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Bangkok, Thailand, October 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Award-winning travel photographer, podcaster, blogger, and filmmaker Ric Gazarian is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of the Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF III) to the vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand. Scheduled for October 22-25, 2026, this third iteration of the festival promises to be an unparalleled convergence of the world’s most accomplished and adventurous travelers.

“The Extraordinary Travel Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of global exploration and human connection,” says Gazarian, whose website, @GlobalGaz, features stories and images from his extensive travels. “Following the tremendous success of our previous gatherings, we are excited to bring together this unique community once again in a city that truly embodies the spirit of adventure.”

ETF III is designed for both seasoned mega-travelers (those who have visited many countries, including all 193 UN sovereign nations) and passionate individuals aspiring to push their own travel boundaries. Attendees will gain invaluable insights, share captivating stories, and learn practical strategies from those who have truly gone the distance. While many speakers and attendees have achieved the rare feat of visiting all 193 sovereign countries—an accomplishment that fewer than 400 known people alive today can claim—the festival aims to inspire and inform all who share a deep love for travel, regardless of their current country count.

The festival will feature over 20 dynamic speakers, delivering engaging keynotes, insightful breakout sessions, and lively panel discussions. This year’s stellar lineup includes:

• Jamie Aleman: Traveled to every country in the world, both the North and South Pole, and has traveled to outer space
• Jason Wang: Recently completed summitting Mount Everest completing all Seven Summits
• Kach Medina Umandap: Has visited every country in the world being the first to complete this quest on a Filipino Passport

“Imagine the world’s modern-day Marco Polos gathered in a single location,” Gazarian adds. “The energy, enthusiasm, and vast knowledge exchanged about travel and country-collecting at our previous events were truly transformative.”

The largest mega-travel clubs will be prominently represented, including Every Passport Stamp (30,000 members) and Travel Massive (60,000 members), fostering an unparalleled networking environment.

Building on the success of past festivals, ETF III will offer attendees a robust schedule of speakers, complemented by vibrant parties and a gala dinner. Thailand was recently ranked Richest Culture in Asia by U.S. News & World Report while Travel + Leisure named Thailand its 2025 Destination of the Year.

The Extraordinary Travel Festival is held in such high extreme that both the Wall Street Journal and the Australian Financial Review found it worthwhile to send journalists to write front page travel section articles on the ETF.

The Extraordinary Travel Festival presents a unique opportunity for tourism boards, consumer travel brands, and tour providers to connect with and promote their destinations or brands to the world’s most accomplished and expert travelers. Inquiries about sponsorship opportunities are welcome.

Ticket Information: Attendees wishing to reserve a spot can now purchase tickets online at extraordinarytravelfest.com/tickets/. Use code BANGKOK to save on your ticket to this event.

For questions, please contact:
Ric Gazarian
Email: ric@extraordinarytravelfest.com
WhatsApp: +1 617 901 9248

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / After an 18-year hiatus, Global Travel Meet 2025 returned to Kuala Lumpur with resounding success, reestablishing Malaysia as a key force in the global tourism industry. Held from October 3–6 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), the event welcomed over 1,000 delegates, including 600 international buyers, 400 exhibitors, and 100 media representatives from across the globe.

Organized by Tourism Malaysia, the business-to-business travel trade show served as a launchpad for the country’s ambitious Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) campaign, which aims to attract 47 million international arrivals and deliver high-impact, sustainable tourism growth.

A Gathering of Global Tourism Leaders
The Global Travel Meet 2025 brought together a dynamic mix of international leaders, innovators, and stakeholders. Delegates engaged in B2B sessions, business-matching activities, high-impact networking events, and familiarization trips (FAM trips) designed to highlight Malaysia’s cultural, natural, and experiential offerings.

Over 100 journalists from international media outlets provided global coverage, extending Malaysia’s visibility as a competitive destination. For local stakeholders, the event created an invaluable opportunity to position themselves on the global stage, connect with international buyers, and explore new avenues for collaboration.

“This event is more than just a marketplace; it is a catalyst where ideas transform into action,” remarked Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Khairul Firdaus bin Akbar Khan, during the inauguration. “Global Travel Meet 2025 is about igniting momentum through collective effort—between government, industry players, and partners—towards achieving the ambitious goals of VM2026.”

Strong Trade Turnout and Global Industry Engagement
This year’s edition saw participation from over 45 countries, with hosted buyers representing both established and emerging markets including India, China, Singapore, Indonesia, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia.

Exhibitors spanned a wide spectrum of sectors — from airlines, hotels, and tourism boards to travel tech platforms, DMCs, and luxury tour operators. Notable names included:
• Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Berjaya
a Hotels & Resorts, Sunway Group, Genting Malaysia, and Desaru Coast
• State tourism offices from Sabah, Sarawak, Penang, Langkawi, Johor, and Kedah
• Tech-driven travel service providers
• Regional tourism boards
Exhibitors benefited from over 8,000 pre-scheduled appointments, dynamic networking sessions, and access to key media and buyer groups across various segments — including leisure, MICE, eco-tourism, and high-value experiential travel.

Exhibitors & Partners
“The quality of buyers exceeded expectations. We had serious business conversations, especially around eco-luxury travel and wellness. Malaysia is gaining ground as a premium destination.” said an exhibitor.

Strategic Support from Key Sponsors and Partners
Global Travel Meet 2025 was made possible through the support of Sponsors including Malaysia Airlines,  Air Asia, Batik Air, and official partners Starbucks, Jynns Trigona, and Telekom Malaysia. These sponsors hosted high-value sessions and facilitated key discussions around seamless travel, smart tourism, and aviation growth.

Launchpad for Visit Malaysia Year 2026
Global Travel Meet 2025 saw the official industry launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which will focus on sustainability, innovation, and authentic experiences. The campaign will be supported by a new B2B partner portal, expanded airline connectivity, and co-marketing initiatives with industry partners.

Key focus areas for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 include:
• Eco-tourism and nature-based travel
• Golf tourism and sports events
• Destination weddings and honeymoons
• MICE and corporate incentives
• Cultural heritage and community tourism

Looking Ahead: Visit Malaysia 2026 and Beyond
With VM2026 on the horizon, the Global Travel Meet 2025 served as both a launchpad and a confidence booster for Malaysia’s tourism ambitions. The campaign aims to attract 47 million international visitors, but beyond numbers, it emphasizes quality, sustainability, and inclusivity.

By 2026, Malaysia envisions itself not only as a tourism destination but as a thought leader in global tourism practices, balancing growth with preservation, tradition with innovation.

Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC)
During a presentation, ITC highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in Muslim-Friendly Tourism & Hospitality (MFTH), promoted the MFAR recognition programme and consultancy services, and strengthened Malaysia’s global visibility while expanding opportunities in the growing Muslim travel market.

As Deputy Minister Khairul Firdaus summarized, “Global Travel Meet 2025 is the spark that will drive Malaysia’s tourism journey forward. With sustainability, culture, and innovation at our core, we are ready to welcome the world.”

Malaysia’s Tourism Future
The Global Travel Meet 2025 reinforced Malaysia’s position as a rising force in international tourism. By creating an environment where global and local stakeholders could collaborate, share insights, and form partnerships, the event laid the foundation for sustainable growth.

With the momentum from Global Travel Meet 2025 feeding into Visit Malaysia 2026, Malaysia stands poised to emerge as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, offering not just attractions, but meaningful, memorable experiences for travelers from every corner of the globe.

All photos by Travelindex Media Group

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Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, October 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Hari Hong Kong is inviting up-and-coming, local artists to submit work in a competition designed to celebrate the diverse local art scene and inspire the next generation of artists.

Now in its third year, The Hari Art Prize 2026 is a collaboration between The Hari Hong Kong and the London-based art advisory, A Space For Art.

Submissions can be made until 31 December 2025. All genres and mediums of art are welcome. Winners will be announced in April 2026 with a prize ceremony at the property in Wan Chai. The winner will receive a HK$100,000 cash award, donated by Dr. Aron Harilela. The first runner-up will be awarded a One Night Corner Room stay, which includes daily breakfast and dinner for two at the hotel’s Italian restaurant Lucciola or contemporary Japanese restaurant Zoku. The second runner-up will receive a One Night Corner Room stay, with daily breakfast and a delightful set lunch for two at Lucciola or Zoku.

The selected works will be exhibited at The Hari Hong Kong, while the shortlisted artists will also have their art displayed on a dedicated page at The Hari Art Prize website, where viewers can learn more about each artist and their creative process.

This year the judging panel of industry experts includes Dr. Aron Harilela, the Chairman and CEO of Harilela Hotels, Charlie Smedley, Founder and Director of A Space For Art, Wendy Xu, Managing Director Asia for White Cube gallery, Frankie Ho, Asia retail director of TASCHEN, Amanda Hon, Managing Director of Ben Brown Fine Arts and Anqi Li, an independent curator.

Now in its third year, The Hari Art Prize has been gaining momentum since its launch in 2023. Last year almost 600 Hong Kong-based artists submitted works, more than double the number of entrants in the inaugural year. Last year’s winner was Chan Ka Kiu, who won the coveted first prize for her video installation “Tickle Tickle”.

Art has long been in the DNA of The Hari brand and is one of the core pillars of The Hari Hong Kong. The art collection at The Hari Hong Kong is curated by A Space For Art and spans a variety of mediums including installations, mixed media, surreal photographs, graphic paintings, three-dimensional images and digital film pieces.

“Art has been part of The Hari Hong Kong’s ethos since its inception,” said Dr. Aron Harilela. “Through The Hari Art Prize we can further give back to our local art scene and bring into the limelight the rich talent and creativity of our emerging Hong Kong artists.”

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 2, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / After an 18-year hiatus, Global Travel Meet 2025 officially opened in Kuala Lumpur, positioning Malaysia back at the heart of global tourism networking. The long-awaited event, organized by Tourism Malaysia, drew over 600 qualified buyers, 400 travel trade sellers, and 100 international media delegates from more than 45 countries — making it one of the most significant tourism B2B gatherings in Southeast Asia this year.

Opening the event, Khairul Firdaus bin Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, underscored the strategic importance of the Global Travel Meet as a platform for industry reconnection, market recalibration, and brand revitalization.

“The last time we hosted this event was in 2007. Today, we return not just to participate in the conversation — but to lead it,” said Akbar Khan. “This is a space to build sustainable partnerships and unlock new opportunities.”

Diverse Global Participation

The event featured a diverse exhibitor lineup that included national tourism boards, airlines, hotel groups, DMCs, tech providers, and regional attractions. Key exhibitors included Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Genting Group, Berjaya Hotels & Resorts, Sunway Group, and state-level tourism bodies from Sabah, Sarawak, Penang, Langkawi, and Johor.

International tourism boards from Indonesia, Thailand, India, Korea, and the Philippines also participated, reflecting strong regional interest in two-way partnerships with Malaysia.

Leading OTA and booking platforms such as Traveloka, Trip.com, and Klook also showcased their latest solutions in AI-driven personalization, experience packaging, and seamless payments — signaling a convergence between traditional and tech-led tourism stakeholders.

Key Sponsors and Strategic Partners

The event was made possible through the support of Platinum Sponsors including Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and Petronas, while Visa, Maybank, and Amadeus served as key industry partners. Tourism Malaysia’s overseas offices in India, China, and the UK played a pivotal role in curating top buyers from priority markets.

Exhibitors benefited from pre-scheduled business appointments, hosted networking lunches, and destination site visits — reinforcing the B2B value proposition of the event.

Focus on Data-Driven and Sustainable Growth

Akbar Khan emphasized that the Meet serves as more than a sales platform — it’s also a listening post for industry feedback, which will be instrumental in shaping the next phase of Malaysia’s tourism growth. “We’re adjusting our products based on what our trade partners are telling us. Global Travel Meet is the starting point,” he noted.

The strong response comes at a time when Malaysia is experiencing a post-pandemic boom, with 38 million visitors in 2024, and 24.5 million already recorded by July 2025. This momentum feeds directly into the planning and positioning of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which aims to attract 47 million visitors under a unified message of sustainability, innovation, and authenticity.

For buyers, especially those from long-haul markets like Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, the event offered a chance to reconnect with Malaysian products that have evolved significantly — from niche offerings in golf and wellness tourism, to high-end destination weddings, and eco-cultural circuits in Borneo.

“There’s real energy on the floor,” said a buyer from France. “Malaysia is back with a more diversified, higher-value product. It’s the right time to reintroduce it to our market.”

As the show continues over the next two days, more than 8,000 scheduled appointments and dozens of networking activations are expected to drive meaningful commercial outcomes — making Global Travel Meet 2025 not just a comeback, but a catalyst.

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Highrise Pvt Ltd, a leading event management company from the Maldives is proud to announce its official partnership with Travelindex Media Group, a prominent global digital media company focused on travel, tourism, and hospitality. This partnership will promote two of the Maldives’ most anticipated events Food & Beverage Show and Vacations Expo with a focus on attracting new products and businesses to the vibrant Maldivian market. The partnership was made in the Global Travel Meet Malaysia 2025 event.

The Food & Beverage Show 2026 is set to take place in the Maldives just ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, positioning it as one of the best local culinary events in the region. The event will bring together food and beverage industry leaders, chefs, restaurants and suppliers to showcase the latest trends, innovations and products in the culinary world.

In addition, the Vacations Expo 2026 will be held as a premier inbound and outbound travel exhibition, aiming to promote both the Maldives as a prime vacation destination and foster international tourism business. This exhibition will be an ideal platform for travel agencies, resorts, and tour operators to connect with visitors and potential clients.

Highrise will act as the liaison for interested businesses in Thailand, helping them access new opportunities in the Maldives market. Travelindex Media Group, leveraging its global reach and digital expertise, will assist in driving awareness and generating excitement around these events exhibitions.

Key Aspects:
* Promotion: Travelindex will activate targeted marketing campaigns in to attract new products, services, and participants to the Maldives Food & Beverage Show and Vacations Expo.
* Industry Exposure: Connecting businesses with new markets in the Maldives, creating a gateway for growth in both the food and beverage sector and the tourism industry.
* Networking Opportunities: Facilitating collaboration between exhibitors and local Maldivian businesses, fostering partnerships and driving crossborder investment.

“We are excited to partner with Travelindex Media Group to bring the Food & Beverage Show and Vacations Expo to life,” said Ms. Mariyam Maaisha, Director Sales & Marketing of Highrise Pvt Ltd. “This collaboration will play a vital role in expanding international visibility and presence in the Maldives’ booming culinary and tourism markets.”

Mr. Bernard A. Metzger, Founder of Travelindex Media Group, stated “The Maldives offers a unique and growing market for both the food & beverage and tourism industries. It is aligned with our plans to promote the Maldives as a gastronomy destination with a TOP25 Restaurants Maldives Guide, fully integrated into our strategy to elevate the Maldives into a premier gastronomy destination. Our partnership with Highrise Pvt Ltd will ensure that global and regional businesses have the opportunity to participate and benefit from these impactful exhibitions and events.”

Thai businesses interested in participating in the above events can reach out directly to the Highrise team at sales@highriseint.com for more information.

Event Details:
* Food & Beverage Show 2026: A culinary Maldives exhibition ahead of Ramadan.
* Date: 28-31 January 2026
* Location: Central Park, Hulhumale, Maldives

* Vacations Expo 2026: An inbound and outbound travel exhibition in the Maldives.
* Date: 9-11 April 2026
* Location: Central Park, Hulhumale, Maldives

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Singapore, Singapore, October 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / This year, travelers are increasingly planning detours along their journeys, discovering less crowded, unique experiences that provide a welcoming sense of place. With 18 distinct brands that cater to every type of traveler, and more than 4,300 hotels in 100+ countries, BWH Hotels, the global hospitality enterprise comprised of WorldHotels, Best Western^® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay^® Hotels, is inviting travelers to explore its world-class resorts and hotels with six “Detour Destinations.” This curated portfolio of unique properties, including immersive locations across Asia Pacific, aligns with the growing desire of discerning travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path escapes.

While travelers continue to venture to popular destinations worldwide, they are also looking to add stops along the way to explore lesser-known locations that offer a fresh perspective and new experiences. Recent data shows that 63% of travelers will likely explore a detour destination on their next getaway. Whether it’s an inspiring escape from Vietnam’s beautiful beaches or an intriguing urban retreat in Singapore’s culture-rich districts, BWH Hotels offers more than a place to sleep; it delivers authentic locations that provide opportunities to recharge and explore.

Goodwood Park Hotel, WorldHotels Elite

Singapore is one of the world’s most famous metropolises, with an array of iconic landmarks and world-class attractions. Guests who step off the tourist trail can uncover a wealth of cultural wonders, such as colorful shophouses, hawker markets street art and more. Curious explorers can take the MRT to vibrant districts, including Chinese, Indian and Arabian quarters, to soak up the buzzing street life.

Design Detour: This elegant heritage hotel dates from 1900 and its interior design has been faithfully restored to capture the colonial elegance of Singapore’s past.

Ambassador Hotel Hsinchu, WorldHotels Elite

Known as “Taiwan’s Silicon Valley,” Hsinchu is a dynamic city that makes a great alternative to the busy streets of Taipei. Explore Hsinchu Chenghuang Temple, which dates from 1747, and stay until sunset for the night market, where foodies can discover local delicacies like Hsinchu meatballs.

Delectable Detour: Perched on the 12^th floor, A Shabu is the city’s top shabu-shabu hotpot restaurant which specializes in imported Japanese beef.

Best Western Wellington

While Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, it retains a laid-back vibe and feels a million miles away from the busy streets of Auckland. This makes it a great place for leisurely exploration, with many attractions in the compact city center. Hannah’s Laneway is the place to grab light bites and meet friendly locals, Lambton Quay is superb for shopping and the Wellington Cable Car promises panoramic views.

Self-Drive Detour: Travelers exploring New Zealand by car will appreciate the hotel’s EV car charging station and spacious apartments with kitchenettes for short or extended escapes.

SureStay by Best Western Vientiane

Southeast Asia’s dynamic capital cities attract millions of visitors each year, but for urban explorers who want to experience a more traditional way of life, the Lao capital of Vientiane offers a sense of laid-back charm. Nestled on the Mekong River, this captivating city has a wealth of cultural attractions, such as the golden Pha That Luang temple and exquisite Wat Sisaket, with its 10,000 Buddhist statues. 

Dusk Detour: As the sun sets, travelers can head up to the Tipsy Elephant Rooftop Bar for cool drinks and stunning views of the cityscape and Mekong riverside.

Best Western Premier Marvella Nha Trang

The seaside city of Nha Trang may seem like a modern resort destination with high-rise hotels and state-of-the-art attractions, but its roots run much deeper – all the way back to the ancient Champa Kingdom. Guests who want to take a break from the beach can explore the region’s rich history at Po Nagar, a magnificent mountaintop temple which dates back almost 1,300 years.

Driving Detour: Vietnam is a great golfing destination, and guests can practice their driving, chipping and putting skills with the hotel’s state-of-the-art 3D golf simulator.

Best Western Plus Hotel Subic

Just a 2.5 hour drive from Manila, Subic Bay lets city dwellers enjoy some rest and relaxation by the sea with its soft sandy beaches. It is also an exceptional diving destination, with several shipwrecks that teem with marine life. Nature lovers who want a break from the beach can head 20 minutes inland to Pamulaklakin Nature Park, a lush forest with wildlife trails and indigenous villages.

Indigenous Detour: The elevated pool deck and bar at the newly-renovated Best Western Plus Hotel Subic is the perfect place to sip cocktails and soak up the sunset.

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Rome, Italy, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / At its 25th Global Summit in Rome today, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its latest report, revealing that Europe remains the beating heart of international tourism, with five of the world’s top 10 most powerful Travel & Tourism markets by GDP.

The return of the WTTC Global Summit to Europe, for the first time since the pandemic reflects the region’s enduring global leadership.

Italy’s position as a G7 nation and as host of this year’s Global Summit further underlines its leadership role, building on hosting last year’s first-ever G7 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting.

According to the latest data, Italy’s Travel & Tourism sector reached $248.3BN last year, underpinned by strong international visitor spend and a booming meetings and events industry.

Germany, the world’s third most powerful Travel & Tourism market, contributed $525BN to its GDP in 2024.

Despite losing £2.2BN international visitors spending last year, the UK added $367BN to its economy, maintaining its position as one of the strongest and most dynamic markets worldwide.

France, the world’s most visited destination, generated over $289BN from Travel & Tourism in 2024, whilst Spain, the second most visited country in the world, added $270BN.

This broad-based growth demonstrates Europe’s ability to blend heritage with innovation, maintain global competitiveness, and lead the way in sustainable tourism development.

WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara said: “These results tell a story of strength and opportunity. The U.S. remains the world’s largest Travel & Tourism market, China is surging back, Europe is powering ahead, and destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa are delivering record growth. This year, we are forecasting that our sector will contribute an historic $2.1TN in 2025, surpassing the previous high of $1.9TN in 2019, by $164BN.

“As Italy hosts this year’s Global Summit, its role as a G7 leader showcases the importance of tourism in driving economies, creating jobs, and shaping our shared future.”

Around the World

The report also reveals that the U.S. remains the world’s most powerful Travel & Tourism market, contributing $2.6TN to GDP in 2024, with its domestic market remaining the strongest in the world, sustaining millions of jobs and underpinning sector resilience.

However, WTTC forecasts international visitor spending in the U.S. will fall by $12.5BN in 2025, leaving growth at just +0.7%. WTTC has warned that without destination promotion, traveller-friendly policies, and reduced visa costs, it could lose its competitive edge.

China, the world’s second-largest Travel & Tourism market, contributed $1.64TN to its economy in 2024, and is forecast to surge by 22.7% in 2025, adding $260BN to its economy, highlighting China’s rapid return to international prominence and its pivotal role in shaping global travel flows.

Japan, the world’s fifth largest Travel & Tourism economy with a $310.5BN contribution in 2024, is forecast to add a further $13.8BN to its GDP this year to reach almost $325BN.

Travel & Tourism is now growing faster than the consumer goods sector, showing how people increasingly value experiences over material goods.

The Economic Impact Research Trends report shows that Travel & Tourism is cementing its role as a cornerstone of the global economy.

Middle East Momentum

The Middle East remains one of the fastest-growing regions in the world for Travel & Tourism, with Saudi Arabia continuing to stand out as a global powerhouse, with inbound visitor spend surging and infrastructure investment reaching record levels.

Across the region, capital is flowing into airports, cruise terminals, and cutting-edge hospitality projects, signalling long-term confidence in its ambition to become a global tourism hub.

Jobs Boom Across the World

According to the report, Travel & Tourism supported 357MN jobs in 2024 and is set to rise to 371MN in 2025, along with an increase in the sector’s share of global employment.

By 2035, one in eight jobs worldwide will be supported by Travel & Tourism, with an additional 91MN new jobs supported, the majority in the Asia-Pacific region, resulting in one in three new jobs globally supported by the sector.

Long-Term Confidence

Confidence in Travel & Tourism remains unshakable. Global investment in the sector surpassed $1TN in 2024, up 9.9% year-on-year, and is forecast to continue climbing in 2025.

The U.S., China, Saudi Arabia, and France together accounted for more than half a trillion dollars of that investment.

Italy attracted €11.4BN in 2024, reinforcing its position as one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for sustainable and innovative tourism development.

The Global Summit is hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Other WTTC Partners include Antonio Lefebvre d’Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philantrophy, Arsenale Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia, and Trip[.]com Group.

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Rome, Italy, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / At the opening ceremony of its 25th Global Summit in Rome today, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) officially welcomed Manfredi Lefebvre, one of the most recognised names in Travel & Tourism, as its new Chair, succeeding Greg O’Hara, who has led the organisation since November 2023.

A visionary entrepreneur, Lefebvre is Executive Chairman of Heritage Group and Executive Chairman of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.

Lefebvre is a pioneer in luxury travel, transforming Silversea Cruises into a global leader, expanding its operations to more than 900 destinations before its sale to Royal Caribbean Group.

With more than four decades of experience, his influence extends across luxury travel, leisure, and diversified investments spanning biotechnology, energy transition, and real estate.

Reflecting on his tenure, outgoing Chair Greg O’Hara said: “It has been an incredible honour to serve as Chair of WTTC over the past two years, working alongside our Members to champion one of the world’s most dynamic sectors. Travel & Tourism is an extraordinary force for good, creating jobs, driving growth, and connecting people across cultures.

“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I know that under Manfredi’s leadership WTTC will continue to go from strength to strength. His vision, passion, and proven track record make him the ideal Chair to guide the Council into its next chapter.”

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Global Summit, Manfredi Lefebvre, said: “As I step into the role of WTTC Chair today, I am both honoured and invigorated. The World Travel and Tourism Council has been a cornerstone of our industry, championing resilience and progress. Travel is not just an industry; it is a profound passion that connects people.

“Together with our Members, I am committed to driving forward and responsible innovation, ensuring our sector not only recovers but thrives in the new world we are shaping. I extend my deepest gratitude to Greg for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment.”

Gloria Guevara, WTTC Interim CEO, added “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Greg for steering WTTC with distinction and warmly welcome Manfredi as WTTC’s new Chair.

“His unparalleled experience across cruise, leisure, luxury travel, and diversified investments will guide WTTC’s mission of realising the potential of Travel & Tourism globally, which is set for another record-breaking year, contributing $2.1TN to the global economy in 2025.”

Beyond his leadership in the Travel & Tourism sector, Lefebvre also holds senior positions across a wide range of companies and institutions. He serves as Vice-Chairman of Arqit Quantum, Global Senior Advisor at Rothschild & Co, and holds honorary diplomatic and cultural roles, including Honorary Consul of Ecuador in Monaco.

His contributions have been recognised with prestigious decorations including the Orders of Saint Charles and Grimaldi.

The event is hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Other WTTC Partners include Antonio Lefebvre d’Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philantrophy, Arsenale Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia, and Trip[.]com Group.

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Bangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (RBSO) on the 21st October 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre, will present a special themed concert “Symphonic Galaxy”. This special concert is supported by B.Grimm to showcase an orchestral celebration of the greatest soundtracks from science fiction (Sci-Fi) cinema. This concert aims to reimagine futuristic epic style of science-fiction songs in classical form.

The RBSO invites audiences on an unforgettable journey across time, space, and imagination under the baton of esteemed Resident conductor Vanich Potavanich, the evening will be a dazzling exploration of iconic music that has defined generations of movie enthusiasts.

Dr. Potavanich is one of Thailand’s leading conductors and was awarded the Silpathorn Artist Awards in 2014, awarded by the Ministry of Culture. He has appeared regularly as guest conductor of the RBSO since 1995.

Experience the opening soundtracks of John Williams’ Star Wars to the soaring melodies of James Horner’s Avatar, this concert promises a galaxy of emotions, epic battles, heartfelt themes, and music of distant worlds. The programme continues with thrilling suites from Jurassic World, Back to the Future, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and includes one of John Williams’ most beloved creations, E.T.’s The Flying Theme. With its combination of legendary scores and the power of a live orchestra, “Symphonic Galaxy” will be an impressive experience that promises to transporting audiences from the edge of the stars to the depths of human imagination.

Tickets are available at Thai Ticket Major: www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2025-symphonic-galaxy.html

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Bangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Blue by Alain Ducasse, a one-Michelin-star fine dining French restaurant, presents a new dimension of flavors with the exclusive dining experience “Blue by Alain Ducasse x Baan Tepa 4-Hands Dinner”, born from the collaboration of two world-class chefs: Chef Evens Lopez, Executive Chef of Blue by Alain Ducasse, a one-Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant for five consecutive years, and Chef Tam Chudaree Debhakam, owner of Baan Tepa, a two-Michelin-starred Thai fine dining restaurant and winner of Asia’s Best Female Chef 2025 from Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. They will jointly create a special dinner for guests to experience exceptional flavors on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Blue by Alain Ducasse, 1st Floor, ICONSIAM.

Blue by Alain Ducasse x Baan Tepa 4-Hands Dinner” is the meeting of two world-class chefs who will blend two culinary cultures: contemporary French cuisine and Thai cuisine using local ingredients. Guests will experience an evening of flavors and inspiration through a six-course menu, designed and crafted exclusively for this special night. The menu emphasizes the integration of local ingredients and Thai culinary wisdom by Chef Tam, combined with the meticulous French cooking techniques of Chef Evens, creating a harmonious exchange of diverse yet balanced flavors.

Chef Evens Lopez, a Peruvian chef with extensive global experience, has honed his expertise in numerous two and three-Michelin-starred restaurants across Italy, the United States, France, and London, including Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse in Monaco, before taking on the role of Executive Chef at Blue by Alain Ducasse, a contemporary French fine dining restaurant awarded one Michelin star for five consecutive years at ICONSIAM. He is distinguished by his creative approach combined with meticulous French techniques and a strong passion for local ingredients.

Chef Tam Chudaree Debhakam, a talented Thai female chef, who was awarded Asia’s Best Female Chef 2025 by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants and is the owner of Baan Tepa, a two-Michelin-starred Thai fine dining restaurant. Beyond her acclaimed flavors, she emphasizes sustainability and the Farm-to-Table principle, selecting seasonal ingredients from small-scale farmers across the country and using herbs grown in her own garden. Her dishes are meticulously crafted to present contemporary Thai cuisine that excels in appearance, aroma, taste, and texture, all within the warm ambiance of a beautiful old house.

With the combined talents of these two world-class chefs, this collaboration is a landmark event that culinary enthusiasts should not miss. The six-course menu is priced at THB 9,900++, with an optional six-glass wine pairing available for THB 5,900++.

Those interested in experiencing this extraordinary culinary journey at “Blue by Alain Ducasse x Baan Tepa 4-Hands Dinner” can make reservations at: bit.ly/427OCqB, via email reservations@blue-alainducasse.com, or by phone +66(0)6-5731-2346.

Join to explore a new dimension of flavor and enjoy this special dinner on October 8, 2025, from 6:00 PM onwards.

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