Global Travel News

Gyeongju and Pohang to be Dual-City Hosts for PATA Annual Summit 2026

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Gyeongju and Pohang to be Dual-City Hosts for PATA Annual Summit 2026 - TRAVELINDEX

Gyeongju and Pohang to be Dual-City Hosts for PATA Annual Summit 2026 - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce that the PATA Annual Summit 2026 (PAS 2026) will be co-hosted in the cities of Gyeongju and Pohang, located in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Korea (ROK), in coordination with the Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organization (GCTO) and scheduled to be held from May 11-13. The official handover was made on April 23 during the closing ceremony of the PATA Annual Summit 2025 (PAS 2025) in İstanbul, Türkiye, symbolising the continued momentum and legacy of the Association’s flagship event.

Following the announcement, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid stated, “Gyeongju and Pohang each hold unique significance within the Republic of Korea’s tourism industry—Gyeongju as a cradle of ancient Korean civilisation, rich in cultural treasures, and Pohang as a vibrant coastal city where natural beauty co-exist seamlessly with contemporary landmarks. They are the meeting point of tradition and modernity, and reflect the kind of depth and diversity that today’s travellers increasingly seek.”

He added, “We are especially proud that, for the first time in PATA’s history, two cities will co-host the Summit—making PAS 2026 a truly historic and symbolic celebration of our 75th anniversary as an Association that unites different tourism sectors and global tourism leaders worldwide. I extend my appreciation to our partners in Gyeongsangbuk-do and across the Republic of Korea for their hospitality and support, and look forward to working together to create an impactful and inspiring Summit experience.”

Korea (ROK) has previously hosted the PATA Annual Summit five times. The first three were held in Seoul in 1965, 1979 and 1994, then Jeju in 2004, and Gangneung in 2018. In 2026, the two cities of Gyeongsangbuk-do will take the torch as the hosts of the upcoming PATA Annual Summit, continuing a legacy of tourism collaboration between the Association and Korea (ROK).

“It is a great honour for me to stand before you today and officially announce Gyeongju and Pohang in Gyeongsangbuk-do, Korea as the host destinations for the PATA Annual Summit 2026,” stated Kim Namil, President of GCTO and the head of the Gyeongsangbuk-do delegation of 13 individuals who attended PAS 2025. “Our goal is to make PAS 2026 more than just a tourism event — it will be a platform for sustainability, innovation, and human connections. With the support and expertise of PATA, we believe this vision can become a powerful reality. We look forward to welcoming you all to Gyeongsangbuk-do, Korea, in 2026.”

Lee Dongup, Chairperson of Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural & Environmental Committee said, “Through close cooperation with PATA, we hope to make the 2026 Gyeongju-Pohang Summit the most inclusive and strategic edition yet. Let this occasion mark the beginning of deeper ties with all PATA member nations gathered here.”

Additionally, during PAS 2025, Jeong Seonghoon, Manager at the Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture & Tourism Organization, delivered a presentation on the destinations, highlighting the readiness and capabilities of the two cities as upcoming hosts of the Summit.

About Pohang and Gyeongju

Located in southeastern Korea (ROK), Gyeongsangbuk-do, or North Gyeongsang Province, has a diverse landscape that ranges from forested highlands to coastal areas, as well as history and cultural heritage that dates back centuries. The region presents ample opportunities for visitors to explore traditional Korean heritage, including preserved temples, historic villages, and local craftsmanship that reflect centuries-old customs.

The province’s largest city, Pohang, is a charming coastal destination known for distinctive landmarks such as the Hands of Harmony sculpture and the Hwanho Park Space Walk, a curving walkway which provides panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding nature. To the south, Gyeongju is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often referred to as “the museum without walls” due to its wealth of historical sites. Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is now home to key landmarks such as the Royal Tombs, Cheomseongdae—the world’s oldest surviving astronomical observatory—and Gyeongju Tower.

Registration Details and Carbon Offset Fee

Reflecting PATA’s commitment to sustainable tourism, PAS 2026 aims to be a carbon neutral event. Therefore, participants are encouraged to contribute by paying the optional carbon neutral fee of USD 10.

Further details about the PATA Annual Summit 2026 and registration will be shared in due course.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

No Filter Needed: Gen Z Influencers Tell Hotels What Really Works

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No Filter Needed: Gen Z Influencers Tell Hotels What Really Works - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand,  May 12, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The TDM C-Suite Travel Trade Global Summit 2025, held at the Montien Hotel Surawong in Bangkok, stood out during one of the busiest weeks for hospitality and tourism professionals. With multiple high-profile events competing for the attention of industry leaders, Travel Daily Media delivered—assembling executives, content creators, and educators from across the Asia-Pacific region for a bold, high-impact day of insight and strategy.

And while AI and analytics dominated much of the agenda, one of the most human—and arguably most actionable—sessions came in the afternoon: “Welcome to the Social Media of Gen Z: You Got to Be Where Your Potential Customers Are.”

Moderated by Timothy Hughes, Vice President of Corporate Development at Agoda, the panel featured three standout creators—Sam Tyler, Bella Pawita, and Mike Yu—in a candid, quick-moving discussion about what it takes to capture and convert attention from Gen Z travelers.

From Free Stays to Strategic Storytelling

Gone are the days of exchanging a free night for a few tagged posts. Today’s content creators are co-creators, partnering with hotels to shape messaging that resonates.

“Hotels haven’t really asked me for stats,” Mike said. “They just like my style—and that freedom is better.” Bella, crowned Miss Global Thailand 2025, explained that she’ll often ask what features a hotel wants to highlight—say, an infinity pool or signature dish—but insists on staying true to her personal brand.“If the vibe doesn’t match, it won’t land,” she said. “Your audience can feel that.”

What Gets Eyeballs—and What Keeps Them

Sam Tyler didn’t hesitate: “Relevant content gets eyeballs. Content is time-sensitive. And there’s a tendency to blame the algorithm, when actually, creators need to look at what’s working and adapt.”

The panelists agreed: platforms shape the tone of interaction. Mike prefers YouTube for emotional depth and less editing pressure. Bella thrives on Instagram, where visuals drive engagement. Sam uses YouTube, TikTok and Instagram, and noted: “TikTok comments are mostly emojis. YouTube comments may be full paragraphs. That tells you everything about the audience.”

UGC, Crisis Content & AI Support

The discussion shifted to user-generated content (UGC) and how hotels can incentivize it—simple things like a free drink for guests who post and tag their experience.

Bella shared that her posts following a recent earthquake led to interview requests from CNN, BBC, and other global media. Social media, she said, can become a credible information hub in a crisis.

The group also acknowledged the growing role of AI: “It improves efficiency—especially writing scripts,” said Bella. “I use it to write emails,” added Mike. “It’s great for brainstorming,” Sam said. “But you still need a voice. Your voice.”

Monday Morning Moves

To close, each influencer offered advice hotels could act on immediately:

Mike: “Understand your market.”
Bella: “Understand your niche—and stick to your values.”
Sam: “Review your content, read the comments, and adjust.”

Where Conversations Become Catalysts

In a week packed with events competing for attention, the TDM C-Suite Travel Trade Global Summit 2025 stood out—not just for the quality of its speakers, but for its ability to bring the right people together. By bridging creators, hoteliers, tech leaders, and educators, Travel Daily Media curated more than a conference—it delivered a catalyst for industry-wide reinvention.

One message echoed throughout the day: it’s not about having an AI strategy—it’s about using AI to power your strategy. The same could be said for social media, storytelling, or service. The organizations that will lead hospitality forward are the ones willing to rethink—not just refine.

Meet the Panelists

Sam Tyler– British content creator based in Thailand, known for cinematic travel storytelling and honest hotel reviews.

Bella Pawita– Miss Global Thailand 2025 and influencer with a background in economics and psychology. Known for stylish and purpose-driven travel and fashion content.

Mike Yu– French-Chinese travel creator focused on emotional storytelling through identity, culture, and connection.

By Dr. Scott Michael Smith, Assumption University Thailand

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Azerai La Residence Hue Introduces New Pilgrimage Package

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Azerai La Residence Hue Introduces New Pilgrimage Package - TRAVELINDEXHue, Vietnam, May 12, 2025 /TRAVELINDEX / Azerai La Residence, Hue, the luxury heritage hotel in Vietnam’s former Imperial capital, invites guests on a sacred journey to some of the region’s most celebrated religious sites as part of an exclusive new two-night stay package.

The “Ancient Capital Pilgrimage Package,” launched in April ahead of the Vesak Buddhist holiday, showcases central Vietnam’s deep spiritual heritage with a half-day tour in which guests immerse themselves in time-honored rituals and receive divine blessings and guidance.

The outing begins with a visit to Kim Dai Pagoda, where guests will join morning chanting and engage in a tranquil tea-time conversation with the head monk. They will deepen their awareness by drawing fortune-reading sticks that offer insights into their path ahead.

From there, the excursion heads to Khai Dinh Mausoleum, an architectural masterpiece that blends Vietnamese and European influences. Visitors pay tribute to the past by lighting an incense stick at the central altar, offering prayers for harmony, happiness and good fortune.

The next stop, Hon Chen Temple, is nestled on the banks of the Perfume River. This sacred site honors both Champa and Vietnamese deities through elaborate royal ceremonies and folk traditions. The Hue Nam Temple Festival – a pilgrimage to Hon Chen Temple – was recognized by the Vietnamese government in March as part of the country’s “Intangible Cultural Heritage.”

The day concludes at Nam Giao Esplanade, a revered site where Nguyen dynasty emperors once performed annual Heaven and Earth ceremonies. Today, these rituals have been revived and are presided over by high-ranking Vietnamese dignitaries, who lead prayers for national peace and well-being. Visitors are invited to join this longstanding tradition by lighting an incense stick and saying prayers of their own.

The package includes a two-night stay with daily breakfast, a daily drink voucher (redeemable for a soft drink, local beer or cocktail at the hotel bar), a complimentary room upgrade to the next category (subject to availability) and a 10% discount for Vietnamese citizens.

Azerai La Residence, Hue was recognized in December as one of Vietnam’s top 16 hotels for 2025 by The Times, one of the UK’s oldest daily newspapers.

With 122 elegantly furnished rooms and suites, the hotel is centered on a colonial mansion that was built in 1930 as part of the residence of the French Resident Superieur. The mansion’s distinctive façade, including its long horizontal lines and nautical flourishes, are hallmarks of the streamline moderne school of art deco architecture.

Azerai La Residence, Hue is part of legendary hotelier Adrian Zecha’s latest portfolio, which also includes the beachfront Azerai Ke Ga Bay in southern Vietnam.

ABOUT AZERAI

Azerai is a distinctive story and brand of resorts offering guests elegance, refined design, and discreet and attentive service in places of unique beauty and cultural interest. The brand was formed by hotelier Adrian Zecha, and the name is derived from Zecha’s initials and the latter part of a Persian word, caravanserai, which references the storied old inns of the Middle East.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Pickalbatros Hotels Group to Inaugurate “Palais des Roses” Resort in Agadir

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Pickalbatros Hotels Group to Inaugurate Palais des Roses Resort in Agadir - TRAVELINDEXAgadir, Morocco, May 12, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Egyptian businessman Mr. Kamel Abou Ali, Chairman of Pickalbatros Hotels Group, has announced the grand opening of the “Palais des Roses” Resort in Agadir, Morocco, on Friday, May 23, in the presence of Her Excellency Fatima Zahra Ammor, the Moroccan Minister of Tourism.

During his participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, Mr. Abou Ali shared the group’s expansion plans in Morocco, starting with the beachfront “Palais des Roses” in Agadir this May, followed by the opening of Sun-Go Marrakech Hotel in July, a family-friendly destination catering to guests from around the world. These openings coincide with the group’s 15th anniversary of operations in Morocco.

This year’s Arabian Travel Market witnessed a significant increase in attendance and participation, highlighting the tremendous growth potential of the travel and hospitality sector in the Middle East and reaffirming the group’s strong partnership with this leading industry event.

The resort offers over 430 hotel rooms and suites, all designed to deliver exceptional comfort and service.

About Pickalbatros Hotels & Resorts
Since 1992, Pickalbatros Hotels and Resorts has brought a new level of luxury to Egypt and Morroco . With 33 hotels and resorts and plans for 36 by 2025, we are a trusted name in the industry. Located in beautiful destinations like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, our hotels offer mesmerizing views of the Red Sea and the Atlantic Ocean in the stunning coastal regions of Morocco. From Bed and Breakfast to Ultra All-Inclusive, we cater to all age groups. With top-notch service, exquisite decor, and memorable dining experiences, we make every guest feel special.

Chairman, Kamel Abou Ali, is recognized for his influence in the tourism sector. We focus on international entertainment, cuisines, and quality in our 15,000+ rooms. With over 12,000 employees, we are dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences. Choose Pickalbatros Hotels and Resorts for unparalleled luxury and hospitality.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok’s Burmese Renaissance: Rising Stars in Culture and Cuisine

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Bangkok's Burmese Renaissance: Rising Stars in Culture and Cuisine - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 12, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / In the heart of Bangkok, a growing Burmese community is joyfully contributing to the city’s cultural and culinary landscape. With an estimated 303,000 Burmese nationals living in the capital (World Population Review), they represent one of the city’s most vibrant and valued communities—bringing energy, flavor, and heart to Bangkok’s ever-evolving identity.

A Flourishing Community

Across Thailand, more than 2 million registered migrant workers come from Myanmar—with several hundred thousand more undocumented—according to Tea Circle Myanmar. Their presence has helped create welcoming neighborhoods like “Little Myanmar” near Phra Khanong, where Burmese traditions are celebrated through language, festivals, and—of course—unforgettable food.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Among the most influential names in Burmese cuisine is Mr. Htet Myet Oo, founder of the acclaimed Rangoon Tea House. With branches in Yangon and beyond, the Rangoon Tea House has elevated Burmese dining to an artform—bringing elegance, refinement, and innovation to traditional recipes and earning global recognition.

But for everyday comfort food with a heartwarming twist, there’s Ellie—Miss Kyawt Shinn Thant Zin—who brings the flavors of home to Bangkok’s hungry souls. A proud alumna and current Ph.D. candidate at Assumption University, Ellie is a changemaker in every sense. Through her educational venture Million Goals Academy, she has opened doors for Myanmar youth to earn their GED and dream bigger. The recent graduation ceremony at AU’s Salle de Expo was a powerful testament to her mission—and to the students’ resilience and determination.

Ellie is also the force behind two must-visit restaurants in Bangkok: MAYMYO Chinese BBQ & Mala in Phra Khanong and the newly opened Barani at AU Hua Mak Campus. Barani is more than a restaurant—it’s a labor of love, with recipes passed down from Ellie’s grandmother. Grandma remains the soul of the kitchen, gently guiding the preparation of every dish and ensuring that tradition and taste go hand in hand. This beautiful collaboration between generations is what makes Barani so unique and deeply meaningful.

Cultural Integration

The Burmese community’s impact on Bangkok is full of promise. From dynamic eateries to grassroots education, Burmese-Thais and expats alike are shaping a future built on inclusion, creativity, and mutual respect. Leaders like Ellie aren’t just preserving culture—they’re building bridges and inviting others to walk across.

Looking Ahead

As Bangkok continues to flourish, the contributions of its Burmese community shine brighter than ever. From fine dining to neighborhood staples, and from classrooms to kitchens, the impact is rich, heartfelt, and growing. Ellie’s journey is proof that positive change begins with one passionate heart—and grows stronger when shared across generations.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hospitality Leaders Don’t Need an AI Strategy – They Need a Strategy Powered by AI

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Hospitality Leaders Don’t Need an AI Strategy - They Need a Strategy Powered by AI - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, May 11, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The recent TDM C-Suite Travel Trade Global Summit 2025, held at the Montien Hotel Surawong, brought together the brightest minds in travel and hospitality for a full day of expert panels, bold insights, and next-gen strategies. Organized by Travel Daily Media, the summit attracted senior leaders from Thailand and across the ASEAN region, offering a 360° look at the challenges—and opportunities—reshaping global tourism.

Setting the Stage: Transformation Over Transaction

The summit opened with a keynote by Jaruwan Suwannasat, Chief Information Officer, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), who introduced the concept of Return on Experience (ROX); Measuring Transformation, Not Just Transactions. In a world where travelers seek meaning, creativity, and emotional connection, ROX offers a new lens for measuring tourism success. Suwannasat emphasized that 83% of Gen Z travelers are willing to pay a premium for authentic and meaningful experiences (WTTC and SKIFT Research, 2024).

Google Keynote at TDM Summit: AI Will Reshape Hospitality—Get on the Bus!

“AI isn’t coming—it’s already here,” declared Mr. Aditip “Term” Panupong, Industry Head of Strategic Partnerships at Google, in a powerful keynote presentation.

In his talk, Thailand Hospitality: Redefining Experiences with AI, Panupong tackled the complexities of modern travel planning. Backed by Google’s latest research, he highlighted that: 3 in 5 travelers don’t know where they want to go when they start researching and they spend an average of 303 minutes across dozens of queries—such as “cheap hotels Bangkok,” “things to do in Pattaya,” and “Is the Grand Palace hot?”—about 45 days before booking.

The message was clear: travelers are overwhelmed, and brands must meet them earlier in the decision funnel. Panupong outlined three critical stages to address:

Motivation – Understanding why people travel

Touchpoints – Knowing how to reach them

Preferences – Discovering how to win them over

Citing Google data, he emphasized the emotional core of travel. In Asia-Pacific: 42% of travelers say they travel to heal from daily stress, 35% travel as a reward and 33% seek a sense of adventure.

“Travel is not just a destination—it’s a reward,” he said, underscoring that travelers today prioritize value and trust over the lowest price. In Thailand alone, 67% of travelers say they’re willing to splurge on luxury experiences that deliver memorable moments. And the modern trip is not one-dimensional. Each journey now fulfills an average of 4.7 motivations, and travelers engage in 3.8 distinct experiences per trip. As search demand shifts dramatically from domestic to international, the message for hospitality brands is clear: experience-led design matters more than ever.

From Panupong’s presentation, it’s clear that travellers prioritize value and trust over the cheapest deal and that travellers value different things at different stages of the travel experience.

However, Panupong warned of a disconnect within organizations, sharing; 85% of industry leaders are enthusiastic about AI, 95% see value in AI-driven workflows but only 10% have involved five or more departments in their AI strategy.

He dubbed this the FOMO vs. FOGI gap—Fear of Missing Out versus Fear of Getting In. Many businesses feel stuck, citing lack of infrastructure (55%), insufficient internal support (51%), or unclear ROI (48%) as obstacles to meaningful AI integration.

Panupong identified five trends where AI is already reshaping travel and hospitality:

1. Multimodal AI – Leveraging context and multiple inputs

2. AI Agents – Evolving from chatbots to multi-agent collaboration

3. Assistive Search – The next frontier, transforming how knowledge is discovered

4. AI Powered Customer Experience – Creating seamless, hyper-personalized guest journeys

5. AI Security – Strengthening systems as adoption accelerates

His solution? AI-powered personalization at scale, enabled by:

  • Turning data into value through customer-first design
  • Using unified tools to drive commerce and conversion
  • Enhancing the guest journey at every stage
  • Operating more efficiently and sustainably

He wrapped his keynote with a clear message: AI is no longer optional—it’s essential. With today’s travelers expecting hyper-personalized experiences and meaningful value, the brands that will thrive are those that understand motivations and act with data-driven precision.

Panupong encouraged the audience to explore tools like Google Trends, Destination Insights with Google, and Think with Google to anticipate shifting behavior and capture emerging demand—especially as Asia-Pacific travel pivots toward international markets.

And with a smile and a nod to urgency, he left the room with this final push:

“Get on the AI bus! It’s not going to slow down, and you won’t want to miss it.”

A Summit That Delivered

From bold predictions to actionable frameworks, the TDM C-Suite Summit was more than a networking event—it was a strategic reset. Expertly curated and packed with relevance, the summit reflected the industry’s readiness to move from recovery to reinvention.

The message from the TDM C-Suite Travel Trade Global Summit 2025 was clear: AI is no longer a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. As travel brands navigate rising guest expectations, complex decision journeys, and a shift from domestic to international demand, the need for action is urgent.

The Future of Hospitality Isn’t an AI Strategy—It’s Strategy Powered by AI

Across every panel and keynote, one insight kept surfacing: It’s not about having an AI strategy—it’s about using AI to power your strategy. The future of hospitality belongs to those who move early, move smart, and design around meaningful experiences.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Blue Elephant’s Master Chef Nooror and Chef Sandra Showcase Thai Culinary Soft Power

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Blue Elephant's Master Chef Nooror and Chef Sandra Showcase Thai Culinary Soft Power - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, May 10, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe (4th from left) of the Blue Elephant Group, together with her daughter Chef Sandra Steppe Goswami (3rd from right), conducted a live cooking demonstration in the Dutch language from the premises of Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant in Phuket recently. The chefs showcased two signature Thai dishes—Tom Kha Kai (Chicken Coconut Soup) and Tom Kha Hed (Mushroom Coconut Soup)—in a special live broadcast for audiences in The Netherlands and Belgium, promoting Thailand’s rich culinary heritage as a form of soft power.

The special 30-minute event, an initiative led by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in Paris in partnership with Blue Elephant Group, was broadcast live across official social media platforms of the TAT in Europe.

Pictured from left are: Kim Steppe, CEO, the Blue Elephant Group; Hedi Bonsignore; Holden Raynaud, Director; Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe; Pierre Swennen; Chef Sandra Steppe Goswami; Jan De Rycke; and Kris Steppe.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Messe Berlin Establishes Indian Subsidiary

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Messe Berlin Establishes Indian Subsidiary - TRAVELINDEX

Messe Berlin Establishes Indian Subsidiary - TRAVELINDEXDelhi, India, May 10, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Messe Berlin announces the official launch of Messe Berlin India, a newly incorporated subsidiary that underscores the company’s long-term commitment to one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets. Headquartered in Delhi NCR region, the new entity will serve as a strategic base for expanding ITB India and launching future projects tailored to the Indian market.

With this establishment, Messe Berlin is reinforcing its vision of India as a regional hub for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable business growth within the exhibition and events industry.

Strengthening Global Vision Through Local Engagement

“Messe Berlin’s presence in India reflects our strategic intent to strengthen our international reach by being where the growth is. India is a key market for us — vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunities. With Messe Berlin India, we are laying down long-term foundations to build strong partnerships, support local industries, and elevate our global platforms,” — Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO, Messe Berlin

Katrina Leung, who serves as Messe Berlin’s Vice President Asia Pacific and currently leads the company’s regional operations as Managing Director of Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, will additionally head the newly established subsidiary as Managing Director of Messe Berlin India, overseeing its strategic growth and operations in the country.

“Messe Berlin India marks an exciting new chapter for us. India is one of the most dynamic and promising markets in the region, and having a presence here allows us to deepen our engagement and better serve our partners, exhibitors, and visitors. ITB India has already laid the foundation, and with this milestone, we are committed to expanding our footprint and contributing to the growth of India’s trade fair landscape,” — Katrina Leung, Managing Director & Vice President Asia Pacific, Messe Berlin

Local Springboard for Future Trade Fair Projects

As Messe Berlin’s official representative office in India, the subsidiary will play a pivotal role in driving local business development, acquiring new exhibitors and strategic partners, and supporting customer outreach and service.

In addition, the subsidiary will act as a launchpad for future trade fair initiatives specifically designed to meet the needs and opportunities of the Indian market.

Travel Trade Show held in Mumbai

ITB India, inaugurated in 2023, continues as the flagship event under the new subsidiary. Held annually, ITB India is a three-day B2B travel trade show and convention that connects the global travel and tourism industry with the Indian market. Alongside MICE Show India, Travel Tech India, and the ITB India Conference, ITB India serves as a unique platform to forge new partnerships, strengthen existing ties, and capitalize on the fast-growing potential of the Indian and South Asian travel economies.

The show hosts key players from the MICE, Leisure, Corporate Travel, and Travel Technology sectors. The upcoming edition, ITB India 2025, will take place from 2 – 4 September 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Global Travel Leader Assembles New Management Team

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Global Travel Leader Assembles New Management Team - TRAVELINDEX

Global Travel Leader Assembles New Management Team - TRAVELINDEXAberdeen, Scotland, May 10, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Bolstering the support provided to travellers, ATPI, the global leader in travel management, has announced an enhancement of its energy leadership team.

Central to this change is the appointment of Zara Higgins to the newly created role of Head of Energy. Zara will be supported by Judy ‘JP’ Peplinski, who steps into the role of Head of Global Strategy, Energy Division, transitioning from her current role as Managing Director USA, Energy Travel.

As JP’s successor, Ettienne de Swardt will be assuming the title of Managing Director for the US, following his tenure as Senior Director of Sales & Account Management of North America.

These leadership changes mark a significant step in ATPI’s strategy to further develop and expand its energy division, one of the company’s key service lines. Renowned for delivering innovative technologies and expert guidance in solving travel-related challenges, ATPI continues to see substantial growth across this key market. Through this restructuring and the establishment of these new positions, ATPI will capitalise on the strengths and dynamic leadership of each newly appointed individual.

Together, Zara, JP, and Ettienne bring over 80 years of combined experience in travel. The trio’s unmatched awareness and understanding of complex travel logistics, paired with their forward-thinking approaches, and longstanding relationships with airline and travel partners, will continue to deliver immense value to ATPI and its customers.

With these new appointments in place, ATPI is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory and investment in its energy line over the coming months.

Discussing the restructuring, ATPI CEO Ian Sinderson commented: “This restructuring places us in a fantastic position. Zara, JP, and Ettienne embody the values that ATPI holds dearly and have demonstrated invaluable leadership qualities and a dedication to supporting not just customers but their colleagues too.

We’re fortunate to have these incredibly experienced and versatile individuals within our team. They all bring something unique to their roles that will benefit our customers no matter the location or industry. Already, throughout their time at ATPI, they have all been part of key successes and instrumental in driving our growth in the global energy sector.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ITB China Partners with UN Tourism and Fliggy for Rural Tourism Development

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ITB China Partners with UN Tourism and Fliggy for Rural Tourism Development - TRAVELINDEX

ITB China Partners with UN Tourism and Fliggy for Rural Tourism Development - TRAVELINDEXShanghai, China, May 10, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / As rural tourism emerges as a vital driver for sustainable economic growth and community development, ITB China 2025 will spotlight initiatives designed to support rural areas through tourism. A key highlight will be the UN Tourism “Best Tourism Villages” initiative, which promotes exemplary rural destinations from across the globe and China. Representatives from previously awarded villages – both domestic and international – will be invited to share their stories and demonstrate how they have successfully balanced community empowerment, cultural heritage preservation, and sustainable economic development.

Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General, UN Tourism said, “Rural tourism is a vital driver for community empowerment and nature conservation worldwide. Through the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism initiative, we recognize and support destinations that harness rural tourism as a force for good. These villages stand as global examples of how tourism can preserve cultural heritage, safeguard biodiversity, and enhance the quality of life for residents. We are proud to share this vision at ITB China and partner with them to showcase how rural tourism is shaping a more sustainable, inclusive future for rural communities around the world.”

Rural tourism plays an increasingly vital role in driving sustainable economic growth and strengthening local communities. ITB China will place special focus on initiatives that harness tourism as a catalyst for rural revitalization. In close collaboration with ITB China, UN Tourism, Alibaba Philanthropy and Fliggy will host a dedicated forum titled “China Travel: Discovering Rural Beauty”. The forum will offer high-level insights into the development of rural tourism in China and provide a unique platform for global travel leaders to exchange ideas and build meaningful partnerships.

Under the theme “How the UN Best Tourism Village Award is Empowering Communities, Preserving Heritage, and Building Sustainable Economies”, UN Tourism will lead discussions on the transformative role of tourism in rural development. This will be followed by a panel discussion titled “Revitalizing Rural Tourism Resources, Driving Digital Transformation, and Enhancing Product Marketing from a Global Perspective.” The session will explore the current state of rural tourism in China and examine the strategic opportunities it presents.

ITB China Inbound Segment: Diverse Line-Up of Leading Destinations, Travel Operators, and Hospitality Brands

This year’s inbound tourism segment will be more diverse and wide-ranging than ever, with participation from Beijing, Hubei, Guangxi, Lahsa, Hangzhou, and Shanghai. Exhibitors include top travel operators such as China Tourism Group Travel Services，Hubei Best Tour，Guangxi Tourism Development Group, China International Travel Service Guilin Co., Ltd., Spring Tour, Zhejiang EVERBRIGHT, and Guangdong China Travel Service, as well as key state-owned enterprises such as Huangshan Tourism Group. Major hospitality brands, including Donghu Group, Jinjiang International Group, Jiushi Group, LN International, and Wanda Hotels & Resorts will present China’s evolving standards in international hospitality.

China Inbound Travel Forum offers Strategic Global Insights

The China Inbound Travel Forum will provide a global perspective on the Chinese travel market, bringing together key players from major international source markets, top inbound tour operators, and leading industry experts. Discussions will center on fresh strategies for promoting Chinese destinations to overseas audiences, with a focus on real-world case studies and practical, data-driven insights. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) will share its Annual Report on Tourism’s Economic Impact. Additional sessions will cover topics such as “Decoding China’s Viral Destinations on Global Social Media: Channel Tactics & Content Ciphers”, “Market Demand Variations Across Overseas Sources and Product Adaptation Strategies” and “Capitalizing on the Surge in Travel to China: Strategies for Sustainable Growth Across Hotels, Airlines, Travel Agencies, and OTAs”.

Networking Events to Foster Exchange

To foster collaboration and celebrate local culture, several high-profile networking events are planned. Beijing Night, hosted by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, will showcase the capital’s rich tourism offerings on the evening of May 27, while Guangxi Night, hosted by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, will showcase the capital’s rich tourism offerings on the evening of May 28. The Hubei Networking Lunch, hosted by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Hubei Province, will offer a taste of regional charm and foster dialogue among industry professionals from China and across the globe on May 27.

Following the exhibition, international buyers will be invited on an exclusive seven-day familiarization trip from May 29 to June 4 to explore Hangzhou and Beijing in depth. The curated itinerary includes immersive cultural experiences, intangible heritage activities, culinary tastings, site visits to transport infrastructure, and meetings with leading tourism enterprises. The program aims to showcase China’s diverse tourism offerings and service excellence while fostering lasting international partnerships.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News