Category: Latest Travel News

Phuket, Thailand, January 9, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Having retired following 25 years with Banyan Tree Holdings, Ravi Chandran has never been busier. It is not exactly what was planned by the affable former chief executive of Laguna Phuket. But the explosion of growth post-Covid in the hospitality and real estate sectors combined with a savvy business reputation has had his phone ringing off the hook. So, what is he up to these days?

Your name seems to be popping up a lot again these days?

I have always been keen to make a positive contribution to society. This is really what drives me. My father, Cpt. Chandran MBE OBE was a passionate campaigner for social housing who spent his life trying to help those in need. Before he passed away, he set up the Chandran Foundation, which was his way of giving back and making a difference to people’s lives. Now led by my sister, Chitra, the foundation focuses on the welfare of young people in areas of education, nutrition and family. I have been a Special Project Manager for the Chandran Foundation for the last 15 months, and this has been a very rewarding and fulfilling time in my life.

So why did you step down after 25 years with Banyan Tree Holdings?

I loved my time with Banyan Tree Holdings and it was an honour to work directly with founder KP Ho. But after 25 years and Covid I just wanted to slow down a little and move away from the day-to-day. I enjoyed wonderful years with Banyan Tree and Laguna – and though the last two to three years were tough I am proud that we were central to supporting the “Phuket Sandbox” initiative and helping restart Thailand’s tourism industry upon which so many people depend.

After leading Asia’s top integrated resort destination how were you able to relax?

It was a strange experience to start with. After 25 years, I was not used to not working. But I tried to focus the things I never previously had time for. For six months I travelled, exercised and ate well. I am fortunate to live in Phuket, so I took long early morning walks every day, which helped to refocus. I thought I might be bored, but actually I wasn’t – I enjoyed this time immensely and had plenty to keep me busy. Most importantly, I was able to spend time with Waticha Chandran (Chon), my wife, as well as with my cats!

So how and why did you start working again?

Over the years I have been fortunately to make many good friends and it was through this that out of the blue came Urasaya Beachfront Residences, an eco-sensitive project at Sichon Beach in Nakhorn Si Thammarat province. A friend in the music business told me he was planning to develop a collection of high-end beachfront pool villas at Sichon Beach, a stunning sandy strip voted by Lonely Planet last year as one of Thailand’s best. Yet no one knows about it. The project is aimed at people who love Thailand, but want an escape from the main tourist areas. He invited me to visit, and I was sold. Sichon has so much potential; it feels like Thailand 30 years ago – peaceful, authentic, natural. Crucially, the development has coincided with the opening of a new international terminal at Nakhorn Si Thammarat Airport, which paves the way for an exciting new era of sustainable tourism in the province.

How about Phuket where you live?

Again, things have opened up as a result of friends and family. My wife knows the owners of Amora Hotels & Resorts, a family-run hotel group which operates six properties: three in Thailand and three in Australia. The young owner Earp Siriphatrawan contacted me for some help. We spoke and I quickly realised they share my own values; they value people and invest in their team members, many of whom have been with the group for decades. I have agreed to help them move from a traditional legacy hotel group to a modern hospitality company, with plans for expansion both in Thailand and Australia. This February will be the grand opening of Amora Beach Resort Phuket following a THB 500 million investment.

I hear you are also working in real estate – advising on a large 73 rai destination-wellness concept

That’s correct. I was contacted by a former colleague who asked me for some help. Gardens of Eden is an interesting project, a nature-inspired concept that blends wellness, luxury and sustainability. Located on Bangtao Beach, 70% of the total area will be retained as green space, setting a new benchmark for large-scale developments on the island. It is a project that will have a positive impact on Phuket.

So, what’s next?

I am happy enjoying what I’m doing at the moment, having the ability to pick and choose which projects to get involved with that are geared to making positive change. Plus of course enjoying family time.

London, United Kingdom, January 8, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Hotel Sustainability Basics is set to end if first year on a high with more than 1,300 hotels verified, across more than 30 countries from around the world.

The Hotel Sustainability Basics is an independent global sustainability verification programme, overseen by internationally recognised verifiers, Green Key and SGS.

The aim is for hotels around the world, regardless of their size, to follow a 12 step programme to reduce carbon emissions, protect and promote nature, and ensure local communities benefit from the hotel.

It is achievable for all hotels to implement as a bare minimum, and crucially, they serve as a stepping-stone to more complex sustainability schemes.

In its first year, Hotel Sustainability Basics has been endorsed by destinations around the world such as the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, Abu Dhabi, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador.

The ‘Basics’ has also been adopted by a number of major hotel brands around the world such as Jin Jiang, the world’s second biggest hotel group with more than 10,000 hotels, European hotel giant Louvre Hotel Group, and Radisson Hotel Group.

Other major brands which have signed up Hotel Sustainability Basics include adventure travel specialist Intrepid, British Airways Holidays, HBX Group, WebBeds, Biosphere, and Abercrombie & Kent.

Together, this underscores a global commitment to sustainable Travel & Tourism from across the hospitality industry, and the global tourism body expects thousands more hotels from all four corners of the globe will adopt Hotel Sustainability Basics next year.

Significantly, the recently announced partnership between WTTC, the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (SHA) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has cemented a clear pathway in the hospitality sustainability journey.

This collaboration will establish a structured framework from the Basics towards advanced global standards for hotel sustainability.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “Basics is a global programme to support hotels to cut emissions, support local communities and protect nature. Launched last year, it is the only independent scheme that gives hotels a helping hand to look at their environmental impact. The take up of Basics is going from strength to strength with whole countries committed to make real, lasting change.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains on strengthening these efforts, ensuring that every step we take brings us closer to a unified vision of sustainability in hospitality. Hotel Sustainability Basics has gone from strength to strength in its first year and we’re expecting thousands more properties to adopt the initiative throughout 2024.”

Satu Rouhiainen, Sustainability Manager, British Airways Holidays said: “Working closely together with our industry and value chain partners is paramount to British Airways Holidays. We are delighted to be supporting the Hotel Sustainability Basics, offering our hotel partners a fair and industry recognised criteria to start their sustainability journey.

“Not only does it give us visibility of the hotels’ progress, but it also provides our customers a way to search for hotels that are committed to progressing in sustainability.”

WTTC is committed to leading the charge in sustainable Travel & Tourism. Continuously fostering collaborations and setting new sustainability, the global tourism body global is committed to ensuring a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for the Travel & Tourism sector.

Macau, Macao SAR, January 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Wynn is starting the New Year by inviting an incredible line-up of five culinary artists for the “Celebrity Chef Pop-Up Kitchen at Wynn Macau” and Four-hand Collaboration dinners in January. 2020 MasterChef UK Finalist Sandy Tang will be the first to proudly present her own culinary heritage of Macau with British flair; Executive Head Chef Nilas Corneliussen of Villa Frantzén will showcase his native Nordic dishes with a Thai twist; and Head Chef Wang Xiaofeng of Guan Yan Liu Jin in Hangzhou will craft delicacies from his hometown of Chaoshan. Two resident chefs at Wynn Palace and Wynn Macau will also partner with two guest chefs to host Four-hand Collaboration dinners. Executive Chef Helder Sequeira Amaral of the Forbes Five- Star SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace will partner with Chef-owner Eric Räty of the 2-MICHELIN- star Arbor, while Executive Chef Hironori Maeda of the 2-MICHELIN-star Mizumi at Wynn Macau will work with Executive Chef Mitsuru Konishi of the MICHELIN-starred ZEST by Konishi. These high quality, monthly dining events at Wynn aim to bring exceptional culinary talent to Macau, continue raising the bar in gastronomy and promote Macau as a “Creative City of Gastronomy”.

At the age of 24, Chef Sandy Tang entered the 2020 MasterChef UK competition just to see how far she could go, and she made it all the way to the finals! Originally from Macau, she moved to the UK when she was just 13 and grew up surrounded by a unique fusion of cultures. Having spent half her life in Asia and half in the UK, she embraces the ideas and techniques of both East and West when working in the kitchen, producing innovative fusion concepts that are still grounded in tradition. From January 4 to 6, Chef Tang will create a variety of special delicacies at Wynn Macau including: Salted Cod and Scallop served with Tomato Consommé Granita and Grouper Broth, a Lotus Pastry filled with Hawthorn Berries Paste served with 24 Herbs Ice Cream and Crumble, and much more.

Originally from Sweden, Executive Head Chef Nilas Corneliussen of Villa Frantzén in Bangkok has always been fascinated by Thailand. He initially pursued Thai boxing before discovering his true

calling in culinary. He worked his way up from all sections of Stockholm’s trattoria to the MICHELIN- starred Esperanto, while simultaneously winning silver for the Swedish team in the Bocuse d’Or finals, not just once, but twice! Geeky about Thai cooking and fluent in Thai, Chef Nilas seamlessly blends the Frantzén Nordics, pan-Asian influences and Siam flavors, and elevates them to an entirely new level. From January 12 to 14, he will showcase his creative culinary talents at Wynn Macau through these innovative dishes: Oyster 63.4C with gooseberries and Kavring bread; Scallop and caviar; Cured Norwegian salmon and beer poached king crab and more.

Portuguese native Chef Helder Sequeira Amaral has worked for many renowned restaurants in his home of Portugal and many other countries before moving to Macau more than a decade ago. Chef Helder has successfully attained the Forbes Five-Star award for SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace, where he will join Chef-owner Eric Räty from the 2-MICHELIN-star Arbor, in a four-hand dinner collaboration from January 18 to 20. Chef Eric honed his skills in culinary while in Europe working for the 2-MICHELIN-star Chez Dominique and the 3-MICHELIN-star Restaurant Aqua at The Ritz- Carlton, Wolfsburg. Craving for new challenges, he headed to Hong Kong. Now, as chef-owner at Arbor, Chef Eric uses his extraordinary talent to create refined Nordic-Japanese cuisine. During their time together in Macau, Chef Helder and Chef Eric will combine their culinary skills to prepare American classic steaks and Nordic-Japanese dishes such as: Bresse Chicken Ravioli, Japanese Wagyu Cross Breed B3, and more at SW Steakhouse.

Originally from Chaoshan, Head Chef Wang Xiaofeng is now at the helm of Guan Yan Liu Jin. Throughout his culinary career, he has worked alongside and trained under many famous chefs, gaining a deep understanding and true appreciation for the authentic flavors of Chaozhou cuisine. At Guan Yan Liu Jin, he selects just the right Chaozhou ingredients and prepares them with the traditional and extremely meticulous cooking techniques of Chaoshan. He prepares each one of his dishes with such perfection, his refined delicacies at Guan Yan Liu Jin have garnered a mention in the inaugural edition of The MICHELIN Guide Hangzhou in 2023. During his time at Wynn Macau from January 19 to 21, he will introduce the gastronomy of his hometown, by capturing the original flavors, colors, and aromas of Chaoshan cuisine.

For dining reservations and enquiries at Wynn Macau, please call: (853) 8986 3663.

About Wynn Macau
Wynn Macau is a luxury hotel and casino resort in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China with two iconic towers featuring a total of 1,010 spacious rooms and suites, approximately 294,000 square feet of casino space, over 64,300 square feet of retail space, 14 food and beverage outlets, two spas, a salon and a pool. The resort proudly boasts three distinct entertainment experiences, including Macau’s only choreographed Performance Lake, blending lofty plumes of water, gracefully choreographed music from Broadway tunes to renowned Chinese songs, powerful LED lights and fire effects.

Wynn Macau is operated by international resort developer Wynn Resort s , recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. Wynn Macau continues to hold the distinct honor of being the only resort in the world with 8 Forbes Five-Star Awards for seven consecutive years. Wynn Macau opened on September 6, 2006 and its second tower – Encore opened on April 21, 2010.

About Wynn Palace
Wynn Palace is the second luxury integrated resort from international resort developer Wynn Resorts in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, following the launch of Wynn Macau. Located in the Cotai area, it features a 28-storey hotel with 1,706 exquisitely furnished rooms, suites and villas, versatile meeting facilities, approximately 107,000 square feet of renowned luxury retail, 14 food and beverage outlets, Macau’s largest spa, a salon, a pool and approximately 468,000 square feet of casino space. The resort also features a variety of entertainment experiences, including the dazzling 8-acre Performance Lake that mesmerizes guests with a choreographed display of water, music and light, the unique SkyCab, spectacular, large-scale floral displays and an extensive collection of art works by some of the world’s leading artists.

Wynn Resorts is the recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. Wynn Palace is the first and only resort in the world with more than one thousand rooms to receive Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards. Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

Pak Thong Chai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, January 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / As the crisp breeze of winter envelops Thailand, Jim Thompson Farm extends a warm invitation to everyone to partake in the excitement of the annual Jim Thompson Farm Tour Marking nearly two decades of tradition, the ‘A Love Letter To You’ tour, scheduled during the winter season, promises a captivating exploration of nature and an immersive experience into the roots of local Isan culture. This year, the farm tour is opened for public from December 9, 2023, to January 2, 2024.

This year’s event, themed ‘A Love Letter To You’ draws inspiration from the poignant song composed by Ajin Panchapak and beautifully sung by Manee Maneewan in 1967. The song, often overlooked in history, captures the essence of Isan during the Cold War era, reflecting nostalgia and shared emotions among the Isan people. Aligning with Jim Thompson Farm’s mission, the event aims to provide an authentic travel experience reminiscent of ‘Isan locals,’ fostering a unique identity that resonates with pride of the local people.

Visitors to the event will be treated to the picturesque landscapes of Jim Thompson Farm, offering opportunities to capture the beauty of flower fields, rice fields, Isan village, and iconic landmarks. Beyond the scenic views, attendees can engage in a myriad of activities and exhibitions showcasing diverse facets of Isan identity, encompassing history, lifestyle, entertainment media, and cultural beliefs.

All activity details for ‘Jim Thompson Farm 2023 A Love Letter To You’ are as follows:

1. Lam Loke, The World of Molam Exhibition: Embark on a journey to Isan and be captivated by Mor Lam stories that promise to enhance your appreciation for this unique musical genre. Visit this exhibition to delve into the rich history and stories that make Mor Lam truly enjoyable.

2. American-Isan Exhibition: Explore the connection between Isan and the Western Culture through this exhibition. From historical images to the roots of Isan’s way of life, this exhibit invites visitors to understand the cultural fusion between Isan and Western influences.

3. Monmhai Mulberry Silk Exhibition: Uncover the sericulture life cycle and witness demonstrations of local silk weaving methods. Engage in a hands-on workshop to learn the art of silk-making using traditional wisdom—an ideal experience for craft enthusiasts.

4. Rice is Life Exhibition: Immerse yourself in the diverse world of Thai rice varieties. Experience the heart-to-heart journey from rice production to consumption, exploring creative possibilities in turning rice into various products. Discover that rice is not just a staple for Isaan people but a way of life passed down through generations.

5. Workshop Activities: Immerse yourself in Isan culture through complimentary educational workshops at Jim Thompson Farm. Choose from activities such as silk threading, silk weaving, traditional Isan dessert making, ceramic sculpture, and various art activities within the farm.

6. Talk Activities: Beyond exhibits, Jim Thompson Farm hosts insightful talks. Listen to speakers share in-depth stories about the Isan way of life, covering topics like rice cultivation, Northeastern-American memories, rituals, and more.

7. Music Stage: Conclude your day with soothing music amid the natural surroundings of Jim Thompson Farm. Choose between two stages: ‘American Isan Stage’ featuring folk and country bands like The Hopper, SUNDER, Hang Over, and Aod Ban Chang, or ‘Molam Music’ (8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) showcasing contemporary Mor Lam artists, including Isan Fusion, Tontrakul Kaew Yong x Narisara Sakpunjachot, Rasmee I-San Soul, and All-Thidsa Molam Band x Aof Surapol.

8. Restaurants and Souvenirs: Indulge in a variety of delicious menus, including Isan and comfort food, at selected restaurants within Jim Thompson Farm. Explore unique souvenirs and products from the farm, featuring special prices on items from Jim Thompson. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for exclusive souvenirs at Farm Jim as you bid farewell to the year.

Jim Thompson Farm promises not only a delightful retreat amid the cold breeze but also an opportunity to create lasting memories and foster a deeper understanding of the vibrant Isan way of life. Come explore, capture, and embrace the cultural richness that defines the unique identity of the Isaan people.

About Jim Thompson Farm
Jim Thompson Farm is a tourist destination located in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, operating annually from December to early January. Recognizing the significance of mulberry cultivation and sericulture in sustaining farmers’ livelihoods, we focus on fostering regular income for agricultural practitioners. Our commitment extends to promoting agricultural and cultural tourism, offering delightful experiences for both visitors and local farmers.

We strive to enhance the joy and novelty of travel by orchestrating diverse activities and art exhibitions within the region. Through these initiatives, Jim Thompson Farm aims to not only entertain tourists but also contribute to the prosperity of local communities. Our dedication to creating happiness is evident in every aspect of the farm experience, ensuring a memorable journey for all who visit and supporting the sustainable development of agriculture in the region.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, January 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has continued to scale up its support for its Members across the Americas, with plans for a first Regional Office for the region advanced during an official visit to Brazil.

Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili led the UNWTO delegation to Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia (13-17 December), recognizing Brazil’s strong support and commitment to tourism for development. In Brazil, Secretary-General Pololikashvili enjoyed bilateral meetings with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and with the country’s Minister of Tourism Celso Sabino.

First UNWTO Office for the Americas

At the 25th UNWTO General Assembly (Samarkand, Uzbekistan, 16-20 October), Member States voted to establish a first Regional Office for the Americas in Rio de Janeiro. The office will further enhance UNWTO’s global presence on the ground, adding to a Regional Office for the Middle East in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a Regional Office in Nara, Japan, and its headquarters in Madrid, Spain.

The UNWTO Regional Office for the Americas will help guide tourism development not only in Brazil but across the whole region

• Secretary-General Pololikashvili joined Minister of Tourism Celso Sabino and other high-level delegates to visit the location and oversee the first plans for the Regional Office.
• Building on the plans set out at the General Assembly, UNWTO and the Government of Brazil hosted a special ceremony to celebration the official agreement for the Regional Office.
• The start of the project has been heralded as a major opportunity to enhance Brazil’s status as a tourism leader for the Americas as well as one of the leading global destinations.
• The Regional Office for the Americas will focus on strengthening the promotion of investments. One of the first key outputs will be guidelines aimed at boosting green investments, recognizing the importance of biodiversity for tourism in the Americas. The Rio office will also develop a strategy around technical training for youth, allowing them to gain the professional skills they need to grow the sector throughout the region.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The UNWTO Regional Office for the Americas will help guide tourism development not only in Brazil but across the whole region. Rio de Janeiro will be a true hub of leadership and ideas, with a focus on growing and targeting investments into the sector and harnessing tourism’s power for sustainable and inclusive growth.”

UNWTO talks tourism with President Lula

Reflecting the recognition of UNWTO’s mission at the very highest political level in Brazil, Secretary-General Pololikashvili was warmly welcomed by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Their bilateral talks focused on shared priorities, including growing investments in tourism in both Brazil and across the region, and making the sector a driver of growth and opportunity.

In bilateral talks with Minister of Tourism Celso Sabino, UNWTO emphasized the enormous potential of tourism in the Americas…

Celebrating Tourism Excellence in Brazil

During the official visit, the UNWTO delegation joined in celebrations of the best tourism talent and leaders in Brazil. The National Tourism Awards ceremony (Brasilia, 16 December) recognized individuals and initiatives transforming the sector. UNWTO also joined the official opening of National Hall of Tourism.

Madrid, Spain, January 2, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The 2022-2023 UNWTO Students’ League concluded with a celebration of young tourism talent. The Grand Final of the flagship event for supporting students in tourism bought together high School and undergraduate students from Switzerland and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Tourism for rural development challenge

The 2022-2023 Students’ League challenged students to create support rural development through tourism by creating Instagram accounts to promote a rural destination in their countries.

For this Grand Final, the jury panel was made up of national and international experts from UNWTO, Academia and private sector stakeholders. In making their decision, the expert jury judged elements such as innovation, and feasibility of the idea as well as their potential to contribute to the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The winning team in the High School category was Team Rose Brandis from Mješovita srednja škola Travnik in Bosnia & Herzegovina. In the Undergraduate category, the jury named Team VS-TIM, Visoka škola za turizam i menadžment Konjic from Bosnia & Herzegovina and Team SHL from Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern in  Switzerland as joint winners.

Journey to the final

After successfully passing through the initial phase on the National Final4 competitions in their countries during 2022 and 2023, three teams made it through to the Grand Final, Team Rose Brandis, representing Bosnia and Herzegovina – Team Rose Brandis from Mixed Secondary School Travnik and Team VS-TIM from Konjic College of Tourism and Management, and representing Switzerland – Team SHL from the Swiss Hotel Management School Lucerne.

For this first Grand Final, UNWTO counted on the partnership of the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Affiliate Member and part of the Affiliate Members Board. The Universidad Complutense de Madrid has been a true knowledge leader for almost 800 years and has a long and proud history of producing the best minds and developing the best young talent. The Ayuntamiento de Madrid also contributed by showing the teams the beauty and hidden gems of Madrid.

Youth empowerment for tourism’s future

The UNWTO Students League provides students with a platform that empowers and motivates them, by giving them real-time knowledge on our sector and experience by working on creating innovative and sustainable solutions for the challenges that the sector is facing. This initiative not only brings Tourism closer to younger generations but, by bringing together these young people with government officials, representatives of tourism industry, experts and other major stakeholders, it also bridges the gap between the realities of the sector and students’ education and training, enabling young people to enter the labour market in the future as highly qualified and skilled professionals.

Solin, Croatia, December 28, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / With the best wishes for the upcoming holidays and in the new year 2024, we announce the next manifestation; SC IFT’2024 – INTERNATIONAL DAYS OF TOURISM, TOURIST FILM, LANDSCAPE, and on this occasion we congratulate the Laureates 2023, winners of the prestigious international awards for tourism, tourist promotional film, eco, landscape, sustainable development, presented at the last event SC IFT2023 held in Solin, Croatia.

– On the 26th.ITF’CRO/International Tourism Film Festival, one of the oldest and most prestigious world festivals in this domain, from as many as 147 countries around the world, registered a record 406tourist films / videos. 27 th authors, producers, from 11 countries of the world were awarded /France, Croatia, India, Indonesia,Maldives, Mexico, China, Philippines, Thailand, Serbia, Great Britain/, and presented; 19 awards, 6 author’s degrees, 1. national award Baldo Čupić, 1st GrandPrix ITF’CRO.

– At the 30th INTERSTAS/International Tourism Festival, in three different categories; SPECIAL MENTION INTERSTAS,CHARTER A. CONTE, GOLDEN INTERSTAS, from 39 countries of the world /Asia 13, North America 4, Europe 17, South America 5/ 126 were registered. individuals, organizations. The international commission of tourism journalists and writers– the ICTY, nominated 52,000 of them. By the decision of the Council and the Directory of the manifestation, with the awarding of the 1st Posthumous and 9th Special Certificates of Thanks on the occasion of the jubilee 30th INTERSTAS, 32 Laureates were selected, and presented 21 individual and 11 collective awards.

I would like to thank the inquiries for participation in the next SC IFT2024, which are already coming to us from the country and the world, from tourist boards, Tour operators, organizations, authors, producers of tourist promotional films, international line partners, especially members of UNWTO, FIJET, ITCO, CiB. This marks the beginning of the preparations of the SC IFT2024, three international events; – Thirty-one. INTESTAS/International Tourism Festival, – 27th ITF’CRO /International Tourism Film Festival, – 22nd KEA-CRO /Floral, landscape competition for the International Golden Flower and special award “Lucija”. All three events are planned to take place on November 13, 14 and 15, 2024.

The mission of the event, this internationally affirmed marketing-promotional project of excellence for tourism, tourist film, landscape, is to continuously contribute to the intensification of international passenger traffic, raising local and international awareness, attracting the interest of tourism professionals, producers, authors of tourist / promotional films, wide audience. The project is excellently followed by the worldwide media and online partners Travelindex Group, Touristica International. It gives the opportunity to reach the widest audience with more than 100,000,000 views of all continents.

The platform is aimed at highlighting the best in this domain, presenting tourism activity, tourist promotional film production, authors, Laureates. Encouraging the importance of the blue and green continents, the fundamental goal of the project is to present and valorize the entire spectrum of richness of values and diversity in tourism, culture,… at the local, regional, national level. Emphasizing the values of Croatian tourism, the emphasis on local and county peculiarities, the distribution of international tourist, tourist / film, floral / landscape awards for top excellence, individuals, institutions, communities, which through creativity in various ways contribute to tourism.

Bangkok, Thailand, December 29, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Merry and Sustainable Festive Season Hampers until 6 January 2024. Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel, led by Mr. Christophe Geoffroy (3rd from left), General Manager, in collaboration with Blue Elephant Group’s Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe (4th from left), launched ‘Merry & Sustainable Festive Season Hampers’ featuring the hotel’s finest cakes and cookies together with selected, premium Blue Elephant products as well as healthy drink items by Doi Kham at the hotel recently. Festive hampers are on sale at the hotel from now until 6 January 2024.

Pictured from left are: Ms. Teerawan Sansabai, Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Marketing Communications Manager, Mr. Pierre Swennen, Mr. Christophe Geoffroy, Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s General Manager, Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, Mr. Andreas Hameder Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Executive Chef, Mr. Cedric Besler, Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Resident Manager and Ms. Wanida Kitjao Executive Secretary to Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe.

About Blue Elephant
The story of Blue Elephant began as a result of the great passion for Thai food of Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, founding chef and director of the Blue Elephant Group. Blue Elephant opened its first restaurant in Brussels, Belgium in 1980 with Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, her husband Karl Steppe, who has always been passionate about Thai culture and Thai cuisine, and their good friends and partners Chai Wayno & Somboon

Bangkok, Thailand, December 27, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Hungry Hub announces a landmark achievement at the “Hungry Hub’s Red Table Award 2023”, The Best Restaurant Award from 3 million customers. This marks a significant leap towards global expansion, with partnerships spanning 1,400 top-tier restaurants and hotels worldwide – Leveraging innovative booking platforms, Hungry Hub aims to capture both Thai and international tourist markets, broadening its partnership horizons – With user rates projected to double in 2024 and GMV target at 1.5 billion baht, Hungry Hub is set to redefine the dining experience on a global scale.

Hungry Hub, Thailand’s leading dining offer platform, is proud to announce its supply partnership and integration with renowned industry leaders in restaurant-hotel booking platform worldwide to reinforce Hungry Hub: Reserve with Google, OpenRice, KKDay, GoKoo, GetYourGuide, Klook, GlobalTix, Pelago, MyRealTrip, xplORe, and TagThai. This collaboration is expected to complete on first quarter of 2024, positioning it as a top dining destination for both Thai and foreign tourists. Hungry Hub is well-prepared to flip restaurant and hotel dining businesses into the Online Travel Agency (OTA) world, reflecting from demand of foreign tourists that are expected to step forward to Thailand more 35 million people in upcoming year. Hungry Hub is eager to participate as the one of positive factors to propel tourism industry and promote Thai economy continuously.

Mr. Surasit Sachdev, CEO of Hungry Hub, announced this collaboration in ‘Hungry Hub’s Red Table Award 2023’ that “This collaboration is the critical point for Hungry Hub and Thailand’s restaurant industry as tourist segment has always been challenging to tap into, previously limited to a few prestigious award-winning restaurants, dinner cruises, or renowned street food outlets. With this collaboration, it delivers more choices of quality restaurant in varied segments from street food to luxury dining that is loved by our local customers and reviewed over 250,000 times. Also, the exclusive benefit factor from Hungry Hub is what helps entice the tourist to make that final decision.”

“Our mission is to ensure every meal is a memorable experience. This collaboration accelerates us to one more step ahead to transform Hungry Hub into go-to platform for tourists seeking to deliver exclusive culinary experience endlessly.” Mr. Surasit said.

Currently, Hungry Hub partners with 1,400 restaurants across Thailand and have been booked by over 3 million customers. The average spending per customer is more than 1,000 baht. Hungry Hub has generated over 700 million baht this year for its partner restaurants and hotels, supported by nearly 1 million monthly active users. The Top Customer in 2023 has booked more than 100 times via Hungry Hub, spending over 300,000 baht. One of the principal objectives of Hungry Hub in 2024 is adding a new segment of user base – the tourist segment which currently accounts for 10% to be 50% by end of 2024. The key tourist markets for Hungry Hub’s focus will include China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and South Korea.

“Moreover, Hungry Hub is highlighting its branding as the ultimate dining companion in restaurant and hotel scene for foreigners who travel to Thailand. The platform functionality is similar to an OTA and this collaboration with worldwide leading service providers, Hungry Hub is strengthened and all set to grant the magical experience for tourist to be engulfed with choices ranging from Buffets, Afternoon Tea, Rooftops, Riverside outlets and local favorites to cover their whole trip. On the other hand, Hungry Hub generally helps restaurants uplift their revenue by 20-30% compared to before joining Hungry Hub. This benefit for partners stems from the extensive user base of Hungry Hub, Critical Strategy as best companion with our partners, 360-degree of marketing for Thai and foreigner’s demand, acting as connector between entrepreneurs, restaurant and hotel exchanging knowledge among in the industry, contribution to make sustain revenue in Thai restaurant and hotel industries, and presenting worth and brand-new promotion for customers continually.” Mr. Surasit added.

Hungry Hub’s Red Table Award 2023 celebrates the success for the best alliance restaurants promoting with Hungry Hub: Stand-alone restaurant, Chain restaurant, Hotel restaurants, and Rooftop restaurant. The accolade is bestowed upon carefully chosen establishments, chosen through a rigorous selection process, taking into account feedback from millions of Hungry Hub users over the past year. These distinguished restaurants are recognized across 23 award categories by outstanding venues such as Copper Beyond Buffet, Great Harbour International Buffet, Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Audrey Cafe, and Rain Tree Cafe at The Athenee Hotel. Additionally, noteworthy recognition goes to exceptional bloggers contributing to the gastronomic scene.

About Hungry Hub
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Bangkok, Thailand, December 26, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Bangkok unveils its newest gem in the nightlife circuit, The O.S.S. Bar, where the intriguing legacy of Jim Thompson meets masterful mixology. Nestled within the iconic Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, this bar promises an immersive experience, blending historic tales with inventive cocktails, offering patrons a taste of Thompson’s mystique with every sip.

Nestled within the heart of Bangkok’s Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, The O.S.S. Bar beckons those seeking a sublime cocktail experience with the city’s picturesque canals for a backdrop. An extraordinary addition to the historic premises, the bar draws inspiration from the enigmatic life and mysterious 1967 disappearance of Jim Thompson. Blending vintage charm with contemporary sophistication, the bar invites guests into a world of chic intrigue. For those in the know the recently opened, The O.S.S. Bar has become an essential stop, drawing the city’s vibrant cocktail circuit; a must-do for discerning travellers eager for a nuanced Bangkok nightlife experience.

Subtle hints of Jim Thompson’s connection to the Office of Strategic Services (O.S.S.) surround patrons as they embark on a journey through vintage photographs, cherished artefacts, and whispered tales that set the stage for an unforgettable experience and hint at Thompson’s adventures. Guests are promised a trip to an age filled with charm where they can savour their exquisitely crafted drinks against a backdrop of vibrant beats and picturesque surroundings.

This bar itself is an ode to timeless elegance where every cocktail is a curated narrative, reflecting the intricate tapestry of Thompson’s life. The skilfully crafted menu showcases Thompson’s myriad adventures and his larger-than-life persona in four chapters. Each chapter, from his early life to his associations with the O.S.S., and his profound connection to Thailand, offers cocktails inspired by pivotal moments and locales in his journey.

The menu is designed as a field manual, where each drink unfolds a tale. Symbols hinting at its flavour profile – sweet, sour, spicy, bitter or more – convey a nuanced message in a glass. Instead of traditional ingredients, scenes from Jim Thompson’s life offer subtle clues about the cocktail’s essence.

‘Chapter I – Early Life’ delves into Thompson’s formative years. Born March 21, 1906, in Greenville, Delaware, USA, to a prominent textile magnate father he was a descendant of Union General James Harrison Wilson. This chapter gives rise to two evocative cocktails: ‘The Grand Papa’, a luscious, sweet blend, and ‘Class of 28’, a robust drink with subtle bitter notes.

‘Chapter II – The O.S.S. Time’ reflects on Jim Thompson’s tenure in military intelligence, capturing the essence of missions like ‘Fort Monroe’, ‘Operation Forth’, ‘Ceylon’ and ‘C47’. The flavour profiles trace his covert journeys from America, through North Africa and Ceylon, culminating in Bangkok.

‘Chapter III – Thailand: A Dream Come True’ unveils Jim Thompson’s time as Thailand’s silk king. Celebrate this era with concoctions like the thrilling ‘Golden Banana’ and the balanced ‘The House on the Klong’. While ‘K.YEE & K.TUN’ pays homage to Thompson’s dependable cook and houseboy who were a soothing constant in his life. The chapter concludes with the captivating ‘Sunset at Mekong’, a liquid ode to Southeast Asia’s mesmerising allure.

‘Chapter IV – The Unsolved Mystery’ delves into the enigmatic disappearance of Jim Thompson in 1967 in Malaysia’s jungles, represented by two cocktails: ‘Moonlight Cottage’ and ‘Mystery’. While ‘Moonlight Cottage’ is inspired by the Cameron Highlands, ‘Mystery’ remains the bartender’s secret – every sip evokes the profound mystery surrounding Thompson’s last days.

Beyond the captivating tales spun by the cocktails, patrons can explore a vast repertoire of beverages from artfully crafted mocktails to a curated wine list. You can also explore Thailand’s rich spirit heritage with authentic Thai spirits, each telling a story of craftsmanship, while whisky enthusiasts can rejoice over an array of choices, ensuring a memorable tasting journey. The bar ensures that every guest, regardless of their drink preference, finds something to suit their palate.

Says Siriwan Sinpan the bar manager, “The O.S.S. Bar is a labour of love, a place where history, creativity, and mixology converge. We’ve crafted each cocktail with meticulous attention to detail, aiming to transport our guests on a journey through time and flavour. Here, every sip tells a story.”

Just below The O.S.S. Bar, the Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, offers a culinary ode to the legendary Silk King. Melding Jim Thompson’s rich history with modern Thai gastronomy, the restaurant offers premium ingredients and inventive dishes. Whether enjoying a casual lunch beside the tranquil koi pond, or delving into an evening of curated wine and innovative Thai cuisine, guests are assured memorable experiences. Embracing the “Vibe Dining” concept, the venue seamlessly combines restaurant and club elements.

At the helm of Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant is Executive Chef Pepe Dasí Jiménez. Also known as Chef Pepe, he brings international acclaim and a special twist on Thai flavours, capturing the contemporary spirit of Thai cuisine. Says Chef Pepe, “Both the bar and restaurant encapsulate the essence of Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, offering guests an unparalleled blend of history, innovation, and ambiance.”

Whether patrons begin their evening at the restaurant or the bar, they are guaranteed an immersive experience that blends tradition with contemporary flair. This seamless fusion is epitomized by The O.S.S. Bar. Every element here is meticulously designed to transport patrons into the riveting world of Jim Thompson. As a fresh addition to Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife, The O.S.S. Bar offers both travellers and Bangkok’s discerning cocktail circuit an evening that promises to be as unforgettable as the legend of Jim Thompson himself – a harmonious blend of history, mixology, and entertainment. By day, The O.S.S. Bar transforms into a tearoom – The O.S.S. Room – to offer an elegant afternoon tea experience.

The O.S.S. Bar welcomes cocktail enthusiasts every night, 6 pm–12 am (midnight). Step in for an evening that blends the magic of yesteryears with today’s vibrancy.

For more information on the bar, check out: https://jimthompsonrestaurant.com/th/restaurant/the-oss-bar/

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”.