Category: Latest Travel News

Angeles City, Philippines, January 20, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts has expanded its presence in the Philippines with the launch of SureStay Studio by Best Western Clarkview – the first SureStay Studio property in the country.

A modern midscale hotel, SureStay Studio by Best Western Clarkview introduces a new era of affordable comfort and convenience to this dynamic destination. Guests can stay in a choice of 74 contemporary studio-style rooms and suites, all of which are fully equipped with twin or double beds and modern amenities for extended stays, including complimentary Wi-Fi, working space, a kitchenette, and a bathroom with a walk-in power shower.

The bright and inviting restaurant offers a creative take on Filipino classics and international favorites, a well-equipped fitness center is great for invigorating workouts, and the hotel’s indoor swimming pool and jacuzzi are covered by a glass roof, allowing natural light to flood in. For corporate travelers, a business center with workstations and a meeting room are available.

With its central location in the heart of Angeles City and just 6km from Clark International Airport, family facilities, and warm, heartfelt Filipino hospitality, SureStay Studio by Best Western Clarkview is the ideal option for all travelers. Leisure guests can explore the area’s many local attractions, such as Dinosaur Island, Puning Hot Spring and the Zoocobia Fun Zoo, and corporate visitors will have easy access to Metro Clark.

This new opening marks the debut of SureStay Studio® by Best Western in the Philippines. This brand extension is tailored to guests taking longer stays away from home, with extra amenities to help travelers rest in comfort and the consistent high service standards that are expected from Best Western Hotels & Resorts worldwide.

“We are delighted to unveil SureStay Studio by Best Western Clarkview, which marks the latest phase of our expansion in the Philippines and the continued growth of SureStay Hotel Group® in Asia. SureStay Studio is an innovative new concept that intuitively caters for a new generation of guest: those seeking additional space and exceptional amenities at an affordable price point. With its prime downtown location, yet only moments from one of the Philippines’ main international gateway airports, this hotel is ready to welcome local and international visitors alike,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President of Operations – APAC, BWH Hotel Group.

For more information about Best Western Hotels & Resorts in Asia, please visit www.bestwesternasia.com

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel company within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,500 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio are SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay Studio® franchises**.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
**All Best Western, WorldHotels and SureStay branded hotels are independently owned and operated.

Madrid, Spain, January 19, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / After stronger than expected recovery in 2022, this year could see international tourist arrivals return to pre-pandemic levels in Europe and the Middle East. Tourists are nonetheless expected to increasingly seek value for money and travel closer to home in response to the challenging economic climate.

Based on UNWTO’s forward-looking scenarios for 2023, international tourist arrivals could reach 80% to 95% of pre-pandemic levels this year, depending on the extent of the economic slowdown, the ongoing recovery of travel in Asia and the Pacific and the evolution of the Russian offensive in Ukraine, among other factors.

All regions bouncing back

UNWTO anticipates a strong year for the sector even in the face of diverse challenges including the economic situation and continued geopolitical uncertainty

According to new data UNWTO, more than 900 million tourists travelled internationally in 2022 – double the number recorded in 2021 though still 63% of pre-pandemic levels. Every global region recorded notable increases in international tourist numbers. The Middle East enjoyed the strongest relative increase as arrivals climbed to 83% of pre-pandemic numbers. Europe reached nearly 80% of pre-pandemic levels as it welcomed 585 million arrivals in 2022. Africa and the Americas both recovered about 65% of their pre-pandemic visitors, while Asia and the Pacific reached only 23%, due to stronger pandemic-related restrictions which have started to be removed only in recent months. The first UNWTO World Tourism Barometer of 2023 also analyses performance by region and looks at top performers in 2022, including several destinations which have already recovered 2019 levels.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “A new year brings more reason for optimism for global tourism. UNWTO anticipates a strong year for the sector even in the face of diverse challenges including the economic situation and continued geopolitical uncertainty. Economic factors may influence how people travel in 2023 and UNWTO expects demand for domestic and regional travel to remain strong and help drive the sector’s wider recovery.”

Chinese tourists set to return

UNWTO foresees the recovery to continue throughout 2023 even as the sector faces up to economic, health and geopolitical challenges. The recent lifting of COVID-19 related travel restrictions in China, the world’s largest outbound market in 2019, is a significant step for the recovery of the tourism sector in Asia and the Pacific and worldwide. In the short term, the resumption of travel from China is likely to benefit Asian destinations in particular. However, this will be shaped by the availability and cost of air travel, visa regulations and COVID-19 related restrictions in the destinations.  By mid-January a total of 32 countries had imposed specific travel restrictions related to travel from China, mostly in Asia and Europe.

At the same time, strong demand from the United States, backed by a strong US dollar, will continue to benefit destinations in the region and beyond. Europe will continue to enjoy strong travel flows from the US, partly due to a weaker euro versus the US dollar.

Notable increases in international tourism receipts have been recorded across most destinations, in several cases higher than their growth in arrivals. This has been supported by the increase in average spending per trip due to longer periods of stay, the willingness by travelers to spend more in their destination and higher travel costs due to inflation. However, economic situation could translate into tourists adopting a more cautious attitude in 2023, with reduced spending, shorter trips and travel closer to home.

Furthermore, continued uncertainty caused by the Russian aggression against Ukraine and other mounting geopolitical tensions, as well as health challenges related to COVID-19 also represent downside risks and could weigh on tourism’s recovery in the months ahead.

The latest UNWTO Confidence Index shows cautious optimism for January-April, higher than the same period in 2022. This optimism is backed by the opening up in Asia and strong spending numbers in 2022 from both traditional and emerging tourism source markets, with France, Germany and Italy as well as Qatar, India and Saudi Arabia all posting strong results.

Bintan Island, Riau Islands, Indonesia, January 18, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Bintan Resorts, along with Bintan Resort Ferries and participating resorts in Bintan, have launched a new promotion for travellers to Bintan called Let’s Go Bintan – Great Weekday Deals.

Participating resorts and partners include ANMON, Cassia Bintan, Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel, Grand Lagoi Hotel by Willson, Natra Bintan, Nirwana Resort Hotel, Pantai Indah Lagoi Bintan, Bintan Resort Ferries and Bintan Resorts Tour.

This promotion is valid for weekday travel only (Sunday through Thursday) and is now open for booking and valid for travel between 1 February 2023 till 31 May 2023. Promotion deals include room accommodation at participating resorts, 2-way sea (Singapore/Bintan by ferry) and land transfers, and choice of Bintan Mangrove Discovery Tour or Sand Dune and Blue Lake Tour. Prices start from as low as SGD 149.00 per person. Children below the age of 11 years old get to enjoy the said tours free of charge and adults also enjoy free activities in Lagoi Bay.

“This promotion is designed for travellers wanting a quick tropical getaway, but also avoiding the weekend and holiday crowds” said Mr Abdul Wahab, Group General Manager, Bintan Resort Cakrawala. “Great deals have been offered by our resort and attraction partners, and one can come over and truly enjoy the idyllic and tranquil getaway that Bintan is for quality time with family, friends and loved ones” he continued.

To enjoy these weekday deals and to find out more details and make a booking, travellers should contact the following appointed travel agents:

Bintan Holiday
+65 9783 2528

LittleWalk Asia
+65 8857 1747

WeekendGoWhere
+65 9852 3592

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.

Bangkok, Thailand, January 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / As Thailand’s tourism industry powers its way into an accelerated period of recovery, with international arrivals pouring in and China poised to create the next big wave, what’s the ensuing step for the Kingdom? The world has changed over the last three years so how is Thailand innovating to reshape the sector or is it back to the days of mass tourism?

Thailand Tourism Forum (TTF 2023) returned to Bangkok on Monday 16th January 2023 for its 12th annual edition to debate the issues and inspire future concepts. Running under the theme “Innovation in Hospitality”, the creative half-day event featured top-level speakers and discussions on key issues set to influence the industry in the months and years to come.

An 800-strong crowd of travel and hospitality professionals took part and heard how Thailand’s tourism machine needs to reinvent itself and become a pioneering force in branding, design and technology if it is to emerge stronger and more sustainable in the post-pandemic era.

Following an opening address by Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks, the event’s organiser, who explained “Why Thailand Must Innovate”, the forum’s keynote speaker took to the stage. Wallapa Traisorat, CEO & President of Asset World Corporation (AWC), Thailand’s leading hotel owner and developer, tackled the topic of “Creating a New Hospitality Landscape with Brands”.

Other important issues on the agenda included “Disruption and Change in Hotel Technology & Distribution” with Liz Perkins, Hilton’s Vice President of Revenue Management & Commercial Services for Asia Pacific, “Rethinking Thai Design Culture” with Ho Ren Yung, Banyan Tree’s Senior Vice President of Brand & Commercial, and the “Challenges of Being a Hotel Owner” with Proudputh Liptapanlop, Executive Director of Proud Real Estate. Delegates were provided with an update on Thai hotel transactions and financing by JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group and an analysis of the competitiveness of the Thai hotel industry by STR Global, before Greenview founder Eric Ricaurte revealed his vision for the “Hotel of the Future”.

The major challenge that demands attention, according to C9’s Bill Barnett is people, or the lack of them wanting to return the hospitality industry post Covid when over 1.45 million tourism jobs were lost. “Where’s our pipeline of people? This is what will create success for the next generation. Thais no longer want to work in hotels so our mission must be how can we innovate products and bring the best and brightest people back to the industry. We have to pay higher wages. Now is the time for Thailand’s hotels to change,” said Mr Barnett.

The point was reiterated by Proudputh Liptapanlop, Executive Director, Proud Real Estate PLC who said that Covid was a real wake-up call for owners about how to take care of their people.

Ms. Wallapa Traisorat, CEO & President of AWC, argued that product and brand integration was the key innovation for the future. “For us it is all about creating happiness,” she said. “We are all searching for how we can be fulfilled and I believe we need to look into partnerships with brands to create unique projects that are integrated with the destination and bring local communities into the hotel experience. It should be an integrated customer journey.”

For Liz Perkins, Vice President of Revenue Management & Commercial Services for Hilton APAC, the most important thing is to create the right balance between technology and people. “The key is to successfully merge physical and digital to create seamless travel. During Covid we invested in technology. For example, we introduced digital keys for a fast track check-in. Customers can still go to reception but what we are doing differently is giving customers choice.”

“For me innovation comes from constraints,” added Ho Ren Yung, Senior Vice President – Brand and Commercial, Banyan Tree Group. “We created the pool villa concept as we were not on the beach 30 years ago. Now we are introducing a product with no walls or doors to bring nature in.”

For more information, please visit www.thailandtourismforum.com

Saimaa, Finland, January 13, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Saimaa region in Finland has been officially awarded the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2024 by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) for their commitment to sustainably protect and promote local food and cultural uniqueness.

The award ceremony was celebrated on 12 January 2023 at the TeaHouse of Wehmais, in Juva, and saw the participation of the local stakeholders involved in the European Region of Gastronomy programme, as well as representation from IGCAT.

The event opened with a musical performance by Musical Theatre Collective Waulinko, followed by the welcome of Project Director of the Saimaa European Region of Gastronomy Management Project 2022-2023, Sari Kaasinen, who stated: “The wild beauty of our nature, the captivating silence, the smell of fresh air. The taste of the purest food in the world and the touch the grounding soil and cleansing waters lets you connect with the mysteries of Saimaa. The six senses of Saimaa and our way of life – for us all this is normal… But for our visitors this is a miracle.”

A shared commitment to a sustainable way of life

The importance of collaboration in gastronomy tourism was highlighted by the representatives of the three main territories that comprise the Saimaa region: Pentti Mäkinen, County Governor, Regional Council of South Savo; Markus Hirvonen, Regional Mayor, Regional Council of North Karelia; and Jami Holtari, Executive Director of Regional Vitality, Regional Council of South Karelia.

“We started collaborating between the three regions of Saimaa a bit over a year ago. We really want to thank everyone who have worked to get the European Region of Gastronomy award here – but this really is only where the work starts. Now we need to find new sources to boost the economy. The Russian border is closed and that’s why we need to look towards Europe especially in the tourism sector,” affirmed Pentti Mäkinen.

“Food and international collaboration – maybe the two most important things right now for our region. Saimaa European Region of Gastronomy title gives us new views for the future. In the last two years the world has changed permanently. As the situation in the world has gotten worse, we need things that unite us. And what is the thing that brings us together? Food. Food to travel for, food to talk about. Food tells our story – about our own history and culture. We can learn from each other and the world through the European Region of Gastronomy title,” highlighted Markus Hirvonen.

“Thank you IGCAT for trusting us with this title. I assure you that we will live up to your expectations. We need new tourists and products – and we are going to do this by leaning into our strengths – nature and our great entrepreneurs. We have already started projects to realize the goals. I think we should focus on the quality of the food rather than quantity. This can promote our health, quality of life and local businesses. Beyond a trophy, I see this is a process for committing to a sustainable way of life,” remarked Jami Holtari.

The strengths of the Saimaa brand: slow tourism and unique food experiences

President of IGCAT, Diane Dodd PhD officially presented the award certificate to the regional stakeholders. She applauded the region’s ability to put such a high-quality application together in record time and noted this was possible because of all the background work already completed by the Saimaa Phenomenon team, the fabulous food producers in the region and the aspirations of so many working in hospitality that have created beautiful slow tourism and unique food experiences across the three regions. Everyone should be exceptionally proud.

She highlighted the strength of the Saimaa brand as a uniting factor and the most visually impacting factor to initially attract international visitors. She added that “It is certainly thanks to the regions’ willingness to unite that you are already seeing this Saimaa Phenomenon emerge in the form of this Award.” She also noted that when one door closes another one opens and with the Award, not only will Saimaa attract new visitors from Europe but the three regions will have the opportunity to make a clear decision as to the type of visitor they want to attract.

She strongly recommended that Saimaa aim to attract slow tourism, nature, culture and food loving young people. She noted that Saimaas’s strength is in its sustainability message and should focus on resuscitating and safeguarding its unique natural, food and cultural assets. “The new generation of visitors,” she said “are looking for unique experiences, local and quality food and are willing to support responsible sustainable regions. Saimaa has all the ingredients!”

Saimaa is the 16th region to be awarded the coveted European Region of Gastronomy title.

Promoting Saimaa’s food heritage

The award ceremony was followed by a seminar on Food Culture in Eastern Finland – What is it and what could it be? including several interventions on how to sustainably and creatively promote Saimaa region’s food and cultural heritage:

– European Regions of Gastronomy: the benefits and opportunities for awarded regions, by Diane Dodd PhD, President of IGCAT;
– The Saimaa gastronomic experience – Finnish traditions in food culture and export and collaboration between producers and top restaurants, by Timo “Sir Lintsi” Linnamäki, Restaurateur, Chef, and Chairman of the Board of Muru Group Oy;
– Promoting cultural heritage and sustainability in fishing, by Tero Mustonen, Fisherman and Scientist at Snowchange Coopeartive;
– Pure food, pure pleasure – The best way to enjoy Saimaa is to eat it!, by Anni Korhonen, Hostess of the wellbeing guesthouse Puukarin Pysäkki, Chef, “Kantele” instrument, performer, Poet, Singer, and Organic Farmer

All speakers joined then a panel discussion on Saimaa 2024 and beyond – Visions for the future of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism, together with Director of Tourism at Mikkeli Development Miksei Ltd, Maisa Häkkinen.

The event concluded with a Saimaa Gastronomic Dinner hosted by tea sommelier and entrepreneur at TeaHouse of Wehmais, Anna Grotenfelt-Paunonen. Based on delicious local and seasonal ingredients, the dinner’s menu was accompanied with TeaHouse of Wehmais’ Tea Package.

Saimaa region’s path to the title

After reviewing the bid book Saimaa – Tables Crossing Borders submitted on 31 December 2021, an international jury of IGCAT experts visited the region (19-23 June 2022) with the aim to meet local stakeholders and assess Saimaa’s readiness to host the European Region of Gastronomy title in 2024.

The jury was particularly impressed by the region’s sustainable approach to life based on a unique combination of nature, culture and wellness, and recognised that the strong connection between food, nature, culture, and hospitality made Saimaa’s application exceptional.

On this basis, the jury recommended Saimaa for the title European Region of Gastronomy 2024 and suggested that they passed to the final phase of the application process.

After assessing that the region successfully integrated the jury’s recommendations in their action plan, the IGCAT Board officially approved Saimaa to be awarded the European Region of Gastronomy 2024 title.

The Saimaa, European Region of Gastronomy 2024 candidacy and programme have been created by a cross-sectoral consortium including stakeholders from the public, private, third and knowledge sectors. Founding stakeholders include: City of Joensuu; City of Mikkeli; City of Savonlinna; City of Lappeenranta; City of Imatra; City of Kitee; South Savo Regional Council; South Karelia Regional Council; North Karelia Regional Council; South Karelia Chamber of Commerce; South Savo Chamber of Commerce; North Karelia Chamber of Commerce; Lake Saimaa ry; and South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences.

About the World and European Regions of Gastronomy
Candidate and awarded World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.

About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.

IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.

IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.

Jomtien, Pattaya, Thailand, January 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The lush and tropical beachfront retreat offers well-traveled explorers and families a welcoming, invigorating destination to reconnect with nature and discover authentic Thai culture. Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, marking the debut of the Andaz brand in Thailand. Nestled across over 15 acres (6.4 hectares) of stunning beachfront land, amid mature trees and gardens overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, this luxury lifestyle resort provides a myriad of ways for guests to express their personal style and connect with the local culture and nature, from destination excursions to authentic dining, wellness and family activities.

“With the growing demand for immersive, authentic experiences among luxury travelers, we are delighted by the launch of the vibrant Andaz brand in Thailand, one of the world’s most appealing destinations,” said David Udell, group president, Asia-Pacific, Hyatt. “Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach is our first Andaz resort in Thailand, adding to the brand’s growing portfolio in the region, which now includes properties located in Bali, Delhi, Seoul, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Singapore, Tokyo and Xiamen.”

Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach is a tranquil oceanfront sanctuary on Tawanron Beach – known as “Sunset Beach” for its magnificent sunset views – located between the popular holiday hub of Jomtien and the charming fishing village of Bang Saray and is within a 10-minute drive from most of Pattaya’s scenic and tourism hotspots such as the beautiful rolling green countryside, lakes, wineries, world-class golf courses and cafes. Less than two hours by car from Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi Airport, the resort is in the Na Jomtien area which is poised to become a luxury lifestyle leisure destination as part of the country’s Eastern Economic Corridor development.

Beachfront Infinity Pool
“While celebrating the spirit of exploration and the individuality of each guest and immersed in an unspoiled beachside setting, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach offers low-rise clusters of rooms, suites and villas, shady courtyards, sparkling pools and creative event spaces, all of which reflect the dynamic charm of this up-and-coming destination,” said Ranjeet Y. Rajebhosale, general manager, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach. “Through collaborations with local brands like the wellness provider, PAÑPURI, and artisans, we hope to create riveting experiences that will help guests reconnect with nature and discover Thai culture.”

Concept and Design
Surrounded by mature, landscaped gardens with conserved, century-old trees, the distinctively local yet modern design of the resort is inspired by the site’s history as a private estate. Conceived by award-winning Thai architecture firm A49 and PIA interiors, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach warmly greets guests with an awe-inspiring raintree and reflective pond upon arrival within the Raintree Court, which is the heart and soul of the resort where travelers can meet, unwind and socialize. This barrier-free space features restaurants with interactive show kitchens and an herb garden, where guests can receive a personalized tour, along with additional distinctive experiences and programming for travelers looking to fulfil their curiosities and stimulate their senses. Exquisite Thai teakwood houses – all of which have been given a new lease on life using reclaimed wood materials from storied traditional Thai wooden houses – are nestled under the tropical foliage, while natural, locally sourced and handmade materials and artwork have been incorporated throughout the resort.

Guestrooms and Suites
Set in low-rise clustered buildings, the 204 rooms, suites, and villas, which start from 538 square feet (50 square meters), are adorned with locally influenced interiors, walk-in rain showers and a balcony or terrace with a relaxing daybed. Spread throughout the gardens, guests can experience a sense of discovery as they explore the lush landscape. A variety of accommodation options cater to a wide range of occasions and guests, from multi-generational families to couples and individuals. The Lagoon Access Rooms invite guests to step straight into the rippling waters of the resort pool, while the Pool Suites allow guests to cool down with a private dip at any time of day, and the Beachfront Suites are set directly on the soft sand.

Set to open in the coming months, two heritage-inspired houses form the resort’s most highly prized accommodation that are ideal for multi-generational families and intimate celebrations – a duplex four-bedroom Manor House and a breath-taking six-bedroom Presidential Heritage House, each of which offers luxurious living with private pools, courtyards, butler service and ocean views.

Dining and Entertainment
The resort’s six distinct restaurants and bars feature local, seasonal, and sustainable produce, including tropical fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices from the onsite organic garden. A vibrant beachfront restaurant serving fresh local seafood, Fish Club offers light poolside bites at lunch, refreshing cocktails at sunset, immersive contemporary dinners and late-night drinks with live DJ sets. Wok Wok serves traditional Thai comfort food and authentic regional flavors in a casual environment, La Cucina is a trattoria-style Italian restaurant where guests can savor delicious pastas and freshly baked pizzas with Italian wines, while Village Butcher is a classic steakhouse where diners can enjoy charcoal-grilled steaks alongside a wide selection of wines. The Teak Lounge invites guests to sit back and enjoy refreshments under the magnificent raintree, and the soon-to-open Ruen Thai is a traditional, charming teahouse adorned with Thai silks and classical floor seating, allowing guests to sit back and recharge in a tranquil space surrounded by nature.

Wellness
Three outdoor swimming pools provide endless opportunities for relaxation, including a peaceful lap pool, a freeform family pool next to the bright Sanuk Sanuk kids’ club, and a beachfront pool overlooking the beautiful beach that sets the stage for sunset cocktails and sparkling DJ parties. Nestled amid the verdant gardens, PAÑPURI Spa is a collaboration with the exclusive Thai wellness brand – which also created the resort’s uniquely scented bathroom amenities – offering a luxurious haven of wellness where guests can experience soothing therapies with organic skincare products. The 24-hour fitness center features the latest Technogym equipment and a rejuvenating yoga room.

Social Spaces
The naturally lit 3,229-square foot (300-square meter) Garden Pavilion will bring every social or corporate event to life with its floor-to-ceiling windows, versatile pre-function foyer, outdoor terrace and show kitchen. Ruen Thai, the restored two-level heritage building, can be transformed into an exquisite setting for more intimate occasions.

For more information and full terms or to book a stay, please call +66 38 221 234.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of September 30, 2022, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,200 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 72 countries across six continents. The Company’s offering includes brands in the Timeless Collection, including Park Hyatt®, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Hyatt Residence Club®, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, and UrCove; the Boundless Collection, including Miraval®, Alila®, Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, Hyatt Centric®, and Caption by Hyatt; the Independent Collection, including The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®, Destination by Hyatt™, and JdV by Hyatt™; and the Inclusive Collection, including Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Vivid Hotels & Resorts®, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services.

About Andaz
Global in scale while local in perspective, the Andaz brand of luxury lifestyle hotels weaves the sights, sounds, and tastes of each property’s surroundings for a distinctively local experience. Through thoughtful, unscripted service tailored for travelers, Andaz hotels enable guests to go beyond the familiar and satiate their curiosity while immersing them in the spirit of the eclectic culture around them. There are currently 25 Andaz hotels: Andaz 5th Avenue in New York, Andaz San Diego, Andaz West Hollywood, Andaz Napa, Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Andaz Savannah, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, Andaz London Liverpool Street, Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht, Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere, Andaz Singapore, Andaz Delhi, Andaz Xintiandi in Shanghai, Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills, Andaz Seoul Gangnam, Andaz Xiamen, Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, Andaz Dubai The Palm, Andaz Shenzhen Bay, Andaz Bali and Andaz Prague.

Berlin, Germany, January 14, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO, in collaboration with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and UN Women has launched a free online training course focused on gender equality within the tourism sector.

The course, which is available through atingi.org, is part of the pioneering ‘Centre Stage’ project which is putting women’s empowerment at the heart of tourism development. Aimed at National Tourism Administrations, tourism businesses, tourism students and civil society organizations, it focuses on the importance of gender equality, why women’s empowerment matters and what steps can be taken to advance diversity and inclusion efforts across the sector.

Education is key to reimagining the future of tourism and although our sector employs a huge number of women, equality is remaing a long way off

UNWTO Secretary General said: “Education is key to reimagining the future of tourism and although our sector employs a huge number of women, equality is remaing a long way off. We call on all tourism businesses and organizations to use this free course to train their staff and help us to ensure that tourism continues to be at the forefront of gender-equality efforts.”

The training course can be taken for free at any time in English, Spanish, Arabic, French and Russian on atingi.org. Users are issued with a certificate upon successful completion of the course. For more information, contact: centrestage@unwto.org.

Son Tra Peninsula, Vietnam, January 12, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The spa’s immersive multi-sensory experience starts as soon as guests arrive. Perched above a natural lagoon in a hidden valley of the Son Tra Peninsula, this secluded sanctuary feels blissfully separated from the outside world. Bill Bensley’s original, organic design concept invites relaxation in eight treatment villas that are based on the tube shape of Quonset huts. These elegant suites are complemented by soothing saunas and steam rooms, hammam beds, Jacuzzis and marble bathtubs.

Guests can choose from a menu of treatments inspired by the power of sound. Mi Sol Spa’s therapies are based on rituals, which include a ceremony that helps guide the mind and inspire positive intentions. The “Re-Start Ritual” for example, is designed to cleanse and heal, while “Empower Me” helps people to visualize and realize their dreams, and “Connecting Us” is ideal for couples or families seeking precious time together. A series of Signature Mi Sol Spa Experiences, Body Work Treatments, Facial Treatments and Unique Experiences range from invigorating massages and blissful body scrubs to frequency yoga sessions, sleep support therapies and more, to enable every traveller to achieve their personalized journey to wellbeing.

“Every ritual at Mi Sol Spa harnesses the pure and natural products from Subtle Energies, the Australian skin and body care brand which has 30 years of clinical experience and research with a focus on Aromatherapy founded on authentic Ayurveda principles and has been shown to deliver high-performance results.”

“At Mi Sol Spa, our aim is to help you leave behind what you no longer need, and let your body and mind reset and restore. Let us turn on your inner sunlight. By connecting sound and wellness, we can boost the flow of qi around your body and set you on a new path to vibrant wellbeing,” said Sri Ambarwati, Spa Director of InterContinental Danang.

About InterContinental Hotels & Resorts
The InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand makes travel alluring, with insights from 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 InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort
InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort is a 39-hectare paradise that blends personalised service and unparalleled amenities across four levels – Heaven, Sky, Earth and Sea – all linked by a funicular railway that rises up the forested hillside. Nestled on the spectacular natural preserve of the Son Tra Peninsula, north of Danang City, Vietnam, guests can enjoy culinary artistry at four restaurants and bars, including La Maison 1888, which is helmed by three Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire, soothe their senses at The Lagoon Spa, or simply unwind on the 700-metre-long beach. The Summit sets the stage for the world’s grandest gatherings and one-of-a-kind weddings, with a purpose-built auditorium, ballroom and multiple meeting spaces.

London, United Kingdom, January 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The semi-private jet service Aero announces new routes across Europe, catering to the French & Swiss Alps. Semi-private jet service Aero has announced its Winter routes to some of the most in-demand destinations across Europe and North America. From mid-December onwards, Aero will fly from London Farnborough Airport to Sion and Geneva. The service will also resume flights from London to Nice from December, following a short hiatus through November. In North America, Aero will be flying to and from Los Angeles, including LAX and Van Nuys, Los Cabos, San Francisco, Aspen and Sun Valley.

With travel seeming to be back to business as usual, Summer 2022 saw a huge demand in Aero’s routes across Europe. This allowed the brand to expand their fleet and offer routes to Ibiza & Nice from London Farnborough, as well as being the only airline to offer the popular island-hopping route between Ibiza and Mykonos. As we approach the end of the season and begin to make Winter holiday plans, Aero will follow their clients to the French and Swiss Alps, offering regular legs to Sion Airport and Geneva Airport from London Farnborough through the Winter months.

By offering direct flights to Sion and Geneva almost daily, Aero will permit access to some of the most desired ski resorts in both Switzerland and France in as quick as 35 minutes by car. Passengers can reach the likes of Verbier, Crans Montana, & Chambery in under an hour, and Gstaad, Zermatt Saas Fee, & Meribel in under two. Aero will provide semi-private air travel on a regular basis like never before, allowing clients to travel effortlessly to the French and Swiss Alps through the winter.

Since launching in 2019, Aero has been on a mission to redefine air travel through a semi-private jet service that provides direct flights to the world’s most coveted destinations in North America and Europe. With premium seats purchased individually, personalised concierge services, luxury interiors, and thoughtful curation at every touch point, Aero offers a radically better leisure travel experiences at a fraction of the usual jet-chartering price. It removes the hassle of flying commercial, through the use of private, crowd-free terminals, therefore minimising travel time and maximising holiday time.

“We are excited to offer our guests more options to fly with Aero,” said Uma Subramanian, Chief Executive Officer of Aero. “We will continue to provide our guests with an unparalleled way to travel and we look forward to bringing the Aero experience to new markets in the coming months”.

One-way flights with Aero begin from £990.

About Aero
Aero offers premium seating on direct flights between private terminals, using custom designed jets up to 16 seats. Since launching in 2019, the shared-charter model has offered the benefits of private aviation for a fraction of the cost, with access to a curated list of coveted destinations across the United States and Europe. Aero offers a seamless experience via their personalised concierge service available to all guests and which includes hosts on the ground to deliver unparalleled service. From weekend getaways to regular travel between residences, let Aero take you where you want to go.

Unless otherwise advised: (1) All intra-EU flights are operated by Aero Guernsey Ltd.; (2) All flights either arriving or departing the United Kingdom are operated by Aero FlightOps UK Ltd.; and (3) All flights within North America are operated by USAC Airways 695 LLC dba Aero Air. Aero Technologies Inc. acts as ticketing agent for Aero Guernsey Ltd. and Aero FlightOps UK Ltd., and, in the United States, as an indirect air carrier under US-DOT Part 380.

Geneva, Switzerland, January 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Artist Maya Lin, acclaimed soprano and arts/health advocate Renée Fleming and actors and humanitarians Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre Elba are the recipients of the 29th Annual Crystal Award, the World Economic Forum announced today. The winners will be honoured at the opening session of the Forum’s Annual Meeting 2023 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, on the evening of Monday, 16 January. The award celebrates the achievements of leading artists who are bridge-builders and role models for all leaders of society.

The Crystal Award is presented at Davos each year by Hilde Schwab, Chairwoman and Co-Founder of the World Economic Forum’s World Arts Forum. The cultural leaders receiving the 2023 Crystal Award are bridge-builders. They connect us to each other; they help us reflect on the human condition and they provide visions of the world that can cut through the limitations of short-term or linear thinking.

Awardees
Maya Lin receives the 2023 Crystal Award for her extraordinary creative talent in combining science, art and architecture and her exemplary leadership in the promotion of nature and environment. Lin has fashioned a remarkable interdisciplinary career through her highly acclaimed art and architectural works, showcasing sustainable design and emphasizing a stronger connection to the land and nature.

>From her first public work, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C., Lin has been committed to focusing attention on the key issues of our time: women’s rights, civil rights, Native American history and the climate crisis. In 2016, on awarding Lin the Presidential Medal of Freedom, President Barack Obama said her Vietnam Veterans Memorial “changed the way we think about sacrifice and patriotism and ourselves”.

Lin’s latest memorial, What is Missing?, is experimental and multidisciplinary in nature. In this work, Lin uses science-based artworks to raise awareness of the current mass extinctions of species, while emphasizing that by protecting and restoring habitats and reforming our land-use practices we could significantly reduce emissions and restore and protect biodiversity

Renée Fleming receives the 2023 Crystal Award for her leadership in championing the power of music and its relation to health, community and culture.

Renée Fleming is one of the most acclaimed sopranos of our time and a leading advocate for research at the intersection of arts, health and neuroscience. She launched the first ongoing collaboration between the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) with the participation of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The Sound Health initiative explores and brings attention to research and practice at the intersection of music, health and neuroscience. This collaboration has led to workshops at the NIH and events and performances at the Kennedy Center. It also led the NIH to recently award $20 million in funding for music and neuroscience research over five years. The Renée Fleming Foundation is now partnering with the Foundation for the NIH to develop a toolkit for standardizing music and health clinical research for brain disorders of ageing. Fleming has presented her programme, Music and the Mind, around the world.

Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre Elba receive the 2023 Crystal Award for their leadership in addressing food security, climate change and environmental conservation.

Actor, filmmaker and humanitarian, Idris Elba, and his wife, the model, actress and humanitarian, Sabrina Dhowre Elba, were appointed UN Goodwill Ambassadors for IFAD in April 2020. As IFAD Goodwill Ambassadors, they focus on issues related to food security, climate change and environmental conservation. The couple recently visited an IFAD-supported project in Sierra Leone, where they met farmers who received support for rice production and assistance with rural finance after the Ebola crisis.

The late Queen Elizabeth II awarded Idris Elba with the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2016 and the Prince’s Trust, founded by King Charles in 1976 – which Elba credits with helping to start his career – appointed him as its anti-crime ambassador in 2009

Elba supports causes related to poverty, HIV/AIDS, at-risk and disadvantaged youth, health and education. He worked with the UN and the Department for International Development in the UK during the Ebola health crisis and filmed campaigns in support of UNICEF, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals. He has recently created a number of youth-focused campaigns to promote education and learning and discourage violence.

Sabrina Dhowre Elba works with a variety of civil society organizations, including Farm Africa, raising funds to help farmers across eastern Africa, and Conservation International on environmental issues. She promotes gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls worldwide. She chairs the European board for Global Citizen and has been a keynote speaker at leading global events.

Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre Elba are board members of Conservation International.

Crystal awardees are part of a large community of cultural leaders in Davos.

The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting brings together governments, international organizations, business, civil society, cultural leaders, media, experts and young leaders from all over the world.