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London, United Kingdom, June 19, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA®) has officially revealed the speaker line-up for Experience Africa 2025 — the UK’s only trade show dedicated exclusively to showcasing the continent’s tourism sector at this scale. Now in its fifth year, the flagship B2B event returns to Bishopsgate, London, from 23–25 June 2025, firmly established as a must-attend for anyone serious about selling or promoting African travel.

Experience Africa 2025 will bring together over 188 top-tier exhibitors and a curated audience of global travel buyers, offering an unparalleled platform to connect, collaborate and learn.

Experience Africa 2025 content programme

This year’s content format has been thoughtfully designed to be collaborative and
immersive, creating an intimate setting that encourages meaningful dialogue and
idea exchange.

The programme is structured around three core themes:

1. Sustainability: As a business enabler and market differentiator
2. Artificial Intelligence: Tools and approaches helping businesses streamline
   and evolve
3. Risk Management: Building resilience into operations, planning, and
   traveller protection

“These three themes – sustainability, AI, and risk management – were chosen very
intentionally,” says Chris Mears, CEO of ATTA® Events. “They represent both the
pressures and the possibilities facing our industry right now. Whether you’re a
DMC, buyer, tour operator, or destination authority, you’re having to rethink how
you make decisions, deliver value, and protect your business.  What we’ve built into this year’s Experience Africa programme is a commitment to relevance. We’re not just talking trends; we’re offering practical, implementable
strategies and tools that delegates can take home and use in their businesses the
very next day. This is about equipping our members and partners with insight that leads to impact, delivers growth of the African tourism industry.”

Key speakers and sessions include:

• Michael Jackson – Opening keynote on sustainability as a transformational
  business strategy
• Fatmata Mida Hamid Carew, Sierra Leone National Tourist Board –
  Destination innovation and repositioning case study
• Pieter Geldenhuys, Itsi – AI in action: a hands-on masterclass for applying
  emerging tech
• Lloyd Figgins, The TRIP Group and Clint Meyers, Redpoint Travel Protection
  – Risk management frameworks for diverse travel markets

The programme is supported by curated networking opportunities and a series of
brand-led pop-up sessions, including activations from Flywire, Headline Destination
South African Tourism, and Uganda Airlines.

ATTA® for Action Awards winners to be announced

Experience Africa 2025 will also proudly host the second annual ATTA® for Action
Awards, celebrating individuals and organisations driving positive change across
the continent. The winners will be announced during a dedicated awards event on
23 June 2025, live at Experience Africa.

The award categories include:

• ATTA® Purpose and People Award – honours an organisation that
  integrates heritage tourism with an inclusive, people-first company culture.
• ATTA® Earth Keeper’s Award – recognises a tourism provider actively
  restoring natural habitats while promoting respectful wildlife experiences.
• ATTA® Eco Innovation Award – celebrates the use of sustainable
  technologies that reduce environmental impact and support long-term
  ecological goals.
• ATTA® Zero Waste Trailblazer Award – acknowledges businesses that
  rethink food systems and hospitality operations to minimise waste and
  improve resource use.
• ATTA® Community Upliftment Award – highlights a tourism initiative that
  strengthens community wellbeing through deep local involvement and
  shared opportunity.
• ATTA® Marine Impact Award – recognises an organisation committed to
  protecting marine ecosystems while supporting livelihoods along Africa’s
  coasts.
• ATTA® Collaborative Impact Award – is given to partners who align around
  a common purpose and create lasting impact through shared action.
• ATTA® Traveller Education and Awareness Award – honours efforts that
  help visitors become more thoughtful travellers by encouraging greater
  awareness and responsibility.
• ATTA® Media Voice for Action Award, sponsored by Ethiopian Airlines –
  celebrates a media voice that brings attention to ethical travel through
  compelling and purposeful storytelling.
• ATTA® Emerging Changemaker Award – recognises an early-stage
  initiative already showing strong potential for meaningful impact within
  African tourism.

“Experience Africa is a catalyst for progress,” concludes Mears. “At a time when the
travel industry must be agile, innovative and deeply connected to its communities
and environment, this event provides the insights, relationships and tools to power
that evolution. For anyone working in African tourism today, there’s no better
place to be.”

For media accreditation, imagery, interview access or comments from speakers or
award winners, please contact Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO ATTA® Memberships
kgomotso@atta.travel | +44 20 7937 4408

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 18, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Banyan Tree Bangkok introduces a captivating new chapter in its signature river journey with the unveiling of a striking hand-painted design on the exterior of Saffron Cruise. Adorning the hull is a majestic depiction inspired by the Siamese fighting fish—Thailand’s national aquatic animal—brought to life through the brushstrokes with masterful craftsmanship, transforming the vessel into a floating tribute to Thai artistry and cultural pride.

A Symbol of Strength and Spirit

Known locally as Pla Kad, the Siamese fighting fish holds deep symbolic meaning in Thai culture. Revered for its elegant movements, vibrant colours, and fierce independence, the fish has long been celebrated in Thai folklore, literature, and royal iconography. Once kept in the ancient courts as prized ornamental creatures and even used in traditional games, the fish embodies a balance of beauty and strength—values that mirror the essence of Thai identity.

By featuring this iconic creature along the Chao Phraya River, Saffron Cruise honours centuries of Thai tradition while inviting guests to appreciate the cultural narrative in an immersive, contemporary experience. The large-scale artwork flows fluidly across the vessel’s side, creating a sense of motion and storytelling as the cruise glides past historic riverside landmarks.

A Cultural Voyage, Reinvented

Saffron Cruise continues to offer guests a refined journey through Thai flavours and sights. Aboard the two-storey vessel, diners are treated to an expertly crafted four-course Thai dinner in the elegant indoor saloon, while the Moon Deck provides a sophisticated open-air bar experience under the stars. As the cruise passes iconic sites such as Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, the new artwork serves as a visual overture—setting the tone for an evening rooted in cultural appreciation and sensory delight.

Art on Water

With this artistic transformation, Banyan Tree Bangkok deepens its commitment to promoting Thai heritage through design, cuisine, and experience. The hand-painted image of the iconic fish’s elegant tail becomes more than decoration; it is a story told across water, a symbol of Thai soul and expression, and a tribute to the country’s enduring relationship with its riverways.

The Saffron Cruise departs daily at 7:00pm from ICONSIAM Pier No.2.
The 4-course Thai set dinner priced at THB3,300 per person.
Private charters are available for bespoke celebrations and cultural experiences.

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Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, June 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / KTS Garden Conference Hall becomes culinary epicenter as global chefs gather for prestigious three-day event. The vibrant capital of Malaysian Borneo officially welcomed culinary excellence from around the world today as the World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition & Seminar 2025 opened its doors at KTS Garden Conference Hall. The three-day event, running from June 17-19, marks the largest live cooking competition ever held in Kuching.

The opening ceremony brought together distinguished guests including Sarawak’s Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Minister for Tourism, Events and City Branding of Valladolid, Spain, Blanca Jimenez Cuadrillero, symbolizing the international bridge between Malaysian and Spanish culinary traditions. Valladolid was also represented by Mr. Juan Manuel Guimerans Rubio, CEO of Valladolid Tourism, Mr. Rodrigo Criado del Rey Saez, Manager for Gastronomic and Wine Tourism at Valladolid Tourism, and Mr. Angel Moreton, Director of World Tapas Competition and CEO of e-Spain. Ms Sim Ling Ling, Organizing Chair and President of the Sarawak International Technical & Vocational Education Association, welcomed all guests, local and international, before the Deputy Premier delivered an inspiring speech about the importance of food played by food in the local culture.

A Meeting of Culinary Worlds
This unprecedented event transforms Kuching into a melting pot of global flavors, bringing together over 1,000 visitors including chefs, food experts, and international brands from 16 countries. The competition showcases the art of tapas – small, flavorful Spanish dishes – while incorporating Asian culinary influences and local Sarawakian ingredients.

“The event gathers chefs, food experts, and international brands to Kuching, transforming the city into a melting pot of global flavours,” explained organizing chairwoman Sim Ling Ling, who also serves as president of the Sarawak International Technical and Vocational Education Association.

Star-Studded Judging Panel
The competition features an impressive panel of nine judges, headlined by Kuching’s own Michelin-starred chef Michelle Goh. Chef Goh made history as the youngest Malaysian woman to achieve this distinction when Mia Restaurant Bangkok, where she is the co-founder, received its Michelin star.

Joining her are fellow Sarawakian culinary legends: Chef Goh Ah Seng, renowned champion of Cantonese cuisine, and Chef Abang Abdul Rahman, president of the Kuching Chefs Association and advocate for sustainable Malaysian gastronomy.

Beyond Competition: Innovation and Sustainability
The event extends far beyond traditional competition formats, introducing the first-ever “Barista Art Challenge” alongside the tapas competitions. Attendees can witness live cooking demonstrations featuring Sarawak’s prized seafood, explore curated pavilions from over 20 new exhibitors, and participate in food sustainability seminars led by industry experts.

These sustainability-focused discussions aim to encourage dialogue and innovation in eco-conscious cooking, reflecting the growing global emphasis on responsible culinary practices.

Cultural and Economic Impact
The competition represents more than a culinary showcase – it positions Kuching as an emerging destination for international food events while celebrating the unique fusion of Spanish tapas tradition with Asian flavors and local Sarawakian ingredients. The presence of Spanish dignitaries underscores the event’s role in fostering international cultural and economic relationships through gastronomy.

As the competition unfolds over the next two days, participating chefs will compete for prestigious titles while contributing to a broader celebration of culinary creativity, sustainability, and cross-cultural exchange in the heart of Borneo.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Boutique Hotel Series: The Summit 2025, held at the iconic Sukhothai Bangkok, lived up to its promise of delivering vision, insight, and inspiration from the best and brightest minds in boutique hospitality. But among the panels, presentations, and powerhouse personalities, one voice emerged as the soul of the summit: Leanne Reddie.

Chief Commercial Officer at Chedi Hospitality, Reddie stepped in at the last minute for Jason Friedman during the highly anticipated session, “The Soul of Luxury: Boutique Hotels Re-defining Unforgettable Experiences in the Luxury Market” Rising to the moment, she delivered an unforgettable talk that blended authenticity with authority.

“The essence of boutique hospitality is not about design or detail,” Reddie began, “It’s about recognition—about creating a space where people feel understood, valued, and, most importantly, seen.”

She shared a formative memory of her first luxury boutique stay at The Chedi in Ubud, Bali.
“Every touchpoint was intentional.”

“While the big brands may reward you with points and status, boutique hotels reward you with something else entirely—a human connection.”

“Boutique hotels are not in the business of beds. We are in the business of belonging.”

A Masterclass in Modern Hospitality Strategy

Later in the day, Reddie joined the panel “No Room for Return? Winning Boutique Hotel Strategies for a One-Stay World,” moderated by co-founder Julie Ockerby. There, she offered a structured lens on the seismic shifts impacting boutique hotel operations and marketing.

“We’re in a more dynamic space—experience-first storytelling, hyper-personalisation, and digital agility are defining success. Yet many boutique brands still operate in a hybrid state: new expectations, old infrastructure.”

“We’re not evolved until data, storytelling, and UX sit at the heart of every brand touchpoint.”

Looking ahead, she offered this forecast:
“True integration of AI into CRM and content creation. Moving beyond vanity metrics to measure long-term brand engagement. And in luxury, silence and restraint may become the ultimate expression.”

On experiential travel, she made it simple:
“Every moment is shareable content—especially for designed hotels like ours.”
“What resonates is authentic, imperfect, personal storytelling.”

She warned that with AI redefining discovery, “hotels not optimising their content risk becoming invisible.”

On loyalty:
“Luxury travellers today are promiscuous by design—they chase uniqueness, not points.”“It’s about depth of connection.”

At Chedi, she explained, loyalty isn’t transactional.
“We’ve shifted from loyalty programmes to loyalty moments—those unexpected touches that lead to lifetime affinity, even if not repeat business.”“Encouraging social loyalty, where a guest becomes an advocate, not necessarily a repeat customer.”

“Monetise the emotional equity of the stay—through branded retail, residences, or digital experiences.”
“Drive post-stay storytelling. Encourage UGC. Build lifetime value through influence. One guest may refer five more.”

So how do you stand out in a saturated market?

“Say less, but mean more.”
“Focus on story over spectacle. Instead of drone shots, ask: What does the hotel feel like in winter?”
“Ensure every post answers: Why does this place matter?”

And to hoteliers hoping for quick wins without digital investment?

“Respectfully—you can’t shortcut trust.”
“Fix the foundation: a fast, mobile-optimised, SEO-friendly site with real-time availability and compelling imagery.”“Build a narrative: one authentic story, shared across web, social, and PR.”
“Amplify strategically: invest in smart paid media, preferably retargeting to warm leads and brand-aligned lookalikes.”

When asked where she would invest—design, digital, or destination branding—Reddie didn’t blink:
“Digital.” Adding, “Design is essential—and at Chedi, we obsess over it. Destination matters—but it’s often out of your hands. Digital is the multiplier. It’s how your hotel gets discovered, remembered, and booked. A beautifully designed hotel in a perfect location doesn’t exist—if no one finds it online.”

Reddie’s sessions—equal parts heartfelt and high-impact—earned praise across the summit for their clarity and candor. Her combination of strategic foresight and storytelling turned heads and shaped conversations long after the last panel closed.

As co-founder Betsy Sweat reflected, “A mere seven months ago, this was just a concept. Today, it’s a movement.” The inaugural Summit welcomed 130 visionary minds who shared, challenged, and reshaped what boutique hospitality means—together.

“To those who partnered, advised, spoke, pitched, or simply showed up: you are our creative trendsetters and fearless innovators,” Sweat continued. “Oh, what an experience… and it’s only just begun.”

The Boutique Hotel Series Summit 2025 brought together the best and brightest minds in hospitality. With its intimate setting, powerhouse speakers, and actionable insights, the inaugural summit was a masterclass in boutique brilliance.

The Boutique Hotel Series now sets its sights on Tokyo, Hong Kong, and a return to Bangkok in 2026—with more summits, events, and masterclasses to come. The conversation isn’t over. In fact, it’s just getting interesting.

by Scott Michael Smith, Ph.D.-TRM

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Phuket, Thailand, June 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Laguna Phuket Marathon 2025 Presented by Supersports wrapped up its 19th edition in spectacular fashion, drawing over 7,000 runners from 71 countries to one of Asia’s most scenic and challenging race destinations. Against the backdrop of lush landscapes, coastal roads, and the warm hospitality of local supporters, athletes of all ages and levels embraced the challenge in Thailand’s premier destination marathon.

Returning champion Apichai Phujit, a Phuket native, retained his Full Marathon title with a time of 2:51:48, once again proving his dominance on home turf. On the women’s side, Mayumi Watanabe of Japan delivered a strong performance, crossing the finish line in 3:27:05. Other standout winners included B. Mungai Kirogoi of Kenya, who won the men’s Half Marathon in 1:18:30, and Chiaki Morikawa, a respected Japanese running icon, who claimed victory in the women’s Half Marathon in 1:23:46.

Celebrating its 19th year, the race was held on 14–15 June 2025 under the theme “Run Sunset & Run Sunrise”—offering participants a unique two-day running experience. The excitement began Saturday evening with family-friendly events, including a 2km Kids Run, a 5km Fun Run, and a 10km Mini Marathon. On Sunday morning, serious contenders took to the streets at dawn for the Half Marathon, Full Marathon, and Marathon Relay, pushing their limits on one of the region’s most picturesque courses.

This year also honored inspirational older runners, such as Anont Kullapattanasopon, 72, who finished the Full Marathon, and Bhasker Desai, 73, of India, who led his Half Marathon age group.

The race course, weaving through the serene beauty of Laguna Phuket and its surrounding community, offered runners a visual journey through rubber plantations, peaceful beaches, local temples, and village life. The event met international standards with excellent water stations, medical support, security, and enthusiastic crowds cheering along the way—solidifying its reputation as one of Asia’s most breathtaking coastal marathons.

Beyond the finish line, runners and visitors alike enjoyed a world-class retreat at Laguna Phuket—Southeast Asia’s largest integrated beachfront resort, spanning over 1,000 acres. The destination boasts a collection of internationally acclaimed hotels including Banyan Tree, Angsana, Dusit Thani, SAii, Cassia, and Homm Suite Laguna. The resort also features a championship golf course, award-winning spas, a variety of global cuisines, a state-of-the-art convention center, beachfront event spaces, and its signature Lagoon Shuttle service that makes exploring the area seamless and stress-free.

“We are honored to welcome runners from around the world to Laguna Phuket,” said Mr. Paul Wilson, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket. “This marathon is more than a race—it is a platform for sustainable wellness tourism, and we’re proud to be part of the growing global movement toward healthier lifestyles.”

“This year marks another significant milestone for the running community in Asia,” added Mr. Roman Floesser, CEO of Laguna Phuket Marathon. “What makes this race special is its spirit of inclusivity. From first-timers and kids to elite athletes and senior runners, everyone shares the course with joy and inspiration. We’re deeply grateful to our partners and participants, and we’re already planning an even more spectacular celebration next year.”

The Laguna Phuket Marathon 2026 Presented by Supersports will mark the 20th anniversary of the race. Runners from around the world are invited to be part of this historic milestone in Southeast Asia’s most beloved destination marathon.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation and B.Grimm, presented a monumental event for classical music enthusiasts. Lang Lang’s debut piano recital in Bangkok on May 31, 2025, at the Thailand Cultural Centre was sold out and received with rousing applause. This performance marked the first time the world-renowned pianist graced a Thai stage, captivating a full-house audience with his masterful artistry. The concert hall was filled not only with devoted classical music fans but also with an impressive number of Thai pianists across generations—from young music students to university-level musicians and professional performers. It was, undeniably, a rare and inspiring night for Thailand’s piano community.

Lang Lang, celebrated for his expressive style and technical precision, delivered a program that showcased both his versatility and deep emotional connection to the music. The recital featured a thoughtfully curated selection of works by iconic composers. Before the interval, the program included Gabriel Fauré’s Pavane, known for its elegance, and Robert Schumann’s Kreisleriana, a dramatic and emotionally charged composition that reflects Schumann’s complex inner world.

After the break, Lang Lang performed a selection of Frédéric Chopin’s Mazurkas and Polonaise—pieces that highlight Chopin’s Polish heritage and romantic expressiveness.

The evening was not only a display of virtuosic technique but also a deeply moving experience that resonated with the audience. The thunderous applause echoed through the hall, with waves of clapping and cheers rolling like a storm after each piece. As a fitting conclusion to the night, Lang Lang offered not one, but three encore pieces—an exceptional gesture that thrilled concertgoers. The encores included Schumann’s No.12 “Chopin” from Carnaval, a lyrical interpretation of the Chinese folk tune Jasmine Flower (arranged by Schindler), and de Falla’s fiery and exhilarating Ritual Fire Dance. Each piece was met with admiration, with many in the audience commenting on the beauty and intimacy of the encores.

Following the performance, a long queue of attendees formed for a rare opportunity to meet the maestro in person during a photo session. Guests waiting in line were treated to a thoughtful reception with refreshments, making the entire experience even more memorable and warm.

Lang Lang’s recital in Bangkok was more than just a concert—it was a landmark cultural moment. As one of the most influential classical pianists of our time, his presence in Thailand represents a significant milestone in the country’s growing appreciation of classical music. The event delighted long-time fans—some of whom had travelled internationally to attend—and introduced younger generations to the beauty and depth of classical piano.

For those fortunate enough to be in the audience, it was an unforgettable experience. One can only hope that Lang Lang’s return to the Thai stage is not far off. With the door now open, there are many exciting possibilities for future collaborations between the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra and this global icon.

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