wttc2

Hanoi, Vietnam, June 3, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has been recognised with three honours in the prestigious Best of Vietnam 2026 awards, including Le Spa du Metropole being named Vietnam’s Best Hotel Spa.

The Metropole was also named one of Vietnam’s Top 20 Hotels, while angelina, its bespoke cocktail bar, whisky lounge and restaurant, was recognised as one of the country’s Top 20 Bars. Tatler is one of the world’s leading fashion and luxury lifestyle publications, and its Vietnam edition is highly influential in the region.

The accolade for Le Spa du Metropole comes as Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. To mark the milestone, the hotel has introduced Sensations Orientales, an exclusive 90-minute ritual inspired by ancestral Oriental rites and the hotel’s timeless elegance. This treatment blends acupressure and refined modelling movements drawn from Eastern and Western traditions, designed to promote deep relaxation and renewal within Le Spa’s tranquil Indochine setting. Available from June 1 to Dec. 31, the experience also includes a special gift for guests on this occasion.

The recognition is also followed by the launch of an enhanced wellness menu in June, featuring sleep-promoted treatments, refreshed signature and facial offerings, and the addition of 75-minute sessions alongside the existing 60-minute and 90-minute durations.

Nestled in the hotel’s tranquil garden courtyard, Le Spa du Metropole is an intimate 400-square-metre sanctuary overlooking the lush swimming pool and gardens, offering a peaceful retreat from Hanoi’s vibrant energy.

“From the moment guests step into the spa, they are gently immersed in a setting where French elegance, Vietnamese symbolism and the spirit of Indochina unfold in every detail. Subtle scents, soothing soundscapes and attentive care invite guests into a world of complete relaxation,” said George Koumendakos, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

Drawing on the Metropole’s rich cultural heritage, the spa’s treatments blend ancient Eastern beauty rituals and contemporary Western techniques for a holistic approach to wellbeing. Le Spa du Metropole partners with the top skincare houses Sothys and Anne Semonin, delivering refined, personalised experiences tailored to each guest’s needs.

Earlier this year, the Metropole was once again named one of the world’s “500 Best Hotels” for sixth consecutive year on the prestigious list.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI
A prominent fixture in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has a long tradition as a luxury venue for prestigious events and a popular rendezvous for business and leisure travelers such as playwrights, ambassadors, royalty and heads of state. Blending colonial heritage with neo-classical luxury and a dash of modernity, the hotel is the first Sofitel Legend in the world and the recipient of numerous international awards for its fine service and enchanting ambiance. This legendary landmark has contributed to the richness of local heritage.

The hotel includes 358 rooms that are divided into two wings – the Heritage Wing, dating back to 1901, and the neo-classical Opera Wing. There are three legendary suites that are named after famous residents and visitors to the hotel (Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham).

With six exquisite restaurants and bars, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi offers a diverse array of culinary experiences: Le Club Bar treats guests to its signature Metropole brasserie and iconic high tea; Le Beaulieu presents contemporary French fine-dining at its finest; Spice Garden offers elevated Vietnamese cuisine; meanwhile, angelina – Hanoi’s bespoke bar-lounge-restaurant delivers a world-class beverage experience alongside imaginative comfort food; La Terrasse brings Parisian-inspired al fresco dining to the sidewalks of Hanoi; and the Bamboo Bar invites guests to unwind in a serene Indochine setting by the pool.

Guests can indulge in luxurious facilities featuring lush gardens, a tranquil heated outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, and full-service meeting rooms. Rejuvenating treatments await at the enchanting Le Spa du Metropole, while curated treasures can be found at the hotel’s luxury gift shop, La Boutique, and its gourmet deli and patisserie, L’Epicerie.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND
A pioneer of French luxury hospitality since 1964, Sofitel today embodies heartfelt and committed luxury, with a French zest. Alongside its 120 elegant and unique properties, the brand inaugurated in 2009 a collection of emblematic hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner: unrivalled luxury addresses with a legendary heritage and highly personalised service. Each stay is timeless, offering sumptuous surroundings, renowned restaurants and modern comforts for an inspiring luxury experience. Noble, rare and soulful, Sofitel Legend hotels captivate with their architectural beauty, breathtaking views and mesmerizing ambience.

Sofitel Legend now comprises 5 hotels, each more magnificent than the last, set within beautiful and culturally-rich destinations around the world: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an.

Sofitel Legend is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

Source

London, United Kingdom, June 1, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / American Express today announces a partnership with ALL Accor, Accor’s booking platform and loyalty programme, in the UK, enabling eligible UK Cardmembers to transfer Membership Rewards® points to the ALL Accor loyalty programme.

The partnership enhances the travel experience for eligible UK American Express® Cardmembers – offering discounts when planning and booking stays, as well as on-property recognition and rewards – across Accor’s portfolio of more than 5,700 hotels across 45 brands worldwide, including Raffles, Pullman, Sofitel, Hoxton and ibis1.

For every 300 Membership Rewards points transferred, Cardmembers will receive 100 ALL Accor Reward points, which can be redeemed for stays, dining and experiences across Accor’s global network. For instance, Reward points can be used by ALL Accor members to pay for all or part of their stays or Food and Beverage experiences, tickets to live events and more. For example,10,000 points is the equivalent to €200 redemption value in Accor hotels.

Mariana Gavela Llopis, Vice President, Membership Rewards and Cashback Products and Marketing at American Express UK, said: “We know that travel is one of the most popular ways our Cardmembers use their Membership Rewards points. By transferring Membership Rewards points to ALL Accor, they can now access stays, dining and experiences and elevate their trips across Accor’s global portfolio. “We’re excited about this partnership which amplifies the value of two trusted global brands and enhances the range of travel options available to Cardmembers – helping them get even more from their points.”

Julie White, Chief Commercial Officer for Europe & North Africa, Premium, Midscale & Economy brands at Accor, added: “This partnership marks another important step in keeping our programme relevant and compelling for our loyal members. By combining our brands and experiences with the strength of American Express reach, we are creating even more personalised journeys and unlocking richer ways for guests to engage with ALL Accor, from hotel stays and dining to exclusive events, all within one connected ecosystem.”

Cardmembers can link their Membership Rewards Account and their ALL Accor Account via the UK Membership Rewards website. Terms and conditions apply.2

About Membership Rewards
Membership Rewards points can be earned across eligible American Express® Consumer, Business and Corporate Platinum and Gold Cards, as well as the Rewards Credit Card. In addition to transferring points to hotel and airline partners, Cardmembers can use them on almost anything they buy on their Card, from online shopping to reducing their Card balance.

1 American Express Membership Rewards® Programme terms and conditions apply. Once you have transferred Membership Rewards points to the ALL Accor loyalty programme, they cannot be transferred back to your Membership Rewards Account and will become subject to the terms and conditions of the ALL Accor program.

2 In order to transfer Membership Rewards points to the ALL Accor loyalty programme, Cardholders must:

1) Join ALL Accor loyalty programme if they have not already signed up

2) Link their Membership Rewards Account and their ALL Accor Account on the UK Membership Rewards website. They will need to provide their ALL Accor Account number, First Name & Last Name to initiate the linking. This is a one-time step, once the account is successfully linked the Cardmember will not need to complete this step again

3) Once account is linked, the Cardmember can transfer points to ALL Accor on the UK Membership Rewards website. 1 ALL Accor Reward point for every 3 Membership Rewards points. A minimum of 300 points is required to transfer.

The processing times for linking accounts & transferring points should be immediate but can take up to 24 hours for full completion in some instances. UK Amex Cardmembers also have the option to link and transfer points to ALL Accor through Amex customer service team and can do so by calling the number on the back of their Card.

Source

Mahé, Seychelles, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Office of the President has announced the appointment of Vesna Rakić as Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB), effective 15 May 2026.

The reinstatement of the Seychelles Tourism Board marks a major milestone in the Government’s efforts to strengthen the governance, international promotion, and long-term strategic development of Seychelles’ tourism sector. The Seychelles Tourism Board Bill 2026, which was passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday 24 March 2026, provides the organisation with a renewed legal mandate to market and position Seychelles as a premier, sustainable tourism destination while supporting the continued growth, resilience, and competitiveness of the industry.

Ms. Rakić brings more than 30 years of experience in the tourism industry, with a distinguished career spanning destination marketing, tourism product development, industry partnerships, entrepreneurship, and tourism systems strengthening in Seychelles.

She holds a BA (Hons) in Business Administration (Marketing) from London South Bank University and has held several senior leadership positions across the tourism sector. Her previous roles include Director and Senior Consultant at Sales & Marketing Seychelles Pty Ltd, Head of Sales and Marketing at Bookseychelles, Market Development Manager at Creole Holidays, and Marketing Manager at Travel Services Seychelles Ltd, where she oversaw key portfolio entities including Desroches Island Resort and Cat Cocos.

Widely respected within the industry, Ms. Rakić is also a founding member of the Seychelles Small Hotels & Establishments Association and has played an active role in supporting tourism innovation, improving market access, and strengthening collaboration across the tourism value chain.

In her new role, Ms. Rakić will lead efforts to further strengthen Seychelles’ international positioning in an increasingly competitive tourism landscape while ensuring the sector continues to deliver sustainable economic value and preserve the country’s unique environmental and cultural heritage.

The Seychelles Tourism Board was dissolved in 2021 following a government restructuring announced by Wavel Ramkalawan. The Seychelles Tourism Board Act was repealed in June 2021, and STB’s functions, staff, assets, and liabilities were transferred to the Department of Tourism to improve operational efficiency by combining tourism policy and marketing under one government structure. Former STB CEO Sherin Francis subsequently became Principal Secretary for Tourism.

In 2026, the government moved to re-establish the Seychelles Tourism Board through the proposed Seychelles Tourism Board Bill, 2026. The re-established Seychelles Tourism Board will continue to spearhead the global marketing and promotion of Seychelles while supporting tourism product diversification, enhancing visitor experiences, and building strong partnerships with local and international stakeholders.

Source

Singapore, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Asia Pacific has emerged as the highest growth region for the global travel industry, bolstered by a growing middle class and increasing demand for leisure and corporate travel.

For travel brands, the opportunity in the Asian market is significant but complex. Having a strong product or offering alone is no longer enough. Success in the region depends on access to qualified buyers, strong local partnerships, and sustained industry engagement.

This is where ITB Asia 2026 plays a vital role as the region’s leading B2B travel trade show platform that connects travel businesses with high-value commercial opportunities.

What is ITB Asia?

ITB Asia is Asia’s largest travel trade show, organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau.

The 2026 edition will take place from 21 to 23 October at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore, bringing together over 18,000 industry professionals from over 130 countries.

Now in its 19th year, the event is Asia Pacific’s premier travel industry marketplace where travel businesses and buyers build partnerships and drive business growth.

Singapore’s role as the host city offers travel brands a unique opportunity to access markets across Southeast Asia, China, India, the Middle East, and more. For businesses, this means one event can unlock opportunities in multiple Asian markets without having to attend different events throughout the year.

How ITB Asia Connects Travel Brands With High-Value Buyers

One of the most valuable aspects of ITB Asia is not only the scope of attendees, but how business interactions with them are structured.

Curated Buyer Quality

ITB Asia’s Buyer Elite Partner Programme ensures that 90% buyers are carefully vetted on:

• Purchasing authority
• Procurement volume
• International sourcing experience
• High business intent

Rather than filtering through low-intent traffic, businesses can connect directly with more than 1,500 buyers across Asia who are actively sourcing travel solutions and services.

Pre-Event Business Matching

Before the event, exhibitors can identify relevant buyers and schedule one-to-one meetings through the business matching system. This allows for targeted and more purposeful conversations with attendees whose profiles align with their business objectives. Rather than relying on general networking, exhibitors can approach the event with a more structured and outcome-driven business development strategy.

In previous years, ITB Asia facilitated over 60,000 pre-scheduled business appointments, reinforcing the efficiency of its matchmaking model.

Access to Key Decision-Makers

70% of attendees at ITB Asia are key decision-making authorities within their organisations.

This means that business can engage one-on-one with the individuals who approve contracts, procurement, and partnerships, significantly simplifying the sales cycle.

With 1 in 2 buyers signing contracts with businesses at ITB Asia, it remains one of the most productive environments for travel business engagement in the region.

One Event, Multiple Travel Marketplaces

ITB Asia’s multi-sector structure gives travel brands an unparalleled opportunity to access a varied group of buyers at a single event.

Co-located with MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia, ITB Asia allows exhibitors to access different buyer groups within a single event.

• MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions)

Through MICE Show Asia, businesses can engage with corporate planners, incentive travel organisers, convention bureaus, event organisers, and venue operators across the MICE and business events industry. This provides valuable opportunities to build partnerships within one of Asia’s fastest-growing corporate travel and events sectors.

• Travel Technology

At Travel Tech Asia, travel technology providers can showcase digital solutions to buyers across airlines, hotels, online travel agencies, corporate travel, and tourism business seeking innovative digital tools and technology solutions that enhance travellers’ experiences and boost operational efficiency.
This unique integrated structure makes ITB Asia one of the most comprehensive tourism trade shows in the region, offering a platform for businesses to broaden their market exposure across Asia within a single trip.

The Travel Brands Using ITB Asia to Expand Across the Region

By exhibiting at ITB Asia, travel brands can significantly increase visibility across key Asian outbound markets.

1. Hotels and Hospitality Groups (Accommodations)

Hotels, resorts, and other accommodation providers can take advantage of ITB Asia to secure new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships with travel buyers, and boost visibility in Asia’s key markets.

The event provides direct access to tour operators, OTAs, and corporate travel planners, contributing to a rich opportunity to generate high-quality leads.

2. Airlines and Transport Providers

Airlines, cruise operators, e-hailing platforms and other transportation businesses benefit from access to decision-makers and travel businesses at ITB Asia.

The trade show serves as a vital marketplace to connect with tour operators, tourism boards, and event planners across Asia, helping drive partnerships that supports route development, destination connectivity, and long-term passenger demand.

3. Destinations and Tourism Boards

Tourism authorities and destination marketing organisations use ITB Asia to spotlight their offerings in front of a high-intent travel sector audience.

Here, tourism boards can seek out strategic partnerships with transportation providers and engage buyers who shape outbound travel itineraries and programmes in Asia’s travel markets.

4. Travel Technology Companies

Travel technology businesses can leverage ITB Asia’s exhibition booths to showcase solutions directly to buyers across airlines, hotel groups, OTAs, and corporate travel programmes.

From booking platform systems and customer experience tools to AI analytics and payment infrastructure, the event offers a focused environment to connect travel technology providers with their most relevant and high-intent prospects in Asian markets.

5. Emerging and SME Travel Brands

Smaller and emerging travel brands also stand to benefit from ITB Asia’s comprehensive and supportive structure.

The business matchmaking system allows newer businesses to connect with high-intent prospects, engage with decision-makers in key industry segments, and build visibility in front of a global audience. Exhibiting alongside established international brands also helps strengthen credibility and market presence within the regional travel industry.

These and many other travel brands can accelerate their presence across Asia’s travel landscape by registering to exhibit at ITB Asia 2026.

Position Your Brand for Success at ITB Asia 2026

If your travel brand is looking to enter the Asian market for the first time or strengthen your regional foothold, ITB Asia 2026 is the place to be.

It is a proven platform that will help your business grow, establish credibility, and discover rewarding new commercial opportunities.

Source

Koh Samui, Thailand, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Three days of competitive racing and changing wind conditions have set up an exciting battle at the 23rd Samui Regatta, Thailand’s premier sailing event.

The IRC Open Class has delivered close racing across five races, featuring some of the region’s top sailors and yachts.

A standout performer has been Alive, skippered by Duncan Hine, a two-time Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race winner, after sailing more than 2,500 kilometres from Australia to Koh Samui.

The fleet also includes Aftershock, led by Steve McConaghy, recently named Yachtsman of the Year by the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, and defending champion Team Hollywood, skippered by Ray Roberts, one of Asia’s most accomplished yacht owners and helmsmen. Roberts has enjoyed success at major regattas throughout the region and is known for building highly competitive teams.

Despite Alive’s speed, Team Hollywood has used consistent performances and strong handicap results to take the overall lead heading into the remaining days of the regatta.

The first three days tested both sailors and race officials. Day One delivered solid racing conditions, while lighter winds on Day Two demanded patience and tactical discipline. Day Three brought shifting breezes and a mix of racing formats, rewarding adaptability. Race Officer Simon James and his team successfully completed five races despite the challenging conditions.

After three days, five races and one discard, Team Hollywood leads the IRC Open Class on 4 points, followed by Alive on 7, Aftershock on 12 and Iolanthe 3 on 14. With two racing days remaining, the title race remains wide open.

Beyond the racing, the regatta continues to showcase Koh Samui as a leading sports tourism destination, attracting sailors, supporters and visitors from across the Asia-Pacific region.

Following Thursday’s lay day, racing resumes on Friday before concluding on Saturday with the Closing Awards Ceremony at Fair House Beach Resort & Hotel.

With only a few points separating the leading teams, the final two days promise a thrilling finish to one of Asia’s premier sailing events.

The Samui Regatta, a prestigious event in the sailing calendar, runs from May 24 to May 30, 2026. Keelboats race in the same IRC Open class. The event is centred at Nora Beach Resort and Spa, providing an ideal backdrop for participants and spectators.

The Samui Regatta Committee organises the event in collaboration with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Tourism Association of Koh Samui, the Surat Thani Province, and Regatta Asia.

The 23rd Samui Regatta’s sponsors and supporters include Samui Tourism Promotion Association, Nora Beach Resort & Spa, Fair House Beach Resort & Hotel, Regent Chaweng Beach Resort, HaadThip Public Company Limited, Frank Pong’s Jelik, UK Sailmakers, Samui Verticolor Hotel, Chaweng Garden Beach Resort, Bangkok Airways, Bangkok Samui Hospital, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Media Partners include Thailand Marine Guide and SEA Yachting Magazine.

About the Samui Regatta
The Samui Regatta is the island’s longest-running sporting event. It reinforces Thailand’s status as a premier sailing destination and a key stop on the Asian yachting circuit. The event began in 2001 with a modest fleet of beach catamarans. Since then, it has grown remarkably and gained recognition among international sailors.

Regatta Asia organises the event. The regatta aims to increase tourism to Koh Samui, elevate the profile of sailing in Asia, and promote water sports participation.

Source

Singapore, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / In late 2025, Apple released its latest iteration of the AirPods, featuring live translation capabilities. Users can wear the device to understand spoken foreign languages in real time when travelling, helping them overcome the communication barrier.

Innovations like these are made possible by advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting the use of technology in enhancing travel experiences.

Modern travellers have greater demands for convenient, seamless, and personalised experiences on their trips. For travel brands, meeting these expectations calls for investing in the right travel technology solutions and infrastructure.

Ahead of ITB Asia 2026 in Singapore, one of the largest travel trade shows in the world, here is a look at the tech trends taking centre stage in the region’s travel industry.

Travel Tech and Why It Matters for Travel Brands

Travel tech is the use of digital tools and platforms to improve and streamline services and experiences, from booking systems and payment gateways to transportation and accommodations.

With the global travel tech market predicted to reach USD 21.37 billion by 2030, adopting tech-based tools and platforms will be a key differentiator for travel brands in the coming years.

Consumer behaviour reflects this preference for digital-first travel experiences. 70% of travellers use smartphones to research and book holidays, and nearly three-quarters of these bookings are made within two days of a Google search. These behaviours show how strongly digital tools now influence consumer decisions and purchasing speed.

For travel brands, investing in travel tech brings its own operational and strategic benefits. Businesses can automate more complex processes and reduce costs, while also leveraging data analytics to better understand customer behaviour and trends.

These insights enable travel brands to deliver more personalised experiences, strengthen customer loyalty, and adapt more quickly to changing market demands.

The Key Travel Technology Trends Reshaping Asia Pacific

1. AI-Powered Personalisation

AI has rapidly become a core part of the travel industry’s technology stack. A survey of tourism and hospitality leaders found that 91% of respondents had already incorporated, or were piloting, AI-driven solutions in their workflows.

AI enables travel brands to personalise offerings for customers, often before those needs have been expressed. Predictive analytics, for instance, allows businesses to anticipate travellers’ preferences and personalise their services accordingly.

For example, online travel agencies (OTAs) and metasearch engines can use AI tools to forecast when a user is likely to travel again, based on previous searches, booking history, and preferred destinations.

The platform can then deliver highly targeted recommendations, such as personalised hotel offers or destination suggestions, at the most relevant times. This enables more engaging customer interaction and stronger opportunities for conversion.

AI-powered chatbots, virtual assistants, and even customer service robots are also increasingly popular, offering round-the-clock, instant support for travellers. These tools automate tasks such as rebookings, password resets, or answering customers’ basic queries. This not only enhances the customer experience for travellers but also allows businesses to cut down costs and free up staff for more demanding tasks.

For travel businesses, the commercial advantage of AI personalisation is evident, with more than half of travellers seeking personalised experiences and customer engagement over generic marketing.

2. Super-Apps and Seamless Booking Ecosystems

In Asia Pacific, travel services are embedded within larger digital ecosystems in the region, namely super-apps such as WeChat in China and Grab and Gojek in Southeast Asia.

These platforms not only function as messaging or rideshare applications, but also as convenient tools for booking airport transfers, purchasing travel insurance, and as cashless payment options in foreign countries.

This allows millions of users to plan their trips, book rides to and from the airport, and arrive at their destinations ready to shop and explore, all without having to juggle multiple websites or apps.

For travel brands targeting Asian consumers, establishing a strong presence within these competitive super-app ecosystems is vital for discoverability and long-term customer engagement.

This means enabling distribution partnerships, integrating payment systems, and ensuring that booking experiences work seamlessly within super-app environments.

Rather than utilising super apps as an optional digital channel, travel businesses would strategically benefit by understanding how these ecosystems shape consumer behaviour and purchasing decisions across Asia.

3. Contactless and Biometric Travel Experiences

Across airports, hotels, and transport hubs in Asia Pacific, contactless and biometric technologies are now customary in the travel experience.

Facial recognition, mobile room keys, and digital identity verification systems all help improve efficiency and convenience for both travel businesses and customers.

These technologies are also becoming increasingly sophisticated, creating faster, more seamless travel experiences with minimal manual intervention.

In 2024, Singapore’s Changi Airport became the first airport to utilise iris recognition technology to enable passportless immigration clearance. By the end of this year, 95% of immigration processing at Changi Airport will be fully automated, allowing travellers to pass through security in a matter of seconds.

Another innovative development is IoT-enabled luggage options. These offer “smart” suitcases and bags outfitted with GPS tracking, biometric security, and even self-following and obstacle avoidance capabilities.

For travel brands, these developments tap into offerings related to customer data infrastructure, cybersecurity, privacy compliance, and how digital touchpoints can be integrated into a seamless travel experience.

4. Sustainable Travel Technologies

Sustainability is a core travel technology trend in 2026, with 85% of travellers now considering it a key priority when making travel decisions.

Gen Z travellers, in particular, favour environmentally conscious travel habits. They are willing to pay more for eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options, vegan or vegetarian food options, and “green” activities at their destinations.

Technology is playing a vital role in shaping travel brands’ response to this growing customer demand for eco-conscious journeys. Booking platforms now integrate carbon tracking tools, sustainability scoring systems, and green inventory filters to highlight eco-certified hotels and low-emission transport options.

Some airlines and tour operators are also leveraging AI to optimise operations by selecting routes with lower carbon emissions and fuel consumption. This helps travel businesses reduce their environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency and cost performance.

For travel brands, the challenge is to make sustainability visible, measurable, and actionable by making it a part of the overall travel experience and demonstrating to customers their commitment to environmentally conscious operations.

As sustainability becomes an important factor in travellers’ decision-making and preferences, it will also be a key focus area for travel brands and industry leaders at ITB Asia 2026.

Connect With the Future of Travel Technology at ITB Asia 2026

The travel tech trends emerging in Asia Pacific indicate one thing: travel businesses that invest early in technology and customer experience will have the strongest potential for long-term success.

This means investing in the technologies, partnerships, and infrastructure needed to stay competitive in the travel sector.

The best place to accomplish this is at ITB Asia 2026, set to take place from 21 to 23 October at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. Co-located with Travel Tech Asia, this year’s event will bring together tech suppliers, innovative start-ups, and leading travel brands to showcase and explore the latest in travel technology.

Attendees at this year’s edition of the event can look forward to:

• Connecting with high-value travel tech sellers, buyers and decision-makers through personalised business matching services.
• Discovering new platforms, tools, and digital solutions aligned with emerging trends.
• Gaining exclusive market insights from thought leadership sessions, workshops, and industry panels.
• Exploring the latest innovations and offerings in global travel technology and customer experience.

Source

Geneva, Switzerland, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The global economic outlook has deteriorated sharply in recent weeks, according to the latest edition of the World Economic Forum’s Chief Economists’ Outlook published today.

• Nearly nine in ten chief economists surveyed expect global growth to weaken over the coming year, but only 13% think there could be a global recession.
• According to the survey, 94% expect global inflation to rise as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz drives up energy and food costs and disrupts supply chains.
• 92% expect greater AI adoption over the coming year, but optimism about the speed of productivity impact across industries has cooled.

Nearly nine in ten chief economists surveyed expect global growth to weaken over the next 12 months, reversing the cautious optimism seen at the start of the year, as conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz fuel concerns over a major global economic shock.

Chief economists already rank the current closure duration of the Strait of Hormuz as significantly more disruptive than last year’s tariff turmoil. If the closure persists into the second half of the year, they expect its impact could approach the severity of the COVID-19 crisis, compounding effects across global supply chains, energy and food costs. An overwhelming 94% of the surveyed chief economists expect global inflation to increase over the coming year.

“Only months ago, the Chief Economists community was cautiously optimistic. The conflict in the Middle East changed that, and the economic scarring from the situation thus far is already expected to last into the months ahead,” said Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director, World Economic Forum. “The longer the disruption lasts, the heavier the long-term cost for those who can least afford it.”

An uneven regional outlook
The fallout is expected to hit the Middle East and North Africa region the hardest. After being viewed as one of the brighter economic regions only months ago, 88% of the surveyed chief economists now expect weak or very weak growth – the sharpest regional reversal in the survey. Elsewhere, the outlook is mixed: inflation expectations have climbed sharply in sub-Saharan Africa, now the highest of any region surveyed, while Europe faces mounting stagflation risks as growth weakens and inflation fears mount. By contrast, India and the United States are expected to remain relatively resilient, supported by domestic demand and investment.

Low recession risk but high volatility
Despite the sharp deterioration, the survey does not point to a significant downturn. Most of the chief economists do not expect a recession within the next 12 months, even as they see little prospect of the economy growing more resilient in the near term. Much will depend on the length of the disruption: a shorter shock could leave room for recovery, while a prolonged closure would deepen the strain on the global economy. Financial markets are expected to come under increasing strain, with 79% of respondents anticipating rising volatility in private debt markets over the next year, as signs of stress in private credit emerge; 74% also expect public debt market volatility to increase and 68% expect stock market volatility to increase.

AI optimism is high but cooling
AI remains a source of tailwinds in the global economy, with 92% of chief economists expecting greater artificial intelligence adoption over the coming year. However, optimism about the speed of productivity gains from AI adoption has now become more measured. Meaningful productivity gains are expected to take longer in almost all industries compared to the respondents’ views in January 2026. Information technology and education are the only sectors where expectations have held steady, with the most significantly delayed productivity gains now expected in engineering, construction, utilities, medical, healthcare and care services.

About the Chief Economists’ Outlook
The Chief Economists’ Outlook builds on consultations and surveys with leading chief economists from the public and private sectors, organized by the World Economic Forum’s Centre for the New Economy and Society. The survey featured in this edition was conducted from 6 to 17 April 2026. The report supports the Forum’s Future of Growth Initiative, enabling dialogue between business and government on growth in the new economy.

About the Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2026
The 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions will take place from 23 to 25 June 2026 in Dalian, People’s Republic of China, under the theme “Innovating at Scale”. The meeting will bring together 1,500 cross-sector leaders to explore how innovation and emerging technologies can unlock new growth models and drive positive economic momentum in a fast-shifting global landscape.

Source

Windhoek, Namibia, May 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Onguma Safari Camps in Namibia has launched Onkolo Soundscapes, a brand new activity on the reserve – and the first experience of its kind in Namibia.

Using a network of sensitive microphones discreetly and strategically positioned around Onguma’s water-level Onkolo Hide, the system captures and amplifies the living soundscape of the surrounding bushveld far beyond what the human ear alone can detect. The result is an intimate, sensory-first encounter that changes the way guests experience the African bush entirely.

The experience is particularly well suited to birders, photographers, and guests seeking something more mindful and immersive alongside their standard game drive programme.

Onkolo Soundscapes
Available as an add-on to the existing Onkolo Hide activity.

Sessions run approximately two to two and a half hours, with snacks and drinks included.

Guided throughout.

Minimum two, maximum six guests.

Not recommended for children under seven.

Pre-booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

Source

Hue, Vietnam, May 28, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Azerai La Residence, Hue in Vietnam’s former imperial capital is inviting guests to experience the vibrant Hue Festival 2026 with an exclusive package, while Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers relaxed summer escapes by the sea.

The Hue Festival is Vietnam’s premier cultural celebration. Held in the historic city of Hue, it features a year-long “Four-Season” program with nearly 80 events. Visitors can enjoy traditional court music and dance at the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel (directly across the Perfume River from the hotel), lantern parades, boat races, vibrant street food and spectacular fireworks.

Azerai La Residence, Hue has created a special “Hue Festival Package” including a two-night stay with daily breakfast for two, one curated dining experience showcasing Hue’s refined royal cuisine, a 45-minute spa journey, signature afternoon tea and 15% savings on all food and beverage outlets. The package is priced at VND 10,890,000 (approximately US $413).

“Azerai La Residence, Hue is the perfect base for guests who want to experience the Hue Festival,” said Minh Phan Trong, General Manager of Azerai La Residence, Hue. “Our riverfront location offers direct views of the Imperial Citadel and easy access to the heart of one of Vietnam’s most important cultural events.”

Travel + Leisure recently named Azerai La Residence, Hue one of the world’s “500 Best Hotels” in its May 2026 issue—one of 12 properties in Vietnam to receive the honor. The 122-room heritage hotel is centered around a striking 1930 colonial mansion built in the Streamline Moderne style of Art Deco architecture.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay – Summer Beach Escape

For travelers seeking a more relaxed summer getaway, Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers two unique packages on their website. The “Unfold Your Escape” package includes a three-night stay with daily breakfast for two, daily afternoon tea and more. Additionally, the “Local Residents Offer” provides a 10% discount off the best flexible rate (subject to availability), plus 10% off food and beverage (excluding alcohol) and spa treatments.

“As summer approaches, many dream of unwinding by the sea,” said Julian Moore, General Manager of Azerai Ke Ga Bay. “Our resort is a true oceanside oasis—elegant, peaceful and surrounded by rich local culture, including a vibrant fishing village.”

Nestled on 4.5 hectares of lush gardens along a sweeping five-kilometer sandy beach, Azerai Ke Ga Bay is an all-suites-and-villas resort located a comfortable 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City on a new highway. Spacious pavilions and private villas open onto garden terraces in muted tones inspired by local sand and granite. The resort is framed by Hon Ba Island with its historic lighthouse to the east and dramatic sand dunes to the west.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay was awarded a prestigious MICHELIN Key in the Guide’s inaugural Vietnam edition. The resort’s seaside infinity pool also helped it win the title of the “Most Instagrammable Hotel in Asia, the Indian Ocean and South Pacific” in a contest last year sponsored by the U.S.-based travel trade magazine Luxury Travel Advisor.

ABOUT AZERAI
Azerai is a distinctive story and brand of resorts offering guests elegance, refined design, and discreet and attentive service in places of unique beauty and cultural interest. The brand was formed by hotelier Adrian Zecha, and the name is derived from Zecha’s initials and the latter part of a Persian word, caravanserai, which references the storied old inns of the Middle East.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, May 28, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Blue Elephant Group proudly announces its participation in THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2026, under the theme “From Thai Culinary Heritage to Global Gourmet Products.”

This year, the Group places a strong spotlight on making authentic Thai cuisine more accessible than ever – guided by the mastery, innovation, and lifelong dedication of Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, Blue Elephant Group’s Founder & Executive Chef.

With over 45 years of culinary excellence, Master Chef Nooror has built an international reputation for preserving the integrity of Heritage Thai Cuisine while adapting it for modern lifestyles. Her expertise lies not only in mastering traditional recipes, but in transforming them into easy-to-use formats through meticulously developed curry pastes, sauces, and seasonings, allowing anyone, anywhere, to recreate authentic Thai dishes with confidence.

At THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2026, Blue Elephant will unveil an expanded range of innovative spice blends and cooking solutions, designed to add a taste of Thailand to every meal. These new additions complement the brand’s renowned portfolio of premium curries and sauces, all crafted under Master Chef Nooror’s close supervision to ensure balance, depth of flavour, and consistency.

The new range spans curry powders in five flavours, including the beloved Thai classics of green, red, and yellow curry, each in a convenient sprinkler format designed for sprinkling, seasoning, and stir-frying. Joining them is a Tom Yum seasoning in the same format, bringing one of Thailand’s most iconic flavours straight to the home kitchen, no guesswork required.

Beyond the spice range, Blue Elephant is also expanding their snack series with the launch of crispy coconut roll, light and delicate in its natural sweetness. Alongside this, the brand is also beginning a phase of packaging revamp, with its popular Thai nuts moving from traditional tins to larger 200-gram sachets, offering consumers better value and greater convenience. Both developments speak to a broader effort to meet growing demand across Southeast Asian and U.S. markets, where appetite for premium Thai products continues to strengthen.

A dedicated educator, Master Chef Nooror continues to inspire the next generation of chefs and home cooks. Through Blue Elephant’s cooking schools and product lines, she actively promotes the use of Thai herbs and indigenous ingredients sourced from provinces across Thailand, encouraging younger audiences to rediscover their culinary roots. Central to her philosophy is the belief that “Thai food is medicine,” a principle that speaks to the natural benefits of traditional ingredients and their everyday relevance.

“There is no good Thai cuisine without good Thai ingredients,” said Master Chef Nooror. “As a chef, I see sustainability through taste. When ingredients are local, traceable, and produced with respect for people and animals, you protect true Thai flavours and our future. Responsible sourcing is not a trend; it is the foundation of every dish we serve.”

Additionally, Master Chef Nooror’s three children each play a meaningful role in leading the Blue Elephant Group forward. Kim Steppe serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Blue Elephant Group, Chef Sandra Steppe oversees Marketing and Public Relations, and Chef Kris Steppe is engaged in nurturing and inspiring the next generation of chefs, all together carrying forward the culinary traditions of the family.

Blue Elephant ensures that consumers can experience Heritage Thai cuisine on their own terms, whether at its restaurants on Sathorn or Sukhumvit 13 in Bangkok or in Phuket, or in their own kitchen using the brand’s premium product range. This connection between dining and home cooking sits at the heart of what Blue Elephant has always stood for: making exceptional Thai cuisine both accessible and enduring.

“Innovation at Blue Elephant is always rooted in authenticity. Our goal is to translate Master Chef Nooror’s deep culinary knowledge into products that make Thai cooking intuitive and enjoyable, while preserving the soul of each dish,” said Ines Chardonnet, Junior Vice President of Blue Elephant International Group.

Kevin Somany, in charge of Blue Spice, the manufacturing arm of Blue Elephant Group, added, “With Blue Spice, we are continuously developing new spice blends and formats that respond to modern cooking habits. Our latest range, introduced at THAIFEX this year, is designed to make Thai cuisine even more accessible to global consumers, without losing its authenticity or complexity.”

Visitors to the Blue Elephant booth at THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2026 can expect engaging product showcases, tastings, and insights into the craftsmanship behind each creation. The presentation highlights not only the Group’s heritage, but also its approach to evolving Thai cuisine for future generations.

As a global ambassador of Thai gastronomy, Blue Elephant continues to bridge tradition and innovation – ensuring that the richness of Thai culinary heritage remains relevant, accessible, and celebrated worldwide.

Source