Global Travel News

Thailand joins 270 Network Organizations Calling on World Bank to End Funding for Industrial Farms

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Thailand joins 270 Network Organizations Calling on World Bank to End Funding for Industrial FarmsBangkok, Thailand, April 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Campaigners from Sinergia Animal Thailand and World Animal Protection Thailand joined over 2570 allies worldwide for a global day of action, demanding that the World Bank and its private-sector arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), stop financing factory farming. Activists delivered a joint letter to the World Bank’s office in Bangkok, urging an end to all investments in factory farming that drive environmental destruction, threaten human and animal health, and undermine global sustainability goals.

The World Bank Group, which includes the IFC, is an international financial institution that provides loans and funding to projects in developing countries. It aims to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development. However, recent research reveals that the Bank’s ongoing support for factory farming contradicts these very objectives by contributing to biodiversity loss, climate change, and worsening public health outcomes.

Although there are no current World Bank investments in factory farming in Thailand, the country is still affected by these global investments. The Thai government holds a 0.51% voting share in the World Bank, meaning public money from Thailand contributes to harmful factory farm projects in other countries.

Saneekan Rosamontri, Country Director at Sinergia Animal Thailand, explained, “Thailand is a shareholder of the World Bank, which means our government plays a role in deciding where money is invested. We do not want our public funds supporting industrial factory farms that harm communities, animals, and the planet.”

“This is a critical moment for the Bank to transition to sustainable, just food systems that protect people, animals, and the environment. We’re calling on our government to use its World Bank vote to help make that shift,” added Saneekan.

Despite Thailand’s growing awareness of sustainable development and climate resilience, the impacts of global factory farming investments are already being felt at home, from worsening air pollution and deforestation to a rise in antimicrobial resistance, food insecurity, and extreme weather events.

Recent research from World Animal Protection showed a comprehensive review of the World Bank and IFC’s current policy gaps. These include a lack of transparency, failure to align with international climate and biodiversity frameworks, and inadequate protection of community land rights and labor standards. For example:

  • Climate impact: The World Bank fails to address the climate consequences of industrial livestock production, with no emission reduction targets aligned with the Paris Agreement, inadequate emissions reporting, and a lack of clear policies to prevent deforestation in agricultural supply chains.
  • Public health: There are no bans on the routine use of antibiotics in livestock, no clear restrictions on the use of harmful chemicals, and insufficient measures to address pollution from industrial animal waste.
  • Food system sustainability: The Bank continues to prioritize industrial meat production over sustainable alternatives, with no strategy to support plant-based or local food systems, promote alternative proteins, or address environmental and social injustices in agriculture.

“Factory farming is accelerating a global crisis—and Thailand is already paying the price. We are experiencing more frequent floods, extreme heat, and dangerously polluted air that threatens the health of millions. These are not distant problems. They are here, now, and getting worse. Climate change, public health threats, and food system shocks do not stop at national borders. That’s why Thailand must take a stand—to protect our people, our environment, and our future,” said Chokdee Smithkittipol, Programme Lead at World Animal Protection Thailand.

In response, over 270 organizations and civil society associations, including international and local NGOs, academics, farmers, and advocates, have signed a joint letter addressed to the executives of the World Bank and the IFC. The letter urges the two institutions to:

  • Adopt a formal exclusion policy to end financing for factory farming
  • Phase out existing investments and redirect funds to sustainable, high-welfare food systems

“We’re running out of time. The World Bank cannot claim to fight poverty and climate change while fueling a system that destroys the planet and harms the most vulnerable, including animals. We need bold leadership now—starting with ending all support for factory farming,” added Chokdee.

Campaigners stress that Thailand should not be complicit in financing this destructive model by participating in the World Bank. Instead, the country can help lead the way in promoting food systems that are sustainable, ethical, and resilient for future generations.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dive into Bold Thai Flavors with Tiger Prawn Pad Thai Udon

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Dive into Bold Thai Flavors with Tiger Prawn Pad Thai Udon - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, April 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Plate Restaurant at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit unveils a bold new twist on one of the most iconic Thai classics with the “Plate of the Month, Tiger Prawn Pad Thai Udon.” This indulgent creation is a must-try for lovers of rich, flavor-packed dishes.

Prepared with finesse by our expert chefs, the dish features thick, chewy Udon noodles stir-fried in the Pad Thai style, harmoniously blending the sweetness, tanginess, and depth of traditional Pad Thai. The star of the dish is the succulent Tiger Prawn, perfectly cooked, complemented by an aromatic prawn fat sauce that infuses the noodles with a rich seafood essence. This dish offers a delightful balance of texture and taste.

Elevate your meal with a 20% discount when paired with our Cocktails or Wine of the Month, making this dining experience even more memorable.

Available at Plate Restaurant from 1 May to 30 June 2025.
THB 690++ per dish.

For more information or reservations, please contact us at 02 090 7888

Book your hotel room at the Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit now…

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mashatu Shares Special offer for Safari Cycling Event

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Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana’s Northern Tuli has Announced a Last Minute Special for Land of the Giants Safari Cycling Event 2025

There is less than 6 weeks to go until Mashatu’s annual Land of the Giants Cycling Event – and Mashatu has just announced an exclusive, last minute 25% discount for all participants who sign up between now and 6th May 2025.

The event will run from 6th-12th June 2025, giving guests the unique opportunity to ride bikes through Mashatu’s spectacular landscapes with ancient elephant trails, towering baobabs and iconic wildlife. An added bonus is that each cyclist will be pedalling for a purpose as the event aims to raise 1 Million BWP (Botswana Pula) for conservation initiatives in the area.

Learn more about the itinerary and packages via their webpage and watch the highlights video from 2024 for a teaser on what’s to come!

Mashatu Tent Camp, Kolokolo Safari Home and Shalimpo Safari Home still have space available – each offering the ideal secluded safari stay.

Spots are filling fast—secure yours before 6th May 2025 by contacting Lala Seragi at lala@mashatu.com or via WhatsApp on 00 267 73 074 215.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Seychelles Political History Book Enters House of Lords Library

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Seychelles Political History Book Enters House of Lords Library - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, April 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A significant milestone for Seychelles’ political legacy – Baroness Sandy Verma has officially received a copy of “Alain St.Ange, My Journey – Life & Times in Politics” for inclusion in the esteemed House of Lords Library in the United Kingdom.

This powerful publication charts the compelling journey of Seychelles’ political evolution—from its early days as a French territory, through British colonial rule, and into the transformative tides of independence. The book dives deep into pivotal events: the 1977 Coup d’État, the dark era of political persecution, the infamous Bob Denard invasion, and the dramatic mutiny.

More than a chronicle of events, the book captures the resilient spirit of a nation and its people. It follows the return of multiparty democracy, the birth of the Third Republic, and the constitutional milestones that shaped modern Seychelles.

At the heart of this historical narrative is Alain St.Ange, whose political career spans decades—from a young MP representing La Digue, to a popular and effective representative of Bel Air, and eventually to key ministerial roles. His story culminates in his bold bid for the presidency in 2020, offering a unique insider’s perspective on leadership, service, and legacy.

This book’s inclusion in the House of Lords Library not only honours Alain St.Ange’s journey—it cements Seychelles’ place in global political literature.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul Sparks a Global Shift Toward Meaningful Tourism

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PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul Sparks a Global Shift Toward Meaningful Tourism - TRAVELINDEX MEDIA GROUPIstanbul, Turkiye, April 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) successfully convened the PATA Annual Summit 2025 (PAS 2025) from April 21-23 at the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel in İstanbul, Türkiye. The event was generously hosted by the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) and supported by official airline partner Turkish Airlines.

Over 260 delegates from across the globe convene under the theme: “Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future”.

Held under the theme “Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future”, PAS 2025 brought together over 260 delegates from 35 destinations, including senior government officials – such as H.E. Hak Huot, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, and Meenas Shaugy, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment of Maldives – private sector leaders, academics, and youth representatives from across the Asia Pacific and beyond. Delegates came from as far as the Pacific islands, including Guam and Palau, to North Asia with participants from Japan, Korea (ROK), and China, Central Asia including Azerbaijan, the Middle East with Saudi Arabia, as well as South Africa, the United States, and various parts of Europe.

Strengthening the Foundation: PATA’s Internal Milestones

PAS 2025 was not only a space for dialogue and discovery – it also marked a defining moment for the Association’s internal growth and governance. The Summit began with a series of productive internal meetings over the first day and a half, including:

– Ratification of a new Vision and Mission for the Association
– Formal approval of the PATA Executive Board and Board members
– Strategic discussions that advanced the PATA 2030 Strategy, setting the course for a more agile, inclusive, and impact-driven Association.

These milestones reflect PATA’s commitment to evolving its role as the leading voice for responsible tourism in Asia Pacific and beyond, and to strengthening its impact through renewed focus and leadership.

Leadership Messages: A Call for Purpose-Driven Tourism

Opening the main conference on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 22, PATA Chair Peter Semone delivered a compelling call to action, urging the global tourism industry to adopt a more purposeful and impact-focused approach to growth.

“Tourism cannot survive without peace, nature, and community,” said Semone. “In an era of climate instability and rising polarization, the tourism sector must go beyond growth metrics and instead become a vehicle for empathy, humility, and peace. That is the path to regeneration and resilience.”

Later, in the Thought Leaders Session: Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid reflected on tourism’s deeper value: “Tourism is an emotional economy. What we truly take away from travel are the moments, memories, and human connections. PAS 2025 is our opportunity to commit to tourism that uplifts, heals, and endures.”

Global Voices, Shared Commitments

With participants from across the Asia Pacific and beyond – including Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea (ROK), Thailand, Saudi Arabia, the USA, and more – the Summit featured over 40 speakers from leading organisations such as UN Tourism, BBC, Mastercard, Skyscanner, Amadeus, Airbnb, GSTC, and Tripadvisor.

Highlights from the programme included:

– PATA Policy Forum: Building a Sustainable Future: Government-led dialogue on policy innovation
– Sustainability Panel – Temperature Rising: Confronting the climate emergency
– Ideation Lab – Trend Accelerator: Unpacking the latest global travel trends
– In Conversation – Rethinking Global Aviation: A look at İstanbul’s growing role as a global air hub
– Breakout Sessions: Focused on outbound markets, digital nomads, AI integration, and workforce development

A newly introduced feature, the “Ask the PATA Experts” initiative, allowed delegates to schedule one-on-one consultations with specialists in seven key areas, ranging from climate adaptation to workforce development. This initiative is part of the PATA Strategy 2030, aimed at enhancing member engagement and delivering greater value through targeted, expert-driven interactions.

Culture, Community, and Collaboration

In alignment with the Summit’s theme, the programme offered delegates hands-on cultural experiences, including simit baking, Turkish coffee brewing, and Ebru marbling- showcasing Türkiye’s deep-rooted traditions and intangible heritage.

Following the conference, attendees explored Türkiye further through curated post-event tours to Istanbul’s iconic landmarks—such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and Bosphorus Ferry—as well as trips to Antalya, İzmir, and Cappadocia.

During the closing ceremony, new partnerships and MoUs were also recognized, reflecting the collaborative spirit and shared vision that defined PAS 2025.

Giving Back: Kind Hearts Book Drive

As part of the PATA Kind Hearts Initiative, launched in 2024 to promote literacy and community impact in host destinations, delegates were invited to donate children’s books to the Rami Library in İstanbul. The initiative reflects PATA’s ongoing mission to give back, uplift youth, and foster education through tourism.

Committed to Sustainability

In line with PATA’s values, PAS 2025 was organised with sustainability in mind. The event’s carbon footprint was fully offset through contributions to the Kınık Wind Power Plant in Türkiye’s İzmir Province, supporting clean energy generation and reinforcing the Association’s environmental responsibility.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

About the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency
Founded on July 15, 2019, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) is dedicated to delivering Türkiye as a brand and a popular destination in both domestic and international tourism markets; discover, develop and promote tangible and intangible natural, cultural, biological and manmade heritage assets; boost the tourism capacity of Türkiye, increase the rate of tourism investments in the national economy and raise the quality of service with short, medium and long term communication and marketing activities.

In line with tourism strategies and policies set by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Agency is carrying out all promotion, marketing and communication activities to serve Türkiye’s tourism goals, promote and market current tourism opportunities across the globe as well as discover, improve and establish potential areas of tourism.

About Turkish Airlines
Established in 1933 with a fleet of five aircraft, Star Alliance member Turkish Airlines has a fleet of 462 (passenger and cargo) aircraft flying to 349 worldwide destinations as 296 international and 53 domestics in 130 countries.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alain St. Ange Honoured at House of Lords

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Alain St. Ange Honoured at House of Lords - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, April 25, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Alain St. Ange, Seychelles’ former Minister of Tourism and current presidential candidate for Lalyans Nouvo Sesel, was honoured as Guest of Honour at the International Summit & Awards held at the iconic House of Lords, UK Parliament. The recognition was presented by MSG Advert Ltd, in celebration of Mr. St. Ange’s lifelong dedication to leadership, diplomacy, and sustainable development.

This distinguished accolade underscores the international esteem in which Mr. St. Ange is held—particularly for his contributions to global tourism diplomacy, economic empowerment, and people-centred governance. His address at the summit resonated with delegates from across continents, further solidifying his role as a statesman equipped with the global perspective and grassroots sensibility needed in today’s era of change.

Now standing as a leading voice for transformation under the banner of Lalyans Nouvo Sesel, Alain St. Ange brings the same integrity, innovation, and inclusive vision to his presidential campaign. His platform echoes the values he was celebrated for abroad: unity, transparency, equitable opportunity, and bold reform. From ending excessive fees on tourism and jetty landings to advocating for justice in state land allocations and addressing social inequality, St. Ange and *Lalyans Nouvo Sesel are championing a future that puts the Seychellois people first.

“Being recognised at the House of Lords was an honour,” St. Ange stated. “But my true purpose lies at home—with the people of Seychelles. Together, we can usher in a new era of fairness, prosperity, and dignity.”

MSG Advert Ltd. extended its heartfelt appreciation to Mr. St. Ange for gracing the international stage and embodying the summit’s mission to elevate visionary leadership. His presence reminded all in attendance that genuine progress stems from courage, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to the people.

For Media Inquiries:
Lalyans Nouvo Sesel Communications Team
info@lalyansnouvosesel.sc

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PolyU Unveils Large Language Model-based Tourist Satisfaction Index

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PolyU Unveils Large Language Model-based Tourist Satisfaction Index - TRAVELINDEXHong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, April 25, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / As tourism, one of the major pillars of the Hong Kong economy, gradually recovers from the pandemic, the government has planned a series of measures to promote the all-round development of the tourism industry. The Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCdTT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) has developed an innovative, Large Language Model-based assessment framework – the Hong Kong Tourist Satisfaction Index (HKTSI) – to evaluate the satisfaction level of inbound tourists to Hong Kong from 2012 to 2024 across different tourism-related sectors, temporal scales and regions. Findings reveal that, while performance variations across different regions were clearly indicated, the TSI rebounded and reached its highest-ever recorded score after the temporary decline during the pandemic.

Under the leadership of Prof. Haiyan SONG, Principal Investigator and SHTM Associate Dean, RCdTT Director and Mr and Mrs Chan Chak Fu Professor in International Tourism, the TSI was initially introduced in 2009, using a questionnaire-based methodology to evaluate tourists’ satisfaction with various tourism services. Seeking to provide a more comprehensive and accurate analysis, the team has transformed the framework by adopting an interdisciplinary approach that integrates theories from management science, economics and computer science, and leveraging the advanced LLM technology.

The enhanced TSI framework offers multi-dimensional analysis, enabling TSI measurement across different dimensions (such as service topics, service sectors and trip types), temporal scales (monthly and annually) and regions. This adaptable approach provides stakeholders with timely, data-driven insights to guide service improvement, policy development and strategic decision-making.

Prof. Kaye CHON, SHTM Dean, Chair Professor and Walter and Wendy Kwok Family Foundation Professor in International Hospitality Management, said, “Hong Kong’s competitiveness as a global tourism hub hinges on it delivering exceptional service quality that meets travellers’ expectations. The RCdTT-SHTM’s ongoing development of the TSI underscores our commitment to advancing Hong Kong’s reputation as a world-class destination for international visitors.”

The team gathered over 1.25 million reviews from TripAdvisor, a global Online Travel Agency (OTA) platform, covering 13,694 Hong Kong service providers across five tourism service sectors, namely attractions, hotels, restaurants, retail shops and transportation. The LLM-based assessment framework then utilises Alibaba’s open-source General Text Embedding model to extract semantic insights from the visitor reviews in different languages and formats.

Key findings include:

1. Topic-based analysis reveals that the largest proporation of reviews are about “service reliability and safety”. This reflects that reliability in tourism services emerged as the most crucial factor influencing tourist satisfaction, forming the foundation of trust in the travel industry.

2. Since 2012, the Hong Kong TSI has shown an overall upward trend, while consistently scoring above 75 points on a 0-100 scale for the past decade. Despite a temporary decline during the pandemic, Hong Kong TSI levels had fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels in 2024.

3. Notably, the transportation sector has consistently achieved high TSI scores, largely due to Hong Kong’s well-developed public transport infrastructure, which continues to enhance visitor experiences. Retail shops and restaurants, on the other hand, have lagged behind, primarily owing to price-related factors. The traditional price advantage of retail shops is gradually diminishing, significantly impacted by the rise of e-commerce. Similarly, restaurants in Hong Kong tend to be relatively expensive, prompting some tourists to seek more affordable dining options on the mainland.

4. From a spatial perspective, all districts recorded TSI scores above 73 points, yet a north-south divide persists, with higher satisfaction levels in the southern regions and lower levels in the north. The highest TSI values were concentrated along both sides of Victoria Harbour, such as in the Central and Western, and Yau Tsim Mong Districts, while Kowloon City District recorded considerably lower TSI levels, creating a distinct localised satisfaction gap compared to its surrounding districts.

5. Tourists with different trip types exhibit significant variations in their satisfaction levels towards Hong Kong. Business tourists generally report the highest satisfaction across most sectors, whereas solo travellers exhibit lower satisfaction overall. This may be due to their different needs: business tourists typically prioritise standardised functional requirements, while the solo travellers place greater emphasis on unique and personalised experiences.

6. Language-based analysis further highlights differences in the TSI, with reviews in English and European languages yielding higher satisfaction levels than the Japanese- and Korean- language reviews. This highlights the impact of cultural differences on tourist satisfaction.

Objectives of the TSI
The LLM-based TSI framework is crafted to deliver regular, data-driven insights that benefit tourism service providers, policymakers and destination management organisations. Through topic-level TSI analysis, for instance, businesses can pinpoint specific areas for service enhancement, while destination- and sector-level assessments provide a broader perspective for strategic planning and policy formulation. Additionally, monthly TSI updates ensure that assessment results remain timely and relevant, enabling swift and informed decision-making.

Although the Hong Kong economy has largely recovered from disruptions caused by the pandemic, challenges such as labour shortages, supply constraints, changing economic conditions, evolving consumer behaviour and competition persist. Highlighting the significance of the TSI in tackling these challenges and facilitating relevant decision-making and planning, Prof. Song remarked, “To sustain ongoing recovery, accurate and timely assessment of the satisfaction level of inbound tourists is essential for policymakers and industry practitioners to develop sustainable tourism strategies that will further fortify Hong Kong’s tourism advantages, propel its tourism industry and ultimately promote long-term economic growth in the City.”

As technology advances, both destinations and visitors increasingly rely on information and communication technologies to make their decisions. In support of the long-term sustainability of the tourism sector, by harnessing artificial intelligence, LLM and big data analytics, the enhanced TSI assessment framework aims to offer more precise and targeted advice for strengthening tourism service quality and bolstering Hong Kong’s global competitiveness.

About the Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism
The mission of Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCdTT) at PolyU focuses on advancing the understanding and implementation of digital technologies in the tourism industry. This involves conducting research on how digital transformation can enhance tourism services, improve customer satisfaction and drive sustainable growth in the sector. The centre aims to provide insights and solutions that help tourism stakeholders adapt to technological changes, optimise operations and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

About PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management
For more than four decades, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality and Tourism Management” category in ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024 for the eighth consecutive year; placed No. 1 globally in the “Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services” category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2023/2024 for seven years in a row; rated No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism” subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017; and ranked No. 1 in Asia in the “Hospitality and Leisure Management” subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.

The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 90 faculty members from 21 countries and regions around the world, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School’s groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, and inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bushtops Safari Camps Unveils The Beest

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Bushtops Safari Camps Unveils The Beest - TRAVELINDEXBushtops Safari Camps in East Africa will be launching its much-anticipated Bushtops Game Viewer, affectionately known as “The Beest”,  on 1 June 2025, a revolutionary luxury safari vehicle designed to transform wildlife exploration in the Serengeti.

Following years of dreaming, design and construction, this one-of-a-kind innovation combines cutting-edge engineering with unparalleled comfort, offering guests an extraordinary way to experience Africa’s wilderness.

The Ultimate Game Viewer
The Beest redefines luxury safaris with its 6×6 off-road capability, ensuring stability across the Serengeti’s most rugged terrain. Its open configuration maximizes panoramic views, while roll-down canvas sides adapt to weather conditions without compromising safety. Built with a high-tensile steel structure and roll cage, the vehicle prioritizes security without sacrificing style, featuring luxurious wood trim, mood lighting and premium carpeting.

>> Watch The Beest’s big reveal video on YouTube.

Unmatched Comfort and Versatility
Guests enjoy extra-large heated seats, personal mini fridges, and power outlets, alongside a 4×2-metre built-in bed and pop-up roof tent for overnight stays at remote individual camp sites allocated within the National Park. A dedicated driver and ranger enable extended all-day game drives, while the built-in kitchen and high-pressure shower ensure self-sufficiency in the wild. For those seeking the pinnacle of adventure, pairing the Beest with Bushtops’ exclusive mobile camp, Roving Bushtops, which is relocating to its new home in the northern Serengeti on 1 June, adds luxury to limitless exploration.

Exclusive Access
Available as an exclusive, optional add-on for guests at either Serengeti Bushtops or Roving Bushtops, the Beest complements Bushtops’ existing fleet of open-sided Toyota 4x4s and luxury tented suites. With 2025 rates starting at $1,090 per person per night for accommodations, The Beest will elevate the already exceptional offerings at these 5-star safari camps, including year-round Big Five sightings and front row seats to the Great Migration.

“The Beest is a testament to our commitment to innovation and guest experience,” says Claudia Stuart, co-owner of Bushtops. “From its heated VIP seating to its off-grid capabilities, every detail has been crafted to immerse travellers in the wonders of the Serengeti in absolute style and comfort.”

The Game Viewer at a Glance

  • Power: Rugged, 6×6 wheel offroad power and stability, enables the limitless exploration of the Serengeti in absolute comfort
  • Design: Its open-sided configuration allows for uninterrupted viewing, with roll down sides – ideal for wildlife photography and game spotting
  • Safety: High tensile steel structure and roll cage
  • Comfort: extra-large luxury seats with built in heaters, personal mini fridges and charging points for cameras and phones
  • Style: Luxurious wood trim, mood lighting and carpeting
  • All the Bells and Whistles: a built-in fully functional kitchen, fold-out bar, dining table, high and wealth of amenities for long days in the wilderness
  • Sleep Out:  a luxurious 4×2 metre bed in a pop-up roof tent, ablution facilities and a pressure hot shower for those wanting a real taste of adventure under the stars

About Bushtops Safari Camps
Operating in Kenya and Tanzania, Bushtops delivers wild luxury through its award-winning camps, including Serengeti Bushtops and the seasonal Roving Bushtops in Tanzania, and Mara Bushtops in Kenya. Known for private game drives, stunning tented suites, and bespoke itineraries, the family-run company continues to set the standard for high-end safaris in East Africa.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA’s New Vision and Mission – Guiding the Future of Pacific Asia Tourism

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PATA's New Vision and Mission - Guiding the Future of Pacific Asia Tourism - TRAVELINDEXIstanbul, Turkiye, April 25, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Recognising the shifting global landscape, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced a new Vision and Mission that reflects the evolving priorities of the travel and tourism sector with a focus on innovation, collaboration, and adaptability. These guiding principles are a catalyst to the shaping of a meaningful tourism economy.

The new Vision and Mission were approved by the PATA Board held during the PATA Annual Summit 2025 in İstanbul, Türkiye, and were formally ratified during the 74th Annual General Meeting.

PATA’s new vision, “A meaningful Pacific Asia tourism economy”, is both concise and impactful. The word “meaningful” reflects a commitment to long-term, holistic outcomes – social, cultural, environmental, and economic – that benefit all stakeholders. It recognises tourism’s potential as a transformative force that respects diversity, supports communities, and nurtures the region’s rich heritage.

PATA’s new mission is: “Share knowledge, enable networking, and protect tourism economy assets by fostering innovation, collaboration, and adaptability”.

This mission defines PATA’s 2030 strategic plan that supports its growing network of members and partners through responsible tourism practices, forward-thinking initiatives, and community-driven collaboration. It reflects a continued dedication to sustainability, resilience, and the long-term relevance of the tourism sector.

PATA Chairman Peter Semone said, “with our new direction we are setting our aspiration on advancing a meaningful tourism economy in Pacific Asia, one where host communities are empowered, tourism stakeholders are valued, businesses grow responsibly, and the environment and cultural heritage are protected.”

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as youth members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 31 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 15 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts, and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok’s Pichaya Pam Soontornyanakij Named World’s Best Female Chef

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Bangkok’s Pichaya Pam Soontornyanakij Named World's Best Female Chef - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comLondon, United Kingdom, April 24, 2025 / TOP25 RESTAURANTS / In the first of a series of special awards announced ahead of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, Bangkok-based Pichaya ‘Pam’ Soontornyanakij, chef-owner of Potong, has been named The World’s Best Female Chef 2025. A culinary expert and celebrated TV personality, Pam is a leading figure in Thai global gastronomy. Following her recognition as Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024, she now makes history as the first-ever Asian and Thai female chef to receive this prestigious global title, further cementing her status as a powerful force on the world culinary stage.

● Pichaya ‘Pam’ Soontornyanakij is a globally recognised talent in Thailand and on the
international culinary scene
● Chef Pam was previously named Asia’s Best Female Chef as part of Asia’s 50 Best
Restaurants 2024
● Her restaurant, Potong, was named No.13 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 and No.57 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024
● Her restaurant, Potong, claimed the top spot and was ranked No. 1 in the TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok 2024.

Having spent her formative years in Bangkok, Chef Pam sharpened her skills at the Culinary Institute of America before gaining hands-on experience at New York’s renowned Jean-Georges. Back in Thailand, she and her husband co-founded The X Project, a hospitality group driven by a shared passion to create bold, unique dining concepts that continually push boundaries and bring something new to the industry.

One of her first projects was The Table, an intimate private dining experience that garnered both local and regional acclaim. She also owns Smoked, a multi-outlet restaurant in Bangkok that masterfully combines the smoky essence of traditional American Texas BBQ with the Thai reverence for beef. The group has since expanded to include ten diverse restaurants and bars across the city including TORA Izakaya, Khao Sarn Sek – a contemporary celebration of sacred Thai ingredients – and Opium Bar, an immersive cocktail experience located above Potong, which has earned international acclaim, ranking No.73 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024. Looking ahead, she is preparing to launch RA-U, a reimagined Thai grill house that continues her mission of honouring heritage through modern expression.

Returning to her roots, she opened Potong in 2021, a restaurant that celebrates her Thai-Chinese heritage. The name, meaning ‘simple,’ pays tribute to her family’s long-established Chinese herbal medicine business. Located in a historic building belonging to her family, which was once a traditional Chinese pharmacy, Potong masterfully blends legacy with cutting-edge culinary artistry.

Its unique tasting menu is guided by Chef Pam’s “five elements and five senses” philosophy, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience heritage and food as one — something never done before and only possible in this place.

Rapidly emerging as one of Thailand’s most influential chefs, Chef Pam has solidified Potong as one of Bangkok’s most illustrious gastronomic destinations, earning prestigious accolades including No.13 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 — rising from No.35 the year before — and No.57 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024.

Beyond her restaurants, Chef Pam serves as the main judge on Top Chef Thailand and continues to gain international recognition through her judging roles on global culinary shows such as Top Chef Arab World, The World Cook, The Maverick Academy, Iron Chef, and most recently, The Restaurant War Thailand, where she showcases her voice as a leader in modern gastronomy. Deeply committed to supporting the next generation, she also launched the WFW (Women for Women) Scholarship and Internship Program, a platform designed to empower young female chefs in Thailand by providing them with mentorship, professional opportunities, and access to education in the culinary arts.

William Drew, Director of Content for The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, says: “It is an absolute privilege to announce Chef Pam as the recipient of The World’s Best Female Chef Award 2025. She creates exceptional, innovative dishes, weaving cultural stories through food while pushing the boundaries of culinary tradition. Her visionary approach to gastronomy and her influential role in the Thai culinary scene and beyond makes her more than deserving of this recognition on an international level.”

Chef Pam says: “I’m truly honoured to be named The World’s Best Female Chef 2025 and humbled to be the first Thai to join the remarkable women who have paved the way before me. This award highlights the importance of recognising women’s invaluable contributions to the culinary world. It’s not just for me, but for every other female chef who may contribute to the journey of Thai cuisine on the global stage. Above all, I hope it inspires the next generation of female chefs to pursue their culinary dreams.”

The World’s Best Female Chef 2025 is the first of several awards to be revealed ahead of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 awards ceremony, which will be held at Lingotto Fiere in Turin, on the evening of Thursday 19 June. This year’s programme will include a series of key events which have become the foundation of 50 Best Restaurants celebrations: thought-leadership forum 50BestTalks, exploring some of the most pertinent topics affecting the hospitality world today; the 50 Best Signature Sessions series of collaborative dining events open to the public, which sees 50 Best chefs cooking alongside renowned local talent for exclusive dining opportunities; a Chefs’ Feast showcasing the finest quality ingredients and cooking techniques the region is known for; and the awards ceremony and countdown itself.

50 Best works with professional services consultancy Deloitte as its official independent adjudication partner to help protect the integrity and authenticity of the voting process and the resulting list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025. See more details on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants voting process here.

About The World’s 50 Best Restaurants
Since 2002, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants has reflected the diversity of the world’s culinary landscape. The annual list of the world’s most prestigious restaurants provides a snapshot of some of the best destinations for unique culinary experiences, in addition to being a barometer for and a pioneer of global gastronomic trends. The 50 Best family also includes Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants, North America’s 50 Best Restaurants, The World’s 50 Best Hotels, The World’s 50 Best Bars, Asia’s 50 Best Bars, North America’s 50 Best Bars, 50 Best Discovery and the 50BestTalks series, all of which are owned and run by William Reed. 50 Best aims to bring together communities across the hospitality sector to foster collaboration, inclusivity, diversity and discovery and help drive positive change.

About Piedmont and Turin
Located in northwest Italy, Piedmont is a region surrounded by the Alps, rich in natural beauty, art and culture. A hub of ingenuity and creativity, it is the cradle of the Italian automobile industry and home to several ‘Made in Italy’ products and icons. Its vibrant capital, Turin, has evolved by blending its industrial heritage with research, technology, education and the arts. In 2014, it was awarded Creative City for Design.

With its unique history and landscape of lakes, hills and mountains, Piedmont is a perfect year-round destination. Home to five UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Savoy Royal Residences, it is also a paradise for international gourmets, offering Alba white truffles, artisanal cheeses and 19 DOCG and 41 DOC wines, enjoyed in trattorias, cafés and renowned restaurants.

About S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna
S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna are the main partners of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna are the leading natural mineral waters in the fine dining world. Together they interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of excellence, pleasure and well-being.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News