Global Travel News

Thailand’s INNSiDE Hotel Offers Spain on a Plate

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Thailand’s INNSiDE Hotel Offers Spain on a Plate - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Sky-high LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar, which crowns INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, has been awarded the prestigious “Restaurants From Spain” certification for its efforts to promote authentic Spanish gastronomy.

The Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), an agency of the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade behind “Restaurants from Spain”, said the certification was designed to establish quality standards and criteria for consumers who look for not only quality Spanish cuisine but authentic quality Spanish cuisine.

ICEX recognises and supports restaurants around the globe focused on authentic cuisine and produce from Spain, and in turn Spanish culture, guaranteeing a level of quality of these establishments. The certification is awarded following a stringent selection process by a joint committee composed of official institutions and sectoral associations strongly linked to gastronomy, such as the Royal Academy of Gastronomy, the Ministry of Agriculture, FACYRE, the Regulatory Council for Sherry Wines, ANFACO, INTERPORC, the Spanish Wine Federation, the REPSOL Guide and the Ministry of Tourism of Castilla La Mancha.

Commanding the hotel’s two upper-most floors, the 33rd and 34th levels, with panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline, LUZ has quickly gained a reputation as “the place to be” since its September 15, 2023 debut. LUZ offers authentic Spanish tapas, wines, beer on tap, cocktails, signature sangrias, spirits, mocktails, spirits and more. In a spectacle unlike any other in Bangkok, diners on the 33rd floor peer into the bottom of the hotel’s 34th floor infinity pool.

Crafted by INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s Spanish Chef de Cuisine, Madrid-born Juan Ignacio García Racionero, who has honed his craft in some of Spain’s top kitchens, the menu takes diners on a culinary crusade through Spain, with a dynamic variety of local Thai ingredients in the mix too.

‘Gilda de Pulpo’ grilled octopus, olives, pickled paprika and olive oil, ‘Sardine Ahumada Con Lima’ smoked sardine with lime and avocado cream, ‘Gambas Al Ajillo’ sauteed prawns with chilli, garlic and olive oil, and ‘Ensalada De Salmorejo Burrata’ burrata with cold tomato creamy soup, anchovy and avocado are among ‘LUZ Tapas’ highlights.

Dishes already proving popular in the ‘Chef’s Tapas Selection’ include ‘LUZ Salmon’ Norwegian salmon with mango-passionfruit dressing and ‘Tuna Taki Taki Rumba’ Akani tuna with citrus dressing. ‘LUZ Signature’ delights include ‘Carrilleras de Cerdo Iberico’ braised Iberian pork cheek with carrots and cumin puree, ‘Pulpo a la Parrilla’ grilled octopus with paprika mashed potatoes and mango, and ‘Entrecot de ‘Ribeye’’ 300g Australian ribeye steak with layered potatoes and salsa de carne.

“We may be halfway across the world from Spain here in Bangkok yet we are honoured to be recognised as an authentic world ambassador of Spanish cuisine and for offering Spain on a plate,” Racionero said. “I am inspired to bring authentic Spanish flavours to the forefront and celebrate my native Spain’s rich culinary heritage, all the while applying a novel twist to enhance the new menu’s appeal to the local palate.”

“One of my favourite dishes is our ‘Pulpo a la Parrilla’. The addition of mango, chilli and smoked paprika purée creates a contrast of sweet, salty, and spicy flavours, offering a fresh take on the traditional Spanish recipe. Mango and chilli cater to the local palate and add unique flavours to the classic ingredients; all while staying true to the dish’s Spanish roots.”

Before joining INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, the Madrid-born chef worked at one Michelin-starred Saddle as well as Diverxo, recognized in the top three ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ in 2023, and acclaimed restaurants El Jardin De La Marquina and Montellen.

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is the newest member of an eclectic collection of urban and beach INNSiDE hotels — in 14 different countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas — designed for those with curious minds who have a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure.

About Meliá Hotels International

Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

About INNSiDE by Meliá

INNSiDE is a collection of unique urban and beach hotels designed for those with curious minds and fluid lives. Always true to their destination, they give guests the freedom to connect or disconnect among an independent community of like-minded travellers.

INNSiDE provides guests with all the everyday essentials and extra-special details to make their stay all the more unique. From in-room comforts to the inspiring Big Idea Space, Open Living Lounges, and fitness studios, we allow guests to feel more-than-at-home.

Sustainability is also packed into all the little details: every room is equipped with paper and plastic-free collateral and complimentary organic cosmetics. INNSiDE celebrates the culture of each of its locations with an events calendar, handy city guides for guests, and by spotlighting a local artist’s work across the hotel walls and onto merchandise and staff uniforms.

There are currently 38 INNSiDE by Meliá properties worldwide, with the brand continuing to expand its global footprint. All properties are located in the best lifestyle neighbourhood travel destinations. Some of them are Spain (Madrid, Mallorca, Ibiza, Fuerteventura, Zaragoza), United Kingdom (Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester), United States (New York, Lima), Germany (Berlin, Bremen, Frankfurt, Munich, Dresden, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Leipzig, Hamburg) Czech Republic (Prague), France (Paris), Italy (Milano), China (Zhengzhou), Indonesia (Yogyakarta), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) and Netherlands (Amsterdam).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Ambassador Cruise Launches Day Cruises in Halong Bay

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Ambassador Cruise Launches Day Cruises in Halong Bay - TRAVELINDEXHalong Bay, Vietnam, January 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Ambassador Cruise has launched a luxurious new day cruise that makes the most of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Halong Bay’s limestone karst-studded waters and key attractions such as Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island.

With a remarkable two-level dining space, open-air sundeck affording 360-degree views of the bay’s limestone karst-studded waters, the leading cruise operator’s new 99-passenger capacity vessel named “Lavoya Boutique Day Cruise – By Ambassador Cruise” will bring its fleet to a total of four vessels.

Cruisers get up close and personal with three of Halong Bay’s most spectacular attractions as part of the seven-hour cruise itinerary. The itinerary checks out the bay’s largest and most compelling cave, Sung Sot, home to myriad stalactites in all sorts of unique forms. Via a kayak or bamboo boat rowed by a local, passengers enter and exit stunning Luon Cave’ self-contained lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, through a 100-metre long limestone arch. Afterwards cruisers visit picturesque Titov Island, swimming at its crescent moon-shaped beach and ascending some 450 steps to reach its peak and soak up panoramic views of the bay.

The day cruise has a prime focus on culinary excellence, underpinned by a premium lunch buffet, vibrant Vietnamese cooking demonstration and exquisite afternoon tea service.

The extensive lunch buffet showcases a diverse array of Asian and European cuisines including locally sourced seafood, beef, tuna, and other delicacies. Featuring nearly 30 dishes, the buffet’s highlights include US steak with grilled seasonal veggies, smoked tuna with green tea, hot and sour steamed mussels, crispy deep-fried prawns with chilli rock salt, stir-fried glass noodles with crab, and caramelised cinnamon pork shoulder. A seafood tower is also served to each table.

As the vessel glides through Halong Bay’s majestic limestone formations on its return to Halong International Cruise Port, the chefs stage the Vietnamese cooking demonstration and serve the elegant afternoon tea replete with fine pastries.

“As our premium day cruise experience, Lavoya Boutique Day Cruise – By Ambassador Cruise will see Ambassador welcome a new dawn with even more bucket-list worthy experiences,” said Nguyen Hong Nhat, General Director of Asia Premier Cruises Corporation, which owns Ambassador Cruise. “The itinerary will guide you through Halong Bay’s most spectacular locations with excellent Vietnamese cuisine and top-notch service.”

The cruise’s current itinerary, on offer during Vietnam’s winter and spring, begins with a 9am check-in at Halong International Cruise Port before transferring to the vessel. Guests disembark at the port at 4.30pm.

Since launching its first vessel in 2021, Ambassador Cruise has made a name for itself as the leading luxury cruise operator on Halong Bay. It operates three other vessels; Ambassador I, Ambassador II and Ambassador Signature. Guests choose from a variety of journeys including overnight cruises of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, day cruises, and dinner cruises. The overnight and dinner cruises offer a “Floating Dinner” experience on their 360-degree sundecks. Ambassador Cruise is also introducing an exclusive dining experience in a private cave 40 kilometres from Halong Bay.

For more information about Ambassador Cruise or to make a booking, visit ambassadorcruise.com, email info@ambassadorcruise.com or call +84 1900 3045.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Russian Pianist Denis Matsuev to perform for HRH Princess Sirivannavari’s Birthday

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Russian Pianist Denis Matsuev to perform for HRH Princess Sirivannavari’s Birthday - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / On the auspicious birthday anniversary of RBSO’s Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, Rosconcert and B. Grimm Group Ltd., will present a concert titled “Denis Matsuev plays Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2” at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7th 2025, at the Thailand Cultural Centre.

For such an important occasion, the RBSO, with the support of the Embassy of Russia, has invited Denis Matsuev, who is widely regarded as one of the most prominent pianists of his generation, to Thailand. He has performed with the world’s most prestigious orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra, among many others. He also collaborates frequently with renowned Russian orchestras such as the St. Petersburg Philharmonic, the Mariinsky Orchestra, and the Russian National Orchestra. Denis Matsuev holds numerous prestigious titles, including “People’s Artist of Russia” and honorary professor at Moscow State University. He has been awarded the State Order of Honour, the Shostakovich Prize, and the UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador designation.

Ivan Nikiforchin, a rising star among Russian conductors, graduated in conducting from the Moscow Conservatory and the Tchaikovsky Conservatory. Since 2017, he has worked with Valery Polyansky and, in 2021, became the conductor of the State Academic Symphony Capella of Russia. Currently, he conducts the State Academic Symphony Orchestra of Tatarstan and debuted at the Bolshoi Theatre in 2021 with Mozart’s Don Giovanni.

Matsuev will perform Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18. Dedicated to the hypnotist Doctor Dahl, the Second Piano Concerto marks Rachmaninoff’s return to productive composition and mental stability after three years of depression brought on by the failure of his First Symphony at its premiere.
The second half will consist of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Tchaikovsky-Symphony No. 2. Although the Second is Tchaikovsky’s shortest symphony, what makes this music distinctive is his use of folk tunes for some of its themes. Tchaikovsky wrote down these tunes in his sketchbook after hearing peasants sing them while he was on vacation at the family home in Kamenka.

This concert will demonstrate the incredible musical talent from Russia and highlight the elegance of notable conductors in celebrating Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari’s Birthday.

Tickets are available at Thaiticketmajor:
www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2025-denis-matsuev-plays-rachmaninoff-piano-concerto-no2.html

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Celebrate HRH L’Essence Féminine de la Musique

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Celebrate HRH L’Essence Féminine de la Musique - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and B. Grimm Group Ltd., will present a concert titled “Emmanuel Ceysson plays Glière’s Harp Concerto” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, August 9th, at the Thailand Cultural Centre.

This concert celebrates the auspicious birthday anniversary of RBSO’s Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya on the 8th of January. In keeping with the Concert name, the RBSO wishes to showcase the talented women in music by inviting female conductor and soloist. Katharina Wincor will lead the RBSO; A rising star in the conducting world, she studied conducting at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna and Zurich University.

Wincor received the Neeme Järvi Prize in 2017 and the third prize winner of the Mahler competition in 2020. Wincor is an assistant conductor in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, where she has worked with Fabio Luisi since 2019. She has previously worked with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Deutsches Symphony Orchestra Berlin, the Bruckner Orchester Linz, Seattle Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, Naples Philharmonic, Tiroler Symphonieorchester Innsbruck, and the Utah Symphony.

The first piece is Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No.1, which is among the best-known pieces of music. This work was written in 1874 and will be performed by Ukrainian extraordinary pianist Anna Fedorova, who graduated from the Lysenko School of Music in Kyiv with Borys Fedorov and the Accademia Pianistica in Imola, Italy, with Leonid Margarius. She received her Master’s degree and Artist Diploma at the Royal College of Music, London, under the guidance of Norma Fisher.

She has performed with many orchestras, including the Philharmonia Orchestra, Verbier Festival Orchestra, Tokyo Symphony, Yomiuri Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, Hong Kong Philharmonic, and the Netherlands Philharmonic. Nicknamed the ‘house pianist’ of the Concertgebouw, Anna Fedorova has given over 45 concerts in this prestigious concert hall in Amsterdam. She is a regular guest at leading music festivals such as Verbier and Menuhin Festivals in Switzerland, Stift Music Festival in the Netherlands, Festival de Sintra in Portugal, and Ravinia Festival in the US. The second half will consist of

Tickets are available at Thaiticketmajor:
www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2025-lessence-feminie-de-la-musique.html

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Loved-Up Couples Fall for Romance and Weddings

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Loved-Up Couples Fall for Romance and Weddings - TRAVELINDEXMui Ne, Vietnam, January 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Orchestrating private candle-lit dining on the beach, ushering guests down white sand aisles and catering to all sorts of romantic whims, The Anam Mui Ne has rolled out alluring proposal, wedding, honeymoon and renewal of vows packages.

With an idyllic perch on one of southern Vietnam’s most spectacular beaches, the 1.2-hectare resort opened in 2023 with a design that borrows deeply from Vietnam’s Indochine era. Crafted by artisans from across the country whose trades have been handed down the generations, the resort evokes a romantic atmosphere with glowing lanterns, customized encaustic mosaic floor tiles, clay vases and statues on plinths designed by the Cham people, intricate woodwork and solid timber furniture from sustainable forests, authentic thatched roofs and more.

Since its January 2023 debut, The Anam Mui Ne has hosted more than 20 weddings as well as plenty of proposals and honeymoons. “We’ve been amazed at how popular our resort has been as a wedding and honeymoon destination; so much so as we were building our resort people driving past noticed our onsite billboard, called us and booked their wedding here well before we’d even opened,” said The Anam Group’s commercial director Martin Koerner. “It’s indicative of Vietnam’s growing popularity as a wedding and honeymoon destination due to our incredible beaches and landscapes, our hospitality and exceptional value for money.”

The Anam Mui Ne’s proposal experience is underpinned by a private candle-lit dining set-up on either the resort’s beach, beside one of its two vast swimming pools, in the privacy of a private-pool suite or room. Cooked by a private chef and served by a private waiter, the four-course menu includes the likes of ‘Pan-seared foie gras’ with mango, hibiscus sauce and watercress, ‘Lobster bisque soup’ with lobster wonton, squid and mussels, and ‘Black Angus Ribeye’ comprising chargrilled Australian prime ribeye steak flavoured with rosemary and caramelised garlic served with sweet potato mash, petite Greek salad and red wine jus.

Tying the knot invites possibilities ranging from an intimate ceremony for two on the beachfront or lawn to a formal dining arrangement for up to 130 guests for an exquisite buffet or 180 guests for a delectable set menu. A three-tier wedding cake, stunning flower arrangements, live background music by the likes of a guitarist, and bubbles for a toast are among an array of essentials for an occasion of a lifetime.

The 142sqm Private Pool Suites, a leading accommodation category, are popular among honeymooners. As their name suggests, the Private Pool Suites each have their own tranquil 22sqm private pools that are 1.3m deep and are complemented with terraces decked with sun loungers. At the suites, afternoon tea is served on arrival and private BBQs to themes ranging from seafood to premium meat to vegetarian or a mixture are on offer.

In addition to selecting from the broad spectrum of treatments available at The Anam Spa including couple’s massages, honeymooners are also encouraged to indulge in “The Anam Signature Bathtub Experience” that makes the most of the “star attraction” of the resort’s rooms and suites, a picture-perfect free-standing clawfoot bath. A homemade sea salt full body scrub, bathtub soak infused with oranges, flowers and essential oils, natural hair treatment and nutritious facial mask are among the eight pampering steps behind the bathtub experience.

The renewal of vows packages, like the wedding packages, also feature a night’s stay in a Premium Room, with a free upgrade to a Premium Ocean View Room depending on availability.

An array of picturesque settings throughout the resort, including the elegant lobby, hallways, swimming pool terraces, and the beachfront, afford compelling pre-wedding and wedding photo backdrops. Opening doors on the country’s fascinating culture, talented Vietnamese artists were commissioned to create 250 unique oil paintings for each room and suite, as well as the lobby and restaurants.

Mui Ne’s attractions include its beach, sand dunes, fishing village, Cham towers and “Fairy Stream” – a shallow stream that flows through vivid orange and white limestone formations. An expressway has cut the drive from Ho Chi Minh City to two hours.

About The Anam Group 

After the auspicious debut of The Anam Cam Ranh in 2017, the independently owned and operated The Anam Group celebrated the grand opening of its second property, The Anam Mui Ne, in January 2023.

With “Indochine Charm” and “Modern Luxury” as its watchwords, the group blends colonial-era aesthetics and attentive Vietnamese service with modern comforts and convenience. “The Anam” today is a reference to another name, “An Nam”, which was the name of Central Vietnam during the French Indochina era.

The Anam Cam Ranh overlooks 300 metres of beachfront on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula, which averages more than 300 sunny days per year. The luxurious five-star resort boasts 77 villas and 136 rooms and suites. The Anam Cam Ranh features a French-inspired fine dining restaurant, all-day dining restaurant, a Vietnamese restaurant and bar, a classical bar, a beach club, in-room dining, a 10 treatment-room spa, indoor and outdoor movie theatres, three capacious swimming pools, ballroom, conference rooms, recreation and fitness centre, yoga room and deck, kids club, onsite sustainable farm and gift shop. The resort recently unveiled a wellness and recreation precinct with an 18-hole mini golf course, driving range, clubhouse, soccer field, tennis court, running track and more.

Like its predecessor The Anam Cam Ranh, The Anam Mui Ne’s design is also an echo out of Vietnam’s Indochine era. Situated in southern Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, the 1.2 hectare beachfront resort affords spectacular ocean vistas and features 127 elegant rooms and suites, including seven 142sqm suites with private pools and a 122sqm presidential suite with an extra room for the bodyguards. Its dining landscape comprises an all-day dining restaurant and grill, beachside restaurant and bar, and lobby bar. A five-treatment room spa, two vast swimming pools, a ballroom, conference rooms, water sports center, fitness center, yoga room, kid’s club and gift shop are among the resort’s host of world-class facilities.

With a design inspired by Vietnam’s iconic basket boat, Axi Plaza is a game changer for Cam Ranh and MICE offerings on Vietnam’s coastline due to its distinctive architecture and design, and spectacular beachfront location. Adjacent to The Anam Cam Ranh, Axi Plaza offers a vast state-of-the-art conference hall, a 360-degree rooftop venue, stunning outdoor beachfront event space, about 10,000sqm dedicated to shopping and dining outlets, and more.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

2025 Dream Destinations of The World’s Most Traveled People

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2025 Dream Destinations of The World’s Most Traveled People - TRAVELINDEXChicago, United States, January 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Two hundred and fifty of the world’s most traveled people gathered for the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok.  This is a gathering of the world’s most avid, accomplished, and adventurous travelers.  In fact, a world record was set with 31 people who have been to every country in the world meeting at the ETF.  Travelers were surveyed regarding their “dream location”.  Some of these locations might surprise you and others you might never have heard of.

Here are the top 15 locations chosen by these accomplished travelers:

Antarctica 7.64%
Yemen 7.01%
Japan 5.1%
Pitcairn Island (UK) 3.82%
Papua New Guinea 3.82%
South Pole 3.18%
South Africa 3.18%
Madagascar 3.18%
Kamchatka (Russia) 2.55%
North Korea (DPRK) 2.55%
Greenland (Denmark) 2.55%
Italy 1.91%
Bouvet Island (Norway) 1.91%
Bhutan 1.91%
Argentina 1.91%

Matt McCaughey, an American who has traveled to every country in the world, chose Bouvet Island as his dream destination.  Bouvet Island is a Norwegian island located in the South Atlantic Ocean just north of the Antarctic Circle is considered the world’s most remote island.  Matt commented, “It’s about as remote as it gets, and I know very few people who have been there.  It is a total bucket list destination.”

Andy Hicks, who has traveled to over 120 countries, speaking of Pitcairn Island, “I’ve dreamed of visiting Pitcairn for years – the fact a small group of people are living in one of the most remote places on earth, nearly all of them the result of a ship muntiny (18th century HMS Bounty), is just mind-boggling to me.  Spending a few days on the island and getting to know some of the inhabitants, will surely be one of my coolest travel experiences.”

The following all garnered 1.27% of votes: Australia, British Indian Overseas Territory (UK), Brazil, Lake Louise (Canada), Costa Rica, Cuba, France, Timbuktu (Mali), Mongolia, Namibia, New Zealand, Siberia (Russia), Principality of Sealand, Syria, Thailand, Tokelau (New Zealand), Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, and Venezuela.

In this final group, each destination earned .64% of votes: Afghanistan, the Arctic, Patagonia (Argentina/Chile), Lord Howe Island (Australia), Botswana, Central Asia, Easter Island (Chile), Estonia, Faroe Islands (Denmark), Fiji, French Polynesia (France), Gaza, Greece, Hans Island (Canada/Denmark), Ladakh (India), Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Maldives, the Moon, Nepal, Nigeria, Lofoten Islands (Norway), Cook islands (New Zealand), outer space, Palau, Philippines, Portugal, the Republic of Slowjamastan, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Sudan, Tonga, Palmyra Atoll (USA), USA, and Zanzibar (Tanzania).

Many would consider this to be an eclectic mix of dream destinations from the well-known to the esoteric.  The top three include Antarctica (remote and expensive to visit), Yemen (country racked by civil war since 2014), and Japan (a highly developed and touristed country).  Highly ranked and touristed destinations like France and Italy were listed.  Unstable and considered dangerous locations such as Afghanistan and Timbuktu are coveted.  Remote islands like Pitcairn Island and Bouvet Island cracked the top 15.  And some aspirational travelers have their sites on the great beyond, including outer space and the moon.  Even two micronations and self-declared countries, Principality of Sealand and Republic of Slowjamastan, earned their way on to the list.  The Sultan of Slowjamastan also appeared at the Extraordinary Travel Festival as a keynote speaker.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zwiener Opens at One Bangkok

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Wolfgang's Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zwiener Opens at One Bangkok - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Wolfgang’s Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zwiener, a renowned high-end steakhouse from New York, officially launched its first branch in Thailand at One Bangkok recently.  This marks the 40th location worldwide. The grand soft opening was hosted by Mr. Peter Zwiener, President and Co-Founder of Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, Mr. Prasert Laorphanpon and Mr. Sohei Urakami, Co-partners of Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Thailand.

“The name Wolfgang’s Steakhouse comes from my father, Wolfgang, who used to work at another steakhouse in New York City for 40 years,” shared Mr. Peter Zwiener.  “We decided that when he was going to retire, which he did 20 years ago, I would use my business experience (as a banker) and he would use his knowledge in culinary and steak, to open up the best steakhouse in the world, and we opened up our first Wolfgang’s Steakhouse in New York in 2004.”

“Our focus is on using premium ingredients, particularly USDA Prime beef.  We are responsible for our own beef. We deal directly with the best ranches and abattoirs in the US; and we also import Maine lobsters from the U.S. Other seafood and fish are sourced locally,” said Mr. Zwiener.

“Beyond the cuisine, we place great emphasis on the restaurant’s ambiance and outstanding service. The interior is inspired by the classic New York steakhouses of 1912, featuring historical photographs that tell stories of enduring value and tradition. This design blends timeless charm with a modern fine-dining experience.”

At the soft opening dinner, Chef Kenny Nattawat Ariyawisutsri, the Head Chef at Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Thailand, introduced a variety of signature dishes that authentically reflect the essence of New York.

Highlights included:

  • Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail: Large shrimp served with Wolfgang’s signature cocktail sauce.
  • Wolfgang’s Crab Cake: A special recipe made with premium, succulent crab meat paired with tartar sauce.
  • Beverly Hills Chopped Salad: A classic California-style salad featuring finely chopped fresh vegetables and Wolfgang’s special dressing.
  • Sizzling Bacon: Thick-cut bacon grilled to perfection for a smoky, crispy finish.
  • Lobster Bisque: A rich and creamy soup made from fresh Maine lobster, infused with exquisite spices.

The main course was the Porterhouse Steak, featuring USDA Prime beef, the highest grade awarded by the USDA, served with sides such as German potatoes and creamed spinach.

“Our steaks are flown directly from the U.S. in a chilled (never frozen) state, dry-aged for 28 days in meticulously controlled conditions.  During the process the beef develops tenderness and a great sense of flavour, an earthy flavour,” explained Chef Kenny.

A unique feature of the restaurant is the “Sizzling” announcement made in chorus by the staff when the steaks are served in a sizzling state, alerting diners to handle the hot plate with care.

For dessert, guests enjoyed the New York Style Cheesecake, a classic recipe with a smooth and creamy texture, served with rich whipped cream for the perfect balance of sweetness.

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse also emphasizes the use of locally sourced ingredients, such as fresh fish and vegetables from Thailand, to add variety to the menu. Other recommendations include the classic Seafood Platter, Apple Strudel a la mode, Pecan Pie, and the Classic Hot Fudge Sundae.

The restaurant seamlessly combines classic and contemporary elements, offering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor area featuring a whiskey bar and a curated wine collection of over 2,000 bottles from renowned regions such as Napa Valley, South America, France, Italy, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand. With open-air seating, diners can savour their meals while taking in the breathtaking night views of Bangkok.

“Apart from great service with attention to detail, great quality, great food, great wine, great ambiance, great training, we focus on making every dinner at Wolfgang’s Steakhouse feel they are VIPs and very special to us, this is how we created the Wolfgang Brand,” said Mr. Zwiener in conclusion.

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Bangkok is currently open daily from 5:00 pm to 11:30 pm, with plans to extend full-day service daily from 11:30 am to 11:30 pm starting mid-January 2025.

For reservations or inquiries, contact, tel +66(0)64 567 2929 Email: reservation@wolfgangssteakhouse.th

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Tourism Strengthens Collaboration with Austria for Sustainable Tourism

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UN Tourism Strengthens Collaboration with Austria for Sustainable Tourism - TRAVELINDEXVienna, Austria, December 30, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism and Austria have discussed opportunities for further collaboration and for strengthening partnerships in the areas of sustainability, statistics and development.

In Vienna, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili held high-level meetings, reaffirming Austria’s important role in advancing sustainable tourism, including through having six of its villages as members of UN Tourism´s Best Tourism Village Programme and the region of Tyrol as one of the latest members of the International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).

In a meeting with Susanne Kraus-Winkler, State Secretary for Tourism (Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy), discussions highlighted Austria’s critical leadership as Co-Chair of the Committee on Statistics. The focus was on implementing the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST), endorsed by the United Nations Statistical Commission earlier this year. Austria’s leadership has been instrumental in developing this internationally agreed framework, which provides essential concepts, definitions, and structures to measure tourism’s economic, social, and environmental impacts and dependencies.

Secretary-General Pololikashvili said: “A leading tourism destination like Austria can play an important role in advancing global tourism issues, such as the SF-MST, while at the same time to ensure that through such measurement instruments tourism remains a key driver of sustainable and inclusive development. UN Tourism commends Austria’s clear commitment to shaping a sustainable and resilient tourism future, and its leadership at both the regional and global level in this regard that also is highlighted through a comparatively big number of Best Tourism Villages and one of the leading destinations as a member in the INSTO Network.”

During talks with Ambassador Harald Stranzl, Director for Foreign Economic Relations (Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs), discussions centered on leveraging Austrian expertise to advance development cooperation in tourism. Both sides emphasized Austria’s potential to share its wealth of knowledge and technical capacity to drive sustainable tourism initiatives worldwide.

According to UN Tourism’s latest data, Austria ranks 10th globally in international tourist arrivals, welcoming 30.9 million international arrivals in 2023. It also ranks at 19th in international tourism receipts, with the sector generating 22.8 billion EUR, last year, around 11% higher than in 2019.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tourism as Driver of Rural Empowerment Global Conference in Viet Nam

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Tourism as Driver of Rural Empowerment Global Conference in Viet Nam - TRAVELINDEXHoi An, Vietnam, December 30, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism joined with the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Vietnam to host the First Conference on Tourism for Rural Development in the historic town of Hoi An. The event brought together government officials, international and regional financial institutions, development agencies, tourism professionals, rural community leaders, researchers and NGOs to explore policies and strategies to maximize the role of tourism in progressing development in rural areas.

Empowering Communities

Sessions spotlighted the power of tourism to create jobs, safeguard nature and cultural heritage, and promote social inclusion, with a focus on empowering local communities, women and youth. Key discussions included topics such as policy frameworks for rural tourism development, growing agriculture and tourism synergies to drive sustainability, market access and integration, innovative digital tools and funding mechanisms to support rural destinations, entrepreneurs and community-led initiatives.

Opening the conference Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director, UN Tourism said: “This landmark event has demonstrated the immense potential of tourism to transform rural communities. By placing people and planet at the center of our discussions, we have fostered meaningful connections and actionable strategies that will ripple across rural areas worldwide. Together, we have sown the seeds for a more inclusive and sustainable future.”

Le Thanh Long, Deputy Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, said: “The Tourism for Rural Development Programme by UN Tourism is consistent with Viet Nam’s development strategy and distinct potentials, competitive advantages, and outstanding opportunities with the orientation of rapid, sustainable development, green growth, digital transformation, and circular economy.”

Placing tourism  on the rural development agenda

The conference emphasized the importance of placing tourism firmly on the rural development agenda ensuring that it is fully integrated into funding for rural development and infrastructure planning.

The event stressed the importance of partnerships across sectors to ensure tourism not only drives economic growth but also preserves cultural heritage and natural resources. The panels collectively aimed to explore transformative strategies for leveraging rural tourism as a driver of sustainable development. Discussions included crafting effective government policies, addressing infrastructure challenges, and fostering public-private partnerships to amplify local initiatives.

Panelists from key organizations including the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Mekong Tourism, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and companies such as Fliggy, Intrepid Travel, Japan Travel Bureau (JTB), Meta, Planeterra, and Traveloka shared valuable insights on advancing rural tourism. They highlighted the critical role of sustainable tourism in fostering economic resilience, protecting cultural heritage, and creating equitable opportunities for rural communities. Media experts Carmen Roberts, TV Presenter and Travel Journalist, BBC Travel Show and Kanchan Nath, Senior Editor at Travel Daily Media shared their communication insights. Discussions provided key takeaways on integrating tourism with agriculture, ensuring inclusivity, and leveraging partnerships to drive long-term impact in rural destinations.

Fliggy Partnership to Drive Rural Development

During the event, UN Tourism and Fliggy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration on development of rural tourism. The partnership is designed to promote responsible tourism practices, foster technological innovation, and encourage knowledge exchange and capacity building. Key initiatives will include showcasing Best Tourism Villages, creating training programmes, and conducting joint research to support rural tourism.

Best Tourism Villages Network Annual Meeting

The conference also hosted the Second Annual Meeting of the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Network, with 50 representatives from over 30 villages coming together in Viet Nam. Attendees reflected on the Network’s achievements, assessed its current state, and discussed ways to improve planning, coordination, and ownership among the villages. A strategic framework was also adopted, outlining a clear path forward to strengthen and build on the Network’s foundation.

The Best Tourism Villages Network brings together the villages recognized as Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism as well as those in the Upgrade Programme.

 

Tourism as a driver of rural empowerment

Tourism as a driver of rural empowerment

UN Tourism Global Conference

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alma Resort to Usher in Year of The Wood Snake

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Alma Resort to Usher in Year of The Wood Snake - TRAVELINDEXCam Ranh, Vietnam, December 27, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Family resort Alma will ring in the biggest event on the Vietnamese calendar, the Lunar New Year, with a six-day program filled with traditional games and competitions, live entertainment, floating champagne breakfasts and more.

From Lunar New Year’s Eve, Tuesday Jan. 28, until Sunday Feb. 2, 2025, Alma’s Tet program will feature chung cake, egg cake and ginger jam making classes, as well as kite flying, dragon dances, making lucky envelopes, Tet movies at Alma Cinema, and afternoon tea for two.

Overlooking Long Beach, one of Vietnam’s most stunning stretches of sand, the resort starts its Tet program on Jan. 28 with a floating champagne breakfast for guests staying in pavilions with private pools. At Alma Food Court, guests are encouraged to try their hand at crafting the quintessential Tet staple “Banh Chung” (Chung cake), wrapping sticky rice and mung bean inside dong leaves from 8.30-10.30am, as well as egg cake and ginger jam making from 3-5pm. A complimentary kite flying competition will be held on Alma Hill from 4-5pm.

On the first day of Tet, Tuesday Jan. 29, the lush 30-hectare resort’s Tet festivities kick off with dragon dancing in the lobby and Alma Garden from 8am.

Alma will host the following Tet festivities daily from Jan. 29 until Feb 2:

  • Floating Tet breakfast at private pool pavilions with Vietnamese “Banh Mi”, beef or chicken noodle soup, Vietnamese cold cuts and fish sauce, “Banh Beo” steamed rice cake, two farm eggs any style with choice of bacon, pork or chicken sausage, yogurt and fruit, and a selection of freshly squeezed juices.
  • A Tet Corner affording traditional Vietnamese fruit candies at Alma Food Court from 11am-5pm.
  • An exquisite Vietnamese Afternoon Tea for two brimming with savoury and sweet treats, including Banh Chung and traditional candies, served at both Alma Food Court and Alma Lounge from 2-5pm. Live entertainment including Alma’s resident pianist Ben playing a grand piano from 2.30-3.15pm and 3.30-4.15pm at Alma Lounge.
  • Bartenders crafting special Vietnamese cocktails from 6-9.30pm at Alma Lounge. The cocktail list includes ‘Sampan Sour’ comprising Vietnamese Sampan White Rhum, Cointreau, chili, salt, Chinese coriander, lime, and sugar syrup, and ‘Moc Chau Plateau’ made up of Ruddy Face Apricot Liqueur, D.O.M Benedictine, honey, ginger syrup, lime juice and Peychaud’s Bitters.
  • Movies and popcorn at Alma’s 75-seat cinema.

On Wednesday Jan. 30, the Kids Club will help children make lucky envelopes for “li xi”, which translates to “lucky money” traditionally given during the Lunar New Year to bestow blessings of good luck and happiness upon recipients. On Jan. 30 and Friday Jan. 31 the Kids Club will host smash lucky balloons games from 3-4pm before kite flying is held on Alma Hill from 4-5pm. The young and the young at heart will also blow giant rainbow bubbles on Alma Hill on Jan. 31 from 3-5pm.

To a backdrop of sweeping views of Long Beach aquamarine waters and buttermilk sands, with islands strewn offshore, a picnic package will be on offer at Alma Hill from 7-9am and 3-5pm on Sunday Feb. 2.

Beachfront restaurant Atlantis, Italian trattoria La Casa and Asiana, which serves Thai, Korean, Japanese and vegan fare, will offer a la carte dining throughout Tet.

“There’s plenty to see and do at Alma during such an extraordinary time of the year celebrating with family and friends,” said Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler.

“As we welcome the Year of the Wood Snake, at Alma we will look to apply the snake’s keen insight and the wood’s ability to grow and adapt in 2025 as we embrace all sorts of new possibilities ranging from offering exciting new guest experiences such as welcoming local artists to sketch portraits of our guests to protecting the environment with the rollout of what is believed to be Vietnam’s most ambitious solar power project for a hotel.”

Featuring 13 separate treatment villas sprinkled onto the landscape, Alma’s Le Spa is offering a variety of indulgent treatments including ‘Lunar Renewal Therapy’, ‘New Year Radiance Ritual’, and ‘Double Happiness’. Lunar Renewal Therapy is a 70-minute customised aromatherapy massage with a choice of traditional Vietnamese, Balinese or deep tissue massage techniques to release muscle tension, promote deep relaxation and restore energy. The 110-minute New Year Radiance Ritual starts with an aromatic herbal steam and sauna, followed by a 30-minute body scrub, 50-minute massage and 30-minute facial treatment. The 60-minute Double Happiness treatment for couples offers a choice of Balinese, Vietnamese or deep tissue massage.

About Alma
Situated on Vietnam’s emerging Cam Ranh peninsula fronting Long Beach, Alma resort commands some 30 hectares of inspiring ground. Emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the bold and spacious integrated resort offers 580 oversized suites and pavilions that all afford sweeping vistas of the ocean, including contemporary three bedroom oceanfront pavilions each totalling 224sqm with a living room, four bathrooms and a private pool. Alma features a broad spectrum of restaurants helmed by top chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, as well as a sports bar, pool bar and beach bar. Other highlights include 12 swimming pools cascading down to the beach and a waterpark with a lazy river, slides, wave pool and kids pool. Other highlights include a 13-treatment room spa, 75-seat cinema, convention centre, amphitheater, science museum, gymnasium and yoga room, 18-hole mini golf course, a youth centre with virtual reality games, a kid’s club, golf simulator, onsite sustainable farm and even an ‘Alma Mart’ mini supermarket. Alma Resort was called out as the top resort in Southeast Asia, the No. 2 resort in Asia and No. 9 resort worldwide in the 2024 Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. Alma scored 99.2 on the US-based publication’s 100-point award survey. The World’s Best Awards are widely considered to be one of the two most important awards in the worldwide hospitality industry.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News