Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 3, 2019 (travelindex.com) – The latest Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index has shown Bangkok came in second on the list of Asian destinations ranked. The rating, which measured by social and environmental sustainability strategies, industry supplier support, and Convention Bureau strategy and initiatives, also accentuated TCEB’s performance as a top scorer when compared to Convention Bureaus in other Asian destinations participated in the ranking.

International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) recently gave out GDS-Index Awards to top five destinations recognised for their sustainable practices in the business tourism and events industry.
List of cities with the five highest overall scores are Gothenburg (Sweden); Copenhagen (Denmark), Reykjavík (Iceland), Oslo (Norway), and Uppsala (Sweden) respectively.

According to the index, top five Asian cities with highest overall scores are Kyoto (Japan), Bangkok (Thailand), Goyang (South Korea), Sapporo (Japan), and Dubai (United Arab Emirates) respectively.

Bangkok was ranked second in Asia and 21st in the world according to the GDS-Index. The ranking was measured across four key areas including city environmental strategy and infrastructure (14 topics); city social sustainability performance (4 topics); industry supplier support (8 topics); and Convention Bureau (CVB) strategy and initiatives (12 topics). In overall, Bangkok received a total score of 58%. The city scored 69% in the area of CVB’s performance or higher scores than the global benchmark which stood at 53%.

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, said that Bangkok and TCEB participated in the GDS-Index for the first time and the bureau is delighted with the result. The ranking showcases the country’s commitment to the international standard and the focus on environmental sustainability for meetings and events industry.

“Given the fact that international MICE travellers increasingly focus on sustainability while the GDS-Index aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, therefore, this ranking certainly benefits both MICE industry and Thailand at the same time,” said Mr Chiruit.

The Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) is a prize-winning grassroots Scandinavian initiative that evolved into the first-ever sustainability ranking for event destinations worldwide. A collaborative partnership between ICCA, European Cities Marketing, IMEX and MCI Group, promotes knowledge sharing, capacity building, and benchmarking.

According to ICCA and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, Thailand ranked fifth in Asia for international conventions and seventh in Asia for international exhibitions. Both indexes spotlighted Thailand as the number one destination for conventions and exhibitions among ASEAN countries.

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 2, 2019 (travelindex.com) – The Tourism Authority of Thailand and Iconsiam Co., Ltd. in collaboration with The Iconsiam Residence Corporation Ltd., The Iconsiam Superlux Residence Corporation Ltd., and the largest coalition of public and private sector organisations including Association of Chao Phraya Commerce, Marine Department, Siam Commercial Bank, TRUE Corporation Public Company Limited, Kasikorn Bank, Thai Shipping Association, Bangkok River Partners, and Chao Phraya Riverside Communities have jointly organised the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019“, with the longest fireworks display ever staged along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River in Thailand in which more than a million people expected to view this spectacular displays. Under the theme of “The River of Glory,” the New Year Celebration is a riverside mega phenomenon created by ground-breaking collaboration of Thai people aiming to revitalise Bangkok’s world-renown Chao Phraya River as a national landmark and a global destination. Come observe the longest eco-friendly fireworks display stretching more than 1.4 km ever staged along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, appreciate the “Khone” epic masked performance in the grand episode of “Rama Returns to Reign over the City”, enjoy an extensive line-up of cultural performers and top ranked singers from local and international on stage to mark Thailand’s entry into the New Year 2019 at Iconsiam’s riverside ‘River Park’ plaza.

According to Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), “Every year we organise extraordinary events to mark the New Year and reinforce Thailand as a great destination for visitors, and this year’s will be a particularly sensational one. This year we’ll organize the event in 5 different provinces: Bangkok, Chiang Rai, Nakhon Phanom, Ratchaburi, and Satun. Together with Iconsiam and the largest coalition of public and private sector organisations, “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019″ in Bangkok is exceptional in more ways than one. It will take place by the Chao Phraya River right in the heart of Bangkok and bring into light the charm and serenity as well as way of life of the surrounding communities. I think all tourists and visitors shall find their attendance an added-value experience. I am convinced that the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019 will be a forward step for our country to project the image as a global tourist destination.”

Mrs. Pasinee Limatibul, Chairman of Iconsiam Co., Ltd., adds that “We are honoured to have been selected by TAT and are proud to have organized the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019″ with TAT and other largest coalition of public and private partners. I would like to sincerely thank to the fact that all parties have jointly collaborated to create the truly amazing countdown for the night. With confidence that Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019 will be able to glorify the greatness of the Chao Phraya River and also spark the glow of the Chao Phraya River to illuminate the eyes of Thai and foreigners completely.”

Here are the major highlights of the upcoming “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019” to be witnessed by more than a million people in the proximity of the river and beyond. The fireworks are made from Thai sticky rice and considered an innovation that is eco-friendly. The massive display of fireworks based on the theme of “The River of Glory” demonstrates the history of the Chao Phraya River pertaining to our way of life, tradition, and legends of Siam (now Thailand) as a country. This 5-minute fireworks display will be carried out at five different river curves. It will feature the longest fireworks display stretching of more than 1.4 km long ever staged on the Chao Phraya River. The display consists of 5 Acts.

– The first Act – “The River of Prosperity” is a fireworks display in silver, gold, and bronze colours held together consecutively. Based on the beliefs of people, the three elements symbolize prosperity. As such, the first second of the New Year is to make the Chao Phraya River bright, beautiful, peaceful and prosperous as it has been over the years.

– The second Act – “The Siam Treasure” is a fireworks display of multiple shapes and colours that reflect a close interconnection between our tradition, a way of life and the Chao Phraya River. Not only that the River was essential in daily human activities, it was also what people utilized for transportation, a naval route for diplomatic corps coming in to establish diplomatic relations with Siam, a way to transport products and conduct trade since Ayutthaya period to present, a way to perform religious rites, and an attractive scene that capture imagination of overseas tourists and generate income for our country.

– The third Act – “The Blossom of Joy” is a fireworks display that creates excitement in more ways than one. The display is accompanied by Thai folk songs that reflect our uniqueness as fun-loving, friendly, and smiling people. Any overseas tourist visiting Thailand and attending the event at Iconsiam will become impressed with, for example, reciprocity of Thai people. Such an impression is enough to start a happy New Year by the Chao Phraya River-a bloodline of Thailand.

– The fourth Act – “One World” is a fireworks display that highlights the flags and colours of the nations of the world. It also represents their connectivity through tourism, trade, education, cultural exchange based on equality that will flourish from the start of the New Year and in the years to come.

– The fifth Act – “Thailand” is a fireworks display of the tricolors of Thailand’s national flag along the Chao Phraya River. The tricolors of red, white and blue collectively represent our national identity as an independent country shielded by our solidarity and unity.

In addition, Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Co., Ltd. (MQDC) also created a great phenomenon with the countdown to welcome the New Year on the Chao Phraya River. A spectacular light show of “The New Beginning of 2019” highlighting on the 70-storey Magnolias Waterfront Residences at Iconsiam and the 52-storey The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, both with unparalleled views out onto the Bangkok skyline and beyond is like the first light of the year 2019 that reflects the glory of Thailand, the beauty of the river current, and the unity of the Thai nation through the colours of light and the lines of the buildings.

People could appreciate the display of fireworks on both sides of the River within the 2-km vicinity. The vicinity encompasses Millennium Hilton Hotel, The Peninsula Hotel, Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel, Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Shangri-La Hotel, Lebua at State Tower Hotel, Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse, Holy Rosary Church, Kularp Wittaya School, Police Station 2, Sathorn Bridge, Wat Suwan Pier, Klong Sarn Pier, Muang Kae Pier, Chalermprakiat Park, CAT TOWER, River City, LHONG 1919, King Power Mahanakorn, Sampeng Car Park, and many other by-the-river restaurants.

Furthermore, there will be a “Khone” masked performance of “Rama Returns to Reign over the City” grand episode. As part of the New Year Celebration 2019, the “Khone” masked performance is in honour of it being listed by UNESCO as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This traditional masked performance use traditional costumes that are elaborate and elegant, and worth of several million baht, while the makeup is undertaken by Ajarn Peeramon Chomdhavat and Ajarn Surat Jongda both of whom are seasoned and experienced Khone specialists for more than 25 years.

The “Rama Returns to Reign over the City” episode is a story of the victory of “Rama” or “Phra Ram” over Tossakan and his giant army in a long-fought war. As peace had finally returned to the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the people and the army pleaded Rama to return to the throne as their king once again. Joy prevailed throughout the land and the heavens. People and angels were engaged in dancing, the most notable traditional dance of all was U-thong Dance, and celebrating the return of their King.

In addition, leading 21 Thai and overseas artists will be on stage to perform on the New Year eve to keep our local and foreign tourists fully entertained. Among well-known artists who will be there included AF & The Voice artists – Ton Thanasit, Aim Satida and Boat Siriroj, Oh Sipoom and Ice Thamolwan and from The Star artists – Hun Isariya, Kangsom Tanatat, Gam Wichayanee and Kan Napat including the performance from EXACT actors – Film Thanapat, Bright Norapat, Tong Tong Wuttipat, Kang Vorakorn, Rith Ruangrit, Chen Ratchpong, Frank Chatchai, famous actor from Channel 3 Great Varitorn, together with talented nine-year-old Thai musician Gail Sophicha, famous Taiwanese pop singer Janice YAN, and the winner of the first season of “The Voice Thailand” as well as the fourth season of “The Mask Singer” Nont Tanont, and dancing queen of Thailand Christina Aguilar.

The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019 being staged at Iconsiam’s riverside ‘River Park’ plaza is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget.

Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) – January 2, 2019 (travelindex.com) – The African Union’s (AU) long held ambitions for a fully integrated continent is closer to becoming reality this year thanks the vision of one particularly ambitious airline and more governments tweaking their visa policies for fellow Africans.

Almost three decades after it was first proposed, African countries finally launched the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a major step towards opening the continent’s skies. This version of the AU initiative is largely based on the Yamoussoukro Decision of 1999 (pdf).

As industry insiders have long claimed, the single air market should result in cheaper and more regular flights between African cities in the long-term. The reality for many African travelers has involved expensive and complicated trips between African cities with multi-stop itineraries—sometimes in Europe before heading back to the destination African city.

African countries also became marginally more open in 2018, building on the success recorded last year. The African Development Bank’s 2018 Africa Visa Openness Index showed the small improvements, but even then Africans still require visas to travel to over half of other African countries.

One highlight in visa liberation policies saw Ethiopia open up its borders to African visitors with a visa-on-arrival push, the largest African country by population to do so to date. All of the top 20 most visa-open nations in Africa saw increased travel and tourism figures, the Visa Openness Index says.

As Africans fly more around the continent for tourism or trade, it’s likely they will do so via Ethiopian Airlines and carriers it has partnered with or helped revive as part of its strong pan-African strategy.

A $300 million aircraft purchase drive has seen Ethiopian Airlines boost its fleet and expand its destinations within the continent, enhancing its continental dominance. Beyond helping African travelers get around the continent, Ethiopian Airlines’ widening reach is a boon for African inbound tourism: starting next year, the airline will start helping Chinese visitors process visas to travel across Africa. Already, Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital and hub of the national carrier, has overtaken Dubai as the world’s gateway into Africa

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – December 31, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The last day of 2018 has arrived and tomorrow is the New Year. Firstly Happy New Year to all family members, to my friends and acquaintances and to all who have supported me and the Saint Ange Tourism Report in 2018. My friends from the Press Community, your support during 2018 has ensured that I remained visible and in so doing, relevant – Thank you very much. You have become real and sincere friends.

As we welcome in 2019, we need to reflect on all the happenings in 2018 and we should make resolutions we feel we need to see happen, and what we want to see happen in 2019.

Seychelles offers tourism for all

Seychelles has a diverse tourism product which makes its strength and which has guaranteed its success. Seychelles offers tourism for all. Visiting journalists to the islands continue to raise this question, and only last week Alain St.Ange, the former Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine was quizzed on the ‘Tourism for All’ he had pushed during his campaign as a Candidate for the post of Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

Minister Alain St.Ange spoke about the continued drive by Seychelles for every niche market within the tourism industry. “Firstly Seychelles does not discriminate in who visits the islands. We are friends of all and enemies of none, which is why we welcome everyone with no necessity for Visas by anyone to visit our islands. Friends cannot be made to seek a Visa to visit their friends. Secondly because of our unique location where we benefit of a weather pattern that gives Seychelles 365 days of summer every year, and the connotation of being the islands of perpetual summer, we have a unique flora and fauna and therefore we attract from bird watchers, to botanists, to scuba divers and snorkelling enthusiasts, to bush walks fanatics, sailing, boating, island hoping holiday makers, culinary tourism, cruise tourism and more. Seychelles has even been listed in the arena for sports tourism and more recently in medical tourism since the arrival of modern privately run dialysis centres. Seychelles welcomes couples, families, single travellers and members from the gay tourism world. Handicaps or religious groups are also all welcomed for a dream holiday in our mid-ocean islands where colour of the skin, religious beliefs, political affiliation plays no part on how we welcome you in paradise” St.Ange said.

The former Seychelles Minister who publishes his own weekly tourism report (Saint Ange Report) and runs his own tourism consultancy (Saint Ange Consultancy) nevertheless spoke with passion about the island’s tourism industry saying that Seychelles has the best in five star properties as it has unique and exceptional ‘one island – one hotel’ properties, but is also has a range of three and four star properties and a number of small ‘home grown’ Seychellois properties in villages and districts right around the islands which raises the question if Seychelles is being visible enough with what it has on offer.

“Tourism for All should be pushing Seychelles to have a solid stock of hotel rooms to serve its tour operator partners and to guarantee a continuous airline service that provides seamless connections to the tourism source markets. Tourist needs have changed, and expectations continue to change as well. A number of past visitors are now returning on holidays to Seychelles as families and these trips include kids, parents, and grandparents. It is known that this travel group has been a dominant force in the industry for the last few years. A lot about travel continues to change. Seychelles today has Long Haul flights with but one stop and those that are direct and non-stop which are being more sought after. Seychelles operates through three Middle East Hubs (Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha) and two African Hubs (Addis Ababa and Nairobi). On the other side of the equation airlines like British Airways, CONDOR, Edelweiss, Austrian Airline and JOON of Air France are offering direct non-stop service to the UK and to Europe but they all have one thing in common, they all need passenger load to ensure continuity. Some airlines to Seychelles has three travel class (first, business and economy) and others provide Business and Economy only. Regionally Air Seychelles and Air Austral link the islands to India, South Africa, Mauritius and Reunion” Alain St.Ange said.

“The future of Seychelles Tourism remains on the recognition or appreciation of Seychellois who are in the industry and who are key drivers of the industry. The call for Seychellois to claim back its tourism industry will have no meaning if Seychellois are marginalised. It is Seychellois who will defend the industry and help the country to consolidate its tourism industry. They are the country’s partners and they are here to stay. Seychelles needs more than ever before to ensure the local operators are treated as assets for the industry and respected accordingly The foreign investors will benefit and they will feel safer with their investments more secured when their Seychellois counterparts are happy and contented.” St.Ange said.

Future of tourism looking positive, says Minister Najib Balala of Kenya

Former Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO, Muriithi Ndegwa disclosed that an increase in visitor numbers and emergence of new international flights that have started flying into Kenya are all clear pointers of a resurgent industry.

”The world loves Magical Kenya, and this love story is getting better as the country embraces diversity in tribe, race and religion. We are seeing increased interest in destination Kenya as investors in the hospitality sector set up base here,” Muriithi who is now the CEO/ Managing Director of Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) said.He added that Kenya has opened her doors to business people, expatriates, investors and tourists from all over the world. Ndegwa added that the future looks promising, especially in the tourism sector where an increase in visitor numbers automatically translates to more revenue and a boost to the economy.

In 2017, earnings from the industry grew by 20 per cent to KSh120 billion despite a tense political environment, the highest earnings recorded by the sector this decade.Mid this year, the country received positive visibility and endorsement through global accolades such as World Travel Awards’ declaration of Kenya as the world’s best Safari destination.”Kenya prides itself as one of the few countries in the world where a visitor can spot all the Big 5 – the African animals that early days’ big game hunters considered most difficult to hunt on foot,” Ndegwa explained.When visiting Kenya, most tourists come with ‘the Big 5’ checklist and failure to spot even one animal spells a disappointment.The KIM Executive said tha Kenya’s tourism sector growth is a clear indicator that the destination is unrivalled.

He said that at the 25th edition of the annual World Travel Awards (WTM) Africa and Indian Ocean region grand finale held in Durban South Africa in September 2018, feted Diani as Africa’s leading beach destination and Masai Mara the leading National Park in 2018.

UNWTO chief: Growth of African Tourism as industry remains resilient

The festive season in Africa also marks the highest season in the tourism industry, as demand for getaway destinations in the continent surges. According to a Hospitality Report Africa – 2018/19, IATA’s most popular airline destinations in Africa in terms of traffic are South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Mauritius and Tanzania respectively. These being just among other African countries favorited by tourists not only during Christmas seasons but also throughout the year; for their exotic and relaxing nature. Magnificent sceneries, wild and untouched nature for remarkable safaris and inestimable coastlines, Africa is indeed a favorable tourism destination. In the report by Jumia Travel, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary General Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, on the growth of African tourism.

South Male Atoll ( Maldives) – December 29, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Ushering in the new year with a bright contemporary look, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort unveils luxuriously refurbished beach villas. Nestled in lush foliage along silvery shores, the updated beach villas retain the resort’s relaxed beach ambiance, now with a refreshed palette of sophisticated neutral tones that reflect the island’s natural hues.

All beach villa types have undergone a striking transformation. Darker timbers have been lightened with soft ivory and beige, brightening interiors and creating a refined beach-house vibe with infusions of tropical charm.

Book your luxury Anantara island resort in the Maldives and around the world at best rates available. Pay at the hotel. Book now at HotelWorlds.com and earn HolidayClicks Points for every dollar spend!

Bathrooms have also been rejuvenated to offer sleek indoor and outdoor spaces. Guests can sink into a deep oval tub in their courtyard garden, or retreat to the cool of a glassed-in air-conditioned area. On each villa terrace, a traditional Maldivian swing has also been added, lending an authentic touch of local culture, and inviting guests to enjoy balmy island breezes in their own private sanctuary.

Aside from the visual transformation, villas also feature modernised amenities to reduce energy requirements, in line with Anantara’s sustainability goals.

To experience an idyllic Maldivian holiday immersed in contemporary island style, guests can choose from Sunrise Beach Villas, Sunset Beach Villas, Anantara Pool Villas, Sunset Pool Villas, Two-Bedroom Family Villas and Two-Bedroom Anantara Pool Villas.

Book your luxury Anantara island resort in the Maldives and around the world at best rates available. Pay at the hotel. Book now at HotelWorlds.com and earn HolidayClicks Points for every dollar spend!

About Anantara
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences.

From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 35 stunning properties located in Thailand, the Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, Zambia, the UAE, Qatar, Oman and Portugal, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Indian Ocean, Middle East, Africa and South America. The brand’s premier vacation ownership programme, Anantara Vacation Club, extends the opportunity to own a share in the Anantara experience with a portfolio of 8 luxurious Club Resorts as well as travel privileges at partner resorts and hotels worldwide.

Madrid (Spain) – December 27, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), together with the European Travel Commission (ETC) launched a new report on health tourism. Part of their joint research programme, the study is the first attempt to set a coherent conceptualization of health tourism and define the motivations behind travellers looking for health-related services.

Health, wellness and medical tourism have grown exponentially in recent years to become increasingly relevant in many destinations. Health tourism is an emerging, global, complex and rapidly changing segment that needs to be better understood by destinations willing to leverage opportunities and better address challenges.

‘Exploring Health Tourism’ proposes a comprehensive taxonomy with a consistent terminology to define and describe the intricate system of travelling for health purposes and provides a practical toolkit for National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) and Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) wanting to develop health tourism.

As defined in the report, health tourism covers those types of tourism which have as a primary motivation the contribution to physical, mental and/or spiritual health through medical and wellness-based activities.

The report sheds light on the factors shaping health tourism such as technological developments, personal health, data protection and urbanization. It also explores the market, the demand and the supply of health tourism and provides examples of marketing management. Finally, the study proposes a set of recommendations ranging from improved data collection and more accurate measurement to more accessible and sustainable health tourism calling for further partnerships.

Contacts:
UNWTO Communications Department
Tel: (+34) 91 567 8100
Fax: +34 91 567 8218
Email: comm@unwto.org

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 24, 2018 (travelindex.com) – More than just a buffet, The Sukhothai Bangkok’s Sunday Brunch is a palate-dazzling showcase of world cuisine! Our legendary Sunday Brunch at Colonnade restaurant is about to become an even more important part of Bangkok’s top culinary landscape. Prepare yourself for an even better Sunday Brunch as our Executive Chef Thitisorn Amatasin and his talented team revamp, revitalize and heighten the excitement of the brunch menu. Savour the very best, from classic to contemporary.

Choose from an amazing selection, ranging from delectable seafood, lobster, giant Alaskan king crab, 7-types of oysters, sushi, sashimi and more Japanese specialties, Pan-fried Foie Gras, a fabulous selection of 25-30 varieties of farm house cheeses, including Grilled Caciocavallo cheese on Bruschetta, plus live cooking stations including roasted Wagyu prime rib and weekly rotation choices. We are also adding some fun with a cooking theatre – a two round show from the chef team, giving you the opportunity to learn and remember the techniques that they are more than happy to disclose to all diners.

Finally, make sure you leave enough room for dessert, as the offerings from Pastry Chef Laurent Ganguillet are simply irresistible, with his A la Minute Tiramisu and Crepes Suzette for example, the entire experience being totally memorable … You will definitely be back for more.

Every Sunday – Brunch served from 12:00 to 15:00 hrs at Baht 3,000++ per person.

Free-flow beverage packages are also available for your selection including champagne, wine, cocktails and soft drinks.

For Sunday Brunch booking, please call +66 (0) 2344 8888 or email to promotions@sukhothai.com

About The Sukhothai Bangkok
210-room The Sukhothai Bangkok is a multi-award winning member of Design Hotels network. As one of Thailand’s most luxurious accommodation experiences, its ancillary facilities include the Spa Botanica, a limousine fleet, a gym and a 25-metre outdoor swimming pool. Modern meeting spaces and superb culinary encounters combine to produce one of the finest hospitality brands in the Kingdom www.sukhothai.com

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – December 24, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Welcome to Edition 51 of the Saint Ange Tourism Report. Tomorrow is Christmas and I wish to take this opportunity to wish all my family, friends and collaborators in the world of tourism and all my dear friend from the Press Fraternity a Merry Christmas. This is a time for giving and everyone will work at this in their own way, at their own pace and according to their own conscience. The important thing is to be yourself and to remain true to who you are. As Christmas approaches, as it does year after year, do you duty sincerely, always do a little more and the future will take care of itself. Merry Christmas to each and everyone.

Every year at Christmas we can see decorations that light up our daily lives. Vesna Rakic posted on Social Media her thoughts about a Christmas Tree in Seychelles. Vesna said:- “When I saw this tree in the window from afar, I was convinced it was made from coconut husks. I stopped by today real quick to take a pic. It’s actually made from wood, but it’s still my favourite Xmas tree in Seychelles so far! We can be so much more creative if we try, and kinder to our planet. Well done Mason’s Air Travel”.

Decorations often showcases the character and style of a person, and their ability to use local and promote cultural artefacts and material. In 2013 at the Headquarters of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, a Christmas was erected using coconut leaves decorated with big Christmas Bows. Many appreciated it because it was very much a Seychelles styled Christmas tree.

Coco de Mer Jam hits the market just ahead of Christmas

David Low Yoke and Wilson Nancy have launched their Coco de Mer jam in time for Christmas and they are expected to add a Coco de Mer Brandy to their range of ideal Seychelles unique gifts by January. Coco de Mer is a unique natural treasure of Seychelles and using the bye products locally has always been a call made in Seychelles. The exportation of the dried kernels to China was the lazy approach when work could be provided to Seychellois when working the kernels and creating value added approaches to what we have been blessed with. Congratulations to David and Wilson.

Respecting and understanding the Arts and the island’s culture

Culture would not exist if we did not have people. Placing culture in the centre of what we do is placing people at the centre of our development. Being proud of our culture and all that is culture is the least one can expect from one’s own country. Culture is all its form and diversity is what makes us the unique people we are today.

Seychelles Tourism is worth protecting as an industry that has reached the status of “Pillar of the Economy”

Seychelles is set to end 2019 with an increase in visitor arrival figures of 3%. “This is good news” is the comment echoed by Alain St.Ange, the former Tourism Minister of Seychelles. “Our islands will again experience a good tourism year is indeed good news, but expectations are higher and the need for a buoyant tourism industry needed more than ever before”

Seychelles has been consistently recording impressive growth in tourism, certainly since 2009 when Seychelles moved to reorganise the Seychelles Tourism Board that led to the creation of a Ministry of Tourism once again after an absence of a Tourism Minister for many years.

ATC News, the Aviation, Travel and Conservation News from Eastern Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands on December 21 wrote:-

Slower Growth In Numbers But Higher Growth In Earnings Make 2018 Another Good Year For The Seychelles

With less than two weeks to go, and the most busy season of the year just opening up ahead of the Festive Season, has Seychelles’ tourism industry reason to celebrate once again.

According to data received from the National Bureau of Statistics there has been 2% increase in visitor’s arrival compared to the same period in 2017 with 325,628 arrivals so far compared to 320,132 last year.

Notably has Switzerland replaced India among the six top best performing markets during 2018.

Arrivals by country of origin of tourist visitors, for the top six markets, were: Germany 53,127
France 40,806
UK /N.Ireland 24,369
UAE 23,259
Italy 22,547
Switzerland 12,081

The advance of German over French visitors has been largely blamed on the lacklustre performance of French airlines JOON which had in collusion with Seychelles government departments pushed Air Seychelles off the route – to only recently announce that their flights will now only be seasonal and not year round.

Germany subsequently remains the main tourist source market for the Seychelles now with a 16% market share and having replaced France as the archipelago’s leading source market for many years.

Data seen also suggests that there has been a decline in the number of visitors from some important markets such as China, Russia and South Africa.

On the upside though, even though the increase in visitor number has slowed down from previous double digit rises year on year, has the Central Bank of Seychelles reported an increase in the tourism earnings for the current years. Consolidated figures released show a 5.1 million USD equivalent tourism related income or in local currency 7.1 billion Seychelles Rupees. In 2017 the comparable tourism earnings were 4.4 million USD equivalent to 5.9 billion Seychelles Rupees. These data suggest that visitors spent more on a per capita basis than last year, rooted in higher accommodation tariffs and greater spending on location” said ACT News

The most current data from the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) shows that the work by their Marketing Department in collaboration with the island’s private sector is paying dividends. That performance was marked by a growth over each quarter of 2018. Overall Seychelles will end the year with a total visitor arrivals increase of 3%. It is not a bad show, but is it enough when one assesses the dependency of Seychelles on tourism.

The Seychelles performance is in step with the growth in global international travel, which the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) published was the strongest result in seven years. According to the UNWTO, international tourist arrivals climbed to 1,323 million in 2017 — an increase of 6.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2016.

Seychelles is known to offer diversity in product from the very high quality to visitors to the Seychellois ‘Home Grown’ block of accommodation network where the Seychellois culture and feeling is the centre point. The wide range of 5 Star Resorts, the One Island – One Hotel group, the smaller island styled hotels, attractions and activities enables Seychelles to be a destination for the discerning travellers looking for a tropical island for their holidays. This diversity on offer has made it easier to deliver on visitor expectations, visitor experiences, and put into perspective the question of value for money.

Has Seychelles as a whole agreed that tourism is the industry worth protecting and that it should take into consideration the fact that year after year income for the island from tourism keeps the Seychelles economy floating nicely. This is over and above the employment positions available to Seychellois. Too often it is heard that each and every family in Seychelles has someone employed in the tourism industry or has invested directly into the tourism industry. This is why every responsible Seychellois must support this vital industry and ensure the National Assembly of the islands ensures adequate funding is available for the continued marketing of Seychelles. The people of the islands on their part have to ensure that Seychelles’ tag line as a safe tourism destination is protected and safeguarded. Seychelles is one of the safest destinations in the world and this we need to ensure we remain so. But we also must double our efforts in ensuring mare is available for our visitors to do. They cannot spend and increase the island’s yield from the industry that has become the pillar of its economy if they do not have things to do. This is why innovations by Destination Management Companies (DMCs) is important and why the Tourism Board must ensure each service provider is well publicised so that visitors are tempted to move out of their hotels to have a better experience of the sights and sounds of the Seychelles.

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 20, 2018 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels & Resorts announced another successful year in Asia as it introduced innovative new brands and award-winning hospitality to even more guests across the fast-growing region in 2018.

Throughout the year, Best Western continued to expand its footprint in a series of key Asian markets. In Indonesia, the opening of Best Western Senayan Hotel in Jakarta and Best Western Kindai Hotel in Banjarmasin reflect the company’s commitment to serving a wide variety of destinations, from key cities to emerging markets.

In Japan meanwhile, Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Chitose and Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akihabara both opened this year, catering for the rising number of domestic and international travelers as the country prepares to host the 2020 Olympics.

Vietnam is another strategic target market for Best Western. In 2018, the company signed new agreements for Best Western Premier Cam Ranh Seahorse Beach Resort, Best Western Premier Quang Binh, Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long and Best Western Plus Ha Long Bay, all of which are scheduled to welcome guests from 2020 onwards. These spectacular hotels and resorts, featuring a combined total of over 2,200 rooms, will bring high quality international accommodation to a series of rapidly emerging destinations.

Best Western also continued to expand its portfolio in Thailand with this year’s signings of Best Western Plus Speech Pattaya and The Title V Rawai Phuket, BW Premier Collection by Best Western, both of which are on track to open within two years. Finally in the Philippines, Best Western signed its first SureStay® hotel, SureStay Plus by Best Western Regency Angeles City Clark, which is scheduled to open its doors in the second quarter of 2019.

As Best Western looks to the future in Asia, 2019 will bring the debut of Vīb Sanampao in Bangkok, which will be Asia’s first Vīb® hotel; the launch of SureStay Plus by Best Western Shin-Osaka, the first SureStay Hotel in Japan; the opening of Tawaravadee Resort, BW Signature Collection by Best Western, Asia’s first BW Signature Collection® hotel; and the launch of Best Western Plus Osaka Kitahama and Best Western Plus The Beachfront Resort, which will become the first Best Western Plus® hotels in Osaka and Phuket respectively.

Best Western will also return to the popular Thai resort town of Pattaya in 2019 with the opening of Best Western Premier BayPhere Pattaya. This will be complemented by the highly-anticipated debut of BluPhere Pattaya, BW Premier Collection by Best Western in 2020.

The future of Best Western in Asia holds even more promise as the company continues to build its collection of industry-leading brands. In September the company introduced a pair of unique boutique brands, upscale Sadie HotelSM and upper-midscale Aiden HotelSM. Created as conversion brands, these two chic offerings enable developers to reposition existing properties and enhance the value of their assets.¬ The world’s first Aiden Hotel opened last month in Seoul, South Korea, and Sadie Hotel is expected to arrive in Asia in the near future.

“2018 has been a hugely successful and rewarding year for Best Western in Asia,” said Ron Pohl, Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer for Best Western Hotels & Resorts. “As a company, we are currently undertaking the most exciting period of expansion in our rich 72-year history, following the launch of a series of ground-breaking brand concepts. These include Vīb, our cutting-edge upper midscale concept, which will make its debut in Asia in January 2019, and our two newest brands, Sadie Hotel and Aiden Hotel.”

Best Western continued to set the standard for international midscale accommodation in Asia in 2018, winning several prestigious industry awards. The company was named as Asia’s “Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand” for an unprecedented twelfth consecutive year at the TTG Asia Travel Awards, and the “Best Midscale Hotel Chain” for the fourth year in a row at the Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards.

“We will now bring our award-winning hospitality to even more guests across the region,” commented Olivier Berrivin, Best Western Hotels & Resorts’ Managing Director of International Operations – Asia. “With our expanded portfolio of industry-leading brands, Best Western is in a position to serve guests and developers in almost every sector of the market. In the coming months and years, we will launch outstanding new hotels and resorts in key strategic markets all across Asia, including Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines.”

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

About Best Western Hotels & 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:
Best Western Hotels & Resorts
BWI (Thailand) Co., Ltd, Gaysorn Place Office Building
999 Ploenchit Road Lumpini Phatumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Phone: +662.656.1260
Fax: +662.656.1252
Web: www.bestwesternasia.com

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

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 19, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Visionary global hospitality brand, Capella Hotel Group is to unveil its first urban resort in Thailand: Capella Bangkok, set to open in the second quarter of 2019. Taking up residence on the east bank of the legendary River of Kings (Chao Phraya River) the new luxury property is the first to open along the waterway in the last two decades.

John Blanco, General Manager of Capella Bangkok comments: “The revival of the riverside has been happening organically for some years now and it’s incredible to experience the enthusiasm everybody has for a return to the city’s original roots. It’s reminiscent of the redevelopment of historic – and often artistic – waterfront locales in other major metropolises such as the Meatpacking District in Manhattan and Belém in Lisbon, and I have every confidence that it will have the same uplifting effect on the city as a whole.”

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Undergoing a major transformation, the surrounding Chao Phraya and Charoenkrung neighbourhood is revelling in the rise of its burgeoning local arts scene and the revival of its provincial culinary landscape. Charoenkrung and Chao Phraya have inevitably moved with the times, but unlike many districts throughout the sprawling metropolis, this specific area retains a strong sense of community identity which puts the riverfront lifestyle centre stage. A contemporary playground is afoot in which heritage will be rediscovered and new stories can be crafted by travellers who want to immerse themselves in one of Bangkok’s oldest neighbourhoods.

John Blanco adds: “I am sure our guests will enjoy exploring the locale and discovering the diverse street food stalls, riverfront seafood markets and decades-old shophouse restaurants including the legendary Thip Volcanic Fried Mussel & Oyster, in addition to the fashionable new eateries celebrating Bangkok’s bygone culinary roots. Guests are also sure to be enamoured by local residents of all ages engaging in their daily riverside regimens.

Capella Bangkok offers 101 suites and the city’s first riverfront villas located within the highly-anticipated Chao Phraya Estate, a more-than-14-acre prime waterfront land development that boasts unprecedented accessibility and 350 metres of riverfront real estate.

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Designed to evoke the feeling of a personal pied-à-terre with unobstructed views of the river from every room, the luxury property features a signature restaurant curated by celebrated Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco, Auriga Wellness with an extensive list of carefully curated Asian therapies combining traditional techniques with contemporary solutions, The Capella Living Room – a light-filled, river-facing lounge that will host local artisans, music and culinary delights to reflect the neighbourhood’s passion for food, wellness and culture.

Crafted local experiences, provided by the Capella Personal Assistant, will offer guests first-hand encounters with resident luminaries and inspire them to create and share their own memories about the city’s most intriguing enclave.

About Capella Hotel Group
Capella Hotel Group, headquartered in Singapore with offices in China, Europe and USA, offers global hospitality management services through two distinct brands. Capella Hotels and Resorts is an ultra-luxury hotel, resort and residential concept designed for the most discerning travellers and offering personalized attention with locations in Düsseldorf, Shanghai, Singapore, Sanya and Ubud as well as hotels planned for Bangkok, Maldives and Sydney.

Solis Hotels and Resorts, is an exclusive collection of resorts, hotels and residences designed for travellers and meeting planners who seek an environment with a global palette of cosmopolitan comfort, inspiring cuisine, world-class spas with locations in Donegal, Ireland, Nanjing, China and Atlanta, USA along with hotels planned for Bali and Guangzhou.

About Chao Phraya Estate
The Chao Phraya Estate enjoys a prime waterfront location in Bangkok’s heritage quarter on an unprecedented 14.2 acres of land. The project is valued at approximately USD 1 billion and development features 3 unique properties – Four Seasons Private Residences Bangkok, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok and Capella Hotel Bangkok. Construction started in Q3 2014 with expected completion in Q4 2018. The masterplan and design is by Hamiltons International with architecture by Dhevanand Architects Co., Ltd. and interior design by BAMO Inc. and PIA Interior Co., Ltd. The Landscape Designer is P Landscape Co., Ltd.

About Country Group Development
Country Group Development (CGD) is the Thailand-based, international real estate development and investment arm of Country Group. With a proven track record of delivering bold and complex asset transformations including Four Seasons Private Residences Bangkok, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok and Capella Hotel Bangkok; the company is a unique player in the market with a competitive edge from its diversified real estate strategy and ability to leverage from the Country Group affiliate network of companies.

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