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Bangkok, Thailand, March 11, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Plate Restaurant at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit presents this month’s culinary highlight, “Steamed Seafood Curry Custard in Young Coconut,” celebrating the delicate artistry of Thai flavours with elegant simplicity.

This comforting classic brings together plump prawns, tender squid, and fresh mussels blended with fragrant Thai red curry paste. Enriched with coconut cream and aromatic herbs, the mixture is freshly prepared and gently steamed inside a young coconut, resulting in a silky, softly set texture that holds the essence of traditional Thai cooking.

Served warm and delicately fragrant, beyond its elegant appearance lies a depth of flavour that is distinctly Thai — savoury seafood sweetness, creamy coconut richness, and a gentle yet lingering warmth from the curry. Balanced yet bold, the dish captures the vibrant character of Thailand’s culinary heritage in every spoonful.

Designed as a sharing dish to complement your table, this seasonal creation is especially delightful when enjoyed with warm steamed jasmine rice, where its rich curry flavours become even more harmonious and beautifully balanced.

Available at Plate Restaurant from now until 30 April 2026
THB 480++ per dish

Enjoy 20% savings when paired with the Beverages of the Month.

For more information or reservations, please contact us at 02 090 7888

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Siem Reap, Cambodia, March 11, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has appointed Memo Hernandez as its new Executive Chef overseeing the 94-year-old luxury hotel’s storied culinary programme, including a one-of-a-kind temple dinner at the ancient archeological park of Angkor.

Chef Memo, who was born in Costa Rica, brings to Raffles more than two decades of culinary experience and luxury hospitality from around the world, including most recently in the Bahamas, and before that in Kosovo, Vietnam, Tanzania, Maldives, Fiji, Dubai and elsewhere.

At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Chef Memo will lead the culinary teams at Cafe d’Angkor, the signature all-day brasserie serving Asian and international dishes; 1932, the hotel’s acclaimed Khmer fine-dining restaurant; The Conservatory, the elegant home to Raffles’ famed Afternoon Tea; and the hotel’s renowned banquet service.

“I am thrilled to be joining Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, one of Asia’s most iconic luxury hotels, whose extraordinary range of culinary offerings includes the truly exclusive Bespoke Temple Dinner. I am both honoured and inspired to present my culinary creations in the sacred temples of Angkor Wat,” Chef Memo said.

The Bespoke Temple Dinner is part of Raffles’ ‘Curated Journeys’ programme introduced in 2024. The once-in-a-lifetime dining experience is uniquely set within the temple complex, with blazing torches that cast flickering shadows around the ancient relics of the Khmer Empire.

The specially designed meal is inspired by the hotel’s original 1936 menu first served in this historic setting, and the evening’s entertainment includes a performance of traditional Cambodian Apsara dance against a backdrop of the mystical temples.

“I’m also very excited to partner with local suppliers as we tap into the incredible fresh produce and resources of Cambodia,” he added.

Chef Memo is a specialist in Nikkei cuisine, a vibrant, century-old culinary fusion originating from Japanese immigrants in Peru, along with other third culture cuisines. These cuisines aren’t about mixing two cultures, but rather the unique, authentic identity that exists between them. It is the food of people raised in one culture while living in another, creating a flavour profile that belongs to neither, and both.

“My cuisine isn’t a ‘fusion’ of recipes. It’s a culinary autobiography. It’s the authentic food of a global citizen who has lived across borders and refused to leave any of those flavours behind,” Chef Memo said.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor General Manager Joseph Colina said, “We are delighted to welcome Chef Memo to Raffles, where he will play a critical role in continuing to elevate our culinary offerings and delivering unforgettable, authentic experiences that honour our rich heritage while embracing innovative global influences for our discerning guests.”

ABOUT RAFFLES

Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

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Phuket, Thailand, March 10, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / L’Arôme by the Sea introduces a new dégustation menu that reaffirms its commitment to contemporary French coastal gastronomy, guided by Executive Chef Maksym Chukanov and inspired by the Andaman Sea.

The menu is conceived around seafood in its entirety, with a deliberate emphasis on whole-fish utilization. Each product is treated with respect from primary cuts to secondary elements, through a range of precise techniques including gentle curing, controlled roasting, careful poaching, and reduction-based sauces.

The progression opens with Carabinero prawn with tomato and olive oil, Shima Aji paired with radish and finger lime, and Sakura Ebi grissini with fresh wasabi, before moving into purer marine expressions such as Gillardeau oyster with dill beurre blanc and Hotate scallop with green apple and horseradish. Larger fish are handled with restraint and accuracy, notably wild turbot prepared on the bone and paired with vin jaune, while Brittany blue lobster is served with a calibrated laksa designed to enhance, rather than dominate, the natural sweetness of the shellfish.

Throughout the menu, seasoning remains measured, acidity carefully controlled, and garnishes purposeful, allowing product quality and clarity of execution to define the experience.

Alongside carefully selected imported seafood, the menu incorporates seasonal Thai produce, reflecting a dialogue between classical French technique and its local environment. Current highlights include Chiang Mai strawberries at peak season, served with a Hokkaido milk parfait, bringing freshness, balance, and natural sweetness to the progression while remaining faithful to the menu’s product-driven philosophy.

Chef Maksym Chukanov brings nearly two decades of experience from Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe and Asia. His background includes Noma 2.0 in Copenhagen, Restaurant Ikarus at Hangar-7 in Salzburg, and Restaurant Cure in Singapore, where he earned one Michelin star in 2021 and was featured in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants Discovery.

His cuisine is defined by restraint, precision, and respect for ingredients, with a strong focus on seafood, whole-fish utilization, and clarity of flavour. At L’Arôme by the Sea, he translates classical French technique into a contemporary coastal expression shaped by Phuket’s maritime environment.

ABOUT FRANCE LAROME GROUP

L’Arôme by the Sea is a MICHELIN Guide–recommended restaurant, recognized for four consecutive years, and is dramatically located above Kalim Beach with uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea. The restaurant is also distinguished by its award-winning wine programme, recognised by Star Wine List, and has been ranked No. 1 in the Top 25 Restaurants, reinforcing its position among Phuket’s leading fine-dining destinations.

France Larome Group is an international hospitality group specialising in high-end, immersive dining experiences that combine gastronomy, culture, and storytelling. Recognised by the MICHELIN Guide in multiple countries, the group’s flagship concepts include:

• L’Arôme by the Sea (Phuket) ranked No. 1 in 2025 at TOP25 Restaurants Phuket
• L’Arôme by the Sea (Phuket) – A MICHELIN-recommended coastal restaurant combining French gastronomy with panoramic ocean views
• Madame Fan (Paris) – A modern Chinese fine-dining restaurant exploring East–West dialogue
• L’Arôme in the Sky (Nanjing) – An immersive French dining concept where architecture and cuisine converge

With projects spanning France, China, and Thailand, France Larome Group is committed to excellence, consistency, and long-term brand development within the global fine-dining landscape.

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Bangkok, Thailand, March 9, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Board of Directors of the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) has reappointed Suvimol Thanasarakij (Dee) as Executive Director for a new two-year term beginning in mid-March 2026, following an open international recruitment process, with shortlisted candidates interviewed by the MTCO Board in February 2026.

“I am grateful for the MTCO Board’s trust and honored to continue working with the GMS tourism community and our partners to promote the Mekong region as a vibrant and sustainable destination,” said Thanasarakij. “Regional cooperation remains essential to strengthening tourism development, supporting local communities, and enhancing the region’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.”

During her previous two terms (2022–2026), Thanasarakij led a range of regional initiatives supporting tourism businesses and cooperation among the GMS countries. These included the Women in Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Training-of-Trainers programme, which built a regional network of trainers who later delivered follow-up training for local women in their home countries. MTCO also partnered with Agoda to deliver a regional e-commerce training programme for MSME accommodation providers, helping tourism businesses in secondary destinations strengthen their online presence and access global travel markets.

Under her leadership, MTCO facilitated the development of the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030, the region’s five-year framework for tourism cooperation. The organization is currently coordinating the GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan, a roadmap for joint destination promotion across the Mekong region. Progress has also been made toward establishing the Greater Mekong Subregion Tourism Organization (GMSTO), an intergovernmental body being established by the GMS member countries.

In her new term, Thanasarakij will continue working with the GMS National Tourism Organizations and regional partners to advance the implementation of the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030, strengthen regional tourism partnerships, and promote sustainable tourism development across the Mekong region.

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Cebu, Philippines, March 8, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) TRAVEX 2026 concluded on a high note in Cebu, Philippines, delivering strong business outcomes, robust industry engagement, and renewed confidence in the future of ASEAN tourism. Over the course of the event, more than 9,500 pre-scheduled appointments were conducted, driving meaningful connections and collaboration across the regional and international tourism community.

The three-day trade exhibition featured 261 booths representing all 9 ASEAN countries and welcomed over 1,000 delegates to the show floor. Participation included 270 buyers from 50 countries and territories, around 70 media representatives from 25 countries, creating a dynamic and international marketplace throughout the event.

Delegates were warmly welcomed with specially curated delegate bags featuring gifts from local businesses, reflecting the Philippines’ renowned hospitality while supporting community partners. ATF TRAVEX 2026 also highlighted ASEAN’s collective push towards digital innovation, sustainability, and community-based tourism, reinforcing the region’s shared vision for inclusive growth and long-term competitiveness.

The opening day of TRAVEX was marked by an official ceremony led by Philippines Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. She was joined by Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, ASEAN Tourism Association President Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Maria Cynthia King Chan, Congressman Junard Quirante Chan, and representatives from ASEAN member states. Delegates were later hosted at the historic Mactan Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City, where cultural performances, local food experiences, and a vibrant atmosphere showcased Cebu’s appeal as both a business and leisure destination, culminating in a celebratory fireworks display.

Over the following days, buyers and exhibitors took part in scheduled business appointments, National Tourism Organisation briefings, and special programme sessions showcasing new tourism products, strategic initiatives, and destination developments from across ASEAN. Media in attendance also gained first-hand insights into the latest developments shaping ASEAN tourism. These exchanges highlighted the region’s shared ambition to strengthen connectivity, enhance destination competitiveness, and position ASEAN as a diverse and compelling tourism region on the global stage. Regional camaraderie continued with an evening hosted by the Singapore Tourism Board, officially welcoming delegates to Singapore as the host of ATF TRAVEX 2027.

The final day of ATF TRAVEX 2026 coincided with the ASEAN Tourism Awards, which celebrates outstanding achievements across multiple categories from ASEAN member states. The forum concluded with a closing dinner, marking the successful wrap-up of a week of business exchanges, collaborations and celebrations. Buyers from across multiple international markets participated alongside a strong presence of destination representatives, reinforcing TRAVEX’s role as a key platform for regional tourism exchange.

With robust buyer participation, strong exhibitor engagement, and a clear focus on sustainability and innovation, ATF TRAVEX 2026 reaffirmed its position as the region’s leading platform for tourism trade and cooperation. Anchored in the spirit of the theme “Navigating Our Tourism Future, Together,” the event sets a confident and collaborative tone as ASEAN tourism charts its path forward.

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Bangkok, Thailand, March 6, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson marks its 75th anniversary with the launch of a global celebration, reflecting its evolution from a Thai silk pioneer into an international lifestyle brand while honoring its heritage and continued transformation. Founded on the belief that Thai silk belonged on the world stage, Jim Thompson marks 75 years of evolving from a Thai silk pioneer into a global lifestyle brand rooted in Thailand. Today, the brand spans fashion, home furnishings, hospitality and creative experiences, supported by a retail presence of 31 stores across key destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, Krabi and Pattaya. This evolution is anchored by immersive brand destinations such as the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter and the brand’s first integrated lifestyle store at One Bangkok.

A defining milestone in recent years was the development of the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter between 2022 and 2023. Conceived as a cultural and creative destination, the Quarter brings together heritage, design, exhibitions, dining and retail, marking a shift from product-led storytelling to experience-led engagement. This approach continues to inform the brand’s broader lifestyle strategy across its business units.

Jim Thompson’s global relevance has been shaped through a focused portfolio of partnerships and collaborations across travel, hospitality and culture. These include a multi-year collaboration with Thai Airways, extending the brand’s design language into curated amenity kits and cabin comfort wear from 2023 to 2026, alongside hospitality collaborations with Four Seasons. The brand’s presence in global culture is further reflected through international productions such as The White Lotus Season 3, as well as curated travel experiences developed with DTH Travel for The Blue Jasmine x Jim Thompson train.

In fashion, collaboration remains central to Jim Thompson’s creative direction. The Artists in Residence program, launched in 2023, brought together Thai artists Pichaya Osothcharoenpol, Nakrob Moonmanas and GOH M, each contributing distinct visual languages that bridged art, fashion and contemporary Thai identity. The program continued in 2025 with the Scarf Edition, featuring Juli Baker and Summer, Lili Tae and Pomme Chan. These initiatives sit alongside collaborations with designers and brands including ASAVA, FitFlop, PAÑPURI, VVON SUGUNNASIL, SARRAN, Zee NuNew, Baan Krua and Lisa Von Tang, extending the brand’s fashion dialogue across generations and audiences.

Within interiors and furnishings, Jim Thompson has presented Spring collections at Paris Déco Off in successive editions including Creative Director Vichada “Dao” Sitakalin’s 2026 collection, Oriental Odyssey, which reinterprets archival motifs through contemporary craftsmanship, reaffirming the House’s creative legacy. Across landmark hotels, resorts, and restaurants, the brand’s textiles and wallcoverings shape distinctive hospitality environments worldwide.

In the past three years, the company has delivered more than 500 projects across 60 countries worldwide, spanning hospitality, luxury retail boutiques, and high-end residential developments, reinforcing its global reach.

A recent highlight is ‘Wild’ a textile collection developed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed architect and designer Bill Bensley, whose Bangkok- and Bali-based creative atelier, BENSLEY, has created more than 200 distinctive resorts, hotels, and palaces across over 30 countries.

Food and beverage continues to play an integral role in expressing the Jim Thompson lifestyle. Anchored by Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, the brand’s culinary presence includes Jim’s Terrace, The O.S.S. Bar, The O.S.S. Room and Silk Café at the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, alongside Jim’s Terrace at One Bangkok and a second Silk Café at ICONSIAM.

“Jim Thompson has always been rooted in heritage, yet driven by evolution,” said Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO of Jim Thompson. “As we mark 75 years, our ambition is to continue bringing Thai creativity to the global stage, building a lifestyle brand that is culturally meaningful, creatively relevant, and globally connected.”

The 75th anniversary global celebration

The year-long 75th anniversary global celebration opened with the launch of the Jim Thompson 75th Anniversary coffee table book, Jim Thompson – Beyond Silk, Beyond Thailand, created in collaboration with luxury publishing house Assouline. The publication captures the brand’s journey from Thai silk heritage to global lifestyle through archival imagery, design narratives and contemporary perspectives. Following its international launch at Assouline’s Paris flagship, the book was introduced in Bangkok.

Throughout 2026, the anniversary program will continue to unfold through a series of storytelling and creative initiatives. At its heart is a commemorative short film that traces Jim Thompson’s 75-year journey through the perspective of hands – hands that weave silk, create, and pass down knowledge from one generation to the next – capturing the enduring spirit of craftsmanship and continuity at the core of the brand.

Building on this narrative foundation is Jim and I: The Weaver’s Stories, a community-driven storytelling project that explores Jim Thompson through the voices of those who have shaped its journey. Featuring 12 individuals whose personal and professional paths are closely intertwined with the brand, the series offers first-hand perspectives on craft, creativity and connection. Each story is presented through a short film and a high-impact portrait, anchored by a single unifying question: ‘What is the thread that connects you to Jim Thompson?’ Together, these voices reflect the idea that Jim Thompson is not the work of a single figure, but a collective legacy woven by many hands over 75 years.

Additional anniversary highlights unfolding throughout the year include a 75th Anniversary Capsule Collection inspired by archival patterns and Thai silk heritage. Designed to celebrate the depth of Jim Thompson’s textile legacy, the collection will be released in two phases, with the first drop in June 2026 followed by a second in October 2026. Spanning scarves, apparel, accessories and lifestyle pieces, each drop reinterprets historic prints and cultural motifs through a contemporary lens, extending the anniversary story into wearable and collectible form.

Another key initiative of the anniversary year is the introduction of the specially designed 75th Anniversary logo, to be used across global communications throughout 2026. The ‘7’, rendered in black-and-white, references the brand’s origins and the revival of Thai silk, while the ‘5’, expressed in vibrant color, reflects its evolution into a dynamic, internationally recognized lifestyle brand. Together, the logo bridges heritage and future, symbolizing Jim Thompson’s enduring legacy and continued transformation on the global stage.

About Jim Thompson
No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an architect, art collector, socialite, and entrepreneur who is recognized as the driving force behind the revival of Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries.

Today, Jim Thompson is the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand with a reputation for beautiful silks and “Beyond Silk”.

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Bangkok, Thailand, March 6, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Dom Pérignon, the world’s most prestigious champagne, proudly unveils the latest chapter of the Dom Pérignon Society in Thailand through an exclusive collaboration with Chef Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij acclaimed as The World’s Best Female Chef 2025, Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024, and the Michelin-starred chef-owner of POTONG, which has also been voted the No. 1 restaurant in Bangkok by TOP 25 Bangkok Restaurants.

This intimate dinner brings together the timeless elegance of Dom Pérignon Vintage with Chef Pam’s visionary Thai-Chinese cuisine, offering society members and distinguished guests an unparalleled dining experience.

Held at Potong, one of Bangkok’s most acclaimed fine-dining destinations, the evening embodies the shared philosophy of Dom Pérignon and Chef Pam: the pursuit of excellence, creativity, and the art of harmony between tradition and innovation.

POTONG

A Progressive Thai-Chinese Cuisine by Chef Pam. With 5 Elements, 5 Senses: Taste Chef Pam’s (World’s Best Female Chef) memories of her culinary journey in heritage home of 120 years old building passed down from her ancestor as 4th generation POTONG’s Traditional Medicine House situated in the heart of Yaowaraj (Chinatown Thailand).

POTONG is the multi-award winning restaurant and is the only MICHELIN Star restaurant that also awarded 1-Diamond from Black Pearl Guide in Chinatown Thailand. Currently ranked #1 TOP25 Restaurant in Bangkok, #13 in ASIA, and #13 in World Best restaurant and voted World Best New Restaurant from Condé Nast Traveller’s ‘Hot List’.

A Meeting of Icons

The highlight of the evening will be Chef Pam’s signature Pad Thai, reimagined through her unique culinary lens and paired with Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2—a champagne that has matured for over two decades to reach a new level of energy, intensity, and precision.

Chef Pam Pichaya Soontornyanakij

This pairing symbolizes the meeting of two cultural icons: Thailand’s most beloved dish, elevated by Chef Pam’s artistry, and Dom Pérignon’s rare second life, where the champagne reveals deeper complexity, vibrancy, and harmony.

Guests will also explore Dom Pérignon Vintage 2015 alongside a tailor-made tasting menu, with each dish reflecting the duality of flavors—delicate yet powerful—that resonates with the soul of the vintages.

Dom Pérignon Society
The Dom Pérignon Society is an invitation-only circle dedicated to epicureans, tastemakers, and visionaries who share a passion for the extraordinary. Members enjoy privileged access to rare vintages, private dinners, and experiences that embody the Maison’s philosophy of “creating harmony that inspires emotion.”

The collaboration with Chef Pam marks the continuation of the Society’s mission in Thailand to redefine luxury dining through meaningful partnerships with world-renowned chefs.

About Chef Pam
Chef Pam Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij is the chef-owner of Potong, a Michelin-starred fine-dining restaurant in Bangkok’s Chinatown. Named The World’s Best Female Chef 2025, she is celebrated for her innovative interpretation of Thai-Chinese heritage, combining artistry, precision, and storytelling in her cuisine. Her signature Pad Thai has become an iconic symbol of her culinary philosophy—heritage elevated to haute cuisine.

Founded in 1668, Dom Pérignon embodies the visionary spirit of its namesake, the Benedictine monk Dom Pierre Pérignon, who aspired to create the “best wine in the world.” Each vintage is a unique creation, born of a single year, with an unwavering commitment to harmony, intensity, and radiance.

Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2 represents a rare second life for the champagne, unveiled after more than 20 years of maturation, where it reaches a new dimension of energy, depth, and longevity.

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Las Vegas, United States, March 5, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The first Travel & Tourism Awards spotlight system level technologies reshaping mobility far beyond consumer devices. CES 2026 will be remembered as the year AI stepped out of the lab and into the physical world. Yet amid the avalanche of “AI everywhere” announcements, a quieter milestone pointed to a deeper shift in how global travel innovation is now being defined.

For the first time, CES introduced the Travel & Tourism category in the CES Innovation Awards. The light blue glass trophies blended quietly among the heritage categories. They didn’t dominate social feeds, yet their implications reach far beyond the show floor. With this move, CES effectively declared that travel is no longer just an “application scenario” for technology — it is becoming a technology industry in its own right.

A Shift in How Travel Innovation Is Defined
The three inaugural winners share something important. None are consumer gadgets or booking tools. All operate at the infrastructure level, addressing the systems that determine how people move, connect, and experience the world.

For years, travel tech has been defined by distribution platforms, personalization engines, loyalty apps, and digital marketing tools. CES is signaling a different future — one where innovation is measured not by convenience, but by coordination and system integration.

Inside the Oshkosh Pavilion: An Award for Safety, and a Vision for the Future Airport
The 110-year-old Oshkosh Corporation of the U.S. won the CES award for its Striker Volterra electric airport fire truck, a next-generation ARFF vehicle designed to improve emergency response with lower emissions and higher operational efficiency.

But at the Oshkosh pavilion, I was drawn to a three-minute video playing under the banner “AIRPORT OF THE FUTURE.” It stitched together a broader ecosystem of electric ground vehicles, autonomous systems, and robot-enabled operations — all contributing to an efficient “Perfect Turn.”

I asked Jennifer Stianson, Vice President of Global Branding and Communications, “How do you convince airports — and the FAA — to adopt these new technologies in one of the world’s most risk-averse environments?”

She responded: “Airports have long been asking for these technologies. They want more efficiency, better accident prevention, and more human-centered operations. We’re in active discussions with the FAA and have received encouraging feedback.”

Some of the equipment featured in the video is already in use by Oshkosh clients. The company is not focused on futuristic concepts, but on operational systems that can be deployed in real-world conditions.

Travelers rarely think about the choreography behind a flight departure: the timing of the jet bridge, the synchronization of power units, the coordination of tugs, loaders, and safety checks. Yet these unseen systems determine whether a flight leaves on time, whether connections are made, and whether the airport experience feels seamless or stressful. Oshkosh’s video quietly reminded viewers that travelers feel the impact of systems they never see.

At the Even Realities Pavilion: Tourism as Enhanced Perception
Even Realities, a Hong Kong SAR–based company, offered a very different window into the future of travel. I tested their G2 smart glasses, which overlay real-time contextual information with surprising precision. The device is not a consumer toy; it is designed for airports, museums, and destinations that want to make information more accessible, especially for travelers with mobility or cognitive challenges.

When I spoke with Nikolaj Schnoor, Chief Strategy Officer, he noted that Even Realities had submitted their technology to multiple CES categories. “CES chose to recognize us in Travel & Tourism,” he said. He explained that the company’s work is fundamentally about helping people navigate and understand the world around them.

That framing matters. It suggests that CES sees tourism innovation not as entertainment, but as enhanced perception — a way to make destinations more legible, inclusive, and data-rich.

At a Korean Booth: Mobility with Global Reach
The third award winner, LBS Tech from South Korea, had a humble booth — yet the technology they showcased aims to solve one of travel’s biggest structural challenges: how people move through cities and campuses with clarity, safety, and real-time guidance.
LBS Tech uses AI to map walkway-level accessibility and design optimized pickup points, enabling inclusive, door-to-door mobility across cities and campuses. The system is already being piloted far beyond Korea, including universities in the United States (University of Rochester, University of Southern California), as well as Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Birmingham in the United Kingdom. The company CEO, Mr. S.W. Lee, was busy receiving potential clients.

The contrast was striking: a modest booth representing a technology with global reach. It underscored a theme running through all three award winners — travel innovation is no longer defined by booth size or noise, but by the scale of the system it can transform.

Why This Moment Matters
Taken together, the award selections show CES view that travel innovation is shifting toward infrastructure, mobility, and system level coordination. It’s a narrative the travel and tourism industry has been slow to claim, despite its economic impact accounting for roughly 10% of the global economy. The sector has long been described as technologically fragmented, constrained by legacy systems and slow upgrade cycles.

The pandemic accelerated automation and contactless technologies, but the sector still lacked a global stage that recognized travel as a frontier of innovation. CES has now provided that stage, reframing travel tech from “front of house convenience” to “back of house intelligence.” The awards may have been quiet, but their implications are not: travel tech has entered the main arena of global innovation, and the question is whether the industry is ready to claim that space.

Haybina Hao reporting for Travelindex. She is an international travel journalist and analyst whose work spans destinations, global tourism trends, and cross cultural storytelling. She reports in both English and Chinese.

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Limpopo, South Africa, March 4, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Travel Promoters is delighted to share its appointment as Sales & Marketing representatives for Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa in South Africa’s Welgevonden Game Reserve in Limpopo Province.

The 35,000 hectare “Big 5” reserve in the Waterberg District is rich in wildlife, and prides itself on being home to the world’s largest concentration of endangered white rhino living on private land, which are fiercely protected by a world class, highly skilled anti-poaching unit.

Travel Promoters Founder, Ailsa Tavares said “We are very proud to be welcoming Mhondoro into our portfolio, especially as we approach the busy trade show season, and look forward to sharing updates on this special property with our tour operator partners”.

Mhondoro sleeps up to 24 guests in total split across:

• Honeymoon Suite (sleeps 2)
• Luxury Pool Suite 1 (sleeps 2)
• Luxury Pool Suite 2 (sleeps 2)
• Executive Suite (sleeps 4)
• Family Deluxe Suite (sleeps 4)
• Family Pool Suite (sleeps 4)
• Mhondoro Villa (sleeps 6)

The lodge enjoys panoramic views over a busy watering hole – and, for guests wanting a more intimate experience, also links via a 65-metre tunnel to an incredible underground hide hidden in close proximity to the waterhole.

Mhondoro is widely regarded as the benchmark for luxury safaris in this region, with a reputation for service excellence and gourmet cuisine, paired with a wide selection of fine wines.  Activities include guided open-air game drives, rhino tracking and guided walks with highly skilled rangers. Spa treatments can also be enjoyed in the dedicated Spa Suite overlooking the waterhole. Stargazing, wellness retreats and guided excursion to two rock art sites are also available.

This malaria-free reserve is less than three-hour’s drive or a one-hour flight from Johannesburg, making it an ideal destination for multigenerational families with young children, or simply travellers wanting a smooth and easy connection to the bush. Shorter, child-friendly Bumble game drives, child-minding services and a full kids programme ensures even the youngest of guests are made to feel welcome. Families staying in the Mhondoro Villa have no age restriction on game drives as they have an exclusive vehicle and guide.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Travel Promoters to strengthen and grow our market share in the UK and Europe, and we look forward to engaging with the trade to share our unique offering. Hot off the press, we are proud to announce the acquisition of Izingwe Lodge in the South of Welgevonden Game Reserve. The lodge will be presented to the trade after refurbishment where the Mhondoro look and feel will be added to the already existing luxurious atmosphere and the lodge will be renamed to Mhondoro Southern Residence. The Southern Residence, which sleeps up to 8 guests, will be available on an exclusive basis only”, says the owners Frank and Myriam Vogel.

Team TP will be heading out to experience Mhondoro first-hand ahead of Indaba and look forward to working with their incredible team to market this gem of the Waterberg.

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Bangkok, Thailand, March 4, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / 1-Michelin Star Signature Bangkok and Executive Chef Thierry Drapeau welcome Michelin chef friends for the fourth edition of THE REUNION. This year’s 3-night event features four renowned Michelin chefs, a collaborative 8-course menu with wine, and spectacularly fusion of flavours from France, Mexico, Singapore and Thailand. 1-Michelin Star Signature Bangkok Restaurant is thrilled to announce the return of The Reunion, taking place on 2-4 April, 2026 at Signature Bangkok. The Reunion 4.0 is the fourth edition of The Reunion, an annual gastronomy experience which brings together top Michelin starred chefs from different backgrounds to create a unique tasting menu. 

Headlining this year’s event are Chef Thierry Drapeau from France and Thailand; Chef Naatali Jean Baptiste from France;  Chef Enrique Casarrubias from France and Mexico; and, Chef Laurence Tan from Singapore. Together, the chefs represent French, Mexican, and pan Asian cuisine—three distinct culinary traditions. Each chef will contribute two courses to an 8-course menu, creating a tapestry of bold, innovative flavours over three evenings of incredible gastronmy. 

The Reunion 4.0 will be held at 1-Michelin Star Signature Bangkok, situated on the 11th floor of VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery Collection with stunning city skyline views. The 8-course menu with mini wine pairings is offered at THB 6,800++, and limited seats available. Guests are encouraged to book early via  shorturl.at/uT9jW

REUNITING MICHELIN FRIENDS & GLOBAL FLAVOURS

Signature Bangkok Executive Chef Thierry Drapeau founded The Reunion series in 2022 to gather his chef friends and colleagues for a collaborative, concept-driven gastronomy experience. The series has been a resounding success and is one of Bangkok’s most anticipated culinary events. 

The Reunion 4.0 celebrates the ‘multinational universe’. Each chef will contribute courses to the menu, infusing the experience with their unique local and global perspectives. For this year’s edition, Chef Thierry invited chefs representing France, Mexico, and Asia. Although each chef is from a distinct culinary background, they are long-term friends and colleagues. They are excited to reunite at Signature Bangkok and participate in this first-ever collaboration. 

MEET THE CHEFS of THE REUNION 4.0

On three consecutive nights, from 2-4 April, The Reunion 4.0 will feature an 8-course menu with mini wine pairings. Each chef will oversee two courses, bringing to the table their unique flavours and stories. 

Chef Thierry Drapeau — France & Thailand

Chef Thierry leads the culinary vision at 1-Michelin star Signature Bangkok, where he continues to shape and evolve his innovative modern French and floral cuisine. Chef Thierry’s “cuisine of the soil” approach emphasises terroir, premium, story-driven ingredients, and stunning presentations. Chef Thierry’s first restaurant Logis de la Chabotterie, in Saint-Sulpice-le-Verdon, Loire Valley, held on to its 2-Michelin star status for nine consecutive years. Always keen to develop his skills and collaborate with others, Chef Thierry began the Reunion gastronomy series in 2022.  

Chef Jean-Baptiste Natali — France

A distinguished French chef renowned for his innovative approach and commitment to sustainability, Chef Jean-Baptiste is one of Chef Thierry’s oldest friends. At 27 years of age, he became the youngest chef in France to earn a Michelin star—an accolade he has proudly maintained for 23 years. Chef Natali’s cuisine style is rooted in authentic French culinary techniques, characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for ingredients. With over three decades of international experiences, Chef Natali brings a broad range of global influences, creating a unique and innovative dining experience. 

Chef Laurence Tan — Singapore 

Chef Laurence is the Executive Chef at 1-Michelin Star JAG, a contemporary French restaurant in Singapore. Chef Laurence’s style of cuisine marries classic French techniques with an innovative approach to flavour and presentation. At JAG, Chef Laurence approached the restaurant’s vegetable-centric approach by enhancing French techniques, highlighting bolder flavors, and adding subtle local influences. Chef Laurence’s pioneering work on plant-based cuisine deeply impressed Chef Thierry, who immediately invited the Singapore-based chef to be part of The Reunion 4.0. This is Chef Laurence’s first time participating in a culinary event in Thailand.

Chef Enrique Casarrubias — México

Originally from Mexico City, Chef Enrique Casarrubias calls Paris home. He is the founder and head chef of 1-Michelin Star OXTE, which is the first French-Mexican fine dining restaurant to receive a Michelin star. Chef Enrique style of cuisine that merges the warmth of Mexican tradition with French haute cuisine. Childhood flavours of spices, chiles, and herbs are reimagined through the lens of French training, and each plate is an attempt to find harmony between his two worlds. Chef Theirry was first introduced to Chef Enrique through mutual friends, and the two bonded over shared pursuit of depth, complexity, and elegance in the kitchen. 

THE REUNION 4.0 | GLOBAL FLAVOURS : THE DETAILS

2, 3, and 4 April 2026

6:00 to 10:00 PM  | THB 6,800++

Early Bird 10% OFF when booking before 15 March. 

**Limited Seats Available

Book now > shorturl.at/uT9jW

ABOUT 1-MICHELIN STAR SIGNATURE BANGKOK

1-Michelin Star Signature Bangkok is a pioneering modern French and floral restaurant in Bangkok. Led by former 2-Michelin Star Chef Thierry Drapeau, Signature Bangkok received its first Michelin Star in 2023 and has retained the award for four consecutive years. Seasonal ‘Flower Bouquet’ menus achieve classic French flavours using imported herbs and edible flowers. Chef Thierry’s “cuisine of the soil” approach celebrates terroir, while keeping the experience approachable and in-step with Thai culture’s emphasis on relaxed meals in beautiful settings. Signature Bangkok is located on the 11th floor of 5-star VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery Collection next to the BTS SkyTrain Ratchathewi station.

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