Category: Latest Travel News

Port Louis (Mauritius) – May 25, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Tourism Ministers and dignitaries from right around the world joined some 400 Mauritius Tourism professionals at a conference that touches at the core of tourism today and tomorrow. The conference that coincided with the 50th Anniversary of Independence of Mauritius from the United Kingdom took place at the Le Meridien Hotel was officially launched by Hon Pravind Jugnauth, the island’s Prime Minister in the presence of President Didier Robert of Reunion, Hon Catherine Abelema Afeku, Minister of Tourism of Ghana, Hon Adil Hamid Daglo Mussa of the Republic of Sudan, Richard Via of Madagascar, Pamela O. Sooprayen-Kwet On of Rodrigues, Fekitamoeloa Utoikamanu, the United Nations Under Secretary General and High Representative of the Least Developed Countries, Dr Dirk Glaesser of the UNWTO, Alain St.Ange, head of the Saint Ange Consultancy and former Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine of the Seychelles, Pascal Viroleau, CEO of the Vanilla Islands to name but a few.

Hon Anil Gayan, Minister of tourism of Mauritius said when he addressed the conference that:- ” Tourism in Mauritius relies of security of the destination, high quality resorts, a multi-ethnic population, a confluence of religion, cultures and traditions, in fact a mosaic of the world. Tourism is always a work in progress and this is why we are here to learn and to strategize. The choice of the theme is deliberate as we all know that travel and tourism of tomorrow will be determined by the impact of Digitalisation on Sustainable Tourism. Travelling into the future conjures up an image of Mauritius as a Digital Paradise. We intend to seize the potential of new technology to advance the tourism industry. With social media and new products like crypto-currency and blockchain, technology will shape the world of the future. How we respond to the new paradigm will determine the fate of the industry. Sustainable digitalization and digitalized sustainability – that is the question. As travel is about connecting people and places, there is always a great story to tell afterwards. Travel opens mind, fosters mutual understanding and, as a contributor to world peace, tourism is people to people diplomacy at its best”.

The Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands and the African mainland were well represented at this important tourism meeting that saw many panel discussions from experts and strategists.

Alain St.Ange
t: + 248 2 515 615
e: alain@saintange.com.au | saintangeseychelles@gmail.com

Bangkok (Thailand) – May 25, 2018 – Mekong Kingdoms is proud to announce the maiden Mekong River voyage of Gypsy, an ultra-exclusive two-cabin river cruiser, between the ancient Laos capital of Luang Prabang and Thailand’s Golden Triangle, in May 2018. A private tailored three nights, four days cruise from Luang Prabang to the Golden Triangle and a two nights, three days cruise from the Golden Triangle to Luang Prabang for up to four passengers are on offer.

For those who seek a superior cruise experience that can be as spirited, laidback or personalised as their heart and soul desire, Gypsy offers the most intimate journey where adventurous voyagers and armchair travellers alike can enjoy first class services – from plush contemporary surrounds to gourmet meals and bespoke experiences both on board and ashore.

Meticulously designed to accommodate the modern day lifestyle of the most discerning wanderlust souls, the 41-metre, two-cabin vessel epitomises a fine balance between playful mingling and reflective solitude. With ample indoor and outdoor living spaces to comfortably accommodate families or small groups, Gypsy also features a communal mid-ship lounge, bar and dining area, as well as a separate veranda style lounge with an al fresco panorama deck at the bow of the boat.

For Bangkok based design consultant Ms Jiraparnn Tokeeree from TOUCHABLE, furniture and interior design is more approachable and touchable than the abstract concept of art – for her, art is all around us and she adapts aesthetics and artistic aspects into her designs in order to accentuate this notion. For the Gypsy interior design project she fashioned a harmonious social atmosphere of modern homely design, juxtaposed with hints of the glamorised bygone era of romantic voyaging.

Wood and thatch throughout blend seamlessly with the verdant surrounds of the mighty Mekong River’s shores through floor-to-ceiling windows and from open sun decks. The boat’s contemporary designed interiors feature tongue and groove wood panelled ceilings, floors and walls; etched wooden cupboards and closets; solid wood tables; dark woven leather seating; and oversized bamboo daybeds. Local handwoven ornaments adorn the spaces and freshly cut flowers create a naturally soothing ambience, while Thai silk and fabrics drape the furniture in bold colours and lustrous appeal.

The well-appointed spacious sleeping cabins are fully air-conditioned and consists of a king bed and twin beds configurations, each with an en-suite shower and vanity. Intimate touches of bathrobes and slippers; crisp white bed linen; regular and feather pillows; and a choice of exquisite bathroom amenities provide convenient functions with the comfort of home. A hair dryer, vanity and make up mirror are provided, while a personal safe promises in-room safety.

Cruising along the majestic mighty Mekong River from near the world renowned Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Chiang Rai to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang conjures up images of old Indochina, of languorous days gone by, teeming with exhilarating river adventure, mystical temples and stunning untouched scenery. Voyagers will be captivated by the languid river lifestyle, soaking in nature’s wonders along the Mekong River Valley, marvelling at encounters with fascinating local cultures as they stop at villages and attractions along the way.

Daily shore excursions offer a mix of age old culture, local immersion and adrenaline charged adventure and include guided jungle treks; mountain biking in Ban Houy Phalam; freshwater fishing; a traditional weaving workshop at Ban Baw; Laos whisky tasting; a visit to a little known elephant camp in Pak Beng; and the Pak Ou caves – with its breath taking limestone karst formations, these two caves have been gifted thousands of Buddha images, left by pilgrims over the centuries.

Even while cruising the placid waters, guests can enjoy a range of wellness, cultural and fun diversions on board, including yoga; folk dancing; learning to speak the Laos language; weaving workshop; and cooking class.

After an adventurous day of exploring Southeast Asia’s most beguiling waterway, the boat’s open decks offer a welcome respite to savour a decadent Champagne high tea while watching the world go by. As the sun sets, cocktails on the panorama deck are the order of the day before retreating to the dining area for an evening of fine dining and imbibing, courtesy of the on board chef.

Rates start from USD 5,450 for a three nights, four day cruise from Luang Prabang, Laos, to the Golden Triangle, Thailand; and from USD 6,950 for a two nights, three days cruise from the Golden Triangle to Luang Prabang. Rates are per boat for up to four guests and include all on board meals; welcome reception with canapés; soft beverages, water, beer, selected wines and coffee and tea; Wi-Fi; shore excursions, English guide, entrance fees and transfers; on board activities; return airport or hotel transfers; and gratuities. Children aged four years and under travel free.

About Mekong Kingdoms:
Mekong Kingdoms, a division of Minor Hotels, is pioneering a stylish new way of exploring the Mekong River with modern boats, bespoke itineraries and a playful, artistic spirit. Mekong Kingdoms cruises recreate and elevate the concept of river travel with a fleet of five vessels offering first class services in plush contemporary surrounds, including a 13-cabin boutique barge and a two-cabin ultra-exclusive cruiser for two-night and three-night cruises between Luang Prabang in Laos and the Golden Triangle in Thailand; and three day boats for shorter private excursions for couples to a floating lounge ideal for private events and family celebrations. Mekong Kingdoms cruises join Minor Hotels’ existing fleet of Manohra Dining Cruises in Bangkok and Anantara Overnight Cruises that sail from Bangkok to Thailand’s ancient capital of Ayutthaya.

Cam Ranh (Vietnam) – May 22, 2018 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels & Resorts has accelerated its expansion plans in Vietnam with the signing of an exciting new upscale beach resort in Cam Ranh.

Best Western Premier Cam Ranh Seahorse Beach Resort will be nestled on an idyllic stretch of golden sand on Vietnam’s south-central coast, overlooking the azure East Sea.

Ideal for all types of travelers, from families seeking a beachfront vacation to corporate groups planning memorable meetings, this world-class resort, residence and convention center will be located just five minutes from Cam Ranh International Airport and 20 minutes from the popular resort town of Nha Trang.

The signing ceremony was held on May 10, 2018, attended by Best Western’s executives and Mr Luong Thanh Thiem, Chairman of Hong Ngoc Viet Travel Investment Joint Stock Company.

“We are delighted to sign such a prestigious project in Vietnam, as we ramp up our expansion strategy in this dynamic country,” said Olivier Berrivin, Best Western’s Managing Director of International Operations – Asia. “Best Western Premier Cam Ranh Seahorse Beach Resort is a perfect example of the type of first-class properties we are now attracting in Asia.

“With record numbers of international visitors, a large domestic population and rising levels of affluence, Vietnam is an incredibly exciting destination with huge tourism potential. We look forward to welcoming guests to this excellent resort in future and will continue to seek opportunities to bring Best Western’s world-class standards of hospitality to more areas of the country in future,” Olivier added.

Upon opening, Best Western Premier Cam Ranh Seahorse Beach Resort will feature a total of 376 rooms and suites, all equipped with upscale facilities, spacious bathrooms and cutting-edge technology, including complimentary Wi-Fi.

Guests can sample delectable local and international cuisine in the restaurant, enjoy soothing therapies in the spa, have fun on the tennis court, cool off in the tropical outdoor pool, or simply stroll along the sandy beach or beside the landscaped lakes.

For corporate clients and event planners, the adjacent convention hall provides an ideal setting for every type and size of event, including major international conferences, all backed up with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology.

Located in Khanh Hoa province, in the south-central coast region of Vietnam, Cam Ranh is a stunning destination with golden sands and turquoise seas. The expansion of Cam Ranh International Airport, which will soon open a new international passenger terminal featuring 80 check-in counters and ten aircraft bridges, is helping to transform the area into a major tourism destination. The airport now welcomes direct flights from major cities including Hong Kong, Seoul, Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur.

Best Western has identified Vietnam as one of its key Asian target markets; the signing of Best Western Premier Cam Ranh Seahorse Beach Resort comes just weeks after the company announced plans for its first BW Premier Collection® by Best Western hotel in the country, located in the coastal city of Vung Tau.

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 11 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®, BW Premier Collection®, and BW Signature CollectionSM 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 64 percent of the brand’s North American hotels earning a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award in 2017, Business Travel News® ranking Best Western Plus and Best Western number one in upper-mid-price and mid-price hotel brands, and Best Western receiving seven consecutive Dynatrace® Best of the Web awards for its leading hotel website. 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 32 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 hotel worldwide. Best Western’s partnerships with AAA/CAA and Harley-Davidson® 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

Langkawi (Malaysia ) – May 23, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin, the CEO of Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and a key member of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has just been appointed as the new Vice Chairman of PATA and the Chairman of Government Destination Sub-Committee at the Association’s Annual Summit in Gangneung, Republic of Korea for the period of 2018 – 2019.

Prior to his position at LADA to oversee the development of Langkawi as a premiere global tourist destination in line with the island’s status as UNESCO Global Geopark, Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin was the Deputy Director General for the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia) and responsible for the operations of the organisation and the promotional efforts of all 44 Tourism Malaysia offices overseas.

Starting his career in tourism back in 1978, he has since served in various leadership roles including heading the Tourism Malaysia offices in Seoul, Republic of Korea and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He is a graduate of the MARA University Institute of Technology in Malaysia and holds two Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from Oxford Learning Centre of Excellence and Institute of Technology in Australia.

“I am deeply inspired and humbled by the confidence placed in me by the Committee that led to this assignment. I wish to also extend my respect and appreciation to all the members of PATA for their strong support. I greatly look forward to working with everyone as we steer PATA towards greater success and to boost the Malaysian tourism industry – maintaining its profile as a destination of excellence and a major contributor to the socio-economic development of the nation”, enthused Dato’ Haji Azizan who was also the Chairman of Malaysia PATA Chapter from 2010 to 2016.

In consistent with previous appointment, the mandate would automatically render
Dato’ Haji Azizan as the honourable Chairman for the next period (2019 – 2020).

Bangkok (Thailand) – May 21, 2018 (travelindex.com) – As the old saying goes “There are fish in the waters. There is rice in the fields”, this saying truly reflects the greatness of Thailand, the kingdom of food. Thailand’s rich culture, art, and tradition that passed down from generation to generation have selectively created the unique taste of Thai cuisine.

R-HAAN restaurant focuses on the heart of Thai cookery. Each menu is seasoned and cooked by highly experienced Thai food chef with only the best ingredients as strictly prescribed by traditional recipes. No wonder each dish is filled with the charm of Thai cuisine.

Each dish served on the table not only represents the true taste of Thai food, but also reflects the art of royal utensils during the Rattanakosin Era. Every single menu is presented on a beautiful and hand-crafted utensil made by professional crafters. This truly shows how R-HAAN is committed to the best. The real traditional Thai cuisine and the happiness from every single delicious bite are what R-HAAN strives for.

From inspiration to reality, Chef Chumpol Jangprai, or widely known as the “master chef” of Thai cuisine, has spent his entire life learning, experimenting, and developing his Thai recipes including researching and sourcing the best local ingredients. Today, Chef Chumpol and his partner, Mr. Piti Bhirombhakdi, Thailand’s famous Food and Beverage company heir, are ready to pursue their dream of presenting the essence of authentic Thai food and the charm of Thai cuisine. From the profound love for authentic Thai food, the fine-dining Thai restaurant called R-HAAN was finally launched and is ready to serve you the best experience of Thai cuisine.

The Wisdom of Thai Cuisine

The Wisdom of Thai Cuisine comprises 5 elements.
Thailand is fortunate to have abundant “local food ingredients”. R-HAAN selects only the best ingredients from every corner of Thailand such as Red Snapper from Bang Pakong, Flower Crab from Pak Nam Bangtapoon, “Kam Pang San” specially-fed Thai Beef, chilies from Ratchaburi, and jasmine rice from both the northeastern and the northern parts of Thailand.

The best ingredients are then mixed with seasonings using heating process to blend all ingredients and seasonings together at perfect timing. The heat does not only cook the ingredients, but also helps the dish look colorful.

With the balance of ingredients, seasonings, timing and heat, the signature well-rounded taste of Thai food which includes the basic five tastes of sourness, sweetness, creaminess, saltiness, and spiciness is created. In addition to these 5 basic tastes, the true authentic Thai cuisine also gives distinctive tastes of slight bitterness and zesty that usually linger on your taste buds. This combination of signature tastes is the charm of Thai cuisine.

This is where the chef’s passion and fresh ingredients come together to create the perfect menu at R-HAAN.

Thai Samrub (a set of a variety of dishes) – the balance and sharing
R-HAAN restaurant focuses on the wisdom of Thai cuisine which combines Thai culture and abundant local ingredients with both old-school and modern cooking procedures. In R-HAAN’s kitchen, the traditional charcoal stove and modern cooking machines are both used. A set of variety of dishes (Samrub) is served at the center of the table to be shared among diners as per Thai dining tradition. At least 18 menus are included in one meal and may include special seasonal menu from the chef. This set of menus is carefully created to balance a variety of flavors and tastes from each dish, which are designed to complement each other, just the way Thai food should be.

There are three Samrubs at R-HAAN. Each samrub is named after the Thai intonation marks. (more details can be found on the menu)
1.Samrub Eak
2. Samrub Tho
3. Samrub Tri

This is part of the menu created from the best of local ingredients from every corner of Thailand. The menu is changed every season according to the date of the changing of the Emerald Buddha’s seasonal costume.

Samrub Eak
The best of Thai Samrub starts with “Kanom Krok Cream Tom Kha Caviar Krongkarn Luang Doi Indhanon”. This extraordinary Amuse-Bouche is made from Coconut cream infused with galangal and comes in a Thai Takoyaki style. The seasonal Indhanon caviar on the top makes a perfect crunchy topping.

The sensation from Amuse-Bouche is followed by three kinds of appetizers served on a golden tray. The first one is freshly-made Thai rice noodle to be eaten with Great Grand Mother Sa-Guan Sri’s recipe chili dip. Another authentic Thai appetizer is Royal Thai crispy vermicelli rice noodle coated with edible gold leaf. The last appetizer is “Thod Mun Pla Grai Pak Naam Pho” which is fish cake made from Pak Naam Pho river fish served with three flavors Sphere.

The main course comprises dishes representing the best menu of Thai culinary such as contemporary river prawn Tom Yam Soup, mango tree ant’s eggs and wild star gooseberry mixed with herbs and local vegetables, “Pak Naam Bang Ta Boon” blue crab stir in creamy coconut milk and shallot, Crispy “Bang Pakong” sea bass with sticky red curry and ground crispy Pork, Bird’s eye chilli green curry with “Kam Pang San” special-fed Thai beef accompanied with chilli and fish sauce made from Ratchaburi’s bird’s eye chilli and Rayong’s fermented fish sauce, Steamed Hom Mali Rice from 2 provinces (Chiangrai and Ubon Ratchathani), and steamed five kinds of brown rice (Rice Berry, Gaba Rice, Sangyod Rice, Hill Tribe Brown Rice and Hom Mali Brown Rice)

This course (Royal Thai Samrub Eak) finishes with Thai desserts and the finale Petit Fours which are freshly made daily according to Royal Thai’s sweets recipe.

The taste of the wisdom of Thai Cuisine is here, the one and only R-HAAN at Sukhumvit 55, Thong Lo Soi 9. Grand Opening: May 23, 2018

Bangkok (Thailand) – May 17, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Three quarters of Thai consumers are making online purchases, with Beauty and Fashion and Electronics being the top categories. However, as consumers continue to look towards convenience, fraud exposure will likely increase – these are the findings of the Digital Consumer Insights 2018 by the world’s leading information services company Experian, co-authored with leading ICT market research and advisory firm IDC.

The Digital Consumer Insights 2018 report is based on a consumer survey across ten APAC markets including Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. It looks at how businesses fare in fraud management, through their customers’ eyes and is a complementary report to the Fraud Management Insights 2017 report which looked at fraud management through the eyes of enterprises.

The report found that there was an interplay between convenience and fraud. With the growth of convenient interaction and transaction platforms such as frictionless payments, and a continuous goal to provide better and seamless customer experiences, opportunities for fraud increases.

“Thailand’s e-commerce market is rapidly growing, with 73% of respondents having made online purchases,” said Dev Dhiman, Managing Director, Southeast Asia and Emerging Markets, Experian Asia Pacific. “However, fraud rates are also high, with an average of 19% of Thais having experienced fraud across various e-commerce and services segments, and more than half of our respondents (51%) intending to switch service providers when fraud occurs.”

“Unfortunately, the reality is that greater digital convenience is linked to higher fraud exposure. However we also found that greater fraud exposure may lead to consumers being more likely to adopt convenient security measures like biometrics – which will allow businesses to ensure a seamless customer experience while managing fraud.”

While the Thai government has begun pushing out biometrics registration (e.g. fingerprinting, facial and voice recognition) nationwide for sim card signups to combat electronic fraud and enhance mobile banking security, only 15% of respondents in Thailand indicated they were willing to adopt biometrics in commercial applications. Thais rank fourth in their willingness to adopt biometrics, after the other developing economies of India, China, and Vietnam.

The Vicious Cycle of Fraud Response: Managing the Fraud Response Cycle and Negating Business Risks

The research found that mismanagement of fraud response results in two different types of losses for companies, due to differing reactions from consumers which are based on their risk attitudes and perceptions. The report identified two groups of consumers, the Digital Voyagers and the Digital Pragmatists. Digital Voyagers dominate in mobile-led, emerging economies and they are more convenience-driven and less risk-averse. On the other end of the spectrum are Digital Pragmatists who tend to come from mature economies and are more cautious and concerned about security.

“Understanding the difference between Digital Voyagers and Digital Pragmatists is important for companies as they react differently to fraud,” said Dhiman. “In the case of Digital Voyager centric countries, like Thailand, companies may face escalating fraud costs as digital consumption continues and companies absorb fraud losses to retain customers. In Digital Pragmatist centric countries like Hong Kong, people are more likely to avoid digital transactions in fear of fraud and this results in a loss of digital revenue for businesses.”

Consumer’s Willingness to Share Data
One of the ways companies can help protect against fraud is to have high quality information about their consumers so that they are able to properly verify transactions. When asked, 51% of Thais are willing to have their personal data shared with businesses specifically for better fraud detection.

Consumers are also selective in the information they share with companies, with 3.8% of Thais saying that they have provided inaccurate information to avoid disclosing personal data. This is lower than the APAC average of 5%. Thais are also the most likely in the region to supply inaccurate information to companies, with 35% having made mistakes in basic personal details like addresses, phone numbers and names, 25% having made mistakes in providing highly guarded personal information like payment details, and 30% having given wrong information relating to their age, gender, income and education level.

“Across the region, we found that there is a trust gap between people and organisations,” said Dhiman. “Consumers are submitting inaccurate data or purposely omitting important information to companies. This, unfortunately, results in it being more difficult for businesses to identify their customers online and fight fraud effectively. With the acceleration of the digital economy, fraud challenges will only grow and companies must ensure they leverage the right technologies and solutions to address the complexities of the digital age.”

About Experian
Experian is the world’s leading global information services company. During life’s big moments – from buying a home or a car, to sending a child to college, to growing a business by connecting with new customers – we empower consumers and our clients to manage their data with confidence. We help individuals to take financial control and access financial services, businesses to make smarter decisions and thrive, lenders to lend more responsibly, and organisations to prevent identity fraud and crime.

We have more than 16,000 people operating across 37 countries and every day we’re investing in new technologies, talented people and innovation to help all our clients maximise every opportunity. We are listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN) and are a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index.

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – May 21, 2018 (travelindex.com) – This coming week, Mauritius is hosting the “International Conference on Digitalisation and Sustainable Tourism”, which will be held on the 23rd & 24th May at Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa. I have been invited by Minister Anil Gayan and will be part of many tourism professionals travelling to Mauritius for this event. Mauritius needs to be congratulated for staging this International conference which will put the spot light on the island and on the Vanilla Islands Region as a whole. Visibility is always important because it ensures relevance for any destination dependent on tourism.

Air France officially welcomed back to Seychelles

The official welcome of Air France JOON on Tuesday the 15th May at Seychelles International Airport was led by Minister Didier Dogley, Seychelles Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, which was followed the same evening by a cocktail at the French Ambassador’s Residence where three successive Tourism and Civil Aviation Ministers (Didier Dogley, Maurice Loustau-Lalanne & Alain St.Ange) were present showing the Seychellois appreciation of the resumed service by Air France.

Cabo Verde Tourism & Transport Minister on Official Visit to Seychelles

Jose da Silva Goncalves, Minister of Tourism & Transport of Cabo Verde made time during his official visit to Seychelles to meet with me to exchange ideas and discuss the years, when as Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports & Marine of Seychelles, I worked closely with him at CAF, the UNWTO and at International Forums. The good relations between Cabo Verde and Seychelles have existed for many years as two small groups of mid-ocean islands saw the necessity to share ideas and to be supportive of one another. President Jorge Carlos De Almeida Fonseca of Cabo Verde has also visited Seychelles. During discussions Minister Jose da Silva Goncalves also discussed opportunities for Seychellois Pilots for their growing Aviation network among other tourism related matters of mutual interest.

Female travellers feel less safe than they did five years ago

AIG Travel reported last week on the results of a travel trend survey that revealed that 45 percent of female travellers feel less safe or much less safe about traveling than they did five years ago. This is a worry for world tourism because travel as an industry must be for all without any discrimination, and the responsibility or duty of care must be a prerequisite for all tourism destinations wanting to be featured in Tour Operator Programs.

Results of the travel trends survey, commissioned by AIG Travel, a worldwide leader in travel insurance and assistance services, also show that safety is top of mind for women while they are evaluating potential destinations as well as during their travels. Seychelles and the Vanilla Islands have always emphasized safety and security as key Unique Selling Points (USPs) of the Indian Ocean Islands. Our region is still able to boast about its safety and security label, something which many other tourism destinations worldwide are unable to do.

Sri Lanka Chef launches the “Festival of Flavours” at Avani Seychelles

A “festival of flavours” from all over Asia made its way to AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa this month in their Tamarind Restaurant. The Resort welcomed Sri Lankan Guest Chef Lasantha de Silva to kick off the culinary tour before confirming that he will be followed by other Guest Chefs every month. To facilitate the local population wanting to appreciate the ‘Festival of Flavours”, Avani Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa have extended a special rate on rooms for those wanting to stay the evening.

Air France dedicates its Inflight Magazine to Seychelles

An important plus for Seychelles tourism is on display right across the world with Air France. Their Inflight Magazine for the month of May is dedicated to Seychelles. It is no coincidence that the month of May is also the same month when the Company’s JOON Brand introduced their flights to Seychelles. This Magazine, in addition to being available on all Air France flights, will also be on offer in all of the airlines’ lounges and travel agent shops. This is fantastic exposure for Seychelles!

Oil prices climbed above $80 a barrel

It has been confirmed by Reuters in New York that oil prices climbed above $80 a barrel last Thursday for the first time since November 2014. Global inventories of crude and fuel have dropped sharply in recent months owing to robust demand and OPEC-led production cuts. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and non-OPEC global producers, that have curbed output since the start of 2017, will next meet to discuss supply policy in Vienna in June.

Seychelles has been seeing its fuel prices at the pump increase to a record high and this is having an adverse impact on the island’s cost of living. Seychelles has no control over the new price of oil on the world market, but it has total control over the Government imposed duty of about Rupees eight per litre, which can be readjusted to mitigate further cost burden on the people of Seychelles.

Rainbow Flag flies proudly at British High Commission in Seychelles

Last week on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, the British High Commission in Seychelles was flying the rainbow flag in support of inclusion, diversity and tolerance. The message being emphasized is that every person should be able to live a life free of discrimination and persecution. A post by H.E. C. Rohsler, the British High Commissioner in Seychelles said:- “Proud that today British High Commission flies the rainbow flag (representing LGBTI pride) today against discrimination against people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex”.

Krabi (Thailand) – May 19, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has announced that Maya Bay in Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park will not allow visitors during a much needed four-month rejuvenation period from 1 June to 30 September, 2018.

The DNP announced at a press conference held on 15 May that access to Maya Bay will be strictly off limits during the four-month rejuvenation.

It will not allow boats to enter the bay in front of the beach, or even drop anchor at nearby Loh Samah Bay, as visitors and their vessels will not be allowed to enter Maya Bay.

Travellers can still catch a glimpse of the Bay’s stunning beauty, made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie ‘The Beach’ at a 400-metre distance, or between the two cliffs that form a natural entrance to the lagoon. But this will be strictly supervised and carefully monitored by the DNP.

During the four-month period, the DNP will undertake a coastal and marine environment quality evaluation study on the condition of reef and beach resources, environmental control, and tourism management. This is to properly determine measures for environmental sustainability of Maya Bay during future off-tourist seasons.

Temporary closings of natural attractions are not new to Thailand. Each year, the DNP closes several national parks for a period to allow for ecological recovery time. Depending on weather and park conditions, dates vary as the closures are often due to extreme weather, especially during the rainy annual monsoon that may create unsafe conditions.

International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
1600 New Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathevi
Bangkok 10400 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246

Bangkok (Thailand) – May 18, 2018 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels & Resorts is celebrating after BluPhere Pattaya, BW Premier Collection by Best Western, its spectacular new seafront property being developed by the Habitat Group, was honored at the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2018-19.

This impressive upscale hotel won the “New Hotel Construction & Design – Thailand” award at this year’s Asia Pacific Property Awards. Organized by IPAX Asia Pacific, this prestigious event celebrates architectural excellence and showcases the region’s finest hospitality and real estate developments.

This award marks the latest in a series of accolades for BluPhere Pattaya and Habitat Group, Thailand’s leading real estate developer. Mr Chanin Vanijwongse (pictured left), the company’s Chief Executive Officer, and Ms Sasivimol Sutthibut (right), Chief Operating Officer, were at the event to receive this prestige award.

Scheduled to welcome its first guests in 2020, BluPhere Pattaya, BW Premier Collection by Best Western, is a stunning new project being constructed by the Habitat Group in Na Jomtien, the beautiful beachfront destination on Thailand’s popular Eastern Seaboard.

The development’s contemporary design concept blends perfectly with nature, including the sky and sea, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the blissful seafront surroundings.

“We are delighted to see the Habitat Group won this fantastic accolade at the Asia Pacific Property Awards,” commented Olivier Berrivin, Best Western’s Managing Director International Operations – Asia. “BluPhere Pattaya, BW Premier Collection by Best Western is a truly impressive project and we are delighted to be working with our esteemed partner, the Habitat Group, to bring this hotel to life.”

“One of the most important elements of hospitality is developing lasting relationships. In the Habitat Group we have a fantastic partner that is able to create inspirational projects. We look forward to deepening our relationship with them in future and seeing BluPhere Pattaya and other exciting projects come to life,” Olivier added.

BluPhere Pattaya has won several awards for its architecture and design, including “Best Low-Rise Condo Architectural Design (Resort)” at the Thailand Property Awards 2017. It was also highly commended in the “Best Condo Interior Design” and “Best Condo Landscape Architectural Design” categories. It then won the “Best Condo Architectural Design (Thailand)” title at the Asia Property Awards 2017.

Currently under construction, BluPhere Pattaya will become the second BW Premier Collection by Best Western hotel in Thailand. Located just 100 meters from the golden beach, the hotel will feature 199 spacious apartment-style units and an array of upscale amenities.

Best Western and Habitat Group are also working together on Best Western Premier BayPhere Pattaya, which is scheduled to open in 2019.

About Best Western Hotels & Resorts:
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand with a global network of 4,100* hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Best Western offers 10 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®, and BW Premier Collection®; as well as its recently launched franchise offerings: SureStay®, SureStay Plus® and SureStay Signature Collection®. 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 64 percent of the brand’s North American hotels earning a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award in 2017, Business Travel News® ranking Best Western Plus and Best Western in the top three upper-mid-price and mid-price hotel brands for three years in a row, and Best Western receiving seven consecutive Dynatrace® Best of the Web awards for its leading hotel website. Best Western has also won eight consecutive AAA®/CAA® Lodging Partner of the Year awards, recognizing the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional service and great value to AAA’s 56 million members in the U.S. and Canada. Over 30 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 hotel worldwide. Best Western’s partnerships with AAA/CAA and Harley-Davidson® 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.
– 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

Macao (Macao SAR) – May 17, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Led by Ms. Pansy Ho, Secretary-General and Vice Chairman of the Global Tourism Economy Forum (“GTEF” or “the Forum”), the Delegation of China Business Leaders Visiting European Union (“Delegation”) recently completed an important mission in the EU. The objective of the mission was three-fold: to introduce GTEF to tourism stakeholders in the public and private sectors in the EU; to engage them in exchanges on tourism policy, business environment and investment opportunities; and to invite them to GTEF 2018, an official partner of the 2018 EU-China Tourism Year (“ECTY2018”), where the EU will be presented as the Partner Region and Guangdong Province as the Featured Chinese Province with a special focus on the Greater Bay Area.

In Brussels, Belgium, the official seats of the European Commission (“EC”), Council of the European Union and European Council, as well as a seat of the European Parliament (“EP”), the Delegation visited the EP and met with Mr. Istvan Ujhelyi, Chairman of Tourism Task Force, EP; Mrs. Anna Athanasopoulou, Head of Unit Tourism, Emerging and Creative Industries, EC; Mr. Eric Philippart, Special Counsellor for the ECTY2018 and Director of Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SME Department, EC; Mr. Eduardo Santander Executive Director and CEO, European Travel Commission (“ETC”); Mr. Bernard Tyttens, Secretary General of Belgian Travel Organization (BTO); Ms. Ilse Meyers, Secretary General of Association of Belgian Tour Operators (ABTO); Mr. Bernard Dewit, Chairman of Belgian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (BCECC); Mr. Michel De Blust, Secretary General of The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association; and Mr. Tom Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer of European Tourism Association (ETOA).

In The Hague, The Netherlands, the Delegation attended a lunch meeting with Mr. Frank Oostdam, President and Director of Dutch Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (ANVR); Mr. Jochum Haakma, Chairman of the EU China Business Council and former Dutch Consul General in Hong Kong and Shanghai; and Mr. Henri Remmers, Founder and Director of Corpus Museum in Leiden. The Delegation later visited the world-renowned Hotelschool The Hague where Ms. Regine von Stieglitz, President of Board of Directors, gave a brief introduction of the school’s curriculum, followed by group discussion of topics like hospitality training and education, as well as facilitation of EU-China tourism cooperation through educational means. The visit in The Hague concluded with a tour of the headquarters of citizenM, a pioneer of innovative hospitality experience for millennial travelers, where the Delegation learned about the hotel’s project development and operation. The Delegation then travelled to Amsterdam and joined a guided tour at Rijksmuseum conducted by Mr. Taco Dibbits, General Director of Collections, on the museum’s history, development and collections.

In Vienna, Austria, the Delegation met with Dr. Angelika Liedler, Head of International Tourism Affairs of Federal Ministry of Digital and Economic Affairs of Austria; Dr. Petra Stolba, Director General of Austria National Tourist Office; Mr. Norbert Kettner, Chief Executive Officer of Vienna Tourist Board; Mr. Christoph Plank, Head of Tourism of Advantage Austria of Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO); Ms. Julia Mauk, Expert of International Tourism Affairs Division of Ministry of Sustainability and Tourism; and Mr. Karl Wöber, President of University Board of Modul University and tourism expert. The Delegation later experienced Austria’s diversified cultural and tourism offerings through visits to the prominent Spanische Hofreitschule, the centuries-old Hotel Sacher, a concert of masterful music by Mozart and Strauss at Schonbrunn Palace Orangery, and Swarovski Kristallwelten at Innsbruck.

In addition, the Delegation paid courtesy calls on Chinese ambassadors in the EU countries visited. Mr. Zhang Ming, Ambassador, Head of the China Mission to the EU; Mr. Wang Hongjian, Minister of the Chinese Mission to EU; Mr. Wu Ken, Ambassador of China to the Netherlands; and Mr. Li Xiaosi, Ambassador of China to Austria, received the Delegation and generously shared the latest news and updates on tourism, cultural and economic relations between China and the respective EU member states.

Co-organized by GTEF, China Chamber of Tourism and China Women’s Chamber of Commerce, the 17-member strong delegation was led by Ms. Pansy Ho, and comprised influential Chinese business leaders in various sectors of tourism economy and key Forum members including Mr. Jean Claude Baumgarten, Vice Chairman of GTEF; Ms. Wang Ping, Chairman of China Chamber of Tourism (“CCT”) and Vice Chairman of GTEF; Ms. Liu Ting, Chairman of China Women’s Chamber of Commerce; Ms. Chen Shiyou, Vice Chairman of CCT and Managing Director of China International Capital Corporation Limited; Ms. Zhong Fei, Vice Chairman of CCT and President of Hunan Huaxia Investment Group and Ms. Li Xiaomei, Delegate of Vice Chairman of CCT and Chairman and General Manager of Mekong Tourism Co. Ltd.

As a partner event of ECTY 2018, GTEF is a perfect platform to bring two of the world’s most vibrant economies, EU and Guangdong Province, together to advance economic, cultural and people-to-people exchanges through tourism. Set to be held at MGM COTAI on October 23 and 24 under the theme “Strategic Partnership in a New Era, Rising Momentum for a Shared Future”, GTEF 2018 will explore how the EU, the second-most popular destination for outbound Chinese tourists outside Asia in 2017, and the GBA, which will be the seventh largest economic bloc in the world, can combine their collective effort to create a new catalyst for global economy. GTEF will also offer tourism promotion, investment and cooperation opportunities through bilateral trade meetings, business matching, networking, workshops, exhibitions, etc.

About Global Tourism Economy Forum
The Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) is hosted by the Secretariat for Social Affairs and Culture of the Macao SAR Government, co-organized by the China Chamber of Tourism under the authorization of All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC), and coordinated by GTERC in collaboration with UNWTO. GTEF’s supporting units include the Former China National Tourism Administration, the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR, Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Macao SAR, World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF), European Travel Commission (ETC) and Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO).

Since its inception in 2012, GTEF has successfully established itself as an influential high-level cooperation platform to promote sustainable development in the global tourism industry with a focus on China. To date, GTEF had received more than 8,000 participants from 83 countries and regions, including delegations from 106 provinces and cities of Mainland China; and 437 internationally
renowned speakers.

For enquiries, please contact Mazarine Asia Pacific:
Ms. Esther Chan
Tel: +852 3678 0109
Email: esther.chan@mazarineap.com
Ms. Zita Leung
Tel: +852 3678 0102
Email: zita@occhk.com