Global Travel News

Phuket, Thailand, February 6, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Sizzle Rooftop Bar.Steak.Seafood celebrates its third anniversary with a highly anticipated one-night-only 6-hands dinner, taking place on 21 February 2026 in Phuket. For the occasion, the Michelin Guide-listed rooftop destination at Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong Mgallery Collection presents the second instalment of its culinary collaboration series, ‘A Cut Above’, bringing together three Michelin Guide-listed restaurants for an extraordinary evening of creativity, craft, and culinary innovation. Guests will embark on an exclusive tasting journey with Chef Pepe Jiménez of Luma, Bangkok, and Chef Maksim Chukanov of L’Arôme by the Sea joining Sizzle Chef De Cuisine Álvaro Puerta.

The curated menu showcases a refined interplay of bold Mediterranean and Spanish flavours alongside the elegance and precision of French fine dining, each dish highlighting the chefs’ distinctive styles while celebrating Thailand’s vibrant gastronomic scene.

The evening will be elevated by flair bartending performances from one of Phuket’s standout local talents, alongside guest DJ, dancers, and live entertainment, promising refined gastronomy, expressive mixology, and after-dark energy against Phuket’s sunset skyline.

For reservations and further information, please visit Sizzle Rooftop Restaurant’s official website, contact +66 95 834 0453, or email info[@]sizzlerooftopphuket[.]com.

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Bangkok, Thailand, February 5, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is delighted to announce the launch of an exciting new partnership with Sporty & Rich in celebration of the hotel’s 150th anniversary.

Sporty & Rich has evolved into a globally recognised brand known for its high-end, lifestyle fashion that blends leisure and active clothing with a sophisticated, high-quality, chic, and health-conscious aesthetic.

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok 150th Anniversary Capsule Collection

The collaboration with trend-setting Sporty & Rich has resulted in the creation of a wellness-inspired collection, including co-branded crew necks, T-shirts, pyjama sets, tote bags, caps and more. The premium apparel and accessories feature the hotel’s signature celadon colour – a new hue for Sporty & Rich that reflects Mandarin Oriental’s essence of destination and the unique Thai history of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

A Perfect Fit

Sporty & Rich and Mandarin Oriental are well matched, with shared values of: an emphasis on high quality, with expertise, precision and excellence a top priority; a pioneering spirit that looks to the future with new aims and ideas; and a commitment to sustainability, mindful consumption and social responsibility.

The first of its kind in Asia, this partnership is an exciting development, especially as Sporty & Rich’s lifestyle origins are so perfectly in tune with the 150-year legacy of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. The outcome? A carefully curated collection that celebrates wellness, heritage and effortless style.

“We’re delighted to collaborate with Sporty & Rich,” explains Alex Schellenberger, Chief Brand & Marketing Officer, “and we’re proud of the Mandarin Oriental x Sporty & Rich co-branded anniversary capsule collection. This gives us an opportunity to bring fresh new fashion trends in leisurewear and activewear to our hotel and spa guests.”

Customers can find the Mandarin Oriental x Sporty & Rich collection at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, LINE Official Account: @sportyandrichth; and at Mandarin Oriental, New York in March 2026. Worldwide shipping will also be available.

About Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Ideally located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has been delighting guests since it was built in 1876. The 331-room hotel has been an inspiration to a host of world-renowned writers such as Joseph Conrad, Somerset Maugham and Barbara Cartland, after whom many of the suites are named. The hotel presents 11 restaurants and bars, from traditional Thai cuisine to Michelin-starred French fine dining at Le Normandie. Private shuttle boats provide access to The Oriental Thai Cooking School, Sala Rim Naam and Terrace Rim Naam, the hotel’s Thai restaurants; award-winning The Oriental Spa and Fitness & Wellness Centre located across the river; the nearest sky train station (Saphan Taksin); and ICONSIAM, Thailand’s largest shopping mall and home to The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Each outstanding property reflects the Group’s dual Asian heritage, while proudly distilling the essence of the destination, reflected in every hotel’s own fan carefully crafted by local artisans. Driven by a passion for the exceptional – every day, everywhere – the Group’s mission is to craft time-enriching experiences that transform the ordinary into the exceptional and guests into fans through its legendary service. The Group now operates 45 hotels, 12 residences and 35 exceptional homes in 28 countries and territories with many more projects under development. Mandarin Oriental continues to drive its reputation as an innovative leader in luxury hospitality, delivering sustainable growth over the long term.

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Hanoi, Vietnam, February 2, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the 125-year-old luxury icon in the Vietnamese capital, is set to welcome the “Year of the Horse” with a host of special Tet celebrations, including a captivating programme of cultural activities and experiences.

From a lively lion dance, a puppet show and ca trù singing performance to a traditional painting exhibition and hands-on Chung cake, daffodil bulb trimming and tea workshops, the Metropole Tet Space, running from Feb. 6-8, invites guests to discover the richness and beauty of Vietnamese heritage, history and traditions, all while immersing themselves in a spirited Tet atmosphere.

A highlight is the “Reawakening Lien” series, which celebrates the revival of the calligraphy art of Hue that had been lost for over a decade. This cultural tribute begins with an insightful opening talk on Feb. 6, followed by a curated showcase and interactive workshops with master artisans each afternoon.

Among the most cherished Tet customs is the sharing of lì xì (lucky money), a heartfelt gesture symbolising wishes for health, happiness and prosperity. In this spirit, guests staying at Metropole Hanoi during the Lunar New Year will receive a specially prepared lì xì, in the form of a voucher to be exchanged for an exclusive gift from a collection of Metropole-branded offerings at La Boutique and L’Epicerie.

The Metropole also invites guests to send their best wishes and appreciation to friends, family and valued business partners this Lunar New Year with special Tet hampers from L’Epicerie, fully customisable and thoughtfully curated to reflect luxury and tradition.

Each hamper features premium European imports such as Swiss chocolate, Italian panettone, French butter cookies, and fine wine and Champagne, alongside special Metropole-branded items and authentic Vietnamese delicacies like mixed nuts, dried candied fruit, and an exquisite collection of artisanal coffee and tea. The hampers are available until Feb. 16.

Metropole Hanoi will operate as usual throughout the holiday season, including the especially busy days of Tet this year, from Feb. 16 to 20, ensuring an extraordinary and welcoming journey for all guests.

Spice Garden, Metropole Hanoi’s celebrated Vietnamese restaurant, is presenting a special 5-course set menu for Tet showcasing authentic Vietnamese delicacies such as spring rolls and Hanoi bun thang, served with complimentary homemade tea and sweet candied fruit.

Meanwhile, angelina, the hotel’s vibrant cocktail bar, whisky lounge and restaurant, is offering an exclusive Tet cocktail collection that reimagines traditional Vietnamese New Year flavours through creative ingredients and modern mixology techniques.

Hotel visitors are also invited to linger over an elegant Afternoon Tea, a quintessential British tradition elevated with refined French flair within the romantic ambiance of Le Club Bar. Vietnamese lotus tea, classic Earl Grey, the signature Metropole egg coffee and other favourite beverages are served alongside a distinctive selection of exquisite sweet and savoury delights.

Finally, embark on a new chapter of the hotel’s iconic Sunday Brunch at Le Beaulieu, now featuring a curated theme every final Sunday of the month. The Feb. 22 edition presents a festive and meaningful tribute to Tet, harmonising sophisticated French craftsmanship with rich Vietnamese cultural symbolism.

Signature brunch delicacies – ranging from premium seafood on ice, côte de boeuf and flambé lobster bisque to Serrano ham, French artisanal cheeses and decadent desserts – are accompanied by live jazz to complete this truly indulgent experience.

Tet is the most important holiday in the Vietnamese calendar, marking the arrival of spring and new beginnings. During the seven-day celebration locals practice an array of customs including cooking traditional foods, cleaning out their homes, donning new clothes, visiting relatives, and giving li xi or lucky money to children.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI

A prominent fixture in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, the Hotel Metropole Hanoi has a long tradition as a luxury venue for prestigious events and a popular rendezvous for business and leisure travelers such as playwrights, ambassadors, royalty, and heads of state. Blending colonial heritage with neo-classical luxury and a dash of modernity, the hotel is the first Sofitel Legend in the world and the recipient of numerous international awards for its fine service, this legendary landmark has contributed to the richness of local heritage.

The hotel includes 358 rooms that are divided into two wings – the historical Heritage Wing and the neo-classical Opera Wing. There are three legendary suites that are named after famous residents and visitors to the hotel (Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham).

With six exquisite restaurants and bars, Metropole Hanoi offers a diverse array of culinary experiences: Le Club Bar treats guests to its signature Metropole brasserie, iconic high tea and jazz evenings; Le Beaulieu presents contemporary French fine dining at its finest; Spice Garden offers elevated Vietnamese cuisine; meanwhile, angelina – Hanoi’s bespoke cocktail bar – lounge – restaurant delivers a world-class beverage experience alongside imaginative comfort food; La Terrasse brings Parisian-inspired al fresco dining to the sidewalks of Hanoi; and the Bamboo Bar invites guests to unwind in a serene Indochine setting by the pool.

At this legendary hotel, guests can indulge in luxurious facilities featuring lush gardens, a tranquil heated outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, and full-service meeting rooms. Rejuvenating treatments await at the enchanting Le Spa du Metropole, while curated treasures can be found at the hotel’s luxury gift shop, La Boutique, and its gourmet deli and patisserie, L’Epicerie.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND

A pioneer of French luxury hospitality since 1964, Sofitel today embodies heartfelt and committed luxury, with a French zest. Alongside its 120 elegant and unique properties, the brand inaugurated in 2009 a collection of emblematic hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner: unrivalled luxury addresses with a legendary heritage and highly personalised service. Each stay is timeless, offering sumptuous surroundings, renowned restaurants and modern comforts for an inspiring luxury experience. Noble, rare and soulful, Sofitel Legend hotels captivate with their architectural beauty, breathtaking views and mesmerising ambience.

Sofitel Legend now comprises 6 hotels, each more magnificent than the last, set within beautiful and culturally-rich destinations around the world: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an.

Sofitel Legend is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

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Cebu, Philippines, January 31, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The 29th Meeting of the ASEAN Tourism Ministers (M-ATM) was convened on 29 January 2026, in Cebu, the Philippines, under the Chairmanship of H.E. Christina Garcia Frasco, Secretary of Tourism of the Philippines. The Meeting was preceded by the 63rd Meeting of the ASEAN National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) and related senior official meetings with Dialogue Partners.

The Meeting noted the substantive progress achieved under the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) 2016–2025, which has strengthened ASEAN’s position as a quality and sustainable tourism destination. Key achievements include enhanced implementation of ASEAN Tourism Standards and awards, continued rollout of the Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Tourism Professionals (MRA-TP), and strengthened regional tourism marketing and joint promotion to position ASEAN as a single, high-quality and sustainable destination. With the conclusion of ATSP 2016–2025, the Meeting recognised that this milestone provides a solid foundation for advancing cooperation into the next phase of regional tourism development.

The Meeting was pleased to note the continued positive recovery of ASEAN’s tourism sector. Preliminary figures indicate that ASEAN recorded approximately 144 million international visitor arrivals in 2025, reflecting a sustained upward trend supported by measures to enhance connectivity, diversify tourism offerings, and strengthen marketing and promotional efforts.

The Meeting highlighted the importance of further promoting sustainable, inclusive, resilient, and quality tourism, in line with the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Quality Tourism adopted in 2025. The Meeting underscored the importance of implementing the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026–2030 (ATSP 2026–2030) and the ASEAN Tourism Marketing Strategy 2026–2030 (ATMS 2026–2030) to guide collective actions, strengthen branding and narrative-building, and enhance ASEAN’s regional visibility in the years ahead.

The Meeting encouraged continued efforts to operationalise the ATMS 2026–2030, with a strong focus on promoting Southeast Asia as a single, seamless, and high-quality tourism destination through data-driven, audience-centred and digitally enabled regional marketing initiatives. The Meeting underscored the importance of deepening collaboration with the private sector, global online platforms, and subregional mechanisms to strengthen brand visibility and amplify ASEAN’s regional identity through co-branded and co-funded campaigns. The Meeting also highlighted the growing potential of cruise tourism as an important market segment, and encouraged continued cooperation to enhance port connectivity, streamline travel facilitation, improve service and safety standards, strengthen sustainability practices in cruise destinations, and promote multi-destination cruise itineraries across ASEAN seas and coastal areas.

Towards More Robust ASEAN Tourism

The Meeting warmly welcomed the outcomes of the ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Retreat held in September 2025 in Melaka, Malaysia, which served as a valuable platform for Ministers to engage in strategic and forward-looking exchanges on advancing a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism sector, while strengthening ASEAN’s global competitiveness. The Retreat facilitated constructive discussions on emerging trends, shared challenges and opportunities, and good practices, as well as policy directions to enhance regional cooperation and attract international visitors to the region. Recognising its continued relevance, the Meeting agreed to consider institutionalising the ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Retreat as an appropriate platform to address sectoral challenges and promote coordinated and timely solutions.

The Meeting commended ongoing cooperation in promoting quality tourism, including initiatives to strengthen tourism standards, hygiene and safety measures, and capacity-building for local communities, women, and youth. The Meeting reaffirmed support for enhanced investments in tourism infrastructure, particularly in secondary and tertiary destinations, to promote more balanced and inclusive tourism development across the region. To this end, the Meeting welcomed the initiative by the Philippines to develop an ASEAN Sustainable and Resilient Tourism Outlook as a Priority Economic Deliverable in 2026 under its ASEAN Chairmanship.

The Meeting noted that during the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards Ceremony held on 30 January 2026, 46 establishments in the region were honoured at the 10th ASEAN Green Hotel Award; 32 entities were honoured at the 5th ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award; 41 establishments were honoured at the 5th ASEAN MICE Venue Award (Category: Meeting Room); 36 establishments were honoured at the 3rd ASEAN MICE Venue Award (Category: Exhibition Venue); 39 establishments were honoured at the 2nd ASEAN MICE Venue Award (Category: Event Venue); 8 establishments were honoured at the 5th ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award (Eco-friendly Tourist Attraction theme, Rural Sustainable Product Category); and 9 establishments were honoured at the 5th ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award (Eco-friendly Tourist Attraction theme, Urban Sustainable Product Category). The Meeting encouraged ASEAN Member States to further promote ASEAN Tourism Standards within their respective countries to enhance the region’s competitiveness.

The Meeting recognised the continued development of new and innovative tourism products, including nature-based, cultural, gastronomy, wellness, adventure, and creative tourism experiences. The Meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening sustainable destination management practices, in line with the ASEAN Framework on Sustainable Tourism Development and the ASEAN Action Roadmap for Sustainable Tourism Development. The Meeting also recognised the value of enhanced South–South cooperation, particularly through ongoing collaboration with the Pacific Alliance, including the ASEAN–Pacific Alliance joint e-learning platform on sustainable tourism, which supports knowledge exchange and capacity-building efforts across both regions.

The Meeting commended the outcomes of the sub-regional cooperation which the Second Meeting of Cambodia-Lao PDR-Viet Nam National Tourism Organisations (CLV NTOs) for Promoting “Three Countries, One Destination” agreed to hold the Cambodia-Lao PDR-Viet Nam Tourism Ministers’ meeting in 2026. The Meeting further took note on the promotional events including Cambodia-Lao PDRMyanmar- Viet Nam Foods Festival and Seminar on “On-land Tourism and Cross-Border Travel Facilitation” held in December 2025 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and encourage continual organisation of these events to promote inter and intraregional tourists’ flow, diversify tourism products and unify ASEAN as a single tourist destination.

The Meeting commended ongoing collaboration between the tourism and transport sectors, including joint efforts under the Ad-Hoc Task Force on Tourism and Transport to address connectivity gaps, improve access to emerging destinations, and strengthen joint promotional activities. The Meeting encouraged continued collaboration with relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, Dialogue Partners, and industry stakeholders to advance integrated connectivity and promote multi-modal travel solutions.

The Meeting acknowledged continued progress in strengthening the implementation of the ASEAN MRA-TP and related competency standards, which will contribute to a more skilled and future-ready tourism workforce. The Meeting encouraged further capability development efforts, including digital skills training and support for micro, small and medium tourism enterprises (MSMEs). The Meeting was pleased to note that the Regional Secretariat to Implement the MRATP is targeted to be operationalised in 2026.

Engagement with Partners

The Meeting expressed appreciation for the continued support provided by ASEAN’s Partners and international organisations in advancing the region’s tourism cooperation agenda. The Meeting encouraged deeper and more strategic partnerships, particularly in supporting the effective implementation of the ATSP 2026–2030 and the ATMS 2026–2030. This includes cooperation in technical assistance, capacity-building, data and digital innovation, sustainable tourism development, enhanced connectivity, crisis preparedness and response, and tourism investment. The Meeting underscored the importance of leveraging Partners’ expertise, resources, and networks to complement ASEAN’s efforts in strengthening quality tourism, promoting Southeast Asia as a single destination, and achieving more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism growth.

The Meeting expressed appreciation to the Government of the Philippines for its warm hospitality and excellent arrangements in hosting the 29th M-ATM and related meetings.

The Meeting agreed that the 30th Meeting of the ASEAN Tourism Ministers will be held in Singapore, in January 2027.

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Cebu, Philippines, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) today proudly presented the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence in Cebu, the Philippines, recognising outstanding achievements that exemplify excellence, innovation, sustainability, and collaboration across Southeast Asia’s tourism industry. The Awards Ceremony was held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026, one of the region’s most important annual tourism gatherings. 

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Cebu, Philippines, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / ASEAN Spokesperson for ASEAN Matters Dominic Xavier Imperial confirmed on 27 January 2026 that discussions on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea will be among the key items to be taken up during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat) on 29 January 2026 at Nustar Hotel, Cebu. 

Speaking during a press briefing at the International Media Center (IMC) in Bai Hotel, Cebu, Imperial said that while it is difficult at this stage to pre-empt the full scope of discussions and outcomes of the Retreat, the COC will definitely be discussed by ASEAN Foreign Ministers. 

Imperial noted that as ASEAN Chair for 2026, the Philippines is in a strong position to help sustain momentum in the negotiations by facilitating dialogue, encouraging more meetings, and creating opportunities to advance discussions toward a timely conclusion. 

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), led by Ma. Theresa Lazaro is welcoming ASEAN Foreign Ministers and their delegations to Cebu for the Retreat, which marks the first meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN Chairship. 

Imperial underscored that it is important to highlight the shared commitment of all parties involved in the negotiations, noting that both ASEAN Member States and China remain on board in working toward a conclusion of the COC. 

He added that all parties remain committed to endeavoring to conclude the COC negotiations within the agreed 2026 timeline, consistent with the guidelines and frameworks previously set by ASEAN. 

Guided by the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the AMM Retreat will also provide an opportunity for Ministers to discuss ASEAN’s priorities for 2026, follow up on the outcomes of the 47th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025, and exchange views on key regional and global developments affecting the region. 

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Beihai, China, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Dhawa Beihai Weizhou Island arrives on China’s volcanic coastline in Guangxi, where the raw energy of ancient lava meets the alluring pulse of the sea.

From the restorative 8lements Spa and ocean-to-global flavours at Xi restaurant, to whale watching excursions and versatile event spaces, discover a destination designed for vibrant exploration and dynamic island living.

A Space Framed by Sea and Culture

Inside the resort, minimalist interiors are shaped by natural materials and soft lines, subtly accented with colours and patterns inspired by the local Danjia fishing culture.

All rooms and suites feature private balconies framing sweeping sea views, securing your front-row seat to the island’s soul.

Curated for Discovery

Follow the seasons: seek whales in winter, witness bioluminescent seas in spring, and stargaze under summer skies. Hike volcanic trails and connect with local crafts, then restore completely at the 8lements Spa.

This is your island discovery.

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Cebu, Philippines, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Tuesday (January 27) said that the Philippines stands to gain significant economic, tourism, and investment benefits as it hosts the 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Tourism Forum 2026, citing the event as a major milestone under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. 

The hosting of ATF 2026 forms a key pillar of the country’s ASEAN Chairship this year, with the theme “Navigating Our Tourism Future, Together,” and positions the Philippines at the forefront of shaping the region’s tourism trajectory, integration, and long-term growth. 

As the lead agency for ATF 2026, the DOT noted that the forum is among the first major sectoral events of the Philippines’ chairship and will anchor a full calendar of ASEAN-related meetings throughout the year—bringing sustained international attention, visitor traffic, and business activity to the country. 

The forum will convene tourism ministers, senior officials of National Tourism Organizations (NTOs), and industry leaders from across Southeast Asia for high-level ministerial meetings, working group sessions, policy discussions, and industry engagements central to ASEAN tourism cooperation. 

“Hosting the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 is both an economic opportunity and a strategic statement of the Philippines’ commitment to advancing a cooperative, forward-looking ASEAN tourism agenda with tangible benefits across our communities,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “Under the Marcos Administration’s vision of economic development driven by tourism, this forum allows the Philippines to generate jobs, stimulate local enterprises, and attract investments, while showcasing our readiness to lead, convene, and deliver on the regional stage.” 

Secretary Frasco emphasized that Cebu’s selection as host destination highlights the administration’s commitment to dispersing tourism growth beyond Metro Manila and accelerating development in the regions. In Cebu alone, the summit is expected to draw some 5,000 guests from all over the world. 

“By hosting ATF 2026 in Cebu, we are bringing the benefits of global tourism engagement directly to our local communities—from hotels and transport providers to MSMEs, artisans, and tour operators. This is tourism growth that is felt on the ground, consistent with our thrust for inclusive and people-centered development,” she added. 

Beyond ASEAN Member States, dialogue partners and stakeholders from China, Japan, South Korea, India, Russia, Australia, and the United States-ASEAN Business Council are expected to participate, further expanding opportunities for market access, air connectivity, and cross-border collaboration. 

“The Philippines is using its ASEAN Chairship to strengthen cooperation beyond borders,” Secretary Frasco said. “Through ATF 2026, we are deepening partnerships, encouraging innovation, and opening new pathways for investment and sustainable tourism, ensuring that ASEAN remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global travel landscape.” 

The opening ceremony will take place on January 28 and will be held at Mactan Shrine, one of the important historical sites in Cebu. 

Among the highlights of ATF 2026 are the ASEAN Tourism Ministerial Meeting and the ASEAN Tourism Conference on January 29, which will serve as platforms for policymakers and experts to address emerging trends, resilience, sustainability, and digital transformation in tourism. 

The ATF will also witness the launch of the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan (ATSP) 2026-2030, marking the region’s renewed commitment towards tourism cooperation and development. 

Spearheaded by the Philippines as Lead Country Coordinator, the ATSP 2026-2030 outlines the region’s collective vision and plans for a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry. 

Bilateral meetings held on the sidelines of the forum are also expected to advance cooperation between ASEAN and its dialogue partners across both public and private sectors, fostering practical initiatives that support long-term tourism development. 

Meanwhile, the DOT’s marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, will lead TRAVEX 2026, ASEAN’s flagship tourism trade exchange and the region’s largest business-to-business platform. Scheduled from January 28 to 30 at the Mactan Expo, TRAVEX 2026 is expected to bring together over 700 international buyers, sellers, and decision-makers. 

The hosting of ATF 2026 marks the Philippines’ return as host nearly a decade after staging the forum in 2016. 

“Through ATF 2026, the Philippines is reaffirming its role as a trusted partner and leader in ASEAN tourism,” Secretary Frasco said. “This forum advances our national tourism goals, strengthens regional solidarity, and ensures that tourism continues to uplift lives, empower communities, and drive sustainable growth for generations of Filipinos.” 

Meanwhile, cultural showcases and curated experiences will allow delegates to experience Philippine heritage and creativity firsthand, including ‘Paglantaw,’ a heritage tour of Old Cebu, and ‘Bagani,’ a cultural tour of Lapu-Lapu City. The DOT has also organized guided tours to key destinations nationwide to promote broader destination awareness and future travel. 

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Cebu, Philippines, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) flagship travel trade exchange, TRAVEX 2026, officially opened its doors, gathering 271 buyers from 50 countries across the globe, 124 sellers, and 222 exhibitors at the newly purpose-built Mactan Expo Center in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on Wednesday (Jan. 29).

Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the opening ceremony, alongside Minister of Tourism of Indonesia Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, ASEAN Tourism Association President Eddy Krismeidi, Tourism Promotions Board COO, Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, representatives from ASEAN member states, local officials, and dignitaries, all united by a shared regional vision—to promote ASEAN as a unified tourism destination.

The three-day TRAVEX showcases tourism enterprises, tour operators, destination marketers, and buyers from ASEAN, including the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and the regional bloc’s newest member state, Timor-Leste.

Philippine exhibitors include hotels and resorts, travel and tours agencies, MICE venues, airlines, and government agencies, all of which come together to be at the center of regional commerce, hoping to strengthen market access for local sellers.

“TRAVEX showcases the diversity and maturity of ASEAN tourism offerings. It is a platform that brings together not only destinations and products but also aspirations, partnerships, and shared responsibility for the future of tourism in our region,” said Secretary Frasco, affirming that the travel trade event is more than a business but an opportunity that leads to tangible outcomes, lasting collaborations, and a stronger ASEAN tourism community.

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London, UK, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / At the International AI Excellence & Diplomacy Summit held today in the House of Lords, esteemed tourism leader Alain St.Ange delivered a compelling keynote on the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence in the travel industry. St.Ange, the former Seychelles Minister and head of the “Saint Ange Consultancy,” urged industry professionals to embrace AI as a fundamental tool for progress and connection.

St.Ange highlighted that AI is no longer a distant concept but an integral part of the industry’s infrastructure, acting as a “global megaphone” that amplifies customer experiences. He stressed the importance of proactively managing one’s digital reputation, as AI makes the unfiltered opinions of past customers directly accessible to future ones.

A central theme of the address was the rise of “Emotional Tourism,” where the feelings shared by previous guests increasingly dictate future bookings. “AI is also becoming the heartbeat of emotion in travel,” St.Ange stated, explaining that businesses must craft and share positive messages to ensure AI echoes their strengths and builds a favourable online consensus.

Looking forward, St.Ange painted a vivid picture of the future, including AI-powered personal concierges, robotic hotel staff, and interactive 3D destination tours. While acknowledging challenges like data privacy and building trust in AI, he framed them as “signposts guiding us toward a more responsible and innovative future.” He shared projections that the AI market in tourism will reach nearly $14 billion by 2030, underscoring the urgency to adapt.

St.Ange concluded with a powerful call to action, asking not if the industry will adapt, but how it will lead the change. His message was clear: the future of travel lies in a thoughtful partnership between technology and humanity to create richer, more meaningful experiences for everyone.

About Saint Ange Consultancy

Led by Alain St.Ange, a globally recognised tourism figure with extensive leadership experience, Saint Ange Consultancy provides expert advice and strategic insights to tourism boards and private sector stakeholders worldwide. St.Ange’s distinguished career includes serving as the Seychelles Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports, and Marine and on the Executive Council of the UN World Tourism Organization.

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