Category: Latest Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, June 9, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is delighted to announce the ratification of the new PATA Executive Board. Peter Semone has been formally endorsed and will serve as the Chair of the Association’s Executive Board for a consecutive second term.

Following his appointment, Mr Semone said, “It is an honour to be elected by members of the PATA Board of Directors to lead the Association for a second term. Thanks to the strong commitment of the Secretariat staff and outgoing Executive Board members, over the past two years significant progress has been made in regard to PATA’s finances and management. Much work remains to be done and I am confident that the new Executive Board will rise to this challenge.”

Mr Semone is a leading tourism development expert specialising in the Asia Pacific region. He has served in leadership roles for international donor funded projects in Timor-Leste, Lao PDR and Vietnam and is frequently called upon as a short-term expert for UN Tourism and the Asian Development Bank. He is the founder of the internationally acclaimed Lao National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality (LANITH) vocational school. After graduating from Ivy League colleges (UPENN and Cornell), he resided in Indonesia in the 1990s where he established several tourism enterprises and served as an expert tourism adviser to the Government of Indonesia. Mr Semone is widely published in peer-reviewed journals on topics related to tourism marketing and destination human capital. He has also authored tourism policies, strategies and action plans for destinations at regional, national and municipal levels. In his free time, Peter enjoys spending time with his family in Bali and California.

During the 73rd PATA Annual General Meeting on Friday, June 7, 2024, PATA also ratified Suman Pandey, President of Explore Himalaya Travel & Adventure, as the new Vice Chair, and Luzi Matzig, Chairman of Asian Trails Ltd., as the new Secretary/Treasurer of the Association.

Suman Pandey is a well-known figure in Nepalese Tourism and President of Explore Himalaya Travel and Adventure, a well-known name for diverse and innovative operations. He is also the CEO of Fishtail Air, a Nepalese helicopter company; Director of Summit Air, a fixed wing operator catering to tourists going to the Mt. Everest area; Director of the biggest business complex in Nepal, “Chhaya Centre”, a multi-faceted Mega Complex that includes a five star managed by Starwood under the “Aloft” brand; President of the Himalaya Academy of Travel and Tourism, an academy imparting tourism related vocational trainings, and President of Himalayan Pre- Fab Pvt. Ltd, a company specialising on making eco-friendly prefabricated homes.

His remarkable contributions in the Nepalese Tourism Industry have made him eligible for various titles and decorations including “Suprasidha Gorkha Dakshin Bahu” from the King of Nepal in 2004; “Tourism Icon” by the Nepal Association of Tourism Journalists in 2018; a “Lifetime Achievement Award” by tourism publication Gantabya Nepal in 2017; “Tourism Man of the year” by Gantabya Nepal in 2010; and a “Lifetime Achievement Award” for contributions in tourism by the “American Biographical Institute” (ABI) based in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA in 2008, to name a few.

Luzi Matzig began his career with Swissair ground operations in Zurich, Switzerland, and had subsequent postings in London and Berne. In 1971, he moved to Thailand and worked for Diethelm Travel in Bangkok, rising to General Manager and later Group Managing Director overseeing operations in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Yunnan/China. In September 1999, he founded Asian Trails Ltd. and is currently the Chairman. The Asian Trails Group now operates 33 offices with over 500 staff across Thailand, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, and Vietnam.

In addition to managing Asian Trails, Mr Matzig is involved in the cruise and hotel industries, with ventures including Cruise Asia Ltd., Paradise Ko Yao Resort, Treehouse Villas, Legend Chiang Rai Boutique Resort and Spa, Paradise Beach Samui Resort, SUNSET HOUSE, and the Royal Sands Koh Kong Resort. He established VIP Jets Ltd. for executive air transport in Asia. Mr Matzig serves on the Board of the Swiss-Thai Chamber of Commerce, where he was President for 2.5 years, and has held leadership roles in the PATA Thailand Chapter.

Members of the Executive Board for this term include Ben Montgomery, Director of Business Relations Management, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand; Henry Oh, Chairman, Global Tour Ltd., Korea (ROK); Noredah Othman, CEO, Sabah Convention Bureau, Malaysia; Mayur Patel, Head of Asia, OAG, Singapore; Gerald Perez, Vice President, Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam; and SanJeet, Director, DDP Publications Private Limited, India.

Additionally, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid remains on the Executive Board as an Ex-Officio member.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which including government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

Bangkok, Thailand, June 19, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group, launches ‘Teeshot Bar’ at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. The first innovative sports simulator bar with entertainment in a hotel features interactive golf and football sports programming, a karaoke area and a counter bar with a diverse selection of food and beverages. It offers an engaging hub for virtual sports, entertainment, deliciousness, and fun leisure, all within a luxury lifestyle neighborhood in Bangkok’s CBD, Sukhumvit Road. Designed under the concept ‘Sport Innovative: A Hidden Square Venue,’ this state-of-the-art facility caters to business travelers, leisure seekers, families and activity enthusiasts. It also serves as a space for corporate creative activities and fun meetings. The ‘Teeshot Bar’ will redefine the MICE business at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, offering a comprehensive experience, aims to position Bangkok as a world-class destination.

• Teeshot Bar is created under the ‘Sport Innovative A Hidden Square Venue’ concept, fostering a dynamic environment that encourages joyful gathering with physical activity by integrating cutting-edge technology and social lifestyle through sport and entertainment.

• Teeshot Bar’ enhances the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Hotel’s reputation as a premier MICE destination in Bangkok, offering comprehensive amenities and top-notch entertainment.

Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat, Chief Executive Officer and President, Asset World Corp Public Company Limited or AWC, said “We are delighted to introduce ‘Teeshot Bar’ at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, the newest integrated innovative sports simulator in the heart of Bangkok. Teeshot Bar is more than just a state-of-the-art sports simulator, it is a vibrant hub that combines sports activities with fun, delicious dining, and relaxation, offering a superior and healthy lifestyle experience within the hotel. This hub is designed to create memorable experiences and forge connections among travelers. Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, located in the heart of the luxury lifestyle neighborhood of Phrom Phong in Bangkok’s CBD, is a prime destination for global travelers and businesspeople. With the potential to significantly elevate the Thai tourism industry, AWC is confident that the ‘Teeshot Bar’ will introduce a unique and innovative new dimension to the hotel by offering sports entertainment and a vibrant mix of creative activities, it is poised to bring joy and warmly welcome travelers from around the globe.”

Mr. Simon Bell, General Manager of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, said “The launch of ‘Teeshot Bar’ adds a unique touch to Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, elevating the overall experience to satisfy all guests, from retail to MICE delegates. Featuring state-of-the-art sports bar simulators, karaoke area, counter bar and large LED screens for watching sporting events and hosting various social activities, along with the hotel’s renowned food and beverage services, it promises to fully integrate the needs of our guests. Our goal is to provide a memorable and superior experience with comprehensive services, everything under one roof. This supports the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park in becoming a premier tourist destination with world-class services, right in the heart of Bangkok.”

At Teeshot Bar, guests are invited to immerse themselves in an unparalleled sports and entertainment experience. Our cutting-edge golf and football programming includes engaging mini-games, virtual tournaments and skill-testing football challenges with various game scenarios. For those who love to sing, our karaoke area provides the perfect spot to belt out favorite tunes with friends. The counter bar offers expertly crafted cocktails, beer and fine wines, with an LED widescreen enhancing the ambiance, making it an ideal backdrop for watching major sports events and hosting social gatherings. Our diverse menu of international premium F&B options features snacks and pizzas, including highlights like mini hamburgers, loaded fries with satay sauce, mayo, chopped onions and Margherita pizza with fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella. Teeshot Bar caters to diverse needs, from business meetings, casual business talks, sophisticated co-working lounge to a vibrant sports entertainment.

The Tee shot Bar, designed with the inspiration to create a dynamic and immersive environment that encourages movement and innovation. Seamlessly integrating technology and social lifestyle, this space features fluid lines and geometric shapes, with a curved bar and angular accents that mirror the fluidity of movement and the aesthetics of sports equipment, while the color palette combines bold hues to evoke energy and passion, balanced by warm and calming grays and whites. Moreover, technology is deeply integrated into the space, featuring virtual reality simulators and golf swing motion capture systems that track movements and provide feedback for improvement and smart lighting with an infinity mirror of fiber optics. Enhancing the overall experience while reducing environmental impact, sports simulators offer an eco-friendly alternative, making the sport more sustainable and accessible for everyone.

“This innovative venue elevates the traveler experience to new heights and underscores our commitment to making Phrom Phong and Sukhumvit areas become the ultimate destination for unforgettable lifestyle experiences. It serves as a premier hub for sports enthusiasts, corporate team-building activities, meeting and social gatherings, further solidifying Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park’s status as a leading MICE hotel in Bangkok. We believe that Teeshot Bar will attract a diverse range of travelers, contribute to the local economy and reinforce Thailand’s reputation as a global tourism destination,” concluded Mrs. Wallapa.

‘Teeshot Bar’ is located on the M floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park and is open from 10:00 AM to midnight.

For reservations, please contact: Email: restaurant-reservations.bkkqp@marriotthotels.com Tel: +66 2 059 5555

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) is Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group and a member of TCC Group, with the focus on hospitality, lifestyle destinations, and commercial workspaces. Driven by the philosophy of “Building a Better Future,” AWC strives to grow and expand beyond the norms with a diverse array of quality projects, providing responsible and sustainable solutions for all our stakeholders. The company has two main businesses. Hospitality business managed by top hotel executives of world-renowned hotel brands such as Marriott, The Luxury Collection, InterContinental, Okura, Banyan Tree, Hilton, Sheraton, and Melia, and Commercial properties whose projects include 1) Retail and Wholesale such as lifestyle travel destinations, community shopping malls, community markets, and wholesale business real estate. Popular real estate projects consist of Asiatique the Riverfront Destination, Gateway at Bangsue, Phenix, and Tawanna Bangkapi, and 2) Commercial buildings including the famous ‘The Empire’ and Athenee Tower located in Bangkok’s central business district. AWC is committed to integrating its sustainability strategy in every part of its operations to create long-term sustainable value for all stakeholders. The sustainability strategy consists of three key pillars: Better Planet, Better People and Better Prosperity, while the framework has created numerous long-term initiatives including the reConcept, The GALLERY and other

Bangkok, Thailand, June 10, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / TOP25Restaurants.com, the world’s first organization to use artificial intelligence (AI) to curate and recognize the finest dining establishments across the globe, is thrilled to unveil the much-anticipated list of the top 25 restaurants in Bangkok for 2024. This year marks a new and highly updated edition of the prestigious ranking, a testament to our commitment to celebrating culinary excellence in Bangkok.

The top spot was taken by restaurant POTONG, a Thai-Chinese fine dining restaurant by chef Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij, followed closely by Côte by Mauro Colagreco at Capella hotel and helmed by chef Davide Garavaglia, in third Baan Tepa, the new two-star Michelin restaurant and in fourth came the internationally acclaimed restaurant SORN where Chef Ice serves unmatched Southern Thai food. Seven restaurants were newly awarded and included in the TOP25, among Embassy Room offering the first Catalan Culinary Experience in Bangkok, Chai Jia Chai, a premier modern Cantonese omakase restaurant and restaurant ÎNT surprising guests with progressive Thai, 13-course tasting menu.

Founded by Bernard Metzger, the visionary behind the TOP25 Restaurants Guide series said; “In 2018, when we launched TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok as the world’s first AI-powered restaurant guide our aim was transform how we discover and celebrate exceptional dining experiences. There was no Chat GPT and few people had even heard of AI, artificial intelligence; the goal was to publish a guide that is more dynamic, comprehensive, and objective than any other.”

The TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok Awards 2024 event took place on June 10, 2024, at the luxurious Park Hyatt Bangkok hotel.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the award certificate to each of the top 25 restaurants Bangkok award winners. These elegant certificates featured the restaurant’s name and its 2024 rank and were personally presented by Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Asia and South Pacific) at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Mr. Noor Ahmad Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). This added a touch of distinction to the evening, underscoring the significance of this recognition.

THE TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok 2024 –
Ranked by the Restaurant Rating Index ( www.top25restaurants.com/thailand/bangkok/ )

1. Potong
2. Côte by Mauro Colagreco
3. Baan Tepa
4. Sorn
5. Embassy Room
6. Mezzaluna
7. INDDEE
8. Chef’s Table
9. Savelberg
10. Sühring
11. Gaa
12. Chai Jia Chai
13. Maison Dunand
14. Elements, Inspired by Ciel Bleu
15. R-Haan
16. Sushi Masato
17. IGNIV
18. Le Du
19. Juksunchae
20. Khaan
21. Blue by Alain Ducasse
22. Resonance
23. CLARA
24. ÎNT Restaurant
25. Mia

For the first time, Travelindex Group introduced the TOP25 Restaurants Special Awards to honor not only the top 25 winners but also excellence in culinary heritage, groundbreaking innovation in the restaurant industry, and a young rising star chef.

The winners of the special awards are:
• PerfectCheck received the Restaurant Industry Innovation Award
• Chef Goji Kobayashi, Chef-Owner at Sushi Kuuya received the Young Rising Star Chef Award
• North Restaurant, was awarded the Culinary Heritage Excellence Award

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all 25 winners and special award recipients and express our gratitude to the culinary community in Bangkok for their unwavering dedication to the art of gastronomy. Your passion and creativity continue to inspire and delight.

About TOP25 Restaurants by Travelindex:
TOP25 Restaurants is the World’s First AI-Powered restaurant guide. It is the only independent, global rating system based on artificial intelligence enhanced by human expertise and discernment. This dynamic synergy not only ensures unparalleled accuracy but enriches the curation process with a depth of understanding and nuance unparalleled elsewhere. The annual TOP25 Restaurants Awards celebrates the most outstanding restaurants and showcases the ultimate collection of dining venues in each destination. TOP25 Restaurants is owned by Travelindex Group, a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sectors. The media group operates an open and free digital platform, connecting millions of travelers worldwide and providing inspiration and advice for discerning travelers and tourists. In addition to Bangkok, Travelindex Group also publishes TOP25 Restaurant Guides in the following destinations: Phuket, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macao, Shanghai, Delhi and Dubai. www.top25restaurants.com

Visit us online for more information about Travelindex and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter and YouTube.

About Park Hyatt Bangkok
Park Hyatt Bangkok is a Tranquil Oasis above Bustling Bangkok. Centrally located in the heart of the Thai capital’s central business district. Featuring contemporary architecture matched by luxurious residential interiors, expertly curated art, world-class food and wine, and refined service, all coupled with a promise to offer unique Thai experiences that reflect the country’s rich culture, gracious hospitality, and colorful lifestyles. The hotels interior design brief – to create a sophisticated private residence and sanctuary reflecting Thailand’s rich culture – was eloquently executed by New York- based Yabu Pushelberg, who also served as the designers of the brand’s flagship Park Hyatt New York hotel. This is the award0winning design duo’s first hotel in Bangkok, and they have created a calm and stylish environment unfolding through a series of unique and intimate spaces.

About PerfectCheck
PerfectCheck transforms restaurants revenue and profit optimization. PerfectCheck is a cutting-edge, plug-and-play tool designed to give restaurant professionals a clear view of their business performance. The innovative modules let restaurant owners visualize key metrics, optimize table occupancy, enhance menu offerings, and improve server performance – all without manual data analysis. Seamlessly integrating with the POS and Table Management systems, PerfectCheck provides accurate forecasts and actionable insights. Focus on running your restaurant while PerfectCheck maximizes your profitability. www.perfectcheck.com

For media enquiries please contact:
Nicole Lim
Content Editor & Media Relations
TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok
e: media@top25restaurants.com

Bangkok, Thailand, June 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation, supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ministry of Culture-Department of Cultural Promotion, and B. Grimm Group Ltd., will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 7th, at the Thailand Cultural Centre, with Principal Clarinet of the Hong Kong Philharmonic, Andrew Simon performs Mozart’s Clarinet concerto in honour of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana.

The programme will begin with Edward Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March No.1. Composed in 1901, it is the first and most well-known of five marches by Elgar bearing the title “Pomp and Circumstance”, taking their title from a speech in Act 3 of Shakespeare’s Othello. The first March is best known for its trio section, adapted into the popular anthem ‘Land of Hope and Glory’; regardless, the entire march is triumphant and iconic.

This is followed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A major, K. 622. Mozart was the first composer to realise the expressive qualities of the clarinet. Mozart’s writing shows great sensitivity to the character and limitations of the instrument and the relationship of the solo part to the orchestra to allow for breathing and phrasing. It was his last instrumental work, and it survives only in an adaptation by its original publisher. The orchestra, as well as having the customary strings, has flutes, bassoons, and horns without oboes, producing a gentle sound, achieving the effect of support without drowning the soloist. It is generally considered to be Mozart’s best wind concerto.

This work will be performed by soloist Andrew Simon, whose international career was launched by his critically acclaimed Carnegie Hall debut. The first American-born artist with a career spanning three decades, highlights include over 70 solo performances with the Hong Kong Philharmonic, appearances in 23 Japanese cities, continental premieres of the original version of Copland’s concerto in Australia and Asia, and his Singapore Symphony and New Zealand orchestral debuts performing Mozart’s concerto in its original version on basset clarinet.

To end the performance, the RBSO, with almost a hundred musicians, will play a piece by Gustav Holst: The Planets. The size of the Orchestra is required to match the grandeur of the Planets piece. It is a legendary seven-movement orchestral suite in which each movement takes you through an auditory journey with the planets of the Solar System and their corresponding astrological character. Holst began composing The Planets in 1914; his music-centric spatial explorations may not be scientific, but they are brilliant, dramatic, and picturesque enough to create celestial harmonies.

Tickets are available at Thaiticketmajor: https://www.thaiticketmajor.com/

Bangkok, June 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / On 10th June 2024, Travelindex will announce the winners of its TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok Awards 2024, highlighting the favourite restaurants that illustrate why the Thai capital is a favourite dining destination for gourmets and gourmands.

The 2024 Awards presentation will be held at the prestigious Park Hyatt Bangkok. It’ll be the first time, TOP25 Restaurants is Introducing Special Awards to recognize more efforts in the restaurants and hospitality sector. Among the introduced Special Awards there will be the “Young Rising Star Chef Award” and the “TOP25 Restaurants Industry Innovation Award”.

“We are eager to share the 2024 Award Winners in Bangkok, said Bernard Metzger, Founder of the TOP25 Restaurants Guide and Award series. Bangkok’s finest restaurants continue to impress patrons with the outstanding and delectable food being served in the Thai capital. We are excited to celebrate their accomplishments and can’t wait to reveal some new discoveries.”

On the day, we’ll find out who are the TOP25 Restaurants in Bangkok as well as who the Chefs are behind this fabulous recognition. The list of the awards winners and also all nominated and recognized restaurants will then be available online.

Since 2018, the annual list and awards are AI-powered and based on the Travelindex owned and patented “Restaurant Rating Index”. The multi-tier rating model combines the power of crowd wisdom (social media and review sites) with artificial intelligence behavioural algorithms enhanced with guidance and expertise from on-the-ground experts, making it a true and objective curation and measuring standard.

The Restaurant Rating Index is a recognised benchmark for rating quality restaurants; chefs strive to be listed in the TOP25 Restaurants because it increases the restaurant’s reputation and draws in more customers. All the restaurants listed provide an unforgettable dining experience.

To view all Bangkok Restaurants Nominees, please click here…

About TOP25 Restaurants by Travelindex
TOP25 Restaurants is the World’s First AI-Powered restaurant guide. It is the only independent, global rating system based on artificial intelligence enhanced by human expertise and discernment. This dynamic synergy not only ensures unparalleled accuracy but enriches the curation process with a depth of understanding and nuance unparalleled elsewhere. The annual TOP25 Restaurants Awards celebrates the most outstanding restaurants and showcases the ultimate collection of dining venues in each destination. TOP25 Restaurants is owned by Travelindex Group, a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sectors. The media group operates an open and free digital platform, connecting millions of travelers worldwide and providing inspiration and advice for discerning travelers and tourists.
In addition to Bangkok, Travelindex Group also publishes TOP25 Restaurant Guides in the following destinations: Phuket, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macao, Shanghai, Delhi and Dubai. www.top25restaurants.com

About Park Hyatt Bangkok
Park Hyatt Bangkok is a Tranquil Oasis above Bustling Bangkok. Centrally located in the heart of the Thai capital’s central business district. Featuring contemporary architecture matched by luxurious residential interiors, expertly curated art, world-class food and wine, and refined service, all coupled with a promise to offer unique Thai experiences that reflect the country’s rich culture, gracious hospitality, and colorful lifestyles. The hotels interior design brief – to create a sophisticated private residence and sanctuary reflecting Thailand’s rich culture – was eloquently executed by New York- based Yabu Pushelberg, who also served as the designers of the brand’s flagship Park Hyatt New York hotel. This is the award0winning design duo’s first hotel in Bangkok, and they have created a calm and stylish environment unfolding through a series of unique and intimate spaces.

About PerfectCheck
PerfectCheck transforms restaurants revenue and profit optimization. PerfectCheck is a cutting-edge, plug-and-play tool designed to give restaurant professionals a clear view of their business performance. The innovative modules let restaurant owners visualize key metrics, optimize table occupancy, enhance menu offerings, and improve server performance – all without manual data analysis. Seamlessly integrating with the POS and Table Management systems, PerfectCheck provides accurate forecasts and actionable insights. Focus on running your restaurant while PerfectCheck maximizes your profitability. www.perfectcheck.com

For media enquiries please contact:
Nicole Lim
Content Editor & Media Relations
TOP25 Restaurants International
e: nicole@top25restaurants.com

Batam, Indonesia, July 19, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Expanding upon its renowned commitment to offer guests an extensive selection of diverse destinations throughout the Asia-Pacific region, Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a major hotel management agreement with PT Yetosa Pratama Sukses (Puri Group) for Cross Batam Antapura, a 340-key tropical island paradise. Developed under the ‘Luxury by Design’ concept and set amid stunning natural beauty, the resort is scheduled to welcome its first guests in 2027.

Forging a new partnership with Puri Group, one of the bigger property developers on Batam Island, Indonesia, this is Cross Hotels & Resorts’ inaugural property on the booming island. Cross Batam Antapura is a hybrid resort, offering guests a choice of 250 contemporary hotel rooms and 90 luxury pool villas, all centered around a low-rise Water Courtyard. Seamlessly blending traditional Indonesian designs with modern refinement, the striking resort provides a serene setting that invokes personal wellbeing.

Located only 13 minutes from Hang Nadim International Airport, a short drive from the international ferry terminal and close to three international golf courses, Cross Batam Antapura is sure to appeal to holidaymakers, day-trippers and event planners alike. The integrated resort offers a harmonious blend of tranquility and excitement, from secluded retreats to exceptional dining experiences. Adults can relax with rejuvenating spa services while juniors are presented with a vibrant recreational and entertainment scene.

“It has been an honour working with Puri Group and to present our aspirational goal of being APAC’s hotel management operator of choice for owners seeking an innovative alternative to those offered by larger chains. While Cross Batam Antapura is our first resort on Batam Island, it becomes our eighth property in Indonesia. Batam Island is a gateway to the rest of the Indonesian archipelago and I am truly excited about our expansion across this beautiful land. Not only does Cross Batam Antapura encapsulate our Luxury by Design concept, but it also strengthens our sustainable architecture initiatives,” said Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts.

Cross Batam Antapura offers a range of gorgeous one- to three-bedroom pool villas, perfect for romantic escapes, family gatherings, and corporate events. World-class amenities include gourmet eateries, a swimming pool with a sunken bar, a spa complex, fitness centre, ballroom, wedding chapel, and ample parking. Cross Batam Antapura also boasts several sustainable architecture initiatives that transform its surroundings into a verdant oasis of eco-conscious living spaces.

Mr. Wagiman, President Director of PT Yetosa Pratama Sukses (Puri Group), said, “We were seeking a partner with an innovative alternative and a proven track record in the hospitality business. Cross Hotels & Resorts portfolio in Indonesia is growing so fast that we saw an opportunity to develop this luxury project together. Backed by one of the biggest travel companies in the world – Flight Centre Travel Group, we recognize the power of their global distribution. We believe that what we are creating with this partnership will be hugely successful.”

Batam Island presents travelers with picturesque landscapes, cultural vibrancy, and bustling urban vitality, all conveniently situated in a single locale. Whether you seek tranquil temple visits or breathtaking sunset vistas at Barelang Bridge, thrilling water sports, or leisurely beach days, this destination caters to every preference, promising an enriching experience for all who visit.

Cross Hotels & Resorts current portfolio includes 28 hotels under six distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen, Cross Collection and Kaura – across four countries, namely Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan.

About Cross Hotels & Resorts
Cross Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel management company wholly owned by the ASX listed Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG). FCTG is one of the world’s largest and progressive travel companies, incorporating diverse worldwide distribution, in destination travel experiences such as transport and touring as well as hotel management solutions. Cross Hotels & Resorts also delivers owner services all the way from the very early sourcing and planning stages of a development, through technical services during build, to pre-opening services and finally professional ongoing hotel management.

Perth, Australia, July 17, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced its latest round of high-profile speakers for its upcoming Global Summit, featuring top leaders from the world’s leading Travel & Tourism businesses.

Hosted by Tourism Western Australia (TWA), the event will take place in Perth (Boorloo), Western Australia, from 8-10 October. It stands as the pinnacle of the Travel & Tourism calendar.

Under the theme “Ancient Land: New Perspectives,” the Global Summit will spotlight Australia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, emphasising innovation and sustainable growth.

Industry trailblazers and international government officials from across the globe will converge in Perth to drive forward efforts for a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future in Travel & Tourism.

Top business leaders set to speak include Greg O’Hara, Certares Founder & Senior Managing Director and WTTC Chair, Matt Goldberg, TripAdvisor CEO, Audrey Hendley, American Express Travel President; Jerry Inzerillo, Diriyah Company Group CEO, Hiroyuki Takahashi, JTB Corp Chair of the Board, and James Thornton, Intrepid Travel CEO, among many others.

Adding star power, renowned wildlife conservationist and TV presenter Robert Irwin will also take the stage. Known for his dedication to wildlife conservation and inspiring positive change, Irwin follows in the footsteps of his legendary father, Steve Irwin.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The leading industrialists in Travel & Tourism who are shaping our sector and countries’ economies will be at WTTC’s Summit in Perth. Their insights and leadership are crucial as we shape the future of Travel & Tourism.

“Western Australia, with its stunning natural beauty and deep commitment to sustainability and cultural diversity, is the perfect backdrop for this event. Hosting the Global Summit in Perth enables us to pioneer new ideas for tourism while honouring the rich traditions and ancient heritage of the land.”

The event will bring together government representatives from around the world, offering a platform for industry leaders and officials to exchange insights, discuss best practices, and explore innovative strategies to drive the resilience and growth of the Travel & Tourism industry.

WTTC’s 24th Global Summit aims to be a game-changer, setting the course for a dynamic and sustainable future in Travel & Tourism.

Bangkok, Thailand, July 15, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels Mid-Season Savvy Sale is back with generous discounts at stylish city hotels and stunning beach resorts in dream destinations across Asia.

With our 7-day sale, you can enjoy up to 30% off when you book a stay with BWH Hotels from Wednesday, July 17th to Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024. This enticing offer is available to Best Western Rewards® members who complete their stay before October 30th, 2024.

So, don’t miss out – book your next escape with BWH Hotels’ Mid-Season Savvy Sale! From Bangkok to Cebu, Phu Quoc to Phuket, and Nagoya to The Philippines, we can create your ultimate Asian adventure!

Terms & conditions:
• Receive up to 15% off the hotel’s Best Rate, and BWR members enjoy an additional 15% discount, for a total discount of up to 30%.
• Bookings must be made between July 17th and July 23rd, 2024 (GMT +07:00 hrs.).
• Stays must be taken between July 17th and October 30th, 2024.
• Limited room allocations and blackout dates may apply.
• This promotion cannot be combined with any other offers, packages, or discounts.
• Other terms & conditions may apply, per the property or BWR program.

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 18 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, July 10, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed a record-breaking year for Travel & Tourism in Saudi Arabia, with new records in GDP contribution, sector jobs and visitor spend.

Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector is now soaring past all previous records, testament to the country’s commitment to becoming a global tourism hot spot.

Last year, the sector grew by more than 32% to contribute a record-breaking SAR 444.3BN to Saudi’s GDP, representing 11.5% of the entire economy. This exceeded the previous record by almost 30% and underscores the sector’s pivotal new role in the nation’s economic framework.

Jobs supported by the sector grew by 436,000 to reach more than 2.5MN, representing almost one in five jobs in the country.

Although the jobs lost during the pandemic were fully recovered in 2022, today’s announcement shows sector employment in Travel & Tourism has increased almost 24% since the previous peak.

International visitor spending surged by almost 57% to reach SAR 227.4BN, breaking the previous record by SAR 93.6BN, while domestic visitor spending grew by 21.5% to reach SAR 142.5BN.

Seven years ahead of its target, Saudi Arabia welcomed 100MN tourists in 2023. Today, the country is surging toward even greater heights and has set a more ambitious aim of attracting 150MN tourists by 2030.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said; “Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector’s extraordinary achievements last year mark a pivotal moment in its journey towards becoming a global tourism leader.

“This success is a direct result of the Kingdom’s visionary commitment to the sector, showcasing an impressive fusion of cultural heritage and innovative tourism initiatives. As the sector continues to expand, it promises to play a crucial role in the nation’s diversified economic future, while contributing significantly to global Travel & Tourism development.”

Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the Executive Council of UN Tourism, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb said “The latest data from WTTC provides further evidence of the rapid success we have achieved in transforming Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.

“Tourism is a key pillar of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plans and we have made great strides promoting investment in the sector – with more than $800 billion earmarked by 2030 – as well as creating new jobs and growing the contribution of tourism to GDP.”

What Does This Year Look Like?

Travel & Tourism is forecast to continue growing at pace in 2024, with GDP contribution set to reach SAR 498BN, while jobs will increase by more than 158,000 jobs to reach nearly 2.7MN.

International visitor spending is projected to reach SAR 256BN, almost double the previous high point, and domestic visitor spending is forecast to reach SAR 155.2BN

What Does the Next Decade Look Like?

The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its annual GDP contribution to a staggering SAR 836.1BN by 2034, almost 16% of the Saudi Arabian economy, and will employ more than 3.6MN people across the country, with one in five people working in the sector.

What Does the Region Look Like?

The Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector grew by more than 25% in 2023 to reach almost $460BN. Jobs reached nearly 7.75MN and international spending grew by 50% to reach $179.8BN. Domestic visitor spending grew by 16.5% to reach more than $205BN.

WTTC is forecasting that the Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector will continue to grow throughout 2024 with the GDP contribution set to reach $507BN. Jobs are forecast to reach 8.3MN, international visitor spending is forecast to reach $198BN and domestic visitor spending is expected to reach more than $224BN.

Sentosa, Singapore,  July 10, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) will be holding the GSTC2024 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in Sentosa, Singapore, during November 13th-16th, 2024.

The event aims to unite global and local tourism professionals engaged in advancing and advocating for sustainable travel and tourism. The conference and pre-conference training will be held at the Equarius Hotel in Resorts World Sentosa, certified against both GSTC Destination and Industry Criteria for Hotels.

With an estimated 500 participants, the GSTC2024 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in Sentosa will attract representatives from diverse sectors, including the public sector, hotels, tour operators, companies, academia, development agencies, online travel agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Over the course of four days, attendees can engage in a comprehensive program comprising a pre-conference training session, interactive panels, workshops, meetings, and social events. Beyond the professional development opportunities, participants will also have the chance to immerse themselves in the allure of Sentosa.

The conference’s agenda revolves around four key themes:

– Driving Sustainable Urban Tourism
– Sustainable Hospitality
– Preserving Culture and Heritage
– Integrating Sustainability across the Value Chain

By addressing these key themes, the conference aims to empower participants with the knowledge and skills needed to advance sustainable tourism practices, ensuring a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.

Registration is now open for the GSTC2024 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference, where thought leaders, industry experts, and stakeholders converge to shape the future of sustainable travel and tourism.

For more information, please visit www.gstcouncil.org/gstc2024singapore/