Category: Latest Travel News

Batanes Islands, Philippines, June 29, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has welcomed Batanes in the Philippines as the latest addition to its International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).

Led by the Batanes Tourism and Hospitality Monitoring Centre (BTHMC), in collaboration with the province and its local stakeholders, this observatory is committed to supporting the sustainable development of tourism based on evidence and a participatory approach. These commitments are instrumental in building a sustainable and resilient tourism sector that benefits the local people, the Ivatans, as well as visitors, while ensuring environmental and cultural conservation. The observatory joins UNWTO’s growing international network of observatories, all of which are dedicated to creating inclusive and healthy spaces for both visitors and host communities, while promoting the responsible management of tourism.

Inclusive decision-making

For a destination like the Batanes Islands, such measurement work is even more relevant as it will help to preserve the uniqueness of the islands and build a responsible sector that benefits the local people and visitors alike

Through a participatory process, the Observatory has gained detailed insights into the key sustainability issues identified by the indigenous Ivatans and will continue to expand its measurement focus towards environmental and social areas in line with the INSTO Framework. This approach will help the Batanes Islands in managing tourism development responsibly and sustainably, by taking a holistic view and developing adequate, innovative strategies.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “For any destination, measurement is important as it provides a better understanding of where a destination stands and where it wants to go. For a destination like the Batanes Islands, such measurement work is even more relevant as it will help to preserve the uniqueness of the islands and build a responsible sector that benefits the local people and visitors alike. We are very pleased to welcome the Batanes Observatory as a new member of the INSTO network.”

The governor of Batanes, Ms. Marilou Cayco noted: “We are honoured to become the first member in the International Network of Observatories in the Philippines. Being part of this network will allow us to better assess the impact of the growing tourism sector in the Batanes Islands and provide us with the relevant evidence to inform future policies and decisions to ensure that tourism is sustainable and resilient”.

About Batanes and its Observatory

Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines, located around 160km north of the mainland.  An archipelago of ten islands, of which the three largest are inhabited, its capital is Basco and the province is home to the indigenous Ivatan people. The islands are also home to some unique plants and endemic animals, and serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds.

The Observatory is managed by a multi-disciplinary team from the Asian Institute of Tourism, the Department of Hotel Restaurant and Institution Management, and the Institute of Civil Engineering from the University of the Philippines Diliman. A technical working group composed of tourism stakeholders in Batanes work closely with the research team in managing the operations of the Observatory. In addition, a partnership with the Batanes State College and the Provincial Government of Batanes has been established for carrying out research activities.

Jakarta, Indonesia, June 29, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Commencing in 2021 and organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the Informal Workers Programme was designed to assist the informal tourism sector to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and increase resilience through new knowledge and skills. Whereas the focus of the 2021 programme in Bangkok was to help prepare informal workers for the reopening of international tourism and safety; in Bali and Jakarta, the needs analysis showed that informal workers required new skills to better manage their businesses.

In Bali, the training encompassed digital marketing and mobile photography; cross-cultural communication, such as understanding the needs and wants of international tourists and knowing how to use Google Translate; and financial management, which was the most requested training topic by participants. Despite their hard work, many informal workers struggle to improve their livelihoods over the years. Knowing how to manage cash flow, find break-even points and understand profit and loss is of great value to these workers that manage their informal micro businesses.

In Jakarta, participants also requested training on digital marketing, but focusing on how to promote their micro enterprises through the Google My Business platform. Other topics included digital payment methods, health and hygiene in food handling, and the ‘Sapta Pesona’. The Sapta Pesona, translated as ‘Seven Charms’, is a unique tourism branding concept in Indonesia used to benchmark and improve the quality of tourism products and services in relation to security, order, cleanliness, freshness, beauty, hospitality and memorability.

The programme in Indonesia was developed and implemented by the PATA and Wise Steps Consulting with the support of Visa. After 20 days of training spread over three months, the programme has successfully concluded in Jakarta, with a total of 502 tourism informal workers trained in the two destinations. In Bali, the training took place in the southern part of the island where most informal workers operate their businesses. In Jakarta, the Old Town and Chinatown were the chosen locations for the training, being the tourist hotspots of the city.

According to Patsian Low, Vice President of Inclusive Impact & Sustainability for Asia Pacific at Visa, “Many micro businesses in the tourism industry, such as street food stalls, souvenir shops, and guided tours operate informally in Southeast Asia. These businesses are a driving force in the region, but often lack training and support. It is important that they take part in industry conversations and are supported with capacity building to enhance their skills, further develop their businesses and better adapt to technological advancements, changing market demands or economic shifts.”

PATA Chair Peter Semone adds, “Soft skills training for informal workers is important because it helps them increase efficiency and productivity, which can lead to increased income generation. It also contributes to their empowerment, improves their social status and enhances economic opportunities, helping breakdown barriers towards social and economic inclusion. We hope to continue to expand the Informal Workers Programme in many other destinations in Southeast Asia and beyond.”

For the next steps of PATA and Visa’s capacity building programme, tourism SMEs in Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia will receive a two-day training in-person and in local language on finance and digital skills. This training will take place in July and August 2023. More updates about this initiative and more information on the Informal Workers Programme will be published soon.

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 includes 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 of 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 official offices or representation in Beijing and London.

London, United Kingdom, June 28, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / As the global economic landscape grapples with climate change and sustainability challenges, Thailand-based SORASO, a distinguished player in the tourism tech sector, is committed to contributing to this worldwide cause. Their commitment was proudly demonstrated at London Tech Week, held from 12-16 June 2023.

Established in 2022 as a distinct management spin-off from Thailand’s leading hotel software company, Smart Finder, SORASO is co-found and led by an innovative team: Managing Director Siriporn Trachoo, Director of Business Development Natthanan Intharat, and Director of Project Management Teerarat Gainey. Their collective efforts earned SORASO the first prize at Scale Up Game Thailand, a business plan competition organized by the Global Entrepreneurs Program under UK Trade and Investment.

With a suite of software solutions, SORASO is fostering a sustainable tourism ecosystem. The offerings include a Hotel Back-End Management System (property management system), Sales Management System (Point of Sales), Accounting and Financial Viewing System, and an in-development application designed to increase hotel service efficiency and reduce business expenses.

As SORASO enters its next growth phase, the company is actively raising funds for expansion into Southeast Asia, focusing on markets in Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The company has established a regional hub in Singapore and is eyeing a further expansion into the UK market.

At London Tech Week, SORASO stood alongside seven other distinguished Thai companies – namely, Banpu Public Company Limited, PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited, Enserv Power Company Limited, Meti Coolie Co., Ltd., Pack Corporation (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Techsauce Media Co., Ltd., and Vekin (Thailand) Co., Ltd. As the only representative from the travel technology sector, SORASO received a warm reception from His Excellency Thani Thongphakdi, Thai Ambassador to the UK, and Mr. Mark Garnier, UK’s Deputy Minister of International Trade.

Crucial support and guidance were generously provided by the influential –GEP Deal Maker Pae Natwilai, a Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe honoree, recognized for her significant contributions in elevating Asian startups onto the global stage.

Reflecting on the experience, Siriporn Trachoo, Managing Director of SORASO, stated, “Our participation in London Tech Week has been a pivotal stepping stone towards global recognition. The event provided us with insightful learnings, valuable networking opportunities, and introductions to potential investors. We’re eagerly anticipating future collaborations that will strengthen our product offerings and enhance the traveler experiences.”

London Tech Week, hosting over 30,000 participants from more than 50 countries, marked a milestone in SORASO’s journey, shaping its future role in the sustainable evolution of the tourism industry.

About SORASO
Established in 2022, SORASO is a pioneering hotel technology software solution company based in Thailand and Singapore. With a commitment to transforming the tourism industry through innovative technology and strategic partnerships, SORASO is actively expanding its reach across South East Asia.

Bangkok, Thailand, June 27, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Restaurant POTONG is pleased to announce that it has been awarded prestigious accolade from TOP 25 Restaurants ranking #5 in Top Restaurants Bangkok. It’s truly our honored to be awarded and ranked among top 5 restaurants in Bangkok.

Thank you, TOP25 Restaurants and Travelindex, for recognizing Chef Pam (Pichaya Soontornyanakij) and the team’s hard work and passion in what we do and the strive being as one of the best restaurants in Bangkok. We will work even harder and keep up our standard even higher.

Our Restaurant POTONG is focusing on bringing “legacy” of local “Thai-Chinese” flavour, the memories, and bring “evolution” to it. Being one of the first to be recognized right here in the center of Chinatown, Yaowaraj has meant a lot to us. Thank you for noticing our humble Restaurant POTONG and Opium Bar.

Here’s some of what TOP 25 Restaurants has mentioned about us:

“At POTONG, Chef Pam delivers a contemporary and exciting experience of progressive Thai-Chinese cuisine. Located near the entrance to Sampeng Market, the restaurant is located in a 120-year-old Sino-Portuguese architectural building and the traditional medicine house of Chef Pam’s great-great-grandparents. POTONG’s fine dining menu is designed to take you on a journey through time, not only culinary but sensorial as well, as patrons progress from one floor to the other, feeling the spirit and vibrations of the building’s history…”

“MUST TRY:
Evolution of Crab, Blue Crab and Mud Crab, Roe Emulsion, Black Pepper Jam, Thai-Chinese Bread…”

“At POTONG, Chef Pam believes that dining can, and should, happen on a spiritual level; when the cuisine, the wine, the service, and the overall ambiance transpire in equal measures: that’s the moment it captures your memory…”

“The wine list menu reflects the chef thought process of choice and selection, showcasing uncommon and distinctive wineries from 15 countries. A variety of kombucha drinks are also available…”

“Excellent service, delivering expertly the exquisitely sized dishes of the superb quality of food amid stunning presentation…”

More information about our award from TOP 25 Restaurants below:
https://www.top25restaurants.com/bangkok/restaurant/potong/

About Restaurant POTONG latest Course Menu “The New Experience”

Restaurant POTONG is delighted to announce Chef Pam and her team will bring to you, their most exciting and innovative dining adventure ever, “The New Experience!”
• Restaurant POTONG has significantly upgraded both their restaurant facilities and menu offering to deliver to you a truly unforgettable experience!
• POTONG has appointed a new Maître d’hôtel to further elevate our service; Sacha Di Silvestre has joined us from the three Michelin starred Osteria Francescana by Massimo Bottura in Modena.
• Our latest Wine Odyssey [VOLUME IV: March 2023] is simultaneously launched with its most extensive enhancement yet, covering wines from 22 countries, including many biodynamic, organic and natural offerings alongside classic favourites.
• In tandem with our focus on considerably expanding our wine selection, we are delighted to formally announce our latest collaboration with local winemaker ISSARA ESTATES for wine craft together with Khun Kiattiwat Srichawanpen (Songwat artist) who previously ran PLAYARTHOUSE to help promote awareness of local artisan crafts. Their exceptional wine will now be served on our rooftop as complimentary to all our diners as they experience our POTONG journey. The unique wine selected for this project is “unfiltered chenin blanc 2022” following the concept of, “You become what you believe!” The three parties painstakingly worked together to create this prestigious unfiltered bottle of Chenin Blanc; the local artist Kiattiwat Srichawanpen, the Thai-artisan winery “ISSARA ESTATES”, and restaurant “POTONG”. The abstract image drawn by K Kiattiwat represents both the ISSARA region of their vineyard winery and POTONG’s five-element cuisine philosophy. This stunning wine has been aged for ten months and is made entirely from chenin blanc grapes.

Whilst we are confident that we have elevated and enhanced our menu with increased complexity in techniques and flavour profiles, we remain true to our original concept of 5 Senses, 5 Elements and 20 courses.

Different times and locations can greatly influence one tasting profile over another. Through Chef Pam’s research and culinary journey, she defines her own framework by mastering each element. Every element encompasses its very own unique and inherent properties and when combined, they work simultaneously to create one united universe. This has led her to develop an all-encompassing culinary principle stemming from THE 5 SENSES, referring back to memory, of “Sight, Sound, Smell, Taste, and Touch,”, THE 5 ELEMENTS, which become the determination of the cuisine at POTONG.

At POTONG all dishes are enforced with this same principle and are equally important. Each dish embraces this 5-element philosophy and finds its ultimate statement in our dining room setting: “Salt, Acid, Spice, Texture, and Maillard Reaction”

Our newest experience use and incorporates 100% local, representing the best quality of its kind from Thai-Chinese ingredients that Chef Pam has discovered on her travels to meet artisan farmers and fishermen across Thailand. One such example that inspired her, is the revolutionary presentation of local Palm, showcasing every component in a distinctly different way. Local white pomfret from Surat Thani continues to feature embracing a zero- waste philosophy, cleverly incorporating every part of this stellar fish in one memorable course. Our firm favourite of duck, remains, but taken to a new level with additional elements to proudly present to our diners, “All-about-duck” using every part of this stunning locally reared bird. We have also reconstructed and improve our dessert courses, which will feature the historical story of “Sam Pheng” to honour the history and origin of Chef Pam’s family legacy.

We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy our unique, new experience menu:
20-courses, 5 senses, 5 elements priced at 5,500++ THB.
• Dinner reservations are available from 4.30pm till 8pm.
• Diners may check out our latest menu at: https://www.restaurantpotong.com/tastingmenu
• Reservations are available online at https://www.restaurantpotong.com/reservation or alternatively call Restaurant POTONG on 0829793950.

Phuket, Thailand, June 26, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Destination Resorts, the leading owner and operator of leisure resorts and attractions in Thailand, is excited to reveal details of its 2023 Family Summer Camps – a series of action-packed programmes for families at its four internationally-branded resorts: Radisson Resort & Spa Hua Hin, Radisson Resort & Suites Phuket, Destination Resort Phuket Surin Beach, and Destination Resort Phuket Karon Beach.

This summer, each Siam Adventure Club in Thailand will be rolling out the red carpet for Thai, expat and international families with a series of Family Summer Camps – eight weeks of learning new essential skills through fun-filled adventures, each with a unique theme. These include Witches & Wizards Week (19-25 June), Pirates & Princesses Week (26 June-2 July), Dino Party Week (3-9 July), Superhero Week (10-16 July), Animal Party Week (17-23 July), Circus Week (24-30 July), Wacky History Week (31 July-6 August), and Cowboys & Indians Week (7-13 August).

Visitors will be immersed in a world of fun, with a choice of programmes led by the international team of highly skilled rangers and elephant mascots, Elfie and Eloise. An amazing array of activities designed to improve communication and physical skills includes interactive outdoors, arts & crafts classes, sports, treasure hunts, team games and, of course, Siam Adventure Club’s famous foam parties! Guests in Phuket will also be able to enjoy an introduction to surfing by KOHO Surf School and kids in Hua Hin can learn how to skateboard at the state-of-the-art own KOHO skate park. At every resort, there is a considerable emphasis on learning through fun, with educational activities. The children who attended the camp will receive a graduation certificate, acknowledging their acquisition of valuable new skills according to the programme.

The exact agenda will be tailored to each theme; for example, Witches & Wizards Week will allow every little one to unleash their inner Harry Potter or Hermione Granger, with wand-making workshops, potion-making classes and movie time. Every camp will be professionally supervised by a team of fully-trained international staff, and youngsters will enjoy lunch and nutritious snacks throughout their day.

Destination Resorts is now inviting all parents to enjoy exclusive offers at its Family Summer Camps. For all the visitors, a choice of packages has been created from two to seven-day stays, including accommodation, roundtrip airport transfers, meals and all camp activities, starting from 6,299++ THB! Meanwhile Thai and expat families based in Phuket and Hua Hin can enjoy a full-day programme for THB 2,000 and half-day of activities for just THB 1,500 per child.

For more information and to book your Family Summer Camp in Thailand, simply choose your perfect destination from Destination Resorts’ four internationally-branded resorts.

Ideal for children of all ages, from tots to teens, each Siam Adventure Club comprises an array of amenities, events, parties, sports, games, excursions, merchandise and much more. Under a fresh concept for 2023, new elements will embrace sustainability and community interaction.

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of Siam Adventure Club’s Family Summer Camps for 2023! These action-packed programs have been carefully curated by our professional team to include engaging activities that foster the development of vital communication and physical skills for children. Through a delightful blend of learning and fun we invite families to come together and strengthen their bonds,” said Gary Dowson, Director of Fun at Destination Resorts.

Guests who choose to combine the camp with a family vacation will be able to experience fantastic facilities at their chosen resort, including shimmering swimming pools, fully-equipped fitness centres, soothing spas, world-class restaurants, bars and much more.

About Destination Group
Under the motto of creating “Great Places To Be,” Destination Group has built an extremely successful hotel portfolio in Thailand. Throughout the last 25 years, the group has continued to expand, innovate, and succeed in the hospitality market. Destination Group is renowned for its innovative designs, and for setting the standard in world-class resort and business hotels, providing outstanding holiday experiences that are second-to-none. In evolving our business, the group also owns Destination Eats, featuring +15 unique F&B brands, along with Collective Hospitality, one of Asia’s largest hostel companies. We love what we do and are motivated to continue developing exceptional holiday experiences that excite our guests.

Bangkok, Thailand, June 26, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / InterContinental Bangkok, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, introduces a fresh face on the culinary block of Bangkok, SoCal. Sporting the beloved and unique nickname of the Southern California region defined by sunny weather, surfing, and a trendy culture, SoCal delivers this vibrance essence to the heart of Bangkok, conveniently adjacent to the Chidlom BTS station. The culinary journey of SoCal draws inspiration from the bountiful flavors of California and showcases a diverse range of quality ingredients, including fresh flavours from Pacific seafood, free-range poultry, sustainable seasonal produce, locally organic grown vegetables and a world-class wine selection from The Golden State.

Chef Dominic Hong, the visionary Head Chef behind SoCal, brings over a decade of international experience from esteemed kitchens and transforms it into delectable California cuisine. Driven by a vision to set new industry standards, Chef Dominic is passionate about introducing Bangkokians to the charm of The Golden State through exceptional, fresh ingredients combined with modern cooking techniques that create innovative dishes and are representative of the diversity of California cuisine.

Commenting on his ambitions for SoCal, Chef Dominic said, “I am excited to share SoCal with guests in order to demonstrate the power of food as a catalyst for connection. Whether guests desire quick and easy individual dishes or more elaborate shareable dishes for date night or a group outing, SoCal caters to all regardless of the occasion. We offer an attractively cool and stylish space where everyone is welcome to enjoy casual yet sophisticated meals and celebrate significant moments with friends, partners or family.”

Chef Dominic’s Top 5 Recommendations
Some of the signature dishes that Chef Dominic will serve up for diners at SoCal, include:
• Lobster Tostada: Fresh plum, tomato, basil, Serrano chili & Yuzu dressing
• Grilled Octopus: Coriander & lime Gremolata, potato Bravas & fermented jalapeno aioli
• Pork Belly Tacos: Roasted pineapple salsa & smoked chili sauce
• Cioppino Seafood Stew: Tiger prawns, little neck clams, black mussels, halibut & tomatoes
• Slow Cooked Lamb Neck: 48-hour lamb neck, Barbacoa glaze, shaved fennel & citrus vinaigrette

SoCal offers a wide range of California mixology options and signature cocktails such as Lavender Sgroppino and Citrus & Bubbles as well as a vast selection of wine collections, with over 300 vintages to choose from, including up to 47 California wines. SoCal is also Bangkok’s first restaurant to introduce the Vinu App, a revolutionary tool that enhances the dining experience by providing guests with their own personal assistance for the perfect wine pairing.

Some of the signature cocktails at SoCal include:
• Lavender Sgroppino: Vodka, lemon sorbet, Prosecco & lavender essence bubble
• Citrus & Bubbles: Pink gin, bergamot liqueur, pink grapefruit, chamomile cordial & Prosecco

Ambience to Unwind
From after work happy hours or late-night drop-ins for a cool cocktail to sunny weekend brunches, guests at SoCal can let their hair down. The restaurant’s ambience is designed to connect people in California coolness and offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that is fuelled by the tunes of some of California’s most beloved bands. Every aspect of the restaurant’s design is thoughtfully crafted to foster a deep bond—with the artistry of the cuisine, a sense of California culture, the creation of memorable moments, and, above all, an opportunity to share and connect.

SoCal is open seven days a week from 11:30 to 23:00 hrs., allowing guests to lunch, brunch or dine however they prefer. Reservations can be made by calling +66 (0) 2656 0444.

About InterContinental Hotels & Resorts
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts makes travel alluring, with insights from over 75 years of experience. Each of our properties provides a gateway to the glamour of The InterContinental Life. As a brand, we aim to embody global sophistication through our superior, understated service and exceptional amenities. What makes us truly different is the genuine interest we show our guests through personalised and attentive services. We offer our most valued guests signature VIP services through a dedicated InterContinental® Ambassador programme and an exclusive Club InterContinental experience. We connect our well-travelled guests to what’s special about a destination, so they enjoy authentic local experiences that will enrich their lives.

About IHG
IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good. With a family of 18 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world’s largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in over 100 countries, and more than 1,900 in the development pipeline.
• Luxury & Lifestyle: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo
• Premium: voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels
• Essentials: Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, avid hotels
• Suites: Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Candlewood Suites
• Exclusive Partners: Iberostar Beachfront Resorts

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 345,000 people work across IHG’s hotels and corporate offices globally.

Bintan, Indonesia, June 26, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Bintan Resorts, in collaboration with TriFactor Asia, is pleased to announce the highly-anticipated return of the Bintan Triathlon By Trifactor in 2023 after a three-year hiatus. Set against the scenic backdrop of Lagoi Bay, Bintan, this renowned event is scheduled to take place on 21 October 2023, marking its comeback to the world triathlon series. Athletes from around the globe will gather to compete in a test of endurance, encompassing swimming, cycling, and running. Adding to the weekend’s events, a Century Ride competition for cycling enthusiasts will be introduced on 22 October 2023.

The Bintan Triathlon by TriFactor 2023 is a momentous revival of a sporting event that captivated enthusiasts in the past. The previous edition was held in 2019 and discontinued due to the unprecedented challenges brought about by the global pandemic from 2020 to 2022.

TriFactor, a brand by Orange Room, is Singapore’s foremost triathlon and endurance sports brand in Singapore, and now the official partner with Bintan Resorts for the Bintan Triathlon by TriFactor 2023. Since its establishment in 2009, TriFactor has expanded its TriFactor Series across various Asian countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and China, providing a platform for all participants to forge connections and foster camaraderie as fellow triathletes from diverse backgrounds, uniting sporting communities.

“We are beyond excited to bring this event back to Bintan after a long absence,” said Mr Abdul Wahab, Group General Manager, PT Bintan Resorts Cakrawala (Bintan Resorts). “Bintan Resorts as a venue for sports tourism activities is given 100% support by the Governor of Riau Island Province – Bapak Ansar Ahmad, S.E., M.M and Head of Regency of Bintan – Bapak Robby Kurniawan, S.P.W.K. They have assured us on the safety, comfort and enjoyable events for participants & their families. He continued: “We look forward to working closely with TriFactor in organising this much anticipated revival event and welcoming back international and local triathletes to this race on the Triathlon calendar. Bintan also promises to be the ideal training ground in the run-up to the big day, with miles of beaches and 100 km of good roads for safe cycling without a single traffic light in sight.”

Mr Elvin Ting, Managing Director and Founder of Orange Room, said: “TriFactor is delighted to partner with Bintan Resorts to organise the Bintan Triathlon by TriFactor Festival in 2023. Our close collaboration aims to revive sports tourism in the breathtaking setting of Bintan, offering our community the perfect location to train and compete at the highest level”. He added: “The island’s extensive coastline, well-maintained roads, and exceptional infrastructure create an ideal training ground for athletes, ensuring their safety, enjoyment, and inspiration. Working closely with the National Federation, we have endeavoured to bring the youth into this triathlon and cycling event too”.

Joining forces as esteemed Bintan Triathlon by TriFactor Ambassadors are well-known figures within the triathlon circuit. Arthur Tong and Elaine Young, founders of Singapore’s largest triathlon club, alongside Choo Ling Er, Singapore’s Fastest Ironman Woman, Andy Wibowo, a former Indonesian Swimmer turned triathlete and Asihta Aulia Azzahra – will all lend their support to this event. Their involvement underscores the appeal and significance of the Bintan Triathlon, attracting athletes and enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.

Taking place on 21st October 2023, the Triathlon will showcase various competitions:
● Sprint distance triathlon
● Olympic distance triathlon
● Enduro distance triathlon
● Kids Splash & Dash

Taking place on 22nd October 2023, cycling enthusiasts can embark on the Gran
Fondo Ride:
● A scenic 120km route through this tropical island paradise
● 60km ride for those who want a good race

For more information about the Bintan Triathlon by TriFactor 2023, please visit www.trifactor.asia/Bintan_Triathlon

About Bintan Resorts
Bintan Resorts is a multi-award winning, integrated beach resort destination that is
host to 19 independent beach resorts, four designer golf courses, as well as an ever-
expanding range of recreational facilities and attractions. It covers the entire northern
coast of Bintan Island and is located just 60 minutes away via a catamaran ferry ride
from Singapore, easily accessible for those looking for the perfect tropical beach
getaway. www.bintan-resorts.com

About TriFactor
TriFactor is dedicated to promoting accessible and inclusive good health through sports. Our comprehensive approach empowers members to achieve their fitness goals and aspirations to their fullest potential. By leveraging the latest advancements in sports science and technology, we help individuals overcome their self-imposed limitations and unlock their true physical and mental capabilities. Our focus on self-actualization promotes greater self-confidence and empowerment, leading to positive impacts on all areas of life. We support individuals at every stage of their fitness journey with a variety of themed destination races around the world, promoting sustainability, family bonding, and camaraderie. Our events are designed to be family-friendly, with activities and events for children and families, and we partner with local charities and organizations to give back to the community. We take steps to minimize our environmental impact, incorporate the latest sports science research and techniques, and use data-backed technology to track and analyze performance. At TriFactor, we believe that good health is not an event, but a lifestyle.

Geneva, Switzerland, June 26, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Economic Forum has launched the AI Governance Alliance, a dedicated initiative focused on responsible generative artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative expands on the existing framework and builds on the recommendations from the Responsible AI Leadership: A Global Summit on Generative AI.

The AI Governance Alliance aims to address today’s most critical issues as humanity approaches a potentially transformative socio-economic era. By bringing together influential regional voices and multiple stakeholders globally, the alliance seeks to harness the benefits of generative AI systems and technologies while ensuring equitable and sustainable global impacts.

Leveraging the World Economic Forum’s 50 years of expertise in multi-stakeholder partnerships, the AI Governance Alliance combines private sector knowledge, public sector governance and civil society objectives to address the transformative nature of generative AI systems. With the support of the World Economic Forum’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the alliance actively engages with various regions while contributing to shaping a global approach to address the transformative nature of generative AI systems.

– The AI Governance Alliance will provide guidance on the responsible design, development and deployment of artificial intelligence systems.
– The initiative will prioritize three main areas: ensuring safe systems and technologies, promoting sustainable applications and transformation, and contributing to resilient governance and regulation
– The alliance aims to accelerate the development of ethical guidelines and governance frameworks for generative AI and maximize the economic and social value it can create.
– The World Economic Forum invites stakeholders from various sectors, including businesses, academia and regulatory bodies, to contribute their expertise and insights to the initiative.

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Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum, emphasized the alliance’s significance: “The AI Governance Alliance marks a significant stride towards responsible and ethical advancements in generative AI technology. Given its potential to transform businesses and societies, it is crucial that generative AI be developed and deployed with an unwavering focus on societal progress and human-centric principles.”
The primary goal of the AI Governance Alliance is to formulate and implement practical recommendations for the responsible design, development and deployment of generative AI systems. This initiative prioritizes three key areas:

– Safe systems and technologies
– Sustainable applications and transformation
– Resilient governance and regulation

By delving into crucial themes such as informed technology decisions, responsible adoption, the societal implications of AI, and ethical governance, the initiative offers guidance, tools and resources that foster the responsible and inclusive global development and deployment of generative AI technologies.

Alliance’s Views

“As a society, we must be clear-eyed about both the promise and the perils of generative AI and work together to ensure AI is always in service to humanity. The AI Governance Alliance is an important forum to bring together perspectives from around the world, connecting industry, governments and civil society to better answer how we can govern AI responsibly and do so at the pace of technological change.” – Brad Smith, Vice-Chair and President, Microsoft.

“The World Economic Forum AI Governance Alliance will help ensure that AI is developed and used boldly and responsibly. We look forward to engaging with governments and civil society to establish 21st-century frameworks for 21st-century technologies. We’re seeing remarkable technological advances, and we welcome the AI Governance Alliance’s plans to further opportunity, responsibility and security – working together to build AI that helps everyone.” – Kent Walker, President, Global Affairs, Google and Alphabet

“It’s vital that powerful new technologies are developed openly, not just behind-closed-doors in Silicon Valley. Realizing the immense potential of generative AI while mitigating the risks will take hard work and a spirit of openness and collaboration across the tech industry, governments and civil society. The World Economic Forum AI Governance Alliance provides a forum to address issues around generative AI openly and accountably, bring new voices and perspectives to the debate, and ensure guardrails are developed that keep people safe.” – Nick Clegg, President, Global Affairs, Meta Platforms

“AI technologies are quickly reshaping our world. We have an opportunity to create ethical guardrails and policy frameworks that will inform how generative AI is designed and deployed. The World Economic Forum is creating the AI Governance Alliance to address responsible generative AI, and IBM looks forward to contributing our own expertise to this work.” – Gary Cohn, Vice Chairman, IBM

Goa, India, June 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has developed with the G20 economies a roadmap for making tourism a central pillar of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

As the knowledge partner of India’s G20 Presidency, UNWTO delivered the Goa Roadmap for Tourism as a Vehicle for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals at the meeting of the Ministers of Tourism of the world’s leading economies.

A roadmap for people and planet

Halfway between the 2015 launch of the 2030 Agenda and the deadline to accomplish it, UNWTO called on G20 Tourism Ministers to lead the sector’s contribution to accelerating progress towards achieving the 17 SDGs. The Goa Roadmap, developed with the Tourism Working Group, builds upon the five priority areas under India’s G20 Presidency:

The Goa Roadmap for Tourism as a Vehicle for Achieving the SDGs offers the G20 economies a proposed plan of action to lead the way forward towards a better future for all

• Green Tourism: Recognizing the critical need to work towards climate action and environmental protection and related international cooperation, the Goa Roadmap incorporates recommended actions and good practices from G20 economies and guest countries on issues such as financing, sustainable infrastructure and resource management, integrating circular approaches in the tourism value chain and engaging visitors as key actors in sustainability.
• Digitalization: The Roadmap makes clear the wide-ranging benefits of supporting businesses and destinations embrace digitalization, including enhanced productivity, improved infrastructure management and delivering a safer and more efficient visitor experience.
• Skills: Reflecting one of UNWTO’s core priorities for the sector, the Roadmap emphasizes the need to provide tourism workers, particularly youth and women, with the skills employers need, to future-proof tourism jobs and to make the sector a more attractive career path.
• Tourism MSMEs: With Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) accounting for 80% of all tourism businesses worldwide, the Roadmap emphasizes the importance of public policies and public-private partnerships in addressing key challenges, including financing, marketing and skills gaps and market access to support MSMEs through the digital and sustainable transitions.
• Destination Management: The Roadmap presents a set of proposed actions to create a holistic approach to destination management that strengthens public-private-community partnerships and enhances a whole of government approach. It further shares examples of innovative programmes among G20 and invited countries. 

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “As tourism bounces back close to pre-pandemic levels, we must ensure that recovery is sustainable, inclusive and resilient. The Goa Roadmap for Tourism as a Vehicle for Achieving the SDGs offers the G20 economies a proposed plan of action to lead the way forward towards a better future for all.”

Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India, added: “Tourism can be instrumental in addressing many of the challenges faced by our societies while transforming itself to address its socio-economic impacts. Working together on a common roadmap for recovery and long-term sustainability will unlock its immense potential to deliver on the SDGs.”

Reducing waste and increasing circularity

On the occasion UNWTO and the UN Environment Programme hosted the side event “Towards a circular economy of plastics in tourism – the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative”, in association with the Ministry of Tourism of India.

• The Global Tourism Plastics Initiative provides a common vision for a circular economy of plastics in tourism. The side-event provided delegates and participants with practical guidance to address plastic pollution in tourism operations.
• Participants included country representatives (India, Indonesia), accommodation (ITC Hotels, Leela Palaces Hotels & Resorts, The Indian Hotels Company Limited) and aviation (International Air Transport Association, IATA).
• The Central Nodal Agency for Sustainable Tourism of India, a technical agency of the Ministry of Tourism, became a signatory of the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative, together with the Government of Punjab and the Responsible Tourism Society of India.

UNWTO, tourism and the G20

• The G20 economies represent around 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of the global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population.
• In 2022, the G20 welcomed 74% of international tourists and 73% of tourism exports worldwide. In 2019, pre COVID-19 pandemic the Tourism Direct GDP reached 3.7% of the G20 economies.

Sarawak, Malaysia, June 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / All delegates, speakers, participants and media from the PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 had the opportunity to discover, listen and dance the night away at the Rainforest World Music Festival 2023 held at at Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching.

The iconic Rainforest World Music Festival marks its legendary return, featuring a cast of world renowned performers never seen before in Sarawak. The annual three-day music festival celebrates the diversity of world music in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, with daytime music workshops, cultural displays, craft displays, food stalls, and main-stage evening concerts.

This year’s festival will be making a ‘physical’ comeback from 23rd to 25th June at Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching. The festival’s line-up will feature a total of 199 musicians from 12 countries, across more than 3 continents to perform a diverse range of music genres.

Performers include Grammy Awards winner, ‘Gipsy Kings’ featuring Tonino Baliardo from France, ‘Big Mountain’ from Jamaica/USA, ‘Safi Theatre’ from Tanzania, ‘Rastak’ from Iran, ‘Fasylive’ from Maldives, ‘Afriquoi’ from the United Kingdom, ‘Chatusram’ from India, ‘Rizal Hadi & Folk’ from Indonesia and ‘Ethno Thai Fusion Sound Band’ from Thailand. The line-up will also include performers from Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore.

The Rainforest World Music Festival (often abbreviated as RWMF) is an annual three-day music festival celebrating the diversity of world music, held in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, with daytime music workshops, cultural displays, craft displays, food stalls, and main-stage evening concerts. Starting with only a few hundred people in the audience in 1998, the Festival has grown to an internationally recognized music festival, receiving awards among them as one of the Top 25 Best International Festivals awarded by Songlines Magazine for six consecutive years (2010 to 2015). The festival features a wide range of performances from traditional music, to world fusion and contemporary world music.

About Sarawak
A kaleidoscope of culture, adventure, nature, food and festivals: is the best description for Sarawak. Sarawak comprises 31 ethnic tribes with their own unique traditions, lifestyles, music and food, while sharing their warm hospitality. Malaysia’s largest state, Sarawak, endowed with some of the oldest rainforests on Earth. Its vast landscape spans over 120,000 sq kms, with towering mountains and cool highlands, jagged limestone formations and mysterious cave systems, winding rivers and quiet beaches; where adventures are waiting to happen. Festivals are hosted throughout the year celebrate the eclectic blend of modern and traditional culture, food, music and religious practices that can be found nowhere else. In Sarawak, there is always ‘More to Discover’.