Global Travel News

Koh Samui, Thailand, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Three days of competitive racing and changing wind conditions have set up an exciting battle at the 23rd Samui Regatta, Thailand’s premier sailing event.

The IRC Open Class has delivered close racing across five races, featuring some of the region’s top sailors and yachts.

A standout performer has been Alive, skippered by Duncan Hine, a two-time Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race winner, after sailing more than 2,500 kilometres from Australia to Koh Samui.

The fleet also includes Aftershock, led by Steve McConaghy, recently named Yachtsman of the Year by the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, and defending champion Team Hollywood, skippered by Ray Roberts, one of Asia’s most accomplished yacht owners and helmsmen. Roberts has enjoyed success at major regattas throughout the region and is known for building highly competitive teams.

Despite Alive’s speed, Team Hollywood has used consistent performances and strong handicap results to take the overall lead heading into the remaining days of the regatta.

The first three days tested both sailors and race officials. Day One delivered solid racing conditions, while lighter winds on Day Two demanded patience and tactical discipline. Day Three brought shifting breezes and a mix of racing formats, rewarding adaptability. Race Officer Simon James and his team successfully completed five races despite the challenging conditions.

After three days, five races and one discard, Team Hollywood leads the IRC Open Class on 4 points, followed by Alive on 7, Aftershock on 12 and Iolanthe 3 on 14. With two racing days remaining, the title race remains wide open.

Beyond the racing, the regatta continues to showcase Koh Samui as a leading sports tourism destination, attracting sailors, supporters and visitors from across the Asia-Pacific region.

Following Thursday’s lay day, racing resumes on Friday before concluding on Saturday with the Closing Awards Ceremony at Fair House Beach Resort & Hotel.

With only a few points separating the leading teams, the final two days promise a thrilling finish to one of Asia’s premier sailing events.

The Samui Regatta, a prestigious event in the sailing calendar, runs from May 24 to May 30, 2026. Keelboats race in the same IRC Open class. The event is centred at Nora Beach Resort and Spa, providing an ideal backdrop for participants and spectators.

The Samui Regatta Committee organises the event in collaboration with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Tourism Association of Koh Samui, the Surat Thani Province, and Regatta Asia.

The 23rd Samui Regatta’s sponsors and supporters include Samui Tourism Promotion Association, Nora Beach Resort & Spa, Fair House Beach Resort & Hotel, Regent Chaweng Beach Resort, HaadThip Public Company Limited, Frank Pong’s Jelik, UK Sailmakers, Samui Verticolor Hotel, Chaweng Garden Beach Resort, Bangkok Airways, Bangkok Samui Hospital, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Media Partners include Thailand Marine Guide and SEA Yachting Magazine.

About the Samui Regatta
The Samui Regatta is the island’s longest-running sporting event. It reinforces Thailand’s status as a premier sailing destination and a key stop on the Asian yachting circuit. The event began in 2001 with a modest fleet of beach catamarans. Since then, it has grown remarkably and gained recognition among international sailors.

Regatta Asia organises the event. The regatta aims to increase tourism to Koh Samui, elevate the profile of sailing in Asia, and promote water sports participation.

Source

Singapore, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / In late 2025, Apple released its latest iteration of the AirPods, featuring live translation capabilities. Users can wear the device to understand spoken foreign languages in real time when travelling, helping them overcome the communication barrier.

Innovations like these are made possible by advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting the use of technology in enhancing travel experiences.

Modern travellers have greater demands for convenient, seamless, and personalised experiences on their trips. For travel brands, meeting these expectations calls for investing in the right travel technology solutions and infrastructure.

Ahead of ITB Asia 2026 in Singapore, one of the largest travel trade shows in the world, here is a look at the tech trends taking centre stage in the region’s travel industry.

Travel Tech and Why It Matters for Travel Brands

Travel tech is the use of digital tools and platforms to improve and streamline services and experiences, from booking systems and payment gateways to transportation and accommodations.

With the global travel tech market predicted to reach USD 21.37 billion by 2030, adopting tech-based tools and platforms will be a key differentiator for travel brands in the coming years.

Consumer behaviour reflects this preference for digital-first travel experiences. 70% of travellers use smartphones to research and book holidays, and nearly three-quarters of these bookings are made within two days of a Google search. These behaviours show how strongly digital tools now influence consumer decisions and purchasing speed.

For travel brands, investing in travel tech brings its own operational and strategic benefits. Businesses can automate more complex processes and reduce costs, while also leveraging data analytics to better understand customer behaviour and trends.

These insights enable travel brands to deliver more personalised experiences, strengthen customer loyalty, and adapt more quickly to changing market demands.

The Key Travel Technology Trends Reshaping Asia Pacific

1. AI-Powered Personalisation

AI has rapidly become a core part of the travel industry’s technology stack. A survey of tourism and hospitality leaders found that 91% of respondents had already incorporated, or were piloting, AI-driven solutions in their workflows.

AI enables travel brands to personalise offerings for customers, often before those needs have been expressed. Predictive analytics, for instance, allows businesses to anticipate travellers’ preferences and personalise their services accordingly.

For example, online travel agencies (OTAs) and metasearch engines can use AI tools to forecast when a user is likely to travel again, based on previous searches, booking history, and preferred destinations.

The platform can then deliver highly targeted recommendations, such as personalised hotel offers or destination suggestions, at the most relevant times. This enables more engaging customer interaction and stronger opportunities for conversion.

AI-powered chatbots, virtual assistants, and even customer service robots are also increasingly popular, offering round-the-clock, instant support for travellers. These tools automate tasks such as rebookings, password resets, or answering customers’ basic queries. This not only enhances the customer experience for travellers but also allows businesses to cut down costs and free up staff for more demanding tasks.

For travel businesses, the commercial advantage of AI personalisation is evident, with more than half of travellers seeking personalised experiences and customer engagement over generic marketing.

2. Super-Apps and Seamless Booking Ecosystems

In Asia Pacific, travel services are embedded within larger digital ecosystems in the region, namely super-apps such as WeChat in China and Grab and Gojek in Southeast Asia.

These platforms not only function as messaging or rideshare applications, but also as convenient tools for booking airport transfers, purchasing travel insurance, and as cashless payment options in foreign countries.

This allows millions of users to plan their trips, book rides to and from the airport, and arrive at their destinations ready to shop and explore, all without having to juggle multiple websites or apps.

For travel brands targeting Asian consumers, establishing a strong presence within these competitive super-app ecosystems is vital for discoverability and long-term customer engagement.

This means enabling distribution partnerships, integrating payment systems, and ensuring that booking experiences work seamlessly within super-app environments.

Rather than utilising super apps as an optional digital channel, travel businesses would strategically benefit by understanding how these ecosystems shape consumer behaviour and purchasing decisions across Asia.

3. Contactless and Biometric Travel Experiences

Across airports, hotels, and transport hubs in Asia Pacific, contactless and biometric technologies are now customary in the travel experience.

Facial recognition, mobile room keys, and digital identity verification systems all help improve efficiency and convenience for both travel businesses and customers.

These technologies are also becoming increasingly sophisticated, creating faster, more seamless travel experiences with minimal manual intervention.

In 2024, Singapore’s Changi Airport became the first airport to utilise iris recognition technology to enable passportless immigration clearance. By the end of this year, 95% of immigration processing at Changi Airport will be fully automated, allowing travellers to pass through security in a matter of seconds.

Another innovative development is IoT-enabled luggage options. These offer “smart” suitcases and bags outfitted with GPS tracking, biometric security, and even self-following and obstacle avoidance capabilities.

For travel brands, these developments tap into offerings related to customer data infrastructure, cybersecurity, privacy compliance, and how digital touchpoints can be integrated into a seamless travel experience.

4. Sustainable Travel Technologies

Sustainability is a core travel technology trend in 2026, with 85% of travellers now considering it a key priority when making travel decisions.

Gen Z travellers, in particular, favour environmentally conscious travel habits. They are willing to pay more for eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options, vegan or vegetarian food options, and “green” activities at their destinations.

Technology is playing a vital role in shaping travel brands’ response to this growing customer demand for eco-conscious journeys. Booking platforms now integrate carbon tracking tools, sustainability scoring systems, and green inventory filters to highlight eco-certified hotels and low-emission transport options.

Some airlines and tour operators are also leveraging AI to optimise operations by selecting routes with lower carbon emissions and fuel consumption. This helps travel businesses reduce their environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency and cost performance.

For travel brands, the challenge is to make sustainability visible, measurable, and actionable by making it a part of the overall travel experience and demonstrating to customers their commitment to environmentally conscious operations.

As sustainability becomes an important factor in travellers’ decision-making and preferences, it will also be a key focus area for travel brands and industry leaders at ITB Asia 2026.

Connect With the Future of Travel Technology at ITB Asia 2026

The travel tech trends emerging in Asia Pacific indicate one thing: travel businesses that invest early in technology and customer experience will have the strongest potential for long-term success.

This means investing in the technologies, partnerships, and infrastructure needed to stay competitive in the travel sector.

The best place to accomplish this is at ITB Asia 2026, set to take place from 21 to 23 October at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. Co-located with Travel Tech Asia, this year’s event will bring together tech suppliers, innovative start-ups, and leading travel brands to showcase and explore the latest in travel technology.

Attendees at this year’s edition of the event can look forward to:

• Connecting with high-value travel tech sellers, buyers and decision-makers through personalised business matching services.
• Discovering new platforms, tools, and digital solutions aligned with emerging trends.
• Gaining exclusive market insights from thought leadership sessions, workshops, and industry panels.
• Exploring the latest innovations and offerings in global travel technology and customer experience.

Source

Geneva, Switzerland, June 01, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The global economic outlook has deteriorated sharply in recent weeks, according to the latest edition of the World Economic Forum’s Chief Economists’ Outlook published today.

• Nearly nine in ten chief economists surveyed expect global growth to weaken over the coming year, but only 13% think there could be a global recession.
• According to the survey, 94% expect global inflation to rise as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz drives up energy and food costs and disrupts supply chains.
• 92% expect greater AI adoption over the coming year, but optimism about the speed of productivity impact across industries has cooled.

Nearly nine in ten chief economists surveyed expect global growth to weaken over the next 12 months, reversing the cautious optimism seen at the start of the year, as conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz fuel concerns over a major global economic shock.

Chief economists already rank the current closure duration of the Strait of Hormuz as significantly more disruptive than last year’s tariff turmoil. If the closure persists into the second half of the year, they expect its impact could approach the severity of the COVID-19 crisis, compounding effects across global supply chains, energy and food costs. An overwhelming 94% of the surveyed chief economists expect global inflation to increase over the coming year.

“Only months ago, the Chief Economists community was cautiously optimistic. The conflict in the Middle East changed that, and the economic scarring from the situation thus far is already expected to last into the months ahead,” said Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director, World Economic Forum. “The longer the disruption lasts, the heavier the long-term cost for those who can least afford it.”

An uneven regional outlook
The fallout is expected to hit the Middle East and North Africa region the hardest. After being viewed as one of the brighter economic regions only months ago, 88% of the surveyed chief economists now expect weak or very weak growth – the sharpest regional reversal in the survey. Elsewhere, the outlook is mixed: inflation expectations have climbed sharply in sub-Saharan Africa, now the highest of any region surveyed, while Europe faces mounting stagflation risks as growth weakens and inflation fears mount. By contrast, India and the United States are expected to remain relatively resilient, supported by domestic demand and investment.

Low recession risk but high volatility
Despite the sharp deterioration, the survey does not point to a significant downturn. Most of the chief economists do not expect a recession within the next 12 months, even as they see little prospect of the economy growing more resilient in the near term. Much will depend on the length of the disruption: a shorter shock could leave room for recovery, while a prolonged closure would deepen the strain on the global economy. Financial markets are expected to come under increasing strain, with 79% of respondents anticipating rising volatility in private debt markets over the next year, as signs of stress in private credit emerge; 74% also expect public debt market volatility to increase and 68% expect stock market volatility to increase.

AI optimism is high but cooling
AI remains a source of tailwinds in the global economy, with 92% of chief economists expecting greater artificial intelligence adoption over the coming year. However, optimism about the speed of productivity gains from AI adoption has now become more measured. Meaningful productivity gains are expected to take longer in almost all industries compared to the respondents’ views in January 2026. Information technology and education are the only sectors where expectations have held steady, with the most significantly delayed productivity gains now expected in engineering, construction, utilities, medical, healthcare and care services.

About the Chief Economists’ Outlook
The Chief Economists’ Outlook builds on consultations and surveys with leading chief economists from the public and private sectors, organized by the World Economic Forum’s Centre for the New Economy and Society. The survey featured in this edition was conducted from 6 to 17 April 2026. The report supports the Forum’s Future of Growth Initiative, enabling dialogue between business and government on growth in the new economy.

About the Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2026
The 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions will take place from 23 to 25 June 2026 in Dalian, People’s Republic of China, under the theme “Innovating at Scale”. The meeting will bring together 1,500 cross-sector leaders to explore how innovation and emerging technologies can unlock new growth models and drive positive economic momentum in a fast-shifting global landscape.

Source

Windhoek, Namibia, May 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Onguma Safari Camps in Namibia has launched Onkolo Soundscapes, a brand new activity on the reserve – and the first experience of its kind in Namibia.

Using a network of sensitive microphones discreetly and strategically positioned around Onguma’s water-level Onkolo Hide, the system captures and amplifies the living soundscape of the surrounding bushveld far beyond what the human ear alone can detect. The result is an intimate, sensory-first encounter that changes the way guests experience the African bush entirely.

The experience is particularly well suited to birders, photographers, and guests seeking something more mindful and immersive alongside their standard game drive programme.

Onkolo Soundscapes
Available as an add-on to the existing Onkolo Hide activity.

Sessions run approximately two to two and a half hours, with snacks and drinks included.

Guided throughout.

Minimum two, maximum six guests.

Not recommended for children under seven.

Pre-booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

Source

Hue, Vietnam, May 28, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Azerai La Residence, Hue in Vietnam’s former imperial capital is inviting guests to experience the vibrant Hue Festival 2026 with an exclusive package, while Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers relaxed summer escapes by the sea.

The Hue Festival is Vietnam’s premier cultural celebration. Held in the historic city of Hue, it features a year-long “Four-Season” program with nearly 80 events. Visitors can enjoy traditional court music and dance at the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel (directly across the Perfume River from the hotel), lantern parades, boat races, vibrant street food and spectacular fireworks.

Azerai La Residence, Hue has created a special “Hue Festival Package” including a two-night stay with daily breakfast for two, one curated dining experience showcasing Hue’s refined royal cuisine, a 45-minute spa journey, signature afternoon tea and 15% savings on all food and beverage outlets. The package is priced at VND 10,890,000 (approximately US $413).

“Azerai La Residence, Hue is the perfect base for guests who want to experience the Hue Festival,” said Minh Phan Trong, General Manager of Azerai La Residence, Hue. “Our riverfront location offers direct views of the Imperial Citadel and easy access to the heart of one of Vietnam’s most important cultural events.”

Travel + Leisure recently named Azerai La Residence, Hue one of the world’s “500 Best Hotels” in its May 2026 issue—one of 12 properties in Vietnam to receive the honor. The 122-room heritage hotel is centered around a striking 1930 colonial mansion built in the Streamline Moderne style of Art Deco architecture.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay – Summer Beach Escape

For travelers seeking a more relaxed summer getaway, Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers two unique packages on their website. The “Unfold Your Escape” package includes a three-night stay with daily breakfast for two, daily afternoon tea and more. Additionally, the “Local Residents Offer” provides a 10% discount off the best flexible rate (subject to availability), plus 10% off food and beverage (excluding alcohol) and spa treatments.

“As summer approaches, many dream of unwinding by the sea,” said Julian Moore, General Manager of Azerai Ke Ga Bay. “Our resort is a true oceanside oasis—elegant, peaceful and surrounded by rich local culture, including a vibrant fishing village.”

Nestled on 4.5 hectares of lush gardens along a sweeping five-kilometer sandy beach, Azerai Ke Ga Bay is an all-suites-and-villas resort located a comfortable 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City on a new highway. Spacious pavilions and private villas open onto garden terraces in muted tones inspired by local sand and granite. The resort is framed by Hon Ba Island with its historic lighthouse to the east and dramatic sand dunes to the west.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay was awarded a prestigious MICHELIN Key in the Guide’s inaugural Vietnam edition. The resort’s seaside infinity pool also helped it win the title of the “Most Instagrammable Hotel in Asia, the Indian Ocean and South Pacific” in a contest last year sponsored by the U.S.-based travel trade magazine Luxury Travel Advisor.

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.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, May 28, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Blue Elephant Group proudly announces its participation in THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2026, under the theme “From Thai Culinary Heritage to Global Gourmet Products.”

This year, the Group places a strong spotlight on making authentic Thai cuisine more accessible than ever – guided by the mastery, innovation, and lifelong dedication of Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, Blue Elephant Group’s Founder & Executive Chef.

With over 45 years of culinary excellence, Master Chef Nooror has built an international reputation for preserving the integrity of Heritage Thai Cuisine while adapting it for modern lifestyles. Her expertise lies not only in mastering traditional recipes, but in transforming them into easy-to-use formats through meticulously developed curry pastes, sauces, and seasonings, allowing anyone, anywhere, to recreate authentic Thai dishes with confidence.

At THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2026, Blue Elephant will unveil an expanded range of innovative spice blends and cooking solutions, designed to add a taste of Thailand to every meal. These new additions complement the brand’s renowned portfolio of premium curries and sauces, all crafted under Master Chef Nooror’s close supervision to ensure balance, depth of flavour, and consistency.

The new range spans curry powders in five flavours, including the beloved Thai classics of green, red, and yellow curry, each in a convenient sprinkler format designed for sprinkling, seasoning, and stir-frying. Joining them is a Tom Yum seasoning in the same format, bringing one of Thailand’s most iconic flavours straight to the home kitchen, no guesswork required.

Beyond the spice range, Blue Elephant is also expanding their snack series with the launch of crispy coconut roll, light and delicate in its natural sweetness. Alongside this, the brand is also beginning a phase of packaging revamp, with its popular Thai nuts moving from traditional tins to larger 200-gram sachets, offering consumers better value and greater convenience. Both developments speak to a broader effort to meet growing demand across Southeast Asian and U.S. markets, where appetite for premium Thai products continues to strengthen.

A dedicated educator, Master Chef Nooror continues to inspire the next generation of chefs and home cooks. Through Blue Elephant’s cooking schools and product lines, she actively promotes the use of Thai herbs and indigenous ingredients sourced from provinces across Thailand, encouraging younger audiences to rediscover their culinary roots. Central to her philosophy is the belief that “Thai food is medicine,” a principle that speaks to the natural benefits of traditional ingredients and their everyday relevance.

“There is no good Thai cuisine without good Thai ingredients,” said Master Chef Nooror. “As a chef, I see sustainability through taste. When ingredients are local, traceable, and produced with respect for people and animals, you protect true Thai flavours and our future. Responsible sourcing is not a trend; it is the foundation of every dish we serve.”

Additionally, Master Chef Nooror’s three children each play a meaningful role in leading the Blue Elephant Group forward. Kim Steppe serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Blue Elephant Group, Chef Sandra Steppe oversees Marketing and Public Relations, and Chef Kris Steppe is engaged in nurturing and inspiring the next generation of chefs, all together carrying forward the culinary traditions of the family.

Blue Elephant ensures that consumers can experience Heritage Thai cuisine on their own terms, whether at its restaurants on Sathorn or Sukhumvit 13 in Bangkok or in Phuket, or in their own kitchen using the brand’s premium product range. This connection between dining and home cooking sits at the heart of what Blue Elephant has always stood for: making exceptional Thai cuisine both accessible and enduring.

“Innovation at Blue Elephant is always rooted in authenticity. Our goal is to translate Master Chef Nooror’s deep culinary knowledge into products that make Thai cooking intuitive and enjoyable, while preserving the soul of each dish,” said Ines Chardonnet, Junior Vice President of Blue Elephant International Group.

Kevin Somany, in charge of Blue Spice, the manufacturing arm of Blue Elephant Group, added, “With Blue Spice, we are continuously developing new spice blends and formats that respond to modern cooking habits. Our latest range, introduced at THAIFEX this year, is designed to make Thai cuisine even more accessible to global consumers, without losing its authenticity or complexity.”

Visitors to the Blue Elephant booth at THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2026 can expect engaging product showcases, tastings, and insights into the craftsmanship behind each creation. The presentation highlights not only the Group’s heritage, but also its approach to evolving Thai cuisine for future generations.

As a global ambassador of Thai gastronomy, Blue Elephant continues to bridge tradition and innovation – ensuring that the richness of Thai culinary heritage remains relevant, accessible, and celebrated worldwide.

Source

London, UK, May 28, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Ahead of its opening later this summer, The Shepherd Mayfair unveils a collection of founding wellness and lifestyle partnerships that will shape the guest experience throughout the hotel, bringing together craftsmanship and considered wellbeing.

Positioned as a gateway to historic Shepherd Market, The Shepherd Mayfair has been conceived as a modern interpretation of Mayfair’s historic mansions, where hospitality, society and culture once intertwined. Reflecting that same layered approach, the hotel has collaborated with a carefully selected collection of brand partners whose values align with the hotel’s wider design narrative and approach to guest experience and quiet luxury.

The partnerships span fragrance, skincare, wellness and drinks, with Floris London, Italian skincare specialist Miamo, EMS fitness concept E-Pulsive and Suffolk-based premium gin brand Moatwood all contributing bespoke elements created exclusively for the hotel.

FLORIS LONDON
Founded in 1730 and still family-owned today, Floris is Britain’s oldest independent perfumer and has operated from its historic Jermyn Street townhouse for almost 300 years, only moments from The Shepherd Mayfair. Throughout its history, the house has held Royal Warrants and created fragrances for heads of state and royalty to cultural icons and Hollywood stars. For The Shepherd Mayfair, La Bottega, a member of La Bottega Collective, in partnership with Floris, has developed bespoke in-room bathroom amenities, presented in custom bottles created exclusively for the hotel. Available throughout all guest rooms and suites, the partnership reflects a shared appreciation for storytelling, craftsmanship and timeless British luxury.

MOATWOOD GIN
Championing British makers and suppliers is central to the hotel’s wider philosophy, leading to a partnership with Suffolk-based premium gin producer Moatwood. Known for its environmentally conscious approach and use of wild-foraged botanicals, Moatwood has created a bespoke gin experience exclusively for The Shepherd Mayfair, centred around a handcrafted roaming gin trolley that will move throughout the hotel’s public spaces and suites. In a direct reference to the surrounding neighbourhood, the trolley has been crafted using wood from a fallen tree sourced from Kensington Palace Gardens, only a short walk from the hotel. The timber was subsequently transported to East London, where it was hand-finished by a craftsman in Hackney before being delivered to the hotel. The collaboration brings together British craftsmanship while introducing an element of theatre to the guest experience, with the bespoke trolley allowing martinis and gin serves to be prepared tableside throughout the hotel or within the privacy of guests’ suites.

MIAMO
Expanding the hotel’s wellness offering, The Shepherd Mayfair has partnered with Italian clinical skincare brand Miamo, founded by pharmacists Dr Elena Aceto di Capriglia and Dr Camilla D’Antonio. Known for its science-backed formulations and protocol-led approach to skincare, Miamo has built a significant following in Italy through its focus on measurable results, advanced active ingredients and highly personalised routines. At The Shepherd Mayfair, a curated selection of Miamo products will be available within guest room minibars, ranging from cleansers and serums to targeted skincare treatments. Guests will additionally be able to order personalised full-size skincare protocols directly through the hotel’s in-room dining menu, tailored to their individual skincare needs. The curated offering includes the Glow Protocol, Moisturising Protocol and Hydrating Protocol, allowing guests to create a highly personalised beauty and wellbeing experience within the privacy of their room or suite.

E-PULSIVE
Further reflecting the hotel’s contemporary approach to wellbeing, The Shepherd Mayfair has partnered with E-Pulsive, the London fitness concept specialising in EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) personal training. Designed around efficient, high-intensity 20-minute sessions, E-Pulsive’s training combines electrical muscle stimulation technology with tailored movement programmes to provide a full-body workout in a significantly shorter time frame than traditional training methods, making it particularly well-suited to time-conscious travellers looking to maintain their fitness routines whilst away from home. Guests of The Shepherd Mayfair will be able to book one-to-one training sessions either within their suite, in one of London’s nearby Royal Parks or at E-Pulsive’s nearby Belgravia studio, allowing wellness to be integrated seamlessly into their stay. The collaboration reflects the growing demand for flexible, design-led wellness experiences within luxury hospitality, particularly amongst guests seeking highly personalised experiences.

The Shepherd Mayfair is located at 2 Stanhope Row, London, W1J 7BT, and will open in summer 2026.

Source

Borneo, Malaysia, May 28, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) introduced its transformative “Gateway to Borneo” campaign, inviting global travellers to explore the unique cultures, pristine landscapes, and boundless adventures that Sarawak has to offer. This campaign marks Sarawak’s refreshed brand as a rising star in sustainable tourism and Gateway to Borneo’s natural wonders and diverse heritage.

YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, shared Sarawak’s story with industry stakeholders and partners, extending a warm invitation to discover the “Gateway to Borneo.”

“Sarawak’s ‘Gateway to Borneo’ is more than an entry point — it’s a journey into a land where rich traditions, majestic landscapes, and responsible tourism set a new benchmark for world travellers. As we step boldly into the future, our mission is to preserve and share this unique heritage while pioneering eco-friendly tourism experiences that honour both our environment and our communities,” said the Minister.

The UK remains a pivotal market for Sarawak, making up over 34% in the long-haul visitors’ arrival with the numbers rising encouragingly, supported by strong partnerships and a growing demand for Sarawak’s unique sustainable travel experiences. From January to September 2024, Sarawak welcomed a 7.73% increase in visitors from the UK, underscoring its global appeal and contributing to the 4 million arrivals target for the year.

STB’s presence at WTM London underscores Sarawak’s commitment to showcasing its distinct offerings and building strategic partnerships. Highlighted at this year’s WTM are four innovative initiatives that capture Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable tourism and diverse travel experiences:

1. Audra’s Eat, Roam, and Relish – This culinary series celebrates Sarawak’s recognition as Malaysia’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, offering an immersive journey through the region’s authentic flavours and unique ingredients. Hosted by renowned chef Audra Morrice, this six-episode series showcases Sarawak’s rich culinary landscape, with her Sarawakian roots. Audra explores the flavours and traditions of her mother’s homeland, highlighting Sarawak as a premier food tourism destination and a place where food connects people through shared stories and heritage.

2. Borneo Green Bike Tour – In partnership with our stakeholder, this eco-friendly tour allows visitors to explore Kuching’s iconic sites on electric bikes, promoting low-carbon travel while supporting Sarawak’s Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

3. XTERRA Sarawak Borneo Trail Run – This off-road trail run in rural Pueh Village organised with Sarawak Adventure Challenge, brings adrenaline and adventure to the forefront, positioning Sarawak as a prime sports tourism destination in the region.

4. Clicktripz – In partnership with Clicktripz, Sarawak is also leading digital innovation with Asia Pacific’s first AI-powered marketing approach to amplify its global reach, directly engaging travellers in a meaningful way that highlights Sarawak’s rich heritage, adventure, and responsible tourism.

With a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and innovation, Sarawak is capturing the attention of travellers worldwide as a model of sustainable tourism. Through the “Gateway to Borneo” campaign, Sarawak invites global travellers to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Borneo — where every path leads to discovery, every landscape tells a story, and every visit contributes to preserving a truly remarkable destination for generations to come.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, May 27, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The first PATA Youth Symposium of the year was organised at Lahan Hotel, Pohang, Korea (ROK), on May 11, 2026, welcoming a full-house of students, young professionals, and tourism industry leaders. The event, held on the first day of the PATA Annual Summit 2026, was generously supported by Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organization (GCTO), Pohang City, and PATA Thailand Chapter.

Lee Sang-hyun, Director General, Pohang City’s Tourism & Convention Promotion Bureau, said, “It is truly meaningful for us to host the 2026 PATA Youth Symposium here in Pohang — a city that has grown through a spirit of innovation and challenge — bringing together young people who will lead the future of tourism.

He added, “Among all of you gathered here today, I believe there will be future leaders who will go on to drive transformation in the tourism industry.”

Following the event, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said, “It is important that every PATA event provides a platform for the younger generation to have their voice heard, beyond simply listening to speakers from around the world. It is our small contribution to each destination we visit to engage and inspire future tourism leaders through this important conversation.”

The half-day event featured presentations and discussions from tourism experts from various sectors, offering students and young professionals diverse and rounded perspectives on their future in the tourism industry.

Happenings at the PATA Youth Symposium 2026 @ PAS 2026

“From Intern to Industry: Stories That Shape Careers” brought together PATA intern alumni to discuss the realities of transitioning from university life into the workforce. Through honest reflections on uncertainty, career shifts, and professional growth, the speakers offered practical insights into building meaningful careers within the tourism industry.

In conjunction with efforts to amplify the voices of the younger generation, students were invited to share their perspectives on the future of tourism during the “Voices of the Next Generation” session. While the majority expressed optimism about the industry and saw themselves pursuing careers in the sector after graduation, some remained conflicted due to the lasting impact of the pandemic.

In contrast to the second sentiment made by some of the youth participants, invited speakers representing destination management organisations, private companies, and academia remarked on the strong future potential of tourism and its continued role as one of the world’s key industries supporting the global economy.

Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board, shared insights into youth leadership and empowerment initiatives in Sarawak, highlighting the importance of putting students at the centre of tourism conversations and creating platforms for young voices to share their perspectives on the challenges, opportunities, and emerging trends shaping the future of the industry. She noted that the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) is Sarawak’s space for collaboration, leadership development, and long-term community building.

Jules Shin, Area Manager for South Korea and New Zealand, Booking[dot]com, remarked that travel remains one of the most important industries, projected to reach US$ 4 trillion in global travel total transaction value by 2030. Shin went on to examine the evolving tourism landscape through the lens of resilience, discussing sustainability, climate adaptation, shifting traveller expectations, and the long-term resilience of destinations and tourism businesses.

Dr Bella Vongvisitsin, Assistant Professor (Hospitality and Tourism Management), Hong Kong Metropolitan University, and 2025 PATA Face of the Future in Strategic Management, underscored the growing importance of diversity in today’s evolving career landscape, highlighting how inclusive workplaces contribute to innovation, resilience, and stronger organisational performance across global industries such as tourism. Vongvisitsin further shared that nowadays, 76% jobseekers consider diversity when looking for work (SAP & Niagara Institute).

The panel discussion, “Maritime Sustainability and Ocean Conservation”, featured Jessie McComb, Senior Tourism Industry Specialist, Asian Development Bank (ADB); Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO, Sabah Tourism Board; Jennifer Chun, Director of Tourism Research, Hawaii Tourism Authority; and Dong-Gwang Son, CEO, Stay Hotel; Former Chairman, Yeongil Bay Tourism Special Zone Council. The panellists dove into the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and coastal environments through responsible tourism practices while supporting the sustainability of coastal and island communities.

In his session, Ben-Jie Lim, Chief People & Partnerships Officer, AirAsia MOVE, shares his career journey at AirAsia, from training in mentorship to taking his part in building the organisation’s resilience and transition into the online travel agency sector. He noted that transformation is key to attracting travellers and clients; without this quality, a business would lose opportunities to bring value.

Source

Bangkok, Thailand, May 27, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Thailand’s premier Indian wedding exhibition, the celebrated Masala Wedding Fair, returns for its 13th edition with its most expansive and refined showcase yet. Together with the much-loved Masala Food Festival, the event boasts two worlds that naturally complement one another: celebration and flavour, all under one roof.

The highly anticipated two-day fair will cascade over Saturday 6 June and Sunday 7 June at the Thai Chitlada Grand Ballroom, on the second floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. Guests can expect showcases from over 100 exhibitors from Thailand and India, spanning fashion, fine jewellery, culinary experiences, and beverage offerings, complemented by enchanting live performances in dance, vocal, and sound. The event offers a unique chance to immerse oneself and experience the grandeur and glamour of Indian weddings through design, gastronomy, and cultural elements.

With the Masala Food Festival component, the food and beverage line-up of this year’s fair is presented on a notably grander scale, banding together a refined mix of Indian and continental offerings. Guests can look forward to Japanese highlights from ISAO, Fatboy Izakaya, and Masu Maki & Sushi Bar, accompanied by a distinguished Indian selection including bespoke desserts from Marigold by Chef Garima Arora, the two Michelin-starred chef behind Gaa, as well as dining destinations NILA, Chit Chaat, Indus, Saras and Punjab Grill. Guilty and Gordon Ramsay Restaurants bring a global reference point that needs little introduction, while Plant Passion, Kynd Kulture, and Sunbird introduce a health-forward thread running through the wider offering. The beverage programme follows suit in proportions, with Italasia presenting premium wines, spirits, tastings, alongside PRAKAAN as Thailand’s first single malt whisky. For fans of Indian spirits, guests can sample from a diverse array of premium Indian whiskeys, gins, and even feni.

Accompanying the food and beverage offerings, the Masala Wedding Fair & Masala Food Festival presents a wider lifestyle and shopping experience spanning fashion, jewellery, and fragrance. Featured designers include Suwannee by Sam, a Thai-Indian couture label, alongside Lenskart eyewear and MY ONLY FRAGRANCE from Kyoto, a bespoke perfumery experience centred on personal scent creation. In fine jewellery, Rawat Jewels, Khanna Jewellers, and Envie Jewellery present collections that highlight intricate craftsmanship for both event and everyday wear. Guests with little ones can browse without worry, with our dedicated Kids’ Corner full of play and fun.

For guests curious about Indian heritage, the Masala Wedding Fair & Masala Food Festival offers an immersive encounter with cultural traditions and celebrations alike. Expect a varied programme of performances spanning Indian dance, vocal showcases, and musical acts that capture the vivacious energy and spirit of a grand Indian wedding. As well as entertainment, this year’s edition also introduces the tradition of Ayurveda through bespoke offerings presented within the exhibition.

Be it a search for dream destinations, wedding vendors, culinary affairs, retail therapy, or simply drawn to the vibrancy and flavours of Indian culture, the Masala Wedding Fair & Masala Food Festival offers a full-spectrum experience, with admission completely FREE.

Key Information:
Date: 6 & 7 June 2026
Location: Thai Chitlada Grand Ballroom at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park
199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toey, Bangkok, 10110
Time: 11.00am to 8.00pm
ADMISSION IS FREE

About Masala:
Masala is a multi-faceted brand recognised as the voice of Thailand’s dynamic Indian community. Producing a number of print and digital media publications, the brand caters to the Thai-Indian lifestyle, covering travel, dining, business, fashion, culture, and people stories impacting society, while also serving as an authoritative guide to Indian weddings across the country.

Source