Global Travel News

Azerai Ke Ga Bay Introduces Private Dining Overlooking the Beach

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Azerai Ke Ga Bay Introduces Private Dining Overlooking the Beach - TRAVELINDEXKe Ga Bay, Vietnam, November 6, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Azerai Ke Ga Bay, an elegant and sophisticated all suites and villas beachfront resort in southern Vietnam, has introduced an exclusive new private dining experience that lets guests enjoy the best seats in the house.

With softly lit tables overlooking a pristine 5-kilometer stretch of white sand that fronts the East Sea, private dining at Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers couples and families intimate oceanside dinners amid the delicate sound of waves lapping the shore and a gentle sea breeze.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay, located a comfortable 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City on a new highway, is nestled amongst 4.5 hectares of verdant gardens, framed to the east by Hon Ba Island with its historic lighthouse and to the west by soaring sand dunes. This unique and picturesque location provides a tranquil setting, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation, and has been selected by legendary hotelier Adrian Zecha for his portfolio of Azerai Resorts.

The private dining experiences at Azerai Ke Ga Bay feature several menu options that are updated regularly. The latest menus include:

The fresh Lobster, Seafood & Meats BBQ menu, with highlights including lotus salad with prawn and pork meat; clams with lemongrass and chili soup; a selection of barbecued sea scallop, squid, lobster and ribeye steak; grilled vegetables; and the chef’s ice cream of the day.

There are also two set Western dinner menus.

Notable dishes on the first set include French foie gras; creamy potato soup with Japanese scallop and pesto sauce; a choice of Lobster Thermidor (grilled lobster with mushroom sauce served with lemongrass and lime risotto) or grass-fed Australian beef tenderloin with garlic butter asparagus, sauteed potato and beef jus; and for dessert “Forever Love,” a chocolate molten lava cake with vanilla ice cream.

The second set features three-cheese baked oyster; lobster bisque; a choice of pan-seared salmon (with cherry tomato confit, salad and asparagus and creamy dill sauce) or Australian lamb rack (perfumed with garden herbs and served with mashed potato, asparagus and orange sauce); and Tiramisu, a classic Italian layer cake with espresso-flavored mascarpone.

The Lobster, Seafood & Meats BBQ and both Western set menus are priced at VND 2,400,000++ per person. Two other private dining options include a Seafood & Meats BBQ (without the lobster), priced at VND 2,000,000++ per person, and a Vietnamese set menu, priced at VND 1,500,000++ per person.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers a variety of dining and lounging options including open-air dining at The Terrace to enjoy the ocean breeze, The Dining Room for a more formal dining experience, and The Living Room to relax from the heat, play some hand-crafted board games or enjoy cocktails in the evening. The resort’s culinary offerings include an array of local delicacies, with a focus on plentiful offerings from the sea, along with international favorites.

Adrian Zecha, the founder of Azerai Resorts, is one of the world’s leading creators and operators of award-winning luxury hotels and resorts. The Indonesian hotelier previously founded the storied luxury brand Aman Resorts in 1988.

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.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Expands Solar Ambitions in Southeast Asia

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Meliá Expands Solar Ambitions in Southeast Asia - TRAVELINDEXHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam, November 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Two Meliá hotels in Vietnam and one in Thailand are taking their green goals to the next level with ambitious solar panel projects that have seen over 2,600 solar panels added to Meliá Vinpearl Cua Hoi Beach Resort and Meliá Vinpearl Cua Sot Beach Resort, both along Vietnam’s north central coast, and Meliá Phuket Mai Khao on the tropical island of Phuket.

These seafront destinations are making the most of the sunshine with the addition of 1,450 panels at Meliá Vinpearl Cua Hoi, 546 at Meliá Vinpearl Cua Sot, and 622 at Meliá Phuket Mai Khao. In Vietnam, panels have been added to several areas including rooftops, in parking areas, offices and other back of house locations. In Thailand, they have been installed on ten different buildings at the oceanfront resort, including the YHI spa and lobby area.

The new systems in Vietnam are projected to supply between 10-30% of each hotel’s total electricity consumption. The new panels at Meliá Phuket Mai Khao will generate energy of 39,414.94 Kw each month.

Following these installations, Meliá Vinpearl Cam Ranh Beach Resort will be the next property to implement solar panels later this year.

“Solar panels are just one of the sustainable initiatives that our hotels are pursuing to ensure a healthier future in places where we have properties,” said Ignacio Martin, managing director for Meliá Hotels International in the APAC region. “Our hotels and resorts are also investing in circular food economies, community projects focused on restoring local natural environments, and plastic reduction or elimination, to name a few initiatives.”

Vietnam is Southeast Asia’s largest solar power market with an operating utility-scale solar and wind capacity of 19 GW, according to Global Energy Monitor. Thailand and The Philippines follow with a capacity of 3 GW each.

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.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA: Asia Pacific Tourism Set for Continued Growth Following Strong 2023 Recovery

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PATA Asia Pacific Tourism Set for Continued Growth Following Strong 2023 Recovery - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, October 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today released its Annual Tourism Report 2024, showcasing the robust recovery of international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across the Asia Pacific region in 2023. The report reveals that tourism numbers rebounded significantly following the pandemic, with IVAs nearly doubling compared to 2022. As the travel industry moves into 2024, this upward trend continues, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the region’s tourism sector.
Key Findings: Significant Increase in IVAs for the Asia Pacific region

In 2023, international visitor arrivals reached 522 million across 47 Asia Pacific destinations, marking a 94.3% increase from the previous year. This remarkable resurgence marks the most substantial recovery for Asia Pacific tourism since the onset of the pandemic, with IVAs nearing pre-2019 levels. Among the top-performing destinations were China, which welcomed over 82 million visitors, accounting for 15.7% of the region’s total, and the USA, which saw over 66 million arrivals (12.7%).

Türkiye has emerged as one of the top tourist destinations, reaching pre-pandemic visitor numbers in 2022. For 2023, international arrivals increased by another 10.4%, thanks to Türkiye’s rich cultural appeal, strategic location between Europe and Asia, and continued investments in tourism infrastructure and safety. This growth was also supported by targeted policies such as visa simplifications and digital nomad visas, making Türkiye one of the top recovery markets alongside Thailand and Macao, China.
Emerging Trends and a Bright Outlook for 2024

The momentum continued into early 2024, with IVAs rising by 22% year-on-year, reaching nearly 262 million arrivals by mid-year. The majority of growth has been driven by Asia, which accounted for eight of the top 10 destinations by volume, including Hong Kong SAR, Japan, and Thailand. Hong Kong alone saw a 64.2% increase in visitor numbers compared to the same period in 2023.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted, “Tourism in Asia Pacific saw a major recovery in 2023, and this momentum is continuing into 2024. With over 261 million visitors recorded this year, the region is rebounding quickly, led by strong growth in destinations like China and Japan.”

Countries like Thailand demonstrated significant success with innovative travel policies, including temporary visa exemptions for visitors from key markets like China, Kazakhstan, and India.

Furthermore, in 2023, Thailand launched two parallel tourism campaigns: “Thai Tourism Year 2023” for domestic tourism and “Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters” for international visitors. Through collaborations with digital travel platforms, airlines, and personalised content, the Thailand Tourism Authority (TAT) used data analytics to segment markets and adapt promotions to visitor preferences.

The Thai Tourism Year 2023 campaign aimed to boost domestic tourism by promoting lesser-known destinations within Thailand, enhancing travel experiences in secondary cities, and emphasising eco-friendly and culturally immersive trips.

The Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters campaign targeted international markets with a focus on unique, themed experiences, including wellness, adventure, and luxury travel. The Digital Nomad program – a special visa initiative offering a 10-year visa for remote workers – appealed to long-term visitors drawn to cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, known for their affordable living costs and robust coworking facilities. Thailand’s Muslim-friendly travel sector also expanded through tailored, halal-certified services, supporting the country’s goal of becoming a top destination for Muslim tourists within the next five years. Additionally, with its scenic beaches and luxury resorts, Thailand saw a significant influx of Indian weddings and large gatherings in 2023, which boosted local industries such as catering, hospitality, and event planning.

These campaigns helped drive over 28 million international arrivals in 2023, representing a 154.4% year-on-year increase. Thailand’s success is further highlighted by its efficient handling of airport congestion and infrastructure improvements.

Similarly, Türkiye saw its tourism industry flourish, driven by strategic policies targeting Russian and European tourists. By focusing on popular destinations like Antalya and Istanbul, Türkiye attracted millions of high-spending visitors, contributing significantly to its economic growth.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

The report underscores that while growth remains strong, there are still challenges on the horizon. The reemergence of health risks, such as potential new SARS variants, and geopolitical tensions could affect the pace of recovery. However, the industry’s resilience, adaptability, and innovation offer a strong foundation for overcoming these hurdles.

As Mr. Hamid noted, “We must stay adaptable amid uncertainties. The global travel and tourism sector is stronger when we collaborate, ensuring our recovery is both swift and sustainable. Ultimately, tourism thrives when there is peace and respect for humanity.”

Conclusion: A New Era for Asia Pacific Tourism

The PATA Annual Tourism Report 2024 highlights the remarkable strides made in revitalising the travel sector across Asia Pacific. With continued recovery expected into 2024 and beyond, the region is poised to surpass pre-pandemic levels, ushering in a new era of responsible, resilient, and innovative tourism.

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

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Loy Krathong Thai & BBQ Feast at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit

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Loy Krathong Thai & BBQ Feast at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit - TRAVELINDEXCelebrate Loy Krathong in style with a spectacular Thai BBQ Buffet at Plate Restaurant, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit. Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring an array of premium selections, including unlimited fresh river prawns, succulent Charolais beef striploin, and tender Australian lamb rack.

Buffet Pricing:

  • THB 1,499++ per person, includes a welcome drink and free-flow soft drinks
  • Children aged 4-12 enjoy a 50% discount and dine for free when dressed in traditional Thai costumes (limited to one child per adult).

Enjoy live contemporary Thai music from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, along with Thai dance performances.

Book and pay by 10 November 2024 to enjoy a 20% early bird discount. All guests also receive a 20% F&B voucher for the Cooling Tower Rooftop Bar with every booking. Plus, each reservation includes a complimentary krathong to float at the hotel’s kids’ pool or nearby parks, such as Benchakitti or Benchasiri Park, both just a short walk away.

Book a room and enjoy the Loy Krathong buffet at a special price of THB 1,299 net.

Experience Loy Krathong with an extraordinary feast at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Location: Plate Restaurant

Date: 15 November 2024

Time: 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm

For more information or to make reservations, please contact 02 090 7888 or email Fbreservations@carltonhotel.co.th

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ATPI and Nomadic Unite to Mobilise Global Workforce

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ATPI and Nomadic Unite to Mobilise Global Workforce - TRAVELINDEXManchester, United Kingdom, November 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / ATPI, the leading travel management company, and Nomadic, a global short-term immigration provider for businesses and corporate travellers, have announced a new partnership to support the global energy sector with travel compliance and workforce planning. 

The collaboration will utilise the industry-leading knowledge and innovation of Nomadic to mobilise the energy sector’s workforce for global projects with greater ease. Backed by the world’s leading provider of immigration services Fragomen, Nomadic helps to process and corroborate visa applications for multinational and domestic corporations. 

ATPI will utilise Nomadic’s extensive insight and technology to streamline activity for workforces which require specialised visa permits to perform work in international regions. 

Recognizing a gap in the market, the two companies are committed to developing technology solutions that streamline international travel for the energy sector. This collaboration aims to provide workforces with the tools and support needed to maximize operational efficiency. 

As the preferred business travel services provider to ATPI, Nomadic helps individuals remain compliant with regional requirements via visa and passport services, and the notarising, procurement, and securing of essential records for immigration applications. 

Nomadic’s services will now be available to ATPI’s Energy and Marine clients in the UK, via the homepage of ATPI ‘s TravelHub – the all-in-one travel dashboard. 

ATPI’s General Manager Scotland, Zara Higgins commented: “Our new agreement with Nomadic is a natural progression to the excellence we deliver. Through our shared vision, we are – and have been – 100% committed to creating innovative solutions to support the Global Energy Sector. By integrating Nomadic’s proven immigration and visa services to strengthen our offering, we will have solutions available to help our clients navigate the ongoing complexities associated with travel in the energy sector. This is an exciting development for both companies, and we look forward to seeing the positive difference it will make.” 

Neil Thomson, Director at Nomadic, added: “Our agreement with ATPI is a new benchmark of smart collaboration and synergy. The chance to integrate our support into ATPI’s travel management systems will alleviate some of the challenges and inconveniences often faced by those who travel globally for work. By streamlining, and hopefully accelerating the process, we will take the burden off of individual operators and organisations, enabling them to focus on the efficiency and success of their energy activities.” 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Experience a Magical Festive Afternoon Tea at Tuxedo Espresso Bar

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Experience a Magical Festive Afternoon Tea at Tuxedo Espresso Bar - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Step into a world of enchantment and festive cheer at Tuxedo Espresso Bar, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit, where our Magical Festive Afternoon Tea awaits. From 1 November 2024 to 6 January 2025, indulge in a delightful fusion of holiday flavors and heartwarming seasonal treats, perfect for celebrating the most wonderful time of the year in style.

Enjoy a festive array of desserts and savory bites, all crafted to bring the magic of Christmas to your table. Perfectly created by the talented Pastry Chef Pavitra Bangchay, also known as Chef Pom, the selection features culinary highlights such as the whimsical Black Forest Christmas Tree, a rich Chocolate Brown Log Cake, and the charming Zesty Snowman Tartlet, all designed to capture the essence of Christmas. Enjoy the refreshing twist of a Champagne Mousse Strawberry Santa or the luxurious sweetness of the Grand Marnier Holly Leaf, while Reindeer Macarons add a playful touch to your afternoon.

Balance out your sweet treats with a savory selection, including the holiday-inspired Turkey & Cranberry Pie, the light and refreshing Parma Ham Watermelon Skewer, and the decadent Cream Cheese Truffle Cucumber. No festive afternoon tea is complete without warm, freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jams.

Celebrate the season with a pot of TWG tea or coffee, included in every set. Prices start at THB 880++ for one person and THB 1,380++ for two, with the option to enhance your experience with a glass of bubbly for an additional THB 200++ per glass.

Make your afternoons magical and indulgent this festive season. Gather your loved ones and join us for an afternoon tea experience where the holiday spirit comes alive.

For more information or reservations, please contact us at 02 090 7888 or email Fbreservations@carltonhotel.co.th

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Palace Hotel Tokyo Debuts A Tokyo Christmas Stay Package

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Palace Hotel Tokyo Debuts A Tokyo Christmas Stay Package - TRAVELINDEXTokyo, Japan, November 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / This holiday season, Palace Hotel Tokyo is presenting travelers with the opportunity to celebrate ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ in splendor and style, replete with artful Christmas cakes and a host of fine-dining experiences to choose from.

As one of the city’s most lauded hotels, Palace Hotel Tokyo is also one of the most elegant each festive season. This year, the centerpiece, 16-foot Christmas tree standing tall in the lobby moat-side will be decked out in red and gold baubles while elsewhere, installations inspired by snow-kissed treetops reflecting the golden hues of moon-lit nights bring a hint of the outdoors in.

Designed to bring a touch of home to a luxurious holiday getaway, ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ includes:

  • One night’s accommodation in a choice of a Deluxe with Balcony or Grand Deluxe room
  • Choice of breakfast in-room or at Grand Kitchen
  • An assortment of home-made Christmas cookies presented in a limited-edition tin
  • A 5.5-foot-tall, in-room Christmas tree decorated with lights and red and gold ornaments

Available for stays between December 20-25, rates for ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ start at JPY 183,000.*

*Inclusive of consumption tax, excludes 15% service charge & accommodation tax of JPY 200 per person, per night

Additional festive touches on offer include Champagne or a beautiful Christmas bouquet in-room as well as a Gâteau aux Fraises resembling a snow-kissed flower and made with strawberries grown at a farm in Ibaraki prefecture especially chosen by the hotel’s pastry chef.

At Esterre, the hotel’s one-Michelin-starred contemporary French restaurant in partnership with DUCASSE Paris, a six-course Christmas dinner menu will feature lobster bisque, steamed ezo awabi (abalone) with barigoule-style vegetables, and beef tenderloin with truffled winter vegetables.

At Wadakura, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s signature Japanese restaurant, its exquisite winter kaiseki course menu will be all about crab – including Kobako hairy crab, crabmeat dumpling, sashimi with Matsuba crab, and grilled Taraba crab with crab cream croquette. At GO, the hotel’s popular teppanyaki grill, a Christmas menu featuring seared red bream, Zuwai crab and Matsusaka beef will be served up.

Those who enjoy European-style Christmas breads and cakes but expect to miss out on them while spending the holidays in Japan will be delighted to discover that the hotel’s pastry shop, Sweets & Deli, presents an array of home-baked stollen, kugelhopf, berawecka and panettone each December – including some with a uniquely Japanese twist.

In addition to classics – such as berawecka packed with nuts and liquor-soaked dried fruits, and panettone with orange peel and sultana raisins baked with home-made panettone yeast – there’s a bohnen stollen made with yuzu-flavored marzipan and kinako (soybean flour), a ruby stollen made with dried rambutan, cranberries and almonds, and a limited-edition praline stollen featuring fruits soaked in litchi liqueur. There’s also a kugelhopf de Noël baked with sweet chestnuts mixed into its moist matcha dough and finished with a raspberry chocolate glaze.

Located in the city’s upscale Marunouchi district, Palace Hotel Tokyo is situated a stone’s throw away from Marunouchi Naka Dori, the tree-lined boulevard that’s breathtakingly illuminated each winter season along the 1.2 kilometers that stretches from the hotel past the landmark Tokyo Station to Yurakucho, at the edge of Ginza.

About Palace Hotel Tokyo
As the anchor to a billion-dollar, mixed-use development which debuted in 2012 following a re-build entirely from the ground up, Palace Hotel Tokyo commands some of the city’s most exclusive real estate as well as incomparable views of the verdant Imperial Palace gardens and the surrounding skyline.

Located in the capital’s prestigious Marunouchi district, the property features 284 rooms & suites, an evian SPA, and 10 distinctive restaurants and bars – including an exquisite range of Japanese cuisines, fine dining Shanghainese & Cantonese at MICHELIN One-Star Amber Palace and contemporary French haute cuisine at MICHELIN One-Star Esterre in partnership with DUCASSE Paris.

As heir to a legacy going back more than half a century as one of Tokyo’s most iconic properties, the hotel remains firmly rooted in its commitment to offering Japanese hospitality at its finest. In addition to receiving a prestigious Three Keys from MICHELIN Guide, the multi-award-winning hotel has held Forbes Travel Guide’s coveted Five-Star status for nine consecutive years and achieved a Five-Star rating for its spa in 2024.

Drawing deeply from the country’s history, culture and art, Palace Hotel Tokyo continues to redefine luxury in Japan with sophistication and authenticity.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Phetchaburi, Thailand, Gears Up for PDMF 2024 PDMF 2024 this November

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Phetchaburi, Thailand, Gears Up for PDMF 2024 - TRAVELINDEXPhetchaburi, Thailand, November 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in conjunction with Phetchaburi City, the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Dusit Thani Hua Hin, held a press conference on October 16 for the upcoming PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 (PDMF 2024) which will be organised from November 12 – 14, 2024.

Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi Province, Wanpen Mungsri, highlighted Phetchaburi’s strategic position to advance as a MICE city, establishing itself as a premier destination for international meetings. Hosting PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 provides a valuable opportunity to elevate the province’s profile and demonstrate its capability to host global conferences, positioning Thailand prominently on the international stage.

Phetchaburi boasts a diverse range of natural and cultural assets, from its majestic mountains to its stunning coastline. Notably, in 2021, UNESCO designated the Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex as a World Heritage Site, the sixth in Thailand. Additionally, Phetchaburi has been recognised as a City of Gastronomy under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).

The PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 aligns with Thailand’s 20-Year National Strategy (2018-2037), which focuses on enhancing the country’s competitiveness by positioning Thailand as a leading destination for business tourism. The forum promotes Thailand as a hub for international conferences and exhibitions, supporting the government’s “Ignite Thailand” initiative. This policy aims to establish Thailand as a global tourism hub by connecting major cities with emerging destinations, fostering seamless regional and international travel. The emphasis is on creating a welcoming environment, ensuring safety, and facilitating smooth travel experiences, while also developing cities into prominent tourism destinations and strengthening ASEAN’s position as a key travel destination for global visitors.

Deputy Governor Wanpen also noted that Phetchaburi is preparing for its MICE City certification in 2025. The success of the forum, she stated, relies heavily on collaboration across all sectors to drive tourism, raise awareness, and stimulate the local economy. These collective efforts aim to ensure that Thai tourism remains sustainable and inclusive, advancing towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while leaving no one behind.

Salanroj Sutaschuto, Chief Operating Officer organizational management and development, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, remarked that TCEB has been working closely with Phetchaburi Province since the bidding process for PDMF 2024. Following its selection as a co-host, preparations have been made in collaboration with various partners.

Salanroj expressed confidence that the forum will showcase Phetchaburi’s potential as a leading MICE destination in Thailand. He emphasised that MICE events are instrumental in stimulating the local economy, not only within the host province but also in surrounding areas. These events promote high-quality, sustainable tourism, thereby contributing to the sustainable growth of Thailand’s tourism industry. The forum also presents an opportunity to further solidify trust and confidence in Thailand as an important destination for global events.

In her remarks, Duangjai Koomsa-Ard, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office, reaffirmed TAT’s commitment to promoting high-potential tourist attractions and enhancing tourism activities that foster sustainable development. These efforts aim to make destinations appealing to both domestic and international markets. Phetchaburi, with its wealth of natural, historical, and cultural assets, has already gained global recognition. Its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy presents further opportunities to integrate wellness tourism into its offerings. By collaborating with local hotels and restaurants, the province can create distinctive tourism experiences that elevate Phetchaburi’s profile as a premier destination.

Watcharee Churagsa, Assistant to Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), stated that as an agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, DASTA is committed to developing community-based tourism models and has worked to position Phetchaburi as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Gastronomy. In collaboration with various parties, DASTA is organising creative community-based technical tours to enhance awareness and support tourism marketing efforts during PDMF 2024.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore three key tourism routes: (1) Sweet and Sour Tastes of Phetchaburi, (2) Artisans and Delicacies, and (3) Biodiversity at Traditional Salt Fields. These routes, developed with the support of the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) and other partners, are aimed at becoming carbon-neutral tourism experiences. Additionally, the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand will lead birdwatching activities, and students from Phetchaburi Rajabhat University will assist in guiding participants throughout the tours.

Pipat Patthananusorn, General Manager, Dusit Thani Hua Hin, expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in the hotel to host this year’s PATA Destination Marketing Forum. He emphasised that Dusit Thani Hua Hin is proud to contribute to elevating Phetchaburi as an international MICE destination. This aligns perfectly with the hotel’s vision, mission, and clear commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. Furthermore, the hotel is dedicated to enhancing awareness of the region’s readiness to drive economic growth and support Thailand’s broader economic development.

As the final speaker, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted PATA’s successful organisation of the PATA Destination Marketing Forum (PDMF) in Thailand, having held the event in Khon Kaen (2018), Pattaya (2019), and Songkhla (2022). Each forum has served as a valuable platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry professionals. PATA wishes to make PDMF a unique platform for destination marketers and tourism stakeholders to discuss strategies for promoting responsible tourism, particularly in helping secondary and tertiary destinations grow into world-class attractions.

This year’s forum, themed “Authentic Prosperous Journeys: Nurturing Culture, Culinary Delights, and Community Wisdom,” will explore how destinations can effectively leverage their cultural heritage, culinary strengths, and community-driven wisdom to create authentic travel experiences that drive long-term prosperity. PATA is committed to empowering destinations to grow responsibly, while preserving the integrity of their natural and cultural assets. Phetchaburi stands as an exemplary model of how secondary destinations can evolve into globally recognised tourism hubs without compromising their unique character.

PATA is proud to bring international attention to Phetchaburi’s community-based tourism initiatives and to highlight the potential of similar destinations throughout the region. The forum is expected to draw over 200 delegates from 22 destinations worldwide, offering local stakeholders valuable opportunities to engage with and learn from international experts.

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

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ME By Meliá Opens in Malta

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ME By Meliá Opens in Malta - TRAVELINDEXValletta, Malta, November 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Today marks the official opening of ME Malta in the seaside town of St. Julian’s on the island’s north-eastern coastline. Located on the water’s edge and designed by the globally acclaimed Zaha Hadid as part of the Mercury Towers development, ME Malta is ME by Meliá’s Maltese debut and marks the brand’s second collaboration with Zaha Hadid, following the success of ME Dubai which opened in 2020.

Set across 20 floors, the 113 rooms, 27 suites and 35 residences embody ME’s signature avant-garde design. Striking social and event spaces include three Thinking Labs, a Plenary Room and two Breakout Rooms. The hotel is also part of ME by Meliá’s wider ‘Culture Collective’ programme, whereby guests can take part in a curated calendar of events including showcases from local artists and performances from the hottest names in music.

Located on the hotel’s 8th floor, Cabana Club is set to become Malta’s premier rooftop, poolside beach club. Combining panoramic views over the rocky coastline of St Julian’s, modern Mediterranean menus, and a striking pool framed with plush cabanas and loungers, Cabana Club is the new destination to relax, dine, and party in style. Hot on the heels of Cabana Club is a new restaurant, Luciano by Gino D’Acampo. The menu, designed by Gino and his expert team, incorporates a selection of classic Italian and experiential dishes.

A signature ME by Meliá concept, the hotel’s crowning jewel is the Radio Rooftop bar, which will open in early 2025. Guests can indulge in a modern menu of Asian sharing plates and signature cocktails while soaking up unobstructed views of the Mediterranean, soundtracked by some of Malta’s top DJs.

Also set to open in early 2025, the Spa offers an experience that combines ancestral wellbeing techniques with the latest technology. Here, guests can choose from a menu of rejuvenating treatments that incorporate local, organic ingredients, from massages and facials to bespoke full-body rituals.

One of Europe’s most celebrated capitals of culture and leading LGBTQ+ destinations, Malta is perfectly aligned with the ME by Meliá brand. Home to a balmy climate, rich history and endless opportunities for fun, the Maltese archipelago is a true Mediterranean gem, and ME Malta provides the ideal base from which to explore. A versatile destination with a vibrant nightlife, picturesque bays and luxury boutiques, St. Julian’s offers a plethora of experiences for visitors and is just a few miles west of the capital city of Valletta.

A curated collection of hotels rooted in diversity, discovery and discernment, each ME property provides a space where culture and lifestyle can come together in unison. The growing portfolio embodies a contemporary European spirit, with flagship hotels including ME London and ME Milan. As the brand continues to expand into Europe’s most captivating cultural capitals, ME Lisbon is next in the pipeline, set to open its doors in 2025.

About ME by Meliá
Located in global cultural epicenters, ME by Meliá is a collection of design hotels to discover contemporary culture through the lens of their bold, charismatic personality. ME by Meliá brings destination, design and service together to deliver personal, enriching experiences for the stylish modern traveller. A stay at one of our hotels is more than just a vacation or a visit, it’s an immersion in architecture, design, gastronomy and art that few can match.

Contemporary culture is part of who we are. We express its creativity and energy in every aspect of our hotel experience. ME by Meliá hotels thrive on the sensorial connection to their settings – the visual stimuli, the taste of exquisite local food, the uplifting culture of its citizens and cultural leaders. Embedded within each hotel´s ecosystem is a community of artists, influencers, creatives and technologies that raise the hotel to a must-see, and must-stay, destination for those who yearn for inspiration and energy. There are currently eight hotels in the portfolio across Europe, Middle East, The Americas and Mexico, including ME Dubai, ME Milan Il Duca, ME London, ME Madrid, ME Ibiza, ME Barcelona, ME Sitges and ME Cabo. Upcoming openings include ME Malta, ME Guadalajara, ME Lisboa and ME Marbella.

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.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Expands Partnership with OAG

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PATA Expands Partnership with OAG - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, October 31, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has renewed its partnership with OAG, reaffirming the company as the Association’s Preferred Partner and exclusive aviation data provider for a three-year term.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “I am delighted to announce the expansion of PATA’s strategic collaboration with OAG to a three-year partnership, underscoring a long-term commitment between our organisations. This extended collaboration will greatly benefit PATA members, providing them with essential aviation data to monitor flight capacity and identify emerging trends shaping the tourism industry. With OAG’s world-class aviation data, our members are well-equipped to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving landscape.”

As part of the renewed agreement, OAG’s Schedules Analyser—a cutting-edge platform with comprehensive OAG’s airline schedules database and analytic tools— is available through PATAmPOWER. This grants PATA members access to vital flight frequency and seating data for personal and internal business purposes, helping to optimise destination management, refine marketing strategies, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Mayur Patel, Head of Asia, OAG, remarked “We are excited to announce this strategic data partnership between OAG and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing data-driven insights for travel and tourism in Asia-Pacific. By combining OAG data and expertise with PATA’s in-depth regional knowledge, the partnership will empower stakeholders with actionable intelligence that will foster innovation and growth in the travel and tourism sectors.”

About OAG
OAG is the leading data platform for the global travel industry, powering the growth and innovation of the air travel ecosystem. It has the world’s largest network of flight information.

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

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News