PATA Expands Partnership with OAG

PATA Expands Partnership with OAG - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, October 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has renewed its partnership with OAG, reaffirming the company as the Association’s Preferred Partner and exclusive aviation data provider for a three-year term.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “I am delighted to announce the expansion of PATA’s strategic collaboration with OAG to a three-year partnership, underscoring a long-term commitment between our organisations. This extended collaboration will greatly benefit PATA members, providing them with essential aviation data to monitor flight capacity and identify emerging trends shaping the tourism industry. With OAG’s world-class aviation data, our members are well-equipped to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving landscape.”

As part of the renewed agreement, OAG’s Schedules Analyser—a cutting-edge platform with comprehensive OAG’s airline schedules database and analytic tools— is available through PATAmPOWER. This grants PATA members access to vital flight frequency and seating data for personal and internal business purposes, helping to optimise destination management, refine marketing strategies, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Mayur Patel, Head of Asia, OAG, remarked “We are excited to announce this strategic data partnership between OAG and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing data-driven insights for travel and tourism in Asia-Pacific. By combining OAG data and expertise with PATA’s in-depth regional knowledge, the partnership will empower stakeholders with actionable intelligence that will foster innovation and growth in the travel and tourism sectors.”

About OAG
OAG is the leading data platform for the global travel industry, powering the growth and innovation of the air travel ecosystem. It has the world’s largest network of flight information.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

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PATA: Asia Pacific Tourism Set for Continued Growth Following Strong 2023 Recovery

PATA Asia Pacific Tourism Set for Continued Growth Following Strong 2023 Recovery - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, October 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today released its Annual Tourism Report 2024, showcasing the robust recovery of international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across the Asia Pacific region in 2023. The report reveals that tourism numbers rebounded significantly following the pandemic, with IVAs nearly doubling compared to 2022. As the travel industry moves into 2024, this upward trend continues, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the region’s tourism sector.
Key Findings: Significant Increase in IVAs for the Asia Pacific region

In 2023, international visitor arrivals reached 522 million across 47 Asia Pacific destinations, marking a 94.3% increase from the previous year. This remarkable resurgence marks the most substantial recovery for Asia Pacific tourism since the onset of the pandemic, with IVAs nearing pre-2019 levels. Among the top-performing destinations were China, which welcomed over 82 million visitors, accounting for 15.7% of the region’s total, and the USA, which saw over 66 million arrivals (12.7%).

Türkiye has emerged as one of the top tourist destinations, reaching pre-pandemic visitor numbers in 2022. For 2023, international arrivals increased by another 10.4%, thanks to Türkiye’s rich cultural appeal, strategic location between Europe and Asia, and continued investments in tourism infrastructure and safety. This growth was also supported by targeted policies such as visa simplifications and digital nomad visas, making Türkiye one of the top recovery markets alongside Thailand and Macao, China.
Emerging Trends and a Bright Outlook for 2024

The momentum continued into early 2024, with IVAs rising by 22% year-on-year, reaching nearly 262 million arrivals by mid-year. The majority of growth has been driven by Asia, which accounted for eight of the top 10 destinations by volume, including Hong Kong SAR, Japan, and Thailand. Hong Kong alone saw a 64.2% increase in visitor numbers compared to the same period in 2023.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted, “Tourism in Asia Pacific saw a major recovery in 2023, and this momentum is continuing into 2024. With over 261 million visitors recorded this year, the region is rebounding quickly, led by strong growth in destinations like China and Japan.”

Countries like Thailand demonstrated significant success with innovative travel policies, including temporary visa exemptions for visitors from key markets like China, Kazakhstan, and India.

Furthermore, in 2023, Thailand launched two parallel tourism campaigns: “Thai Tourism Year 2023” for domestic tourism and “Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters” for international visitors. Through collaborations with digital travel platforms, airlines, and personalised content, the Thailand Tourism Authority (TAT) used data analytics to segment markets and adapt promotions to visitor preferences.

The Thai Tourism Year 2023 campaign aimed to boost domestic tourism by promoting lesser-known destinations within Thailand, enhancing travel experiences in secondary cities, and emphasising eco-friendly and culturally immersive trips.

The Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters campaign targeted international markets with a focus on unique, themed experiences, including wellness, adventure, and luxury travel. The Digital Nomad program – a special visa initiative offering a 10-year visa for remote workers – appealed to long-term visitors drawn to cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, known for their affordable living costs and robust coworking facilities. Thailand’s Muslim-friendly travel sector also expanded through tailored, halal-certified services, supporting the country’s goal of becoming a top destination for Muslim tourists within the next five years. Additionally, with its scenic beaches and luxury resorts, Thailand saw a significant influx of Indian weddings and large gatherings in 2023, which boosted local industries such as catering, hospitality, and event planning.

These campaigns helped drive over 28 million international arrivals in 2023, representing a 154.4% year-on-year increase. Thailand’s success is further highlighted by its efficient handling of airport congestion and infrastructure improvements.

Similarly, Türkiye saw its tourism industry flourish, driven by strategic policies targeting Russian and European tourists. By focusing on popular destinations like Antalya and Istanbul, Türkiye attracted millions of high-spending visitors, contributing significantly to its economic growth.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

The report underscores that while growth remains strong, there are still challenges on the horizon. The reemergence of health risks, such as potential new SARS variants, and geopolitical tensions could affect the pace of recovery. However, the industry’s resilience, adaptability, and innovation offer a strong foundation for overcoming these hurdles.

As Mr. Hamid noted, “We must stay adaptable amid uncertainties. The global travel and tourism sector is stronger when we collaborate, ensuring our recovery is both swift and sustainable. Ultimately, tourism thrives when there is peace and respect for humanity.”

Conclusion: A New Era for Asia Pacific Tourism

The PATA Annual Tourism Report 2024 highlights the remarkable strides made in revitalising the travel sector across Asia Pacific. With continued recovery expected into 2024 and beyond, the region is poised to surpass pre-pandemic levels, ushering in a new era of responsible, resilient, and innovative tourism.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

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Raise Your Glass to Timeless Legacy

Raise Your Glass to Timeless Legacy - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, October 18, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson and Italasia proudly present the Zwiesel Glas Festive Collection, featuring an exclusive set of beautifully crafted wine glasses designed to elevate any celebration.

The JIM THOMPSON x ZWIESEL GLAS Festive Collection by ITALASIA embodies the rich heritage of three iconic brands, each recognized for their unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative design. Teaming up with Italasia, the Thai import specialist and distributor of Zwiesel Glas, Jim Thompson presents a selection of premium silk fabrics that adorn each decorative box in the collection, meticulously crafted to elevate any celebration, merging tradition, innovation, and elegance in a way that is both timeless and contemporary.

Zwiesel Glas has been manufacturing exquisite glass products for more than 150 years and is the world market leader for the upscale hotel and restaurant industry.

Nunnapat Verojanavat, Marketing Director of Jim Thompson, said, “For over 70 years, our journey has been one of constant evolution, preserving tradition while pushing the boundaries of design and craftsmanship to go beyond silk. This unique collaboration with Italasia to create the Zwiesel Glas Festive Collection is a true reflection of our ethos. The master craftmanship of the wine glasses presented in decorative Jim Thompson silk boxes makes each set a must for the connoisseur, and a highly desirable collector’s piece.”

The collection includes the Zwiesel Glas hybrid glasses, a composite of crafted handwork fused with state-of-the-art machine precision, blending tradition with modern techniques from this master glassmaker. Suitable for both red and white wines, these exquisite glasses are a testament to the versatility and timeless appeal of the collection. Jim Thompson and Zwiesel Glas logos are elegantly placed at the base of each glass, adding a touch of sophistication. The beautifully crafted ornamental boxes, decorated with the finest Jim Thompson fabrics and intricate design detail, make the collection a perfect gift for any wine connoisseur.

Fa Benedetti, Hospitality Director of Italasia, said, “The Jim Thompson and Italasia partnership represents the perfect union of creative artistry. The Zwiesel Glas Festive Collection delivers an experience that enhances the joy of gathering, celebrating, and sharing special moments together. The legacy of this unique collaboration can be enjoyed with each sip from this evocative collection.”

The exclusive collection includes 3 limited edition box sets:
– Box for 2 Set of Wine Glasses in Orange (11,850 THB inc. VAT) includes two hybrid glasses suitable for red and white wine.
– Box for 2 Set of Wine Glasses in Blue (11,850 THB inc. VAT), similar to the Orange set, this elegant blue version includes two hybrid glasses. Box for 4 Set of Wine Glasses, (12,750 THB inc. VAT) perfect for larger gatherings, extends to four hybrid glasses, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship that can be enjoyed to celebrate those big occasions in style.

About Jim Thompson
No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an architect, art collector, socialite, and entrepreneur who is recognized as the driving force behind the revival of Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries. Today, Jim Thompson is the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand with a reputation for beautiful silks and “Beyond Silk”.

Palace Hotel Tokyo Debuts A Tokyo Christmas Stay Package

Palace Hotel Tokyo Debuts A Tokyo Christmas Stay Package - TRAVELINDEXTokyo, Japan, November 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / This holiday season, Palace Hotel Tokyo is presenting travelers with the opportunity to celebrate ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ in splendor and style, replete with artful Christmas cakes and a host of fine-dining experiences to choose from.

As one of the city’s most lauded hotels, Palace Hotel Tokyo is also one of the most elegant each festive season. This year, the centerpiece, 16-foot Christmas tree standing tall in the lobby moat-side will be decked out in red and gold baubles while elsewhere, installations inspired by snow-kissed treetops reflecting the golden hues of moon-lit nights bring a hint of the outdoors in.

Designed to bring a touch of home to a luxurious holiday getaway, ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ includes:

  • One night’s accommodation in a choice of a Deluxe with Balcony or Grand Deluxe room
  • Choice of breakfast in-room or at Grand Kitchen
  • An assortment of home-made Christmas cookies presented in a limited-edition tin
  • A 5.5-foot-tall, in-room Christmas tree decorated with lights and red and gold ornaments

Available for stays between December 20-25, rates for ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ start at JPY 183,000.*

*Inclusive of consumption tax, excludes 15% service charge & accommodation tax of JPY 200 per person, per night

Additional festive touches on offer include Champagne or a beautiful Christmas bouquet in-room as well as a Gâteau aux Fraises resembling a snow-kissed flower and made with strawberries grown at a farm in Ibaraki prefecture especially chosen by the hotel’s pastry chef.

At Esterre, the hotel’s one-Michelin-starred contemporary French restaurant in partnership with DUCASSE Paris, a six-course Christmas dinner menu will feature lobster bisque, steamed ezo awabi (abalone) with barigoule-style vegetables, and beef tenderloin with truffled winter vegetables.

At Wadakura, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s signature Japanese restaurant, its exquisite winter kaiseki course menu will be all about crab – including Kobako hairy crab, crabmeat dumpling, sashimi with Matsuba crab, and grilled Taraba crab with crab cream croquette. At GO, the hotel’s popular teppanyaki grill, a Christmas menu featuring seared red bream, Zuwai crab and Matsusaka beef will be served up.

Those who enjoy European-style Christmas breads and cakes but expect to miss out on them while spending the holidays in Japan will be delighted to discover that the hotel’s pastry shop, Sweets & Deli, presents an array of home-baked stollen, kugelhopf, berawecka and panettone each December – including some with a uniquely Japanese twist.

In addition to classics – such as berawecka packed with nuts and liquor-soaked dried fruits, and panettone with orange peel and sultana raisins baked with home-made panettone yeast – there’s a bohnen stollen made with yuzu-flavored marzipan and kinako (soybean flour), a ruby stollen made with dried rambutan, cranberries and almonds, and a limited-edition praline stollen featuring fruits soaked in litchi liqueur. There’s also a kugelhopf de Noël baked with sweet chestnuts mixed into its moist matcha dough and finished with a raspberry chocolate glaze.

Located in the city’s upscale Marunouchi district, Palace Hotel Tokyo is situated a stone’s throw away from Marunouchi Naka Dori, the tree-lined boulevard that’s breathtakingly illuminated each winter season along the 1.2 kilometers that stretches from the hotel past the landmark Tokyo Station to Yurakucho, at the edge of Ginza.

About Palace Hotel Tokyo
As the anchor to a billion-dollar, mixed-use development which debuted in 2012 following a re-build entirely from the ground up, Palace Hotel Tokyo commands some of the city’s most exclusive real estate as well as incomparable views of the verdant Imperial Palace gardens and the surrounding skyline.

Located in the capital’s prestigious Marunouchi district, the property features 284 rooms & suites, an evian SPA, and 10 distinctive restaurants and bars – including an exquisite range of Japanese cuisines, fine dining Shanghainese & Cantonese at MICHELIN One-Star Amber Palace and contemporary French haute cuisine at MICHELIN One-Star Esterre in partnership with DUCASSE Paris.

As heir to a legacy going back more than half a century as one of Tokyo’s most iconic properties, the hotel remains firmly rooted in its commitment to offering Japanese hospitality at its finest. In addition to receiving a prestigious Three Keys from MICHELIN Guide, the multi-award-winning hotel has held Forbes Travel Guide’s coveted Five-Star status for nine consecutive years and achieved a Five-Star rating for its spa in 2024.

Drawing deeply from the country’s history, culture and art, Palace Hotel Tokyo continues to redefine luxury in Japan with sophistication and authenticity.

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Loy Krathong Dinner Buffet and Fireworks at Millennium Hilton Bangkok

Loy Krathong Dinner Buffet and Fireworks at Millennium Hilton Bangkok - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, October 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / FLOW Restaurant invites you to a magical evening of celebration in honour of Loy Krathong 2024. Nestled along the picturesque Chao Phraya River, this one-of-a-kind experience offers guests the chance to enjoy breathtaking fireworks and an exquisite four-hour dinner buffet, blending the best of Thai and European cuisine.

Join us on Friday, 15 November 2024, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, at FLOW Restaurant on the lobby level, where you’ll be treated to an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests will indulge in a wide array of gourmet dishes, including Thai Wagyu Sirloin, Thai Chimichurri, BBQ Pork Ribs, Roasted Sea Bass, and Roasted Duck. The buffet also features premium sushi and sashimi, alongside Seafood on Ice, showcasing King Crab, blue crab, prawns, and a variety of shellfish, including local and international oysters. For cheese lovers, a curated selection of cheeses will be available, paired with delectable desserts served continuously throughout the evening.

Early Bird Special: Reserve by 10 November 2024 to enjoy a 20% discount on dining packages:

 Indoor Seating: THB 2,119 net (from THB 2,590 net)

Outdoor Seating: THB 2,950 per person

Children (6-11 years): THB 1,060 net

*Children under 6 year-old dine for free

Special offer: Free Krathong for couples to float along the river as part of the Loy Krathong tradition.

Don’t miss out on this spectacular evening of culture, cuisine, and celebration. Space is limited, so reserve your seat early!

Book now > bit.ly/LoyKrathong2024

 

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Experience the Heart of Isan at Jim Thompson Farm

Experience the Heart of Isan at Jim Thompson Farm - TRAVELINDEXNakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, October 29, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson Farm 2024: Isan Calling invites everyone to experience this once-a-year celebration across its sprawling 600-rai grounds, offering a complete immersion into Isan culture from December 7, 2024, to January 1, 2025, in Nakhon Ratchasima.

This year, Jim Thompson Farm presents “Isan Calling” as its theme, inviting visitors to reconnect with Isan roots and reunite after nearly a year apart. Transformed into an Isan Culture Oasis, the Farm promises an unforgettable celebration in a unique setting that captures the heart and soul of Isan. Through carefully curated highlights and activities, visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Isan ways of life, traditions, and cultural artistry – all woven together to tell the enchanting story of Isan heritage.

A highlight of this year’s festival is the collaboration with 19 renowned artists from Isan, Northern and Central Thailand, and beyond. They have turned the Farm into a large art space, mixing Isan’s unique identity with modern elements. Visitors can explore public art installations that beautifully showcase Isan culture throughout Jim Thompson Farm.

Visitors to Jim Thompson Farm can explore beautifully decorated zones filled with fun activities, all included with admission. Highlights of the experience include:

The Vibrant Flower Fields are a timeless favorite, captivating visitors with colorful displays of cosmos and native Isan flowers. Guests can enjoy the fresh air and snap beautiful photos at every corner.

“Art on Farm” brings together 19 renowned artists from Thailand and abroad, merging Isan heritage with modern expression. The farm turns into a sprawling canvas, celebrating Isan’s charm with nature-inspired art. Trees become living sculptures, and breathtaking installations fill the sky, making this an experience you can’t miss!

The Joyful Music Stage comes alive beside the rice fields from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, where celebrated Molam artists fill the laid-back farm setting with authentic Isan vibes. Featured performances include:

– December 20, 2024: Bo Dam Lam Sing and Wiang Na Naruemon
– December 21, 2024: Ku Khaen

“Lam Loke – The World of Molam” Exhibition takes visitors on a deep journey into the heart of Isan culture through its traditional music and performances, perfectly setting the stage for the live Molam concerts to follow.

Complementing this experience, the “Molam Bus Exhibition” features a historic 32-seat bus – once used to transport Jim Thompson’s textile workers – now transformed into a mobile gallery bus that has taken the artistry of Molam to many festivals and events across the country.

The “Rice is Life” Exhibition unveils the remarkable diversity of Thai rice, showcasing 50 unique varieties and traditional farming methods. On weekends, visitors can join Rice Tasting Workshops while daily features include explorations of the traditional rice mill, demonstrations of local processing techniques, and displays of innovative rice-based products. The journey extends to the vibrant rice fields, highlighted by an impressive 14-meter Rice Castle – a towering tribute to Isan’s life-giving grain.

The Jim Thompson Silk Pavilion reveals the allure of Thai silk heritage through an immersive journey of discovery. Here, visitors witness the complete lifecycle from silkworm to finished fabric, observe weaving demonstrations, and experience hands-on silk weaving guided by friendly local artisans.

The American-Isan Exhibition reveals a captivating blend of cultures from the Vietnam War era, highlighting the unexpected meeting of East and West. Through rare photographs and artifacts, visitors explore unique cultural exchanges, including heartwarming moments where American soldiers took part in traditional Isan merit-making ceremonies.

The Art Trail “Lan Siao Home” (“Friends’ Gathering Space”) weaves through cosmos fields, offering an imaginative adventure for families. Young visitors can interact with cartoon characters along the path while exploring, thinking, and creating. QR codes enhance the adventure, unlocking character stories through Sound Cloud and transforming art appreciation into a heartwarming family experience.

Isan Kitchen and Farm Store offers a delightful journey through flavors – from authentic Isan cuisine to creative fusion dishes – alongside exclusive Jim Thompson Farm products, Jim Thompson items, and special merchandise available only at the farm.

For over two decades, Jim Thompson Farm has stood as a cherished cultural destination eagerly anticipated at each year’s end. Through collaboration with local communities and artists, the Farm continues to bring Isan culture to life. Now, the Farm once again opens its doors with signature Isan warmth, offering a harmonious blend of stunning natural beauty, soul-stirring contemporary art, rich cultural traditions, and unforgettable creative experiences. This special journey, “Jim Thompson Farm 2024: Isan Calling,” welcomes visitors from December 7, 2024 – January 1, 2025.

Early Bird tickets are available through December 6, 2024
– Weekdays: Children & Seniors THB 90 | Adults THB 150
– Weekends: Children & Seniors THB 90 | Adults THB 200

About Jim Thompson Farm
Jim Thompson Farm, a tourist destination in Nakhon Ratchasima province, welcomes visitors annually during December through early January. The Farm was established with a deep recognition of sericulture’s importance – the cultivation of silkworms and mulberry trees – which provides a steady income for local farmers. Combining agricultural and cultural tourism, the Farm creates joyful and novel experiences for both visitors and its farming community. The visitor experience is further enriched through various activities and art exhibitions integrated throughout its grounds.

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ATPI and Nomadic Unite to Mobilise Global Workforce

ATPI and Nomadic Unite to Mobilise Global Workforce - TRAVELINDEXManchester, United Kingdom, November 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / ATPI, the leading travel management company, and Nomadic, a global short-term immigration provider for businesses and corporate travellers, have announced a new partnership to support the global energy sector with travel compliance and workforce planning. 

The collaboration will utilise the industry-leading knowledge and innovation of Nomadic to mobilise the energy sector’s workforce for global projects with greater ease. Backed by the world’s leading provider of immigration services Fragomen, Nomadic helps to process and corroborate visa applications for multinational and domestic corporations. 

ATPI will utilise Nomadic’s extensive insight and technology to streamline activity for workforces which require specialised visa permits to perform work in international regions. 

Recognizing a gap in the market, the two companies are committed to developing technology solutions that streamline international travel for the energy sector. This collaboration aims to provide workforces with the tools and support needed to maximize operational efficiency. 

As the preferred business travel services provider to ATPI, Nomadic helps individuals remain compliant with regional requirements via visa and passport services, and the notarising, procurement, and securing of essential records for immigration applications. 

Nomadic’s services will now be available to ATPI’s Energy and Marine clients in the UK, via the homepage of ATPI ‘s TravelHub – the all-in-one travel dashboard. 

ATPI’s General Manager Scotland, Zara Higgins commented: “Our new agreement with Nomadic is a natural progression to the excellence we deliver. Through our shared vision, we are – and have been – 100% committed to creating innovative solutions to support the Global Energy Sector. By integrating Nomadic’s proven immigration and visa services to strengthen our offering, we will have solutions available to help our clients navigate the ongoing complexities associated with travel in the energy sector. This is an exciting development for both companies, and we look forward to seeing the positive difference it will make.” 

Neil Thomson, Director at Nomadic, added: “Our agreement with ATPI is a new benchmark of smart collaboration and synergy. The chance to integrate our support into ATPI’s travel management systems will alleviate some of the challenges and inconveniences often faced by those who travel globally for work. By streamlining, and hopefully accelerating the process, we will take the burden off of individual operators and organisations, enabling them to focus on the efficiency and success of their energy activities.” 

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BWH Hotels Wins Two Prestigious Titles at Lifestyle+Travel Awards 2024

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BWH Hotels Wins Two Prestigious Titles at Lifestyle+Travel Awards 2024 - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, October 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, the leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay® Hotels, has continued its impressive winning streak at the travel industry’s most illustrious award ceremonies, as it was honored with two titles in the Lifestyle + Travel Awards 2024.

At a stylish gala evening staged in Bangkok on October 25th, 2024, Best Western Hotels & Resorts was named as the best “Mid-Range Hotels Brand” and WorldHotels was presented with the honorary “Influential Asia Pacific Hotel Collection” award.

The “Mid-Range Hotels Brand” award for Best Western, which was collected on stage by Rodney Simpson, BWH Hotels’ Managing Director, Operations – APAC, reflects the continued strength and success of this iconic midscale hotel brand, which has been delighting guests around the world for more than 75 years. Today, Best Western offers over 130 hotels and resorts across Asia Pacific with many more in the pipeline, covering a series of innovative and intuitive brands.

For WorldHotels, the “Influential Asia Pacific Hotel Collection” award reflects this industry-leading hotel company’s outstanding reputation in the region. The collection offers a selection of highly unique upscale and luxury properties under four distinct collections: WorldHotels™ Luxury, WorldHotels™ Elite, WorldHotels™ Crafted, and WorldHotels™ Distinctive. This esteemed award was presented on stage to Olivier Berrivin, BWH Hotels’ Vice President – APAC.

Organized by Lifestyle + Travel magazine, one of Asia’s most popular consumer publications, the Lifestyle + Travel Awards 2024 celebrates the leading providers of tourism, hospitality and lifestyle services who consistently raise the bar for excellence.

We are overjoyed to have won these two accolades in the Lifestyle + Travel Awards 2024. Best Western Hotels & Resorts continues to drive the midscale sector forward with its timeless combination of comfort, convenience and complete connectivity, while WorldHotels elevates every stay with its seamless blend of luxury, authenticity and individuality. I would like to thank Lifestyle + Travel magazine for these awards, and our entire team for their tireless commitment to creating exceptional guest experiences,” said  Olivier Berrivin.

These awards mark the latest honors for BWH Hotels, which recently received the “Best Midscale Hotel Chain” for Best Western Hotels & Resorts at the Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards, and the “Travel Hall of Fame” award in the TTG Travel Awards 2024.

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ME By Meliá Opens in Malta

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ME By Meliá Opens in Malta - TRAVELINDEXValletta, Malta, November 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Today marks the official opening of ME Malta in the seaside town of St. Julian’s on the island’s north-eastern coastline. Located on the water’s edge and designed by the globally acclaimed Zaha Hadid as part of the Mercury Towers development, ME Malta is ME by Meliá’s Maltese debut and marks the brand’s second collaboration with Zaha Hadid, following the success of ME Dubai which opened in 2020.

Set across 20 floors, the 113 rooms, 27 suites and 35 residences embody ME’s signature avant-garde design. Striking social and event spaces include three Thinking Labs, a Plenary Room and two Breakout Rooms. The hotel is also part of ME by Meliá’s wider ‘Culture Collective’ programme, whereby guests can take part in a curated calendar of events including showcases from local artists and performances from the hottest names in music.

Located on the hotel’s 8th floor, Cabana Club is set to become Malta’s premier rooftop, poolside beach club. Combining panoramic views over the rocky coastline of St Julian’s, modern Mediterranean menus, and a striking pool framed with plush cabanas and loungers, Cabana Club is the new destination to relax, dine, and party in style. Hot on the heels of Cabana Club is a new restaurant, Luciano by Gino D’Acampo. The menu, designed by Gino and his expert team, incorporates a selection of classic Italian and experiential dishes.

A signature ME by Meliá concept, the hotel’s crowning jewel is the Radio Rooftop bar, which will open in early 2025. Guests can indulge in a modern menu of Asian sharing plates and signature cocktails while soaking up unobstructed views of the Mediterranean, soundtracked by some of Malta’s top DJs.

Also set to open in early 2025, the Spa offers an experience that combines ancestral wellbeing techniques with the latest technology. Here, guests can choose from a menu of rejuvenating treatments that incorporate local, organic ingredients, from massages and facials to bespoke full-body rituals.

One of Europe’s most celebrated capitals of culture and leading LGBTQ+ destinations, Malta is perfectly aligned with the ME by Meliá brand. Home to a balmy climate, rich history and endless opportunities for fun, the Maltese archipelago is a true Mediterranean gem, and ME Malta provides the ideal base from which to explore. A versatile destination with a vibrant nightlife, picturesque bays and luxury boutiques, St. Julian’s offers a plethora of experiences for visitors and is just a few miles west of the capital city of Valletta.

A curated collection of hotels rooted in diversity, discovery and discernment, each ME property provides a space where culture and lifestyle can come together in unison. The growing portfolio embodies a contemporary European spirit, with flagship hotels including ME London and ME Milan. As the brand continues to expand into Europe’s most captivating cultural capitals, ME Lisbon is next in the pipeline, set to open its doors in 2025.

About ME by Meliá
Located in global cultural epicenters, ME by Meliá is a collection of design hotels to discover contemporary culture through the lens of their bold, charismatic personality. ME by Meliá brings destination, design and service together to deliver personal, enriching experiences for the stylish modern traveller. A stay at one of our hotels is more than just a vacation or a visit, it’s an immersion in architecture, design, gastronomy and art that few can match.

Contemporary culture is part of who we are. We express its creativity and energy in every aspect of our hotel experience. ME by Meliá hotels thrive on the sensorial connection to their settings – the visual stimuli, the taste of exquisite local food, the uplifting culture of its citizens and cultural leaders. Embedded within each hotel´s ecosystem is a community of artists, influencers, creatives and technologies that raise the hotel to a must-see, and must-stay, destination for those who yearn for inspiration and energy. There are currently eight hotels in the portfolio across Europe, Middle East, The Americas and Mexico, including ME Dubai, ME Milan Il Duca, ME London, ME Madrid, ME Ibiza, ME Barcelona, ME Sitges and ME Cabo. Upcoming openings include ME Malta, ME Guadalajara, ME Lisboa and ME Marbella.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

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PolyU Tripartite Hospitality Programme Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence

PolyU Tripartite Hospitality Programme Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence - TRAVELINDEXHong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, October 29, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the tripartite Master of Science in Global Hospitality Business (MGH) programme, three international leaders of hospitality and tourism education – the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), EHL Hospitality Business School (EHL) in Switzerland, and the Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership at the University of Houston (UH), USA – have come together to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure the continuation of this innovative educational strategy.

The signing ceremony took place on 16 October 2024 at the SHTM was presided over by Professor Kaye Chon, SHTM Dean, Chair Professor and Walter and Wendy Kwok Family Foundation Professor in International Hospitality Management; Dr Achim Schmitt, EHL Dean; and Professor Dennis Reynolds, Dean of UH’s Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership.

The one-of-a-kind MGH programme allows students to spend one semester in each of the three continents – Europe, Asia and North America – capitalising on three outstanding faculties and campuses. It provides students with exposure to three distinct markets and three diverse cultures to develop their deep-rooted understanding of global market dynamics and construct their management toolbox. With an unparalleled global educational experience, the MGH empowers students to truly “think global, act local”.

Representing the best of the East and the West, this pioneering programme offers students an unparalleled cultural and learning experience. Students’ learning encompasses Europe’s historical hospitality legacy, Asia’s fast-paced market, and America’s expansive hospitality domain, endowing them with an extensive toolkit for leadership and innovation in this ever-evolving industry.

The MGH has gone from strength to strength in the last 10 years, nurturing graduates to excel in a globalised environment and take the reins of the global hospitality industry. In 2020, the programme’s innovative approach to hotel and tourism education was selected for the McCool Breakthrough Award by the International Council of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education, the world’s largest organisation of hospitality and tourism educators. In 2023, the MGH was honoured with the International Strategy of the Year award at the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia, acknowledging the programme’s effectiveness in offering students a global perspective and helping them develop essential future-oriented management skills.

“This year represents another major milestone in the evolution of the MGH programme,” said Dean Kaye Chon. “Over the past decade, this award-winning programme has transformed the careers of countless students through its innovative educational strategy and global perspective. The SHTM is privileged to continue to join hands with the EHL and UH in this worthy partnership and looks forward to the added value the programme will bring to aspiring hospitality students around the world.”

About PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management
For 45 years, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality and Tourism Management” category in ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023 for the seventh consecutive year; placed No. 1 globally in the “Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services” category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2023/2024 for seven years in a row; rated No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism” subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017; and ranked No. 1 in Asia in the “Hospitality and Leisure Management” subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.
The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 90 faculty members from 21 countries and regions around the world, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School’s groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, and inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.

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