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Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique, August 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Pambele, a private beachfront house on the coastline of the San Sebastian Peninsula – has unveiled a refreshed brand identity – positioning itself as an exclusive barefoot-luxury destination for discerning travellers.

With its prime location in the Bazaruto Archipelago, within the Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary, and a renewed commitment to bespoke travel – Pambele is emerging as Mozambique’s best-kept barefoot luxury secret.  

Owned by the same conservation-minded family behind Botswana’s renowned Mashatu Game Reserve, Pambele combines the privacy of a fully staffed coastal home with the authentic charm of Mozambique’s pristine and unspoiled coastline.

The newly relaunched Pambele offers exclusive-use stays, welcoming up to ten guests across five sea-facing en-suite villas. The open-plan living spaces, private sunbathing decks, and spacious outdoor area blends with the natural surroundings to create a seamless indoor-outdoor experience, all with uninterrupted ocean views and direct beach access. Nested between untouched coastal forest and turquoise waters facing the famed Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, Pambele’s setting is both secluded and spectacular.

“Guests wake to the sound of waves with the ocean and soft sand just steps away – to enjoy 200 metres of beachfront where they can walk for kilometres during low tide, spot flamingos feeding in the shallows, appreciate the authentic Mozambican Dhows sailing by or simply savour the tranquil rhythm of coastal living.” – Zoe Dednam, Operations Manager.  

Daily land and sea-based activities are included in every stay – from snorkelling, seasonal whale watching, kayaking, island picnics, birding, beach walks, and fishing trips aboard Pambele’s dedicated motorized catamaran. Freshly caught seafood is often prepared that same day by the house chef — sea to plate at its finest.  

Watch their video here.  Mozambique’s best-kept barefoot luxury secret!

With décor and design inspired and sourced by local artisans, and a solar-powered and natural water filtration system, guests’ off-the-grid stays are both authentic to Mozambique and environmentally conscious. The dedicated local team is always on hand, offering intuitive, personalised service, ensuring every moment is tailored to guests’ pace and preferences.  

Conrad Dednam, General Manager shared: “Pambele reflects its owners’ shared values of responsible travel, community upliftment, and conservation-first tourism. Pambele isn’t just a house on the beach. It’s a place to reconnect with nature, with each other, and with a quieter, more grounding pace of life.” 

 

Guests can fly into Vilanculos International Airport (VNX) via daily flights from Johannesburg with Airlink. From there, guests take a 45-minute boat ride or a 7-minute scenic helicopter charter straight to Pambele Beach House. Pambele’s General Manager personally welcomes guests upon arrival, ensuring a warm and seamless transition.  

Whether packaged with Mashatu as a safari-and-sea experience, or as a stand-alone destination for groups seeking seaside privacy and tranquillity, Pambele offers something rare: the luxury to create your perfect day – every day. 

Pambele is now open for group bookings year-round (excluding February).

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok is delighted to announce the appointment of Kristian Petersen as General Manager, effective 4 August 2025.

A veteran hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience with Marriott International, Kristian brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, pre-opening strategy, and brand transformation across Asia Pacific and Europe.

Kristian most recently served as General Manager of Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, where he led Marriott’s largest resort conversion project in APEC, successfully repositioning the 1,690-key property as a flagship destination on Vietnam’s coastline. Prior to this, he was at the helm of the award-winning JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, where his Ridgeback Team was named Best JW Marriott Hotel Worldwide in 2022.

His career has also included leadership roles in Greater China, including General Manager of JW Marriott Changfeng Park and Courtyard by Marriott Changfeng Park, Shanghai, as well as Area Director of Operations for East China, overseeing 23 Marriott properties across multiple premium brands.

Kristian is recognized for his visionary leadership, operational excellence, and deep focus on guest satisfaction and associate engagement. His appointment marks a new chapter of growth and innovation for Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok — a landmark riverfront property known for its timeless hospitality, prime location, and expansive meeting facilities.

“I am honored to join the team at Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok,” said Petersen. “This hotel is not only iconic in Bangkok’s hospitality landscape, but also holds immense potential for the future. I look forward to working closely with our talented team and esteemed partners to deliver exceptional guest experiences and drive continued success.”

Outside of work, Kristian enjoys traveling and is an avid collector of vintage treasures from the 1920s to 1970s.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 16, 2025 /TRAVELINDEX / Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, the bold lifestyle hotel located in the heart of Bangkok’s dynamic Ratchaprasong district, is inviting travelers from around the globe to embark on a one-of-a-kind cultural journey through the city’s most iconic spiritual landmarks. Known as the “10 Spiritual Gems in Ratchaprasong,” this walking route offers visitors a chance to explore ten revered shrines — each believed to grant unique blessings — while immersing themselves in the dynamic energy of one of Bangkok’s most exciting neighborhoods.

From the Ganesha Shrine and Trimurti Shrine at CentralWorld, said to inspire creativity and love, to the Lakshmi Shrine for wealth at Gaysorn Village rooftop and the world-famous Erawan Shrine for prosperity and health, every stop offers a window into Thailand’s rich spiritual traditions. Other highlights include the Brahma Shrine at The Market Bangkok, the Umathevi and Shiva Shrines at BIG C Ratchadamri, the Jatulokbal Shrine for protection, the Narayana on Garuda Shrine at InterContinental Bangkok, and the Indra Shrine at Gaysorn Amarin. All are just steps from the hotel — no transport needed.

To make the experience even more rewarding, the hotel’s Stay Longer, Save More promotion invites guests to stay 5 nights or more and enjoy 10% off room rates plus an additional 20% off food and beverages at Moxy Bar & Restaurant. The offer includes flexible cancellation and is available for stays from now to December 23, 2025, using promotional code LTS. Book now.

Beyond its location, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong is a hub for socializing and dining. Moxy Bar & Restaurant, located on the 9th floor, offers comfort food, creative small plates, and signature drinks in a lively café-style setting — perfect after a day of exploring. Guests can savor the Moxy Backyard BBQ, a weekend grill experience on the terrace with city views (or indoors if the weather turns), or enjoy Moxy: We’ve Got Brunch!, a vibrant Saturday brunch featuring live DJ beats, fresh café-style fare, and sparkling beverages.

Perfectly placed opposite CentralWorld and minutes from both Chit Lom and Siam BTS Skytrain stations, the hotel offers easy access to Bangkok’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife. Featuring 504 smartly designed rooms, vibrant communal spaces, a playful social atmosphere, and a soon-to-open rooftop bar with panoramic city views, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong blends international style with local character — making it an ideal base for travelers seeking both adventure and comfort.

International guests can maximize their stay by joining Marriott Bonvoy for free, unlocking exclusive member rates, perks, and points redeemable at thousands of Marriott hotels worldwide.

For reservations or inquiries, call +66 2 209

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London, United Kingdom, August 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Hotelplanner, a leading travel technology platform and hotel booking engine, today announced that the Progress Tour, the UK’s leading independent transitional tour for new Tennis stars, will be renamed the HotelPlanner Tour.

The five-year agreement will see a £250,000 annual increase to the tours prize fund with Great Britain Davis Cup Winner and ATP World Top 20 professional player Dan Evans, acting as The Hotelplanner Tour’s brand ambassador.

This extends Hotel Planner’s existing investment in tennis and will enable the Tour to provide an improved service to its members, fans and athletes across the network. Hotelplanner will provide participants with great hotel rates for national and international travel, player hospitality and voucher prizes: “Hotelplanner’s tech opens hotel doors for millions of travellers each year. It’s great to be opening the doors for the best up and coming Tennis players”, said Tim Hentschel, CEO, Hotelplanner.

“I’m excited to welcome HotelPlanner on board as title sponsor of the tour as we embark on this new chapter”, said Barry  Fulcher, Founder and Director of the Tour.

“As with the Progress Tour, the newly named HotelPlanner tour will continue to provide first class playing experiences and earning opportunities for those players looking to progress their tennis careers and transition to the professional game”, he added.

The Progress Tour was set up in 2017 to give aspiring British players more earning opportunity on home soil. Since its inception, the tour has seen over 6,000 players take part in over 18,000 level-based and progressive matches, and paid out over £1.3m in prize money, all of which has been independently sourced, and privately funded. This years Wimbledon Championships saw over 30 former Progress Tour players and champions compete across Men’s and Women’s events. The motivation for the tour stems from a belief that we need to provide more and better opportunities for transitioning players to earn prize money and player support whilst competing domestically.

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Pattaya, Thailand, August 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Pattaya Hotel has unveiled a ‘hotel within a hotel’ called The Level that sets apart 38 rooms and suites as well as a private lounge and a host of bespoke privileges.

Housed on the upper floors of the new 12-story hotel in vibrant Pattaya, ‘The Level Premium Sea View’, ‘The Level One Bedroom Suite’, ‘The Level Two Bedroom Suite’, ‘The Level Connecting Suite’ and ‘The Level Presidential Suite’ are 31sqm, 61sqm, 90sqm, 88sqm, and 125sqm respectively and all afford spectacular sea views.

Guests staying in The Level experience an upgraded level of service and benefits, such as exclusive access to second floor executive lounge The Level Lounge, open 6.30am until 8pm, which offers all-day snacks and beverages.

A private breakfast service from 6.30-11am, cocktails and aperitifs canapes from 5.30pm until 7.30pm, and a selection of beverages from 11am and 7.30pm are among a raft of The Level privileges.

In addition to the executive lounge reserved exclusively for The Level guests, a superior level of personalized service encompasses flexible check-in and check-out in a private reception area, use of a reserved meeting room, priority reservations and more. In-room services include welcome amenities such as a capsule coffee maker, Espresso coffee maker and kettle, and mini bar.

The Level guests have access to all of Meliá Pattaya’s facilities, including a picture-perfect swimming pool adjacent to Lula Pool Bar and function lawn, Meliá’s signature YHI Spa, kids club Kidsdom, a fully-equipped gym, coworking space, collection of versatile meeting spaces and more.

The hotel’s diverse dining landscape includes Yitong Chinese Restaurant and Sky Bar that specializes in Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine promoting health and sustainability, and all-day dining restaurant Sanehh Sarae that serves fresh, locally sourced seafood and tells the story of Pattaya’s Bang Saray fishing village. Adjacent to Sanehh Sarae is Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei restaurant Den, which pays tribute to nearby “Little Japanese Town” Si Racha.

A short drive from Bangkok on the Gulf of Thailand’s east coast, Meliá Pattaya Hotel is situated on Second Road, known as Pattaya Sai Song, in the heart of the action in ‘Central Pattaya’. Meliá Pattaya Hotel affords easy access to an array of attractions such as Pattaya Beach, Walking Street, Central Festival Pattaya, Terminal21 Shopping Mall, wooden temple Sanctuary of Truth, and Bali Hai Pier. Islands such as Koh Larn are strewn just offshore, offering idyllic spots for swimming and snorkelling.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group and a member of TCC Group, is redefining the country’s landscape of hospitality, commercial workspaces, and iconic lifestyle destinations with its diversified portfolio, strategically located in prime areas across the nation. Committed to creating new landmark projects that not only set new benchmarks for the industry but also strengthen Thailand’s position as a global sustainable tourism destination, AWC collaborates with world-renowned partners, including Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Nobu Hospitality, Okura Hotels, Banyan Tree, Melia International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Accor, and Hyatt, to deliver unforgettable experiences. Its portfolio features flagship commercial properties such as The Empire, Athenee Tower, Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, and Phenix, along with premier F&B destinations like ‘EA’ Rooftop at The Empire, offering world-class top cuisine. AWC is committed to delivering exceptional experiences while championing sustainability in every part of its operations to create long-term sustainable value for all stakeholders through initiatives under three key pillars of Better Planet, Better People, and Better Prosperity (3BETTERs), driving innovation and responsibility to inspire millions and elevate Thailand’s tourism and real estate industry to new heights.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá has 125 hotels in Europe (56), America (18), Cuba (16), Africa (5) and Asia (30). We are present in 32 countries and currently have 21 hotels under development in 11 countries. At Meliá Hotels & Resorts, we stand out for our unique Spanish style in the hospitality industry and for our warmth, closeness and passion for service. This means that we offer our guests a unique wellness experience. Our Spanish warmth and spontaneity are part of our Mediterranean roots and are always present in the Meliá experience. An experience that is enriched by providing thoughtful extra services. Paying attention to the smallest details and providing personalized experiences for each guest. How do we interpret wellness in the MELIÁ brand? We see wellness from an innovative perspective. It is not wellness applied only to nutrition or wellness services, it is 360º wellness. The wellness we want to convey is global. You can find it in all aspects of the brand from different perspectives: physical wellness, spiritual wellness, leisure wellness, social wellness, occupational wellness, environmental wellness, financial wellness and nutritional wellness.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

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Phu Quoc, Vietnam, August 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / WorldHotels, part of BWH Hotels, is bringing its signature style and sophistication to the pristine shores of Vietnam’s beloved “Pearl Island”, with the signing of the stunning WorldHotels Long Beach Resort Phu Quoc, WorldHotels Distinctive.

Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2025, WorldHotels Long Beach Resort Phu Quoc is gracefully nestled along Tran Hung Dao Boulevard, just moments from the golden shores of Long Beach on the island’s radiant sunset coast. This stunning beachfront sanctuary promises an unforgettable blend of elegance and genuine hospitality, perfect for romantic escapes, cherished family holidays, and inspiring corporate retreats, set against the mesmerizing backdrop of the Gulf of Thailand.

Throughout their stay, guests can immerse themselves in nature-inspired recreation and relax in one of four inviting swimming pools—including a beachfront pool perfect for fun-filled family days, and a rooftop infinity pool offering tranquil ocean views. Younger guests can splash away in the children’s pool or enjoy hours of entertainment at the indoor kids’ club, while adults rejuvenate at the spa or stay energized at the fully equipped fitness center.

Culinary journeys await all ages at two exceptional restaurants serving local and international cuisine, while two stylish bars provide the perfect setting for refreshing drinks or sunset cocktails. For event organizers, the resort’s state-of-the-art conference center offers versatile spaces for everything from intimate team-building retreats to large-scale corporate gatherings.

“Phu Quoc has established itself as one of Southeast Asia’s premier destinations, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse experiences. With the debut of WorldHotels Long Beach Resort Phu Quoc, WorldHotels Distinctive, we are proud to elevate the island’s hospitality scene by introducing world-class facilities tailored to both leisure and business travelers, all in line with the distinguished global standards of WorldHotels,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

WorldHotels Long Beach Resort Phu Quoc will become the second WorldHotels member in Vietnam, complementing Caravelle Saigon, WorldHotels Elite.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Quan Spa, the oasis of tranquility at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, is inviting hotel guests, local residents and international travelers to escape the city and experience a morning or afternoon of complete serenity with a choice of two pampering treatments.

Guests can choose from an immersive Aromatherapy Massage or a heavenly Hot Stone Massage, both of which are now available at discounted rates for lunchtime and afternoon treatments (11:00 – 15:00 hrs).

Aromatherapy Oil Massage with Herbal Compress (90 mins) – THB 3,500 net (down from THB 4,120 net)

Travelers can ease their tension with a deeply evocative therapy that harnesses the ancient art of aromatherapy. The healing power of essential oils and a fragrant compress filled with aromatic Thai herbs will transport visitors on a journey towards total relaxation.

Hot Stone Massage (90 mins) – THB 3,500 net (down from THB 5,061 net)

This deeply soothing treatment sees therapists place heated stones on certain points of the body to relax the muscles and repair damaged tissue. Combined with a massage, this therapy will leave sightseers, shoppers, or executives feeling completely revitalized.

Nestled on the ninth floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant capital city, Quan Spa is a sanctuary for the senses. Within this urban retreat, high above the city streets, every guest can unwind in an atmosphere of pure tranquility.

The “Perfect Pampering” promotion is available daily from 11.00 to 15.00 hrs, between September 1 and December 31, 2025. Advanced reservations are required.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Almost one year since its much-anticipated opening in September 2024, K by Vicky Cheng continues to elevate the Chinese dining experience in Bangkok with the unveiling of its latest menu highlights. Located on the 56th floor of The Empire in the heart of the city, the restaurant brings a contemporary edge to traditional Chinese flavors under the culinary vision of Michelin-starred chef Vicky Cheng.

As part of the evolving “Harvest of Kilin” concept, the new menu additions reflect the same philosophy that defines K by Vicky Cheng: a balance of heritage and innovation, precision and emotion. While the full menu includes a number of exciting new creations, these six standout dishes exemplify the restaurant’s culinary direction and continued evolution.

Highlighted New Dishes Include:

• Black Pepper Dried Abalone Puff – A delicate yet indulgent reinterpretation of a dim sum classic, featuring golden, flaky pastry encasing tender, umami-rich abalone.
• Pan-fried Mui Choy and Pork Dumpling – A savory-sweet combination of preserved mui choy and juicy pork, pan-seared for crisp texture and deep flavor.
• Hot and Sour Fish Maw Soup with Crab Meat – Elevated with live crab meat and fresh, high-quality fish maw, this refined version of a comfort staple is layered with depth, tang, and warmth.
• Stir-fried Kale with Chinese Sausage – A celebration of simplicity and wok hei, this dish pairs crisp kale with the rich, savory notes of Chinese sausage for a comforting and vibrant side.
• Steamed Mantis Shrimp Glutinous Rice in Lotus Leaf – A luxurious yet approachable dish that showcases Thailand’s finest, locally sourced mantis shrimp, prized for their size and quality. Steamed to perfection with glutinous rice and wrapped in lotus leaf, the result is aromatic, tender, and satisfying—without ever feeling too heavy.
• Double Boiled Bird’s Nest with Chilled Coconut Soup – A modern take on a traditional Chinese delicacy, this dessert is both nourishing and refreshing, offering a light yet indulgent end to the meal.

“Our new menu items are rooted in tradition but reimagined for today’s diners,” said Head Chef Wilson Lam. “Each dish is thoughtfully crafted with the best ingredients available—whether that means working with live seafood or highlighting the exceptional local produce Thailand has to offer.”

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Bangkok’s skyline, K by Vicky Cheng continues to set a new standard for Chinese gastronomy in Thailand. The restaurant’s warm burgundy interiors, curated Chinese artworks, and contemporary design echo its culinary philosophy: bold, elegant, and deeply connected to heritage.

Whether returning guests or first-time visitors, diners can expect a journey through modern Chinese cuisine that surprises, comforts, and delights.

K by Vicky Cheng is open for lunch (11:30 – 14:30 hrs) and dinner (17:30 – 22:30 hrs), and is easily accessible via Chong Nonsi BTS Skytrain Station, Exit 5.

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Bristol, United Kingdom, August 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A new global initiative we’ve launched with Skyscanner seeks to bring together the aviation and tourism sectors, bridge any gaps in the sector’s response to climate change, and offer a chance to share mutual support, ideas and challenges. The initiative, titled ‘Shared Horizons: Connecting aviation and tourism for climate action’, will be shaped by a newly formed Advisory Group and a sector-wide survey that is now open for responses.

Tour operators, destination managers, aviation professionals and other aviation and tourism stakeholders are invited to participate in the initiative by sharing their views through the survey. The survey explores current approaches to emissions, barriers to action, innovation, finance, and climate responsibility. The aim is to understand, without any attempt to assign responsibility or blame, how various industry players, with differing levels of control over emissions, see their role in helping to account for and reduce these emissions. Insights gathered will inform a white paper outlining a shared vision and joint actionable pathways for climate leadership.

Breaking Down Silos, Building Shared Solutions

The initiative responds to a growing recognition that climate action across the aviation and tourism sectors often takes place in silos – with airlines, airports, destinations, and tourism businesses working independently. This fragmented approach can result in missed opportunities for the most impactful response, with some emissions associated with travel slipping through the gaps.

“The climate challenge is shared, and the solutions must be too,” said Jeremy Sampson, CEO of the Travel Foundation. “We need a new model of partnership across tourism and aviation that is grounded in mutual risks and shared responsibilities. This initiative is about unlocking that opportunity.”

“This initiative creates a space for open, cross-sector collaboration where we can better understand shared challenges and develop joint solutions,” said Kirsty Webster, Industry and Partner Sustainability Lead at Skyscanner. “Airlines have a real opportunity to show leadership and build on the work already taking place. By bringing together voices from across aviation and tourism, we hope to accelerate progress, spark innovation and ensure that climate action supports the long-term wellbeing of destinations and the people who rely on them.”

The newly established Advisory Group includes representatives from leading airlines, key industry organisations, tour operators, and destination organisations. Over the coming months, the group will provide strategic input, promote engagement, and help shape recommendations for joint action set out in a white paper.

Towards a Just Transition

The initiative sets out to align climate strategies with the real-world needs of destination communities and support a just transition for the sector. By working together, the aviation and tourism industries can build business resilience, reduce shared climate risks, and contribute more meaningfully to sustainable development goals.

Take Part

The survey is open to stakeholders across aviation and tourism, including airlines, airports, tour operators, DMOs, hotel groups, industry suppliers, NGOs, and others. All responses will be treated confidentially.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 11, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / From the agricultural heartland of Alto Lazio to the dynamic markets of Asia, Cavaliere Enzo Peroni’s career is a compelling narrative of entrepreneurial foresight, strategic adaptation, and unwavering commitment to his Italian roots.

As the founder and CEO of EP Group of Companies and the visionary force behind Café Buongiorno, Cavaliere Peroni has built a multi-faceted empire by seamlessly integrating deep humanistic understanding with astute business principles.

This unique approach has not only yielded significant commercial success but also positioned him as a prominent ambassador for Italian culture and enterprise worldwide.

Cavaliere Peroni is also a very sought after guest speaker on subjects like “Emotional Intelligence, Management, Marketing, Inner Motivation” in hospitals, luxury hotels, and corporations. Along with being a guest speaker, Cavaliere is also the author of the books “Tales of a Young Boy” Books 1 and 2. His books convey messages to humanity about family values, ethics, love, environment, sustainability.

Tuscan Roots and the Seeds of Curiosity

Born in Celleno, a picturesque Etruscan village on the border of Tuscany and Umbria, Cavaliere Peroni grew up surrounded by rolling hills, fertile vineyards and an unwavering respect for nature.

His formative years spent on his family’s farm taught him the intrinsic value of simple, honest labour and the joys of food prepared with natural, unadulterated ingredients.

These experiences would later shape his personal philosophy and business ventures.

Family gatherings, seasonal rituals and the rhythms of rural life instilled in him an appreciation for tradition and a sense of belonging that he carries with him to this day.

“I don’t believe anyone can be a complete person without a love for nature,” he muses.

“Nature represents all forms of life. Curiosity is the key to learning and observation, and it was the foundation of my life.”

A Scholar of Culture and Business

Cavaliere Peroni’s thirst for knowledge soon drew him beyond the hills of Lazio to Paris, where he immersed himself in French literature at the Sorbonne, devouring the works of Proust, Zola and Voltaire.

London followed, where he studied linguistics, marketing and management, all the while absorbing the lessons of English literature from the likes of Chaucer and Shakespeare.

Far from a conventional academic, Cavaliere Peroni credits his success to an interdisciplinary approach.

“Emotional intelligence is a combination of multiple disciplines,” he explains.

“I applied what I learned in thousands of books to marketing, management and psychology.”

It was a mentality that would serve him well when, in 1977, he ventured to Hong Kong, then a British colony teetering on the cusp of monumental change.

A Pioneer in Asia’s Emerging Markets

At the age of 29, Cavaliere Peroni became one of the youngest chief executives in Hong Kong, heading a major Multinational conglomerate with operations stretching from Shanghai to Sichuan, and from Taiwan to Canada.

When Deng Xiaoping’s ‘Open Door Policy’ transformed China’s economic landscape in the late 1970s, Cavaliere Peroni was uniquely positioned to capitalise on the new opportunities.

Combining his understanding of history, psychology and human behaviour, he negotiated multimillion-dollar deals and introduced over 100 Italian companies into China’s rapidly evolving market.

Yet, amidst this meteoric rise, the impending handover of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty in 1997 and the Asian financial crisis prompted Cavaliere Peroni to reassess his future.

“We came to Bangkok and liked it,” he recalls simply. It was here that his next great chapter would unfold.

Café Buongiorno: A Cultural Mission in Bangkok

More than just a restaurant or coffee house, Café Buongiorno was conceived as a cultural centre.

Drawing inspiration from the deep-rooted traditions of his family — the Peroni, Scarino, Mattei, Panetta, and Celleno clans — Cavaliere Peroni sought to bring authentic Italian lifestyle, recipes and hospitality to Thailand.

“Our roots at Café Buongiorno are born from tradition and pride of genuine food and for the land which belonged to my grandfathers and great-grandfathers,” he says.

“It took many long discussions with different family members in Umbria, Lazio, Tuscany and Sicily before we agreed to introduce our culture and way of doing things.”

The Signature colours of Café Buongiorno are Yellow Tuscany, Olive Green, and Burgundy. Like everything at Café Buongiorno, these colours also have deep meaning. Yellow Tuscany reminds Cavaliere of the wheat harvest season in Italy when his entire family used to gather to harvest the golden wheat. Olive Green symbolises the fond memories of days spent picking olives from their estate to make into olive oil. And Burgundy reflects the tradition the wine making season, a time of celebration, community, and shared joy.

Café Buongiorno quickly became a gathering place for Bangkok’s expatriate community, celebrities and high society.

It was among the first hospitality venues in the city to host Italian theatrical productions, lifestyle events and partnerships with luxury brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and Versace.

As demand grew, so did the business.

A production facility in Bangna-Trat area, east of Bangkok, was established, crafting everything from artisanal biscotti and gelato to cold-pressed juices and premium popcorn.

Today, Café Buongiorno continues to expand, with ambitious plans to open new retail outlets, a gelateria and a ‘biscottificio’ showcasing their flagship biscotti, hailed by many as the best in the world.

Café Buongiorno Biscotti – The Flagship Product

If you were to ask Cavaliere Enzo Peroni about the flagship product of Café Buongiorno, he would say without hesitation: Café Buongiorno Biscotti. In his words and in the opinion of many, Café Buongiorno Biscotti are probably by far the best biscotti in the world.

According to many food experts and VIPs from around the globe, Café Buongiorno Biscotti stands out for its uniqueness, rich history, culture, legacy, quality, and its impressive wide range.

With 35 different flavours, it is no wonder that Café Buongiorno has done more than 500 events featuring Café Buongiorno Biscotti not only in Thailand but in many parts of the world. Cavaliere Enzo Peroni proudly notes that many call it “a biscotto with a story, heart, and soul”.

Soon, Café Buongiorno Biscotti will be showcased in their upcoming Café Buongiorno Retail experience which include Café Buongiorno Biscottificio, Café Buongiorno Per Tutti, Café Buongiorno Gelateria, and Café Buongiorno Popcorn Store.

Leadership Through Emotional Intelligence

Cavaliere Peroni attributes much of his success to an unwavering belief in inner motivation, passion and leadership grounded in empathy.

Over four decades, he has observed that many employees falter not from a lack of skills but from a lack of motivation.

“One cannot inspire others if one cannot inspire themselves,” he insists.

“Inner motivation triggers positive energy, and positive energy triggers performance.”

His management philosophy centres on clear communication, emotional engagement and leading by example.

“Leaders motivate, inspire and energise people not by control mechanisms but by satisfying the basic human needs for achievement and a sense of belonging,” he explains.

Cavaliere Peroni also emphasises the importance of ‘dishabiting’ — letting go of bad habits — and ‘decoding’ — developing new, adaptive habits in the face of an ever-changing business environment.

Honours and Heritage

In recognition of his efforts to promote Italian culture abroad, Cavaliere Peroni was awarded the ‘Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity’ by the President of Italy in 2005, earning the title of ‘Cavaliere.’

It is an accolade he holds dear, not merely as a personal honour but as a testament to his mission of cultural exchange.

His affinity for Thailand runs deep.

Cavaliere Peroni speaks warmly of Italian artisans who left their mark on Bangkok’s architectural heritage, from the Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall to Hua Lamphong Railway Station.

He and his wife, Theresa, divide their time between their Bangkok residence, a home in Hua Hin and residence in Italy.

Looking to the Future

Even as many of his contemporaries retire, Cavaliere Peroni remains relentlessly active.

Café Buongiorno’s production centre continues to innovate with weekly product developments from its R&D facility in Italy, while new ventures in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia are on the horizon.

A firm believer in nurturing the next generation, he ensures that all employees — some of whom have remained with him for over three decades — are trained not only in technical skills but also in the company’s values, history and philosophy, in Italian, Thai and English.

As to what keeps Italian cuisine so beloved in the Land of Smiles?

“Our cuisine is very simple at heart,” Peroni says with a smile.

“Thai people like simplicity. With good ingredients, you can make great food — you don’t need to be elaborate.”

It is a fitting reflection of a man whose own life is a rich, flavourful tapestry woven from tradition, curiosity, and an unrelenting zest for life.

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