Category: Latest Travel News

Dubai, UAE, February 8, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Emirates will be boosting its services to Osaka with the introduction of the A380 starting from 1 June 2024. The A380 to be deployed to Osaka will be retrofitted with the airline’s latest product, Premium Economy, making it the second Japanese gateway to operate with the newly upgraded aircraft. The upgraded service will offer increased seat capacity on flights to and from Japan’s second largest city, in addition to introducing the highly sought-after Premium Economy Class for customers, as well as refreshed interiors across First, Business and Economy Class cabins.

From 1 June, Emirates’ four-class A380 will replace the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER aircraft currently operating the EK316/EK317 service to and from Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX). With upgraded A380 operations, Emirates will offer 910 additional weekly seats between Dubai and Osaka, offering more opportunities to connect to and beyond Dubai to popular destinations for travelers including Milan, Madrid, Brazil, Paris and London. Emirates celebrated the 20th anniversary of its services between Dubai and Osaka last year and during that time, the airline carried more than 220,000 passengers on more than 360 flights between the two gateways in 2023.

Emirates’ four-class A380 deployed to Osaka will feature 14 First Class suites, 76 lie-flat seats in Business Class, 56 seats in Premium Economy Class and 338 ergonomically designed seats in Economy Class. On a four-class Emirates A380, the Premium Economy cabin is located at the front of the main deck with the 56 seats laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration. In the cabin, every inch of space anticipates customer needs with a generous seat pitch and width for working and relaxing, and customised features that offer function and convenience like in-seat charging points and a side cocktail table. The experience is rounded off with expertly curated in-flight amenities, an inventive menu and extensive beverage options. Emirates’ “ice” in-flight entertainment includes up to 6,500 channels of movies, TV programs, and music. Customers flying in both Business and First Class will enjoy access to Emirates’ onboard lounge, while First Class passengers will have exclusive access to the airline’s luxurious shower spa. In addition, passengers can enjoy Emirates’ award-winning signature hospitality, and meals prepared using carefully selected ingredients from around the world.

In December 2023, Emirates launched its Premium Economy product on the Dubai-Narita route and it has so far garnered great interest from customers. The airline’s distinctive product is currently available on flights to 14 other destinations globally, including New York JFK, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, London Heathrow, Sydney, Auckland, Christchurch, Melbourne, Singapore, Mumbai, Bangalore, Sao Paulo and Dubai.

The airline’s A380 operations to Kansai International Airport (KIX) come as Japan expects an increase in tourism through the unique attractions nestled within the Kansai region, such as Osaka and Kyoto, in addition to a packed schedule of events including the Osaka-Kansai Expo planned for 2025. Emirates also operates a daily four-class A380 service to Tokyo Narita, and a daily Boeing 777-300ER service to Tokyo Haneda. Through its scheduled operations to Japan’s three largest international travel hubs, Emirates provides convenient air connectivity to serve the growing demand.

As part of its commitment to travellers, Emirates last year announced the resumption of its Chauffeur-drive service in Tokyo Haneda for the airline’s First and Business Class customers. Emirates had also introduced a complimentary shuttle bus service for the airline’s Economy class customers from Tokyo Haneda airport to major train stations – Tokyo (TYO) and Shinagawa (SGW).

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) joins hands with TRUE-DTAC and Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant to launch a campaign named “Amazing Thailand Expat Privilege”, offering a free pass to national parks and up to 80% discounts for establishment over Thailand.

“Amazing Thailand Expat Privilege” has collaborated with True Corporation Public Company Limited or TRUE – DTAC to directly communicate with the campaign target, by focusing on TRUE-DTAC expat users which amount to 1.2 million people (54%). Most of them come from China, Hong Kong, South Korea, India, and Southeast Asia; all of which are considered countries with high purchasing power.

The campaign offers up to 80% discount from more than 200 establishments over Thailand. The privileges cover a variety of categories, for example, River Kwai Jungle Rafts Resort, Cocoa Valley Resort, Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort for accommodation; Somtum Villa, Chaophraya Cruise, De riva Ayothaya for restaurant; Oasis Spa, Abhaibhubejhr Dayspa, Kiri Tara Spa & Massage for health & wellness; Treasure Hill Golf & Country Club, Black Mountain Water Park, Siam Niramit Phuket for activity; Central Department Store, Robinson Department Store for shopping, etc.

Moreover, the campaign has collaborated with the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant to gift a special privilege of free-entry coupons for 133 national parks over Thailand. Notably examples are Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi, Khao Leam Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park in Rayong, Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei, Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi, Namtok Phlio National Park in Chanthaburi, Sri Nan National Park in Nan, Mu Ko Lanta National Park in Krabi, etc.

For expats and foreign tourists who are interested in the special privileges, redeem the coupons now on the website: expatprivileges.com. Enjoy safe and worthwhile trips during the period of the end of 2023 to the beginning of 2024. Exclusive privileges are available for redeeming from today to 29 February 2024, by registering on the website and choosing your desired special deals. Then, show the promotional codes along with your passport at the establishment to use the privileges. The conditions of the privileges are as the establishment designated.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 6, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Burapa Eastern Thai Cuisine & Bar, the avant-garde and opulent Orient-express-themed dining destination nestled at 26 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, is set to redefine the culinary landscape with the launch of its exceptional New WanderEast Menu, debuting on Valentine’s Day (14th February 2024) and every Wednesday thereafter for “Wander Wednesdays”.

The WanderEast Tasting Menu, a sequel to the first WanderEast launch series, takes the dining experience to unprecedented heights, embodying more refinement, elevation, and a deeper exploration of Thailand’s diverse ingredients and flavors. Culinary Director and Co-founder Ack Wongwich Sripinyo has expanded his already wide imagination to the corners of the country, creating a menu that not only satiates but also opens the imaginations of travelers through taste, with a particular focus on the vibrant flavors of Eastern Thailand.

Begin with the enticing starter, featuring double layers of fermented melon complemented by the rich essence of sun-dried catfish, or savor the succulence of sea prawns soaked in sweet fish sauce, paired with fresh mango and a touch of spicy shrimp sauce. Indulge in the succulent flavors of braised pork belly, encased in Cha-mung leaf croquettes.

The journey continues with a dish which boasts the perfect harmony of grilled scallops and a sour cauliflower sauce. Surely to be a guest and Instagram favorite is the Eastern Consommé soup, where sliced Orange Seville peel infuses the beef dumplings with deep aromatic notes.

The pre-main courses showcase a symphony of tastes, from the savory crab rice to the comforting milky rice porridge adorned with Thai wild almond and the star, the stewed pork belly, enriched with Eastern herbs and spices.

A fizzy grape granita serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, paving the way for the main course—a tantalizing blend of spicy squid ink rice, Cha-mung leaf, Trat’s chili curry sauce, Wagyu beef tenderloin, and sweet grilled tomato.

Conclude this epicurean journey with a dessert masterpiece—Three Ways of Tomato and Pandan rice pudding paired with sea salt Woffia ice cream.

The WanderEast Tasting Menu promises an exploration of taste that transcends boundaries and unveils the diverse flavors of Thailand’s Eastern region.

Burapa Eastern Thai Cuisine continues to serve their signature A La Carte menu daily, except Mondays they are closed and Wednesdays which is especially for the tasting menu, however, a small selection of the new WanderEast dishes will be available so that diners may still delight!

Available from 14th February – Valentine’s Day and every Wednesday thereafter.

• Tasting Menu: 2,900 THB ++ (Mineral and Sparkling Water included)
• Wine pairing: 1,300 THB ++ (Five selected glasses of wine to pair with our tasting menu)
• Mocktails pairing: 700 THB ++ (Four selected Burapa signature mocktails to pair with our tasting menu.)
• Cocktails pairing: 1,200 THB ++ (four selected Burapa signature cocktails to pair with our tasting menu.)

Paris, France, February 2, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / A UNESCO and IUCN assessment of the status of species reveals that UNESCO World Heritage sites harbour over 20% of mapped global species richness within just 1% of the Earth’s surface. Safeguarding these biodiversity hotspots is essential if the the Kunming – Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework is to be achieved. UNESCO is appealing to the 195 States Parties to the Convention to scale up investment in the conservation of their sites, and to nominate all remaining areas key to biodiversity conservation for World Heritage inscription.
Biodiversity in WHS

“This study demonstrates the importance of UNESCO World Heritage sites in protecting biodiversity. These 1,157 sites are not only historically and culturally outstanding, they are also critical to the preservation of the diversity of life on Earth, maintaining essential ecosystem services, and addressing climate disruption.” Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General

The UNESCO and IUCN first-time assessment of the status and trends of species reveals that UNESCO World Heritage sites make up less than 1% of the Earth’s surface, yet they harbour more than 20% of mapped global species richness, including more than 75,000 species of plants including trees and over 30,000 species of mammals, birds, fishes, reptiles and amphibians.

These sites serve as formidable natural observatories for advancing scientific knowledge thanks to the concentration of over half of all mammals, birds and hard corals species in the world. They are also an endless source of inspiration for new environmental protection initiatives.

The last line of defense against extinction

The World Heritage Convention confers the highest level of international protection to some of the most significant sites for biodiversity conservation in the world. These sites are estimated to protect over 20,000 threatened species, including up to one-third of all elephants, tigers and pandas, and at least one-tenth of great apes, lions and rhinos.

For some species on the brink of extinction, World Heritage sites have become the last line of defense. They are home to all remaining Javan Rhinos, Vaquitas (the world’s smallest cetacean) and Pink Iguanas, as well as more than half of all Sumatran Rhinos, Sumatran Orangutans and Mountain Gorillas.

The World Heritage Convention enables coordinated initiatives with all relevant stakeholders: local populations, national and regional authorities, international organizations, among others – resulting in many conservation success stories. For example, actions undertaken in the Kaziranga National Park (India) and Chitwan National Park (Nepal) since their inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List in the mid-1980s have more than doubled the population of Greater one-horned Rhinos to around 4,000 individuals.

Humanity and biodiversity are deeply intertwined

The benefits provided by biodiversity are innumerable and form the bedrock of our relationship with nature. The variety of ecosystems within UNESCO World Heritage sites maintain important environmental services for people, such as protection of water resources, as well as providing jobs and income through sustainable activities. UNESCO World Heritage sites are also instrumental to further strengthen the link between nature and culture, as many cultural sites, including those in urban areas, can also protect important biodiversity and are an ally in efforts to halt nature loss.

The clock is ticking for immediate action

However, there is an urgent need to strengthen conservation measures: every 1°C increase in global temperature could double the number of species threatened by dangerous climate conditions. Given their role as vital biodiversity hotspots, UNESCO World Heritage sites must be protected at all costs by the States Parties of the Convention.

World Heritage sites key to achieving the global objective of halting biodiversity loss

UNESCO encourages member states to prioritize World Heritage sites in National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), since they are key to moving the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) into action. The study is an additional tool for site managers to take the necessary actions to achieve these objectives.

By 2025, all World Heritage site managers will be trained in climate change adaptation strategies, and by 2029 all sites will have a climate adaptation plan – as announced by the Director General of UNESCO in November 2022 at the 50th anniversary of the Convention.

UNESCO and IUCN thank Conservation International, the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS), the University of Arizona and the University of Connecticut for their contribution to this study.

London, United Kingdom, February 2, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Major new reports from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Microsoft highlight the transformative power of AI (Artificial Intelligence) for Travel & Tourism, marking a commitment to a digital future with unparalleled customer experiences.

The first in a series of AI reports, announced during the global tourism body’s event at FITUR and in collaboration with WTTC’s Industry Partner, Microsoft, is poised to redefine Travel & Tourism standards and call on the sector for greater integration of such technologies.

As the global leader in Travel & Tourism, WTTC is committed to driving innovation and supporting the sector to embrace AI and other cutting-edge technologies. To promote sustainability and excellent customer experiences, WTTC acknowledges the crucial importance of AI in revolutionising the sector.

Throughout the traveller’s journey, WTTC believes AI can play a pivotal role in delivering a tailored and enhanced experience now and in the future.

This technology can empower personalised recommendations and marketing strategies by analysing traveller data, optimising pricing strategies through real-time adjustments, and offering instant responses and fine-tuned interactions via sophisticated AI powered chatbots.

The report also highlights AI’s capabilities extend to predicting future demand patterns, efficiently allocating resources, and providing valuable insights for governments and Travel & Tourism stakeholders.

This contribution can be pivotal in promoting sustainability with efficient resource management by monitoring and minimising environmental impacts, ensuring a more responsible and sustainable sector.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Travel & Tourism, AI emerges as a catalyst for positive change.

“The transformative capabilities highlighted in this report demonstrate that AI is not just a technological advancement, it is a strategic tool that can personalise the customer experience, drive sustainable improvements, and create real time pricing models.”

Julie Shainock, Microsoft Managing Director Travel, Transport & Logistics, said: “Using Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Models across the travel sector allows greater productivity for companies and drive a more personalised consumer experience.

“For travellers, the ability to drive more inspiration and personalized offers at booking to providing tools to consumers to proactively assist them while in destination to anticipate their needs with relevant information to improve their journey. For travel companies, GenAI is there to increase productivity, automate the predictable, and allow our human centric approach to the high value moments in travel to shine more.”

Despite the increasing examples of AI applications in Travel & Tourism, the report reveals the sector lags other consumer-facing industries in AI adoption. AI’s surge across various sector’s last year is now a relevant force, and the Travel & Tourism sector must act now to leverage its impact.

Challenges that must be overcome by Travel & Tourism businesses include a shortage of AI-skilled workers, limited AI infrastructure, and the absence of a formal ‘AI strategy’ in many business plans.

Travel & Tourism businesses are urged to embrace AI as a strategic priority, investing heavily in talent to foster collaboration between humans and AI.

Amidst concerns about AI’s impact on jobs, the report addresses the potential for job creation, recognising that although AI will be disruptive, it will in turn generate new opportunities.

In the quest for sustainable AI practices within the Travel & Tourism sector, responsible data management emerges as a crucial strategy.

Implementing measures such as data minimisation, efficient storage, and responsible data disposal, becomes pivotal for organisations seeking to minimise their carbon emissions when using new digital technologies, and reduce their AI environmental footprint significantly.

The report explores AI applications in society and business, emphasising the need for safe and responsible AI system design in Travel & Tourism, signifying a milestone in the sector’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, and showcasing AI’s potential to shape a bright future for Travel & Tourism.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson, the iconic global lifestyle brand from Asia, in collaboration with GranMonte, is proud to announce the launch of an exclusive wine collection, marking a significant move in the gastronomy realm for the lifestyle brand. This collaboration brings together the culinary craftsmanship of Jim Thompson with the viticulture expertise of GranMonte, a family-owned vineyard and winery in Thailand’s Khao Yai region, a testament to both brands’ commitment to excellence and innovation.

The Jim Thompson X GranMonte Collection features two distinct wines: the Jim Thompson X GranMonte Syrah and the Jim Thompson X GranMonte Verdelho. The bold red Syrah encapsulates ripe raspberry and blackcurrant flavors with a vanilla oak finish. The crisp white Verdelho offers an aromatic bouquet of gooseberry and passion fruit with a flinty undertone.

This first wine collection from Jim Thompson stands out with its unique label design – stylized patterns in red and earth tones for the red wine and blue with earth tones for the white, inspired by Thai silk motifs. The label draws from Jim Thompson’s “The Icon of Siam” scarf, capturing the majestic Chao Phraya River and the spirit of Siam while highlighting Thailand’s iconic landmarks and cultural beauty. The neck of the wine bottles is further embellished with decorative trims sourced from Jim Thompson Home Furnishings. Specially crafted 100% silk wine bags at Jim Thompson’s factory in Nakhon Ratchasima province turn the bottles into perfect gifts: a gold bag for red wine and a blue bag for white.

GranMonte Vineyard and Winery is spearheaded by Visootha ‘Nikki’ Lohitnavy, Thailand’s first qualified oenologist. Dedicated to sustainable practices and employing cutting-edge techniques adapted to the unique terroir of Khao Yai, GranMonte crafts internationally acclaimed wines exclusively from locally grown grapes. Situated in the Asoke Valley at an elevation of 350 meters near the UNESCO-listed Khao Yai National Park, the 40-acre vineyard has earned the title of “Best National Producer – Thailand” by AWC Vienna multiple times. Its wines carry the Khao Yai Wine Geographical Indication, ensuring their origin and quality.

States Joan Tana Dot, Food and Beverage Director of Jim Thompson, “This partnership represents a natural evolution of Jim Thompson’s offerings, broadening our range to include premium wines that enrich our customers’ experience. With these exclusive vintages, available at Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, we’re not just offering a meal but a curated dining journey that pays homage to the heritage of Jim Thompson and the GranMonte. This collaboration not only underscores Jim Thompson’s position as a lifestyle brand, showcasing Thai excellence, but also reflect our commitment to supporting local Thai brands and communities.”

At Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, Executive Chef Pepe Dasí Jiménez has crafted a selection of dishes that harmonize perfectly with the Jim Thompson X GranMonte wines. Guests can enjoy the special menu pairs 2021 Jim Thompson x GranMonte Verdelho with Sourdough toast with grilled local eggplant and tomato relish, Miang Kham Iberico and a unique Deep-Fried Lotus Root creation served with salted egg sauce. The Grilled Inky Striploin Wagyu main course menu is perfectly paired with 2021 Jim Thompson x GranMonte Syrah.

Suvisooth ‘Mimi’ Lohitnavy, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at GranMonte, highlights, “This partnership with Jim Thompson signifies a fusion of tradition and innovation, as we bring the essence of our vineyard to a wider audience through Jim Thompson. Our collective efforts have culminated in a special wine collection and label that embodies the rich terroir of our estate and the intricate beauty of Thai silk. We are thrilled to offer connoisseurs a taste that encapsulates the spirit of Thailand’s craftsmanship and GranMonte’s wine making excellence”

The Jim Thompson x GranMonte wine collection is a celebration of Thai culture and craftsmanship, available exclusively at Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant. For reservations and more information, please contact: 02-612-3601.

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”.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed in Bangkok, establishing a strategic partnership between the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), Green Destinations (GD), and the Trade Association of Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN). This collaboration marks a significant step towards promoting sustainable tourism certification for destinations in Asia with a focus on the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).

“As we embark on this transformative mission, we are committed to elevating tourism destination standards for sustainability, fostering economic stability, and preserving our rich cultural heritage in the subregion. This initiative equips DMOs with the tools to collaborate effectively with all stakeholders in tourism development.”, said Gp. Capt. Athikun Kongmee, Director-General of DASTA.

Ms. Suvimol Thanasarakij, Executive Director of MTCO, shared her perspective on this new partnership: “The signing of this MOU is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainable tourism in the GMS. By uniting our efforts, we aim to develop tourism destinations that are not only economically viable but also environmentally and culturally sustainable.”

“Government leaders have a responsibility to future-proof their destinations for sustainability to protect the environment, stimulate economic growth, and provide international leadership in addressing global challenges. It’s their legacy to their constituents and the future generations to ensure good governance for the people, planet and prosperity,” said Ms. Susan Santos de Cardenas, Southeast Asia Partner and Representative of Green Destinations.

Mr. Masaru Takayama, President of the Trade Association of Asia Ecotourism Network (AEN) commented, “AEN aims high to help introduce sustainable tourism to the GMS countries and grow it together with our partners to make ripple effects to ensure a bright future for the communities and our children for the generations to come while ensuring environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and priority to local employment and economy. The certification scheme should focus on the objectives, progress, and mission-driven actions not just on the scheme itself.”

Spearheaded by DASTA, the MOU outlines a collaborative framework focused on enhancing sustainable tourism practices, particularly in destination management and certification. This initiative encompasses sharing knowledge and resources, supporting the development and testing of sustainable tourism initiatives, and engaging in the exchange of ideas to formulate operational guidelines. These efforts aim to ensure that tourism development in the GMS is conducted responsibly, balancing socio-economic growth with the preservation of the region’s unique environmental and cultural heritage.

About the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO)
The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) was established in 2006 by the governments of Cambodia, Yunnan Province, and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in China (PRC), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam. MTCO serves as a collaborative framework dedicated to advancing tourism’s role in fostering inclusive economic growth and environmental sustainability in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). Guided by the GMS Tourism Working Group (TWG), comprising senior representatives from the National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) of the six member countries, MTCO plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable tourism development in the region.

Bangkok, Thailand, February 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / 2023 marked a terrific year for Marriott International in the Asia Pacific Excluding China region with over 80 deals signed, adding approximately 18,000 rooms in the pipeline for this region. Following the recent announcement by Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) of its strong global net rooms growth and record year of organic signings in 2023, the company highlighted the remarkable surge in hotel and residences openings and signings in the Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) region, particularly in key travel markets such as Japan, India, and Vietnam.

At the close of 2023, Marriott set a milestone in APEC with over 60 properties added to its portfolio during the year, bringing the company’s presence in the APEC region to more than 560 operating hotels and residences, and exceeding 10 percent net rooms growth compared to 2022. The company also sealed a record of over 80 deals signed across 13 markets, representing approximately 18,000 rooms.

As tourism recovers in APEC and the travel landscape evolves, Marriott has continued to focus on strategically providing the best-in-class offerings to owners, franchisees, and guests. At the end of 2023, Marriott’s APEC development pipeline stood at over 320 hotels with over 69,000 rooms, showcasing the company’s dedication to providing world renowned brands and diverse experiences, aligning with the evolving preferences of travelers across the region.

Luxury continues to play a pivotal role in the growth of Marriott, and 25 percent of Marriott’s global luxury rooms pipeline is represented in APEC. In 2023, 15 percent of the deals signed in APEC were in the luxury segment. A record nine luxury hotels were opened in the region in 2023 — including The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne— Marriott’s 1,000th hotel in the Asia Pacific region. The JW Marriott Goa debuted the brand in Goa and was the company’s 150th hotel to open in South Asia, and added The Singapore EDITION, the first EDITION in Southeast Asia.

“With our record year of growth at Marriott International in APEC, we remain committed to meeting the demands of modern travelers underscored by our diverse portfolio of brands and strategic presence in new destinations,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Marriott International, APEC. “2023 has positioned us as a thriving and desirable region in the global landscape. I am excited about our momentum as we focus on being where our customers want us to be and connecting people through the power of travel.”

Marriott Bonvoy – Marriott’s award-winning travel program— has helped fuel interest in the company’s regional portfolio. In APEC, the Marriott Bonvoy membership base has surged by 50 percent since 2019. This momentum is attributed to the unique and unforgettable experiences the program offers, including exclusive access to prestigious events like the Australian Open and Formula 1. Beyond hotel stays, Marriott Bonvoy continues to re-define the regional travel landscape with strategic partnerships with Singapore Airlines, Rakuten and co-branded credit cards in Japan, Korea, and India. The company’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, coupled with the strength of Marriott Bonvoy, positions Marriott as a leader in shaping the future of travel and hospitality across the APEC region.

For more information on Marriott’s latest developments and brand news, please visit the Marriott News Center.

Bali, Indonesia, January 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Bali is renowned for its stunning landscapes and fascinating culture. The Balinese practice their unique form of Hinduism, with rituals of worship and cleansing structured by their lunar calendar, the Saka. Their ceremonies are often grand and magnificent, accompanied by lively celebrations. However, one stands out as perhaps the most beautiful of them all – Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, a day of silence and introspection.

Chaos Before the Quiet
The night before Nyepi is far from quiet. Streets are filled with the joyous and vibrant energy of the ogoh-ogoh parades. Villages and communities spend weeks preparing garish monsters made of cloth, tinsel, and papier-mâché, representing malevolent spirits, demons, or negative forces. These heavy statues are hoisted on bamboo rafts through the villages with shouts, chants, and the clanging of gongs until they meet their final fate in a massive cleansing bonfire. The next day, Bali undergoes a remarkable transformation as Nyepi, the day of silence, unfolds.

A Day Like No Other
The usually lively streets and beaches fall into an unusual stillness. No planes land in paradise, as the airport closes and planes stand idle on the runway, perhaps taking a pause to reflect on the year ahead alongside the rest of Bali. No fires are lit, no lights are turned on, and only a few hushed words are spoken. All that can be heard is birdsong and the wind rustling the palms.

Nyepi for the Visitor
The Balinese stay home, meditate, pray, and perform rituals. The sense of calm and introspection also permeates into the resorts, where tourists pause their travels to relax and reflect in silent camaraderie, engaging in a candlelit card game or two. Unfortunately, an ill-advised trend has emerged on social media, where tourists sneak out to take selfies on the empty streets, considered highly offensive to the Balinese.

Silent Night
As the day of silence comes to a close, Nyepi night is a final treat. With minimal light interference, the island’s skies become an astronomical canvas, displaying a breathtaking array of stars. This allows you to experience the Milky Way as it is seen only in the most remote of places.

Experiencing Nyepi
Nyepi is a rare and memorable experience for visitors. In the unspoiled North Bali, The Damai Resort offers guests a unique opportunity to experience this fascinating ritual in an immersive setting centered around sound and silence. The renowned sound healer and yogi, Akiko Kigarashi, will host sessions with her famous brass singing bowls – hauntingly beautiful vibrating bowls that emit moving soundscapes resonating within your body. For more information, contact The Damai Resort.

About Damai, Bali’s Gourmet Retreat
The Damai Resort is Just a few hours from the airport, but light years away from the crowds. Just 14 private villas with views of the surrounding spice plantations and Java’s distant volcanoes – and a prize winning restaurant, that for three decades have been one of Bali’s leading restaurants. The Damai is also home to North Bali’s best spa.

Journey into Silence
Stay at the Damai Resort, accommodation for 4 or 5 nights in a luxury Pool Studio or Pool Villa
– return transfer at any point in Bali
– 1×3 course Balinese dinner menu
– 1×60 minutes Balinese massage
– 1x morning dolphin tour
– 1x private yoga
– 1x singing bowl
– 1 time free laundry
– daily fresh Damai jamu during breakfast
To book The Silent package at The Damai Hotel, please contact
reservation@thedamai.com or via Whatsapp + 62 877 88841008.

About Akiko Igarashi
Aikiko is a sound healer, reiki practitioner and yogi with a rich background hosting retreats worldwide, Akiko founded the Shima Healing Institute in 2015, offering ancient Eastern holistic courses.

Drawing from her diverse expertise, Akiko has been a Reiki instructor for nearly two decades, a Qigong practitioner, a Yoga therapist and a Tibetan Singing bowl Master for the last 10 years, brings a harmonious blend to guide you back to a tranquil state of well-being.

Bangkok, Thailand, January 30, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Prince Theatre Heritage Stay, Bangkok’s beloved historical gem, is proud to announce the grand reopening of its iconic cinema room & box office bar, now transformed into a versatile event space. After a meticulous renovation completed in late December 2023, this one-of-a-kind venue invites guests to step into a world where history meets modern-day allure.

A Homage to History and Film

Nestled in the heart of Bangkok, Prince Theatre Heritage Stay has long stood as a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. The building, a heritage site, began its story over 100 years ago as a high-stakes casino before transitioning into a neighborhood movie theater. Over the years, it has served as a cultural cornerstone, capturing the hearts of both locals and travelers with its distinct character and charm.

The recent renovations pay tribute to the theater’s cinematic past, blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary comforts. The event space, complete with a stage and theater-like ambiance, now offers a unique setting for a range of gatherings – from intimate performances to grand celebrations.

A Stage Set for Magic

At the heart of the renovation is the cinema room’s transformation. The grand stage, framed by lush red curtains, remains a focal point, now enhanced with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. The original box office bar has been preserved, serving as a nod to the theater’s illustrious past while providing a modern touch with its selection of fine beverages and artisanal cocktails.

The space is adorned with authentic memorabilia and artifacts, each telling its own tale of the theater’s storied legacy. With flexible seating arrangements and multimedia capabilities, the venue is poised to host events that are as unforgettable as the movies once screened here.

An Invitation to Experience Enchantment

“At the core of our newly revitalized event space lies a deep commitment to the spirit and energy of our neighborhood,” says Philipp Jockush, General Manager of Prince Theatre Heritage Stay. “This renovation goes beyond aesthetics; it’s a celebration of Bangkok’s vibrant culture and an open invitation for our guests to truly connect with the heart of our lively community.”

Prince Theatre Heritage Stay extends an open invitation to experience the enchantment of its newly renovated event space. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, a cultural showcase, or a private celebration, the Prince Theatre’s stage is set to bring your vision to life.

To book the event space or for more information, please visit https://www.princeheritage.com or contact gm@princetheatrebangkok.com

About Prince Theatre Heritage Stay
Located just a 2-minute walk from Saphan Taksin BTS Station, Prince Theatre Heritage Stay offers travelers a unique cinema-style ambiance combined with cozy comfort and exceptional hospitality. As a historical landmark, the hostel continues to weave the narrative of Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry for today’s adventurers.

Prince Theatre Heritage Stay is managed by Unicorn Hospitality, a visionary hotel management and consulting firm based in Bangkok. Unicorn Hospitality is known for its innovative approach to creating unique, storytelling experiences in the hospitality sector, blending cultural heritage with modern lifestyle trends to deliver exceptional guest experiences. For more information visit https://unicornh.com