Posts By :

wttc2

South Africa’s Cavern Drakensberg offers Winter Sun Adventures for Families

 1000 666 wttc2
By:

South Africa's Cavern Drakensberg offers Winter Sun Adventures for Families - TRAVELINDEXFondly known as ‘The Resort of Many Happy Returns’, The Cavern is a place where families bond, friendships are formed and memories are made.

The European summer holidays are an ideal time of year to enjoy the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, with plenty of space for children to run free and wild in the great outdoors and glorious winter sunshine, with a wide variety of supervised and free-range activities to choose from,  rather than being booked into overpriced “kids camps” while parent work.

With good Wi-Fi and plenty of space to find a quiet spot, you could even work remotely when needed, without any guilt (although the FOMO might be hectic!), whilst your kids have the time of their lives. For parents with young toddlers and children, there’s a playroom staffed with nannies, safe and exciting playgrounds and a range of educational games and fun activities. Nannies watch the little ones during adult mealtimes, but can also be hired for up to 8 hours per day at an additional cost, if you want to work, go out for a horse ride or just relax in the Forest Spa.

Situated in the heart of the new Northern Drakensberg Nature Reserve, The Cavern offers a fabulous Winter Special which coincides with the UK summer holidays. Their five-night Winter Offer is just R8,050 (around £340) per adult sharing which works out to around £70 per night including three meals daily, decadent teas on the lawn – and most activities.  Children 4 to 6 years pay 40% of the rate, whilst older children and teens aged 7 to 17 years pay 70% (around £50/day).

Activities for Mini Cavern Crusaders include:

  • Hiking Passports with many shorter walks ideal for families to fun places including The Grotto, Fan Falls, Natural Pool, May’s Falls and Top Dams. Guides carry along crunchies and juice and brew tea at the destination. Children can help collect firewood and enjoy playing in the streams.
  • Pony Rides are available twice a day, most days.
  • Croquet, a Jungle Gym, see-saw, slide, mini roundabout and trampoline are available as well as tennis courts
  • Kiddies’ Nail Treatments are available at the Spa
  • Picnics at the Natural Pool or Cowslip Falls Dam
  • Canoeing on Darter Dam – or build you own mini raft
  • Fishing at Darter Dam and Paddling your feet in Putterill Stream
  • Daily kids programme in the playroom for an hour of fun! Your children will be kept amused by creating their own pet rock, building Jelly-tot structures or racing around about on the scavenger hunt or nature challenge. Kiddies 4 & younger may need an adult on some activities which venture further afield.
  • Swimming Pool & Slippery Slide – and a separate kiddies’ pool for tiny tots.
  • The Nature Trail with information boards which explain many interesting facts about the birds and plants found at The Cavern.
  • Face Painting on Wednesdays & Sundays
  • TV Lounge with SABC & M-Net

Tweens, Teens and Adults will ditch the screens and enjoy:

  • Hiking, trekking and trails
  • Fishing at Darter Dam for Tilapia & Bass on a catch and release basis. Trout fishing is available in the cooler months in 3 dams situated in the hills behind the resort.
  • The extensive network of MTB and running trails.
  • The swimming pool is the perfect place to relax with a book, a tray of tea or a cold beer. For those up for a challenge, there’s tennis, table tennis, lawn bowls and board games including scrabble, chess and backgammon.  A drink in the Cave bar in the evenings is also not to be missed.
  • Horse riders of all abilities will find an ideal mount in our stable of more than 20 horses, with experienced grooms that lead rides through splendid scenery.
  • All Out Adventures,  located just 6km from The Cavern, offers affordable activities for adrenaline junkies.  Their Adventure Centre provides limitless scope for self-discovery and fun, including
    • South Africa’s Fastest Cable Tour @ over 60kmph
    • 20m Free Fall Bridge Swing
    • Forested Paint Ball
    • Bungee Bounce
    • The Zip Line and Flying Trapeze
    • Inspiring Adventure Courses
    • Quad Bike Tours
    • Mountain Bike Trails

The Cavern’s family friendly suites:

  1. Standard Family Rooms – 8 triple rooms (1 room with double bed plus a spare single bed for one child)
  2. Standard Family Interleading Units – 11 units (Master double leading into a kids’ bedroom with 2 single beds or bunk beds. A couple of these rooms sleep 5 and one sleeps 6.
  3. Superior Family Unit – 1 unit only. Two bedrooms off a common passage. The master bedroom has a king size bed with shower en-suite and the kids’ bedroom has two single beds with bathroom en-suite.
  4. Superior Family Suites – 3 suites. Two bedrooms and a lounge. The master bedroom has a king size bed, and the kids’ bedroom has a set of bunk beds / twin beds for children.

Getting to The Cavern Drakensberg Resort & Spa:

The Cavern is a scenic , easy self drive which is either 3.5-hours from Johannesburg or 3-hours from Durban.

Their Winter Family Special is valid from 20 June – 31 August 2025 excluding the public holiday long weekend ie  8 – 11 August 2025.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Wilderness Collection Expands its Tanzanian Portfolio

 1000 666 wttc2
By:

The Wilderness Collection Expands its Tanzanian Portfolio - TRAVELINDEXSerengeti, Tanzania, April 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Wilderness Collection in Tanzania has been incredibly busy over the past year since it launched Craters Edge on the north eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater in 2024 which now boasts a new spa – plus the upcoming launch of its sister lodge, Warangi Ridge opening on 1st July in the central Serengeti and another two properties due to launch in 2026.

New Asili Spa at Craters Edge

The new Asili Spa at Craters Edge opened in November 2024 with a dedicated tent overlooking the surrounding forest.  Therapists use Balinese massage techniques, complimented by the Healing Earth range, which is an authentically African, therapeutic brand with all-natural, eco-friendly and holistic spa & skincare range based on essential oils. A wide variety of massages are available including Balinese, Aromatherapy, Thai, Shiatsu, Hot Stone, Reflexology, Head, Four Hands, Lomi Lomi Hawaiian and Back, Neck and Shoulders and Foot. The spa also offers a Couples Massage and Ultimate Relaxation Package. With its canvas wall and picture glass windows, the soft music and background birdsong ensure a restorative, immersive wilderness spa experience.

Meet and Bead with the Maasai

Guests are encouraged to extend their stay in the Crater and immerse themselves in this unique destination.  A special tent has been built at the Craters Edge for the local Maasai ladies where guests can spend time learning their traditional beading skills and supporting their livelihoods with all the proceeds going directly to the women.  Guests can also visit a local Maasai boma and traditional Manyatta/village.

Linger Longer – the benefits of slower travel

Other activities for longer stay guests include full day guided game drives with banquet lunches on the Crater Floor, guided walks to Olmoti and Empakai craters where guests can learn more about the fauna and flora and their medicinal/traditional uses with a local guide, book wilderness walks  with NCAA  rangers – and even opt to spend time with the research team at the TANAPA Cheetah project by special request.  Most days end with sundowners on the deck, by the firepit, Dawa or G&T  in hand,  watching the sun sets over the horizon, thanks to the lodge’s idyllic location.  They are also hoping to offer e-bike trails in the forest as another immersive activity.

Warangi Ridge launches 1 July

Warangi Ridge, a brand-new safari camp in the centre of Serengeti National Park will be opening for guests on 1 July 2025.  Beautifully designed around a stunning granite cliff, Warangi Ridge will offer breathtaking views over the Serengeti’s iconic savanna, grasslands and kopjes. Located in a restricted “rangers only” TANAPA Research Area of the park, with no neighbours within a 12 km radius, guests can enjoy this very exclusive wilderness away from the crowds, just south of the Orangi River where migration crossings can be enjoyed in season and cheetah and other cats are prolific all year round.   Guests will be able to enjoy 2-to-3-hour walking safaris and game drives in open sided vehicles.

Facilities will include a library, lounge bar and restaurant as well as yoga deck, open air gym and spa, all tucked away between the acacia trees, with a waterfall and infinity pool claiming pride of place. The all-inclusive lodge will initially comprise fifteen thoughtfully designed tented suites, designed by South Africa’s acclaimed interiors expert Les Harbottle, with its tents resembling the silhouette of the endangered pangolin, inspired by the four rare pangolins spotted in the area. Each tent will have its own private deck with plunge pool and external shower overlooking the sweeping vistas.  Families will be comfortably accommodated too, with a two-bedroom suite on offer.

A variety of activities are offered including day and night game drives, river walks along the Orangi River, specialized bird walks and eco-nature walks.  There are also child-friendly activities and treats to engage young guests aged 5-15.   Conveniently located just 41km from the Seronera airstrip, Warangi Ridge Lodge is poised to be the hottest new property in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations!

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA CEO Commends Inaugural NICE 2025 for Advancing Sub-Regional Cooperation

 696 450 wttc2
By:

PATA CEO Commends Inaugural NICE 2025 for Advancing Sub-Regional Cooperation - TRAVELINDEXKathmandu, Nepal, April 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) reinforced its commitment to sub-regional cooperation as CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid participated in the Nepal-India-China Expo 2025 (NICE 2025) in Pokhara, Nepal, and met with key tourism leaders including the Honourable Badri Prasad Pandey, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation of Nepal, Honorable Mitra Lal Basyal, Minister for Industry and Tourism of the Gandaki Province, Binod Prakash Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Khem Raj Lakhai, Chair of the PATA Nepal Chapter.

“Nepal’s strategic position between two of the world’s largest outbound markets—China and India—creates unique opportunities for sub-regional tourism cooperation,” said Mr Hamid. “By fostering closer ties and joint initiatives, destinations in this region can unlock new visitor flows, develop shared tourism products, and build a more resilient and sustainable industry.”

“On behalf of the Nepal Tourism Board, we extend our sincere appreciation to PATA for endorsing NICE 2025 and sharing a thought-provoking presentation,” said Mr Joshi, acknowledging PATA’s contribution to the event. “Their support and strategic insights are instrumental in strengthening Nepal’s position as a vital hub for regional tourism cooperation. This collaboration plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable growth and fostering cross-border partnerships that will shape the future of our tourism industry.”

The meetings, organised by the PATA Nepal Chapter, took place alongside NICE 2025, the first-ever tri-nation tourism expo aimed at fostering tourism and trade partnerships across the sub-region. The event attracted over 600 delegates from 14 destinations, including more than 100 international participants, and was jointly hosted by the PATA Nepal Chapter, Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara Tourism Council, and key public and private stakeholders.

Mr Lakai stated, “Nepal is poised for sustainable tourism growth, strategically located between India and China—two of the world’s largest populations and emerging economies. By strengthening regional collaboration, Nepal can serve as a neutral hub for diverse tourism segments, including solo travel, adventure, pilgrimage, weddings, wellness, and business events. The Nepal-India-China Expo 2025 was successfully organised to address these endeavours.”

The CEO of PATA delivered a keynote address at NICE 2025, emphasising the potential of Nepal’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector in driving overall tourism growth. Given Nepal’s strategic location between the world’s two largest outbound travel markets, China and India, he underscored the importance of defining a clear MICE strategy.

“Nepal needs to determine which MICE segment it will focus on, and PATA will be delighted to help develop a strategic framework for the country’s MICE industry,” Noor stated.

Citing Nepal’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning Himalayan backdrop, he highlighted opportunities in incentive travel, niche markets such as destination weddings (particularly for the Indian market), and adventure sporting events. He also stressed the need for infrastructure development to position Nepal as a premier MICE destination.

NICE 2025 also featured expert discussions on regional tourism trends, including China’s outbound market, aviation growth, wellness tourism, and the potential of Indian weddings in Nepal. The event’s B2B Expo facilitated over 2,100 pre-matched business appointments, bringing together 80 buyers from India and China with 75 sellers. The success of NICE 2025 underscored Nepal’s growing prominence as a sub-regional tourism hub and its commitment to strengthening cross-border collaboration for long-term sustainable growth.

PATA remains dedicated to fostering regional dialogue and partnerships that drive sustainable tourism development, recognising that collaborative efforts among neighbouring destinations are key to long-term success.

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.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Tourism and Lithuania Partner to Boost Innovation and Visibility

 982 562 wttc2
By:

UN Tourism and Lithuania Partner to Boost Innovation and Visibility - TRAVELINDEXVilnius, Lithuania, April 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism and the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation of Lithuania have agreed on a shared vision for tourism development in the country for the period 2025–2027. In addition to accelerating digital transformation, innovation and investments in the sector, the strengthened partnership will also focus on governance and destination management to ensure the continued growth of Lithuanian tourism.

The collaborative plans were set out during an official visit to Vilnius by UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, as he met with Minister of the Economy and Innovation Lukas Savickas, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Julius Pranevičius, members of parliament, and key tourism stakeholders.

“Lithuania has demonstrated remarkable resilience and vision,” said Secretary-General Pololikashvili. “The country’s leadership in innovation and inclusivity sets a strong example for the region and beyond. Our cooperation reflects the shared commitment to building a smarter, more sustainable, and more competitive tourism sector.”

The country’s leadership in innovation and inclusivity sets a strong example for the region and beyond. Our cooperation reflects the shared commitment to building a smarter, more sustainable, and more competitive tourism sector

Driving Smart Tourism Development

In Vilnius, UN Tourism and Lithuania agreed to deepen cooperation in several priority areas:

  • Tourism promotion & destination marketing, including an influencer-driven event and masterclasses on digital tools
  • Education and workforce development including through the Tourism Online Academy
  • Startup Challenge – Lithuania to encourage tech solutions in tourism
  • Support new governance models for destination management and enhancing rural tourism
  • Investment Guidelines to position Lithuania as a prime destination for sustainable tourism investment

Reinforcing Lithuania’s Global Tourism Role

The Secretary-General’s visit included a high-level address to the Committee on Economics at the Lithuanian Parliament, where he commended Lithuania’s post-pandemic recovery, leadership in digital innovation, and efforts to ensure inclusive rural development. He also acknowledged Lithuania’s proactive participation in international dialogues, including its role in the UN Tourism Executive Council.

Opening the Future Hospitality and Tourism Forum in the capital city, the Secretary-General also emphasized the importance of country’s enhanced visibility on the global stage and identified opportunities to further integrate Lithuania into global tourism strategies, including UN Tourism’s own work.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Asia Golf Tourism Convention 2025 Puts Spotlight on Central Vietnam

 900 506 wttc2
By:

Asia Golf Tourism Convention 2025 Puts Spotlight on Central Vietnam - TRAVELINDEXDanang, Vietnam, April 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Central Vietnam’s status as one of the world’s premier golf destinations is set to receive another major boost when Danang hosts the 12th Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) from April 2-4, 2025.

Organised by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the prestigious event will bring together leading figures from the global golf tourism industry, shining an international spotlight on the region’s exceptional courses, including Laguna Golf Lang Co, Montgomerie Links, and Ba Na Hills Golf Club—the core members of the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) collective.

With Vietnam already recognised as one of the fastest-growing golf tourism markets globally, the AGTC will reinforce Central Vietnam’s appeal, driving greater international exposure, strengthening partnerships with global tour operators, and fostering opportunities for new tournaments and business growth in the region.

“AGTC 2025 in Danang is a game-changer for golf tourism in Central Vietnam. It provides a platform to showcase our exceptional courses, hospitality, and the cultural richness of the region,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, Club Manager at Montgomerie Links.

Hosting AGTC 2025 is expected to deliver substantial benefits to Central Vietnam’s economy, reinforcing Danang’s position as a leading golf tourism hub. The event will bring increased visibility, attract more inbound golf travelers, and generate business opportunities for hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related sectors. Additionally, AGTC will highlight the support of local authorities and tourism boards in advancing Danang’s golf industry, ensuring sustained growth and international recognition in the years to come.

Montgomerie Links is preparing extensively for AGTC 2025, focusing on initiatives such as hosting familiarisation trips for international tour operators and media, ensuring the course and hospitality offerings showcase the best of Vietnam. The club is also refining its partnership strategies and expanding its outreach through digital platforms and exclusive Stay & Play package offers.

Ba Na Hills Golf Club, a VGC linchpin and twice named IAGTO Golf Course of the Year (2020 & 2024), sees AGTC as a major opportunity to cement its reputation in the global golf market. The club will leverage its long-standing relationship with IAGTO to strengthen ties with leading golf tour operators, host site inspections, and promote its award-winning layout.

“AGTC provides an extraordinary platform to showcase the diversity and world-class quality of golf in Central Vietnam,” said Simon Mees, General Manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “With our mountainous setting, exceptional design, and commitment to bringing international tournaments to the region, Ba Na Hills Golf Club is excited to contribute to Danang’s rising status on the global golf stage.”

Just a short distance north, Laguna Golf Lang Co will leverage AGTC as a springboard to expand its market presence, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, and other long-haul destinations. This April, the club will launch a new online booking platform, offering direct tee time reservations and stay-and-play packages, while a dedicated B2B portal will streamline industry partnerships and enhance collaboration

“Our participation at AGTC 2025 reflects our commitment to making Laguna Golf Lang Co a leading global golf destination,” said Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Lang Co. “With the launch of our online booking platform and the introduction of exclusive long-stay packages, we are elevating the experience for international golfers.”

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA: Sustainable Aviation Fuel Registry Goes Live

 848 481 wttc2
By:

IATA Sustainable Aviation Fuel Registry Goes Live - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, April 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Registry with its release to the Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO). The Registry, now live under CADO management, will enable a global market for SAF that will accelerate the transition to net zero emissions by 2050.

“Aviation’s decarbonization is a team effort. In releasing the SAF Registry to CADO for launch, we have put in place a critical platform for the benefit of all stakeholders. It ensures that all airlines in the world have access to SAF and that their SAF purchases can be claimed against any climate-related obligations in this domain. The Registry will record the environmental attributes of SAF purchases in an immutable way, safeguarding against double counting. Airlines, their corporate customers, fuel producers, regulatory bodies, and all related organizations will be able to record and account for their SAF transactions in a global market for SAF. While this is of fundamental importance and a historically momentous advance, it is but one step along the way to a mature, transparent, and liquid global SAF market. The Registry cannot produce miracles on its own, but without it, no miracles can be produced.

Further progress requires active policy support for the ramping-up of all renewable energy production, and for SAF within that production. Governments must reallocate their direct support given to fossil fuel producers in favor of renewable energy production. The precedent of the wind and solar energy markets is the example to follow, and this without any further delay,” said Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President Sustainability and Chief Economist.

About the SAF Registry
The SAF Registry is a global system to record SAF transactions in a standardized and transparent way. It ensures that the environmental benefits of SAF can be tracked as they move across the SAF value chain and enable the claiming of these against regulatory obligations and voluntary schemes by airlines and corporate customers.

The Registry helps solve the challenge of limited SAF supply —which is acutely scarce and available in only a few locations globally —by connecting airlines with SAF producers and suppliers, regardless of their geographical location. In addition, it gives airlines’ corporate customers access to in-sector emissions reductions and capitalizes on firms’ capacity to co-finance t​​​​​he cost of decarbonization.

The SAF Registry is technology and feedstock neutral, favoring the emergence of diverse SAF production streams across the world. It will be able to accommodate specific regulations, while favoring global harmonization. Moreover, interoperability with other registries is an important feature of the Registry, supporting competition and open markets.

The Registry was developed in consultation with airlines, government authorities, OEMs, fuel producers and suppliers, and corporate travel management companies. With over 30 early users (see appendix) already in the process of onboarding and ready to use the system, the Registry is underpinned by the IATA SAF Accounting and Reporting Methodology which provides a consistent approach to accounting for the environmental benefits of SAF purchases, regardless of location.

Participation in the SAF Registry will be free until April 2027, after which it will be operated on a cost recovery basis.

About CADO
The Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO) was created in March 2025 to maintain and operate the IATA-developed SAF Registry. It is a not-for-profit organization established under Canadian Law with its headquarters in Montreal.

CADO’s founding member is the International Air Transport Association (IATA) which provides ongoing technical and operational support for the SAF Registry. Membership in CADO is open to international organizations and companies in the SAF value chain.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Retox With Cigars, Gin, Desserts and Bubbles

 720 1080 wttc2
By:

Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, April 2, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / In a salute to ubiquitous wellness travel trends, The Hari Hong Kong has launched a “retox” experience that celebrates the finer things in life.

Leave your guilt at the door and indulge in a late-night cigar, a tumbler of gin, a dessert platter and sweet bubbles in The Hari’s one-night “Retox But Not Detox” room package, which also includes a luxurious room or suite and breakfast for two.

The most toxic part of the package – the ‘Late-Night Retox’ — affords a choice of either the “Cigar Combo” or “Sweet Duo” for two.

Cigar Combo pairs a Confidenciaal cigar with a glass of the hotel’s own brand of gin, The Hari London Dry Gin, characterised by citrus, peppercorn and floral nuances, on the rocks for each person. Sweet Duo spoils guests to a dessert platter each of homemade Amalfi lemon sponge, berries panna cotta, and pistachio cannoli accompanied by a glass of Moscato d’Asti Scagliola Primo Bacio Piedmont, Italy.

“Not everyone’s idea of a great getaway involves rolling out a yoga mat, meditating and drinking freshly squeezed juice,” said Francesco Gava, Director of Food & Beverage at The Hari Hong Kong. “Detoxing is all well and good yet with so much talk of wellness post-COVID, it can get a bit overwhelming. So much so we want to acknowledge that it’s okay to like the finer things in life; a great cigar, an irresistible gin, an indulgent homemade dessert and a glass of sweet bubbles.”

Priced from HK$2,360++, the room package will be available from April 1 until Sept. 30 this year. Retox But Not Detox will offer early check-in at 2pm and late check-out until 2pm (subject to availability upon check-in). Late-Night Retox is available at Zoku & The Terrace after 8pm.

For guests not availing the Retox But Not Detox package, Zoku & The Terrace offer the Cigar Combo for HK$298+ per person and Sweet Duo for HK$228+ per person.

A spiced, aromatic take on the traditional London Dry, the hotel launched its own The Hari Gin in conjunction with its sister property The Hari London. Combining cardamom, cassia bark, star anise and cloves, The Hari Gin encapsulates the Harilela family’s Indian heritage. The Hari Gin is a nod to the CEO and chairman of Harilela Hotels Limited and the founder of The Hari Hong Kong Dr Aron Harilela’s late father Dr Hari Harilela’s love for a classic gin martini. The Hari Gin clinched silver for World’s Best Contemporary Style at the renowned World Gin Awards 2022.

Award-winning Zoku makes for an intimate setting of leather fluted booths, crimson velvet banquettes and bar lounge chairs amid the glow of pink bubble glass tealight holders and orange hand stitched fringed lampshades. Meaning “clan” in Japanese, Zoku is dominated by a mesmerizing ceiling of angled timber slats in origami-like forms. Adjacent to Zoku, The Terrace is an alfresco terrace bar framed by greenery.

The elegant hotel’s rooms and suites are imagined by renowned interior designer Tara Bernerd with views overlooking Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak and Victoria Harbour. Adorned with timber panelling, natural linen wallpaper, plush velvet upholstery and eccentric art, the bedrooms are separated from marble bathrooms by brass Crittall doors.

About The Hari Hong Kong

Opened in December 2020, The Hari Hong Kong is the vision of Dr. Aron Harilela, Chairman and CEO of Harilela Hotels Ltd, and the second hotel to open under the ‘The Hari’ brand. The first hotel, The Hari London opened in August 2016. The Harilela Group was established in 1959 and is still wholly owned by the Harilela family. The Harilela Group is the parent company of Harilela Hotels which owns 15 properties across Hong Kong, China, Asia, Europe, and the US.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Forecasts Strong Asia Pacific Visitor Rebound and Growth Through 2027

 835 500 wttc2
By:

PATA Forecasts Strong Asia Pacific Visitor Rebound and Growth Through 2027 - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, March 31, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has released the latest Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027, providing in-depth insights into tourism recovery trends across the region. This comprehensive report, prepared in collaboration with the Hospitality and Tourism Research Centre of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, presents forecasts for 39 destinations in the Asia Pacific region under mild, medium, and severe scenarios, offering critical insights for stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid remarked, “As global travel continues its strong recovery, the Asia Pacific region remains a key driver of growth. This latest forecast highlights the dynamic shifts in visitor flows, policy interventions, and infrastructure improvements that will shape the region’s tourism landscape over the next three years. By understanding these evolving trends, destinations can better position themselves for sustainable growth and resilience.”
Key Highlights from the Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027

– Resilient Growth Trajectory: Under the medium scenario, international visitor arrivals (IVAs) to Asia Pacific are projected to reach 813.7 million by 2027, reflecting a continued upward trend from the estimated 648.1 million in 2024.

– Policy and Connectivity Driving Recovery: Simplified visa processes, expanded airline routes, and enhanced infrastructure are accelerating recovery. Initiatives such as China’s visa-free transit expansion and Thailand’s “Six Countries, One Destination” project illustrate how strategic policy shifts can drive visitor flows.

– Destination Performance: China is forecast to reclaim its position as the leading inbound destination in the region, with the USA, Türkiye, and Hong Kong SAR ranking among the top performers by 2027. Meanwhile, Mongolia, Türkiye, Sri Lanka, and Japan are projected to lead in recovery rates, surpassing their pre-pandemic visitor numbers.

– Top Source Markets: China is expected to maintain its role as the largest source market for Asia Pacific, followed by the USA, Hong Kong SAR, Korea (ROK), and India. The rising middle class in India and Southeast Asia, along with increased adoption of digital payment platforms and social media-driven travel inspiration, is fuelling outbound travel growth.

– Macro Trends Impacting the Visitor Economy: The Asia Pacific tourism landscape will continue to be shaped by economic shifts, geopolitical factors, and technological advancements. Digital transformation, sustainable tourism initiatives, and new transportation infrastructure are set to redefine travel experiences in the region.

“As we move forward, the industry must remain agile and adaptive to shifting market dynamics,” Noor added. “The insights from the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027 will be invaluable for policymakers, businesses, and destination marketers aiming to capitalise on emerging opportunities.”

Access the Full Report
The PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027 report is now available for purchase at www.pata.org/research-q1v63g6n2dw/p/asia-pacific-visitor-forecasts-2025-2027.

Exclusive Member Benefits: PATA members can access an exclusive webinar on February 20, 2025, featuring expert insights from industry leaders and analysts on the key findings and implications of the report.

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.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cool Off With Khao Chae, Thailand’s Iconic Summertime Dish

 972 572 wttc2
By:

Cool Off With Khao Chae, Thailand's Iconic Summertime Dish - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, March 31, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Marriott Bonvoy members invited to chill out during the hottest months of the year and share authentic culinary experiences at a choice of hotels and resorts all across the Kingdom. Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, is helping its members to celebrate the start of summertime in Thailand this April, with a series of promotions that showcase the refreshing flavor of khao chae, a fresh and fragrant dish that lets guests cool off during the hottest months of the year.

Literally meaning “soaked rice”, khao chae features an elegant bowl of chilled jasmine-infused rice accompanied with a selection of sweet, sour, spicy and salty side dishes, to transport the taste buds on a multi-sensory journey. Having originated in the Mon Kingdom, this ancient recipe was adopted and enhanced by the Royal Thai court during the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910) and has now become synonymous with summertime in Thailand.

Diners can enjoy this exquisite, historic recipe at a choice of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of hotels in Bangkok and beyond. At The Siam Tea Room, the highly authentic Thai restaurant overlooking the Chao Phraya at Asiatique The Riverfront, a luxurious khao chae menu evokes the essence of a charming bygone era with an appetizer of grilled pineapple with dried chili, golden beans & dried shrimp, and a welcome lychee drink followed by the full khao chae feast, while The Siam Tea Room’s Sukhumvit branch, located at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, invites guests to savor a classic set menu, including a cool appetizer of snowy santol shaved ice with dried pork & bitter orange.

Also in the Thai capital, Sukhumvit Park, Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments is offering this heritage-rich dish to eat in or takeaway at Bistro M, and Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit’s 57th Street restaurant will present a sublime set menu throughout Songkran, Thailand’s vibrant New Year festival. At The House of Smooth Curry, The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, this ancient recipe has been crafted using organic rice sourced from local farmers in Amnat Charoen province, and at Flavors, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, a dedicated live station will be available at the popular international seafood buffet. Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok’s MoMo Café and Chon Som All Day Dining at Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport will both present the flavors of khao chae as part of their Songkran celebrations, from April 11-15.

Cool Off With Khao Chae, Thailand's Iconic Summertime Dish - TRAVELINDEX

At Bangkok Baking Company, JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, Chef Tang Tananton Bunnag showcases the artistry of Khao Chae, with jasmine rice delicately infused with floral water and paired with handcrafted condiments. Over at Thara Thong, Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok, guests can enjoy this royal Thai summer delicacy in an elegant riverside setting, where time-honored recipes and scenic Chao Phraya River views create a truly immersive experience. For another exquisite take on this seasonal delight, visit The Lobby Lounge at Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse, where cool, fragrant Khao Chae is served with six condiments.

The lush, rolling hills of Northern Thailand set the scene for truly evocative culinary occasions. At Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, this iconic Thai dish can be enjoyed at Latest Recipe, which highlights the finest Thai and Lanna flavors. And on the serene Eastern Seaboard, Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa will showcase this timeless recipe overlooking the glistening Gulf of Thailand at C-Salt Café. Finally, khao chae will be perfectly paired with endless Andaman vistas at Takieng, the beachside dining destination at Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa.

With more than 60 hotels and resorts in Thailand, Marriott Bonvoy invites travelers to experience the essence of summertime in this captivating country. Thailand’s Songkran Thai New Year festival will also take place this April, creating exciting travel opportunities for guests all across the “Land of Smiles”.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Celebrating Excellence in Asia-Pacific Travel – PATA Gold Awards 2025

 694 402 wttc2
By:

Bangkok, Thailand, March 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is now accepting submissions for the PATA Gold Awards 2025, celebrating excellence in the global travel and tourism industry. Based on a rigorous, merit-based judging process by an independent panel of experts, the awards uphold the highest standards of integrity and fairness, ensuring that only the most outstanding achievements are recognised.

For over four decades, the PATA Gold Awards have represented the pinnacle of achievement in Asia Pacific tourism, inspiring innovation and best practices across the industry. This year, PATA invites visionary organisations and individuals to submit their most impactful projects by May 25, 2025, for a chance to gain global recognition.

“The PATA Gold Awards are more than just accolades; they are a testament to the unwavering dedication to quality and innovation,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “We pride ourselves on our stringent judging methods, ensuring that only the most deserving projects are celebrated. As our commitment is to quality and excellence, the awards promise to recognise the visionaries who are genuinely shaping the future of travel. This year, we have refined our categories to further reflect the dynamic evolution of our industry, particularly in critical areas like marketing, and sustainability and social responsibility.”

He added, “We are immensely grateful to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) for their 30 years of unwavering support. Their commitment underscores the importance of recognising and fostering excellence in our industry.”

MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes emphasized, “The moment has arrived for tourism stakeholders to bring forward the fruits of their vision and commitment in finding the best approaches in marketing as well as sustainability and social responsibility tailored to the industry in the Asia Pacific. With Macao now entering a new dynamic development as a world center of tourism and leisure, we are honored to join hands once again with PATA to provide a platform to inspire the industry across the region to excel.”

This year’s PATA Gold Awards feature refined categories in Marketing and Sustainability & Social Responsibility, ensuring a comprehensive celebration of excellence, creativity, and impact in the industry. Winners will be announced at the PATA Gold Awards 2025 Gala Dinner on August 27, held in conjunction with PATA Travel Mart 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Why Enter the PATA Gold Awards?

  • Unmatched Credibility – One of the world’s most rigorously judged travel awards, free from sponsor influence.
  • Global Exposure – Showcase your work to an elite panel of international experts and PATA’s extensive network.
  • Strategic Promotion – Leverage media coverage and PATA’s global marketing platforms.
  • Exclusive Networking – Enjoy complimentary access to PATA Travel Mart 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.
  • Enduring Recognition – Be featured in the PATA Gold Awards 2025 Winners’ Showcase e-booklet and PATA Travel Mart exhibition.

Your achievements deserve global recognition. Submit your entry today and join the ranks of the world’s most distinguished travel and tourism leaders.

How to Apply

For full details and to submit your entry, visit: pataprodigy.org/OStaff/GoldAwards/2025.pdf

For further inquiries, visit www.pata.org/pata-gold-awards-2025 or contact goldawards@pata.org.

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

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News