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Madrid, Spain, January 22, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / International tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) grew by 4% in 2025, as most destinations worldwide posted solid results. According to the first World Tourism Barometer of the year, an estimated 1.52 billion international tourists were recorded globally in 2025, almost 60 million more than in 2024.

These numbers reflect a return to pre-pandemic growth trends, closer to the 5% average increase per year between 2009 and 2019. Results were driven by strong demand, robust performance from large source markets and the ongoing recovery of destinations in Asia and the Pacific. Increased air connectivity and enhanced visa facilitation also supported international travel in 2025.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Alnuwais said: “Demand for travel remained high throughout 2025, despite high inflation in tourism services and uncertainty from geopolitical tensions. We expect this positive trend to continue into 2026 as global economy is expected to remain steady and destinations still lagging behind pre pandemic levels fully recover.”

Africa sees strongest results in 2025; Asia and the Pacific rebounds

The World Tourism Barometer by UN Tourism provides comprehensive data for the sector by region, sub-region and destination. Key takeaways from this edition show:

• Europe, the world’s largest destination region, recorded 793 million international tourists in 2025, a 4% increase from 2024 and 6% more than in 2019. Western Europe (+5%) and Southern Mediterranean Europe (+3%) saw robust performance. Central and Eastern Europe rebounded strongly (+6%) though arrivals remained 9% below 2019 levels.
• The Americas (218 million) recorded 1% growth last year, with mixed results across subregions. After a strong first half of 2025, the region saw small declines in Q3 and Q4, partly due to weak results in the United States. South America (+7%) and Central America (+5%) led results by subregion. Some destinations in the Caribbean (+0%) were affected by Hurricane Melissa in the last quarter of the year.
• Africa (81 million) saw an 8% increase in arrivals in 2025, with particularly strong results in North Africa (+11%).
• The Middle East recorded 3% growth in 2025, equivalent to 39% above pre-pandemic levels, the strongest results relative to 2019. The region virtually reached the mark of 100 million international visitors in 2025.
• Arrivals in Asia and the Pacific (331 million) grew 6% last year but are still 9% below 2019 levels as the region continued to rebound. North-East Asia led performance with 13% growth over 2024, while South Asia recovered pre-pandemic levels.

Most destinations report positive results for 2025

• After solid growth in 2024, most destinations continued to enjoy strong results in 2025.
• Among destinations with available data for the twelve months of 2025 several show double-digit growth in international arrivals, among which Brazil (+37%), Egypt (+20%), Morocco (+14%) and Seychelles (+13%). Destinations reporting data through November also saw strong growth, including Bhutan (+30%), Iceland (+29%), Guyana (+24%), South Africa (+19%) and Japan (+17%).
• The positive results in international arrivals last year are also reflected in other industry indicators. Both international air capacity and air passenger traffic grew 7% through October 2025 (IATA). Global occupancy in accommodation establishments reached 66% in November 2025, matching the levels of November 2024 (based on STR data).

Export revenues from tourism reached a record USD 2.2 trillion in 2025

Monthly data show strong visitor spending throughout 2025, with preliminary estimates pointing at USD 1.9 trillion in international tourism receipts globally, a 5% increase from 2024.

Total export revenues from tourism (including receipts and passenger transport) are estimated at USD 2.2 trillion in 2025 based on available data. Other key takeaways include:

• International tourism receipts saw extraordinary growth in 2025 following an already strong 2024, with many destinations posting a higher increase in receipts than arrivals.
• Destinations reporting solid growth in receipts during the first ten to twelve months of 2025 were Morocco (+19%), the Republic of Korea (+18%), Egypt (+17%), Mongolia (+15%), Japan (+14%), Latvia (+11%) and Mauritius (+10%), all calculated in local currencies.
• Among the world’s top tourism earners, the United Kingdom and France (both +9%), as well as Spain (+7%) and Türkiye (+6%), saw solid growth in the first ten to twelve months of 2025 compared to the same months of 2024.
• Data on international tourism expenditure reflects the same trend of strong demand, especially among large source markets such as the United States (+8%), France (+4%), as well as Spain (+16%) and the Republic of Korea (+10%).

Outlook for 2026: continued growth amid a challenging environment

International tourism is expected to grow 3% to 4% in 2026 compared to 2025, assuming that Asia and the Pacific continues to recover, global economic conditions remain favorable and geopolitical conflicts do not escalate. Uncertainty from current geopolitical tensions and conflicts pose an increasing risk for tourism in 2026.

• UN Tourism’s prospects for 2026 reflect a normalization of growth rates after a strong rebound in international arrivals in 2023 (+34%) and 2024 (+11%) and a 4% increase in 2025.
• This positive outlook is confirmed by the latest UN Tourism Confidence Index and survey among the Panel of Experts. 58% of experts foresee better or much better performance in 2026 than in 2025, while 31% expect similar results and 11% worse.
• Survey respondents pointed to economic factors, high travel costs, and geopolitical risks as the main challenges international tourism could face in 2026. These factors were viewed as the most relevant by about half of all experts.
• While headline inflation has receded globally in 2025, inflation in tourism-related services remains elevated by historical standards. Against this backdrop, tourists are expected to continue to seek value for money according to the Panel of Experts.
• While positive prospects for the global economy and lower oil prices could favour tourism performance in 2026, uncertainty derived from geopolitical risks and ongoing conflicts, trade tensions and extreme weather events could weigh on traveller confidence.
• International tourism in 2026 will be driven by solid consumer demand, enhanced air connectivity and growing outbound travel from emerging markets. Major international events such as the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics (Italy) and the FIFA World Cup 2026 (Canada, United States and Mexico) will also contribute to international travel.

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 22, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / As part of its year-long 150th anniversary programme, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok presents the next chapter of Masters of the 150th: An Epicurean Journey with a collaborative dinner at Alex Dilling at Lord Jim’s.

From 3–8 February 2026, guests are invited to a six-course dinner by Alex Dilling, chef-patron of Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, London, and Gilad Peled, Executive Chef of The Colonnade Restaurant at Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne. The collaboration brings together two chefs whose approach is grounded in classical technique and guided by seasonality. This meeting of two chefs reflects Mandarin Oriental’s long-standing tradition of hosting the world’s most respected culinary figures across generations.

Chef Gilad Peled’s cuisine is rooted in French culinary tradition and shaped by a contemporary outlook, guided by local and seasonal ingredients. His work is marked by clarity of flavour and precision of technique, with careful attention to produce at every stage. This approach finds a natural point of dialogue with Chef Dilling’s modern classical cooking, creating a menu defined by craft rather than contrast.

Presented at the iconic riverside setting of Alex Dilling at Lord Jim’s, the six-course dinner reflects the individual perspectives of both chefs while forming a unified experience. Each course is composed with restraint, allowing technique and ingredients to lead.

The dinner is priced at THB 9,000++ per person for food only. Optional wine pairings are available. Dinner service begins from 6:30pm onwards. Seating is limited and advance reservations are warmly recommended via online booking, by telephone at +66 (2) 659 9000, or email at mobkk-adlordjims[@]mohg[.]com.

This collaboration forms part of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s 150th anniversary programme, marking a legacy of hospitality, culinary exchange, and continued excellence.

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 21, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Strolling through unfamiliar alleyways far from home, a familiar aroma once again stirred the senses. The gentle fragrance of pork rib soup, the silky comfort of bubble milk tea, the melt-in-the-mouth warmth of braised pork rice – classic Taiwanese flavours resurfaced quietly, not on a street corner, but at the table of Chai Jia Chai in Bangkok.

On the evening of January 20, Chef Tsai Shih Wei welcomed guests to a special dinner as part of his Beyond the Wok series – a collaborative platform where cooking is explored through memory, craft, and dialogue. Cooking alongside him were two close friends and long-time collaborators: Chef Tom Liu and Chef James Tseng of Wok by O’Bond.

At Chai Jia Chai, Tsai had long presented modern Chinese cuisine through the lens of tradition. Ingredients once reserved for imperial banquets appeared not as novelties, but as elements within carefully structured narratives. His menus drew from a vast spectrum of Chinese culinary heritage from Taiwanese home cooking to inspirations rooted in Manchu-Han imperial banquets, always guided by restraint and clarity.

That philosophy shaped the evening’s progression. The approach was intellectual without being academic, refined yet deeply personal. Nothing was rushed.

The menu opened with a delicate array of light bites including blue lobster with macayu and jicama — aromatic and precise, echoing Taiwan’s indigenous mountain spice. Pork ribs with sweet potatoes and wheat gluten followed, recalling the warmth of slow-cooked home kitchens. A peeled chilli pepper soup with dried squid and conpoy formed the emotional core of the evening, its depth and warmth evoking the quiet comfort of Taiwanese soups enjoyed far from home.

As the dinner unfolded, structure and finesse took center stage. French pigeon with beetroot and edamame was presented with balance and restraint. Yellow fish maw with black sesame and noodles reflected both texture and heritage. Chef Tsai’s innovative signature abalone, first half braised patiently over days until custard-soft at its center, stood as a testament to technique guided by time. The second half was deep fried, a bold plunge for texture and a nod to Chef’s quest to keep learning and discovering.

The evening closed with a deliberate return to memory. Foie gras was paired with braised pork rice and bubble milk tea — not as irony, but as affection. Familiar comforts were elevated without losing their soul, completing the narrative that began with the scent of home.

The collaboration was anchored by Wok by O’Bond, a brand rooted in Greater Chinese cuisine and built around the symbolism of the wok — both as an essential cooking vessel and as an invitation for all to “walk in.” The dishes presented together tonight reflected familiar Taiwanese home-style cooking and beloved street foods, reinterpreted with contemporary sensibility to create a sense of comfort, familiarity, and lasting memory.

Beverage pairing for the evening was curated by tei by O’Bond, founded by Chef Tom Liu. Through research-driven exploration and re-interpretation of tea, tei by O’Bond transformed Taiwanese tea flavours into delicate tea cocktails. Using varied extraction techniques, the pairing expanded the sensory experience, inviting guests to rediscover aroma, texture, and taste through tea.

Chef James Tseng of Wok by O’Bond also joined Chef Tsai in the kitchen, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of Beyond the Wok – not as fusion, but as a meeting of shared values, where each culinary voice remained intact.

The dinner also reflected a broader chapter in Tsai’s journey. In 2025, he had entered a deeper culinary dialogue through collaborations with Odette in Singapore and Maison Dunand in Bangkok, followed by a six-hands dinner uniting Korean, Chinese, and French influences as equals.

These experiences positioned Tsai not merely as a participant in Asia’s fine-dining scene, but as a chef contributing quietly to its evolving language. Chai Jia Chai had since been included in Thailand’s Favourite Restaurant 2026 (one of only three Chinese restaurants to make the list) and saw Tsai advance into the Top Ten of the TOP25 Restaurants by Travelindex.

Yet accolades remained secondary to craft. In a region often driven by immediacy, Beyond the Wok at Chai Jia Chai offered something rarer – a belief in the long arc of culinary memory, where mastery is built patiently, one service at a time, and where the taste of home can still be found waiting, even far away.

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Cam Ranh, Vietnam, January 19, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Anam Group’s two beachfront resorts in Cam Ranh and Mui Ne will usher in Tet with an array of dining, cultural, entertainment, recreational, and spa experiences.

In the lead-up to Tet on Tues., Feb. 17, 2026, The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne will each stage a ceremony on Feb 10, 2026 to plant “Cay Neu”, a towering Lunar New Year bamboo pole to ward off evil spirits, followed by dragon dancing.

Overlooking Long Beach, one of Vietnam’s most stunning stretches of sand, The Anam Cam Ranh’s program from Feb. 16-22, 2026, is filled with Tet festivities including:

• Lang Viet Restaurant and Bar serving a special family reunion Tet set menu that celebrates authentic Vietnamese home-style cuisine as well as a la carte Tet dishes.
• The Indochine and Colonial restaurants offering traditional Tet specialities and international favourites during breakfast.
• Dragon dancing at the lawn and Indochine from 9am on the first day of the Lunar New Year, Feb.17.
• Lang Viet’s Chung and Thuan cake making workshops on Feb. 19 and 20 respectively.
• The traditional custom of calligraphy giving, with a calligraphy master inscribing auspicious characters on red paper for guests on Feb. 18 at the lobby from 10am-noon.
• Artisans crafting “To he” traditional toy figures out of play dough from 10-noon on the third day of Tet, Feb. 19, in the lobby.
• Kids activities including making lucky envelopes, traditional coconut leaf weaving, and kite flying.
• Lang Viet hosting the Traditional Vietnamese “Chợ Tết” Buffet on Feb. 19 brimming with Tet specialties with free-flow soft drink, local beer, and wine packages from 7-9.30pm. To be accompanied to the strains of traditional instrumentalists.
• A Seafood BBQ buffet at The Indochine on Feb. 21 from 6.30-9pm with free-flow local beer, soft drink and wine packages. To be staged to a backdrop of live music by the Filipino band and a spectacular fire show.
• Casual dining accompanied by a live Filippino band at Beach Club, fine dining set and a la carte menus at The Colonial to the strains of live piano, and tapas and cocktails at Saigon Bar throughout the program
• An exclusive day lounge from 11am-3pm at Colonial for guests staying in high-end accommodations before afternoon tea is served between 3-5pm.
• Tet promotions at The Anam Spa including 15% off treatments for individual guests and 25% off treatments for couples. A complimentary nail polish session is also on offer.

The Anam Cam Ranh’s sister resort The Anam Mui Ne will host a program of Tet celebrations from Feb. 16-Feb 22, 2026, featuring:

• Lang Viet Restaurant serving a special family reunion Tet set menu that celebrates authentic home-style Vietnamese cooking. Dishes include braised giant freshwater prawns with coconut juice, and apple snails stuffed with pork, accompanied by a tea station. A la carte Tet dishes are also on offer.
• Buffet breakfast at The Indochine with traditional Tet specialties and international dishes.
• Banh Chung cake making workshop on the grass area before the beach on Feb. 16 from 3-5pm.
• Dragon dancing in the lobby and at the Indochine from 9am on the first day of Tet
• A calligraphy master writing lucky letters at the lobby from 8am-12pm daily on Feb. 17-19.
• Lang Viet’s Tet Buffet Dinner on Feb. 17 from 6-9.30pm offering a vast array of appetisers, and salads, deep-fried, live and roast meat stations, a selection of hot dishes, and desserts.
• Indochine’s Butcher’s Cut and Seacatch BBQ Buffet on Feb 18 from 6-9pm accompanied by a live band. Highlights include whole roast goat, beef striploin, lamb rack, tiger prawns, deep-fried soft-shell crab and calamari. and local snails in garlic sauce.
• Lang Viet’s Vietnamese Favourite Street Food buffet from 6-9.30pm on Feb. 20 with traditional tea and music. Highlights include charcoal grilled skewers, a steamed seafood station including prawns, oysters and crayfish, hot dishes such as steamed grouper fish, and roast meats including duck, beef and pork.
• Tapas and cocktails served at the Saigon Bar adjacent to Mui Ne beach.
• Wellness experiences including how to make a body scrub, sound meditation, foot massage workshop, and learning how to prepare herbal tea
• Kids activities including paper lantern making, kite flying, “Pho pizza” making and colouring statues

“We are looking incredibly forward to welcoming the Year of the Horse with programs at both of our resorts that reflect its qualities such as energy and confidence with gusto,” said The Anam Group’s group general manager Laurent Myter.

About The Anam Group 

After the auspicious debut of The Anam Cam Ranh in 2017, the independently owned and operated The Anam Group celebrated the grand opening of its second property, The Anam Mui Ne, in January 2023.

With “Indochine Charm” and “Modern Luxury” as its watchwords, the group blends colonial-era aesthetics and attentive Vietnamese service with modern comforts and convenience. “The Anam” today is a reference to another name, “An Nam”, which was the name of Central Vietnam during the French Indochina era.

The Anam Cam Ranh overlooks 300 metres of beachfront on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula, which averages more than 300 sunny days per year. The luxurious five-star resort boasts 77 villas and 136 rooms and suites. The Anam Cam Ranh features a French-inspired fine dining restaurant, all-day dining restaurant, a Vietnamese restaurant and bar, a classical bar, a beach club, in-room dining, a 10 treatment-room spa, indoor and outdoor movie theatres, three capacious swimming pools, ballroom, conference rooms, recreation and fitness centre, a tennis court, yoga room and deck, kids club, putting green, gift shop and more.

Like its predecessor The Anam Cam Ranh, The Anam Mui Ne’s design is also an echo out of Vietnam’s Indochine era. Situated in southern Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, the 1.2 hectare beachfront resort affords spectacular ocean vistas and features 127 elegant rooms and suites, including seven 142sqm suites with private pools and a 122sqm presidential suite with an extra room for the bodyguards. Its dining landscape comprises an all-day dining restaurant and grill, beachside restaurant and bar, and lobby bar. A five-treatment room spa, two vast swimming pools, a ballroom, conference rooms, water sports center, fitness center, yoga room, kid’s club and gift shop are among the resort’s host of world-class facilities.

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Cebu, Philippines, January 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / As the host country of ATF 2026, the Philippines looks forward to welcoming delegates to Cebu and demonstrating its readiness to facilitate meaningful regional tourism exchanges, while strengthening connections across the ASEAN community.

A key highlight of ATF 2026 will be the National Tourism Organisation (NTO) briefings, scheduled for 28 and 29 January 2026. These sessions will feature updates and presentations from ASEAN member states, including Timor-Leste, the region’s newest member. Delegates can expect comprehensive insights into new tourism developments, emerging destinations, and strategic initiatives shaping the future of travel across Southeast Asia.

ATF 2026 will also feature a comprehensive programme of official functions, including a Hosted Luncheon by Tourism Malaysia on 28 January 2026 at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort; the ASEANTA Excellence Awards Night; the ATF 2026 Opening Ceremony hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines; a Reception and Dinner hosted by the Singapore Tourism Board to welcome delegates to ATF 2027; as well as the ASEAN Tourism Standard Awards and Closing Ceremony at the NUSTAR Convention Centre.

The official hotels for ATF TRAVEX 2026 are Crimson Resort & Spa, Mactan, Cebu, Shangri-La Mactan Cebu, Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, and The Reef Island Resort Mactan, Cebu. In addition, eight partner hotels across Lapu-Lapu City will offer special room rates for attendees. These include Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa, Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu, JPark Island Resort and Waterpark Mactan, Savoy Hotel Mactan, Mercure Hotel Mactan Cebu, BE Resort Mactan, and Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu.

“As a key meeting point for the travel industry in Southeast Asia, TRAVEX plays an important role in strengthening partnerships and driving growth,” says TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. “Hosting this event is a responsibility we value highly, and we are committed to creating a dynamic platform that highlights the depth, connectivity, and momentum of tourism across ASEAN.”

With its forward-looking theme, state-of-the-art venue, and robust programme of business, networking and recognition events, ATF TRAVEX 2026 is set to be a key milestone for ASEAN tourism, reinforcing collaboration and shared purpose as the region navigates its future together.

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) hosted THAI Airbus A321neo launch event at THAI Technical Hangar, Suvarnabhumi airport, unveiling its modern exterior adorned in Neon Violet under the Thai Contemporary concept. The cabin interior features Business Class (Royal Silk Class) seats that fully recline to a 180-degree flat-bed position, as well as ergonomically designed Economy Class seats with an additional 10 degrees of recline and six-way adjustable headrests, complemented by a 4K-resolution inflight entertainment system, underscoring the airline’s commitment to enhancing the passenger travel experience while improving fleet efficiency and advancing environmentally sustainable operations.

The first Airbus A321neo has been honorably bestowed the name “Bowonrangsi”. The name is derived from the historic Bowonrangsi community in Bangkok, which is closely associated with Wat Bowonniwet Vihara. The term “Bowon” originates from Bowon Sathan Suthawat (the Front Palace), a former center of authority, while “Rangsi” means light and radiance. Together, “Bowonrangsi” signifies an area under the influence and radiance of a revered institution, symbolizing auspiciousness and historical value.

The Airbus A321neo is part of THAI’s fleet modernization plan to support operations on short- and medium-haul routes. The aircraft features continuously advanced aviation technologies, offering enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced carbon dioxide emissions per seat by up to 20%, and lower noise levels compared with previous-generation aircraft. The aircraft is also certified to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). These attributes support THAI’s sustainability integration efforts and long-term business strategy.

Mr. Chai Eamsiri, THAI’s Chief Executive Officer, stated, “The introduction of the Airbus A321neo into the fleet reflects THAI’s vision to strengthen service capabilities, elevate the passenger travel experience, and enhance our competitiveness, while upholding our responsibility to the environment through the adoption of efficient and environmentally friendly technologies. This approach is fully aligned with international aviation industry standards, both now and in the future.”

The aircraft, the first of a total of 32 A321neo aircraft to be delivered to THAI by Airbus, is adorned with new livery elements and exterior design details that reflect Thai Airways’ brand identity. THAI first A321neo logo has been specially designed under the Thai Contemporary concept, featuring a Neon Violet color tone to symbolize innovation and progress, while maintaining consistency with Thai Airways’ Airbus family aircraft branding.

The aircraft’s cabin offers 16 seats in Business Class (Royal Silk Class), comprising four single Throne Seats and twelve Double Seats. Designed under the “Your Personal Room Concept,” the cabin provides enhanced personal space and flexible functionality, accommodating dining, work, and rest. The seats recline fully to a 180-degree flat-bed position and are equipped with a 17.3-inch touchscreen inflight entertainment display. Meanwhile, Economy Class features a total of 159 seats in a 3-3 configuration, ergonomically designed with an additional 10 degrees of recline, six-way adjustable headrests, and 13.3-inch touchscreen inflight entertainment displays. The cabin interior showcases a distinctive blend of Thai identity and contemporary international design, expressed through elements such as seat design, curtains, and cabin wall panels.

The inflight entertainment system (IFE) has been upgraded with 4K-resolution screens and supports connectivity with personal electronic devices. It features a new, intuitive user interface (UI), designed to be responsive and easy to use. In addition, the aircraft is equipped with high-speed inflight internet connectivity via the SES Open Orbits multi-orbit network, supporting speeds of up to 200–300 Mbps. The service is scheduled to be available from the first quarter of 2026. Passenger convenience is increased with Airspace XL Bins, offering up to 40% more storage capacity, as well as Welcome Ceiling and Cabin Mood Lighting systems to create a pleasant atmosphere throughout the journey.

Thai Airways plans to introduce its first Airbus A321neo into regular service, with operations scheduled between 22 January and 28 March 2026 on the following routes:

• TG413 Bangkok – Singapore Departure 11:30 – 14:50 hrs. (inaugural flight)
• TG414 Singapore – Bangkok Departure 15:55 – 17:15 hrs.
• TG221 Bangkok – Phuket Departure 18:30 – 20:00 hrs.
• TG222 Phuket – Bangkok Departure 20:40 – 22:15 hrs.
• TG331 Bangkok – Delhi Departure 23:25 – 02:20 hrs. (Next day)
• TG332 Delhi – Bangkok Departure 03:30 – 09:00 hrs. Note: All times are local.

THAI remains committed to continuously enhancing its products and services to deliver high-quality travel experiences, strengthen passenger confidence, and reinforce its competitiveness in both regional and global aviation markets.

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Danang, Vietnam, January 15, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) is gearing up for another milestone year as Central Vietnam continues to strengthen its position as Asia’s premier golf destination, building on sustained momentum across tourism, connectivity and international market engagement.

The outlook for golf mirrors wider economic confidence in Vietnam, which has recently featured in international business headlines amid forecasts that the country’s growth trajectory could see it rival, and potentially surpass, regional peers.

On the fairways of Central Vietnam, a similar trend is emerging, as the region increasingly becomes a preferred vacation choice for visiting golfers from key long-haul markets. And with a multifaceted range of draws from luxury resorts, legendary beaches and cultural highlights allied to world-class infrastructure that includes an ever-expanding list of air links into Danang International Airport, the VGC is planning for another massive year.

“Central Vietnam has built strong, sustained momentum over recent years,” said Simon Mees, General Manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “As we head into 2026, there’s a real sense that the destination is entering a new phase of maturity and international recognition. For Ba Na Hills Golf Club, it’s especially meaningful as we mark our 10th anniversary, a decade of contributing to the region’s growth and helping establish Central Vietnam on the world golf map.”

Since opening in 2016, Ba Na Hills Golf Club has played a central role in elevating the destination’s international standing, earning five consecutive World Golf Awards for Asia’s Best Golf Course, six Vietnam’s Best Golf Course titles, and three successive Asia’s Best Golf Course honours at the World Luxury Travel Awards.

Together with Montgomerie Links, Ba Na Hills anchors a collection of championship venues designed by some of the game’s most respected figures, including Luke Donald and Colin Montgomerie, alongside courses by Sir Nick Faldo, Greg Norman and Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Montgomerie Links enters 2026 from a position of strength, having captured 17% market share in 2025 to retain its status as the most-played course by rounds in the Hue–Da Nang region. Growth was driven primarily by the European, US, Australian and New Zealand markets, providing a strong platform for the year ahead.

“Our appeal lies in offering a more intimate, personal experience,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, Club Manager at Montgomerie Links. “Golfers value places where they feel genuinely cared for. Montgomerie Links delivers a boutique, home-away-from-home environment, with championship golf, on-course accommodation, dining, practice facilities, and privacy all integrated in a single destination.”

That positioning will underpin the Club’s 2026 strategy, which includes continued promotion in core markets such as Australia and New Zealand, alongside expanded outreach into Chinese-speaking markets, India and Japan. Improved air connectivity into Danang is expected to further support inbound demand from these regions.

The destination’s appeal will be enhanced by a strong calendar of cultural and sporting events in 2026, including the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival, expected to run from May to July, alongside the Vietnam–Korea Festival and Vietnam–Japan Festival later in the summer months, adding depth and seasonal interest to golf itineraries.

Australia and New Zealand remain priority markets for the Vietnam Golf Coast, supported by ongoing trade engagement and targeted marketing activity. The destination will also maintain its presence at key industry gatherings, including the Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) in Thailand in March 2026.

“With world-class courses, improving connectivity and a growing international profile, Central Vietnam is well positioned for the year ahead,” Mees added. “As Ba Na Hills looks beyond its first decade, the focus is on sustaining quality, deepening global relationships and continuing to elevate the region’s standing as one of Asia’s great golf destinations.”

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 14, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok introduces the newly and completely renovated Fitness and Wellness Centre, signalling a new chapter in the hotel’s approach to wellbeing. Conceived as a contemporary sanctuary for movement and recovery, the centre brings together performance-focused facilities with principles of balance, recovery, and mindful movement that have long defined The Oriental approach to wellbeing.

Guided by the rhythms of the Chao Phraya River and the hotel’s enduring philosophy of holistic care, the reimagined centre presents wellness as a continuous experience rather than a series of separate pursuits. Designed for the city’s residents and visiting guests alike, it reflects a modern understanding of longevity where physical strength, mental clarity and mindful living exist in quiet harmony.

The reimagined Fitness and Wellness Centre sits within the wider context of The Oriental Spa and Wellness Club, long regarded as a benchmark for holistic care in the city. Drawing on decades of spa-led philosophy rooted in balance, personal attention and restorative ritual, the centre extends this approach beyond the treatment room, allowing movement, recovery and mindful practice to be experienced as part of a continuous wellness journey.

Design is integral to this experience. Throughout the Fitness and Wellness Centre, warm timber ceilings, softly illuminated architectural lines in a circadian lighting designed to mimic the natural cycle of daylight and natural textures establish a calm flow between spaces. Murals inspired by the river and Bangkok’s historic riverside architecture ground the centre in place, while arched transitions and sculptural wall details reinterpret traditional Thai forms with contemporary restraint. The result is an environment that feels composed and deeply connected to its surroundings.

At the heart of the centre is the Muay Thai Studio, a dedicated space honouring Thailand’s national sport. Conceived as both a training environment and a cultural expression, the studio reflects a fusion of tradition, artistry and The Oriental heritage. Warm wood panelling, ambient lighting and carefully framed Muay Thai artefacts lend the space a sense of reverence, while sculptural punching bags stand with quiet ceremonial presence. Subtle graphic Muay Thai motifs on the walls echo the rhythm and discipline of the sport, creating a setting for both cultural depth and modern performance.

Beyond Muay Thai, the centre’s movement spaces are intentionally zoned to support intelligent, lifestyle-driven fitness. A dedicated HYROX training area focuses on strength, balance and vitality, complemented by fully equipped cardio spaces featuring Technogym equipment. The layout is uncluttered, allowing movement and focus to take precedence. An outdoor garden provides a natural setting for stretching, warm-ups and quiet moments of reflection.

Recovery and longevity are addressed through the Performance Recovery Studio, a dedicated space pairing restorative heat with controlled cold. An infrared sauna is balanced by a precision-cooled ice bath, creating a contrast-led experience that supports circulation, steadies the nervous system and restores clarity, reflecting the centre’s holistic approach to care.

Complementing this is a heat and water journey, guiding guests through steam, sauna, jacuzzi and water as a considered progression. Each element supports relaxation, circulation and balance, with an emphasis on unhurried transitions between heat and water, allowing the body and mind to settle naturally.

For mindful movement, Yoga House – Baan Noi serves as the dedicated yoga sanctuary. Set within a traditional Thai house overlooking the Chao Phraya River, the space hosts daily yoga practices shaped by calm, focus and continuity. Framed by nature and stillness, it offers a quiet counterpoint to more dynamic forms of movement.

The centre is further complemented by two tennis courts, positioning tennis as a social and active dimension of wellbeing. Professional coaching is available for those wishing to refine their forehand, backhand and volley, within a setting that encourages movement, connection and enjoyment.

Located at Baan Rim Naam and accessible via Mandarin Oriental’s private boat service, the newly renovated Fitness and Wellness Centre forms part of the wider Oriental Spa and Wellness Club. Together, the facilities reflect Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s long-standing role as a steward of wellbeing in the city, offering an approach that honours heritage while remaining quietly attuned to the contemporary art of living well.

For enquiries, please call +66 (0) 2 659 9000 or email
mobkk-sportcentre[@]mohg[.]com. For more information, visit Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s website.

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 13, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today announced a renewed preferred partnership with data analytics company Euromonitor International, a leading independent provider of global business intelligence, market analysis, and consumer insights. PATA recognises that in a time of rapid change and uncertainty, partnerships that generate comprehensive and forward-looking data insights are vital to fostering regional knowledge, leadership, and foresight among tourism stakeholders.

By working with Euromonitor International, a recognised leader in global market, industry, economic, and consumer research, PATA strengthens its ability to deliver insights that go beyond surface-level trends. Euromonitor International’s analytical depth and cross-sector expertise provide valuable context for understanding the forces shaping traveller behaviour, market competitiveness, and investment potential in the Asia Pacific region. This collaboration supports destinations and businesses – both members of PATA and across the industry at large – in making informed, evidence-based decisions that enhance regional competitiveness and drive sustainable and inclusive industry growth.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said, “The core purpose of PATA has always been to ensure that practical, expert-centric insights are accessible to members and the broader industry in the Asia Pacific region. Partnering with Euromonitor International advances this commitment to the next level, enabling us to deliver even greater context and clarity in understanding the forces shaping travel across our region that further support strategic tourism planning.”

He added, “We are pleased to begin this collaboration with Euromonitor International. Their global market expertise complements PATA’s regional focus, and together we aim to provide a clearer view of where the industry is heading over the next few years.”

Stephen Dutton, Global Travel Insight Manager at Euromonitor, said, “Euromonitor’s partnership with PATA will thrive the fast-growing travel market. Through this collaboration, PATA and Euromonitor will help clients navigate complex market opportunities, unlock growth potential and foster transparency through shared insight that supports a sustainable and equitable way in travel.”

Through this collaboration, Euromonitor International will contribute a dedicated analytical article to accompany the PATA Asia Pacific Destination Forecasts 2026–2028 reports.

Each of the PATA Asia Pacific Destination Forecasts 2026–2028 reports will feature a four- to five-page article presenting data-driven global economic insights from Euromonitor International. The publication will be complemented by a forecast webinar, providing PATA members and industry professionals with the opportunity to gain deeper understanding of the analysis and its implications.

PATA and Euromonitor International plan to explore additional opportunities for collaboration to deliver enhanced value to members and the broader tourism industry.

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Sarawak, Malaysia, January 12, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / In June 2026, the world’s culinary map will expand eastward to the island of Borneo, where Sarawak is preparing to host one of the most ambitious gastronomic gatherings Asia has seen.

From June 18 to 21, the coastal city of Miri will become the meeting point for chefs, producers, buyers, innovators, and decision-makers from across continents at the World Asia Tapas Trade Exhibition and Seminar 2026, held in conjunction with the World National and Asia Tapas Competition.

This is not simply another food event added to a crowded international calendar. It is a carefully curated platform that positions gastronomy as both a cultural language and a powerful economic tool, using the universal appeal of tapas to bridge tradition and innovation, craft and commerce, and local identity and global ambition.

The Philosophy of the Small Plate

Tapas, often described as the art of the small plate, has evolved far beyond its origins.

In today’s culinary landscape, it represents adaptability, storytelling, and creativity within constraint, values that resonate strongly in a world increasingly focused on sustainability and conscious consumption.

World Asia Tapas 2026 builds on this philosophy by creating an environment where flavour, technique, and ideas are exchanged alongside contracts, partnerships, and long-term collaborations.

Rather than isolating cuisine from commerce, the event integrates both, recognising that the future of food depends on dialogue between chefs, producers, buyers, and policymakers.

In doing so, it elevates tapas from a format into a framework for innovation.

Why Sarawak, Why Miri

Miri, the host city, is integral to this narrative.

Located in northeastern Sarawak, Miri is a city shaped by diversity, history, and geography.

Home to 34 ethnic groups, it is a place where indigenous knowledge, migration, and modern influences have long coexisted, producing a culinary landscape that is both deeply rooted and constantly evolving.

Its position as the gateway to northern Sarawak, coupled with modern infrastructure, international hotel offerings, and proximity to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Gunung Mulu and Niah National Parks, gives Miri a distinctive advantage as an international event destination.

Hosting World Asia Tapas 2026 here reinforces the idea that global culinary leadership can emerge from places where culture, biodiversity, and creativity intersect.

Competing for Global Recognition

For chefs, World Asia Tapas 2026 represents far more than a competitive showcase. The World National and Asia Tapas Competition will gather culinary professionals from 18 countries and regions, including Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, China, India, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Middle East, creating a stage where regional identities are expressed through global technique.

The competition is designed to reward originality, technical excellence, and storytelling, with winners earning an all-expenses-paid opportunity to represent their country at the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain.

There, they will compete for artistic recognition and prize money of up to ten thousand euros, alongside some of the world’s most respected tapas practitioners.

For many participants, Sarawak may mark the turning point where local excellence gains international momentum, transforming careers and opening doors to global collaborations.

A Trade Exhibition with Purpose

Running in parallel with the competitions is the World Asia Tapas Trade Exhibition, a space intentionally designed to foster meaningful commercial exchange.

From June 17 to 21, international producers, suppliers, and service providers will present a wide spectrum of offerings, from artisanal ingredients and beverages to hospitality technologies and sustainability solutions.

What distinguishes this exhibition is not its scale alone, but its audience.

Exhibitors engage directly with chefs, restaurateurs, importers, distributors, hoteliers, tourism authorities, and trade officials, all within an environment curated for dialogue rather than passive display.

Product tastings, demonstrations, and structured business matching sessions ensure that participation translates into tangible outcomes.

For brands seeking entry into Asian markets or deeper engagement within the region, World Asia Tapas 2026 offers both access and relevance.

While the formal agenda provides structure, much of the event’s value lies in the connections formed beyond scheduled sessions.

Breakfast networking, industry receptions, and informal interactions within competition and exhibition spaces create opportunities for dialogue that often lead to future partnerships.

These moments allow chefs, exhibitors, and stakeholders to exchange ideas in an environment shaped by shared passion and professional purpose, turning introductions into collaborations that continue long after the event concludes.

Knowledge, Sustainability, and Skills Development

The programme reflects a recognition that modern gastronomy extends beyond the plate.

The Industry Experts Seminar on the opening day addresses themes shaping the global food and tourism industries, including sustainability, environmental certification, leadership, and human capital development.

These sessions bring together industry leaders and practitioners who share insights into balancing profitability with responsibility.

Complementing this is the World Tapas Masterclass Series, where award-winning chefs guide participants through hands-on sessions that combine technique with cultural context.

Topics range from Sarawak-inspired tapas innovations and zero-waste eco-cooking to Korean palace cuisine reinterpretations, leadership through presentation, and elevating indigenous ingredients such as durian for international appeal.

Together, these elements position World Asia Tapas 2026 as both a showcase and a learning platform, reinforcing its long-term impact on participants.

A Festival That Connects Professionals and the Public

The tapas festival is where World Asia Tapas 2026 opens its doors to a wider audience. Local residents, tourists, and food enthusiasts are invited to explore a curated selection of tapas, wines, spirits, and coffee, turning the event into a celebration of global and regional flavours.

This public-facing component enhances the value proposition for exhibitors and sponsors, offering immediate visibility and real-time feedback from diverse audiences.

It also strengthens Miri’s position as a gastronomy city, reinforcing food as a cultural connector and tourism driver.

A Global Stage with International Reach

World Asia Tapas 2026 is supported by extensive media coverage spanning online streaming, television, radio, print, and digital platforms.

International and regional journalists will document the competitions, exhibitions, and conversations unfolding in Miri, ensuring that the event’s reach extends far beyond Sarawak.

For competitors, this visibility provides recognition and professional credibility.

For exhibitors and sponsors, it offers brand alignment with an international event narrative that resonates across markets and audiences.

A Culinary Future Taking Shape in Borneo

At its heart, World Asia Tapas 2026 reflects a belief that gastronomy can serve as a catalyst for economic growth, cultural preservation, and international understanding.

By situating this event in Sarawak, the organisers underline the importance of place, heritage, and sustainability in shaping the future of food.

As Asia’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, World Asia Tapas 2026 stands as a marker of where the industry is heading.

It is a space where chefs act as cultural ambassadors, exhibitors become storytellers, and destinations are defined by connection rather than scale.

For those seeking to compete at the highest level, introduce products to new markets, or participate in a global dialogue about the future of gastronomy, the invitation is clear.

In June 2026, the world will gather in Miri, Sarawak, where the art of the small plate will carry conversations of global significance.

From 17 to 21 June 2026, the World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competition invites chefs, exhibitors, and industry professionals to Miri, Sarawak, for four days of competition, trade, and culinary exchange

Judges, chefs, and exhibitors share a stage at the World National and Asia Tapas Competition, where live cooking, trade exchange, and festival energy create a truly global culinary experience.

Precision, passion, and performance on display as chefs compete at the World National and Asia Tapas Competition, transforming technique and heritage into award-worthy creations.

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