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Bangkok, Thailand, December 19, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Tower Club at lebua is proud to announce that it has been honored as World’s Leading Luxury Suites Hotel 2025 by the prestigious World Travel Awards, a global benchmark that celebrates excellence across the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries.

This distinguished recognition reflects Tower Club at lebua’s commitment to redefining luxury through intuitive service and an elevated sense of calm above the city. More than an award, it is a testament to the meaningful experiences shared with guests from around the world.

Perched high above Bangkok’s vibrant skyline, Tower Club at lebua offers an all-suite sanctuary where privacy, space, and serenity are paramount. Each suite is designed to feel like a personal retreat in the sky, complete with expansive layouts, private balconies, and uninterrupted panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River and the city beyond. Here, mornings arrive gently with natural light and sweeping vistas, while evenings unfold at an unhurried pace, framed by golden sunsets and the city’s glow.

Renowned for its discreet yet deeply personalized service, Tower Club at lebua creates an atmosphere where guests feel instantly at ease. Exclusive privileges, refined dining experiences, and seamless access to lebua’s iconic collection of MICHELIN-starred restaurants and world-famous rooftop bars further elevate each stay into something truly memorable.

The World Travel Awards honor destinations and hospitality leaders that consistently deliver outstanding experiences on a global scale. Being named World’s Leading Luxury Suites Hotel underscores Tower Club at lebua’s position as a benchmark for suite-led luxury hospitality, where thoughtful details and emotional resonance define the guest journey.

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Meditate with Lady Buddha in Da Nang
At the towering Lady Buddha statue that presides over Da Nang’s Son Tra Peninsula, TIA Wellness Resort offers guests a little slice of peace, stillness, and presence. On one of the resort’s signature wellness tours, Breathe, guests leave early for a relaxing exploration of Linh Ung Pagoda, an active place of worship –the largest in Da Nang! – before a guided meditation session on the grounds with a focus on the breath. After the mindful practice the excursion takes in the main Lady Buddha statue, the tallest in the country and a symbol of peace and prosperity, the experience begins at 6:00am and wraps up at 8:30am.

Salute the Sunset at Krabi
With an on-site Wellbeing Sanctuary program available for guests, Banyan Tree Krabi is simply stretching its growth and mindfulness activities on December 21 to provide a Wellbeing Day, starting with beach yoga at 8am, led by Wellbeing Practitioner and Ayurvedic specialist Dr. Subhash Shanbhag. The day’s itinerary continues with Mandala Painting at 10am, followed by a Workshop for the Senses that focuses on the scents and aromas of nature. Banyan Tree Krabi is surrounded by a lush tropical landscape and visitors can enjoy a first-hand introduction to local flora. The day is rounded off at 6pm with a Better Sleep workshop including breathwork and Tibetan sound meditation on the resort’s beachfront lawn, boasting a spectacular backdrop of the Andaman Sea and its majestic limestone cliffs.

Sound healing on Cam Ranh peninsula
The expansive Alma Resort on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula overlooking Long Beach will host a 1.5-hour meditation session led by Indian wellness expert Umesh Kumar Sharma. The program, to be held on Dec. 21 to mark World Meditation Day from 4.30-6pm at the resort’s Yoga Room, will begin with an introduction to the benefits of sound healing meditation. After gentle stretching, participants will engage in the sound healing session. The program will finish with a herbal tea ritual. The program will be open to 10-12 guests and is priced at 350,000 VND per person. Umesh is equipped with 20 years of experience in the health and wellness industry, with expertise in yoga and meditation from India’s “city of yoga” Rishikesh.

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Palma, Spain, December 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / It has now been confirmed that Alain St. Ange of the mid-ocean islands of the Seychelles and the globally respected tourism leader who was the former Seychelles minister, will be recognised at the Clevenard Global Authors’ Recognition Ceremony & Leaders’ Business Networking Forum from 27–30 August 2026. During the event, he will receive two prestigious awards: the Global Author Award for Transformational Leadership Storytelling for his inspiring autobiography Alain St. Ange, My Journey – An Autobiography, and the Global Tourism Leadership Award for Strategic Impact & Cultural Diplomacy in recognition of his exceptional contributions to international tourism and cultural diplomacy.

His autobiography offers a unique insight into leadership, governance, resilience, and global engagement, making it an essential read for policymakers, investors, and emerging leaders worldwide. Alain St. Ange’s recognition at Clevenard 2026 celebrates both literary excellence and transformative impact in global tourism.

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Phnom Penh, Cambodia, December 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the iconic luxury hotel in Cambodia’s capital, has appointed David Eldridge as its new Executive Chef, as the historic property continues to elevate its fine-dining programme.

Chef David brings more than two decades of international luxury experience across eight countries, including the Maldives, Thailand, Vietnam, Tanzania, the UAE, Qatar, Seychelles and his native South Africa. He joins Raffles Hotel Le Royal from Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, where he served as Director of Food, Beverage & Culinary. His career also included senior roles with Four Seasons, Kempinski Hotels, and The Luxury Collection (Marriott).

Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s celebrated restaurants include Restaurant Le Royal, an acclaimed Khmer fine-dining venue, and Le Phnom 1929, a French-style brasserie.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chef David and his wealth of culinary expertise to Raffles Hotel Le Royal. His vision and talents will help us continue to deliver the finest dining experiences in Cambodia and the region to both hotel guests and the local community,” Raffles Hotel Le Royal General Manager Dagmar Lyons said.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, which originally opened in 1929, now features 175 rooms and suites revitalized through a comprehensive restoration completed in 2019. The transformation blends modern comfort with timeless elegance, reflecting the hotel’s French colonial heritage enriched by Khmer artistry and Art Deco design.

For more information on Raffles Hotel Le Royal or to make a booking, please contact +855 23 981 888

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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Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, December 15, 2025/ TRAVELINDEX / The Hari Hong Kong has achieved ‘EarthCheck Silver status’ in recognition of its broad spectrum of sustainability initiatives, placing the Wan Chai hotel among the globe’s most eco-friendly travel and tourism operators.

To achieve and maintain Silver Certified accreditation with EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group, the hotel must be independently audited annually and meet stringent requirements across key performance areas.

The hotel’s potable water consumption for the audited year of 2024 was 204.2L per guest night. That figure is just over half of the regional average of 361L per guest night, and below what EarthCheck deems the “regional leader” level – meaning exemplary standard of performance for the type and location of an operation – at 253L per guest night.

The Hari Hong Kong’s energy consumption per guest night was 101.15 MJ for 2024, almost half the regional average of 180.3 MJ per guest night and also below the regional leader level of 126MJ per guest night. During the same timeframe, the hotel sent 3.37L of waste to landfill per guest night, just over a third of the regional average of 9.01L per guest night and almost half of the regional leader level of 6.31L per guest night.

The hotel’s greenhouse gas emissions for the audited year of 2024 were 18.33kg CO2-e per guest night, sitting right at the regional leader level and under the regional average of 25kg CO2-e per guest night.

Other performance highlights during the audited year include, due to the hotel’s ban on single use plastics, the avoidance of an estimated 109,878 500ml plastic bottles and 47,767 30ml bathroom amenities bottles.

The Hari Hong Kong, which opened in December 2020 in the heart of Wan Chai, was established through sustainable design and construction which sought to reduce negative impacts on the environment. The hotel is also a LEED (Silver), BEAM Plus (Silver) and BEEO certified hotel in recognition for its sustainable design, construction and energy efficiency performance.

“We are continually striving to improve our performance in environmental and social sustainability across everything we do, ranging from our energy and water conservation efforts to responsible purchasing, local employment and community support,” said the hotel’s General Manager Edward E. Snoeks.

The hotel works with Green Island Cement on its ShellCem Project to collect and upcycle oyster shells and other seashells such as mussel and scallop shells into cement.

A green wall on the facade of the hotel’s second floor terrace, that stretches three stories high, contributes positively to the environment by helping to reduce the temperature of surrounding areas.

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Albuquerque, United States, December 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / As the U.S. tourism industry seeks new growth drivers, Indigenous tourism is entering a new and more confident chapter, gaining international attention. The 27th American Indigenous Tourism Association (“the Association” hereafter) annual conference, a flagship event for Native nations, gathered over 300 attendees.

What emerged was clear: Indigenous tourism is no longer positioned at the periphery of U.S. tourism development. It is advancing toward the center—through national leadership, structured product development, next-generation talent preparation, and, importantly, through international collaboration with Canada, New Zealand, and beyond.

The Association: A National Leader on the Global Stage

The Association is a founding partner of Destination Original Indigenous Tourism (DO-IT), a pioneering alliance between the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. Together, these three countries represent 43% of global Indigenous tourism revenue, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) report Supporting Global Indigenous Tourism. Officially launched a year ago, DO-IT shares a common goal of visibility, authenticity, and data-driven strategy.

Leaders of DO-IT and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) traveled from Canada to join the event. “International partnerships are essential to advancing Indigenous tourism worldwide, because alone, we cannot grow what we cannot see,” said DO-IT’s CEO, Sébastien Desnoyers-Picard (Mi’kmaq). DO-IT advocates for Indigenous experiences to be counted, reframing how Indigenous tourism is recognized on the world stage.

Among DO-IT’s many priorities is the expansion of “The Original Original” certification—initially developed by ITAC to set standards for authenticity and quality in Indigenous tourism in Canada. While the Association is introducing it to the United States, ITAC is discussing adaptations with New Zealand, Chile, Colombia, and others. ITAC’s President & CEO Keith Henry noted, “Together we are unifying the brand The Original Original to more strategically promote authentic Indigenous destinations worldwide.”

On the home front, the past year saw the Association’s membership grow by 27%; destination and product listings increase by 39%; international engagement reach 200 travel-trade and media partners from 24 countries; and media reach exceed 8.1 billion impressions. All of this has been supported by an expanding staff team.

Using U.S. Census ABS and NES-D data (2017–2020), the Association reports that Indigenous-owned tourism firms generated $11.6 billion in 2020, with one in four Indigenous businesses linked to tourism. More than 133,000 firms now employ 210,000 workers, and from 2017 to 2020, Indigenous tourism jobs and firm counts rose 78.2% and 228%, respectively—figures supported by the Association’s analysis and its economic impact study with SMS Research.

Association CEO Sherry Rupert (Paiute/Washoe) emphasized, “We are not just participants in the industry. We are redefining it. We are creating new global standards rooted in respect, reciprocity, and relationships.” Her dual roles on the U.S. Department of Commerce Travel & Tourism Advisory Board and the National Park Service tourism advisory committee underscore Indigenous influence at the federal table.

From Resource Advantage to Product Development

For decades, Indigenous tourism was defined largely by its resource advantage: landscapes, traditions, stories, arts, and community knowledge. The sector faced a common challenge worldwide: abundant cultural and land assets but uneven product development.
This is changing.

Across Indian Country, tribes are shifting to active creation—developing products, itineraries, guidebooks, and visitor-ready experiences. For example, the Association collaborated with the National Park Service and the states of Arizona and California to produce the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail Tribal Guidebook, inspired by the 1,200-mile route once walked by the Mexican explorer to reach the destination we now know as San Francisco.

The guidebook links more than 80 tribes and serves as an excellent tool for both the travel trade and travelers. Similar cross-tribal itineraries, language-centered experiences, traditional food routes, and eco-cultural journeys are emerging as market-ready products.

This shift—from resource to product, from cultural presence to economic opportunity—is making Indigenous tourism more competitive globally. It aligns with what today’s international travelers seek: meaningful, place-based, community-led authenticity.

A Conversation That Signaled a Turning Point

A moment crystallized the new era. On the conference stage, in a session titled “Driving Inbound Travel,” Sherry Rupert held a fireside conversation with Fred Dixon, President & CEO of Brand USA—the United States’ national destination marketing organization. His presence alone signaled national recognition. His words carried it further.

“What’s happening in Indigenous tourism right now is powerful,” Dixon said. “It is cultural preservation, it is economic development, and it is storytelling at its very best. From Alaska to Arizona, from small tour operators to large destination partners, the leadership and innovation in this room are shaping how the world experiences America.”

He noted that 70% of international visitors want to experience authentic cultural tourism products in the United States. He further remarked that Native destinations are one of America’s “secret weapons.”

Sherry Rupert responded without missing a beat: “How about calling it ‘Native America, the Beautiful!’?” A slogan she instantly crystallized—of the Indigenous, by the Indigenous, for the Indigenous.

This was a notable moment: Dixon was embracing Indigenous tourism as essential to the country’s identity and inbound strategy. Indigenous stories are national stories, presented to the world not as footnotes but as central chapters.

The New Generation on the Horizon

The Association’s vision extends beyond tourism products and the present moment. Nearly 100 high school seniors from Choctaw Central High School and from Jackson, Mississippi, were invited to the conference for a dedicated youth track. Students learned about careers, identity, representation, and the meaning of cultural tourism; interacted with tourism professionals; and experienced warm hospitality.

This initiative addressed a key issue. WTTC projects that by 2035 the sector will face a labor shortfall of 43.1 million people—a 16% gap—with the United States alone accounting for a deficit of 1.04 million workers (see the study The Future of Work in Travel & Tourism: The Key Trends Shaping Workforce Strategies). The Association positioned its annual conference as a workforce and leadership pipeline—possibly the first of its kind among national tourism conferences in the United States.

Furthermore, the Association staged 26-year-old Choctaw youth leader Tyler Bell to deliver the closing keynote—a deliberate choice to spotlight youth leadership rather than a traditional authoritative figure. Bell’s message rang clear and bold: stay rooted in identity, lead with heart, and work together to create a tribal tourism future that honors yesterday and inspires tomorrow.

Youth participation underscores the sector’s recognition that tourism is not only an economic engine but also a cultural and leadership pipeline.

2026: A Landmark Year of Opportunity

The year 2026 will be a once-in-a-century convergence of events: the FIFA World Cup (its largest ever, with 48 teams playing 104 matches across 16 North American cities); the United States’ 250th anniversary; the centennials of American Airlines, United Airlines, and three NHL clubs; the 100th anniversaries of multiple luxury hotels in New York, California, Florida, and beyond; and the 100th anniversary of Route 66—the “Mother Road,” which crosses more than 30 tribal communities in eight states.

For Indigenous tourism, these milestones offer a rare opportunity for visibility, storytelling, and global engagement. The Association has launched its America 250 initiative, gathering Indigenous experiences connected to the Revolutionary and early U.S. eras to build a national itinerary of Indigenous narratives. “This anniversary is an invitation to acknowledge the totality of the American experience,” the Association states. “We are still here, and our history is American history.” In 2026, that history will be seen, shared, and celebrated on the global stage.

Haybina Hao reporting for Travelindex on travel, agritourism, adventure travel, destinations.
Haybina is an international travel industry journalist and reports in both Chinese and English.

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Bangkok, Thailand, December 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Rangoon Tea House (RTH) officially celebrated the launch of its newest branch at ICONSIAM with two intimate VIP & Media preview events on 27 November and 1 December 2025, marking a major milestone in the brand’s expansion in Thailand.

The opening introduced guests to the Modern Burmese Brasserie experience that has made RTH a Yangon icon, now reimagined for the riverside luxury of ICONSIAM. The evening highlighted heritage, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling through food, tea, and live performance.

Guests were welcomed into the new riverside space — an airy, contemporary brasserie designed with eclectic Burmese touches, matchbox-print art, rattan textures, brass accents, and a lush indoor green wall. The terrace, overlooking the Chao Phraya River, featured sofa seating shaded under cream tasselled parasols, capturing the relaxed charm of old Rangoon.

During the preview, guests enjoyed signature dishes including:

• Traditional Tea Leaf Salad

• Four Fish Mohinga

• Signature Chicken Biryani

• Gunpowder Lamb Chops

• Bamar Fish Tacos

• Grilled Aubergine Salad

• Ceylon Tea

• Chef Honey’s Signature Cheesecakes: Burnt Basque, Burmese Tea, Taro

The menu reflects the multicultural DNA of Burmese cuisine — the meeting of Burmese, Indian, and Chinese influences, with comforting flavours elevated through refined technique. The ICONSIAM branch also introduces lighter, faster plates designed for riverside shoppers and travellers.

As a highlight of the evening, guests experienced live Burmese tea-pulling — a theatrical technique essential to Myanmar’s beloved milk tea culture.

RTH’s tea masters demonstrated the perfect balance of Ceylon tea, milk, richness, and sweetness. Tea pulling not only reflects the artistry of Rangoon Tea House, but also honours the heritage of Myanmar’s teashops — a place where people gather, talk, and share stories.

The launch featured a special performance by War War San, one of Myanmar’s leading young musicians and a master of the Saung Gauk, the Burmese arched harp.

Her performance of classical Burmese melodies offered guests a moment of elegance and cultural depth, connecting the new space at ICONSIAM to centuries-old artistic traditions.

Her presence was a defining highlight of the launch — a bridge between heritage and the contemporary expression of Burmese culture that RTH represents.

A New Chapter for Rangoon Tea House in Thailand

Founded by Htet Myet Oo and Isabella Sway Tin, Rangoon Tea House ICONSIAM is the brand’s third outlet, and the second RTH branch in Bangkok.

The new location aims to introduce Burmese cuisine to a broader Thai and international audience, making it more accessible while preserving the warmth and storytelling of Yangon’s tea-house tradition.

With daily hours from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, RTH ICONSIAM is positioned as a lively destination for families and travelers, tea lovers, shoppers seeking comfort food and those exploring regional Asian flavours.

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Chiang Rai, Thailand, December 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025 (PDMF 2025), held from December 1–3 at the Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel & Convention in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand, spotlights Chiang Rai’s uniqueness as a UNESCO Creative City of Design and culturally rich destination. Throughout the three days, the event showcases the province’s various facets by featuring activities that allow delegates to connect with local communities, gain insights through expert-led conference sessions, and participate in networking events that underscore Chiang Rai’s cultural authenticity.

Under the theme Steeped in Tradition, Rooted in Wellness: Weaving the Meaningful Narrative of Travel, the forum was designed in line with PATA’s mission to elevate the profile of secondary and tertiary destinations across the Asia Pacific. The event also aligns with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB)’s goal of promoting such cities as attractive MICE destinations.

The forum is proudly co-hosted by Chiang Rai Province, TCEB, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) (DASTA), and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

During his opening remarks, Mr Napintorn Srisunpang, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, Thailand, and an honourable guest at the event, commented that the theme of PDMF 2025 “reflects an important direction for global tourism—one that embraces heritage, community, and holistic well-being. It is also closely aligned with the government’s commitment to driving sustainable growth and strengthening local economies through cultural identity and creative development.”

Mr Srisunpang added, “I believe the insights, case studies, and dialogues shared today will inspire new approaches that help shape a stronger and more resilient tourism landscape for the Asia-Pacific region.”

Mr Choocheap Pongchai, Governor of Chiang Rai, said, “Chiang Rai is a province full of stories—found in our mountains, our rivers, our temples, and in the everyday lives of our people. For us, wellness is more than physical health; it is about feeling connected, feeling embraced by the community, and feeling at home in an environment that is warm and caring. Our Chiang Rai representatives—joining as speakers across several sessions—will share their experiences, ideas, and hopes for the future. This presents an excellent opportunity for us to showcase the province’s potential as a city that seamlessly integrates cultural heritage, community lifestyles, natural beauty, and creativity.”

PATA Chair Mr Peter Semone set the tone for the conference, stating, “Throughout the day, we will explore how wellness can be integrated into the visitor experience, how creativity can enrich destination identity, and how local voices can guide tourism development in ways that are both authentic and sustainable. Chiang Rai—recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Design—embodies this balance. It is a destination that honours its heritage while using creativity as a bridge to the future. Its example encourages us to think differently about how destinations can thrive: by cultivating a sense of place, enabling communities to lead the narrative, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared widely.”

Dr Supawan Teerarat, President of TCEB, further noted that the province’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Design “positions Chiang Rai at the heart of Thailand’s strategic vision for MICE development, offering international delegates increasingly valuable experience: authentic culture, sustainable community engagement, and the transformative journey that today’s travelers seek. These connections make MICE a powerful platform for sustainable community prosperity. This is the future we are building together—where MICE creates lasting economic and social development, generates long-term opportunities, and empowers local communities to participate in the global economy.”

Mr Santi Sawangcharoen, Executive Director of the Americas, Middle East, and Africa Region, TAT, said, “We are delighted to welcome you to Chiang Rai, a province renowned for its rich Lanna heritage, creativity, spiritual depth, and natural beauty. It is not just a destination, but a pioneer in the future of restorative and wellness-driven travel. Chiang Rai’s unique appeal is sure to captivate your heart. At the Tourism Authority of Thailand, we are committed to developing a tourism ecosystem that prioritizes quality, balance, and long-term sustainability. Thailand is embracing its strength as a destination where healing is the new luxury, offering visitors opportunities to reconnect, rejuvenate, and rediscover balance through its rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and heartfelt Thai hospitality.”

Mr Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director-General, DASTA, said, “DASTA is proud to be a co-host of PDMF 2025 in organizing the technical tour in Chiang Rai Province, where DASTA has jointly worked with all relevant sectors in driving the Chiang Rai province to become a member of UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) – City of Design in 2023. As a designated area of DASTA, we developed local communities in Chiang Rai through Creative Tourism activities, resulting in winning international awards, such as the PATA Gold Awards 2025 in the Best Women Empowerment Initiative category with the entry “A Case Study of Ban San Thang Luang, Chiang Rai Province” and the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards where the Ban Pha Mee Community received second place in the Community, Government and Service Companies Projects category.”

PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025 Event Happenings

Locals and international delegates unwound on the first day of the event at the Chiang Rai WOW Market & Famous Food Festival hosted by Chiang Rai Province at Chiang Rai Rajabhat University. The event was delicately designed to both entertain visitors with cultural performances and showcase over 100 booths of the province’s local products and famous dishes.

On Tuesday, December 2, delegates joined three technical tour routes to visit both well-known landmarks and hidden gems of Chiang Rai. These routes were titled (1) Creative City of Design for Sustainability, (2) Cave, Coffee and Contemporary Culture, and (3) History, Locality and Artisans. Sites included in the routes were Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Doi Tung Development Project, Ban San Thang Luang Community in Mae Chan, Tham Luang – Khun Nam Nang Non National Park, Pha Mee Community in Mae Sai, Doy Din Dang Pottery, Baan Dam Museum (Black House Museum), the Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen, Wat Chedi Luang, and Khwai Din Daak Art House. During the visits, delegates enjoyed hands-on activities such as making traditional offerings, painting and creating one-of-a-kind artwork, and more.

Afterwards, delegates enjoyed a welcome dinner hosted by TAT at Singha Park, a renowned Chiang Rai landmark celebrated for its vast scenic landscapes, sustainable agriculture initiatives, and community-centred tourism experiences.

The conference sessions on Wednesday, December 3, began with Mist of Heritage: Grace of Lanna Ethnic Women, a Lanna dance performance that celebrates the rich cultures and unique charm of three ethnic groups of Chiang Rai: the Lahu, Hmong, and Tai Lue.

Inspired by the theme Steeped in Tradition, Rooted in Wellness: Weaving the Meaningful Narrative of Travel, tourism professionals from leading organisations such as UNESCO, Sabah Tourism Board, Jeju Tourism Organization, and The Trade Desk, along with one of Thailand’s national artists, shared insights, experiences, and best practices on destination marketing.

Topics discussed during the conference include: Traditions Replanted: The Transformation of A Destination; Attracting the International by Focusing on the Hyper-local; A Destination from the Artists’ Perspective; and Tech with A Soul.

One of the forum’s highlights was the social media contest, where the most engaging posts about Chiang Rai were recognised and awarded during the conference. This initiative showcased the power of travellers in promoting a destination through user-generated content.

The event concluded with a farewell reception under the theme, The Taste of Wellness, Experience WOW Market, hosted by the Chiang Rai Province.

Across all three days, the event welcomed over 320 delegates from 18 destinations across Asia Pacific and beyond, including Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, Hong Kong SAR, India, Japan, Korea (ROK), Malaysia, Nepal, Netherlands, Pakistan, Palau, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

Photos from the event are available to view on PATA’s Flickr page.

The event is supported by Platinum Sponsor, Vietjet; Official Airline Partner, Thai Airways International; Official Online Hotel Booking Partner, HotelPlanner; Hotel Sponsor, The Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel and Convention; Event Tech Partner, TCEB; Sponsor, Kahavadi Chiang Rai – Curio Collection By Hilton; and Youth Sponsors, PATA Thailand Chapter, Mae Fah Luang University, Wanasom MFU, and Chiang Rai Rajabhat University.

Support also provided by Key Local Partners: Chiang Rai City Development (CRCD) Co,Ltd.(SE), Chiang Rai Provincial Commerce Office, Chiang Rai Provincial Community Development Department, Chiang Rai Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), Mae Fah Luang Foundation under Royal Patronage, AOT / Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport, Tourism Council of Chiang Rai, Federation of Thai Industries – Chiang Rai Chapter, Chiang Rai Chamber of Commerce, Young Entrepreneurs Chiang Rai – YEC, Welcome to Chiang Rai, Singha Park Chiang Rai, Chiangrai Coffee Lover (CCL), and SawanBondin.

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Montreal, Canada, December 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / IATA has released the Value of Air Transport Study for Uzbekistan, highlighting that the country’s continued focus on aviation has resulted in growing benefits in terms of jobs and economic activity.

In Uzbekistan, 12,400 people are directly employed in aviation, generating USD 96.5 million in economic output, equal to 0.1% of total GDP.

Additional benefits are generated by the wider supply chain, employee spending, and tourism activities, contributing a total of USD 795.5 million, or 0.9%, to GDP and supporting 128,000 jobs.

“Uzbekistan’s continued investment in new airport infrastructure, safety improvements, and in people have played a key role in supporting a resilient and robust aviation sector, strengthening the burgeoning tourism industry and foreign direct investment in the country,” said Rafael Schvartzman, IATA Regional Vice President for Europe.

“It is also key to developing the country’s attractiveness as a future east-west transit hub for both passengers and cargo.”

Tourism directly supported by aviation contributes USD 282.9 million to the country’s GDP, while international tourists to Uzbekistan are estimated to contribute USD 2 billion annually to the wider economy through the purchase of goods and services from local businesses.

Uzbekistan has also played a growing role as a transit point for air cargo. IATA’s report shows that 66,600 tonnes of air cargo were transported through airports in Uzbekistan in 2023.

With the opening of a dedicated cargo terminal at Tashkent Airport earlier this year and continued growth at Navoi’s dedicated cargo airport, further growth in cargo volumes is expected.

The country’s location in the heart of Central Asia offers strategic connectivity not just for neighboring states but also a link between Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe.

IATA said this strategic location will drive not only greater investment in aviation infrastructure and employment but also spill over into the wider economy through tourism, trade, and foreign direct investment.

According to the organization, policymakers should consider four key priorities—global standards, infrastructure, SAF production and energy transition, and investments in people for Uzbekistan’s aviation sector that would support its growth and attractiveness as a regional hub.

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Behind every flourishing restaurant, busy hotel, or beloved neighbourhood café lies more than good food, design, or timing – it’s where stories happen. Working in hospitality isn’t just about serving customers; it’s an opportunity for lasting memories. It’s an industry built on human connection, where every detail, from the first greeting to the final bill, shapes how people feel.

Yet, in today’s landscape of rising costs, shifting customer expectations, and constant pressure to do more with less, many independent operators find themselves stretched thinner than ever. The spark that once made them, and their business, feel alive can begin to fade under the weight of survival.

A rejuvenating call to action, Stand Out Hospitality: How To Have a Business You Love – That Loves You Back is the new book by award-winning industry veteran and business coach Cassie Davison, offering hospitality business owners a grounded and inspiring roadmap for rediscovering their clarity, confidence, and purpose. Drawing on more than thirty years of lived experience running and rebuilding venues from the ground up, Davison shows that thriving in today’s industry isn’t about following the latest gimmicks. It’s those who lead with authenticity, creativity, and resilience that build sustainable success.

Stand Out Hospitality is a much-needed catalyst for building a hospitality business that truly stands out. Structured into three accessible parts, Stand Out Hospitality is packed with relatable insight, stories from the frontline, and actionable guidance that helps business owners simplify, refocus, and reconnect with what matters most. 

At the heart of the book is Davison’s simple but powerful framework: The Five Pillars of Stand Out Hospitality (Set High Standards, Stand Out, Define Your Identity, Build Belonging, and Tell a Great Story). Incorporating the interconnected nature of customers, team, and leadership to hospitality success, this framework extends far beyond mere tick boxes. These pillars are the foundations of successful independent hospitality businesses that are clear in their values, inspire team and customer loyalty, and stay strong and connected when the pressure’s on. With this in mind, Davison dedicates the final part of the book to helping readers focus on themselves – their energy, leadership, and building the sustainable success they deserve.

Davison firmly believes in starting small. By picking a pillar and making one decision today, readers can start to bring themselves back into alignment. Reinforcing the idea that these pillars are a mindset, not a destination, guiding questions conclude each pillar, designed to generate reflection and action.

In a time when the independent hospitality sector faces substantial challenges, Stand Out Hospitality is both timely and essential. Passionate that hospitality remains fundamental to our society, Davison’s voice cuts through the noise with both honesty and hope, proving that the future of hospitality belongs not to the biggest players but those that lead with heart.

Stand Out Hospitality, by Cassie Davison, is available to buy from 11th December 2025 on Amazon and in all good bookstores

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