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Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism

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Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, May 31, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The UN Tourism Executive Council has met again for a milestone session to build on the legacy of the last eight years. Meeting for its 123rd session, the Council assessed progress made around the priorities of innovation, investments and education and looked ahead with the nomination of Shaikha Al Nowais as new Secretary-General from 2026. Upon confirmation by the UN Tourism General Assembly, Ms. Shaikha Al Nowais will become the woman to hold the position.

According to the May 2025 World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, over 300 million tourists travelled internationally in the first three months of 2025, about 14 million more than in the same months of 2024. On the back of this positive data, Member States were given an overview of the progress made in key areas designed to build a more innovation, resilient and sustainable sector.

Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Over the last eight years, UN Tourism has embraced a transformative vision. We have put tourism at the forefront of the global agenda to enhance its competitiveness and economic value. And we have never lost sight of our key priorities: education, investments, sustainable and rural development, women empowerment, new technologies, and international expansion.”

Over the last eight years, UN Tourism has embraced a transformative vision. We have put tourism at the forefront of the global agenda to enhance its competitiveness and economic value

Shaikha Al Nowais nominated to make history as first female UN Tourism head

Following protocol, the Council elected Shaikha Al Nowais as the next Secretary-General, to begin in January 2026. Her nomination will be put to the UN Tourism General Assembly for their approval. The nomination represents a landmark first for the sector, as the first woman leader of UN Tourism in its 50-year history.

Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is an Emirati business leader with over 16 years of experience in global hospitality. As Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, she has overseen owner relations across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey. A graduate of Zayed University in Finance, she also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group and serves on the boards of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy.

Celebrating shared progress

In Segovia, Secretary-General Pololikashvili presented a comprehensive report reviewing the outcomes of his eight-year mandate. The report was built around the main outcomes of the approved Programme of Work, namely:

  • Tourism Insights, including Key data trends shaping the industry’s future.
  • Tourism Knowhow, including the development of tourism products.
  • Investments and Innovation, supporting the core drivers of growth
  • Sustainability, with a focus on initiatives aligning with the SDGs.
  • Education and Human Capital development to build a strong, skilled workforce.
  • UN Tourism on the ground and its assistance to Member States.
  • Budget allocation and Human Resources.

Highlights included strengthened tourism data systems, expanded rural tourism initiatives (including the Best Tourism Villages and STAR tool), new programming in gastronomy, sports, and urban tourism, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence and social innovation into the Organization’s broader agenda. Member States were also updated on the significant growth in the UN Tourism Online Academy, new International Academies in Association with UN Tourism, and record foreign direct investment figures.

Strengthening global presence and new Innovation Office for Africa

The Council also welcomed updates on the development of Thematic and Regional offices. On the eve of the Executive Council Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Tourism Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco Fatim-Zahra Ammor and UN Tourism formalized an agreement to create he first UN Tourism Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa in Rabat. The office will advance UN Tourism’s 2030 Agenda for Africa, and aims to position tourism as a key driver of development through innovation across the region.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sarawak and Spain Unite at World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition

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Sarawak and Spain Unite at World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition - TRAVELINDEXKuching, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia, May 31, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Kuching, the vibrant capital of Sarawak, Malaysia, is set to become the epicenter of global culinary excellence as it hosts the World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition & Seminar from June 17–19 2025 at the KTS Garden Conference Hall. This landmark event, themed “Taste the World, One Tapa at a Time,” brings together the rich gastronomic traditions of Spain and the diverse culinary heritage of Sarawak, creating a unique platform for cultural exchange and culinary innovation.

Sarawak: Gateway to Borneo and Culinary Destination

Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, is proudly known as the “Land of the Hornbills,” a title that reflects the state’s rich biodiversity and vibrant cultural heritage. Home to eight species of hornbills—including the iconic Rhinoceros Hornbill, a symbol of strength, unity, and prosperity revered by indigenous communities like the Iban and Bidayuh—Kuching blends modernity with lush natural surroundings on the island of Borneo.

The city’s tropical climate and proximity to national parks such as Bako and Semenggoh make it a haven for wildlife lovers and eco-tourists. The hornbill’s presence is celebrated not only in the forests but also in local art, rituals, and festivals like Gawai Dayak, which falls in June. Beyond its natural wonders and traditions, Kuching offers vibrant markets, a rich history, and a diverse culinary scene.

Landmarks such as the scenic Kuching waterfront and UNESCO World Heritage sites like Niah National Park and Gunung Mulu National Park capture the spirit of Sarawak—a destination brimming with tourism potential. Kuching’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2021 further highlights its status as a culinary hub, where indigenous traditions and multicultural influences converge to create a dynamic and memorable food landscape.

Valladolid: The Mecca of Tapas

Among Spain’s many culinary cities, Valladolid stands out as the mecca of tapas, renowned for its prestigious national and world tapas competitions. Here, chefs blend tradition with innovation, crafting dishes that honor regional heritage while pushing the boundaries of flavor and presentation. The city’s annual National Tapas Competition draws culinary talent from across Spain, making it a beacon for food enthusiasts worldwide.

Sarawak and Spain Unite at World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition - TRAVELINDEX

The Essence of Tapas:

Tapas are more than just food; they represent a cherished cultural tradition that captures the essence of Spanish life. While tapas began as simple slices of bread or meat used to cover drinks, the concept has grown into a global symbol for small bites and shared plates, bringing people together across cultures. The beauty of tapas lies in their ability to foster community and connection. Sharing a variety of small dishes encourages conversation, exploration, and togetherness—values that resonate in cultures worldwide, including Sarawak’s own spirit of hospitality.

The tradition of “tapeo,” or going out for tapas, is not just about eating; it’s about celebrating diversity and building relationships around the table. Tapas also embody principles of sustainability. By focusing on small portions and seasonal ingredients, tapas encourage mindful consumption and reduce food waste.

This approach aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable dining, making the tapas tradition relevant and responsible in today’s culinary landscape. As tapas inspire chefs and diners around the world, they serve as a bridge between cultures and a model for sustainable, communal dining—inviting everyone to connect, share, and savor, one small bite at a time.

Sarawak and Spain Unite at World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition - TRAVELINDEX

A Global Stage in Kuching

As the world turns its attention to Kuching this June, the World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition 2025 promises to be more than a contest—it is a celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity. Whether you are a culinary enthusiast, a traveler seeking new experiences, or a professional in the food industry, Sarawak invites you to discover its wonders and be part of a shared legacy that transcends borders.

The World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition Exhibition & Seminar 2025 welcomes all to witness world-class culinary competitions and also experience the warmth and diversity of Sarawak’s people, its rich cultural tapestry, and its breathtaking natural beauty. The event serves as a testament to the power of food in bridging cultures and building lasting connections.

Sarawak and Spain Unite at World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition - TRAVELINDEX

Read more about the World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition 2025 here…

Learn more about Tapas here…

Discover Kuching, Sarawak, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Transform Your Next Event with the New LED Screen at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit

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Transform Your Next Event with the New LED Screen at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit elevates the standard for meetings and events with the installation of a brand-new, high-definition LED screen in the Carlton Grand Ballroom. Whether you’re hosting a corporate meeting, product launch, or special celebration, this latest enhancement ensures your visuals are presented with unparalleled clarity and vibrant impact.

The Carlton Grand Ballroom now features this state-of-the-art LED screen, designed to deliver stunning imagery and seamless presentations that captivate every audience. This innovative addition is perfectly complemented by the ballroom’s signature Wave chandelier — a breathtaking, blown-glass installation in the shape of cascading water drops. The chandelier’s lighting can be customized to match any event’s color theme, creating a luxurious and immersive ambiance.

Combined with professional service and a prime location in the heart of Sukhumvit, we set the stage for your event’s success.

Make your next event unforgettable.

For more information or to make a reservation, please contact our Events Team at
+66 2 090 7888 or salesadmin@carltonhotel.co.th

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer

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Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer - TRAVELINDEXDanang, Vietnam, May 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / From golden rice fields to highland mists and ocean horizons, the Vietnam Golf Coast is offering a golfing journey like no other this summer. And with special rates and enticing stay-and-play packages, now is the perfect time to explore Central Vietnam’s premier golf destinations.

At Laguna Golf Lang Co, the rice paddies threading through the course are reaching their golden peak, creating a striking natural canvas as harvest season unfolds through May and June.

“This is one of the most enchanting times to play,” says Stephen Banks, Director of Golf, who highlights the course’s deep connection to Vietnam’s landscapes and traditions.

Summer promotions include a Golf & Spa package, combining a rewarding round with rejuvenating spa treatments; a Golf Express deal for time-pressed travellers seeking a condensed yet fulfilling golfing experience; and Golden Rice Flash Sales, offering time-limited discounts tied to the harvest season.

Set in the airy highlands outside Da Nang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club offers a refreshing escape among pine forests and mist-shrouded hills. It’s where privacy, fresh air, and tranquil natural surroundings come together in perfect harmony.

“Every time I walk this course, I’m reminded why golf in the mountains feels different – calmer, clearer, and more connected,” says General Manager Simon Mees.

Special summer offers include the popular Twi-Night Golf package, with weekday time available until 2:15pm (extended to 3:00 PM on Wednesdays) for VND2,600,000 (USD100), including a complimentary beer. The Night Golf experience offers group bookings from VND2,500,000 per player for a memorable evening, featuring local craft beer and Ba Na sausage.

Along the coast, Montgomerie Links delivers the classic appeal of seaside golf, where rolling fairways wind through signature casuarina pines and sea breezes meet views of traditional fishing boats and the nearby Marble Mountains.

“Montgomerie Links captures the spirit of true links golf, but with a distinct Vietnamese character,” says Club Manager Le Vo Hoang Van. This summer, golfers can take advantage of a Stay & Play package starting from just VND4,770,000, available until September 30, 2025.

Beyond the courses, each destination offers a memorable cultural experience. Friendly caddies in traditional non la conical hats bring warmth to every round, while elevated clubhouse cuisine showcases Vietnamese culinary icons—from rich ca phe sua da and crisp banh mi to steaming bowls of pho and bun thit nuong.

The sense of place extends beyond the greens, with Laguna Golf Lang Co just a short drive from the historic imperial capital of Hue, and Ba Na Hills and Montgomerie Links within easy reach of Da Nang’s lively beaches, international fireworks festival, and burgeoning dining scene. Golfers can also explore the UNESCO-listed ancient town of Hoi An, widely regarded as Vietnam’s most captivating destination.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Epicurean Fleurs: A Dinner Celebrating French Gastronomy & Floral Cuisine

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Epicurean Fleurs A Dinner Celebrating French Gastronomy & Floral Cuisine - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Les Disciples d’Escoffier Thailand is pleased to present Epicurean Fleurs Dinner.  The unique, one-night-only event is a culinary journey into the world of flowers and artful French cuisine. Scheduled for 19 June, 2025 at 1-Michelin Star Signature Bangkok, Epicurean Fleurs by Les Disciples d’Escoffier  includes a cocktail reception and a 5-course dinner including wine pairing. 

Epicurean Fleur by Les Disciples d’Escoffier  is a remarkable collaboration between six Les Disciples members — all chefs deeply committed to the epicurean arts and to sharing knowledge amongst themselves and future generations. The chefs include:

  • Chef Alexandre Demard
  • Chef Kent Vatcharavee
  • Chef Hervé Frerard
  • Chef Clément Hernandez
  • Chef Thierry Drapeau
  • Chef Clement Niel

Epicurean Fleurs by Les Disciples d’Escoffier  promises to be a culinary tour de force into the world of flowers. The six chefs will curate an exceptional culinary experience, working in collaboration as well as individually to showcase their signature dish. Each course will explore the flavours, the mystique and the beauty of flowers. Floral elements grace the entire evening — from the artful meal to the decor and ambiance.

Epicurean Fleurs by Les Disciples d’Escoffier  is inspired by the intimate flavours and creative potential  of rare and everyday herbs and flowers. The theme of the dinner is a nod to the growing popularity of floral cuisine and its compatibility with the art of French cooking. 

Signature Bangkok is the ideal venue for the event, as it is here that Head Chef Thierry Drapeau first introduced floral gastronomy to Bangkok. Located on the 11th floor of VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery Collection, Signature Bangkok’s elegant dining room offers gorgeous views of the Bangkok skyline. 

EVENT DETAILS:

June 19, 2025 l 6 – 10 PM 

THB 4,800 net per person 

Advance Reservations Only: sevn.ly/x77FmWdc

About Signature Bangkok
Signature Bangkok is a 1-Michelin Star restaurant, located on the 11th floor of VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery Collection, a 5-star luxury establishment in the heart of Bangkok’s central business district. Chef Thierry Drapeau, the restaurant’s Head Chef, aims to make French and Michelin dining accessible, aligning with Thai culinary culture. The kitchen, resembling a theatre stage, invites guests to interact with the culinary team, fostering an immersive experience with panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline.

Conveniently located 50m from BTS Ratchathewi, Signature Bangkok provides on-site parking with EV charging stations. Dinner service is available Tuesday to Sunday from 18:00 to 22:30, limited to 20 guests per evening.

Email: info@signaturebangkok.com   l Whatsapp: +66 65 950 9742 l Tel: +662 309 3939

About Les Disciples Escoffier
Les Disciples Escoffier is an international non-profit association dedicated to promoting the culinary arts and preserving the legacy of Auguste Escoffier, often considered the “father of modern French cuisine.” They focus on transmitting culinary knowledge, fostering innovation, and engaging in charitable activities, with members including chefs, hospitality professionals, and food producers worldwide.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hospitality Executive Arshiya Jhunjhnuwala Launches Enchanting Children’s Book

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Hospitality Executive Arshiya Jhunjhnuwala Launches Enchanting Children's Book - TRAVELINDEX

Hospitality Executive Arshiya Jhunjhnuwala Launches Enchanting Children's Book - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, May 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Arshiya Jhunjhnuwala, a seasoned hospitality executive and mother, is thrilled to announce the release of her debut children’s book, ‘Finding Magic’. The book is included in this year’s Asian Festival of Children’s Content of new launches, and is a captivating story that follows the adventures of Ava and Mia as they explore Singapore’s vibrant Holland Village with their whimsical friend, Uncle Goat. ‘Finding Magic’ aims to empower young readers with a positive mindset and equip them with the tools to navigate life’s challenges with confidence, ultimately shaping how they perceive the world around them.

Ms. Jhunjhnuwala is Regional Director at Naumi Hotels, responsible for the group’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) programs. Her passion for social impact and children’s education led her to work with various underprivileged children’s causes in India since 2015, an endeavour that continues to this day. Inspired by her CSR work, her interactions with diverse children groups, and the joy of raising her own young son, she embarked on the journey of writing ‘Finding Magic’ for children aged 3 to 12.

“While developing this book, I consulted with a child psychologist and conducted focus groups with mothers of young children to gather valuable feedback, all of which has been incorporated into the story,” says Ms. Jhunjhnuwala. “In my years working with underserved communities, I’ve been profoundly inspired by their unwavering joy and boundless imagination, despite limited resources. This is the essence of ‘Finding Magic’ – not just a book, but a small torch, for the little ones I’ve met and those I have yet to meet.”

Anoushka Sabnani, a Child and Family Therapist, praises the book: “‘Finding Magic’ is a heartwarming and beautifully told story that helps children navigate everyday challenges with confidence. As a therapist, I know how important it is for kids to develop resilience, emotional awareness, and problem-solving skills. This book introduces these concepts in a way that feels natural, engaging, and relatable for young readers. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to parents, educators, and caregivers who want to nurture emotional intelligence and a positive mindset in children.”

‘Finding Magic’ is available for purchase on Amazon’s website at $24.05 (sgd).

As part of Ms. Jhunjhnuwala’s commitment to social impact, for every five books sold, one book will be donated to a low-income school in India to spread the magic of mindset to even more children.

About Arshiya Jhunjhnuwala

Arshiya Jhunjhnuwala is a hospitality executive with Naumi Hotels, serving as the Regional Director responsible for the group’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) programs. A passionate advocate for social impact and children’s education, she has been actively involved in charitable causes in India since 2015. “Finding Magic” is her debut children’s book, inspired by her work with diverse children groups and her own experiences as a mother. She has been living and working Singapore with her family since 2019.

About ‘Finding Magic’

There are plans afoot for ‘Finding Magic’ to grow into a larger series of books focused on mindfulness and social-emotional learning for children aged 4-9.

‘Finding Magic’ will go beyond the books and create a broader experience that supports children’s emotional development through storytelling, play, and reflection.

Activity kits will be created alongside the books, offering hands-on tools for children to build self-awareness and resilience. One featured activity is “Make Your Own Magical Recipe,” where children get to choose personal qualities—like kindness, patience, and bravery—as ingredients to create their own unique magic.

A website will be developed to provide free and downloadable resources for parents and educators, as well as access to the activity kits.

Plans are also underway to conduct workshops where children can explore the book’s themes through interactive storytelling, crafts, and group activities.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Tourism, FAO Mountain Partnership Launch Sustainable Gastronomy Tourism Project

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UN Tourism, FAO Mountain Partnership Launch Sustainable Gastronomy Tourism Project - TRAVELINDEXRome, Italy, May 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A new initiative by UN Tourism, the Mountain Partnership Secretariat at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) seeks to strengthen the connection between agrifood systems and tourism in seven Pacific Islands. By designing tourism experiences and itineraries that showcase local products and gastronomy, the project aims to maximize value for producers, communities, and destinations in the Pacific SIDS.

In the Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS), agriculture remains central to rural livelihoods, offering critical economic opportunities and employment for local communities. Here, agrifood systems extend far beyond food production: they play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage and traditional knowledge while supporting biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management. Similar to remote mountain areas, these island communities rely on integrated food systems rooted in traditional practices and rich ecological diversity.

The initiative is being implemented in seven Pacific SIDS: Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Palau (through a dedicated project). Its ultimate goal is to develop Gastronomy Tourism Itineraries that feature authentic experiences—such as visits to organic farms and culinary workshops—tailored to each destination’s cultural and environmental identity.

Despite their essential role, smallholder farmers face persistent challenges. Many rely on secondary income sources due to structural issues like population decline, ageing demographics, limited economic opportunities, and the gradual erosion of traditional practices. These challenges echo those faced by smallholder producers in mountain regions, where isolation, climate vulnerabilities, and limited market access create similar development barriers.

Sustainable gastronomy tourism offers a promising opportunity; by integrating agriculture into the tourism value chain, it creates alternative income streams for small-scale producers while enhancing and diversifying the tourism offer in the islands building inclusion and sustainability.

By integrating local agrifood systems into tourism, Pacific SIDS can drive inclusive economic growth and support smallholder farmers while safeguarding both cultural heritage and fragile ecosystems. 

The project, Development of Sustainable Gastronomy Tourism Itineraries and Value Chains in the Pacific SIDS, aims to build tourism experiences rooted in agrifood systems—connecting visitors with organic farms, local food producers, and traditional culinary practices. In doing so, farmers become not only providers but also cultural ambassadors and stewards of fragile ecosystems and of their communities.

Achieving this vision requires strong collaboration between the agriculture and tourism sectors. Active involvement from both public and private stakeholders is essential to ensure inclusive growth and foster regional knowledge exchange, enhancing the strategic value of Gastronomy Tourism Itineraries.

Capacity-Building Workshop to Advance Sustainable Gastronomy Tourism

A key component of the project is the Regional Workshop on Sustainable Gastronomy Tourism, taking place from 30 June to 2 July 2025 in Nadi, Fiji. The event will bring together small-scale producers, tourism operators and other industry stakeholders, tourism and agriculture associations, experts, and institutional stakeholders from across the Pacific to strengthen technical skills; share best practices on linking agrifood systems with tourism; and explore collaborative strategies for building resilient supply chains and tourism products.

Participants will gain practical tools to transform local ingredients into authentic tourism experiences, improve market access and engage meaningfully with visitors. The workshop will create space for regional collaboration, cross-sector dialogue, and community-based networks.

Harnessing the Transformative Power of Integrating Agrifood Systems

By advancing sustainable gastronomy tourism across the Pacific region, the initiative directly supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It contributes to SDG 1 – No Poverty by building capacity and providing technical support to small-scale farmers; advances SDG 5 – Gender Equality and SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production by empowering communities, preserving traditional knowledge, and promoting sustainable organic agriculture; and reinforces SDG 14 – Life Below Water and SDG 15 – Life on Land by raising awareness among visitors about the impact of their choices on fragile ecosystems.

The project is supported by the Italian Cooperation through the FAO Mountain Partnership.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Chiang Mai Gets the Gold Star for Championing Sustainability

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Meliá Chiang Mai Gets the Gold Star for Championing Sustainability - TRAVELINDEXChiang Mai, Thailand, May 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Chiang Mai’s restaurants Laan Na Kitchen and MAI Restaurant and Bar have each been awarded the prestigious “Golden Star Award” for ongoing sustainability efforts as part of Thailand’s Green Kitchen project.

Supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Puangrat Kaelown from Chiang Mai University’s Environmental Engineering Faculty, Green Kitchen 2025 promotes organic and sustainable food concepts with participation from 44 restaurants and hotels in Chiang Mai.

Key criteria for participation in the program include: prioritising sourcing local, organic, and seasonal ingredients; reducing waste by composting and recycling, and minimizing single-use plastics; implementing eco-friendly design such as using sustainable materials and non-toxic finishes; community engagement such as educating staff and customers on sustainable practices; and health and wellness offerings such as nutritious, plant-based menu options.

Meliá Chiang Mai’s executive chef Suksant (Billy) Chutinthratip said the hotel has been recognised as an exemplary example of the Chiang Mai-based Green Kitchen project, with its two restaurants this year each receiving The Golden Star Award, due to each securing the Chiang Mai Green Kitchen Award for three consecutive years.

In addition to demonstrating a continuous commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices, the Golden Star Award required each restaurant to meet stringent food quality requirements through adherence to rigorous local organic food selection protocols and the consistent delivery of high-quality culinary offerings. Active involvement in community initiatives that promote sustainability, such as supporting local farmers, reducing food waste, and participating in environmental conservation efforts, was another award criterion.

In a bid to work closely with local farmers to help them improve sustainability and encourage ethical production to ultimately make the overall food system more resilient, the hotel works with a network of ethical and chemical-free suppliers including organic gourmet farm Rong Khum in San Pa Tong, gourmet farm SEED in San Sai District and Jartisann’s Original Thai Cheese, which crafts artisanal cheese made from high-quality, locally sourced raw cow’s milk.

The network is a central plank in Meliá Chiang Mai’s ‘360° Cuisine’ program, designed to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint and promote healthy eating. Under the program, the hotel sources ‘farm to plate’ organic produce that travels only a short distance. As much of each ingredient is used – roots, leaves, stems, stalks and more – in a ‘thoughtful cooking process’ before ‘plate to farm’ food waste returns to the farms as fertilizer in a truly 360° concept. Leftover cooking oil is sent to be recycled into biodiesel.

Since the 360° Cuisine program’s inception in 2022, the hotel has sent more than 8342.5 kg of leftover food for compost and fertilizer to both farms and more than 2603kg of cooking oil to a biodiesel producer.

Meliá Chiang Mai also works with three universities to educate and train upcoming generations of hospitality professionals about sustainable farming, culinary and waste management practices.

“Engaging directly with local farmers, producers, professors and health sector professionals to create a unique connection within the community that ultimately benefits the health of our guests, our community and our environment takes a lot of blood, sweat and tears,” said Chef Billy. “Yet it’s worth it to support chemical-free, ethical and sustainable agriculture … and it’s a welcome bonus for our restaurants to officially receive the gold star too!”

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts

Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the best-known international brand in the portfolio of the Meliá Hotels International company; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The brand offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all important business cities as well as in exotic locations, catering to the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market. As part of its innovation philosophy and new positioning, Meliá Hotels & Resorts has reinvented itself to cater to every aspect of the guests’ wellbeing. Unique experiences are created for guests and are defined by relaxation, quality time and personalised services. For a balanced lifestyle, Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations, which is an integral part of its redefined identity.

About Meliá Hotels International 

Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, The Meliá Collection, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” network. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited    

Asset World Corp Public Company Limited is a holding company under TCC Group operating leading integrated lifestyle property development in Thailand. The company has two main businesses consisting of the Hospitality business managed by top hotel executives of world-renowned hotel brands such as Marriott, The Luxury Collection, Okura, Banyan Tree, Hilton, and Sheraton and Retail, Wholesale and Commercial properties whose projects include 1) Retail and Wholesale including lifestyle travel destinations, community shopping malls, community markets, and wholesale business real estate. Popular real estate projects consist of ASIATIQUE the Riverfront Destination, Gateway at Bangsue, AEC Trade Center – Pantip Wholesale Destination, and Tawanna Bangkapi and 2) Commercial buildings including the famous Empire Tower and Athenee Tower located in Bangkok’s central business district.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thailand–Indonesia Business Forum to Tackle Cross-Border Growth Opportunities

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Thailand–Indonesia Business Forum to Tackle Cross-Border Growth Opportunities - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Business leaders and policymakers from across Southeast Asia will converge in Bangkok on Thursday, June 12, 2025, for a high-impact forum aimed at strengthening economic ties between Thailand and Indonesia. Co-hosted by the Sasin School of Management and the Indonesian Thai Chamber of Commerce (INTCC), the event is titled Scaling Up Business Across Thailand & Indonesia: Market Entry Strategies & Success Stories.

Set to take place at Sasin’s TK Hall, the half-day forum will spotlight bilateral trade, investment opportunities, and real-world strategies for entering and thriving in each other’s markets. The event is expected to attract senior executives, entrepreneurs, and government stakeholders with an interest in ASEAN economic integration.

Opening remarks will feature key perspectives from:

H.E. Mr. Rachmat Budiman, Ambassador of Indonesia to Thailand

Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General, Thailand Board of Investment (BOI)

Professor Ian Fenwick, Ph.D., Director, Sasin School of Management

Sessions will explore shifting consumer behaviors, regulatory pathways, and practical case studies from regional firms. A keynote titled TrendWatching: Global Consumer Trends and Insights will be delivered by Khun Rachada Apiromdej, Sasin alumna and CEO of THINK NEXT ASIA.

The program also includes a cross-border business panel featuring success stories and scale-up challenges, followed by closing remarks from Mr. Hardy Chandra, INTCC Chairman, and a networking reception.

This free event requires pre-registration due to limited seating.

🗓 Date: Thursday, June 12, 2025
🕐 Time: 13:00–18:00 (Registration at 13:00)
📍 Venue: TK Hall, Sasin School of Management
🔗 Register here

For more information, visit www.sasin.edu or follow Sasin on LinkedIn.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Best Western Brings International Hospitality To Faisalabad

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Best Western Brings International Hospitality To Faisalabad - TRAVELINDEXFaisalabad City, Pakistan, May 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels (BWH), the leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay® Hotels, has continued its rapid expansion in Pakistan with the opening of Best Western Hotel Faisalabad City, the group’s sixth property in this dynamic country.

With a population of approximately 3.8 million people, Faisalabad is the third-largest city in Pakistan and a key economic center for the province of Punjab. Located close to the city’s main Clock Tower and surrounded by shopping malls, parks and businesses, Best Western Hotel Faisalabad City is perfectly positioned for corporate and leisure travelers alike.

Guests can stay in a selection of 36 spacious rooms, suites and apartments, all equipped with modern amenities. The Two Bedroom Apartments and connecting Family Suites create excellent options for families and extended stays, while the Presidential Suite is perfect for VIPs.

Throughout their stay, guests can enjoy a diverse selection of international cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, experience alfresco dining at the lively barbecue park, and unwind with light refreshments at Muse Lounge. The health club offers a well-equipped gym, spa, steam room, and sauna, while the games room provides a variety of entertainment options, including table tennis. For business needs, the boardrooms are ideal for hosting productive meetings.

Members of Best Western Rewards®, the global loyalty program, will be offered a wide range of benefits, including exclusive rates, points that never expire, instant incentives and more.

“We’re excited to welcome guests to Best Western Hotel Faisalabad City, marking our debut in this dynamic and fast-growing destination. With its growing appeal for both business and leisure travelers, Faisalabad is an ideal location for our iconic Best Western® brand. Guests can expect comfortable accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and the warm, genuine hospitality that defines our brand around the world. Looking ahead, BWH Hotels will continue to introduce our timeless standards of hospitality to domestic and international travelers all across Pakistan,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News