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Dili, Timor-Leste, August 13, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Ministry of Tourism and Environment officially launched a redeveloped official tourism website, timorleste.tl on August 11, 2026, to an audience of tourism stakeholder at the Dili Convention Centre. This website establishes a modern digital gateway for international and domestic travellers seeking to discover Timor-Leste’s natural beauty, culture, communities and visitor experiences.

Replacing the original website launched in 2016, the new platform has been designed for the modern traveller and reflects Timor-Leste’s growing profile as an emerging destination in Southeast Asia. The website showcases every municipality through an interactive map, helping visitors find attractions, accommodation, places to eat and activities across the country.

Available in eight languages — English, Tetum, Portuguese, Bahasa, Mandarin, French, Korean and Japanese — the mobile-optimised website is designed to serve both local users and Timor-Leste’s key international source markets. It also includes a 24-hour AI-powered chat assistant to support visitor inquiries and travel planning.

“This redeveloped website is more than a tourism information platform — it is Timor-Leste’s front door to the world,” said Antonio Da Silva, Director General of Tourism. “It invites travellers to explore our biodiverse waters, mountains, national parks, living culture, organic coffee, tais textiles and the warmth of our people, while supporting operators and communities to connect with new markets.”

The Ministry will continue to expand and update the platform with new content, events, travel information, and opportunities for tourism operators. Visitors, travel industry partners, and local businesses are encouraged to explore the new website and participate in the free operator listing programme.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 13, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in partnership with the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management (FHTM) of UCSI University Sarawak Campus will bring together students and emerging tourism professionals for the PATA Youth Symposium & Education in Hospitality and Tourism Forum 2026 on August 17-18 at UCSI Hotel in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Proudly supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak, Sarawak Tourism Board, FELCRA Berhad, Malaysia Airlines and Business Events Sarawak, the two-day programme is held under the theme “Empowering Youth for a Creative, Sustainable, and Inclusive Tourism & Hospitality Future.” It will provide a platform for the next generation of tourism leaders to exchange ideas, connect with industry practitioners and explore their role in shaping the future of tourism and hospitality.

Taking place in conjunction with PATA Travel Mart 2026 (PTM 2026), PATA’s flagship business-to-business travel trade event, the programme will also give young participants an opportunity to be part of a broader week of tourism engagement in Sarawak. PTM 2026 will bring together international buyers, sellers, tourism organisations and industry professionals at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching from August 18-20, creating opportunities for the next generation of tourism professionals to connect with the wider Asia Pacific tourism industry.

The event will be officially opened by Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, who will speak about the role of young people in shaping Sarawak’s tourism, hospitality and creative economy, and the importance of strengthening collaboration between government, academia, industry and communities.

“The next gen of tourism leaders are not simply the future of our industry; they are already helping to shape it today. Their ideas, creativity and willingness to challenge established thinking are essential as we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected tourism landscape,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

“Through the PATA Youth Symposium, we want to give the next generation a platform to exchange ideas, build relationships with industry leaders and, importantly, have their voices heard. As PATA celebrates 75 years of shaping tourism across Asia Pacific, we are committed to ensuring that the next chapter is one in which the next gen are active participants in shaping a more creative, sustainable and inclusive tourism future.”

The programme will feature keynote presentations, interactive discussions, youth-led initiatives, a business pitching competition and experiential workshops, giving participants opportunities to learn from established industry professionals while developing and sharing their own ideas.

One of the opening highlights will be “Redefining Success in Tourism,” a keynote by Lizam Dorji, CEO, MICE Bhutan. The session will challenge participants to look beyond traditional measures of tourism success, such as visitor numbers and revenue, and consider how destinations can also create value through cultural protection, stronger communities and a healthier environment.

The programme will also explore the importance of resilience, community empowerment and locally driven tourism. Loh Wei Siong, Partner, Reddi & Co., will address “The Power of Resilience: Raising Beyond Barriers,” while Zafirah Abdul Rahman, Head, OB Research Sdn. Bhd., will explore how research, storytelling and community engagement can help strengthen destination identity and empower local communities.

The panel discussion “Travel That Gives Back: Local Ideas, Lasting Impact” will bring together entrepreneurs and destination representatives to examine how locally rooted ideas can create tourism experiences that generate lasting benefits for communities, culture and the environment. The session will be moderated by Nick Chun, Manager – Membership & Youth Programme, PATA, with panellists Mandy Chen, Co-Founder, Landik Co.; Taichiro Ishida, Director, SURUGA Marketing & Tourism Bureau; and Vera Chin, Founder & CEO, Bee Gastronomy.

Giving young people a platform to lead

Youth participation will be at the heart of the programme. Through “Powered by PATA: Youth Creating Tourism Impact,” PATA Student Chapter leaders will share their experiences of turning ideas and passion projects into initiatives that contribute to the tourism sector.

The session will feature Abdulla Iyaan Ahmed, Chair (Term 25/26), PATA Malaysia Taylor’s Student Chapter, highlighting how young people are already creating purposeful initiatives and contributing to positive change within their communities.

The International Youth Business Events Pitching Competition will provide another opportunity for young participants to take centre stage, challenging them to develop and present innovative ideas for the future of business events and tourism.

The programme will also feature an address by Andrew Jones FIH. CHA, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, PATA Foundation and Guardian, Sanctuary Resorts, who will introduce the Foundation’s renewed direction and highlight its commitment to supporting sustainable and equitable growth in travel and tourism through human capital development, education, cultural heritage and sustainable tourism.

Participants will additionally take part in experiential workshops focused on cooking and beverages and handicrafts, providing opportunities to engage with creative practices and develop practical skills.

The first day will conclude with award presentations recognising participants in the I International Youth Business Events Pitching Competition and the Sarawak International Culinaire Challenge Global Youth Championship 2026, which will be held concurrently.

The programme continues on August 18 with a community-based experiential learning programme at Kampung Darul Islam Belimbing in Padawan.

The community programme will give participants the opportunity to engage directly with local practitioners and experience Sarawak’s living cultural heritage through demonstrations and knowledge exchange covering Keringkam weaving, local and traditional kuih production, Bidayuh traditional dance and music, and Bidayuh ethnic wear. Participants will also take part in Sukan Rakyat, featuring traditional community sports and games. The community-based programme reflects the importance of connecting tourism education with real-world experiences and community perspectives, while providing participants with a deeper understanding of how culture and community can contribute to meaningful tourism experiences.

Together, the PATA Youth Symposium & Education in Hospitality and Tourism Forum 2026 will provide a platform for young people to learn, connect and contribute, reinforcing the importance of giving the next generation an active role in shaping a tourism sector that is creative, sustainable and inclusive.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 13, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce the confirmed speaker line-up for the PTM Knowledge Forum 2026, taking place on August 18 at the Sheraton Kuching Hotel in Sarawak, Malaysia, alongside PATA Travel Mart 2026.

Held under the theme “The Next Era: Impactful Partnerships, Purposeful Growth,” the PTM Knowledge Forum will bring together senior tourism leaders, destination experts, industry executives and innovators from across Asia Pacific and beyond to explore the forces shaping the next era of tourism.

The Forum is designed to complement the commercial objectives of PATA Travel Mart 2026 by providing a platform for knowledge exchange, strategic dialogue and practical insights into tourism growth, partnerships, innovation, sustainability and destination development.

Hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, the Sarawak Tourism Board, and Business Events Sarawak, the Forum will also highlight Sarawak’s approach to tourism development, including its focus on economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability through innovation and partnerships.

The programme will feature a diverse group of speakers from tourism authorities, destination organisations, airlines, hospitality companies, technology firms, media and storytelling, and community-based tourism organisations.

Confirmed speakers include:

• The Honourable Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts, Sarawak
• Dato Dennis Ngau, Chairman, Sarawak Tourism Board
• Henry Oh, Chairman, PATA
• Eugene Tang, Chief Development Officer, South China Morning Post
• Gary Bowerman, Managing Director, Check-in Asia
• Dr. Temesgen Assefa, Chief Consultant, JTB Tourism Research & Consulting Co.
• Yang Li, Head of Public Affairs, APAC, Booking.com
• Morshidi Fredrick, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Performing Arts, Sarawak
• Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA)
• Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director, Macao Government Tourism Office
• Sarah Mathews, CEO, e-Tourism Frontiers
• Dr. Sharzede Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board
  Adela Issachar Aru, Chief Executive Officer, Vanuatu Tourism Office
• Eric Fong, Marketing Director, Macau International Airport Company Ltd.
• Bharat Nagpal, Senior Director, Sojern
• Bracken Hollings, Head of Content & Storytelling, Content With Purpose
• Lizam Dorji, CEO, MICE Bhutan
• Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin, CEO, AirBorneo
• Dileep Mudadeniya, Senior Vice President Global Alliances & Partnerships, Leisure and Head of Corporate Affairs, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts
• Dmitry Smolnikov, Deputy CEO, Center for Strategic Research (CSR), Discover Russia
• Lujaina Al Maskari, Head of Conferences Division, Oman Convention Bureau
• Andrew Jones, Guardian, Sanctuary Resorts
• Jessica Yew, Director, Sticky Rice Travel
• Somsak Boonkam, Founder and CEO, Local Alike Co. Ltd.

The Forum will open with a fireside chat titled “Tourism, Partnerships & Purposeful Growth,” featuring The Honourable Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and Eugene Tang, Chief Development Officer, South China Morning Post. The conversation will explore Sarawak’s tourism vision, regional collaboration opportunities, cultural identity, sustainability ambitions and the future of tourism growth across Asia Pacific.

The programme will then turn to global market dynamics with Gary Bowerman’s keynote, “The Next Era of Travel: Global Business Trends Shaping Tourism’s Future,” followed by a Japan outbound tourism snapshot from Dr. Temesgen Assefa, providing insights into the outlook, behaviour and recovery trajectory of Japanese outbound travel.

Sustainability will take centre stage in “From Vision to Reality: Sustainable Tourism in Action,” featuring practical case studies from Sarawak, Thailand and Macao. Moderated by Yang Li of Booking.com, the session will explore how destinations and tourism stakeholders are translating sustainability ambitions into initiatives that balance economic growth, inclusivity, visitor experience and long-term destination stewardship.

The Forum will also feature a senior industry discussion on “Purposeful Growth in an Age of Change,” moderated by Sarah Mathews of e-Tourism Frontiers, examining how destinations and businesses can remain competitive while responding to changing traveller expectations, sustainability requirements, geopolitical uncertainty and the need for inclusive economic development.

Technology and innovation will be another key focus, with “AI, Digital Commerce, Sales & the Future Traveller” bringing together Bharat Nagpal of Sojern and Yang Li of Booking.com for a conversation on how artificial intelligence, data, digital platforms and smart destination strategies are reshaping travel marketing, distribution, visitor engagement and tourism business models.

The Forum will also mark the official launch of the new PATA & Content With Purpose (CWP) digital series, “Pacific Asia: Tourism with Purpose,” featuring a prerecorded presentation by Bracken Hollings, Head of Content & Storytelling at Content With Purpose.

In the afternoon, “Building Impactful Partnerships Across Borders” will explore how tourism boards, airlines, convention bureaux, hospitality groups and travel businesses can work together to unlock new visitor markets, strengthen regional connectivity and create commercial opportunities. The session will be moderated by Lizam Dorji, CEO of MICE Bhutan, with panellists representing aviation, hospitality, destination development and international tourism.

The Forum will conclude with “Communities, Culture & Meaningful Tourism Experiences,” moderated by Andrew Jones, Guardian, Sanctuary Resorts. The session will examine community-based tourism, cultural preservation, Indigenous storytelling, tourism dispersal and community-led tourism models.

“PATA Travel Mart is fundamentally about connecting buyers and sellers and creating commercial opportunities, but business exchange is strengthened when the industry also has space to step back, examine the forces shaping tourism and share practical knowledge,” said Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA. “The PTM Knowledge Forum brings together an impressive cross-section of leaders and practitioners to explore how partnerships, innovation and purposeful growth can help shape a stronger and more resilient tourism economy across Asia Pacific.”

The PTM Knowledge Forum will be held on August 18, 2026, at the Sheraton Kuching Hotel, immediately ahead of the main PATA Travel Mart 2026 business programme. PATA Travel Mart 2026 will take place at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) from August 18-20, 2026, bringing together tourism buyers and sellers from across Asia Pacific and international source markets for business appointments, networking and industry engagement.

The Forum will also feature two Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremonies, including an MOU between PATA and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), as well as an MOU between TOP25 and the Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF).

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 10, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / This August, Jhol Bangkok welcomes one of India’s most dynamic culinary voices for a special two-night takeover. Chef Vicky Ratnani brings his signature modern Indian cuisine with Thai ingredients and creative twists in Sindh to Siam, celebrating the journey from Sindhi heritage flavours to the vibrant markets of Siam.

On 13–14 August 2026, guests can enjoy Chef Vicky’s a la carte menu at JHOL Bangkok, featuring reimagined Indian classics fused with local Thai produce and techniques. The takeover highlights bold, playful dishes that blend street-food energy with refined execution.

Chef Vicky Ratnani

Chef Vicky Ratnani is one of India’s most celebrated culinary storytellers, with over three decades of global experience redefining modern Indian cuisine. His journey began aboard the Cunard Line, followed by serving as personal chef to Nelson Mandela. Known for immersive, ingredient-driven experiences, Vicky has hosted over 500 television episodes, authored the cookbooks Vicky Goes Veg and Urban Desi, and collaborated with leading brands worldwide. His philosophy: celebrate culture, honour ingredients, and connect people through unforgettable food.

Menu Highlights

Small Plates & Sharing (A la carte menu only)

• Pomme de Terre Tukk – Crispy potatoes, chaat dust, lemongrass chutney
• Bheja Pakora – Lamb brain, Chang beer batter, green chilli, mango ketchup
• Isan Sausage & Lamb Chapli Kebab – Paratha, fermented onion & black garlic relish
• Black Pav Bhaji – Veg or Lobster; Mumbai’s iconic street food reimagined by Chef Vicky
• Betong Chicken – Whole baby chicken, charred red peppers, fermented pickle, cheese uttapam

Desserts

• Coconut Payasam Falooda – Sweet vermicelli, hazelnut ice cream
• OG Ice Cream Sandwich Experience – Parle G | Filter Coffee – Jim Jam | Raspberry Swirl – Little Hearts | Mango Cream

Wine Pairing

A special wine pairing curated in collaboration with Cheese Meet Wines, showcasing premium Italian gems, will be available.

Event Details:

Dates: 13–14 August 2026 (Dinner only)
Venue: JHOL Restaurant, Sukhumvit, Bangkok
Seatings: First seating: 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm I Second seating: 8:45 pm onwards

Reservations: https://book.bistrochat.com/jhol-coastal-indian-cuisine

Venue: JHOL Bangkok, 7/2 Sukhumvit Soi 18, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110

About JHOL

JHOL by Chef Hari Nayak redefines Indian dining in Bangkok with coastal Indian flavours, elegant dishes, and a warm, social setting. The Bangkok kitchen is led by Chef Spandan Majumder.

Facebook/Instagram: JHOL BKK

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Yokohama, Japan, August 5, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Summer is a wonderful time of year to visit Japan, as festivals illuminate towns and cities across the country with colorful cultural displays, spectacular street parades and sizzling food stalls. For guests who want to immerse themselves in Japanese heritage, many of these festivals offer opportunities to dress up in traditional outfits – such as a kimono or yukata – take fantastic photos and create lifelong memories. BWH® Hotels, a leading global enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels, invites visitors to feel the spirit of Japan’s summer festivals, while staying in style and comfort all across the country.

Vibrant Street Festivals in Tokyo and Yokohama

In Tokyo, Shibuya Bon Odori is a thrilling summer festival that sees hundreds of brightly dressed dancers take to the streets of Shibuya – famed for its iconic pedestrian crossing. This August, urban explorers can experience this upbeat occasion at Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akasaka or Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akihabara, a choice of modern hotels in two of the capital’s most dynamic downtown districts. In nearby Yokohama, the Minatomirai Dai Bon-Odori is staged at the end of August in Rinko Park, overlooking the city’s famous waterfront. Whilst enjoying two days of exciting activities, revelers can rest and relax at Best Western Hotel Fino Shin-Yokohama, which is just a five-minute walk from JR Shin-Yokohama Station.

Captivating Cultural Occasions in Osaka and Nagoya

Rooted in Japan’s Shinto rituals, Tenjin Matsuri is celebrated every summer in Osaka, and features colorful street parades, river boat processions and dazzling firework displays. Visitors can enjoy this three-day extravaganza at a choice of three Best Western hotels: Best Western Osaka Tsukamoto, a contemporary property just moments from JR Tsukamoto Station, Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Osaka Kitahama, which offers elevated stays close to the Tosahori River, and Best Western Hotel Fino Osaka Shinsaibashi, a newly-revitalized hotel in the beating heart of Osaka, close to City Hall. A short 50-minute bullet train ride away in Nagoya, Nippon Domannaka Matsuri sees approximately 20,000 dancers perform in original costumes, inspired by the city’s heritage. Located in the lively Sakae district, Best Western Plus Nagoya Sakae is surrounded by the festivities.

Endless Summer Refreshment in Hokkaido

In the northern island of Hokkaido, the annual Sapporo Summer Festival runs for almost a month during July and August. Sapporo’s Odori Park transforms into a vast urban dance arena and beer garden, with live performances and plenty of refreshments from the city’s famous breweries. Just a short drive from Sapporo, Best Western Plus Fino Chitose Hotel is a full-service hotel with modern rooms, a restaurant, a fitness center and great transport links, putting Hokkaido’s many summertime attractions within easy reach.

Tropical Island Festivities in Fukuoka and Okinawa

Japan’s southern islands transform into tropical paradises every summer, with plenty of attractions and activities for culture-seeking explorers. On Kyushu Island, the city of Fukuoka bursts into life with the Nogata Summer Festival, which features spectacular floats, stage performances and dramatic fireworks. Surrounded by stylish bars and cafés, Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin-minami lets travelers feel the pulse of this waterfront city. Finally in Okinawa, Japan’s exotic island jewels, the Nago Summer Festival features food stalls, traditional eisa dancing and live music – wonderful to watch whilst strolling in a summer kimono. When the time comes to unwind, guests can escape to a choice of beachfront hotels: Best Western Resort Okinawa Kouki Beach, where every room offers a balcony with ocean vistas, and Best Western Okinawa Onna Beach, a low-rise resort nestled on a white sand bay.

There’s no better time to experience Japan’s colorful festivals, local traditions and diverse destinations. From vibrant city escapes and island retreats to scenic countryside adventures, travelers can explore the country while staying at Best Western hotels.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 4, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, Thailand’s first and Asia Pacific’s largest Moxy hotel, continues its Chef Collaboration Series at Sato San Rooftop Bar this August with a new culinary experience. Following the successful Sato San x Kissuisen collaboration with Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse in July, the series returns with another exciting partnership celebrating great food, creative chefs and Bangkok’s rooftop dining scene.

For a limited time, Chef Anothai “Tai” Sridowraek from Sato San Rooftop Bar joins Chef Nintra Suwannakam from Takumi Restaurant at Jubilee Prestige Bangkok Ratchadapisek for the exclusive Sato San x Takumi collaboration, creating a special menu that blends Japanese culinary techniques with bold Thai and Isaan flavours.

SPECIAL | Friday, 21 August 2026 | From 6 PM onwards: Guests are invited to a one-night-only rooftop dining experience at Sato San Rooftop Bar, where both chefs will present the collaboration menu together. Guests can enjoy a Free-Flow Food Package featuring unlimited dishes from the collaboration menu and unlimited soft drinks for THB 1,390++ per person. Seats are limited, and advance reservations are highly recommended. Can’t make it on the special night? The collaboration menu is also available à la carte throughout August 2026, with prices starting from THB 230++.

• Salmon Koi & Beef Tataki (THB 450++): Norwegian salmon, Australian beef tataki, jaew dipping sauce, roasted rice and local herbs.

• Frog Leg Katsu (THB 240++): Crispy panko-coated frog legs with roasted chili tonkatsu and fresh herbs.

• Salmon Belly Katsu (THB 320++): Crispy salmon belly with roasted chili tonkatsu and fresh Isaan herbs.

• Charcoal Dry-aged Catfish (THB 320++): Dry-aged catfish with spicy soy glaze and a smoky charcoal finish.

• Pork Tsukune & Grilled Japanese Rice (THB 230++): Charcoal-grilled pork tsukune served with crispy grilled Japanese rice and Northern Thai chili relish.

The Chef Collaboration Series at Sato San Rooftop Bar will conclude in September 2026 with another limited-time culinary experience featuring Chef Atsushi Yoshida, Japanese Head Chef at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok and the chef overseeing the culinary operations at Chisana Nami, Erawan Bangkok. More details will be announced soon.

More to Enjoy #ATTHEMOXY

Families can continue to enjoy ‘Kids Eat Free #ATTHEMOXY’, with complimentary breakfast for up to two children aged 12 and under when dining with paying adults. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s à la carte breakfast menu, available daily from 630 AM until 1230 AM.

Happy Hour is available twice daily, with ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ on selected food and beverages from 4 PM to 6 PM and again from 9 PM to 11 PM.

Pets are always welcome #ATTHEMOXY. The hotel’s dedicated Dog Menu features five tasty dishes made especially for furry friends, with prices starting from THB 299++.

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong is Thailand’s first and Asia Pacific’s largest Moxy hotel, located in the heart of Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong district. The hotel features 504 stylish guestrooms, lively social spaces, Moxy Bar & Restaurant, Sato San Rooftop Bar, and fun experiences designed for travellers who love to play, connect and explore the city. Guests can also subscribe to Moxy Buzz, the hotel’s monthly newsletter, to stay updated on the latest dining offers, rooftop events and hotel news.

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Comoros Islands, August 4, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Faouzia Vitry left her political career in Reunion Island to take up this important mission in Comoros Islands. Mme Vitry took the decision to leave behind the political career where she had at a point in time been elected Vice President of the Regional Council of Reunion. This move to Comoros Islands shows her commitment to contributing to this innovative project which will help ensure a successful 2027 Indian Ocean Games, and also play a supportive role in the country’s development.

Mme Vitry built her name in participating in the public life concentrating on development and regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean where she had the responsibility of developing relations with the group of islands in the Indian Ocean. She was also an elected representative in the Municipal Council of Saint Denis in Reunion, and the elected representative for Community Affairs which has give her the necessary experience in state matters for territory management in institutions and the economy at different levels of the administration.

Faouzia Vitry stood with a budget of some 64 million Euros in her responsibility for the program for consolidating the Indian Ocean Region.

With her experience and proven ability in budgetary administration Faouzia Vitry says she is well prepared to take on this ‘big’ mission in the Comoros Island to oversee the Games Accommodation Village for the 2027 games but with a difference.

Mme Vitry is looking a the Games Accommodation Village with a new opening and one of partnership and an international vision. The accommodation village is targeting the Comorians, the island’s diaspora residing in the four corners of the world and the economic partners in the Indian Ocean. She is proposing a bridge states, opening the needed dialogue with the different existing partners and in so doing offer the Games Accommodation village visibility that will go beyond the local network. “Over and above the accommodation set up, the project could also be the vision of the ability of the Comoros Islands to guide a project structured on good governance, and with the quality needed by regional and international standards with a strict professional base.” said Mme Vitrty.

Faouzia Vitry, after a life at the service of regional cooperation and with many a big project now takes up new responsibilities at the service of the Comoros Islands as the President – Director General of the SPV-SAS-2027, the body set up to create the Indian Ocean Games Accommodation Village for the 2027 Games that will be held in the Comoros Islands. Her responsibility goes way beyond only the organisation of a sporting event, but will go as far as creating a long term accommodation heritage with some 200 villas for the Comoros Islands.

The project that is set to look at putting in place the financing of the whole village project and the construction of this landmark village that will become the new permanent residential village after the games.

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London, United Kingdom, July 31, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / From September 2026, Vox Is Bringing Bluetooth Connectivity to Guided Tours, So Guests Can Listen Through the Earphones and Hearing Aids They Already Own

For 25 years, Vox has worked to make sure every guest on a guided tour hears every word. It provides comfortable headphones for everyone, including over-the-ear sets designed to sit easily over hearing aids. Travel has changed in that time. Most guests now carry their own wireless earbuds, and a growing number of hearing aids connect over Bluetooth. That raised a simple question from guests: could I just use my own?

From September 2026, they can. Vox is introducing Vox BT, new technology that brings Bluetooth connectivity to guided tours. A guest can pair their own wireless earphones or Bluetooth hearing aids and hear the guide directly, with no complicated setup. It works across Vox’s existing tour systems, so operators have nothing to replace.

“What I love about Vox BT is how natural it feels for guests,” said Fabio Primerano, CEO of Vox. “Picture a group in a busy cathedral. One person is listening through their own earbuds, another is hearing the guide stream straight into their hearing aids, and everyone is following the same tour in the way that suits them best. We listened to what guests were asking for, and then went a step further. This is an industry first, and we are proud to be the ones behind it.”

For operators, it is a quiet but powerful upgrade. It is a simple addition rather than a change to how they work. The clearest benefit is for guests who rely on hearing aids. Someone with Bluetooth hearing aids can now receive the guide’s commentary through their own devices, without straining to catch detail over city or crowd noise. For the many travellers who depend on hearing aids every day, it quietly removes a familiar frustration.

The update comes as accessible travel becomes a bigger priority across tourism. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.5 billion people live with some degree of hearing loss, and around 430 million need rehabilitation for disabling hearing loss, a figure expected to rise as populations age. As more hearing aids ship with Bluetooth as standard, more guests already carry the technology needed to receive audio directly, including on a guided tour.

There is an environmental gain, too. Vox already gives guests headphones and takes them back to be recycled, so nothing goes to waste. Vox BT builds on that: when guests bring their own earphones, there is even less to distribute and handle, extending an approach Vox already has in place.

Vox BT builds on the momentum of Vox Aura, Vox’s AI transmitter, now a smart companion that helps guides answer anything, adds live subtitles, and speaks the guest’s language in up to 200 languages. The same tour can be shaped differently for a family, a specialist group, or a first-time visitor, each on their own channel. And when there’s no network, Aura keeps working, streaming pre-loaded multilingual content straight from the device. The thread is the same: listen closely, then go a step further.

Vox BT launches in September 2026. Operators who would like to be among the first to offer it can find out more and register their interest at Vox Tours.

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Phuket, Thailand, July 31, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Banyan Tree Phuket today announced the launch of Table of Legends, an exclusive new seasonal dining series at Saffron, the resort’s signature Thai restaurant. Created to celebrate Thailand’s extraordinary culinary heritage, the series brings together some of the country’s most respected chefs and culinary institutions to showcase the finest seasonal ingredients from every region of Thailand through a series of exclusive collaborative dining experiences.

The inaugural edition, taking place on 7–8 August 2026, is presented in collaboration with Blue Elephant Phuket, one of Thailand’s most celebrated culinary institutions and a global ambassador of Heritage Thai cuisine. The event welcomes Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, Master Chef and Founder of Blue Elephant, who joins Chef Tipa-Tipaporn Phianthong and Chef Kai-Worapong Paenchoo of Saffron to create a specially curated five-course menu inspired by Thailand’s exceptional seasonal produce and rich regional culinary traditions.

More than a guest chef collaboration, Table of Legends is envisioned as an ongoing culinary platform celebrating Thailand’s agricultural abundance, indigenous ingredients and diverse gastronomic traditions. Each edition will feature distinguished chefs and renowned restaurants, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience Thai cuisine through unique creative collaborations while supporting local producers and preserving Thailand’s culinary legacy.

“Blue Elephant and Saffron share the same pride and passion for Thai cuisine. We believe Thailand’s culinary heritage deserves to be celebrated and recognised around the world. Bringing our kitchens together to explore exceptional local ingredients and create something meaningful is truly exciting,” said Master Chef Nooror, Blue Elephant

For Chef Worapong, whose culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in Southern Thai traditions, the collaboration is an opportunity to honour the flavours that shaped his career.

“Thai food is memory for me—the flavours I grew up with and have dedicated my life to preserving. Table of Legends allows us to share that heritage with guests while celebrating the incredible ingredients found throughout Thailand,” said Chef Worapong, Saffron, Banyan Tree Phuket.

Chef Tipaporn, whose contemporary interpretation of Thai cuisine is inspired by years of international culinary experience, believes exceptional ingredients are at the heart of every memorable dish.

“Discovering rare herbs, fruits and ingredients from local communities inspires every menu we create. These remarkable products allow Thai cuisine to continue evolving while remaining true to its roots,” said Chef Tipaporn, Saffron, Banyan Tree Phuket.

Together, Banyan Tree Phuket and Blue Elephant Phuket invite guests to discover the richness of Thailand’s culinary heritage through an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates craftsmanship, collaboration and the country’s finest seasonal ingredients.

Event Details

Dates: 7–8 August 2026
Time: 6.30 pm (Welcome Cocktail & Canapés)
Venue: Saffron, Banyan Tree Phuket
Price: THB 4,900 net per person
THB 6,900 net per person with wine pairing
Early Bird: 15% savings
Reservations: https://bit.ly/saffron-phuket-blue-elephant
Telephone: +66 (0)76 372 400

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