Category: Latest Travel News

Phuket (Thailand) – February 22, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Over the course of the next few days, some of the world’s most prestigious marine lifestyle brands will be present at Ao Po Grand Marina in Phuket for the third edition of the Thailand Yacht Show, taking place from Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th February.

The growing destination for the world’s high-spending yachting community, Phuket will host thousands of nautical lifestyle enthusiasts, including potential buyers and charterers who are invited to climb aboard and experience an impressive display of watercraft featured in the Show. Available to try out will be yachts, superyachts, catamarans, sailboats, sports-fishers, dinghies, tenders, water sport boats and day cruisers, in addition to exclusive activities and alluring social events.

The Thailand Yacht Show (TYS), presented by Verventia Pte Ltd, organisers of the Singapore Yacht Show, and sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand under the supervision of the Ministry of Tourism & Sports, is fast becoming an event of truly international standing, bringing together leading brands and dealers to present their most popular products at the Show.

This year’s exhibitors include Asia Marine, Asia Yacht Agency, Azimut Yachts, Boat Lagoon Yachting, Cholamark Boat Co, Fraser Yachts, Lee Marine, Multihull Solutions, Northrop and Johnson, Princess Yachts, Sky Marine, Sunreef, and Sunseeker, amongst many others. Visitors will also be able to admire and even get on board stunning superyachts from some of the world’s biggest and best-known brands in the industry, including Feadship, Ferretti, Heesen, and Perini Navi.

Unlike any other boat show in the region, TYS is a “Try-it-and-See” event which offers an immersive experience for both seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike. Morning cruise trips, live demonstrations and electric parties will allow visitors to discover the luxurious yachting lifestyle. Interactive activities – hopping on board for a quick cruise at sea or trying out the latest in water toys – will let interested visitors try everything out first hand. Sustainable mobility and some of the latest developments towards mindful conservation at sea will also be part of the show at TYS, with electric boats and cars presented by sponsoring partners Torqeedo and BMW.

Asia’s Biggest SuperYacht Fleet
The stellar line-up at this year’s show includes some of the world’s biggest and best superyachts, including the 90m Cassens-Werft-built Lauren L, the biggest yacht ever to be exhibited at any show in Asia and presented by Titan Fleet Management, alongside Feadship’s 60m motor yacht M/Y Paraffin which will be presented by Fraser Yachts. For those looking for an exquisite and timeless yacht, this is one of the most luxurious yachts available for charter or sale on the market. She can accommodate 12 guests in six staterooms and has ample interior and exterior space for relaxing and entertaining. Her wine cellar is as enviable as is the range of toys and tenders on board.

Ferretti Group’s Custom Line 47m M/Y Happy Days will be available for private viewings with Lee Marine. A powerful motor yacht with a top speed of 28 knots, this is the perfect yacht to discover the Andaman Sea.

Also included in a fleet of some 15 superyachts is the 38m classic sailing yacht S/Y La Numero Uno, the very first yacht built by one of the most elite names in the industry, Perini Navi. One of the most luxurious sailing yachts available for viewing at the Show, she is available for charter through broker Asia Marine.

Catamarans Are Here To Stay
Multihulls remain popular at the Thailand Yacht Show due to their fantastic interior and exterior space, as well as the great stability they provide while underway and at anchor. Visitors to the Show will be treated to look at some of the world’s most prestigious brands – Fountaine Pajot presented by Multihull Solutions, and Sunreef exhibited by Northrop and Johnson.

The ITAC 54, designed by world-renowned Italian naval architect Riccardo Bulgarelli, will make its world debut at the Show. Presented by Multihull Solutions, Asia Pacific’s leading multihull specialist, this new long-range passage-making catamaran delivers the features and performance of a 70ft monohull with the benefit of being easy to handle without additional crew. Offering the finest in luxury appointments and finishes at a price that challenges production power catamaran models, the ITAC 54 combines impressive power with economical range.

Northrop & Johnson will be presenting the 18m sailing catamaran S/Y In the Wind, built by Sunreef Yachts, producers of some of the best catamarans in the market. With the space to accommodate eight guests, her saloon opens seamlessly into the cockpit offering the space of a larger vessel. Set up for adventure chartering, guests have access to stand-up paddle boards, dive equipment, and wakeboard amongst other activities.

For those looking to trial a Catamaran at sea and get a feeling for the enormous space and stability they provide, the ever-popular HYPE will be hosting a series of morning cruises around Phang Nga Bay and some of its iconic limestone islands. Guests will be able to venture out and enjoy some swimming and snorkelling before the Show opens.

Yacht Toys and Live Demonstrations
The Thailand Yacht Show offers something for everyone and every budget – from superyachts and charter holidays to all other aspects of the leisure marine lifestyle. The latest marine toys and water sports such as stand up paddle boarding by Sea-Doo, and the latest cool water craze, the Schiller water bike, will all be available for trials at the open Demonstration Platform. Visitors can chill while floating on bean bags from Soo Santai or attend live demonstrations and be amazed by professionals showing JetBlade and JetSurf equipment.

Lifestyle Destinations
Complementing the Show will be a glamorous social calendar which includes electric private parties on board superyachts, a floating VIP Lounge, supercar parades and VIP morning and dinner cruises.

Visitors can start the day enjoying panoramic ocean views by cruising around the Bay’s paradisiacal islands on board the luxury catamaran HYPE, which will depart every morning from the marina to offer the perfect initiation to yachting in Thailand.

During the day, those considering hiring or purchasing a yacht or a boat or any of the latest water toys will be able to fully appreciate the products and enjoy Thai hospitality, as well as experiencing the fun of yachting, by joining scheduled cruises or sea-trials on board selected yachts and boats on display.

Guests can expect sumptuous food and wine to be offered throughout the day on and off the water. Thai cooking lessons, street food vendors, night markets, sommelier-led wine tastings and chef demonstrations will complete the experience. The youngest members of the family will also be able to enjoy a day out at the Show at the TYS Kids Club, where dedicated activities will be offered just for them whilst their parents discover the best of the yachting world.

To end each day the best way, visitors can board the lavish catamaran HYPE to party till late or head to Sunbrella’s D’Deck Bar to groove to live DJs over sunset cocktails. Yoga lovers can join Friday and Saturday evening Full Moon Yoga sessions at the Wellness Pop-up Spa.
Get your tickets here!

The Thailand Yacht Show
Phang Nga Bay, with its emerald green waters and stunning limestone islands, once again plays host to the third edition of the region’s premier experiential yachting event, The Thailand Yacht Show (TYS), staged in partnership with the Thai government.

Returning to Phuket’s AoPo Grand Marina from 22nd-25th February 2018, the Thailand Yacht Show is unlike any other boat show, with visitors being able to actually get out on the water and try out a whole range of watercraft. Held during the Lunar New Year, one of the busiest times on Phuket when it is buzzing with regional visitors, the Show will place an emphasis on the experience guests will have and how it will enhance their ongoing yachting lifestyle.

Combining the best aspects of yacht charter, the boating industry and luxury lifestyle events, the Thailand Yacht Show attracts industry professionals and consumers alike and is fast becoming the focal point of the developing luxury charter yacht business in Asia Pacific.

Verventia Pte Ltd
Verventia is a business catalyst, providing marketing platforms for introducing suppliers to distributors, and global audiences to lifestyle products and services. The company’s portfolio of events and extensive connections facilitate the integration of networks to stimulate industry growth and business development.

Well-versed in the implementation of successful event and project management, the experienced and professional team at Verventia are fully dedicated to deliver world-class events in unique venues around the world.

Verventia’s current portfolio comprises the Singapore Yacht Show, the Thailand Yacht Show, the Asia Pacific Superyacht Conference, the Asia Boating Forum, and – new in 2018 – the Singapore Collection and the Asia Pacific Waterfront & Property Forum.

Bangkok (Thailand) – February 22, 2018 (travelindex.com) – MGC-Marine (Asia) Co., Ltd. has announced it will display the Azimut Flybridge 66 and Azimut Atlantis 43 at the Thailand Yacht Show (TYS) 2018 in Phuket later this month.

Mr. Chanyo Manakulsawasd, operations director of MGC-Marine (Asia) disclosed that the company has successfully gotten the done deal with Flybridge collection at Phuket Rendezvous 2018, and the TYS, to be held on 22-24 February at Ao Po Marina is an ideal event to launch the Flybridge 66.

“This will be the first time the Flybridge 66 makes its appearance in Thailand therefore I strongly encourage aspiring yacht owners and visitors to take note so they will enjoy an exclusive preview of this stunning state-of-the art craft. Azimut’s uniquely successful heritage in the Flybridge segment, with more than 300 Azimut 62 and 64’s sold around the world since 2002. ” said the beaming Chanyo.

Hailed as the most technologically advanced yacht in the world, the 20-meter carbon fiber boat features an impressive innovation of electronic power steering, integrated control system and home automation system.

Furthermore, you will also meet the New Atlantis 43, an Italian sports yacht with sleek design and easy to operate, while offering a high level of comfort. It is a perfect blend of beauty and performance, with a top speed of 35 knots. You will be surprised that the 43-foot yacht is able to answer all requirements for those who love the Italian-styled marine experience that can be described as – “Simply Perfect”.

He added that Phuket has continually showed strong upside potential for yacht sales thanks to its sizable number of keen and experienced international and Thai yachtsmen. He praised the Thai government’s strong supports which provides investment opportunities for those in the yachting industry to promote growth for the boom.h

Naypyidaw (Myanmar) – February 21, 2018 (travelindex) – Myanmar is a truly breathtaking land, where stunning scenery, exquisite cultures and iconic images combine to create an exciting and enchanting destination for international travelers.

However, in a country larger than Thailand, where there are so many different wonders to explore, travelers can often be overwhelmed by the array of choices on offer. Fortunately, Best Western Hotels & Resorts has developed a collection of hotels in some of Myanmar’s most magical destinations, allowing guests to experience this diverse country in style and comfort.

Yangon:
The country’s largest city and commercial capital, Yangon displays a charming blend of colonial architecture, parks, lakes and temples, including the spectacular Shwedagon Pagoda which dominates the skyline. The world’s oldest Buddhist temple, this is a “must-see” attraction for any visitor to Yangon. Guests can also explore the hustle and bustle of Chinatown, shop at the famous Bogyoke Market, or take a leisurely stroll around Kandawgyi or Inya lakes.

Nestled in the green heart of the city, just a short stroll from Kandawgyi Lake,
Best Western Green Hill Hotel offers 187 rooms, a restaurant, business center, fitness center and complimentary Wi-Fi, making it the perfect base for any urban adventure.
To learn more or book your next stay at Best Western Green Hill Hotel, CLICK HERE.

Alternatively, Best Western Chinatown Hotel is ideal for guests who want to keep their finger on the pulse. Just a few minutes from Strand Road and the golden Sule Pagoda, this superb city hotel offers 91 rooms, a restaurant, business center, meeting rooms and free Wi-Fi, ensuring that all travelers are kept fully connected. To discover more or to book Best Western Chinatown Hotel, CLICK HERE.

Inle Lake:
Myanmar has far more to offer than urban exploration, however. In the hills of Shan State, Inle Lake is one of Asia’s most alluring destinations. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this spectacular lake is home to an incredible array of natural and cultural wonders, including the famous “one-legged” Intha fisherman who live and work on its waters.

Nestled on the banks of the Nyaung Shwe River, which flows into Inle Lake, Best Western Thousand Island Hotel is perfectly positioned for guests seeking to explore this enchanting body of water. With 48 modern rooms, a restaurant, cocktail lounge, free Wi-Fi, a billiard room, riverfront café and even a rooftop bar, this exceptional hotel also provides a wonderful place to unwind after your days or discovery. To learn more about Best Western Thousand Island Hotel and to book your next stay, click here.

Whichever part of magical Myanmar you choose to explore, Best Western is offering the chance to spend even longer discovering this captivating country. With our “‘Best Deals” promotion, guests can book two consecutive nights any Best Western hotel in Myanmar and get 20% off throughout 2018! Find out more or make a reservation at

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 CollectionSM 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

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – February 19, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Tourism is getting ready for the upcoming ITB tourism trade fair in Berlin in early March. I am thankful to those who are making it possible for me to once again be in Berlin, but this time wearing a tourism consultant’s hat. Germany has overtaken other countries as a key tourism source market, making this tourism trade fair more important than ever. Germany is Seychelles’ primary source market today; CONDOR has two weekly flights directly from Frankfurt and Austrian Airline has a weekly flight out of Vienna. This will be further enhanced with the programmed arrival of Edelweiss Airline in the coming weeks.

Saint Ange Consultancy has now been approached to be the agent for some Tour Operators to monitor Standards and Operating Performance of hotels in Seychelles and, in due course, for the region. We have completed the first inspections and verified some of the claims for compensation from disgruntled visitors. The meetings set for ITB in Berlin will continue to open these partnerships opportunities.

The Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF), custodians for Aldabra, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, has voiced its opinion on the proposed Military Base on the island of Assumption. Aldabra is proudly owed by Seychelles, and is often termed the ‘Galapagos of the Indian Ocean’. The SIF said in a communique issued this week:-

“SIF’s mandate is to protect and conserve Aldabra Atoll and the Vallée de Mai. Similarly, the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change (MEECC) has a mandate to implement the laws and policy of Seychelles. The MEECC is fully aware of the environmental issues of the outer islands. With respect to the possible development on Assumption Island, SIF has not seen the agreement; however is hopeful that with the two visits that have taken place the decision makers will take into consideration all circumstances. This includes the implementation of the Aldabra Management Plan 2016 – 2026 which was submitted to Government and approved. It is anticipated that this will be taken into account during the Environment Impact Assessment which will be undertaken as part of the implementation of the agreement”.

SIF knows that no military base was ever envisaged next door in their 2016 – 2026 Management Plan and this should by itself be a cause for concern.

As the Assumption Island Saga continues, with some interested parties set to see the project done, super powers are already flexing their muscles in the Indian Ocean Region. Last week, China, in no uncertain terms, put India on notice if it decides to move into the Maldives in its current period of turmoil. The call to leave military bases out of the region is resonating with the neighbouring Islands. Bringing super power rivalry on one’s doorstep is not a desirable prospect, despite what a few ambitious local politicians may claim.

The recent press reports republished in “Le Defi’ Newspaper of Mauritius paint a gloomy picture for Seychelles (see link below). These reports shed light on the reasoning for having a military base on Assumption, and outlines who really stands to gain from such a deal. In amongst all this uncertainty, local politicians have been heard calling for the abolition of the Seychelles Army. As a former Seychelles Judge once nostalgically quipped, “The more we change, the more it remains the same.”

Seychelles has over the years advocated that it is “friends of all and enemies of none”. When the Seychelles founding President, Sir James Mancham, echoed these words, he was working to safeguard the security of the peace-loving Seychellois people. Sadly, we are now as a Nation taking sides, and India is the chosen super power set to have its military base a mere stone’s throw away from Aldabra, the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, the member States of the region are united in a pact where Navy Ships of respective countries are expected to have open port access for their navy ships in Seychelles waters. It remains to be seen how this pact will be affected with the establishment of a new port on Assumption Island.
In other news, Africa has lost three Heads of State in less than three months. Zimbabwe, South Africa and Ethiopia have all seen resignations from their highest office. Some will call them forced resignations, or a coup d’état in the case of Zimbabwe, but change is here. The African Union (AU) also changed its ‘Head’, showing clearly the wind of needed change is blowing at last.

Phuket (Thailand) – February 19, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Phuket-based International TV presenter, News Anchor and MC Able Wanamakok, the driving force behind the recent Inspired Phuketian series of motivational talks, has embarked her next venture in the booming life-coaching industry with the launch of Find Your Voice Asia. Through Find Your Voice Asia, Able is offering tailor-made coaching solutions for both groups and individuals who want to improve their self-confidence and communication skills, as well as promote their professional advancement and improve relationships with both clients and colleagues.

Able says the idea behind the creation of the company arose from her work with experienced life-coaches Darren Scherbain, Alan Yip and Jay Jay Yankomut, each of whom gave Inspired Phuketian talks and are now collaborating with Find Your Voice Asia to offer their coaching services.

“Inspired Phuketian enabled me to meet Alan, Darren and Jay Jay, and of course, other people. But I didn’t know that they were coaches until afterwards… I just thought they were really cool people who had something to share,” says Able.

Able says that the company is the next step in the evolution of her 13-year career as a presenter and public speaker – one which she struggled to build against the odds. Growing up in the US state of Ohio, as the child of immigrants from Hong Kong, Able was the only Asian student at her school and faced racism and discrimination on many fronts.

But rather than become bitter, Able says these challenges made her all the more determined to succeed and create a meaningful life for herself, though it was never easy.

“I’m an immigrant, so my life hasn’t been easy… so to get everything I have today, it’s been a struggle, but I’m happy I have reached this level of success, because many people said I could not grow a successful career doing what I wanted from Phuket,” she says.

“One of the main reasons I started [Inspired Phuketian] is because it had healing that I needed. From myself, from my insecurities… growing up in the States as someone who didn’t speak English. Prejudice and racism still very much exist in the world today… that encouraged me to not allow anybody to tell me what I can and cannot do,” says Able.

It is precisely this can-do, positive attitude that Able wants to inspire in other people to help them reach their own dreams and goals.

“I started Find My Voice Asia because it took me a while to find my own voice and what I wanted to do. I tend to help other people too much, I help my parents, I help my husband and I often times I put their needs ahead of mine while neglecting my own needs and my own path,” she says.

Able says that the team of experienced coaches will enable her business to offer a range of services, from seminars for hotel staff on improving guest interactions and their English skills to one-on-one executive coaching for career and relationship development as well as group activities for kids to help develop their communications and story-telling skills.

“Darren is a triathlon coach and all about positivity and motivation, Jay Jay is aimed at the Thai market only, Alan is more academic and about performance and memory and I’m more about public speaking and confidence – so we all have different things to offer,” she says.

“Basically, we are a team of coaches and trainers who wants to help you to achieve your goals in life. Whether you are a student looking for a fun and stress-free way to achieve academically, the parent of a child looking for activities that would help them develop better life skills or an executive looking to improve your influence and relationships, we can help.”

Originally written by: Mark Knowles

For more information visit: findyourvoice.asia

About Able Wanamakok:
With over a decade’s experience, Hong Kong-born, US raised Able Wanamakok is a media talent with the ability to work across a wide range of platforms, including TV Hosting, news presenting, Mc’ing for any type of functions, script-writing, voice-over work and movies. She has recently launched her branch off from hosting into the life-coaching sector with FindYourVoice.Asia.

Contact her to host your next event/video project, production or show in Asia:
Able Wanamakok
TV Host/MC/Public Speaking Coach
Tel: 66 (0) 85 889 9930
Email: Able.FashionOne@gmail.com
Email: FindYourVoiceAsia@gmail.com

Bangkok (Thailand) – February 16, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Siam Piwat Co., Ltd. as “One Siam” invests more than 50 million baht in organizing “Siam Delightful Chinese New Year” to celebrate Chinese New Year, as well as sending promotional campaigns to attract both Thai shoppers and international tourists. Ready to open new shopping experience through innovative technology

– Invest over 50 million baht in Chinese New Year celebrations with the “Siam Delightful Chinese New Year” campaign, attracting both Thai and international shoppers from around the world.
– Celebrate the shopping spree during the beginning of the year by decorating three shopping centers with more than 999 beautiful Chinese lanterns, the symbol of brilliance, and importing gorgeous performances directly from China to impress all visitors. Don’t miss special promotions of the year!
– Enjoy a new dimension to innovation!!! Get the “Digital Angpao” through modern technology, and let’s explore the 12 Chinese zodiac animals scattered through the AR application to win many prizes.

Siam Piwat Co.,Ltd. the owner and operator of Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery under “One Siam” joining force with KBank Credit Card, have spent a budget worth over 50 million baht, on celebrating the greatest Chinese New Year by launching a campaign “Siam Delightful Chinese New Year” to attract both Thai and international shoppers to experience the excitement throughout the Siam area. With a decoration of more than 999 Chinese lanterns, imported gorgeous performances from China, and auspicious events, as well as promotions and special prizes of the year, all of this is for the Thai people and international tourists from all over the world from today until March 11 this year.

Mrs. Mayuree Chaipromprasith, Senior Executive Vice President – Marketing of Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., said “To welcome the shopping season and the high season of tourism at the beginning of the year, the company has launched the “Siam Delightful Chinese New Year” campaign, thanks to its synergy as the “One Siam” to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The three shopping centers offer different types of activities, which we focus on new experience and innovations, and create something new for impressing our customers. Moreover, we have decorated the shopping centers to create a shopping atmosphere during the beginning of the year, emphasizing our shopping centers as the number one shopping destination in Bangkok.

“Under ‘One Siam’ concept, Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery as one of the leading retailers in Thailand, we are confident that the number of visitors to three shopping centers will increase by more than 20 percent during this Chinese New Year period with higher spending. This corresponds to the rising traffic and strong tourism growth of the country, which is expected to grow constantly by 9 percent. For this year, we have a strategy to reach targeted tourists by focusing more on the Fully Independent Traveler or FIT. According to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), the number and spending per head of FIT have increased largely during the past year. Hence, we have focused on this group of customers because they have strong purchasing power, especially Chinese tourists who love branded products and are ready to spend their money. The incoming Chinese New Year will be a long holiday for about 15-30 days, the Chinese tourists will travel abroad and one of the most popular destinations is Bangkok. The Tourism Authority of Thailand expects that in 2018, the Chinese tourist market will generate revenue of 5.61 billion baht, increased by 10.5 percent from the previous year, average spending at 55,000 baht per person per trip, increased of 4.38 percent from the previous year. Businesses that will benefit from rising spending include hotels, retail and shopping, and food. This campaign will continue to emphasize that we will deliver excellent service and create endless relationships with our customers,” Mrs. Mayuree said.

Import fantastic performances; open new entertainment experience with Digital Angpao and AR Application for the first time with 3 leading shopping centers

Miss Chanisa Kaewruen, Senior Deputy Managing Director Marketing Event and Business Relationship Division of Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., said “Under the theme of “Lantern Festival”, this year event will be illuminated with 999 dazzling sculpted lanterns that symbolize prosperity to welcome the Chinese New Year. The installations in the shape of 12 Chinese zodiac animals measuring 2.5 meters in height dot the open space dwarfed by the 5-meter-tall dog-shaped centerpiece marking the Year of the Dog. As for the cutting-edge Siam Center, it is home to a massive selection of high-end fashion brands and creative artworks. No doubt it is tasked with mounting an exhibition of sculptures, designed by up-and-coming collage artist Nakrob Moonmanas, on the theme of All We Need is Love. The pictures interconnected with Chinese-inspired chinoiserie patterns featuring couples of various nationalities from all walks of life dressed in red, the symbolic color of good fortune.

Moreover, the grand spectacles from China and fortune-enhancing activities are in the line-up to promote Chinese art and culture and further strengthen Sino-Thai relations. The Chinese Cultural Center of Thailand has joined hands to bring in a host of unforgettable productions involving an exuberant blending of China’s unique ethnic culture with Han Chinese influences. The shows, delivered by over 100 members of performance crews from the city of Hangzhou, in Zhejiang Province, China, include a graceful style of various dances, the jaw-dropping Kongzu acrobatics, and displays of ancient Chinese magic. The festival will also present a showcase for music played with Suona, a Chinese traditional musical instrument.

In addition, our shopping centers have launched a new entertainment experience for customers to win rewards through “Digital Angpao”, an online entertainment channel for our shopping centers’ customers. Customers can click on linked URL of the shopping centers via Facebook and other online channels such as LINE, WeChat and Weibo, and then shake the mobile phone to get a chance to win digital Angpao and other rewards from February 11 to 18 this year.

Moreover, we have also created “AR Application” to give a new experience for gamers. Gamers can download Flash Venture to seek for 12 Chinese zodiac animals scattered at three shopping centers to get a chance to win prizes from us. The AR Application will be available for playing from February 15-18.

Miss Chanisa added that “The applying of technology to use with the shopping center promotion will increase customers’ engagement and increase the sale for us because at present both Thai and international tourists have shifted to use mobile and online technology. In reference to Trekksoft, a booking online service provider, it found that in 2017, 79 percent of travellers used their smart phone for searching for travel destinations, shopping places, hotels, and promotions, compared with only 31 percent in 2016.”

Mrs. Jiraporn Srisa-an, Senior Deputy Managing Director, Business Promotion, Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., said that “Besides, the fun activities through the technology world, ‘One Siam’ has continued to launch a campaign to satisfy both Thai and international customers. By joining forces with over 500 leading shops in all three shopping centers to offer rewards worth over 9 million baht. Customers just spend in accordance with the three shopping centers’ conditions, and will get instant rewards such as gold bars, 5-star luxury hotel package, vouchers from IHOP restaurant and Siam Gift Cards and etc.

Special! For K-Credit Card customers, get up to 50 percent discount privileges from leading stores, and get more cash back, while also getting a chance to win the FIFA World Cup ticket to Russia. In addition, seven leading credit card partners, including AEON, Citibank, KRUNGSRI, KTC, SCB and Thanachart, will also offer special privileges such as credit rewards, and special gifts, and cash back up to 18 percent.

Moreover, for the Chinese New Year period, during February 14-18 this year, there will be troops of lion dancers offering discount vouchers to Thai and foreign tourists who visit the three shopping centers. All of them will have first-hand experience with many leading shops and attractions in Siam paragon, Siam center, and Siam Discovery including Sealife, Madame Tussauds Bangkok, and Kidzania, all of which are a world-class destinations for travelers to enjoy a full-fledged travel experience at one of the city’s premier shopping centers.

Exclusively for international tourists, they also have the chance to get special rewards from the three shopping centers. International tourists just spend in accordance with the three shopping centers’ conditions, and will get premiums, vouchers, and discounts. For UnionPay customers, just spend in accordance with the condition, they will get 150 baht discount, while Chinese customers, just spend through WeChat Pay in accordance with its condition, receive a maximum of 2,018 Yuan rewards, and additional discount up to 80 Yuan for their next spending with a minimum of 800 Yuan.

Let’s celebrate the greatest happiness and welcome the Year of Dog with auspiciousness, while also enjoying special promotion campaign “Siam Delightful Chinese New Year” at Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery from today until March 11, 2018.

For more information, please contact 02-610-8000

Bangkok (Thailand) – February 16, 2018 (travelindex) Best Western Hotels & Resorts has unveiled a series of tempting special offers in Thailand, which will be available exclusively at Thai Tiew Thai 2018. This year’s edition of the popular tourism fair will take place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Bangkok, from March 1-4 2018.

Attendees at Thai Tiew Thai 2018 will be able to take advantage of enticing promotions at multiple Best Western branded hotels and resorts in Thailand. So whether you’re seeking a stylish city staycation in Bangkok, a relaxing beach break in Phuket, or even a special occasion such as a meeting or wedding, Best Western has the perfect promotion.

Relaxing Beach Breaks in Phuket – Best Western Patong Beach
Enjoy a special rate of THB 1,299 net per room per night including breakfast for two, free Wi-Fi and a free upgrade to a Pool View Room. Available for stays from April 1 – October 31, 2018.

Unwind in paradise with a three-day, two-night package! Only THB 3,699 net for two nights in a Superior Room, including breakfast for two, free Wi-Fi and a complimentary airport transfer. This offer is available for stays from April 1 – October 31, 2018.

Stylish Staycation Deals in Bangkok – Best Western Plus at 20 Sukhumvit
Stay in the heart of Bangkok for a special rate of THB 1,700 net per night for a Superior Room, including breakfast for two and free Wi-Fi. Available for stays from now till December 23, 2018.

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Sukhumvit 2
Guests can take advantage of the “Super Hot Deal Promotion” at Asia’s first SureStay® Hotel, which offers a rate of THB 2,199 net per night for a Superior room, or THB 2,399 net per night for a Deluxe Room, including breakfast for two, free Wi-Fi and in-room minibar.

Alternatively, guests can discover our “Sabai Promotion” for THB 1,999 net per night for a Superior Room or THB 2,199 net per night in a Deluxe Room. Both rates include breakfast for two and free Wi-Fi.

All special promotions at the SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Sukhumvit 2 are available for stays from now till October 31, 2018.

Best Western Premier Sukhumvit
Special rates at our chic upscale hotel in downtown Bangkok are available from just THB 2,500 net per night for a Premier Room, including breakfast for two and free Wi-Fi. This offer is available for stays from now till December 23, 2018.

Celebrate Special Occasions at Best Western Plus Wanda Grand Hotel
Visitors to Thai Tiew Thai 2018 can arrange their next special occasion with a series of restaurant, meeting and wedding promotions at the Best Western Plus Wanda Grand Hotel, Bangkok!

Guests dining at the hotel’s Vivanda Restaurant can pay just THB 1,000 to receive a dining voucher worth THB 1,500. This offer is valid until December 31, 2018.

Under the “HOT Deal Meeting Package”, groups can book a full-day meeting for just THB 800 net per person (including lunch and two coffee breaks) or a half-day meeting for only THB 700 net per person (including lunch and one coffee break). Both packages are valid for meetings of 10 people or more, held before December 31, 2018 (booked and paid for by September 30, 2018). All meeting rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, an LCD projector and screen, flip chart, white board and markers.

Finally, couples can celebrate their “Big Day” in style at the Best Western Plus Wanda Grand Hotel! The amazing “Wedding Package” promotion is offering 15 percent off weekday wedding parties (Monday – Friday) and 10 percent off weekend wedding parties (Saturdays and Sundays). These deals are valid for weddings held by December 31, 2018 (paid for and booked by September 30, 2018).

Guests who want to take advantage of these promotions, visit us at booth numbers C035 and C044 at QSNCC.

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 CollectionSM 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

Chiang Mai (Thailand) – February 14, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Thailand’s first and only International Balloon Festival will be held on March 2, 3, and 4, 2018 in Thailand’s northern city of Chiang Mai at the Cowboy Army Riding Club. The backdrop of the fabulous mountains and Doi Suthep will ensure not just great views but great photos of the night glow show against the indigo skies.

The festival this year marks the 10th anniversary of the hot air balloon festival, so there will be plenty of special attractions, activities for the whole family and delicious food from top hotels and restaurants in Chiang Mai. We are looking forward to popular local bands like the Odd Gods and others.

An abundance of hot air balloons will gracefully drift through the air, but one of the main highlights will be the unique, balloons night glow that will decorate the sky at night. It will be the first time ever in the world that “The Sparkling Glow” of the balloon nightglow has been created by Sornchat Krainara, the Festival Owner and her Boon Companion Composer, Bringkop Vora-Urai. The night glow will be synchronized with specially composed music with the Lanna Orchestra combine The Tiger Drum and Opera which has never performed anywhere before.

The famous German Opera singer, Thomas Kiessling, will be joining popular Thai singer Pe’ Kamonporn in performing La Vie En Rose in a duet battle of the stars! The high lighten the evening that everyone must not miss is a fantastic performance of Tiger Drum group.Another combination of East and West performances will be through ‘SPLASH’, an event that fuses Flamenco and Lanna Contemporary Dance. These two dance styles will come together in a wild array of colours and movement that will truly splash out.

Thailand is known for its mouth-watering cuisine, so guests can rest assured that there will be plenty of delicious Thai dishes on offer from the local community. At this year’s festival, attendees will also be in for a treat as one of the special guests will be Thai celebrity chef Som Chanakarn, who will be putting on quite a display. For those who love coffee, there will also be a coffee carnival showcasing some of the best coffee that Thailand has on offer.

Other events include Art exhibitions and workshops from many artists, Thai fashion and jewellry shows from famous Thai designers.

The great showcase is a rare traditional craft from villagers in the Sop Moei district of the Mae Hong Son province. Kent Gregory, founder of Sop Mei Arts is proudly present his collaborate work with Anna Ferrari, formerly Ikea Interior Designer.

The Thailand International Balloon Festival this year will continue to include Chiang Mai’s diverse international community in the International Heritage section with booths from India, France, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Germany and many other countries featuring performances, special activities, food and more. Working again with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) to bring this unique festival to Chiang Mai and the world with a new virtual tour online! Free WiFi will also be available which the good news is.

Tickets can be purchased online through and are 300 baht each for a single day. Children aged 7-12 years 100 Baht. Children under 7 years of age are free of charge. Once you register online you won’t need a paper ticket to enter as we work hard to make less of an impact on our environment.

Link to ticket online:

The event this year is going fully digital, reducing its carbon footprint, and encouraging vendors and visitors to avoid using plastic and straws. Bring your own bottle and help keep the Chiang Mai clean!

This year’s festival is sure to bring wonder and joy to all who attend.

For more information please contact:
Ms. Napat Sonto (Joy)
Mobile: 081 3068914
Email: napat.sonto@gmail.com
Line ID: mena29

Macao (Macao SAR) – February 14, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The “Macao Creative City of Gastronomy” work meeting, attended by representatives of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and other governmental departments concerned, academic institutes, industry organizations and so forth. During the meeting, the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture of the Macao Special Administrative Region Government, Alexis Tam, proposed six requirements and work directions towards the dedication to build Macao into a genuine Creative City of Gastronomy, through fostering synergies between gastronomy and creative industries, training and preservation, among other endeavors.

In the “Macao･Creative City of Gastronomy” work meeting held today, the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Alexis Tam, delivered his remarks, proposing six requirements and work directions for Macao to march forward as a Creative City of Gastronomy:

1) Create new synergies between the field of gastronomy and other creative fields covered by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) including Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Literature, Music and Media Arts, to inspire the industries to move forward;

2) Devote greater promotional efforts and raise the awareness among residents and visitors;

3) Training and preservation: offer vocational training programs in non-higher education and encourage the next generation to choose career paths in the field of gastronomy; provide in-service training in higher-education institutes and admit chefs to degree programs;

4) the Institute for Tourism Studies (IFT) is planning to set up a culinary centre of considerable scale;

5) join hands with industry partners to look for ways to help old but characteristic catering establishments in downturn to revive through reform;

6) Bring together efforts from different circles and establish a coordinating and management unit to help create a more favorable business environment for industry operators and unveil new potentials for industry growth.

Secretary Tam pointed out that before Macao gained the new designation, the SAR Government has been actively carrying out tasks to push forward integrated development between gastronomy and creative industries. The Committee of Cultural Industries established the Task Group for the Promotion of Gastronomy and Cultural Industries to foster related development.

Secretary Tam believes that the two powerful brands in the city’s portfolio – the listing of the Historic Centre of Macao as a UNESCO World Heritage site and the new status of Macao as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy – will certainly unfold a new horizon of opportunities for the related industries and be a great boon for the city’s transformation into a world centre of tourism and leisure. He expressed his great confidence in the development prospect.

The meeting today was presided by MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, with MGTO Deputy Director Cheng Wai Tong presenting an introduction of the UCCN and the tasks involved as a Creative City of Gastronomy. Discussions were also held on supportive schemes for old and characteristic catering establishments as well as community maps.

Industry representatives expressed the issues they encountered regarding interdepartmental administrative procedures during their process of planning to open or renovate their business. The representative of labour union also expressed his concerns on human resources and terms of employment. In summing up the meeting today, Director Senna Fernandes invited all representatives to voice their opinions through different channels and make united efforts to transform Macao into a Creative City of Gastronomy.

President of the Institute for Tourism Studies, Fanny Vong, Acting President of Cultural Affairs Bureau, Kent Ieong Chi Kin, Advisors of the Office of the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Charles Lam and Stella Leong, Deputy Director of Education and Youth Affairs Bureau, Leong Vai Kei, Vice President of the Committee of Cultural Industries and the Convener of the Task Group for the Promotion of Gastronomy and Cultural Industries, Hsu Hsiu Chu, Director of Board of Administration of Cultural Industries Fund, Davina Chu, as well as representatives of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, Economic Bureau, Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute, Labour Affairs Bureau and Environmental Protection Bureau attended the meeting.

Macao was officially designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy on 31 October 2017. Following the new status, the SAR Government launched its four-year action plan, making active endeavors to forge Macao into a Creative City of Gastronomy, its major projects including the “2018 Macao Year of Gastronomy” and the “International Gastronomy Forum, Macao 2018” launched and held by MGTO this month.

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – February 12, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The Indian Ocean Region is dominating the news these days and Seychelles is right in the middle of it all with the proposal to facilitate the creation of a military base by India on its Assumption Island. This beautiful island is right on the door step of Aldabra, the UNESCO World Heritage site. Protests and petitions #SaveAldabra have been launched, and it is very much the duty of every Seychellois to join the International Community and World Environment Groups to nip this proposal in the bud. A symbolic peaceful protest is set to be carried out everyday by the Clock Tower in the centre of Victoria to urge Government to listen to its people and to preserve our invaluable natural resource. These protests are said to be continuing until the State of the Nation Address by President Danny Faure.

If the Assumption Island Military Base is for Seychelles we do not need any agreement or lease document with India. We only need a proposal from India for what will be termed ‘foreign aid’ package.

Mauritius is also raising the tempo for their island of Agalega, where plans are in place to construct a three kilometre airport for the 300 inhabitants of the Island, or for another rumoured military base. Similar to Seychellois at the moment, Mauritians are up in arms over the prospect of losing another one of their precious islands.

Do we, the People of Seychelles, deserve a say in what happens to our islands? Of course we do. A referendum is needed today.

The State of Emergency is Maldives is also making news. Political instability and tourism do not go hand in hand, but the Maldives Ministry of Tourism issued a statement, which highlights that all tourism related businesses will be operating as usual. It also states that the State of Emergency does not force any restrictions on traveling to the Maldives and airports and all resorts in the country shall remain open and in full operation. More from Maldives, the Chief Justice and another Judge therefrom were arrested mere hours after the Government declared a State of Emergency, prompting many a raised eyebrow. The Judiciary is a needed watchdog and political interference will always shock the free world and the fragile tourism industry.
Tourism remains a volatile industry, and both Seychelles and Maldives are in the news for the wrong reasons; both Islands can be negatively impacted by all the negative publicity they are accruing.

Africa remains undecided about the Single Air Transport Market initiative. There is little to no tourism without adequate air-access and Africa is a Continent that suffers from this shortfall. Seychelles was so far not listed as a country that had embraced this call for Africa by Africa, even though it showed last year in the UNWTO saga that it abides to decisions by the African Union, regardless of whether its sovereignty is consequently threatened.
The Tourism Industry of Seychelles continues to seek clarity in the increased operating costs it is facing. Today, more than ever before, the hoteliers are imploring the authorities to appreciate that they are competing not with the hotel next door, but with the different regions that continue to attract holiday makers in search of a tropical vacation. Operating costs remain a key determining factor in what can be offered and also how destinations are featured in Tour Operator programs, which is where some are seen to be pricing themselves out of the market. The call today is for a two-tier VAT where a lower fee is applicable for the room component of the package.