Category: Latest Travel News

Khonoma Village, Nagaland, India, February 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The first meeting of the G20 Tourism Working Group to be held under the Indian Presidency placed the focus on the sector’s role in in advancing the 2030 Agenda.

UNWTO is working as the knowledge partner to the Presidency to deliver the Goa Roadmap for Tourism as a Vehicle for Achieving the SDGs. This week’s meeting, held in the Rann of Kutch (7-9 February), featured as well a side event dedicated to rural tourism for community development and poverty alleviation. Here, UNWTO shared its recently launched Tourism for Rural Development Programme, including the Best Tourism Villages Initiative.

The side event was an opportunity to highlight opportunities for rural tourism, including new consumer behaviors and growing interest in new destinations. The meeting also explored the main challenges facing the sector, particularly with regards to digital and non-digital infrastructure, the empowerment of local communities and skills development. The findings presented were the result of an analysis of more than 200 candidacies by villages from around the world to the Best Tourism Villages Initiative as well as UNWTO Member States priorities and policies.

Representatives from Indonesia, Spain, Italy and Japan joined UNWTO, the UN Environmental Program, the International Labor Organization and the South Asia Women’s Network (SWAN) in discussing how can tourism policy can support tourism’s contribution to rural development. Participants stressed that the sustainability of tourism in rural areas is dependent on a comprehensive planning strategy is adopted and implemented based on a multi-action and multi-stakeholder participatory approach. Furthermore, it was noted that rural tourism requires the support of regional and local governments, the private sector, industry associations, civil society, communities and tourists.

In 2021, recognizing the immense potential of rural tourism in the country, the Ministry of Tourism of India formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Development of Rural Tourism. Reflecting this, the event included also rural tourism cases from India, including examples from Astro-tourism, homestays and women empowerment as well as the Indian village selected by UNWTO to join the Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme – the Khonoma Village in Nagaland.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sukhothai Bangkok is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Marco Polato as the new La Scala Restaurant Manager.

Marco, a Diploma graduate of the prestigious Giuseppe Maffioli Hospitality School in Treviso, launched his exhilarating career in his native Italy, at Club del Doge Restaurant in Venice. From there, he had the urge to work abroad, so he ventured to several exciting assignments between Italy, Japan, Australia, Vietnam and Thailand such as The Westin Sydney’s Mosaic Restaurant, The Westin Florence’s Excelsior Restaurant, the extravagant Reverie Saigon, Anantara Siam’s award-winning Biscotti Restaurant in Bangkok and the luxurious Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco in Siena, Italy.

Prior to joining us here at The Sukhothai Bangkok, Marco was the appointed Maitre D’Hotel & Sommelier at Venice’s Grand Dame of The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel.

With over 14 years of international experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Marco is thrilled to take on the lead of Bangkok’s most iconic Italian restaurant.

Please join us in welcoming Khun Marco to The Sukhothai Bangkok.

Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico, February 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has welcomed Yucatán’s Tourism Observatory into its International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).

The Yucatán Tourism Observatory was established in 2018 to generate and manage information around tourism development. This work has identified key challenges and opportunities and so led to the design of relevant policies aimed at supporting the destination’s overall sustainable development, thereby increasing its competitiveness. Joining the INSTO Network will help Yucatán manage tourism development in a responsible and sustainable manner, taking a holistic view in developing adequate and innovative strategies for “rethinking” tourism.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “In this time of rethinking tourism, measurement is increasingly important as it provides a better understanding of where a destination stands and where it wants to go. The INSTO network provides an opportunity to work together to ensure that tourism is a tool that contributes to sustainable development. We are very pleased to welcome Yucatán as a new member.”

Green and sustainable future plans for Yucatán´s tourism

The INSTO network provides an opportunity to work together to ensure that tourism is a tool that contributes to sustainable development. We are very pleased to welcome Yucatán as a new member

Yucatán is home to the Maya, has an extensive coastline, is mostly covered by forests, jungles and has numerous cenotes, sinkholes created by collapsed limestone rocks that expose groundwater. This and other tourism resources attracted 2.1 million overnight tourists in 2019, two-thirds of them domestic tourists. Tourism GDP accounts for 11,1% of Yucatán’s overall GDP. According to the vision of the Secretariat of Tourism of the State of Yucatán (SEFOTUR) “In 2030 tourism is widely recognized as a key sector that benefits Yucatán society, and to conduct tourism development in consensus with industry actors and with a full insertion of society in the benefits of tourism”. Among the environmental priorities climate action, ecosystem restoration and conservation, water quality preservation, and sustainable energy supply are cited, as well as the need to create a culture of sustainability within Yucatán society.

Yucatan’s Secretary of Tourism, Michelle Fridman Hirsch, noted: “We are very pleased to have been enrolled in the UNWTO’s INSTO network, as we become the second Observatory in Mexico to be part of this network, which will allow us to better evaluate the impact of tourism in Yucatan and contribute with better data to global sustainable tourism”.

Yucatán’s Tourism Observatory will monitor the 11 mandatory INSTO key areas for tourism sustainability: tourism seasonality, employment, economic benefits of the destination, energy management, water management, wastewater management, solid waste management, climate action, accessibility, local satisfaction and governance.

About INSTO

The UNWTO International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) was created in 2004 with the main objectives to support the continuous improvement of sustainability and resilience in the tourism sector through systematic, timely and regular monitoring of tourism performance and to connect dedicated destinations, helping them to exchange and improve knowledge and understanding about destination-wide resource use and the responsible management of tourism.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to report that the first group tours from China since the pandemic arrived in Thailand, at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport. A welcoming ceremony was held and attended by high-level TAT executives, Chinese officials, and representatives of the Thai public and private sectors.

The arrival of the group tours comes as China allows the resumption of outbound group travel to 20 countries including Thailand, starting 6 February, 2023.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said “Thailand is honoured to be among the 20 countries chosen to once again welcome tour groups from China. We are extremely pleased to receive these first groups today, and look forward to the many more to come. Our thanks goes to China, the Chinese tour operators and the Chinese tourists themselves for their continued confidence in Thailand as a preferred holiday destination.”

Mr. Yuthasak was among the Thai and Chinese public and private officials and figures on hand at Don Mueang International Airport to welcome Spring Airlines Flight 9C7419 from Guangzhou, with 180 passengers onboard, among them are the two group tours of 20 tourists each.

Present along with the TAT Governor and other TAT executives were H.E. Mr. Yang Xin, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand; and Ms. Chang Yumeng, Counsellor for Cultural Affairs of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand, as well as other senior officials and key figures from the Thai and Chinese public and private sectors.

The group tour passengers arriving on the Spring Airlines flight from Guangzhou have a 6-day tour programme planned that will see them enjoy some of the world-famous sights and sounds of Bangkok and Pattaya. Among the attractions they will visit include Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Yaowarat (Chinatown), and Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen (known for its large seated Buddha image) in Bangkok; and Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in Pattaya.

They will also visit Ko Samet, a long-popular island off the coast of Rayong known for its beautiful beaches, quaint resorts and relaxing tropical atmosphere.

The Spring Airline flight arriving in Don Mueang is among the 14 flights arriving in Thailand, carrying the first set of group tours from China to Thailand. Apart from Guangzhou, these flights operated by various airlines are scheduled to depart from several cities in China namely Xiamen, Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Chengdu, and Nanning, landing in Bangkok and Phuket airports.

In 2022, the number of Chinese tourists that visited Thailand is recorded at 286,511. From 1 January – 2 February 2023, Thailand welcomed a total of 99,429 Chinese travellers. For 2023, it is projected to see 300,000 Chinese tourists in Thailand for the first quarter and over 5 million arrivals for the entire year.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / There’s a new chef in town, and he’s making waves. Dessi De Vries, the recently appointed executive chef at Chatrium Residence Sathon, has rolled out an imaginative new seasonal menu at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Albricias.

The menu celebrates Albricias’ culinary heritage rooted in the Mediterranean region. It highlights seasonal ingredients from Europe, Asia, and local produce from Thailand in eclectic dishes that take diners on a true journey of the senses.

Dutch native Chef Dessi is no stranger to Asia, having worked in restaurants, hotels and resorts in the Maldives, India, Thailand and Vietnam. Renowned for his impeccable technique and creative approach to cooking, his dishes present exciting flavors with a contemporary and surprising twist.

Foodies seeking bold new flavors and the familiar dishes Albricias is renowned for will discover a new level of excitement with the revamped menu featuring four new appetisers, four mains and three desserts.

The innovative starter of King Crab & Pomegranate, with its tantalizing contrast of textures, is highly recommended. Lime butter poached king crab leg and -salad is served with a light spicy guacamole espuma, pomegranate structures, Granny Smith apple and curry mayonnaise.

The luxuriant Langoustine & Risotto offers the crustacean poached and grilled, served on a bed of risotto cooked in a light spicy Mediterranean tomato-herb sauce. It is accompanied by Jerusalem artichoke structures, crunchy squid sponge and green asparagus.

For dessert, Chef Dessi drew inspiration from his childhood in Europe. During autumn, he would go with his grandmother to pick chestnuts in the forest, where the fallen leaves would blow around, and fog would rise from the ground. Fall in the Forest is a chestnut-vanilla panna cotta paired with caramelized hazelnut, tonka bean ice cream, bourbon tuille, crunchy white chocolate sponge, dark chocolate soil, and vanilla gel for a multi-textured, many-layered sweet finish to your meal.

Speaking about the new additions, Chef Dessi said, “Our aim is to evolve the menu by striking a delicate balance between continuing to serve our loyal guests and attracting new ones. We keep the food fresh and interesting, allowing diners to try something different and/or innovative, but knowing that they can still find their old favorites here.”

“The menu will change along with the seasons because we want to offer diners varying seasonal dishes throughout the year. And, of course, it is best to eat produce when it is in season,” Chef Dessi added.

For further information and reservations, please Tel +66 (0) 2672 0200

About Albricias Restaurant
An upscale, modern restaurant, Albricias brings the bright, fresh flavours of the Mediterranean region to Sathon with a unique contemporary twist. Executive Chef Dessi De Vries highlights imported and local ingredients in a creative menu that changes with the seasons. Paired with friendly and attentive service and a specially curated drink list, the exceptional journey of the senses set the tone for an unrivalled dining experience at Albricias. In 2022, the restaurant received the prestigious “Restaurantes de España Award 2022” from the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade. Albricias is located on Level Four of Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok and is open for lunch from 11.30 am to 4 pm and from 5 pm onwards for dinner.

Koh Lanta, Thailand, February 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Five-star resort focuses on sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients from the island’s farms and fishing communities, curated by Chef Peng and served in a seafront setting at Spice and Rice, the popular restaurant. Pimalai Resort & Spa, the five-star sanctuary on the southern Thai island of Koh Lanta, has launched a new menu that features some of the most iconic and authentic dishes from Southern Thailand. Cooked with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, these recipes reinforce the resort’s commitment to nature, the community and creating highly original experiences for its discerning clientele.

The new menu has been curated by Chef Supon “Peng” Kaewcharoenpaiboon, Pimalai’s Executive Chef Thai de Cuisine, who has more than 20 years of experience. Having first learned about Thai cooking through his family’s food business, Chef Peng is now an expert in the art of Royal Thai cuisine and has served as Head Chef at Blue Elephant, the famous Thai restaurant in Dubai, UAE. He is keen to showcase Thai food on an international stage and has been a culinary ambassador at events in Indonesia, Singapore, UAE and USA. He even represented the Thai Embassy at the United Nations Food Festival in New York.

Southern Thailand has an exotic food culture that derives from the region’s native ingredients. Chef Peng has carefully researched the various herbs, spices and products from different provinces in order to understand Southern Thailand’s unique flavours. This helped him to devise a selection of recipes that reflect the culinary and cultural heart of the region. These can now be enjoyed at Spice and Rice, Pimalai’s popular sea-facing Thai restaurant. Guests can choose from the following dishes:

– Budu Herb Rice Salad – This vibrant salad blends Budu sauce from Saiburi – one of Southern Thailand’s most famous sauces – with fresh vegetables from the local villagers’ gardens and brown rice from the Rim Ping Organic Farm in Chiang Mai.
– Kaeng Som (Phatthalung Recipe) – This local twist on the popular sour & spicy soup is made using a chili paste from Phatthalung, along with tamarind and turmeric to give it a vibrant orange colour.
– Kaeng Tai Pla – This spicy fish soup is made with coconut milk and chili paste to give it a hot and smooth sensation. Chef Peng also uses pickled mackerel kidneys to create a truly unique homemade recipe.
– Sataw Phad Goong – This delectable dish of stir-fried pakria with shrimp and minced pork uses Koh Lanta’s famous shrimp paste, pakria (bitter beans) from villagers’ garden and fresh shrimp from the island’s fishing community.
– Kanom Ko – One of the most popular desserts in Southern Thailand, this sweet dish is made using coconut milk from the coconut groves of Koh Lanta.

These Southern Thai recipes can be enjoyed alongside a wide range of delicious, traditional Thai dishes at Spice and Rice. Some of the restaurant’s other popular menu items include Dried Fish with Watermelon, Braised Wagyu Beef Massaman Curry, Green Chicken Curry with Roti, Tom Kha Gai with Liang Leaves, and even a special Pad Thai that Chef Peng used to promote Thailand at international food shows.

Pimalai is committed to supporting local communities and reducing its environmental impact. By sourcing ingredients from within Koh Lanta, it ensures the freshness and flavour of the produce, while also providing a source of income for fishermen, farmers and small-scale producers, and reducing carbon dioxide emissions associated with transportation. In fact, Pimalai has been able to reduce the frequency of trucks transporting raw materials to the resort from daily to no more than twice a week. In addition, any leftover food from Pimalai’s restaurants is brought into the composting process to be used as fertiliser for the resort’s gardens.

“Today’s travellers are seeking highly authentic, localised experiences that connect them with their destination. Food is a key aspect of this and Pimalai is committed to strengthening the links between our guests and the island by offering original cuisine that cannot be found anywhere else. Pimalai is also completely committed to giving back to the community and caring for the environment. Every aspect of our business must be as sustainable as possible and have minimal impact on the environment,” said Charinthip Tiyaphorn, Owner Representative of Pimalai.

Spice and Rice, Pimalai’s elegant Thai restaurant

Pimalai Resort & Spa is one of the world’s most luxurious resorts, with a total of 121 suites and private pool villas all surrounded by lush greenery and mountains overlooking the Andaman Sea. In 2022, Pimalai was named as the 12th best hotel in the world in Tripadvisor’s “Traveller’s Choice 2022 – Best of the Best Awards”, while Condé Nast Traveller placed Pimalai in its “Top 15 Resorts in Thailand” list. In addition, the Boutique Hotel Awards 2022 honoured Pimalai with two illustrious titles: “Best Hotel with a View Asia 2022” and “World’s Best Hotel with a View 2022.” Pimalai is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s (SLH) Considerate Collection, a group of five-star luxury hotels that place great emphasis on social responsibility and environmental preservation.

For more information about Pimalai Resort & Spa, please email reservation@pimalai.com, call +66 (0) 2 320 5500

About Pimalai Resort & Spa
Koh Lanta’s first five-star resort, Pimalai Resort & Spa has been redefining luxury hospitality on this idyllic Andaman island since it launched almost two decades ago. Voted Southeast Asia’s second best resort in Travel + Leisure’s annual “World’s Best Awards”, this award-winning property cascades through 100 acres of tropical jungles easing its way towards one of Thailand’s best beaches: Kantiang Bay. It’s here that guests while the days away lounging on what often feels like a private beach or spend action-packed afternoons out in the cerulean sea scuba diving, snorkelling or simply relaxing on a sunset cruise. A smattering of local bars and restaurants line the beach, but its Pimalai’s onsite eateries that tend to steal the show. The legendary Rak Talay beachfront bar and restaurant is as loved for the sumptuous Thai-style seafood as it is its sunset setting, while nestled in the resort’s jungle interior, Seven Seas serves up Michelin-chef-conceived menus throughout the evening. Guests can also indulge in an array of onsite wellness experiences, ranging from traditional Muay Thai classes to early evening tennis matches and pampered afternoons at the signature Pimalai Spa. With no immediate neighbours, the 121-room resort is a serene sanctuary where guests can feel completely at peace in their private surroundings. From Hillside Ocean Pool Villas that command vistas of the stunning scenery through to the Beachside Villas, situated only a few short steps away from the shoreline, rooms at Pimalai cater to all tastes with spacious layouts and designs that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings.

Nairobi, Kenya, February 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia agreed to deepen and formalize cooperation with the aim of strengthening the economic and social benefits of aviation in Somalia.

Under an agreement signed by Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice President, Africa and the Middle East, and H.E. Fardowsa Osman Egal, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Federal Republic of Somalia, a new framework was established that will also see an expansion of IATA’s activities in the country.

“Aviation is a significant contributor to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), so the potential for a strengthened air transport sector to contribute to Somalia’s development is enormous. This agreement aims to realize that potential for social and economic development by focusing on global standards and best practices. H.E. Minister Fardowsa Osman Egal has a strong vision for a successful aviation sector to contribute to a more prosperous Somalia. And we are determined to support that by turning the words of our agreement into real actions,” said Alawadhi.

The agreement provides the framework to support IATA’s mission for aviation in Africa: the creation of a safe, efficient, sustainable, and economical air transport sector that generates growth, creates jobs, and facilitates international trade and tourism as well as playing an essential role in supporting the UN SDGs through generating connectivity between nations.

“Aviation is essential to the success of Somalia’s development plans. The Government of Somalia is committed to developing its air transport sector to help promote long-term social and economic growth in the country. And we will ensure that global best practices are at the core of development. This agreement will pave the way for closer cooperation on the priorities for aviation in the country,” said Egal.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 4, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park and Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) is inviting guests to step into a glamorous world of gastronomy and mixology at The Crystal Grill House, a stylish departure from a traditional steak and seafood restaurant on the banks of the Chao Phraya, Bangkok’s historic “River of Kings”.

Situated directly on the waterside at Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, the heritage-focused retail and lifestyle destination, The Crystal Grill House is a stylish grill house that celebrates the joy of global exploration. Situated opposite Sirimahannop, the reimagined tall ship that sailed between Thailand and the world in the early 1900s, The Crystal Grill House will recapture the spirit of this enchanting age.

Guests can unwind in five elegant private dining pavilions, sip signature cocktails and fine wines at the vibrant bar, or savor creative bites at the open kitchen with casual counter-style seating – all enclosed in a glistening glasshouse – or unwind on the banks of the river at the alfresco terrace. This makes The Crystal Grill House ideal for special occasions and celebrations, evening drinks or memorable meals, enhanced by a chic vintage design and set against the backdrop of the rippling river.

The menu focuses on the finest cuts of meat and fresh seafood cooked to-order on a signature charcoal-wood-fired Josper Grill. A variety of woods are burned daily and the embers imbue a unique fragrance that enlivens the natural flavor of the ingredients. Guests can indulge in timeless steakhouse fare, including mouth-watering cuts of beef, sublime seafood and a curated international wine list. A selection of oysters and a series of “Appetizers” will showcase the chefs’ culinary creativity. Every dining experience can end on a sweet note with a selection of international desserts.

Talented bartenders will serve up a selection of fine wines, spirits and beers, as well as classic and signature cocktails. Globetrotting options include America, India, Persia, China and Japan, all crafted using international specialty spirits and fresh ingredients.

Located at Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, The Crystal Grill House is easily accessible by road and river, including shuttle boat services from the pier next to Saphan Taksin BTS skytrain station. The stylish new venue will open daily from 16.30 hrs. to midnight (last orders at 23.30 hrs.). With a capacity of just 95 guests, advanced reservations are recommended.

For more information and to discover this new era of glamour and gastronomy next to the Chao Phraya River, please call +66 (0) 2 059 5999 or visit: www.thecrystalgrillhouse.com

About Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queens Park Hotel
The largest hotel in Bangkok and the first Marriott Marquis hotel in Asia Pacific, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park is a landmark in heart of the Thai capital. The hotel offers extensive facilities, including 1,388 rooms and suites, over 5,000m² of function space across more than 30 venues, two swimming pools, 24-hour fitness center, the Quan Spa and a collection of restaurants and bars. Centrally located on Sukhumvit Road, in Bangkok’s vibrant business and entertainment district, the hotel is the perfect choice for all travelers to this pulsating city.

Geneva, Switzerland, February 3, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The 5th edition of the Luxury Innovation Summit will take place on 18- 20 September 2023 at Palexpo, Geneva, Switzerland. This annual gathering of luxury innovators and industry leaders brings together startups, luxury leaders, major corporations, and investors to address opportunities and accelerate luxury innovation. The Summit discovers the future of luxury and experiences the brilliance of innovation.

Organised by the Luxury Venture Group (LVG), the event highlights include the global premiere of the Luxury Innovation Awards 2023 Edition, alongside the Summit, the Luxury Innovation Pavilion – an exhibition space dedicated to showcasing and promoting innovation in the luxury industry.

Deependra Pandey, CEO of LVG, says: I am thrilled to announce the 2023 edition of the Luxury Innovation Summit, the premier gathering of luxury innovators and industry leaders. This year, we have elevated the Summit by adding 9 new key themes to the program, offering a comprehensive and cutting-edge look at the latest trends, technologies, and developments in the luxury industry. The addition of the LIS Event Portal enhances the networking experience for attendees, providing them with easy access to personal and company profile creation and maintenance. And the Luxury Innovation Pavilion, with its upgraded exhibition space, offers a platform for attendees and exhibitors to showcase and explore the latest trends and technologies. The 2023 Luxury Innovation Summit is a valuable opportunity for attendees to connect, network, and gain insights into the future of luxury. We are proud to bring together luxury brands, startups, and industry leaders to drive the future of luxury innovation.

The on-stage Summit program will include discussions of the topics that matter to the global luxury industry. Speakers will consist of international luxury leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry insiders. Together, they will examine the evolving nature of luxury, new consumer attitudes, and what established brands and start-ups need to build and maintain relevance. Attendees will learn about the latest trends and technologies and network with key players in the luxury industry. The summit will offer a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.

Upgraded exhibition Space – Luxury Innovation Pavilion The Luxury Innovation Pavilion at the Hall 3 of Palexpo offers a superior exhibiting space for luxury industry innovators and leaders. It offers a platform to showcase cutting-edge trends, technologies, and products in the luxury space. Attendees will have the chance to network with like-minded individuals, gain valuable insights into the future of luxury, and explore growth opportunities. Exhibitors will benefit from the elevated platform to showcase their innovations and connect with potential customers, partners, and investors. The Luxury Innovation Pavilion provides a perfect opportunity for the luxury industry to drive forward and stay ahead in innovation.

New Summit Portal for an enhanced experience
The Luxury Innovation Summit Event Portal enhances attendees’ experience with real- time updates, a comprehensive schedule, and speaker/exhibitor information. Attendees can create/maintain profiles, network, and message others before, during, and after the summit. The portal is the ultimate resource for the event and a convenient platform for attendees to stay informed and engaged. Exhibitors can showcase their products and services to a highly targeted audience.

New Themes: Topics to be discussed at the Luxury Innovation Summit include: 1. Disrupting the Luxury Fashion Industry (#Fashion) This theme focuses on the intersection of technology, design, and sustainability in the luxury fashion industry. Attendees will learn about the latest trends and technologies driving sustainable growth in the luxury fashion industry, including sustainable materials, ethical manufacturing practices, and innovative design techniques. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and innovators about how they harness the latest technologies, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, to create sustainable and ethical luxury fashion products. The theme will provide attendees with valuable insights and strategies to help them stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving luxury fashion industry.

2. Enhancing Luxury Beauty (#Beauty) This theme focuses on the latest trends and strategies for elevating the luxury beauty industry and meeting the evolving demands of consumers. Attendees will learn about the latest beauty industry innovations and how they drive growth and success in the luxury beauty market. Topics that will be covered include personalisation and customisation, the latest trends in skincare, makeup, and beauty technology, and the latest innovations in packaging, branding and marketing that appeal to consumers. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and innovators on how they use technology, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, to create personalised and innovative beauty products that meet the evolving demands of consumers. This theme will provide attendees with valuable insights and strategies to help them stay ahead of the curve in the luxury beauty industry and drive growth and success in their businesses.

3. Timeless Luxury – Watches and Jewellery (#Watches, #Jewellery) This theme focuses on the latest trends and strategies for driving growth and success in the luxury watch and jewellery market. Attendees will learn about the latest innovations and technological advancements in the watch and jewellery industry, including smartwatch technology, 3D printing, and other advancements in design and manufacturing. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and innovators about how they leverage technology to create personalised and innovative products that meet the evolving demands of consumers. The theme also covers the latest trends in the watch and jewellery market, how they impact the collection and investment in these luxury items, and how to identify and capitalise on the latest trends in the market. This theme will provide attendees with valuable insights and strategies to help them stay ahead of the curve in the luxury watch and jewellery industry and drive growth and success in their businesses.

4. Elegance in Motion (#Car, #Yacht, #Jet) This theme delves into the latest trends and technologies driving growth and success in the luxury car and yacht/jet market. Attendees will gain insight into cutting-edge innovations in design and engineering, including the integration of electric and hybrid powertrains, the advent of autonomous driving technology, and other advancements in car design and manufacturing, as well as the latest technologies for Yachts and Jets. They will also have the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and innovators on how they are using technology to create personalised and innovative products that cater to the evolving demands of consumers. The theme also explores the latest sustainability trends, such as using sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, and their impact on the luxury car and yacht/jet industry. Attendees will leave with valuable insights and strategies to help them stay ahead of the curve in the luxury car and yacht/jet industry and drive growth and success in their businesses.

5. Luxury Escapes of the Future (#Travel, #Hospitality) This theme delves into the latest trends and technologies driving growth and success in the luxury travel and hospitality industry. Attendees will gain insight into cutting-edge innovations in luxury travel and hospitality, including virtual and augmented reality experiences, sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations, and personalised and customisable travel options. They will also have the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and innovators about how they use technology to create unique and innovative experiences for luxury travellers. The theme also explores the latest trends in luxury travel and hospitality, such as experiential travel and the use of technology to enhance the guest experience. Attendees will leave with valuable insights and strategies to help them stay ahead of the curve in the luxury travel and hospitality industry and drive growth and success in their businesses.

6. Luxury Living Reimagined (#Realestate) This theme delves into the latest trends and technologies driving growth and success in the luxury real estate market. Attendees will gain insight into cutting-edge innovations in real estate investment and design, including smart home technology, sustainable building materials and practices, and virtual and augmented reality in real estate marketing. They will also have the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and innovators about how they leverage technology to create personalised and innovative luxury living experiences. The theme also explores the latest trends in luxury real estate, such as using data and analytics to identify investment opportunities and technology to enhance the guest experience. Attendees will leave with valuable insights and strategies to help them stay ahead of the curve in the luxury real estate market and drive growth and success in their businesses.

7. Innovating the Art Industry (#Art) The theme of “Leveraging Innovation in the Art Market” aims to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how innovation is shaping the art market, from collecting and investing to the emergence of digital art, AR/VR, NFTs and new art spaces and collaborations. This theme will delve into the impact of these emerging technologies and trends on the art industry and how they change how we experience, create, collect and invest in art. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how these innovations are revolutionising the art market, including digital platforms, blockchain technology, and NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), changing how we discover, buy, and sell art. Additionally, attendees will learn how digital art, virtual and augmented reality are transforming how we view art and how new art spaces and collaborations are changing how artists and art enthusiasts interact. Whether you’re an artist, a gallery owner, an art collector, or simply an art enthusiast, this theme will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and strategies to help you navigate and leverage the ever-evolving art market landscape.

8. Luxury as Currency (#PreLoved) The theme of “Innovations in Luxury Collectibles: Navigating the Future of Vintage and Antique Luxury Goods Investment” aims to provide attendees with an understanding of the latest trends and technologies that are shaping the luxury collectables market and how they are impacting the way we invest in vintage and antique luxury goods. This theme will delve into how innovation is driving the luxury collectables market, including the use of digital platforms, blockchain technology, and other cutting-edge tools that are revolutionising the way we discover, buy, and sell vintage and antique luxury goods. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how these innovations are changing the luxury collectables market and how they can leverage them to make informed investment decisions. Whether you are an experienced collector or new to the world of luxury collectables, this theme will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and strategies to help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of vintage and antique luxury goods investment.

9. Venture Capital and Private Equity in the Luxury Market (#LuxuryFund) This theme will help attendees understand the role of venture capital and private equity in the luxury market and how they drive innovation and growth in luxury brands. This theme will cover how venture capital and private equity firms identify and invest in luxury startups and emerging luxury brands, as well as their strategies to help these brands succeed. Attendees will learn about the key trends and opportunities in the luxury market and how venture capital and private equity firms are positioning themselves to capitalise on them. Additionally, attendees will learn how to evaluate the potential of a luxury brand and how to make smart investment decisions in the luxury market. Whether you are a venture capitalist, private equity investor, or simply interested in the luxury industry, this theme will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of venture capital and private equity in the luxury market.

About the Luxury Venture Group
LVG is a Swiss-based venture capital company focused on venture capital investment in startups from the luxury industry. Initiated in 2019, the LVG aims to establish itself as a world leader in venture capital investment for startups from the luxury and related industries. With the carefully selected and most promising startups from the industry, LVG uses the full power of its unique ecosystem to support its portfolio companies in their journey towards success. LVG’s network helps these startups grow and make them investment-ready for Series A and beyond, and provides them with new investors / co-investors and the fund-raising phases.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, February 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Emirates has operated its first milestone demonstration flight on a Boeing 777-300ER, powering one of its engines with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The flight took off from Dubai International Airport (DXB), and was commanded by Captain Fali Vajifdar and Captain Khalid Nasser Akram, flying for more than one hour over the Dubai coastline.

The demonstration flight powered by SAF holds particular significance as the UAE declares 2023 the ‘Year of Sustainability’. The year will showcase the UAE’s commitment to seek innovative solutions to challenges such as energy, climate change and other issues related to sustainability. The flight supports collective industry efforts to enable a future of 100% SAF flying and help advance the UAE’s sustainability objectives.

Emirates’ demonstration flight, the first in the Middle East and North Africa to be powered by 100% SAF, supports broader efforts to reduce lifecycle CO2 emissions as the industry looks to scale up its use of SAF. The flights will also help to refine the playbook for future SAF demonstrations, and will also support future certification where 100% drop-in SAF fuel is approved for aircraft. Currently, SAF is approved for use in all aircraft, but only in blends of up to 50% with conventional jet fuel.

Emirates worked alongside partners GE Aerospace, Boeing, Honeywell, Neste and Virent to procure and develop a blend of SAF that closely replicates the properties of conventional jet fuel. At each blend ratio, a host of chemical and physical fuel property measurements were carried out. After multiple lab tests and rigorous trials, they arrived at a blending ratio that mirrored the qualities of jet fuel. Eighteen tonnes of SAF were blended, comprised of HEFA-SPK provided by Neste (hydro processed esters and fatty acids and synthetic paraffinic kerosene) and HDO-SAK from Virent (hydro deoxygenated synthetic aromatic kerosene). The 100% SAF supplied one GE90 engine, with conventional jet fuel supplying the other engine.

The test flight further demonstrates the compatibility of the specially blended SAF as a safe and reliable fuel source. The promising outcome of this initiative also adds to the body of industry data and research around SAF blends in higher proportions, paving the way for standardization and future approval of 100% drop-in SAF as a replacement for jet fuel, well above the current 50% blend limit.

Adel Al Redha, Chief Operating Officer, Emirates Airline said: “This flight is a milestone moment for Emirates and a positive step for our industry as we work collectively to address one of our biggest challenges – reducing our carbon footprint. It has been a long journey to finally see this demonstration 100% SAF flight take off. Emirates is the first passenger airline in the world to operate a Boeing 777 powering a GE engine with 100% SAF. Such initiatives are critical contributors to industry knowledge on SAF, and provide data to demonstrate the use of higher blends of SAF for future regulatory approvals. We hope that landmark demonstrations flights like this one, will help open the door to scale up the SAF supply chain and make it more available and accessible across geographies, and most importantly, affordable for broader industry adoption in the future.”

“My congratulations go to Emirates on this achievement. SAF is critical to helping the aviation industry reach its goal to be net zero by 2050 and collaborations like this to test 100% SAF globally will help bring us closer to this target,” said Aziz Koleilat, vice president of global sales and marketing in the Middle East for GE Aerospace.

“Boeing congratulates Emirates on its successful flight tests using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF),” said Omar Arekat, Vice President, Commercial Sales and Marketing, Middle East, The Boeing Company. “SAF will play a critical role in the aviation industry’s commitment to be net zero by 2050, requiring strong industry collaboration. We were proud to partner with Emirates on these tests and look forward to further working with our partners to enable the widespread use of SAF across the globe.”

“We are excited to apply our technology to such a milestone demonstration. The 331-500 auxiliary power unit or APU is an integral part of the Boeing 777 aircraft system. The APU provides main engine starting, environmental control and emergency back-up systems for the aircraft on the ground and in-flight. It uses the same fuel as the main propulsion engines. Currently the APU is certified to run on only 50% SAF, so this demonstration is a big first step in showing full APU functionality and capability when running on 100% SAF,” said Mosab Alkubaisy, Director of Airlines, Honeywell Aerospace Middle East.

Jonathan Wood, Vice President EMEA, Renewable Aviation at Neste, said: “Neste is working closely together with partners to accelerate the availability and use of SAF, which plays a crucial role in reducing the emissions of air travel. To fully leverage its decarbonization potential we need to enable 100% SAF use and test flights like this Emirates flight are an important step towards 100% SAF certification. It also shows the importance of cooperation to achieve the emission reduction goals and Neste is committed to play our part in ensuring Dubai and the UAE continue to be a leader on sustainability and emission reductions in the aviation sector, as we increase our SAF production capacity to 1.5 million tons per annum by the end of this year. We look forward to growing the supply of SAF to Dubai.”

“Virent’s technology converts widely available, plant-based sugars into the compounds that make 100% sustainable aviation fuel possible, without the need to blend with traditional jet fuel,” said Dave Kettner, president and general counsel of Virent, Inc. “Along with our parent company Marathon Petroleum Corporation, we are committed to meeting today’s energy needs while investing in an energy diverse future, and today’s flight is a great example of this commitment. We’re excited about this opportunity to work with our forward-thinking colleagues at Emirates, GE Aerospace, Boeing, Honeywell and Neste as we demonstrate that we can power sustainable aviation without modifying today’s modern airline engines or the infrastructure that serves the airline industry.”

His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO at ENOC praised the achievement as it coincides with 2023 as the ‘Year of Sustainability’, which was announced by the UAE’s President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. It also represents a major step towards reducing carbon dioxide emissions and achieving climate neutrality.

His Excellency added: “At ENOC, we prioritise working closely with our strategic partners to implement a national roadmap for sustainable aviation fuel. This not only aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of the aviation sector, but also contributes to achieving the UAE’s goals in climate neutrality, enhances the efficiency and conservation of fuel, as well as positions the UAE as a regional hub for sustainable aviation fuel. Playing an active role in supplying Dubai Airports with aviation fuel, ENOC Group is participating in this achievement by securing and blending sustainable aviation fuel, which will help to secure this type of fuel in the UAE in the future.”

Emirates is committed to supporting initiatives that help minimise its CO2 emissions, and the airline has already made great strides in fuel efficiency and conservation as well as operational advancements across its operations. The airline also supports IATA’s collective industry commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050, and is exploring opportunities to augment operational fuel efficiency, SAF, low carbon aviation fuels (LCAF) and renewable energy.

The airline already runs a comprehensive fuel efficiency programme that actively investigates and implements ways to reduce unnecessary fuel burn and emissions, wherever it is operationally feasible. Some of the programme’s most significant initiatives include the operation of “flex tracks”, or flexible routings – partnering with air navigation service providers to create the most efficient flight plan for each flight. These efforts have been ongoing since 2003, and Emirates has been working with IATA to extend this routing system across the world as a standard operating procedure where possible.

Emirates’ first flight powered by SAF blended with jet fuel was in 2017, operating from Chicago O’Hare airport on a Boeing 777. It received its first SAF-powered A380 delivery in 2020, and also uplifted 32 tonnes of SAF for its flights from Stockholm that same year.

About Emirates
The Emirates story started in 1985 when we launched operations with just two aircraft. Today, we fly the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering our customers the comforts of the latest and most efficient wide-body aircraft in the skies. We inspire travelers around the world with our growing network of worldwide destinations, industry leading inflight entertainment, regionally inspired cuisine, and world-class service. The largest airline for international passengers, Emirates has flown to and from the UK since 1987. Emirates serves the UK with 119 weekly flights including: six times daily to London Heathrow; three times daily A380 service to Gatwick; daily service to Stansted; three times daily A380 service to Manchester; double daily service to Birmingham; daily service to Newcastle; and a daily service to Glasgow.