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Bangkok, Thailand, November 06, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Nobu Bangkok, the world’s highest Nobu restaurant, successfully concluded a spectacular two-night celebration on November 4th and 5th 2025 to mark its First Anniversary. The highlight of the sold-out event was an exclusive “meet and greet” with the man behind the global culinary empire, Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, who personally hosted the exceptional evenings.

Since opening its doors in September 2024, Nobu Bangkok instantly established itself as one of the Thai capital’s most sought-after dining destinations. Guests celebrating its first year of success were treated to a one-of-a-kind, eight-course Omakase menu specially curated by Chef Nobu, showcasing the innovative Japanese-Peruvian gastronomy that has delighted diners across his 58 restaurants worldwide.

The anniversary Omakase menu, served across four exclusive sittings, took guests on an epicurean journey featuring some of Chef Nobu’s most beloved and iconic creations:

• The experience began with a zesty White Fish Myoga Yuzu Kosho Dressing.
• This was followed by the luxurious Lobster & Jicama Dry Miso Salad.
• A sublime Sushi Selection showcased the chef’s precision, including akami zuke, hirame konbu jime, and the house special roll.
• Hot dishes included the vibrant Seared Scallop Brussel Sprout Jalapeno Dressing and the signature Umami Duck Breast, perfectly complemented by dry miso, lime, and pickles.
• The savory journey concluded with an elegant Inaniwa Chukasoba with Japanese Beef in a fragrant wagyu and dashi broth.
• Dessert featured a light and refreshing Kaffir Lime Cheese Mousse with yuzu curd and pineapple orange compote, followed by an indulgent Caramel Chocolate Mochi.

Food enthusiasts had the unique opportunity to meet and engage with Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, asking him about his three decades of culinary inspiration and his global vision.

As a cherished memento, every guest departed with a special gift bag. The gifts included a signed copy of “Nobu: A Memoir,” a Nobu Bangkok Masu box, and a jar of Nobu’s signature dry miso seasoning, providing a lasting memory of the unforgettable anniversary celebration.

Reflecting on the successful event, Leila Shina, General Manager of Nobu Bangkok, stated “It was an immense privilege to host Chef Nobu Matsuhisa for this milestone celebration. Seeing the delight of our guests as they enjoyed his specially curated Omakase menu, against the backdrop of Bangkok’s glittering skyline, was the perfect way to mark our first anniversary. This event truly reinforced our commitment to bringing world-class, innovative dining experiences to Thailand.”

Don’t miss a chance for your next unforgettable dining experience or to stay informed about our future exclusive events!

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Phang Nga, Thailand, November 06, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Kata Group Resorts, a longstanding leader in beachfront hospitality in Southeast Asia with more than 45 years of experience, proudly announces the rebranding of Beyond Khaolak Resort to ananea Beyond Khaolak — the first ananea-branded property in Thailand and the brand’s flagship hotel in Southeast Asia. This transition marks a new chapter for the Andaman beachfront retreat, reflecting a contemporary travel sensibility shaped by the philosophy of “Slow Glamour”, a way of living that celebrates simplicity, mindfulness, and meaningful connection with nature, oneself, and the people around.

Previously known as one of the flagship resorts under the Beyond Hotels & Resorts brand, Beyond Khaolak Resort has consistently earned recognition for its award-winning hospitality. The rebrand to ananea Beyond Khaolak is the result of a strategic collaboration with ananea, a European lifestyle hotel brand designed for new-generation travelers seeking balance, inspiration, and purposeful experiences. ananea is part of DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts, under DER Touristik Group, one of Europe’s largest and most reputable travel and hospitality corporations, which also includes brands such as Sentido, Calimera, Aldiana, and Playitas. This launch marks the very first ananea property in Thailand, and importantly, the flagship property for the brand in Southeast Asia.

“This is a significant milestone for our group.”, Mr. Pramookpisitt Achariyachai, Chairman of Kata Group Resorts, stated. “The transition to ananea Beyond Khaolak is not merely a change in name, but a redefinition of beachfront leisure experiences in Khaolak for the modern traveler who seeks moments that are meaningful and inspiring. Our partnership with ananea under DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts brings together our 45 years of Thai hospitality expertise with contemporary European lifestyle design. As the first ananea resort in Thailand and the flagship in Southeast Asia, ananea Beyond Khaolak will establish a new benchmark for lifestyle-oriented coastal retreats. We are ready to welcome guests to this renewed sanctuary and create remarkable memories together,” he said.

The name “ananea” originates from the Greek word “ananeosis”, meaning “renewal”. This philosophy is reflected in the resort’s atmosphere and design, which combine minimalist Mediterranean influences and contemporary European styling with the inviting warmth and natural authenticity of Thailand’s coastline. The resort’s way of life, defined as “Slow Glamour”, introduces a form of Barefoot Luxury where comfort, calm, and effortless elegance naturally coexist.

Located on the tranquil shores of Pak Weep Beach, ananea Beyond Khaolak is just 80 minutes from Phuket International Airport. The resort features an all-villa concept with 177 spacious villas, ranging from Garden Villas to the expansive Two-Bedroom Pool Villa. Each villa is thoughtfully crafted with natural materials and warm, earthy tones to create a soothing environment rooted in the design philosophy of “less is more”. The lush landscapes and ocean surroundings further enhance the sense of privacy, space, and deep relaxation.

The resort follows an Adult-Centric design philosophy, focusing on the comfort and needs of adult guests while still welcoming travelers of all ages. Facilities include the Kanda Spa, a fully equipped fitness center, and expansive outdoor swimming pools. Curated wellness programming encourages rejuvenation of both body and mind, with experiences that highlight gentle movement, mindfulness, and the enjoyment of unhurried leisure — known as Slow Entertainment.

Guests can also indulge in a range of dining experiences showcasing premium ingredients and fresh local produce. Motown On Fire offers refined steak and grill selections, while At Beach Bar and Restaurant provides a relaxed beachfront dining ambiance. @Beyond Café serves coffee and casual bites in a warm, welcoming setting ideal for lingering and connecting.

The resort’s vision extends beyond hospitality to embrace sustainability and community stewardship, guided by the belief that “Beyond a Good Place Is a Better Planet.” Operations and guest experiences are shaped by environmental and social responsibility, reflecting a commitment to balance luxury with mindful care for both nature and local communities.

Mr. Sassitt “John” Thavornvongwongse, Assistant Vice President, Kata Group Resorts and Beyond Hotels & Resorts explained: “At ananea Beyond Khaolak, staying with us is a journey of restoration for both body and spirit. We embrace a Slow Glamour lifestyle, where guests can connect naturally with those who share the same appreciation for simple, beautiful living. Every shared space, curated activity, and refined touchpoint reflects this mindset. Here, guests will discover a true expression of Barefoot Luxury simplicity elevated with intention.

“Our sustainability vision is deeply integrated into our operations and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030. We prioritize responsible resource consumption, conservation of Khaolak’s precious marine and coastal ecosystems, and sustainable local economic growth. Our goal is not only to meet global certification benchmarks, but to embed these principles seamlessly into daily practice in a meaningful, lasting, and measurable way.”

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Krabi, Thailand, November 6, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The much-anticipated “Fodor’s Finest Hotels 2026” was announced last week, featuring the 100 “most incredible” hotels and resorts in the world, a prized list that included just 15 hotels in Asia, and only one in Thailand — Banyan Tree Krabi.

“We are proud to say that every single property on this list has been vetted by our team of editors and writers,” said US-based Fodor’s, a major publisher of travel guides since 1949, noting that the selection process to narrow down the list to just 100 hotels was at times “brutal and fastidious”.

Fodor’s Managing Editor Rachael Levitt said that each property is evaluated on its service, design, uniqueness, amenities, and overall guest comfort.

Levitt, who personally reviewed Banyan Tree Krabi, said the resort is a place where “sustainability goes hand in hand with comfort and luxury.”

“Thailand is famous for its hospitality, and the team here is exceptional,” she wrote. “Dedication to the community is also a feature. Local cold-press coffee showcases an up-and-coming Thai industry. The gallery sells only locally created artisan goods, and the gorgeous restaurants—Saffron, The Naga Kitchen, and Bird’s Nest—highlight regional delicacies alongside Southeast Asian fusion and international favorites in a stunning landscape.”

Fodor’s also highlighted Banyan Tree Krabi’s unique location, nestled in the corner of tranquil Tubkaek Beach some 40km from Krabi International Airport, where the resort is surrounded by nature, facing westward towards limestone cliffs in the Andaman Sea, while enjoying the splendour of a verdant hillside as a spectacular backdrop.

“To be selected by Fodor’s as one of the 100 best hotels in the world for 2026 is a great honour,” said Banyan Tree Krabi General Manager Ms Haruethai Maneerat. “This prestigious award is a reflection of our team’s dedication to excellence and a tribute to the Banyan Tree brand.”

One of Banyan Tree Krabi’s most outstanding attributes is its sustainability programme, a feature that was highlighted by Fodor’s. Led by Sustainability Manager Ms Thepsuda Loyjiw, a marine biologist, the resort has consistently reduced consumption rates and has adopted eco-friendly practices towards waste management, recycling and protecting natural resources.

One of the resort’s chief projects is the establishment of partnerships with local food producers and artisans. One such successful collaboration is “Souvenirs from the Sea”, a partnership with local artisans who collect refuse from the beach and upcycle it into souvenirs such as tote bags, which are then put on sale at the resort’s onsite boutique, Banyan Tree Gallery Krabi.

The Fodor’s Finest Hotels 2026 announcement follows the news in October that Banyan Tree Krabi was among a select number of resorts to be awarded Two Keys by MICHELIN in its annual appraisal of hotels across Thailand.

The Resort

Banyan Tree Krabi has 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa.

Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and a rainforest-themed spa.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE

Banyan Tree offers a Sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in awe-inspiring locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel as you journey to iconic destinations where authentic, memorable experiences await. An all-villa concept often with private pools, Banyan Tree provides genuine, authentic service and a distinctive, premium retreat experience.

ABOUT BANYAN GROUP

Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans over 70 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

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Brussels/London/Barcelona, November 06, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / As the world again prepares for the annual Climate COP in #Belem and UNTO engages with its Tourism component, we want to offer a small contribution from SUNx Malta from our ‘Education 2 Action” program’ It’s prompted by the Travel Foundation’s call for “Big Ideas” and we call it ‘Dodo4Kids’

Dodo4Kids delivers a simple message for families travelling to the world’s tourism icons, that by giving hope and understanding in our children, we can start to build a growing belief in the vital importance of Climate-Friendly Travel (Climate Resilient, Sustainable: Nature +ve) for our collective future. So that, as today’s first learners become the decision-makers in the years leading up to 2050, they will make informed and wise choices.

Dodo4Kids inspires children through the adventures of a quirky, reincarnated Dodo, who travels around the world, to teach local kids of the threats from the intensifying Climate Crisis and the importance of a collective response. Through fun books, cartoons, and creative exploration, Dodo transforms lessons from the past into hope-driven action for tomorrow. We are inviting the global Travel & Tourism sector to partner with us.

Professor Geoffrey Lipman, President of SUNx Malta said, “All the data shows that we are failing on the targets in the Paris Agreement; the SDG; the Biodiversity Convention – so why not put our faith in the next generations to do a better job. Our kids and grandkids will be the decisionmakers when the Paris Agreement’s target dates are here. Through Dodo 4 Kids we want them to start their journey toward Climate Friendly Travel and a thriving planet now – so that the Dodo becomes a beacon of hope, not just a sad reflection on the past.”

Dodo4Kids e-books for Malta, Mauritius, Uganda, Bali & Ukraine on Amazon[.]com.

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Pattaya, Thailand, November 1, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, a leading global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotels, is excited to announce the opening of SureStay Plus by Best Western T Pattaya, a stylish property that marks the debut of SureStay Hotels in one of Thailand’s most dynamic resort destinations.

Perfectly positioned just moments from Pattaya’s downtown attractions, the 95-room property is a modern hotel that combines quality, service and great value. Each guestroom features contemporary decor and home comforts, while the onsite restaurant serves fresh cuisine throughout the day. Guests can unwind in the outdoor rooftop infinity swimming pool, stay active in the fitness center or enjoy sunset cocktails with panoramic views at the rooftop bar.

Just two hours from Bangkok and strategically located near three international airports—Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang International Airport and U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport—the property is ideal for weekend getaways, extended stays or intimate corporate events.

Guests are within walking distance of Pattaya’s top restaurants, bars, shopping malls and vibrant nightlife. The city’s popular attractions, including beaches, golf courses, water parks and botanical gardens, are all easily accessible.

“We are excited to introduce a fresh chapter in Pattaya’s hospitality landscape with the launch of the city’s first SureStay Hotels property. It was developed to deliver consistent standards of quality and service in the affordable hotel segment, and the SureStay Plus by Best Western brand elevates the experience with enhanced essentials. SureStay Plus by Best Western T Pattaya captures the spirit of SureStay Hotels, and we are excited to introduce our guests to this well-appointed location,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

BWH Hotels now offers three properties in Pattaya across its SureStay Plus, Best Western Plus® and BW Signature Collection® brands, with over 400 guestrooms combined.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / K by Vicky Cheng, the stylish and contemporary Chinese dining destination perched on the 56th floor of EA Rooftop at The Empire in the heart of Bangkok, offers a sneak peek into its upcoming culinary highlight — an exquisite interpretation of the iconic Peking Duck, thoughtfully reimagined as a three-serving experience that unfolds in layers of flavor, texture, and artistry. Each course is meticulously designed to build upon the last, capturing the essence of balance and refinement — all set against the spectacular backdrop of Bangkok’s skyline.

The first serving (THB 1,280++) presents crispy duck skin and tender, succulent meat, carved tableside and served with homemade pancakes, creating a moment of performance and precision. The duck is paired with a house-made Peking Duck sauce and a Thai-inspired sauce that lends a subtle brightness. Seedless Thai tamarind is delicately offered to cleanse the palate, its natural acidity lifting the richness. The dish is served with condiments of cucumber and leek, completing a perfectly poised beginning.

Guests who select the two-serving experience (THB 1,480++) will enjoy both the first and second servings. The second serving features a roasted duck leg, its meat exceptionally tender and rich with flavor. Each bite reveals deep, savory complexity accented by the duck’s natural sweetness.

For the most complete expression, the three-serving journey (THB 1,980++) concludes with stir-fried duck Kaprao, a sophisticated interpretation of a Thai classic. Fragrant holy basil and chili embrace the tender duck, creating an aromatic crescendo that unites intensity and grace.

The first overseas restaurant by Vicky Cheng, Hong Kong’s visionary Michelin-starred chef, K by Vicky Cheng blends the timeless traditions of Cantonese cuisine with modern culinary techniques, art-inspired interiors, and breathtaking views of Bangkok’s cityscape. Perched on the 56th floor of EA Rooftop at The Empire, this is the ultimate destination to celebrate life’s most special occasions.

K by Vicky Cheng is accessible via BTS skytrain at Chong Nonsi Station, Exit 5. For more information and reservations, please call +66 (0) 2 407 1654.

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Mansoura, Egypt, October 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Prof. Cherif Khater, President of Mansoura University, received today a high-level delegation from the Afro-Asian Union (AFASU), headed by Prof. Hossam Darwish, President of the Union, and Major General Ashraf Abu Aish, Secretary General of AFASU. The meeting was also attended by Prof. Mohamed Ahmed Abdel Latif, Dean of the Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, along with several faculty members.

The visit came as part of AFASU’s initiative to honor Mansoura University for its pioneering role in supporting education, scientific research, and community engagement. During the ceremony, the delegation presented the AFASU Shield of Appreciation to the University President and the prestigious “Most Influential Academic Award 2025/2026” to Prof. Mohamed Ahmed Abdel Latif.

This international recognition, granted within the framework of the AFASU Golden Awards, acknowledges his outstanding achievements in advancing tourism and hotel education across Africa and beyond.

Prof. Cherif Khater warmly welcomed the AFASU delegation, expressing his gratitude for the visit and for the Union’s recognition of the university’s academic excellence and distinguished scholars. He praised Prof. Abdel Latif’s exceptional academic and scientific contributions in the fields of tourism, heritage, and sustainable development at local, regional, and international levels, affirming that Mansoura University takes pride in its distinguished professors who continuously elevate the university’s reputation worldwide.

In his remarks, Prof. Hossam Darwish, President of the Afro-Asian Union, expressed his great pride in visiting Mansoura University, describing it as one of the most prominent Egyptian and Arab universities with an outstanding record of academic and research achievements. He noted that Prof. Abdel Latif’s selection for the Most Influential Academic Award was unanimously endorsed by the Union’s committee, in recognition of his remarkable academic journey and his significant contributions to tourism and hotel education. He added that his affiliation with Mansoura University, known for its high academic standards, has greatly enhanced his international stature among scholars and experts in the field.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Prof. Mohamed Ahmed Abdel Latif expressed his deep appreciation to the Afro-Asian Union (AFASU) for this esteemed honor, and to Mansoura University for its continuous support of excellence, innovation, and community service. He affirmed that this award represents a strong motivation to continue advancing the educational process and to further enhance the faculty’s role in serving both the community and national tourism.

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Hua Hin, Thailand, October 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Villazzo | Ocean House at V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection is thrilled to announce MICHELIN Takeover with Chef Charles Coulombeau, a MICHELIN pop-up dining event featuring acclaimed MICHELIN-starred Chef Charles Coulombeau, on 21 and 22 November, 2025. Chef Charles will present an exclusive 2 canapés and 4-course menu showcasing his signature French and Japanese style and his innovative flavour pairings. Internationally renowned British pianist Richard Sully will perform live during the event. 

Villazzo | Ocean House welcomes 1-MICHELIN Star Chef Charles Coulombeau for a limited edition 2 canapés and 4-course menu featuring the chef’s extraordinary Franco-Japanese gastronomy 

The exclusive pop-up the first MICHELIN takeover at Villazzo | Ocean House, a landmark beachfront restaurant at V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection. The recently renovated restaurant boasts chic contemporary architectural design, creative water elements, and outstanding ocean views. 

MICHELIN Takeover with Chef Charles Coulombeau is scheduled for two nights only, from  21-22 November, 2025 from 18:00 to 21:30. The 2 canapés and 4-course menu is offered at THB 4,200 net per person, with optional wine pairing available at THB 1,200 net per person. Seating will be limited, and advanced reservations are required. 

The Chef | MICHELIN Talent and Franco-Asian Fusion

Chef Charles is the Head Chef and Founder of 1-MICHELIN Star La Maison Dans Le Parc and 1-MICHELIN Star Yozora, both located in France. His signature “Franco-Asian” culinary style harmonises French and Japanese techniques and pairs exceptional ingredients and unexpected flavor pairings. Artistic and elegant, Chef Charles’ approach results in a uniquely singular expression of two of the world’s best cuisines — one that consistently delights and inspires. 

Chef Charles is the winner of the prestigious 2020 Les Tattinger Culinary Award, considered by global chefs as the “the Everest” of culinary prizes. Both his restaurants earned MICHELIN stars within a year of opening. 

The Menu | A Tribute to French + Asian Fusion

Created just for this event, the menu communicates the essence of Chef Charles’ Franco-Japanese style and demonstrates the exceptional skills which earned him MICHELIN stars. 

Two delightful canapés start the experience, followed by a first course of Amberjack confit and rillettes ravioli in creamy coconut milk and pumpkin purée. The second course features poached scallops served with leek and shiso fondue, accompanied by a creamy genmaicha tea sauce, bottarga, and a touch of chili oil.  Wagyu sirloin served with beetroot garnish and mango sauce rounds out the third course. The menu culminates with an extraordinary Chocolate panna cotta topped with miso brownie cubes, covered with light chocolate mousse and roasted buckwheat. A parting petit four featuring bitter almond marshmallow with orange gel.

“We are incredibly excited to bring Chef Charles’s talent to Hua Hin for this special pop-up,” said Nicholas Peth, Group General Manager. “This is a rare opportunity for guests to experience a MICHELIN-level presentation, and our recently renovated space is the perfect venue.” 

THE DETAILS

MICHELIN Takeover with Chef Charles Coulombeau

21 & 22 November 2025 | 18:00 – 21:30

Villazzo | Ocean House at V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection

4-Course Menu | THB 4,200 net per person

Wine Pairing (Optional) | THB 1,200 net per person 

Early Bird | 10% OFF
Reservations (Limited Seats) | Book Now

About Villazzo | Ocean House

Nestled within V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection, Villazzo | Ocean House is a luxurious beachfront restaurant featuring an Italian and Thai coastal menu crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Fully embracing its charismatic seaside setting, the newly-renovated restaurant boasts elegant contemporary architecture, a sophisticated ambiance, and floor to ceiling windows facing breathtaking ocean views. Highlights include an open kitchen for an immersive culinary experience, an extensive wine cellar, and a choice of elegant indoor seating or outdoor submerged dining tables for romantic celebrations. Chef-curated seasonal seafood specials, an exceptional wine list, and impeccable service elevate the experience and create unforgettable moments by Hua Hin Beach. 

About V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection

V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection is a luxury private pool villa resort located along a picturesque white sand beach in Hua Hin. Twenty-eight private pool villas, available in 1, 2 and 3-bedroom options, are inspired by Thai and European architecture and feature spacious interiors, luxury amenities, and 24-hour butler service. The resort’s award-winning dining lineup includes: Villazzo | Ocean House featuring a regional Thai and Italian menu; the chic beachfront Akoya | Beach Lounge, featuring innovative locally-inspired cocktails; and, La VIE Luxury Tea & Coffee Lounge featuring a fusion menu and organic estate teas and coffees. Guests can enjoy beauty and wellness at VSpa. Hua Hin’s exciting restaurant, nightlife and shopping scene are minutes away. 

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Huzhou City, China, October 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / From Koyasan in Japan to Chamarel in Mauritius, Bled in Slovenia, Carlos Pellegrini in Argentina, and Masfout in the United Arab Emirates, 52 newly recognized Best Tourism Villages from 29 countries showcase the power of tourism.

The latest list of Best Tourism Villages has been announced.

In this fifth edition, 52 villages from all regions – Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East – received the recognition, selected from over 270 applications from 65 UN Tourism Member States.

Another 20 villages have joined the Upgrade Programme, with all 72 villages joining the Best Tourism Villages (BTV) Network. The BTV Network grows every year, and with the announcement of its 72 new members, 319 villages are now part of the largest community of rural destinations in the world.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Tourism can be a powerful tool to progress shared prosperity, inclusive growth and territorial cohesion in rural areas. Our Best Tourism Villages 2025 highlight communities that are working to safeguard their cultural heritage, preserve their natural resources and create economic opportunities through tourism. These villages show that by embracing tourism, they can promote social inclusion and build a future where no one is left behind.”

The list of new villages was announced during a special ceremony in Huzhou City, China.

Tourism for Rural Development Gains Momentum

The Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism initiative launched in 2021, under the UN Tourism for Rural Development Programme, accelerates the role of tourism in rural development by valuing and safeguarding rural areas along with their associated landscapes, knowledge systems, biological diversity and cultural heritage.

Candidate villages are assessed by an independent Advisory Board under nine areas of evaluation:

• Cultural and Natural Resources
• Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources
• Economic Sustainability
• Social Sustainability
• Environmental Sustainability
• Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
• Governance and Prioritization of Tourism
• Infrastructure and Connectivity
• Health, Safety, and Security

The initiative comprises three pillars:

• Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism: Recognizes rural tourism destinations with accredited cultural and natural assets, a commitment to preserving community-based values, and a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
• Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Upgrade Programme: Supports high-potential villages on their journey to meet recognition criteria, helping them improve in areas identified as weakness during evaluation.
• The Best Tourism Villages Network: A space for exchanging experiences and good practices, learning, and opportunities among its members, and it is open to contributions from experts and public and private sector partners engaged in the promotion of tourism as a driver for rural development.

The list of the 52 Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism 2025 is as follows (in alphabetical order by village):

• Agaete, Spain
• Akyaka, Türkiye
• Aldea San Cristóbal El Alto, Guatemala
• Anıtlı, Türkiye
• Antônio Prado, Brazil
• Arquà Petrarca, Italy
• Asolo, Italy
• Asuka, Japan
• Barbaros, Türkiye
• Bellano, Italy
• Bled, Slovenia
• Carlos Pellegrini, Argentina
• Chamarel, Mauritius
• Digang, China
• Dongluo, China
• Ezcaray, Spain
• Flößerstadt Schiltach, Germany
• Grand River South East, Mauritius
• Hosszúhetény, Hungary
• Huanggang, China
• Jikayi, China
• Kale Üçağız, Turkiye
• Kandelous, Iran
• Kaštelir Labinci, Croatia
• Khinalig, Azerbaijan
• Kolochava, Ukraine
• Koyasan, Japan
• Krupa na Vrbasu, Bosnia Herzegovina
• Loriga, Portugal
• Lô Lô Chải, Viet Nam
• Maimará, Argentina
• Marktgemeinde Bad Hindelang, Germany
• Masfout, United Arab Emirates
• Mértola, Portugal
• Mórahalom, Hungary
• Muju Village, Republic of Korea
• Murillo, Colombia
• Neot Semadar, Israel
• North Azraq, Jordan
• Pacto, Ecuador
• Pemuteran, Indonesia
• Plateliai, Lithuania
• Pont-Croix, France
• Quynh Son Community-based Tourism Village, Viet Nam
• Shafiabad, Iran
• Shodoshima, Japan
• Soheili, Iran
• Synevyrska Polyana, Ukraine
• Tonosho, Japan
• Valendas, Switzerland
• Vila Nogueira de Azeitão, Portugal
• Yangsuri, Republic of Korea

Additionally, 20 villages have been selected to participate in the Upgrade Programme this year:

• Al-Bashandi Village, Egypt
• Brihuega, Spain
• Comuna Chiguilpe de la Nacionalidad Tsa’chila, Ecuador
• Dawa Village, China
• Evolène, Switzerland
• Iraq Al-Amir, Jordan
• Kemiren, Indonesia
• Lolol, Chile
• Meisenheim, Germany
• Montagnana, Italy
• Nari Village, Republic of Korea
• Nopala de Villagrán, Mexico
• Omonxona, Uzbekistan
• Oosterend, Netherlands
• Orduña, Spain
• Parroquia Biblián, Ecuador
• Quintandona, Portugal
• San Javier y Yacanto, Argentina
• San Martín de Unx, Spain
• Sant’Andrea di Conza, Italy

The call for submissions for the sixth edition will take place in the first quarter of 2026, opening a new opportunity for rural destinations to share their inspiring initiatives and get global recognition as tourism for rural development champions.

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Madrid, Spain, October 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / On World Food Day, UN Tourism, TUI Care Foundation, and the Centre for Resilience and Sustainable Development (CRSD) of the University of Cambridge, have launched Tourism Food for Good, a new global initiative to co-create sustainable and circular food systems across the tourism value chain.

Food for Good brings together policymakers, academics, businesses, civil society, and local communities to redesign how food is produced, sourced, served, and reused in tourism. It tackles both development imperatives and the urgent humanitarian challenge of food insecurity by promoting policy change and solutions that minimize food loss and waste, enhance the redistribution of surpluses, and give greater value to by-products within circular value chains.

UN Tourism Executive Director Zoritsa Urosevic says: “Tourism holds a unique power to drive systemic change across its vast value chains. The Food for Good Initiative harnesses this potential and its goal is ambitious – to reduce tourism’s food-related carbon footprint while advancing global food security. With an estimate of 20 to 40% of food waste in the sector we must embrace a circular model and act now. We invite governments, businesses, and civil society to join us, from the inception and pilot phase, in making food a true force for good.”

Stronger Supply Chains, Less Waste

The initiative will develop the 2040 Impact Roadmap for Sustainable Food Systems in Tourism, a framework to identify leverage points for transformation. Food for Good builds on UN Tourism’s Global Roadmap for Food Waste Reduction in Tourism, developed with UNEP within the framework of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme. It is also supported through the TUI Care Foundation’s global Field to Fork programme, which connects farmers, hotels and travellers to strengthen local supply chains and reduce waste.

Thomas Ellerbeck, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of TUI Care Foundation, says: “Tourism connects people and places – and food is a key element of this connection. With our Tourism Food for Good initiative, we want to unlock the sector’s potential to promote local agriculture, reduce food waste and support circular food systems. We’re working to reduce food waste to a minimum. Food management is the future: intelligent planning, efficient, data driven and sustainable. The initiative will not only create a roadmap for the future but also test real solutions on the ground.”

The first pilot will take place in Cabo Verde, with the results to be adapted and scaled to other destinations. The initiative applies CRSD Cambridge’s Impact Roadmapping and Cambridge Policy Boot Camp (CPBC) methodologies, which combine systems thinking, collective intelligence and participatory research. This approach ensures that scientific evidence and local experience jointly inform the transformation of food systems in tourism.

Professor Nazia M Habib, Founding Director of the Centre for Resilience and Sustainable Development (CRSD) at the University of Cambridge, says: “We turn innovative action research into real-world impact by teaming up with diverse voices to reimagine tourism food systems. Together, we create bold, practical pathways-like transforming waste into valuable resources, building circular economies and unlocking opportunities that fuel resilience and sustainability. It’s about shaping a future where Tourism nourishes communities, regenerates ecosystems and sparks lasting change.”

The announcement took place during a high-level event organized within the framework of the Tourism for Development Fund, a platform led by TUI Care Foundation with support from UN Tourism that mobilizes strategic partnerships and investments to unlock tourism’s potential as a driver of inclusive and sustainable development.

Join the Movement

Governments, businesses and civil-society organizations are invited to partner in Tourism Food for Good to co-design the 2040 Impact Roadmap for Sustainable Food Systems in Tourism and host pilots at destination or business level.

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