Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok (Thailand) – July 26, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Siam Paragon kicked off the greatest horological phenomenon, reemphasizing its leading position of world class watch brand organize “Siam Paragon Watch 2017”, the most famous and world greatest watch exhibition in Thailand and Asia. The 11th edition of the event is exclusively held under the concept of ‘The Legendary Timepieces’ to showcase over 180 world class brand from Basel World 2017 and SIHH 2017 Switzerland the most influent country in timepiece industry. The Grand Opening joined by committees and executives of Siam Paragon, others watch brand executives and leading business on Tuesday, July 25, 2017 on 6.30 p.m. at Fashion Hall, 1st Floor, Siam Paragon.

Chanisa Kaewruen, Deputy Managing Director to Marketing and Business Relations of Siam Piwat Co., Ltd, said “Siam Paragon Watch Expo has moved to the 11th edition as the most famous and world greatest watch exhibition in Thailand and Asia. For this year, the expo gathers together many highlighted timepieces from world leading 180 brands for more than 30,000 watches. This timepiece phenomenon will provide watch fans an opportunity to experience and exchange their adorability and knowledge of science and art of horological world which is integrated in innovation and timer technology, and to understand brand journey and heritage. Exclusive for this year, many world class brands, investors, collectors, attended to this luxurious event.

“This year, we are proudly presenting innovation and new collection timepieces, and limited editions from leading global watch brands from Basel World 2017 and SIHH 2017 Switzerland through fashion presentation entitled “Legendary Timepieces” presented by superstars, celebrities, and models. Those leading brands are such as ULYSSE NARDIN Grand Deck Marine Tourbillon presented by Nawat Kulrattanarak, the leading actor. This fascinating timepiece is limited 18 pieces worldwide and exclusively exhibited only at Siam Paragon Watch Expo. Montblanc TimeWalker ExoTourbillon Minute Chronograph presented by Thanik Puvanattrai, this timepiece truly breaks through limitation of watchmaker’s technology. Breitling SUPEROCEAN HERITAGE II 46 presented by Sawit Tetphuwanon, Matre Du Temp C3R.00.00.161 Chapter Three Reveal presented by Krissiri Sukhsvasti Na Ayudhaya, Hublot Big Bang Sugar Skull Fluo, Hublot is continuing its “Art of Fusion” approach to watchmaking with the latest timekeeper that includes an embroidered skull motif on the dial in neon color shades, Ressence, a renowned independent watchmaker, introduces Ressence Type 5 BB, an all-black diving watch to satisfy modern lifestyle and driving function. TAG HEUER’s New 2017 Link Lady, presented by Jarinya Sirimongkolsakul, the leading actress, beautifully represents trendy women. It features a steel body with a curved-profile bracelet for wearer comfort. Grand Seiko proudly presents The Black Ceramic collection which offers only 3 limited pieces in Thailand. It was exclusively designed to commemorate 10th anniversary of Calibre Spring Drive Chronograph GMT. The new titanium bracelet arrayed with ceramic is featured in this craftsmanship timepiece to add sport looks. Charriol’s ST-TROPEZ™ Glamorous reveals the beauty of white pearl dial adorned with sparkling diamond counters and its unique steel braided strap. Oris Hammerhead Limited Edition, a special dive watch, is released to support shark conservation project of Pelagios Kakunjá, a non-profit organization. The precious model features an engraved Scalloped Hammerhead caseback and offers only 2,000 models worldwide and only 30 models available in Thailand. And Zimbe, SEIKO in limited edition that offers only 1,639 models worldwide.

Jakkrit Keeratichokchaikun, Senior Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer of The Mall Group’s Watch Galleria, revealed that “Watch Galleria, Paragon Department Store satisfies watch fans and collectors by gathering world leading watch brands to respond every lifestyle. In this year, Smart Watch continuously trend to be more popular items. Many brands start producing more Smart Watch with multi-function to meet more lifestyle requirements in exceptional price. Moreover, each highlighted Heritage brand present their astonishing collections to lure watch lovers and collectors. The must-have trend focuses on blue, green and gray tone which is very popular. The long-lasting favorite trend is Steel Watch which reflects wearers’ stable, determined and active characteristic.”

“The highlight of the expo this year is the gathering of many famous timepieces from world leading brands under the remarkable theme of ‘Pop-up Store’ directly from Basel World, the world’s most important trendsetting show for watch industry in Switzerland. This timepiece phenomenon provides watch fans an opportunity to experience the history and knowledge of science and art of horological world such as BREITLING; let’s celebrate its 60th anniversary of Superocean collection since 1957 with the showcase of historical timepiece collections from the brand’s museum under ‘The Pop Year’ concept to highlight its high success of the original collection along with debuting the world’s latest Superocean Héritage II. ORIS Pop-up Store joins this interesting exhibition by showcasing Marine Conservation Limited Edition, a special diving watch, to support marine life conservation projects from around the world. Oris Hammerhead Edition is another highlight to support shark conservation project of a non-profit organization. Grand Seiko Pop-up Store exhibits its inspiration and identity through its finest creation and brings back the history of the timepiece making. ISSEY MIYAKE Pop-up Store exclusively displays the surroundings that let you enjoy the trendy design and uniquely fashionable piece of work.

To mark the expo beyond the traditional watch fair, Siam Paragon offers 10 special privileges of the year with promotion and souvenirs in total amount of over 10 million baht, 10 – 30% discount in watch department, and 50% discount in Fashion & Trend category. Special for M card member received 8% discount on top and additional 12.5% discount on top by redeeming M Point in the same amount as the price for any purchase. Also, Platinum M card member receives additional discount. The event joins hand with leading banks, financial institutes and credit card partners to provide exclusive cash back to 30%, on top 17% discount, and 0% for 10 months installment plan. Besides, various privileges and souvenirs is offers, customers, presenting Watch Galleria Voucher at watch counter, will receive additional discount to 1,000 baht. For the top spender will receive a chance to join lucky drawn to win air ticket from China Airlines to USA or Canada in total prize over 500,000 baht. Experience the greatest world class watch phenomenon with over 180 brands and receive exclusive offers only at Siam Paragon Watch Expo 2017.

Siam Paragon Watch Expo 2017 is organized from today until August 15 at Hall of Flame, Hall of Mirrors, Crystal Court, Watch Boutique and Watch Galleria, Paragon Department Store, M floor, Fashion Hall, around Void pathway and Star Dome, 1st Floor, Siam Paragon. To respond to all lifestyle requirements, Watch Galleria at The Mall, The Emporium and Paragon Department offer a special promotion of 50% discount until September 30. For more information, please contact 0-2610-8000.

For more information, please contact
Public Relations Department, Siam Paragon Development Ltd.,
0-2610-8000
Pannapas P (Beebee)
M. 081-751-9458
E. Pannapas.p@siamparagon.co.th
Petchanet P (A)
M 063-205-7922
E. petchante.P@siamparagon.co.th

Public Relations Department of Paragon Department Store
Patcharaporn K (Mink)
T. 089-456-3532
Saranjit L. (Gift)
T. 088-606-0666
Tawanchai P. (Pui)
T. 099-782-3553
E. p.tawanchai@gmail.com

Chiang Mai (Thailand) – July 12, 2017 (travelindex) – Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like to invite tourists to conserve Thai traditional cloth culture at Thai Silk Festival. Meet Thai Silk Exhibition, Thai silk from each region of Thailand and tourist information of Thai Silk Villages. There are also Thai silk fashion show from 19th – 20th August, 2017, in Chiang Mai.

TAT also pleases both Thai and foreign travelers who love traveling around with the activities throughout August and September. The trip starts from traveling to the Northmost of Thailand to attend Akha swing tradition. The tradition is about paying gratitude to the grace of “Um Sa Yae” Goddess, Goddess of harvest. Local will celebrate for the fully grown fruits during that time. Enjoy with the Akha people from early August to late September at the Akha village in Chiang Rai >> Experience nature and music in the rain and create romantic life filled with color. Let’s fall in love with the rainy season altogether in the Raincoat Music Fest 2017 on 4th – 5th August, 2017, in Phetchabun Province >> Continue the activity on the important day of Thai people, Mother’s Day, HM the Queen Sirikit’s Birthday. Light the candles altogether on 12th August, 2017, in Bangkok and all over the country. >> For those who love cycling, do not miss the 16th Bhumibol Dam International Mountain Bike Competition. Meet cycling competition to win the trophies and a lot of prizes on 26th – 27th August, 2017 at Bhumibol Dam, Sam Ngao District, Tak Province. >> Travel to the Northeast, the land of civilization. Watch the amazing scenery at night in the event of “Marvelous Shrimp Marching (Viewing Nam Yuen shrimps and visiting Phu Jong)”. Ten thousand of shrimps will appear on the river at night. The event will be held from August – September, 2017, at Kaeng Lamduan, Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. >> For those who love playing golf, do not miss Cha-Am/Hua Hin Golf Festival 2017. Meet the promotion that let you play golf in the international standard golf pitch at low price on everyday including holidays. The event will be held from August – September, 2017, at the golf course in Cha Am District, Phetchaburi Province, and Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. >> Before the end of August, there will be the event of “The 21st Thai international Travel Fair”. Meet airfares in discounted prices from many airline companies, start from 10th – 13th August 2017, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. >> Prepare to grab the bags for the tourism program in the “Thai Teaw Thai (TTT Fair)” the event that offers tourism packages in Thailand in economic prices. Prepare your wallet and see you on 31st August – 3rd September, 2017, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

Continue the event in September with the activities prepared by TAT for the tourists to experience the cultural heritage of river. Do not miss the event of Long Boat Racing Tradition to win the royal trophy from His Majesty the King, the annual long boat racing tradition. The first race will be held from 2nd – 3rd September, 2017, in Nan River, Wat Tha Luang Royal Monastery, Muaeng District, Phichit Province. The second race will be held from 16th – 17th September, 2017, in Nan River in front of Wat Phra Sri Mahathat Woramahawihan, Muang District, Phitsanulok Province >> See the attractions of Srisaket Province, the south of Northeastern region, watch the procession of offerings to the great ancestors in the event of Commemoration to Phraya Krai Phakdi, San Doanta Tradition, venerate the city pillar shrine, and taste banana. The event will be held on 16th September, 2017, at the yard in front of Khukhan District Office, Srisaket Province. >> Show the devotion in the Lord Buddha in the Tradition of Um Phra Dam Nam Ceremony. The event will be held on 19th – 23rd September at Petchabura Buddhist Garden, Wat Bote Chana Mara, Petchabun Province. >> Travel to the South with the event of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Tenth Month Merit Making Ceremony, the important ceremony of Southern people. Watch Homlab Procession (donation of food or charitable donations). This event will be held on 16th – 25th September at Srinagarindra Gardens (84), Thung Tha Lat, City Hall, Nakhon Si Thammarat. At the end of September, attend the event of Nara Specialties, Ko Lae Boats, Long Boats, and Yor Kong Boats Race to win the royal trophy in front of the Palace. The event will be held on 21st – 25th September 2017 at the Royal 50th Anniversary Celebration Throne on the side of Tha Phraya Sai Dam, Muaeng District, Narathiwat Province.

Anyone who interested in attending the activities can see the information and news at Call center 1672 and www.tourismthailand.org/thaifest

Singapore (Singapore) – July 12, 2017 (travelindex) – ITB Asia, Asia’s Leading Travel Trade Show, has seen successful buyer programme partnerships for 2017 following the increased involvement of exhibitors this year, with 90% of recommended buyers targeted to attend the event.

This year there has been an increase in the number of hotel groups participating in the buyer’s programme, including Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, Best Western Hotel Group, Meliá Hotels International, Resorts World Sentosa, WorldHotels and Pan Pacific Hotels Group.

The event has also seen closer collaboration with key associations, including Malaysian Association for Tour & Travel Agents, Hong Kong Association of Travel Agents, Outbound Tour Operators Association of India and National Association of Independent Travel Agents, helping to bring a fresh pool of buyers to the event.

“As the leader in the travel space, it’s essential that ITB Asia is always looking to keep one step ahead of the evolving needs of this sector. We want to continue this momentum by working with our partners to bring a fresh pool of influential buyers from across the region” said Katrina Leung, Executive Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the organizer of ITB Asia. “Working closely with our exhibitors this year, has allowed us to increase the number of buyer programme partnerships and deep dive into each local market to identify key areas of growth and demand.”

Sharon Lee, Senior Director of Sales at Meliá Hotels International commented “Meliá Hotels International is proud to partner with ITB Asia to raise the benchmark of its trade events. The need to consistently innovate is a trait that both Meliá and ITB share. In today’s business climate, delivering strong returns for exhibitors is key and, on this front, ITB Asia is ahead of the curve.”

Olivier Berrivin, Managing Director of Best Western’s International Operations, Asia said “Best Western is delighted to be returning to ITB Asia in 2017. Our company has participated in every edition of ITB Asia since the event first launched in 2008, and we had no hesitation in confirming our presence for this year’s tenth anniversary show. We return to this event each year as it consistently provides us with high quality business leads for our Asian hotels and resorts. With pre-arranged face-to-face appointments, industry insights and excellent networking opportunities, this is an unmissable event.”

Whilst Mr Chow Keng Hai, Senior Vice President, Resort Sales and Marketing, Resorts World Sentosa commented “ITB Asia is a prestigious one-stop platform for Resorts World Sentosa to showcase our award-winning combination of state-of-the-art meeting facilities, luxurious accommodation, entertainment, fine dining and deep expertise in events management. As Asia’s premium lifestyle destination resort that offers a myriad of formal and unconventional venues, Resorts World Sentosa has both the software and hardware available for travel and event organizers to effectively blend business and leisure within the same location. Visitors and delegates can also be assured of an outstanding culinary experience at our celebrity chef restaurants which boast the most number of Michelin stars in a single gastronomic destination.”

Following the overall success of ITB Asia in 2016, 895 buyers attended the show, leading to a 1:1 ratio between exhibitors and buyers whilst over 50% of buyers signed deals with exhibitor’s post event. 43% of attending buyers had purchasing power of USD 500K – USD 1m whilst 85.7% of attending buyers were direct decision makers.

For more information on ITB Asia 2017, visit www.itb-asia.com

About ITB Asia 2017
ITB Asia 2017 will take place at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, from 25 – 27 October. It is organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. The event 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 corporate and MICE 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 all expected to attend.

Manila (Philippines) – July 22, 2017 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels & Resorts has continued to expand its presence across the Philippines, bringing its modern, international hotels to new and exciting destinations.

The latest addition to the company’s growing portfolio is the Best Western Bendix Hotel, located in the city of San Fernando, Pampanga – the culinary capital of the Philippines. Situated on the McArthur Highway, which is just a 15 minute drive from Clark International Airport and 45 minutes from Manila, the hotel is exceptionally well-connected and convenient for both business and leisure travelers.

It is also the first “green hotel” in San Fernando, meaning it has been constructed using environmentally-friendly building methods and will operate in an energy-efficient manner.

“With its large domestic population, rising affluence and increasing popularity as an international tourist destination, the Philippines is an incredibly important market for Best Western,” said Olivier Berrivin, Best Western’s Managing Director of International Operations – Asia.

“In addition to our existing hotels and resorts in key markets like Manila, Cebu and Boracay, we have recently introduced our high-quality international hotels to new markets such as Subic Bay and Puerto Princesa. Now, I am delighted to announce Best Western’s entry into San Fernando – the Philippines’ gastronomic capital and an important regional market.”

“Best Western Bendix Hotel will provide local and international visitors with a modern midscale accommodation option in this vibrant city. With our world-class service standards and extensive facilities for events, including a large ballroom, we expect this hotel to become a strong player in the local market,” Olivier added.

The Best Western Bendix Hotel features 45 contemporary guest rooms, all of which come equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, work space and unique ergonomic pillows to guarantee a good night’s sleep.

Guests can enjoy excellent local and international cuisine in the restaurant, which showcases a selection of popular dishes that originate in Pampanga. There is also a casual coffee shop with indoor and al fresco seating, making it the perfect place to unwind during the day.

The Best Western Bendix Hotel also offers a choice of three different function rooms, each of which host up to 120 guests for meetings and seminars. And for large corporate events, weddings and gala dinners, the 332m² Giant Lantern Ballroom can accommodate up to 300 people.

Following the opening of the new property on July 21st, 2017, Best Western now operates a portfolio of eight hotels across the Philippines, making it one of the largest international hotel groups in the country. This portfolio covers a series of business and leisure destinations including Manila, Makati City, Boracay, Cebu City, Puerto Princesa, Subic Bay and now San Fernando.

About Best Western Hotels & Resorts:
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand with a global network of 4,100* hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Best Western offers 10 hotel brands to suit the needs of developers and guests in every market: Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Vīb®, GLō®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, and BW Premier Collection®; as well as its recently launched franchise offerings: SureStay®, SureStay Plus® and SureStay Signature Collection®. Now celebrating more than 70 years of hospitality, Best Western provides its hoteliers with global operational, sales and marketing support, and award-winning online and mobile booking capabilities. Best Western continues to set industry records regarding awards and accolades, including 64 percent of the brand’s North American hotels earning a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award in 2017, Business Travel News® ranking Best Western Plus and Best Western in the top three upper-mid-price and mid-price hotel brands for three years in a row, and Best Western receiving seven consecutive Dynatrace® Best of the Web awards for its leading hotel website. Best Western has also won eight consecutive AAA®/CAA® Lodging Partner of the Year awards, recognizing the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional service and great value to AAA’s 56 million members in the U.S. and Canada. Over 30 million travelers are members of the brand’s award-winning loyalty program Best Western Rewards®, one of the few programs in which members earn points that never expire and can be redeemed at any Best Western hotel worldwide. Best Western’s partnerships with AAA/CAA and Harley-Davidson® provide travelers with exciting ways to interact with the brand. Through its partnership with Google® Street View, Best Western is the first major company of its size and scale to launch a virtual reality experience for customers, setting a new industry standard and reinventing how guests view hotels.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

Contact information:
Marketing Communications Department
Best Western Hotels and Resorts – Asia
Tel: +66 2 656 1260
Sirimanas Maungrod
Email: sirimanas.maungrod@bestwestern.com
Orapan Sornnuwat
Email: orapan.sornnuwat@bestwestern.com

Cebu (Philippines) – July 21, 2017 (travelindex.com) – Thailand-based, global hospitality company Dusit International has signed a hotel management agreement with Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), one of the Philippines’ leading real estate companies, to operate the Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, a five-star resort situated on the northern peninsula of Mactan island. This resort is slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2018.

Positioned to meet the needs of leisure and business travellers alike, the new beachfront resort will comprise 271 well-appointed guest rooms divided between three buildings adjacent to RLC’s AmiSa private residences. Facilities will include a luxury spa, a fully-equipped fitness centre, a lobby lounge, three restaurants with al fresco and private dining, a large infinity pool, and over 1,200 sq m of meeting space. Dusit’s signature gracious hospitality inspired by authentic Thai values will drive the service experience.

Mactan island is located a few kilometers from Cebu in the Central Visayas region and is known for its luxury tourism industry. Surrounded by coral, the island offers excellent diving and snorkeling experiences, has a vibrant sailing community, and is also home to the only aquarium attraction in the Visayas.

Mactan island is served by Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), which is currently undergoing a major expansion to have its capacity upgraded to handle 12.5 million passengers annually. This year, it is expected to welcome 10 million arrivals, a 12 per cent increase from 2016. Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu is located approximately 30 minutes by car from the airport.

Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu will be the third property in the Philippines to carry the Dusit Thani brand besides the Dusit Thani Manila and the upcoming Dusit Thani Residence Davao. Next year, the pioneering Dusit Hospitality Management College, a unique fully-integrated hospitality school and hotel, will also open in the capital. Other properties in the pipeline include DusitPrincess Cebu City, dusitD2 Davao and dusitD2 Resort, San Juan.

“Partnering with hotel owners in key markets such as the Philippines is essential to Dusit International’s long term sustainable and profitable growth,” said Dusit International’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Ms Suphajee Suthumpun. “Robinsons Land Corporation’s reputation for quality developments is second to none. We are delighted they have chosen us to manage their property and we look forward to making it a huge success under our esteemed Dusit Thani brand.”

Mr Frederick D. Go, President of RLC, said, “Mactan Island has the potential to become an even greater tourism destination, and there’s no better way to fuel that growth than by partnering with an international five-star hotel operator such as Dusit International to manage our upscale resort development.”

Dusit International currently operates 29 properties in key destinations around the globe with a further 51 projects already confirmed to open within the next three years. Alongside Dusit Thani, other brands in the company’s international portfolio include Dusit Devarana, dusitD2 and DusitPrincess.

About Dusit International
Dusit International was founded in 1948 by Honorary Chairperson Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, whose first hotel was the Princess on Bangkok’s New Road. Today the company is a leader in hotel management, franchising and education and comprises a unique international portfolio of distinctive hotels and resorts operating under four brands: Dusit Thani, dusitD2, Dusit Princess and Dusit Devarana.

The company currently operates 29 properties worldwide and has 51 confirmed projects in the pipeline in key destinations such as Australia, Bhutan, China, Indonesia, Kenya, Myanmar, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, and Vietnam.

Dusit International also operates the signature Devarana Spa and has a fast-growing Education Division. The latter, established in 1993, comprises Dusit Thani College, which offers vocational and postgraduate hospitality degrees at campuses in Bangkok and Pattaya; Le Cordon Bleu Dusit Culinary School; and the recently opened Dusit Thani Hotel School, which is Thailand’s first hospitality school based on the ASEAN Common Competency Standards for Tourism Professionals.

In 2018 Dusit will open the pioneering Dusit Hospitality Management College, a unique fully integrated hospitality school and hotel in Manila, Philippines.

About Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC)
Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) is one of the Philippines’ leading real estate companies. RLC is involved in the development and operation of shopping malls, offices and hotels and is one of the country’s reputable developers of mixed-use properties, residential condominiums and residential housing developments including socialized housing projects located in key cities and other urban areas nationwide.

RLC serves as the real estate arm of JG Summit Holdings Inc., one of the country’s largest conglomerates, with diverse interests in branded consumer foods, telecommunications, petrochemicals, air transportation and financial services.

Contacts:
Jetana Kriengsakophas
Director – Corporate Communications | Dusit International
Tel: +66 (0) 2200 9999 ext. 3325
Fax: +66 (0) 2636 3549
Sureerat Sudpairak
Assistant Director – Corporate Communications | Dusit International
Tel: +66 (0) 2200 9999 ext. 3321