Global Travel News

Bahrain tourism expert joins the Afro-Asian Union

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Bahrain tourism expert joins the Afro-Asian Union - TRAVELINDEX

Bahrain tourism expert joins the Afro-Asian Union - TRAVELINDEXCairo, Egypt, May 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Afro-Asian Union (AFASU) has appointed Abdullah Abdulaziz, an international tourism expert from Bahrain, as an honorary member of the union and a senior judge for the AFASU Golden Awards.

This selection is a recognition of his remarkable career filled with achievements, as Abdulaziz has played a key role in developing the tour guiding profession and formulating its regulatory laws.

He has also made significant contributions to accessible tourism visitor economy, and destination wedding visitor economy in Bahrain and the GCC countries. His vast experience in organising training programmes, delivering lectures, and publishing articles and books on tourism and history makes him a valuable addition to the AFASU family, a statement said.

President of the Afro-Asian Union and international tourism and tourism technology expert Dr. Hossam Darwish, emphasised that the presence of Abdulaziz on the judging panels will help enhance the standards of excellence and innovation in the tourism and cultural sectors. His deep insights and extensive experience will further enrich the award evaluation process.

AFASU emerged from the second-oldest international non-governmental organisation, AAPSO, which was established in 1957 through an international treaty approved by the leaders of African and Asian nations. The union has members from governments and individuals in 102 countries worldwide.

The Golden Awards sector of AFASU is one of its most distinguished programmes, granting prestigious awards to countries, cities, capitals, individuals, and tourism and hospitality establishments worldwide. These awards are based on strict criteria set by a judging panel comprising 45 of the world’s top experts.

Recently, the historic city of Luxor in the Arab Republic of Egypt was honoured with the title of “Capital of Culture, History, and Heritage,” acknowledging its unique global significance. The AFASU awards are recognised for their credibility and clear evaluation standards, as they are granted without any fees, reinforcing their transparency and independence, said the statement.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel Unveils The Plaii Ballroom

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Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel Unveils The Plaii Ballroom - TRAVELINDEX

Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel Unveils The Plaii Ballroom - TRAVELINDEXChiang Mai, Thailand, May 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Elevating the standard for meeting venues in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel proudly introduces The Plaii Ballroom, a state-of-the-art space set to transform the future of corporate events, weddings, and leisure experiences in Chiang Mai.

The Plaii Ballroom is the first and only ballroom in Thailand to feature a 360° immersive LED screen, delivering a fully enveloping digital experience across all four walls. With 430 square meters of space and a soaring 6.24-meter ceiling, this versatile venue is designed to host impactful conferences, banquets, product launches, exhibitions, and luxury celebrations that blend innovation with elegance.

The ballroom supports a variety of configurations — including cocktail receptions for up to 240 guests, round table banquets, long table dining, theater-style presentations, and classroom-style meetings. A diverse range of culinary offerings, curated by the hotel’s expert chefs, ensures every event is complemented by exceptional cuisine and attentive service, making every moment truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re planning an international summit, a glamorous gala, or an incentive retreat, The Plaii Ballroom promises a new era of immersive, multifunctional event experiences in the heart of Thailand’s cultural capital. With its groundbreaking LED technology and chic modern design, it’s also an ideal venue for vibrant after-parties that leave a lasting impression.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Six Top Destinations Join Climate-Ready Tourism Project

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Six Top Destinations Join Climate-Ready Tourism Project - TRAVELINDEX

Six Top Destinations Join Climate-Ready Tourism Project - TRAVELINDEXBristol, United Kingdom, May 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Travel Foundation has today announced the first six destinations to trial a new method to identify climate-related risks in tourism, and invited other destinations and businesses to get involved. The Climate RiskScan project is a collaboration with researchers from CELTH, a collective of Dutch universities, and risk and resilience scientists from Risklayer in Germany.

As extreme weather events increasingly disrupt travel and cost the global economy billions each year as tourism emissions continue to rise, this project is pioneering new approaches to help destinations and tourism businesses identify, prioritise and respond to growing climate risks. Climate RiskScan will cover:

  • Physical risks, such as damage from extreme weather
  • Transition risks, such as reputational damage and policy shifts
  • Systemic risks, such as rising insurance costs

The methodology will ultimately be used to generate risk profiles for every tourism destination worldwide. Insights from the six pilot locations, representing both winter and island tourism, will help refine the approach, demonstrate the benefits of integrating climate risk into strategic planning, and showcase best practices already underway.

The winter tourism destinations are:

  • Colorado, USA (Colorado Tourism Office)
  • The Dolomites, Italy (Skirama Dolomiti)
  • Queenstown, New Zealand (Destination Queenstown)

The island destinations are:

  • The Canary Islands, Spain (Canary Islands Tourism)
  • The Cook Islands (Cook Islands Tourism Corporation)
  • Koh Samui, Thailand (TOGETHER NZT Project, PMUC, TSRI and Marine Biodiversity Research Group, Ramkhamhaeng University)

An online tool to access climate risk profiles is being developed in collaboration with UX and AI specialists at Holiday Extras, a long-time supporter of the Travel Foundation. A second tool, featuring scenario planning and gamification, will help destination stakeholders explore policy options and trade-offs for managing climate risks.

Jeremy Sampson, CEO of the Travel Foundation, said: “This project marks an important step forward in helping tourism destinations and companies understand the business case for action on climate. By working directly with destinations that represent key tourism typologies, we are building the tools and insights the sector needs to prepare for the future and mobilise resources for economic resilience. Collaboration with the scientific community and local partners to apply robust methodologies to the destination management context is crucial to this effort.”

Harald Buijtendijk, senior researcher at Breda University of Applied Sciences, added: “Our goal is to turn climate science into practical guidance that destinations can act upon. Our partnership with the Travel Foundation ensures that this research will have real-world relevance and impact across the tourism sector.”

Opportunities to get involved

With the case study destinations now confirmed, the project team is inviting other destinations and tourism businesses to become sponsors. A £5,000 contribution offers the opportunity to connect with a global network of peers, access leading climate experts and research, and contribute their perspectives to the final report.

The Centre for Expertise Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality (CELTH) has co-funded the project and brought together an expert team from Breda University of Applied Sciences, European Tourism Futures Institute at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, and Wageningen University & Research.

Key findings will be released in time for the COP30 climate summit in Brazil this November, with full results published soon after and made freely available on the Travel Foundation website.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Partners with SUNx Program to Educate Young Travellers

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PATA Partners with SUNx Program to Educate Young Travellers - TRAVELINDEX

PATA Partners with SUNx Program to Educate Young Travellers - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce a new organisational partnership with the SUNx Institute, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed during the PATA Annual Summit 2025 (PAS 2025) in İstanbul, Türkiye. The partnership marks a shared commitment to supporting climate resilience and sustainable development across the travel and tourism sector.

The agreement, signed by SUNx Malta President, Professor Geoffrey Lipman, and PATA CEO, Noor Ahmad Hamid, is guided by Sustainable Development Goal 17 — Partnerships for the Goals. This goal underscores the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable outcomes, particularly in addressing the global climate crisis.

“We are proud to partner with Professor Geoffrey Lipman and the SUNx team, whose dedication to climate resilience and Climate Friendly Travel continues to inspire meaningful change across our industry,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “This collaboration is more than a formal agreement, it is a shared commitment to invest in the future. By working with SUNx, PATA hopes to empower the next generation of travellers to be responsible, resilient, and climate conscious global citizens who continue to pursue best-practices that promote and foster sustainable tourism.”

At the heart of the agreement is a joint focus on the Dodo4Kids education program, an initiative designed to introduce Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) to young learners and their families. PATA and SUNx Institute will work together to expand climate literacy and embed sustainability principles at an early age, nurturing the next generation of conscious travellers and changemakers through educational animations and valuable learning materials.

Professor Geoffrey Lipman said, “We are all in this together, as we grapple with the intensifying challenges of a climate constrained world. And we know that our kids and grandkids will have to face tougher climate driven realities. Dodo4Kids helps prepare early learners to fight the good fight through Climate Friendly Travel that responds to extreme weather in a sustainable and nature positive way. It’s a perfect fit with PATA’s vision of a meaningful future.”

In addition to Dodo4Kids, the partnership opens the door to broader collaboration in areas of shared interest, from co-promoting campaigns and planning joint activities. It outlines a commitment to open communication and transparency, while maintaining the independence and integrity of each organisation.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Unicorn Hospitality’s White-Label Model Expands with Iconic Rebrands

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Unicorn Hospitality's White-Label Model Expands with Iconic Rebrands - TOP25HOTELS.comBangkok, Thailand, May 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Unicorn Hospitality, a pioneering force in the hospitality management sector, continues to disrupt the market with its distinctive white-label management model. With the addition of two newly rebranded iconic properties—The Xcape River Kwai and AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai—to its portfolio, Unicorn further solidifies its position as a leader in flexible, high-impact hotel management solutions. These strategic additions underscore the its commitment to transforming hoe hotels operate, and consistently exceed evolving guest expectations.

Unicorn Hospitality Expands Its Portfolio with Two New Properties: The Xcape River Kwai and AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai

Shaking Up Thailand’s Hotel Industry with a Game-Changing, Owner-Centric Approach to Hospitality Management

Disrupting the Status Quo: A New Era for Independent Hotels

In just a decade, Unicorn Hospitality has built a proven track record of success, redefining the hotel management industry. Unlike traditional hotel chains that impose rigid brand standards, Unicorn’s unique white-label model is designed for owners who crave freedom, and a tailored approach to brand identity. Unicorn has put the power back into the hands of hotel owners, helping them elevate their properties while preserving their individuality. The result? A high-impact strategy that drives profitability, attracts discerning guests, and enhances the value of each hotel.

Traditional hotel management models lock owners and their properties into a one-size-fits-all approach, limiting their potential,” says Yann Gouriou, Founder & CEO of Unicorn Hospitality.We’re here to change that. Our model isn’t just about management; it’s about empowering our partners to grow, adapt, and thrive in ways they never could with traditional brands.

With over 10 properties under its management and 7 more in Thailand, Brunei, and Japan on the horizon, Unicorn Hospitality is proving that flexible, results-driven solutions are the future of hospitality. Their unique white-label approach is setting a new standard—combining the expertise of global hotel brands with the freedom of independence.

Elevating The Xcape River Kwai into a Luxurious Riverside Escape

Nestled along the tranquil Kwai Noi River, The Xcape River Kwai is more than just a hotel—it’s a transformational experience for those seeking adventure, history, and luxury. Unicorn’s rebranding promises a dynamic range of exclusive offerings, including paddleboarding on the river, curated experiences, and a groundbreaking “Dine on the River” experience that blends culinary excellence with the beauty of nature.

We knew we needed something different to stand out,” says Thienchai Techawatanasuk, owner of The Xcape River Kwai Hotel. “Unicorn’s ability to bring fresh perspectives and innovative management strategies is exactly what we needed to elevate our brand and exceed the expectations of today’s travelers. This is just the beginning.”

Reimagining Urban Luxury at AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai

Located in the vibrant heart of Chiang Mai, AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai is redefining urban luxury. Under Unicorn’s management, the hotel is undergoing a complete reinvention, a refined dining experience at ‘Lumi’ – AMANOR’s signature culinary concept, and lifestyle offerings that appeal to the modern traveler – where timeless elegance meets contemporary style.

We wanted to break free from the norm and create something extraordinary,” says John Lim, owner of AMANOR Chiang Mai. “With Unicorn, we found a partner who truly understands the essence of modern hospitality. Their strategy has completely transformed our approach to branding, and we’re confident it will elevate our guest experience to new heights.”

The Unicorn Edge: A White-Label Revolution

What sets Unicorn Hospitality apart? It’s not just about flexibility; it’s about RESULTS. Their white-label management model isn’t just about operating a hotel—it’s about delivering a tailored experience for both owners and guests. Owners retain full control over their brand identity, while Unicorn’s industry-leading expertise drives revenue growth, operational efficiency, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Why Owners Are Choosing Unicorn: The Power of Flexibility & Profitability

  • Owner-Centric Approach: Unicorn empowers owners to lead their brand while benefiting from world-class operational expertise.
  • Unmatched Flexibility: No franchise fees, no rigid brand requirements—just tailored, adaptive strategies that match the unique vision of each hotel.
  • Results-Driven Growth: Unicorn’s intelligent marketing, revenue optimization, and guest-centric focus drive profitability and long-term success.
  • Innovative, Luxury Experiences: From bespoke guest services to unique local experiences, Unicorn’s management ensures every property delivers unmatched value and an exceptional stay.

Join the Revolution: Unicorn Hospitality Continues Its Legacy of Success

Unicorn Hospitality has been successfully reshaping the hotel management landscape for years, and the addition of The Xcape River Kwai and AMANOR Chiang Mai is another step in its proven track record. These two properties further demonstrate Unicorn’s ability to elevate hotels with innovative, owner-focused solutions. This ongoing success proves that a paradigm shift is happening in the industry, and more hotel owners are joining in.

“We’re proud to continue proving that our unique approach works,” said Yann. “As we expand, we’re inviting more hotel owners to join the revolution and experience firsthand the impact of flexible, owner-centric management.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Maya Pistola x NILA Guest Shift

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Maya Pistola x NILA Guest ShiftStep into a world of premium mixology at NILA as we present the exclusive Guest shift night, held in partnership with Maya Pistola, the artisanal agave spirit redefining modern cocktails. 

Experience the creative brilliance of Natkrit Chatsakulpairach (Khun First), Thailand’s 2024 Pistola Winner, as he takes over the bar for one night only. Enjoy three special cocktails that highlights his distinctive style and the smooth character of Maya Pistola Artisanal Agave Spirit.

One night only on Friday, 30 May 2025

Time: 19:00 – 23:00 hrs.

Location: NILA, Amari Bangkok (Level 4)

Enjoy three special cocktails at Early Bird price THB 699 net per person (until 26 May 2025)

Regular Price: THB 799 net per person

For reservations, please book at bit.ly/4kndp2w

Or call +66 (0) 2653 9000

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

L’Arôme by the Sea Unveils Chef Maksym’s Exquisite Degustation Menu

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L’Arôme by the Sea Unveils Chef Maksym’s Exquisite Degustation Menu - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comPhuket, Thailand, May 14, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX /  L’Arôme by the Sea, the celebrated Michelin and TOP25 Restaurants recognized fine dining destination, has unveiled its latest seasonal degustation menu crafted by Chef Maksym. This culinary masterpiece takes diners on a journey through refined coastal flavors, artfully blending local Thai influences with international sophistication.

L’Arôme by the Sea Unveils Chef Maksym’s Exquisite Degustation Menu – A Coastal Culinary Symphony

A Coastal-Inspired Culinary Journey

Chef Maksym’s degustation menu begins with a mussel and seaweed broth, a delicate starter that encapsulates the essence of the sea with its umami-rich and marine-forward profile. Following this is a refreshing Phuket flower crab and green papaya composition, a dish that nods to Thai coastal heritage while introducing a contemporary flair.

Elevating the oceanic theme, the razor clam is luxuriously paired with caviar and a silky parmesan custard, delivering a creamy yet profound depth of flavor. Next, a bold reimagination of local street food arrives in the form of langoustine satay with Tom Yum essence, where spice meets refinement in a harmonious balance.

Japanese Elegance Meets French Complexity

The menu reaches a comforting crescendo with the Bafun uni barley porridge, where warm Japanese sea urchin melds with creamy barley for a rich, indulgent experience. Chef Maksym further bridges global culinary influences with Kinmedai finished with vin jaune and kosho oil, a dish that reflects French-Japanese fusion, balancing citrus elegance and French wine complexity.

A Sweet Finale with Tropical Flair

Concluding the degustation is a fragrant coconut soufflé paired with Thai vanilla ice cream, a light, tropical dessert that encapsulates the essence of Phuket’s coastal beauty and the romance of sunset dining.

With every meticulously curated dish, Chef Maksym redefines modern coastal fine dining, making L’Arôme by the Sea the go-to destination for those seeking an exceptional culinary experience amidst the serene backdrop of Phuket’s breathtaking shoreline.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tourism Seychelles Showcases Island Charm to Beach Soccer Fans

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Tourism Seychelles Showcases Island Charm to Beach Soccer Fans - TRAVELINDEX

Tourism Seychelles Showcases Island Charm to Beach Soccer Fans - TRAVELINDEXMahé, Seychelles, May 14, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The past few days have been a thrilling spectacle of goals, intense matches, and vibrant festivities at the Fanzone, as 16 nations compete for glory in the ongoing FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup at the stunning Paradise Arena in Mahé, Seychelles.

Seychelles, globally recognised as a premier tourism destination, has made every moment of the tournament count. Since the kick-off on 1 May, Tourism Seychelles has been actively engaging fans through immersive activations at the Fanzone, bringing the “Paradise Experience” to life for both international visitors and passionate local supporters.

Further elevating the atmosphere at the Fanzone was the presence of His Excellency President Wavel Ramkalawan, whose appearance thrilled the crowd and added a significant sense of national pride to the festivities. With the event attracting approximately 7,000 people daily, the Fanzone alone has been drawing nearly a third of that number – around 2,300 fans each day – reflecting growing excitement both locally and internationally.

At the Seychelles stand, fans are treated to a dynamic mix of fun competitions, cultural showcases, and the chance to win unique souvenirs. The Visit Seychelles stall has quickly become a hub of activity, with tourism officers offering insights into the islands’ attractions and inspiring fans to explore the archipelago beyond the pitch.

Local artisans, food vendors, and craft makers have also seen increased engagement, with many capitalising on the heightened footfall by showcasing Seychellois cuisine, handmade jewellery, and island crafts, providing visitors with a genuine taste of local culture and supporting small businesses.

Sustainability has also taken centre stage at the Fanzone, where organisers have implemented eco-conscious initiatives such as waste segregation stations, reusable cups, and eco-merchandise. Information booths are helping educate fans on Seychelles’ conservation ethos, reinforcing the destination’s long-standing commitment to sustainable tourism.

More than just a football tournament, the event marks a strategic moment for Seychelles. With the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup being hosted in Africa for the first time, the islands are leveraging the global stage to leave a lasting impression on visitors from around the world.

“This is my first time in this amazing country, and I’m absolutely loving it – the culture, the pristine beaches, and especially the Creole music, which has been the highlight of my stay so far,” shared Pedro, an enthusiastic fan from Portugal. “Hopefully, my team goes far so I can stay longer and soak it all in. I’ve already promised myself I’ll return with my family.”

Speaking to VoyagesAfriq about the country’s involvement as a tournament supporter, Bernadette Willemin, Director General of Destination Marketing, shared further insights into their strategic goals and commitment to making the Seychelles experience unforgettable.

Preliminary data suggests a significant uptick in hotel occupancy across Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, with tourism analysts projecting an overall boost to local tourism revenue as the event continues to draw attention from across the globe.

The Director General expressed excitement about the tournament’s ongoing success:

“We are seeing a relatively big crowd from the local communities across different demographics,” Willemin said. “We can see from the grandmas to the parents and the kids – because at the end of the day, the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup is also a family event.”

Describing the tournament as a “great outing”, she added that Seychelles is delighted to be sharing its hospitality with visitors and official delegations, especially those spending their holidays in the country during the tournament.

“We also have a pavilion where we interact with the visitors, and there have been lots of enquiries from some of them. It’s an opportunity for us to also talk about the event and tell them what they can do on our islands, especially for the ones that just arrived,” Willemin noted.

Tourism Seychelles is also using the platform to highlight its rich cultural heritage.

“We have animations in our stand where visitors can witness handcrafted art by our local artisans, which arouse curiosity. In general, I can say it is a big party, fun, and a great event. In Seychelles, we can have fun, we can be fun, we enjoy and bring unity – because people matter and it is a people’s event,” she emphasised.

Adding a local media perspective, Sechellois journalist Jana Malbrook shared her thoughts on the significance of the event:

“FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025 at Paradise Arena, Roche Caiman, has been pure island adrenaline – sun, sand and non-stop epic entertainment! The roar of the crowd, and local chants have turned every match into a beachside festival. Our Paradise Boys may not have qualified for the tournament, but their acrobatic flair and unbreakable spirit have captured every heart. Beach soccer has never felt this alive!,” Malbrook said.

As the tournament progresses, Seychelles continues to shine – not just as a host nation but as a destination with heart, hospitality, and unmatched island charm.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New Impact Travel Lab Challenges Outdated Thinking in Travel Industry

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New Impact Travel Lab Challenges Outdated Thinking in Travel Industry - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, May 14, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The travel industry is evolving faster than most can keep up. And clinging to outdated playbooks is no longer a viable strategy. New venture brings fresh thinking and future-fit strategies to a fast-changing industry

Impact Travel Lab, a new venture from tourism strategist Lindsey Walter, launches this month to help forward-thinking travel, tourism and hospitality brands navigate change, unlock growth and build long-term resilience.

Designed for a new era of travel, Impact Travel Lab blends systems thinking, human-centred design and commercial strategy to help organisations shift perspective and evolve with confidence.

“We don’t need to ‘fix’ the business of travel and tourism, we need to re-imagine it,” says Walter. “That starts with thinking differently, because when you shift your mindset, you unlock entirely new ways to grow, connect and lead.”

Far more than a traditional consultancy, Impact Travel Lab acts as a strategic partner, sounding board and creative force for businesses ready to challenge convention and grow on purpose. “The businesses that will thrive are the ones willing to rethink, rework and rebuild how they operate from the inside out.”

Services include:

  • Future-fit business models and growth strategies
  • Adaptive, purpose-led brand and commercial direction
  • Growth-mindset transformation
  • Sales, marketing and team empowerment

From early-stage ventures to established brands navigating change, Impact Travel Lab offers tailored support that connects sharp thinking with real-world application and helps businesses design for the future, not the past.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cross Hotels & Resorts Launches Dual-Branded Hotels in Batam’s Iconic Development

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Cross Hotels & Resorts Launches Dual-Branded Hotels in Batam’s Iconic Development - TRAVELINDEX

Cross Hotels & Resorts Launches Dual-Branded Hotels in Batam’s Iconic Development - TRAVELINDEXBatam, Indonesia, May 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Cross Hotels & Resorts proudly announces the signing of two dynamic lifestyle hotels in Batam, Indonesia: Cross Batam The Mix and Cross Vibe Batam The Mix. Strategically located within The Mix, a landmark 5-in-1 integrated development in Pasir Putih, Batam Centre, this dual-branded project is set to redefine the island’s hospitality landscape with bold architecture, vibrant social hubs, and immersive experiences tailored to today’s style-conscious and next-gen travelers.

Developed by PT MIG Putra Indonesia, a joint venture between PURI Group Indonesia and Rima Properties Group Malaysia, this exciting project marks Cross Hotels & Resorts’ second venture on Batam, reinforcing the brand’s growing commitment to the island’s transformation into a regional hub for lifestyle, leisure, and MICE tourism.

Catering to a diverse range of guests from Singaporean weekenders and domestic holidaymakers to Gen Z explorers, wellness travelers, and corporate event planners—the hotels offer unmatched convenience, located minutes from the Batam Centre Point International Ferry Terminal and Hang Nadim International Airport.

Whether guests are looking to enjoy spa and wellness offerings, lively rooftop social scenes, family-friendly experiences, or productive corporate retreats, Cross Batam The Mix and Cross Vibe Batam The Mix promise a seamless blend of comfort, style, and connectivity. From curated culinary journeys to spaces that encourage collaboration and creativity, these hotels are designed to deliver meaningful and memorable stays for every type of traveler.

Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts, commented: “This partnership is a proud milestone for our team and underscores the strength of our dual-brand strategy in vibrant destinations like Batam. We are honoured to collaborate with PT MIG Putra Indonesia on this visionary project. With Cross bringing our signature ‘Luxury by Design’ approach and Cross Vibe infusing youthful energy through ‘Stay, Chill, Enjoy’, we are confident that these hotels will redefine the guest experience and accelerate Batam’s evolution as a regional lifestyle and business destination. This deal reflects our belief in the immense potential of Batam and our continued mission to deliver owner value through meaningful partnerships.”

Wagiman, President Director of PT MIG Putra Indonesia, stated: “It is an honour and a privilege to cooperate with Cross Hotels & Resorts in developing The Mix Project. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, not just for our businesses, but for the guests, travellers, and communities we both serve. Together, we are combining our shared commitment to excellence, service, and innovation to create truly elevated experiences. We look forward to a successful journey ahead, one that brings growth, opportunity, and lasting impact.”

Evan Burns, Country Manager – Indonesia, Cross Hotels & Resorts, added: “These hotels are designed to become more than just places to stay; they’ll be places to gather, to celebrate, and to experience Batam through a fresh lens. This expansion reflects our commitment to shaping meaningful guest journeys that go beyond the expected.”

Cross Batam The Mix offers generously sized suites starting from 115 sqm, with sleek living areas and fully-equipped kitchenettes, crafted for travelers who appreciate space, comfort, and thoughtful design. Meanwhile, Cross Vibe Batam The Mix, located in the 23-storey Iconic View Tower, promises a playful, design-forward escape for the new generation of travelers.

The hotels are scheduled to open in phases starting in 2027, with full operations anticipated by 2028. Together, they will form the heart of a lively new ecosystem comprising residences, entertainment, retail, and leisure—an urban blueprint for Batam’s future.

Cross Hotels & Resorts operates 30 hotels under six distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen, Cross Collection, and Kaura – across Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Japan.

About Cross Hotels & Resorts

Cross Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel management company wholly owned by the ASX listed Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG). FCTG is one of the world’s largest and progressive travel companies, incorporating diverse worldwide distribution, in destination travel experiences such as transport and touring as well as hotel management solutions. Cross Hotels & Resorts also delivers owner services all the way from the very early sourcing and planning stages of a development, through technical services during build, to pre-opening services and finally professional ongoing hotel management.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News