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Cebu, Philippines, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Tuesday (January 27) said that the Philippines stands to gain significant economic, tourism, and investment benefits as it hosts the 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Tourism Forum 2026, citing the event as a major milestone under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. 

The hosting of ATF 2026 forms a key pillar of the country’s ASEAN Chairship this year, with the theme “Navigating Our Tourism Future, Together,” and positions the Philippines at the forefront of shaping the region’s tourism trajectory, integration, and long-term growth. 

As the lead agency for ATF 2026, the DOT noted that the forum is among the first major sectoral events of the Philippines’ chairship and will anchor a full calendar of ASEAN-related meetings throughout the year—bringing sustained international attention, visitor traffic, and business activity to the country. 

The forum will convene tourism ministers, senior officials of National Tourism Organizations (NTOs), and industry leaders from across Southeast Asia for high-level ministerial meetings, working group sessions, policy discussions, and industry engagements central to ASEAN tourism cooperation. 

“Hosting the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 is both an economic opportunity and a strategic statement of the Philippines’ commitment to advancing a cooperative, forward-looking ASEAN tourism agenda with tangible benefits across our communities,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “Under the Marcos Administration’s vision of economic development driven by tourism, this forum allows the Philippines to generate jobs, stimulate local enterprises, and attract investments, while showcasing our readiness to lead, convene, and deliver on the regional stage.” 

Secretary Frasco emphasized that Cebu’s selection as host destination highlights the administration’s commitment to dispersing tourism growth beyond Metro Manila and accelerating development in the regions. In Cebu alone, the summit is expected to draw some 5,000 guests from all over the world. 

“By hosting ATF 2026 in Cebu, we are bringing the benefits of global tourism engagement directly to our local communities—from hotels and transport providers to MSMEs, artisans, and tour operators. This is tourism growth that is felt on the ground, consistent with our thrust for inclusive and people-centered development,” she added. 

Beyond ASEAN Member States, dialogue partners and stakeholders from China, Japan, South Korea, India, Russia, Australia, and the United States-ASEAN Business Council are expected to participate, further expanding opportunities for market access, air connectivity, and cross-border collaboration. 

“The Philippines is using its ASEAN Chairship to strengthen cooperation beyond borders,” Secretary Frasco said. “Through ATF 2026, we are deepening partnerships, encouraging innovation, and opening new pathways for investment and sustainable tourism, ensuring that ASEAN remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global travel landscape.” 

The opening ceremony will take place on January 28 and will be held at Mactan Shrine, one of the important historical sites in Cebu. 

Among the highlights of ATF 2026 are the ASEAN Tourism Ministerial Meeting and the ASEAN Tourism Conference on January 29, which will serve as platforms for policymakers and experts to address emerging trends, resilience, sustainability, and digital transformation in tourism. 

The ATF will also witness the launch of the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan (ATSP) 2026-2030, marking the region’s renewed commitment towards tourism cooperation and development. 

Spearheaded by the Philippines as Lead Country Coordinator, the ATSP 2026-2030 outlines the region’s collective vision and plans for a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry. 

Bilateral meetings held on the sidelines of the forum are also expected to advance cooperation between ASEAN and its dialogue partners across both public and private sectors, fostering practical initiatives that support long-term tourism development. 

Meanwhile, the DOT’s marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, will lead TRAVEX 2026, ASEAN’s flagship tourism trade exchange and the region’s largest business-to-business platform. Scheduled from January 28 to 30 at the Mactan Expo, TRAVEX 2026 is expected to bring together over 700 international buyers, sellers, and decision-makers. 

The hosting of ATF 2026 marks the Philippines’ return as host nearly a decade after staging the forum in 2016. 

“Through ATF 2026, the Philippines is reaffirming its role as a trusted partner and leader in ASEAN tourism,” Secretary Frasco said. “This forum advances our national tourism goals, strengthens regional solidarity, and ensures that tourism continues to uplift lives, empower communities, and drive sustainable growth for generations of Filipinos.” 

Meanwhile, cultural showcases and curated experiences will allow delegates to experience Philippine heritage and creativity firsthand, including ‘Paglantaw,’ a heritage tour of Old Cebu, and ‘Bagani,’ a cultural tour of Lapu-Lapu City. The DOT has also organized guided tours to key destinations nationwide to promote broader destination awareness and future travel. 

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Cebu, Philippines, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) flagship travel trade exchange, TRAVEX 2026, officially opened its doors, gathering 271 buyers from 50 countries across the globe, 124 sellers, and 222 exhibitors at the newly purpose-built Mactan Expo Center in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on Wednesday (Jan. 29).

Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the opening ceremony, alongside Minister of Tourism of Indonesia Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, ASEAN Tourism Association President Eddy Krismeidi, Tourism Promotions Board COO, Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, representatives from ASEAN member states, local officials, and dignitaries, all united by a shared regional vision—to promote ASEAN as a unified tourism destination.

The three-day TRAVEX showcases tourism enterprises, tour operators, destination marketers, and buyers from ASEAN, including the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and the regional bloc’s newest member state, Timor-Leste.

Philippine exhibitors include hotels and resorts, travel and tours agencies, MICE venues, airlines, and government agencies, all of which come together to be at the center of regional commerce, hoping to strengthen market access for local sellers.

“TRAVEX showcases the diversity and maturity of ASEAN tourism offerings. It is a platform that brings together not only destinations and products but also aspirations, partnerships, and shared responsibility for the future of tourism in our region,” said Secretary Frasco, affirming that the travel trade event is more than a business but an opportunity that leads to tangible outcomes, lasting collaborations, and a stronger ASEAN tourism community.

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London, UK, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / At the International AI Excellence & Diplomacy Summit held today in the House of Lords, esteemed tourism leader Alain St.Ange delivered a compelling keynote on the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence in the travel industry. St.Ange, the former Seychelles Minister and head of the “Saint Ange Consultancy,” urged industry professionals to embrace AI as a fundamental tool for progress and connection.

St.Ange highlighted that AI is no longer a distant concept but an integral part of the industry’s infrastructure, acting as a “global megaphone” that amplifies customer experiences. He stressed the importance of proactively managing one’s digital reputation, as AI makes the unfiltered opinions of past customers directly accessible to future ones.

A central theme of the address was the rise of “Emotional Tourism,” where the feelings shared by previous guests increasingly dictate future bookings. “AI is also becoming the heartbeat of emotion in travel,” St.Ange stated, explaining that businesses must craft and share positive messages to ensure AI echoes their strengths and builds a favourable online consensus.

Looking forward, St.Ange painted a vivid picture of the future, including AI-powered personal concierges, robotic hotel staff, and interactive 3D destination tours. While acknowledging challenges like data privacy and building trust in AI, he framed them as “signposts guiding us toward a more responsible and innovative future.” He shared projections that the AI market in tourism will reach nearly $14 billion by 2030, underscoring the urgency to adapt.

St.Ange concluded with a powerful call to action, asking not if the industry will adapt, but how it will lead the change. His message was clear: the future of travel lies in a thoughtful partnership between technology and humanity to create richer, more meaningful experiences for everyone.

About Saint Ange Consultancy

Led by Alain St.Ange, a globally recognised tourism figure with extensive leadership experience, Saint Ange Consultancy provides expert advice and strategic insights to tourism boards and private sector stakeholders worldwide. St.Ange’s distinguished career includes serving as the Seychelles Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports, and Marine and on the Executive Council of the UN World Tourism Organization.

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Cebu, Philippines, January 28, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) officially opened today in Cebu, Philippines, positioning the region firmly at the forefront of global tourism dialogue, as National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) convened for high-level meetings and ministerial-level discussions as part of the week-long programme.

More than 1,000 delegates are expected to participate in over 30 meetings, business sessions, educational forums, and networking events, including ATF TRAVEX, the forum’s flagship three-day travel trade exhibition. The event has also drawn strong media interest, with nearly 100 international and local media representatives in attendance to report on key developments, announcements, and trends shaping the ASEAN tourism sector.

Designed to maximize productivity and commercial outcomes, ATF TRAVEX 2026 enabled exhibitors and buyers to pre-schedule up to 100% of their business appointments ahead of arrival. It has attracted buyers across 50 countries and territories worldwide, including Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China PR, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Laos, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and Vietnam.

ATF TRAVEX 2026 is being held at the newly opened Mactan Expo Centre in Cebu, marking the venue’s inaugural hosting of a major international tourism exhibition. Purpose-built to support large-scale trade events, the modern facility offers 2,600 square metres of exhibition space, complemented by dedicated meeting and function rooms. Its selection as the official venue highlights Cebu’s growing stature as a M.I.C.E. destination, and reinforces the Philippines’ readiness to host high-profile regional and international events.

The theme of the 2026 ASEAN Tourism Forum, “Navigating Our Tourism Future, Together,” reflects the region’s collective commitment to collaboration and shared progress amid a rapidly evolving global landscape. It underscores the importance of regional cooperation, knowledge exchange, and inclusive partnerships in addressing emerging challenges and advancing sustainable tourism growth across ASEAN.

The TRAVEX Opening Ceremony kicked off with vibrant Filipino cultural performances that warmly welcomed delegates. This was followed by an official walk-through of the exhibition hall led by senior government officials and ASEAN representatives, formally marking the opening of ATF TRAVEX 2026.

As host of ATF 2026, the Philippines proudly welcomes delegates to Cebu as a platform for meaningful dialogue, business exchange, and partnership building. Through a comprehensive programme of meetings, trade engagements, and networking events, ATF 2026 aims to strengthen connectivity, enhance destination competitiveness, and support a more inclusive and future-ready tourism sector for the region.

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Hua Hin, Thailand, January 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Akoya | Beach Lounge is excited to announce an exclusive 2-night Guest Shift on 27-28 February 2026 featuring renowned mixologist Khun Watcharapong “Bank” Suriyaphan. Founder of Taste of Spirits and the Brand Ambassador for PRAKAAN, Khun Bank is a whiskey aficionado, renowned for his deep knowledge of global spirits and for crafting spelling binding, story-driven cocktails. 

The Guest Shift with Khun Bank offers local Hua Hin residents and travellers a rare opportunity to experience original, spirits-inspired cocktails by one of Thailand’s most exciting mixologists. Each evening, from 18:30 to 21:30, guests can enjoy curated cocktails created just for this event against the backdrop of relaxing beach vibes, gorgeous sunset views, and a live DJ. 

Akoya | Beach Lounge is a contemporary beachside cocktail lounge situated within the award-winning V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection, a five-star luxury private pool villa resort on Hua Hin Beach. 

A STORIED MIXOLOGIST

Popular in Bangkok’s spirits and mixology community, Khun Bank is known for crafting charismatic, story-driven cocktails that explore the unique character of its base spirit. He is the Brand Ambassador for PRAKAAN and the founder of Tales of the Spirit, a multifaceted brand sharing knowledge about the culture and craft of spirits and whiskies. Khun Bank is also a partner and creative force behind award-winning Midlife Crisis, named 12th Best Cocktail Bar in 20 Best Bars of Thailand 2023 and the winner of the Roku Gin Competition 2019.

GUEST SHIFT EXCLUSIVE — SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

During his Guest Shift, Khun Bank will create  signature cocktails specifically for Akoya | Beach Lounge. Each cocktail is a deep dive into the personality and origin of the base spirit. 

For instance, Tropical Malady unveils the complexities of Thai crafted rum. Infused with Thai fruits and herbs, the cocktail is a balance of sweet, sour, and salty — a true reflection of Thailand’s  tropical beach experience. 

Whisky lovers will swoon over Coastal Compose, a cocktail celebrating 200+ years of Old Pulteney, a distinguished distillery in  northern Scotland. Headlined by a 12 year-old single malt Old Pulteney, the cocktail is spirit forward, briny, zesty, and imparts notes of vanilla and caramel. 

With Tribura Highball and Peated and Fig, Khun Bank delivers a twist on the typical highball experience. “Normally, single malts are enjoyed neat on the rock, but Thai PRAKAAN whiskeys actually go well with sparkling water,” says Khun Bank. In Tribura Highball, Khun Bank blends PRAKAAN Single Malt Whisky with honey, vanilla, citrus and sparkling water. The exceptionally flavourful Peated and Fig highlights the complexity and beauty of PRAKAAN Peated Malt by blending it with honey, vanilla, citrus and sparkling water. 

SIP YOUR WAY — TASTE OF SPIRIT PACKAGE OR A LA CARTE 

Khun Bank’s cocktails are available á  la carte, starting at THB 390++ per cocktail. For a more robust experience, guests  can choose the “Taste of Spirits” package which includes three cocktails, plus bar bites, for only THB 1,200++.  

Guest Shift with Khun Bank is a must-go event for whiskey and cocktail enthusiasts. Due to limited spaces each evening, reservations are recommended. 

THE DETAILS
Guest Shift with Watcharapong “Bank” Suryaphan 

27-28 February | 18:30 – 21:30
Akoya | Beach Lounge at V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection

PACKAGE: THB 1,200++ for 3 cocktails and 1 snack package

A LA CARTE: THB 390++ per cocktail, THB 220++ bar bite

About Akoya | Beach Lounge
Situated on one of Hua Hin’s most scenic beaches, Akoya | Beach Lounge is a contemporary luxury cocktail lounge surrounded by beautifully manicured beach-side lawns, lush tropical greenery, and uninterrupted seaside views. Akoya | Beach Lounge is renowned for its creative mixology menu and an ultra private and relaxing ambiance. Signature cocktails are inspired by the iconic cuisine, nature, culture, and attractions found in Hua Hin town. Akoya | Beach Lounge is inspired by Akoya | Star Lounge at V Villas Phuket—MGallery Collection, the award-winning  luxury rooftop bar at V Villas Hua – MGallery Collection’s sister property.

About V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection
V Villas Hua Hin – MGallery Collection is a tranquil, luxury private pool retreat perched along a tranquil stretch of white sand beaches in Hua Hin, just 2.5 hours from Bangkok. inspired by Thai and European architecture and designed for absolute comfort and privacy,  the 28 private pool villas are available in 1, 2 and 3-bedroom options and feature expansive living and sleeping spaces, private pools and outdoor lounging areas. Guests enjoy 24-hour butler service and luxurious amenities. Villazzo | Ocean House, the resort’s signature restaurant, boasts a regional Thai and European menu, with contemporary indoor and alfresco dining spaces. Guests can enjoy creative beachside cocktails at  Akoya | Beach Lounge, the resort’s sophisticated and relaxing beachside cocktail bar. La VIE Luxury Tea & Coffee Lounge features a fusion small plates menu, classic espresso and teas. V Spa offers guests European and Eastern wellness therapies and beauty rituals. Ideal for romantic and family getaways and destination weddings, the resort is within minutes of Hua Hin’s exciting restaurant, nightlife and shopping scene. 

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 27, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / In the fast-paced capital of Thailand, NutriChef BKK is transforming the way Bangkok eats clean. As a leading premium healthy meal delivery service, NutriChef offers a wide range of chef-crafted, macro-balanced meal plans tailored for both fitness and wellness and now includes medically informed options for clients managing complex dietary needs.

Whether your goal is weight loss, muscle building, or addressing specific health conditions, NutriChef delivers fresh, functional meals made with organic ingredients and zero compromise on taste or nutrition.

Now offering personalized meal plans for individuals with:
– Cancer recovery & treatment protocols
– IBS or FODMAP-sensitive digestive needs
– Hormonal balance, PCOS, and metabolic support
– Anti-inflammatory plans

From high-protein plans like SHRED and BULK to low-carb KETO and plant-based VEGAN options, every meal is portioned and nutritionally calibrated to meet client goals. Meals are crafted without MSG, refined sugar, or artificial additives, and we also offer gluten free and dairy free options.

Rooted in the belief that your health is non-negotiable, NutriChef makes eating well simple and sustainable for Bangkok’s busy professionals, parents, athletes, and anyone seeking better balance.

Nutrichef. Wellness. Delivered.
Explore meal plans or order online: www.thenutrichef.net
Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/nutrichefbkk
Contact for inquiries or custom plans: contact@thenutrichef.net

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Seychelles, January 26, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / It has been confirmed that Alain St.Ange, a candidate in the 2025 Seychelles Presidential Election, is preparing a new political history book that offers a first-hand account of his bid for State House, and an inside look at the realities of modern Seychellois politics.

The book, Trials Of A Candidate – The Untold Story of the 2025 State House Race, is being developed in collaboration with his daughter, Michelle St.Ange-Ebrahim, a lawyer who is currently completing a PhD in Law, and will analyse the 2025 election from the perspective of a candidate who entered the race challenging two entrenched political parties.

Drawing on personal experiences, campaign records, photographs, and legal and political analysis, the publication lifts the curtain on what St.Ange describes as the underbelly of Seychelles politics—the unspoken rules, structural imbalances, and pressures faced by those who challenge entrenched power.

“We have a story to tell, and we are telling it exactly as we lived it,” said Alain St.Ange. “This is not about making accusations. It is about documenting what it feels like to contest a national election from the outside. We were the underdogs, and this book allows the country to see—through facts, reflections, and lived experience—what that journey truly looked like.”

The book is a commentary on local politics, building on Alain St.Ange’s former political books: – Seychelles: What’s Next?, Seychelles, In Search of Democracy, Seychelles, The Cry of A People and Alain St.Ange, My Journey – Life & Times in Politics and looking forward to the future in a rapidly developing political landscape. It explores the themes that shaped the 2025 election, including the continued role of money as a decisive factor in political success, the realities of campaign financing, and the barriers faced by independent and non-establishment candidates seeking to compete meaningfully.

The publication also confronts the challenges faced by women in politics, including female presidential and vice-presidential candidates. Despite Seychelles often being described as a matriarchal society, the book examines the disconnect between social structures and political power, highlighting the additional scrutiny, resistance, and systemic hurdles women encounter when attempting to emerge, lead, and be taken seriously within the political arena.

Alain St.Ange has indicated that he will now retire from active politics. He says he was called to action last year and answered that call with determination and resilience. He will continue to serve his country in other ways, while refocusing on his family and personal life.

“This has never been about personal ambition,” said St.Ange. “I have always sought to serve Seychelles in every stage of my life. I answered the call when it came, and I am proud of what we achieved. Now I am ready to close this political chapter, to return to my family, and to continue serving my country in other ways.”

Co-authored with Michelle St.Ange-Ebrahim, the work combines political narrative with legal context, carefully distinguishing between verifiable facts, personal observations, and reflective analysis. The authors emphasise that the publication is intended as a contribution to democratic discourse and as a historical record, rather than an attack on individuals.

More than a campaign chronicle, the book positions itself as a tell-all account of how power is experienced, contested, and defended in Seychelles—offering readers an unfiltered view of the political terrain through the eyes of those who dared to challenge it.

Further details regarding the book’s ISBN Number, publication date, and official launch that is set for later this year will be announced in due course.

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 26, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation, under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and with support from B.Grimm, is scheduled to present a performance in remembrance of the boundless royal grace of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, who dedicated her life to the well-being of the Thai people. She played a crucial role in promoting quality of life, preserving culture and the environment, and ensuring the continuity of Thai arts, crafts, and wisdom.

In remembrance of Her Majesty’s immeasurable contributions, the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra presents this performance. The RBSO is honoured to have the Romanian pianist Daniel Ciobanu, known for his exceptional musical talent and technique, and guest conductor Sander Teepen perform on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Main Hall of the Thailand Cultural Centre.

The program includes Édvard Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A minor, his only concerto and one of the most popular Romantic piano works, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique,” the composer’s last symphony, deeply conveying the emotions of life, love, hope, and loss.

Together, these two pieces weave into a beautiful tribute, reflecting His Majesty’s boundless compassion and virtuous character, which will forever remain in the memory of the Thai people.

Tickets are available at ThaiTicketMajor:

www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2026-in-remembrance-of-her-majesty-queen-sirikit-the-queen-mother.html

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 24, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Blue Jasmine, a beautifully restored historic train, sets off on its heritage-rich journey from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station, embarking on an immersive cultural tour of the kingdom’s ancient sites. In a new collaboration with DTH Travel, Jim Thompson has curated a range of exquisite travel experiences to accompany the journey. From a welcoming event and dinner at the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, to stepping onboard The Blue Jasmine x Jim Thompson, featuring brand-designed interior décor, dining essentials, personal accessories, and Jim Thompson’s first-ever onboard showroom.

The Blue Jasmine is a 1960s heritage charter train, featuring ten wagons that accommodate up to 36 passengers. The journey takes travelers from the vibrant cityscape of Bangkok to the serene ancient sites of Ayutthaya, Uthai Thani, Sukhothai, and Chiang Mai. The train invites guests to embrace the art of slow travel, with carefully curated stops along the route that allow passengers to explore UNESCO heritage sites, engage with local artisans, connect with communities, and savor authentic Thai cuisine. Every moment aboard The Blue Jasmine x Jim Thompson offers a rich and immersive experience of Thailand’s culture, history, and natural beauty.

The experience commences with an exclusive dining event at Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, located at the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter. A special Blue Jasmine 5-course menu presents contemporary Thai dishes with diverse flavors from across the country, using seasonal ingredients with local producers in presenting dishes that reflect both tradition and modern Thai creativity.

The visit incorporates a tour of the Jim Thompson House Museum, comprising six traditional Thai teak houses built in 1958, showcasing Thompson’s passion for Thai architecture, featuring a remarkable collection of Asian art and antiques, and includes a stop at the Jim Thompson Iconic Store before boarding the train at Bangkok’s historic Hua Lamphong Station.

Once onboard guests enter a timeless world, with more than 2,000 Jim Thompson décor items transforming the train’s ten wagons into a moving showcase of refined craftsmanship inspired by the essence of Thai heritage and contemporary elegance. The design concept centers on harmonious color coordination, creating a sense of visual unity throughout the journey.

The train’s wagons feature observatory, dining, and accommodation areas, each adorned with Jim Thompson Home Furnishings, renowned for their use in high-end hotels and residences around the world. The curated interiors reflect the true spirit of Thainess, with decorative items crafted from the finest silk, including curtains, cushion covers, bed runners, and table runners. Dining essentials and personal accessories from the brand enrich the onboard ambience, from placemats, napkins, and coasters to thoughtfully designed amenity kits that include makeup cases and sleep masks. Each piece features botanical prints that echo the changing Thai landscape throughout the journey. Select items also draw inspiration from traditional weaving techniques, showcasing exceptional Thai craftsmanship.

Travelers can also look forward to experiencing the first-ever Jim Thompson Showroom on Train, a decorated store area featuring Jim Thompson iconic silk products along with select fashion and lifestyle collections which can be conveniently purchased online via QR code, with delivery conveniently arranged at the end of the trip.

“The collaboration with DTH Travel embodies our vision to expand our presence through curated travel and immersive experiences, another key milestone in our journey as a global lifestyle brand from Asia,” said Nunnapat Verojanavat, Marketing Director of Jim Thompson. “The intimate design and crafted products on The Blue Jasmine x Jim Thompson reflect our heritage, reimagined for modern travelers seeking authenticity, cultural richness, and lifestyle comfort.”

Stefan Bruns, General Manager of DTH Travel Thailand, added, “The partnership with Jim Thompson highlights DTH Travel’s dedication to offer a unique heritage train experience. We work with credible partners to create travel experiences that are genuine, responsible and sustainable. Jim Thompson’s interior design and accessories ensure that cultural authenticity is preserved not just in the destinations we visit, but throughout the entire journey onboard The Blue Jasmine x Jim Thompson.”

DTH Travel, in partnership with Jim Thompson, is set to redefine rail journeys through immersive experiences, connecting visitors to local communities and regional cultures across the country whilst promoting high-value, low-impact travel. Following its inaugural journey in November 2025, additional trips are scheduled for January, February, July, November, and December 2026. The 2027 journey schedule will be announced soon. For more details, please visit The Blue Jasmine Train Official Website, the DTH Travel Facebook page, or contact DTH Destination Thailand at 081-920-8554.

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / On 25 January 2026, The Sukhothai Bangkok launches Culinary Journey, a new campaign that brings a storytelling dimension to its iconic Sunday Brunch. Designed as a series of themed chapters, the campaign highlights the chefs behind the hotel’s kitchens, offering guests a deeper connection to the culinary talent, philosophies, and signature styles that define The Sukhothai Bangkok.

The opening edition, Chapter One: The Sukhothai Chef Showcase, brings together chefs from Colonnade, Celadon, La Scala, and Pastry. As a special addition to The Sukhothai Bangkok’s legendary Sunday Brunch, the campaign introduces curated chef highlights through live action stations and tasting portions, complementing the regular and well-loved culinary spread rather than replacing it. Each chef presents a signature dish that reflects their individual approach, transforming the brunch into a dynamic, chef-led experience. A dedicated Culinary Journey content series will also launch across video and social platforms, with Chapter Two scheduled on 15 February 2026.

Chapter One: January – The Sukhothai Chef Showcase

Chef Tuui – Executive Sous Chef
Herb-Butter Braised Potatoes with Truffle Mayonnaise and Caviar

Chef Tuui’s signature dish reflects his belief that refinement begins with simplicity. Using potatoes as the foundation, the dish is gently braised in herb-infused butter to highlight their natural flavor, with truffle mayonnaise and caviar added as subtle accents to create balance and depth through technique and restraint.

Chef Max – Executive Pastry Chef
Modern Mango Sticky Rice Mousse

Originally created as the winning dessert of MasterChef Thailand Season 3, Chef Max’s signature reinterprets Thailand’s beloved mango sticky rice in a contemporary form. Mango sticky rice mousse filled with sticky rice and passion fruit jelly is paired with mango cream cheese ice cream, coconut gel, and white chocolate crumble—preserving familiar flavors while presenting them through modern pastry craftsmanship.

Chef Jib – Head Chef, Celadon
Southern Thai Seafood Salad with Scallops, Shrimp, and Young Mangosteen

Chef Jib’s dish draws inspiration from Southern Thailand’s coastal produce and the balance of Thai flavors. Featuring deep-sea scallops from Trang, fresh shrimp from Krabi, and young mangosteen from Nakhon Si Thammarat, the salad is finished with a herb-forward pla chili dressing and crispy Sangyod rice from Phatthalung, reflecting Celadon’s commitment to regional sourcing and Thai culinary heritage.

Chef Andrea Cetani – Italian Chef de Cuisine
Risotto al Pomodoro
Chef Andrea Cetani reinterprets a classic Northern Italian tomato risotto, rooted in the post-war era and refined throughout his career. Applying advanced technique to simple, bold Italian flavours, the dish reflects deep respect for ingredients, with tomato trimmings transformed into a burnt tomato cream that adds depth and acidity—expressing his philosophy of tradition, territory, and thoughtful creativity.

A Continuing Culinary Narrative

Culinary Journey marks the beginning of an ongoing chef-led series at The Sukhothai Bangkok, where each chapter introduces new themes, perspectives, and culinary expressions. With future editions planned throughout the year, the series reinforces the hotel’s commitment to craftsmanship, local sourcing, and meaningful storytelling—presented through one of Bangkok’s most celebrated Sunday brunch experiences.

About The Sukhothai Bangkok

An icon of refined Thai hospitality, The Sukhothai Bangkok is set amidst six acres of tranquil gardens in the heart of the city. Inspired by the grace and artistry of Thailand’s ancient capital, the hotel blends timeless architecture, understated luxury, and heartfelt service. Celadon, its signature Thai restaurant, is celebrated for its authenticity, ambience, and culinary excellence.

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