Global Travel News

Michelin Takeover with Chef Jean-Baptiste Natali at Yon | Ocean House

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Michelin Takeover with Chef Jean-Baptiste Natali at Yon | Ocean House - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, March 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Yon | Ocean House is excited to announce its first Michelin event of the year: MICHELIN TAKEOVER with Chef Jean-Baptiste Natali, an exclusive 2-night only experience on 4-5 April, 2025. Chef Jean-Baptiste will present a six-course French culinary journey showcasing his innovative Michelin cuisine blended with global flavours and artisanal ingredients. A world-renowned master chef with extensive Michelin experience, Chef Jean-Baptiste holds the record for being the youngest chef in France to lead a restaurant to its first Michelin star—a record he’s maintained for 23 years. 

6 exquisite courses showcase legendary Michelin Chef Jean-Baptiste’s authentic French techniques blended with global flavours and artisanal ingredients

Yon | Ocean House, the award-winning restaurant at V Villas Phuket – MGallery Collection, a hilltop luxury private pool villa resort with panoramic Ao Yon Bay views. The takeover is scheduled for 4 -5 April, 2025, 18:00 -22:00. Seating is limited and advanced reservations can be made at shorturl.at/sXkMy. 

Chef Jean-Baptiste Holds a Michelin Record 

Chef Jean-Baptiste was born into a restaurant family in the Champagne region of France. His understanding and approach to French cuisine is connected to his upbringing amidst northern France’s picturesque forests, farms, and vineyards.  A deep respect for artisanal practices and a commitment to sustainability continue to guide his approach. 

Chef Jean-Baptiste distinguished himself early in his career—at age 27 years old, he became the youngest chef ever to lead a restaurant to its first Michelin Star in France. Today, 23 years later, he continues to hold this record, making his mastery of Michelin-calibre techniques from an early age all the more impressive. By contrast, most chefs often receive their first Michelin accolade later in their careers. 

Chef Jean-Baptiste boasts three decades of international experience working in numerous countries with distinct cuisines—including Switzerland, United Kingdom, the United States, Morocco, Dubai, Russia, China, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, the Maldives, Vietnam, and Thailand. This global exposure has enriched his repertoire, allowing him to blend traditional French techniques with diverse flavours and ingredients.  

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Yon |Ocean House welcomes its first Michelin Takeover of the year

Yon |Ocean House is an architecturally-distinguished restaurant with panoramic views across Ao Yon Bay. The restaurant is renowned for its commitment to culinary excellence and its signature coastal and Thai fusion menu. 

Hosting a Michelin Takeover with Chef Jean-Baptiste—one of the world’s most recognized Michelin names—demonstrates the restaurant’s dedication to bringing premier gastronomy experiences to Phuket. 

Michelin Takeover with Chef Jean-Baptiste will feature 6-courses, each one meticulously crafted with premier seasonal ingredients. Wine Pairing is available as an add-on, or guests can select wines from the restaurant’s outstanding wine cellar. 

Seating for this exclusive 2-night only event is limited, and guests are encouraged to book early. 

DETAILS

Michelin Takeover with Chef Jean-Baptiste Natali
THB 4,800++ | 6-courses
THB 1,800++ | Wine Pairing
Style of Cuisine | Michelin French with Global Flavours
Dates | 4 & 5 April, 2025
Time | 18:00 – 22:00
Reservations | shorturl.at/sXkMy
LIMITED SEATING

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Blooms of Love Wedding Showcase at Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit

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Blooms of Love Wedding Showcase at Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand – March 26, 2025 – Prepare for a spectacular showcase of love at the Blooms of Love Wedding Showcase, returning to Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit on April 5-6, 2025. Hosted at the elegant Benchasiri Ballroom, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, this event promises to transform wedding dreams into reality.

Attendees will experience:

  • State-of-the-Art LED Display: A stunning 8×4 meter 4K LED screen to enhance every celebratory moment.
  • Customizable Wedding Packages: Tailor your wedding exactly to your vision, with no minimum spend required.
  • Engagement Package Promotion: Special promotion starting from THB 50,000 net (originally THB 65,000 net) for engagement packages.
  • Expert Advice: Meet leading wedding specialists and partners who will guide and craft your dream wedding, from planning to execution.

 

Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to confirm your wedding plans and explore the possibilities offered at the event.

To RSVP and for more information, please call 02 797 0000.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Omakase Takeover Chef Hirohisa at YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar

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Omakase Takeover Chef Hirohisa at YTSB - Yellow Tail Sushi Bar - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, March 25, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Experience 14-course Kappo omakase with legendary 1-Michelin Star Chef Hirohisa Hayashi, showcasing his masterful techniques and artistry.

 YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar is pleased to announce an Omakase Takeover with Chef Hirohisa Hayashi, the Chef/Founder of 1-Michelin Star HIROHISA in New York City. Scheduled for 28-29 March 2025, the 14-course omakase will highlight Chef Hirohisa’s full range of “kappo” techniques and showcase classic recipes from his hometown in Echizen, Japan. 

Omakase Takeover with 1-Michelin Star Chef Hirohisa is a rare opportunity for Bangkok foodies to experience omakase with a legendary chef who has received Michelin Star for five consecutive years and who is also a master sake sommelier. For Omakase Takeover at YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar, Chef Hirohisa will highlight his Eichezen roots and practice ‘Kappo Style’ cooking. “Kappo” is an intimate dining style, where the chef cooks in front of his guests, whilst showcasing his full range of cooking techniques, from boiling, braising, grilling and steaming to frying.

Situated in the popular Siam District, YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar is a renowned contemporary sushi bar known for its exceptional omakase and seasonal a la carte menu. YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar is located on the 4th floor of YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar Building at VIE Hotel Bangkok—MGallery Collection, with onsite parking and 50m from BTS Ratchathewi.

The Details:
THB 8,000++ per person
28-29 March 2025 | 6 PM & 8 PM
10 seats max per session
Limited Space. Book Early! > shorturl.at/QkHAa

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Tourism Launches: Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Namibia

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UN Tourism Launches Tourism Doing Business Investing in Namibia - TRAVELINDEXWindhoek, Namibia, March 25, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / “Tourism Doing Business Investing in Namibia” aims to attract potential investors and provides essential insights into the vibrant opportunities within Namibia’s tourism sector. The guidelines showcase Namibia’s unique cultural heritage, robust economy, and supportive business environment, highlighting areas of potential significant growth in the years ahead. 

Namibia: A thriving tourism ecosystem

Namibia, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is poised for significant growth in tourism investment. With its unique positioning as a gateway to Southern Africa, the country offers a diverse array of attractions, from the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei to the remarkable wildlife of Etosha National Park. According to UN Tourism’s guidelines:

  • Namibia has demonstrated steady economic growth and stability. In 2024, the country recorded GDP growth of 3.1%, which is projected to rise to 4.2% in 2025.
  • The country is also growing as a tourism destination. Namibia welcomed 863,872 international visitors in 202, an 87.4% increase on 2022
  • The tourism sector contributed 6.9% to GDP, generating USD 348 million in international tourism receipts in 2023.
  • Namibia has experienced remarkable growth in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with inflows reaching USD 2.61 billion in 2023—a significant increase from USD 1.06 billion in 2022. Major contributors to FDI include China (29.6%), South Africa (22.4%), the United Kingdom (9.4%), and Mauritius (6.8%).

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Namibia’s diverse investment opportunities and its dedication to sustainable growth make it an interesting destination for global investments. The country’s efforts in energy transition and tourism expansion reflect its commitment to innovation and inclusivity.”

Highest level political support for tourism in Namibia

The Investment Guidelines were officially launched as part of a visit by the UN Tourism leadership to Namibia. In Windhoek, Secretary-General Pololikashvili was honored to attend the Inauguration of H.E Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s 5th President, and the first woman to hold the office. The inauguration coincided with celebrations of the 35th Anniversary of Independence for the country.

Secretary-General Pololikashvili also delivered a Keynote Address at the  Namibia University of  Science and Technology as part of a special day focused on harnessing the power of technology to build a more inclusive and resilient tourism sector across Africa.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Rixos Hotels and The Land of Legends Harness Solar Energy for Sustainable Tourism

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Rixos Hotels and The Land of Legends Harness Solar Energy for Sustainable Tourism - TRAVELINDEXAntalya, Turkiye, March 24, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Rixos Hotels continues to accelerate its eco-friendly investments with a strong commitment to sustainable tourism. By embracing renewable energy sources, the brand aims to protect nature while ensuring a liveable world for future generations. Through its sustainable energy initiatives, Rixos Hotels reinforces its role as an environmentally responsible leader in the tourism sector.

Rixos Hotels, The Land of Legends Theme Park, Kingdom Hotel, and the newly opened Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Antalya (March 2025) will generate 100% of their electricity needs from renewable energy sources.

This project is expected to prevent the cutting of approximately 10,360,000 trees over 25 years, reduce 2,775,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, and decrease carbon monoxide pollution equivalent to 625,000 vehicles, contributing significantly to environmental preservation.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Joy Island Maldives Wins Two International Awards

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Joy Island Maldives Wins Two International Awards - TRAVELINDEXNorth Malé Atoll, Maldives, March 22,2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Joy Island, the latest Maldivian creation by The Cocoon Collection, has won two major international awards, confirming its commitment to excellence in luxury hospitality.

The property, located in the North Malé Atoll and characterized by a perfect combination of nature and exclusive services, has been included among the “TOP 100 World Best Hotels” by the Coral Travel Starway Tourism Awards and has received the prestigious Red Star Quality Award from DER Touristik, one of the strongest in the European tour operator sector.

A double recognition for Joy Island’s excellence

The Red Star Quality Award recognizes the 150 best properties among the thousands in the DER Tour portfolio, rewarding their excellence in service, management and a high customer satisfaction index. This prestigious recognition represents a guarantee for those who are looking for an exclusive and unparalleled experience.

The Coral Travel Starway Tourism Award is one of the most prestigious international awards in the hospitality sector. For over 20 years, Coral Travel has assigned the Starway World Best Hotels Awards to the facilities that stand out for the excellence of the services offered and for the full satisfaction of the guests.  Among the TOP 100 World Best Hotels 2024, 58 properties come from Turkey, 14 from Egypt, 9 from Greece, 7 from Spain, 5 from the United Arab Emirates, 3 from Thailand, 2 from Tunisia, 1 from Montenegro and 1 from the Maldives: Joy Island.

“We are extremely proud of these two awards, which attest to the constant commitment of Joy Island and The Cocoon Collection to guarantee excellent hospitality in the Maldives,” said Attilio Azzola, Founder and Corporate Sales Manager of The Cocoon Collection. “Our vision has always been to offer an immersive, authentic and quality experience, and these awards confirm that we are going in the right direction.”

 

Joy Island: A Paradise Awarded Among the Best in the World

Joy Island stands out for its privileged location and its offer of 151 elegant villas, divided between beach villas and overwater villas, designed to guarantee privacy, comfort and a unique experience in the Maldives. The butterfly-shaped island boasts pristine white beaches, a breathtaking lagoon and a House Reef full of marine life, as well as an innovative gastronomic proposal with restaurants such as The Market, Il Basilico and Palm Beach.

Thanks to these awards and the enthusiasm of its guests, Joy Island confirms itself as a destination of excellence for travellers looking for an unforgettable experience in the Maldives.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort Launches New Luxury Pool Suite

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Anantara Chiang Mai Resort Launches New Luxury Pool Suite - TRAVELINDEXChiang Mai, Thailand, March 21, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, the city’s most luxurious riverfront retreat, redefines luxury in the region with the unveiling of its exclusive Kasara Pool Suite. Spanning 140 square meters, this exquisite sanctuary features a private heated plunge pool, a shaded cabana, and a spacious terrace, setting a new benchmark for indulgence in Chiang Mai.

Nestled along the tranquil Mae Ping River, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is a serene escape where heritage meets contemporary elegance. Designed by the legendary Kerry Hill Architects, the resort’s minimalist aesthetic—featuring indigenous teak, soft neutral tones, and natural fabrics—pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage.

The newly launched Kasara Pool Suite embodies seamless open plan living, offering dedicated spaces to sleep, work, and unwind bathed in natural light. A highlight of the suite is its spa-inspired bathroom, where a sliding partition allows guests to soak in the bathtub while admiring the lush surroundings.

Most spectacular of all is the outdoor courtyard, enveloped by verdant greenery, which offers an unparalleled sense of privacy. Here, guests can float in their own heated plunge pool, unwind in the jacuzzi or lounge in the shaded cabana.

For a truly indulgent touch, guests can enjoy Anantara Chiang Mai’s signature floating breakfast, included with every stay, or opt for an intimate Designer Dining experience under the stars, where a private chef and butler create a bespoke culinary journey.

All suite guests at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort also enjoy an array of Kasara privileges, including afternoon refreshments from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, sundowners with cocktails and canapés from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, complimentary laundry service, and late check out on departure day. Guests also receive exclusive benefits including a personal welcome by management, in-suite check in, a reserved breakfast table at Bodhi Terrace or in-suite breakfast, a welcome bottle of sparkling wine and one roundtrip transfer per stay between the resort and either the city, old town or Nimman. For stays of three nights or more, guest will enjoy Book Direct Benefits including complimentary private roundtrip transfers from and to Chiang Mai Airport, early check-in and late check-out subject to availability and resort credit of THB 1,000.

Located just a few minutes from the city center and the airport, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is a riverside oasis in the heart of Thailand’s cultural capital. The resort beautifully combines heritage charm with contemporary luxury. Situated alongside the Mae Ping River, this boutique retreat serves as a gateway to Lanna culture while offering world-class amenities. The centerpiece of the resort is a 100-year-old colonial house, which now hosts exceptional dining experiences. With sleek, zen-inspired rooms and suites, an award-winning spa, and exclusive river cruises, Anantara Chiang Mai caters to discerning travelers seeking authentic local experiences without sacrificing comfort. Its prime location provides easy access to Chiang Mai’s vibrant markets, temples, and natural attractions.

The Kasara Pool Suite experience starts at THB 25,000++ per night. For reservations, or more information, call +66 53 253 333

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PolyU Study Reveals Dynamics of Destination Competitiveness

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PolyU Study Reveals Dynamics of Destination CompetitivenessWith the rise of social media and online review platforms, understanding the rapidly evolving factors that influence the competitiveness of destination has become transparent for tourism authorities aiming to attract and retain visitors. Thanks to a pioneering framework for assessing the evolution of destination competitiveness developed by Dr Emily Chen, Dr Jie Wu and Professor Dan Wang of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), and Professor Bela Stantic of the School of Information and Communication Technology at Griffith University, destination managers now have new insights into strategies for enhancing destination competitiveness and tourist satisfaction.
“In the constantly evolving field of tourism management”, the authors begin, “destination competitiveness is crucial in attracting tourists and driving tourism expenditure”. Destination competitiveness is defined as a destination’s capacity to attract and satisfy tourists compared with its competitors, and it relies on destination managers’ ability to derive effective strategies for strengthening business and identify and resolve product and service deficiencies.
By attracting tourist spending, competitive destinations can boost local revenue, create jobs and encourage investment in infrastructure and services. Considerable attention has been paid to how destinations can most effectively maintain their appeal and stay ahead of competitors as market conditions evolve. Yet existing models of destination competitiveness fall short in certain key respects.
The first is their inability to accommodate the evolving nature of destination competitiveness. “Tourism is an extremely dynamic industry”, the researchers explain, “influenced by numerous external and internal factors, ranging from global economic conditions to social trends”. Yet traditional models of destination competitiveness often take a static view, failing to account for these swiftly evolving factors. This “limits their robustness in practical destination management”, the authors warn.
More specifically, traditional assessments of destination competitiveness fail to address tourists’ changing preferences and behaviour, which are influenced by personal experiences and subjective perceptions. “How tourists evaluate their experiences at the destination is important for the destination”, the authors say, “as positive experiences can be leveraged for effective marketing and building customer loyalty”.
Fortunately, the rise of big data has opened avenues for much-needed real-time and nuanced analyses of the dynamics of destination competitiveness from the perspective of tourists. “By analysing such data”, say the authors, “stakeholders can gauge the dynamic shifts in what tourists value most at any given time, allowing for more responsive and targeted management strategies”.
The researchers’ first step was to collect data from the social media posts of mainland Chinese tourists visiting Hong Kong. Their intention was to shift the focus from external factors influencing destination competitiveness to “the subjective experiences and perceptions of tourists, which are crucial drivers of a destination’s appeal and success”.
To do so, they adapted a framework traditionally used to evaluate a company’s (or region’s) market attractiveness and competitive strength: the McKinsey Matrix. “In this study”, the researchers explain, “market attractiveness was reinterpreted to reflect tourist sentiment, which serves as a direct indicator of a destination’s appeal based on the experiences and perceptions of tourists”. Competitive strength was measured by the importance of various destination attributes as perceived by tourists.
The next task was to construct this matrix based on the collected social media data. The authors created a comprehensive timeline for mining destination attributes from 2018 to 2023.
The destination attributes that mattered most to mainland Chinese tourists were labelled as Food, Shopping, Attractions, Accommodation, Transportation, Culture & Art, and Cross-border Issues. The authors modelled these attributes in their dynamic matrix, whose nine quadrants each represented a different level of competitive positioning, from low to high. For example, core attributes were defined as those in which Hong Kong is consistently highly competitive, and fluctuating attributes were those that shifted positions in the matrix over time, indicating variability in tourist perceptions and competitiveness.
This model helped the authors to understand in which areas Hong Kong excels and which areas require strategic improvements. “Food mattered the most across all periods”, they report. In terms of destination competitiveness, however, the attributes all exhibited varying performance. Some, such as Shopping and Food, even transitioned to different competitive quadrants during the sample period. “This illustrates why it is critical to capture and understand the dynamics of destination competitiveness at the attribute level”, the researchers tell us.
Hong Kong’s tourist attractions and its culture and art were identified as core competitive attributes, indicating their outstanding performance in attracting mainland Chinese tourists. In contrast, local accommodation was an edge attribute, suggesting that improvement may be needed to enhance its contribution to the city’s overall destination competitiveness.
Interestingly, shopping- and food-related activities were classified as fluctuating attributes. “Tourists’ dissatisfaction with food and dining options due to restrictive policies, lack of amenities like hot water, and outdated decor significantly detract from the dining experience”, say the authors. Meanwhile, the attractiveness of shopping in Hong Kong – previously a major draw – is on the decline due to issues such as outdated payment systems and poor customer service.
“Recognising that tourist preferences and needs evolve over time”, say the authors, “is crucial, as it supports the development of strategies that are responsive to changes in tourist behaviours and market conditions”. Their findings will help the destination authorities understand which attributes of the city are most important to mainland Chinese tourists facilitating decision-making on which attributes should be prioritised for development.
For instance, as food, culture and art, and attractions are the three most important attributes for mainland Chinese tourists, the Hong Kong authorities should ensure that they continue to perform well. The finding that tourists are dissatisfied with shopping- and food-related activities should lead to strategies “such as improving the environment and decor of restaurants, improving the attitude of shop staff, and promoting the use of electronic payments for shopping”. The city should also aim to address cross-border issues that impair tourists’ travel experiences, such as delays in crossing the border and high currency exchange fees.
Although the authors focused on mainland Chinese visitors to Hong Kong, their dynamic framework can be applied to other destinations to understand the evolution of their competitiveness and generate specific measures to attract more tourists. The SHTM is proud to have pioneered this study, offering a novel monitoring and analysis tool that can provide the tourism industry with much-needed market intelligence.
Jinyan Chen, Jie Wu, Dan Wang and Bela Stantic (2025). Beyond Static Rankings: A Tourist Experience-driven Approach to Measure Destination Competitiveness. Tourism Management, Vol. 106, 105022.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Skål International Bangkok Holds Successful AGM at Hyatt Regency Bangkok

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Skål International Bangkok Holds Successful AGM at Hyatt Regency Bangkok - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, March 20, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Skål International Bangkok, a pillar of Thailand’s tourism industry since its founding in 1956, held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and monthly networking luncheon on Tuesday, 18 March 2025. As one of the longest-standing Skål clubs, Skål International Bangkok has consistently supported the Thai tourism sector, playing a key role in strengthening industry connections and initiatives. The event, which usually takes place on the second Tuesday of each month, was postponed by a week to accommodate members returning from the ITB Travel Show in Berlin.

The AGM took place in the magnificent ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Hotel, drawing a record turnout of members and guests. President James Thurlby opened the meeting with the traditional Skål toast and confirmed that the online voting process had been successfully conducted, leading to the election of a new committee. Statutory quorums were duly established, ensuring a smooth and transparent process.

The New Committee for 2025
• President – James Thurlby (elected Oct 2024)
• Vice President – Marvin Bemand
• Vice President 2 – Andrew J Wood
• Vice President, Women in Leadership – Kanokros “Aom” Wongvekin (elected Oct 2024)
• Secretary – Jennifer Ferris (elected Oct 2024)
• Treasurer – John Neutze
• Membership – Dr Maxso Ma
• Events – Pichai Visutriratana
• Young Skål – Dr Scott Smith
• PR & Young Skål – Yannika Chansrichawla

In his presidential address, James Thurlby reflected on the achievements of the past 12 months, revisiting the club’s roadmap, which was presented last year. He highlighted key milestones and reaffirmed the club’s commitment to sustainability, industry collaboration, and community support.

President James Thurlby stated:
“Together with an incredible team, we’re set to bring fresh perspectives and make an impact in hospitality and tourism. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth and success. I am particularly focused on driving benefits for our members, increasing our Young Skål members, and providing events aimed at women in leadership. Above all, what is most important to me is increasing our membership. Being one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, with its vibrant tourism community, this is a very achievable goal.”

Special recognition was given to sponsors, whose support is crucial in helping Skål Bangkok achieve its goals—not just for its members but also for the wider Bangkok community, particularly through charity events during the festive season.

A significant moment of the luncheon was the recognition of Past President Kanokros “Aom”, who was presented with her Past President’s chain—an honour she received with great delight and appreciation.

The AGM and luncheon once again reinforced Skål International Bangkok’s role as a steadfast and dynamic force in Thailand’s tourism landscape. With a strong leadership team in place, the club is set to continue its mission of bringing together tourism professionals in Bangkok and beyond, fostering meaningful connections, and advocating for a sustainable industry future.

Skål International is the world’s largest global network of tourism professionals, dedicated to promoting sustainability, fostering networking opportunities, and keeping members informed of the latest industry trends.

For further information, please visit: www.skalbangkok.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Lotus Unfolds at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

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The Lotus Unfolds at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, March 20, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / As the only hotel in Bangkok featured in The White Lotus Season 3, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok invites guests to follow the trail, find the bloom, and step into the story of the city’s most iconic riverside retreat.

In The White Lotus Season 3, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok takes its place in cinematic history as the only Bangkok hotel featured in the series. A beacon of timeless elegance and rich heritage, this riverside icon became an integral part of the story, effortlessly blending into its world of mystery, beauty, and quiet luxury.

Anthony Tyler, Area Vice President, Operations and General Manager, reveals, “When Mike White arrived at the hotel during his recent visit, the first thing he said was, ‘I’m home.’ That speaks to the enduring magic of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. For nearly 150 years, we have welcomed luminaries – writers like Somerset Maugham, Joseph Conrad, and John le Carré, as well as contemporary figures such as Pico Iyer, V.S. Naipaul, and Paul Theroux. To now be part of The White Lotus is truly special, and we look forward to welcoming guests to experience this extraordinary destination for themselves.”

The Lotus Unfolds at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

From tranquil mornings at The Verandah – where the striking Thai mural that captivated creator Mike White resides – to the jazz-infused ambience of The Bamboo Bar, every space within the hotel tells a story. The fabled Authors’ Lounge became a place of reflection and inspiration as White crafted the season’s narrative, while the grand lobby and exquisite suites welcomed cast and crew, enveloping them in the hotel’s heritage.

A Cinematic Journey with ‘The Lotus Unfolds’ Stay Package
Inspired by the series, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok presents The Lotus Unfolds stay package, offering an immersive experience that brings The White Lotus to life. From the moment they arrive, guests will be welcomed by Khun Mayuree, Guest Relations Director by day and perhaps a familiar face in Season 3. A cherished presence at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok for over 35 years, Khun Mayuree’s intuitive service has long been woven into the hotel’s legacy. Her warmth and hospitality have left a lasting impression on countless guests – and may even be recognised beyond the hotel’s storied walls.

As part of this experience, guests will enjoy exclusive series-inspired welcome amenities, while the enchanting views of the Chao Phraya River set the stage for an unforgettable stay. Breakfast at The Verandah offers the opportunity to admire the hand-painted mural that sparked White’s imagination during his initial visit to the hotel in January 2023. Spanning 17 metres, this remarkable artwork by local artists was created using traditional temple techniques, incorporating indigenous flora and fauna into its design. White was so taken by it that he paused to capture several photographs for inspiration. Beyond The Verandah mural, the hotel’s artistic heritage continued to inspire him. His favourite suite, the Jim Thompson, features another striking mural depicting Thai life over 700 years ago. It was in this suite, as well as in The Authors’ Lounge, that he immersed himself in the creative process, refining the narrative that would shape Season 3.

The Lotus Unfolds at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

“When we first saw the introduction of The White Lotus Season 3, featuring a mysterious Thai mural, it immediately brought me back to that moment,” adds Anthony Tyler. “It brings us great pleasure to think that our hotel may have inspired and delighted him throughout the writing process.”

A Journey Through Bangkok’s Hidden Narratives
As part of The Lotus Unfolds package, guests will embark on a specially curated excursion through Bangkok’s historic districts, discovering the hidden stories and cultural richness that set the stage for the series. From learning the delicate art of lotus folding to tracing enigmatic figures from the show’s opening sequence within intricate murals, this immersive journey unveils the city’s layers of history, artistry, and intrigue, offering a unique perspective on Bangkok’s enduring charm.

After a day of exploration, guests can retreat to The Authors’ Lounge – long a sanctuary for literary greats, now woven into cinematic history. It was here that White found inspiration for Season 3, his portrait now joining the ranks of celebrated writers who have shaped their stories within these walls.

As evening falls, The Bamboo Bar – Bangkok’s most legendary jazz venue – awaits. Featured in the series, this storied establishment invites guests to experience a moment of effortless glamour, sipping the White Lotus cocktail, created exclusively for the occasion. Infused with the timeless elegance of the bar’s 1950s ambience, this signature drink is available to both hotel guests and visitors.

The Lotus Unfolds Package Includes:
• Two-night stay in a preferred accommodation
• Daily breakfast at The Verandah, home to the mural that inspired Mike White
• Exclusive The Lotus Unfolds welcome amenities
• Private The Lotus Unfolds excursion through Bangkok’s historic districts
• Afternoon Tea at The Authors’ Lounge
• Signature White Lotus cocktail, served in-room

While The White Lotus shines a spotlight on Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s timeless allure, guests can step beyond the screen and immerse themselves in its legendary hospitality. From exceptional dining experiences to The Oriental Spa – where centuries-old wellness traditions meet contemporary expertise – every stay is a seamless blend of heritage, elegance, and personalised service.

The Lotus Unfolds package is available for a minimum two-night consecutive stay from 21 March – 31 October 2025. Availability is limited. For reservations, please call +66 (0) 2659 9000

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News