Category: Latest Travel News

Gunsan, Korea, October 8, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / After two years without an on-site GSTC Conference due to the pandemic, the 2022 GSTC Asia-Pacific Conference took place in Saemangeum, Gunsan, Jeonbuk, Korea, from September 15-17. The conference brought together Korean and international tourism stakeholders involved in the development and promotion of sustainable travel & tourism, including the public sector, hotels, tour operators, corporates, OTAs, academia, NGOs, consultants, and more. The Conference themes were (A) Attraction & Destination Stewardship, (B) MICE & Hotels, and (C) Ecotourism & Heritage.

“During the last two and a half years, tourism suffered an unprecedented crisis with a drop of three-quarters of its international flows. Never before has tourism made such a loss. As a comparison, the SARS epidemic in 2002 and the economic and financial crisis of 2008 caused a reduction of international tourists of less than 10%. But past esteem shows the tourist rebounds as soon as the conditions return to normal and international tourism is already consolidating a strong recovery despite many challenges. Tourism saw a strong growth in the first half of 2022, reaching almost half the level of the same period in pre-pandemic in 2019. International tourist arrival more than tripled over the same period of 2021, and nearly 250,000,000 international trips were recorded worldwide through May this year,” said GSTC Chair, Mr. Luigi Cabrini. “Our challenge and the GSTC mission is to enhance positive economic and social benefit to the level where they overcome their negative impacts.”

“Our organization is now 15 years old. Starting from the first version of the GSTC Industry Criteria in 2008, we expanded and consolidated a system of standards that is now recognized as the main reference internationally. Though we remain a small organization, our influence is spreading and we are proud of the results achieved in the search for solutions to fill the gaps that prevent an effective pursuit of sustainable tourism. During the pandemic, GSTC grew stronger. Key public and private organizations joined as members. More professionals followed our training course and webinars. More governments through the tourism authorities adopted the global criteria as a reference for future strategies. More leading companies and destinations trust our methodologies. Working at the World Tourism Organization, I’ve seen many initiatives on sustainable tourism, but GSTC is the most successful and resilient,” concluded Mr. Cabrini.

Mr. Caesar Indra, President of Traveloka, delivered a keynote speech on transforming operations to be more adaptable and sustainable, both socially and environmentally. “The pandemic has presented a “reset moment” in the travel industry – to address long-standing challenges while also seizing new opportunities – using technology to ease travel activities, encourage environmentally-friendly behavior, and empower local communities. This complex crisis will need all of us – the governments, the private sector, the investors and the community, to reform and transform the way we collaborate and partner; to create programs, policies, regulations for sustainable tourism to become mainstream.”

“There are many examples that show how a society thrives after a major crisis, becoming more resilient as we learn from our own journey, and to innovate and transform to become better. It is solely up to us, this society, to decide the future that we are going to be in,” concluded Mr. Indra.

Speakers from Asia-Pacific shared insights and discussed the following topics: NTOs & DMOs Partnering with the Private Sector; Managing Visitor Flow; Attraction Criteria Consultation Workshop; Small MICE: Business Retreats and Small Meetings; Sustainable Management Systems for Hotels; MICE Criteria Consultation Workshop; Wonders in Tourism & Heritage; Ecotourism Businesses Benefiting Communities. During the conference, two workshops were carried out for the development of MICE Criteria and Attraction Criteria.

As with previous GSTC Conferences, sustainable event practices were carried out. This included minimal printing, badges made of recyclable paper, and reusable bottles were given out for refill at various water stations. Backdrops were made from paper material instead of plastic. Vegetarian meal was the default meal option, with no lamb and beef, which have the highest carbon footprint.

After the 2-day conference, participants joined a complimentary tour of Jeonju Hanok Village. Jeonju is a historical spot, known for its traditional housing structures. After a walking tour of Gyeonggijeon shrine, there was an opportunity to experience traditional clothing known as hanbok.

Upcoming GSTC2022 Global Conference in Sevilla, Spain (12-15 Dec 2022)

The GSTC2022 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (#GSTC2022) will be hosted in the beautiful historic city of Sevilla, Spain, from 12-15 December 2022. Superb thought-leading speakers from around the world will share their insights on topics such as ‘Sustainable Hospitality’, ‘Adaptation to Climate Change’, ‘Mainstreaming Sustainability Standards’, and ‘Destination Stewardship’ in an interactive program. An onsite GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course will take place prior to the Conference (Dec 11th-12th). Learn more and register.

About the GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, known as the GSTC Criteria. There are two sets: Destination Criteria for public policy-makers and destination managers, and Industry Criteria for hotels and tour operators. These are the guiding principles and minimum requirements that any tourism business or destination should aspire to reach in order to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources, while ensuring tourism meets its potential as a tool for conservation and poverty alleviation.

The GSTC Criteria form the foundation for Accreditation of Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services; but it accredits those that do. The GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, NGO’s, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism.

Bangkok, Thailand, October 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / La Scala Restaurant at The Sukhothai Bangkok is a triumph of innovative interior design paired with inspired Italian cuisine. Chef de Cuisine of La Scala, Eugenio Cannoni, extended an invitation to Luca Abbruzzino from the Michelin-starred Calabrian restaurant Ristorante Abbruzzino to join forces on a four-hand collaboration to create an unforgettable dining experience!

Since 2008 Ristorante Abbruzzino has been at the forefront of the Calabrian food scene, with chef-owners Luca and Antonio Abbruzzino taking the best of local produce and turning it into world-class cuisine. In 2013 the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star. The restaurant itself was completely refurbished by architect Michele Panza in 2016, giving the dining room a simple, elegant atmosphere and drawing all attention to the food itself. Curious diners can watch the kitchen at work through a large window, and in summer customers can choose to eat outside in the beautiful garden at the front of the building, which sits in a quiet residential area of Catanzaro. More about Ristorante Abbruzzino: https://www.abbruzzino.it/#pg-homepage-page.

27 – 29 October 2022
8 Courses: THB 4,600++ per person
6 Courses: THB 3,900++ per person
4 Courses: THB 2,300++ per persons

Lunch 12PM – 3PM (l.o. 2PM)
Dinner 6PM – 11PM (l.o. 10PM)

For reservations, please call 02 344 8888 or email to promotions@sukhothai.com

About La Scala
La Scala, an award-winning Italian restaurant is highly coveted for classic and progressive Italian cuisine combined with fine Italian and European wines. Its beautiful poolside setting is a bold statement in contemporary décor subtly infused with The Sukhothai’s cultural heritage, and showcases an open kitchen, private room and a bar with a wine cellar.

About Eugenio Cannoni
Eugenio Cannoni is from the northern Italian region of Piedmont. His career began in the family restaurant, but with a strong desire to enhance his knowledge he enrolled at one of Italy’s best cooking schools, Alma di Gualtiero Marchesi. From there begun a path of research and enrichment by touring different kitchens in Europe and around the world, also dedicating himself to collaborations and as a consultant on various TV shows in Italy and abroad. His latest appointment was Chef De Cuisine at Castello di Casalborgone in Turin.

Singapore, Singapore, October 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Asia’s premier MICE show with strong exhibitor line-up such as Abbott Rapid Diagnostics, Alaska Destination Specialists, Destination Hospitality, Incheon Tourism Organisation, NYC & Company, Sapporo Convention Bureau, Ungerboeck, Visit Anchorage, Visit Guam, Visit Monaco, YTS Services Marketing and many more, underlining the growth of Asia MICE market. MICE Show Asia 2022 is a three-day conference and exhibition for the meetings industry in Asia Pacific (APAC) that aims to redefine industry practices and identify new trends that will shape the future of MICE. The fourth edition of the premier MICE Show in Asia returns as an in-person event held at Marina Bay Sands from Wednesday, 19 October – Friday, 21 October 2022. The event is co-located with ITB Asia and Travel Tech Asia and will be organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore).

Strong presence of exhibitors signals the importance of MICE Show Asia for the industry

Across the three days, more than 30 exhibitors from Convention and Visitor Bureaus (CVB), MICE buyer organisations, destinations, MICE tech companies and start-ups will showcase their products and services including Abbott Rapid Diagnostics, Alaska Destination Specialists, Business Events Perth, Business Events Sarawak, Czech Republic, Destination Hospitality, Dubrovnik Tourist Board, Incheon Tourism Organisation, Latvia Travel, Mississippi River Country USA, NYC & Company, River Cruises DCS -Touristik GmbH, Sapporo Convention Bureau, Saxony Tourism Germany, Taipei City Government, Ungerboeck, Visit Anchorage, Visit Berlin, Visit Brussels, Visit Estonia, Visit Finland, Visit Guam, Visit Iceland, Visit Malta, Visit Monaco, Visit Rovaniemi, Visit Sarajevo, YTS Services Marketing, and Zagreb Tourist Board.

“MICE Show Asia 2022 will bring together industry suppliers, meetings & events professionals and emerging MICE innovators to connect and build the future of MICE. With the industry’s revival and positive signs, this event is a must-attend for the meetings industry in APAC to get the latest insights and strategies and capture the immense growth of the Asia MICE market”, said Katrina Leung, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the organiser of MICE Show Asia, Travel Tech Asia and ITB Asia.

MICE Show Asia Conference: Original content, breaking news and thought-provoking ideas

MICE Show Asia will take place on the leading MICE & Corporate Travel conference stage, with a strong international participation from speakers and partners from International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI), Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) and many more. The who’s who of the community will discuss five main topics ranging from “Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of Event”, “Digital Nomads – A New Type of Corporate Travellers”, “Duty of Care for All: The Extended Role of Travel Managers with Travel Risk Management”, “Experiences Reimagined: The New Growth Indicator” and “Emerging Focus on Sustainability and Wellness for MICE Travel”.

What the future holds for an in-person event, especially in the wake of a global pandemic, is the main topic of the CVB’s panel on Day 1, 19 October, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., moderated by Ciaran McQuillan, Head of Special Events, Asia, Global Media Services, Associated Press. Titled “How Large-scale Meetings, Conventions, and Live Events Are Surging Anew”, Gareth Martin, CEO, Business Events Perth, Noor Ahmad Hamid, COO, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Jerry Cito, Executive Vice President, Convention Development, NYC & Company, Marico Ogi, MICE Director, Sapporo Convention Bureau and Nichapa Yoswee, Senior Vice President, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) will explore what it takes to be future ready and how the industry has rebounded to take the MICE industry forward.

The Buyers Meet TMCs Panel Discussion on Day 2, 20 October, 3 – 4 p.m., titled “The State of Corporate Travel 2023”, will feature C-level executives talking about the future of corporate travel, trends that might continue into 2023 and beyond and how the MICE industry is evolving. The panel discussion will be moderated by Vivek Neb, Managing Director APAC & MEA and Global Head, Travel & Tourism, Escalent, who will lead a debate with Sanghamitra Bose, Vice President and General Manager Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, AMEX GBT, Brenda Quek, Asia-Pacific Travel Meetings and Events Program and Engagement Leader, Ernst & Young (EY), Khaled Khattab, Travel, Events & Congresses Manager, Novartis and Carl Jones, Managing Director, South-East Asia, SAP Concur.

The MICE Leaders’ Panel, “Return to a World Transformed: Revitalising MICE for a New Era” on Day 3, 21 October, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. features a discussion where professionals, buyers and sellers of travel and meetings services explore how different players in the MICE ecosystem can work together to deliver a better bottom line and future for the industry. The panel will be moderated by Richard Ireland, President, Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS). Confirmed panelists include Patricia Cheong, Managing Director Asia, International Conference Services (ICS), Waikin Wong, Regional Director Asia Pacific, ICCA – International Congress and Convention Association, Wee Min Ong, Vice President of Conventions & Exhibitions, Marina Bay Sands, Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO, Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau and Arnold T. Gonzales, Head, MICE Department, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines.

Traditional in-person meetings were paused in 2020, but innovation flourished out of necessity. Now is the time for venue providers to use those lessons learnt over the past years to rebuild MICE even stronger. The Venue Providers’ Talks, titled “The New Meeting Space” on Day 1, 19 October, 2 – 3 p.m., will feature Gilles Cretallaz, COO, Dusit International, Arun Madhok, CEO, Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Chua Wee Phong, Chief Executive (Venues), Constellar and James Fong, CEO, Jewel Changi Airport, who will share on how venue providers are building safe, secure, and thoughtful meeting space and experience for planners and suppliers.

MICE Show Asia Conference Partners
MICE Show Asia can count on well-established conference partners including International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE).

IAPCO welcomes its Ambassador Stéphane Talboom to discuss the “The Future of Business Meetings and Travel in Asia from a PCO’s Perspective”.

IAEE and MPI will lead four joint conference sessions where eligible practitioners will earn 4 CE hours for their certification revalidation. The topics of the joint sessions are “Meetings & Exhibitions Outlook: Future Predictions for the Business of Meetings”, “Top 7 Trends in Sales Today”, “Extraordinarily Inclusive: Events and Exhibitions that Embrace Everyone” and “The Exhibition and Event Professionals Marketing Playbook”. All the four sessions will be led by Karen Gonzales, Director Global Business Development, IAEE and Estefani Aguirre, Vice President, Business Development, MPI who will join together to navigate the audience through the overarching trends impacting MICE market.

ICCA will host a C-Suite Talk, titled “Global Trends – Reshaping Business Events: The Fast Track of Recovery”, with Dato’ Sri Abdul Khani bin Daud, Board of Director, Member of ICCA as expert speaker.

SITE will host a C-Suite Talk featuring its Past President Rajeev Kohli who will talk about “5 Things You Absolutely Need to Know About the Future of Incentive Travel in a Post Pandemic World”.

Further high-profile industry leaders have their say.
Other experts leading the industry conversation with their market insights, brand new ideas and inspiring case studies include:

– Andy-Michaels Lim, Managing Director – Singapore & Malaysia, Amadeus
– Sanjay Seth, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, BCD Meetings & Events
– Amelia Roziman, CEO, Business Events Sarawak
– Foo Sze Zhaun, Executive Director, Corporate Information Travel (CIT)
– Laura Ruffles, Executive Director, Global COO, Corporate Travel Management (CTM)
– Maura Geertsma, Vice President, Global Retention Center of Excellence, CWT
– Ian Cummings, Global Head, CWT Meetings & Events
– Teresa Matheson, Head of APAC, Egencia
– Tracey Edwards, Global Strategic Lead & GM ANZ, Event Travel Management (ETM)
– Bertrand Saillet, Managing Director, Asia, FCM Travel
– Ben Taylor, CEO, APAC, George P. Johnson
– Martin Sirk, International Advisor, Global Association Hubs Partnership (GAHP)
– Kelli Vettoretto, Regional Vice President, HelmsBriscoe
– Neelu Singh, Managing Director, APAC, HRS Group
– Lim Hui Ject, Managing Director, Singapore & Brunei, International SOS
– Stephane Talboom, VP Sales and Marketing, K.I.T. Group
– Richard Soo, Chief Guru @ Creative Marketing (Managing Director), MEP Meeting & Exhibition Planners
– Jonathan Seto, Senior Vice President and Managing Director – APAC, MOI Global
– Agnieszka Majkowska, Experience Director, Prudential Polska
– Edward Koh, Executive Director, Conventions, Meetings & Incentive Travel, Singapore Tourism Board (STB)
– David Hughes, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Uniglobe Travel International
– Alycia Brady, Managing Director – Singapore, We Are Aspire

About ITB Asia
ITB Asia, Asia’s leading travel trade show, is organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. The annual B2B trade show and convention will feature hundreds of exhibiting companies from the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, covering not only the leisure market, but also MICE and corporate travel. Exhibitors from every sector of the industry, including destinations, airlines and airports, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions, inbound tour operators, inbound DMCs, cruise lines, spas, venues, other meeting facilities and travel technology companies are expected to attend.

ITB Asia is the premier meeting place for the travel trade industry to forge new partnerships and strengthen existing business relationships with the most important players in the region.

About MICE Show Asia
MICE Show Asia is the premier MICE event in Asia where incentive travel, meetings and events industries come together to connect and build the future of MICE. The annual B2B trade show and convention features industry suppliers, meetings & events professionals to up-and-coming MICE innovators from a wide range of disciplines, sectors and all levels of seniority. The show is co-located with ITB Asia and Travel Tech Asia.

About Travel Tech Asia
Travel Tech Asia is the premier travel technology show in Asia. The trade show is where latest technologies, emerging trends, leading travel brands and innovative start-ups are all at one place to create the new possibilities of travel. From travel tech suppliers, innovative start-ups to leading travel brands who are at the forefront of the industry transformation, Travel Tech Asia welcomes attendees from all levels of seniority across a wide range of disciplines and sectors in the travel industry. The show will be co-located with ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam, October 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts has continued to strengthen its presence in Vietnam with the opening of the Best Western Premier Sonasea Villas Phu Quoc, an elegant new upscale all-villa resort in Vietnam’s “Pearl Island.”

Nestled on the soft sands of Bai Truong Beach, on the island’s sunset coast, this beautiful boutique resort is ideal for families, couples, honeymooners, and any other guest seeking a little extra space to unwind. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and only 10 minutes’ drive from the airport, this chic retreat seamlessly weaves contemporary design and international amenities into its natural, tropical surroundings.

The inviting three-, four- and five-bedroom villas are designed in an eco-sensitive style with warm, earthy tones and panoramic glass walls and doors that allow daylight to flow into every space. Guests can step out of their villas onto shady terraces and slide into sparkling pools. Barbecues, alfresco dining areas and even pool tables are perfect for special occasions and private parties.

Like every Best Western hotel and resort in Asia, the Best Western Premier Sonasea Villas Phu Quoc promises the latest in-room comforts and amenities, including sleep-inducing king or twin beds, bathrooms with power showers, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, working desks, USB ports, complimentary Wi-Fi and outstanding in-room dining.

The Best Western Premier Sonasea Villas Phu Quoc is located adjacent to the existing Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc, and visitors will be able to access the extensive facilities of this sister property including the sublime Thala Spa, fully-equipped fitness center and colorful Nemo’s kids club. The Essence Restaurant, Oasis Pool Bar and C View Sky Bar also offer myriad opportunities to relax, refuel and refresh.

“We are excited to unveil the Best Western Premier Sonasea Villas Phu Quoc, which represents not only the expansion of our presence in Vietnam – one of our most important target markets – but also the evolution of our upscale product. Best Western gained a strong and proud reputation in the midscale sector, but our 17 industry-leading brands now span every tier of the market from economy to luxury. The launch of this upscale all-villa retreat is further evidence of the diverse nature of our portfolio in Asia, and the confidence owners have in the power of our brands. We look forward to introducing this beautiful beachfront resort to our guests,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President of Operations – Asia-Pacific, BWH Hotel Group.

Guests at the Best Western Premier Sonasea Villas Phu Quoc will also be able to earn and redeem points and benefits with Best Western Rewards®, the group’s award-winning loyalty program.

This opening represents the latest phase of Best Western’s expansion strategy in Vietnam. The company now operates three hotels and resorts across the country, with 24 hotels and resorts and two branded residences in the pipeline, in destinations ranging from Ha Long Bay in the north to Phu Quoc Island in the south.

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 brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 17 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®, BW Premier Collection®, and BW Signature Collection®. Through the 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.

Ha Noi, Vietnam, October 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Ahead of the Mekong Tourism Forum in Quang Nam, Central Viet Nam, 12-13 October, Mr Doan Van Viet, Viet Nam’s Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, outlines the vision and latest tourism priorities for his country

1. What are your targets for Viet Nam tourism in 2022?

In the last “normal” year, 2019, we attracted over 18 million foreign visitors. China, South Korea, Japan are traditionally our biggest markets. We have the ambitious target of attracting five million foreign tourists in 2022, up from almost zero in 2021, which was due to Covid-19. In the first eight months of 2022, we welcomed over 1.2 million international tourists. Besides the international market, Viet Nam’s tourism industry aim was to serve 60 million domestic tourists by the end of 2022. However, the number of domestic visitors has already exceeded the target, reaching 79.8 million visitors. Domestic tourism is forecast to fully recover in 2022.

2. Is there a new emphasis or focus in Viet Nam’s 2022-23 tourism promotion campaigns?

We completely re-opened the door for tourism from 15 March, 2022. Viet Nam is one of very few countries in the Asia-Pacific region opening to international tourism without any entry conditions required. We promote communication to attract international tourists to Viet Nam with the campaign “Live fully in Viet Nam”. The Viet Nam tourism marketing plan 2022 – 2023 is to bring an image of a safe, friendly and hospitable Viet Nam to the world. We are focussing on smart and sustainable tourism development followed by green and responsible travel.

3. What role does Quang Nam province play in Viet Nam’s tourism marketing plans?

It plays an increasingly important role as part of our tourism cluster strategy. Quang Nam together with Da Nang, Thua Thien Hue will be one of the clusters in Central Viet Nam. The national tourism year 2022 was chosen to be held in Quang Nam with the theme of ‘green destination’ because of its potential. It is already known as a visitor-friendly destination thanks to its natural resources and wonderful coastline. It offers a vibrant culinary scene, many cultural attractions, and a diverse history, especialy Hoi An ancient town. For tourists seeking a sustainable travel experience where you can learn as well as appreciate nature, Quang Nam is home to productive farms, handicraft villages, rivers, mountains, and unspoiled natural attractions.

4. Which new tourism-related infrastructure projects will improve the tourism sector in Viet Nam?

We have a lot going on, much of it guided by the Viet Nam Tourism Development Strategy to 2030. The strategy clearly defines our goal in developing modern and holistic infrastructure, especially transport infrastructure in tourism clusters, national tourist sites and areas with tourism potential. We are taking an inclusive approach to tourism infrastructure development, which focuses not only on international-class tourism destinations, such as Hoi An, Sapa, Ha Long, Da Nang, Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, but also on secondary tourism destinations, especially ones with potential to connect to regional tourism networks. Regarding Greater Mekong Subregion cooperation, for the last 20 years, Viet Nam has participated in four regional tourism infrastructure development projects sponsored by the Asian Development Bank, among which the latest is the Second GMS Tourism Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth Project. These projects were designed to improve the accessibility to secondary tourism destinations in provinces along GMS economic corridors as well as to enhance the environmnental conditions and urban infrastructure for tourism development.

5. What does Viet Nam Tourism hope will be the positive outcomes from the 2022 Mekong Tourism Forum?

There are three outcomes we would like. First, to strengthen linkages between the leaders of the sub-region’s tourism industry, with the aim of rapidly recovering the tourism industry in a sustainable, resilient and comprehensive way, to promote the sub-region’s tourism as a common destination. Second, to introduce the city of Hoi An, voted as one of the 25 best cities in the world; also, to introduce Quang Nam in Central Viet Nam as an ideal destination for green and sustainable tourism, rich in cultural values, full of amenities of a top-class beach resort. Third, the Forum demonstrates the recovery of the tourism industry, the return of sellers and buyers in the region, after a period of travel freeze. Our aim is to promote a rapid recovery of international tourism and create sustainable tourism supply and demand.

6. What message do you have for tourism leaders and delegates attending the Forum?

We should focus on practical goals that make the travel and tourism industry better for the benefit of our populations. My message is, “Let’s act together for sustainable tourism growth.” I hope all delegates arrive in a positive state of mind to listen, learn and return home motivated to “Rebuild Tourism, Rebound with Resilience” – the theme of the 2022 Mekong Tourism Forum.

About Mekong Tourism Forum
First held in 1996, the Mekong Tourism Forum is an annual government-led event dedicated to the tourism industry in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). The event provides a cooperative platform for travel and tourism stakeholders to discuss regional tourism development, along with the marketing and promotion of travel to, from, and within the GMS. It presents an inclusive, interactive, and results-oriented opportunity to encourage public- and private-sector participation in promoting the GMS as a single destination. Visit: https://mekongtourismforum.org/about-mtf-2/

Montreal, Canada, October 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A Long Term Aspirational Goal (LTAG) for sustainable aviation will be discussed at the ICAO 41st Assembly. Action will be key for aviation’s journey towards net zero emissions. Attending the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Assembly in Montreal this week, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is calling on all governments to urgently agree an emissions reduction target for global aviation.

ICAO’s 41st Assembly will see 193 countries gather for talks on the future of aviation. WTTC is urging all Member States to support the ‘Carbon Offsetting & Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA)’ and agree on the proposed emissions reduction target called the ‘Long Term Aspirational Goal’ (LTAG).

Whilst the Travel & Tourism sector recognises the challenges involved in the transition to sustainable aviation, WTTC believes CORSIA and the LTAG, aligned with net zero by 2050 and the Paris Climate Agreement, will be a critical next step for protecting the planet and maintaining global connectivity.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Governments have an historic opportunity to sign a world-wide agreement on a net zero future for aviation.

“The aviation industry is fully committed to reducing its emissions. We need that same level of ambition by governments. We urge all ICAO Member States to endorse the aviation net zero target and support a sustainable travel industry.”

The global tourism body believes ICAO’s 41st Assembly will be a crucial step towards a more sustainable sector and can set a global example as the world’s only industry that is fully aligned and committed to net zero action across borders.

To support governments and the sector achieve a greener future, WTTC launched the ‘Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism’, an ambitious guide for the sector in its battle against climate change.

The roadmap sets out emissions reductions for each industry within the travel and tourism sector including hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines and tour operators, providing a clear roadmap on how to decarbonise the sector.

WTTC urges ICAO and its 193 Member States to adopt the WTTC Net Zero Roadmap as a contributor to international aviation’s emissions reduction plans.

For further information on WTTC’s Net Zero Roadmap, please click here.

Bangkok, Thailand, October 4, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Restaurant POTONG Announced its latest accolade, winning the prestigious award “2022 Rising Star – TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok”. Chef Pam with the entire team at POTONG, are pleased to announce that Restaurant POTONG has been awarded prestigious accolade from TOP 25 Restaurants as “2022 Rising Star – POTONG Rising Star in Top Restaurants Bangkok”. It’s truly our honored to be awarded and officially featured in TOP 25 Restaurants.

Thank you, Top 25 Restaurants and Travelindex, for recognizing Chef Pam (Pichaya Soontornyanakij) and the team’s hard work and passion in what we do and the strive being as one of the best restaurants in Bangkok. We will work even harder and keep up our standard even higher.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More information about our award from TOP 25 Restaurants at:

POTONG

Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, October4, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Hong Kong headquartered Wharf Hotels, a hospitality group with hotel operations spanning mainland China, Hong Kong and the Philippines, today announced its luxury Niccolo Hotels brand is set to enter into the resort space. An initial collection of new-build Niccolo Resorts are slated for China, Thailand and Japan.

“We are excited to bring our Niccolo Resorts brand to life. Anchored in exceptional art and design, stylish settings, and a service culture that is heartfelt and timeless, we believe these brand attributes will resonate with leisure guests who want to live the ‘contemporary chic’ lifestyle the brand espouses,” said Wharf Hotels President, Thomas Salg.

Each Niccolo Resort will be a sophisticated and luxury sanctuary featuring landscaped outdoor areas with flora and fauna, as well as pockets of serene spaces to suit couples and multi-generational travel. In addition to a swimming pool of spectacular design and thought provoking art pieces to leave an impression, a free-standing Conservatory will serve as a multi-faceted area for events and creativity.

Complementing the resort’s picture-perfect beauty are lush surroundings and a breadth of guest experiences including exceptional dining venues, restorative and wellness treatments, a children’s Explorer Club highlighting conservation and a Beach Club for adults, as well as outdoor activities to connect with nature.

About Wharf Hotels
Hong Kong SAR-based Wharf Hotels, a subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Limited, operates 16 owned and/or managed hotels under Marco Polo Hotels and Niccolo Hotels in Hong Kong, Mainland China and the Philippines. Niccolo Hotels was added to the group’s portfolio in 2015 as the luxury brand and encompasses five contemporary chic hotels –– The Murray, Hong Kong; Niccolo Changsha; Niccolo Chengdu; Niccolo Chongqing and Niccolo Suzhou. Marco Polo Hotels’ 11 international deluxe hotels in established locations within Hong Kong, Mainland China and the Philippines reflect the philosophies of their namesake and adventurer – Marco Polo, and invite guests to explore, discover and experience a destination.

About Niccolo Hotels
Niccolo Hotels is a collection of five contemporary chic hotels inspired by luxury fashion. Underpinning the brand is the desire to make life effortlessly luxurious for guests with engaging experiences, art and culture, and sophisticated spaces. The brand’s first property Niccolo Chengdu opened in 2015, and was quickly followed by four further hotels – the brand’s flagship The Murray, Hong Kong; Niccolo Changsha; Niccolo Chongqing and Niccolo Suzhou. Niccolo Hotels is a member of Wharf Hotels and Global Hotel Alliance, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands.

Doha, Qatar, October 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit Hotel and Suites Doha makes its grand debut offering luxurious accommodation and unique dining experiences in the city’s stylish West Bay district and ideal base for football fans during FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, is expanding its unique brand of gracious hospitality in the Middle East with the opening of Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha, the third Dusit-branded hotel in Qatar.

• Discover Qatar and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Opening on 1 October, the sky-scraping 50-storey property comprises 192 luxury serviced apartments in Doha’s bustling West Bay district, a renowned business and commercial hub near popular tourist attractions such as Souq Waqif and Doha Corniche. Hamad International Airport is just 20 minutes away by car.

Steeped in intricate artistic design, Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha’s serviced suites feature generous living space, making them ideal for families and groups looking for luxury accommodation in one of the city’s most happening neighbourhoods. Overlooking Doha’s impressive cityscape, the property’s three-bedroom duplex penthouses span two floors and offer between 338 to 370 sq m of space. The largest accommodation, covering 1,104 sq m, boasts six spacious bedrooms, living and dining areas, an ensuite hot tub, a private swimming pool and sauna, and a panoramic view of Doha.

Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha is also home to six culinary hot spots, including the globally acclaimed Indian restaurant, Qureshi Bukhara; Torafugu, a modern Japanese concept; Oro by Alfredo Russo, an Italian restaurant and lounge spearheaded by Michelin-star chef Alfredo Russo; a rooftop 360-degree gastropub; an elegant lobby lounge; and a cigar lounge. The hotel also offers a host of wellness facilities, including Namm Spa, a fitness centre, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

“With our prime location in Doha’s vibrant West Bay, our unique array of luxury suites, and the eclectic range of dining options on offer, Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha comprises all the elements to deliver comfort, service excellence, and a remarkable experience for international and local guests alike,” said Mr Raghu Menon, Cluster General Manager, Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha. “With the FIFA World Cup approaching very soon, and global travel rebounding, we are excited to welcome the world to discover Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality at Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha.”

Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha marked its opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mr Ahmed Mahdi Al Majed, Chairman of Al Majed Group Holding; Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International; Mr Prateek Kumar, Senior Vice President – Operations, Dusit International; Mr Raghu Menon, Cluster General Manager of Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha; and several key members of each company.

• Discover Qatar and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of six brands (Dusit Thani, Dusit Devarana, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 16 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

About Al Majed Group Holding
Al Majed Group Holding started in 1943. Mr. Ali Al Majed, a young pearl trader with a courageous spirit of entrepreneurship and ambition, became one of the most prominent pearl traders in the Gulf. His son, Mahdi took after his father the most, setting sail on his own and trading in the most appealing of pearls. When oil was discovered in the 1940s and a new era of prosperity began in Qatar, Mahdi established “Al Majed Jewellery”, which expanded to include jewellery from the best designers in Europe and became a center of attraction for all jewellery seekers in Qatar.

Today, Mahdi’s three sons, Ahmad, Mohammed and Jamil, handle the family business with great honor and dedication. They have enhanced the business image and services, diversified the portfolio of products and services, and have expanded Al Majed Group with eleven divisions.

Bangkok, Thailand, October 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand is pleased to invite tourists to the 2022 MotoGP World Championship motorcycle race, the OR Thailand Grand Prix, which is making an exhilarating return this year and will take place at the Chang International Circuit in Buri Ram province this weekend, from Friday, 30 September to Sunday, 2 October.

To help promote the OR Thailand Grand Prix 2022, a pre-event “MotoGP vs Muay Thai” photoshoot was held in Bangkok on 27 September, which had MotoGP race riders learning the art of Thai kickboxing or Muay Thai at the famous Rajdamnern Stadium in a promotional video to be broadcast to MotoGP fans worldwide.

This included MotoGP race riders: Álex Márquez of the Honda LCR Team, Fabio Di Giannantonio of Gresini Racing MotoGP, and Albert Arenas of the Inde Gasgas Aspar Team, as well as Moto3 race riders: Izan Guevara of the Valresa Gasgas Aspar Team and two Thai riders from the Moto2 – Somkiat Chantra of the Idemitsu Honda Team Asia and Keminth Kubo of the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said “We are thrilled to see the MotoGP racing event back again this year, both for the thrilling action and excitement it offers fans here in Thailand and around the world through its live broadcast, and for the enormous opportunity it presents in showcasing Thailand’s ability to host world-class sporting events. It fits well with the promotion of sports tourism in the kingdom.”

With PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR) as title sponsor, this is the third edition of the MotoGP – the world’s number one motorcycle road racing championship watched by over 800 million people and broadcast live to more than 200 countries – in Thailand after the first PTT Thailand Grand Prix 2018 and PTT Thailand Grand Prix 2019. The thrilling sport has a large following in Thailand, where there are more than one million fans.

The three-day OR Thailand Grand Prix 2022 is the 17th race on the 2022 MotoGP World Championship calendar out of a total of 20 races. The event programme sees free practices and qualifying for the MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, and Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup on Friday and Saturday. The Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup’s first race will also be held on Saturday. On Sunday is the day of the MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3 races, as well as the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup’s second race.

H.E. Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health, will preside over the official opening of the 17th race on the 2022 MotoGP World Championship, the OR Thailand Grand Prix, which is scheduled to be held on Sunday afternoon. He will also witness the MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3 races.

Meanwhile, H.E. Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, will attend several events on Friday. Following a visit to the community park at the Chorakhe Mak Reservoir None-hunting Area and presiding over the opening of the Thai Sarus Cranes Community Tourism Festival, his schedules at the Chang International Circuit will include officially openubg the SAT SPORTS EXPO and the TAT’s Amazing Thailand booths and visiting other booths, including OR, HONDA, YAMAHA, CHANG, and the MUAY THAI EXPO.

In addition to the motorcycle races, the three-day programme features a music concert by popular Thai artists Joey Boy and Slot Machine on Friday evening, a Muay Thai or Thai kickboxing competition and concert by Thai singer, Katai Pannipa, on Saturday evening, and a concert by another Thai singer, Oat Pramote, on Sunday evening.

Tickets to the OR Thailand Grand Prix 2022 can be purchased at 7-Eleven stores nationwide, or through www.allticket.com.

For more information, please go to www.motogp.com/en/event/Thailand, www.bric.co.th/thailandgrandprix, or the Facebook page Chang Circuit Buriram.