Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 5, 2017 (by Bernard A. Metzger) – For those who seek a transcendent experience, a selection of river cruises replete with the colonial romance of river travel but with a modern twist and bespoke itinerariesis set to be launched. Mekong Kingdoms cruises recreates and elevates the concept of river travel with their fleet of five vessels where guests can enjoy first-class services from gourmet meals to plush cabins with unique, curated experiences both aboard and ashore along the way.

Cruising along the mighty Mekong River from Thailand’s Golden Triangle to the ancient Lao capital and now UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, conjures up images of old Indochina, of languorous days gone by, teeming with river adventure, mystical temples and stunning untouched scenery. Mekong Kingdoms boats offers a new way of river travel with a sense of playfulness and discovery that leaves guests with a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Travellers can join Mekong Kingdoms’ flagship ‘Bohème’, a 42-metre, 13 cabin luxury barge at Luang Prabang or Chiang Khong located near Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort. Decorated with intricate Indochinese-inspired artwork and fitted with sumptuously comfortable furnishings from bow to stern, ‘Bohème’ spoils with phenomenal facilities including an expansive sun deck, wine cellar, and spa.

The journey from Chiang Rai/Chiang Khong to Luang Prabang is two nights as it heads downstream. The upstream cruise takes three nights. Voyagers will be captivated by the languid river lifestyle, soaking in nature’s wonders along the Mekong River Valley, marvelling at encounters with fascinating local cultures.

Itineraries include guided jungle treks, a visit to the Pak Ou caves – with its awesome limestone karst formations, these two caves have been gifted thousands of Buddha images, left by pilgrims over the centuries. Guests can make a friend in the Hmong Village at Pak Beng or be taught traditional weaving at Ban Baw and further discover rural Laos by mountain biking in the stunning village of Ban Houy Phalam.

Even while cruising along the placid waters, guests have a range of diversions onboard. Sunrise yoga, Buddhist meditation, sunset cocktails, cooking demonstrations, jewellery making classes, fishing for giant catfish – there is a wide range of activities to while away the time. Then there’s always gazing at the lush scenery as the boat glides by.

For those desiring a more intimate private cruise, personalised to their tastes, there is ‘Gypsy’ an ultra-exclusive two-cabin cruiser perfect for one or more nights along the Mekong for up to four passengers, Mekong Kingdoms can customise almost every aspect of the itinerary and journey to suit guest’s travel needs.

For shorter day trips in complete privacy, ‘Nomad’ provides couples with an exclusive romantic getaway for sunset cruises in Luang Prabang. ‘Play’ is a floating lounge ideal of private events or family adventure; suitable for up to 15 passengers with sundeck, private room, and a sound system. ‘Monsoon’ is a scheduled touring shuttle to the Pak Ou caves with canapés, coffee, tea and soft drinks, offering a lavish option to visit the sacred site.

“Our guests are travellers who desire not just a unique travel experience, but one that enhances the ambiance of the destinations,” explains Dillip Rajakarier, CEO Minor Hotels, “Mekong Kingdoms cruises harken back to the days when the journey is savoured as much as the destination.”

Mekong Kingdoms cruises joins Minor Hotels’ existing fleet of Manohra Dining Cruises in Bangkok and Anantara Overnight Cruises that sail from Bangkok to Thailand’s ancient capital of Ayutthaya.

Phuket (Thailand) – January 4, 2018 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels and Resorts organized an exclusive media familiarization trip to Phuket this month, inviting a series of influential and up-and-coming bloggers to the island for an action-packed three-day itinerary.

Two famous bloggers and one journalist from Travel & Lifestyle’s publications, plus the winners of a Facebook Live contest organized by KTC and Chillpainai, were invited to Phuket from December 14-16, 2017. They were joined by members of Best Western Asia’s marketing team.

Staying at two hotels, the media delegates were able to experience Best Western’s different and distinct products in Phuket. Best Western Patong Beach is a modern midscale city hotel located in the main tourist hub of Patong, while Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa provides an upscale beach resort experience on the island’s idyllic west coast.

Activities on the fam trip itinerary included a tour of Phuket Town, with its classical Sino-Portuguese architecture, local food tasting sessions and a trip to Mai Ton Island, an exquisite tropical paradise located just off Phuket’s east coast.

The media delegates were also provided with an introduction to Best Western Rewards®, the company’s award-winning guest loyalty program.

“Phuket is one of the world’s most popular resort destinations, attracting an ever-increasing number of domestic and international visitors to its pristine shores every year. But there is more to Phuket than just sun, sea and sand; our immersive fam trip was designed to introduce our media friends to the cultural experiences that make Phuket such a fascination destination,” said Olivier Berrivin, Best Western’s Managing Director of International Operations – Asia.

“Best Western offers an excellent choice of hotels in Phuket which are suitable for all types of traveler, from couples seeking a romantic beachfront break to groups of friends and families who want to be in the heart of the action. This media fam trip will help to spread the word about this enchanting island and the many activities and attractions it has to offer visitors,” Olivier added.

The fam trip forms part of Best Western’s continued efforts to engage with the media and travel trade in Asia, for the benefit of the entire travel industry.

Journalists, bloggers and other members of the media who wish to experience Best Western’s hotels and resorts in Asia can contact us at Marketing Communications Department Tel: +66 2 656 1260 or sirimanas.maungrod@bestwestern.com and orapan.sornnuwat@bestwestern.com.

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

Madrid (Spain) – January 2, 2018 (travelindex.com) – It is with a sense of pride and humility that I assume my post as Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for the period 2018-2021.

I would like to take this opportunity to share with you my strong commitment to make of UNWTO an ever more relevant Organization for the benefit of the sector, our Member States and its people.

Tourism is a people’s sector. 1 in 10 people in the world are directly or indirectly employed by tourism. Ours is the responsibility to ensure that tourism benefits each and every community, leaving no one behind.

Tourism’s sustained growth generates immense opportunities for economic welfare and development. Yet, it also brings in many challenges. Adapting our sector to the challenges of safety and security, evolving market changes, growing digitalization and the limits of our natural resources should be priorities in our common action.

As we move towards a future guided by the universal 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), I take upon me to lead UNWTO with a strong focus on building strong partnerships with public and private sector, fostering jobs and opportunities for all, mastering technology and innovation and advancing sustainability and the fight against climate change.

I trust that, together with our Member States and our partners from around the world, we can build a more competitive and responsible tourism sector for the benefit of all people.

I wish you a very happy 2018.

UNWTO Secretary-General
Zurab Pololikashvili

Limburg (Belguim) – January 4, 2018 (travelindex.com) – To mark the end of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development an MOU has been signed between Regionaal Landschap Kempen en Maasland and SUNx to build a climate learning, innovation and resilience centre in the Hoge Kempen National Park in Limburg, Belgium. The centre will be established at Terhills-Connecterra, the main gateway to the National Park. It will be a proof of concept and focal point for a global network. It will also link with Ecotron, a global science project of the Park and University of Hasselt on climate change and nature-based solutions, as well as the University’s Field Research Centre.

The MOU was signed following a meeting between the Governor of the Province of Limburg, the Rector of Hasselt University, RLKM and SUNx. Leading the partnership are Professor Geoffrey Lipman, SUNx Co-founder, and Ignace Schops, Director RLKM, President of EUROPARC Federation and a Goldman Award winner.

SUNx – Strong Universal Network- is a program of the EU based, not for profit Green Growth and Travelism Institute, and a legacy to the late Maurice Strong – sustainable development pioneer. Its goal is to promote Climate Resilient, Impact-Travel with good & bad effects measured and managed coherently: with Green Growth at the core and, 2050-proof in line with the Paris Accords and the W.E.F. 4th Industrial Revolution. At its heart are SUNx Centres: prefabricated, solar powered climate research and innovation centres for climate resilience learning and capacity building.

Ignace Schops said:
“We have partnered with SUNx to strengthen our research on climate change, specifically focusing of climate resilience for the wider society and the relation with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s). Hoge Kempen is Belgium’s first and only national park, and protects one of the largest open green spaces in the country. As well as being an important visitor attraction we are also investing in research on climate change and biodiversity protection as we believe that climate change poses the greatest threat to humanity and life on earth.”

Professor Geoffrey Lipman, SUNx Co-founder said:
“We are proud to be working in partnership with RLKM who are leading the way in protecting Belgium’s natural resources and creating a blueprint for sustainable tourism in National Parks. We believe that tourism has the power to be a massive force for change if managed carefully and have developed a system that will be accessible to every community to help climate adaptation. The Limburg Centre is being developed as a model for a global network that will support Travel & Tourism in its journey to align with the Paris Climate targets and relevant Sustainable Development Goals.”

The Strong Universal Network SUNx, is a program of the EU based, not for profit Green Growth and Travelism Institute, and a legacy to the late Maurice Strong – Sustainable Development Pioneer.

Its goal is to promote Climate Resilient, Impact-Travel with good & bad effects measured and managed coherently: with Green Growth at the core and, 2050-proof in line with the Paris Accords and the W.E.F. 4th Industrial Revolution.

Regionaal Landschap Kempen en Maasland (RLKM), is responsible for the management and the quality control of The Hoge Kempen National Park, in the Belgian province of Limburg. The park is a unique nature area, covering more than 5700 ha of woodlands and heathland, all protected and managed by the Flemish Government’s Agency for Nature and forestry.
RLKM aims to develop durable, nature orientated tourism in and around this natural area. The balance between NATURE – PEOPLE – TOURISM is their main focus.

Contact:
Professor Geoffrey Lipman
glipman@thesunprogram.com

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – December 31, 2017 (travelindex.com) – As we say goodbye to 2017 and welcome in 2018, it is important to reflect upon what we have experienced during the past twelve months to better appreciate what is in store for us in 2018.

I start by considering the article titled ‘That Time of the Year’ by John Couris, the President and CEO of Tampa General Hospital in Florida, wherein he stated, “With 2017 coming to a close and 2018 just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to talk about setting professional leadership goals. As with anything, having a road map to guide you makes your route clearer. So, think about goal setting as a way to map out – in broad strokes – your path for the year ahead”.

Seychelles and the Seychellois People as a whole are testing new waters and swimming against currents never experienced before. Seychellois need a road map to guide everyone and to illuminate the path ahead.

As we celebrate the arrival of the new year, most will undoubtedly be making their resolutions for 2018; a worthy resolution would be for Seychellois to remain united as one. We owe this to Seychelles. Let us undertake to treat others with utmost respect, and to entertain differing religious beliefs or political ideals with tolerance. This is the way to make our island home safer, more sustainable, and more prosperous for future generations to come.

It is inevitable that some will always try to destroy the fabrics of good society because in chaos they hope to find personal benefits. The quote for this week is by Steven Aitchison –

“Positive thinkers have a solution for every problem, Negative thinkers have a problem for every solution. Stay Positive !”

A year ago, on the 27th December 2016, I resigned from my position as Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine of the Seychelles, following a meeting with President Danny Faure at State House. This was done on the mutual understanding that I would become the Seychelles candidate for the post of Secretary General of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). The abrupt withdrawal of my candidature by the Government, but a couple of days before the elections in Madrid, lost Seychelles, a country overly dependant on its tourism industry, the invaluable chance to lead this prestigious United Nations Body. The decision also condemned Africa to lose its first chance of sitting in the highest tourism office of the world. What a loss for Seychelles and for Africa this was.

2017 has ended with many alarming announcements of decisions and actions taken in the name of the people of Seychelles. The cost of electricity is going up immediately, and a further revision is expected to again hike the price in March for both the public and the commercial sector. The Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) is also increasing its fares over and above the many other increases that were announced in the Budget 2018 presentation that was duly approved by the National Assembly of the People.

More alarming still is the announcement by Etihad Airlines that the 40% shares they own in Air Seychelles have now been transferred to an Etihad Holding Company. At face value, it seems that it is but an innocent company share transfer, but in reality, when all the dust has settled, we will realise that Air Seychelles was previously part of a major Airline, but now it is just a mere investment by its holding company.

This announcement came just after an alleged lone call in the Seychelles National Assembly for Etihad Airlines to pack its bag and get out. A further announcement swiftly followed regarding the looming redundancy of staff at Air Seychelles. Many Seychellois families will suffer when the redundancies start in earnest, and its impact on tourism will be felt for years to come.

Many have been commenting on the Seychelles Airline’s recent announcement that they will be taking to the skies in 2018. It is recalled that prominent politicians are involved in this private venture. In our economic climate, would it not be wiser to merge efforts and resources to establish a single airline for the country where those with means are invited to participate in the consolidation of the country’s airline?

The image of the country in the global arena is more vulnerable than ever. Domestic issues continue to impact the idyllic dream paradise we all say we offer. We have received a report of a young unsuspecting German tourist who booked an available bedroom in somebody’s private home, and soon felt compelled to call a tourism establishment owner to come pick her up because she was frightened for her security. I consider her case in more depth in a separate article below.

On a more positive note, Cosmoledo Atoll of Seychelles has been featured by NASA in their top 17 photos for the 2017. This is an amazing feat for Seychelles, and one that shows that the beauty of this island Nation is well worth protecting; Its flora and fauna, its wide ocean, which is now the centre of the Blue Economy, its culture, and its entire population of only 93000 living and working in the country.
Seychelles during the second half of the month of December joined the grouping of the Vanilla Islands to celebrate the Liberté Métisse Festival of Reunion Island. The world of events continue to be used around the globe as a vector to consolidate culture and, in so doing, to also promote tourism as an industry. All the islands of the Indian Ocean have used their Vanilla Islands Organisation to push their cultural events in order to attract press and increase the visibility of the destination.

Madrid (Spain) – December 31, 2017 (travelindex.com) – We have come to the end of a very special year for UNWTO and for the global tourism community.

In late 2015, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2017 as the ‘International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development’. This was, without doubt, a global recognition of tourism as an important contributor to the development agenda through economic growth, social inclusion, as well as cultural and environmental enrichment and preservation.

UNWTO was designated by the UN General Assembly to coordinate the activities and the celebrations of the International Year. With your support and the great support of our partners, we have promoted the value and contribution of sustainable tourism to development, to inclusive economic growth, social empowerment cultural and environmental enrichment and protection as well as mutual understanding, peace and justice. This was in many ways a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come together and work closer in making travel and tourism a catalyst for positive change.

The launch of the Measuring Sustainable Tourism last June in the Philippines, the adoption by Members States during the Chengdu General Assembly of the ‘Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals’ Declaration, the Montego Bay Declaration and the Lusaka Declaration, our 14 official events held in all regions of the world, our first consumer campaign – ‘Travel.Enjoy.Respect’ and our online space for sharing stories, knowledge and actions which gathered over 1000 initiatives, were just some of the initiatives of this Year. All my thanks go to each and every one of the 65 partners who joined us in making this possible as well as the 12 Special Ambassadors for the International Year .

This International Year will not end in December 2017. All the work we have done together during this year needs to be sustained and expanded if we are to ensure tourism’s effective contribution to the 17 SDGs. We were, therefore, very pleased to have been able to launch the findings of the ‘Tourism and SDGs’ report at the Closing Ceremony of the Year in Geneva on 19 December. The Report, which was developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), looks into the links between tourism and the SDGs in national policies, in private sector strategies and sets recommendations for our common journey towards 2030.

2017 was also a momentous year for me personally, as it was the last year of my mandate as UNWTO Secretary-General. Over 12 years at UNWTO I have seen tourism become one of the world’s most important and impactful socio-economic transformative forces of our times. I have seen its growing relevance to the lives of millions of people around the world, to the preservation of our common values and to the greater understanding among people of all walks of life.

I have been touched by every person I have met throughout my humbling, rewarding yet challenging journey and deeply moved by many of the tourism stories I have come across around the world.

I want to thank all those who make our work meaningful every day. I also wish to thank all our Member States, Affiliate Members, sister UN Organizations, industry leaders and their teams, associations and global bodies for their support to me and to the mandate of UNWTO throughout these years. It has been a truly humbling experience.

I wish to say a very special thanks to the UNWTO staff that made possible every success that the Organization has enjoyed over the past years. I am extremely grateful to everyone I have worked with. It has been a privilege to serve as Secretary-General, not the least because of the diverse breadth of exceptional colleagues I have had the pleasure of working with.

I wish Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, the incoming Secretary-General, every success in continuing to drive our sector forward to a better future.

Whatever our business in life may be, let us always remember that our core business is, and will always be, to make this world a better place.

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – December 24, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Christmas time is that most wonderful time of the year when family and friends rally. I am indeed lucky to have a loving family. I returned from Brisbane, Australia, with my wife, Ginette, only on Thursday after spending quality time with my eldest daughter, Christine, and Steve, her fiancée. Tomorrow for Christmas Day, we shall be joined by our second daughter, Michelle, and her husband, Ameer.

Christmas is all about family, and we are lucky to have close family and many good and sincere friends. This year, both the St.Ange and Michel families are here in force, and this strengthens even more the joyful spirit of Christmas.

As we celebrate Christmas we must also reflect on our country to ensure we remain united as one. Each and every citizen owes it to their fellow man, woman and child to treat others with utmost respect, to entertain differing religious beliefs or political ideals with tolerance, and to do their part to make our island home safer, more sustainable, and more prosperous for future generations to come.

This takes us to the quote for this week which is by President John F. Kennedy of the USA.

“If not us, who? If not now, when?”- John F. Kennedy.

Kaisar Hamid took that quote and expanded on it by saying, “You are blessed with everything. You have a brain, you are fit, you have support, you have guts. So what are you waiting for? The world needs you badly. The nation needs you badly. Your family needs your support. Your society needs your contribution. People expect your company. If it is not us then who would take the responsibility to make a change in society? If it is not us then who would contribute for the nation? If it is not us then who would make this world a better place for living? When you are ready to go, go with all your heart. When you are set to go, go with full swing. It is high time, you should show your class. Starts from today, even now. Every single moment matters.”

Seychelles’ beaches of Praslin and La Digue, the Anse Lazio and Anse Source D’argent beaches, are again listed in the World’s Top 50 Best Beaches. This is another great accolade for Seychelles, today a leader in the work for the Blue Economy & Sustainable Development concept, where many talented professionals dedicate time and effort in the James Michel Foundation of Seychelles. The good news this week that Nirmal Shah has been named Global Goodwill Ambassador, recognising his work as a respected conservationist and for his fight against plastic pollution in marine ecosystem, is also confirming the hard work by Seychellois who strive for a sustainable future. Congratulations to Dr Nirmal Shah. You make Seychelles proud.

On its part Air Seychelles, the National Airline of our mid-ocean islands, has announced the appointment of Remco Althuis as its Interim Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Roy Kinnear. Mr Althuis joins the carrier from Etihad Airways, where he held the position of Regional General Manager Europe, with responsibility for the airline’s commercial activities in 17 European markets. The Saint Ange Tourism Report says welcome to Mr Althuis and takes this opportunity to wish him success as the head of Air Seychelles at that crucial time of streamlining, coupled with the announced staff redundancies which came at the most difficult time for the dedicated and committed staff flying the Seychelles Creole Spirit for the country`s National Airline.

AIDA Cruise Ship entered Port Victoria for the first time this week. No one should forget the work done by the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands, our Regional Body that worked tirelessly for the last couple of years on the consolidation of Cruise Tourism. Marketing Funds were dedicated by the organisation to Cruise Tourism and today the Region as a whole is seeing new Cruise Ships and the extension of time in Ports by the visiting ships. They worked side by side with the Regional Ports Organisation (APIOI), the Indian Ocean Commission (COI), the Ports Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA) and the Indian Ocean Rim (IORA), and we are now reaping the benefit of all the hard work.

The WEI Hospitality Group were in Seychelles this week looking at an upmarket hotel complex in the islands. Ms Meijuan Chen & Dr Ziyad Zaidan were in Seychelles and toured both Praslin and Mahe looking at possibilities for a straight out purchase, a management contract or even a partnership.

Seychelles has been after tapping into the Chinese Tourism Market, and the interest now by the WEI Hospitality Group is indeed good news for the tourism industry and for airlines connecting us to China.

Seychelles has announced that it is relaunching the Regatta where known international sailors will be in Seychelles for the yacht race between our islands that were conceived with sailors in mind, as Glynn Burridge of the Tourism Board would fondly say. Events that attract World Press to our shores is a good thing for the tourism industry of Seychelles as it increases the visibility of the destination. James Mancham used a festival in 1972 when he was responsible for tourism and needed to create a buzz for the islands and its new International Airport. Over the years, it is the World of Events that has helped propel Seychelles into the International Arena as a relevant Tourism Destination.

Finally, I will not stop to throw stones at every barking dog because this will just delay me getting to my destination, and as was said in a previous editorial:- “When people throw you stones it’s because you are a good tree full of fruits. they see a lot of harvest in you. Don’t go down to their level by throwing them back the stones, but throw them your FRUITS so the seeds of yourself may inspire them to change their ways.” It is important to again today acknowledge all who are diligently re-posting the Saint Ange Tourism Report weekly. Our Report ranges far and wide, from Australia to the Americas, from the Indian Ocean Vanilla islands to Africa & Asian and Greater Europe, with your continued support, which is greatly appreciated. You are helping us to grow from strength to strength with each new Edition.

Manama (Bahrain) – December 26, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain is exploring the art, culture and lives of an ancient Arabian civilization with a limited-edition book, Dilmun: Love and Peace in collaboration with the Rowaq Al Balqa Arts Foundation in Jordan.

The 300-page collectors’ edition features photographs and paintings from international artists to portray the everyday lives of the Dilmun, one of the oldest civilizations of the Arabian Peninsula who thrived over 5,000 years ago as part of a commercial centre; revealing how the community spread within the Middle East as well as their customs, arts, folklore and mythology.

Artwork from the Dilmun: Love and Peace book was exhibited in the hotel’s ballroom at a launch event, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, on 25 November 2017, with His Excellency Mohammed Bin Ibrahim Al-Mutawa, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Sheikha Haya Al Khalifa in attendance. Schools, universities and organisations within Bahrain were invited to view the exhibition on the same day and take part in a workshop led by Jordanian artist, designer and filmmaker, Khaldoon Daoud.

The book launch continued on the following day with an exclusive cocktail reception held in the presence of His Excellency Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority. Also in attendance at the VIP event were ambassadors, diplomats and members of the media who widely reported the publication, along with several Swiss-Belhotel Seef corporate partners and clients.

A meeting at the Office of the Crown Prince also took place, with future plans to present a copy of Dilmun: Love and Peace to the Office of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, explains how important the book project is in proudly highlighting the rich heritage of Bahrain.

“The Swiss-Belhotel Seef is designed as a contemporary stay in the heart of Manama’s business and commercial district, yet there is also a deep connection to the roots of this incredible destination,” said Mr. Faull

“Dilmun: Love and Peace book celebrates and values the history of Bahrain and this advanced and creative civilization; bringing a sense of the country’s past, its peoples and its traditions to resonate with today’s modern-day visitors,” he added.

The Rowaq Al Balqa Arts Foundation, which partnered with Swiss-Belhotel Seef to produce the creative volume, focuses on preserving the region’s art, culture and environment for future generations to come.

Dilmun: Love and Peace is available in Arabic, English, French, German and Italian; retailing for USD $160 exclusively at Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain. A perfect gift for businesses, embassies and government ministries to present to corporate clients and valued partners, the book will also be displayed at key locations such as airport executive lounges, libraries and university faculties such as art and history departments.

Book your Swiss-Belhotel in Bahrain and around the world at best rates available. Pay at the hotel. Book now at HotelWorlds.com!

About Swiss-Belhotel International
Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than *125 hotels, resorts and projects located in China, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Turkey, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia and New Zealand. Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for five consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, Europe, United Arab Emirates, China, Indonesia and Vietnam. *Numbers may fluctuate

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 25, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Praya Palazzo, an elegant, 17-room boutique hotel, formerly a private mansion, standing elegantly on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, is offering a romantic and nostalgic dinner for history buffs and authentic Thai cuisine gourmands on New Year’s Eve on Sunday, 31 December 2017. Guests can delight in an al fresco 5-course Thai set dinner ‘with a view’ @Baht 7,000 plus plus or @Baht 8,239 nett per couple, or, a romantic dinner indoors in the hotel’s restaurant Praya Dining amidst classic Thai décor @Baht 5,000 plus plus or @Baht 5,885 nett per couple.

The 5-course menu features such traditional Thai dishes as “Goong Sarong Golden Fried White Shrimps rolled in Vermicelli Noodles”, “Mussaya Deep Fried Fish Cakes filled with Egg Yolk” and “Phak Phak Benjarong Stir Fried Broccoli, Enoki, Shitake, Asparagus and Carrot with Oyster Sauce” amongst others. Dessert is the all-time favourite Thai sweet “Dao Lorm Duan Thai Dumpling stuffed with Mung Bean in Coconut Milk”. Both set menus are served with one bottle of red or white wine or sparkling wine per couple.

For an additional Baht 1,500 plus plus or Baht 1,765.50 per person, diners can order unlimited drinks from the hotel’s Drinks List until 01.00 hrs.

For revellers who wish to ring in the New Year in private and outdoors against a unique bygone era setting on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, a nightcap at Praya Palazzo’s Garden is highly recommended: Just drop by the Praya Palazzo Lounge where a friendly staff will immediately arrange for hotel Shuttle Boat pickup to the hotel – from Tha Phra Arthit pier. There, on the lawn of Praya Palazzo partygoers can enjoy a free flow of beverage and canapés @Baht 3,900 plus plus or @Baht 4,590 nett per person from 20.00 hrs – 01.00 hrs. including entertainment by DJ as a modern touch.

For further details or reservations, please call tel. 02 883 2998 or 081 402 8118

About Praya Palazzo Bangkok
Situated on the Chao Phraya River, Praya Palazzo offers guests the opportunity to enjoy history, elegance and river serenity in traditional style all in the heart of Bangkok. Constructed nearly 100 years ago as a private, Thai-Italian style mansion in the reign of His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), the 17-room boutique hotel, recently acquired by Montara Hospitality Group, provides personalized services to discerning tourists seeking a unique experience in the gentle traditions of a bygone era. Opened since 2012, the recently revamped Praya Palazzo will undergo further extensive renovations in the summer of 2018.

Montara Hospitality Group, owners and managers of luxury resort Trisara Phuket world renowned for its superb all-pool ocean view villas and residences and the finest of Thai hospitality, continue to expand the range of services and experiences linked to the history, culture, traditions and way of life of the Thais.

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 22, 2017 (travelindex.com) – With their latest acquisition, Montara Hospitality Group, owners and managers of luxury resort Trisara Phuket, continue to expand the range of services and experiences linked to the history, culture, traditions and way of life of the Thais.

Situated on the Chao Phraya River, Praya Palazzo, which the group recently acquired, offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a traditional style that only this boutique hotel can offer. After all, how many boutique hotels can claim history, elegance and river serenity all in the heart of Bangkok?

Constructed nearly 100 years ago as a private mansion in the reign of His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), Praya Palazzo shows the graceful Thai-Italian style so popular then.

Now, under the aegis of Montara Hospitality Group, Praya Palazzo, an elegant, 17-room boutique hotel, opened since 2012, providing personalized services to discerning tourists seeking a unique experience in the gentle traditions of a bygone era, will undergo extensive renovations from June 2018 onwards with a new General Manager coming on board to oversee the “facelift” of this historical landmark on the banks of the River of Kings.

“The renovations will be aimed at ensuring that every detail in Praya Palazzo is carefully restored to meet our guests’ needs and interest in the Thai culture and history,” said Mr. Kittisak Pattamasaevi, Montara Hospitality Group’s Chief Commercial Officer.

Rooms which are all air-conditioned and furnished with hand-made antique fittings designed for comfort and relaxation, will be upgraded. Every room offers free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and DVD player. The attached bathroom includes premium spa toiletries.

Within the hotel are a library, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea while perusing books on Thai culture and history, an art gallery, as well as a 15-meter riverside outdoor pool lined with sun loungers.

Praya Dining, providing indoor or outside dining by the riverside, offers Royal Thai cuisine available nowhere else in Bangkok. The dishes are prepared from recipes dating back to the days of King Rama V and King Rama VI, when ladies of the royal palaces would devote themselves to creating this ‘heritage’ cuisine fit for the king.

Praya Palazzo offers another intangible element to the visitors’ Thai experience – the personal attention staff pay to each guest. In particular, Praya Palazzo is accessible only by water, with its own private traditional shuttle boats available to guests on a 24- hour basis. Whether the guest is departing for Suvarnabhumi International Airport (28 km away) or wishes to visit the nearby Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Chinatown or Khao San Road, the staff are happy to make the boats available on a 24- hour basis.

“Since our Group is a wholly Thai-owned and operated business, we hope to continue to seek heritage buildings and restore them to serve modern-day guests who are interested in the history, culture and the traditional way of life of the Thais, and last but not least the Thai hospitality,” said Mr. Kittisak.

Awards:
– 2015 TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence
– Prime Minister’s “2014-2015 Thailand Boutique Awards” under “Luxury Thematic
River/Lake Hotel” category
– “2011 Architectural Conservation Award” selected by The Association of
Siamese Architects under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King
– Prime Minister’s “2011 Thailand Boutique Award” under “Luxury River Hotel”
category for Architecture & Design