Discover Unique Christmas Gifts at the River City Winter Gifts Fair

Discover Unique Christmas Gifts at the River City Winter Gifts Fair

Bangkok (Thailand) – November 30, 2017 (travelindex) – Looking for some unique Christmas gift ideas for this Winter? Just grab your friends and head over to join in “Winter Gifts Fair” at RCB Artery, 1st floor, River City Bangkok during 8 17 December 2017 starting from 10.00 hrs. – 22.00 hrs.

The event offers a wide variety of gifts and souvenirs at over 30 booths. Products include various types of cell phone cases and cell phone finger holders from Sayaa Gadget, chic handmade handbags from Indy Bag and Jonathan Lepkins, fragrances, bedding products, accessories, cotton clothes, linen clothes, dried fruits, bakeries, stainless equipment and many more.

It’s finally winter break, a perfect time to chill, relax and enjoy Chaophraya river’s scenery and cool breeze with various menu of food and coffee and buy some New Year’s gifts for your beloved ones in Winter Gifts Fair.

About River City Bangkok – The Anchor of Arts and Antiques
Sitting elegantly on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, River City Bangkok is Asia’s premier arts and antiques hub. For more than three decades, River City Bangkok has continuously offered magnificent products and services under the concept of “THE ANCHOR OF ARTS AND ANTIQUES”. Here, you will be mesmerized by collections of rare masterpieces in many categories imaginable. The furniture, art, and decorative items on display span many eras and locations. What’s more, the shopping center not only features a diverse selection of galleries, but also organizes arts events, workshops and seminars to provide knowledge to collectors, visitors and art lovers.

For further information, please visit or contact us:
River City Bangkok
23 Charoen Krung 24, Talard Noi
Sampantawong, Bangkok 10100
Opening Hours: 10.00 am – 10.00 pm
T (+66) 2 237 0077-8
F (+66) 237 7600
E marketing@rivercity.co.th
W www.rivercitybangkok.com

Exciting New Hotel in Central Sapporo by Best Western Hotels Launched

Exciting New Hotel in Central Sapporo by Best Western Hotels Launched

Sapporo (Japan) – December 19, 2017 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels & Resorts has unveiled Best Western Sapporo Odori-Koen, an exciting new midscale hotel in the center of northern Japan’s largest city.

Nestled in the heart of Sapporo’s Chuo-ku, or “central ward”, the hotel is surrounded by shops, leisure attractions, offices, and opposite the popular Odori Park. This makes Best Western Sapporo Odori-Koen the ideal choice for all types of visitor to the city, including those wishing to experience the magic of the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts more than two million people to Odori Park each year. Next year’s event will be held between February 5th and 12th, 2018.

Officially opening in the first quarter of 2018, Best Western Sapporo Odori-Koen features 60 comfortable and contemporary rooms, all equipped with cutting-edge facilities, spacious working areas and complimentary Wi-Fi.

“Sapporo is one of Japan’s largest cities and the gateway to the island of Hokkaido, so we are delighted to be able to cater to travelers in this vibrant city,” Olivier Berrivin, Best Western Hotels & Resorts’ Managing Director of International Operations – Asia.

“With its perfect downtown setting, modern rooms and excellent service standards, Best Western Sapporo Odori-Koen is sure to become popular with business and leisure travelers alike. Guests can look forward to a year-round calendar of events in Odori Park, including the Hokkaido Marathon, “Sakura” cherry blossom season, Autumn Festival and, of course, the famous Sapporo Snow Festival.

“This opening marks Best Western’s return to Sapporo, as we continue to expand in Japan’s most popular destinations. With 15 hotels now either operating or under development across the country, Best Western is confirming its position as one of Japan’s leading international hotel groups,” Olivier added.

Best Western Sapporo Odori-Koen is located just 600 meters from JR Sapporo Station and approximately one hour’s drive from Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, which provides direct connections to and from major cities all across Asia and beyond. It is also less than two hours from the famous ski slopes and year-round outdoor activities of Niseko.

This new hotel is the latest in a series of exciting developments for Best Western in Japan. Earlier this year, Best Western Tokyo Nishikasai Grande became the company’s third property in Japan’s capital city, and the rebranding of The Hotel Nagasaki marked the launch of Asia’s first operating BW Premier Collection® hotel. Best Western Osaka Tsukamoto recently opened in Japan’s second largest city, and Best Western Yamagata Airport welcomed its first guests in October 2017.

This expansion comes as Japan prepares to host a series of major international sporting events, including the 2020 Olympic Games and the 2019 Rugby World Cup, which will include matches staged in Sapporo.

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

SUNx and IH&RA Partner for Climate Resilience

SUNx and IH&RA Partner for Climate Resilience

Hangzhou (China) – December 18, 2017 (travelindex.com) – On the final day of the International Hotel & Restaurant Association (IH&RA) Annual Congress in Hangzhou, China an MOU was signed between IHRA and SUNx – Strong Universal Network. The agreement focuses on climate resilience and sustainable development generally, as well as specifically advancing Maurice Strong Legacy Scholarships and the Emeraude green quality program.

Ghassan Aidi, President of IH&RA – which is devoted to promoting and defending the interests of the hotel and restaurant industry worldwide said: “We are delighted to cooperate with SUNx to bring a sharper focus to our work to help Hotels and hospitality companies respond to the very real challenges of Climate Change Resilience. We share a common view that we need to make that shift now to maintain our quality service towards customers, while progressively strengthening sustainability standards.”

Professor Geoffrey Lipman, Co-founder of SUNx a legacy of the late Maurice Strong – sustainable development pioneer said: “We know that Climate Change is an eXistential threat that is already here and look forward to working with IH&RA to help hospitality companies understand the urgency of responding to the challenge. We believe that our concept of Impact-Travel, measured: green: 2050 proofed can be an important strategic change agent. In addition Maurice Strong Legacy scholarships for graduate trainees will be a CSR-fuelled vehicle for preparing for the fundamental change in course that climate resilience demands.”

For further details please contact:
Professor Geoffrey Lipman
SUNx Co-founder
glipman@thesunprogram.com

X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere a New, Chic and Modern Hotel Concept Launches

X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere a New, Chic and Modern Hotel Concept Launches

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 14, 2017 (travelindex.com) – X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere, the stylish new hotel designed to appeal to “Gen Z” travellers on Thailand’s idyllic Eastern Seaboard, has been officially unveiled at a press conference in Bangkok. Bespoke Hospitality Management Asia (BHMA), the international specialist in hotel and resort management, joined forces with Habitat Group Company Limited, one of Thailand’s leading property developers, to shed light on this chic and modern new hotel, which is nestled on the coast in Na Jomtien, Pattaya.

Along with the facilities and concept of this exciting new design hotel, the partners also unveiled a catchy slogan: ‘Stay, Chill, Enjoy’. This is designed to appeal to X2 Vibe’s target market of Generation Z and millennial travellers, who will be attracted by the hotel’s contemporary architecture, stylish amenities, smart technology and chilled out vibe.

Anthony McDonald, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BHMA, said; “We are delighted to launch this new-wave hotel in Pattaya, which we expect to become the top choice for millennials. With our modern décor, serene beachfront setting and easy-going ambience, X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere, is now ready to serve guests from across the globe, including young domestic travellers seeking a stylish staycation.

“While travellers now have a wide choice of hotels, only those that understand the needs of their guests and provide the necessary facilities and services will succeed. This is where we have the edge on our competitors. Our amenities and service standards are comparable to many five-star resorts, but our vibe is relaxed and in tune with our guests’ mindset, promising absolute relaxation. We also have a great location on the beach and just a short distance from many attractions, such as the Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark, Underwater World Pattaya, Pattaya Floating Market, Nong Nooch Garden, Buddha Mountain, beachfront seafood restaurants, and more.

“With BHMA’s extensive experience in the field of international hotel management, we are confident that the hotel will receive great feedback from guests – especially those in the Gen Z and millennial markets. We expect an average occupancy for the first year of 65%, rising to 80% from 2018 onwards,” Mr MacDonald added.

X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere Residence is an outstanding new-wave hotel that features a modern yet functional design. Located in the up-and-coming seafront area of Na Jomtien, the hotel offers 65 residences which range from 35-55 square metres in size and feature a cutting-edge design and full range of amenities. Separate living and kitchen areas feature panoramic windows and large private terraces, overlooking the gardens or Gulf of Thailand. Under the ‘Stay, Chill, Enjoy’ concept, each room features IPTV and high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing guests to connect with the world 24/7. In addition, there is an all-day dining restaurant and bar, 4K Café and Sky Vibe Pool & Roof Bar, with an 8th floor swimming pool offering infinity views of the glittering gulf and its golden sunsets.

Chanin Wanichwong, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat Group, commented; “Our company has committed 300 million baht (approx. US$9.2 million) to build this exciting new hotel and accommodation project on Na Jomtien Beach, a prime location in Pattaya, under the X2 Vibe brand. This design hotel concept connects with the lifestyle of our targeted customers, Generation Z travellers who love spending time in Thailand.

“X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere Residence is located in an area surrounded by many attractions, including shopping and entertainment in Pattaya and local activities for all ages, such as kite-surfing on the beach or cycling through the idyllic Thai countryside. Restaurants in the area also offer a wide range of cuisines, from local Thai dishes and fresh seafood to world-class gastronomy. Our guests can choose to experience the floating market, unwind with a spa treatment or have a fun-filled day at the Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark, before relaxing with a memorable party at our stylish rooftop bar. No matter what our guests desire, X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere Residence will be able to cater for their needs,” Khun Chanin added.

X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere Residence is now open and welcoming guests. Rates start from just THB 2,600++ per room per night. For reservations, please call 038 237 815.

About X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere
Located approximately a one-and-a-half hours’ drive from Bangkok, X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere is a new hip resort in up-and-coming Na Jomtien, a short stroll from the beach. The hotel offers 65 one-bedroom rooms with garden or sea views, featuring a sleek modern living space set-up, including kitchen facilities, panoramic windows and a private balcony. The 4K Café features all-day dining fusion cuisine overlooking the infinity pool on the 8th floor while the trendy rooftop bar – Sky Vibe Pool & Roof Bar – offers guests the perfect spot to sip a cocktail, listen to some tunes and watch the sun idly dip into the Gulf of Thailand.

Global Hotel Brands to Boost Japan’s Niseko Tourism

Global Hotel Brands to Boost Japan’s Niseko Tourism

Niseko (Japan) – December 14, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Japan’s famed ski destination Niseko is well on its way to becoming a world-class year-round holiday destination back the back of sustained growth in summer visitors over the past six years. Last year over 1.6 million visitors were recorded, with parity in numbers between the frenetic December to April ski season and May to November summer and shoulder season.

The changes in the marketplace are also seeing the entrance of new properties under development with hospitality brands ranging from Park Hyatt, The Pavilions to Ritz-Carlton according to the newly released Niseko Property Market Review by consulting group C9 Hotelworks.

Two critical feeders of tourists to Niseko are the New Chitose Airport near Sapporo which has experienced an impressive 10-year compound growth rate of 13.9% and the introduction of the Shinkansen bullet train service to Hokkaido from Tokyo in 2016. Key overseas flight growth from Seoul, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Singapore are stimulating regional demand and pushing the destination higher in the growth cycle.

Foreign investment into the hospitality and real estate sectors can be seen by such groups at Malaysia’s YTL and Hong Kong tycoon Richard Li who is in the process of launching branded hotel residences which will be managed as part of a Park Hyatt mixed use project at base of Niseko United’s Hanazono ski field.

Noting the trend in investment real estate with hotel managed programs, C9 Hotelworks Managing Director Bill Barnett said: “Recent condominium projects such as Skye and The Maples are eclipsing record setting pricing levels of USD17,000 per square meter. With soaring sales there is also a dynamic shift in the predominant international buying segment with the top 5 source markets being Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand and fast moving Mainland China.”

Looking at the property market metric, C9’s report highlights that appreciation growth is also ramping up. When comparing sold-out projects and those currently for sale, pricing has escalated by 52% and the absorption rate more than doubled. Two-bedroom condominiums continue to be the most popular property play but a new project, The Ginto Residences by Hong Kong entrepreneur Gordon Oldham, is seeing strong interest for their land plots and custom home offering.

Like many other global legacy ski destinations such as Whister, Aspen or Andermatt which over the years evolved, Niseko is now seeing the opportunity to become a leading year-around proposition. Sitting on Asia’s doorstep, the strong natural appeal is seeing the numbers game mount with Southeast Asia travelers and a strong wave of Mainland Chinese tourists drawn by the clean air, diversity in culinary offerings and outdoor activities. Niseko in many ways has similar traits to iconic New Zealand and has a key advantage of being a uniquely Asian alpine experience.

Noting future prospects, C9’s Bill Barnett added “the connection between tourism and real estate in Niseko is similar to many other mountain resort areas around the world. Managing rental properties are typically early market movers but once the hotel brands come into play, that’s when things get interesting.”

For further information, please contact:
Bill Barnett, Managing Director
C9 Hotelworks
Email: bill@c9hotelworks.com
Tel: +66 (0)8 1956 1802

About C9 Hotelworks
C9 Hotelworks is led by founder and Managing Director Bill Barnett, who brings over 30 years’ experience in the Asian hospitality and real estate sectors. Prior to founding C9 in 2003, Bill held senior executive roles in hotel operations, development and asset management. He is considered to be a leading global authority on hotel residences, and has sat at almost every seat around the hospitality and real estate table. Bill promotes industry insight through regular conference presentations at key events and contributes to numerous industry publications.

Hamburg to Host 2019 Global Investigative Journalism Conference

Hamburg to Host 2019 Global Investigative Journalism Conference

Hamburg (Germany) – December 14, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Investigative journalists from around the world are set to meet in Hamburg in 2019. Supported by Hamburg Convention Bureau, Germany’s second largest city has won the bid to host the 2019 Global Investigative Journalism Conference (GIJC) – the biggest international conference for investigative journalism.

Launched in 2001 and held every two years, the GIJC 2019 is set to attract more than 1000 journalists from around 100 countries to Hamburg. The conference will be split across two central locations: Der Spiegel publishing house and the Hafen City University Hamburg. These new riverside venues are located in Hafen City, Europe’s largest inner-city development combining modern architecture with historical UNESCO sites.

The GIJN is an international association of non-profit organisations that support, promote, and produce investigative journalism. Members chose Hamburg as the host city at the 10th Global Investigative Journalism Conference in Johannesburg in November this year.

A delighted Dr. Carsten Brosda, Hamburg’s Senator for Culture and Media, explains: “Critical journalism is coming under more and more pressure worldwide. A free society needs critical journalism. The media city of Hamburg does not call itself the Free and Hanseatic City by coincidence. In these difficult times, we are therefore proud to welcome investigative journalists from all the world to GIJC 2019 in Hamburg.”

Julia Stein, CEO of Netzwerk Recherche, the leading network of investigative reporters in Germany, and member of the Global Investigative Journalism Network’s Board of Directors, added: “We are really delighted that members of the Global Network have expressed their trust in us. Together with our partners, we‘re beginning two exciting years of work.”

Hamburg is the hub of investigative journalism in Germany and home to well-known and respected newspapers and magazines including Der Spiegel, Die Zeit and Stern. Hamburg-based media houses include Norddeutscher Rundfunk (Northern German Broadcasting, NDR) and Gruner + Jahr, both long-time partners and hosts of Netzwerk Recherche events.

For further information contact:
Emma Blake, Hamburg Convention Bureau UK
T: +44 207 736 4022
E: emmablake@clareville.co.uk

The Hamburg Convention Bureau (HCB):
A direct subsidiary of Hamburg Marketing GmbH, the mission of Hamburg Convention Bureau GmbH (HCB) is to deliver locational expertise in combination with major know-how in the area of B2B events such as conventions and conferences including large events in public spaces. The Bureau is in charge of global marketing for Hamburg as a congress and convention site, and tasked in parallel with heightening the Hanseatic city’s international profile by hosting public events with powerful visual impact.

Beautiful Bangkok, Thailand’s First High-Rise 3D Projection Mapping Show

Beautiful Bangkok, Thailand’s First High-Rise 3D Projection Mapping Show

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 14, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB), a super-luxury mixed-use development by MQDC (Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Limited), is hosting a spectacular year-end 3D projection mapping performance on its 60-story tower, introducing world-class high-rise building mapping to Thailand.

The show – ‘Beautiful Bangkok at Ratchaprasong’ – has been endorsed by Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Set to enchant visitors to Ratchaprasong from 14 December to New Year’s Eve, the 3D projection mapping event is officially launching on 13 December at HEAVEN Bangkok, on the 18th floor of CentralWorld, at a presentation chaired by Ms. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul together with Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn and Mr. Fafuen Temboonkiat.

Mr. Visit Malaisirirat, CEO of MQDC or Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Limited, said that ‘Beautiful Bangkok by Magnolias @Ratchaprasong’ would help bring in a joyful year-end.

“To celebrate this wonderful time of year for both Thai and foreign tourists, Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB) has invited ‘Limelight’, a world-class artist group, to create a new masterpiece in Thailand. As the performance will embody Thainess and our cultural pride, it will boost our national image and reinforce Bangkok as an international destination for business and leisure. We are proud to be collaborating on this initiative with Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT),” he said.

Mr. Fafuen Temboonkiat, secretary of the Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA), said, “On behalf of Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA), we are delighted that Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB) has joined our association as we believe the project will enhance the hospitality and luxury residence segments in the south of the district, helping Ratchaprasong emerge as Bangkok’s future city.

“‘Beautiful Bangkok by Magnolias @Ratchaprasong’ will be a huge event that generates tremendous public interest because it is unprecedented and captivating. It will absolutely attract both Thai and foreign tourists as well as give them an unforgettable experience. Lastly, we are positive that Ratchaprasong will become another destination that tourists love to visit.”

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said, “It is very pleasing that the Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard super-luxury mixed-use development has joined Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA). This gives more opportunities for businesses in Ratchaprasong Square to meet the needs of both Thai and foreign tourists.

“Moreover, it is the perfect moment to organize ‘Beautiful Bangkok by Magnolias @Ratchaprasong’ at the square, which has always been a prime attraction for tourists from around the world. We are pleased that this event will also help promote Thailand’s tourism.”

Ms Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, former Minister of Tourism, said, “We have seen Thai and foreign tourists visiting this cultural road in Bangkok. This year is such a great opportunity for Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB) to become another Bangkok landmark. ‘Beautiful Bangkok by Magnolias
@Ratchaprasong’, with its high-rise 3D projection mapping performance, will make the city more vibrant and animated, truly highlighting ‘The Land of Smiles’.”

The highlight of ‘Beautiful Bangkok by Magnolias @Ratchaprasong’ is Limelight’s unique performance, led by Mr. Viktor Vicsek and Mr. Istvan David, whose previous shows have stunned the world. This time, they are going to debut in Thailand a masterpiece under the concept ‘Beautiful Bangkok’ – a 3D projection mapping performance over the 60-story tower of Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB).

The launch event will be graced with enchanting performances from Ratklao Amaradit, Nont Tanont (Nont The Voice), Zani Nipaporn Thititanakarn. Mr Raj Tanta-Nanta, Group President of DTGO Corporation Limited, the parent of MQDC, together with Mrs Sasinan Allmand, Executive Vice President of Corporate Marketing and Communications, and Ms Peachpattha Pakakan, Vice President of project marketing, will warmly welcome honorable guests including Mr Fafuen Temboonkiat, secretary of Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA), and celebrities such as M.R. Tim S. Bhanubandh, ML Thongmakut Thongyai, Mrs. Chanadda Chirathivat, Mrs. Panumas Chirathivat, Ms. Monlada Pongpanit, Ms. Manvad Nakornthap.

Beautiful Bangkok by Magnolias @Ratchaprasong’s 3D projection mapping performance will take place on 14-31 December 2017 at Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB) at 19:00, 19:15, 19:30, 19.45, and 20.00, with an additional New Year’s Eve performances at 23.55.

A photography competition is also now open for both amateur and professional photographers to win prizes of up to THB100,000. Contestants should simply send landscape or selfie photos of Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB) under the theme ‘Beautiful Magnolias’ and post them with hashtags #beautifulbangkok, #beautifulratchaprasong, #beautifulmagnolias, and #bangkokiconiclandmark in the caption. To submit your photos, upload the files on a website such as WeTransfer, Dropbox, or GoogleDrive together with your contact details (name, address, telephone number) and send the link to beautifulbangkokbymagnolias@gmail.com. The competition is open from 14 December 2017 to 5 January 2018. The winner will be announced on 30 January 2018. For more information about the performance and activities, visit www.facebook.com/MagnoliasRatchadamriBoulevard.

Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (MRB) is a mixed-use super-luxury project with sophisticated and iconic architecture inspired by magnolias flowers. It is on Ratchadamri Boulevard, at the heart of Bangkok’s central business district amid well-known lifestyle complexes and malls. The project hosts 316 luxury residence units in its 60-story tower plus offices, retail areas, and the 5-star Waldorf Astoria Hotel Bangkok, the first branch of Hilton’s flagship brand in Southeast Asia. The project aims not only to respond to modern residential lifestyles but also to give Ratchadamri Boulevard a new Bangkok landmark.

About Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Limited (MQDC)
Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Limited is a business unit of DTGO Corporation Limited (DTGO) that develops, invests in, and manages villa, condominium, and mixed-use projects. MQDC develops residential and mixed-use projects under the Magnolias and Whizdom brands.

MQDC offers an industry-leading 30-year warranty on all its projects in line with its exceptional construction standards.

Under its mission to improve the quality of living for all, MQDC invests in research and development to create products and innovations for consumers as well as ecosystems that support environment-friendly living and add value to surrounding communities.

MQDC is determined to operate with concern for all life on Earth, advancing this agenda through sustainable development for the wider benefit of society. For more information, visit www.mqdc.com.

For further information, please contact;
For further information about DTGO/MQDC, please contact:
Voradanu Nimmit (Timmie)
Vice President, Project Communications & Media Relations
E-mail : Voradanu_Ni@dtgsiam.com,
M.081-309-7799

Saint Ange Tourism Report – 10th December 2017

Saint Ange Tourism Report – 10th December 2017

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – December 10, 2017 (travelindex.com) – The joy of the Christmas Season is everywhere and those responsible for decorating cities and villages, towns and countrysides, commercial centres, ports and airports, hospitals and offices need to be congratulated. In 15 days it will be Christmas. This is the time when close ones will wish each other a Merry Christmas and reflect on the pleasures of having family and real friends who can be counted on.

Christmas cannot be the celebration it is meant to be without its Christmas cards, its decorations, its “mangers”, its Christmas songs etc. The Seychelles Cathedral will again this year show us its own uniqueness, and our visitors will join us as we again appreciate the decorations with the much loved and visited “manger” taking its place for all to see. Everyone works hard hoping their hard work is seen and is appreciated. Susanne Reid, Head of Tourism and Events at Christ Church Cathedral Dublin posted recently a photo with its comment saying:- How elegant is Christ Church Cathedral this evening?


Christ Church Cathedral of Dublin

It is also the time to think about one’s daily action and reaction at work and in life as a whole. Jeremie de Fombelle, General Manager at Lux Resorts and Hotels must be feeling that at least he is doing something right because he was awarded “Best Employer in Mauritius” by the “Great Place To Work Institute”. A great award to pull just before Christmas Time.
Smile all the stay – Lux Resorts & Hotels

Our quote for the week is one by Dr. A. P. J. Apdul Kalam a former Leader from India who addressed the question of living to the expectations of the Office, because this helps a country and its people.

“If you salute your duty, you need not salute anybody. But if you pollute your duty, you have to salute everybody”

Those occupying the Country’s High Offices have their duty and responsibility, but every citizen also has their own.

Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States said: Americans Must Decide Who We Really Are. He asked this as he said that America has a lot going for it.

President Bill Clinton

The time has come for each and every Seychellois to also ask themselves who we really are. Seychelles also has a lot going for it. A great country that remains a sought after holiday destination with a small, yet diverse, population making us the “rainbow nation”, if the tag line of President Nelson Mandela of South Africa can be borrowed. We have a tourism industry that is working, and if this is the pillar of our country’s economy, “we must be on a good run” is what we could and should all be saying.

Reality is today different on the ground with Malika Jivan, the highly appreciated Accounts Professional rightly asking if we are now prisoners in our own home. The house burglaries, the thieving and now violent assaults has reached a level that as Seychellois we must decide who we really are.

This week, a good school friend Gilbert Bouchereau, was hospitalised following what seemed to have been an attack at his residence using knives. Gilbert Bouchereau, an airline pilot by profession, is a quiet and disciplined Seychellois who would harm no one. Yet he finds himself on a hospital bed when he should be at home with his family. “Get well dear Gilbert. We feel for you and for the Bouchereau family and wish you a speedy recovery”

Gilbert Bouchereau (centre, back row) – Class 71 at Seychelles College

Last week we wrote about Brondy Hertel of Bel Air, then we touched on a guard dog at North East Point that was bashed as thieves tried to break into a home. In previous editions we also wrote about our friend, the Night Club Owner Simon Esparon, who sadly lost his life. The number of such cases happening everyday makes it impossible to comment on each one. We feel for the family of the sad and pitiful case an old mother, grandmother and great grandmother of some 98 years old at Anse Forbans, who had intruders inside her home, and so many other cases we have not touched on at all.

This is why the question we need to be answering is:- Do we know who we really are? Someone writes that Seychelles is going through a wave of organised crime. Others speak of yachts leaving Eden Island at night, as others organise Crime Watch groups keeping Seychelles constantly updated through Social Media. Reality remains that Seychellois are feeling ill at ease, and what is being felt by locals will be felt by visitors looking for that special get away holiday. Social Media saw this week worrying posts from Praslin, with dogs let loose on tourists on what was a day excursion on one of our idyllic beaches. The post shows Police on the scene and referred to a person even being bitten. The Dogs Control Act must be brought into force where Dog Owners will take their responsibility, as the posts from Praslin does little for the island’s tourism industry.

Something must be done to bring back normality, and this should be done now.

Commissioner of Police, Labonte needs the help and the necessary support, and the country owes that not only to him, but also to the people of Seychelles as a whole.

President Bill Clinton stated as he was saying “Americans Must Decide Who We Really Are” :- “Who wins in this kind of environment? Those who already have it made; they’ll make more. The least responsible members of the political media, who will prosper covering each new controversy and outrage. And the enemies of democracy, who feed the discord and hope that Americans will finally concede that informed self-government no longer works — and perhaps is no longer even possible — in the modern world. Twenty-five years ago, when I was elected president, I said that every American should follow our Constitutional framers’ command to form a more perfect union, to constantly expand the definition of “us” and shrink the definition of “them.” I still believe that. Because I do, I favor policies that promote cooperation over conflict and build an economy, a society and a politics of addition not subtraction, multiplication not division. Unfortunately, too many people in power across the world seem determined to do the reverse. If we do that here, we will miss this moment to build our brightest days. Therefore our most important challenge is deciding who we Americans really are — as citizens, communities and a nation. On that, all else depends.”

Seychelles deserves better and the new culture we are living in needs to change for something better. Our peace-loving islands need to be saved for every Seychellois to be able to stand up once again and feel we are One People in our One Country. A message received from “Mr R” said:- “The importance of the good people in our life is just like our heartbeats.. It’s not visible but silently supports our life”. Let us all be good people and make Seychelles proud.

Air Seychelles has announced that it is reconnecting the islands to China and will restart its flights to Madagascar. Air Seychelles needs to be seen to be our partner, our Insurance Policy and OUR airline. We need our National Airline, and our Air Seychelles needs us more than ever before. Competition is coming, and this can be the opportunity to bring out the best from the Staff Team and by the airline. Edelweiss will join new comers British Airways (BA), JOON of Air France, Austrian Airlines and Seychelles Airline to link Seychelles directly with their non-stop flights to Europe and Air Seychelles needs at the same time to hold its own to be the airline of choice.

A message on Linkedin last week said: “Hi Alain, We have not met yet but I hope to! We have been homeowners on Eden Island since 2010 and come here often! I am sitting on a flight HM61 26/11/17 on way back to SA for a week. There were only a small number of pax boarding at Mahe. The rest were flying to SA from Mumbai. One can often book tickets from SA to Mumbai cheaper than to Mahe or Praslin 🙁 I have friends coming in Dec who have to fly via Addis Ababa on Ethiopian as Air Sey is full). But mostly as I have come to experience – the seats are taken up by passengers who won’t spend a cent in Seychelles !!. Hard to understand why Air Sey undermines tourism to Sey for the sake of flying what must be loss making passengers from SA to Mumbai or visa versa??. I have taken this up with …, but clearly that was a waste of time. Seems like his agenda and that of tourism at Sey were not aligned. I really hope you can see this issue as you know the tourism side better than anyone else in Sey!. Please take up this issue if you can”(Name withheld).

This is but one of the many such comments received from Tour Operators in South Africa and from the local tourism industry. It is Christmas time and therefore a good time for reflection…

We need to feel proud of our Airline, as we need to be proud of our people especially when they go the extra mile. Trisha Dubignon from Joëlle Fabre’s Coral Models Seychelles pulled the prize of the “Face of the Year” at the Swahili Fashion Week in Tanzania early December. Congratulations to Trisha Dubignon and to Joëlle Fabre and the Coral Models Seychelles for making Seychelles proud and not letting our size scare us from participating in international competitions. We are an able and indeed very capable people, we must all just have faith in ourselves as Joëlle Fabre and the Coral Models Seychelles showed they have.

Madame Wheeler Mahawa Kaba and Alain St.Ange as she delivered her message for the Swahili Fashion Week

The Swahili Fashion Week is a platform for fashion and accessory designers from the African Continent to showcase their talent, market their creativity and network with clientele and the International Fashion Industry. This is all aimed at emphasising to the region that fashion is an income generating creative industry, meanwhile promoting a “Made on Africa” concept. A great opening also for our “Made in Seychelles” drive if we can look further than the horizon.

Madame Wheeler Mahama Kaba, the Director for Women, Gender and Development in the Bureau of the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) said that this event was opening doors for young women of the continent and position ourselves as global players in the fashion industry. Thank you to H.E. Madame Wheeler Mahawa Kaba, the Director for Women, Gender.

Seychelles having faith in ourselves and in who we are is so important. This we have said before and with a lot of reason we can we say it again, because as we end this week’s editorial, we need to say Congratulations to Seychellois Hotelier Maxime Rachel for his appointment as General Manager of the Villa Treville hotel on Positano, a magnet for the super rich on the Amalfi coast in Italy.

We need to continue to recognise our Seychellois who are making Seychelles proud and not letting our size scare us. We are an able and indeed very capable people, and again I say we must all just have faith in ourselves. Maxime Rachel on his part from Italy says:- “in Seychelles we sometimes think we cannot achieve anything in life, being from a small island, but we have to stop that way of thinking. We have potential. We need to believe in ourselves.”

Yes Maxime Rachel, this we need to do.

Finally, as I have said before I will say it again, 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 last week in the 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 go from strength to strength with each new Edition.

Customized Ugly Bagz Travel Photo Competition

Customized Ugly Bagz Travel Photo Competition

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 14, 2017 (travelindex) – Innovating customized bag creators, Ugly Bagz, specializing in personalized luggage designs is launching a Best Travel Photo in Asia Competition in partnership with online travel website ExtraOrdinary Asia (eOasia) from today until January 15th, 2018, with a 4-piece Ugly Bagz luggage prize for the winner, valued at about USD 600.

With up to three entries per person, with travel photos taken in the last three years, the winning snap will be announced on January 20th, 2018 on the Ugly Bagz and eOasia Facebook platforms. Photos, which are subject to terms and conditions, need to be uploaded to the Ugly Bagz Facebook Page ( to enter. Participants need to like both Ugly Bagz and eOasia’s Facebook age, tag a friend & share the post.

The runner-up will be gifted 2 x 20″ case, valued at USD290 and the 2nd runner up will receive the prize of a 16″ case, valued at USD95.

Photos will be judged on creativity and concept uniqueness, innovative expression as well as technical camera skills along with overall objective appeal. The snaps have to stick to the theme too, which is based around the concept of ‘water’. This could include waterfalls, weather, swimming pools, the beauty of nature or any other interpretation.

Ugly Bagz enables customers to upload their own designs, including photos, graphics and corporate logos, to create their own stylized wheeled suitcases made from the highest quality luxury bi-cast leather, which has an incredible real-leather feel. Printed on both sides with a customer’s unique design, the personalized luggage is the perfect gift to make anyone feel special and is an exceptional and different way to celebrate special occasions, such as a wedding or honeymoon.

For businesses, Ugly Bagz provides an opportunity for highly original corporate branding and a great way to promote products and services. The one-of-a-kind cases stand out from all the other bags on the airport carousel and are spotted and grabbed to go more easily. They are an artistic canvas on which customers can express their design tastes, interests and personality.

Ugly Bagz celebrates uniqueness and being diverse and different as being beautiful rather than a cookie-cutter perception of acceptable societal norms; hence the name which according to Ugly Bagz is a lighthearted way of expressing that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

“In a world of homogeneous mass production Ugly Bagz is a fresh, modern and fun approach to creatively revealing your wonderful sense of individuality and your own distinct identity. Our brand ethos is to keep evolving and to celebrate how special it is to be yourself with your own inimitable sense of style expressed through our customized travel bags,” says Jay Jokhani, CEO of Ugly Bagz Project by Decorative Plastics Co. Ltd.

Customer designs are printed on the bi-cast leather shell of the Ugly Bagz cases which also have an attractive blue lining with the company’s branding. Each piece of luggage has a built-in retractable trolley mechanism for easy movability, four corner protectors and double professional zippers with a TSA lock system.

Ugly Bagz are functional and funky at the same time and are perfect for customers to make a statement as they embrace their passion for travel and adventure according to eOasia CEO, Elodie Badoual.

“Today travel is about being independent, exploring new ideas and daring to be different. At eOasia we attract travelers looking for interesting experiences that enhance who they are and are all about living life to the full. The ultimate travel companion is the equally free-spirited Ugly Bagz.”

About Ugly Bagz
www.uglybagz.com is a platform for you to customize your travel bags to reflect your personality, life motto, style, motivation, hobbies and interests. Here is your opportunity to give a personal touch to your luggage by uploading your own pictures, creating designs & adding text or select prints from our extended collection. We make sure your unique suitcases made from extraordinary luxurious, stain and abrasion resistant leather are delivered at your doorstep within 15 days. We deliver worldwide. Bi-cast Leather is manufactured using a special manufacturing process that includes UV protection, sweat protection, Mildew protection and water protection. Customize yours now!

About eOasia
www.eoasia.com is a platform building Asia’s most qualitative network of travel activities & experiences. At eOasia we’re all about helping you create the trip of a lifetime for your family and friends. We enable you to arrange your own “DIY holiday” and make your trip the most memorable by offering our selection of extraordinary experiences. Time is a precious commodity, so we help you to quickly and easily book to make the most of your vacation time, and save you the hassle of weighing choices. eOasia connects travellers to local activity operators in 50 destinations around Asia including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Cambodia and Nepal.

For enquiries and other information please contact:
Napaporn Sartjumroen (Jan) 099-2584428 at pr@brandnow.asia
Kachain Saengsuk (Chain) 091-8589912 at event@brandow.asia
Kittima Sethi (Tinny) 081-8262399 at kittima@brandnow.asia
Brand Now Co., Limited www.brandnow.asia T: +66 2 105 2017

Special Holiday Season Gift for All Best Western Rewards Members

Special Holiday Season Gift for All Best Western Rewards Members

Phoenix, Arizona (United States of America) – December 14, 2017 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels and Resorts’ award-winning loyalty program – Best Western Rewards (BWR) – is giving its rewards members a special gift this holiday season. Now through January 31, 2018, BWR members will receive a $10 Best Western Travel Card for every stay at any of Best Western’s 4,200 hotels around the globe. Additionally, BWR members remain eligible to earn a free nigh’s stay at any Best Western-branded property in North America for just 10,000 points.

“Holiday travel can be stressful and, at times, expensive, so we are excited to introduce a winter promotion that helps lighten the load for our BWR members,” said Dorothy Dowling, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Best Western Hotels & Resorts. “Understanding that our guests are looking for great value, this special offer, combined with our discounted free night stays, is the perfect way to gift our loyal customers and make the holiday season even more special.”

On the heels of BWR’s program refresh earlier this year, Best Western’s winter promotion is representative of the unmatched rewards and benefits BWR provides.

BWR’s enhanced program and perks demonstrate Best Western’s commitment to providing travelers with one of the richest rewards programs in the industry. BWR reward redemption begins at a lower point level requirement relative to other hotel brands, and free nights earned can be redeemed at any Best Western branded hotel worldwide, with no blackout dates.

Top-Ranked, Rich Rewards
BWR is the only loyalty program in the industry where points never expire and BWR members have access to the richest promotions in the industry. Reward redemption begins at a lower point level requirement relative to industry competitors, and free nights earned can be redeemed at any Best Western branded hotel worldwide, with no blackout dates. Additionally, members have access to special rates – up to 10% off on every night and free night redemptions count toward attaining elite tiers. Finally, members are able to earn gift cards from some of the most popular shopping, entertainment, gas, and airline partners.

Instant Enrollment, Instant Rewards
As part of the BWR refresh, members are given instant rewards and gratification on every stay. Additionally, the Status Match…No Catch® program allows members to instantly have their status matched with other hotel loyalty programs upon enrollment.

Elite Members, Elite Rewards
In addition to enjoying the perks and benefits of BWR, elite members also receive elite rewards. At check-in elite members are given a choice of a “Thank You” gift or bonus points. Additionally, they receive a 10% discount for all free night redemptions. Finally, Best Western hotels provide guaranteed free nights for Diamond and Diamond select members at properties with availability.

Additionally, the new digital membership card allows BWR guests to simply and conveniently access their membership numbers, point balances, current tier levels and exclusive deals and offers.

BWR’s new tagline – Go.Get.Rewarded.® – demonstrates Best Western’s commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience through a simplified, meaningful and rapid rewards program.

For more information and the terms and conditions for these offers, or to sign up for BWR, visit BestWestern.com/Rewards.

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:
Kelly Dalton
Director, Communications
+1 602 957 5752
Kelly.Dalton@BestWestern.com