Category: Latest Travel News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perth, Australia, July 17, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced its latest round of high-profile speakers for its upcoming Global Summit, featuring top leaders from the world’s leading Travel & Tourism businesses.

Hosted by Tourism Western Australia (TWA), the event will take place in Perth (Boorloo), Western Australia, from 8-10 October. It stands as the pinnacle of the Travel & Tourism calendar.

Under the theme “Ancient Land: New Perspectives,” the Global Summit will spotlight Australia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, emphasising innovation and sustainable growth.

Industry trailblazers and international government officials from across the globe will converge in Perth to drive forward efforts for a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future in Travel & Tourism.

Top business leaders set to speak include Greg O’Hara, Certares Founder & Senior Managing Director and WTTC Chair, Matt Goldberg, TripAdvisor CEO, Audrey Hendley, American Express Travel President; Jerry Inzerillo, Diriyah Company Group CEO, Hiroyuki Takahashi, JTB Corp Chair of the Board, and James Thornton, Intrepid Travel CEO, among many others.

Adding star power, renowned wildlife conservationist and TV presenter Robert Irwin will also take the stage. Known for his dedication to wildlife conservation and inspiring positive change, Irwin follows in the footsteps of his legendary father, Steve Irwin.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The leading industrialists in Travel & Tourism who are shaping our sector and countries’ economies will be at WTTC’s Summit in Perth. Their insights and leadership are crucial as we shape the future of Travel & Tourism.

“Western Australia, with its stunning natural beauty and deep commitment to sustainability and cultural diversity, is the perfect backdrop for this event. Hosting the Global Summit in Perth enables us to pioneer new ideas for tourism while honouring the rich traditions and ancient heritage of the land.”

The event will bring together government representatives from around the world, offering a platform for industry leaders and officials to exchange insights, discuss best practices, and explore innovative strategies to drive the resilience and growth of the Travel & Tourism industry.

WTTC’s 24th Global Summit aims to be a game-changer, setting the course for a dynamic and sustainable future in Travel & Tourism.

Bangkok, Thailand, July 15, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels Mid-Season Savvy Sale is back with generous discounts at stylish city hotels and stunning beach resorts in dream destinations across Asia.

With our 7-day sale, you can enjoy up to 30% off when you book a stay with BWH Hotels from Wednesday, July 17th to Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024. This enticing offer is available to Best Western Rewards® members who complete their stay before October 30th, 2024.

So, don’t miss out – book your next escape with BWH Hotels’ Mid-Season Savvy Sale! From Bangkok to Cebu, Phu Quoc to Phuket, and Nagoya to The Philippines, we can create your ultimate Asian adventure!

Terms & conditions:
• Receive up to 15% off the hotel’s Best Rate, and BWR members enjoy an additional 15% discount, for a total discount of up to 30%.
• Bookings must be made between July 17th and July 23rd, 2024 (GMT +07:00 hrs.).
• Stays must be taken between July 17th and October 30th, 2024.
• Limited room allocations and blackout dates may apply.
• This promotion cannot be combined with any other offers, packages, or discounts.
• Other terms & conditions may apply, per the property or BWR program.

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 18 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, July 10, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed a record-breaking year for Travel & Tourism in Saudi Arabia, with new records in GDP contribution, sector jobs and visitor spend.

Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector is now soaring past all previous records, testament to the country’s commitment to becoming a global tourism hot spot.

Last year, the sector grew by more than 32% to contribute a record-breaking SAR 444.3BN to Saudi’s GDP, representing 11.5% of the entire economy. This exceeded the previous record by almost 30% and underscores the sector’s pivotal new role in the nation’s economic framework.

Jobs supported by the sector grew by 436,000 to reach more than 2.5MN, representing almost one in five jobs in the country.

Although the jobs lost during the pandemic were fully recovered in 2022, today’s announcement shows sector employment in Travel & Tourism has increased almost 24% since the previous peak.

International visitor spending surged by almost 57% to reach SAR 227.4BN, breaking the previous record by SAR 93.6BN, while domestic visitor spending grew by 21.5% to reach SAR 142.5BN.

Seven years ahead of its target, Saudi Arabia welcomed 100MN tourists in 2023. Today, the country is surging toward even greater heights and has set a more ambitious aim of attracting 150MN tourists by 2030.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said; “Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector’s extraordinary achievements last year mark a pivotal moment in its journey towards becoming a global tourism leader.

“This success is a direct result of the Kingdom’s visionary commitment to the sector, showcasing an impressive fusion of cultural heritage and innovative tourism initiatives. As the sector continues to expand, it promises to play a crucial role in the nation’s diversified economic future, while contributing significantly to global Travel & Tourism development.”

Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the Executive Council of UN Tourism, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb said “The latest data from WTTC provides further evidence of the rapid success we have achieved in transforming Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.

“Tourism is a key pillar of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plans and we have made great strides promoting investment in the sector – with more than $800 billion earmarked by 2030 – as well as creating new jobs and growing the contribution of tourism to GDP.”

What Does This Year Look Like?

Travel & Tourism is forecast to continue growing at pace in 2024, with GDP contribution set to reach SAR 498BN, while jobs will increase by more than 158,000 jobs to reach nearly 2.7MN.

International visitor spending is projected to reach SAR 256BN, almost double the previous high point, and domestic visitor spending is forecast to reach SAR 155.2BN

What Does the Next Decade Look Like?

The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its annual GDP contribution to a staggering SAR 836.1BN by 2034, almost 16% of the Saudi Arabian economy, and will employ more than 3.6MN people across the country, with one in five people working in the sector.

What Does the Region Look Like?

The Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector grew by more than 25% in 2023 to reach almost $460BN. Jobs reached nearly 7.75MN and international spending grew by 50% to reach $179.8BN. Domestic visitor spending grew by 16.5% to reach more than $205BN.

WTTC is forecasting that the Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector will continue to grow throughout 2024 with the GDP contribution set to reach $507BN. Jobs are forecast to reach 8.3MN, international visitor spending is forecast to reach $198BN and domestic visitor spending is expected to reach more than $224BN.

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

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

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

The conference’s agenda revolves around four key themes:

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

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

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

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

Bangkok, Thailand, July 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Nestled in the lush rice fields and natural forests of Prachinburi province, a hidden charm of the East, Tawa Ravadee Resort brings WorldHotels’ unsurpassed standards of upscale hospitality to an enchanting yet underexplored part of Thailand. This destination resort welcomes travelers with extensive facilities for both business and leisure, including a golf driving range, outdoor swimming pool, tennis, basketball, and futsal, as well as a contemporary restaurant and bar, conference rooms, and more.

Formerly part of the BW Signature Collection, it was rebranded as a member of WorldHotels Distinctive last year, reflecting the power of BWH Hotels’ diverse portfolio of brands to cater to the unique needs of every property.

Recently staged, the event highlights included team building and a themed poolside gala dinner, giving BWH Hotels’ esteemed corporate partners, media representatives, leading influencers, and leisure agents the chance to rediscover this outstanding resort and uncover what it can offer to domestic and international guests alike.”

“We were honored to invite our valued partners to rediscover Tawa Ravadee Resort, a member of WorldHotels Distinctive. With its authentic architecture inspired by the local Dvaravati culture, and extensive facilities for business and leisure, this is a resort that creates a striking first impression and lasting memories. We look forward to welcoming more travelers to experience the wonders of Prachinburi with WorldHotels,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

About WorldHotels
WorldHotels is a privately held hotel soft brand within the BWH Hotels global enterprise. Founded by independent hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, WorldHotels offers one of the finest portfolios of independent hotels and resorts around the globe, expertly curated to inspire unique, life enriching experiences that connect people and places. WorldHotels is comprised of four unique collections, each with its own personality and style to appeal to the needs of today’s traveler. The collections include: WorldHotels Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Crafted and WorldHotelsTM Distinctive.

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

Empowering Rural Artists and Artisans

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

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

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

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

Empowering Rural Communities Through Tourism

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

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

Driving Sustainable Tourism Development in rural communities in Africa

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

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

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

The call is expected to open for applications in September.

UN Tourism continues to deliver on its Agenda for Africa, bringing the region’s Members together around a focus on investments, multilateral cooperation and education.

The 67th meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (22-24 July) welcomed public and private sector leaders from across the region. The Member States met as Africa’s tourism sector experiences strong recovery. During the first quarter of 2024, arrivals were up 5% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This positions the continent as the second-best performer globally, surpassing all regions except the Middle East.

Zambia, as the whole African region, is an excellent example of the positive impact of tourism, which leads to new investments and job creation.

Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili, stated, “Zambia, as the whole African region, is an excellent example of the positive impact of tourism, which leads to new investments and job creation. Furthermore, our Members come together in Livingstone as Zambia is celebrates 60 years of peace and independence, an inspiration as we get set to mark World Tourism Day around the theme of ‘tourism and peace’ in September.”

Investing in African tourism 

In the last 10 years alone, Africa has attracted over 160 greenfield projects in tourism, representing a total capital investment of USD 10.7 billion, and the potential to create over 24,000 jobs. Recognizing this positive trend, the Commission Meeting Session featured a special Ministerial-level discussion focused on global tourism investment trends, with a special emphasis on the promising tourism outlook in Zambia. The session offered insights into sustainable development opportunities and strategies to attract and secure tourism investments. Key talking points included sustainable tourism development strategies, enhancing Africa’s global tourism competitiveness and innovation in tourism marketing and branding.

The meeting also saw the launch of a new set of the Investment Guidelines for Zambia. The publication focuses on tourism and inclusive growth in Zambia, which aligns with the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa, identifying opportunities for global investors.

New tourism Academies planned for Africa  

At the meeting, Memorandums of Understanding were signed for the creation of the Tourism Centre of Excellence in Livingstone, Zambia and the Academy for Culinary Arts in Zimbabwe.  

The Academies will add to the growing network of education centres supported by UN Tourism, helping give workers the skills they need to thrive in the sector and so drive economic growth and social opportunity. Secretary-General Pololikashviki also announced 100 scholarships for the UN Tourism Online Academy to each of the countries.

Technical support for African Members  

Out of 50 technical cooperation projects worldwide, UN Tourism is currently working on 13 in 10 African countries covering areas such as tourism statistics, digital transformation or skills development. Several technical cooperation projects are currently  being developed in the region, aligning with the five pillars of the Agenda for Africa: branding, connectivity, innovation, education, and investments. Secretary-General Pololikashvili also confirmed that UN Tourism will work with its Members across the region to develop and implement a new communication strategy designed to showcase the uniqueness of African destinations.

Additionally, Members embraced the Secretariat’s emphasis on safety and security recommendations in the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa which includes a tourism police initiative in collaboration with The West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).

With the aim of widening the portfolio and expanding on-the-ground presence of the organization, the establishment of a new Regional Office in Marrakesh is currently under discussion.

Expanding global cooperation 

Looking ahead, UN Tourism will hold a first joint meeting of its Regional Departments for Africa and the Americas (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, 3-5 October 2024). Here, Members of both Commissions will meet to discuss South-South cooperation through investments, education, cultural roots, creative industries, and innovation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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