Category: Latest Travel News

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania, December 9, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Wilderness Collection in Tanzania will be launching Warangi Ridge Lodge, a brand-new safari camp in the Serengeti National Park on 1 June 2025.  It will be the sister lodge to Craters Edge in Ngorongoro, which recently celebrated its first birthday.

Located atop a stunning granite cliff, Warangi Ridge Lodge will offer breathtaking views over the Serengeti’s iconic savanna, grasslands and kopjes. Facilities will include a library, lounge bar and restaurant as well as yoga deck, open air gym and spa, all tucked away between the acacia trees, with an infinity pool claiming pride of place.

Luxury under Canvas

The all-inclusive lodge will comprise twenty thoughtfully designed tented suites, inspired by the surrounding landscapes and the endangered pangolin that calls this area home. Each tent will have its own private deck with plunge pool overlooking the sweeping vistas. Nothing beats the sights and sounds of nature when you are sleeping under canvas!  Suites pack the wow-factor with sumptuous king-sized beds, free-standing bathtubs and outdoor showers. Families will be comfortably accommodated too, with two two-bedroom suite tents on offer.

A Commitment to Conservation

Located in an area rich in wildlife diversity, guests can expect to encounter some of the Serengeti’s most famous residents including lions, leopards, elephants, and cheetahs, along with herds of zebras and wildebeest. Perfectly positioned, right on the migration route, exceptional predator-prey interactions will be a given. The Wilderness Collection team is dedicated to conservation, particularly in protecting the endangered pangolin from poaching. The camp is situated within the Serengeti Cheetah Project study area and the team regularly contributes to vital population research. Additionally, the camp is located within the TANAPA Research Area, supporting ecological monitoring and sustainable park management.

A variety of activities are offered including day and night game drives, river walks along the Orangi River, specialized bird walks and eco-nature walks.  There are also child-friendly activities and treats to engage young guests aged 5-15.

Conveniently located just 41km from the Seronera airstrip, Warangi Ridge Lodge is poised to be the hottest new property in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations!  For more information, please visit  thewildernesscollection.com

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Bangkok, Thailand, December 9, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Today, sustainability is a topic of discussion across a wide range of industries. As with the tourism industry, which is considered the main income of many countries, sustainability is a top priority to be aware of in order to create a balance between both natural and man-made tourism destinations and the attempts to take advantage of these two resources. This is to prevent the deterioration of the planet.

Therefore, Travel And Tourism Research Association or TTRA, a non-profit organization which has been run for more than 50 years with the objective to reinforce research, analysis, and marketing standards related to travel and tourism among over 20 members worldwide, has organized an annual seminar under the topic “Tourism and Travel Sustainable Transformations in the Asia Pacific” in Bangkok, Thailand.

Every year, the venue of the event will be rotated to enable seminar participants to gain and exchange diverse knowledge, experiences, and cultures from various countries. This year, Thailand was chosen as the destination for the seminar and Dusit Thani College, a leading higher education specialized in hospitality business under Dusit International, was trusted to host the event on 30 November – 3 December 2024 at Srinakarin Hall, Dusit Thani College Bangkok.

Dr. Atthawet Prougestaporn, Rector of Dusit Thani College, gave an opening speech that “For Thailand, the tourism industry has been the main source of income since 1987. During that time, there were about 2.4 million tourists visiting Thailand per year. However, according to year 2023 data, there were about 2.4 million tourists visiting Thailand per month and there will be around 35 million tourists in total for the year 2024. These data reflect how much the tourism industry is growing. However, growth comes with deprivation, especially in terms of the environment, way of living of local communities, and culture. We hope that this seminar can be a space where the theories in the research can be put into practice, as well as a platform for the exchange of ideas for our industry.”

While Dr. Aaron Tham, President of TTRA Asia Pacific Chapter, gave a speech to warmly welcome seminar participants to Thailand, one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia. He emphasized that sustainability is a topic that every industry around the world places an importance on, while TTRA is willing to support each organization to achieve the ambition.

Throughout the past period, the global tourism industry has constantly been evolving. However, economic, political, and even human resource constraints and rapid technological advancements are factors that affect global tourism. Therefore, it is necessary to research in order to adjust and evaluate the market, as well as to seek new business models and opportunities. Especially in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic recovery, there have been more new and intense competition in many destinations around the world. This situation urges all relevant sectors to conduct research to create sustainability for the industry. That’s what TTRA and Dusit Thani College, the host of the event, expect participants to gain from this seminar.

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Bangkok, Thailand, December 7, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / lebua Hotels & Resorts is redefining its brand, creating a new level of excitement and anticipation as it enters a transformative era. This festive season, lebua is set to elevate Bangkok’s holiday celebrations with a unique blend of luxurious dining, cutting-edge entertainment, and panoramic views.

From December 16, 2024, to January 5, 2025, Sirocco, Breeze, and the celebrated two-Michelin-starred restaurants Chef’s Table and Mezzaluna will present exclusive Festive Menus, crafted by top chefs to highlight distinctive flavors and premium ingredients. Each venue’s signature holiday menu is designed to offer guests an unforgettable dining experience that can only be enjoyed once a year.

Laser Mapping Spectacle: A Fusion of Height, Heritage, and Innovation

From December 24 to December 31, 2024, lebua will present one of the highest laser mapping shows in the world. This visual marvel will take place on the 64th floor, where lebua’s renowned neo-classical architectural structure will serve as the canvas for a vibrant and dynamic display of lights. The laser mapping will highlight the elegance and grandeur of the building’s iconic design, merging heritage with cutting-edge technology to create a mesmerizing experience high above the Bangkok skyline. This unprecedented display is set to become a landmark attraction of the season, capturing the attention of guests and passersby alike.

The New Year’s Eve event on December 31, 2024, will be a centerpiece of the season, featuring the following attractions:

• Thailand’s Highest Laser Mapping Spectacle: On the 64th floor, lebua will present one of the highest laser mapping shows in the world, creating a breathtaking visual experience set against the Bangkok skyline.
• Aerial Acrobatics by Leng Rajanikara: The Dome at lebua will be transformed into a stage for an exclusive aerial acrobatics performance by Rajanikara Leng Kaewdee, the acclaimed winner of Thailand’s Got Talent Season 11, providing a thrilling spectacle for guests.
• Panoramic Fireworks Views Across Bangkok: On New Year’s Eve, lebua’s prime riverside location offers an unparalleled viewing experience of Bangkok’s fireworks display. From The Dome’s bars and restaurants, guests will have a front-row seat to a panoramic “wall of fireworks” as it lights up the city, with bursts of color stretching along the Chao Phraya River and across the Bangkok skyline. This captivating view, along with the luxurious ambiance of lebua’s venues, makes for an unmatched way to welcome 2025.

An Invitation to an Unmatched Holiday Experience
The Festive Season at lebua represents a unique blend of culinary mastery and immersive entertainment, allowing guests to savor the season’s joy in an exclusive, elegant setting. This carefully crafted experience is designed to inspire, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a memorable holiday celebration.

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Bangkok, Thailand, December 15, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation, in collaboration with the Embassy of Netherlands, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Information and B. Grimm Group Ltd., will present a concert titled “Sound of the Seasons” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 21st, at the Thailand Cultural Centre, which will also celebrate the special year of the 420th Anniversary of Thai-Netherlands Relations. The Netherlands Embassy and RBSO proudly present a beautiful Christmas Concert by Dutch Conductor – Sander Teepen & Dutch Soprano – Jeannette van Schaik with the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra. This Christmas Concert will highlight and cherish the deep ties that have connected our two Kingdoms for centuries.

Jeannette is one of the Netherlands’ great emerging vocal talents, known for her radiant, luscious voice and heartfelt interpretation. She made her international debut as Mimì in Puccini’s La Bohème at the Grand Théâtre de Luxembourg under the baton of Karel Deseure. Highlights include the New Year concert tour with the Noord Nederlands Orkest with conductor Ed Spanjaard, Mahler’s Symphony No.2 at the Royal Concertgebouw and her debut with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic orchestra with Sven-David Sandström’s High Mass under the baton of Ryan Bancroft. She has collaborated with orchestras such as the Nederlands Philharmonisch Orkest and Nederlands Kamerorkest, the Residentie Orkest, Tel Aviv Symphony Orchestra, Radio Filharmonisch Orkest, Nationaal Jeugd Orkest, Noord Nederlands Orkest and the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra and had the pleasure of working with conductors such as Giancarlo Andretta, Sir Mark Elder, Huba Hollóköi, Karel Deseure, Clark Rundell, Paul Nadler, Alexander Joel, Markus Stenz, Karina Cannelakis and Antony Hermus and with stage-directors such as Waut Koeken, Javier Lopéz Piñón, David Prins, Andrea Breth, Alexander Oliver, Sybrand van der Werf, Dominik Beneš and Paul Carr.

This concert will feature a variety of pieces to appeal to all ages. From the more mature and classical sounds of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, Ave Maria O Holy Night Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Mozart’s Exsultate Jubilate to the cheery Christmas songs such as Jingle Bell and All I Want For Christmas Is You. The RBSO hopes to celebrate the festive season by providing a family-friendly atmosphere and concert experience.

Tickets are available at Thaiticketmajor:
www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2024-sound-of-the-seasons.html

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Bangkok, Thailand, December 11, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson Farm welcomes visitors once again as it opens for the season on December 7, transforming its sprawling 600-rai grounds into a winter wonderland where art meets nature. Against a backdrop of cool breezes and endless rice fields, visitors can discover the rich heritage of Isan reimagined through this year’s theme, “Isan Calling” – an invitation to explore and reconnect with the region’s vibrant cultural roots. The farm’s crown jewel this season is the return of Art on Farm, where an exceptional gathering of Thailand’s leading artists has turned the pastoral setting into a monumental open-air gallery. Here, visitors will find themselves in a unique sanctuary where spectacular art installations harmonize with natural beauty, creating an unparalleled winter experience for both art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Art on Farm 2024 makes history with an unprecedented collaboration of 18 visionary artists, bringing together diverse perspectives from Thailand’s Northeast, North, and Central regions, alongside international talents. Leading this extraordinary showcase is award-winning landscape architect Sanitas Pradittasnee, whose masterful integration of contemporary art and cultural beliefs takes center stage. Her latest installation, “The Pilgrimage within,” draws inspiration from the mystique of Khao Phaya Prap, weaving together Isan folklore and spirituality through an innovative Camera Obscura light installation that transforms natural light into an ethereal artistic experience.

Chiang Rai-based Chata Maiwong brings his masterpiece “Cocoon (Instinct)” to life, exploring the delicate relationship between humanity and nature. The striking installation weaves together eucalyptus wood, steel frames, and silk threads to create a monumental cocoon nestled among eucalyptus trees. The organic masterpiece stands as a profound meditation on creative instinct – where human craftsmanship and natural design converge through the art of weaving.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, multimedia innovator Savinee Buranasilapin joins forces with German architect Tom Dannecker of thingsmatter studio to create “Ligature” – a striking architectural installation that bridges traditional craft with digital innovation. The open pavilion, spanning 15 x 21 x 4 meters, masterfully interweaves bamboo and steel through a harmonious blend of computer-aided precision and artisanal hand-weaving techniques. Its distinctive triple-arch design, reaching out in three directions, stands as a powerful testament to how contemporary design can honor traditional wisdom while embracing modern technological advances.

Rising star Nakprach from Chiang Rai’s acclaimed Khua Silpa Art Group brings his distinctive vision to the farm following his celebrated rice field installations at Thailand Biennale Chiang Rai 2023. His latest work, “Eurn Dang Dang (Call Loudly),” reimagines the traditional scarecrow as a monumental sculpture that speaks to both heritage and innovation. This installation invites visitors to gather and answer its call to reconnect with their roots.

The artistic journey continues through nature’s gallery with works by some of Thailand’s most distinguished creators. Visitors will encounter the visionary piece of Mit Jai Inn, Chiang Mai’s internationally acclaimed contemporary artist, alongside an innovative architectural installation by all(zone), celebrated for their distinctive fusion of Thai heritage and modern design. The exhibition showcases the diverse perspectives of leading artists: Isan-native Sittikorn Khawsa-ad’s nature-inspired sculptures, Somluk Pantiboon’s contemporary interpretations in ceramics and painting, and Pinaree Sanpitak’s powerful explorations of femininity and society. Adding an international dimension to this creative landscape is Kelsey Merreck Wagner, whose work reflects a deep fascination with Thai culture. The artistic confluence extends further through contributions from emerging talents, including Colombian student artists, and established names such as Angkrit Ajchariyasophon, Kuakamol Niyom, Nattida Phalasak, Bounpaul Phothyzan, Navin Rawanchaikul, Giles Ryder, and Atittayaporn Saenpo. This remarkable gathering of 18 artists transforms Jim Thompson Farm’s pastoral setting into an immersive open-air gallery, where art and nature create perfect moments for both contemplation and photography.

The enchanting “Lan Siao Home” (Friends’ Gathering Space) emerges as a creative sanctuary where families embark on an artistic journey through blooming cosmos fields. Masterfully conceived by Kuakamol Niyom, the acclaimed children’s book author and graphic designer, this interactive wonderland transforms art appreciation into a playful exploration through a cast of endearing characters, each with their own compelling narrative.

This space invites young visitors to become part of the artistic experience through innovative installations featuring magnetic acrylic characters on zinc boards, encouraging creative play and storytelling. The adventure unfolds along a path adorned with 29 distinctive flags, each bearing whimsical messages that spark conversation and inspire curiosity. The experience extends into the digital realm as visitors can unlock each character’s story through QR codes, revealing audio narratives via SoundCloud that bring these artistic companions to life.

Experience Jim Thompson Farm at special rates when you book your tickets by December 6, 2024. Weekday admission from Monday to Friday is 150 baht for adults and 90 baht for children and seniors. Weekend visits on Saturday and Sunday are priced at 200 baht for adults, while children and seniors enjoy the same rate of 90 baht.

Tickets are available online through Ticketmelon (rebrand.ly/PressReleaseJTF), at the Jim Thompson House Museum, or at the farm entrance. Join us for this extraordinary winter experience at Jim Thompson Farm, Pak Thong Chai District, Nakhon Ratchasima, happening now through January 1, 2025.

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

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Bethesda, Maryland, United States, December 13, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Marriott International, Inc. today announces the expansion of its outdoor-focused lodging offerings through two founding deals with key players in the outdoor lodging segment. The deals include the acquisition of the Postcard Cabins brand, formerly known as Getaway Outposts, and the execution of a long-term agreement with Trailborn.

With these outdoor-focused deals, Marriott aims to offer guests and Marriott Bonvoy members more choice in traditional and alternative accommodations in nature-forward destinations, where consumers have shown growing interest in being immersed in nature without sacrificing comfort. Underscoring Marriott’s focus on the outdoor lodging segment, the company plans to launch an outdoor-focused collection in 2025, anchored by these founding deals.

“Marriott has long been committed to offering incredible travel experiences for every trip purpose. As guests are increasingly interested in nature-immersive travel, we are excited to build on the incredible breadth of our portfolio and welcome the Postcard Cabins and Trailborn portfolios to Marriott Bonvoy as we deliver more accommodations and experiences in awe-inspiring destinations,” said Leeny Oberg, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Development, Marriott International. “Whether you’re looking for bespoke lodging near natural wonders, an elevated camping experience, or off the beaten path excursions in nature, our planned outdoor-focused collection is expected to offer a broad array of options for seasoned adventurers and first-time explorers.”

Immersive Lodging for Outdoor Adventures
The Postcard Cabins and Trailborn portfolios are set to enhance Marriott Bonvoy’s already robust portfolio of exciting destinations across the globe with the addition of alternative accommodations such as tiny homes and cabins in natural destinations and unique lodging near outdoor wonders like national parks, deserts, ski areas and shorelines.

Postcard Cabins
Marriott has acquired the Postcard Cabins brand, which was formerly known as Getaway Outposts. The Postcard Cabins portfolio provides individual travelers and small groups the opportunity to unplug and enjoy nature. Each property, which consists of groupings of tiny cabins, is located within two hours’ drive of major metropolitan areas. Set on expansive woodlands, the cabins are dog-friendly and feature modern design, private bathrooms, full kitchens, and ample space between cabins for privacy and relaxation. The current Postcard Cabins portfolio, comprised of 29 properties with over 1,200 cabins across the U.S., will operate under long-term agreements with Marriott. The Postcard Cabins portfolio is also expected to be part of Marriott’s planned outdoor-focused collection with expected integration into Marriott’s system and platforms, including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app, in 2025.

“In joining Marriott, we’re excited to bring the Postcard Cabins experience to a global audience seeking exactly what we offer—a place to slow down, disconnect from the everyday and invest in the relationships that matter most. What started a decade ago with a small group of believers in the power of spending free time in nature, has grown into a national movement, which we expect will only gather steam with Marriott’s expansive reach,” said Jon Staff, Founder and CEO of Postcard Cabins.

Trailborn
Marriott has also entered into a long-term agreement to add Trailborn’s portfolio to Marriott’s system. As an innovative outdoor hospitality brand, Trailborn is focused on bringing bespoke hotels built for adventure to the great American outdoors. Trailborn’s current and pipeline portfolio consists of 559 rooms across five iconic outdoor destinations, with several projects in development. They have locations near Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Canyon and in Highlands, NC, with properties to come in Wrightsville Beach, NC, and Mendocino, CA. Trailborn offers design-forward accommodations inspired by each property’s unique locale, experience-driven programming, curated food and beverage offerings, and insightful property teams to help guests chart their exploration. Trailborn’s current portfolio will be part of Marriott’s planned outdoor-focused collection, with expected integration into Marriott’s system and platforms, including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app, in 2025.
“We are thrilled to announce Trailborn’s agreement with Marriott, enhancing and underscoring our mission to provide travelers with exceptional access to the country’s most extraordinary outdoor destinations, deliver experiences guests love, and maintain the unique character of Trailborn’s independent spirit,” said Mike Weiss and Ben Weinberg, Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of Trailborn. “Trailborn is excited to work alongside Marriott to provide guests with the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in stunning outdoor settings.”

Exciting Development Opportunities for Franchisees and Owners

With a focus on upscale and upper-upscale accommodations in nature-forward destinations, Marriott’s anticipated outdoor-focused collection is expected to be conversion friendly, providing exciting opportunities for franchisees, owners and developers looking to affiliate their outdoor-focused properties with Marriott’s powerful portfolio and Marriott Bonvoy, with over 219 million members.

The terms of the transactions are not being disclosed.

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Bangkok, Thailand, December 13, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Step into a festive Wonderland at Millennium Hilton Bangkok, where the enchantment of the season combines with a whimsical circus theme to create a series of extraordinary celebrations along the iconic Chao Phraya River. With panoramic riverside views, dazzling fireworks, and unique dining experiences infused with the magic of a circus wonderland, Millennium Hilton Bangkok is the city’s prime destination for holiday cheer and unforgettable memories.

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Delights at FLOW, Lobby Level

Spend precious moments with loved ones as you enjoy an exquisite buffet of holiday favourites and international specialties, set against the backdrop of magnificent river views. Delight in live Christmas carols, special gifts, and a warm festive ambiance that captures the spirit of traditional Christmas celebrations.

Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet | 24 Dec 2024 | 6 pm – 10 pm
THB 3,000 nett per person (Adult)

 Christmas Day Brunch Buffet | 25 Dec 2024 | 12 pm – 3 pm
THB 3,000 nett per person (Adult)

 New Year’s Eve Celebrations – Counting Down to 2025

Ring in 2025 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience at Millennium Hilton Bangkok. In our festive wonderland, delight in spectacular performances, riverfront views, vibrant entertainment, and a stunning fireworks display. Discover an array of New Year’s Eve dining and celebration options to mark the beginning of the new year in true circus-style elegance:

Choose from an array of exclusive New Year’s Eve dining and celebration options to mark the beginning of 2025 in style:

New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet | FLOW, Lobby Level :Experience a dazzling fireworks show by the river at Bangkok’s premier venue, where you can indulge in festive dishes, live music, and thrilling performances, all amidst the charm of a circus-inspired ambiance.

• Indoor THB 6,500 nett per person (Enjoy 20% off when you book by November 30, 2024)
• Outdoor / Grass Deck THB 12,000 nett per person

BBQ Under The Stars | The Beach, Level 4: Dance the night away in a sky-high wonderland at Bangkok’s exclusive rooftop party! Enjoy a premium buffet, free-flow beverages, and tunes from a live DJ while you count down to midnight under a dazzling fireworks display.

• Outdoor THB 9,500 nett per person

Countdown Party | ThreeSixty Rooftop Bar, Level 31 : Embrace the magic of the season with an opulent 7-course dinner in the ThreeSixty Jazz Lounge. With jazz tunes and exquisite culinary delights, this evening promises to captivate the senses, enhanced by circus-inspired elegance and stunning river views.

• THB 20,000 nett per person with Beverage Package & Free Flow Champagne, Wines, Cocktails, Beers
• THB 15,000 nett per person at indoor Lounge

7-Course Dinner at ThreeSixty Jazz Lounge, Level 32: An evening of fairies to remember. Experience an unforgettable night at THREESIXTY Jazz Lounge, where enchanting jazz tunes, exquisite culinary delights, and stunning river views come together under a starlit sky enhanced by a dazzling firework show.

• ICONSIAM View THB 35,000 nett per person
• Grand Palace View THB 30,000 nett per person
• ICONSIAM View – Second Row THB 25,000 nett per person

6-Course Dinner at OXBO, Level 3: Ring in the New Year at our newly unveiled venue! Be among the first to indulge in an exquisite 6-Course Wine Dinner at Bangkok’s latest culinary hotspot. End the night with a stunning fireworks display from the 30th floor, complete with Champagne and desserts.

• THB 12,000 nett per person

Conclude the evening with a Mesmerising Fireworks Display, illuminating the sky and ushering in a new chapter of hope and prosperity in true Wonderland Circus style.

Secure your reservation today and create unforgettable memories this festive season > qrcodes.pro/infoFestive   Line@: bit.ly/MHBLINE  Tel: 02 442 2000

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Cam Ranh, Vietnam, December 13, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Alma Resort Cam Ranh has taken out first place in three global categories of this year’s UK-based Luxury Lifestyle Magazine Readers’ Travel Awards, named “Best Beach/Coastal Hotel”, “Best Hotel for Families” and “Best Hotel for Sustainability”.

In the readers’ choice contest, Alma Resort was also voted runner-up in the worldwide “Best Hotel for Food” award.

“Luxury hotels, destinations, cruise lines, airlines and travel companies across the world have been competing to be crowned the very best in the seventh annual LLM Readers’ Travel Awards,” said Luxury Lifestyle Magazine. “Our awards recognise and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the luxury travel and tourism industry, and we were pleased to be able to shine a light on those making waves in the UK and all across the globe. After months of deliberation and votes from our discerning readers – with a record number of voters this year at 32,405 – the votes have been counted and the results are in.”

Alma Resort’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler said he and his team were “over the moon” to be named the top hotel worldwide by the magazine’s voters for its beach location, family facilities and services, and sustainability measures, as well the No. 2 hotel worldwide for its dining landscape.

“We feel so honoured on the global stage, topping off what has been a fantastic year for our resort on the awards front, following Alma Resort being named as the top resort in Southeast Asia, the No. 2 resort in Asia and No. 9 resort worldwide in the 2024 Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards,” he said.

Bold, spacious and emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the independently owned and operated luxury resort Alma is making waves in Cam Ranh, a peninsula on Vietnam’s south-central coast that first found fame as Southeast Asia’s greatest deepwater harbor and is now rising as an upscale alternative to nearby Nha Trang.

Alma is home to an awe-inspiring host of world-class facilities, such as an eclectic range of restaurants helmed by leading chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, a classical bar, pool bar and beach bar, and mini supermarket. Other drawing cards include a science museum, waterpark with a lazy river, wave pool slides and kids pool, 13-treatment room spa, cinema, convention centre, amphitheatre, youth centre, kid’s club, gymnasium and yoga room, an 18-hole putting green, onsite gourmet organic farm and more.

Alma is embarking upon what is believed to be Vietnam’s most ambitious solar power project yet.

About Alma
Situated on Vietnam’s emerging Cam Ranh peninsula fronting Long Beach, Alma resort commands some 30 hectares of inspiring ground. Emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the bold and spacious integrated resort offers 580 oversized suites and pavilions that all afford sweeping vistas of the ocean, including contemporary three bedroom oceanfront pavilions each totalling 224sqm with a living room, four bathrooms and a private pool. Alma features a broad spectrum of restaurants helmed by top chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, as well as a sports bar, pool bar and beach bar. Other highlights include 12 swimming pools cascading down to the beach and a waterpark with a lazy river, slides, wave pool and kids pool. Other highlights include a 13-treatment room spa, 75-seat cinema, convention centre, amphitheater, science museum, gymnasium and yoga room, 18-hole mini golf course, a youth centre with virtual reality games, a kid’s club, golf simulator, onsite sustainable farm and even an ‘Alma Mart’ mini supermarket. Alma Resort was called out as the top resort in Southeast Asia, the No. 2 resort in Asia and No. 9 resort worldwide in the 2024 Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. Alma scored 99.2 on the US-based publication’s 100-point award survey. The World’s Best Awards are widely considered to be one of the two most important awards in the worldwide hospitality industry.

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Geneva, Switzerland, December 12, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Global trade is poised to hit an all-time high of nearly $33 trillion in 2024, with a $1 trillion increase largely driven by a 7% rise in services trade. Developing economies face slower trade growth, but high-growth sectors like information and communication technology (ICT) and apparel offer opportunities for diversification and resilience. Stable global growth and easing inflation create a window for developing economies to strengthen their trade position amid rising geopolitical uncertainties.

Global trade is set to reach a record $33 trillion in 2024, according to the latest Global Trade Update by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This $1 trillion increase, reflecting 3.3% annual growth, highlights resilience in global trade despite persistent challenges. Robust growth in services trade, up 7% for the year, accounted for half of the expansion, while goods trade rose 2% but remained below its 2022 peak.

Global trade grows 3.3% in 2024, driven by a 7% rise in trade in services.

Opportunities amidst uncertainty

Developing economies, traditionally strong drivers of global trade, faced headwinds in 2024, with imports contracting 1% and South-South trade falling by the same margin in the third quarter. In contrast, developed economies led Q3 growth, with stable demand driving a 3% rise in imports and 2% in exports.

Despite these challenges, opportunities remain for developing economies to capitalize on high-growth sectors. ICT and apparel trade surged, with increases of 13% and 14%, respectively, in the third quarter 2024. This growth underscores the potential for diversification and entry into value-added industries. Stable global growth forecasts and easing inflation also present a chance to build resilience in 2025.

Sectoral pressures and growth prospects

While ICT and apparel showed strong momentum, traditional sectors critical to developing economies faced declines. Energy trade fell 2% for the quarter and 7% for the year, while metals trade contracted by 3% both quarterly and annually. Automotive trade dropped 3% in Q3 but is expected to end the year with modest 4% growth.

A call for strategic action

UNCTAD urges developing economies to adopt targeted policies that enhance trade diversification and invest in high-value sectors to mitigate risks. The organization underscores that trade is a cornerstone of sustainable development. To capitalize on opportunities in 2025, developing economies require coordinated support to navigate uncertainty, reduce dependencies and strengthen global market links.

About UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is dedicated to promoting inclusive and sustainable development through trade and investment. With a diverse membership, it empowers countries to harness trade for prosperity.

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Danang, Vietnam, December 12, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Efforts to market Central Vietnam’s golf offerings in Australia are paying dividends, with clubs across the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) reporting significant growth in Australian golfers’ rounds played.

Montgomerie Links, a cornerstone of the region’s golf scene, has seen a 20% increase in rounds from Australian visitors over the past two years, rising from 1,700 to 2,200 annually. Ba Na Hills Golf Club has experienced even more dramatic growth, with Australian play surging by 35-40%. Notably, many of these golfers visit during the Australian winter—typically a quieter period for foreign visitors in Vietnam—providing a welcome boost to the destination year-round.

Central Vietnam’s efforts to establish itself as a golf destination of choice for Aussies have been bolstered by a series of high-profile initiatives aimed at the Australian market. Over the past year, the destination has welcomed several leading Australian golf writers, including representatives from Golf Digest Australia, to experience the region’s offerings firsthand.

Driving this momentum, Laguna Golf Lang Co—a signature course designed by Sir Nick Faldo and a founding member of the VGC—made a bold statement by hosting roadshows in Melbourne and Sydney earlier this year. Representing the resort and Central Vietnam on an international stage, the team worked tirelessly to bring together Australian media and tour operators and highlight the exceptional golf experiences at Laguna Lang Co and Central Vietnam.

Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Golf Lang Co, underscored the importance of these events in solidifying ties with Australian stakeholders. “These roadshows demonstrate our commitment to positioning Central Vietnam as a leading golf destination for Australians,” he said. “By fostering connections with key players in the market, we aim to build lasting partnerships and promote sustained tourism growth.”

The roadshows showcased the region’s standout courses, including those designed by Luke Donald (Ba Na Hills Golf Club) and Colin Montgomerie (Montgomerie Links), alongside iconic names like Greg Norman and Robert Trent Jones Jr. Representatives from the Danang Tourism Promotion Centre joined the events, providing insights into the broader appeal of the region, including its luxurious accommodations and vibrant cultural experiences.

Le Vo Hoang Van, club manager at Montgomerie Links, attributed the growth to targeted marketing campaigns and the undeniable allure of Central Vietnam. “Australian golfers are drawn to the region’s world-class courses, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality,” she said. “The recent uptick in rounds is a testament to the effectiveness of our outreach efforts.”

Ba Na Hills Golf Club’s general manager, Simon Mees, echoed these sentiments. “The Australian market has been a game-changer for us,” he added. “It’s gratifying to see how well our course resonates with these visitors. The feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re excited to continue building on this momentum.”

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