Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, July 22, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / F1 in Schools Thailand, led by Dr. Chakraphad ‘John’ Pitakthararuay, CEO & President of 1 Action Education Co., Ltd. and Kaew Chakraphad Foundation, the official In-Country Delivery Partner of F1 in Schools, recently staged a press conference to announce the upcoming National Finals to be organised for the first time in Bangkok and in the 8-year history of F1 in Schools Thailand at True Digital Park from 27th – 29th September 2024.

This country-level competition, open to students aged 9 to 19, will field top local teams for the F1 in Schools World Finals 2025. Opening ceremony and a certificate presentation ceremony for approximately 150 F1 in Schools Thailand graduating students have been scheduled for 28th September promptly followed by rounds of competitions until 29th September.

“I’m truly excited about hosting the National Finals right here in Bangkok and I expect our Thai teams to continue earning accolades from the global finals,” said Dr. John. “F1 in Schools Thailand is more than just a competition; it’s a journey of discovery, learning, and growth for our students and especially for members of the teams participating in the F1 in Schools Global Finals.”

“We are committed to nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem solvers, empowering them to realise their potential and make a meaningful impact on the world,” added Dr. John.

“About 20 teams or more, with the new teams of students from Chearavanont Uthit 2 School under Trueplookpanya, will be vying at the forthcoming 2024 Bangkok challenge,” said Mr. Robert “Bobby” Ortiz, In-Country Coordinator of F1 in Schools Thailand. “Our students are currently going through intensive training and coaching and designing their miniature compressed air powered cars made from F1 model block, supported by our hands-on and immersive approach, covering everything from practical activities to 3D design and manufacturing, ensuring a transformative experience like no other.”

As regards, the Aramco F1 in Schools World Finals 2024 which will be hosted for the first time in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in November 2024, up to four teams from Thailand have confirmed to participate: Phayu Racing; Intanin Racing; Team Vega; and Agilas Team. Up to now, 22 countries from around the world host Formula One races. Aramco, headquartered in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, has been a longstanding supporter of F1 in Schools following the signing of the sponsorship agreement in 2020.

A total of 16 teams from Thailand has, since 2017, participated in the F1 in Schools World Finals and have been recipients of eight major awards including clinching “First Place in Knockout Seeding” by Kinnaree Racing Team in 2023.

In 2023 a total of 367 students from 33 nations competed in the Aramco F1 in Schools World Finals in Singapore, the biggest event of its kind ever held, and this record-breaking number reflect the ever-increasing global reach of the competition.

There are many success stories of F1 in Schools alumni who have gone on to achieve significant outcomes in their lives including positions in Formula 1 teams like Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team, Mercedes AMG HPP and McLaren Formula 1 Team.

Mr Ortiz added that the F1 in Schools Thailand serves as a bridge between academia and industry, fostering collaboration between educational institutions, corporate partners, and government agencies. Through strategic partnerships such as with Cambridge-based Summatic, for the first time, any learner of any age will be able to access the F1 in Schools Thailand competition and academic programme, anywhere, at any time on any device. Learners will receive quality, personalised learning support through Summatic, and will complete the programme ready to compete on the track and in the exam room.

F1 in Schools as the Official Education Initiative of Formula 1 is a globally recognised STEM learning that inspires young minds, aged as little as five, to pursue careers in engineering, science and technology.

With its roots deeply embedded in Formula 1, the world’s most prestigious motor racing series, the F1 in Schools Thailand offers students a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of high-speed racing while honing their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) skills.

They learn the trade through workshops, mentorship programmes, and networking events to gain insights into the world of motor sport as well as forging connections that may shape their careers. Students can enrol for such workshops and training either face-to-face or online via F1 in Schools Thailand centres of excellence in Bangkok. A popular centre is at Knowledge Exchange Tower on Sathorn.
“Learners not only develop technical skills such as modelling (using CAD/CAM software), aerodynamics, and manufacturing but also cultivate essential soft skills like teamwork, communication, and leadership, “ explained Mr. Bobby.

F1 in Schools is a not-for-profit organisation established with committed partners to provide an educational experience through the magnetic appeal of Formula 1.

Founded in England 24 years ago, F1 in Schools has a presence in 60 nations around the world, spanning from Australia to China, Singapore, Kuwait, South Africa, the US, and Mexico.

The F1 in Schools is not merely an after-school education, but incorporating global multi-disciplinary challenge in which teams of students aged 9 to 19 deploy CAD/CAM software to collaborate, design, analyse, manufacture, test, and then race miniature compressed air powered cars made from F1 model block.

“The competition also serves as an integral part of the education process and a platform that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork among students,” noted Mr Bobby.

“In order to accommodate the expanding number of students enrolling in our classes, compounded by the growing interest in F1 in Schools and its huge potential social impact in Thailand, we are adding more F1 in Schools Thailand centres of excellence within 2024,” added Mr. Bobby.

In conclusion, F1 in Schools Thailand plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of motorsport in the country and beyond, by epitomising the convergence of education, innovation, and motorsport excellence.

About 1 Action Education Co., Ltd. & Kaew Chakraphad Foundation
1 Action Education Co., Ltd., located in Bangkok, Thailand, is a premier education company dedicated to fostering innovation and excellence in education. As the Official Program Delivery Partner of F1 in Schools, the company is committed to providing students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in hands-on STEM-based learning experiences that ignite passion and drive future success.
Founded with a mission to transform education through dynamic and interactive programs, 1 Action Education Co., Ltd. leverages cutting-edge educational methodologies and resources to empower students across Thailand. Its role as the exclusive partner of F1 in Schools underscores its dedication to promoting STEM education and preparing students for the challenge of the future.
1 Action Education offers a comprehensive suite of educational programs and services designed to enhance learning and inspire creativity. By integrating real-world applications and collaborative projects, it helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that are essential for success in the 21st century.

About F1 in Schools
F1 in Schools is a not-for-profit social enterprise aiming to promote the learning of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects. The global competition allows students aged 9-19 to participate in a multidisciplinary challenge where they must use professional CAD (Computer Aided Design) software to design, analyse, manufacture, test, and race miniature air powered F1 cars. Many students have gone on to have fruitful careers with F1 teams, founded on their success in F1 in Schools.

Batam, Indonesia, July 19, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Expanding upon its renowned commitment to offer guests an extensive selection of diverse destinations throughout the Asia-Pacific region, Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a major hotel management agreement with PT Yetosa Pratama Sukses (Puri Group) for Cross Batam Antapura, a 340-key tropical island paradise. Developed under the ‘Luxury by Design’ concept and set amid stunning natural beauty, the resort is scheduled to welcome its first guests in 2027.

Forging a new partnership with Puri Group, one of the bigger property developers on Batam Island, Indonesia, this is Cross Hotels & Resorts’ inaugural property on the booming island. Cross Batam Antapura is a hybrid resort, offering guests a choice of 250 contemporary hotel rooms and 90 luxury pool villas, all centered around a low-rise Water Courtyard. Seamlessly blending traditional Indonesian designs with modern refinement, the striking resort provides a serene setting that invokes personal wellbeing.

Located only 13 minutes from Hang Nadim International Airport, a short drive from the international ferry terminal and close to three international golf courses, Cross Batam Antapura is sure to appeal to holidaymakers, day-trippers and event planners alike. The integrated resort offers a harmonious blend of tranquility and excitement, from secluded retreats to exceptional dining experiences. Adults can relax with rejuvenating spa services while juniors are presented with a vibrant recreational and entertainment scene.

“It has been an honour working with Puri Group and to present our aspirational goal of being APAC’s hotel management operator of choice for owners seeking an innovative alternative to those offered by larger chains. While Cross Batam Antapura is our first resort on Batam Island, it becomes our eighth property in Indonesia. Batam Island is a gateway to the rest of the Indonesian archipelago and I am truly excited about our expansion across this beautiful land. Not only does Cross Batam Antapura encapsulate our Luxury by Design concept, but it also strengthens our sustainable architecture initiatives,” said Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts.

Cross Batam Antapura offers a range of gorgeous one- to three-bedroom pool villas, perfect for romantic escapes, family gatherings, and corporate events. World-class amenities include gourmet eateries, a swimming pool with a sunken bar, a spa complex, fitness centre, ballroom, wedding chapel, and ample parking. Cross Batam Antapura also boasts several sustainable architecture initiatives that transform its surroundings into a verdant oasis of eco-conscious living spaces.

Mr. Wagiman, President Director of PT Yetosa Pratama Sukses (Puri Group), said, “We were seeking a partner with an innovative alternative and a proven track record in the hospitality business. Cross Hotels & Resorts portfolio in Indonesia is growing so fast that we saw an opportunity to develop this luxury project together. Backed by one of the biggest travel companies in the world – Flight Centre Travel Group, we recognize the power of their global distribution. We believe that what we are creating with this partnership will be hugely successful.”

Batam Island presents travelers with picturesque landscapes, cultural vibrancy, and bustling urban vitality, all conveniently situated in a single locale. Whether you seek tranquil temple visits or breathtaking sunset vistas at Barelang Bridge, thrilling water sports, or leisurely beach days, this destination caters to every preference, promising an enriching experience for all who visit.

Cross Hotels & Resorts current portfolio includes 28 hotels under six distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen, Cross Collection and Kaura – across four countries, namely Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan.

About Cross Hotels & Resorts
Cross Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel management company wholly owned by the ASX listed Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG). FCTG is one of the world’s largest and progressive travel companies, incorporating diverse worldwide distribution, in destination travel experiences such as transport and touring as well as hotel management solutions. Cross Hotels & Resorts also delivers owner services all the way from the very early sourcing and planning stages of a development, through technical services during build, to pre-opening services and finally professional ongoing hotel management.

UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation have solidified their ongoing partnership by signing an agreement at the UN Tourism headquarters in Madrid. The agreement focuses on empowering artists and artisans, particularly women and youth, in rural tourism destinations in Africa. With this new agreement, TUI Care Foundation becomes the first partner to support the pilot phase of the Tourism for Rural Development Small Grants Programme by UN Tourism.

Empowering Rural Artists and Artisans

With this collaboration, UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation will launch ‘Colourful Cultures’ Call for Proposals to empower artists and artisans in rural destinations in Gambia, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Zambia.

Tourism has the power to transform lives and communities, especially in rural areas. By supporting artists and artisans, we are not only preserving cultural heritage but also creating sustainable income opportunities.

The call will allow non-profit organisations in these countries to develop innovative initiatives that benefit artisanal and artist communities to boost income opportunities, protect intangible cultural heritage, and promote rural tourism.

UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation have been collaborating to promote sustainable development through tourism. In 2023, both organisations launched the Tourism for Development Fund with EUR 10 million to support sustainable development in destinations in Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Empowering Rural Communities Through Tourism

Speaking at the signing ceremony of the agreement, Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism said: “Tourism has the power to transform lives and communities, especially in rural areas. By supporting artists and artisans, we are not only preserving cultural heritage but also creating sustainable income opportunities. This collaboration with TUI Care Foundation exemplifies our commitment to inclusive and sustainable tourism for rural development.”

Thomas Ellerbeck, Chairman of the TUI Care Foundation, echoed this sentiment, stating, “By supporting artists and artisans, we are preserving cultural heritage and promoting economic growth and social well-being in some of the world’s most vulnerable tourism destinations. This change-making collaboration with UN Tourism, inspired by our global TUI Colourful Cultures programme, is an important cornerstone of our Foundation’s strategy.”

Driving Sustainable Tourism Development in rural communities in Africa

Tourism serves as a lifeline for many rural communities and has a unique capacity to create new job opportunities, promote territorial cohesion, and protect natural and cultural resources. It also empowers women and youth.

Rural areas face increasing challenges, such as depopulation, aging populations, lower income levels, and gaps in infrastructure, health, and financial services. Despite significant improvements in recent decades, disparities between urban and rural areas persist. This call for proposals aims to:

• Increase the capacity of artists and artisans to engage in the tourism economy and enhance their income
• Increase the visibility of artists and artisans in rural tourism destinations
• Increase the availability of support services for artists and artisans in rural tourism

The call is expected to open for applications in September.

Phuket, Thailand, July 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Phuket Hotels for Islands Sustaining Tourism (PHIST), Southeast Asia’s biggest sustainability event for the travel and hospitality sectors, will return to spark conversation and drive the green agenda this September, with an impressive line-up of key figures and industry innovators led by Peng Sum Choe, CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group.

Organised by the Phuket Hotels Association, the non-profit organisation of hoteliers focused on creating a bright future for Phuket, PHIST 2024 will run under the theme “One on One: Sustainability from the Top”, as it reveals how senior company executives can successfully build a forward-thinking corporate culture and drive positive change, not only within their own companies, but across the entire industry and beyond.

Headlining this year’s event will be Peng Sum Choe, CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group, who has guided his company towards integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations. This has led to the group achieving Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Multi-Site certification for all eight of its properties in Singapore. He will come together with Jesper Palmqvist, Senior Director – Asia Pacific for hospitality analysts STR, to discuss the critical issue of green leadership.

Also driving the conversation will be Jayne MacDougall, Executive Director of the Phuket Hotels Association, who will reveal the details of the Green Planet School Farm Project – an important initiative that is empowering the next generation of organic producers.

Staged at Angsana Laguna Phuket in Phuket on 2nd September 2024, PHIST is not just another conference; it is a highly immersive and interactive learning event that will feature a series of candid debates and discussions, 18 workshops, career development sessions and networking opportunities that will encourage attendees to confront conventional thinking and create meaningful solutions to a range of environmental and community-focused challenges. Last year’s conference was attended by more than 1,000 people.“I am grateful for the opportunity to address my industry colleagues at PHIST. Sustainability is a crucial issue, particularly for island communities, making this event an important platform for collaboration. I look forward to sharing my experiences and learning from the innovative solutions and insights of others,” said Peng Sum Choe, CEO, Pan Pacific Hotels Group.

“We are thrilled to announce Peng Sum Choe and Jesper Palmqvist as our headline speakers; they will provide the perfect blend of expertise and insight to inspire guests to create sustainable futures for their own businesses,” said Jayne MacDougall, Executive Director, Phuket Hotels Association.

To learn more about the Phuket Hotels Association, please call +66 (0) 8 9645 2576, email info@phukethotelsassociation.com, or visit www.phukethotelsassociation.com.

Fred Finn, the official Guinness World Record Holder of the Most Travelled Man, takes you on a swashbuckling journey through the very history of commercial flight in his long-awaited autobiography. Sonic Boom.

Finn was born with aviation fuel in his blood, growing up a stone’s through from the historic Lympne Airport in Kent and took his first flight at the age of 13. He holds the Guinness World Record for being the World’s Most Travelled Man and took more flights on Concorde 718 than anyone else; in fact, he even had his own seat on Concorde (seat 9A).

Fred Finn’s story is one of excitement, glamour, royalty and celebrity. He’s landed with the wheels up, flew with a bomb on board and on a plane which was stormed by hijackers.

At a time when flying was the “preserve of the rich and famous”, Fred Finn met them all. As an executive at a major American corporation, Fred crisscrossed the globe signing deals. Throughout his career, he also made an amazing number of personal connections: international cricket stars like Sir Geoffrey Boycott, entrepreneurial giants such as Sir Richard Branson and royalty including Princess Diana and the Duchess of Kent among them.

Sonic Boom tells the story of a dashing, successful businessman travelling the world in the years before budget airlines revolutionised air travel. He has visited nearly every country in the world (and a few that are not there anymore) with a passport that is an inch thick with extra paperwork and the easy storytelling of the natural raconteur.

Fred’s first of more than 1,000 transatlantic flights was in a DC4B from Blackbushe Airport in Hampshire. He recounts “it took 19 hours and four stops before landing into Idlewild, known today as New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport. On the reverse of that, on Concorde I once did America in two hours 55 minutes, non-stop. By contrast, Concorde is not flying anymore yet the DC4’s are!”

Finn’s career also takes in an extensive range of charitable work, including his most recent support for Ukraine, a country he knows well and first visited in 1992.

Sonic Boom has a foreword by Sir Geoffrey Boycott, who Finn met in 1968 he says “Sir Geoffrey Boycott has written a wonderful foreword for me, I met him in 1968 and we’ve been friends ever since. Cricket has been my absolute passion throughout my life, but flying is the main theme of the book“.

Reflecting on a life at 30,000 feet Finn says “I have been so lucky to have been a part of some incredible experiences and it is still on going. I think I am just about to clock up 16 million miles. If you want a bit of trivia, that is 31,000 hours in the air which is one hour for every day of my life.”

Sonic Boom is out and can be ordered from www.fredfinn.uk

For more information please contact:
Ben Lord ¦ Finn Associates Limited
Tel: +44 7791 394143 ¦ E-Mail: info@fredfinn.uk

Sentosa, Singapore,  July 10, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) will be holding the GSTC2024 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in Sentosa, Singapore, during November 13th-16th, 2024.

The event aims to unite global and local tourism professionals engaged in advancing and advocating for sustainable travel and tourism. The conference and pre-conference training will be held at the Equarius Hotel in Resorts World Sentosa, certified against both GSTC Destination and Industry Criteria for Hotels.

With an estimated 500 participants, the GSTC2024 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in Sentosa will attract representatives from diverse sectors, including the public sector, hotels, tour operators, companies, academia, development agencies, online travel agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Over the course of four days, attendees can engage in a comprehensive program comprising a pre-conference training session, interactive panels, workshops, meetings, and social events. Beyond the professional development opportunities, participants will also have the chance to immerse themselves in the allure of Sentosa.

The conference’s agenda revolves around four key themes:

– Driving Sustainable Urban Tourism
– Sustainable Hospitality
– Preserving Culture and Heritage
– Integrating Sustainability across the Value Chain

By addressing these key themes, the conference aims to empower participants with the knowledge and skills needed to advance sustainable tourism practices, ensuring a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.

Registration is now open for the GSTC2024 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference, where thought leaders, industry experts, and stakeholders converge to shape the future of sustainable travel and tourism.

For more information, please visit www.gstcouncil.org/gstc2024singapore/

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, May 17, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism returned the Annual Investment Congress (AIM) to put the focus on innovation and women’s empowerment, and investments in the Middle East.

The tourism landscape of the Middle East is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by strong government support through economic diversification efforts. Tourism has emerged as a strategic sector offering opportunities for job creation, revenue generation, and sustainable growth. In 2023, the Middle East was leading the sector’s global recovery, being the only region to surpass pre-pandemic levels with arrivals reaching 87.1 million international tourists, 22% above 2019 levels.

The region is also performing well on investments: 254 greenfield projects were announced between 2018 to 2023, representing a total capital investment of USD 15.2 billion, and supporting the creation of an estimated 33,690 jobs.

The Middle East is also establishing itself as a global leader in tourism investments, and UN Tourism returned to the AIM Congress to focus on some of the key issues relating to this key priority for the sector: equality and innovation.

“The Middle East is blooming as a destination and as a major player in the global tourism sector. It was the only region where international arrivals last year were actually above pre-pandemic levels, and it’s leading the way in greenfield investment projects and in creating jobs. UN Tourism is delighted to be working with the region around our shared priorities”, says UN Tourism Executive Director, Natalia Bayona.

Fostering Innovation, Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

On the opening day of the Congress, UN Tourism held a special session centered around two pivotal themes: “Investing in Innovation” and “Enabling Women Entrepreneurs”. Experts provided insights into empowering women entrepreneurs in the tourism sector and investing in the next generation of women in technology to drive sustainable tourism growth.

As part of its commitment to gender equality and empowerment, UN Tourism also launched the second edition of its Women in Tech Startups competition for the region, aiming to recognize and support innovative tech-driven startups led by women entrepreneurs working in three categories: People and Skills, Green Travel Solutions and Market Innovators.

Tourism Investments in the Middle East chapter

On the second day, the AIM Congress served as a platform for UN Tourism to engage global stakeholders in a discussion surrounding tourism investments in the Middle East. UN Tourism highlighted the importance of tourism trends and sustainable investment practices, discussing policies that support such initiatives and exploring tourism growth in navigating investment horizons.

The session aimed at to provide insights into the evolving tourism landscape of the Middle East, showcasing traditional and non-traditional investment opportunities and emphasizing the region’s growing influence on global tourism investments. As the global tourism landscape evolves, the region plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sector through its vision, investment initiatives, and strategic partnerships. Participants called for the need of collaborative efforts between governments, private investors, civil society, and local communities to shape a tourism sector that is not only economically successful but also environmentally responsible and socially inclusive.

Baku, Azerbaijan, May 15, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism has joined leading international organizations and government leaders at the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, held in Baku around the theme of “Dialogue for Peace and Global Security: Cooperation and Interconnectivity.”

The sixth edition of the Forum forms part of the “Baku Process”, launched by President Ilham Aliyev in 2008, brought together more than 700 participants from 107 countries, including 60 Ministers of Culture. Serving as the sector’s voice, UN Tourism held a special session on the sector’s role in fostering connections in post-conflict societies, with reference to Bosnia & Herzegovina, Colombia, and Rwanda.

Opening the main high-level forum, UN Tourism Executive Director Zoritsa Urosevic said: “At UN Tourism, we have a duty to foster people’s desires to discover the world, making the unknown more inviting and building new connections between strangers, and also to give back to tourism the power to build bridges, because Tourism Opens Minds.”

Participating in the 3rd High-Level Meeting of International Organizations on Sustainable Pathways for a Greener Future, Ms. Urosevic highlighted UN Tourism’s commitment towards transforming the sector. She concluded: “As we look ahead to COP29 in Baku and future collaborations, I encourage all stakeholders to join us in the transformation of the tourism sector for a greener future. Our value chain cuts across various sectors, offering numerous opportunities to catalyze change for a more sustainable future.”

Top forum for international cooperation

The primary objective of the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue is to explore the critical intersections between dialogue facilitation, cooperative frameworks, leadership efficacy, and the complex dynamics of interconnectedness, all in the service of advancing global peace and security imperatives. Over three days, a series of plenary sessions and panel discussions brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, representatives from international organizations, eminent cultural figures, journalists, civil society actors, and intellectuals from across the globe, to deliberate upon pressing global challenges. Joining UN Tourism partnership in Baku were representatives of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), UNESCO, and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).

Tourism and the Baku Process

Building upon the legacy of previous iterations of the forum held in 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019, which collectively comprised more than 250 events and attracted nearly 10,000 participants from 180 countries and 30 international organizations, the 6th edition of the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue aimed to further solidify the “Baku Process” as a preeminent international platform for fostering intercultural collaboration and dialogue.

The significance of the “Baku Process” has been duly acknowledged by major international bodies, with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Annual Report of 2017 to the United Nations General Assembly on intercultural and interreligious dialogue recognizing it as a pioneering initiative in advocating for dialogue among cultures. Subsequently, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution acknowledging the “Baku Process” as a pivotal global mechanism for promoting intercultural dialogue. Furthermore, at its 215th session, the Executive Board of UNESCO passed a resolution voicing robust support for the “Baku Process” and urging all member states and major international organizations to actively engage with it.

Related links:

Madrid, Spain, May 18, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Over 260 villages from more than 60 countries representing the five regions of the world have put themselves forward for the 2024 edition of Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism 2024. This marks the highest volume of applications ever received in the past four editions.

Application Window Closes for Fourth Edition

Applications for the fourth edition of Best Tourism Villages closed on 8 May. Building on the success of past editions, this year’s initiative will again inspire communities worldwide to harness the power of tourism as a driver of rural development and wellbeing.

UN Tourism’s Member States were invited to submit up to eight candidate villages through their National Tourism Administrations (NTAs). As in previous editions, the villages will be assessed by an external independent Advisory Board in nice areas of evaluation:

1. Cultural and Natural Resources
2. Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources
3. Economic Sustainability
4. Social Sustainability
5. Environmental Sustainability
6. Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
7. Governance and Prioritization of Tourism
8. Infrastructure and Connectivity
9. Health, Safety, and Security

The villages recognized as the Best Tourism Villages as well as those selected to participate in the Upgrade Programme will be announced in the fourth quarter of the year.

A growing global network of Tourism Villages

Since launching the call for applications in January, the Tourism for Rural Development Programme by UN Tourism has hosted a series of online sessions with the Member States, offering insights into the application process. These sessions in Arabic, English, French and Spanish, drew in 117 participants, highlighting the widespread interest and commitment of UN Tourism Member States to advancing tourism for rural development.

The BTV Network, currently boasting a global consortium with 186 members, will continue to grow. The Network includes 129 villages recognized as Best Tourism Villages and 57 actively participating in the Upgrade Programme representing 55 countries. This collaborative network is a unique global grouping of local communities and serves as a platform for sharing experiences, growing knowledge, and fostering partnerships to drive rural development through tourism.

Bangkok, Thailand, July 18, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Twenty Two Winning-Entries Announced for the 2024 PATA Gold Awards, Winners To Be Celebrated at PATA Travel Mart 2024. The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 PATA Gold Awards, honouring organisations and individuals for their exceptional achievements and commitment to advancing tourism. Among them, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has been selected as the Grand Title Winner in the Marketing category for its “Hello Hong Kong Recovery Campaign,” which also secured victories in two sub-categories. Similarly, Intrepid DMC Nepal’s “More Intrepid Women for Nepal” campaign has been named the Grand Title winning-entry in the Sustainability and Social Responsibility category.

Since its inception in 1984, the PATA Gold Awards represents the true spirit of innovation, sustainability and the notion of tourism as a force for good. The awards are further distinguished by the voluntary participation of 23 independent expert judges from renowned organisations across the region. This prestigious celebration of excellence is generously sponsored by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), marking an impressive 29 consecutive years of collaboration.

“On behalf of PATA, I wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to the Macao Government Tourism Office for our long-standing partnership in powering the PATA Gold Awards 2024,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

He added, “I am extremely delighted to note that we have received a significant number of high-quality submissions, with a 19% increase compared to the previous year. This is a clear sign that the travel and tourism sector is thriving and becoming more competitive than ever. We have witnessed tourism professionals putting more creativity and passion into their work to enhance the tourism economy. I would like to extend my gratitude to all the applicants and judges who have dedicate their time and efforts into making the PATA Gold Awards a possibility.”

Ms Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office said, “This year’s PATA Gold Award winners bring another colorful kaleidoscope of outstanding initiatives in marketing, along with sustainability and social responsibility in the tourism industry, which deserve our admiration. As Macao aims for more diversification in its development as a world center of tourism and leisure, we are honored to collaborate with PATA to help shape a vibrant yet responsible tourism industry across the Asia-Pacific region with the awards.”

This year’s winners across two broad categories, namely Marketing, and Sustainability & Social Responsibility, were selected from over 100 entries submitted by 47 travel and tourism organisations and individuals.

All 20 winners will be celebrated at the upcoming PATA Travel Mart 2024, to be held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand on August 28. To further honour these outstanding achievements, all 22 winning entries will be featured in the 2024 PATA Gold Awards booklet, to be published in August, and throughout PATA Travel Mart 2024.

As mentioned above, the PATA Gold Award 2024 Grand Titles were presented to two esteemed organisations:

The Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong SAR received the PATA Gold Award 2024 Grand Title in Marketing for its “Hello Hong Kong Recovery Campaign”. The campaign actively engaged all segments of society in the mission of recovery, inviting visitors to explore Hong Kong SAR’s natural beauty, rich heritage, culinary delights, and more through innovative marketing initiatives. By 2023, Hong Kong SAR had successfully achieved 68% of pre-pandemic visitor arrivals through this recovery campaign, contributing to the revitalisation in areas such as hotel occupancy rates, per capita spending, and length of stay.

The PATA Gold Award 2024 Grand Title in Sustainability and Social Responsibility was awarded to Intrepid DMC Nepal, for its “More Intrepid Women For Nepal” Initiative. This initiative fosters a workplace culture that not only recognises but actively nurtures the potential of women, ensuring their voices are heard and contributions valued at all organisational levels. By encouraging and facilitating active female participation in all levels of operation from office-based staff to local communities, Intrepid DMC Nepal has increased the number of women-led accommodation providers, supported women-led non-profit organisations, and highlighted success stories to inspire others, among other impactful initiatives.

The full result of the PATA Gold Awards 2024 and list of the distinguished judges is attached herewith.

PATA Gold Awards 2024 Grand Title Winners:

1. PATA Gold Award 2024 Grand Title in Marketing
– Winner: Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong SAR
– Submission: Hello Hong Kong Recovery Campaign

2. PATA Gold Award 2024 Grand Title in Sustainability and Social Responsibility
– Winner: Intrepid DMC Nepal
– Submission: More Intrepid Women For Nepal

PATA Gold Award Winners 2024 – Marketing Category

1. Digital Marketing Campaign
– Winner: Kerala Tourism, Government of Kerala, India
– Submission: Holiday Heist

2. Marketing Campaign (National – Asia)
– Winner: Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong SAR
– Submission: Hello Hong Kong Recovery Campaign

3. Marketing Campaign (National – Pacific)
– Winner: Tahiti Tourisme, French Polynesia
– Submission: The Treasured Test

4. Marketing Campaign (State and city – Global)
– Winner: Jeju Tourism Organization, Korea (ROK)
– Submission: Nurturing Jeju’s Wellness Tourism Ecosystem

5. Marketing – Carrier
– Winner: SriLankan Airlines, Sri Lanka
– Submission: Colours of Jaffna

6. Marketing – Hospitality
– Winner: Melco Resorts & Entertainment, Macao, China
– Submission: Studio City Water Park

7. Printed Marketing Campaign
– Winner: Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong SAR
– Submission: Hello Hong Kong Recovery Campaign

8. Travel Video
– Winner: Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia
– Submission: Truly Wondrous, Nature & Rainforest

9. Travel Photograph
– Winner: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thailand
– Submission: Monk on the raft

10. Business Article
– Winner: TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd, Singapore
– Submission: Going green

11. Destination Article
– Winner: Anabel Dean, Australia
– Submission: The Simple Bear Necessities of Life

PATA Gold Award Winners 2024 – Sustainability & Social Responsibility

1. Climate Change Initiative
– Winner: Jetwing Hotels Ltd., Sri Lanka
– Submission: SolarPV Installations

2. Community-Based Tourism
– Winner: Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal
– Submission: Tourism Thrives when communities unite (Sustainable Tourism for Livelihood Recovery Project)

3. Corporate and Social Responsibility
– Winner: Sivatel Bangkok Hotel, Thailand
– Submission: From Kitchen to Chicken and Beyond

4. Culture (Joint winners)
– Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration – DASTA, Thailand
– Submission: Revitalizing the Unique Performing Arts and Traditional Local Wisdom of the Trai Trung Community through the Establishment of Cultural Community Tourism
– Winner: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thailand
– Submission: The Diversity of Southern Border

5. Heritage
– Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration – DASTA, Thailand
– Submission: Building on Ancient Inspiration for Inter-generational Heritage of Sangkhalok Wares

6. Human Capital Development Initiative
– Winner: Macao Government Tourism Office, Macao, China
– Submission: Tourism Human Capital Development

7. Tourism Destination Resilience (Asia Pacific)
– Winner: Korea Tourism Organization, Korea (ROK)
– Submission: Rising Star! The Sustainable and Informational ‘Stargazing Tourism’ in Jeollanam-do Province, Republic of Korea (ROK)

8. Tourism for All
– Winner: Gangneung City, Korea (ROK)
– Submission: Gangneung Accessible Tourism City Establishment Project

9. Women Empowerment Initiative
– Winner: Destination Asia, Thailand
– Submission: Empowering Marginalized Women in Bali

10. Youth Empowerment Initiative
– Winner: Galaxy Entertainment Group, Macao, China
– Submission: Nurturing Macau’s future leaders and cultivating our Team Members

Panel of Judges:

– Mr. Anthony Hoglund, General Counsel, APAC, Amadeus IT Group, Thailand
– Mr. Bernard Metzger, Founder & Chairman, Travelindex Group, United Kingdom
– Mr. Bharat Nagpal, Director-Sales, Rate Gain Adara Inc., United Kingdom
– Mrs. Caroline Bremner, Head of Travel Research, Euromonitor International, United Kingdom
– Mr. Chad Shiver, VP Destination Marketing, Clicktripz, LLC, United States
– Mr. David Hailstones, Senior Vice President & Chief Operations Officer, Bella Vista Institute of Higher Education Switzerland (BVIS), Switzerland
– Mr. Ed Kastli, Vice President, International Sales, American hotel & Lodging Association (AHLEI), United States
– Elif Balci Fisunoğlu, Deputy General Manager, Turkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), Türkiye
– Emmanuelle Charotte, VP Business Development, ECA2 LIMITED, Hong Kong SAR
– Ms. Hannah Pearson , Regional Director APAC, Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), United States
– Mr. Jesper Palmqvist, Area Director Asia PAcific, STR, Singapore
– Ms. Jintana Borin, Head of Market Development, Cloudbeds, United States
– Mr. John Williams, VP Advertising Sales, BBC Studios Singapore, Singapore
– Mr. Jonathan Song, Director of Global Business Development, Plaza Premium Lounge Management Limited, Hong Kong SAR
– Prof. Kaye Chon, Dean and Chair Professor, School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR
– Ms. Natalia Bayona, Executive Director, World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), Spain
– Professor Kumi Kato, PhD, Faculty of Tourism/Graduate School of Tourism, Wakayama University, Japan
– Mr. Randy Durband, CEO, Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), United States
– Mr. Simon lloyd, Dean – Hospitality Management, Dusit Thani College, Thailand
– Ms. Suyin Lee, Managing Director, Discova Travel, Singapore
– Mr. Taichiro Ishida, Marketing Manager, Suruga Marketing & Tourism Bureau, Japan
– Ms. Topaz Smith, Project Lead, Travel and Tourism, World Economic Forum (WEF), United States
– Ms. Xin Mok, Community Lead, Aviation, Travel & Tourism, Mastercard Asia/Pacific Pte. Ltd., Singapore

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which including government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing.