Global Travel News

Asia Golf Tourism Convention 2025 Puts Spotlight on Central Vietnam

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Asia Golf Tourism Convention 2025 Puts Spotlight on Central Vietnam - TRAVELINDEXDanang, Vietnam, April 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Central Vietnam’s status as one of the world’s premier golf destinations is set to receive another major boost when Danang hosts the 12th Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) from April 2-4, 2025.

Organised by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the prestigious event will bring together leading figures from the global golf tourism industry, shining an international spotlight on the region’s exceptional courses, including Laguna Golf Lang Co, Montgomerie Links, and Ba Na Hills Golf Club—the core members of the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) collective.

With Vietnam already recognised as one of the fastest-growing golf tourism markets globally, the AGTC will reinforce Central Vietnam’s appeal, driving greater international exposure, strengthening partnerships with global tour operators, and fostering opportunities for new tournaments and business growth in the region.

“AGTC 2025 in Danang is a game-changer for golf tourism in Central Vietnam. It provides a platform to showcase our exceptional courses, hospitality, and the cultural richness of the region,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, Club Manager at Montgomerie Links.

Hosting AGTC 2025 is expected to deliver substantial benefits to Central Vietnam’s economy, reinforcing Danang’s position as a leading golf tourism hub. The event will bring increased visibility, attract more inbound golf travelers, and generate business opportunities for hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related sectors. Additionally, AGTC will highlight the support of local authorities and tourism boards in advancing Danang’s golf industry, ensuring sustained growth and international recognition in the years to come.

Montgomerie Links is preparing extensively for AGTC 2025, focusing on initiatives such as hosting familiarisation trips for international tour operators and media, ensuring the course and hospitality offerings showcase the best of Vietnam. The club is also refining its partnership strategies and expanding its outreach through digital platforms and exclusive Stay & Play package offers.

Ba Na Hills Golf Club, a VGC linchpin and twice named IAGTO Golf Course of the Year (2020 & 2024), sees AGTC as a major opportunity to cement its reputation in the global golf market. The club will leverage its long-standing relationship with IAGTO to strengthen ties with leading golf tour operators, host site inspections, and promote its award-winning layout.

“AGTC provides an extraordinary platform to showcase the diversity and world-class quality of golf in Central Vietnam,” said Simon Mees, General Manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “With our mountainous setting, exceptional design, and commitment to bringing international tournaments to the region, Ba Na Hills Golf Club is excited to contribute to Danang’s rising status on the global golf stage.”

Just a short distance north, Laguna Golf Lang Co will leverage AGTC as a springboard to expand its market presence, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, and other long-haul destinations. This April, the club will launch a new online booking platform, offering direct tee time reservations and stay-and-play packages, while a dedicated B2B portal will streamline industry partnerships and enhance collaboration

“Our participation at AGTC 2025 reflects our commitment to making Laguna Golf Lang Co a leading global golf destination,” said Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Lang Co. “With the launch of our online booking platform and the introduction of exclusive long-stay packages, we are elevating the experience for international golfers.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA: Sustainable Aviation Fuel Registry Goes Live

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IATA Sustainable Aviation Fuel Registry Goes Live - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, April 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Registry with its release to the Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO). The Registry, now live under CADO management, will enable a global market for SAF that will accelerate the transition to net zero emissions by 2050.

“Aviation’s decarbonization is a team effort. In releasing the SAF Registry to CADO for launch, we have put in place a critical platform for the benefit of all stakeholders. It ensures that all airlines in the world have access to SAF and that their SAF purchases can be claimed against any climate-related obligations in this domain. The Registry will record the environmental attributes of SAF purchases in an immutable way, safeguarding against double counting. Airlines, their corporate customers, fuel producers, regulatory bodies, and all related organizations will be able to record and account for their SAF transactions in a global market for SAF. While this is of fundamental importance and a historically momentous advance, it is but one step along the way to a mature, transparent, and liquid global SAF market. The Registry cannot produce miracles on its own, but without it, no miracles can be produced.

Further progress requires active policy support for the ramping-up of all renewable energy production, and for SAF within that production. Governments must reallocate their direct support given to fossil fuel producers in favor of renewable energy production. The precedent of the wind and solar energy markets is the example to follow, and this without any further delay,” said Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President Sustainability and Chief Economist.

About the SAF Registry
The SAF Registry is a global system to record SAF transactions in a standardized and transparent way. It ensures that the environmental benefits of SAF can be tracked as they move across the SAF value chain and enable the claiming of these against regulatory obligations and voluntary schemes by airlines and corporate customers.

The Registry helps solve the challenge of limited SAF supply —which is acutely scarce and available in only a few locations globally —by connecting airlines with SAF producers and suppliers, regardless of their geographical location. In addition, it gives airlines’ corporate customers access to in-sector emissions reductions and capitalizes on firms’ capacity to co-finance t​​​​​he cost of decarbonization.

The SAF Registry is technology and feedstock neutral, favoring the emergence of diverse SAF production streams across the world. It will be able to accommodate specific regulations, while favoring global harmonization. Moreover, interoperability with other registries is an important feature of the Registry, supporting competition and open markets.

The Registry was developed in consultation with airlines, government authorities, OEMs, fuel producers and suppliers, and corporate travel management companies. With over 30 early users (see appendix) already in the process of onboarding and ready to use the system, the Registry is underpinned by the IATA SAF Accounting and Reporting Methodology which provides a consistent approach to accounting for the environmental benefits of SAF purchases, regardless of location.

Participation in the SAF Registry will be free until April 2027, after which it will be operated on a cost recovery basis.

About CADO
The Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO) was created in March 2025 to maintain and operate the IATA-developed SAF Registry. It is a not-for-profit organization established under Canadian Law with its headquarters in Montreal.

CADO’s founding member is the International Air Transport Association (IATA) which provides ongoing technical and operational support for the SAF Registry. Membership in CADO is open to international organizations and companies in the SAF value chain.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Retox With Cigars, Gin, Desserts and Bubbles

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Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, April 2, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / In a salute to ubiquitous wellness travel trends, The Hari Hong Kong has launched a “retox” experience that celebrates the finer things in life.

Leave your guilt at the door and indulge in a late-night cigar, a tumbler of gin, a dessert platter and sweet bubbles in The Hari’s one-night “Retox But Not Detox” room package, which also includes a luxurious room or suite and breakfast for two.

The most toxic part of the package – the ‘Late-Night Retox’ — affords a choice of either the “Cigar Combo” or “Sweet Duo” for two.

Cigar Combo pairs a Confidenciaal cigar with a glass of the hotel’s own brand of gin, The Hari London Dry Gin, characterised by citrus, peppercorn and floral nuances, on the rocks for each person. Sweet Duo spoils guests to a dessert platter each of homemade Amalfi lemon sponge, berries panna cotta, and pistachio cannoli accompanied by a glass of Moscato d’Asti Scagliola Primo Bacio Piedmont, Italy.

“Not everyone’s idea of a great getaway involves rolling out a yoga mat, meditating and drinking freshly squeezed juice,” said Francesco Gava, Director of Food & Beverage at The Hari Hong Kong. “Detoxing is all well and good yet with so much talk of wellness post-COVID, it can get a bit overwhelming. So much so we want to acknowledge that it’s okay to like the finer things in life; a great cigar, an irresistible gin, an indulgent homemade dessert and a glass of sweet bubbles.”

Priced from HK$2,360++, the room package will be available from April 1 until Sept. 30 this year. Retox But Not Detox will offer early check-in at 2pm and late check-out until 2pm (subject to availability upon check-in). Late-Night Retox is available at Zoku & The Terrace after 8pm.

For guests not availing the Retox But Not Detox package, Zoku & The Terrace offer the Cigar Combo for HK$298+ per person and Sweet Duo for HK$228+ per person.

A spiced, aromatic take on the traditional London Dry, the hotel launched its own The Hari Gin in conjunction with its sister property The Hari London. Combining cardamom, cassia bark, star anise and cloves, The Hari Gin encapsulates the Harilela family’s Indian heritage. The Hari Gin is a nod to the CEO and chairman of Harilela Hotels Limited and the founder of The Hari Hong Kong Dr Aron Harilela’s late father Dr Hari Harilela’s love for a classic gin martini. The Hari Gin clinched silver for World’s Best Contemporary Style at the renowned World Gin Awards 2022.

Award-winning Zoku makes for an intimate setting of leather fluted booths, crimson velvet banquettes and bar lounge chairs amid the glow of pink bubble glass tealight holders and orange hand stitched fringed lampshades. Meaning “clan” in Japanese, Zoku is dominated by a mesmerizing ceiling of angled timber slats in origami-like forms. Adjacent to Zoku, The Terrace is an alfresco terrace bar framed by greenery.

The elegant hotel’s rooms and suites are imagined by renowned interior designer Tara Bernerd with views overlooking Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak and Victoria Harbour. Adorned with timber panelling, natural linen wallpaper, plush velvet upholstery and eccentric art, the bedrooms are separated from marble bathrooms by brass Crittall doors.

About The Hari Hong Kong

Opened in December 2020, The Hari Hong Kong is the vision of Dr. Aron Harilela, Chairman and CEO of Harilela Hotels Ltd, and the second hotel to open under the ‘The Hari’ brand. The first hotel, The Hari London opened in August 2016. The Harilela Group was established in 1959 and is still wholly owned by the Harilela family. The Harilela Group is the parent company of Harilela Hotels which owns 15 properties across Hong Kong, China, Asia, Europe, and the US.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Forecasts Strong Asia Pacific Visitor Rebound and Growth Through 2027

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PATA Forecasts Strong Asia Pacific Visitor Rebound and Growth Through 2027 - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, March 31, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has released the latest Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027, providing in-depth insights into tourism recovery trends across the region. This comprehensive report, prepared in collaboration with the Hospitality and Tourism Research Centre of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, presents forecasts for 39 destinations in the Asia Pacific region under mild, medium, and severe scenarios, offering critical insights for stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid remarked, “As global travel continues its strong recovery, the Asia Pacific region remains a key driver of growth. This latest forecast highlights the dynamic shifts in visitor flows, policy interventions, and infrastructure improvements that will shape the region’s tourism landscape over the next three years. By understanding these evolving trends, destinations can better position themselves for sustainable growth and resilience.”
Key Highlights from the Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027

– Resilient Growth Trajectory: Under the medium scenario, international visitor arrivals (IVAs) to Asia Pacific are projected to reach 813.7 million by 2027, reflecting a continued upward trend from the estimated 648.1 million in 2024.

– Policy and Connectivity Driving Recovery: Simplified visa processes, expanded airline routes, and enhanced infrastructure are accelerating recovery. Initiatives such as China’s visa-free transit expansion and Thailand’s “Six Countries, One Destination” project illustrate how strategic policy shifts can drive visitor flows.

– Destination Performance: China is forecast to reclaim its position as the leading inbound destination in the region, with the USA, Türkiye, and Hong Kong SAR ranking among the top performers by 2027. Meanwhile, Mongolia, Türkiye, Sri Lanka, and Japan are projected to lead in recovery rates, surpassing their pre-pandemic visitor numbers.

– Top Source Markets: China is expected to maintain its role as the largest source market for Asia Pacific, followed by the USA, Hong Kong SAR, Korea (ROK), and India. The rising middle class in India and Southeast Asia, along with increased adoption of digital payment platforms and social media-driven travel inspiration, is fuelling outbound travel growth.

– Macro Trends Impacting the Visitor Economy: The Asia Pacific tourism landscape will continue to be shaped by economic shifts, geopolitical factors, and technological advancements. Digital transformation, sustainable tourism initiatives, and new transportation infrastructure are set to redefine travel experiences in the region.

“As we move forward, the industry must remain agile and adaptive to shifting market dynamics,” Noor added. “The insights from the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027 will be invaluable for policymakers, businesses, and destination marketers aiming to capitalise on emerging opportunities.”

Access the Full Report
The PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2025-2027 report is now available for purchase at www.pata.org/research-q1v63g6n2dw/p/asia-pacific-visitor-forecasts-2025-2027.

Exclusive Member Benefits: PATA members can access an exclusive webinar on February 20, 2025, featuring expert insights from industry leaders and analysts on the key findings and implications of the report.

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

Cool Off With Khao Chae, Thailand’s Iconic Summertime Dish

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Cool Off With Khao Chae, Thailand's Iconic Summertime Dish - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, March 31, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Marriott Bonvoy members invited to chill out during the hottest months of the year and share authentic culinary experiences at a choice of hotels and resorts all across the Kingdom. Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, is helping its members to celebrate the start of summertime in Thailand this April, with a series of promotions that showcase the refreshing flavor of khao chae, a fresh and fragrant dish that lets guests cool off during the hottest months of the year.

Literally meaning “soaked rice”, khao chae features an elegant bowl of chilled jasmine-infused rice accompanied with a selection of sweet, sour, spicy and salty side dishes, to transport the taste buds on a multi-sensory journey. Having originated in the Mon Kingdom, this ancient recipe was adopted and enhanced by the Royal Thai court during the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910) and has now become synonymous with summertime in Thailand.

Diners can enjoy this exquisite, historic recipe at a choice of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of hotels in Bangkok and beyond. At The Siam Tea Room, the highly authentic Thai restaurant overlooking the Chao Phraya at Asiatique The Riverfront, a luxurious khao chae menu evokes the essence of a charming bygone era with an appetizer of grilled pineapple with dried chili, golden beans & dried shrimp, and a welcome lychee drink followed by the full khao chae feast, while The Siam Tea Room’s Sukhumvit branch, located at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, invites guests to savor a classic set menu, including a cool appetizer of snowy santol shaved ice with dried pork & bitter orange.

Also in the Thai capital, Sukhumvit Park, Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments is offering this heritage-rich dish to eat in or takeaway at Bistro M, and Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit’s 57th Street restaurant will present a sublime set menu throughout Songkran, Thailand’s vibrant New Year festival. At The House of Smooth Curry, The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, this ancient recipe has been crafted using organic rice sourced from local farmers in Amnat Charoen province, and at Flavors, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, a dedicated live station will be available at the popular international seafood buffet. Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok’s MoMo Café and Chon Som All Day Dining at Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport will both present the flavors of khao chae as part of their Songkran celebrations, from April 11-15.

Cool Off With Khao Chae, Thailand's Iconic Summertime Dish - TRAVELINDEX

At Bangkok Baking Company, JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, Chef Tang Tananton Bunnag showcases the artistry of Khao Chae, with jasmine rice delicately infused with floral water and paired with handcrafted condiments. Over at Thara Thong, Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok, guests can enjoy this royal Thai summer delicacy in an elegant riverside setting, where time-honored recipes and scenic Chao Phraya River views create a truly immersive experience. For another exquisite take on this seasonal delight, visit The Lobby Lounge at Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse, where cool, fragrant Khao Chae is served with six condiments.

The lush, rolling hills of Northern Thailand set the scene for truly evocative culinary occasions. At Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, this iconic Thai dish can be enjoyed at Latest Recipe, which highlights the finest Thai and Lanna flavors. And on the serene Eastern Seaboard, Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa will showcase this timeless recipe overlooking the glistening Gulf of Thailand at C-Salt Café. Finally, khao chae will be perfectly paired with endless Andaman vistas at Takieng, the beachside dining destination at Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa.

With more than 60 hotels and resorts in Thailand, Marriott Bonvoy invites travelers to experience the essence of summertime in this captivating country. Thailand’s Songkran Thai New Year festival will also take place this April, creating exciting travel opportunities for guests all across the “Land of Smiles”.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Celebrating Excellence in Asia-Pacific Travel – PATA Gold Awards 2025

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Bangkok, Thailand, March 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is now accepting submissions for the PATA Gold Awards 2025, celebrating excellence in the global travel and tourism industry. Based on a rigorous, merit-based judging process by an independent panel of experts, the awards uphold the highest standards of integrity and fairness, ensuring that only the most outstanding achievements are recognised.

For over four decades, the PATA Gold Awards have represented the pinnacle of achievement in Asia Pacific tourism, inspiring innovation and best practices across the industry. This year, PATA invites visionary organisations and individuals to submit their most impactful projects by May 25, 2025, for a chance to gain global recognition.

“The PATA Gold Awards are more than just accolades; they are a testament to the unwavering dedication to quality and innovation,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “We pride ourselves on our stringent judging methods, ensuring that only the most deserving projects are celebrated. As our commitment is to quality and excellence, the awards promise to recognise the visionaries who are genuinely shaping the future of travel. This year, we have refined our categories to further reflect the dynamic evolution of our industry, particularly in critical areas like marketing, and sustainability and social responsibility.”

He added, “We are immensely grateful to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) for their 30 years of unwavering support. Their commitment underscores the importance of recognising and fostering excellence in our industry.”

MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes emphasized, “The moment has arrived for tourism stakeholders to bring forward the fruits of their vision and commitment in finding the best approaches in marketing as well as sustainability and social responsibility tailored to the industry in the Asia Pacific. With Macao now entering a new dynamic development as a world center of tourism and leisure, we are honored to join hands once again with PATA to provide a platform to inspire the industry across the region to excel.”

This year’s PATA Gold Awards feature refined categories in Marketing and Sustainability & Social Responsibility, ensuring a comprehensive celebration of excellence, creativity, and impact in the industry. Winners will be announced at the PATA Gold Awards 2025 Gala Dinner on August 27, held in conjunction with PATA Travel Mart 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Why Enter the PATA Gold Awards?

  • Unmatched Credibility – One of the world’s most rigorously judged travel awards, free from sponsor influence.
  • Global Exposure – Showcase your work to an elite panel of international experts and PATA’s extensive network.
  • Strategic Promotion – Leverage media coverage and PATA’s global marketing platforms.
  • Exclusive Networking – Enjoy complimentary access to PATA Travel Mart 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.
  • Enduring Recognition – Be featured in the PATA Gold Awards 2025 Winners’ Showcase e-booklet and PATA Travel Mart exhibition.

Your achievements deserve global recognition. Submit your entry today and join the ranks of the world’s most distinguished travel and tourism leaders.

How to Apply

For full details and to submit your entry, visit: pataprodigy.org/OStaff/GoldAwards/2025.pdf

For further inquiries, visit www.pata.org/pata-gold-awards-2025 or contact goldawards@pata.org.

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

Pedals Powering Impact in Botswana’s Mashatu Game Reserve

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Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana, march 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / From 6th to 12th June 2025, riders from across the world will be participating in the 2025 Land of the Giants (LOTG) cycling event, hosted by Stephen Lansdown, Mashatu Game Reserve majority owner and passionate conservationist.

The event, being held at Mashatu for the third year in a row, will raise vital funding for the Tuli Conservation Trust (TCT) for conservation, anti-poaching and to uplift and empower local communities.

With 120 – 180 km of cycling trails, spread over 3 days, split into groups of up to 8 riders with an experienced leader, the trails will pass through this rugged terrain teeming with elephants, leopards, lions and cheetahs, for the safari riding experience of a lifetime. Each team will be followed by a game drive vehicle, with guides, trackers and spectators.

Rates to participate start from £2,500 per person sharing for the 6-night LOTG 2025 package including all meals and daily game drives and/or guided walks. This includes the 3-day cycling event (medics, spa, support & mechanics and a gift bag), 2 sundowner events, a gala dinner – as well as a rejuvenation day where participants will visit the local community and conservation project to see where the funds raised will be going.

This event is all about creating positive impact through ecotourism, with £780 of every booking for the event being donated to the TCT. The target is to raise 1 million Botswana Pula, which is over US$70,000.

With spaces in some of the country groups already fully booked for 2025, riders are encouraged to register their interest now for LOTG 2026 which is set to take place from the 1 – 7 May 2026.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Summer Delicacies at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

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Summer Delicacies at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort - TRAVELINDEXChiang Mai, Thailand, March 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Anantara Chiang Mai Resort’s Bodhi Terrace unveils its new summer menu with traditional khao chae, pla haeng tangmo, som chun and a chef special of khao chae ice-cream.

As the hottest months of the year approach, Thais have traditionally retreated into the comfort of cool, whether splashing in water or consuming iced foods and drinks that bring welcome respite.

Khao chae is one of these foods, beloved and royal, and now available at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort’s Bodhi Terrace, the perfect setting for a leisurely summer meal as guests enjoy a cool breeze off the Mae Ping River and the shade of its namesake bodhi tree.

Khao chae originated from Thailand’s Mon population, and was then made popular in the palace of King Rama II. It is prepared by soaking rice in fragrant jasmine water, which is then served iced. Accompanying are a traditional set of bites such as shrimp-paste balls, the perfect combination of sweet and savoury, and stuffed sweet pepper with an artful lattice egg wrap. A selection of raw vegetables, mango and chilli add an extra layer of refreshment.

To accompany their traditional khao chae set, Anantara guests may also enjoy a starter of pla haeng tangmo, watermelon cubes gently dusted with fish floss, then follow their meal with som chun, in-season mandarin and lychee soaked in iced jasmine-pandan syrup and topped with green mango, young ginger and bitter orange. The most adventurous, meanwhile, will enjoy the chef’s special of jasmine rice ice-cream topped with “khao chae condiments” of dried fish cookies, candied sweet peppers and fried salted egg.

The Bodhi Terrace kitchen is helmed by Chef Natruthai Petsuwan, with authentic northern Thai cuisine as well as specialities from her native south on offer. Highlights include the khao soi with river prawn, and slow-braised pork belly with star anise and cinnamon. Guests can also learn to recreate their favourite dishes with Chef Natruthai in a Spice Spoons cooking class, a signature Anantara offering.

Bodhi Terrace’s summer delicacies are available throughout the months of April and May for both lunch and dinner. For reservations or more information, call +66 53 253 333

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Tourism Secretary-General Concludes Landmark Visit to China

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UN Tourism Secretary-General Concludes Landmark Visit to China - TRAVELINDEXBeijing, China, March 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The leadership of UN Tourism has successfully concluded a high-profile visit to China, reinforcing strategic partnerships and advancing sustainable tourism initiatives across key regions. The visit by Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili featured engagements with senior government officials, industry leaders, and international development agencies, further deepening UN Tourism’s collaboration with China.

The visit marks a milestone in UN Tourism’s partnership with China, underscoring the shared vision of advancing sustainable tourism and economic progress worldwide.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “China stands as one of the world’s true tourism leaders, both as a source market and as a destination in its own right. At both the public and private level, China is leading from the front in the digital transformation of the sector while also supporting it to become a pillar of international sustainable development.”

At both the public and private level, China is leading from the front in the digital transformation of the sector while also supporting it to become a pillar of international sustainable development

Advancing the Global Development Initiative

Throughout the visit, the Secretary-General reiterated UN Tourism’s support for China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI) and the vision of a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind. In line with President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on global solidarity, UN Tourism remains committed to fostering inclusive, innovative, and partnership-driven frameworks that align with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

The Secretary-General engaged with the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) to explore future collaboration on Chinese Government-funded projects that aim to support UN Tourism Member States, focusing on sustainable development and tourism-related initiatives. In all three bilateral meetings with Shanghai, Hainan, and CIDCA, the Secretary-General highlighted the significance of GDI and the Community with a Shared Future for Mankind, both proposed by President Xi Jinping. UN Tourism strongly recognizes GDI’s vital role in promoting inclusive, innovative, and partnership-driven frameworks that support the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The Secretary-General echoed President Xi Jinping’s belief that “solidarity is strength, but division leads nowhere”, emphasizing that global cooperation leads to shared success and sustainable development.

Strengthening High-Level Engagements

During meetings with senior officials in Shanghai, including Chen Jining, Member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Secretary of the Shanghai Municipal Committee, the Secretary-General reaffirmed the commitment to regional tourism development. Discussions emphasized sustainable tourism growth, digital transformation, and investment opportunities, setting a strong foundation for future cooperation.

Strategic Partnership with Trip.com Group

As well as engaging public sector leaders, the UN Tourism delegation also strengthened ties with the private sector in China, recognizing the key role of enterprise in growing and transforming the sector at every level.

A visit to Trip.com Group headquarters marked a significant step toward enhancing collaboration in the travel and tourism sector. Discussions focused on leveraging digital innovation, technology integration, and sustainable travel practices, aligning with UN Tourism’s global goals.

Engagements in Hainan Province and Bo’ao Forum for Asia 2025

In Hainan Province, the Secretary-General held productive discussions with the Governor, Vice Governor, and senior officials from the Hainan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism. The engagements underscored the importance of fostering partnerships between UN Tourism and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China. The Secretary-General also participated in the Bo’ao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025, highlighting the vital role of tourism in regional economic cooperation and sustainable development.

Strengthening Ties with the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF)

The Secretary-General met with Pansy Ho, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of GTEF and UN Tourism Ambassador, to discuss ongoing strategic cooperation and preparations for the 2025 Global Tourism Economy Forum. The dialogue reinforced the critical role of tourism in driving global economic growth and collaboration.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BWH Hotels Brings International Hospitality to Quetta

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BWH Hotels Brings International Hospitality to Quetta - TRAVELINDEXQuetta, Pakistan, March 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, the leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, has expanded its presence in Pakistan with the launch of a brand new hotel in Quetta, the capital and largest city in the province of Balochistan.

Now open and welcoming guests, Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta forms part of a major new mixed-use development. Travelers can stay in complete comfort with a choice of 25 spacious rooms and suites, all fully equipped with modern and comfortable amenities.

This contemporary hotel also features extensive facilities for business and leisure, including an all-day dining restaurant, a lobby lounge, state-of-the-art fitness center, yoga studio, and business center. The five meeting rooms will enable companies to conduct professional conferences, and all guests will enjoy the convenience of direct access to the Hanna Mall retail complex.

The hotel is conveniently situated on the outskirts of the city, and easily accessible via National Highway 25. It is approximately 20km from Quetta’s historic center and 10km from Quetta International Airport, which offers direct connections to and from major cities including Dubai, Jeddah, Karachi and Lahore.

Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta becomes BWH Hotels’ fifth property in Pakistan, following the group’s popular Best Western Premier® hotels in Lahore and Islamabad and two new Best Western® properties in Rawalpindi and Gujranwala. It also marks the first internationally-branded hotel in the city of Quetta, a vibrant regional commercial hub which is home to more than one million people.

“We are delighted to start welcoming guests to Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta, which marks the start of an exciting new era of world-class hospitality in this major city. An integral part of the new DHA Hanna Mall complex, I am confident this outstanding property will become one of the most popular places to stay, meet, shop and dine in Quetta,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

With five hotels now operating and several more in the pipeline, BWH Hotels is one of the leading hotel operators in Pakistan.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News