Saint Ange Tourism Report – 5th February 2018

Saint Ange Tourism Report – 5th February 2018

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – February 6, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The Seychelles tourism arrival figures for the month of January have been released. Transit passengers are on the rise and tourism arrivals are decreasing in comparison to 2017. It is often said that when Seychelles tourism sneezes, the country immediately suffers from a viral infection. Case in point: visitor arrival numbers for January 2017 stood at 20886, but January 2018’s figure is 19598. Similarly, the transit passengers figure for January 2017 was 422, and in 2018 it is 1895. This reveals that our Country’s efforts have shifted from point to point air transport to playing airline hub. It is not the Seychelles tourism industry we were caring for, but rather we are filling planes from Johannesburg to Mumbai in India and from Madagascar to Paris.

This is particularly bleak news when considering that the Emirates Airline is now reduced to a single flight from Dubai to Seychelles per day, a drop of seven flights per week. Air Seychelles is stopping its Paris flights and, as the National Airline, they represented 24% of market share and Emirates on its part had a 37% of market share. Captain David Savy, the Chairperson of the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), said this at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry meeting. Captain Savy was also a former Board Member of the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) and spoke passionately about the challenging times for tourism in Seychelles, cautioning everyone on optimistic forecasting.

Seychelles is digesting the sudden resignation of the Rt. Hon. Patrick Pillay, the Speaker of the National Assembly. This has prompted the organisation of a hurried bye-election in the electoral district of Anse Boileau, and has set many tongues wagging about the apparent and undeniable fissure in the fragile cohabitation our politicians have been vehemently defending for over a year.

Grimmer still, the marketing budget for STB was not increased as anticipated for 2018. Further, the Governor of the Seychelles Central Bank, Mme Caroline Abel, has on her part alerted the Country of the depreciation of the Seychelles Rupee versus the UN Dollar and the Euro.

However, these statistics are being somewhat overshadowed by the news that Seychelles will be having an Indian Military Base on Assumption Island situated right at the doorstep of Aldabra, the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Assumption (Assomption) Island is but some 20 nautical miles from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aldabra. The Seychellois who have been privileged enough to visit this island are unanimous in their view that it is a gem which ought to be preserved. If it is to be taken over by a Power Military Base, not only may this island be barred from access by Seychellois, but can it still be used by those needing easy access to Aldabra to further conservation efforts?

UNESCO, environmentalists and concerned citizens of Seychelles must be questioning the rationale of having a Power Military Base established so close to one of our prized possessions: Aldabra. Given the lax policing of our waters, owing to our extensive territorial size, some are advocating that additional security cannot be a negative. However, it is unknown whether the new occupiers of the Island are actually going to assist with protecting our vulnerable shores from poachers or pirates, or whether they are moving into the Aldabra Group with an agenda of their own. Aldabra is the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean and has been staunchly protected by Seychelles since it attained its Independence from Great Britain.

Many are contemplating bringing a Constitutional petition before the Courts to challenge the constitutionality of this deal between the Indian Military and Seychelles to India, and to hopefully reverse it. We the people of Seychelles should never underestimate the power we have to challenge oppressive, and potentially harmful, decisions taken by the Government we elected into Office, which may impact our sovereignty, our Country’s environmental well-being and our security. Our impartiality and neutrality in international politics may soon be affected if we allow the deal to go ahead.

Air Seychelles is still very much in the news and the fate of the Seychellois staff is becoming a national problem. This is the Island’s National Airline and the security of its Seychellois Staff must become a cause for concern for every Seychellois. Their “new strategic transformation plan aimed at ensuring the long-term profitability and sustainability for the airline” is seriously being seen as trampling on the feet and livelihood of the people of Seychelles.

The Travel Advisory issued by the UK does not seem to be putting the needed pressure on the Government and the National Assembly. This week, Tour Guides posted photos of cars broken into at the Mission Lodge viewing spot at Sans Soucis, a famous touristic spot on Mahe. Tourists are being shamelessly robbed and something needs to be done to protect visitors to known scenic spots around the islands. As a country, we are failing in our duty of care.

Best Western Kindai Hotel First in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan for Best Western

Best Western Kindai Hotel First in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan for Best Western

Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan (Indonesia) – February 6, 2018 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels and Resorts has continued its rapid expansion in Indonesia with the launch of an exciting new international hotel in Banjarmasin, the capital of the South Kalimantan province. Now open in the center of the emerging city, Best Western Kindai Hotel is located close to local attractions, offices and government buildings, and is just a 30-minute drive from the city’s Syamsudin Noor International Airport, making it perfect for all types of travelers.

This modern midscale hotel features 106 comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, all of which come fully equipped with facilities, including flat-screen TVs, mini-bars, modern bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and room service.

Guests will be able to dine at a variety of restaurants, including an all-day dining outlet that serves sumptuous Indonesian, Asian and international cuisines, and an exquisite Japanese restaurant that is due to open on March 1, 2018. There is also a rooftop Sky Lounge which provides the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day, overlooking the city.

The hotel’s four meeting rooms and spacious ballroom are the perfect venues for corporate events and social occasions. Additionally, the hotel’s swimming pool and fitness room are ideal for guests wanting to relax or get a workout in.

“As the largest country in Southeast Asia and one of the world’s most populous nations, Indonesia is a key market for Best Western,” commented Olivier Berrivin, Best Western Hotels & Resorts’ Managing Director of International Operations – Asia. “Following recent hotel openings in Jakarta and Bali, we are delighted to continue our nationwide expansion by launching Best Western Kindai Hotel Banjarmasin and entering one of Indonesia’s rapidly emerging regional hubs.”

Nicknamed the “River City”, Banjarmasin is a major commercial, administrative and educational center in Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo. Guests can explore attractions including the floating market, Batik Village, Siring Martapura River Park and the Martapura Diamond Market, one of Indonesia’s most important centers for diamonds and precious stones, which is just a short distance away.

Best Western Kindai Hotel Banjarmasin joins a collection of 16 Best Western-branded hotels and resorts across Indonesia, located in key destinations such as Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya, Solo, Bandung, Batam, Makassar, Medan, Manado and Palu.

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®, Vib®, GLo®, 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

HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to Preside at Chefs Charity

HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to Preside at Chefs Charity

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 30, 2018 (travelindex.com) – High-profile charity dinner of the year, the 2018 Bangkok Chefs Charity, organized by Gourmet One, Thailand’s leading importer of fine food products, is ready to kick off its 9th edition, to be participated by 20 top chefs from five-star hotels and Thai Airways International, on Saturday 3rd March, 2018 at the Royal Ballroom, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. This year’s gourmet menu highlights premium fine food products imported from around the world prepared alongside Camellia Seed Oil from “PatPat” and pesticide-free vegetables from “Jan-Ka-Pak” projects.

“This year the chefs are not only engaged in the creation of the 10-course gourmet dinner menu, but they also have to create the menu under one important condition – to incorporate in the menu the use of Camellia Seed Oil product from “PatPat” and pesticide-free vegetables from “Jan-Ka-Pak”, two royally-initiated agricultural development projects under the Chaipattana Foundation at Chakrabandh Pensiri Center for Plant Development at Tambon Pongpha, Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province. These two highlighted food ingredients will be used to craft a perfect gourmet dinner menu alongside other imported premium fine food products such as Foie Gras, Wagyu beef, Lobsters, Baby Lamb and more,” said Ms. Nuntiya Hame-ung-gull, Managing Director of Gourmet One.

Ms. Nuntiya added that, “The reason we bring in Camellia Seed Oil product from PatPat and pesticide-free vegetables from Jan-Ka-Pak as ingredients for this year’s event, is because we want the public to know about the many benefits of tea tree oil, a high-quality product of Chaipattana Foundation. The Chaipattana Foundation has carried out extensive agricultural development projects which produce many quality products in order to ensure sustainable benefits for all communities. This is in line with the event’s concept — to serve each specially created menu using both imported products and Thai ingredients such as Camellia Seed Oil and pesticide-free vegetables which are two high-quality products from the royally-initiated project of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn – aimed to be the ultimate gourmet creation in support of long-term sustainability.”

“In addition, another highlight this year is the participation of 11 aspiring Young Chefs who have been carefully selected and who have shown interest in cooking. Each young chef will partner with 2 top chefs to form a team. This is another tough angle for the top chefs team as they have to come up with menus that can teach young chefs. But it will certainly add fun and colour to the evening.”

Another exciting highpoint at the BANGKOK CHEFS CHARITY GALA DINNER is of course the Chefs Auctions where successful bidders will be presented with a formal dinner cooked by the chosen chefs at their residence. All proceeds from ticket sales and chefs auctions, without any deductions, will be presented to H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, to benefit the Royal Patrol Police schools.

The 2018 BANGKOK CHEFS CHARITY was first organized in 2009 and has continued annually since then. Proceeds amounting to more than 87.5 million baht from ticket sales and chefs auctions from the past 8 years which were presented to H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn had benefitted the Royal Patrol Police schools, provided scholarships for needy children as well as contributed towards purchase of teaching and learning materials and sports equipment.

At the 2016 Bangkok Chefs Charity event as much as 25 million baht was collected for donation. The highest contribution of 15 million baht was made by Mr. Charoen and Khunying Wanna Sirivadhanabhakdi; followed by Mr. Vichai and Mrs. Juthamas Bencharongkul who donated 3 million baht. The organizer presented all proceeds to H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to help needy schoolchildren in remote areas of Thailand, and to go towards in particular to the construction of the “Bangkok Chefs Charity Border Patrol Police School” at Ban Mae Longtai, Omkoi District, Chiangmai Province in order to provide full educational services to poor children in remote areas of Omkoi. It is extremely difficult for outsiders to reach Omkoi by road — 8 hours’ drive for the 320 km. distance. The area is also completely inaccessible by road during the rainy season due to lack of proper bridges.

The 2018 BANGKOK CHEFS CHARITY participated by 20 top chefs from five-star hotels and Thai Airways International, will be staged on Saturday 3rd March, 2018 in the Royal Ballroom of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok at 17.30 hours.

List of 2018 participating Executive Chefs and hotels:
1. Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel Chef Jan Van Dyk
2. The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel Bangkok Chef Gael Lardiere
3. Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit Chef Nathan Chilcott
4. Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Chef Michael Hogan
5. Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld Chef Somchai Deeying
6. The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai Chef Pisit Jinopong
7. Dusit Thani Bangkok Chef Philippe Keller
8. Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok Chef Markus Zuck
9. InterContinental Bangkok Chef Rolando Manesco
10. JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok Chef Kevin B. Thomson
11. The Landmark Bangkok Chef Philippe Gaudal
12. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Chef Dominique Bugnand
13. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Chef Norbert Kostner
14. The Okura Prestige Bangkok Chef Antony Scholtmeyer
15. Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok Chef Marc Erwin Cibrowius
16. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Chef Gaetano Palumbo
17. Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit Chef Mark Hagenbach
18. The St. Regis Bangkok Chef Richard Sawyer
19. The Sukhothai Bangkok Chef Thitisorn Amatasin
20. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited Chef Pierre Andre Hauss

The annual BANGKOK CHEFS CHARITY event also receives warm support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and wines from Central Wine Cellar.

For those who are interested to join the 2018 BANGKOK CHEFS CHARITY, tickets @12,500 baht per seat (10 seats per table) are now on sale. For reservations and more information, please contact Gourmet One Food Services Tel: 02403 3388 ext. 511 or 085-1526857 or bcc@gourmet-one.com; or contact Khun Rachanee, Food and Beverage Department, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Tel: 02 659 0302. The contribution will not be deducted for any expenses.

Additional Information
“Jan-Ka-Pak”
Pesticide-free vegetables come from Jan-Ka-Pak’s agricultural plots at Chakrabandh Pensiri Center for Plant Development at Tambon Pongpha, Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province. “Jan-Ka-Pak” is the reverse of “Chakraband”, the name of His Highness Prince Chakraband Pensiri, scholar and agricultural practitioner. Jan-Ka-Pak was set up by H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, who later designated the Chaipattana and Mae Fah Luang foundations to establish the Chakrabandh Pensiri Center for Plant Development in commemoration of the 100th Birthday Anniversary of His Highness Prince Chakraband Pensiri. The Center’s objective is to improve and develop plant varieties for farmers and agriculturalists.

H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, through her many overseas visits, has brought back high-quality seeds and gave to the Center for further experiment and development. Pesticide-free vegetables produced from one of these seeds has made its way into the menu of the BANGKOK CHEFS CHARITY 2018.
Tea Tree Oil is a “PatPat” product, produced and developed by Chaipattana Foundation.

Benefits: Tea Tree Oil is good for health, has a high boiling point (252°C) suitable for all types of cooking and food preparation. The oil has a high level of unsaturated fats (good cholesterol), which helps reducing cholesterol when compared with other types of oil in the market. It can prevent paralysis, cardiovascular disease, high-blood pressure and diabetes. Tea Tree Oil also contains Omega-3 (0.3%), Omega-6 (9.2%) and Omega-9 (77.7%).

ASEAN Tourism Ministers to Promote Gastronomic Travel

ASEAN Tourism Ministers to Promote Gastronomic Travel

Chiang Mai (Thailand) – January 30, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The ASEAN Tourism Forum ended on a high 26 January, with ASEAN tourism ministers itemising a list of achievements for the region’s robust travel and tourism sector. Lauding the completion of a strong VisitASEAN at 50 campaign in 2017, which generated a better than expected response, ASEAN’s 10 tourism ministers were optimistic about new marketing campaigns for ASEAN tourism in 2018 and beyond.

The ministers revealed the following new priorities.

  • There will be a new emphasis on promoting the many aspects of gastronomic travel, as outlined in the minsters’ Joint Declaration on Gastronomy and Tourism. The declaration notes that, “gastronomic tourism helps to create a strong sense of place for branding and marketing destinations, and also assists in maintaining and preserving local heritage and identity, and protecting biodiversity”.
  • Cruise tourism will be developed further due to its high economic impacts. There will be renewed focus on the effectiveness of destination management, specifically environmental and social issues and the welfare of local communities that cruise tourism touches.
  • Cross border bus and coach traffic will also be promoted further, following an agreement by ASEAN Transport Ministers to ease restrictions. The ministers noted that recommendations from studies on recognising domestic driving licences in neighbouring ASEAN countries could boost tourism significantly, especially if there were road enhancements along major tourism corridors.

Ministers noted that the quality of work supplied by tourism professionals throughout Southeast Asia will continue to rise, in part, due to the completion of all 242 ‘toolboxes’ for job training. Jakarta will host a permanent secretariat in order to improve and unite tourism industry standards across ASEAN.

Positive Legacy of VisitASEAN at 50 Campaign
The Tourism Ministers at ATF were buoyed by public and travel industry response to VisitASEAN@50 campaign in 2017. Based on preliminary figures from member states, ASEAN is expected to receive 125 million international visitors, exceeding the target of 121 million international tourist arrivals to the region set for VisitASEAN@50.

If confirmed, this new record will indicate a growth of 8.4 per cent from 2016. Arrivals were dominated by intra-ASEAN travel, accounting for 42 per cent of total international arrivals.

Targets for length of stay and revenue were also achieved, with ASEAN averaging 7.98 days of stay for international tourists, generating an estimated US$93 billion from tourism in 2017.

“As we celebrate this most recent success,” said Weerasak Kowsurat, Minister for Tourism and Sports of Thailand, who chaired the Ministers’ meeting, “we still recognise the scale of the task before us and the urgency in enhancing our competitiveness to achieve sustainable development. We must therefore ensure that we unite to create the synergy which brings about inclusive growth and that none of us is left behind.”

ATF 2019 will be held in Halong Bay, Viet Nam in January next year. The 2020 edition will be in Brunei Darussalam.

Saint Ange Tourism Report – 29th January 2018

Saint Ange Tourism Report – 29th January 2018

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – January 29, 2018 (travelindex.com) – January 2018 is coming to a close. It has brought troubling announcements for loyal and dedicated staff of the Seychelles National Airline and also for the tourism industry as a whole.

Last week, Air Seychelles held a high-profile press conference to announce their future plans to the world. A “new strategic transformation plan aimed at ensuring the long-term profitability and sustainability for the airline” was announced. Issues being raised by everyone following this press conference include the loss of jobs by hard working Seychellois who had forged a career through their National Airline, and how this decision will affect the Seychelles tourism industry.

It was only a couple of years ago that Seychelles embarked on restructuring its national airline. This was followed by a period of uncertainty for all its employees. Reports issued year after year since then only reassured the country and all the airline’s staff that all was going well. This was further confirmed by the decision to expand routes.

Today, all seems to be in disarray. Staff members are disillusioned and angry because anticipated redundancies will come at a time when Seychelles will not be seeing any new tourism establishment openings. Dispassionate meetings with staff members have already commenced, leaving the staff with a sour taste in their mouths. Staff are allegedly being informed of the intention of Management to abolish certain posts held by Seychellois and to create larger positions, which will be occupied by new imports. All of the above is happening right under the noses of the Government and the ever-watchful National Assembly.

Seychelles as a tourism destination has France as a key tourism source market. The local tourism trade has invested heavily in this market since the 70s. Air Seychelles is the only airline offering direct non-stop service to Paris and this will now stop. The French Travel Trade partners are all friends of the Islands and depend on our Creole Spirit to lure tourists to our sandy shores. Seychelles has been bragging about its tourism yield, but recent changes threaten to undermine our continued success in the field of tourism; today our Air Seychelles will concede the Paris – Seychelles route to the low-cost subsidiary carrier of Air France “JOON”.

No competition could match a National Airline with one of the best scheduled flight departure and arrival slots, and a non-stop service with the Islands’ Seychellois Creole staff caring for their passengers on board. The “JOON” of Air France will be the only other direct non-stop service, and we are throwing in the towel even before they start their operation.

Air Seychelles will be suspending its Paris service effective 24th April 2018, and it is confirmed that this refocusing of the business will include a reduced workforce in cabin crew and pilots, as well as supporting flight and commercial roles.

We must encourage Seychellois to further invest in their tourism industry and to be implicated in everything that is tourism-related. This includes its aviation sector.

Air Seychelles belongs to Seychelles and it was created many moons ago to be the insurance policy for our fragile tourism industry. The Government as the major shareholder of the airline must stand up for all the Seychellois who will be laid off, and the elected representatives must sit up and take notice; they must speak up to avoid the laying off of qualified and capable young men and women who have made their career in Air Seychelles. We today cannot and should not let them down.

Duty of care has been displayed by the British Foreign Office when they issued a warning to those travelling to Seychelles.

This worrying Travel Advisory republished by TravelMole this week should raise many an eyebrow. Although notable and commendable efforts are being undertaken by the relevant authorities to stem the influx of petty robberies plaguing our Island Nation, the follow-on effects from continued crime include negative publicity for Seychelles in the world of tourism.

SETA is Back with Professional Host and MC Able Wanamakok

SETA is Back with Professional Host and MC Able Wanamakok

Phuket (Thailand) – February 2, 2018 (travelindex.com) – On March 21-23rd, the 3rd annual Sustainable Energy Technology Asia or SETA 2018 will be held again at BITEC Bangna hosted by International TV presenter and MC Able Wanamakok.

The grand opening ceremony – presided by the Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand ACM Dr. Prajin Juntong as the chair, and keynote opening session in “Towards consolidate-Digital to Thailand Energy 4.0” by Dr.Pichet Durongkaverote, the minister of Digital Economy and Society, Thailand.

SETA’s 3rd edition moves forward to the theme “Towards Consolidated Innovation Energy Technology” with an Experience the world DiGi-Energy Trade Expo and the highlight “Smart Urbanization Simulation” all under one roof!

Join and showcase with us the energy storage, energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy and smart cities best practices and many more at SETA 2018, Bangkok.

To learn more about this event, visit www.seta.asia. To learn more about the Host of the event, visit www.FindYourVoice.Asia.

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 for your next event/video project, production or show in Asia at email: Able.FashionOne@gmail.com.

Xn protel Achieves Oracle Validated Integration with Oracle OPERA

Xn protel Achieves Oracle Validated Integration with Oracle OPERA

Derby (United Kingdom) – January 30, 2018 (travelindex) – Xn protel Systems, Global hospitality management software company, and a Gold Partner level member of Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN), today announced it has achieved Oracle Validated Integration of xnPOS 3.10 with Oracle Hospitality OPERA 5.5. The new two-way interface connectivity and messaging means guest and billing information is communicated between the property management system and the restaurant’s ePOS. This simplifies operational control and decision making, which saves time.

To achieve Oracle Validated Integration, Oracle partners are required to meet a stringent set of requirements that are based on the needs and priorities of the customers. This new integration, which replaces the previous generation used, will allow the powerful features of xnPOS to align with Oracle Hospitality OPERA. The integration with Oracle Hospitality OPERA supports a wide range of essential features, including Credit Limit Check, Nationality, Rate Code, Key Card Inquiry and more.

Emmanuel Clavé, Group Product Director, Point of Sale and Mobile Apps, Xn protel Systems said, “We are delighted to have successfully completed the Oracle Validated Integration for xnPOS. This highlights our ‘Open Systems’ strategy that helps to deliver choice and flexibility to all our customers. With this new two-way interface, independent hotels and groups using Oracle Hospitality OPERA can fully utilize the rich features and functionality provided by xnPOS.”

“Achieving Oracle Validated Integration gives our customers confidence that the integration between xnPOS and Oracle Hospitality OPERA 5.5 is functionally sound and performs as tested,” said David Hicks, vice president, Worldwide ISV, OEM and Java Business Development, Oracle. “For solutions deployed on-premises, in the cloud, or both, Oracle Validated Integration applies a rigorous technical review and test process that helps to reduce deployment risk and improves the user experience of the partner’s integrated offering.”

Xn protel Systems is a global hospitality management software company specializing in food and beverage point of sale systems. xnPOS is an easy to use, highly customizable, fully internationalized hospitality ePOS software solution for bars, restaurants, groups and independents, within the hotel and food service industries. It is a centrally managed, full-service, cloud-hosted PoS-solution with enterprise-wide scalability. xnPOS enables single and multi-site hotels and food service outlets to reduce operational complexity and provide a faster, more efficient service.

About Xn protel Systems
Xn protel Systems is a global hospitality management software company specializing in Property Management, Central Reservations, Point of Sale and Activity Management solutions. Our business-critical, highly functional, cloud-native and open systems provide the latest technology and flexibility. They help world-class hospitality companies in over 50 countries to optimize revenue generation, simplify service operations and enhance the quality of guest communications.

We are committed to:
– Creating open systems. Working closely with our customers and partners we adopt industry standard protocols to break down traditional integration barriers. Creating truly open, flexible solutions that support guests’ growing appetite to be more in control of their stay.

– Developing cloud-native products. Our newest technologies are born in the cloud. That means our customers benefit from the latest innovations, can take full advantage of mobile and achieve a lower cost of ownership.

– Being easy to do business with. We understand the frustration that comes with unresponsive and inflexible suppliers. We’re not like that. And we don’t take our customers for granted. A customer-centric approach is in our DNA, from preparing quotations through to resolving support calls.

Our next generation, global solutions are backed by outstanding customer service and support. Our dedicated team of highly experienced hotel, hospitality and technology experts work hard to understand customers’ needs and the issues they face. Located across our extensive network of offices, our specialists provide the best advice, solutions and support to make sure customers meet the needs of local markets and achieve their business goals.

The Company was formed in the UK in 2002, as Xn Hotel Systems. It was then renamed in 2015 as Xn protel Systems when protel hotel software became a shareholder.

About Oracle PartnerNetwork
Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN) is Oracle’s partner program that provides partners with a differentiated advantage to develop, sell and implement Oracle solutions. OPN offers resources to train and support specialized knowledge of Oracle’s products and solutions and has evolved to recognize Oracle’s growing product portfolio, partner base and business opportunity. Key to the latest enhancements to OPN is the ability for partners to be recognized and rewarded for their investment in Oracle Cloud. Partners engaging with Oracle will be able to differentiate their Oracle Cloud expertise and success with customers through the OPN Cloud program – an innovative program that complements existing OPN program levels with tiers of recognition and progressive benefits for partners working with Oracle Cloud.

About Oracle Validated Integration
Oracle Validated Integration, available through the Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN), gives customers confidence that the integration of a complementary partner software product with an Oracle “on-premises” Application has been validated and the products work together as designed. This can help customers reduce risk, improve system implementation cycles, and provide for smoother upgrades and simpler maintenance. Oracle Validated Integration applies a rigorous technical process to review partner integrations and partners who successfully complete the program are authorized to use the “Oracle Validated Integration” logo. For more information, please visit Oracle.com at

Trademarks
Oracle and Java are registered trademarks of Oracle and/or its affiliates.

Xn protel media contact:
Terry Osborne
Head of Marketing
Terry.osborne@xnprotel.com
+44 (0) 7788 280434
www.xnprotel.com

Khon Kaen to Host PATA Destination Forum, Promoted by TCEB

Khon Kaen to Host PATA Destination Forum, Promoted by TCEB

Khon Kaen (Thailand) – January 26, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Mrs. Supawan Teerarat, Senior Vice President, Strategic Business Development and Innovation of TCEB joined hand with Khon Kaen province, The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) held the press conference to announce “PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2018” to be held in Khon Kaen, Thailand from 28-30 November 2018.

The event contributes to implementing the government’s policy of stimulating and developing the regional economy. Khon Kaen is one of Thailand’s leading MICE cities, with strong potential and readiness to host international conventions to world-class standards. This event offers an important platform for all MICE stakeholders, including private sector companies, MICE operators and tourism businesses across the Asia-Pacific region. In particular the event will maximize benefits to Thai participants both from Khon Kaen itself, and from secondary MICE cities around the country.

The event will contribute greatly to raising visibility and awareness of Khon Kaen and other regional MICE cities as international MICE destinations which helps to generate sustainable economic development in the regional economy.

For further information, please contact:
Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization)
Corporate Communications Department
Ms. Kwanchanok Otton
Tel: + 662 694 6096
Email: kwanchanok_o@tceb.or.th

Mr. Issara Rotchanakuson
Tel: + 662 694 6181
Email: issara_r@tceb.or.th

a publicist
Tel: 0 2101 6860
Ms.Arpaporn (A)
Tel: 089 788 4868
Ms.Thittaya (Jang)
Tel: 094 323 5641
Sorasak (Earth)
Tel:089 406 5544

The Perfect Koh Samui Island Getaway now with Avani

The Perfect Koh Samui Island Getaway now with Avani

Koh Samui (Thailand) – January 26, 2018 (travelindex.com) – From February 2018, Sunset Coast Samui will be managed by Avani Hotels & Resorts. Set within Pang Kha Bay overlooking the sea and Five Islands, the tranquil location will appeal to holidaymakers in search of lesser known destinations. The resort is only a 40 minute drive from Samui International Airport, which is well connected with numerous daily flights from Bangkok and other Thai cities, along with direct flights from around Asia.

Every room and villa at Sunset Coast Samui is beautifully decorated and well-appointed with every amenity a guest would need for a comfortable stay, from spacious terraces and balconies, complimentary high speed internet to indulgent rain showers.

Book your hotel in Koh Samui Thailand and around the world in over 100 countries at best rates available. Pay at the hotel. Book now at HotelWorlds.com!

The secluded location will make the resort an attractive option for families and couples looking for meaningful and shared experiences with easy access to many coastal attractions, such as the nearby Five Islands, Ang Thong National Marine Park, the coral reefs of Koh Taen Island and the uncrowded pleasure of snorkelling in Koh Madsum.

Very Special Rate at Renaissance Koh Samui for Your Next Beach Holiday

Very Special Rate at Renaissance Koh Samui for Your Next Beach Holiday

Koh Samui (Thailand) – January 26, 2018 (travelindex) – – Looking for a beach escape from the hustles and bustles of the city or a rewarding trip for the little ones during summer holiday? Make Koh Samui yours next holiday destination! Introducing a very special offer of 2018 for Thai Residents at Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa. Rate starts from THB 4,500 net, inclusive of breakfast for 2.

Imagine spending your days idling around our pool, just steps away from the private beach. Enjoy a cocktail (or two) before indulging in a blissful aromatic massage by the skillful therapist at Quan Spa. End the day by a romantic Thai dinner, overlooking the majestic Lamai bay at Banana Leaf, Tapas Bar or TawaNN. Can life get any better than this?

The “Thai Resident” promotion is valid from now to 28 February 2018. Book this package directly to hotel reservation at kanittha.k@renaissancehotels.com or via telephone at 077 429 300.

For more great offers, please visit our website at or follow our social media channels for exciting updates at www.facebook.com/RenaissanceKohSamui, www.instagram.com/rensamui

About Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa:
Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa is nestled among lush gardens and only steps from the beach; the hotel sets the ideal stage for a tranquil getaway. The hotel boost 43 deluxe spacious and sophisticated rooms featuring tasteful decor and luxury amenities, while the villas provide access to private pool, along with mesmerizing views of the Koh Samui coastline. The hotel is committed to delivering exceptional experiences at Quan Spa, the5 well-known F&B dining outlets, 3 versatile meeting venues offering a total of 1,929 square feet of meeting and banquet space and 3 elegant wedding venues.

About Marriott International:
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is the wRenaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa is nestled among lush gardens and only steps from the beach; the hotel sets the ideal stage for a tranquil getaway. The hotel boost 43 deluxe spacious and sophisticated rooms featuring tasteful decor and luxury amenities, while the villas provide access to private pool, along with mesmerizing views of the Koh Samui coastline. The hotel is committed to delivering exceptional experiences at Quan Spa, the5 well-known F&B dining outlets, 3 versatile meeting venues offering a total of 1,929 square feet of meeting and banquet space and 3 elegant wedding venues.orld’s largest hotel company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with nearly 6,000 properties in 120 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts. The company’s 30 leading brands include: Bulgari®, The Ritz-Carlton® and The Ritz-Carlton Reserve®, St. Regis®, W®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, The Luxury Collection®, Marriott Hotels®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Renaissance® Hotels, Sheraton®, Delta Hotels by MarriottSM, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Tribute Portfolio™, Design Hotels™, Gaylord Hotels®, Courtyard®, Four Points® by Sheraton, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, Residence Inn®, TownePlace Suites®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Aloft®, Element®, Moxy® Hotels, and Protea Hotels by Marriott®. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com.

Contact information:
Duangkamon Sasirot
PR & MarCom Executive
Tel: 02-656-7700 ext. 4368
duangkamon.s@marriott.com