Global Travel News

Celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights at NILA with a specially curated family-style feast. Savour a selection of Indian specialties, festive flavours, and seasonal delights, and complete your experience with sweet treats that capture the joy and warmth of Diwali.

Available from 15-31 October 2025

Vegetarian THB 950 net per person
Non-Vegetarian THB 1,400 net per person

Nila, located on 4th floor at Amari Bangkok

Book now bit.ly/4kndp2w

Call to book +66 26539000

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Enjoy a refined afternoon with Thai-inspired savoury bites and desserts, perfectly paired with premium TWG tea. A timeless blend of tradition and sophistication, for leisurely afternoons and memorable conversations.

Available daily from 14:00–17:00 hrs.

Start from THB 1,180++ for 2 persons.

Maitree Bar, lobby level at Amari Bangkok

Discover and book www.amari.com/bangkok/special-offers/dining-offers

Call to book +66 2 6539000

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 7, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / SKÅL International Bangkok will warmly welcome Dr. Jutamas “Jan” Wisansing, Managing Director of Perfect Link Consulting Group and founder of the Thailand Gastronomy Network (TGN), as the keynote speaker at its October networking lunch, kicking off at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok.

Fresh from her presentation at the prestigious World Gastronomy Summit, Dr. Jan will share exclusive insights that connect global food trends to Thailand’s flourishing culinary tourism sector. Her keynote will spotlight the acclaimed “Train Journey to the Southern Soul” campaign, the upcoming Thailand Gastronomy Film Festival, and her forward-looking vision for the future of Thai gastronomy.

As the driving force behind the Thailand Gastronomy Network (TGN), Dr. Jan has built a collaborative platform linking chefs, farmers, entrepreneurs, academics, and policymakers. TGN’s initiatives highlight the diversity of Thai cuisine while advancing sustainability, innovation, and destination branding, cementing Thailand’s position on the world stage.

A Gastronomic Lunch at the Grand Hyatt Erawan

Starter
Baby romaine, honey-roasted chicken breast, mustard dressing

Main Course (choice of one)

Grilled Spanish mackerel, watercress, pickled daikon, seaweed neuter blanc

OR

Australian beef bourguignon, root vegetables, mashed potatoes, red wine sauce

Dessert
Mango-sticky rice panna cotta, pink pomelo sorbet

Vegetarian Menu

Burratina, grilled zucchini, basil pesto, toasted pine nuts

Asparagus & spinach lasagna, Parmesan cream, snow peas

Mango-sticky rice panna cotta, pink pomelo sorbet

Remember: Member’s guests are entitled to receive the Member rate!

With Thanks to Our Sponsors

This luncheon is made possible through the generous support of Flow Inter, Prunk & Partners, Marvel Beverages and Events, Serenity Wines, Chalong Bay, Bangkok Vodka, and Move Ahead Media.

Don’t Miss Out

It’s not too late to register. Reserve your seat today and join fellow industry leaders for an afternoon of networking, inspiration, and fine dining as SKÅL Bangkok explores how food, film, and future tourism are reshaping Thailand’s global identity.

EVENT DETAILS

Where: Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok
When: Tuesday 14th October from 11.00 – 14.00
What: Western set lunch, Beer, Wine, Soft Drinks & Coffee
Price: Young Skal 1,000 | Members 1,200 | Non-Members 1,900

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 7, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Nobu Bangkok, the world’s highest Nobu restaurant, invites guests to celebrate its 1st Anniversary with an exclusive “meet and greet” evening with Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the culinary icon whose unique style of Japanese-Peruvian gastronomy has been delighting diners around the world for more than 30 years.

The acclaimed Japanese chef and restaurateur, Chef Nobu opened his first Nobu branded restaurant in New York in 1994. He has since gone on to establish a global empire of 58 restaurants in 24 countries on five continents. Now, Chef Nobu is marking one year of culinary excellence and creativity in Thailand with two exclusive evenings at Nobu Bangkok, which opened its doors in September 2024 and instantly became one of the Thai capital’s most sought-after places to dine.

On November 4 and 5, 2025, discerning diners can enjoy a one-of-a-kind evening that includes a special eight-course Omakase menu featuring some of Chef Nobu’s most iconic signature dishes.

This epicurean adventure commences with a wonderfully fresh and zesty dish of White Fish Myoga Yuzu Kosho Dressing, followed by a luxurious Lobster & Jicama Dry Miso Salad, and a sublime Sushi Selection, including akami zuke, hirame konbu jime, kohada kimioboro, anago, and a house special roll. A vibrant and verdant plate of Seared Scallop Brussel Sprout Jalapeno Dressing is followed by Umami Duck Breast, elevated with dry miso, lime, daikon tsuma and pickles, and an elegant noodle bowl of Inaniwa Chukasoba with Japanese Beef, in a fragrant wagyu and dashi broth. This omakase journey then concludes with Kaffir Lime Cheese Mousse with yuzu curd and pineapple orange compote, followed by an indulgent Caramel Chocolate Mochi.

During the evening, keen foodies will be able to meet Chef Nobu and ask him about his career, inspiration, and vision. As a cherished memento of the occasion, every guest will also be presented with a gift bag, including a signed copy of “Nobu: A Memoir,” Chef Nobu’s biography, a Nobu Bangkok Masu box, and Nobu’s signature dry miso seasoning.

Four opportunities are available to meet Chef Nobu and savor this exclusive, limited-time omakase menu. Two seating times are available on November 4 and 5, 2025, with sunset experiences at 17.30 hrs and after-dark dinners at 19.30 hrs, priced at THB 5,500++ per person. Advanced reservations are essential and a THB 1,000 deposit is required at the time of booking.

So, don’t miss the chance to celebrate Nobu Bangkok’s 1st Anniversary in style with the man whose vision made it possible.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 7, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) reinforced its commitment to cross-regional tourism, as Chief Executive Officer Noor Ahmad Hamid delivered the keynote address at the “Shaping the Future of Japan-EU Travel,” event held at the EU Pavilion during World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

The event was officiated by Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism at the European Commission, and Takeshi Nakano, Vice Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA). It was organised by the European Travel Commission (ETC), one of PATA’s valued partners, represented by CEO Eduardo Santander, in collaboration with the European Union, and supported by the JTA, a public agency under Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).

With tourism flows in both regions heavily concentrated in a limited number of hotspots, the programme focused on how smarter, more balanced tourism can drive recovery and sustainable growth in two-way travel. It covered strategies to diversify travel patterns, strengthen cross-border connectivity, and target responsible travellers through joint marketing and promotion.

“First and foremost, I must express my gratitude to Eduardo Santander, CEO of ETC, his esteemed team, and Marlene Bartes, Policy Officer, Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture of the European Commission, for extending the invitation to PATA,” Hamid noted. “I am honoured to be part of this important dialogue that not only strengthens the cross-regional bond between Japan and the EU, but also creates new opportunities for the Asia Pacific region in advancing cooperation, knowledge exchange, and sustainable growth in tourism.”

“The relationship between Japan and the European Union is one of the most significant economic and cultural corridors in the world. Tourism is not merely a component of this relationship; it is a primary driver of it, fostering mutual understanding and generating substantial economic value. According to FITUR, Japanese travel to the EU is projected at 4.87 million for this year, representing a staggering 67% increase from 2023. This signals a powerful, pent-up demand for long-haul, high-value European travel experiences.”

Hamid further noted that while past achievements and future prospects are significant, they have also given rise to pressing challenges, including mass tourism and high levels of carbon emissions. To address these emerging issues, he proposed applying PATA’s Integrated Destination Facilitation framework to the context of Japan-EU travel.

The holistic, strategic model is designed to engineer a more sustainable future through four key pillars:

• Enabling Policies: Manage visitor distribution away from hotspots and mitigate economic impacts on local communities.
• Smart Infrastructure: Invest in connectivity, particularly rail, to unlock secondary and tertiary destinations.
• Targeted Marketing: Shift from volume-driven to value-driven strategies, attracting high-yield, low-impact travellers.
• Community Engagement: Involve local populations as partners, ensuring they benefit from tourism while preserving cultural heritage.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 7, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Minor Hotels, a global leader in the hospitality industry across hotels, resorts and branded residences in 59 countries, has signed an agreement with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises to form a new joint venture company. The signing ceremony took place at the office of H.E. Prime Minister of Egypt Mostafa Madbouly in the attendance of H.E. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathi; underscoring the importance of this partnership for the country’s growing tourism sector.

The joint venture sets an ambitious target of opening and managing up to 50 hotels over the next decade. Development will span both key urban centres and leisure destinations, including West Cairo, Azha Ras El Hekma on the North Coast and Azha Ain Al Sokhna. As part of the agreement, Minor Hotels will commence management of seven projects, covering operational hotels, brownfield conversions and greenfield developments. A highlight of the pipeline will be the introduction of Minor Hotels’ flagship luxury brand, Anantara Hotels & Resorts in locations across the country.

The partnership will also extend Minor Hotels’ hospitality expertise to Nile cruise operations across Aswan and Luxor, building on the success of Minor Hotels’ portfolio of Asia based river cruises including Mekong Kingdom and Loy Pela, reinforcing Egypt’s appeal as one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations.

William E. Heinecke, Chairman & Founder of Minor International parent company of Minor Hotels commented, “Signing this joint venture with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises is an important milestone as we bring Minor Hotels’ brands and hospitality expertise to Egypt, one of the world’s most storied and inspiring destinations. Together, we are charting a long-term vision that combines SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises’ deep local knowledge with our global reach to deliver exceptional luxury and lifestyle experiences across Egypt’s leading destinations.”

Mr. Hossam El Shaer, Chairman of SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises and Madaar Developments, noted “Egypt’s tourism sector is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by increased investment and growing global interest. We are proud to be part of a collaboration that reflects our shared vision to elevate the country’s hotel and tourism industry. Since founding SUNRISE in 2002 we’ve focused on creating integrated, sustainable destinations that meet the highest international standards. This Partnership signals strong global confidence in Egypt’s economy and directly supports the goals of Egypt’s Vision 2030.”

The new entity establishes a long-term strategic partnership to introduce and expand Minor Hotels’ world-class brands across Egypt’s dynamic and fast-growing tourism sector.

About SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises

Founded in 2002, SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises is one of Egypt’s leading hospitality groups, operating 27 resorts and 7 Nile cruise ships. With over 9,000 rooms and properties across key Egyptian destinations—including Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Luxor, Aswan, Ain Sokhna, and Alexandria—as well as a growing international presence in Greece, Zanzibar, and Morocco, SUNRISE welcomes over 5 million guests annually. The group is supported by a dedicated team of 10,000 hoteliers.

About Madaar Developments

Madaar Developments is a premier luxury real estate developer in Egypt, known for delivering fully integrated destinations with world-class facilities. Its diverse portfolio includes major projects such as Kinz in the west of Cairo, AZHA Ain Sokhna on the Red Sea, and AZHA Ras El Hekma on Egypt’s North Coast. With a land bank spanning over 1,000 acres and more than 5,000 units, these developments have generated sales exceeding EGP 40 billion over the past 10 years.

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Almaty, Kazakhstan, October 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Women’s empowerment is being placed at the heart of tourism development through a new collaboration between UN Tourism and the Almaty Tourism Bureau.

Kazakh women have historically played a strong role in society, from Nomadic times to the 21st century, and currently make up a large segment of the tourism workforce in the Almaty region. However barriers still remain in the way of their full participation and advancement in the sector, most notably a lack of financial investment, training and equal representation in leadership positions.

To address this, UN Tourism has welcomed Kazakhstan to its flagship ‘Centre Stage’ initiative. Centre Stage provides targeted support to governments and tourism businesses, creating more opportunities for women’s empowerment and their professional development. In the new collaboration, the city of Almaty, local tourism businesses and civil society organizations will undertake a series of activities to give visibility to the huge contribution of women to the Kazakh tourism sector and implement measures aimed at providing more opportunities for economic empowerment and career progression.

Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director of UN Tourism, says “Women are shaping the future of sustainable tourism in Kazakhstan and across the region. Through the Centre Stage programme, UN Tourism is empowering women entrepreneurs and professionals in Almaty with the skills, support, and confidence they need to lead and succeed.”

Diyar Askarov, Director of Almaty Tourism Bureau, says “Almaty is proud to be a hub where tourism and sustainability come together, and where women play a growing and vital role across all sectors of our industry. Empowering women in tourism is essential for driving innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable growth, and their leadership makes a real difference for communities and for the city as a whole. Through our partnership with UN Tourism, we are committed to supporting women professionals and entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive. Together, we are shaping Almaty’s future as a centre of opportunity, global connection, and shared progress.”

Within the framework of the Centre Stage initiative, UN Tourism and Kazakhstan will partner around key initiatives, including:

• Regional Conference on the Empowerment of Women in Tourism in Europe (22-23 October)
• 3-month training programme with up to 200 tourism professionals
• Awareness raising campaign
• Almaty ‘Call for Action’ for women in tourism

The Almaty ‘Call for Action’ for women in tourism will contain measures supporting women-owned businesses, introducing gender-responsive budgeting, more training opportunities and promoting women’s leadership in decision-making roles.

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Madrid, Spain, October 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) have launched the UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism powered by FIA.

Featuring four categories, the awards are designed to recognise initiatives that drive sustainability, innovation, social impact, and successful examples of public-private partnership within the sports tourism sector, while promoting and encouraging responsible practices that align with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.

1. Most Sustainable Sport Event
2. Community Impact in Sports Tourism
3. Innovation in Sports Tourism Development
4. Outstanding Public-Private Partnerships in Sports Tourism

The launch of these Awards builds on the strategic partnership established between the two Organizations in September 2024, to foster collaboration in areas where tourism, sport and sustainable mobility intersect.

UN Tourism Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili stated: “These Awards reflect the growing recognition of sports tourism as a strategic driver of sustainable development, social cohesion and innovation. We are proud to partner with our Affiliate Member FIA to honour the efforts of those making a meaningful impact through sport and tourism”.

FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, added: “Sport and tourism are both powerful drivers of economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development. This partnership with UN Tourism, and these Awards, will not only celebrate best practice but also inspire others to create positive change. Together we can build a future where sport continues to unite people and benefit societies worldwide.”

As one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, sports tourism reached a market value of $609 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $2.3 trillion by 2032, and this initiative seeks to spotlight exemplary initiatives that are shaping the future of the sector. The awards are open to UN Tourism Members, FIA Member Clubs, and other stakeholders involved in the fields of sports and tourism.

The Awards are now open, and UN Tourism and FIA invite all eligible organizations to take part in this first edition – a unique opportunity to showcase how sport and tourism can drive sustainability.

About the FIA

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility.

Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including seven FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.

About UN Tourism

The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), a United Nations specialized agency, is the leading international organization with the decisive and central role in promoting the development of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. It serves as a global forum for tourism policy issues and a practical source of tourism know-how. Its membership includes 160 countries, 6 territories, 2 permanent observers and over 500 Affiliate Members.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) reinforced its leadership in the global tourism industry as its Chief Executive Officer, Noor Ahmad Hamid, addressed delegates at the World Tourism Day and World Tourism Conference 2025, held in Melaka, Malaysia, on September 27 – 29.

World Tourism Day 2025 was officiated by The Right Honourable Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia; Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, the Chief Minister of Melaka; YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, the Minister of Culture, Arts & Tourism Malaysia; and Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General, UN Tourism. Held under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the conference underscored tourism’s role as a catalyst for positive economic, social, and environmental change.

During the session “People-Centered Tourism: Unlocking Opportunities through Education, Innovation and Investments,” moderated by Antonio López de Ávila, Director, Innovation, Education and Investment Department, UN Tourism, Hamid joined fellow panellists — Prof. Amran Hamzah, Professor in Tourism Planning, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia; Phillip Seiji Vincent, Managing Partner APAC, Plug and Play; David Bardolet, Academic Director for Executive Education, EHL; and Dr. Aradhana Khowala, CEO & Founder – Aptamind Partners. — in examining how investment in human capital, particularly youth and women, can strengthen resilience, equity, and future-readiness within the tourism sector. The panel further discussed how targeted investments can be scaled to foster entrepreneurship, accelerate digitalisation, and promote long-term sustainability across destinations.

“PATA extends its warm congratulations to the Melaka State Government for being an outstanding host of the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations,” Hamid stated. “As a proud UNESCO Heritage City, Melaka not only showcases its rich cultural legacy but also demonstrates how well-planned tourism infrastructure can deliver real benefits to local communities through thriving community-based tourism initiatives and successful homestay programmes.”

He added, “As always, PATA is honoured to contribute to critical discussions that are shaping the pathway toward a more sustainable and inclusive future for our industry and the communities it serves.”

PATA has long placed sustainability and social responsibility at the heart of its work, supporting the long-lasting transformation of destinations, businesses, and communities across the Asia Pacific through initiatives that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The Association’s wide-ranging projects have led the effort on food and plastic waste reduction, climate resilience, digital transformation, and social inclusion, while being deeply rooted in the development of human capacity of tourism stakeholders of all levels.

By combining global expertise with local action, PATA continues to drive sustainable, inclusive and future-ready tourism development across the region.

Additionally, in recognition of World Tourism Day, PATA launched a dedicated 2025 World Tourism Day campaign, highlighting initiatives from members, partners, and stakeholders who are advancing sustainable transformation in the tourism sector through education, governance, innovation, and climate action.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Award-winning travel photographer, podcaster, blogger, and filmmaker Ric Gazarian is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of the Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF III) to the vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand. Scheduled for October 22-25, 2026, this third iteration of the festival promises to be an unparalleled convergence of the world’s most accomplished and adventurous travelers.

“The Extraordinary Travel Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of global exploration and human connection,” says Gazarian, whose website, @GlobalGaz, features stories and images from his extensive travels. “Following the tremendous success of our previous gatherings, we are excited to bring together this unique community once again in a city that truly embodies the spirit of adventure.”

ETF III is designed for both seasoned mega-travelers (those who have visited many countries, including all 193 UN sovereign nations) and passionate individuals aspiring to push their own travel boundaries. Attendees will gain invaluable insights, share captivating stories, and learn practical strategies from those who have truly gone the distance. While many speakers and attendees have achieved the rare feat of visiting all 193 sovereign countries—an accomplishment that fewer than 400 known people alive today can claim—the festival aims to inspire and inform all who share a deep love for travel, regardless of their current country count.

The festival will feature over 20 dynamic speakers, delivering engaging keynotes, insightful breakout sessions, and lively panel discussions. This year’s stellar lineup includes:

• Jamie Aleman: Traveled to every country in the world, both the North and South Pole, and has traveled to outer space
• Jason Wang: Recently completed summitting Mount Everest completing all Seven Summits
• Kach Medina Umandap: Has visited every country in the world being the first to complete this quest on a Filipino Passport

“Imagine the world’s modern-day Marco Polos gathered in a single location,” Gazarian adds. “The energy, enthusiasm, and vast knowledge exchanged about travel and country-collecting at our previous events were truly transformative.”

The largest mega-travel clubs will be prominently represented, including Every Passport Stamp (30,000 members) and Travel Massive (60,000 members), fostering an unparalleled networking environment.

Building on the success of past festivals, ETF III will offer attendees a robust schedule of speakers, complemented by vibrant parties and a gala dinner. Thailand was recently ranked Richest Culture in Asia by U.S. News & World Report while Travel + Leisure named Thailand its 2025 Destination of the Year.

The Extraordinary Travel Festival is held in such high extreme that both the Wall Street Journal and the Australian Financial Review found it worthwhile to send journalists to write front page travel section articles on the ETF.

The Extraordinary Travel Festival presents a unique opportunity for tourism boards, consumer travel brands, and tour providers to connect with and promote their destinations or brands to the world’s most accomplished and expert travelers. Inquiries about sponsorship opportunities are welcome.

Ticket Information: Attendees wishing to reserve a spot can now purchase tickets online at extraordinarytravelfest.com/tickets/. Use code BANGKOK to save on your ticket to this event.

For questions, please contact:
Ric Gazarian
Email: ric@extraordinarytravelfest.com
WhatsApp: +1 617 901 9248

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