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Bangkok, Thailand, July 07, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Central Department Store, under Central Retail, Thailand’s leading department store, and Rajadamnern Stadium, one of the country’s most treasured cultural landmarks and a revered home of Muay Thai, have joined forces on a landmark collaboration to launch the Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag at the TWO LEGENDS, THE SPIRIT OF THAILAND event. The special-edition bag reimagines Thai character in contemporary form and carries the remarkable stories of both names for shoppers and travellers around the world to experience and own, reinforcing Central Department Store’s role as a destination that connects Thai identity with world-class retail lifestyle experiences. It goes on offer from 1 July 2026.

Both names have been part of Thais: Central Department Store as the country’s foremost department store, Rajadamnern Stadium as a Muay Thai arena that draws fans from across the globe. Bringing the two together on a single bag becomes a way of retelling their stories anew, and the result is at once a keepsake, a collectible and a symbol of a major collaboration that reflects Thai pride.

Ms. Rvisra Chirathivat, Chief Marketing Officer, Central and Robinson Department Store, said, “Muay Thai is something Thailand holds dear, admired around the world as both an art form and a sport that has won hearts for generations. Central Department Store is committed to sharing the spirit of Muay Thai with the world.

Central Department Store and Rajadamnern Stadium may work in very different fields, yet each has a history of about eight decades, and each helps shape a visitor’s first impression of Thailand through experiences that capture the country’s character and charm. We share a vision of presenting Thailand to the world, drawn from the long story we have shared with Thai society and from our determination to be a destination travellers everywhere want to visit. The Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag marks another important step for Central Department Store and Rajadamnern Stadium. Together, we have taken Muay Thai, one of Thailand’s national sports, and turned it into something both practical for everyday life and a collectible that tells the story of this collaboration. It is a piece of Thailand that people can take home, and a fresh way to share the country’s character with the world.

With stores across Thailand’s major tourist cities, Central Department Store becomes another channel to bring the story of Muay Thai to customers from around the world. The choice of a fabric tote also reflects Central Department Store’s commitment to sustainability.”

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said, “TAT emphasizes that Thai tourism today is no longer just about headcounts, but about inspiring visitors and crafting experiences that make them want to return. This is achieved by leveraging cultural capital through innovation to create new forms of value. Thailand’s soft power remains at the heart of this, from Thai cuisine and Muay Thai to the products that reflect the identity of local communities, and the destinations and activities that are a Must Visit and a Must Try for travellers from around the world. The collaboration between Central Department Store and Rajadamnern Stadium is a fine example of bringing two treasured legacies together to create an experience that leaves a lasting impression and adds real value to Thai tourism. Today, every country competes for tourism, but what truly sets a destination apart is making visitors feel moved, feel at ease, and come away with something meaningful, in keeping with the spirit of Amazing Thailand, which sets out to deliver happiness through every sense, and with the ‘Healing is the New Luxury’ trend, which prizes memories and stories worth passing on over anything money alone can buy. TAT applauds Central Department Store and Rajadamnern Stadium for coming together to spark inspiration and bring Thailand’s appeal to travellers worldwide in a way that is both contemporary and unforgettable.”

Two Icons, Eight Decades of Stories
The magic of the Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag lies in a design that draws on the signatures of both worlds, retail and Muay Thai, and tells their stories on a single bag. Central Department Store revives the classic logo it used between 1947 and 1973, a nod to the store’s origins, its foundations and the journey that carried it to where it stands today, a return to the heritage and legacy passed down across nearly eight decades. Rajadamnern Stadium, in turn, brings the Yant Paed Tidt (Eight-Direction Yantra), an ancient sacred symbol believed to offer protection, courage and strength from every direction, qualities that echo the heart of Muay Thai: discipline, endurance, a resilient spirit and the will to overcome every obstacle. Revered by Thai boxers as a blessing of protection before they step into the ring, the Yantra has already captivated visitors from around the world through the Rajadamnern Immersive Muay Thai Experience, becoming one of the stadium’s most memorable signatures. Colour tells the story of both sides, too: Central Department Store’s red meets Rajadamnern Stadium’s blue, and the emblems of the two come together on a single bag to complete a design with a character all its own.

Mr. Sarun Ladawon, Chief Executive Officer of Global Sports Ventures Company and Board Director of Rajadamnern Stadium, said, “GSV is committed to developing Rajadamnern Stadium into more than a Muay Thai arena, into a place that creates economic, cultural and tourism value. This strategic collaboration is another important step in opening new opportunities and building on the long-term potential of Muay Thai.

For eight decades, Rajadamnern Stadium has stood firm as a stadium that guards the spirit of Muay Thai. Bringing the meaning of the Yant Paed Tidt, a symbol Thai boxers hold in deep reverence, onto this bag carries the values and beliefs that live with the ring out to a far wider audience through contemporary design. We have a vision to elevate Muay Thai on the global stage, and we believe Central Department Store’s customer network, especially the travellers who pass through its stores in Thailand’s key tourist cities, will help carry the story and spirit of Muay Thai to the world in new ways.”

Central Department Store and Rajadamnern Stadium are giving everyone the chance to own the Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag (priced at 990 Baht) from 1 July to 31 October 2026 (or while stocks last), through a range of convenient channels nationwide:

International travellers can receive the bag free with a qualifying purchase between 1 July and 31 October 2026 (or while stocks last):

• Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag Red version, with a purchase of 15,000 Baht or more at nine participating Central stores: CENTRAL @ centralwOrld, Central Bangrak, Central Rama 9, Central Phuket, Central Patong, CentralFestival Samui, CentralFestival Chiangmai, Central Udonthani and Central Pattaya Beach.
• Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag White version, with a purchase of 20,000 Baht or more at Central Chidlom.
• Thai customers and the general public can purchase the Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag red version for 990 Baht from 25 July 2026 at 23 participating Central stores: Central Chidlom, CENTRAL @ centralwOrld, Central Ladprao, Central Pinklao, Central Bangna, Central EastVille, Central Silom Complex, Central Rama 2, Central Rama 3, Central Chaengwattana, Central Ramindra, CentralPlaza WestGate, Central Future Park Rangsit, CENTRAL @ Megabangna, Central Nakhon Pathom, Central Fashion Island, CentralFestival Samui, Central Phuket, CentralFestival Hadyai, CentralFestival Pattaya Beach, CentralFestival Chiangmai, Central Khonkaen and Central Udonthani.
• Rajadamnern Stadium fans can own both the red and white versions at the Rajadamnern Stadium Official Store for 990 Baht from 1 July 2026.

The Central x Rajadamnern Stadium Bag is born of a landmark collaboration that captures Thai character in a contemporary, one-of-a-kind design. It is available at participating Central stores and Rajadamnern Stadium from 1 July to 31 October 2026 (or while stocks last).

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 07, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce that Guangzhou Chimelong Group Co., Ltd (Chimelong Group), a leading cultural tourism conglomerate providing both leisure and MICE offerings, has become the Association’s newest Preferred Partner.

“As one of Asia’s most innovative tourism enterprises, Chimelong Group has demonstrated how world-class attractions and experiences can inspire travel, create economic opportunities, and contribute to destination development,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “We are delighted to welcome them as a Preferred Partner and look forward to working closely together to strengthen responsible tourism practices within the hospitality sector.”

A representative from Chimelong Group said, “Chimelong has always remained dedicated to tourism, committed to building a world-class brand and pursuing international development. Driven by culture, technology, innovation and talent, we are confident that Chinese creativity will continue to bring new inspiration and valuable experiences to the global tourism industry.”

Under the agreement, the partnership aims to support the sustainable growth and competitiveness of the Asia Pacific visitor economy. Through mutual advocacy, industry engagement, tourism research, and the exchange of data and intelligence, the organisations are set to jointly drive initiatives that advance responsible tourism practices within the region.

The agreement also aims to reflect shared objectives between PATA and Chimelong Group, including:
– Enhancing the value and perceived value of the Asia Pacific visitor economy
– Strengthening engagement between governments and national tourism organisations
– Promoting the benefits of reliable, unique, and comprehensive tourism intelligence

By bringing together PATA’s industry expertise and expansive global network with Chimelong Group’s innovative approach to cultural tourism and hospitality, the partnership creates opportunities for future cooperation that supports the long-term growth and success of the visitor economy across Asia Pacific.

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Koh Samui, Thailand, July 07, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui is delighted to welcome Chef Day from Saffron at Banyan Tree Krabi for a special two-evening culinary takeover at RHOY RHOY! on 14–15 August 2026.

Recognised as Banyan Tree’s award-winning signature Thai restaurant, Saffron is renowned for elevating traditional Thai cuisine through refined techniques, premium ingredients, and contemporary presentation. For two exclusive evenings, Chef Day will bring Saffron’s distinctive culinary philosophy to Koh Samui, presenting an exceptional dining experience that celebrates authentic Thai flavours with an innovative twist.

Guests can savour specially curated set menus showcasing the richness and diversity of Thai cuisine, thoughtfully crafted to highlight seasonal ingredients and regional influences. The experience will be further enhanced by live music performances, creating an elegant and memorable atmosphere throughout the evening.

The dining experience will be available from 18:00 hrs onwards at RHOY RHOY! Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui.

Set Menu Pricing
3-Course Set Menu – THB 1,450 net per person

Optional Monsoon Valley Wine Pairing
Enhance your dining experience with Monsoon Valley wine pairing for an additional THB 1,000 net per person.

An à la carte menu will also be available throughout the evening.

This limited-time collaboration offers a rare opportunity to experience the celebrated flavours of Saffron in the tranquil setting of RHOY RHOY!, Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui, where authentic hospitality, wellbeing, and exceptional dining come together by the sea.

About RHOY RHOY!
RHOY RHOY! is Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui’s signature Thai restaurant. Inspired by a Southern Thai expression used to describe food that is exceptionally delicious, the restaurant celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Thailand through authentic flavours, fresh local ingredients, and warm island hospitality. Set within a tranquil open-air courtyard, RHOY RHOY! offers a memorable dining experience rooted in local culture and tradition.

About Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui
Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui is a beachfront resort nestled within a private bay on Koh Samui’s north-eastern coastline. Surrounded by 28 acres of natural landscape, the resort offers a distinctive wellbeing-focused experience, combining authentic hospitality, sustainability, and meaningful connections with nature.

Reservation Contact Details
Email: Reservations-Tongsaibay@garrya.com
Phone: +66 77 913-750
Address: 84 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320, Thailand

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Thiruvananthapuram, India, July 06, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Chief Minister Shri V D Satheesan will inaugurate the 13th edition of the Kerala Travel Mart (KTM), the country’s largest tourism and hospitality sector business event, on September 24 in Kochi, Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri P.C. Vishnunadh announced at a press conference here today.

The upcoming edition of KTM assumes added significance since it is the first major tourism sector event after the new government came to power in the state.

The grand inaugural ceremony will take place at the Grand Hyatt Convention Centre in Bolgatty, while the B2B meets and other proceedings of the event will be hosted at the Sagara and Samudrika Convention Centres at Willingdon Island, Kochi. The business meets of the mart will be held from September 25 to 27.

The minister said that the government is preparing a framework to implement the proposal announced in the recent state budget to grant industry status to Kerala’s tourism sector.

He said KTM can serve as a major platform to reposition and strengthen Kerala’s tourism brand in an increasingly competitive global market. “Kerala tourism competes with other countries, not with other Indian states,” he noted.

The minister also stressed the need to rebrand Kerala’s Ayurveda and wellness tourism offerings to ramp up their relevance and appeal.

Shri Vishnunadh noted that inbound tourist arrivals to Kerala have continued to grow despite the conflict in the Middle East. He highlighted a rise in visitors from Arab countries, many of whom are drawn to Kerala’s monsoon tourism experiences.

The Minister added that the Tourism Department is focused on showcasing Kerala’s core strengths, including its rich cultural heritage, performing arts and cuisine. “These are areas where Kerala enjoys a unique advantage and faces little direct competition,” he said.

All-time record in buyer registrations

With nearly three months still left for the event, KTM has already secured an all-time record of 2,360 buyer registrations. This includes 610 international buyers and 1,750 domestic buyers. Media interest for the event has also scaled up, with 117 media registrations received so far, comprising 60 international and 57 domestic media houses.

The mart will feature 366 sellers (exhibitors) along with 25 delegates across various sponsorship and government stalls.

The three-day event will encompass business meets, policy-making conventions, and focussed seminars led by national and international industry experts. The post-event tours are scheduled to take place from September 28 to October 3, organized across twelve distinct geographic tracks. A dedicated pre-mart tour program will also be conducted specifically for invited foreign and domestic journalists.

A defining feature of this edition is its complete transition into a fully digital ecosystem. All core procedures at the mart, right from user registrations to business-to-business (B2B) meetings, will be entirely digitized using brand-new software and a dedicated mobile application.

As part of introducing innovative tourism products, the Wedding and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Conclave, recently organized by KTM in partnership with the State Tourism Department, achieved massive success. The conclave concluded with major announcements, including the upcoming formation of the Kerala Convention Promotion Bureau and a dedicated sector-specific policy.

Tourism Secretary Shri K. Biju noted that KTM has the potential to expand into a global trade fair with participation from all nations. He added that such a transition will unlock massive global avenues for tour operators and tourism business enterprises based in India.

Tourism Director Smt M. Anjana said the event offers a prime opportunity for all active stakeholders in the industry to closely study the latest emerging trends in the tourism market.

The press conference was attended by Tourism Additional Director Smt Sreedhanya Suresh, KTM President Shri Jose Pradeep, Secretary Shri S. Swaminathan, former presidents Shri Baby Mathew, Shri Abraham George and Shri E.M. Najeeb, Treasurer Shri Jibran Asif, and Joint Secretary Shri Jobin Joseph.

The executive office-bearers added that active, aggressive campaigns are currently underway under the leadership of KTM to attract more foreign buyers from untapped global markets to Kerala, while simultaneously identifying fresh buyers from traditional markets to participate in the upcoming mart.

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München, Germany, July 03, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Dean, the Irish-born lifestyle hotel brand known for delivering character-driven, culture-forward properties in compelling cities, opens The Dean Munich in July 2026. Located in the vibrant Westend neighbourhood, the 281-room hotel marks the brand’s largest property to date and its second opening in Germany, following The Dean Berlin in February 2026.

The 281-guestroom property follows the building’s layered story where guests can expect an elevated amenity offering, enhanced by bespoke DS & Durga fragrances inspired by Ireland’s natural landscape. Guestrooms are intentionally paired back, featuring a soothing palette of gentle greens. Subtle Jugendstil curves and refined detailing bring warmth and tactility, while discreet touches of 1980s influence echo the livelier spirit found in the public spaces. Guests can expect considered interventions like contrasting trims, lighting, and subtle reflective surfaces within the public spaces. The Lobby has cream lacquer walls, soft upholstery and a signature symbolic eye motif nodding to post-modern mysticism. Within the rooms, smart tech, tactile detailing and considered comfort feature in all room categories, which range from Standard Rooms through to the top of the range ‘The Dean Suite’ and ‘The Penthouse Suite’ fit for a spacious stay.

Internationally recognised designer Tatjana von Stein has shaped the heart of the property in her design of the hotel’s social and gathering spaces, combining inspiration from Bavaria’s Art Nouveau heritage (Jugendstil) and the hedonistic creative energy of the 1980s, into an interior language that bridges eras. For von Stein, who grew up in Munich, the project carries personal resonance: “This is a city rooted in history but always drawn to reinvention,” says von Stein. “I wanted to capture that tension-somewhere between elegance and exuberance-and let it guide every surface, object and gesture. The design also brings to life a side of Munich only locals truly know: its rich musical and cultural spirit, quietly woven into the character of the city.”

Drawing from two pivotal moments in Munich’s cultural history, the design concept creates Jugendstil influences expressed through natural motifs, curved lines, tactile warmth and crafted detailing, and 1980s Munich nightlife references in glossy surfaces, lacquered finishes and subtly theatrical lighting. Throughout the hotel, custom furniture and lighting designed by Tatjana von Stein Studio sits alongside vintage pieces and lighting sourced from Cologne-based Studio Kuhlmann and a bespoke sound system by Friendly Pressure. The result is a hotel that is visually layered, emotionally resonant, and culturally alive.

To anchor the hotel in its location, The Dean Munich launches with a site-specific art programme titled ‘The City Beneath the City‘, curated by Christian Ganzenberg, author, curator and Director of Munich’s international art festival, Various Others. The programme reflects the hotel’s location and community. Inspired by Italo Calvino’s ‘Invisible Cities’, the collection focuses on Munich-based contemporary artists and explores the unexpected layers of a traditional art city through the lens of contemporary voices from today’s art scene. It invites guests to encounter art not only on walls, but as part of their journey through the building, from the lobby to the rooms. As part of this vision, Ganzenberg invited artists such as Ju Young Kim, whose sculptural work blends Art Nouveau elements with everyday infrastructure, and Veronika Hilger, whose paintings exist in the realm between memory and the surreal, alongside a commission by Jieun Park in the public spaces. Interactive works by Sebastian Quast surprise in their materiality in the hallways, while photographers from Der Greif Studio inhabit the guest rooms, as well as commissions by artists such as Ossian Fraser, who used material from the hotel site in the works’ creation. An intricate narrative that uncovers the imagined and remembered layers of Munich – ‘The City Beneath The City‘.

Launching exclusively at The Dean Munich, Ibasho marks the debut of the hotel’s signature restaurant, a modern Japanese dining experience shaped by seasonality, precision and playful presentation. Guests can expect a menu concepted by consultant Chef Alex Craciun, working closely alongside Ibasho’s kitchen team to bring the concept to life, drawing on Craciun’s experience across Michelin-starred kitchens in Japan as well as his partnership establishing Sosharu in London and most recently his own restaurant, Aces Food Craft.

Highlights include Craciun’s signature pressed sushi, from yellowtail with avocado and truffle to wagyu with oscietra caviar, alongside a striking sashimi composition of premium cuts. A dedicated robata section showcases expertly grilled steaks and seafood, complemented by a curated caviar offering for indulgent pairing. With a cocktail and sake selection to match, guests should begin the experience with the Seijaku Martini – a crisp blend of sake, Haku vodka and saline with pickled ginger and cucumber – designed to awaken the palate.

The Dean Munich also houses Power, The Dean’s signature fitness and wellness concept which features an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and treatment room. A premium, design-led space, Power goes beyond the traditional gym to deliver guided, music-driven group training alongside best-in-class recovery. Class formats will include high-energy MetCon sessions, as well as Restore and Flow classes focused on mobility, longevity and balance, all delivered in an immersive environment. The facilities will house industry-leading equipment, dedicated recovery zones and a thermal suite with contrast therapy.

The Dean Munich’s central location places it at the heart of the city’s cultural rhythm, moments from Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt and Munich’s historic streetscapes. From leafy river walks along the Isar to the hum of cafés, galleries and late-night bars, the neighbourhood brings the spirit of the original to a new setting, one where The Dean aims to create uncommon experiences that celebrate the city’s creativity, craftsmanship and modern energy.

Rooms at The Dean Munich will begin from €225 per night.

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Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa, July 3, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Family-owned lodge returns after a flood and intensive ten-month rebuild, with its next generation and long-serving team at the heart of the story. Jaci’s Private Lodge officially reopened on 1 July 2026 in South Africa’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, 16 months after severe flooding in late February 2025 forced the family-owned property to close. Once the insurance and planning processes were complete, the Van Heteren family embarked on an intensive 10-month building programme, creating a lodge designed for the decades ahead.

The official reopening follows a two-week soft launch with family, friends and travel trade partners, giving the returning team time to find its rhythm and the lodge time to settle into its new skin.

“We had planned to spend 2025 refurbishing a lodge that had grown with us over the previous 25 years. The flood was devastating, but the silver lining was the opportunity to build for the next 25 years, rather than simply refurbish the last 25.”  Jan van Heteren, Co-owner

The result is brighter, bolder and more considered, while remaining unmistakably Jaci’s: colourful, warm, deeply personal and bringing in the wilderness. The rebuild has introduced reimagined accommodation and guest spaces, but the family says the character of the lodge, and the connection between guests, team and place, was the one thing that could not change.

“Seeing guests arrive again has been incredibly rewarding. After the closure, rebuilding and reimagining, welcoming people back feels like the final step in bringing Jaci’s home again. It is a celebration not only of the new lodge, but of the people, spirit and colourful hospitality that have always been at its heart.”  Dane van Heteren, Sales & Marketing Manager

A FAMILY STORY, CARRIED FORWARD

The reopening also marks a generational shift. Jaci and Jan remain actively involved, while their sons Tristan and Dane are taking leading roles in shaping and running the lodge’s next chapter.

That story is captured in the evolved Jaci’s logo, which now features two wild dogs rather than one. Jaci jokes that the larger dog represents the parents: still present, still involved and occasionally ready to nip at the youngsters’ heels, while the next generation moves to the front of the pack.

THE JACI’S PACK RETURNS

A large number of the pre-closure team, affectionately known as the Jaci’s Pack, have returned. For the family, seeing familiar faces back at the lodge has been one of the most meaningful parts of reopening, carrying the warmth, personality and accumulated knowledge of the original Jaci’s into its renewed spaces.

Through the Jaci’s Staff Trust, team members own 27.2% of the business. Staff who have worked at Jaci’s for more than five years can become shareholders and receive annual dividends through the Trust. With the majority of the team drawn from communities surrounding the reserve, the model creates long-term financial participation and ensures that the lodge’s success is shared with the people whose loyalty, skill and care have shaped its story.

“Coming back to Jaci’s feels like coming home. The lodge may be new, but the heart of Jaci’s is still the same: the people, the smiles and the way we make guests feel like family.”  Mocca, Lodge Manager

REBUILT WITH PURPOSE

The rebuild was guided by a simple principle: restore wherever possible and replace only when necessary. Existing decking was removed, sanded and repurposed within the new build, while furniture was cleaned, repaired and reconditioned, in some cases more than once, so that it could continue its story in the renewed lodge. The approach reduced waste while preserving layers of Jaci’s history.

The lodge’s wider environmental practices include solar power to meet its energy needs, water being treated and repurposed, and a zero-waste vision that prioritises the recycling and reuse of glass, paper, tin and organic waste. On-site vegetable gardens supplement ingredients sourced from local markets and greengrocers, while recruitment is prioritised from communities surrounding the reserve wherever possible.

A NEW LODGE WITH A FAMILIAR SOUL

Accommodation at the renewed Jaci’s Private Lodge includes six Safari Suites for 2 guests, four Safari Suite Expeditions for 2 adults and 2 children, the three-bedroom Kubu and Nare Villas for up to 6 guests each, and the five-bedroom Jaci’s Madikwe House for up to 10 guests.

Familiar rituals remain woven through the experience, from Jaci’s Cheeky Chilli at the table to Jan’s personally curated wine cellar and dining on the main lodge deck, on the elevated Thutlwa Deck and in the boma overlooking the Marico River. The soft launch also coincided with the return of the five Ashia cheetah brothers to the open plains near the lodge, a fitting reminder that the new chapter remains rooted in Madikwe’s wildlife and landscape.

To celebrate the reopening, Jaci’s Private Lodge is offering a limited Pay 3, Stay 4 launch special, with the fourth night complimentary for stays from 1 July – 31 August 2026.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 3, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / This July and August, Tsu Japanese Restaurant at JW Marriott Bangkok turns its attention to Tokushima Prefecture, showcasing the ingredients and regional specialties that define this remarkable corner of Japan.

Located on the eastern side of Japan’s Shikoku Island, Tokushima is celebrated for its pristine mountains, fertile farmland and abundant coastal waters. Framed by the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the region is renowned for exceptional produce shaped by its rich natural environment and longstanding culinary traditions.

From 1 July to 31 August 2026, Japanese Executive Chef Atsushi Yoshida presents a special menu inspired by the culinary traditions of the region, bringing together regional ingredients and traditional recipes that offer guests an authentic taste of the prefecture.

Among the highlights is Sudachi Buri Sashimi and Usuzukuri, featuring premium Japanese yellowtail raised on a specialised diet incorporating the peel of Tokushima’s famous sudachi citrus. The result is a fish prized for its clean flavor and delicate texture. Guests can also enjoy Sudachi Buri Kabutoni, where the fish is gently simmered in sweet soy sauce with seasonal vegetables and aromatic ginger.

The selection also includes Tokushima Ramen, a comforting bowl of pork bone and dashi broth topped with sweet soy pork belly char siu, spring onions and egg. Another signature dish, Tai Meshi and Chazuke, showcases sea bream rice prepared in a traditional clay pot and served with sesame sauce and green tea. To conclude the experience, the Yuzu Trio celebrates one of Japan’s most beloved citrus fruits through sorbet, jelly and fresh yuzu juice.

Beyond its cuisine, Tokushima is home to some of Japan’s most remarkable cultural and natural attractions. The prefecture is the birthplace of Awa Odori, a vibrant dance festival with more than 400 years of history that fills the streets each August with music, movement and celebration. Visitors are also drawn to the dramatic Naruto Whirlpools, the remote beauty of Iya Valley, and the historic Shikoku Pilgrimage, which begins in Tokushima and connects 88 sacred temples across the island.

“Japanese cuisine is deeply connected to place, and each region has its own unique identity,” said Chef Atsushi Yoshida. “Through this promotion, we wanted to introduce guests to the ingredients and culinary traditions of Tokushima, from its exceptional seafood and citrus fruits to dishes that have been enjoyed locally for generations. It is an opportunity to experience a different side of Japan through its food.”

Combining authentic regional dishes with the refined hospitality of Tsu Japanese Restaurant, the Tokushima Prefecture promotion offers diners a rare opportunity to discover the tastes, traditions and stories of one of Japan’s most fascinating destinations without leaving Bangkok.

The Tokushima Prefecture promotion is available from 1 July to 31 August 2026 at Tsu Japanese Restaurant

Tsu Japanese Restaurant at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok is open for lunch from 11.30 am – 2.30 pm (Monday – Friday) and from 11.30 am – 3.30 pm (Saturday – Sunday), and for dinner from 5.30 – 10.00 pm (daily).

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 2, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / STEM Racing Thailand 2026 continues to strengthen its commitment to developing Thailand’s next generation of innovators through an intensive training program that equips students with the knowledge, practical experience, and future-ready skills needed for the upcoming STEM Racing Thailand National Finals 2026.

Recently held at Grand Richmond Hotel, Nonthaburi, the Training Program & Preparation Workshop brought together students from the Professional Class, Development Class, and Entry Class, representing educational institutions from across Thailand. The workshop forms an integral part of the competition’s development pathway, ensuring participants are fully prepared for the National Finals, which will take place later this year.

More than an engineering competition, STEM Racing embraces a multidisciplinary, project-based learning approach that encourages students to develop technical expertise alongside essential professional competencies. The training program was designed to strengthen participants’ capabilities not only in engineering and technology, but also in leadership, communication, branding, and teamwork—skills that are increasingly vital in today’s innovation-driven world.

The organizing committee was honored to welcome distinguished speakers and industry professionals, including Mr. Narathat Leerasettakorn, Executive of Work in Bangkok Co., Ltd., together with Ms. Nalinee Pongwiratchai and Mr. Rongpetch Noiphao, Executives of AEC Digital Services. They led two interactive sessions—the Brand Identity Workshop and the Digital Communication Workshop—sharing practical insights and real-world experience in branding, digital strategy, and effective communication.

Throughout the workshops, participants explored key concepts including team identity, brand positioning, creative communication strategies, sponsor pitching, and digital communication planning. The sessions demonstrated how successful STEM Racing teams combine engineering excellence with strong branding, professional presentation skills, and effective communication to maximize their competitive potential.

The event fostered an atmosphere of collaboration, creativity, and active knowledge exchange, reinforcing that success in STEM Racing extends well beyond engineering performance. Critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, communication, and the ability to build a distinctive team identity are equally important qualities that prepare students for national and international competitions, as well as future careers in STEM-related industries.

Participating institutions included:

• Rayong Technical College
• Rayong Industrial Estate Technical College
• Uttaradit Technical College
• Kabinburi Industrial and Community Education College
• Sarasas Witaed Bangbuathong School
• Saint Dominic School
• Potisarnpittayakorn School
• Panyapiwat Institute of Management Demonstration School
• Suankularb Wittayalai Nonthaburi School
• Nawamintrachinuthit Benjamarachalai School
• The Demonstration School of Silpakorn University (Secondary Education)
• Assumption College (Bangrak)

STEM Racing Thailand 2026 is part of one of the world’s leading STEM education initiatives, providing students with an immersive learning experience that integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with business, marketing, project management, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The program reflects the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of today’s high-tech industries while preparing students to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.

The STEM Racing Thailand National Finals 2026 will be held from 29 October to 1 November 2026 at Grand Richmond Hotel, Nonthaburi. The competition aims to inspire and prepare Thai students to compete on the global stage while fostering a sustainable learning ecosystem that connects education, technology, innovation, and industry.

Through initiatives such as this intensive training program, STEM Racing Thailand continues to cultivate future-ready talent, empowering young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to drive innovation and contribute to Thailand’s long-term technological, economic, and sustainable national development.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 02, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Mezzaluna by lebua, the two-MICHELIN-starred French fine dining destination led by Chef Ryuki Kawasaki, welcomes Chef Matthew Kammerer of The Harbor House Inn for an exclusive two-night culinary collaboration on 24 and 25 July 2026.

Titled “The Tide & The Tower,” the collaboration brings together two chefs from different culinary landscapes, united by a shared respect for ingredients, precision, craftsmanship, sustainability, and quiet refinement. Rather than presenting a conventional guest chef dinner, the experience is designed as a true creative exchange, where both chefs contribute their distinct perspectives to one cohesive tasting journey.

At Mezzaluna, Chef Ryuki Kawasaki is known for his refined French technique, Japanese sensibility, and deeply personal approach to ingredients. Chef Matthew Kammerer brings a philosophy shaped by nature, seasonality, sustainability, and a profound sense of place — values that define the experience at The Harbor House Inn, the acclaimed coastal destination in Elk, California, awarded Two MICHELIN Stars and a MICHELIN Green Star.

Across six courses, guests will experience a dialogue between two culinary worlds. The menu begins with Bonito Smoked with Calendula, Smoked Bone Soy, and Poached Okra, reflecting Chef Matthew Kammerer’s ingredient-driven approach and deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions.

Chef Ryuki follows with Abalone, Artichoke Barigoule, and Sansho, combining Japanese ingredients with classical French technique through refinement, acidity, and precision. Chef Matthew Kammerer’s Kuruma Ebi Warmed over Charcoal, Cranberry Bean Miso, and Shishito continues the theme of purity and restraint, using direct charcoal cooking to highlight the natural sweetness and character of the tiger prawn.

The journey continues with Kijihata, Iberico Ham, and Zucchini Flower, a course that expresses Mezzaluna’s balance of Japanese product, French technique, and layered umami.

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening is the collaborative beef course, featuring Niigata Murakami Wagyu Beef from Chef Ryuki’s hometown in Niigata, Japan. Exclusively served at Mezzaluna by lebua in Bangkok, this prized beef holds deep personal significance for Chef Ryuki and has become one of the restaurant’s most distinctive signature ingredients.

For the first time, Chef Ryuki invites another chef to reinterpret one of Mezzaluna’s signature ingredients. Chef Matthew will cook the beef in his own style, while Chef Ryuki creates the garnish and Chef Matthew prepares the sauce. This course represents the heart of the collaboration — not two chefs cooking side by side, but two perspectives meeting on one plate.

For this special collaboration, the beef is presented with Cypress Smoke and Unripe Blackberry Jus, bringing together Chef Ryuki’s personal connection to Niigata and Chef Matthew Kammerer’s instinct for nature-led expression. This course represents the heart of the collaboration — not simply two chefs cooking side by side, but two perspectives meeting through one deeply personal ingredient.

The menu concludes with Miyazaki Mango, Mexican Marigold, Timut Pepper, and Wild Stingless Bee Honey, a dessert that brings brightness, fragrance, and delicate complexity to the final moment of the evening.

To complete the experience, Mezzaluna will offer two pairing journeys designed to complement the menu with intention and balance.

The Non-Alcohol Pairing, crafted by Chef Ismael, presents a thoughtful sequence of distinctive flavor combinations created for each course. Designed with the same level of precision as the cuisine, the pairing offers guests an alternative journey that is expressive, refined, and deeply connected to the menu.

The 6 Glasses Pairing brings together sake and wine in a curated journey of balance between origin, craftsmanship, and emotion. Rather than a traditional wine pairing, the experience is designed as a dialogue between sake and wine, following the rhythm of the menu while reflecting Mezzaluna’s identity through a subtle Japanese touch.

Menu and Beverage Pairing

Bonito Smoked with Calendula, Smoked Bone Soy, Poached Okra
Noguchi Naohiko, Junmai Nama-Genshu 60%, Ishikawa 2024

Abalone, Artichoke Barigoule, Sansho
Domaine Ménard-Gaborit, Pour l’histoire, Loire Valley 2023

Kuruma Ebi Warmed over Charcoal, Cranberry Bean Miso, Shishito
Raen Fort Ross-Seaview Charles Ranch, Sonoma 2023

Kijihata, Iberico Ham, Zucchini Flower
La Pousse d’Or Volnay 1er Cru “Clos des la Bousse d’Or” Cuvée Amphore, Monopole, 2018

Niigata Murakami Wagyu Beef, Cypress Smoke, Unripe Blackberry Jus
Dominus Estate, Napa Valley 2015

Miyazaki Mango, Mexican Marigold, Timut Pepper, Wild Stingless Bee Honey
Jozan, Karakuchi, Cho | Junmai

Among the highlights is Noguchi Naohiko, Junmai Nama-Genshu 60%, Ishikawa 2024, created under the legacy of legendary Toji Naohiko Noguchi, who has dedicated more than seventy years to the craft of sake brewing. His philosophy — “Brewing sake means nurturing people” — reflects the human spirit behind the bottle, where skill, knowledge, and tradition are passed on through shared experience.

Another defining label is Dominus Estate, Napa Valley 2015, shaped by the vision of Christian Moueix, whose decades of winemaking experience across Bordeaux’s Right Bank and Napa Valley have made him one of the most respected figures in the world of wine. His philosophy centers on revealing the unique character of each vineyard, crafting wines defined by elegance, balance, and a profound sense of place.

Together, the cuisine and pairing experience invite guests into a journey where Japanese influence, French technique, American terroir, coastal craftsmanship, and the philosophy of modern luxury come together in harmony.

“The Tide & The Tower” will take place at Mezzaluna by lebua on 24 and 25 July 2026 for two nights only.

Event Details
Event: Mezzaluna by lebua x The Harbor House Inn – The Tide & The Tower
Dates: 24 and 25 July 2026
Venue: Mezzaluna by lebua, 65th Floor, The Dome at lebua, Bangkok
Experience: Six-course collaborative tasting menu
Menu Price: THB 12,000++ per person
6 Glasses Pairing: THB 8,000++ per person
Non-Alcohol Pairing: THB 3,500++ per person

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Abu Dhabi, UAE, July 02, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The UAE’s first national passenger rail service entered operation this morning as Etihad Rail welcomed its first paying passengers onboard the inaugural scheduled service from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, marking a historic milestone in the country’s transport journey.

Departing Fujairah Station at 5:34am and arriving at Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi at 7:19am, the inaugural service marked the beginning of scheduled passenger rail services in the UAE.

Customer demand has been strong since bookings opened, with more than 10,000 tickets sold ahead of the start of operations. A total of 6 passenger services will operate today as Etihad Rail begins the introductory operational phase of its national passenger network, offering customers a safe, reliable and comfortable new way to travel between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi.

Passengers travelling onboard Etihad Rail today benefitted from a modern travel experience, including guaranteed seating, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, generous luggage allowances and Premium Class services designed to deliver greater comfort and convenience.

To deliver a seamless end-to-end customer journey, Etihad Rail has also announced that it is working closely with the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) to integrate passenger rail with Abu Dhabi’s wider public transport network, enabling customers to connect easily with buses, taxis and other mobility services as part of a fully integrated mobility ecosystem.

Azza Alsuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Rail, said:

“Every great piece of national infrastructure has two beginnings: the day it is built, and the day people begin making it their own. Today, with the support and guidance of our wise leadership, we embark on that second beginning.

“The first departure from Fujairah this morning is the moment a national vision becomes part of everyday life, giving people a new way to connect with one another, with opportunity and with the places that make our country so unique.

“Years from now, today’s passengers will be able to say they were there at the very beginning.”

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said:

“The journey doesn’t end when passengers step off the train. It continues all the way to their final destination.

“That is why our partnership with Etihad Rail is so important. Together, we have integrated passenger rail with Abu Dhabi’s wider public transport network, making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to continue their journeys using buses, taxis and other mobility services. Another important step towards delivering a smarter, more connected and more sustainable transport system that offers people greater choice while supporting Abu Dhabi’s long-term mobility vision.”

Customers can continue to book tickets through the Etihad Rail website and mobile application.

About Etihad Rail
Established in 2009, Etihad Rail is the developer and operator of the UAE’s National Rail Network. Spanning approximately 900 km, the network connects key cities, ports, and industrial hubs from Ghuwaifat to Fujairah on the eastern coast.

As part of the UAE’s ‘Projects of the 50’, Etihad Rail plays a central role in driving national economic diversification and sustainable development. Its integrated transport system enhances supply chain efficiency, reduces carbon emissions, and strengthens connectivity across the UAE and the wider region.

Etihad Rail’s network currently supports freight operations across 11 terminals and four major ports. Looking ahead, passenger services are set to launch from 2026, offering a modern, reliable and comfortable mode of travel. The service will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, with a network of stations designed to link key urban and economic centres, providing a seamless and efficient travel experience for commuters, business travellers, and families.

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