Global Travel News

Gut Health Takes Centre Stage at Kamalaya

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Gut Health Takes Centre Stage at Kamalaya - TOP25HOTELS.comKoh Samui, Thailand, July 21, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Gut health has never been a hotter topic. And Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Thailand is highlighting the vital role the digestive system plays in everything from immunity and energy levels to mental wellbeing.

Drawing on the latest scientific understanding alongside holistic healing traditions, the award-winning wellness sanctuary’s dedicated Enriched Gut programme is designed to help guests restore balance from the inside out.

“All disease begins in the gut” is often attributed to the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates. More than 2,000 years later, a growing body of scientific research continues to reinforce just how central the gut is to overall health. Far more than a digestive organ, the gut is now recognised as a key influence on the immune system, metabolism and the gut-brain connection.

At the centre of gut health is the microbiome: the vast community of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tract. Around 70% of the body’s immune cells are in the gut, helping explain why an imbalance can have effects that extend far beyond digestion. Persistent bloating, fatigue, disturbed sleep, skin issues and recurring minor infections can all be signs that the microbiome is out of balance, while research increasingly points to the important role that nutrition, stress management and sleep play in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

“When we look after the gut, we are not tending to a single organ; we are supporting the ground on which immunity, metabolism and mood are built,” says Rita Castanhito, Naturopath and Wellness Consultant at Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary.

She adds: “The gut tends to signal when it needs attention. The clearest signs are digestive: persistent bloating, discomfort after meals or changes in bowel habits. Low energy, disturbed sleep, skin changes and frequent minor infections can also point towards an imbalance worth exploring. No single symptom confirms a problem, but when several persist, they are the body’s invitation to look more closely.”

Nutrition plays a central role in supporting the microbiome. A varied diet rich in fibre, healthy fats, quality protein and minimally processed foods helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria, while consistent eating habits and good sleep support the body’s natural rhythms. Together, these everyday choices provide the foundation for long-term digestive health and overall wellbeing.

Kamalaya’s Enriched Gut programme combines personalised nutritional guidance with a predominantly plant-based, nutrient-rich approach designed to support the microbiome and optimise digestive health. Alongside tailored meal plans, guests receive treatments including Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage, Ayurvedic Kati Vasti therapy, ozone therapy and targeted infusion therapies.

The programme also incorporates yoga, meditation, pranayama and Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies including acupuncture and cupping, with guidance from Kamalaya’s multidisciplinary team of wellness consultants, naturopaths, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners and movement specialists, helping guests develop sustainable habits that extend well beyond their stay.

“So much of how we feel each day begins quietly, in the gut,” says Rita. “Nourish it well, and you give the whole body a steadier foundation to thrive on.”

About Kamalaya
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary is a multi-award-winning haven nestled on the tranquil southern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. Since 2005, Kamalaya has provided a nurturing environment for guests to reconnect with balance, vitality and inner harmony. Integrating the wisdom of Eastern healing traditions with the science of Western medicine, Kamalaya offers personalised wellness programmes that support each individual’s path to lifelong wellbeing. These include Detoxification, Gut Health, Sleep Enhancement, Movement & Strength, Emotional Resilience and Longevity.

Kamalaya translates to “Lotus Realm”, symbolising the growth and unfolding of the human spirit. Taking a unique approach to complete wellbeing and personal fulfilment, Kamalaya transcends the traditional spa experience to offer self-discovery and life enhancement through diverse healing traditions and holistic lifestyle concepts.

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Nzovu Rundu Luxury Camp in the Lower Zambezi Launched

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Nzovu Rundu Luxury Camp in the Lower Zambezi Launched - TRAVELINDEXLower Zambezi, Zambia, July 21, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Shearzone Safaris proudly marked a significant milestone with the official opening of Nzovu Rundu Luxury Camp, its newest luxury safari property in the Lower Zambezi National Park on Friday 17th July 2026.

The opening reinforced the company’s commitment to investing in sustainable tourism, conservation and authentic Zambian hospitality.

The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Evans Muhanga, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, and attended by Her Royal Highness Chieftainess Chiawa, senior government officials, representatives from the tourism industry, conservation partners and invited guests.

Nzovu Rundu Luxury Camp is the second property in the Shearzone Safaris portfolio following the successful launch of Mozhi Bush Camp in Kafue National Park. The company also has future developments planned in North and South Luangwa, further strengthening its investment in Zambia’s tourism sector.

Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. Caleb Mulenga, Board Chairman of Shearzone Safaris, said:  “Nzovu Rundu is more than a luxury safari camp; it is our investment in Zambia’s future, creating opportunities for communities while showcasing the very best of our country’s natural heritage.”

Representing Government, Permanent Secretary Mr. Evans Muhanga commended the investment, noting that the opening reflects growing confidence in Zambia’s tourism industry and contributes to economic growth through increased private sector investment.

Her Royal Highness Chieftainess Chiawa welcomed the investment into her chiefdom and emphasized the importance of partnerships that promote conservation, create employment and deliver lasting benefits to local communities.

Designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness, Nzovu Rundu Luxury Camp offers guests an intimate safari experience with luxury accommodation, exceptional guiding, river-based activities and immersive wildlife encounters in one of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes.

As a proudly Zambian owned tourism company, Shearzone Safaris remains committed to developing world class safari experiences while contributing to conservation, community development and the continued growth of Zambia’s tourism industry.

>> WATCH AN INTERVIEW WITH SHEARZONE CEO TOLAI FORTUNA HERE

 

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Meliá Chiang Mai’s Planted 6,650 Trees

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Meliá Chiang Mai's Planted 6,650 Trees - TOP25HOTELS.comChiang Mai, Thailand, July 20, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Chiang Mai’s staff have helped regenerate more than seven acres of seasonally dry tropical forest in northern Thailand by planting 6,650 native trees through the hotel’s ongoing Meliá Go Green initiative, supporting biodiversity and forest restoration in one of the country’s most ecologically significant regions.

Almost 180 hotel team members joined the Doi Suthep Nature Center on June 26, 2026, to plant the latest 800 native trees across two rai in Mae Taeng and Mae Rim in Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

The 13th Meliá Go Green activity brought together volunteers to plant carefully selected native species that will help restore the area’s natural forest ecosystem, including Quercus semiserrata, Castanopsis diversifolia, Ficus capillipes and Antidesma bunius, among others.

Working in partnership with the Doi Suthep Nature Center, Meliá Chiang Mai has supported forest restoration efforts since 2022, helping regenerate degraded areas with native tree species that strengthen biodiversity, improve watershed health and create habitat for wildlife. The forests associated with Doi Suthep-Pui National Park are among northern Thailand’s richest natural ecosystems, home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2,000 species of ferns and flowering plants.

“Meliá Go Green has become so much more than a regular volunteer activity,” said Meliá Chiang Mai General Manager Marc Selinger. “Our team is making a tangible contribution to restoring northern Thailand’s forests with the Doi Suthep Nature Center to help protect biodiversity and leave a positive environmental legacy for future generations.”

The tree-planting initiative forms part of Meliá Chiang Mai’s wider commitment to responsible tourism and community engagement. Throughout the hotel, sustainability initiatives are designed to reduce environmental impact and support local people and culture.

The hotel’s 360-degree cuisine programme champions locally-sourced chemical-free, seasonal ingredients, and minimising food waste. The hotel works closely with farmers, universities and their students, and communities to encourage sustainability measures that make the food system more resilient.

The GALLERY social enterprise in the hotel lobby showcases handcrafted products created by local artisans and community enterprises. The enterprise helps preserve traditional skills and generate sustainable incomes in communities in need.

Together with Meliá Go Green, these initiatives encapsulate the sustainability vision of the hotel’s owner, Asset World Corporation (AWC), to create lasting environmental and social value.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the best-known international brand in the portfolio of the Meliá Hotels International company; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The brand offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all important business cities as well as in exotic locations, catering to the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market. As part of its innovation philosophy and new positioning, Meliá Hotels & Resorts has reinvented itself to cater to every aspect of the guests’ wellbeing. Unique experiences are created for guests and are defined by relaxation, quality time and personalised services. For a balanced lifestyle, Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations, which is an integral part of its redefined identity.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, The Meliá Collection, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” network. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

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, Meliá Hotels 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.

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Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival

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Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival - TRAVELINDEX

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 20, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok welcomes the Mid-Autumn Festival with its 2026 Mooncake Collection, created for sharing, gifting, and celebrating one of Asia’s most cherished traditions. This year, the collection takes on added significance as the legendary riverside hotel marks its 150th anniversary, with commemorative packaging inspired by its rich heritage and enduring legacy along the Chao Phraya River.

Leading the collection is the new Caramelised Pecan Nuts with Chiang Mai Coffee Mooncake, created exclusively for this milestone year. Inspired by the mist-covered mountains of Mae Kampong, the mooncake features locally grown Arabica coffee sourced from one of Northern Thailand’s most celebrated coffee-growing communities. Sustainably grown beneath the forest canopy in a cool highland environment, the coffee develops a distinctive aroma and gentle character shaped by its natural surroundings, and paired with caramelised pecan nuts, it brings subtle roasted notes and balanced sweetness to a mooncake that offers a fresh interpretation of a Mid-Autumn classic.

The collection is complemented by three enduring classics: Custard, Salted White Lotus Seed with Egg Yolk, and Durian with Egg Yolk.

Created for family gatherings, festive celebrations and seasonal gifting, this year’s collection is presented in auspicious gold packaging adorned with illustrations of The Oriental Building and the hotel’s 150th anniversary emblem. Designed as a keepsake, each box commemorates an important milestone in the history of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

The Oriental Classic, priced at THB 1,150 net, features eight mooncakes presented in a newly designed octagonal box finished in gold leather and detailed with the hotel’s signature motifs.

For those seeking a truly distinctive gift, The Oriental Luxury, priced at THB 8,150 net, presents sixteen mooncakes alongside an exclusive 150th Anniversary Celebration Tea created by TWG Tea and a pair of signature teacups inspired by The Authors’ Lounge. Adorned with a commemorative 150th Anniversary magnet and presented in an elegant multi-drawer keepsake box finished in auspicious gold, it is a collector’s edition created to mark this milestone year.

Recognising the importance of Mid-Autumn gifting in fostering business relationships and expressing appreciation, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok also offers bespoke corporate editions of both collections. Thoughtfully tailored with personalised branding and design elements, these custom creations provide a distinctive way to celebrate the season while leaving a lasting impression.

Available from 24 July to 25 September 2026, the 2026 Mid-Autumn Mooncake Collection offers a meaningful way to celebrate the season while sharing in the story of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s 150th anniversary.

Celebrate the season with exclusive Early Bird privileges, enjoying 10% savings on orders placed from 24 July to 16 August 2026, with collection available from 24 July to 23 August 2026, including a 5% saving on self-pick-up, savings of up to 30% on bulk orders, and complimentary corporate customisation with delivery within Bangkok city area for orders of 200 boxes or more. Whether shared with family or presented as a corporate gift, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok invites you to mark this Mid-Autumn Festival with a gesture that will be remembered long after the season ends.

For orders and enquiries, please contact mobkk-mooncake@mohg.com or call +66 (0) 2 659 9000 ext. 6811, 6812 (8am – 6pm daily).

About Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Built in 1876 and ideally located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has been delighting guests for nearly 150 years. The 331-room hotel has inspired generations of world-renowned writers — from Joseph Conrad and Somerset Maugham to Wilbur Smith and John le Carré — after whom many of the suites are named.

The property offers 11 restaurants and bars, ranging from traditional Thai cuisine to French fine dining at Anne-Sophine Pic at Le Normandie. Private teakwood shuttle boats provide daily access across the river to The Oriental Thai Cooking School, Sala Rim Naam and Terrace Rim Naam, as well as the award-winning Oriental Spa and the Fitness & Wellness Centre, and also connect guests to the nearest sky train station, Saphan Taksin, and to ICONSIAM, Thailand’s landmark mixed-use complex and home to The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

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The Brand Saloon Appoints Dr. Chanida C. Charuchinda as Regional Director

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The Brand Saloon Appoints Dr. Chanida C. Charuchinda as Regional Director - TRAVELINDEX

The Brand Saloon Appoints Dr. Chanida C. Charuchinda as Regional Director - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 20, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Brand Saloon (TBS), a premier global marketing technology company, has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Chanida C. Charuchinda (Dr. Cee) as its new Regional Director for Thailand and Southeast Asia (SEA). This strategic move marks a significant milestone in TBS’s global expansion framework as it establishes its regional headquarters at True Digital Park in Bangkok to serve enterprise clients across the region.

Dr. Cee brings an elite track record of executive leadership and luxury asset management strategy to the role. In this capacity as Regional Director, Dr. Cee will oversee the company’s regional growth, cross-border corporate partnerships, and business operations, bridging Southeast Asia’s high-potential market opportunities with TBS’s massive global technical infrastructure.

Dr. Cee prioritized the firm’s immediate vision for the regional market:

TBS is a global Marketing Technology Company with an 18-year track record, trusted by over 1,000 satisfied clients worldwide. Our world-class technical teams are strategically stationed across major global hubs, including Mumbai, Dubai, and the United States. My primary focus here in the region is to deploy our Global Infrastructure Solutions to transform traditional marketing expenditures into direct, highly measurable revenue streams for our clients.”

The launch of the Thailand and SEA hub comes at a pivotal time when corporations are moving beyond traditional advertising agencies toward robust marketing technology frameworks. By leveraging TBS’s extensive multi-hub network and proprietary tech engines, the regional office is uniquely positioned to deliver enterprise-grade architecture that bridges local high-value sectors—such as premium real estate, wellness hospitality, and medical institutions—with international markets.

Under Dr. Cee’s leadership, TBS Thailand will focus heavily on shifting corporate mindsets from surface-level vanity metrics to definitive, technology-driven business outcomes, ensuring that regional brands remain highly resilient, visible, and dominant in the evolving digital and artificial intelligence eras.

About The Brand Saloon (TBS)

Founded in 2008, The Brand Saloon (TBS) is a globally recognized Marketing Technology Company with an 18-year history of driving digital transformation and performance architecture for enterprise clients. Trusted by more than 1,000 satisfied clients worldwide—including global giants such as Ford, Red Bull, Tata Housing, L&T Realty, Raymond Realty, and PNG Jewellers—TBS operates a sophisticated cross-border framework with specialized technical, data engineering, and strategic teams stationed across Mumbai, Dubai, and the United States.

As a certified Google Premier Partner—an elite status awarded exclusively to the top 3% of digital agencies globally—TBS delivers proven, audited global accountability. The company’s collective lifetime achievements include driving over 8.5 Billion in organic web traffic, dominating 58,000+ #1 ranked keywords, and delivering more than 2.5 Million high-intent qualified leads to corporate sales pipelines worldwide.

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A Sparkling Beachfront Evening in Koh Samui

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A Sparkling Beachfront Evening in Koh Samui - TRAVELINDEX

A Sparkling Beachfront Evening in Koh Samui - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, July 20, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Celebrate an unforgettable evening by the sea at “Bubbles on the Beach“, a beachfront dining experience in Koh Samui featuring a two-hour free-flow experience, live BBQ stations and live entertainment.

Taking place on Friday, 31 July 2026, from 18:00 hrs. onwards, guests are invited to enjoy a curated two-hour free-flow experience alongside freshly prepared dishes from live BBQ stations, with live entertainment by Bulet completing the evening and creating the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable beachfront gathering.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a gathering with friends, or a unique dining experience in Koh Samui, “Bubbles on the Beach” offers the perfect combination of exceptional food, live entertainment, and relaxed beachfront ambience.

Event Details
Date: Friday, 31 July 2026
Time: From 18:00 hrs. onwards
Price: THB 1,590 net per person
Includes: Two-hour free-flow experience, live BBQ stations, and live entertainment.

Advance reservations are recommended. Please contact Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui.
Facebook: Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui
Email: Reservations-Tongsaibay@garrya.com
Tel: +66 77 913 750

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TAT Strengthens Thai Tourism

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TAT Upgrading Festival Database and Expanding the Sukjai Chatbot AI Assistant to Align with Global Tourism Trends

Upgrading the Festival Database Platform and Expanding the Sukjai Chatbot AI Travel Assistant to Align with Global Tourism Trends

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is advancing its tourism data management by developing the Festival Database Platform. This central hub will connect information on festivals, traditions, and creative activities from across the country. TAT aims to enhance collaboration with the private sector and tourism networks to exchange information and create a comprehensive, up-to-date, and versatile database.

The primary goal is to integrate data from partner networks into a central database, improving data standards for effective use in public relations, marketing planning, tourism product development, and data analysis. This will support decision-making and future tourism promotion strategies.

TAT Upgrading Festival Database and Expanding the Sukjai Chatbot AI Assistant to Align with Global Tourism Trends - TOURISM AUTHORITY of THAILAND

Additionally, TAT is utilizing data from the Festival Database Platform through the Thailand Festival channel to continuously promote captivating festivals and activities nationwide. This initiative showcases stories of traditions, culture, food, music, sports, and creative activities in a format easily accessible to tourists, inspiring travel and boosting the visibility of regional festivals.

To accommodate tourists and adapt to current travel trends, TAT is also employing artificial intelligence technology through the Sukjai Chatbot, an AI Travel Assistant. This tool efficiently recommends festivals and activities based on user interests, budget, and travel dates. The platform also features a Festival Calendar, a comprehensive compilation of event information that allows tourists to easily search and plan their trips throughout the year.

The Festival Database Platform is more than just a resource for festival data; it serves as a vital infrastructure that connects various sectors, fosters communication, creates enriching experiences, and supports the long-term development of Thai tourism. By leveraging data, technology, and collaboration, TAT aims to enhance the potential of Thai festivals and generate economic opportunities for communities and businesses nationwide.

TAT Upgrading Festival Database and Expanding the Sukjai Chatbot AI Assistant to Align with Global Tourism Trends

The Tourism Authority of Thailand believes that integrating festival data from its extensive network of partners, along with digital communication and AI technology, will enhance the reach of Thai festivals to tourists. This initiative will further position Thailand as a Grand Festival Destination, offering diverse travel experiences year-round and sustainably elevating Thailand to a data-driven tourism nation.

Discover activities and festivals across Thailand and plan your trip easily with Sukjai Chatbot and the Festival Calendar today https://festivaldatabaseplatform.com/en

Fred Finn, the World’s Most Travelled Man, to Receive Prestigious Award

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Alicante, Spain, July 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Clevenard is proud to announce that Fred Finn, renowned entrepreneur, strategist, global traveler, and holder of two Guinness World Records, will receive a prestigious Recognition Award at the Clevenard Open Project 2026.

27–30 August 2026
Palacio de Congresos Alicante, Spain

On 29 August 2026, Fred Finn will present:

“Sonic Boom – Reflections from a Life of Travel and Aviation”

Drawing from his remarkable autobiography Sonic Boom, Fred will share inspiring stories from a lifetime of exploration, including his record-breaking 718 Concorde flights and more than 15 million air miles traveled, highlighting the power of curiosity, resilience, and human connection.

The award will be presented during the Clevenard Global Award – 3rd Edition 2026 on 30 August 2026, recognizing his extraordinary achievements and his contribution to global understanding through travel, innovation, and inspiration.

Celebrating a life dedicated to exploration, discovery, and connecting the world.

Fred Finn is a Travelindex Brand Ambassador.

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Dusit Thani College Takes International Program Students on Culinary Study Tour

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Dusit Thani College Takes International Program Students on Culinary Study Tour - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Recently, Dusit Thani College, an educational institution under Dusit Thani Hotels, brought students from the Professional Culinary Arts (International Program) to Singapore for a culinary study tour. Singapore, a small nation yet one of the world’s top travel destinations, offered students a unique opportunity to explore its diverse food culture and professional culinary landscape.

The Singapore Culinary Study Tour 2026 took the students to step beyond the classroom into one of Asia’s most dynamic food capitals. This three‑day international learning experience was designed to ignite creativity, deepen cultural understanding, and elevate professional culinary skills. Throughout the trip, students explored Singapore’s vibrant culinary landscape—from institution to iconic food destinations. A highlight of the journey was the exclusive academic visit to the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), where students observed the renowned Higher Nitec in Culinary Arts program. They engaged with expert chefs, witnessed Singaporean heritage culinary demonstrations, and gained firsthand insight into global standards of culinary education.

Beyond the kitchen, students immersed themselves in Singapore’s multicultural food heritage. From hawker centers to contemporary dining concepts, every stop offered inspiration for future chefs and food innovators. The experience strengthened teamwork, broadened perspectives, and encouraged students to envision their careers on an international stage.

This field trip reflects Dusit Thani College’s commitment to nurturing globally minded culinary professionals—equipped not only with technical excellence but also with cultural intelligence and real‑world experience.

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Europe’s Largest Hostel Chain Publishes Annual Sustainability Report

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Europe's Largest Hostel Chain Publishes Annual Sustainability Report - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, July 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / a&o Hostels has released its annual Sustainability Report for 2025, detailing key environmental achievements. With 46 properties and approximately 31,600 beds in 32 cities and ten European countries, a&o is Europe’s largest hostel chain and continues to set sustainability standards with concrete achievements, clear goals, and transparent tracking.

a&o ESG Director, Arben Maliqi, has presented the fourth Sustainability Report for the company which reviews records set in 2025. The report finds that CO2e emissions per overnight stay have fallen by 1.9 percent compared to 2024, now at 3.58 kilograms. Four new locations, acquired in 2025 and repurposed as a&o accommodation, account for the slight increase in total emissions by 3.1 percent to 13,575 metric tons. The 41-page report, covering the key areas of energy, engagement, and corporate ethics, is now available for download at aohostels.com.

Oliver Winter, Founder and CEO of a&o Hostels, said: “The travel industry is constantly evolving, and a&o is actively shaping this transformation by combining growth with our commitment to further reducing energy consumption and using resources responsibly. Travel remains a fundamental human need and an ever-growing industry. Moving forward, we will continue to work with our partners and guests to contribute to travel that is resource-efficient and socially responsible.

In 2025, a&o welcomed nearly three million guests, who accounted for 6.6 million overnight stays.

Focus on property conversion and collaboration with the Technical University of Berlin

Having opened four new locations in 2025, including the a&o London Docklands Riverside in a historic 17th-century warehouse complex on the Thames, a&o now operates 46 properties, 43 of which are conversions of existing buildings. The company now turns its sights to a major project titled “a&o Berlin Checkpoint Charlie”, the conversion a former office building on Rudi-Dutschke-Straße which is currently vacant. In cooperation with the Technical University of Berlin, a&o is conducting a life cycle assessment study for this new Berlin location intended to serve as a blueprint for future conversion projects.

Key ESG-Goals Achieved   

a&o’s sustainability focus is on direct, verifiable emissions reductions within its own operations and value chain. This includes optimizing energy efficiency, expanding the use of renewable energy, reducing waste, and collaborating closely with suppliers. External offsetting solutions are avoided. ESG-director Arben Maliqi also highlights measures and projects for social engagement. Key initiatives include:

  • 100 percent green electricity: 100 percent of electricity needs at all locations covered by green electricity (where available);
  • Paperless: Waste reduction through 100 percent digital guest registration;
  • Cooperation with the Technical University of Berlin: Creation of a life cycle assessment as a blueprint for further conversions;
  • a&o educare and cultura e storia: Initiation of solidarity-funded school trips and support for the preservation of cultural heritage

The top three destinations with the lowest emissions per overnight stay are:

  • a&o Kopenhagen Sydhavnen (1,88 kg)
  • a&o Kopenhagen Norrebro (1,93 kg)
  • a&o Berlin Mitte (2,24 Kg)

Education, Culture, Community  

In addition to measurable energy-related measures, social engagement is another key component of the a&o sustainability strategy. This includes investments in training, education, and health management for the more than 1,300 employees, as well as support for social and cultural projects.

Examples of this include:

  • 378,000 euros were invested in training and continued education, an increase of eight percent compared to 2024;
  • a&o cultura e storia: In collaboration with local educational, cultural, and administrative institutions, a&o is supporting the restoration of Villa Mocenigo, a neoclassical complex dating from 1805 in Alvisopoli, in the Veneto region, to preserve the site as cultural heritage and make it accessible to visitors once again;
  • a&o educare: the everyonecantravel .app is a platform for solidarity-funded school trips; the “Everyone Comes Along” relief fund helps low-income families finance a class trip;
  • Sports Sponsorship: a&o is involved in soccer, handball, and basketball, among other sports, and is also the main sponsor of the Austrian women’s national team at the Homeless World Cup, an initiative in collaboration with Caritas Graz

Awards and Outlook

For initiatives and projects as part of its ESG commitment, a&o has received multiple awards, including in 2025:

  • The “A World for Travel Societal Development Award”;
  • A “Rating 2” from Sustainable Fitch for a strong ESG profile—for the third consecutive year;

We’re not resting on our laurels,” emphasizes Winter in the foreword to the 2025 Sustainability Report. “We know that much more is still possible and necessary, and we are confident that we will make further significant progress together with our partners and guests in the spirit of sustainable tourism”, he adds.

Since measurements began in 2015, a&o has been able to reduce CO2e emissions by 76 percent to approximately 3.58 kilograms per overnight stay. For more figures, data, and background information, see the latest 2025 Sustainability Report.

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