members of the brand’s award-winning loyalty program Best Western Rewards®, one of the few programs in which members earn points that never expire and can be redeemed at any Best Western-branded hotel worldwide. Best Western’s partnerships with AAA/CAA and Google® Street View provide travelers with exciting ways to interact with the brand. Through its partnership with Google Street View, Best Western is the first major company of its size and scale to launch a virtual reality experience for customers, setting a new industry standard and reinventing how guests view hotels.
* All Best Western and SureStay-branded hotels are independently owned and operated.
* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

Contact information:
Marketing Communications Department
Best Western Hotels and Resorts – Asia
Tel: +66 2 656 1260

Sirimanas Maungrod
Email: sirimanas.maungrod@bestwestern.com

Orapan Sornnuwat
Email: orapan.sornnuwat@bestwestern.com