Global Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, July 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2025 PATA Gold Awards, celebrating outstanding achievements across the Asia Pacific travel and tourism industry. This year, 20 winners were recognised across two broad categories — Marketing, and Sustainability and Social Responsibility — highlighting innovative campaigns and impactful initiatives from both organisations and individuals.

Among these leading powerhouses of Asia Pacific travel and tourism industry, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has been selected as the Grand Title Winner in the Marketing category. The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) or DASTA, has been selected as the Grand Title Winner in the Sustainability and Social Responsibility category.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid stated, “The PATA Gold Awards remain a prestigious benchmark in the travel and tourism industry — honouring those who lead with purpose, innovate with impact, and contribute meaningfully to the industry. This year, we have refined the award categories to better reflect the industry’s creativity, resilience, and dedication to excellence. It is a delight to see the same spirited enthusiasm evinced in the impressive submission numbers. We sincerely thank all participants for sharing their inspiring work.

“Our deepest appreciation also goes to our independent judging panel, whose integrity and commitment ensured a fair, thoughtful, and rigorous evaluation process across all categories.”

Mr Hamid added, “We warmly congratulate the Macao Government Tourism Office and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration, our esteemed Grand Title Winners, along with all this year’s recipients. Your achievements continue to raise the bar and inspire a more responsible, inclusive, and impactful future for tourism in the region.”

MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes said, “The winning initiatives of the PATA Gold Awards are a breath of fresh air for the tourism industry. It is energizing to see the new approaches and commitment displayed by the awardees in marketing, as well as sustainability and social responsibility. Macao is honored to support this PATA initiative for 30 years and contribute to encouraging more diversity and sustainability in the tourism industry in our destination and globally.”

This year’s winners were selected from over 100 entries submitted by 45 travel and tourism organisations and individuals.

All 20 winners will be celebrated at PATA Travel Mart 2025, taking place on August 27 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand. To further honour their achievements, the 28 winning entries will be showcased in a special video played throughout the event and featured in the upcoming 2025 PATA Gold Awards booklet, to be published in August.

As mentioned above, the PATA Gold Award 2025 Grand Titles were presented to two esteemed organisations:

MGTO received the coveted PATA Gold Award 2025 Grand Title in Marketing for its campaign, Experience Macao Limited Edition. This interactive website game invited users to virtually explore Macao, China, while competing for exclusive, limited-edition travel experiences.

The campaign integrated a wide range of digital and marketing elements — including CGI teasers, a music video featuring K-pop star Miyeon, a dedicated KLOOK landing page, KOL collaborations, PR, out-of-home advertising, and influencer activations. The result was heightened global visibility and engagement, generating 5.16 billion in media exposure and boosting real-world visitation to Macao.

DASTA received the coveted PATA Gold Award 2025 Grand Title in Marketing for its initiative titled, Sustainable Cultural Heritage Preservation of the Ban Na Ton Chan Homestay Community Enterprise. This homestay offers visitors immersive experiences in the local lifestyle, handicrafts, and folk arts, fostering meaningful cultural exchanges.

Guided by a vision of “Creating strength towards sustainability in all dimensions,” the initiative showcases traditional attire, performances, and craftsmanship — now key sources of community income. By leveraging online platforms for promotion, the community has significantly increased visitor numbers and revenue, ensuring the preservation of its cultural heritage for future generations.

The full result of the PATA Gold Awards 2025 and the list of distinguished judges is attached herewith.

PATA Gold Awards 2025 – Grand Title Winners:

1. Marketing
Winner: Macao Government Tourism Office
Submission: Experience Macao Limited Edition

2. Sustainability & Social Responsibility
Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) or DASTA
Submission: Sustainable Cultural Heritage Preservation of the Ban Na Ton Chan Homestay Community Enterprise

PATA Gold Award Winners 2025 – Marketing Category (16 award categories):

1. Best Destination Marketing Campaign (Destination Marketing Organisation – Asia)
Winner: Sarawak Tourism Board
Submission: Sarawak Gateway to Borneo
2. Best Destination Marketing Campaign (Destination Marketing Organisation – Pacific)
Winner: Tahiti Tourisme
Submission: Follow Your Feelings in The Islands of Tahiti
3. Best Marketing Campaign – Carrier (Airline, Cruise, Airport)
Winner: Srilankan Airlines Limited
Submission: The Ramayana Trail Campaign
4. Best Marketing Campaign – Hospitality (Hotel, Resort, or Management Company)
Winner: Melco Resorts & Entertainment
Submission: Studio City – Sanrio Campaign
5. Best Marketing Campaign – Industry (Any other Tourism Business)
Winner: Flymya
Submission: Travel Easy, Travel Smart
6. Best Integrated Digital Marketing Campaign (Destination)
Winner: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Submission: The ‘Love Season’ Initiative
7. Best Integrated Digital Marketing Campaign (Industry)
Winner: SOTC Travel Limited
Submission: Saare Jahan Se Achha India Humara
8. Best Printed Marketing Campaign (Destination)
Winner: Tourism and Travel Bureau, Taichung City Government
Submission: FUN! Taichung, Explore Taichung from A to Z
9. Best Printed Marketing Campaign (Industry)
Winner: Sands China Ltd.
Submission: Sands China’s Community Revitalization Programme for Rua das Estalagens
10. Best Sustainable and Inclusive Marketing Campaign
Winner: Macao Government Tourism Office
Submission: A New Standard of Excellence
11. Best Destination Article
Winner: Rachel Lees – Freelance Writer
Submission: The Kimberley’s Shifting Tides
12. Best Industry Article
Winner: TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd
Submission: TTG Asia Luxury September-October 2024, Rise of Chinese female explorers
13. Best Use of Emerging Technology in Marketing
Winner: Korea Tourism Organization
Submission: Smart Solutions for Regional Tourism Challenges Project
14. Most Engaging Social Media Campaign
Winner: Kerala Tourism
Submission: Meme-led Makeover Campaign
15. Best Travel Photography
Winner: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Submission: The Hidden Romance of Sam Roi Yot
16. Best Travel Video
Winner: Korea Tourism Organization
Submission: Jeonju Rhapsody (The Official Anthem) by Steve Barakatt

PATA Gold Award Winners 2025 – Sustainability & Social Responsibility (10 award categories):

1. Best Climate Action Initiative (Destination)
Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) – DASTA
Submission: Carbon Neutral Community-based Tourism Prototype
2. Best Climate Action Initiative (Industry)
Winner: Waterbom Bali
Submission: Small Island, Big Goals: Waterbom Bali’s Net Zero 2033 Commitment
3. Best Cultural Heritage Preservation Initiative
Winner: School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events, Taylor’s University
Submission: Lenggong Valley Heritage Revival
4. Best Ecosystem & Wildlife Conservation Initiative
Winner: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts
Submission: Cinnamon Rainforest Restoration Project
5. Best Human Capital Development Programme
Winner: Leofoo Tourism Group
Submission: Leofoo H(earing)-I(mpaired) Team
6. Community-Based Tourism Excellence
Winner: Jeju Tourism Organization
Submission: The Four Pillars of Jeju Community-based Tourism: Policy Initiatives, focusing on Intangible Cultural Heritage of Jeju HaeNyeo
7. Destination Resilience (All Destinations)
Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) – DASTA
Submission: Creative Spaces Revitalizing the Old Town into a Lively Heritage District
8. Tourism for All: Best Inclusion and Diversity Initiative
Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) – DASTA
Submission: Community based tourism for All
9. Best Women Empowerment Initiative
Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) – DASTA
Submission: A Case Study of Ban San Thang Luang, Chiang Rai Province
10. Best Youth Empowerment Initiative
Winner: Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) – DASTA
Submission: SE For Youth in Thailand-Loei Youth Saving Group

Independent Panel of Judges:

1. Andreas Hardeman, Manager, Aerospace, Aviation and Travel Industries, World Economic Forum
2. Anna Hong, General Manager, Shun Tak – China Travel Ship Management Limited
3. Bel Castro, Asst. Dean, College of Hospitality Management, Enderun Colleges
4. Betsy Croft, Global Head of Industry Marketing, Skyscanner
5. David Hailstones, Vice President & Chief Group Cultural Officer, Bella Vista Institute of Higher Education Switzerland (BVIS)
6. Eric Fong, Marketing Director, Macau International Airport
7. Fabrizio Orlando, Global Director, Industry Affairs, Tripadvisor
8. Hannah Pearson, Founding Partner, Pearson Consulting (Pear Anderson)
9. Jackson Pek, Senior Vice President & Group General Counsel, Amadeus Asia Limited
10. Janet Yu, Assistant Vice President – Sales, SJM Resorts, S.A
11. Jennifer Chun, Director, Tourism Research, Hawaii Tourism Authority
12. Jonathan Low, Managing Director, Global Success Learning Academy
13. Julia Louw, Head of Leisure Tourism, WESGRO Cape Town & Western Cape
14. Justin Ong, Regional Manager, APAC, Hotelbeds Pte. Ltd
15. Lilibeth Aragon, College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management, Lyceum of the Philippines University Manila
16. Lucie Wesley, VP, Business Development & Marketing, MMGY Global
17. Mark Manglona, Marketing Officer – Pacific & North America, Guam Visitors Bureau
18. Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels
19. Paloma Zapata, CEO, Sustainable Travel International
20. Ralf Ostendorf, Director Market & Media Management, Berlin Tourismus & Kongress
21. Reham Shaheen, Tourism Activation team leader, Aseer Region Development Authority
22. Shima Ahmadi, Project Manager, Universitat de Girona
23. Suyin Lee, CEO, Discova Travel
24. Verra Wang, Senior PR Manager, Trip[.]com Group
25. Victoria Mukranova, International Director Tourism, AVIAREPS

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Kowloon, Hong Kong, July 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Hyatt Asia Pacific is announcing a food and beverage campaign “Be More Foodie. Be More Fulfilled.” at 75 restaurants and bars across 16 Hyatt properties in Singapore and Thailand.

“With our ‘Be More Foodie. Be More Fulfilled.’ campaign, we invite diners to travel through their tastebuds with us, while unlocking more benefits as a World of Hyatt member,” said Tammy Ng, Vice President of Marketing, Asia Pacific, Hyatt. “We are proud to offer tasty, diverse and innovative experiences that are grounded in Hyatt’s philosophy of ‘Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully Served.’”

The campaign will begin on July 21 and will continue through November 9, 2025 in two phases:

Be More Savvy: July 21 – September 14, 2025

All diners, including World of Hyatt Members, non-members, in-house and non-stay guests, can enjoy up to 25% savings at over 50 participating restaurants and bars in Thailand and discounts of up to 20% in Singapore at 10 participating dining outlets.

Be More Rewarded: September 15 – November 9, 2025

Registered members can earn double World of Hyatt points on eligible food and beverage spend. This is applicable for dine-in or takeout at any of the 75 restaurants and bars at Hyatt hotels in Thailand and Singapore. Pre-registration, starting from September 1, 2025, is required, following which members can earn points faster to redeem free nights, suite upgrades, experiences and more.

“Be More Foodie. Be More Fulfilled.” Social Media Contest: July 21 – November 9, 2025

Members who reside in Singapore and Thailand stand a weekly chance to win 80,000 bonus points when they dine at Hyatt restaurants and bars in their respective countries of abode and share their experience on social media. Winners can use the 80,000 points to redeem at least a two-night stay at most Hyatt hotels worldwide or as many as 16 nights at a Category 1 Hyatt hotel. During the 16-week contest period, a weekly winner will be selected from each country.

Explore Iconic Hyatt Dining Destinations in Singapore

Embark on a culinary journey with Hyatt restaurants and bars in Singapore. From modern interpretations of Italian cuisine at Le Pristine Singapore at Grand Hyatt Singapore, to authentic Cantonese at 5 ON 25 at Andaz Singapore, and reimagined Japanese izakaya dishes at Kaya at The Standard, Singapore.

Savour Exciting Flavours Across Hyatt Hotels and Resorts in Thailand

From creative Mexican dishes with stunning city views at OJO at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon to Italian seafood at Embassy Room La Marina at Park Hyatt Bangkok and French bistro delights at Gaston at Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, to Latin American cuisine with bay views at Casa Boho at Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort.

Get Closer to Your Dream Escape with Every Meal

Members can earn up to 5 Base Points for every eligible U.S. Dollar (approximately $1.3 Singaporean Dollars or 33 Thai Baht) spent on dining at participating restaurants and bars. These points can be used for free nights, suite upgrades, gourmet meals and experiences. Notably, Base Points earned through dining also contribute toward elite status qualification, offering members access to even more exclusive benefits.

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Koh Samui, Thailand, July 14, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Hyatt Regency Koh Samui is delighted to introduce William Talbot as our new executive chef, marking a significant milestone in the resort’s culinary journey. With over 20 years of experience, Chef William brings together his expertise and a genuine passion for the art of gastronomy.

Originating from Mauritius, William developed a passion for cooking at an early age, nurtured by the traditions passed down from his mother. He has expertise in a wide range of cuisines, including fine dining and wellness, as well as French, Mediterranean, Italian and Asian cuisines.

Having gained a wealth of experience in the culinary arts under the guidance of Michelin-starred chefs, Chef William is renowned for combining his knowledge of French cuisine with a delightful tropical touch, reflecting his vibrant creativity in every dish he crafts.

In his role as executive chef at Hyatt Regency Koh Samui, William Talbot will redefine the resort’s food and beverage offerings, crafting new, exciting menus and driving sustainability initiatives. His commitment to excellence includes implementing HACCP and COVID-19 safety protocols and ensuring the well-being of guests and staff.

Hyatt Regency Koh Samui is thrilled to welcome Chef William on board and looks forward to seeing more of his creativity and passion come to life across our various F&B operations. Whether guests choose to dine at the signature restaurant or enjoy a wonderfully tailored dining experience, each dish will showcase his passion for perfection.

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Koh Samui, Thailand, July 14, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Kimpton Kitalay Samui, the idyllic island resort on Koh Samui’s pristine Choeng Mon Beach, is inviting its cherished guests and visiting diners to embark on a culinary journey from Chiang Mai, the ancient walled city in the jungle-clad mountains of Northern Thailand, to Koh Samui, the tropical island lapped by turquoise seas, with a special two-day collaboration between Rasik Local Kitchen and FishHouse Restaurant & Bar.

A MICHELIN Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant, Rasik Local Kitchen is one of Chiang Mai’s most highly acclaimed culinary venues, where Chef Wai uses locally sourced ingredients to craft bold, vibrant Thai dishes. Now, he will bring his creative vision to Kimpton Kitalay Samui as he joins forces with Chef Banana of FishHouse Restaurant & Bar for an exclusive two-night collaboration. This August, Chef Wai and Chef Banana will stage two evenings of exceptional gastronomy that will showcase the finest seasonal flavours of Chiang Mai with a tropical Southern Thai twist!

On Wednesday 13 August, these two Thai culinary maestros will present a breath-taking 12-course beachfront dinner that features a selection of signature dishes that highlight the fresh produce of the South, reimagined in Rasik Local Kitchen’s Northern style. Five enticing appetizers include Tapi River Prawn & Mangosteen Salad, which is crafted using succulent prawns from the Tapi River in Surat Thani, and tender Baby Octopus in Coconut Soup with Thai herbs and a dash of shrimp paste, while a choice of five mouth-watering main courses includes a slow-cooked Northern-style Beef Stew with Samui Herbs, and marinated local Silver Pomfret Grilled in Banana Leaf. This multi-sensory journey concludes with two delectable desserts, including an innovative Thai Brandy Tiramisu with Chiang Mai Cacao Nibs. Staged on the soft sands of Choengmon Beach, overlooking the glistening Gulf of Thailand, this enchanting alfresco evening will be illuminated with a dramatic fire show and live DJ.

Then on Thursday 14 August, diners can embark on an exquisite 8-course epicurean adventure at FishHouse Restaurant & Bar, the chic beachside dining destination that was honored in the MICHELIN Guide 2025. A trio of appetizers includes a sublime Isaan-style Oyster Salad, which blends the freshest Surat Thani oysters with traditional northeastern herbs, and crispy local Herb Fritters with Tamarind and Cashew Nut Sauce, while three mesmerising main dishes include Northern-style Fish Larb, a hot & spicy salad of minced sea fish with bold Northern Thai herbs, and a Thai-inspired Sweet Squid Paella infused with lemongrass and caramelised onions. Diners can then savor a duo of desserts, including soft and chewy Sweet Dumplings with Coconut Sugar. With a live saxophonist providing the entertainment, this is an evening that will live long in the memory.

So, whether you’re seeking an intimate evening with your partner or a social culinary occasion with family or friends, the Rasik Local Kitchen X FishHouse Restaurant & Bar collaboration will bring the timeless spirit of Thai cuisine to life in a spectacular beachfront setting.

13 August 2025 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

12-course Beachfront Dinner

THB 2,200++ per person (food only)
THB 3,100++ per person (food with wine pairing)

14 August 2025 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

8-course FishHouse Restaurant & Bar Dinner

THB 1,700++ per person (food only)
THB 2,600++ per person (food with wine pairing)

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator with more than 560 properties across 57 countries, announces the strategic expansion of its brand portfolio with the addition of four new hotel brands, including the group’s first soft brands. The newly launched brands will support Minor Hotels’ continued growth by enabling it to expand into new markets and provide distinctive hospitality offerings across the luxury, premium and select segments.

The new brands include:

The Wolseley Hotels
Rooted in the heritage of the iconic Piccadilly restaurant, The Wolseley Hotels is a luxury brand that blends British elegance with European flair and global influence. Each hotel is a timeless sanctuary where rituals are refined, stories are bespoke, and indulgence is offered with sincerity and grace. With unerring attention to detail and design, The Wolseley Hotels create elegant, immersive spaces that hum with the rhythm of cosmopolitan life.

Minor Reserve Collection
A luxury soft brand, Minor Reserve Collection is for travellers who seek extraordinary stays that celebrate personal expression and refined distinction. Each property is a world of its own, chosen for its rarity and ability to offer something singular that guests cannot find elsewhere. Minor Reserve Collection properties elevate every guest’s journey by crafting thoughtful, tailored stays that balance innovation and time-honoured hospitality.

Colbert Collection
Colbert Collection, a soft brand in the premium segment, will encompass a global collection of independent hotels designed for those fuelled by a passion for culinary excellence and genuine social connection. Each hotel expresses its individuality through curated experiences, from insider-led itineraries to story-rich dining and gatherings that bring people together.

iStay Hotels
iStay, a select segment brand, offers stays that are fun and affordable, comfortable and convenient, delivered with minimal fuss. Guests can expect a refreshing, budget-friendly hotel experience with seamless service, a good night’s sleep, and the latest tech in the world’s most loved cities.

These brands join Minor Hotels’ existing portfolio of hotel brands – Anantara, Elewana Collection, Tivoli, NH Collection, Avani, nhow, NH and Oaks – and reflect the group’s commitment to offering its partners and guests a broader range of brand propositions, particularly in the fast-growing soft brand segment.

The expansion of Minor Hotels’ brand portfolio follows the evolution of the Minor Hotels masterbrand in March 2025. The launch of the umbrella brand platform is accompanied by significant investment in the group’s digital infrastructure and distribution strategies, as well as a simplified loyalty proposition under a single Minor DISCOVERY programme. Today, the Minor Hotels consumer-facing masterbrand provides the group a stronger foundation to introduce new brands, enhance owner value, and deliver seamless experiences for its guests globally.

Ian Di Tullio, Chief Commercial Officer of Minor Hotels, commented, “We have meticulously crafted each new brand to capture specific opportunities in the market, enabling us to meet the evolving needs of modern travellers and owners alike. By expanding our brand offering to address new segments, we are empowering our partners, delighting our guests, and accelerating our global growth strategy. These additional brands are instrumental in helping us reach our growth target of 850 properties by the end of 2027.”

Minor Hotels is in active discussions regarding development opportunities for each of its brands. The first property announcements for The Wolseley Hotels, Minor Reserve Collection, Colbert Collection and iStay are expected in the coming months.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Travel + Leisure today announces the results of its annual World’s Best Awards recognizing lebua at State Tower, the iconic vertical destination encompassing sophisticated accommodations and global cuisine, as #3 in Bangkok and #72 in the world for the hotels category. This top ranking within the prestigious awards program, where voters have the final say on who wins, signifies lebua at State Tower as a leading global hotel.

“Our team is incredibly honored to be recognized by the acclaimed awards program,” says Narawadee Bualert, President and CEO of lebua Hotels & Resorts. “As we continue to expand upon existing features and premier new ways to elevate further how guests can relax, dine, and best enjoy their time at the hotel, we’re eager to welcome new travelers and those who have previously stayed to become immersed in our one-of-a-kind setting.”

Each year, Travel + Leisure recognizes the top hotels, islands, cities, cruise lines, airlines, spas, and more around the globe, with the results of the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards readers’ survey. Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards are a trusted source for inspiration and guidance as travelers make plans to set out on trips around the globe. Acknowledgment within this annual program is a powerful testament to the experience each winner provides. The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards are recognized as a leading barometer of the places and companies that engage some of the most passionate and discerning travelers.

Offering sky-high views in spacious accommodations that overlook the vibrant city below, lebua at State Tower has gained recognition as the world’s first vertical destination. Home to an impressive collection of 11 iconic dining options ranging from two-Michelin-star experiences to colorful cocktail bars and delectable all-day dining, bespoke services, immersive activities, and endless scenic viewpoints of the bustling city, lebua at State Tower provides the ideal elevated stay and opportunity to enjoy Bangkok.

The hotel is the only property in Thailand that provides two different two-Michelin-starred restaurants.

In the hotel’s continued pursuit of further enhancing the guest experience, lebua at State Tower will be premiering in late 2025 a redesign of 28 spacious suites, offering a fresh and tranquil ambiance with earthy tones, sleek wood flooring, and marble accents. The remaining suites, along with a complete transformation of both Sirocco by lebua and Café Mozu, are set to follow.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in collaboration with PATA’s Premier Partner Visa, will host a capacity-building training in Beijing, China this week to support small and medium-sized travel and tourism enterprises (SMEs). This workshop aims to equip businesses with practical knowledge to improve their digital visibility, enhance their international payment readiness, and better serve inbound travellers.

This marks the first time the Association brings its SME capacity-building programme to China, continuing a long-standing collaboration with Visa. Since 2023, similar workshops – focused on providing necessary practical business digitalisation and financial management skills for tourism SMEs – have been held in Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The latest edition of the programme will build on this foundation, while tailoring the content to the unique opportunities and challenges facing Chinese tourism businesses today.

While China leads the world in mobile payment adoption and digital innovation, many international travellers still encounter difficulties when trying to pay using their foreign-issued cards. This particular training will introduce accessible, secure, and visitor-friendly payment solutions to help close this gap and provide a more seamless travel experience that benefits both the travellers and travel businesses.

Moreover, by covering key inbound tourism data and spending insights, the programme is set to help SMEs better understand the preferences and behaviours of international travellers. Participants will further gain actionable strategies in digital marketing to strengthen their competitiveness in both domestic and global markets.

“The Association has always strived to support the recovery and long-term resilience of tourism SMEs. With Visa, who has been our partner on this journey from the start, we are delighted to bring this training to China for the very first time,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “Through the in-depth training sessions we have put together for this occasion, local businesses will be empowered with the tools required to enhance the digital transformation of their operations and become well-positioned to attract international travelers.”

Along with the support of Visa, the training is made possible through collaboration with local and regional partners, including, the China Tourism Association, the China Tourism Academy, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, the World Tourism Cities Federation Committee of Tourism-Related Business, the Beijing Culture and Tourism Association, and Dragon Trail International.

Xiaolong Yin, Vice President and General Manager of Visa Mainland China, said, “We are honored to partner with PATA to host this training. This is another initiative following the launch of the Visa-CUP Zone for Beijing Central Axis in March this year, which enables Beijing as ‘China’s Top Destination for Inbound Tourism’. This is also part of Visa’s 20-city tourism SMBs empowerment campaign. To help SMBs seize the business opportunities brought by the booming inbound tourism, Visa actively introduces innovative and low-cost payment solutions that align with the payment habits of foreign tourists, such as scan-to-pay and tap-to-pay, helping small businesses improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.”

The training will welcome participants from across the tourism sector, including accommodation providers, travel agencies, tour operators, restaurants, and attractions.

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Granada, Spain, July 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / ICCA successfully hosted the Global Association Forum (GAF) from 7–9 July in the historic city of Granada, Andalusía, bringing together 103 delegates from 33 countries for three days of impactful dialogue, collaboration, and innovation centered on sustainability in the meetings industry.

Held at the Granada Conference Centre and supported by the Andalusian Tourism Board as the main sponsor, alongside Granada Convention Bureau and Junta de Andalucía, the event marked a milestone for both ICCA and the Andalusia region. This year, GAF served as a global platform for association leaders, event organizers, and destination representatives to engage in the collective mission of transforming the business events industry through sustainable, inclusive, and regenerative practices.

ICCA CEO Dr. Senthil Gopinath said: “It is an honour for ICCA to bring the Global Association Forum to the remarkable region of Andalusía. Granada is not only a culturally vibrant city, but a forward-looking destination deeply aligned with the future of sustainable events. GAF is about empowering our global network of business events professionals to drive meaningful change, and we’re proud to lead the way.”

A Future-Forward Vision for Sustainability

The Forum opened with a panel discussion exploring the present and future of sustainability. Participants explored the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, emphasizing that real transformation requires a shared effort. The concept of “When you want to go fast, you go alone. When you want to go far, you go together,” became a key theme that guided the discussion.

The Ignite Sessions showcased how associations are taking tangible steps toward sustainable operations, including promoting public transport and community engagement and introducing inclusive practices such as onsite childcare and accessible gala dinners. Delegates also took part in Collaboration Labs to co-create actionable sustainability strategies while voicing their needs and priorities. ICCA will integrate these insights into its evolving Sustainability Action Plan, reinforcing its commitment to member-driven progress.

The final day featured the launch of ICCA’s Food Waste Toolkit for Associations during a hands-on session on reducing food waste. This toolkit provides associations with practical tools to reduce environmental impact while promoting more conscious event catering.

Granada as a Model Destination for Sustainable Events

The forum concluded with a cultural evening, including a private guided tour of the Alhambra, celebrating the region’s rich heritage. Beyond its historical allure, Granada showcased its capacity as a leading MICE destination dedicated to sustainable growth, inclusivity, and global collaboration.

ICCA Head of Association Engagement Dermot Ryan said: “Only by working together can we create more sustainable meetings. This spirit of partnership was at the heart of the Global Association Forum 2025 in Granada, with international associations and ICCA Members learning together, sharing experiences and insights, and crucially, building relationships to enhance future collaboration around sustainable meetings.”

A report with learnings, outcomes and recommendations will be shared in the coming month. ICCA extends its thanks to all partners, speakers, and attendees who made the Global Association Forum 2025 a catalyst for a more sustainable, inclusive, and impactful future.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / On the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s birthday 28th July 2025, the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra in collaboration with Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture and with support of the Embassy of the Netherlands, British Council and B. Grimm, presents a memorable evening of music and dance on the 17th of July 2025 at 7:30 pm at the Thailand Cultural Centre, Main Hall.

Every 15 minutes, someone somewhere in the world plays Ravel’s Bolero – it’s a legacy its artist could never have imagined.

Under the direction of returning Dutch conductor Sander Teepen, the concert opens with Giuseppe Verdi’s stirring Nabucco Overture, a dramatic and triumphant work that sets the tone for the night. The first half continues with one of the most beloved works in the cello repertoire — Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85, The Cello Concerto was Sir Edward Elgar’s last major work, composed in 1919, after the end of World War I. The atmosphere of the piece reflects the loss, sadness, and fragility of the human mind, but at the same time, it also contains profound beauty and a spark of hope. It will be performed by the distinguished Cellist Johan van Iersel, assistant principal cellist of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra since September 1997.

The second half of the programme shifts to the world of myth and movement, beginning with Igor Stravinsky’s spellbinding Firebird Suite (1919 version), a vivid and colorful orchestral work rooted in Russian folklore. The evening concludes with a special highlight: Bangkok City Ballet warmly invites you to experience a powerful contemporary performance, “BOLÉRO: Music and Dance Performance”, a unique collaboration uniting artist from PCK Dance (UK), Bangkok City Ballet, and the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra. This performance reimagines Maurice Ravel’s iconic classical composition Boléro through a contemporary lens, featuring choreography by James Pett and Travis Clausen-Knight of PCK Dance. Both choreographers will also perform on stage alongside professional dancers from Bangkok City Ballet, accompanied by a full live orchestra led by the RBSO. Don’t miss this extraordinary fusion of powerful music and expressive movement — a contemporary performance that celebrates artistic excellence and international creativity.

Tickets Available at ThaiTicketMajor:
www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2025-royal-celebration-eternal-grace.html

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St. Helier, Jersey, United Kingdom, July 12, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Board of Directors of Visit Jersey Limited, the organisation responsible for promoting Jersey as a tourist destination, announces the appointment of Matthew Jones and James Hooker as Non-Executive Directors, effective from 1 August 2025.

Matthew and James have been appointed to replace Martin George, who has now taken on the role of Chair at Visit Jersey, and Patrick Burke, who will be retiring by rotation following years of valued contribution to the Board.

Matthew Jones is the owner and director of The Moorings Hotel & Restaurant in Jersey, which he runs with his wife, Iselin. With a deep-rooted passion for hospitality, Matthew is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences that celebrate Jersey’s food, culture, and natural beauty. As a Non-Executive Director of Visit Jersey, he brings hands-on industry insight and a strong belief in the island’s potential as a world-class destination. A proud family man and enthusiast of food, wine, and life, Matthew is dedicated to promoting Jersey as a place to savour and explore.

Under Matthew’s leadership with Iselin, The Moorings has the distinction of being the first and only Mr. & Mrs. Smith hotel in Jersey, and was listed in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide in 2025.

James Hooker is Chief Financial Officer of Somerston Capital, overseeing the finance and operations of Somerston Group’s direct investments in the UK and Europe, including the Castlebridge Hospitality group of IHG-branded hotels across the UK and Spain. James is also a director of the group’s hotel management company, supporting the executive team.

James is a chartered accountant and brings extensive expertise in transaction and risk management, financial analysis and stakeholder reporting, and previously worked in restructuring with Deloitte (UK) and KordaMentha (Australia). He holds a BSc in Economics from the University of Nottingham and is a member of the Australian Restructuring and Insolvency Association.

Visit Jersey Chair, Martin George, said of the appointments: “I am delighted to welcome Matthew and James to the Board. Both bring valuable experience, fresh perspective, and a deep understanding of the tourism and hospitality landscape. Their insight will be instrumental in helping Visit Jersey deliver impactful, long-term value for the island. On behalf of the Board, I would also like to thank Patrick Burke for his years of service and dedication, which have made a lasting contribution to Jersey’s visitor economy.”

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