wttc2

Phuket, Thailand, September 05, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The legendary race is back! Laguna Phuket, Asia’s premier integrated destination for leisure and lifestyle, proudly announces the 31st edition of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon (LPT), taking place on Sunday, 23 November 2025 at Laguna Grove.

Renowned as the “Race of Legends” and the longest-running triathlon in Southeast Asia, Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2025 will once again welcome over 1,000 athletes and 3,000 spectators from around the world, igniting Phuket’s high season with world-class sporting action and international attention.

This year’s staging reaffirms Phuket’s positioning as an Active Lifestyle Destination, not only as a holiday island but as a holistic hub for health, sports, and wellness. Beyond driving local economic impact, the event underscores Phuket’s global reputation as a world-class sports tourism hub, supported by strong partnerships with leading national organizations including the Phuket Provincial, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Sports Authority of Thailand, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thai Airways International, and many more.

Mr. Paul Wilson, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, stated: “We are proud that Laguna Phuket, Thailand’s first and largest integrated resort, has remained home to the Laguna Phuket Triathlon for more than 31 years. This is a place where athletes and their families can enjoy comfort, wellness, and relaxation alongside world-class competition. We are committed to continuous development to align with today’s travel trends, where visitors seek not only leisure but also health, well-being, and exciting new activities. Each year, our goal is to elevate the event and ensure that Laguna Phuket Triathlon remains the number one choice for athletes worldwide as well as health-conscious travelers who choose Phuket as their preferred destination.”

Iconic Course and Race Categories

Celebrated for its unique course and exceptional standards, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon combines the island’s natural beauty, modern facilities, and internationally recognized safety management. The classic Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2025 route includes a 1.8 km swim in both the Andaman Sea and the freshwater lagoons of Laguna Phuket, a scenic 50 km bike ride through coastal roads, hills, and local villages, and a 12 km run around the lush resort complex.

The race also features the Sprint Triathlon (0.5 km swim, 20 km bike, 6 km run) and the Duathlon (4 km run, 50 km bike, 12 km run), making the event more accessible to a wider range of athletes. This year, new age categories have been introduced in the Sprint event, ensuring inclusivity across all levels. A total prize purse of USD 20,000 awaits top finishers.

World-Class Athlete Line-Up

The 2025 edition will see a stellar line-up of elite triathletes from across the globe, including returning champions and rising stars. Confirmed male professionals include Antony Costes (France), Joel Wooldridge (Australia), Rostyslav Pevtsov (Ukraine), Guy Crawford (New Zealand), Casimir Moine (France), and James Thorp (Australia). Among the women’s pro field are Kate Bevilaqua (Australia), Kseniia Levkovska (Ukraine), Alanis Siffert (Switzerland), and Dominika Jamnicky (Canada), marking her first appearance at Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2025. Thailand’s very own Kitpong Chawaldit, known for his remarkable endurance across four consecutive IRONMAN events in Sweden, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, will also return to the Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2025 course.

Open Water Swim by TriHub – Pre-Race Highlight

A major highlight this year is the Open Water Swim presented by TriHub, now in its second edition, taking place on Saturday, 22 November 2025, one day before the main race. Staged on the pristine beach of Laguna Phuket, the event invites both professional and amateur swimmers to test themselves across multiple distances. The race is designed to be inclusive, safe, and inspiring for all – from experienced swimmers to newcomers taking their first strokes in the world of triathlon. With professional safety teams, international-standard course design, and Phuket’s pristine natural setting, the Open Water Swim is more than just a race – it’s an experience that connects people with nature and with each other, while strengthening the triathlon community across Thailand and the region.

Lifestyle, Facilities, and Hospitality

Participants and supporters will enjoy luxury accommodations across Laguna Phuket’s world-class resorts, including Angsana Laguna Phuket, Banyan Tree Phuket, Cassia Phuket, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, HOMM Suites Laguna, and SAii Laguna Phuket. Complimentary shuttles and boat transfers to the race venue are available, with exclusive accommodation offers under booking code LPT2025.

Registration Open

Athletes worldwide are invited to join the 31st Laguna Phuket Triathlon on Sunday, 23 November 2025, and the Open Water Swim presented by TriHub on Saturday, 22 November 2025.

Source

Khao Lak, Thailand, September 05, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa hosted The Italian Table on 29 and 30 August 2025, a two-night collaboration that brought together three of Thailand’s most visionary Italian chefs for an unforgettable culinary journey. The event, staged at the resort’s signature beachfront restaurant Olive, showcased authentic Italian craft, soulful flavors, and the spirit of togetherness that defines JW Marriott experiences.

Over two evenings, the resort welcomed esteemed media, influencers, and valued guests to experience the artistry of:

• Chef Marco Avesani – Head Chef at La Bottega Bangkok, renowned for his elegant, ingredient-led cuisine with Michelin-star precision.
• Chef Michele Fernando – Head Chef of Massilia, Bangkok’s award-winning neo-trattoria, celebrated for reinventing the art of pizza.
• Chef Vincenzo Sorrentino (Chef Enzo) – Head Chef of Olive at JW Marriott Khao Lak, whose southern Italian roots and JW Garden-sourced produce shaped soulful, locally inspired dishes.

Event Highlights

Friday, 29 August – Olive Restaurant (À La Carte Dinner)
Guests enjoyed individually plated signature creations from each chef. Highlights included:

• “Norma Not Normal” – Pizza of the Year 2025 (Massilia)
• Maccheroncini with Fassona beef ragù & Castelmagno (La Bottega)
• Red tuna with kumquats & Mediterranean pesto (Olive)

Saturday, 30 August – Olive Restaurant (La Festa Buffet Dinner)
A vibrant celebration featuring regional Italian specialties from North to South. Guests experienced:

• Live Pizza Stations by Massilia
• Carbonara and Arrosticini by La Bottega
• Risotto and Antipasti by Olive

The atmosphere was elevated by the presence of Thailand’s culinary media and lifestyle personalities, making the weekend not only a gastronomic triumph but also a powerful showcase of JW Marriott Khao Lak’s positioning as a premier dining destination.

A Platform for Connection and Storytelling

Through The Italian Table, JW Marriott Khao Lak underscored its commitment to mindful dining and fostering connections. Guests were treated to flavors that told a story – from premium imported ingredients to sustainable produce harvested from the resort’s JW Garden. The collaboration reflected the brand’s core values: being mindful and present, nourished in body, and together in spirit.

“At JW Marriott Khao Lak, we believe that dining is not just about the food on the plate, but the stories, emotions, and connections that it creates. The Italian Table was a beautiful opportunity to bring people together, celebrate culture, and showcase our passion for culinary excellence alongside some of Thailand’s most talented chefs.”
— Mathieu Sneyers, Director of Marketing Communications, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, September 05, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Banyan Group (Banyan Tree Holdings Limited or the Group – SGX: B58), an independent global hospitality company, today unveiled 100 Journeys – a hundred days of global celebrations across its portfolio in the lead-up to the grand opening of its 100th property. This milestone reflects three decades of growth and purpose-driven hospitality, from the Group’s first resort in Phuket to 100 resorts and hotels under 12 brands across 20 destinations, including its latest landmark, Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree in Singapore.

Honouring the people, places, and communities that have shaped Banyan Group’s portfolio over the years, the celebrations will culminate in a week-long festival at Mandai Rainforest Resort from 27 November to 3 December 2025, featuring discovery trails, wellbeing sessions, and community activities. Driven by Banyan Group’s commitment to stewardship and shared impact, and supported by the Group’s corporate partners, proceeds from the festival tickets will be matched 1:1 by Banyan Group and donated to the President’s Challenge, an annual initiative led by the President of Singapore to support local charities and social service organisations.

“As we celebrate the Grand Opening of our 100th property later in November, 100 Journeys reflects how far we’ve come and how we’ve grown,” said Ren Yung Ho, Deputy Chief Executive at Banyan Group. “It’s a tribute to the communities that shaped us and a promise to continue creating meaningful, place-led experiences that stay with our guests long after the journey ends. The Banyan experience has always been rooted in care – for people, for place, and for purpose. It redefines the value of travel as something measured in the lasting connections formed and new perspectives gained”.

100 Journeys: Celebrating Shared Stories, Personal Discoveries, and Lasting Impact

Running from 1 September to 9 December 2025, 100 Journeys is a global celebration of shared stories, personal discoveries, and lasting impact shaped by guests, associates, and communities. Each destination invites travellers to engage in authentic cultural exchanges, make personal discoveries, and experience how thoughtful hospitality supports local communities, with every property contributing to a larger narrative of respectful exploration and collective storytelling.

100 Discoveries: Discovery of Place

Across its portfolio of resorts and hotels, Banyan Group has curated 100 experiences that immerse travellers in the culture and character of each location.

Highlights include Tibetan black pottery-making at Banyan Tree Ringha, cooking local meals at Cassia Phuket, and meeting a Noh mask artisan at Banyan Tree Higashimaya Kyoto. Guests may also explore ancient rock formations at Banyan Tree AlUla, stroll through Vietnam’s golden rice terraces at Garrya Mu Cang Chai, join bamboo rafting at Banyan Tree Yangshuo, or dive a sunken shipwreck in the Maldives at Dhawa Ihuru. At Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree, new nature and photography workshops celebrate Singapore’s biodiversity, while at Angsana Corfu, guided eco-walks through olive groves and historic trails invite guests to give back to nature through mindful conservation. Each discovery is crafted to spark curiosity, deepen cultural understanding, and inspire personal reflection.

In the Thailand region, Banyan Group’s properties offer guests a deeper connection to place through unique cultural and community experiences. Discover the historic charm of Talad Noi with Banyan Tree Bangkok, join the serene morning ritual of alms giving at Banyan Tree Phuket, or immerse in island life at Ban Koh Klang with Banyan Tree Krabi. Guests may also learn to craft authentic Thai recipes at Banyan Tree Samui or reconnect with nature on a guided walk through the lush landscapes of Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui.

100 Impacts: Discovery through Stewardship

Guided by the ethos of Embracing the Environment, Empowering People, Banyan Group integrates its business with natural and cultural heritage while building partnerships that create meaningful impact across its destinations. These efforts come to life through the voices of associates and communities who embody and advance this mission.

In the Maldives, the refreshed Marine Lab engages guests in coral conservation and marine education. In China, the Group supports bird conservation near Banyan Tree Suzhou, where more than 170 species now thrive. On Bintan Island, over 5,800 sea turtles have been released since 2008, alongside guest-led rewilding tours.

The Group’s commitment extends beyond conservation. Initiatives include clean water access for villages near Banyan Tree Yangshuo, artisan collaborations through Banyan Tree Gallery, and youth mentorship via the Seedlings Programme, which equips young people with education and vocational skills. Through the Stay for Good initiative, guests are also encouraged to participate in community engagement that honours culture and fosters meaningful exchange.

100 Stories: Discovery Through the Eyes of Others

At the heart of 100 Journeys are the voices of guests, associates, and communities. Through digital postcards and personal reflections, 100 Stories captures moments of transformation and connection that define the travel experience.

Between 1 September and 9 December 2025, guests are invited to contribute their own stories to this growing library of memories. A hundred submissions will be recognised with a USD100 Banyan Group e-gift card, and the top three storytellers will receive a complimentary three-day, two-night stay.

Source

Phuket, Thailand, September 04, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A new era of beach club experience comes to Phuket with Rava, the latest lifestyle concept from Banyan Tree Phuket. Located within Laguna Phuket, an integrated resort destination along the famed Bang Tao Beach, Rava is a sprawling beach club tucked along a 180 mt. shoreline, making it the longest beach club in Thailand.

The word ‘Rava’ means sound and reverberation and personifies this expansive beachfront space where music, gastronomy, art, and conscious living come together to create one seamless experience that flows with the rhythm of the sea.

Sittichai Jitnatham, General Manager of Banyan Tree Phuket says “At Banyan Group, we have always been focused on evolving and curating experiences that meets the needs of our guests – present and future, and with Rava our effort is to create a beach club that blends luxury, tropical lifestyle and a love for all things local. It is designed not as a place to escape the mundane and instead as a place where we celebrate the extraordinary in everyday moments”.

When you visit Rava Beach Club every moment invites you to explore, indulge, and connect and with its 3 exquisitely conceptualized spaces, each visit of yours: Young & Fun – the beating heart of the beach club, this zone is upbeat and effortlessly cool with an alfresco dining area, sunbeds, cabanas, and 3 infinity pools serving small plates and eclectic mix of cocktails, premium wines and spirits. Master Grill is a warm, welcoming space that celebrates the art of grilling. The menu features premium cuts of meat, expertly dry-aged selections, whole grilled seafood, and signature sides. Prestige An exclusive lounge for Banyan Group Residence Owners that boasts two indoor dining rooms, semi-private areas for relaxation or dining, dedicated daybeds, and a private infinity pool, along with locker and shower facilities.

Speaking about the exclusive access for residence owners, Stuart Reading, Managing Director, Banyan Group Residences, says, “For our homeowners, Rava Beach Club is more than an amenity—it’s a privilege. Exclusive access to the Prestige Zone allows our residential community to enjoy a level of beachfront luxury that’s unmatched on the island. It enhances the everyday experience of ownership and elevates the value of our branded residences across Laguna Phuket”.

With the addition of Rava Beach Club, Laguna Phuket boasts wholesome avenues for travellers and Phuketians seeking a day out on the beach with loved ones, indulge in international coastal fare, sip on refreshing cocktails as you watch a sunset or immerse oneself in workshops and wellbeing activities, and as night falls watch a host of artists and performer take center stage and elevate the tempo of this beach club.

“The debut of the RAVA Beach Club marks a significant milestone for Laguna Phuket and represents an exciting expansion for the Banyan Group into the beach club scene. We are redefining the beach club scene on the island with this sophisticated oasis, which combines luxury, a vibrant atmosphere and distinctive experiences, all complemented by stunning views and architectural brilliance. The launch of RAVA caters to the diverse tastes of our guests and significantly enhances our leisure and entertainment offerings as a resort destination,” Paul Wilson, Managing Director, Laguna Phuket.

If you’re wondering what sets Rava Beach Club apart from other beachfront venues in Phuket, then picture morning soundscapes that ease you into the day, bold coastal cuisine grilled over open flames, and cocktails infused with foraged ingredients served with style and soul. Feel the energy rise with live tropical performances, hands-on mixology workshops, sunset painting sessions, and a boutique showcasing the best of beach essentials and resort wear from celebrated Thai designers and local artisans. Whether you’re here to relax, dance, create, or celebrate, Rava offers something you won’t find anywhere else.

Rava Beach Club is set to open its doors on 1 August 2025, and when it does, it’s sure to make waves, and you’ll want to be there when it does.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, September 04, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Sirimahannop, the reimagined Thai tall ship and refined dining destination on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, has unveiled a new menu that will transport diners on a gastronomic voyage between Thailand and Scandinavia, the historic trade route sailed more than 100 years ago by the ship’s former captain Hans Niels Andersen.

Set to be launched in May, this creative new menu features the finest cuisine from East and West, with dishes artfully crafted using local, seasonal and imported ingredients. The main menu will be divided into three sections, influenced by the ship’s navigational coordinates.

100°E BANGKOK will showcase delights that capture the essence of the Thai capital’s vibrant food scene, with signature dishes such as House-Cured Dill Salmon – a Scandinavian classic elevated with the Thai flavors of tomato, basil and pomelo, and a Steamed Seafood Pot with khao soi curry broth, pickled cabbage, cilantro, and sourdough bread.

Alternatively, 45°E AT SEA draws inspiration from the ancient mariners’ onboard meals, including slow-cooked and cured meats that could be preserved on long journeys. Highlights include Beef Short Rib with five spice-infused red wine jus, cauliflower purée, grilled king oyster mushroom, broccolini, and mushroom ketchup.

Guests seeking the light, simple elegance of Nordic cuisine can discover 9°E COPENHAGEN – a refined approach to dining with plates such as Mackerel Escabeche, enhanced with carrot, orange, ginger, saffron, and dill, or Scandinavian Calamari with Thai chili, garlic, lemon, and chunky remoulade.

There’s great news for tapas lovers, as Sirimahannop’s popular “Tapas by the River” promotion will now be permanently added to the menu, with seven Seafood Tapas plates including Octopus with Thai Chimichurri and Marinated Anchovies with grated fresh tomatoes.

Sirimahannop’s new menu is perfect for every occasion, from after-work snacks and light bites accompanying sunset cocktails, to romantic couples’ meals and memorable dinners with friends and family.

This new menu is available from September 1, 2025 (16:30 – 22:30 hrs), priced starting at THB 220++. Marriott Bonvoy discounts apply.

Permanently docked at Asiatique The Riverfront, Sirimahannop is easily accessible by road and river, including shuttle boat services from the pier next to Saphan Taksin BTS skytrain station.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, September 04, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Le Du Kaan, Bangkok’s first rooftop Thai restaurant, perched on the 56th floor of EA Rooftop at The Empire, is inviting its discerning guests to celebrate its 1st Anniversary this September with an exclusive “Meet & Greet” with Chef Ton Thitid Tassanakajohn, the Michelin-starred chef, who elevates Thai cuisine to exciting new heights.

One of the region’s most highly acclaimed culinary experts, Chef Ton is the only Thai chef to have two entries on the “Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants” list. His original Thai restaurant, Le Du, made its debut in 2013 and a decade later, in 2023, this Michelin one-star establishment achieved the prestigious no. 1 ranking in the annual list of Asia’s best restaurants. Nusara, which opened in 2020, was honoured with third place in the same year. Now, he is delighting local and international diners at Le Du Kaan, which opened in 2024 and blends the finest Thai produce with a rich storytelling narrative.

For one night only, couples and friends will be able to come together and meet Chef Ton, learn about his creative vision, and savor his inimitable cuisine. On September 25, 2025, from 18:00-21:00 hrs, he will host an evening of extraordinary gastronomy at Le Du Kaan, with a special anniversary set menu ‘The First Chapter of Gastronomy’.

As the sun sets over the city, this epicurean adventure commences with Nam Tok Ped (dry-aged duck breast with crispy shallots, seasonal fruits and a nam tok sauce), and a highly evocative dish of Bai Liang Phad Kai (malindjo leaves with dry shrimp, salted egg yolk and duck egg). The finest seafood is then showcased with Lhon Pooh (crispy blue crab meat with caviar, yellow chili and turmeric), before guests are invited to savor Thailand’s most prized beef, ultra-tender Tajima wagyu, in Kua Kling Nuer Yang – a sublime Southern Thai curry with cumin leaves and stink beans, served with jasmine rice. Following the ocean-fresh Gaeng Leang Pla Yang (grilled Andaman fish with local mushrooms and hairy basil in a spicy mixed vegetable soup), diners can conclude this culinary journey with Kanom Buang, an indulgent ice cream made using prawn fat, palm sugar meringue, and grated coconut.

This special anniversary dinner is priced at just THB 4,900++ per couple, with an optional THB 4,000++ supplement for a bottle of Taittinger Prestige Brut Champagne or THB 4,500++ for a bottle of Bollinger Cuvee Brut Champagne. Following this one-of-a-kind occasion on September 25, guests can enjoy all six of Chef Ton’s delectable dishes as part of an à la carte menu from September 26-30, 2025. Prices start from just THB 320++ per dish.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, September 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Akira Back Bangkok, the Japanese and Korean dining destination on the 37th floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, invites diners to continue their culinary journey this September and October, with three new specialty dishes that embody Akira Back’s signature fusion of innovation and tradition.

These artfully crafted creations form part of a rotation across the worldwide collection of Akira Back restaurants – from Las Vegas and Seoul to Dubai and Toronto – celebrating the group’s identity as “A Global Brand with a Local Soul.”

For a limited time, Chef Sunghyun Yoon, the talented sous chef at Akira Back Bangkok, will showcase these delectable dishes:

AB Sukiyaki (THB 2,200++) – A luxurious take on the beloved Japanese hot pot, featuring melt-in-your-mouth A5 wagyu beef, earthy truffle, and a silky onsen egg, served with seasonal vegetables for the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Surf & Turf (THB 2,450++) – An indulgent pairing of succulent Maine lobster and rich Australian Black Onyx ribeye steak, complemented with umami-rich mushrooms and a velvety béchamel cheese sauce to create a luxurious mouthfeel.

Cured Salmon Nigiri (THB 540++) – A modern twist on the classic Japanese nigiri; delicately cured salmon layered with zesty wasabi aioli, crispy potato textures, and pickled onion for a tangy yet refreshing bite.

These three specialty dishes will be available until October 31st, 2025. Akira Back Bangkok is open daily for dinner (17.30 – 23.00 hrs.) and lunch from Thursday – Sunday (12.00 – 14.30 hrs).

Source

Bali, Indonesia, September 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) with Geonet Developments International for ELLE Resort & Beach Club by Cross Collection, a high-style beachfront destination set to open in 2028 in the heart of Seminyak, Bali. This bold signing marks another key milestone in Cross Hotels & Resorts’ mission to become APAC’s Leading Alternative to Global Hotel Operators, while spotlighting the brand’s growing expertise in managing lifestyle experiences.

Located along Seminyak’s legendary coastline, ELLE Resort & Beach Club by Cross Collection is poised to deliver a refined yet vibrant stay, blending the sophistication of the ELLE brand with Bali’s iconic beach energy. The resort will feature 170 ultra-luxury hotel rooms & suites, each designed to reflect a modern, effortless glamour. At its heart, the signature beach club will serve as a cultural and social anchor, offering music, fashion, mixology, and cuisine in a setting that invites day-to-night celebration.

Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts, commented “This is more than a signing. It’s a celebration of bold partnerships and vision-led hospitality. With Geonet’s investment strength and our lifestyle brand expertise, we are creating an iconic resort and beach club that captures the spirit of ELLE. As we expand across Asia Pacific, we remain focused on delivering owner value, guest delight, and long-term impact. This collaboration embodies our ambition to lead as the region’s most exciting alternative to traditional hotel chains.”

Chad Egan, CEO & Founder of Geonet, added “We are so excited to bring ELLE into this collaboration. It marks our first project together with the globally iconic brand. This is also our second collaboration with Cross Hotels & Resorts, which reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality assets. Backed by the global reach of Flight Centre Travel Group, Cross brings the operational focus and brand energy we were looking for. Together, we’re creating a bold new beachfront destination that speaks to style, connection, and commercial performance.”

Evan Burns, Country Manager – Indonesia for Cross Hotels & Resorts, added “ELLE Resort & Beach Club by Cross Collection is a fresh, magnetic addition to Seminyak, delivering the vibrancy of a modern beach club lifestyle with the comfort of a curated resort stay. We’re confident this property will set new benchmarks in Bali’s hospitality scene.”

With this signing, Cross Hotels & Resorts further strengthens its footprint in Indonesia, which includes an expanding portfolio of lifestyle-driven properties. Cross Hotels & Resorts operates five distinctive brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen and Cross Collection – across four countries: Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Japan.

Source

Phuket, Thailand, September 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Asia’s biggest sustainability event for tourism, PHIST 2025, broke records today with over 1,300 delegates from across the region as government and business leaders warned the hospitality industry to act fast on integrating community-driven sustainability into travel and tourism experiences to appeal to a new generation of visitors.

Hotels and tourism operators need to engage with local communities to enrich travel and tourism programmes and meet the changing preferences of travellers in order to drive visitor dwindling numbers and reboot Thailand’s flagging tourism industry, delegates heard.

Held at the Angsana Laguna Phuket resort, the 8th edition of Phuket Hotels for Islands Sustaining Tourism (PHIST) brought together hoteliers, policy makers and innovators for more than 25 hard-hitting sessions, alongside a sustainable fashion show, farm-to-table showcase and awards recognizing best practices.

In Phuket, the public and private sectors have collaborated very successfully in the past, such as with the Sandbox initiative establishing Phuket as the international entry point into Thailand during the Covid pandemic, and the industry is urging them to do so again.

Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat used his keynote address to call for stronger local governance and sustainable urban resort planning.

“Local power and lasting progress can be achieved if we focus on four key areas – green spaces, infrastructure, sustainability, and the move towards a Phuket Special Administrative Zone here. For example, a new community park at Layan Beach will be created to increase green space and help curb illegal construction,” he said. “Laguna Phuket group also contributed for a road.” William E. Heinecke, Chairman and Founder of Minor International, which operates 640 hotels in 65 countries, including more than 30 in Thailand, urged the private sector to deliver measurable results.

“Our framework at Minor is built on three pillars – People, Nature and Responsible Business. By 2030 we aim to support 3 million people through workforce development and community engagement,” he said, as he accepted the Green Giant Award for his leadership in sustainable business.

The bigger picture is that Thailand’s tourism industry is flagging and needs to pivot to re-energise its offering across the world.

“Thailand has a chance to reset,” said Mr. Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks and founding organiser of the event. “Community engagement and positive social outcomes have been left behind. This is the new battle ground for the industry.”

Organized by the Phuket Hotels Association, C9 Hotelworks and Greenview, PHIST 2025 underscored how sustainability has shifted from buzzword to business imperative in Asian tourism. With record attendance and a sharper focus on community impact, the message was clear: hotels can no longer thrive without helping their host communities do the same.

PHIST 2025 is proudly supported by Pan Pacific Hotels, Winnow, Luxury Escapes, Tuu, Delivering Asia, QUO, SaiYok Springs, and many of the region’s most forward-thinking hospitality brands.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, September 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The PATA Youth Symposium 2025, hosted by the International College for Sustainability Studies, Srinakharinwirot University (SWUIC) and in collaboration with Bangkok University International (BUI), brought together more than 100 youths and industry professionals to Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday, August 25.

As an embodiment of the Association’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry, the symposium ensured that young professionals are equipped with proper knowledge and tools that will help them navigate future careers.

“The symposium has been designed to equip young tourism professionals with the insights they need to prepare for the workforce,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “Beyond simply attending, youths are joining us as keynote speakers, panellists, and even moderators, sharing the stage with industry leaders and mentors. This demonstrates that building a sustainable future for our industry requires both sides to work together—exchanging ideas, wisdom, and practical approaches that shape how we view the workforce of tomorrow.”

He added, “On behalf of the Association, I extend my gratitude to our gracious host, Srinakharinwirot University, as well as to the speakers and all who contributed to making this symposium possible.

Thanakorn Thongprayoon, Dean of the International College for Sustainability Studies, Srinakharinwirot University, said, “At SWUIC, our mission is to nurture globally minded graduates who are not only career-ready, but also deeply committed to sustainability and inclusivity. It’s a privilege to host this inspiring event that aligns so closely with our core values. This symposium exemplifies our shared goal: to ignite new ideas, foster meaningful dialogue, and empower the next generation of tourism leaders.”

PATA Chair Peter Semone, who officiated the symposium alongside Thongprayoon, said, “PATA is committed to supporting this generation’s journey into the workforce by providing the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to excel and stay competitive in an ever-evolving industry. We are determined to open the hearts and minds of the younger generation, and showcase the tourism industry as one of the most dynamic and fast-moving service sectors that hold many rewarding opportunities for those who choose to build their careers in it.”

He added, “To the younger generation, my advice is to pursue what you love. With passion and dedication, you will certainly find your purpose and achieve meaningful success.”

Happenings at the PATA Youth Symposium 2025 @ PTM 2025

The Symposium opened with an inspiring virtual address by Sophia Montgomery, Physics Student at Harvard University and Paris 2024 Olympian in Women’s Dinghy Sailing. Sharing her personal journey, Sophia highlighted the importance of setting clear goals, committing fully, and developing action plans that sharpen one’s skills in order to achieve success.

The second session featured Jonathan Low, CEO of Global Success Learning Academy, who emphasised the importance of cultivating “G.R.I.T.” – Growth mindset, Resilience, Influence, and Trust – especially in times of uncertainty and rapid change. Challenges, he reminded the participants, should be viewed as opportunities for growth.

Shifting focus to career readiness, a panel discussion spotlighted young alumni who had successfully transitioned from university into the tourism industry. Moderated by Sirimada Siriwattanakarn, a fourth year student in BA Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Management from SWUIC, the session featured Napa Arunruakthavorn, Executive – Membership Relations, PATA, and Pitchakorn Pasookkamol, Talent Development Manager, Aman Nai Lert Bangkok. Both panellists shared practical advice, stressing the importance of networking, engaging with perspectives beyond one’s own generation, and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.

The afternoon programme turned to insights from industry professionals through two thought-provoking panels. The first, on hidden opportunities in the workforce, featured Mike Stewart, Regional General Manager South East Asia, Intrepid Travel; Elliot Laoroekutai, Digital Marketing Executive, iSanook Hotels & Resorts; and Kritsanee Srisatin, Founder & Managing Director, Stream Events Asia Ltd. and Vice President, Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA). The panellists advised youth to seek organisations that align with their values, understand their unique contributions, and embrace mentoring as a way to stay relevant in a fast-evolving industry. Stewart also shared Intrepid’s practice of reverse mentoring, where junior staff provide fresh perspectives to senior leadership, ensuring that traditional approaches are constantly challenged.

The second panel, moderated by Jeffrey David Wright, a fourth year student in BA Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Management at SWUIC, provided practical recruitment insights. Nicha Ratanakul, Senior Manager – Human Resources, Dusit International, and Pirasak Momin, Owner-Representative & Senior Consultant to Owner/CEO, PROMM Hospitality Group, discussed what recruiters look for in young candidates. They highlighted the importance of attitude and interpersonal skills, as well as preparation strategies to help fresh graduates stand out during interviews.

To complement the panels, Marriott International and PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter conducted two interactive student workshops, offering participants hands-on learning experiences. These included guidance on preparing for job interviews, understanding recruiter expectations, and mock interview sessions featuring representatives from student chapters who practised responding to questions that are often encountered in job interviews.

Source