Global Travel News

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 14, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Economic Forum, in collaboration with the Government of the United Arab Emirates, will convene the inaugural Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders in Dubai from 13 to 15 October 2026. Opportunity-driven and future-oriented, the meeting will provide a platform for emerging and established leaders to create new opportunities for all and build resilience amid uncertainty.

More than 500 next-generation leaders and experts, including 15 ministers and nearly 150 CEOs and chairs, will engage in intergenerational dialogue on pressing global challenges and the partnerships needed to address them. Participants will include members and alumni of the Forum’s Young Global Leaders community, alongside select Global Shapers and Social Innovators, as well as leaders from government, business, academia, science, technology and civil society.

Reflecting both the persistent concerns highlighted in the WEF’s Youth Pulse 2026 and the striking optimism young people have expressed in Youth Pulse findings over the past decade, meeting participants will examine how AI and other frontier technologies are reshaping jobs and opportunities. Discussions will also consider economic uncertainty, geopolitical change and climate challenges and explore practical responses in a shifting global and regional landscape.

“The decisions we make today will shape the world the next generation inherits. Emerging leaders should have a voice in those decisions, not just live with their consequences,” said Alois Zwinggi, President and CEO, World Economic Forum and Principal Chairman of the Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders. “This inaugural meeting will bring different generations and perspectives together to look beyond immediate challenges and work together on practical ideas for the decades ahead.”

“This meeting reflects the strong partnership between the UAE Government and the WEF, and a shared commitment to advancing international cooperation and constructive global dialogue. At a time of rapid technological, economic, and geopolitical transformation, preparing future leaders is more important than ever,” said HE Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs of the United Arab Emirates and Principal Chairman of the Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders. “By bringing together emerging voices from around the world, we aim to equip them with the insights and tools needed to turn challenges into opportunities for innovation, growth, and sustainable development.”

The event will be co-chaired by Milojko Spajić, Prime Minister of Montenegro; Ohood Bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future of the United Arab Emirates; Fadel Adib, Professor and Entrepreneur, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Khalfan Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Future Foundation; and Mirjam Staub Bisang, Chair, BlackRock Switzerland.

The programme will be organized around six strategic themes designed to advance dialogue and joint action across generations. Topics will include geopolitical uncertainty, technological disruption, economic resilience and prosperity, leadership, science and innovation, and climate and nature. Sessions such as Trust Test for Agentic AI, Working the Line: Humans and Machines, Trade in a Changing World and Economics after Certainty will examine issues likely to define the coming decade.

The meeting will also launch Future20, bringing together 20 next-generation leaders working across growth, innovation and resilience to create opportunities for current and future generations. New research will include a Leadership Commitment Framework, Middle East and North Africa-focused analysis of AI applications for sustainable development and data-centre infrastructure optimization. Insights from the meeting will inform the Forum’s ongoing work, including the Strategic Intelligence gathering in Geneva and the Annual Meeting 2027 in Davos-Klosters.

About the Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders 2026
To strengthen intergenerational dialogue and practical collaboration on issues shaping the future, the World Economic Forum will bring together more than 500 leaders and experts in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 13–15 October 2026 for the inaugural Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders.

Macao, China, October 14, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX /  The 12th Global Tourism Economy Forum · Macao 2026, scheduled for 15 to 17 October, officially announced today a selection of core speakers and key agenda highlights for this year’s edition. Under the theme “Crisis · Resilience · Evolution — Building a Tourism Economy for a Shared Future”, the Forum convenes political and business leaders, academia elites, and international organization representatives from across five continents to jointly explore the path toward reshaping the tourism economy and achieving sustainable development. This year’s agenda introduces four major new highlights:

Global Thought Leadership: Shaping the Future Tourism Economy
The Forum invites Professor Jeffrey D. SACHS, world-renowned economics professor and Director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, to deliver a keynote speech. Drawing on his 30,000-kilometre “Marco Polo Drive of Peace, Culture and Sustainable Development” across Eurasia, he will examine tourism’s unique role as a bridge for cross-cultural exchange and a powerful argument for peace. LONG Yongtu, former lead negotiator for China’s WTO accession, former Secretary-General of the Boao Forum for Asia, and Honorary Chairman of the Forum, will also deliver a keynote speech to analyze China’s inclusive growth model, offering crucial insights for the transformation and upgrading of the global tourism economy.

Ministerial Dialogue and Southeast Asian Leadership
In partnership with UN Tourism, the Forum will host a high-level ministerial panel to examine effective public-private collaboration ahead of the 2027 International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism. The session will feature ministerial leaders including CHIEW Choon Man, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia; and KIM Dae-hyun, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea. They will share the stage with prominent private sector leaders including Hary TANOESOEDIBJO, Executive Chairman of MNC Group; Hamish KEITH, CEO of EXO Travel Group; and MAO Xiao, Director and CEO of Shanghai Jinjiang International Hotels Co., Ltd., to discuss how to strengthen public-private partnerships, aligning government policies with private investment to achieve maximum synergy.

Aviation Mobility, Global Capital, and AI Innovation
The Forum collaborates with authoritative institutions such as the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and European Travel Commission (ETC) to present major discussion sessions. On regional corridors and mobility, Tony FERNANDES, Co-Founder of AirAsia and CEO of Capital A Group; Arthur YU, CFO of H World Group Limited; Tyrion TONG, Vice President of Public Affairs of Alibaba Group; and Fred ZHOU, President and Board Director of MGM Hospitality Asia Pacific Limited, will explore emerging Asia Pacific travel trends. Decius VALMORBIDA, President of Travel at Amadeus IT Group, will share forward-looking insights on how agentic AI is disrupting global booking and itinerary experiences. Additionally, Price KARR, Chief Financial Officer at Wynn Macau, Limited, will deliver a presentation on how Wynn Resorts leverages AI technology to reshape the cultural tourism experience.

In global investment and cross-border connectivity, Greg O’HARA, Founder and Senior Managing Director of Certares, alongside LUO Suping, Chairman of the board of Hainan Tourism Investment Group Co., Ltd., and Andrew XU, Co-President and Chief Growth Officer of Club Med Lifestyle Group, will analyze destination investment environments. Meanwhile, Elena KOUNTOURA, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Transport and Tourism of the European Parliament; Miguel SANZ CASTEDO, President of the European Travel Commission; SU Guoxin, Chairman of the Board of Directors, CITIC Europe Holdings a.s.; and Leo LIU, Vice President of Public Sector at Mastercard China, will address facilitating two-way visitor flows between Europe and China.

Cultural Heritage, Experiential Commerce, and Inbound Transformation
Addressing evolving consumer preferences, the Forum explores how cross-sector Tourism+ collaboration creates lasting value. Eric FOK, Vice Chairman of the Global Tourism Economy Research Centre and Chairman of the Football Association of Hong Kong, China, will take part in a fireside chat alongside Dr. Wilfred WONG, Executive Vice Chairman of Sands China Ltd., and WEN Jiahong, County Magistrate of Taijiang County in Guizhou (the birthplace of “Village BA”), to compare how grassroots sporting activities and top-tier international events create lasting economic value for tourism destinations.

In culture and corporate social responsibility, YU Minhong, Founder and Chairman of New Oriental Education & Technology Group, will share the deep logic behind integrating tourism with education and culture, while GAO Dekang, Founder, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Bosideng International Holdings Limited, will deliver a speech under the theme “Reaching Peaks, Embracing Warmth — Together for a Sustainable Bright Future”, sharing insightful perspectives on how corporate social responsibility builds resilience and green development drives industry advancement.

In commercial space and retail innovation, Mayuree CHAIPROMPRASITH, President of Corporate Partnership and Communications at Siam Piwat Company Limited, alongside QIU Kai, Founder of Tangshan Banquet and Hetou Old Street, and representatives of Macao integrated resorts, will demonstrate how combining culture, gastronomy, and technology transforms traditional retail spaces into new tourism landmarks featuring immersive experiences, social connections, and cultural expression.

On cultural heritage and high-quality inbound tourism, Dr. KONG Vireak, Secretary-General of the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia, will analyze mechanisms for cultural heritage conservation and living inheritance. Maria Helena DE SENNA FERNANDES, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office; Leo ZHANG, Vice President and General Manager of Destination Cooperation Department at Trip.com Group; and HyungTae SON, Director of Hanatour Hongkong Co., Ltd., will explore enhancing service quality to craft high-quality inbound travel experiences with deep cultural heritage. Additionally, LU Yongzheng, Member of the Standing Committee and Director of the Publicity Department of the CPC Guizhou Provincial Committee, will detail how mountain residential tourism breaks away from traditional volume-led models to foster sustainable community development and industry integration.

In addition, GTEF 2026 converges a stellar lineup of local cultural, tourism, and business leaders. Among them, Tim KELLY, President of City of Dreams Macau, will deliver a live presentation at Dancing Water Theater, while Augustus LEUNG, Assistance Vice President of Hospitality & MICE Sales of Galaxy Entertainment Group, will address delegates during the delegation luncheon. In collaboration with the Macao University of Tourism (UTM), a side event seminar titled “The Next Generation of Tourism Leadership” will be hosted at its Taipa Campus. The session will bring together leading academic authorities to explore talent attraction and development strategies. It will also examine how to close the gap between the classroom and real-world industry to foster future leaders. Dr. Fanny VONG, Rector of Macao University of Tourism, will also attend the event. The Forum has also arranged a dedicated Health and Wellness Industry Inspection Tour, leading participants to visit the Macao Union Medical Center as well as key infrastructure developments across the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. The itinerary comprehensively showcases the unique appeal of “Tourism+” cross-sector integration and new regional development opportunities between Macao and Hengqin.

As a premier global platform for high-level dialogue in culture and tourism, the 12th Global Tourism Economy Forum leverages Macao’s unique advantages as a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure and a core engine of the Greater Bay Area. The Forum continues to serve as a robust bridge connecting China with the world, injecting strong momentum into a new era of resilient, inclusive, and high-quality sustainable global tourism economic growth.

Bangkok, Thailand, October 12, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson, the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand, has joined forces with architect, interior designer, artist and landscape architect Bill Bensley to launch Wild, an exclusive collection inspired by the wildlife and stories of the rainforests in Southeast Asia. The collaboration brings together Bensley’s imaginative visual language and Jim Thompson’s textile expertise and craftsmanship. Each piece celebrates the beauty and diversity of the wild, its inhabitants and the importance of protecting the natural world.

Southeast Asia’s largest remaining continuous rainforest is interpreted through Bensley’s playful lens in paintings filled with richly layered foliage, vibrant colors and distinctive animal characters. Ella the Elephant, Douglas the Dhole, Tony the Tiger and Ollie the Owl are among the imagined inhabitants whose personalities and markings recur throughout the collection. Created during the pandemic, the artworks have been transformed into menswear, womenswear, silk scarves, bags and home decor, bringing the spirit of the wild into everyday life.

Bensley’s association with Jim Thompson began with his restoration of the gardens at the Jim Thompson House, marking the start of a longstanding creative relationship rooted in a shared appreciation of craft, design and experimentation. Their recent collaborations include the 2026 Wild Collection by Bill Bensley for Jim Thompson Home Furnishings and now Wild, which extends his artistic vision into fashion and accessories.

Working across architecture, landscape design, hospitality, interiors and fine art, Bensley is known for imaginative environments rich in color, detail and narrative. The rainforest has become an important subject in his painting, populated by animals with individual identities and stories. Through humor and fantasy, the works draw attention to the lives within the forest and the need to preserve their habitat.

“Bill’s work has an unmistakable energy, with every painting revealing another character or story from the rainforest,” said Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO of Jim Thompson. “This collaboration takes us somewhere unexpected. By bringing Bill’s extraordinary art into fashion and home pieces, Jim Thompson goes wild! It is a bold departure from our usual collections, while still grounded in the craftsmanship and textile heritage at the heart of our brand. Together, we hope to invite people into the extraordinary world of the rainforest and encourage a greater appreciation of its wildlife.”

The men’s line includes Hawaiian linen shirts finished with contrast piping at the sleeves and hems, as well as all-over-print linen jackets and matching pants featuring Bensley’s densely layered rainforest scenes. Striped lining at the pants hems creates a playful reveal when they are turned up. Striped linen shorts introduce flashes of forest prints, while AQUASILK® swim trunks depict the rainforest’s animal community in vivid color combinations. T-shirts place individual animal characters against black, white, navy and forest-green backgrounds, with one design featuring the bold “Jim Thompson Goes Wild” statement on the back for a playful, expressive touch.

The women’s line uses silk twill and lightweight habotai for belted kaftans, wide-leg pants, blouses, shorts and flowing maxi dresses in colorful botanical and wildlife prints. Further pieces include a black-and-white animal print silk-twill kaftan, a vivid forest-print kaftan and an asymmetric cotton-poplin shirt featuring Bensley’s detailed guinea fowl illustration.

The collection extends beyond fashion into accessories and products for the home. Silk scarves showcase Bensley’s intricate compositions, while totes and pouches combine printed linen with embroidery, patchwork and leather trim. The home collection includes printed linen placemats, napkins, cushions, fringed coasters and tea towels. Selected cushions feature embroidered details, including the message ‘Rewild the World.’

“This is fashion with a joyful face and a serious heart,” said Bill Bensley. “While the collection celebrates Southeast Asia’s extraordinary wildlife, it also confronts its alarming disappearance. I am donating all proceeds I received from the collection to fund the salaries of urgently needed armed wildlife rangers protecting the Southeast Asian rainforests.”

Waterberg, South Africa, October 10, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Condé Nast Traveler US has just announced the results of its annual Readers’ Choice Awards with Nsele Private Game Reserve proudly making its debut on the “World’s Best Resorts 2026” in the South Africa category.

Condé Nast Traveler received more than 798,867 survey responses from readers across the United States rating their travel experiences across the globe to offer a comprehensive look at the places they eagerly anticipate revisiting.

The Readers’ Choice Awards, with its unparalleled legacy as the travel industry’s longest running and most prestigious accolades from our readers, remains the ultimate symbol and acknowledgment of excellence within the travel sector.

“We are both thrilled and proud to have our exclusive-use safari “home from home” Nsele acknowledged by such a renowned publication. It is a huge honour to be showcased amidst such stiff competition – and we are so grateful to all our past guests for voting for us.” — Nick and Bo Wilson, Owners

Nsele Private Game Reserve is an 8,000 acre wildlife estate within South Africa’s breathtaking Waterberg biosphere, an easy 2.5 hours drive north of Johannesburg.

Nsele’s location ensures complete privacy which is its key selling point – with guests enjoying total exclusivity when hiring the property.

Nsele is home to plains game including giraffe, zebra and hippo. There are no major predators which makes it safe to explore on foot with guides Mei and Neil. Horse riding, walking, mountain, quad and dirt biking and fishing are just some of the experiences on offer in addition to the usual game viewing.

Their spa deck provides an ideal platform for wellness pursuits such as yoga and chi kung, and a range of treatments including massages can be enjoyed.

The 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards are published on Condé Nast Traveler’s website at cntraveler.com/rca and will be celebrated in the November issue.

Orlando, Florida, United States, October 9, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Families looking for a fun, free day out this October half-term can tee off at Visit Orlando’s limited-time Play Your Way to Orlando mini golf experience at Westfield Stratford City, including the chance to win an unforgettable family holiday to Orlando, Theme Park Capital of the World.

The five-hole, Orlando-themed mini golf experience comes to London 23-25 October, inviting visitors to putt their way through a series of immersive holes inspired by Orlando’s diverse experiences, including world-famous theme parks, out-of-this-world space adventures, live sports, luxury resorts and natural springs. Designed to showcase the many ways travellers can customize a holiday in Orlando, the free experience offers families a fun introduction to the destination beyond its iconic attractions. Visitors can pre-book their timeslot at PlayYourWayToOrlando .com.

Beyond the course, attendees can get creative at the Colour Your Dream Holiday station and stop for Instagrammable photo opportunities.

Ocean Florida, supported by Magic Radio, will be giving one lucky family the chance to win a dream holiday to Orlando. The prize includes flights, accommodation and a host of experiences showcasing some of the destination’s must-see attractions, ranging from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, America’s premier spaceflight facility, to an Orlando Magic NBA game.

More information about planning a holiday to Orlando can be found at VisitOrlando .com

• Where: The Arena, Westfield Stratford, London
• When:
  • Friday 23 October, 10am – 9pm
  • Saturday 24 October, 9am – 9pm
  • Sunday 25 October, 12pm – 6pm
• Entry: Free

Valletta, Malta, October 8, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism Breaking News of the week was the recognition by WTTC (World Tourism & Travel Council) honouring Dr. Taleb Rifai with their Tourism Icon Award at the WTTC’s 26th Global Summit in Malta.

“The man who made world tourism feel like family” it was said about Dr Taleb Rifai before going on to write that there are tourism leaders who are remembered for the institutions they managed, the policies they introduced, or the economic milestones achieved during their tenure – and there are leaders remembered for how they made people feel and Dr Rifai belongs to that second category as much as the first. This said it all about the much loved former Secretary General of the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organisation) now UN Tourism.

From the Seychelles I remember fondly the man I counted as a dear friend. Dr Rifai was the SG who welcomed me to his Madrid Office after I became CEO of the Seychelles Tourism Board and who remained a dear friend right through my tenure as the island’s Minister responsible for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine.

It will be remembered that he believed in Africa and it tourism potential and would encourage Africa Ministers of Tourism and members of the Press from Africa to work for their continent tourism industry saying that the diversity of key USPs and the range of unique culture remained unrivalled. Dr Taleb Rifai will be remembered for having brought the UNTWO General Assembly to Zambia & Zimbabwe in Africa.

“He stood by my side when I was honoured with the Tourism Change Maker of the Year in 2019 in Johannesburg in South Africa. Today even from far I stand with him in Malta as WTTC honours him with their Tourism Icon Award. I am happy for Dr Taleb Rifai and remain so proud of the man I call a friend” said Alain St.Ange, the Ambassador At Large of the Republic of Seychelles.

London, United Kingdom, October 8, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Fred Finn says “Looking at this invitation, I find it hard to believe that forty years have passed since an evening I remember with such affection.

On 08th of October 1986, the directors of Simpson (Piccadilly) Limited hosted a reception to celebrate what the invitation rather wonderfully describes as my “supersonic achievement of 600 flights on British Airways Concorde”.

Around 400 people gathered at the store, home of DAKS, for an occasion supported by Rolls-Royce Motors, Executive Travel Magazine, Inter-Continental Hotels, Mount Kenya Safari Club and Land Rover. Reading the invitation today brings back the faces, the laughter and the extraordinary effort that went into making it all possible.

They even removed the store’s doors and alarm system to get a Rolls-Royce inside! With a Range Rover at the other end, it was quite a setting for an evening celebrating “The Best of British”.

Richard Branson joined us with members of Virgin Atlantic’s cabin crew, alongside Geoffrey Boycott OBE. Particularly special to me was seeing so many familiar faces from my Concorde family — flight deck crew, cabin crew and engineers whose skill and dedication had made those journeys possible, and whose friendship meant so much.

I began my speech with “My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen”, celebrating the best of British Great Britain Guinness Book, Great Batsman Geoffrey Boycott one of our great British batsmen! His retort you should be on the Yorkshire Committee.

It was my pleasure to present Richard and Geoffrey with honorary membership of the Mount Kenya Safari Club, that wonderful retreat some 7,000 feet up on the slopes of Mount Kenya. Their membership certificates bore the signature of its founder, William Holden.

Kenya has always held a special place in my heart. I later took Richard, Joan and their two children there, and it gave me enormous pleasure to share a country I loved with them. They enjoyed it so much, and Richard would eventually establish his own safari lodge in the Maasai Mara. Looking back, it is lovely to remember where those friendships and shared experiences led.

Chris Serle compered the evening, while the Zambia Airways dancers gave an amazing performance in top hats and black tailes outfits, complete with canes. Even after forty years, I can still picture them!

There were speeches from Jeremy Franks, managing director of DAKS Simpson, and Mrs Simpson of the Simpson family. Geoffrey drew the winners of some wonderful travel prizes, while Cellnet presented mobile phones with call charges included — quite a prize in 1986! Guinness World Records joined us too, with signed books for our guests.

I was deeply touched by the awards British Airways presented to me. A silver mounted Concorde Another treasured moment came when Mike Toynbee, editor of Executive Travel, gave me an enormous print of the magazine’s “Best of British” cover, featuring Concorde, a Rolls-Royce and myself.

“It’s nearly life-size,” Mike said — a remark that still makes me smile.

Six hundred flights was a remarkable milestone in my life, but remembering that evening reminds me just how much I owe to the people who were part of those journeys. To have so many of them together, sharing that celebration, was a privilege.

To everyone who organised, supported or attended the reception, my heartfelt thanks. And to my Concorde family, thank you for the care, kindness and friendship you showed me over so many years.

Concorde carried me across the world. The friendships have stayed with me ever since – With affection and wonderful memories: “Today as we mark the 40th anniversary of 600 Concorde flight on 8th October 2026, I salute Fred Finn for his tenacity, and above all for doing what he does with his heart and with dedication. He has been a faithful friend of Kenya and for Seychelles which he visited often over the years. I got to know Fred Finn well and consider him a true friend of tourism and travel, and one who believes that through tourism a positive step is taken in the building of a more peaceful world” said Alain St.Ange, Ambassador At Large of the Republic of Seychelles.

Bangkok, Thailand, October 7, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, Thailand’s first and Asia Pacific’s largest Moxy hotel, is putting Bangkok shopping at the heart of the stay with the launch of ‘Check In. Shop Out #ATTHEMOXY’, a new room package combining accommodation, daily breakfast and shopping privileges from leading retail and lifestyle partners.

Rate from THB 4,580++ per room per night, available for stays from 10 October 2026 to 31 March 2027, the package is designed for travellers who come to Bangkok ready to stay, shop and explore. With a minimum stay of two nights, guests can unlock a collection of shopping privileges, vouchers and extras from participating partners across Ratchaprasong and nearby shopping districts.

CHECK IN. SHOP OUT #ATTHEMOXY

Guests booking the package for a minimum of two consecutive nights in any room type will enjoy:

• Daily breakfast at Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong
• Central Department Store International Customer Welcome Privileges: Enjoy Tourist Welcome Privileges at CENTRAL @ centralwOrld and Central Chidlom, including up to THB 1,800 in department store cash coupons, participating brand offers and restaurant deals
• Central Chidlom: Enjoy exclusive luxury shopping privileges
• The Platinum Fashion Mall: Receive a THB 100 cash voucher to top up a Food Floor More a Meal Card at the 6th-floor Food Court
• Platinum POP: Receive a THB 100 cash voucher to top up a THB 200 ‘Lai Jie’ Cash Card
• King Power Shopping Privileges: Sign up for POWER PASS to receive 2 shopping coupons and enjoy up to 25% off with eligible spending at participating downtown and airport locations
• EVEANDBOY: Spend THB 3,500 and receive a complimentary Gravure Bag worth THB 690, while supplies last, at participating stores
• Big C Ratchadamri: Receive a THB 200 shopping voucher per stay at Big C Ratchadamri, right next to the hotel
• Plus more exclusive privileges from participating partners

The package brings together some of Bangkok’s best-known names in shopping, fashion, beauty and lifestyle, giving international and domestic travellers more ways to explore the city while enjoying added value throughout their stay.

Located in the heart of Ratchaprasong, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong puts guests within easy reach of Bangkok’s major shopping and lifestyle destinations. The hotel sits opposite centralwOrld and next to Big C Ratchadamri, with Pratunam, Platinum Pop, The Platinum Fashion Mall, Central Chidlom and Siam all within easy reach. BTS Chit Lom and the R-Walk also provide convenient connections across the city.

With 504 smartly designed rooms, the hotel brings Moxy’s playful approach to the Bangkok experience. Guests check in at the bar before heading out to shop, then return to hang out at Moxy Bar & Restaurant on the 9th floor, work or play at Library & Plug-In, or head sky-high to Sato San Rooftop Bar on the 32nd floor for dinner, drinks, DJs and panoramic Bangkok views.

About Moxy Hotels
Moxy offers a playful hotel experience for the young at heart. With over 155 properties open in more than 30 countries and territories, Moxy boldly breaks the rules of a conventional hotel stay across the globe. The nontraditional experience starts with check-in at Bar Moxy and comes to life throughout its social public spaces, like the Lounge and Library, and the small but smart bedrooms. Moxy provides stylish, industrial design and sociable service at an attractive price point, so that guests can splurge on the experiences that matter most to them during their travels. Moxy celebrates nonconformity, open-mindedness, and originality above all – forever giving its guests permission to Play On #atthemoxy.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe.

About Central Chidlom, the store of Bangkok
Originally opened in Bangkok’s Chidlom district in 1974, Central Chidlom celebrated its grand transformation in December 2024 following an extensive renovation. The store brings together world-renowned and local brands across fashion, beauty, home, small appliances, luggage, and mom & kids, complemented by dining, inspiring experiences, and tailored services. Visitors can enjoy a refined and sophisticated shopping experience at Central Chidlom, a symbol of Bangkok’s refined urban lifestyle and modern sophistication.

Koh Samui, Thailand, October 7, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui has officially been awarded One MICHELIN Key in THE MICHELIN Guide 2026 hotel selection. The prestigious accolade marks the first time the resort has received this international recognition, cementing its status as a premier destination in Thailand.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui is a secluded sanctuary set within a pristine private bay on Koh Samui, where natural beauty, wellbeing, and mindful hospitality exist in harmony. As part of Banyan Group, the resort offers elegantly designed suites and villas overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, creating a peaceful retreat immersed in nature. Guests are invited to restore balance through holistic wellness experiences at 8LEMENTS SPA, enjoy locally inspired dining crafted with fresh ingredients, and participate in mindful activities that foster meaningful connections with themselves, the surrounding landscape, and the island’s authentic spirit.

“We are deeply honored to receive our first MICHELIN Key—a milestone that belongs entirely to our team, whose care brings the spirit of Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui to life every day. For nearly four decades, our connection to nature and respect for Koh Samui have been at the heart of who we are. We are grateful to The MICHELIN Guide for recognizing this philosophy.”
— Manuel Lang, General Manager, Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

Originally established in 1987 as Koh Samui’s first luxury resort, the property has gracefully evolved while preserving the pristine natural landscape that has defined it since its inception.

Being awarded One MICHELIN Key in 2026 marks a significant new milestone for Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui. It reaffirms the resort’s commitment to contemporary luxury—one deeply rooted in simplicity, holistic wellbeing, and an enduring connection with nature.

Reservation contact details:
Email: Reservations-Tongsaibay@garrya.com
Phone: +66 77 913-750
Address: 84 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320, Thailand

Koh Samu, Thailand, October 6, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Two of Thailand’s most iconic beachfront resorts, Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi, have been awarded Two Keys by the MICHELIN Guide to Thailand for the third consecutive year.

Equivalent to MICHELIN stars for restaurants, the award of “Two Keys” is bestowed on a hotel or resort described by MICHELIN as “an exceptional stay”, in that it offers a remarkable experience in every regard, including distinctive character, outstanding design and impeccable service.

The announcement follows a comprehensive evaluation of the 5-star hotels by anonymous MICHELIN Guide inspectors and reaffirms Banyan Tree’s leadership in meaningful luxury hospitality in southern Thailand.

“To retain Two Keys in an increasingly competitive market is a significant achievement,” said Banyan Tree Krabi General Manager Haruethai Maneerat. “This is a reminder that hospitality today is not just about luxury — it’s about consistency, soul, and a connection to place. Our resort embodies Banyan Tree’s founding ethos: a Sanctuary for the Senses where nature, culture and wellbeing come together.”

“Two MICHELIN Keys is a wonderful moment for all of us,” said Stuart de San Nicolas, General Manager of Banyan Tree Samui. “It belongs to our team, who bring such warmth and heart to everything they do. Banyan Tree Samui has always been a sanctuary, a place of stillness above the sea, where guests can find silence and reconnect with themselves. What they carry home is not a memory of a room, but a feeling that stays with them, something of the soul of Samui. That, for us, is the truest form of luxury.

“Thai hospitality is already admired around the world,” he added. “To have MICHELIN recognise what our team brings to that tradition, here on our hillside in Samui, means a great deal to us.”

A Wellbeing Sanctuary

Situated on the secluded shores of Tubkaek Beach with dramatic views of limestone cliffs jutting from the waters of a marine national park, Banyan Tree Krabi is celebrated by MICHELIN inspectors as a destination for restoration.

At its heart is the Banyan Tree Wellbeing Sanctuary — an initiative pioneered by Banyan Tree Krabi and Banyan Tree Samui in October 2021 to provide guests with an opportunity to combine a leisure vacation with a daily programme designed to enrich mind, body and soul — from meditation and yoga to Thai boxing, from spa treatments and massage to nature trails and sailing lessons — complemented with a nutritious diet and personal consultations.

Guests staying in Wellbeing Sanctuary Pool Villas and Suites can choose from an itinerary of healthy-living facilities, including Banyan Tree’s award-winning Rainforest, a unique hydrotherapy facility available at both resorts with vitality pools, steam rooms, saunas and ice fountains.

Thai Heritage Meets Haute Cuisine

Perched on the peak of a lush hillside and overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Saffron is Banyan Tree Samui’s signature restaurant, hosting evening dinners in a sophisticated and tranquil ambience.

Listed as a recommended restaurant in the MICHELIN Guide to Thailand for the past two years, Saffron’s chefs are renowned for creating combinations of flavours through a delicate blending of Thai herbs and spices, such as: khong wang ruam, an appetiser featuring freshly prepared crisp rice noodle-wrapped prawn; grilled tender chicken breast satay; fried seabass rice noodle rolls; and pomelo salad with tamarind sauce. Signature dishes include Massaman of slow-braised Wagyu beef.

Likewise at Banyan Tree Krabi, Saffron offers traditional Thai classics with a contemporary twist. The restaurant sits high above the resort, accessible by electric funicular, and commands spectacular vistas of uninhabited islands in the Andaman Sea. The restaurant has the added attraction of three Bird’s Nest tables, nestled among the trees — a photogenic spot for afternoon tea or sundowners.

Both resorts have been lauded in the MICHELIN Guide for their contribution to local communities, including an ongoing commitment to marine conservation in Koh Samui, support for Krabi’s local fisheries, and the elimination of single-use plastics.

About Banyan Tree Krabi
Banyan Tree Krabi offers 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom beachfront Presidential Villa. Each of the rooms faces the sea and the sunset as the property tiers into the hillside.

Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and — in harmony with Banyan Tree’s wellbeing branding — a tropical spa with Rainforest hydrotherapy facility.

In addition to its Two-Key rating by the MICHELIN Guide, this resort was lauded by Fodor’s Travel 2026 as the only representative from Thailand listed in The 100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World.

About Banyan Tree Samui
Banyan Tree Samui’s 88 spacious pool villas, each with its own private infinity pool, provide a serene and secluded oasis where guests can unwind and reconnect with nature. Designed to seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape, the villas feature contemporary Thai architecture and are adorned with locally sourced materials and artwork, creating a truly authentic and immersive experience.

The resort hosts three restaurants, including MICHELIN Guide-listed Saffron. Other onsite facilities include a fitness centre, a kids’ club, a meetings and events centre, and a highly acclaimed spa with Rainforest facility.

About Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree offers a sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in awe inspiring locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel as you journey to iconic destinations where authentic, memorable experiences await. Banyan Tree provides genuine, authentic service and a distinctive, premium retreat experience.

About Banyan Group
Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans 91 hotels and resorts, around 140 spas and galleries, and 20 plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.