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Bangkok, Thailand, August 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok is delighted to announce its recognition as one of the Trip.Best Global 100 Gourmet Hotels 2025, a prestigious accolade awarded by Trip.com Group to the world’s leading culinary destinations.

The Trip.Best Global 100 rankings celebrate excellence across the travel and hospitality industry, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver outstanding experiences. The Global 100 Gourmet Hotel category recognizes properties offering world-class dining, exceptional gastronomy, and innovative culinary journeys that resonate with both local and international guests.

Located along the legendary Chao Phraya River, Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok is home to four signature restaurants – Feast, Thara Thong, Giorgio’s, and Siam Yacht Club – each showcasing distinctive flavors from around the globe. From authentic Thai heritage cuisine and Italian specialties to premium international buffets and riverside grill & bar concepts, the hotel provides a diverse and memorable dining journey.

“We are truly honored to be named among the Trip.Best Global 100 Gourmet Hotels 2025,” said Kristian Petersen, General Manager of Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok. “This recognition is a testament to the passion and creativity of our culinary team, who continue to elevate dining experiences by blending authentic flavors, premium ingredients, and the unparalleled atmosphere of our riverside location.”

The award also highlights Royal Orchid Sheraton’s commitment to positioning Bangkok as a global culinary destination. With its riverfront ambiance, world-class service, and innovative dining concepts, the hotel continues to delight travelers and locals alike.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the beginning of a year-long campaign to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of its founding. The announcement — featuring the screening of a short video briefly showcasing PATA’s past and revealing the 75th Anniversary logo and theme — was officially made at the PATA Knowledge Forum 2025 on August 26 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok, Thailand, in conjunction with the PATA Travel Mart 2025 (PTM 2025).

In his announcement speech, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said, “Seventy-four years ago, our founders came together when the world longed for peace, healing, and hope. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to use travel as a bridge between cultures, as a pathway to prosperity, and as a passport to peace. That vision continues to guide us today, reminding us that the work we do is not just about tourism, but about connecting people and creating understanding across borders.”

He added, “It is in that same spirit — honoring the founders’ vision and embracing our ongoing mission — that I am delighted to officially launch the celebrations for PATA’s 75th Anniversary in 2026.”

Under the theme, “From Vision to Legacy: PATA at 75,” the Anniversary marks a significant point in time in PATA’s journey, celebrating the Association’s role in fostering responsible and sustainable tourism development across the Asia Pacific region and its future-forward commitment to actively evolve alongside the sector’s ever-changing priorities with a focus on innovation, collaboration, and adaptability.

To engage its community in the celebration, PATA has launched a special webpage under the title “Lost in Time, Found by You: Your Memories Complete the Picture.” The page features a digitised collection of historical photos selected from the Association’s archives. As many of these images remain unidentified, PATA invites members, partners, and all interested parties to share any information that could help identify the people, places, or moments captured in the photos. Visitors are also encouraged to upload their own photos, stories, and memories related to PATA through the same platform.

Beyond this interactive feature, the 75th Anniversary will be celebrated throughout the year, with special activities at the PATA booth during PTM 2025. The campaign will then take full shape with its official launch at the PATA Annual Summit 2026, taking place in May across the cities of Gyeongju and Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Korea (ROK).

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 25, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / To honour the ultimate sacrifice of Thai soldiers who gave their lives defending the nation, leading private sector organizations, renowned artists, top restaurants, and five-star hotels have joined forces to launch the “Cherish Our Nation” project. The initiative seeks to raise funds in support of families of fallen soldiers and provide essential equipment to the Royal Thai Army. The project is chaired by Khun Supaluck Umpujh, Chairwoman of The Mall Group, with Khun Nuntiya Intralib as organiser.

The press conference was held on 14th August 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Sphere Hall, 5th Floor, EMSPHERE, featuring an address by Major General Phiphat Jongwattanapaisarn, Director of the Directorate of Civil Affairs, Royal Thai Army, moderated by Khun Varin Sachdev.  Khun Nuntiya announced the main charity gala dinner to be held on 26th August 2025 at 6:00 p.m., at Sphere Hall, EMSPHERE, with leading restaurants and five-star hotels presenting exclusive menus. All proceeds will be donated in full to the Sai Jai Thai Foundation under the Royal Patronage.

Khun Supaluck Umpujh, Chairperson of Cherish Our Nation, stated: “Love, Peace, and Unity reflect harmony across all nations and religions. True leadership is about sacrifice, not power. No one should be forgotten—especially those who gave their lives for the country. This charity is a bridge of compassion for the families of fallen soldiers, as we believe in doing what is right for society and our nation. Thailand has never been colonised, and we take pride in our independence and unity.”

Khun Nuntiya Intralib added:  “This project reflects the collective will of Thai people to honor the sacrifice of our brave soldiers. Their families deserve lasting care and support. Beyond fundraising, this initiative raises awareness of the true value of those who gave their lives for the nation. We are proud to be part of extending encouragement to soldiers along the border.”

Khun Anucha Semarat, Committee Member and Assistant Manager of the Sai Jai Thai Foundation, remarked:  “This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Foundation. For five decades, we have supported soldiers, police officers, and volunteers who were injured, disabled, or killed in the line of duty. Currently, we care for more than 3,300 disabled veterans.”

In his keynote, Major General Phiphat Jongwattanapaisarn emphasised:  “Stories of ‘Cherish Our Nation’ inspire every Thai citizen. Our mission is to uphold the honour and dignity of those who protect the country. The realisation of this project is a source of pride and encouragement for both the military and the public. We will also continue to drive the ‘Gratitude Club,’ a collaboration with universities to instill gratitude among Thai youth towards four pillars: Parents, Teachers and Educational Institutions, Nation, and the Monarchy.”

The public is invited to join this meaningful initiative and contribute to support the families of fallen soldiers. All proceeds will be donated to the Sai Jai Thai Foundation under the Royal Patronage, without deduction.

This project is supported by The Mall Group, Pochanand Co., Ltd., Foie Gras Queen, the Royal Thai Army, the National Defence College Alumni Association, R.P. Media Group Co., Ltd., and Sunthorn Film Co., Ltd.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 23, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (RBSO), in memory of King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, presents Musical Friendship — an exciting evening of music on Thursday, September 4th, 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre. This special concert is held in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture, and supported by B.Grimm.

Under the baton of returning conductor, Maestro Douglas Bostock, this concert begins with Johannes Brahms’ Piano Concerto No.2 in B-flat major, featuring the guest pianist Oliver Schnyder, the founder of Oliver Schnyder Trio which released its first CD in 2013. Born in 1973, Oliver Schnyder made his debut in the Kennedy Centre after winning the Grand Prize in the Pembaur Competition.

Since winning the Grand Prize at the Pembaur Competition in Berne (1999) and making his debuts at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. (2000) and with the Tonhalle Orchestra under David Zinman (2002, Orpheum Young Soloists on Stage), he has performed in many of the most renowned concert halls across Europe, North America, and Asia. He collaborated with Maestro Douglas Bostock for the Camille Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. 2 recording. This concert not only celebrates the 3 years friendship between the RBSO and Maestro Douglas Bostock, but also the special friendship between the two artists.

The next half of the concert went back in time, recognizing the unique friendship between Johannes Brahms and Antonín Dvořák, featuring Dvořák’s Symphony No.6 in D major. The mentorship began after the Austrian State Stipendium, where Brahms was impressed by Dvořák’s compositions, including the iconic Hungarian Dances. Brahms had no formal students, but his mentorship to Dvořák has significantly affected Dvořák’s style, contributing to the legend of all time. Despite this Symphony No.6 has similarities with Brahms Symphony No. 2, Dvořák used his own voice and became one of the greatest in Czech Romanticism.

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Phuket, Thailand, August 23, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, invites discerning travelers to experience refined island living where the cultural richness of the Andaman and a deep commitment to sustainability come together in perfect harmony. Situated on a private island in the Andaman Sea and proudly certified with 3 Leaves by the Green Leaf Foundation, this secluded five-star sanctuary offers a serene escape that honors nature, heritage, and mindful luxury in every detail.

At The Naka Island, Phuket, sustainability is not just a commitment, it’s a way of life. Powered by solar energy and free from single-use plastics, the resort actively preserves its pristine surroundings through weekly shoreline clean-ups and eco-conscious practices. Aligned with Marriott International’s Serve360 vision, The Naka Island, Phuket strives to meet ambitious 2025 Sustainability & Social Impact goals while fostering meaningful community connections.

A dedicated ferry links associates and villagers to the mainland, ensuring seamless connectivity, while the Naka School Community Outreach Program nurtures young minds through creative collaboration and language development, inviting guests to participate in this enriching journey. Visitors can also support local craftsmanship by taking home exquisite handwoven Kajood Beach Bags from Phatthalung, with proceeds directly benefiting the artisans and their communities.

Life on Naka Yai Island invites guests to forge a deep connection with the land, sea, and its vibrant community. Paddle serene mangrove waterways by kayak, discovering exotic birdlife, or join expert-led excursions to spot over fifty native species that inhabit the island.

Through the Destination Discovery program, the Naka Garden tour reveals a fragrant world of tropical flowers, aromatic herbs, and indigenous plants, while the resort’s Epicurean Program offers intimate Thai cooking classes that celebrate authentic flavors crafted from locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques.

At Spa Naka, the signature Indigenous Massage blends the healing power of native herbs with ancient methods to restore balance and vitality. Guests can also enjoy a sauna, steam room, and ice room, alongside rejuvenating yoga sessions or the soothing resonance of Tibetan singing bowls for a truly holistic escape.

As dusk descends, The Naka Island’s Sunset Ceremony offers a captivating close to the day. Rooted in local folklore of mythical dragons and spirits awakening at twilight, this seafront candle-lighting ritual invites guests to pause, reflect, and connect with the island’s rich cultural heritage beneath a sky painted in radiant hues of gold and crimson.

Whether arriving for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a soulful solo retreat, guests at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, discover a stay that leaves a lighter footprint on the planet while creating unforgettable memories. Here, sustainability is not just preserved—it is lived, celebrated, and shared.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 21, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Mezzaluna by lebua, the acclaimed two-Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant perched on the 65th floor of lebua, announces an exclusive collaboration with HeavenSake, the prestigious Franco-Japanese sake brand founded by legendary French cellar master Régis Camus. This one-night-only event will take place on Tuesday, 2 September 2025, offering an elevated six-course tasting menu paired with rare, artisanal sakes from HeavenSake’s award-winning portfolio.

This bespoke dinner will showcase the innovative concept of assemblage, introduced to sake by Régis Camus—renowned for his expertise as an eight-time IWC Winemaker of the Year. The menu is meticulously crafted by Chef Ryuki Kawasaki, whose culinary philosophy harmoniously blends classic French technique with refined Japanese precision, reflecting the essence of Mezzaluna’s dining experience.

Guests will begin their evening with tray-passed canapés, accompanied by a sake cocktail crafted with Label 12 Regis Camus x Konishi, Junmai. The journey continues with six signature courses, each paired with a unique expression from the HeavenSake collection:

• Canapes
  Madako Beignet, Kanzuri Puree
  Tomato Sable, Goat Cheese, Iwashi, Thai Basil
  Avocado Tartlet, Aori Ika, Yuzukosho
  Label 12 Regis Camus x Konishi, Junmai
• Somen Noodle
  Tsubugai, Cucumber, Shiso, Oscietra Caviar
  Label Azur Regis Camus x Dewazakura, Junmai Ginjo
• Foie Gras Chawanmushi
  Sweet Corn, Iberico Ham Dashi
  Label Orange Regis Camus x Urakasumi, Junmai Daiginjo
• Seared Sanriku Scallop
  Truffle Risotto, Bafun Uni Bisque
  Prestige II Regis Camus x Niizawa
• Grilled Tachiuo
  Scabbardfish, Zucchini Flower, Mussels, Saffron Nage
• Charcoal Grilled Niigata Murakami Beef
  Smoked Eel, Eggplant, Fushimi Pepper, Black Garlic
  Prestige I Regis Camus x Noguchi Naohiko
• Watermelon Cheesecake
  Umeboshi, Red shiso
• Kholo Tan Yong Dark Chocolate 80%
  Raspberry, Sansho Pepper
  Label Noir Regis Camus x Dewazakura, Jummai Daiginjo

Each sake is crafted in collaboration with some of Japan’s most esteemed breweries, including Dewazakura, Noguchi Naohiko Sake Institute, Niizawa, and Urakasumi.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, 2 September 2025
Venue: Mezzaluna, 65th Floor, lebua at State Tower
Time: Dinner starts at 18:30 hrs
Capacity: Limited to 30 guests
Price: THB 12,000++ per person
(Subject to 10% service charge and 7% VAT)

Reservations and Inquiries
Phone: +66 (0)2 624 9555
Email: dome[@]lebua[.]com
Seating is limited. Advance reservations are highly recommended.

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Singapore, August 21, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / From AI to sustainability, Asia’s leading travel trade show, will unite industry leaders from global players such as Frasers Hospitality, Jack Morton, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and many more in Singapore to shape the next chapter of global travel and tourism. Taking place 15 – 17 October 2025 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, the conference will run parallel with ITB Asia, MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia under the theme “Future Forward: Transforming Travel & Tourism in a Changing World”.

Organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, the ITB Asia 2025 Conference will deliver three days of curated content across three specialised stages – the Knowledge Theatre, MICE Show Asia Theatre, and Travel Tech Asia Theatre – exploring how the travel and tourism industry can build a more agile, inclusive future and equip itself for what lies ahead.

“In times of rapid change, ITB Asia serves as an important platform for the global travel community to exchange ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and develop strategies for the future. “Future Forward” highlights our focus on harnessing technology, advancing sustainability, and reimagining the traveller experience to turn challenges into opportunities,” said Darren Seah, Executive Director, Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, the organiser of ITB Asia.

Opening Keynotes from Global Leaders

The event will open with Michael Shoory, Head of APAC Tourism Analysis at Tourism Economics, who will present an in-depth outlook on travel to and within the APAC region, highlighting changes in traveller source markets, the future of business and MICE travel, and the economic forces shaping demand. He will be followed by Nick Lim, CEO (Asia) of The Travel Corporation, who will share forward-looking perspectives on how travel experiences in Asia are evolving in response to shifting expectations, cultural dynamics, and innovations in the sector.

Conference Highlights by Stage

Knowledge Theatre

This stage brings together C-suite executives and senior leaders to address strategic industry issues and share their vision for the future of the travel and tourism sector. Sarah Wang, Regional Director for Asia at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), will discuss key drivers of growth in the Asia Pacific travel economy, focusing on evolving traveller preferences and opportunities for market expansion. Todd Handcock, Global Chief Commercial Officer and Asia Pacific Executive Chair at Collinson International, and Katrina Nicholas, Asia Transport Team Leader and Deputy Managing Editor for Global Business, Bloomberg, will reveal findings from the “2025 Asia Pacific Consumer Happiness Report” and explain how travel can enhance happiness, build brand loyalty, and create lifetime customer value. Chew Hang Song, Chief Operating Officer at Frasers Hospitality, will explore how the hospitality sector can respond to growing demands for personalised, seamless, and tech enabled experiences while balancing technological innovation with human service.

MICE Show Asia Theatre

The MICE Show Asia Theatre will spotlight the latest developments in business events, corporate travel, and meetings innovation. Vishal Sawant, Chief Experience Officer for India at ATPI, and Sheryn Sethoe, Head of MICE – Asia at ATPI, will discuss how Asia’s business travel sector can integrate smart technology without losing the human touch. Eugene Ng, Senior Vice President and Executive Creative Director for Asia at Jack Morton Worldwide, will share strategies for crafting immersive, multisensory event experiences that captivate audiences. Ilaria Cicero, CEO of IEG Asia, and Errol Lim, COO of Jublia, will explore how networking in MICE events is evolving from traditional exchanges to purposeful connections that drive ROI and create meaningful experiences for attendees.

Travel Tech Asia Theatre

At the Travel Tech Asia Theatre, industry innovators will discuss the technologies redefining tourism. Masahiro Yamashita, Senior Director for APAC at KAYAK, will explain how generative AI is reshaping travel engagement and personalisation. Scott Krivokopich, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at 1982 Ventures, will share insights into how venture capital is identifying and investing in the most promising travel tech innovations, from AI trip planning to borderless mobility solutions. Léa Vernet, Vice President of Partnerships & Connectivity at D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions, will provide practical examples of how strong partnerships and connectivity can transform hospitality ecosystems, delivering greater agility and enhanced guest experiences.

Partnerships Driving Industry Knowledge

The ITB Asia 2025 Conference is powered by strong collaborations with some of the world’s most influential travel and tourism organisations, underlining the event’s position as the leading knowledge-exchange platform for the industry. These strategic partners not only lend credibility and expertise, but also actively shape the content, share the latest insights, and spark thought-provoking discussions that will influence the future of global tourism.

Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA): As the leading voice for the adventure travel community, ATTA will deliver dedicated sessions on emerging adventure travel trends, sustainability, and innovation. Attendees can also join the popular AdventureCONNECT networking hour, designed to foster meaningful partnerships among adventure travel stakeholders.

Global MICE Collaborative: With its deep expertise in exhibitions, meetings, and incentive travel, the Collaborative will provide exclusive updates on the MICE sector’s evolution. It will once again host the MICE Fundamentals certificate programme, equipping professionals with essential knowledge to thrive in this dynamic field.

Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC): Championing responsible and sustainable tourism worldwide, GSTC will lead sessions on best practices and frameworks to integrate sustainability into business and MICE operations, offering attendees actionable strategies for long-term impact.

STR: Renowned for its market intelligence, STR will provide a data-driven outlook on hotel performance across Southeast Asia. In addition, STR experts will moderate the high-profile Hotel Leaders’ Panel, sparking dialogue among hospitality executives on opportunities and challenges shaping the industry.

Tourism Economics: A key knowledge partner, Tourism Economics will deliver in-depth analysis of APAC travel trends, spotlighting shifts in traveller behaviour, demand drivers, and macroeconomic influences impacting the sector.

Uncommon Conferences: Joining as a new partner in 2025, Uncommon Conferences will lead interactive sessions on event innovation, equipping organisers with creative strategies to design more impactful, engaging experiences.

World Research Travel Organisation (WRTO): Another new partner this year, WRTO will host sessions on the growing educational travel sector, offering insights into how research-driven tourism can shape cultural exchange and learning opportunities worldwide.

For more information on ITB Asia 2025 events and conferences, visit the official site or view the speaker list. Get all-access trade visitor pass at Early Bird rate and attend all conference sessions by registering through the designated platform.

Media Registration Now Open

Media professionals are invited to apply for accreditation now. The online pre-registration closes on 13 October 2025 at 12:00 pm GMT +8, and on-site accreditation will not be offered. All media applications are subject to approval by the ITB Asia press team.

For further information on ITB Asia 2025, please contact the media team. We look forward to welcoming you to Singapore this October.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok proudly introduces a new chapter of riverside wellness with the launch of its monthly wellness series, beginning with “Yoga in the Garden – Into the Nature Flow” on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM in the hotel’s lush riverside garden.

This inaugural edition brings together leading wellness and beauty experts — Absolute, Sulwhasoo, and Mandara Spa — for a morning of mindful movement, self-care, and healthy indulgence.

The program begins with a a 15-minute rejuvenating self-acupressure ritual inspired by Sulwhasoo’s Concentrated Ginseng expertise led by Sulwhasoo experts, followed by a rejuvenating gentle yoga flow led by Kru Big from Absolute. With over two decades of expertise, Absolute is Thailand’s leading name in yoga, Pilates, and Rhythm Cycling—renowned for its signature programs that strengthen both body and mind. Set against the calming backdrop of the Chao Phraya River, the class is designed to reconnect guests with nature through breath, movement, and mindful awareness.

Following the session, guests are invited to a wellness social session featuring wholesome wellness snacks and refreshing detox juices curated by the hotel’s culinary team. The morning will also include exclusive goodie bags and lucky draw prizes from all partners, adding an element of excitement to the serene experience.

The Yoga in the Garden series will continue on a monthly basis, with rotating partners and fresh wellness experiences, reinforcing Royal Orchid Sheraton’s commitment to becoming Bangkok’s riverside destination for holistic well-being and mindful living.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025

Time: 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Venue: Riverside Garden, Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok

For more information and upcoming wellness events, please contact:

Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok

Tel: +66 2266 0123

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 21, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today revealed the complete programme for PATA Travel Mart 2025 (PTM 2025), set to be organised at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Bangkok, Thailand, from August 26 – 28. Beyond its core B2B travel mart, expected to host professionals from over 500 organisations, the three-day event features a one-day Knowledge Forum, the PATA Gold Awards 2025 Gala Dinner, and numerous business networking opportunities.

“PATA Travel Mart is designed to bring together the heart of the Asia Pacific tourism industry, but it is only through the united efforts of industry leaders from both the private and public sectors that meaningful connections can be created – connections that inspire growth and collaboration among buyers, exhibitors, and all participants,” stated PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

He added, “I look forward to welcoming delegates from across the region and beyond to what promises to be a productive business event here in Thailand.”

Programme Key Highlight

Prior to the official opening of the Mart, PATA will organise the PATA Youth Symposium 2025 at Srinakharinwirot University on August 25. The PATA Executive Board Meeting will convene that afternoon, bringing together the organisation’s leading voices, followed by the full-day PATA Board Meeting on August 26.

Under the theme, “Designing Meaningful Tourism for a Changing World,” the PATA Knowledge Forum 2025 will run concurrently with the official first day of the event on August 26. At the beginning of the forum, Sharzede Datu Haji Askor, CEO of the Sarawak Tourism Board, will join the stage to officially introduce Sarawak, Malaysia, as the host destination of the PATA Travel Mart 2026.

This full-day conference will feature presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions on emerging markets, the perspectives of young tourism professionals, inclusivity in tourism, travel technology, and key trends shaping the travel and tourism sectors.

Distinguish speakers of the Forum:

• Alex Rayner, Executive Board Member, PATA
• Aung Zwe Wint, Assistant Advisor, PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter and Intern, PATA
• Chiranan Kunpalin, Senior Client Partnerships Lead, Google, Thailand
• Cindy Lui, Vice President of Resort Sales, MGM
• Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO, Jim Thompson
• Frederic Vanhoutte, President, Eventiz
• Jane Park, Assistant Manager – F&B Revenue Management & Operations, Hotel ICON and 2024 PATA Face of the Future
• Jason Wang, COO, Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF); Executive Director, Global Tourism Economy Research Centre
• John Williams, Vice President – Asia, Advertising Sales, BBC Studios Asia
• Jonathan Low, CEO, Global Success Learning Academy
• Mark Halberstein, CEO, Simplenight
• Martin Venzky-Stalling, Director, Ennova Partners
• Mayur Patel, Head of Asia, OAG
• Mike Stewart, Regional General Manager Southeast Asia, Intrepid
• Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA
• Parth Patnaik, Membership Manager – India & Asia, International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA)
• Peter Semone, Chairman, PATA
• Phattra Jungpol, B2B Partnership Director – APAC, Holafly Limited
• Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Georg Arlt, Executive Director, Meaningful Tourism Centre
• Puripan Bunnag, Senior Vice President, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB)
• Roni Weiss, Executive Director, Travel Unity
• Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board
• Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA)
• Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand
• Thet Hnin Ko Ko (Alice), Hospitality Management Student, Dusit Thani College
• Thomas Pellegrin, Asia Pacific Aviation Leader, Deloitte
• Xiaodong Ji, Chairman, China Chamber of Tourism
• Xiaolong Yang, Counsellor (Cultural Affairs), Embassy of the PRC in Thailand
• Yang Li, Head of Public Affairs, APAC, Booking[dot]com
• Yeji Cho, Korea Tourism Organization and 2025 PATA Face of the Future

Following the Forum, the day will conclude with a Welcome Reception hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

On August 27, the second day of the exhibition, industry and media delegates are invited to attend the Opening Ceremony at 10:00 AM Bangkok time. The ceremony will be followed by a VIP tour of the Mart led by Mr Hamid.

That evening, the PATA Gold Awards 2025 Gala Dinner, sponsored by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), will be held to honour 20 award winners for their outstanding achievements across two key categories: Marketing and Sustainability & Social Responsibility.

From August 27 to 28, business and open hall sessions will provide extensive opportunities for networking and collaboration between buyers and sellers. Additionally, on the final day of the exhibition, Trade Visitors will be granted the opportunity to attend the Mart and participate in a variety of activities.

For the full programme, visit PATA’s official website.

The Cvent Event App will launch on August 21, allowing PTM 2025 delegates to stay updated on the programme, schedule appointments with industry professionals, and ensure a seamless event experience.

PATA Travel Mart 2025 is proudly supported by Official Airline Partner, Thai Airways; Welcome Reception Sponsor, Tourism Authority of Thailand; PTM Coffee Break & Knowledge Forum Lunch Sponsor, Sarawak Tourism Board; Gold Awards Gala Dinner Sponsor, Macao Government Tourism Office; PATA Knowledge Forum Sponsor, Holafly Limited; PTM Strategic Sponsor, China National Tourist Office in Bangkok; Official Online Hotel Booking, HotelPlanner; Event Tech Partners, Cvent and Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau; Supporting Partners, RX Global and Trends; Sponsor, Candela Technology AB; and Official Publication of PTM Daily, TTG Asia Media.

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Washington D.C., USA, August 21, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is proud to launch its first global digital travel series, Travel Redefined: Tourism for People and Planet, in partnership with Content With Purpose, the strategic content creator that empowers sustainable development.

As the world embarks on a new era of travel, this dynamic new digital film series supports the urgent need – and growing momentum – for sustainability practices in tourism worldwide. Travel Redefined takes an in-depth look into how sustainable and regenerative tourism supports people, planet, and prosperity by sharing real stories and expert insights from inspiring people and organisations around the world. Travel Redefined will be available to stream online from 6:00AM GMT, August 19, 2025.

With global tourism making a full recovery – the World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism reported that in Q1 2025, international tourist arrivals grew 5 percent compared to 2024, putting the industry on track to reach a new record this year – there is an urgency to rethink how the industry operates. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and overtourism are pressing challenges that demand action now. This landmark digital series is a global call to action to build awareness of tourism’s potential to create positive social, cultural, environmental, and economic change. From policymakers, industry leaders, travellers, and changemakers – it’s an invitation to see how tourism can always be part of the solution.

Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC, said, “Travel Redefined is a powerful reminder that every journey holds the potential to leave a positive legacy.” He added, “Many of the featured stories come from GSTC Members who are already putting these values into practice. They serve as real-world examples of what’s possible when sustainability is placed at the heart of tourism.”

Filmed across six continents, solely using local film crews to minimise travel and production emissions, the ambitious series spanned over 50 filming days to create 24 cinematic short films, 22 thought leadership videos, 10 expert interviews and three case studies. All of the films in the series showcase sustainable best practice and examine the role of tourism in promoting biodiversity conservation, carbon reductions, green mobility, responsible waste practices, equitable economic development, cultural preservation, and accessible experiences.

Max Smith, Founder and Managing Director at Content With Purpose, said, “We have embedded sustainability into every step, reflecting our environmental commitments, from using local crews to telling real-life stories that empower communities and protect the planet – proving that a flourishing, sustainable industry isn’t a distant vision. It’s happening right now, and we all have a role to play in this transformation.”

From the coasts of California to community-led conservation in The Philippines, Travel Redefined takes viewers on a journey across continents to meet pioneers who are radically re-thinking tourism to make it work for people and the planet.

Key sustainability themes covered in the short films include:

• Rebuilding with roots: how mangroves and tourism are restoring The Bahamas – The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
• How social media and digital detox are shaping the future of travel – University of Greenwich
• Developing a new destination responsibly in Finland’s Turku Archipelago – Visit Turku Archipelago
• How community tourism can help protect the Amazon and preserve indigenous culture – G Adventures

This is just a small insight into the wide-ranging series. Begin your journey.

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