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UN Tourism Celebrates 1st Regional Congress of the Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean

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UN Tourism Celebrates 1st Regional Congress of the Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean - TRAVELINDEX

UN Tourism Celebrates 1st Regional Congress of the Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean - TRAVELINDEXPunta Cana, Dominican Republic, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism successfully held the First Regional Congress of the Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean, under the theme “Legal perspectives towards sustainable tourism,” on 15 and 16 July, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

The event was organized by UN Tourism, in conjunction with Grupo Puntacana and Quiroz Advisors – QA Legal, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic. It brought together dozens of legal professionals, government representatives, international organizations, and key players in the tourism sector, from both the public and private spheres.

Over two days, experts and authorities discussed the main challenges and opportunities facing tourism in the region from a legal perspective. Issues such as sustainability, governance, land use planning, short-term tourism rentals, accessible tourism, and access to green investments were analysed with the aim of formulating concrete recommendations to strengthen the legal framework for the sector.

At the opening ceremony, Alicia Gómez, Director of the Department of Legal Affairs and International Standards at UN Tourism, stressed the importance of “clear and transparent legal frameworks, inclusive governance models, and a cross-cutting approach to economic, social, and environmental sustainability”. She added that Tourism Law should be used as a key tool to build more resilient and sustainable tourism destinations.

One of the highlights of the Congress was the formation of a working group on Governance and Land Use Planning, where representatives of Member States, under the direction of UN Tourism and experts in Tourism Law, developed legal recommendations on land use planning and land management as a tourism resource. These conclusions will serve as a basis for developing good practice guidelines and future actions by the LAC Observatory in this area.

In parallel, specialized training was provided to the private sector, focusing on the application of international standards for accessible tourism. In addition, with the participation of the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a post-conference on green investments was held, where financial mechanisms to promote a more inclusive and sustainable tourism economy were explored.

The Congress was attended by prominent international guests, including the Minister of Tourism of Ecuador, Mateo Estrella, and the Vice- Minister of Tourism of the Dominican Republic, Carlos Peguero, as well as representatives from the business, academic, and financial sectors of the region.

This conference marks a milestone in the consolidation of a regional legal approach to sustainable tourism development and reinforces the commitment of UN Tourism and its partners to creating more sustainable and competitive destinations.

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UN Tourism/ICAO Summit Calls for Enhanced Cooperation to Unlock Africa’s Growth

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UN Tourism/ICAO Summit Calls for Enhanced Cooperation to Unlock Africa’s Growth - TRAVELINDEX

UN Tourism/ICAO Summit Calls for Enhanced Cooperation to Unlock Africa’s Growth - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The second UN Tourism and ICAO Ministerial Conference on Tourism and Air Transport in Africa concluded with a unified call to enhance partnerships and collaboration to unlock the region’s growth.

Jointly organized by UN Tourism, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the Government of Angola, the high-level event drew more than 300 international delegates around the theme “Accelerating Synergies for Resilient and Sustainable Growth”. The three-day conference focused on strengthening the alignment between two of Africa’s fastest-growing sectors: tourism and air transport. Both are critical enablers for job creation, innovation, and greater regional mobility.

In his opening remarks, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism and air transport are not just engines of growth, they are pathways to empowerment, opportunity, and transformation, through strategic leadership and innovation, Africa’s potential can become its reality.” He urged decisive policy action to remove the barriers holding African tourism back.

H.E Daniel Marcio, Angola’s Minister of Tourism said “Angola is proud to host such a landmark event, which positions Angola as a regional hub for dialogue and action. Tourism is a key pillar of our national strategy for inclusive development, job creation, and cultural promotion.”

In his intervention, H.E Mr. Ricardo de Abreu, Angola’s Minister of Transport, emphasized the importance of infrastructure and regulatory reform: “We must build air transport systems that are not only modern and efficient but also accessible and responsive to the needs of our people. Connectivity within Africa is essential to realizing the continent’s economic potential.” ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano commended the initiative’s collaborative spirit: “Tourism and aviation must grow hand in hand. Through shared vision and policy coherence, we can drive sustainable development, enhance safety and security, and ensure no country is left behind.”

Connectivity, Policy Reform, Investment

The Luanda Conference placed a strong emphasis on advancing Africa’s tourism and air transport sectors through enhanced connectivity, regulatory reform, and cross-sector collaboration. Delegates agreed that aligning aviation and tourism policies is vital to unlocking the continent’s potential, particularly through open skies agreements, cohesive infrastructure planning, and public-private investment. A central focus was also placed on simplifying visa processes, promoting joint destination marketing, and removing travel barriers to stimulate intra-African tourism.

The Conference began with an expert-led workshop featuring technical sessions on innovation, connectivity, investment, and regional integration. Participants explored how technologies like AI and digital platforms can improve service delivery, while also identifying new funding models to expand infrastructure. In-depth discussions addressed how frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) can support harmonized policies and boost regional mobility.

Ministerial Discussions and Commitments

Over two days of ministerial sessions, high-level officials focused on aligning policy frameworks, driving innovation for inclusive growth, ensuring equitable access to travel, and building resilient transport and tourism systems. The Conference concluded with the formal adoption of the Luanda Ministerial Statement—an affirmation of Africa’s collective commitment to developing a seamless, sustainable, and integrated travel ecosystem.

Luanda Ministerial Statement

Ministers, leaders of delegations and delegates present pledged to:

  • Modernize tourism and aviation infrastructure with support from both public and private investment.
  • Deepen partnerships with key institutions including ICAO, UN Tourism, IATA, AFRAA, AFCAC, and others.
  • Advance mobility reforms through simplified and more affordable visa regimes, fast-track procedures, and longer-validity multi-entry visas.
  • Promote intra-African tourism, including joint destination marketing and greater collaboration with the private sector.
  • Empower youth and women through skills training, entrepreneurship support, and educational initiatives focused on the tourism and aviation sectors.

This 2nd conference came at a time of record momentum for African tourism. The continent welcomed 74 million international arrivals in 2024, a 7% increase over 2019 and 12% more than in 2023, signalling strong recovery and renewed global interest in African destinations.

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Newly Reimagined Zbar Brings Beachside Bliss and Creative Mixology

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Newly Reimagined Zbar Brings Beachside Bliss and Creative Mixology to The Naka Island, Phuket - TRAVELINDEX

Newly Reimagined Zbar Brings Beachside Bliss and Creative Mixology to The Naka Island, Phuket - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Signature beachfront bar emerges from a complete transformation with an extended terrace, revitalized design, Japanese-inspired menu, serene Sunset Ceremony, and creative cocktails by acclaimed mixologist Jane Kaew-yod.

The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, the secluded five-star sanctuary nestled on an island in the Andaman Sea, is inviting guests to step into tropical tranquility, culinary creativity, and mesmerizing mixology at Zbar, its newly-reimagined social venue nestled on the tip of the island, overlooking Phang Nga Bay.

Zbar unveils a new era of elegance and allure, following a masterful transformation that redefines the art of refined relaxation. Reimagined to perfection, this sophisticated lounge now offers an exquisite retreat for both couples and families seeking tranquil afternoons and captivating evenings. The ambiance is elevated by a bold yet graceful palette of deep crimson and celestial blue, echoing the mesmerizing interplay of sea and sky at dusk. The open-air terrace, now generously expanded, invites guests to unwind in unparalleled comfort while savoring panoramic vistas. Whether indulging in meaningful conversation or simply basking in the beauty of the moment, Zbar promises a sanctuary where luxury meets serenity.

From sunlit mornings to golden dusks, Zbar offers a serene escape where guests sip tropical juices, smoothies, and chilled brews with their feet in the sand and eyes on the sea.

As the sky ignites with evening color, the mood shifts effortlessly. Guests gather to enjoy bespoke cocktails, expertly crafted in collaboration with Jane Kaew-yod, winner of the “Best Bartender Award” at the Diageo Reserve World Class 2018 Thailand Final. This inspired cocktail collection blends elevated classics with original creations, infuse with local herbs and spices to evoke a true sense of place. Signature drinks include Rosé Lips, a delicate homage to twilight’s gentle glow, and Umeshu Spritz, crafted to mirror the nuanced flavors of a seasonal kaiseki experience.

The enchanting “Sunset Ceremony” deepens Zbar’s connection to its Southern Thai coastal heritage. Held daily at 18:30, this candle-lighting ritual pays homage to the mythical dragons of Naka Yai Island, believed in local folklore to awaken at dusk. As the sun sinks into the sea, guests are invited to pause amidst the elemental beauty of ocean, forest, and mangroves, make a wish, and embrace the island’s timeless spirit.

As night falls, Zbar transforms into a haven for memorable moments and unforgettable gatherings. From 18:00 to 22:30, guests can savor a curated menu of light, Japanese-inspired plates, artfully presented and perfect for sharing under the stars.

Zbar extends a warm welcome to both resort guests and outside visitors, offering complimentary speedboat transfers from Phuket, a scenic five-minute journey, available by advance reservation. Marriott Bonvoy members enjoy exclusive privileges, including special savings on food and beverages at this luxurious island retreat.

Whether families seek a tranquil daytime escape or couples long for romantic evenings beneath the stars, the reimagined Zbar promises to elevate every moment in this secluded paradise.

The Naka Island, Phuket is the only resort on Naka Yai Island and a true gem of the Andaman Sea, offering a serene blend of tranquility and adventure. This secluded sanctuary features 90 thoughtfully designed rooms, lavish suites, and private pool villas, complemented by immersive wellness experiences, curated activities, and island-hopping excursions. Whether you’re seeking a solo retreat, a family vacation, a romantic escape, a destination wedding, or an unforgettable honeymoon, The Naka Island, Phuket promises an extraordinary island experience.

To learn more about The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, please call +66 (0) 76 371 400

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THAI Commercial Conference 2025

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THAI Commercial Conference 2025 - TRAVELINDEX

THAI Commercial Conference 2025 - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Thai Airways arranged THAI Commercial Conference 2025 at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park under the theme “Aim Further, Strive for New Heights” for its global commercial business partners to update its current business operation status and shows future commercial strategy for the second half of 2025 and into 2026. on products and services, the company convened business partners and ticketing agents from all regions worldwide across its route network—including Europe, Asia, Australia—as well as representatives from Thailand. The event was also attended by Thai Airways executives and staff from its international branch offices globally

The event gathered over 300 participants, including top travel agents from across Europe, Asia, Australia, and Thailand, as well as key business partners and senior executives. It served as a vital platform to reinforce confidence in the THAI brand and strengthen collaboration with commercial partners globally.

Under the strategic framework of “Trust in THAI,” the conference introduced the airline’s new commercial direction, showcased new product innovations, and unveiled the upgraded A321neo cabin and seating, which feature an entirely redesigned aircraft interior to elevate the passenger experience.

In line with THAI’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, the airline introduced the “Good Taste for a Good Cause” initiative—promoting Thai-made products that support local communities and small businesses, further expanding Thailand’s soft power on a global scale.

Another key highlight included presentations from expert guest speakers who shared insights on the global economic outlook, offering valuable perspectives on emerging travel trends and the future of the airline industry.

Through this landmark event, Thai Airways reaffirmed its commitment to delivering world-class service, fostering long-term partnerships, and positioning Thailand as a premier aviation and tourism hub in the region and beyond.

Thai airways exit from rehabilitation comes after a robust performance under its restructuring plan. Between April 2024 and March 2025, the airline reported an EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) of 40.31 billion baht — more than double the 20 billion baht target set within the rehabilitation framework.

Over the past four years, THAI has restructured its organization, optimized its fleet and route network, enhanced cabin interiors and service touchpoints, and strengthened its digital infrastructure to better serve passengers and commercial partners alike.

The transformation also included a successful debt restructuring, involving the conversion of liabilities into equity and the issuance of new shares to existing shareholders and staff. These crucial measures restored financial health. As of 31 March 2025, THAI reported shareholders’ equity of 55.22 billion baht a complete turnaround from the 127.23-billion-baht deficit recorded at the end of 2020.

On 8 July, The Central Bankruptcy Court officially approved THAl’s request to exit the rehabilitation program, following a formal submission made in April. This approval marks the culmination of a four-year transformation that has fundamentally reshaped the airline’s financial standing, operational efficiency, and long-term competitiveness.

It aimed to reaffirm our partners’ confidence in the company’s latest developments and strategic direction. The event also highlighted that the company has successfully completed its court-monitored rehabilitation and is now preparing for a major milestone — its relisting on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) scheduled for early August 2025.

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Dusit International signs strategic partnership for hotel development in France

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Dusit International signs strategic partnership for hotel development in France - TRAVELINDEX

Dusit International signs strategic partnership for hotel development in France - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 01, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with SYDEL, a French real estate investment company, to establish Dusit France – a joint venture created to bring Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to France for the first time.

Leveraging SYDEL’s local knowledge and operational expertise, the joint venture will focus on identifying opportunities for Dusit Hotels and Resorts, whose portfolio of nine brands spans the lodging spectrum – from affordable lifestyle hotels to full-service luxury retreats.

Brands being considered for the French market include Dusit Thani (Bespoke Luxury), Devarana – Dusit Retreats (Wellness Luxury), Dusit Collection (Character Luxury), Dusit Hotels (Upper Upscale), dusitD2 (Lifestyle Upscale), Dusit Princess (Upper Midscale), ASAI Hotels (Lifestyle Midscale), and Dusit Suites (Lifestyle Long Stay).

Together, Dusit and SYDEL will identify strategic locations, support asset owners with repositioning projects, and introduce innovative hotel concepts focused on delivering memorable guest experiences, championing well-being, and creating long-term sustainable value.

The partnership was formalised at an exclusive signing ceremony held on 10 July 2025 in Paris. At the event, Mr. Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International, shared the vision for Dusit France and outlined the group’s growth ambitions in the region.

We are thrilled to partner with SYDEL to seek opportunities to expand Dusit’s footprint and bring our distinctive brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to France – one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations,” said Mr Cretallaz. “This partnership marks an important milestone in our global expansion strategy, and we are confident that our unique blend of cultural authenticity, innovation, and gracious service will resonate strongly with travellers and developers alike.”

Dusit’s portfolio currently spans 294 properties across 18 countries, including 55 operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 239 luxury villas under Elite Havens. In Europe, the company operates the upper-upscale Dusit Suites Athens in Greece, located in the vibrant coastal district of Glyfada on the Athenian Riviera.

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A Taste of Adventure Returns with Jim Thompson’s New Afternoon Tea Menu at The O.S.S. Room

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A Taste of Adventure Returns with Jim Thompson’s New Afternoon Tea Menu at The O.S.S. Room - TRAVELINDEX

A Taste of Adventure Returns with Jim Thompson’s New Afternoon Tea Menu at The O.S.S. Room - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 01, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / At Jim Thompson, The O.S.S. Room, afternoon tea is more than a ritual – it’s a celebration of curiosity, travel, and the unexpected. This season, The O.S.S. Room unveils an exciting new chapter in its afternoon tea offering, reimagining its signature sets through the lens of Jim Thompson’s adventurous life. The ‘Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience’ and ‘Jim’s Pinto’ sets invite guests on a spirited culinary journey, that blends Thai heritage with international flair.

Known for its unique setting and storytelling approach, The O.S.S. Room offers more than just an afternoon tea – it’s a cultural experience steeped in history, mystery, and unmistakable Thai charm. With interiors that nod to espionage-era elegance and service that reflects warm Thai hospitality, it sets the stage for a culinary journey filled with surprises.

While the names of the afternoon tea sets remain unchanged, the menus have been updated to capture the essence of exploration, and both sets are served with a curated selection of tea.

Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience’ begins with a curated selection of savory creations. Blue swimmer crab is paired with creamy Thai chili paste mayo in the Crab & Chili Bliss open sandwich, while slow-cooked Thai Kurobuta pork is layered with a sweet and aromatic spice blend inside a brioche to form the Pulled Pork Harmony Sandwiches. The Chicken Satay Ball reimagines the Thai street food favorite as a golden-fried croquette, served with a traditional cucumber and chili relish. Miang Khum Pla Yarng rounds out the savory section with grilled fish of the day on betel leaves topped with a tangy herbal dressing and cashew nuts.

On the sweet side, the menu features the Mulberry Fig Muffin with clotted cream and Jim Thompson mulberry jam, followed by the Cashew Nut Financier that delivers a rich, buttery bite with a subtle nutty sweetness. The Lychee Blossom Cake, pays tribute to one of Thailand’s most beloved fruits, while the Zesty Lime Meringue Tart adds a refreshing note with its tangy filling. The Mung Bean Dumpling Delight, Pa Ka Krong, brings a traditional touch, and The O.S.S. Macaron ties it all together with a bold Thai bitter lime filling inside a classic French shell.

Guests may also opt for ‘Jim’s Pinto’, a playful, tiffin-inspired set that offers a rotating assortment of light bites and sweets, each layer telling its own delicious story. This set celebrates Thai-style presentation and culinary nostalgia while remaining refreshingly modern.

Both afternoon tea sets are perfectly complemented by over 20 exceptional tea selections from Thailand and around the world. The highlight is the Jim Thompson Exclusive Blend – a distinctive Thai green tea artfully combined with mulberry leaves, lychee, and floral notes, offering a refreshing experience that perfectly accompanies the culinary journey.

Served within the elegant and atmospheric surroundings of The O.S.S. Room – a space that echoes Jim Thompson’s legacy of intrigue and cross-cultural connection – these updated afternoon tea menus are a must. Rich in flavor, rooted in tradition, and shaped by imagination, this is afternoon tea redefined.

The O.S.S. Room welcomes guests every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday, 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm (last order at 4.00 pm).

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New “Weekday Set Lunch” Menus at Pagoda Chinese Restaurant

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New “Weekday Set Lunch” Menus at Pagoda Chinese Restaurant - TRAVELINDEX

New “Weekday Set Lunch” Menus at Pagoda Chinese Restaurant - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Pagoda Chinese Restaurant, the award-winning Cantonese dining destination at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, invites hotel guests and local residents to come together and experience its new Weekday Set Lunch menus. Priced at just THB 488++ per person, an ideal setting for both corporate gatherings and casual get-togethers.

Curated with care by Chef Oscar Pun, this set menu is perfect for a productive business lunch or a relaxing midday escape. Guests can choose from two thoughtfully crafted menus, each featuring seven dishes that blend the timeless elegance of Cantonese cuisine with modern culinary artistry.

Set Menu A is a multi-course lunchtime feast that starts with a selection of handmade dim sum, including steamed prawn & vegetable dumplings with asparagus and lettuce, and classic pork & shrimp dumplings with shiitake mushrooms. Guests can then savor bamboo pith, fungus & wolfberry soup, jellyfish with Sichuan dressing, and roasted barbecued duck. Following two delicious main courses, stir-fried kale in oyster sauce, and baked prawns with egg noodles in superior stock, guests can end their lunch with a fried pancake with Chinese date paste.

Set Menu B also commences with delectable dim sum (truffle & vegetable dumplings with shiitake, corn & Chinese lettuce, and classic pork & shrimp dumplings with shiitake), followed by a sublime double-steamed wolfberry, mushroom & black chicken soup. Friends and colleagues can then enjoy crispy-fried prawns with fresh fruit salad, cold fungus with shredded chili sauce, stir-fried broccoli in oyster sauce, and fried rice with crispy pork and vegetables. This set menu also concludes with a fried pancake with Chinese date paste.

The Weekday Set Lunch is available from August 1 – October 31, 2025. Monday – Friday, 11.30 – 14.30 hrs, served in the elegant ambiance of Pagoda Chinese Restaurant.

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GOCO Hospitality Joins World Wellness Weekend 2025

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GOCO Hospitality Joins World Wellness Weekend 2025 - TRAVELINDEX

GOCO Hospitality Joins World Wellness Weekend 2025 - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / GOCO Hospitality proudly announces its participation in World Wellness Weekend 2025, reaffirming its commitment to fostering holistic wellbeing for its team members, guests, and communities. Aligning with this year’s inspiring theme, Make Wellness Your Superpower, GOCO Hospitality and its properties will deliver a diverse programme of complimentary wellness activities, designed to promote health, happiness and harmony.

Joining this global initiative at Hero Level by hosting activities that engage the public, inspire the team and support local communities. From Bangkok to Bali, Samui to California, the company’s properties have curated meaningful experiences that encourage people to prioritise their wellbeing.

“We are always proud to support World Wellness Weekend, a brilliant initiative that inspires so many to make wellbeing a priority in their lives,” said Ingo Schweder, Founder and CEO of GOCO Hospitality. “Our teams across the world are passionate about contributing to this movement and helping to make a lasting global impact.”

GOCO-managed hospitality properties will present meaningful wellness experiences that include meditation and sound healing sessions, community outreach and donation drives, yoga classes, aqua gym activities, bodyweight training, and CSR initiatives such as beach clean-ups and children’s projects. Wellness walks, team runs, staff movement challenges, fire blessing ceremonies, nourishing breaks, and wellness-focused meals with detox shots are also among the activities curated to encourage participation and connection.

These events will take place between 19 and 21 September 2025, inviting guests, colleagues and local communities to engage in experiences that nurture body, mind and spirit.

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INDDEE Launches a New Multi-Layered Journey

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INDDEE Launches a New Multi-Layered Journey - TRAVELINDEX

INDDEE Launches a New Multi-Layered Journey - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A new journey begins at INDDEE. After six months of creative refinement and development, the 1 MICHELIN Star restaurant now invites guests to explore an evolved tasting experience, layered with new flavours, textures, destinations, and stories from across India.

INDDEE’s latest chapter introduces three new journeys with expanded course structure, playful reinventions, refined presentations, and greater guest engagement—while staying rooted in authenticity. All dishes represent thoughtful interpretations of Indian flavours through various techniques and premium ingredients.

  • 10-Destination Journey: 4,900 THB ++
  • 10-Destination Vegetable Journey: 4,200 THB ++
  • 8-Destination Journey: 4,200 THB ++

Explorers of the new menu will see a delicate Parsi egg akuri executed with a delicate skill, INDDEE’s favorite butter pepper garlic entirely reimagined with a sweet leg of Hokkaido king crab and four new bites that express different techniques of Indian street food, to name a few.

A standout feature is the “Three Ways” main course that follows the idea of choosing Your route. Guests select from three regional directions. Similarly, they will be able to choose their preferred protein for two courses, deciding between palamós and carabineros (only in a 10-destination journey), and free-range organic chicken or grass-fed lamb.

A World of Pairings Awaits

To complement the new menus, INDDEE has elevated and expanded its beverage program — now proudly holding the No. 1 spot in Asia and the title of Best Medium-Sized List in the world, awarded in Vienna at the Star Wine List of the Year awards. The new wine menu now features five curated pairings:

  • Beverage Experience – a mixed pairing journey featuring wine, sake, umeshu, etc.
  • Wine Experience – INDDEE’s wine-focused route
  • Zero Alcohol Experience – an adventurous exploration of no alcohol beverages
  • Best of Both – blends the best of both worlds: alcohol & no alcohol pours
  • Flexi Experience – customize based on your preferences, deciding on the amount of glasses, styles or grapes. Starts with minimum 3 glasses, additional glasses 450 THB++ each.

Beyond the kitchen, INDDEE has introduced a series of enhancements that shape the guest experience: from artisanal tableware and cutlery rests to more tableside service accessories and glassware. The reservation experience has also been upgraded and now offers seamless booking directly from the MICHELIN app, Instagram, Facebook, and Google.

To ensure culinary authenticity while evolving creatively, INDDEE collaborated with world-renowned Indian food historian Dr. Pushpesh Pant, whose guidance helped shape the narratives, flavors and relevance of ingredients, and historical depth of the experience.

“Our third chapter brings more freedom, more finesse, and more personal engagement,” says Sachin Poojary, INDDEE’s Head Chef. “It’s our most expressive and sophisticated journey yet.”

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Sun-Soaked Beach Club Debuts with Distinct Ibiza Mood

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Sun-Soaked Beach Club Debuts with Distinct Ibiza Mood - TRAVELINDEXPattaya, Thailand, July 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / With a unique “hydro bar”, vistas of Pattaya Beach, and fiery entertainment, LAY Beach Club has opened in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant Pattaya.

The exciting new venue is situated on Beach Road on the Gulf of Thailand’s east coast, a short drive from Bangkok, and has already been dubbed “the place to be”.

The beach club’s crème de la crème is the hydro bar, an elegant cocktail pool where the water’s surface appears to seamlessly merge with the ocean. Dotted with submerged loungers, the hydro bar is surrounded by a white-sand area and deck featuring circle sofas and cabanas.

Also exuding a Mediterranean feel, the lounge and bar area anchoring the beach club caters to almost 250 people. The space is crowned by a chic rooftop lounge, with a capacity for more than 100 guests seated or 300 guests for cocktail events, affording panoramic views of Pattaya Beach.

The a la carte menu brims with Mediterranean and Asian favourites including artisanal sandwiches and wraps, hearty rice and pasta dishes, fresh seafood mains and signature specialities. Highlights with locally sourced seafood include ‘Hand shucked oysters with shallot mignonette, lemon and salsa verde’, and ‘Seafood paella rice with prawn, mussel, squid and clam’. Indulgent desserts such as the Sicily Cannoli generously filled with orange mascarpone, pistachio and drizzled in rich chocolate sauce round out the menu.

The beverage menu is extensive, featuring smoothies and shakes, juices, sodas, iced drinks, beers, wines, champagne, classic cocktails and all sorts of imaginative creations by the award-winning bar team.

Cocktails such as the pandan-scented ‘Blue Tides’, made up of vodka, coconut juice, pandan syrup and coconut milk topped with blue coconut foam, bring creative flair to the menu. ‘The Wave Rider’ is characterised by floral and citrus notes, featuring gin, Lillet Rosé, rose syrup, aloe vera juice, egg white and lime juice. A reinterpretation of a classic Bloody Mary, ‘Sriracha Spark’ packs a punch with clarified vodka, Sriracha sauce, tomato juice, green olive juice, lime, paprika, and salt and pepper.

LAY Beach Club brings the atmosphere of the famed Mediterranean chill-out beach clubs to Pattaya, with a dynamic menu offering something for everyone,” said Javier Gimeno, the general manager at Meliá Pattaya Hotel, which manages LAY Beach Club. “By day, our sun-soaked beach club has a laid back feel and by night, it’s a lively hotspot with DJs spinning the decks, dance performances and LED visuals on our state-of-the-art giant LED screen.”

The evening’s entertainment is underscored by an enthralling 20-minute fire show packed with high-impact tricks and choreography.

Open daily from 11am until midnight, Lay Beach Club also caters to an array of events.

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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