Global Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, April 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) will be organising its first PATA Youth Symposium of 2026 at Lahan Hotel, Pohang, Korea (ROK), on May 11, 2026, from 9 AM–12 PM. The event is supported by the Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organization (GCTO), Pohang City, and the PATA Thailand Chapter.

Taking place in conjunction with the PATA Annual Summit 2026 (PAS 2026), the Symposium will be aligned with the Summit theme, Navigating Towards a Resilient Future. It is set to examine how the public and private sectors are collaborating in response to rapidly evolving global realities. This is to ensure that the youths are equipped with adaptable skills and knowledge that ease their transition from the educational sphere to the workforce, given the current volatility in the travel and tourism sector.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid emphasised the goal of the event, stating, “This symposium is designed to give young people a clearer view of where the industry is heading, the skills that are in demand, and insights directly from experts. It aims to help them better understand what to expect, prepare for their future careers, and provide a platform to share their perspectives.”

He added, “It is a pleasure to collaborate with GCTO, Pohang City, and the PATA Thailand Chapter in bringing this initiative to life. Their support is instrumental in creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation of tourism professionals.”

Nam-Il Kim, CEO, Gyeongbuk Cultural Tourism Organization (GCTO), said, “The PATA Youth Symposium is a meaningful platform where young people, who will lead the future of the tourism industry, can share their creative ideas and passion. We hope that participants from diverse cultures and backgrounds will engage with one another and explore the direction of sustainable tourism together. We believe this symposium will serve as an important stepping stone for participants to grow into global tourism leaders, and we will continue to expand an open platform for collaboration with the younger generation.”

Pohang City Acting Deputy Mayor, Sang-gil Jang, said, “Pohang is honoured to host the PATA Youth Symposium as part of the PATA Annual Summit 2026. As a dynamic coastal city known for its spirit of innovation and resilience, we are excited to welcome bright young minds from around the world to come together, exchange ideas, and shape the future of tourism. We believe that fostering dialogue and collaboration among youth is essential, and we are proud to provide a platform where the next generation of leaders can connect, learn, and be inspired.”

PATA Thailand Chapter Chairperson, Ben Montgomery, said, “At the PATA Thailand Chapter, we have been proud to consistently support PATA Youth by providing them with opportunities to gain first-hand exposure to international events such as the PATA Annual Summit. We strongly believe that empowering young people is essential, as they represent the future of our industry. Through this continued sponsorship, we hope to play a meaningful role in shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for tourism.”

The half-day symposium will feature keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, and student-led dialogues. Overall, the conference sessions are set to cover a range of timely topics, including best practices for sustainability initiatives, the advancement of heritage tourism through effective stewardship of cultural assets, the evolving usage of artificial intelligence in travel and tourism, and how young tourism professionals can prepare for and shape their future career pathways.

Some of the speakers include Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board; Jules Shin, Area Manager for Korea, Booking.com; Mike Stewart, Regional GM South East Asia, Intrepid Travel; and Ben-Jie Lim, Chief People & Partnership Officer, AirAsia MOVE. More speakers will be confirmed in due course.

In addition, GCTO will host a networking lunch, providing an opportunity for youth participants and industry professionals to connect and exchange ideas.

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Brussels/Malta, April 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The SUNx Program, a global initiative in advancing climate-friendly travel and green growth, has partnered with Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) to roll out a series of Impact Expeditions aimed at bringing clean energy and digital access to schools in remote regions worldwide.

As part of this collaboration, GHE will serve as the on-ground implementation partner, leveraging its extensive experience in last-mile solar electrification and community-led development across challenging geographies.

Global Expedition Rollout
The initiative will launch three new expedition circuits across:

• India & Nepal
• Uganda & Zimbabwe
• Philippines & Palau, with a focus on Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

These expeditions will install solar-powered systems in schools, enabling reliable electricity while supporting digital learning environments for underserved communities.

Advancing Climate-Friendly Travel
Aligned with the SUNx Program’s vision of climate-resilient, low-carbon tourism, the expeditions will engage global participants in hands-on initiatives that directly contribute to local development, including:

• Solar installations for schools
• Supporting digital literacy for students
• Community engagement and knowledge exchange

Youth at the Core
A key pillar of the partnership is youth engagement, integrating global initiatives such as Dodo4Kids, Earth Charter, and Peace Parks to bring meaningful travel experiences to younger generations, especially across SIDS and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Creating Lasting Impact
These expeditions will be designed to deliver long-term outcomes by:

• Providing reliable clean energy to education infrastructure
• Enabling access to digital tools and learning
• Building local capacity for maintenance and sustainability
• Strengthening global collaboration for climate action

A Shared Commitment
This partnership positions the SUNx Program at the forefront of driving impact-led, climate-conscious travel, with GHE enabling execution on the ground, ensuring that tourism becomes a powerful tool for both community development and climate resilience.

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Leeds, England, April 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Carbon Neutral Group, one of the UK’s fastest-growing carbon neutral and sustainability consultancies has revealed why some businesses have sustainability plans that can fail and how brands can prevent this happening.

Most organisations now recognise the need for credible sustainability action and the competitive advantage it has on the brand. They publish bold commitments, set net-zero targets and launch initiatives with genuine enthusiasm, yet many of these strategies stall, lose momentum, or quietly fade into the background.

The issue is never a lack of ambition from the business but more of a lack of alignment, ownership, and practical budgets.

Carbon Neutral Group looked into why sustainability strategies failing could be the first step to building one that delivers impact.

Lack of Senior Leadership Support
Senior leadership involvement in a sustainability plan can be what makes or breaks its success. If the C-suite doesn’t buy into it, making business changes or decisions on how the business operates is a little tricky. The senior buy-in gives businesses time, resources and decision-making powers that can affect things like where the business buys their utilities from, through to encouraging people to commute or travel in greener ways.

How to fix it:

• Translate ‘Carbon Neutral’ into Business Value, e.g. revenue growth, compliance, brand image.
• Demonstrate the risk of doing nothing. Loss of competitive advantage.
• Build a financial case. Going green may have a higher initial cost, however, over time, that cost drops, and it becomes cheaper than doing nothing.
• Create a roadmap of change so it’s more palatable.

No Clear Ownership or Accountability
A strategy without more than one person owning it and driving it, becomes a strategy without efficient progress. Many organisations rely on a single sustainability lead with no authority, budget, or cross-functional support, which can delay progression.

How to fix it:

• Assign clear owners for each part of the strategy.
• Build sustainability KPIs into each departmental strategy.
• Ensure senior leadership buys into the plan going forward and sponsors the work.

Data Is Poor, Incomplete, or Ignored
Data is the backbone of sustainability. With good data records, businesses can make decisions that will create a positive and meaningful outcome. Without reliable data, the decision making process becomes more of a guesswork and progress becomes invisible.

How to fix it:

• Use dashboards that translate data into insights. Businesses need to start with a robust baseline.
• Be clear about what data is needed to create your sustainability plan and reporting and why.
• Automate data collection where possible.

The Strategy is too Broad or Unrealistic
Starting the journey to being carbon neutral is exciting, however, it is also about setting goals and ensuring that those goals are realistic and achievable. Trying to do too much too soon can overwhelm different teams and lead to a stall.

How to fix it:

• Break long-term targets into achievable, shorter-term and quick-win milestones.
• Review Scope 1 & 2 first as they are the easiest to obtain data for and show early results.
• Prioritise high-impact areas first.
• Focus on three – five strategic areas to create change on.

The Culture Doesn’t Support the  Change
When embarking on a sustainable journey, the team is the key component to success. Sustainability fails when it’s seen as “extra work” rather than “how we work.”

How to fix it:

• Build sustainability into onboarding and training plans.
• Celebrate the progress of the team publicly, with incentives.
• Demonstrate how this is benefiting the business and its employees.
• Provide practical tools and guidance for the team to be able to do what they need to do to hit those sustainable objectives.

The Organisation Doesn’t Engage its Supply Chain
Most emissions sit outside the direct control of the business. This could be in areas such as purchased goods, logistics, and product lifecycle impacts. The idea of going through a supply chain from end to end, sending out questionnaires and retrieving data isn’t something a business wants to take on at times. If this is the case, outsourcing to a third party or employing new team members to help will be crucial.

How to fix it:

• Engage suppliers early.
• Set goals and prioritise the top spending suppliers.
• Introduce sustainability criteria into procurement.
• Collaborate on shared reduction initiatives.

Communication is Poor or Inconsistent
A strategy can fail simply because people don’t know what it is or what they’re expected to do either as part of a team or as an individual. Without the team members knowing what is needed, this can quickly lead them to disengage.

How to fix it:

• Communicate progress frequently.
• Look at having a sustainability champion per department.
• Use simple, engaging language.
• Share stories of real change.

Sustainability today is becoming an industry standard, however there is still a battle for organisations and for people to understand why they are needed. A successful sustainability strategy is commercially aligned, owned across the organisation from senior leadership down, based on good data, focused on material impacts, supported by culture, and is designed to evolve as the business and industry does.

Carbon Neutral Group helps businesses with their journey to net-zero, where sustainability isn’t just a side project, but a strategic transformation that strengthens resilience, reduces risk, and creates long-term value for brands.

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KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, April 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Tembe Elephant Park in northern KwaZulu-Natal will be hosting another of its popular “Vanishing Giants of Africa” Elephant Workshops in October 2026.

Join renowned elephant expert Dr. Johan Marais from 4-8 October 2026 for an immersive safari experience to explore elephants’ social structures, behaviour, musth, exceptional memory, and their role in wildlife conservation.  Gain insight into the long-term impacts of the ivory trade on African heritage. This workshop is open to all elephant enthusiasts, offering limited numbers for a personalized, exclusive experience. Though not a photography workshop, there will be ample photo opportunities.

The package costs 760 USD per person sharing per night including four nights at Tembe Elephant Park Lodge, the workshop with Johan Marais, all safari activities and meals. Additional costs apply for spa treatments, drinks, and levies.

Tembe Elephant Lodge is the only community-owned, full-service game lodge located within a proclaimed game reserve. Nestled in a rare and beautiful sand forest ecosystem, the lodge lies at the heart of unspoiled wilderness, offering an authentic and deeply meaningful safari experience.

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Boracay, Philippines, April 22, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Lind Hotels is expanding beyond Boracay, with Coron set to open next year and Siargao to follow.

The move marks a clear next phase for the independent Filipino brand, as it evolves from a single standout property into a carefully curated, multi-island portfolio shaped by a guest-first and adaptive approach.

The Lind Boracay, set on the prime stretch of Station 1 White Beach on the Philippines’ most famous paradise island, has long been the foundation of the brand. The reputation of the property, which was the first MICHELIN Guide-listed hotel on Boracay, has been built not only on location, but on a way of thinking that places the guest at the centre of every decision.

Indeed, the MICHELIN Guide recognition remains a meaningful milestone that continues to shape its positioning today.

Rather than following the rigid frameworks of international operators, the hotel was conceived as a place its founders would want to stay in themselves—personal, considered, and constantly evolving.

That mindset has translated into strong guest loyalty and steady growth, with repeat visitors forming a core part of the property’s success. Over the years, the hotel has continued to evolve in response to guest feedback, from introducing new dining concepts such as authentic Thai venue Yim to refining wellness and leisure offerings across the property.

“The question we always ask ourselves is simple: if we were the guest, what would we enjoy?” says Pierre Henrichs, COO of The Lind Hotels. “That mindset has guided everything we’ve built, and it continues to shape how we grow.”

The Lind Coron marks the first step in this next chapter. Slated to open next year, the new property will introduce a more personalized, villa-led experience, set on a peninsula that offers a sense of seclusion while remaining connected to the mainland. Designed to feel distinct from Boracay’s lifestyle-driven energy, the development will feature multiple restaurants, a dive centre, and a broader mix of recreational and wellness facilities.

The Lind Siargao, meanwhile, reflects a similar strategic approach: identifying destinations with strong appeal but limited high-quality supply. Often referred to as the surf capital of The Philippines, the teardrop-shaped island in Mindanao Province is one of the nation’s most idyllic hideaways. With few comparable properties currently operating on the island, the project represents an opportunity for The Lind Hotels to establish an early foothold in a fast-evolving market.

For the brand, expansion is not about scale for its own sake. Each location is selected for its long-term potential and its ability to support a distinct interpretation of the Lind experience.

“We chose to remain independent because it allows us to move quickly, adapt, and build something that truly reflects who we are,” says Henrichs. “We are not trying to grow everywhere at once. We want to do it properly, step by step.”

That independence has become a defining strength. Without the constraints of a global management structure, The Lind has been able to respond to changing guest expectations, refine its offering in real time, and maintain a clear sense of identity across its operations.

Looking ahead, the brand’s ambitions extend beyond its current pipeline. “We’ve built something in Boracay that people connect with,” says Henrichs. “As we expand into Coron and Siargao, the priority is to keep that same spirit—independent, adaptable, and always shaped around the guest.”

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Pattaya, Thailand, April 20, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / A French national with more than a decade’s experience in food and beverage leadership roles across Asia, Europe and the Middle East has been appointed Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s director of food and beverage.

Paul-Edouard Gillard has joined the 234-room Meliá Pattaya to oversee commercial F&B strategy, restaurant revenue management, GOP flow-through and cost structure optimisation. He will also create culinary and beverage concepts and menus and deliver quality hospitality through training and analysis across hotel’s rich culinary landscape, featuring Yitong Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar, all-day dining restaurant Sanehh Sarae, Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei restaurant Den, LAY Beach Club, Chon Lounge and Lula Pool Bar.

He previously worked in Thailand at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit where he started as a management trainee. After completing a Master of Science in International Hospitality Management with Emylon Business School and Institut Paul Bocuse, he was promoted to the opening team at the hotel’s Belga Rooftop Bar as assistant manager and restaurant revenue analyst. Before joining Meliá Pattaya, he worked as a regional category manager and brand manager for premium food service distributor Bidfood Middle East overseeing tea and coffee brands including JING Tea and illy Caffè.

He was also the F&B manager on the opening team at Carton House, a Fairmont Management Hotel, in Ireland. He co-founded an AI-powered platform in Dubai called Shiftly designed to quickly connect employers in F&B and hospitality with pre-screened professionals for fixed or flexible shifts, using AI-led interviews and psychometric assessments to evaluate candidates’ skills, reliability and role fit.

“Paul-Edouard is a commercially astute F&B leader with a proven ability to turn restaurant concepts into thriving businesses,” said Meliá Pattaya’s General Manager Javier Gimeno. “From luxury hotel openings to large-scale hospitality portfolios, his profound experience brings valuable insight into our revenue optimisation, guest engagement and team development.”

“I’m excited to join Meliá Pattaya; with such a diverse collection of dining venues, there is a tremendous opportunity to work with the team to further develop distinctive concepts for guests and the local community alike,” Gillard added.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group and a member of TCC Group, is redefining the country’s landscape of hospitality, commercial workspaces, and iconic lifestyle destinations with its diversified portfolio, strategically located in prime areas across the nation. Committed to creating new landmark projects that not only set new benchmarks for the industry but also strengthen Thailand’s position as a global sustainable tourism destination, AWC collaborates with world-renowned partners, including Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Nobu Hospitality, Okura Hotels, Banyan Tree, Melia International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Accor, and Hyatt, to deliver unforgettable experiences. Its portfolio features flagship commercial properties such as The Empire, Athenee Tower, Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, and Phenix, along with premier F&B destinations like ‘EA’ Rooftop at The Empire, offering world-class top cuisine. AWC is committed to delivering exceptional experiences while championing sustainability in every part of its operations to create long-term sustainable value for all stakeholders through initiatives under three key pillars of Better Planet, Better People, and Better Prosperity (3BETTERs), driving innovation and responsibility to inspire millions and elevate Thailand’s tourism and real estate industry to new heights. For more information, visit www.assetworldcorp-th.com/en/home.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá has 125 hotels in Europe (56), America (18), Cuba (16), Africa (5) and Asia (30). We are present in 32 countries and currently have 21 hotels under development in 11 countries. At Meliá Hotels & Resorts, we stand out for our unique Spanish style in the hospitality industry and for our warmth, closeness and passion for service. This means that we offer our guests a unique wellness experience. Our Spanish warmth and spontaneity are part of our Mediterranean roots and are always present in the Meliá experience. An experience that is enriched by providing thoughtful extra services. Paying attention to the smallest details and providing personalized experiences for each guest. How do we interpret wellness in the MELIÁ brand? We see wellness from an innovative perspective. It is not wellness applied only to nutrition or wellness services, it is 360º wellness. The wellness we want to convey is global. You can find it in all aspects of the brand from different perspectives: physical wellness, spiritual wellness, leisure wellness, social wellness, occupational wellness, environmental wellness, financial wellness and nutritional wellness.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

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Hue, Vietnam, April 19, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Fusion Hotel Group in Vietnam offers a variety of curated experiences to celebrate Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day and the upcoming April 30 holiday, whether guests prefer unwinding by a tranquil beach or immersing themselves in the vibrant rhythm of city life.

Getaways become even more rewarding with exclusive Fusionlife member benefits, offering up to 25% off on room bookings, spa treatments and dining.

Grand Royal Riverside Hue – Fusion Collection, in the former imperial capital, offers two specially designed menus at Jade & Ginger restaurant. The “Pha Tam Giang” menu showcases the essence of Hue cuisine, while the Mediterranean menu draws inspiration from Italian and French flavors. Prices start from VND 650,000 per set, inclusive of one complimentary beverage. Guests can also indulge in a 75-minute rejuvenation treatment at Sả Wellness, featuring 30 minutes of sauna to relax the body, followed by 45 minutes of personalized therapy options such as back, neck and shoulder relief, foot acupressure, facial care or head massage. Prices start from VND 750,000. Adding to the experience, The Amber Lounge introduces “A Tale of Two Times” afternoon tea set, priced at VND 300,000 for two guests.

At Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, guests can soak in natural hot springs, enjoy authentic Japanese-style onsen and embrace the “breakfast anytime, anywhere” concept. A range of wellness activities helps restore balance to body, mind and spirit for a truly rejuvenating retreat. Book in advance to enjoy room rates from VND 3,640,000 per room per night for two guests, inclusive of breakfast and wellness programs.

Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang introduces a Japanese dining experience available for lunch and dinner at Fresh restaurant, featuring a selection of premium seafood and imported ingredients such as salmon, tuna and seasonal catches, alongside sushi rolls and salmon rice sets. Prices start from VND 1,600,000 per set, including two complimentary glasses of sangria, rosé or white wine. Guests can also enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, including advanced facial care or relaxing foot reflexology, from VND 990,000.

The Ocean Resort by Fusion Quy Nhon creates a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere where traditional values blend seamlessly with modern resort living. A foam party at the central pool transforms the space into a whimsical wonderland, offering endless fun for both parents and children. Balance the excitement with a complimentary morning yoga session, or unwind at Maia Spa with 15% off all treatments. On April 30, enjoy a special chicken set made from locally sourced free-range chicken. The following evening, May 1, a cozy hotpot dinner featuring chicken or fresh seafood provides the perfect ending to a joyful holiday with loved ones.

Stretching along the shores of Bai Dai Beach, Fusion Resort Cam Ranh hosts “Steak Night” every Tuesday and Thursday evening at the oceanfront Fresh restaurant. The menu features a wide selection of premium meats, including imported cuts such as Black Angus flank steak and Wagyu striploin, as well as Spanish pluma pork.

The highlight of the experience is the “Farmers Platter to Share,” which includes a variety of meats served with sausages and two glasses of red wine, priced at VND 999,000. Guests can also choose from a range of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, Parmesan fries, grilled vegetables or a garden salad.

At Fusion Suites Sai Gon, guests are welcomed with exclusive offers of up to 50% off room rates, alongside 30% savings on hotel services. Valid until Sept. 30, this promotion invites travelers to unwind, rediscover balance and be wrapped in moments of peace and comfort.

Miss Thu restaurant at Fusion Original Saigon Centre introduces “The Taste of Unity” menu, celebrating the diversity and connection of Vietnamese cuisine. The menu brings together regional specialties, from yellowfin tuna with fermented dipping sauce and kaffir lime oil, to layered braised beef, traditional vegetable soup, Cha Ca La Vong, and a dessert of An Giang palm sugar sponge cake. Guests can enjoy dinner while watching fireworks in the heart of Saigon. Prices start from VND 1,000,000 per person.

HIIVE by Fusion Binh Duong New City hosts its weekly outdoor “Grill & Chill” BBQ every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Zest restaurant. Guests can savor a wide variety of Asian specialties, grilled meats, fresh seafood and desserts, with ticket prices ranging from VND 399,000 to VND 549,000 per person.

Fusion Suites Vung Tau is offering complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability) until May 31, 2026, along with an additional 30% off 50-minute massage treatments at Maia Spa. On April 30, guests can also enjoy Japanese cuisine at KAIUN Lounge, located on the 19th floor at Fresh restaurant, while taking in panoramic views of the bay or city. The “Patriotic BBQ – Wagyu Night” event is available from VND 650,000 per guest.

Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion is celebrating its two-millionth guest with a special campaign titled “Chief Chill Officer,” a unique initiative to find a guest to take on the ultimate relaxation experience. Guests who check in and share photos or videos of their stay will have the chance to win a grand prize of a three-day, two-night getaway in the Presidential Suite for four people, along with dining vouchers, spa treatments and other resort activities.

The second prize includes a one-night stay with additional dining and experience benefits at the resort.

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Bangkok, Thailand, April 18, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Celebrate the arrival of Thailand’s summer season with one of the kingdom’s most cherished culinary traditions. This April, Thara Thong, the iconic royal Thai restaurant at Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok, presents its seasonal Khao Chae, a refined and refreshing delicacy that reflects the elegance of Thailand’s royal cuisine.

Served exclusively throughout April from 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM, this exquisite set is priced at THB 599++ per set, inviting guests to experience a timeless Thai tradition in a setting that embodies heritage and authenticity.

For more than four decades, Thara Thong has been renowned for preserving the art of Royal Thai Cuisine, welcoming diners to a magnificent traditional teakwood pavilion overlooking the Chao Phraya River. With its intricate Thai architecture, warm hospitality, and dedication to authentic culinary techniques, the restaurant offers an immersive cultural dining experience that celebrates Thailand’s gastronomic heritage.

Khao Chae, traditionally enjoyed during the hot season, is a delicately balanced dish designed to refresh and cool the palate. At Thara Thong, this elegant specialty is prepared with meticulous care by the restaurant’s talented culinary team, honoring traditional preparation methods while presenting the dish with refined artistry.

Guests will enjoy candle-smoked jasmine rice served in chilled fragrant water, accompanied by a beautifully curated selection of handcrafted condiments, each offering distinctive textures and flavors.

The Khao Chae set features:

• Candle-Smoked Jasmine Rice in Iced Fragrant Water – delicately aromatic and refreshing.
• Handcrafted Shrimp Paste Balls – skillfully seasoned and rolled to create a rich, aromatic bite.
• Caramelized Shredded Fish – fine threads slowly simmered to achieve elegant sweetness.
• Caramelized Shredded Beef – premium beef gently pulled and caramelized to perfection.
• Caramelized Shredded Pork – tender pork with a fragrant, delicately sweet finish.
• Sweet Stir-fried Pickled Radish – a classic accompaniment balancing sweetness and texture.
• Crisp Fried Sweet Pepper Filled with Delicately Seasoned Chicken – lightly fried to a golden crisp.

Served in the serene atmosphere of Thara Thong’s riverside teak pavilion, this seasonal offering allows guests to experience the grace of traditional Thai dining while overlooking the gentle flow of the Chao Phraya River.

Whether rediscovering a beloved Thai classic or experiencing it for the first time, Khao Chae at Thara Thong promises a culinary journey that blends heritage, craftsmanship, and the timeless flavors of Thailand. Khao will be available from 1 – 30 April 2026, served daily from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM, at THB 599++ per set.

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Hanoi, Vietnam, April 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia has signed a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) with Binh Minh Urban Construction Investment, JSC for SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter, marking the brand’s first city hotel in Vietnam’s capital and reinforcing its growing presence in the country.

Scheduled to open in Q4 2026, the nature-led urban lifestyle hotel will introduce the SONO Belle brand to the heart of Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, a district shaped by more than 1,000 years of culture and commerce. The hotel will be located within walking distance of the iconic Hanoi Opera House, luxury boutiques, heritage landmarks, and the capital’s vibrant dining and café scene.

The hotel will feature 56 guestrooms and suites, offering a refined stay experience designed to complement the character of one of Southeast Asia’s most historic urban districts.

“Hanoi’s Old Quarter represents the cultural heart of Vietnam’s capital, where history and contemporary lifestyle meet. Partnering with SONO Hotels & Resorts allows us to introduce a distinctive hotel that reflects the spirit of the neighborhood while delivering the quality and hospitality standards of the SONO brand. We believe SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter will become a compelling new destination for travellers exploring this remarkable city,” said the property owner.

Jihong An, Senior Vice President – Asia, SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia, added: “We are honored to collaborate with Binh Minh Urban Construction Investment, JSC to bring SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter to life in such an iconic location. Hanoi is one of Asia’s most culturally rich capitals and an increasingly important destination for international travellers. This project reflects the trust our partners place in the SONO brand and supports our strategy to expand our hospitality footprint across key destinations in Asia.”

Located approximately 40 minutes from Noi Bai International Airport, SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter will offer convenient access for both international and regional travellers while providing an intimate gateway to the city’s heritage, culture, and evolving lifestyle scene.

With its nature-led urban lifestyle concept and prime address, the hotel is positioned to become a distinctive addition to Hanoi’s hospitality landscape and a new flagship destination for the SONO Belle brand in Vietnam.

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Bangkok, Thailand, April 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / As part of its 75th anniversary year, Jim Thompson, the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand, hosted an exclusive appreciation dinner at Moonlight Hall, Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, bringing together a group of 75 invited guests, including key partners, valued customers, and long-standing supporters who have contributed to its transformation.

The evening began with an exclusive cocktail reception at the Jim Thompson House, offering guests a private experience within the brand’s historic home before proceeding to dinner. It marked a milestone for the company and served as a gesture of recognition to those who have played a role in its evolution from a Thai silk house into a global lifestyle brand spanning fashion, fabrics, hospitality, and cultural experiences.

Set within the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, a cultural and creative destination that reflects the brand’s shift towards experience-led engagement, the gathering also comes at a time when the company continues to expand its presence across lifestyle, hospitality, and collaborations.

The guest list reflected the breadth of the brand’s relationships, spanning diplomatic, hospitality, travel, design, and retail sector communities. Attendees included ambassadors from France, Italy, South Korea, Japan, Canada, Germany, and the United States, alongside long-standing partners such as Thai Airways, leading hotel groups, and key retail and property partners including King Power, Siam Piwat, and One Bangkok, as well as design firms and some of the brand’s most loyal customers. The presence of partners across these sectors reflects the brand’s expanding role within a broader lifestyle and cultural network.

The evening also welcomed key government representatives who have supported the brand’s direction, including Eurblarp Sriphiromya (Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand) and Sanon Wangsrangboon (Deputy Governor of Bangkok).

A key moment of the evening was the exclusive preview of Jim and I: The Weaver’s Stories, presented to guests ahead of its official launch. The community-driven storytelling project explores Jim Thompson through the voices of 12 individuals who have shaped its journey, offering a collective perspective on craft, creativity, and continuity, and reflecting the idea of Jim Thompson as a legacy shaped by many hands over time. The event also introduced the first group of individuals, including Kittiphong Sansomboon, Niphon Manuthas, and Bill Bensley, whose personal stories contribute to the series.

“Jim Thompson has always evolved through the strength of its relationships,” said Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO of Jim Thompson. “This evening was an opportunity to recognize the partners and supporters who have contributed to the transformation journey. As we mark 75 years, we look ahead with the same spirit, building on a shared foundation of creativity and trust, and a continued commitment to bringing Thai design and craftsmanship to a global stage.”

The appreciation dinner forms part of Jim Thompson’s year-long 75th anniversary program, which continues to unfold through a series of cultural, creative, and storytelling initiatives across 2026.

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