Global Travel News

Bali & Beyond Travel Fair 2023 Unveiling Quality and Sustainable Tourism

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Bali & Beyond Travel Fair 2023 Unveiling Quality and Sustainable Tourism - TRAVELINDEX - VISITBALI.orgDenpasar, Bali, June 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / In an era marked by increasing cultural awareness, quality tourism, environmental concerns, and a growing desire for responsible travel, BBTF presents the theme of the 9th BBTF 2023 in relevance to these global market trends with: “Reconnecting to Quality & Sustainable Tourism”.

Our commitment to promote and preserve destinations has received a positive response from all stakeholders, including major national and international players who have renewed their confidence in the BBTF ability to generate a productive impact and support their market development.

“We have just closed the online registration with a great achievement of 230 sellers from 5 countries. This year we have China, Italia, Malaysia and America with of course majority Indonesia based companies. We are pleased to welcome 337 buyers from 51 countries, in accordance with this year’s target” I Putu Winastra, the head committee of BBTF 2023 and Chairman of ASITA Bali chapter stated.

The event will be held on June 14th-17th, 2023 at Bali International Convention Centre (BICC) in the presence of Qatar Airways and buyers from Europe, the Middle East, ASEAN, Australia, America and Asia, that all together will strengthen the positioning of BBTF and the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies – ASITA Bali chapter. The trust of key market players in our organization is also expressed by the attendance of reputable hotel operators such as Marriott International group, Hyatt group, Archipelago group, Accor, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), Cross Hotel, Bali Villa Association (BVA), Ubud Hotel Association (UHA), Swiss-Belhotel International among many other high-ranking companies and associations as sellers.

This year some new integrated industry from state-owned enterprises will join BBTF for the first time together with a series of Indonesian exciting exhibitors such as Regions of Bali, Yogyakarta (DIY), DKI Jakarta, East Kalimantan, Bangka Belitung Islands, Riau Islands, West Java, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), South Sulawesi and West Sumatera.

In response to market demand, BBTF will showcase and promote sustainable tourism products for a responsible future. Further, particular focus is also being given to health, emphasizing the current growth of the wellness and medical tourism industry as well as community-based tourism.

Business contracts to be generated within one year during our B2B event are estimated to reach IDR 8.5 trillion in 2023, showing a 63.5 percent increase compared to the IDR 5.2 trillion produced in 2022. A very promising progress that hopefully will keep on growing in months ahead.

This year, BBTF committee presents some top speakers and invites stakeholders on a tourism seminar prior to the tradeshow. Opportunities and challenges of quality and sustainable tourism, and health tourism business development will be discussed. New learnings on sustainable tourism practices will be reviewed too, as experiences that can create positive ripple effects, benefiting not only the environment but also the local economies and communities that rely on tourism revenues.

“BBTF is taking proactive steps to ensure a brighter and more sustainable future for the tourism industry – this year we invite Indonesian goverment officials to open the event. The chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia (MPR-RI) together with the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy.” commented I Putu Winastra – referring to the brief agenda of this forthcoming annual Indonesia’s leading international travel fair.

For more information about BBTF 2023, please visit the website https://www.bbtf.co.id/

About BBTF
BBTF is an annual event with the intention to establish a benchmark for travel & tourism events and destinations in Indonesia. Supported by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, BBTF holds B2B events and aims at advancing the tourism industry through business sessions and direct promotion, as best practices in MICE and Leisure Management. Together with exhibitors and buyers from numerous countries around the world, BBTF facilitates Pre-Scheduled Appointments (PSA) and business sessions for buyers and sellers to negotiate on their long-term leisure and corporate travel needs. Corporations, travel agents, hotel & resort chains, cruise operators, convention planners, venue operators and travel buyers can leverage the two and half days of business-to-business sessions to enhance their respective brands in the Indonesian and Asia Pacific markets.

In addition to the B2B sessions, the travel fair features an extensive program of activities for all delegates. From the fantastic networking events, to the inspirational knowledge program, the business of meetings has never been so rewarding. Bali is chosen as the venue because it is the gateway to Indonesia’s archipelago for global travelers and the island contributes up to 40% of all visitors to the nation each year.

Organized by the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali chapter in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and other stakeholders, this year BBTF is pleased to welcome the Minister of Foreign Affairs joining for the first time and willing to connect Indonesia’s potential to the world. Another highlight will be the contribution of the South Bali Badung Regency, with diverse destinations putting Bali on the map of quality tourism. After having successfully conducted the world recognized G20 in Nusa Dua, Bali is now ready to meet new market demands. This annual event is led by a passionate committee and supported by members of ASITA, public sector, and local government in order to promote and facilitate the development of tourism business in Indonesia and Bali in particular.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Two Chefs One Vision at Restaurant Resonance Bangkok

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Two Chefs One Vision at Restaurant Resonance Bangkok - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, June 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Restaurant Resonance invites you to an exciting culinary collaboration between two truly exceptional Japanese chefs, Ryohei Hieda of Eika, Taipei, and our own Shunsuke Shimomura.

For two nights only on Thursday 15th and Friday 16th June, chefs Ryohei and Shunsuke will present discerning diners at Restaurant Resonance with a sublime 10-course tasting menu designed to take contemporary Japanese cuisine to new heights of creativity and sophistication. Combining traditional technique with a distinctly modern sensibility and a passion for local and seasonal produce, the two chefs will delight you with an unforgettable evening at Restaurant Resonance.

Born in Nagasaki, Japan, guest chef Ryohei’s impressive culinary pedigree includes working under Chef Seiji Yamamoto, founder of the three-starred Michelin restaurant, Nihonryori RyuGin. Chef Ryohei was later appointed Chef de Cuisine at Shoun RyuGin in Taiwan which was awarded two Michelin stars for three consecutive years and is the recipient of an ‘Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants’ award. Today, Chef Ryohei is regarded as a pioneer of the locally sourced food movement. Later this year, Chef Ryohei will showcase his unique style of contemporary Japanese cuisine at the new and eagerly anticipated, Eika restaurant in Taipei.

At the special dinner, Chef Ryohei will collaborate closely with Restaurant Resonance’s own Chef Shunsuke Shimomura, a master chef who boasts an equally impressive pedigree. Before joining us, Chef Shunsuke was R&D chef at the internationally acclaimed Gaggan. His culinary

journey has taken him to the Michelin-starred restaurants in Copenhagen, and Tokyo. At Restaurant Resonance, Chef Shunsuke delights diners with his “Boundless Cuisine” concept – a changing menu of beautifully executed dishes, pure and subtle in flavour. While Chef Shunsuke’s cuisine cleverly incorporates the global influences he has absorbed, his Japanese identity always resonate throughout.

On Thursday 15th and Friday 16th June, diners at Restaurant Resonance will enjoy a fabulous 10-course tasting menu served in elegant surroundings. A feast for the eyes and the palate, highlights will include Chef Ryohei’s intriguing dish, isaki fish with fermented watermelon, and Chef Shunsuke’s signature, uni eggplant.

Dining options include:

10-course tasting menu: THB 8,500++
6-glass wine pairing for an additional THB 4,500++
6-glass tea pairing for an additional THB 1,500++

Reservations for the exclusive evening are available at 5p.m., 6.30 p.m., and 8.30 p.m.

Join chefs Ryohei Hieda and Shunsuke Shimomura for unforgettable evenings of exquisite contemporary Japanese cuisines on Thursday 15th and Friday 16th June, only at Restaurant Resonance!

For reservations or further information, please contact: LINE: @resonance.bkk, call or
WhatsApp: +66 94 798 2897

Forthcoming culinary collaborations at Restaurant Resonance.

6 – 9 July, 2023: A six-hand collaboration with Chef Shunsuke of Restaurant Resonance, Chef Francesca, chef and owner of Baan Peru, and Chef Jorge, the super chef who put Peruvian cuisne on the world map when he was head chef at the renowned restaurant, Gastón Acurio in Lima, Peru.

Sittings available at 5p.m., 6.30 p.m., and 8.30 p.m. THB 8,500++ for 10-course tasting menu.

10 – 11 August, 2023: Chef Shunsuke of Restaurant Resonance with Chef Tariq from Fleurette, an innovative restaurant in Singapore that serves distinctly modern cuisine influenced by the flavours of Japan, France and Singapore.

Sittings available at 5p.m., 6.30 p.m., and 8.30 p.m.
THB 8,500++ for 10-course tasting menu.

Restaurant Resonance
108/4 Sukhumvit 65 Phra Khanong Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

Restaurant Resonance is conveniently located in one of Sukhumvit’s most vibrant and fashionable districts. The contemporary restaurant features a stylish minimalist interior, allowing diners to relax and focus on exquisite flavours and artistry of Chef Shunsuke Shimomura’s seasonal tasting menus. Tea pairings are available when booked one or two days in advance. Restaurant Resonance is open Tuesday to Friday, 6 – 9 p.m. and Saturday, 12 – 2.30 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. The elegant space is also available for exclusive parties and events.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Commission for Europe Meets in Sofia

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UNWTO Commission for Europe Meets in Sofia - TRAVELINDEXSofia, Bulgaria, June 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / European tourism leaders have met to advance shared plans for the sector’s future. The 68th meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for Europe (31 May – 2 June, Sofia, Bulgaria), assessed the current state of tourism in the region while also recognizing the vital importance of education, jobs and investments for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Bulgaria Leads High-Level Political Support for Tourism

Ahead of the meeting, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili met with President Rumen Radev and the Prime Minister of Bulgaria Galab Donev, accompanied by Minister of Tourism of Bulgaria Ilin Dimitrov, to discuss shared priorities and areas of cooperation.

  • Prime Minister Donev welcomed the latest UNWTO data which shows Bulgaria is among the fastest recovering of European destinations, with international arrivals in the first quarter of year 27% higher than in 2019.
  • In recognition of their leadership, President Radev awarded UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili and the Director for Europe Alessandra Priante with the Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius, 1st Class and 2nd Class respectively, at a special ceremony in the Coat of Arms Hall.
  • The two parties jointly recognized tourism’s importance for driving economic development and strengthening peace and understanding.
  • The UNWTO delegation welcomed the Bulgarian Government’s work to diversify its tourism sector, with a focus on growing new areas including wellness, health and gastronomy tourism and supporting rural communities.

This is exactly the time to step up our efforts to transform our sector, with a skilled workforce and proper investments vital for making it more resilient, sustainable and inclusive

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “European tourism is recovering strongly and on track to return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year. This is exactly the time to step up our efforts to transform our sector, with a skilled workforce and proper investments vital for making it more resilient, sustainable and inclusive.”

European Members Focus on Key Priorities

High-level delegations representing 40 countries, a historic high participation, including Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Tourism, gathered for the Regional Commission. Member States were given an overview of UNWTO’s work, with a focus on:

  • Jobs: UNWTO continues to support the Institutions of the European Union in the context of the European Year of Skills, with the co-implementation phase of the EU Transition Pathway for Tourism now underway to re-skill the tourism workforce of the European Union.
  • Education: Members were updated on the creation of a first Bachelor’s Degree in Sustainable Tourism Management, in partnership with the Lucerne University of Applied Arts and Sciences, and to launch a toolkit designed to help make tourism a subject in high schools worldwide.
  • Investments: Identified as a key priority for the sector, UNWTO set the stage for World Tourism Day 2023 (27 September) with its theme of ‘Green Investments’, and also looked ahead to the UNWTO Tourism Investment Forum (Yerevan, Armenia, September 2023).
  • Sustainability: UNWTO continues to guide global tourism’s climate action efforts, key works include the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (49 signatories to date, with 17 from European countries), and the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism (800+ signatories to date, more than half from Europe).

The UNWTO Regional Director outlined how European Members champion tourism as a driver of resilience and recovery in the aftermath of the pandemic and amid the fragile socio-political situation in the region, caused by the Russian invasion in Ukraine.

Looking Ahead

Adhering to the Organization’s statutory obligations, Members agreed:

  • Ukraine will serve as the Chair of the Commission for Europe for the period 2023 to 2025. Greece and Hungary will serve as the Vice Chairs.
  • World Tourism Day 2024, to be held around the theme of “Tourism and Peace” will be officially hosted by Georgia.
  • The Commission will meet in Uzbekistan this fall for its 69th meeting and in Albania in 2024 for its 70th meeting.

On the eve of the meeting, UNWTO launched the Global Startup Competition for Mega Events and MICE Tourism, with the support of the Government of Uzbekistan and the participation of UEFA, the International Congress and Convention Association, and Mastercard. Finally, following an earlier announcement, UNWTO and Aviareps announced that Albania, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Romania and Uzbekistan will be the first five countries to benefit from their collaboration.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BWH Celebrates Extension and Relaunch of Best Western Plus Metro Clark

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BWH Celebrates Extension and Relaunch of Best Western Plus Metro Clark - TRAVELINDEX - VISITPHILIPPINES.orgAngeles City, Philippines, June 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels is celebrating the opening of a major extension at Best Western Plus Metro Clark in the Philippines. Situated in the heart of Angeles City, this 14-story hotel has been upgraded and rebranded. Formerly known as Best Western Metro Clark, it now offers a total of 186 contemporary rooms, all equipped with comfortable king or twin beds, modern amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Three diverse international dining options are available, including Namari Japanese Bistro, The Legend Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant and Cactus Jack Smokehouse. Guests who want to relax with refreshments and great views of Angeles City can chill out at Jack’s Pool Bar.

Travelers can also cool off in the outdoor pool and work out at the fitness center, while the hotel’s extensive event space makes Best Western Plus Metro Clark an outstanding venue for corporate meetings and social gatherings.

Best Western Plus Metro Clark is easily accessible, just 10km from Clark International Airport and approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Manila. With a prime position on the McArthur Highway, Angeles City’s main thoroughfare, the hotel is surrounded by attractions including restaurants, bars, shops and casinos. The Saver’s Mall is located right next door.

“We are delighted to celebrate the extension and relaunch of Best Western Plus Metro Clark. This was already a popular place to stay in the center of Angeles City. Now, following this important extension, we will be able to attract a wider range of travelers – including business and leisure guests – while also attracting local residents and other visitors to our restaurants. We look forward to welcoming everybody to this newly revitalized hotel,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

Best Western now operates five hotels in the Philippines: Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel, Best Western Plus The Ivywall Resort-Panglao, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western AC LUXE Angeles City, and SureStay Studio by Best Western Clarkview.

For more information about BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit bestwesternasia.com.

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ANA Launches Inaugural Flight of Pikachu Jet NH with The Pokémon Company

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ANA Launches Inaugural Flight of Pikachu Jet NH with The Pokémon Company - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The ANA Group joins the “Pokémon Air Adventure” program in collaboration with The Pokémon Company to celebrate the inaugural flight of the new “Pikachu Jet NH” direct from Tokyo to Bangkok. An ANA aircraft has been specially transformed into the all-new Pikachu Jet, complete with a spectacular Pokémon livery on the exterior and a Pikachu-themed designs through the interior, including themed cabin crew aprons and other in-flight amenities. In addition, exclusive commemorative gifts will be available for all Pikachu Jet passengers, making every flight a magical Pokémon-filled adventure infused with Japanese hospitality.

Mr. Seido Terasawa, General manager, Thailand, All Nippon Airways (ANA), gave a statement on the exciting partnership between ANA and The Pokémon Company: “We are both proud and honored to announce the debut flight of the “Pikachu Jet NH”, which will be flying from Tokyo (Haneda) to Bangkok on 4th June 2023. This partnership underscores ANA’s continued commitment to the Thai market as we seek to offer Thai passengers a unique experience at the highest quality. We look forward to welcoming passengers with limited edition Pokémon merchandise that will make their first flight a one-of-a-kind journey.”

The Pikachu Jet NH aircraft features an exclusive livery specially designed for ANA, in which the Legendary Sky High Pokémon Rayquaza appears on the entire fuselage to create an impressively striking visual. Fellow Pokémon Charizard, Latios, Latias, Vivillon, and Rowlet, together with other airborne Pokémon are present alongside Pikachu on the body of the plane, shining rays of hope and endless possibilities on an interconnected world full of wonder. Moreover, passengers flying on the Pikachu Jet NH will receive commemorative gifts such as Pikachu-adorned Kifuda (Japanese wooden tags), Pokémon stickers, and special Pokémon-themed boarding certificates. To tie the entire journey together, ANA will welcome passengers aboard with special boarding music that will bring the world of Pokémon to life.

The Pikachu Jet NH (Boeing 787-9) begins its service with ANA Flight 847 (from Haneda to Bangkok), it will be followed by ANA Flight 850 (from Bangkok to Haneda) on Sunday, 4th June 2023. It will operate from 4th June to 28th October 2023. The routes will cover various destinations around the world as follows (*subject to change due to changes in operations):

● Haneda – Bangkok (NH847/NH850/NH849/NH848)
● Haneda – Singapore (NH841/NH844/NH843/NH842)
● Haneda – Jakarta (NH855/NH856)
● Haneda – Manila (NH869/NH870)
● Haneda – Ho Chi Minh City (NH891/NH892)
● Haneda – Delhi (NH837/NH838)
● Haneda – Sydney (NH879/NH880/NH889/NH890)
● Haneda – Vancouver (NH116/NH115)
● Haneda – Honolulu (NH186/NH185)

“With triple daily flights from Bangkok to Tokyo, ANA aims to expand its network to meet the demand for travel to and from Japan. Together with our wonderful Thai cabin crew on board, we look forward to providing the best of Japanese hospitality in the air and exploring different parts of Japan with our passengers.,” added Mr. Seido Terasawa.

About ANA
Founded in 1952 with just two helicopters, All Nippon Airways (ANA) has grown to become the largest airline in Japan. ANA HOLDINGS Inc. (ANA HD), established in 2013, is the largest airline group holding company in Japan including ANA and Peach Aviation, the leading LCC in Japan.

ANA is a launch customer and the largest operator of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, making ANA HD the biggest Dreamliner owner in the world. A member of Star Alliance since 1999, ANA has joint venture agreements with United Airlines, Lufthansa German Airlines, Swiss International Airlines and Austrian Airlines – giving it a truly global presence.

The airline’s legacy of superior service has been recognized with SKYTRAX’s 5-Star rating every year since 2013, with ANA being the only Japanese airline to win this prestigious designation for 10 consecutive years. ANA has been recognized by Air Transport World as “Airline of the Year” three times (2007, 2013 and 2018); it is one of only a select few airlines to win this prominent award multiple times.

In 2022, ANA received first place in the Global airline and Asia Pacific categories at the CIRIUM On-Time Performance Awards, marking the second consecutive year ANA was recognized as the most on-time airline in the world. ANA is the only company in the aviation industry to receive the Gold Class distinction from the 2022 S&P Global Sustainability Awards and ANA HD has been selected as a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index list for the sixth consecutive year and the Dow Jones Sustainability Asia Pacific Index list for the seventh consecutive year.

About Pokémon Air Adventures
By bringing you closer to other people and other regions, Pokémon Air Adventures will show you the joy of travel. The Pikachu Jet will serve as a symbol of this grand experience.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

InterContinental Bangkok Re-Opens, Re-Emergence of a Grand Hotel

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InterContinental Bangkok Re-Opens, Re-Emergence of a Grand Hotel - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELSBangkok, Thailand, June 4, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The city’s most symbolic five-star luxury hotel returns as the centerpiece of Thailand’s hospitality and re-opens its doors to provide guests with unparalleled luxury experiences and elegant designs inspired by Thailand’s rich culture. The world’s first and largest luxury hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, has officially re-opened InterContinental Bangkok, known as the city’s most iconic five-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Bangkok, after a multimillion-dollar renovation and spectacular makeover.

Located in Bangkok’s Central Business District directly adjacent to the BTS Chidlom Skytrain, InterContinental Bangkok is at walking distance to the capital’s main lifestyle shopping locations and major business addresses. For two decades, the hotel has been part of the city of angels’ landscape, and its recent multimillion-dollar renovation and an impressive makeover now positions the InterContinental Bangkok like never before, re-emerging as a modern grand hotel designed for contemporary living.

Stephen Gould, General Manager of InterContinental Bangkok said: “As part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Luxury and Lifestyle portfolio InterContinental Bangkok is one of Thailand’s most premium hotels. Welcoming guests back to the InterContinental Life marks a significant milestone for us. Over the course of our renovation, we have thoughtfully woven in a blend of modern sophistication and Thai heritage inspired by the traditions of Thai welcoming ceremonies backed by world-class service. Our elite network of concierges and colleagues combine local expertise and tradition with modernity to spark joy in our guests’ stay, creating truly exceptional experiences and moments that matter for our guests.”

Re-Introducing the InterContinental Life in Bangkok

The hotel re-emerges infused with artistic nods to the beauty of Bangkok’s magnificent palaces and cultural attractions as well as the city’s famous skyline, offering 381 all-new luxury guestrooms, including Club InterContinental rooms and a range of suites.

Guests will experience a fresh aesthetic design at the newly renovated InterContinental Bangkok, inspired by Thailand’s humble culture and reputation as the “land of smiles.”

The lobby’s remarkable centrepiece, a chandelier inspired by the intricate Phuang Malai garland, elegantly welcomes guests with iconic Thai warmth and inspires guests to truly enjoy the InterContinental Life. Throughout the hotel, walls and ceilings showcase Thailand’s heritage and culture with traditional floating flowers and renowned Kranok patterns, which trace back to the Sukhothai Kingdom; while carefully placed modern abstract and local artisan artworks convey the spirit of the Thai welcoming ceremonies and immerse travellers in the country’s rich culture. Even the Grand Ballroom pays tribute to Thai traditions with a chandelier inspired by the elegant attire of traditional Thai dancers.

World-Class Dining

Unique dining experiences will transport guests from west to east at InterContinental Bangkok’s seven dining and bar concepts teamed by some of the most highly skilled head chefs with Michelin-star restaurant leadership experiences.

• SoCal: the debut of the city’s first California-inspired restaurant which features over 50 California wine selections as well as a cuisine and mixology with a variety of fresh flavours, sustainable seasonal produce. Signature dishes include lobster tostada, grilled octopus, pork belly tacos, cioppino seafood stew and slow cooked lamb neck.
• Espresso: An authentic all-day dining with live cooking stations offering quality ingredients, inspired by the street markets of Bangkok where every meal is a journey and a well-travelled experience.
• Fireplace Grill and Bar: Quality classic European dishes since 1966 such as perfectly grilled steaks and seafood, as well as finely crafted desserts.
• Balcony Lounge: A sophisticated ambiance of light dining options, cool refreshments creative afternoon teas, and worldly cocktails made from the finest ingredients.
• Humidor: One of the city’s widest range of whiskies and cigars from around the world for all types of connoisseurs to appreciate.
• Summer Palace: Authentic Cantonese cuisine, exquisitely prepared dim sum and specialities of meals skilfully crafted by talented chefs in a live kitchen atmosphere.
• Butter: A speciality coffee menu, gourmet savouries, sandwiches and salads for eat-in or on the go with teas, coffees as well as patisseries, cakes and sweets.

Dominique Martinez, Food and Beverage Director of InterContinental Bangkok commented on the word-class dining offerings: “Guests should be prepared to indulge in a symphony of flavours as the InterContinental Bangkok reopens its doors. As the city’s iconic hotel, we are passionate about providing guests with a full sense of luxury, including a wide variety of gastronomic pleasures and experiences. Our locally and internationally inspired restaurant and bar concepts have something to offer to everyone, right in the heart of the city.”

Hotel facilities

Guests have access to a wide range of facilities and on-site amenities, including:

• Oasis: A re-imagined rooftop pool delivering panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline.
• Spa InterContinental: A full-service spa offering HARNN body treatments and Elemis facial treatments. A total of nine treatment rooms including three couple rooms and a traditional Thai massage room.
• Infinity Fitness: A 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness centre with an extensive team of private trainers.
• Meeting and Events: A variety of 19 function rooms, meeting and event spaces, including the Grand Ballroom which accommodates up to 1,000 guests. Onsite 4K LED screen: high-intensity LED lighting fixtures with advanced colour mixing technology, video streaming, conferencing, recording capabilities, satellite communications, mobile projection systems and centrally controlled LCD display screens.

Additionally, a full team of InterContinental colleagues, including the hotel concierge is available to support all guests’ needs and further enrichen their experience with in-depth knowledge and local insights.

InterContinental Bangkok is part of the prestigious InterContinental brand, building on its longstanding heritage, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts continues to refine luxury hospitality and is poised to open more than 30 hotels in the next two years. Having recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, InterContinental is continuing to evolve and redefine its ethos of discovery and modern luxury and this new hotel represents a perfect illustration of this evolution.

InterContinental Bangkok is one of 450 hotels in IHG’s luxury & lifestyle portfolio, one of the largest in the industry, and of the more than 6,000 hotels within the IHG One Rewards platform. Centered around guests, the best-in-class loyalty programme offers richer benefits at 18 leading hotel brands and more ways to be rewarded than ever before, all powered by leading technology on the new IHG One Rewards mobile app.

Room rates start from 9,000THB++ for a Classic Room and is available for stays from 1 June 2023. For reservations or enquiries, please visit intercontinental.com/bangkok

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and Les Roches Global Accelerate Tourism Innovation

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UNWTO and Les Roches Global Accelerate Tourism Innovation - TRAVELINDEXCrans-Montana, Switzerland, June 1, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has partnered with Les Roches Global Hospitality Management School to support tourism startups in embracing innovation and accelerating their shift to greater sustainability.

Throughout May, the 15 winners of the UNWTO Awake Tourism Challenge were given the opportunity to take part in the Acceleration program offered by Spark, Les Roches Hospitality School, at Crans-Montana, the Swiss Campus of the school. The acceleration program focuses on key issues for tourism entrepreneurs and startups, including marketing and finance strategy, market research, fundraising, legal concerns and transparency. The participants also took part in a Technology Challenge, designed to put into practice what they learned at Crans-Montana.

The final, which marked the culmination of the acceleration program, provided an opportunity for the startups to pitch their business ideas. The event was attended by around 100 participants including investors and stakeholders in private equity, international investment funds, consulting firms, Spark’s technology partners, as well as several representatives of the Swiss authorities, indicating the high level of interest and support for the innovative solutions being developed by the startups.

The winning startups included Coastruction (Netherlands), Noytrall (Portugal), SmArt Tourism and Hospitality Consulting (Panama), Quantum Temple (USA), Socialbnb (Germany), Baahdy and Birdy (Norway), Instituto de Accesibilidad (Spain), Kamatjona (Namibia), Weavair (Singapore), R3Charge (Germany), Impact Innovations Institute (Safe YOU) (Armenia), NomadHer (South Korea), Murmuration (France), Evelity by Okeenea Digital (France), and Accessible Qatar (Qatar).

Identifying solutions to the biggest challenges

The UNWTO Awake Tourism Challenge is organized by the UNWTO, in collaboration with its partners, to encourage startups and entrepreneurs to develop solutions that address key challenges for the sector. The Challenge features six distinct verticals, enabling applicants to submit their solutions to the pillar that best aligned with their innovations. These verticals included Green and Blue Economies, Local Community Involvement, Tourism Education, Ecological and Sustainable Capital Creation, Women Empowerment, and Tourism Tech for Good.

The winning startups of the UNWTO Awake Tourism Competition have also joined the Innovation network, which now comprises 300 leading startups from all the startup competitions organized by the UNWTO’s Innovation department since its establishment in 2018.

Looking ahead, the next edition of the global startup competition is scheduled to launch in the fourth quarter of 2023, revolving around the themes of the SDG Competition. This upcoming event will further encourage entrepreneurs to address the Sustainable Development Goals and make a positive impact on the tourism sector.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Amadeus and Pattern to Help Travelers Book with Confidence

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The pandemic raised awareness to the criticality of trip insurance – giving travelers peace of mind to leave home knowing they would not be expensively stranded if the unthinkable were to happen. Travel protection was a must have during the height of COVID-19 and remains important now as traveler confidence returns.

This is why Amadeus, a global provider of hospitality technology, and Pattern Insurance, a global InsurTech MGA are expanding on their partnership to bring travel protection options directly to the traveler. Building on the intuitive shop and book experience available in Amadeus’ iHotelier® Booking Engine, guests will now be offered a variety of travel protection options during the booking process – medical, cancellations, weather, delays and other related coverage. Options can be selected at the click of a button and the guest can continue with payment for their room, all in the same transaction. Current iHotelier customers beta testing this functionality are reporting attractive attachment rates for hotel bookings with trip protection included.

Peter Altmann, Vice President, Mobility & Travel Protection, Hospitality, Amadeus, said, “Integrating trip protection options directly into the hotel booking process provides flexibility for the guest and keeps the entire experience stress free. There is a clear need for this in a highly competitive market, and it opens new opportunities for hoteliers to capture more direct bookings while providing ancillary revenue for small to mid-tier hotel chains. It’s important that we are leveraging our partnerships like the one with Pattern to offer both guests and hotels benefits that result in more rewarding journeys.”

Meitav Harpaz, Co-Founder and CEO, Pattern Insurance, added, “With Pattern, Amadeus can deploy different products depending on the regions. This gives both the hotel and its guests a high-value, more personalized and effective insurance offer as part of their booking experience. Amadeus is able to make protections available to the hotels and their guests to help deliver a superb brand experience.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Embark on Culinary Journey to China with Chef Oscar Pun at Hua Hin Marriott Resort

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Hua Hin, Thailand, June 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa is inviting diners to savor the finest flavors of Cantonese cuisine, expertly crafted by Chef Oscar Pun, the Cantonese culinary master who has worked at Michelin-starred restaurants in his native Hong Kong and Singapore, and is now Executive Chef at the award-winning Pagoda Chinese Restaurant in Bangkok.

For three days only (29 June to 1 July 2023), hotel guests and local residents will be able to meet Chef Oscar, sample his signature dishes and even learn the art of making authentic dim sum. Three separate gastronomic events are available: Chef Oscar’s Seafront Sharing Experience, a Dim Sum Cooking Class, and Seafood & BBQ Buffet Dinner.

On the first two days of this three-day epicurean extravaganza (29 & 30 June, 17.00-23.00 hrs), Chef Oscar’s Seafront Sharing Experience will invite diners to savor a sensational six-course dinner at Big Fish & Bar, the beachfront restaurant that overlooks the soft sands of Hua Hin Beach.

In this stunning setting, couples can share a curation of Pagoda Chinese Restaurant’s most popular menu items, including a Crystal Set of steamed prawn “Wang Tiger” dumplings, steamed chicken & abalone dumplings, and steamed prawn, garlic & chive dumplings, plus traditional Sichuan hot & sour seafood soup, crispy chicken & prawn salad, stir-fried black grouper in X.O. sauce, and steamed crab meat with sticky rice in lotus leaf, followed by a dessert of steamed ginger milk pudding. Throughout this enchanting evening, guests will be entertained by live Chinese music. This set menu is priced at THB 2,888++ per couple.

Then on the third day (1 July, 13:00-15:00 hrs), Chef Oscar invites parents and kids to join the Family Dim Sum Cooking Class at Amber Kitchen, the resort’s vibrant all-day dining destination. This exclusive event will see Chef Oscar and his team teach all ages how to craft delicious dim sum (shumai) and traditional Chinese fried dough. Having learned this time-honored culinary art, guests will be able to enjoy their own delectable dim sum lunch.

Perfectly suited to families (with kids aged four and over), this immersive activity is priced at just THB 888++ per person and THB 3,888++ for 6 people, including lunch (made by the guests). Advanced bookings are required and a maximum of 12 places are available.

Finally, on the evening of 1 June (18.00-22.00 hrs), diners can come together for a sensational Seafood & Grill Buffet Dinner including special Cantonese dishes by Chef Oscar Pun. Our talented team will craft a breath-taking buffet featuring fresh seafood and prime meats, all grilled to perfection and served in an upbeat atmosphere at Amber Kitchen. Chef Oscar will be on hand to present a selection of delights, including BBQ roasted duck, suckling pig, steamed prawns in garlic & soy sauce, steamed grouper in Hong Kong soy sauce, Sichuan soup and more! This bountiful buffet is priced at THB 1,699++ per person.

Enjoy a 20% early bird discount on Chef Oscar’s Seafront Sharing Experience and Seafood & Grill Buffet Dinner when you book before 15 June 2023 via https://bit.ly/CantoneseDiscoveriesHuaHin

Originally from Hong Kong, Chef Oscar is a culinary expert with a lifetime of experience in the kitchens of five-star hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants across Asia. He is currently Executive Chef at Pagoda Chinese Restaurant, the highly acclaimed dining destination at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park.

For more information or to book any of these exciting promotions, please contact us at +66 (0) 32 904 666.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Phuket Marriott Resort Nai Yang Beach Celebrates 7th Anniversary with 7 Amazing Benefits

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Phuket Marriott Resort Nai Yang Beach Celebrates 7th Anniversary with 7 Amazing Benefits - TRAVELINDEXPhuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach, the five-star sanctuary on the secluded northwest shore of Phuket, is celebrating its 7th anniversary with a special package with seven amazing benefits and an exciting new social media competition with seven sensational prizes!

Having opened its doors in June 2016, this serene seafront retreat has become one of Thailand’s most sought-after places to stay, dine and unwind. With a choice of elegant rooms, suites and villas, plus beachside dining venues, shimmering swimming pools, a soothing spa and 24-hour fitness center, all surrounded by lush tropical gardens and overlooking the Andaman Sea, Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach has won multiple awards and hosted many happy guests.

The resort is now inviting guests to celebrate its 7th anniversary with a dedicated package that includes seven extra benefits! Guests who book a minimum three-night stay will be treated to daily breakfast for two people, a complimentary resort activity, a 60-minute Thai massage for two people, one-hour of free-flow drinks every day at Big Fish Bar, one romantic beachfront dinner, roundtrip airport transfers, and a 20% discount at all restaurants and bars.

With a choice of accommodation and a wealth of exclusive extras, this is the perfect time to come and experience Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach! Simply book 27 May – 17 June 2023 and stay between 27 May and 30 September 2023

And that’s not all! Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach is also giving its social media fans and followers the chance to WIN seven superb prizes in a new Facebook contest. Simply pick your favorite postcard from the hotel’s Facebook page and share it with your social media friends to win dreamy dining experiences, sublime spa treatments, and even sensational stays!

Prizes include a two-night stay in a Two Bedroom Beachfront Pool Villa; a two-night stay in a Deluxe Pool Access Room; a two-night stay in a Deluxe Room; a 60-minute Aromatherapy Massage at Quan Spa; a set menu at Big Fish Bar, the chic beachside restaurant; a set menu at Andaman Kitchen, the vibrant all-day dining destination; and a set menu at Mama’s Kitchen, the new street food pop-up next to the sea. Each prize is valid for two people.

This contest is open from 1 June until 30 June 2023 and the lucky winners will be revealed on 7 July 2023. To enter, please visit www.facebook.com/phuketmarriottnaiyang. Good luck!

So, whether you book the special 7th anniversary package or enter our Facebook contest, everybody has the chance to experience the ultimate beachfront break at Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach this summer!

For more information about Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach or to book your stay, please visit www.phuketmarriottnaiyang.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News