Category: Latest Travel News

Phuket, Thailand, November 28, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Set against the azure seascape of Phuket, the prestigious Phuket King’s Cup Regatta returns from December 3th to 9th, 2023. A testament to the competitive spirit of sailing and a significant booster for Thailand’s sport tourism, the event, taking place at Beyond Resort Kata. One of Southeast Asia’s most prestigious international sporting events, the regatta is renowned for its perfect blend of high-calibre sailing and rich social experiences, contributing significantly to the local economy and tourism industry.

The event also underscores Thailand’s commitment to nurturing young talent with the Dinghy Series, especially through the Optimist Challenge for sailors under 15. Over five exhilarating days, participants and visitors can look forward to a series of races interwoven with cultural festivities and opportunities for community engagement, all set within Phuket’s breathtaking maritime backdrop.

The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is not merely a competition but a celebration of Thailand’s marine splendour and a catalyst for cross-cultural camaraderie and exploration.

About the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
Asia’s legendary yacht race under Royal Patronage was inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the event has been held during the first week of December. Under Royal Patronage, the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is organized by the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

La Rioja, Spain, November 27, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism has been held for the first time in La Rioja, one of the world’s leading wine tourism destinations, with the focus placed firmly on inclusion and sustainability for local communities and territories.

Paving the way towards inclusive growth, especially in rural areas, requires clear policies and a commitment to embracing digital transformation and innovation. Recognizing this, the Conference brought together key stakeholders and leaders from across the growing wine tourism sector to address priorities including education, skills development and the effective use of data.

Unlocking Excellence in Wine Tourism

The 7th edition of the UNWTO conference welcomed thought-leaders from both emerging and established wine destinations, including Argentina, Armenia, Chile, France, Germany, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and the United States of America. As well as celebrating the growing interest in wine tourism, the event made clear the challenges for building more competitive destinations and transforming demand into economic growth and social inclusion. Over two days, workshops and masterclasses focused on:

Skills development and a better understanding of the impacts and trends of wine tourism were identified as crucial elements to create value and promote wine regions, ultimately enhancing their competitiveness.

With the impact of climate change affecting the sector, experts debated how to progress sustainability in wine tourism as well and progress digitalization for better processes. Participants discussed the need to harmonise data collection, the use of new data sources and innovative strategies for expanding new products, outreach on social media, utilizing cutting-edge digital tools, and leveraging new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to create knowledge and a seamless experience.

Inclusion and sustainability: Creating partnerships for growth 

Navigating the complex network of stakeholders in wine tourism, the event also put the spotlight on the importance of having national and local wine tourism strategies while fostering the debate on new, innovative forms of collaboration. A series of masterclasses allowed participants from over 40 countries to exchange and expand their knowledge on the links of wine tourism with gastronomy, arts and culture, communication and branding, new technologies, product development and sustainability.

During the closing ceremony, La Rioja handed over the symbolic amphora to Armenia, marking the country’s status as the next host for the 8th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism in 2024.

Danang, Vietnam, November 27, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO welcomed high-level officials from the Tourism Administrations of 19 countries as it put the focus on navigating human resource development challenges in tourism in a post-pandemic world.

The 17th UNWTO Executive Training Programme for Asia and the Pacific (Danang, Vietnam, 13-16 November 2023) set a new benchmark for human resource development in the tourism sector for the region, emphasizing the urgent need for innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.

HR and the tourism of tomorrow

Organised in collaboration with Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the support of Duy Tan University and the sponsorship of the government of the Republic of Korea, the training event featured four sessions, each focused on a key issue around education for the tourism of tomorrow. These included a shift in consumer expectations and its impact on HRD; upskilling and reskilling and digital adaptability; and building greater resilience to crisis.

Across the four days, experts presented and shared valuable experiences on training, hiring, and post-pandemic recovery strategies. In turn, delegates demonstrated a keen interest in tackling post-pandemic challenges and common HR development issues prevalent in developing countries. In particular, Member States agreed that the increasing competition for talent highlights a mismatch between what the sector can currently offer and employee expectations in the post-pandemic era.

The discussions also underscored the importance of adapting to emerging megatrends in technology; talent acquisition and retention; the importance of soft skills like critical analysis, problem solving, and teamwork in tourism education. At the same time, the event explored strategies for making destinations more resilient and how climate change can be a catalyst for job creation, including through adaptation and mitigation strategies, showcasing the dynamic and evolving nature of the sector.

Phuket, Thailand, November 25, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2023, Southeast Asia’s longest-running final competition, concluded on November 19, 2023, at the integrated lifestyle destination of Laguna Phuket on Phuket Island. With over 1,000 Thai and international triathletes representing 30 countries, the event created a vibrant and enjoyable phenomenon, showcasing Phuket’s potential as a world-class sports event destination. Once again, it demonstrated to the world the allure of organizing top-tier sports events in the picturesque setting of Phuket.

The competition kicks off at 6:30 a.m. with the commencement of the Triathlon, featuring men’s and women’s pros. Following this, the sprint triathlon and duathlon participants dive into the Andaman Sea at Bang Tao Beach for the swimming leg.

Triathlon competitors face challenging stages, conquering a 1.8-kilometer swim in the Andaman Sea and lagoon, a rigorous 55-kilometer cycling route navigating mountain trails, and a demanding 12-kilometer run within Laguna Phuket. All races conclude at Laguna Grove, with the cut-off for each distance set at approximately 12:30 p.m.

In the men’s category this year, the victorious athlete was “Max Stapley,” the British triathlete, marking his debut in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon. He claimed the top spot by completing the race with an impressive time of 2 hours, 32 minutes, and 53 seconds. Securing the second position was “Max Studer” from Switzerland, finishing in 2 hours, 34 minutes, and 09 seconds, while the third-place finish went to “Anthony Costes” from France, recording a time of 2 hours, 35 minutes, and 32 seconds.

In the women’s division, the title of champion was claimed by “Kate Waugh” from the United Kingdom, securing victory in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon. She completed the challenging course in 2 hours, 46 minutes, and 04 seconds. The second position was earned by “Julie Derron” from Switzerland, finishing the race in 2 hours, 47 minutes, and 45 seconds, while the third spot was secured by “Sophie Malowiecki” from Australia, posting a time of 2 hours, 52 minutes, and 12 seconds.

In the midst of a strong representation by Thai triathletes in this year’s competition, Thanadol Wisarutsin, an 18-year-old from the Thai national team and the youngest competitor, secured the Thai championship with an impressive time of 2 hours, 51 minutes, and 51 seconds. Meanwhile, Jaray Jearanai, the Thai championship 11 times, completing the race in an impressive 2 hours, 53 minutes, and 33 seconds. Another noteworthy participant was “Tao-Somchai Khemglad,” a favorite from the teenage era in the ’90s. Making his debut in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, he impressively conquered the challenge. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone, fulfilling his dream of participating in a premier global triathlon program.

Mr. Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of Laguna Phuket said, “We extend our congratulations to the triumphant triathletes of this year’s championship. Our heartfelt thanks go to all participants, across various sectors, for their dedicated contributions that culminated in the success of the 29th Laguna Phuket Triathlon, showcasing a splendid victory for Phuket, Thailand. This achievement mirrors the unity and spirit of community efforts, paving the way for the continued growth and success of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon in the years ahead. We invite everyone to anticipate its return, promising that its 30th year will undoubtedly be grander than ever.”

The Laguna Phuket Triathlon” is renowned worldwide as Southeast Asia’s longest-running and most successful triathlon event. Over the years, it has attracted a multitude of highly skilled triathletes from various corners of the globe.

Madrid, Spain, November 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The number of destinations offering Digital Nomad Visas has risen significantly over recent years, with almost half now offering visas for at least one year.

According to a new analysis by the World Tourism Organization covering 54 destinations, the rise in Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) has gone hand-in-hand with an increase in digital nomads, with destinations in all regions working to meet the market trend.

Destinations Welcoming Digital Nomads

The UNWTO Brief examines the DNV programmes in seven areas: Application process, Duration of visa, Taxation, Insurance, Accommodation, Minimum income requirements and criminal records check. The brief  looks at the background and current state of digital nomadism trends and provides an analysis of existing DNVs worldwide in five regions. Key findings include:

• 47% of destinations offer visas for up to one year.
• 39% of destinations exempt digital nomads from tax payments.
• 17% of destinations do not have minimum income requirements.
• 76% of destinations have online applications for DNV programmes.
• 80% of destinations process applications within one-month period.
• Only 6% of destinations have no visa fees for application.

Embracing the future of work

A DNV allows individuals to live and work in a foreign country while maintaining employment or conducting freelance work for employers or clients in their home or another country. With this visa, digital nomads can continue their professional pursuits while embracing the opportunity to immerse themselves in the host destination’s unique lifestyle in line with much of the trends of the future of work. Furthermore, destinations use DNV to attract professionals from creative and technology areas to stimulate these areas nationally.

Flexibility and digital access key

At the same time, the UNWTO Brief highlights the key considerations for destinations when offering or expanding their DNV programmes:

• Digitalization of destination: Due to the importance of well-connectivity and productivity, the host destinations tend to invest in robust digital infrastructure. High-speed internet, co-working spaces, and comfortable accommodations are available to facilitate optimal remote work conditions.
• Balancing Work and Lifestyle: By offering a flexible visa framework, host destinations empower digital nomads to create the work environments while immersing themselves in local culture and lifestyle.
• Future Impact Assessment: The brief underscores the importance of establishing impact assessment for  DNV programmes as a new mechanism.

Koh Samui, Thailand, November 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels (BWH), the leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels, has reached a major milestone in its expansion strategy in Thailand with the signing of Best Western Chaweng Hotel Koh Samui, a modern midscale hotel that marks the group’s arrival on this popular tropical island.

Nestled in the heart of Chaweng, Koh Samui’s liveliest tourist district, surrounded by shops, bars, restaurants and just a two minute walk from the soft sands of Chaweng Beach, Best Western Chaweng Hotel Koh Samui is perfect for couples, friends and families who want to immerse themselves in the upbeat atmosphere of this vibrant destination.

The hotel’s 63 rooms and suites range from 22 to 42 square meters and all feature contemporary interiors and modern amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi. Three suites also provide spacious living and seating areas, and the stylish Premier Rooms feature whirlpool bathtubs.

Throughout their stay, guests can unwind in the hotel’s indoor swimming pool, enjoy soothing therapies at the spa, savor international cuisine at the all-day dining restaurant, or grab light refreshments at the lobby lounge. The property’s central location also puts travelers on the doorstep of Chaweng’s many attractions and activities, from daytime relaxation on Chaweng Beach to sensational shopping, world-class wellness, cultural discoveries, and Samui’s famous nightlife. Samui International Airport is just 10 minutes’ drive away and transfers can be arranged with the hotel.

“We are very pleased to sign this excellent hotel, which marks BWH’s arrival in Koh Samui, one of the world’s most desirable resort islands. Thailand is a key market for us, and we have already successfully introduced our diverse brands to destinations across the kingdom, such as Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Hua Hin. The addition of Best Western Chaweng Hotel Koh Samui to our nationwide portfolio marks an important stage in our growth strategy. We look forward to introducing guests to this charming midscale hotel, which commands a prime position in the heart of Samui’s main tourist district,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH.

Best Western Chaweng Hotel Koh Samui joins BWH’s expanding portfolio of hotels and resorts in Thailand, which currently comprises 20 operating properties under nine distinct brands – WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive, Best Western Premier®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western®, Vīb®, BW Signature Collection®, SureStay Plus®, and SureStay Collection®– with many more in the pipeline.

For more information about BWH, please visit bwhhotels.com

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.

*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

Bangkok, Thailand, November 23, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will preside at the 2024 Bangkok Chef Charity Fundraising Gala Luncheon, to be staged on Saturday, 17th February 2024, in the Royal Ballroom of the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

After a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2024 Bangkok Chef Charity Fundraising Gala Luncheon (11th edition) is being organised by Jivanand Company Limited, led by Managing Director Nuntiya Intralib. For the first time in the history of this charity extravaganza, the 2024 gala will feature 11 Michelin-starred restaurants, in addition to top hotels in Bangkok and Hong Kong, as well as three leading culinary academies in Bangkok. A total of 30 chefs will craft a 10-course gourmet menu for 360 guests at the 2024 Bangkok Chef Charity Gala.

All proceeds from the charity event will benefit hospitals under the Debaratana Vejjanukula Foundation under the Patronage of Her Royal Highness.

“I am delighted and honoured that one of the highlights of the 2024 Bangkok Chef Charity is the showcasing of Jun Ka Pak Jasmine Rice which is produced in Surin and Buriram provinces. This rice variety is grown and nourished with organic, natural, chemical-free fertilisers,” said Nuntiya.“The Jun Ka Pak Jasmine Rice will be featured as one the canapés and served with a main dish in the 10-course menu.”

“We also have a brand-new Bangkok Chef Charity logo designed and crafted by a talented student from the Chitrlada Academy,” added Nuntiya.

The one-of-a-kind Bangkok Chef Charity editions, known for being the ‘height of glamour and an affair marked by dazzling attire and luxurious food’, were initiated in 2009 when executive chefs from leading hotels in Bangkok collaborated in pairs to craft an epicurean feast to raise funds for needy children in remote areas of Thailand. The 10th edition, held in 2019, raised an unprecedented 44 million baht, the highest in the event’s 10-year history. All proceeds from the sale of dinner tickets, auctions, and generous donations from guests in attendance, including philanthropists from the city’s elite business and social circles, were presented to Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for charities under Her Royal Patronage and donated to underprivileged schools in remote areas of Northern Thailand.

Once again, ‘young chefs,’ comprising students from Bangkok’s leading international schools, will participate alongside the star chefs.

The 2024 Bangkok Chef Charity is supported by generous sponsors, including Tops Wine Cellar, Evian, Jagota Brothers Trading Co., Ltd., Premium Food, Lucaris, Clement Design Thailand who has contributed specially designed jackets for all participating chefs, Knightsbridge Group, Krungthep Light Orchestra, RP Media Group and Krinbourne Kommunications.

For ticket purchase, priced at Baht 15,000 nett per seat, please call Pine Yadathip 086 780 9301. For more information, contact Nuntiya Intralib, Managing Director, Jivanand Company Limited, email: nuntiya@jivanandgroup.com

San Francisco, California, United States, November 23, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Economic Forum’s AI Governance Summit brought together more than 200 influential leaders from the Forum’s AI Governance Alliance (AIGA) and the broader artificial intelligence community to exchange insights and collaborate on the establishment of action plans to promote the responsible development and deployment of generative AI on a global scale.

– More than 200 leaders came together at the World Economic Forum’s AI Governance Summit to promote the responsible development and deployment of generative artificial intelligence.
– Participants called for the establishment of a robust international AI governance framework.
– Topics of discussion included the importance of closing the digital divide and trade-offs in open-source technology.

The event marked a crucial milestone in the ongoing journey of responsible AI development, following the inaugural Responsible AI Leadership conference held in April 2023. The proceedings of that conference led to the publication of the Presidio Recommendations on Responsible Generative AI and the establishment of the AI Governance Alliance, laying the foundation for continued progress in the AI space.

Participants from government, business, academia and civil society emphasized the immense opportunities of integrating AI across diverse sectors, including applications in agriculture and healthcare. They also underscored the pressing need for responsible development and deployment in line with global ethical standards to mitigate potential risks including safety. Key topics of discussion included adaptive and interoperable regulatory frameworks and harmonized standards.

“As we drive innovation in the realm of generative AI, it is important to concurrently navigate existing and novel risks while unlocking unprecedented transformational opportunities, ensuring that progress is responsibly managed for the benefit of global society,” said Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, World Economic Forum.

Crucially, the conversations extended beyond technologically advanced nations. Participants actively explored strategies to ensure that the benefits of AI development are inclusive, reaching not only developed nations but also those developing countries and regions currently lacking the capacity for independent AI model implementation and training. To bridge the digital divide, they called for increased access to critical infrastructure such as data, cloud and computing, along with necessary foundations for better training and education.

Key takeaways from the meeting include:

– Recognizing open source and innovation debate centres to address heightened scrutiny of foundation model releases, involving concerns about risks, transparency and governance, and requiring clear definitions and thoughtful consideration of benefits and downsides for frontier model safety and innovation.
– Promoting global access to vital digital and AI resources, which requires strong public-private collaboration.
– Acknowledging the importance of data, cloud services, computational power and training infrastructure as crucial to bridging the digital divide.
– Advancing global AI governance, which involves developing adaptive regulations, harmonizing standards and fostering ongoing discussions for effective international mechanisms.

About the AI Governance Alliance
The AI Governance Alliance is a World Economic Forum initiative focused on responsible generative artificial intelligence (AI). It brings together influential regional voices and global stakeholders to harness the benefits of generative AI systems and technologies while ensuring equitable and sustainable global impacts.

Bangkok, Thailand, November 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The grand opening of the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter has successfully marked a significant milestone in Jim Thompson’s journey towards becoming the first iconic global lifestyle brand from Asia. The grand event underscoring Jim Thompson’s new tagline, ‘Beyond Silk,’ showcased a dazzling fusion of fashion, art, and gastronomy, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The spectacular opening saw the attendance of several renowned Thai celebrities, including Pruk “Zee” Panich, Chawarin “Nunew” Perdpiriyawong, Thitiya “Baipor” Jirapornsilp, Jumpol “Off” Adulkittiporn, Atthaphan “Gun” Phunsawat and Vasin “Ko” Assawanarunat. Also among the guests were top management from Central Group, King Power, One Bangkok and Siam Piwat.

In a dazzling display of cultural fusion and modern flair, the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter has officially opened its doors, marking a transformative moment for the legendary brand – forging ahead to become the first iconic global lifestyle brand from Asia. The grand opening, graced by celebrities and punctuated by a fashion showcase of unrivalled creativity, celebrated the new ‘Beyond Silk’ ethos. This destination is now poised to draw visitors from across the globe, setting a new standard for flair and ingenuity in the heart of Thailand.

A state-of-the-art 360-degree video camera captured the breath-taking ambience of the evening in full panoramic glory. Jim Thompson Home Furnishings fabrics were on display, merging the rich legacy of signature designs with contemporary style to craft a unique atmosphere. The evening’s entertainment commenced with the enchanting ‘Silk Fabric Dance’, an artistic performance that elegantly wove movement and textiles. As the drum spectacle unfolded, the dancers’ costumes, masterfully created using Jim Thompson’s silk, showcased the delicate intricacy and exquisite beauty of Thai silk to all present.

The fashion show, a centrepiece of the event, unveiled 42 captivating looks that established a new benchmark for creativity and sophistication. The Jim Thompson collection unveiled a versatile range, bridging the gap between relaxed beachwear and the sophistication of everyday wear for work or travel. The highlight was the dramatic reveal of the last look – ‘Look 42’ – a testament to the enduring innovation, artistry, and heritage that Jim Thompson is celebrated for. The show’s pinnacle look paid homage to regal sophistication with the Ikat Silk/Metallic Jacquard Gown, inspired by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s iconic Thai silk gown. The showstopper gown was a masterful rendition of Jim Thompson’s exquisite metallic and golden silk fabrics, offering a modern take on Thai tradition for the discerning aesthete. Accompanying the fashion show was an artful selection of songs which chronicled the company’s journey since the 1950s each emblematic of its era, and deeply connected to key moments in the brand’s history and to its founder, Mr. Thompson.

Culinary artistry was at the forefront with a menu designed by the executive chef of Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant offering an array of signature dishes. The O.S.S. Bar showcased its celebrated mixologists with meticulously crafted drinks. These unique epicurean experiences not only showcased the brand’s unwavering dedication to delivering exquisite dining experience but also set the stage for an unforgettable after party held at The Moonlight Hall, featuring a line-up of DJs and the admired Thai band – Nisatiwa.

Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO at Jim Thompson, reflected on the event’s success, stating, “The grand opening of the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter was a celebration of our heritage and a declaration of our future. It represents a pivotal moment as we embark on our mission to become Asia’s first iconic global lifestyle brand. We are proud to showcase Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry to the world through our diverse offerings. We have taken on the important task of making the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter the newest Lifestyle Destination in Bangkok. In pursuit of this vision, Jim Thompson is actively evolving and broadening our enterprise across all fronts, forming strategic collaborations with local and international brands. We are determined to offer a comprehensive experience, ranging from art and culture to gastronomy, fashion, interior, design, and beyond, tailored to meet the eclectic lifestyles of all our guests. Our goal is to maintain our position as the leading iconic lifestyle brand from Asia and a destination of international renown.”

Multitude of attractions within the Heritage Quarter: At the core of the Heritage Quarter lies the Jim Thompson House Museum, an intact collection of six traditional teak structures, relocated from various parts of Thailand by Jim Thompson in the late ’50s to form his residence. Post his mysterious disappearance in 1967, the residence was transformed into a museum showcasing his vast collection of Southeast Asian art. The Museum About the Man offers an exhibition drawn from the James H.W. Thompson Foundation archives, chronicling Thompson’s life and his profound impact on the Thai silk industry, from his architectural beginnings in the US to becoming the “King of Thai Silk.” It also traces the journey of Jim Thompson textiles from high fashion to international acclaim, alongside a display of vintage Jim Thompson dresses from the 1960s.

The Home Furnishings exhibition titled ‘The Evolving world of Jim Thompson Textiles’ recounts the evolution of textiles produced by Thai Silk Company Limited post-Thompson. With its visually arresting cinnabar-hued interiors, the Iconic Store offers a comprehensive retail experience across ready-to-wear, accessories and exclusive home collections. Inspired by Thompson’s love for Thai craftsmanship, the design features a rich palette and free-flowing architecture, leading customers through two levels of high-quality textiles and collaborative projects. Finally, the Jim Thompson Art Center, under The James HW Thompson Foundation, stands as a cultural nexus for local and international art communities, hosting a regular line-up of exhibitions, special programs, discussions and seminars, fostering art in social context and cultural exchanges within its walls and beyond.

The Culinary Landscape at Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter promises to become a food connoisseur’s paradise. Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, has undergone a vibrant transformation, aiming to become a cornerstone of modern Thai cuisine with its creative menu offering an inventive twist to classic flavours through an enticing à la carte menu. The O.S.S. Bar is situated directly above the restaurant, and is a seamless fusion of old-world charm and modern vibes. Its speakeasy ambience, a blend of retro chic and contemporary elegance, provides an atmospheric setting for evening gatherings and relaxed get-togethers fuelled by perfectly crafted cocktails. By day, this space transforms into The O.S.S. Room, a serene setting that overlooks a koi pond and rich foliage of Jim’s garden making it an ideal backdrop for an afternoon tea. Not to be overlooked, Jim’s Terrace presents an array of tapas complemented by a curated beer and wine list.

Meanwhile, Silk Café offers a more casual vibe, serving sandwiches alongside hot and cold beverages in a spirited, al fresco setting. Completing the F&B offerings is The Moonlight Hall, perfect for grander occasions, combining state-of-the-art technology in a setting that exudes authentic Thai charm, ideal for corporate events, weddings, and private gatherings.

This new lifestyle quarter provides a dynamic space where history, art, culture, cuisine and retail experience converge, reflecting Jim Thompson’s vision of crafting a global destination that celebrates the essence of Thai heritage and modernity. The success of Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter’s grand opening has set the stage for the brand to continue its evolution as a leader in the global lifestyle sector with this new venture as a vibrant lifestyle destination, drawing both international and domestic tourists to the heart of Thailand.

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

Washington DC, United States, November 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism has again been identified as a key driver of economic recovery and growth in a new report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). With UNWTO data pointing to a return to 95% of pre-pandemic tourist numbers by the end of the year in the best case scenario, the IMF report outlines the positive impact the sector’s rapid recovery will have on certain economies worldwide.

According to the World Economic Outlook (WEO) Report, the global economy will grow an estimated 3.0% in 2023 and 2.9% in 2024. While this is higher than previous forecasts, it is nevertheless below the 3.5% rate of growth recorded in 2022, pointing to the continued impacts of the pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and from the cost-of-living crisis.

Tourism key sector for growth

The WEO report analyses economic growth in every global region, connecting performance with key sectors, including tourism. Notably, those economies with “large travel and tourism sectors” show strong economic resilience and robust levels of economic activity. More specifically, countries where tourism represents a high percentage of GDP   have recorded faster recovery from the impacts of the pandemic in comparison to economies where tourism is not a significant sector.

As the report Foreword notes: “Strong demand for services has supported service-oriented economies—including important tourism destinations such as France and Spain”.

Looking Ahead

The latest outlook from the IMF comes on the back of UNWTO’s most recent analysis of the prospects for tourism, at the global and regional levels. Pending the release of the November 2023 World Tourism Barometer, international tourism is on track to reach 80% to 95% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023. Prospects for September-December 2023 point to continued recovery, driven by the still pent-up demand and increased air connectivity particularly in Asia and the Pacific where recovery is still subdued.