Global Travel News

Vietnam Golf Coast Aims to Nurture a Golden Generation of Golfers

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Danang, Vietnam / TRAVELINDEX / Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC), a freshly rebooted destination marketing initiative that links Central Vietnam’s best clubs, is boosting the next generation of Vietnamese stars via world-class events and grassroots initiatives.

With an array of championship layouts designed by the likes of Sir Nick Faldo, Luke Donald, Greg Norman, and Robert Trent Jones Jr, the region has emerged as one of the world’s most exciting destinations for golf.

And it flourished in the spotlight at the end of April as the Faldo Series Asia —one of the world’s most celebrated junior circuits—returned to Laguna Golf Lang Co.

The final leaderboard for the event had a decidedly local flavor. A final round of 67 saw homegrown hero Nguyen Anh Minh take top honors at the event. Minh (16) made history by becoming the first Vietnamese to emerge as the Faldo Series Asia Champion.

Further back, Vietnamese youngster Le Khanh Hung was tied for third place. Other Vietnamese in the top ten were Nguyen Dang Minh (8th) and Nguyen Duc Son (9th).

The strong showing by young local stars reflects increased domestic engagement with the game. And with events like the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final providing a stage for Vietnamese starlets along with the best Asian juniors, the VGC is offering significant guidance for the stars of tomorrow.

“Our long-term status as the home hub for the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final reflects our support for the junior game in Vietnam and throughout Asia,” said Adam Calver Director of Golf and Destination Marketing at Laguna Lang Co, one of the driving forces in the VGC. “Therefore, it’s fantastic to see a Vietnamese Champion and strong performances from other Vietnamese juniors claiming four of the top 10 spots. The future for golf in Vietnam is looking very bright.”

The Faldo Series, which has nurtured major winners including Rory McIlroy, Danny Willet, and Yani Tseng, has named Laguna Lang Co as its home hub in Asia until 2026. And VGC clubs are doubling down on their commitment to supporting the junior game via initiatives including discounted green fees and youth coaching programs.

“How do we find the stars of the future? Let them play!” said Gary Dixon, general manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “The future of golf in Vietnam is in the hands of the juniors, and we are determined to be at the vanguard of efforts to help their development.”

Indeed, with incredible courses and family-friendly lifestyle attributes including beaches and luxury resorts like the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, the award-winning properties at Laguna Lang Co — Banyan Tree Lang Co and Angsana Lang Co — and an array of other world-class hotel brands, Central Vietnam is a perfect base for Vietnamese and other juniors who want to hone their skills.

Layouts such as Laguna Golf Lang Co, a Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design, and Ba Na Hills Golf Club, laid out by British former Ryder Cup star Luke Donald over rolling foothills, are ranked among Asia’s best courses. Other highlights, meanwhile, include courses designed by luminaries including Greg Norman, Colin Montgomerie, Robert Trent Jones Jr., and Jack Nicklaus.

“Central Vietnam has an unparalleled cluster of international standard clubs within easy reach of each other,” added Dixon. “It’s the perfect base for juniors who want to develop to the very highest level.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: Chris Isaak did a good, good thing

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Visit California was in town (well, Niagara on the Lake) recently, which, naturally leads to wine talk. And California wine makes me think of Chris Isaak. Why? Because a few years ago I was at the Robert Mondavi winery in the Napa Valley for dinner (spectacular, I might add), and was greeted by a roadside marquee: “Chris Isaak performing.”

Heaven! But, upon further investigation, the concert was the next weekend! Ah, Hell!

Turns out Isaak, who has drawn comparisons to Elvis and Roy Orbison for his “revivalist rockabilly style,” is from nearby Stockton, and was presumably playing a gig in his relative backyard.

Alas, by the time he was to appear, I was long gone, and the what-could-have-been remains: one of long-time favourite artists combined with a new-found favourite wine, in amazing vineyard setting.

Hopefully, this week’s video will show you why. It’s not his dreamy/steamy hit “Wicked Game,” rather another hit, “Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing,” from the 1995 album ‘Forever Blue.” It was a good, good thing.

Lyrics

Baby did a bad bad thing, baby did a bad bad thing
Baby did a bad bad thing, baby did a bad bad thing

You ever love someone so much you thought your little heart was gonna break in two?
I didn’t think so
You ever tried with all your heart and soul to get your lover back to you?
I wanna hope so

You ever pray with all your heart and soul just to watch her walk away?
Baby did a bad bad thing, baby did a bad bad thing
Baby did a bad bad thing, feel like crying, feel like crying

You ever toss and turn, you’re lying awake and thinking about the one you love?
I don’t think so
You ever close your eyes, making believe you’re holding the one you’re dreaming of?
Well, if you say so

It hurts so bad when you finally know just how low, low, low, low, low she’ll go
Baby did a bad bad thing, baby did a bad bad thing
Baby did a bad bad thing, I feel like crying, I feel like crying

Feel like crying, feel like crying
Feel like crying, feel like crying

Baby did a bad bad thing
Baby did a bad bad thing

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Identifies Priorities for Boosting Rural Tourism Potential

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UNWTO Identifies Priorities for Boosting Rural Tourism Potential - TRAVELINDEXPunta Cana, Dominican Republic, May 18, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has launched a new report to determine the status of rural tourism in its Member States and identify the main challenges and opportunities of tourism as a driver for rural development from a policy perspective.

“Tourism and Rural Development: A Policy Perspective – Results of the UNWTO Survey on Tourism for Rural Development to Member States” represents the first baseline document of UNWTO on tourism and rural development with the participation of Member States worldwide.

Key Findings: Rural Tourism for Opportunity

  • More than half of all Member States (59%) stated that rural tourism is a priority
  • Almost all Member States (96%) foresee a better future for rural tourism in the upcoming years
  • The creation of new jobs, improvement of livelihoods and fighting depopulation were the most frequently-cited opportunities offered by tourism for rural areas
  • Member States also identified the conservation and promotion of cultural heritage and environmental protection as among the biggest potential benefits of rural tourism

Main Challenges in Rural Areas  

The UNWTO research also identified three main challenges associated with realizing the potential of tourism for rural development:

  • The “infrastructure gap” in rural areas. Deficiencies in roads, ports, airports and other infrastructure that allow access to rural areas remain a challenge for the surveyed countries.
  • Rural depopulation. Seasonality and farming product competitiveness add to this challenge, increasing the instability of rural businesses, which prevents the retention of population and human resources.
  • The lack of education and training, as well as skills development, in addition to the capacity to attract and retain workforce talent.

Other challenges include limitations in accessing financial systems, restrictions in the development of innovative tourism products in rural areas, managing the impacts of degradation of natural resources, and limitations in handling data, digitalization, and knowledge management.

UNWTO: Advancing Tourism for the SDGs

In terms of how tourism can help in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNWTO Member States emphasized the potential of rural tourism for advancing SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 11 (Sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).

The report was launched during the 118th Session of the UNWTO Executive Council in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.  It forms part of the work of UNWTO’s Tourism for Rural Development Programme, established to develop initiatives and programmes to grow the sector in size and relevance as well as to monitor it in destinations worldwide.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Finch Elevates Bangkok Nightlife on Sukhumvit

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Finch Elevates Bangkok Nightlife on Sukhumvit - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, May 18, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Situated in the heart of Bangkok’s Sukhumvit 11, Finch offers a memorable night out, captivating guests with its dynamic atmosphere and exceptional experiences – a unique blend of international cuisine, cutting-edge mixology, and unparalleled entertainment options. Say hello to Finch, Bangkok’s newest and most sought-after lifestyle destination. Nestled in the vibrant Sukhumvit 11, Finch offers an enticing blend of international cuisine, world-renowned mixology, and unparalleled entertainment options, creating the ultimate lifestyle experience for tastemakers and partygoers alike.

Deepak Mishra, the founder of Finch Inter Company Limited, sharing his vision for the brand, said, “Finch is an essential destination, establishing a new benchmark for exquisite cuisine, mixology culture, and nightlife entertainment on Bangkok’s Sukhumvit 11. Designed for the discerning aesthete, Finch’s youth-centric vibe and modern ambience make it perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a long day. Finch is a unique destination where food enthusiasts and Bangkok’s party crowd converge to revel in an exceptional experience driven by our dedication to innovation and excellence.”

With an investment value of 75 million-baht, Finch has already found success in India, with locations in Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Ludhiana. Finch Bangkok is the brand’s first foray into Southeast Asia, with plans to expand in the region. “We chose the Sukhumvit 11 location and Bangkok because Thailand is a wonderful country, with people enjoying freedom. It is a bustling modern city, rich in culture, and its unique charms attract tourists worldwide. In addition, the city is known for its food scene, vibrant nightlife, and entertainment districts, making it a prime opportunity for investing in the restaurant and bar business,” explained Mishra.

Finch’s lively decor is immersive and captivating. A harmonious blend of vibrant reds and blues contrasts with bold black elements, paying tribute to the colourful bird that has inspired the venue. As you step inside, you’re welcomed by an eye-catching birdcage display featuring a finch replica, setting the scene for a truly unforgettable experience. The inventive design continues with a birdcage-themed sofa and stunning faux stained-glass images of finches, adding a whimsical touch to the atmosphere.

The first impression is vibrantly strong from the décor, the music, and the friendly service that welcomes you. Then indulge in an extraordinary culinary journey as you savour gourmet delicacies, each meticulously paired with a mocktail, signature cocktail, or alcoholic beverage from their extensive list. Finally, immerse yourself in the live music performances that you cannot afford to miss.

Finch aims to provide its patrons with the most compelling dining and nightlife experience by combining modern rhythms, world cuisine, and mixology culture. Witness the theatrical art of mixology as it unfolds, fulfilling Finch’s mission to lead the fine art of mixology in Bangkok.

The restaurant’s menu (Culinary Discovery) boasts an eclectic selection of delectable dishes, each inspired by global flavours and crafted with the finest ingredients. The artful presentation of each dish is sure to make every dining experience Instagram-worthy. A must-try is the succulent Mutton Rogan Josh prepared with Kashmiri spices and flavourful garlic, ginger, and aromatic spice gravy. The famous Delhi 6 Chicken Curry, served with Malabari paratha, mint sauce, and onion salad, is a nod to Old Delhi’s culinary traditions. Patrons can also savour the fiery JD Wings, marinated in Finch’s secret recipe and flambéed with Jack Daniel’s, or delight in the tangy and crispy Karela Salad, featuring crispy bitter gourd, onion, chilli, and tamarind dressing.

The unique Activated Charcoal Dumplings, filled with broccoli and almonds, are an innovative addition to the menu, while the Indo-Chinese Chilli Paneer combines cottage cheese chunks with chilli, ginger, peppers, and spring onions. The Chicken Tikka Our Way features a spicy peri-peri chilli and cilantro pesto marinade, cooked in a traditional clay oven and is served with a yoghurt dip and masala onions. The Moroccan Soya Kebab, made with soya, couscous, mint, Moroccan spices, and cheese, is served with soft pita, tzatziki, and hummus for a must-try fusion dish. Palak Patte Ki Chaat offers deep-fried baby spinach coated with gram flour batter and topped with tangy chutneys, creamy yoghurt, an assortment of crispy snacks and fresh pomegranate. Finally, indulge your sweet tooth with a live table-side dessert creation – Master Chef Big Bang featuring a chocolate sphere filled with white chocolate brownies, nuts, fruits, and a medley of sauces.

As the night unfolds, Finch also provides a delectable late-night dining experience to complement Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife, serving a mouth-watering assortment of dishes for supper. From 1 am to 4 am, indulge in the Finch Supper Menu designed to satisfy even the most discerning palates and elevate the night out. The immensely satisfying offering includes Gucchi Biryani is a flavourful combination of rice, gucchi (Himalayan morel mushrooms), spices, meat, vegetables, condiments, and Indian herbs. Tandoori Chicken, another Indian favourite, features chicken marinated in yoghurt and spices, grilled to perfection in a traditional tandoor oven.

Tom Yum Kung, a popular Thai dish, boasts fresh shrimp, mushrooms, Tom Yum paste, coconut milk, bird’s eye chilli, and lime for a sour, spicy, and aromatic experience. The Chicken Cashew Nut is a flavourful festival of garlic, onions, sweet peppers, fried chicken, and cashew nuts. Finally, the translucent Crystal Dumplings reveal a colourful medley of ingredients (water chestnut, bok choy & sprouts), artfully combined for an unforgettable taste sensation.

Finch’s inventive mixology is sure to be at the forefront of Bangkok’s nightlife scene. The expert mixologists create handcrafted cocktails, each boasting a unique flavour profile and presentation that will surely raise the bar in Sukhumvit 11 Bangkok, redefining the art of mixology.

Indulge in the eye-catching Bird Cage, featuring blue agave spirit, orange liqueur, rosemary-infused honey, and chilli ice cubes. The Song Bird blends cold-infused spices, vodka, lychee and passionfruit macerated in white wine, bitters, and cedar wood smoke for unforgettable sips. Other options include the enchanting Bird Nest – red wine macerated stone fruit, cold-infused smoked whisky and raisins. While Harmony: Ice Series offers gin and tonic options. Then there is Cuban Mojito and the iconic Singapore Sling.

Non-alcoholic choices that tempt lead with the aptly named Temptation, a mix of passion fruit, mint leaves, lime wedges, and a splash of carbonated water. Option for the refreshing Pleasure featuring green apple, cucumber, and ginger beer or ale or quench your thirst with the invigorating Desire, blending peppermint, coconut, pineapple, and blue curacao. Finally, succumb to the allure of the Seduction, a harmonious blend of lychee, lime juice, mint leaves, and vanilla syrup for a sweet and sour delight.

Entertainment is the heartbeat of Finch, with a diverse line-up of live music from solo artists, across genres, renowned bands, high-energy residential DJs, themed music events, and old-school nostalgia in a modern setting with on-point acoustics – catering to every preference. Whether you’re in the mood for an intimate live performance or a high-octane dance party, Finch delivers an unrivalled entertainment experience that keeps the energy pulsing all night.

Finch is the place to dine, sip a drink, enjoy the music, and party all night long on Sukhumvit 11 in Bangkok. With its unique culinary offerings, avant-garde mixology, and dynamic entertainment options, Finch is designed to help its guests break free from the mundane and embrace the unforgettable at Bangkok’s newest premium hangout destination.

About Finch
Finch is a new premium hangout destination in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit 11. Offering a unique medley of world cuisine, innovative mixology, and unparalleled entertainment options, it transforms into a late-night lounge and serves supper dishes late into the night. www.finchbangkok.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’: All that glitters in the Golden State

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It didn’t take The Mamas and the Papas to start Canadians dreaming about California. Indeed, with visitation numbers from this country expected to reach pre-pandemic levels this year – and surpass them in 2024 – many Canadians are ready to turn dreams to reality again and return to the Golden State.

With this in mind a delegation of Visit California partners recently convened in Niagara on the Lake, Ont. to update the trade on the latest and greatest news from the state, with fully three dozen reps present.

The ‘Canada Sales and Media’ was designed to bring a bit of California colour to Canada, and share the state’s “free spirited, you do you attitude.”

But where to start in a destination that is virtually a country within a country and boasts beaches, mountains, deserts, canyons, Redwood forests, charming towns, and urban extravaganzas, along with new restaurants and theme park attractions, plus 127 new hotels since 2022 alone?

Travel Industry Today asked delegates of some of 20 destinations in attendance at the mission to come up with just one thing Canadians should know about the place they represented. Here’s what they had to say:

(Ed. note: This article will cover Los Angeles and points South. Stay tuned for Part II – north of LA and the North.)

LOS ANGELESMassive airlift to Los Angeles brings tens of thousands of Canadians through the City of Angels, which boasts more than 30 culturally rich communities and 120 km of shoreline. This year’s marquee headline is the 100-year anniversary of the famed Hollywood sign (photo), with centennial festivities planned throughout the year, reports Melissa Yunk of the LA Tourism & Convention Board.

SANTA MONICA

Locals call it “secret summer,” the Sept.-Nov. period when the weather is great and the high summer crowds diminish, says Santa Monica’s Canadian PR rep Sana Keller, who adds that there is no better time to visit LA’s “beach city,” which also makes an ideal base to explore the City of Angels.

MARINA DEL REY

Another great base in LA, located about 7 km from the airport, is one of the largest small craft harbours in the world with Marina del Rey boasting a quiet, peaceful, nautical vibe, says Kathrina Jacob of the community’s tourist board. An idyllic oasis in the mega city.

PASADENA

More than 20 km from downtown LA, Pasadena is known for its iconic Rose Bowl parade, the “little old lady from…” and the gang from ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ but it’s also a centre of architecture and gardening, says Christine Susa,
notably The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens, the latter encompassing about 53 hectares that feature living collections in 16 stunning themed gardens with more than 83,000 living plants, including rare and endangered species, and a laboratory for botanical conservation and research.

BEVERLY HILLS

‘Happy Trails’ is a new series of urban walks designed to give visitors a curated look at Beverly Hills. Dubbed “a hike city lovers will like” by the Los Angeles enclave’s CVB, the trail features eight map itineraries designed to guide food lovers, history buffs, and arts and culture aficionados on a personalized journey through the famously fabulous destination. Trails include Caviar & Bubbly; Sweets & Treats; A Step Back in History; Scene and Be Seen; Red Carpet Ready Trail; Around the World’ Trail; An Artist’s Dream’ Trail’; and ‘The Great Outdoors.’ The ‘Happy Trails’ guide, which also features interactive QR codes leading directly to Google Maps for easy navigation, can be found HERE.

NEWPORT BEACH

Newport Beach

Between LA and San Diego, is more water than land in Newport Beach, making it the largest recreational harbour on the West Coast, says Megan Johns. Besides water, the vibe is laid back luxury, but she adds, “We’re still a beach town.” Watch out for The Pendry, an ultra luxe hotel coming in the fall.

HUNTINGTON BEACH

“Surf City USA” says it all about the coastal enclave, located about an hour South of the LA/Anaheim area. So ingrained is the sport, says Jennifer Tong, that “adaptive surfing” is available for disabled persons, part of a more extensive program of accessibility that includes wider sidewalks, beach wheelchairs (free to rent), bike-to-shore Mobi-mats, and more.

TEMECULA VALLEY

More or less in the centre of the triangle bounded by LA, San Diego, and Palm Springs, Tecumula Valley is wine country – something most people don’t attribute to SoCal, says the region’s Annette Brown. More than 50 wineries thrive, many so close together as to make a walkable trail. And it’s great wine! she assures. Some of the wineries offer dining, accommodation, and special activities.

PALM SPRINGS

Made-up of nine communities (you’ll need a car), coming up with just one thing about Greater Palm Springs is difficult. But pressed, Laura Hunt Little says, “for Canadians coming, we are your best chance at a sunny, warm and dry vacation in California!” In summer it is hot, she concedes, but mainly in the afternoon, so visitors pay taking part in the outdoor-active lifestyle should use discretion.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Focus Africa to Strengthen Aviation’s Contribution to African Development

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Focus Africa to Strengthen Aviation's Contribution to African Development - TRAVELINDEX - VISITETHIOPIA.orgAddis Ababa, Ethiopia, May 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the Focus Africa Conference will delve into six priorities under IATA’s Focus Africa initiative to strengthen aviation’s contribution to the continent’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers. Focus Africa is taking place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 20-21 June 2023, with Ethiopian Airlines as the host airline.

“Over the next 15 years, Africa’s passenger traffic is expected to double. The continent stands out as the region with the greatest potential and opportunity for aviation. But this potential is limited by infrastructure constraints, high costs, lack of connectivity, regulatory impediments, slow adoption of global standards and skills shortages, among other factors. The Focus Africa Conference will bring together the continent’s key stakeholders to address these challenges,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, will deliver an Opening Keynote Address. “We are delighted to host IATA’s Focus Africa Conference and welcome the aviation industry to our home, Addis Ababa. Advancing the air transport industry is critical for Africa’s economic growth. The conference will allow industry leaders to join forces and drive the Focus Africa initiative,” said Tasew.

Speakers & Sessions

Walsh, Tasew, and Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice-President for Africa and Middle East will be speaking at the event along with:

  • Yvonne Makolo, CEO RwandAir and Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (2023-2024)
  • Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General, African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC)
  • Abdulrahman Berthe, Secretary General, African Airlines Association (AFRAA)
  • Aaron Munetsi, CEO, Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA)
  • Rodger Foster, CEO Airlink
  • Poppy Khoza, Director General Civil Aviation, South African Civil. Aviation Authority (SACAA)
  • Bradley Mims, Deputy Administrator, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

Session tracks will address:

  • Safety
  • Aeronautical information management
  • Intra-African connectivity
  • Airport infrastructure
  • Biometrics and security
  • Modern airline retailing
  • Sustainability
  • Skilled workforce

View the program and register here.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Best Western Hotels Opens New Hotel in Ratchada Bangkok

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Best Western Hotels Opens New Hotel in Ratchada Bangkok - TRAVELINDEX - BWH HotelsBangkok, Thailand, May 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels has announced the opening of Best Western Ratchada Hotel, Bangkok, a brand-new hotel that lets guests discover a new side of Thailand’s dynamic capital city.

Located in the heart of the rapidly-emerging Ratchada district, just a few minutes from the Embassy of PR China and the Stock Exchange of Thailand, this modern, 120-key midscale hotel is surrounded by commercial towers, restaurants and retail malls. With excellent connectivity via Phra Ram 9 MRT subway station and Thailand Cultural Centre MRT subway station, the bustling Sukhumvit district is just a few stops away, making the highlights of Bangkok within easy reach.

The hotel is also easily accessible from Bangkok’s two major airports – Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang – both of which can be reached in approximately 30-40 minutes via the city’s elevated expressways.

Guests can stay in a selection of comfortable and contemporary rooms, including double, twin or family options, each of which comes fully equipped with the latest amenities. The outdoor swimming pool is a great place to unwind and the onsite restaurant serves daily breakfast in a cozy atmosphere.

For business travelers, Best Western Ratchada Hotel features a boardroom that is ideal for intimate meetings or strategy sessions. High-speed internet is complimentary throughout the property, ensuring that every guest can stay connected.

“It gives me great pleasure to introduce Best Western Ratchada Hotel, situated in one of Bangkok’s most exciting and up-and-coming downtown districts. Comfortable, highly convenient and fully connected, this outstanding midscale hotel demonstrates the power of the BWH Hotels brand to open up new parts of the city and cater to the needs of every traveler. Offering contemporary accommodation with exceptional amenities, we are confident that this hotel will become a popular option for visitors to Bangkok,” said Mr. Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

The opening of Best Western Ratchada Hotel reaffirms BWH Hotels’ position as one of the leading hospitality companies in Thailand’s capital city. The company now offers nine hotels across Bangkok, covering five of its diverse brands.

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

Phuket Hotels Association Launches Absolutely Fabulous Online Travel Sale

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Phuket Hotels Association Launches Absolutely Fabulous Online Travel Sale - TRAVELINDEX - top25hotels.com/phuket/Phuket, Thailand, May 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Phuket Hotels Association, the nonprofit organisation of hoteliers focused on promoting a positive image of Phuket, is inviting members of the public to take part in its “Absolutely Fabulous Online Travel Sale” – an online auction with great prizes that will fund scholarships for talented young people in Phuket. This forms part of the Phuket Hotels Association Benefit (PHAB) 2023 campaign, an important fundraising initiative which also includes “PHAB 5”, a charity gala dinner at Angsana Laguna Phuket on Saturday, 20th May 2023.

Bidding in the online auction is open until midday (Thailand time, UTC+7 hrs) on 15th June, with prizes in dream destinations all around the world! Participants can bid for spectacular five-star stays and exciting experiences generously donated by sponsors in various destinations such as Dubai, Sydney and the Maldives, as well as Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui – all potentially available with big discounts for the highest bidder. In addition to hotel stays, the auction includes a range of exhilarating activities such as yacht charters, golf, tennis, surfing classes and gym memberships.

Proceeds from the auction will sponsor at least 20 hospitality scholarships and internships, exclusively for the benefit of young Phuket residents who would be otherwise unable to fund their education. To date, the association has successfully sponsored over 30 students studying hospitality and tourism in Phuket.

The PHAB 5 online auction is being continually updated with new prizes. Bidders can check back on their progress, make new offers and see what other exciting prizes are coming up! To learn more about the PHAB 5 online auction and to place your bid in the “Absolutely Fabulous Online Travel Sale”, please visit phab.phukethotelsassociation.com/silent-auction.

Great prizes are up for grabs in the online auction, including five-star stays and experiences in Thailand, Singapore and the Maldives to name a few. Members of the public can make bids in the online auction from now until 15th June 2023, and new prizes are being added all the time!

“By taking part in our online auction, not only will you be bidding on great prizes and five-star hotel stays worldwide; you will also be benefiting the local community by helping young people to discover a new career that could raise their standard of living and even support an entire family,” explained Bjorn Courage, President of the Phuket Hotels Association.

Hosted at Angsana Convention & Exhibition Space (ACES), the world-class event space at Angsana Laguna Phuket,“PHAB 5” is an upbeat fundraising event. The evening will commence with welcome cocktails and live music, followed by an indulgent international buffet dinner featuring live cooking stations by some of the top chefs from Phuket’s best hotels, and drinks prepared by the island’s most creative mixologists. A lively MC will keep the fun flowing throughout the night!

Musical highlights include a live band, Feelsion, plus in-demand Phuket DJ CAMMUK, and dazzling dancers who will get the party started with their performances. The event is being supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Tickets are priced at THB 4,900 (premium) or THB 5,900 (VIP), with the proceeds also funding the hospitality scholarships. CLICK HERE to book your tickets!

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Hosts Executive Training on Tourism for Rural Development

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UNWTO Hosts Executive Training on Tourism for Rural Development - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / As part of work on tourism for rural development, UNWTO has concluded its first Executive Training for the Middle East Programme.

Under the theme ‘Tourism for Rural Development: A Practical Approach to Strategy and Product Development‘, the three-day session was held at the UNWTO Regional Office for the Middle East in Riyadh to address the underlying needs for continuous skills development for ensuring up to date learning, adaptation, and innovation.

Sultan AlMusallam, Deputy Minister for International Affairs, Saudi Ministry of Tourism said: “This training programme demonstrates how determined and keen the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and UNWTO are to promote the role of the Regional Office for the Middle East, and to provide every support and assistance possible to the Member States of the Organization in the region.”

Opening the programme, Zoritsa Urosevic, UNWTO Executive Director said: “In the post-pandemic world, the role of tourism in rural development is more relevant than ever. Rural tourism has a high potential to empower local communities, stimulate local economic growth and social change.”

“Our Member States see rural tourism as a priority and we trust this training will support them for continuous learning, adaptation, and innovation. It aims to provide them with the adequate knowledge and capacities to plan and manage tourism in rural territories in a way that contributes to inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development,” she added.

Building skills to support tourism and rural development   

The training session was aimed at managers in charge of rural tourism in National Tourism Administrations from across the region. Around 35 participants from 10 countries joined present, representing Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syrian Arab Republic, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

Sessions focused on issues such as incorporating sustainability dimensions in tourism planning, setting indicators to measure rural tourism strategies, dealing with the specificities of the rural tourism offer and demand, understanding the concept of community engagement through community-based tourism and conducting practical exercises on experiences related to gastronomy, adventure, cultural and ecotourism.

UNWTO Tourism for Rural Development Programme

The UNWTO Tourism for Rural Development Programme was designed with the vision of making tourism a driver of rural development and well-being. It aims to advance the role of tourism in valuing and safeguarding rural territories along with their associated landscapes, knowledge systems, natural and cultural diversity, local values, and activities. The Programme also aims to promote innovative and transformative approaches for the development of tourism in rural destinations that contribute to the three pillars of sustainability – economic, social, and environmental – in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

CARBON FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND: Tourists touted for environmental fund

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Travellers may have little say on how climate crisis affects the places they visit and love, but they could play a more prominent role in helping them recover from environmental calamities if a bold idea by Jamaica’s tourism minister takes hold.

Edmund Bartlett has proposed the establishment of tourism “environmental fund” paid into by travellers in individual destinations with the proceeds earmarked specifically for recovery and resiliency in the face of ever-increasing weather events like hurricanes, drought, coastal erosion, or even human degradation.

And while some proponents believe that travellers “should” pay, Bartlett says any such fund would be strictly voluntary and at the district of the donor. And it would occur at “point of contact,” not as an add-on during the booking process or upon arrival.

Speaking at the recent Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Barbados, Bartlett called the climate crisis the “elephant in the room” for many countries in the tourism-dependent region, namely if tourists can’t or won’t go to a destination – or it can’t accommodate them because of, for example, a hurricane – then an island’s entire economy could virtually shut down.

And while the Caribbean is a highly vulnerable region, the “environmental fund” is a global initiative being championed by the Bartlett-led Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, founded in 2018.

In an interview with Travel Industry Today, Bartlett said the fund was “more than an idea,” and had been recently discussed with tourism partners in the Middle East.

He said it would next be raised at a G20 conference on sustainability.

Acknowledging that the management of such a fund could easily get bogged down at the international level, he envisions travellers being invited to participate locally, every time they “have a cup of tea or glass of milk.”

“What we want,” he said, “is an understanding among the tourist customer to take a personal responsibility for managing a donation to enable planet change ambition that will take you to, not net zero, but net possibility.”

Jamaican tourism minister Edmund Bartlett

He added that the fund is “strong idea that is born of your own commitment to a cause. It’s not about being induced by somebody – not a supplier saying to somebody, ‘do you care to?’ You will walk in and by virtue of your own consumption habit leave something behind.”

Without “inducement,” Bartlett said education would be the key to success of the fund, including partnerships with large and small tourism companies to spread the word.

“You don’t want a law (or) a set of international rules to govern it,” he continued. “What you want is an internal sense of doing something to reduce your carbon footprint.”

CHTA president Nicola Madden-Greig believes the fund would be a hit. “I think there are persons out there who would do that… People across the world who would want to contribute,” she said.

The fund would ultimately guarantee a resource for the recipient destination – “where the visitor actually goes and does the damage to nature and… benefits from trees being cut down, so new trees can be planted; and utilizes the sanitation system, and so on,” said Bartlett. “What we’re talking about is, ‘I have a footprint and I pay for it.’ And what I’m paying for is what I can afford and what I can voluntarily do. But I must do something!”

“My take on it,” Bartlett concluded, “is tourism must take the responsibility (to lead the fight against climate change), not (leave it) to someone else. It’s a recognition by all of us that there would be no tourism if we don’t take responsibility. It would not exist… if climate change overtakes us, and the beaches are gone.

“The fund is a tourism response to the need for climate management and to provide the resources to countries mitigate, manage and recover from these disruptions.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News