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Tuan Anh Nguyen Triumphs at Faldo Series Asia Grand Final

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Tuan Anh Nguyen Triumphs at Faldo Series Asia Grand Final - TRAVELINDEXLang Co, Vietnam, April 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Vietnam’s hot streak at the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final shows no sign of slowing, with Tuan Anh Nguyen becoming the latest homegrown champion.

The Ho Chi Minh City starlet, just 15 years of age, held his nerve at the culmination of the Asia leg of the world’s leading junior circuit following a late three-stroke swing to hold off a spirited challenge from South Korea’s Jaemin Park.

Tuan Anh displayed nerves of steel and the confidence of youth across the 54-hole stroke-play event, recording rounds of 65, 70 and 70 for an eight-under-par total of 205. He was the only player in the field to break par on all three days and held off a determined charge from Park, ultimately sealing a one-shot win with a clutch up-and-down birdie on the 18th hole.

“I just tried to stay calm and focused,” said Tuan Anh. “It’s a special feeling to win such a big event, especially in Vietnam. This gives me a lot of belief going forward.”

Tuan Anh is the third Vietnamese player in as many years to lift the Faldo Series Asia title, following Nguyen Duc Son in 2024 and Nguyen Anh Minh in 2023. His victory underscores the rapid development of junior golf in Vietnam, and the event itself has become a symbol of this momentum. With strong performances from other local players across the week, the country’s emergence as a serious force in the regional golf scene looks increasingly assured.

“It’s been a tremendous week of golf,” said Matthew Faldo, Director of the Faldo Series. “How these young players have conducted themselves—both on and off the course—has been magnificent. And they’ve handled a very tricky, championship-standard layout with great maturity and skill.”

Around 60 rising stars from more than a dozen countries teed it up this week at Laguna Golf Lang Co, the home of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final since 2017. The event once again highlighted the course’s reputation as one of Asia’s top championship layouts and a vital part of the global Faldo Series network. As a Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design—an elite distinction among Faldo courses—the venue has proved a fitting stage for the region’s brightest young prospects.

Japan’s Rinka Yasuda emerged as the Girls’ Under-21 winner, while Singapore’s Jaydon Pang took the Boys’ Under-16 title. Tuan Anh, in addition to his overall win, also topped the Boys’ Under-18 category.

With support from the Vietnam Golf Association and strategic partners like Vietnam Golf Coast, the Grand Final is part of a broader movement to grow the game in Southeast Asia. And with a new generation of Vietnamese stars like Tuan Anh stepping confidently into the spotlight, that movement is gathering impressive speed.

“This week has reinforced our commitment to junior golf in Asia,” added Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Golf Lang Co. “To see a Vietnamese champion crowned here at our course is a proud moment. The future of golf in Vietnam is full of promise.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok’s First-Ever Samurai Chef Charity Dinner to be Held on 12 May 2025

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Bangkok's First-Ever Samurai Chef Charity Dinner to be Held on 12 May 2025 - TOP25RESTAURANTSBangkok, Thailand, April 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Japanese culinary scene in Bangkok is set to shine like never before with the debut of the Samurai Chef Charity Dinner, a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic evening Bangkok’s elite Japanese chefs under one roof. Hosted at Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse on 12 May 2025 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM, this charitable gathering is a celebration of Japanese culture, cuisine, and community, all for a meaningful cause.

With a carefully curated 8-course Spring Kaiseki menu, guests will be taken on a seasonal culinary journey. This exclusive evening also includes premium sake pairings, featuring legendary talents from Michelin-starred restaurants and globally recognized culinary institutions.

Featured Samurai Chefs:
Chef Yuichi Mitsui – Japanese Head Chef, Kissuisen
With decades of experience including at Michelin-starred restaurants in Japan, Chef Mitsui brings the philosophy of interconnectedness to the plate. At Kissuisen, he curates immersive culinary narratives using the finest seasonal ingredients.

Chef Ryuki Kawasaki – Chef de cuisine, Mezzaluna by lebua
The visionary behind Mezzaluna’s two Michelin stars, Chef Kawasaki crafts refined dishes that fuse French technique with Japanese elegance. His precise flavor extractions and artistic plating make every course a revelation.

Chef Masami Ouchi – Executive Sushi Chef, Nobu Bangkok
A globe-trotting master of sushi with over 30 years of expertise, Chef Masa fuses classical Tokyo techniques with Nobu’s modern flair. From London to Monte Carlo, he now brings his artistry to Nobu Bangkok, the world’s highest Nobu.

Chef Atsushi Yoshida – Japanese Head Chef, Tsu Japanese Restaurant, JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok
Chef Atsushi Yoshida brings a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring an authentic yet unique dining experience for every guest. His expertise spans various facets of Japanese culinary arts including sushi, kaiseki, and teppanyaki, all of which he now brings to his role at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok.

Chef Yoshinari Takagi (Chef NARI)
A former professional footballer in Japan’s J1 League, In 2024, he opened Kuma no Yakitori in Bangkok, offering a refined yakitori omakase experience. Centered on “The Ultimate Chicken Experience,” his unique approach blends taste, aroma, texture, and live presentation, creating a multi-sensory journey that redefines traditional yakitori.

Chef Nobuaki Okajima
Hailing from Kyoto, Chef Okajima co-founded Roku Tohoku Izakaya in Bangkok to spotlight the cuisine of Japan’s Tohoku region. With experience in both culinary and corporate sectors, he crafts soulful regional dishes like Harako-meshi and Imoni using local Thai ingredients. His mission is to share the flavors and stories of Tohoku with the world.

Mr. Koichiro Suzuki
After graduating from Tsuji Culinary Institute, Mr. Suzuki moved to Bangkok in 2002, drawn by his love for Thai cuisine. Now General Manager of Nippontei Group, he has played a key role in launching high-end Japanese restaurants and the Washoku SATO brand in Thailand. He also oversees F&B operations for Japan Airlines’ Sakura Lounge in Bangkok.

Chef Kazuhiro Yoshida – Chef Instructor, The Food School Bangkok
A revered culinary educator with global influence, Chef Kazuhiro specializes in sushi, fish quality, and Kaiseki. He has served dignitaries and advised top culinary organizations worldwide.

Chef Takuya Watanuki – Chef Instructor, The Food School Bangkok
With over two decades of experience at the Tsuji Culinary Institute, Chef Watanuki is a mentor to many. His focus on fundamentals and regional Japanese cuisine is seen in his role guiding Bangkok’s next generation of chefs.

Details:
Venue: Dok Kaew, The Garden at Surawongse at Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse
Date: Monday, 12 May 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: THB 8,888 net per person including sake pairing

Reservations: Limited seats available. Advanced booking required. Proceeds from the evening will support selected charitable causes in Thailand.
For Reservations & Inquiries: Please call 02-088-5666 or email at mhrs.bkkwo.fbsales@marriotthotels.com

Join us for this historic event where culinary excellence meets compassion. The Samurai Chef Charity Dinner isn’t just a meal – it’s a movement of taste, tradition, and tribute.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sarawak’s Digital Acceleration with PATA and the Sarawak Tourism Board

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Sarawak's Digital Acceleration with PATA and the Sarawak Tourism Board - TRAVELINDEX

Sarawak's Digital Acceleration with PATA and the Sarawak Tourism Board - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in collaboration with the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), is set to launch three capacity-building programmes in Sarawak, Malaysia, aimed at strengthening the digital capabilities of tourism small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and STB staff. These programmes, building on the success of one of the world’s first comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) training programmes for tourism SMEs, which concluded in Sarawak in November 2024, will take place this week in Miri and Kuching.

“PATA’s commitment to authoritative capacity building, particularly in AI, is rooted in our international perspective,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “Governments partnering with PATA gain access to a global network and a proven track record. Sarawak Tourism Board’s strategic investment demonstrates how this collaboration translates to tangible impact, empowering their stakeholders to lead the future of tourism, not just within their region, but within the international arena.”

The first programme expands upon the “AI-Driven Transformation: Empowering Sarawak’s Tourism SMEs” training, which was held in Kuching last year. This time, the training will be hosted in Miri, a vibrant coastal city and key tourism hub in the northern part of the state, serving as the gateway to the Twin UNESCO sites, Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park. This introductory-level AI training will equip local tourism businesses with the foundational knowledge required to embrace AI technologies and drive digital transformation.

“The Sarawak Tourism Board, in collaboration with PATA, in this meaningful and cutting-edge AI training program is timely,” said STB CEO Madam Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. “This partnership equips our stakeholders with the essential knowledge, new ideas, and tools needed to thrive in the future of tourism. PATA’s ability to provide expertise validates their crucial role in capacity building on the international stage, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative and meaningful initiative.”

Following the Miri training, PATA will head to Kuching to deliver “Understanding OTAs, Taking Ownership”, a session designed for tourism SMEs who participated in the 2024 AI training. This session will guide businesses on effectively leveraging Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) to improve visibility, optimise content, and refine pricing strategies. As OTAs play an increasingly dominant role in global tourism distribution, understanding their structures, ranking algorithms, and marketing tools is essential for SMEs to enhance competitiveness and drive bookings.

PATA will also conduct “AI Essentials for Destination Management: Unlocking the Future of Tourism”, a training for STB staff covering AI’s role in destination management. The session will explore AI applications in marketing, data analytics, visitor engagement, and operational efficiency. As destinations worldwide navigate rapid technological advancements, investing in AI knowledge and digital skills is essential for long-term resilience. This training reflects PATA’s commitment to supporting its members, such as STB, in adopting innovative solutions that future-proof their tourism strategies and strengthen their role in the global travel ecosystem.

These programmes align with PATA’s Strategy 2030, which prioritises digital transformation, sustainable tourism, and SME empowerment across the Asia Pacific region. By equipping Sarawak’s tourism businesses and DMO staff with practical AI knowledge and a deeper understanding of digital tools, PATA and STB continue to build a more sustainable, innovative, and competitive tourism sector.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Elevates its Legendary Writers Bar

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Raffles Hotel Le Royal Elevates its Legendary Writers Bar - TRAVELINDEXPhnom Penh, Cambodia, April 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the luxury heritage hotel in Cambodia’s capital, has introduced exclusive new menus at its fabled Writers Bar that pay homage to the legendary writers, poets and journalists who have travelled through the region.

These literary icons over the decades have drawn inspiration from Southeast Asia’s rich history, culture and charm, and now Raffles Hotel Le Royal is commemorating their work at Writers Bar, situated off the 96-year-old hotel’s luxuriously appointed lobby. The Writers Bar and main lobby are being relaunched following an inspired refurbishment.

“With its timeless elegance and literary soul, Writers Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal is more than just a cocktail bar. It is an ode to the art of storytelling, the romance of travel and the spirit of those who have shaped history with their words,” Raffles Hotel Le Royal General Manager Dagmar Lyons said.

Highlights from the new Writers Bar menus include:

  • A literary-inspired beverage programme called ‘Signature Cocktails from the Pages of History’. This thoughtfully crafted menu draws from iconic books, films and the literary greats who have shaped storytelling across generations.
  • The ‘Espresso Martini Collection’ offers a refined selection of espresso martinis made using coffee from different regions, each with a unique twist, paying tribute to the timeless relationship between writers and their favourite caffeine fuel.
  • The ‘Wine Library’ features an exceptional selection of top international wines, showcasing vintages from regions with deep literary connections.
  • The menu’s ‘Signature Champagne Cocktails’ includes an elegant selection of bespoke Champagne cocktails crafted exclusively for Writers Bar, celebrating the glamour and indulgence of the literary world.
  • Writers Bar’s ‘Champagne O’Clock’ runs from 5pm-7pm daily and includes a special offer of ‘buy one, get one’ glass of Champagne.

The Writers Bar now features a nostalgic nod to the golden age of writing, with new vintage typewriters and books on display. The space aims to be a celebrated haven for writers, hosting book launches, author meet-ups, poetry readings, storytelling sessions and more.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal originally opened in 1929 and today features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019. The hotel’s elegant past has been reinterpreted in a bold, contemporary style that is inspired by French colonial, Khmer and Art Deco influences.

Travel + Leisure declared it the best city hotel in Cambodia last year, while the UK-based Luxury Lifestyle Magazine also named it one of the world’s best city hotels.

ABOUT RAFFLES
Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thailand joins 270 Network Organizations Calling on World Bank to End Funding for Industrial Farms

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Thailand joins 270 Network Organizations Calling on World Bank to End Funding for Industrial FarmsBangkok, Thailand, April 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Campaigners from Sinergia Animal Thailand and World Animal Protection Thailand joined over 2570 allies worldwide for a global day of action, demanding that the World Bank and its private-sector arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), stop financing factory farming. Activists delivered a joint letter to the World Bank’s office in Bangkok, urging an end to all investments in factory farming that drive environmental destruction, threaten human and animal health, and undermine global sustainability goals.

The World Bank Group, which includes the IFC, is an international financial institution that provides loans and funding to projects in developing countries. It aims to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development. However, recent research reveals that the Bank’s ongoing support for factory farming contradicts these very objectives by contributing to biodiversity loss, climate change, and worsening public health outcomes.

Although there are no current World Bank investments in factory farming in Thailand, the country is still affected by these global investments. The Thai government holds a 0.51% voting share in the World Bank, meaning public money from Thailand contributes to harmful factory farm projects in other countries.

Saneekan Rosamontri, Country Director at Sinergia Animal Thailand, explained, “Thailand is a shareholder of the World Bank, which means our government plays a role in deciding where money is invested. We do not want our public funds supporting industrial factory farms that harm communities, animals, and the planet.”

“This is a critical moment for the Bank to transition to sustainable, just food systems that protect people, animals, and the environment. We’re calling on our government to use its World Bank vote to help make that shift,” added Saneekan.

Despite Thailand’s growing awareness of sustainable development and climate resilience, the impacts of global factory farming investments are already being felt at home, from worsening air pollution and deforestation to a rise in antimicrobial resistance, food insecurity, and extreme weather events.

Recent research from World Animal Protection showed a comprehensive review of the World Bank and IFC’s current policy gaps. These include a lack of transparency, failure to align with international climate and biodiversity frameworks, and inadequate protection of community land rights and labor standards. For example:

  • Climate impact: The World Bank fails to address the climate consequences of industrial livestock production, with no emission reduction targets aligned with the Paris Agreement, inadequate emissions reporting, and a lack of clear policies to prevent deforestation in agricultural supply chains.
  • Public health: There are no bans on the routine use of antibiotics in livestock, no clear restrictions on the use of harmful chemicals, and insufficient measures to address pollution from industrial animal waste.
  • Food system sustainability: The Bank continues to prioritize industrial meat production over sustainable alternatives, with no strategy to support plant-based or local food systems, promote alternative proteins, or address environmental and social injustices in agriculture.

“Factory farming is accelerating a global crisis—and Thailand is already paying the price. We are experiencing more frequent floods, extreme heat, and dangerously polluted air that threatens the health of millions. These are not distant problems. They are here, now, and getting worse. Climate change, public health threats, and food system shocks do not stop at national borders. That’s why Thailand must take a stand—to protect our people, our environment, and our future,” said Chokdee Smithkittipol, Programme Lead at World Animal Protection Thailand.

In response, over 270 organizations and civil society associations, including international and local NGOs, academics, farmers, and advocates, have signed a joint letter addressed to the executives of the World Bank and the IFC. The letter urges the two institutions to:

  • Adopt a formal exclusion policy to end financing for factory farming
  • Phase out existing investments and redirect funds to sustainable, high-welfare food systems

“We’re running out of time. The World Bank cannot claim to fight poverty and climate change while fueling a system that destroys the planet and harms the most vulnerable, including animals. We need bold leadership now—starting with ending all support for factory farming,” added Chokdee.

Campaigners stress that Thailand should not be complicit in financing this destructive model by participating in the World Bank. Instead, the country can help lead the way in promoting food systems that are sustainable, ethical, and resilient for future generations.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dive into Bold Thai Flavors with Tiger Prawn Pad Thai Udon

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Dive into Bold Thai Flavors with Tiger Prawn Pad Thai Udon - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, April 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Plate Restaurant at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit unveils a bold new twist on one of the most iconic Thai classics with the “Plate of the Month, Tiger Prawn Pad Thai Udon.” This indulgent creation is a must-try for lovers of rich, flavor-packed dishes.

Prepared with finesse by our expert chefs, the dish features thick, chewy Udon noodles stir-fried in the Pad Thai style, harmoniously blending the sweetness, tanginess, and depth of traditional Pad Thai. The star of the dish is the succulent Tiger Prawn, perfectly cooked, complemented by an aromatic prawn fat sauce that infuses the noodles with a rich seafood essence. This dish offers a delightful balance of texture and taste.

Elevate your meal with a 20% discount when paired with our Cocktails or Wine of the Month, making this dining experience even more memorable.

Available at Plate Restaurant from 1 May to 30 June 2025.
THB 690++ per dish.

For more information or reservations, please contact us at 02 090 7888

Book your hotel room at the Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit now…

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mashatu Shares Special offer for Safari Cycling Event

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Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana’s Northern Tuli has Announced a Last Minute Special for Land of the Giants Safari Cycling Event 2025

There is less than 6 weeks to go until Mashatu’s annual Land of the Giants Cycling Event – and Mashatu has just announced an exclusive, last minute 25% discount for all participants who sign up between now and 6th May 2025.

The event will run from 6th-12th June 2025, giving guests the unique opportunity to ride bikes through Mashatu’s spectacular landscapes with ancient elephant trails, towering baobabs and iconic wildlife. An added bonus is that each cyclist will be pedalling for a purpose as the event aims to raise 1 Million BWP (Botswana Pula) for conservation initiatives in the area.

Learn more about the itinerary and packages via their webpage and watch the highlights video from 2024 for a teaser on what’s to come!

Mashatu Tent Camp, Kolokolo Safari Home and Shalimpo Safari Home still have space available – each offering the ideal secluded safari stay.

Spots are filling fast—secure yours before 6th May 2025 by contacting Lala Seragi at lala@mashatu.com or via WhatsApp on 00 267 73 074 215.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Seychelles Political History Book Enters House of Lords Library

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Seychelles Political History Book Enters House of Lords Library - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, April 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A significant milestone for Seychelles’ political legacy – Baroness Sandy Verma has officially received a copy of “Alain St.Ange, My Journey – Life & Times in Politics” for inclusion in the esteemed House of Lords Library in the United Kingdom.

This powerful publication charts the compelling journey of Seychelles’ political evolution—from its early days as a French territory, through British colonial rule, and into the transformative tides of independence. The book dives deep into pivotal events: the 1977 Coup d’État, the dark era of political persecution, the infamous Bob Denard invasion, and the dramatic mutiny.

More than a chronicle of events, the book captures the resilient spirit of a nation and its people. It follows the return of multiparty democracy, the birth of the Third Republic, and the constitutional milestones that shaped modern Seychelles.

At the heart of this historical narrative is Alain St.Ange, whose political career spans decades—from a young MP representing La Digue, to a popular and effective representative of Bel Air, and eventually to key ministerial roles. His story culminates in his bold bid for the presidency in 2020, offering a unique insider’s perspective on leadership, service, and legacy.

This book’s inclusion in the House of Lords Library not only honours Alain St.Ange’s journey—it cements Seychelles’ place in global political literature.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul Sparks a Global Shift Toward Meaningful Tourism

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PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul Sparks a Global Shift Toward Meaningful Tourism - TRAVELINDEX MEDIA GROUPIstanbul, Turkiye, April 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) successfully convened the PATA Annual Summit 2025 (PAS 2025) from April 21-23 at the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel in İstanbul, Türkiye. The event was generously hosted by the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) and supported by official airline partner Turkish Airlines.

Over 260 delegates from across the globe convene under the theme: “Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future”.

Held under the theme “Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future”, PAS 2025 brought together over 260 delegates from 35 destinations, including senior government officials – such as H.E. Hak Huot, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, and Meenas Shaugy, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment of Maldives – private sector leaders, academics, and youth representatives from across the Asia Pacific and beyond. Delegates came from as far as the Pacific islands, including Guam and Palau, to North Asia with participants from Japan, Korea (ROK), and China, Central Asia including Azerbaijan, the Middle East with Saudi Arabia, as well as South Africa, the United States, and various parts of Europe.

Strengthening the Foundation: PATA’s Internal Milestones

PAS 2025 was not only a space for dialogue and discovery – it also marked a defining moment for the Association’s internal growth and governance. The Summit began with a series of productive internal meetings over the first day and a half, including:

– Ratification of a new Vision and Mission for the Association
– Formal approval of the PATA Executive Board and Board members
– Strategic discussions that advanced the PATA 2030 Strategy, setting the course for a more agile, inclusive, and impact-driven Association.

These milestones reflect PATA’s commitment to evolving its role as the leading voice for responsible tourism in Asia Pacific and beyond, and to strengthening its impact through renewed focus and leadership.

Leadership Messages: A Call for Purpose-Driven Tourism

Opening the main conference on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 22, PATA Chair Peter Semone delivered a compelling call to action, urging the global tourism industry to adopt a more purposeful and impact-focused approach to growth.

“Tourism cannot survive without peace, nature, and community,” said Semone. “In an era of climate instability and rising polarization, the tourism sector must go beyond growth metrics and instead become a vehicle for empathy, humility, and peace. That is the path to regeneration and resilience.”

Later, in the Thought Leaders Session: Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid reflected on tourism’s deeper value: “Tourism is an emotional economy. What we truly take away from travel are the moments, memories, and human connections. PAS 2025 is our opportunity to commit to tourism that uplifts, heals, and endures.”

Global Voices, Shared Commitments

With participants from across the Asia Pacific and beyond – including Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea (ROK), Thailand, Saudi Arabia, the USA, and more – the Summit featured over 40 speakers from leading organisations such as UN Tourism, BBC, Mastercard, Skyscanner, Amadeus, Airbnb, GSTC, and Tripadvisor.

Highlights from the programme included:

– PATA Policy Forum: Building a Sustainable Future: Government-led dialogue on policy innovation
– Sustainability Panel – Temperature Rising: Confronting the climate emergency
– Ideation Lab – Trend Accelerator: Unpacking the latest global travel trends
– In Conversation – Rethinking Global Aviation: A look at İstanbul’s growing role as a global air hub
– Breakout Sessions: Focused on outbound markets, digital nomads, AI integration, and workforce development

A newly introduced feature, the “Ask the PATA Experts” initiative, allowed delegates to schedule one-on-one consultations with specialists in seven key areas, ranging from climate adaptation to workforce development. This initiative is part of the PATA Strategy 2030, aimed at enhancing member engagement and delivering greater value through targeted, expert-driven interactions.

Culture, Community, and Collaboration

In alignment with the Summit’s theme, the programme offered delegates hands-on cultural experiences, including simit baking, Turkish coffee brewing, and Ebru marbling- showcasing Türkiye’s deep-rooted traditions and intangible heritage.

Following the conference, attendees explored Türkiye further through curated post-event tours to Istanbul’s iconic landmarks—such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and Bosphorus Ferry—as well as trips to Antalya, İzmir, and Cappadocia.

During the closing ceremony, new partnerships and MoUs were also recognized, reflecting the collaborative spirit and shared vision that defined PAS 2025.

Giving Back: Kind Hearts Book Drive

As part of the PATA Kind Hearts Initiative, launched in 2024 to promote literacy and community impact in host destinations, delegates were invited to donate children’s books to the Rami Library in İstanbul. The initiative reflects PATA’s ongoing mission to give back, uplift youth, and foster education through tourism.

Committed to Sustainability

In line with PATA’s values, PAS 2025 was organised with sustainability in mind. The event’s carbon footprint was fully offset through contributions to the Kınık Wind Power Plant in Türkiye’s İzmir Province, supporting clean energy generation and reinforcing the Association’s environmental responsibility.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

About the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency
Founded on July 15, 2019, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) is dedicated to delivering Türkiye as a brand and a popular destination in both domestic and international tourism markets; discover, develop and promote tangible and intangible natural, cultural, biological and manmade heritage assets; boost the tourism capacity of Türkiye, increase the rate of tourism investments in the national economy and raise the quality of service with short, medium and long term communication and marketing activities.

In line with tourism strategies and policies set by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Agency is carrying out all promotion, marketing and communication activities to serve Türkiye’s tourism goals, promote and market current tourism opportunities across the globe as well as discover, improve and establish potential areas of tourism.

About Turkish Airlines
Established in 1933 with a fleet of five aircraft, Star Alliance member Turkish Airlines has a fleet of 462 (passenger and cargo) aircraft flying to 349 worldwide destinations as 296 international and 53 domestics in 130 countries.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alain St. Ange Honoured at House of Lords

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Alain St. Ange Honoured at House of Lords - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, April 25, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Alain St. Ange, Seychelles’ former Minister of Tourism and current presidential candidate for Lalyans Nouvo Sesel, was honoured as Guest of Honour at the International Summit & Awards held at the iconic House of Lords, UK Parliament. The recognition was presented by MSG Advert Ltd, in celebration of Mr. St. Ange’s lifelong dedication to leadership, diplomacy, and sustainable development.

This distinguished accolade underscores the international esteem in which Mr. St. Ange is held—particularly for his contributions to global tourism diplomacy, economic empowerment, and people-centred governance. His address at the summit resonated with delegates from across continents, further solidifying his role as a statesman equipped with the global perspective and grassroots sensibility needed in today’s era of change.

Now standing as a leading voice for transformation under the banner of Lalyans Nouvo Sesel, Alain St. Ange brings the same integrity, innovation, and inclusive vision to his presidential campaign. His platform echoes the values he was celebrated for abroad: unity, transparency, equitable opportunity, and bold reform. From ending excessive fees on tourism and jetty landings to advocating for justice in state land allocations and addressing social inequality, St. Ange and *Lalyans Nouvo Sesel are championing a future that puts the Seychellois people first.

“Being recognised at the House of Lords was an honour,” St. Ange stated. “But my true purpose lies at home—with the people of Seychelles. Together, we can usher in a new era of fairness, prosperity, and dignity.”

MSG Advert Ltd. extended its heartfelt appreciation to Mr. St. Ange for gracing the international stage and embodying the summit’s mission to elevate visionary leadership. His presence reminded all in attendance that genuine progress stems from courage, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to the people.

For Media Inquiries:
Lalyans Nouvo Sesel Communications Team
info@lalyansnouvosesel.sc

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News