global travel news

Singapore, June 20, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Chameleon Strategies and CrescentRating, both UN Tourism Affiliate Members, launched the Asia Pacific Outbound Traveler Handbook 2026, a market-by-market intelligence resource covering 26 Asian outbound source markets. The report was unveiled at the Halal In Travel Global Summit in Singapore and the condensed version of the handbook is available as a free digital download, while the full comprehensive version is available at 66% discount for a limited time, along individual market reports.

The publication is written for destination marketers, national tourism organizations, airlines, tour operators, and travel trade professionals who need practical, source-specific intelligence on how Asian consumer travel behavior is changing and what that change means for their planning decisions.

The launch comes at a moment of significant pressure on Asian outbound travel. Airspace disruptions across the Middle East in 2025 and early 2026 strained routing on corridors carrying some of the largest volumes of Asian outbound passenger traffic. A border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia in the second half of 2025 produced a direct and measurable collapse in regional tourism demand, demonstrating how quickly a geographically limited event can disable bookings far beyond the conflict zone. Against that backdrop, the report’s 26 market chapters are designed to give practitioners the specific, source-market-level understanding they need to plan with greater precision, not just track aggregate trends.

“Tourism posted a post-pandemic record in 2025. In the same season, the corridors, costs, and politics that produced that record were being rewritten underneath it. I call the space between those two realities the Next Tourism Order. In that world, generic aspirational travel fills hotels in good years. Passion-tourism fills them in difficult ones. The question destinations should be asking is not how many travelers are coming, but what they are genuinely coming for. The Asia Pacific Outbound Traveler Handbook 2026 is the demand-side guide to that question, written for the destination leaders, who understand that the operators who get this right now will be the ones still standing when conditions shift.” — Dr. Jens Thraenhart, CEO, Chameleon Strategies and Co-Editor, Asia Pacific Outbound Traveler Report 2026

The report covers 26 source markets: Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, UAE, and Taiwan. Each chapter is structured around a single core argument about what a given market is actually doing and why destinations consistently misread it.

The Saudi Arabia chapter, written by Dr. Thraenhart drawing on his experience in the Kingdom and his recent time as advisor at the Saudi Tourism Authority, makes the case that Saudi outbound represents one of the most consistently underestimated high-yield opportunities in global tourism. Saudi travelers stay an average of 19 nights internationally and have shifted decisively from goods-led to experience-led travel over the past five years. The same motivational shift observed in Chinese outbound travel a decade ago is now building in the Gulf.

“The shared values, faith-based needs, and core behaviors of Muslim travelers form an incredibly powerful, unifying bond across borders. This collective identity is the absolute foundation of Muslim-friendly travel. However, we must remember that these travelers are not a monolith. While united by deep universal values, a Muslim traveler from Indonesia still possesses distinct cultural nuances compared to one from Saudi Arabia or Kazakhstan. To succeed, destinations must treat these shared Muslim values as their non-negotiable bedrock, while layering source-market-specific execution on top. The Asia Pacific Outbound Traveler Handbook 2026 bridges this gap.” — Fazal Bahardeen, CEO, CrescentRating and Co-Editor, Asia Pacific Outbound Traveler Report 2026

Tourism has rarely looked stronger on paper. UN Tourism recorded 1.52 billion international arrivals in 2025, a post-pandemic record and a figure that sits close to the sector’s pre-pandemic trajectory. The problem is that aggregate arrival figures are the most lagging indicator the industry has. They tell us what travelers already did, not what the system underneath them can absorb. In the same season that arrivals hit their 2025 record, the World Economic Forum ranked geoeconomic confrontation as the most likely trigger of a global crisis.

The report launches alongside a platform dedicated to Asian outbound travel intelligence and consumer behavior. In addition to hosting the annual report and future editions, the platform will aggregate relevant articles and research on Asian consumer travel markets, publish contributions from regional experts and practitioners, and enable customization of the personal profile for registered users to track relevant Asian outbound source markets. Asia Travel Trends plans to collaborate with trade associations and conferences to organize dedicated events and seminars to stay current about the key and emerging Asian outbound travel markets.

The Asia Pacific Outbound Traveler Report 2026 is an initiative by PATA and UN Tourism Affiliate Members Chameleon Strategies and CrescentRating. Free registration enables digital downloads of the handbooks and specific source market reports.

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Manila, Philippines, June 19, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in coordination with the ASEAN Secretariat and relevant ASEAN education-sectoral bodies, invites members of the media to a Press Conference to present and amplify the key outcomes, policy recommendations, and regional commitments emerging from the ASEAN High-Level Policy Dialogue on Access to Quality Higher Education: Digital Transformation and Sustainability and the Ministers’ Roundtable on Access and Sustainable Development in Higher Education.

The press conference will serve as a platform to communicate to the public, policymakers, higher education institutions, and other stakeholders the significant agreements and outcome documents endorsed by ASEAN higher education leaders and ministers. These include policy directions on digital transformation, artificial intelligence in education, sustainable development, teacher education, student mobility, and regional cooperation in higher education.

Among the highlights to be presented are the proposed ASEAN Higher Education Ministerial Statement on Access and Sustainable Development, the Terms of Reference of the ASEAN Center of Excellence for Teacher Education and Development (ACTED), and the ASEAN GEMS Plus Project Proposal, which collectively seek to strengthen regional collaboration and expand access to quality higher education across Southeast Asia.

As part of the Philippine ASEAN Chairship, the press conference underscores the country’s commitment to advancing a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable higher education ecosystem in the region and ensuring that the outcomes of these high-level discussions are effectively communicated to a broader audience.

WHEN: 26 June 2026 (MM) | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM (PH Time)

WHERE: The press conference will be conducted virtually via the Cisco WebEx platform.

WHY: The back-to-back High-Level Policy Dialogue and Ministers’ Roundtable will strengthen ASEAN policy coherence on access, digital transformation, sustainability, and regional harmonisation in higher education. These engagements will contribute directly to the implementation of the ASEAN Higher Education Common Space Roadmap and the ASEAN Work Plan on Education 2026–2030, leaving a lasting legacy of stronger regional cooperation, shared policy directions, and expanded opportunities for learners and institutions across Southeast Asia.

OUTCOME DOCUMENTS FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE ASEAN EDUCATION MINISTERS MEETING (ASED)

• ADOPTION of the ASEAN Higher Education Ministerial Statement on Access and Sustainable Development, in relation to:
  • AI-Enabled Teaching and Learning Environments
  • Digital Transformation in Higher Education
    (For notation at the 49th ASEAN Summit)
• ADOPTION of the Terms of Reference of the ASEAN Center of Excellence for Teacher Education and Development (ACTED)
• ADOPTION of the ASEAN GEMS Plus Project Proposal

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Venice, Italy, June 19, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and City of Venice today announced BetterPoints and OpenMove, in partnership with Factual Consulting, as the winners of Toyota Mobility Foundation’s Sustainable Cities Challenge (SCC) in Venice. The announcement marks the conclusion of the Venice section of TMF’s three-year global competition to support sustainable urban mobility solutions. In addition to Venice, Challenges were held simultaneously in Detroit, US and Varanasi, India.

While Venice is globally renowned for its historic canals, it is also a major transportation hub powered by a vast network of roads, rail links, and an international airport. The city has invested heavily in sustainable infrastructure, establishing almost 200 km of bike lanes and launching Italy’s first integrated hybrid car, bike, and e-scooter-sharing services. Venice is also rapidly improving the sustainability of its public transit system, deploying 30 new electric buses (with 44 more on the way), planning 90 fuel-cell buses by the end of 2026, and a fleet of hybrid-powered motorboats and offshore motorboats currently being rebuilt.

Yet, these low- and zero-carbon options remain underutilized as residents habitually rely on car-based, long-standing transit routines. To bridge this gap, the Challenge called on innovators to create solutions tailored to the mainland and motorized islands, where the vast majority of citizens live and work. Ultimately, the goal was to inspire a shift toward sustainable travel, whether through public transit, active mobility–particularly through cycling and walking–or shared transit.

The Challenge winners are working to move local residents towards more sustainable mobility alternatives through smart, intuitive innovations that make travel more accessible and rewarding. Alongside helping riders plan and book seamless journeys on their phones, these innovators are using games, quizzes, incentives, and rewards to nudge users towards long-term use of the city’s sustainable mobility network. They also attended in-person community events to understand Venice residents’ needs, allowing those to be reflected in their solutions.

By facilitating residents’ and visitors’ access to Venice’s historic and modern transit links, ranging from waterbuses to land-based buses to scooter-sharing tools, the Challenge’s winning innovators are helping to build a less congested, sustainable city where transit systems are used to their full potential. The Toyota Mobility Foundation and the City of Venice are proud to announce this year’s winners:

BetterPoints Ltd, based in Surrey, England, works with businesses, public organizations, and universities to change the way people think about how they move. The team is using their app, Bella Mossa, to reward citizens for switching to more active and sustainable modes of travel. Over 40 techniques, ranging from gamification to local rewards programs, are built into the app and program to support successful behavioral change. From October 2025 to February 2026, Bella Mossa replaced 45,000 car journeys and resulted in 1,570 kilometers traveled by bicycle by non-typical bicyclists.

Jack Windle, Chief Sustainable Transport Officer at BetterPoints, said: “We are delighted to be named as a winner of the Sustainable Cities Challenge. With support from the Toyota Mobility Foundation and the Comune di Venezia, we have developed our Bella Mossa platform to offer tools including automatic trip recording, local rewards partnerships, and an ‘Adopt a Folding Bike’ scheme to Venetians. We are excited to build on our success, fostering a culture of sustainable mobility in Venice and helping people to access and enjoy the great infrastructure the Commune is delivering.”

In partnership with OpenMove, Factual Consulting SL is an innovation and strategy consulting firm based in Barcelona, Spain committed to transforming mobility. The company’s winning digital platform, Andemo, promotes sustainable mobility habits through innovative approaches, such as micro-incentives, which use small rewards or tokens to drive behavioral change. Andemo achieved 1,750 downloads during its pilot period, with 87 percent of users accessing the app an average of three times per day. In-app surveys found that 77 percent of users felt Andemo improved their overall travel experience in Venice, and 56 percent reported an increased awareness of sustainable mobility topics.

Josep Bordella, CEO of Factual Consulting SL, said: “Factual Consulting is honored to be named a winner of the Sustainable Cities Challenge in Venice. Our solution, Andemo, aims to be more than just an app; it aspires to be a central tool for making transport more inclusive and accessible, connecting people to the best transport options their city has to offer. By lowering the barrier to try new transport modes, we hope to help create a sustainable future for tomorrow.”

The Sustainable Cities Challenge has funded and enabled the trialing of both winners’ solutions. Each winner previously received a total of $180,000 in implementation funding and will now utilize an additional $500,000 to scale their solutions in Venice. This implementation funding holds potential benefits not just for the winning innovators, but also for the city as a whole: as riders gain new tools to facilitate their use of public transit links, they could find themselves taking easier journeys leading to lower environmental impacts, with the potential to ease congestion on roads and highways.

Roberto Di Bussolo, Head of the Sustainable Mobility Sector, City of Venice said, “The Toyota Mobility Foundation recognized the significant growth potential that our city already possesses in the field of sustainable mobility. It was precisely this strength that led to our selection as one of only three cities worldwide where substantial resources will be invested in testing innovative mobility solutions. The challenge carried forward through the Sustainable Cities Challenge has provided the city with a unique opportunity to research and pilot new solutions capable of supporting residents, workers, students and visitors over time in adopting more sustainable mobility habits.”

The only European city selected to participate in the Challenge, Venice is one of three global cities participating in the Sustainable Cities Challenge, alongside U.S. host city, Detroit, Michigan, and Varanasi, India.

All three locations share common goals: to catalyze solutions that advance equitable, sustainable, and inclusive systems of movement.

Monica Perez Lobo, Program Director at Toyota Mobility Foundation Europe, commented: “At the Toyota Mobility Foundation, we believe the future of urban mobility lies in inclusive, human‑centred solutions that are both sustainable and scalable. Through the Sustainable Cities Challenge, we work with cities like Venice to turn ambition into action. Both winners demonstrate how innovation can motivate people to adopt more sustainable ways of moving, improving the quality of life while reducing emissions. Ultimately, our goal is to build a lasting legacy of sustainable and resilient cities.”

Kathy Nothstine, Director of Cities and Societies at Challenge Works, said: “It has been inspiring to see how the collaborative ecosystem we’ve built through this Challenge has empowered innovators to unlock Venice’s low-carbon mobility potential. At Challenge Works, we believe that city-led competitions are vital for surfacing localized solutions that have global potential. We are thrilled to see these innovators become winners, proving that smart, sustainable mobility is achievable when we prioritize human-centric design.”

Benjamin Welle, Director of Integrated Transport and Innovation at World Resources Institute, said: “We congratulate Venice, one of the world’s historic cities, as it moves its people more sustainably through the solutions of the Sustainable Cities Challenge. The impact will extend lessons to cities everywhere seeking innovative solutions to shape sustainable urban mobility.”

The Sustainable Cities Challenge is funded by the Toyota Mobility Foundation and conducted in collaboration with Challenge Works and World Resources Institute. Venice’s winners illustrate how supporting local innovators can create meaningful impact in communities, with the potential to scale solutions across cities and beyond.

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Boracay, Philippines, June 18, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Lind Hotels is reimagining guest-centric hospitality with its new “One-Person Promise”, a service model that gives guests a single point of contact throughout their stay.

The initiative is designed to replace traditional hotel handoffs with a smoother and personal guest experience.

Developed as part of a broader guest experience transformation across the independent Filipino hospitality brand, the One-Person Promise replaces the traditional separation between front desk, concierge and guest services functions with an integrated Guest Experience team trained to support guests from arrival through departure.

Rather than being transferred between departments, guests are connected with a dedicated Guest Experience host who can assist with everything from transportation arrangements and dining reservations to special requests, celebrations, local recommendations and departure planning.

The model reflects changing traveller expectations, with guests increasingly seeking faster, more personalised and more intuitive service experiences.

“Hospitality has traditionally been organised around departments, but guests do not experience a hotel in departments,” said Pierre Henrichs, Chief Operating Officer of The Lind Hotels. “We wanted to create a model that feels more intuitive and more human. By giving guests a single point of contact, we remove barriers and allow genuine relationships to develop throughout the stay.”

To support the initiative, The Lind Hotels has invested in extensive cross-functional training, equipping Guest Experience hosts with skills that traditionally sat across multiple specialist roles. The company has also introduced enhanced pre-arrival planning, enabling teams to understand guest preferences, special occasions and individual requirements before arrival.

The One-Person Promise is complemented by an elevated Beach & Pool Butler programme at The Lind Boracay, which places greater emphasis on anticipation, personalisation and proactive service.

From preparing loungers before guests arrive and providing refreshments during the day to recognising celebrations and assisting families with young children, Beach & Pool Butlers are empowered to make independent decisions that enhance the guest experience through thoughtful, personalised touches.

While The Lind Hotels does not attribute performance to any single initiative, Henrichs said early indicators have been encouraging, with consistently positive guest feedback alongside growth in both returning guests and direct bookings.

“The One-Person Promise is ultimately about trust,” Henrichs said. “We are giving our people greater ownership, broader skills and the confidence to make decisions that genuinely improve a guest’s stay. The most memorable hospitality experiences are often built through small moments rather than grand gestures, and our goal is to create more opportunities for those moments by giving our people the freedom to deliver them.”

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Suffolk, United Kingdom, June 18, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / With its rolling countryside, charming market towns, unspoilt coastline and slower pace of life, Suffolk has long been one of England’s best-kept secrets. While destinations such as Southwold and Aldeburgh continue to attract visitors, there are plenty of lesser-known corners of the county offering equally memorable escapes, whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family seaside break or a countryside gathering with friends. 

Curated by holiday cottage company East Coast Hideaways, here are four hidden gems to discover in Suffolk.

Milk Churn, Fressingfield – A countryside retreat for two

Tucked away within a beautifully converted former dairy courtyard, Milk Churn offers couples a peaceful base from which to explore Suffolk’s villages, walking routes and market towns. Combining contemporary comforts with countryside charm, the cottage is particularly well suited to those looking to switch off for a few days while remaining within easy reach of local pubs, independent shops and attractions.

Fressingfield itself is one of Suffolk’s prettiest villages, while nearby Diss and Eye provide plenty of opportunities for browsing, dining and day trips.

Highlights include:

• Super-king bed
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Smart TV and secure WiFi
• Enclosed garden
• Space for bicycles
• Welcome pack for stays over three nights

Udder Cottage, Fressingfield – A dog-friendly Suffolk escape

Located within the same former dairy courtyard, Udder Cottage is a stylish one-bedroom retreat designed with couples and dog owners in mind. With a fully enclosed garden, luxury finishing touches and easy access to Suffolk’s countryside walks, it provides the ideal setting for a relaxed rural getaway.

The cottage is within walking distance of Fressingfield’s village pub and shop, allowing guests to leave the car behind and enjoy a slower pace of life.

Highlights include:

• Super-king bed
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Smart TV and secure WiFi
• Fully enclosed garden
• Bike storage
• Luxury toiletries

Seawaves Cottage, Pakefield – A hidden seaside escape for families

Just moments from the beach, Seawaves Cottage offers a traditional Suffolk coastal break with all the practical touches modern families need. Located in the popular seaside village of Pakefield, the property combines easy beach access with local cafés, pubs and amenities all within walking distance.

Dog friendly and designed with family stays in mind, it provides a hassle-free base for long weekends and school holiday escapes alike.

Highlights include:

• Approximately 150 yards from the beach
• Fully enclosed garden
• Smart TVs in the lounge and bedrooms
• Family-friendly facilities including travel cot and highchair
• Dog friendly

DeBerri, Fressingfield – A luxury countryside hideaway for groups

For larger family gatherings and celebrations, DeBerri offers a more luxurious side of Suffolk living. Set along a private driveway within a historic manor estate, the newly launched property combines high-end interiors with sweeping countryside views and generous entertaining space.

With four ensuite bedrooms, vaulted ceilings and exposed oak beams, it provides an impressive setting for groups wanting privacy, comfort and a true countryside escape.

Highlights include:

• Sleeps eight across four ensuite bedrooms
• Large open-plan living space
• Countryside views
• Dog friendly
• Parking for up to four cars

TOP TRAVEL TIP: Don’t Be Swept Away By The Setting Alone

Karen Richardson, owner of East Coast Hideaways, says choosing the right Suffolk getaway is about more than simply picking a beautiful location.

“It’s easy to fall in love with a destination, but the best breaks are usually the ones where the property works just as hard as the location. Before booking, think about how you actually want to spend your time. If you’re travelling with dogs, look for enclosed outdoor space and nearby walking routes. Families may benefit from practical extras such as highchairs, travel cots and outdoor space, while couples often value privacy, local pubs within walking distance and a comfortable place to relax after a day exploring.

“Suffolk is wonderful because it offers such variety. You can spend the morning on the coast, enjoy lunch in a historic market town and finish the day watching the sunset across the countryside – all without travelling very far.”

The featured properties are available to book through East Coast Hideaways, an independent collection of handpicked holiday cottages across Suffolk, Norfolk and beyond.

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Cairo, Egypt, June 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Ambassador Alain St.Ange, Seychelles Ambassador At Large, received the AFASU General Award for “Excellence and Dedication” during a special gathering in Cairo. The award came moments after he wrapped up his address to a room full of Influential Media Leaders and Creative Pioneers in Tourism and the Arab Media.

Dr. Hossam Darwish, President of the Afro-Asian Union (AFASU), presented the plaque. Its inscription read:

“With sincere appreciation and gratitude for your remarkable journey and outstanding contributions in supporting the tourism and travel sector in your country and around the world.”

As he handed over the award, Dr. Darwish shared a few warm words. He said the recognition reflects AFASU’s deep respect for St.Ange’s continued efforts, leadership, and commitment to advancing global tourism and building international cooperation across the industry.

“Congratulations once again, and thank you for your invaluable contribution to tourism worldwide,” Dr. Darwish added.

Visibly moved, Ambassador St.Ange greeted members of the press who stepped forward to congratulate him. He said he felt honoured by the moment.

“Tourism has been my life, and I continue to work for this industry with all my heart and with passion,” he said.

The award celebrates a career built on dedication to tourism, not just in Seychelles but across the wider world. For St.Ange, it stands as a reminder of why he started this journey in the first place — and why he’s not slowing down.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / RESONANCE, a new solo exhibition by South Korean textile and mixed-media artist Julie H.C., opens at West Eden Gallery from 10 June to 10 August 2026. Curated by Camilla Russell and created using archival Jim Thompson fabrics, the exhibition presents a series of sculptural textile works exploring memory, movement, womanhood, and cultural continuity through contemporary material practice.

The exhibition reflects Julie’s ongoing interest in the emotional and historical weight carried within textiles. Influenced by the legacy of Found Object Art and Post-War Assemblage, Julie H.C. reconstructs archival textiles into sculptural compositions that explore memory, femininity, and cultural inheritance through material transformation. Through intricate stitching techniques, layered compositions, and the recurring motif of the fan, the works transform historical fabrics into multidimensional forms that appear fluid and kinetic.

Based in Bangkok and shaped by experiences across Korea, Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, Julie H.C. approaches textile art as both personal reflection and cultural dialogue. Her practice draws from Korean visual traditions while engaging with contemporary ideas surrounding femininity, craftsmanship, and transformation. The exhibition title reflects the artist’s experience growing up between Korea and North America, where differing cultural influences formed a lasting emotional and visual language that continues to resonate throughout her practice.

For RESONANCE, the artist works with fabrics selected from the Jim Thompson archive, chosen for their textures, histories, and visual narratives. Rather than treating the textiles as static decorative elements, Julie reconstructs them into multidimensional compositions that appear fluid and kinetic, allowing the material to take on a new presence and form.

Central to the exhibition is the image of the fan, a recurring structure within Julie’s practice. Historically associated with refinement, poetry, and social identity during Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, the fan becomes a symbolic framework through which the artist explores silence, resilience, and female autonomy.

“The fan became a natural board of expression for me,” says Julie H.C. “It connects my cultural heritage with the work I create today. I’m interested in how soft materials respond to structure, and how invisible forces such as breath, wind, and time shape the way we experience and perceive the world.”

Sustainability also forms an important layer within the exhibition. Several works incorporate reclaimed and repurposed fabrics, giving overlooked materials a renewed purpose through handcraft and reconstruction. The practice reflects a quieter, more considered approach to material consumption, where preservation and reinvention exist alongside artistic creation.

Alongside its focus on material sustainability, RESONANCE also supports social impact initiatives. A portion of proceeds from artwork sales will be donated to Inspiring Girls Thailand, a non-profit organisation supporting girls from underserved communities through mentorship, education, and creative opportunity.

RESONANCE
By Julie H.C.
Curated by Camilla Russell
10 June – 10 August 2026

West Eden Gallery, 4th Floor
45/1-5 Sukhumvit 31, Bangkok
Instagram: @juliehc_art

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Phuket, Thailand, June 17, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Following a year of culinary refinement under Executive Chef Maksym Chukanov, L’Arôme by the Sea unveils a new chapter shaped by a clearer culinary identity and long-term gastronomic vision: a new gastronomic identity centred on maritime expression, the launch of an international culinary residency programme, and a renewed commitment to positioning Phuket among Asia’s leading dining destinations.

Already recognised by the MICHELIN Guide Thailand for four consecutive years, the restaurant now introduces a renewed gastronomic identity under Executive Chef Maksym Chukanov, whose international experience spans some of the world’s most respected kitchens, including Noma 2.0 in Copenhagen, Restaurant Ikarus in Salzburg, and Michelin-starred Restaurant Cure in Singapore.

Since joining L’Arôme by the Sea in April 2025, Chef Maksym has led a comprehensive refinement of the restaurant’s culinary direction, placing greater emphasis on clarity, precision, product integrity, and a deeper exploration of the maritime environment that surrounds the restaurant.

The current menu represents the first complete expression of Chef Maksym Chukanov’s vision for L’Arôme by the Sea. Developed over the past year, it reflects a deliberate shift towards greater precision, lighter seasoning, deeper product focus and a more coherent narrative structure. Rather than showcasing luxury ingredients in isolation, each course contributes to a larger progression designed around the changing moods of the ocean.

While grounded in contemporary French technique, the menu is shaped by the maritime environment of Phuket and the broader waters of Southeast Asia, drawing inspiration from the region’s coastal landscapes, marine products and diverse maritime cultures.

At the heart of this evolution is a new dégustation menu entitled “A Progression of the Sea”.

Rather than presenting a collection of individual dishes, the menu unfolds as a structured journey through different expressions of the ocean. Moving from freshness and minerality to depth, salinity, warmth and memory, each course reflects a distinct state of the sea while remaining grounded in contemporary French technique and ingredient-led cooking.

Courses such as sea urchin with gribiche and brioche, Fjord trout with roe and wasabi, Brittany blue lobster paired with laksa, and seasonal fish accompanied by fish maw and green peas contribute to a narrative designed to express the rhythm, texture and emotion of coastal landscapes.

“A cuisine defined not by complexity, but by clarity — where the sea remains present in every moment.”

This philosophy now guides every aspect of the experience, from sourcing and menu development to service and storytelling.

Unlike many destination restaurants that rely primarily on location, L’Arôme by the Sea’s current direction places cuisine firmly at the centre of the experience. The panoramic views of the Andaman Sea remain an integral part of the setting, yet increasingly serve as a natural extension of a culinary identity rooted in maritime expression.

INTRODUCING LES AMIS DE L’ARÔME

As part of its long-term vision, L’Arôme by the Sea also announces the launch of “Les Amis de L’Arôme” Culinary Residency Series.

Designed as an ongoing platform for creative exchange, the residency programme will welcome leading chefs and restaurants from across Asia and beyond, creating new dialogues between cultures, ingredients and culinary philosophies.

The inaugural residency takes place on 20–21 June 2026 and welcomes ŌRTENSIA from Shanghai. Entitled Where the Sea Flowers, the collaboration explores the meeting point between floral precision and marine expression.

Across a specially created menu, both teams reinterpret themes of seasonality, nature and the sea through a contemporary lens, bringing together two distinct culinary identities in a singular dining experience overlooking the Andaman coast.

The selection of ŌRTENSIA for the inaugural residency reflects L’Arôme by the Sea’s commitment to collaborating with restaurants that share a strong sense of identity, craftsmanship and contemporary culinary expression.

Future editions of Les Amis de L’Arôme will continue to bring together leading culinary talents from across Asia and beyond, establishing Phuket as a platform for international gastronomic dialogue.

The residency programme reflects L’Arôme by the Sea’s ambition not only to evolve its own cuisine, but also to contribute to the development of Phuket as a destination for serious gastronomic travel.

A NEW MOMENT FOR PHUKET

As international culinary travellers increasingly seek destination dining experiences beyond major capitals, Phuket is emerging as one of Asia’s most dynamic gastronomic regions. Combining international accessibility, luxury hospitality infrastructure and a unique maritime environment, Phuket offers conditions unlike any other gastronomic destination in Thailand.

L’Arôme by the Sea believes that world-class cuisine, meaningful hospitality and a strong sense of place can coexist outside traditional urban dining centres. With a growing concentration of internationally trained chefs, luxury hospitality projects, and ambitious independent restaurants, the island is entering a new phase of gastronomic maturity.

Within this context, L’Arôme by the Sea seeks to play an active role in shaping Phuket’s future culinary identity — one built upon excellence, creativity, international dialogue and a strong sense of place.

Through its evolving cuisine, global collaborations and continued commitment to refinement, the restaurant represents a contemporary expression of coastal gastronomy where destination, culture and craftsmanship converge.

WHY THIS ANNOUNCEMENT MATTERS

This new chapter marks the first time that L’Arôme by the Sea’s culinary vision, chef leadership and international collaboration strategy have been fully aligned under a single long-term direction.

Through the launch of “A Progression of the Sea” and “Les Amis de L’Arôme Culinary Residency Series”, the restaurant aims to establish itself not only as one of Phuket’s leading dining destinations, but also as a platform for contemporary coastal gastronomy in Asia.

Through its evolving cuisine, international collaborations and long-term commitment to excellence, L’Arôme by the Sea enters a new chapter with a clear ambition: to become one of Asia’s defining contemporary coastal dining destinations.

ABOUT EXECUTIVE CHEF MAKSYM CHUKANOV

Chef Maksym Chukanov brings nearly two decades of experience from Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe and Asia. His career includes Noma 2.0 (Copenhagen), Restaurant Ikarus at Hangar-7 (Salzburg), and Restaurant Cure (Singapore), where he contributed to the restaurant’s Michelin-star recognition and inclusion in The World’s 50 Best Discovery.

His cuisine is characterised by restraint, precision and respect for ingredients, with a particular focus on seafood, whole-product utilisation and clarity of flavour.

At L’Arôme by the Sea, he develops a contemporary French coastal cuisine inspired by the sea, interpreted through modern technique and an unwavering pursuit of balance.

ABOUT FRANCE LAROME GROUP

France Larome Group is a cross-cultural hospitality group developing chef-driven dining concepts across Europe and Asia, with a focus on connecting culinary cultures through gastronomy, storytelling and contemporary hospitality.

With projects spanning France, China and Thailand, the group focuses on creating destination restaurants that combine gastronomy, culture and storytelling while maintaining a strong commitment to culinary excellence.

Its portfolio includes L’Arôme by the Sea in Phuket, Madame Fan in Paris, L’Arôme in the Sky in Nanjing and other concepts currently under development.

Through its restaurants, collaborations and international partnerships, France Larome Group seeks to build meaningful connections between culinary cultures, bringing together French technique, Asian influences and contemporary hospitality.

Today, the group continues to expand its presence across key international markets while supporting long-term culinary talent development and cross-cultural gastronomic exchange.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 15, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok, in collaboration with wellness community partner iWelty, invites guests and wellness enthusiasts to experience Friends on Ice Recovery Rave, a unique riverside wellness event combining ice bath recovery, music, movement, and community connection.

Taking place on Sunday, 21 June 2026, from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the hotel’s lush Embassy Garden, the event offers a refreshing approach to wellness through guided cold-water immersion, energizing music, and social connection under the theme “Recharge Through Rhythm.”

Designed for both first-time participants and experienced cold therapy enthusiasts, the event will feature:

• Guided ice bath sessions
• Warm-up and breathing exercises
• Live DJ entertainment
• Healthy refreshments and smoothies
• Community networking and wellness conversations
• Scenic riverside garden setting overlooking the Chao Phraya River

The event is part of Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok’s ongoing commitment to promoting wellness experiences that encourage balance, recovery, and meaningful social connections.

Event Details:

• Event: Friends on Ice Recovery Rave
• Date: Sunday, 21 June 2026
• Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Venue: Embassy Garden, Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok
• Participation Fee: THB 350 net per person
• Dress Code: Colorful & Neon
• Registration: Limited capacity, first-come, first-served basis

Event Schedule:

• 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Registration & Check-In
• 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Introduction & Warm-Up
• 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Ice Bath Experience with DJ
• 6:00 PM onwards | Healthy Refreshments & Community Networking

Participants are encouraged to bring a water bottle, towel, change of clothes, and a bag for wet items.

For more information and registration, please visit Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok’s social media channels or contact the hotel directly at 02 266 0123

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Bangkok, June 15, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, Thailand’s first and Asia Pacific’s largest Moxy hotel, introduces refreshed food and beverage experiences at Moxy Bar & Restaurant (9th floor) starting from 15 June 2026. The latest launch features newly curated signature dishes, refreshed beverages, sustainability-driven menu items, hydroponic-supported ingredients, and participation in Marriott Bonvoy’s ‘Wellness Longevity Lifestyle Menu’ campaign. Located in Bangkok’s vibrant Ratchaprasong district, the hotel continues to strengthen its position as a playful lifestyle destination where contemporary dining, creativity, and mindful hospitality come together.

The newly launched food menu at Moxy Bar & Restaurant highlights bold comfort food with playful twists, designed for both hotel guests and Bangkok diners seeking approachable social dining experiences. Signature menu highlights include:

• All Day Breakfast e.g. High Protein Breakfast Bowl, American Brekkie and Japanese Brekkie
• Moxy Bar Bites e.g. Crunchy Shrimp Balls, Hotty Chicken Bites, Chick A…Popz and Tuna Kick Bites
• Start-Up e.g. Laab Chiang Rai, Beet & Orange Salad and Som Tum
• Slurp Fest (Soup) e.g. Truffle, Bean & Bacon and Special Soup of The Day
• Sassy & Sizzling e.g. Beef Rice Bowl, Salmon Miso Bowl and You & Mee
• Carb Overload e.g. Melt Me, Jiu Jitsu and Cheesy Chubby
• Thailand, I Love You e.g. Khao Soi Curry, Goong Mae Nam and Pad Thai
• Little India Pratunam e.g. Butter Chicken, Daal Makhani and Palak Paneer
• Grains & Strings e.g. Truffle Pasta, Vongole and Mac n Cheese
• Munch Madness e.g. Roller Coaster, Lamb It Up! and Grill & Thrill
• Sugar Rush (Dessert) e.g. Snow White, Ruby Woo Hoo, Berry Pavlova and Mango Sticky Rice
• Little Bites (Kids) e.g. Mini Salmon Rice Bowl, Macaroni and Tropical Crunch Salad

The refreshed menu blends local inspirations with contemporary café culture, offering vibrant flavours in a casual and energetic atmosphere.

Alongside the culinary refresh, Moxy Bar & Restaurant has also introduced an updated beverage menu featuring tropical-inspired signatures and social-style drinks including Sip & Roll, Candy Crush Colada, For The Win, Golden Play, Duck Sip Dive, and the playful Shots Wheel designed for group gatherings and casual evenings in the heart of Bangkok. Happy Hour is available daily with ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ offers on selected beverages from 4 PM to 6 PM and 9 PM to 11 PM.

As part of the hotel’s growing sustainability initiatives, selected dishes launching from 15 June 2026 incorporate sustainable ingredients and upcycled culinary elements. Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong also continues to present its daily Sustainable Breakfast Cart featuring creative breakfast offerings such as Crispy Potato Skins, Papaya & Passionfruit Peel Jam, Candied Watermelon Rind, and Coffee Ground Cookies, supporting Marriott International’s commitment to reducing food waste while encouraging more mindful dining experiences.

Further supporting its sustainability and community-focused initiatives, the hotel continues to expand its hydroponic garden programme to support hotel culinary operations with locally grown produce and herbs. The initiative also forms part of the hotel’s organic lifestyle and CSR-focused activities, reinforcing environmentally conscious hospitality practices in the heart of Bangkok.

Adding to the culinary line-up, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong also participates in Marriott Bonvoy’s special ‘Wellness Longevity Lifestyle Menu’ campaign, crafted in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and professional nutritionists. The exclusive collaboration showcases a curated selection of 10 healthy and wholesome dishes designed to promote healthier lifestyles and longevity through balanced nutrition and flavour-forward dining experiences.

The campaign features wellness-inspired creations spanning Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Mexican, and Indian influences, with each dish developed to highlight proven health benefits while maintaining approachable and enjoyable flavours for modern travellers and lifestyle diners. The ‘Wellness Longevity Lifestyle Menu’ is available at Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong and all participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and resorts across Thailand until 31 July 2026.

For guests looking to continue the evening, Sato San Rooftop Bar on the 32nd floor offers panoramic Bangkok skyline views alongside the venue’s signature Thai–Isaan and Japanese-inspired “Two Rice Cultures” concept. Open daily from 6 PM until 2 AM, the rooftop destination features creative late-night bites, signature cocktails, music-driven experiences, and vibrant social energy in the heart of Ratchaprasong. Entry to Sato San Rooftop Bar is restricted to guests aged 20 years and above. Guests dining at Moxy Bar & Restaurant and Sato San Rooftop Bar can also earn Marriott Bonvoy points during eligible dining experiences, even without an overnight stay.

With refreshed culinary experiences, sustainability-driven initiatives, wellness-focused collaborations, and vibrant social dining concepts, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong continues to redefine lifestyle hospitality in Bangkok through playful moments, meaningful connections, and contemporary experiences designed for both modern travellers and local diners alike.

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