global travel news

Bangkok, Thailand, August 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Thailand Gastronomy Network has officially launched its newest culinary adventure on rails: “Train Journey to the Southern Soul” This innovative campaign transforms train travel into a flavor-packed journey through Southern Thailand—where every route reflects a distinct Thai taste, and every traveler becomes a storyteller.

Running from July to September 2025, this dynamic initiative invites participants to design their own flavor journey, unlock digital perks from over 50 local vendors, and join three nationwide contests. It’s the latest effort by the Thailand Gastronomy Network to position Thai cuisine as a driving force for sustainable tourism and cultural exchange.

9 Routes, 9 Flavors

Each of the campaign’s nine culinary-themed train routes through Southern Thailand is matched with a unique flavor profile:

1. Chumphon – Salty: Coastal activities, seafood, and sea air

2. Ranong – Bitter: Hot springs, wellness, and forest escapes

3. Chumphon–Ranong – Sour: Long-distance cycling with flavorful stops

4. Phatthalung – Sweet: Lotus lakes, sago desserts, and family-friendly fun

5. Hat Yai – Spicy & Nutty: From street food to nightlife eats

6. Songkhla Old Town – Well-Balanced: Architectural heritage and lakefront cafés

7. Bang Klam–Na Mom–Sadao – Hidden Gems: Stingless bee farms, border bites, and local legends

8. Chumphon–Koh Tao/Samui – Fragrant: A seamless rail-boat-fly journey with island cuisine

9. Gastro Club Signature Trips: Expert-led experiences like “The Three Ages of Songkhla” and “Sweet Buzz of Bang Klam”

Digital Perks from 50+ Vendors

Travelers can earn digital collectible art vouchers simply by riding the train and registering. These vouchers offer:

• Free dishes and desserts

• Discounts at cafés, restaurants, and food stalls

• Access to culinary workshops and experiences

Participating vendors are located in five key provinces: Chumphon, Ranong, Phatthalung, Hat Yai, and Songkhla.

Nationwide Contests – Prizes Worth Over 300,000 THB

Collector Hunter Challenge
Ride the train, collect digital rewards, and post your journey using the hashtags:
#TrainJourneytotheSouthernSoul and #9รสชาติความสุขแดนใต้
Top entries win custom artwork by Thai illustrator Mig Chompoonoot.

Photo Diary Challenge
Share your best food or travel photo with a caption.
The winner receives a round-trip flight from Bangkok to Krabi courtesy of Bangkok Airways.

Be My Guest Challenge
Locals are invited to share videos or reels that promote their hometown and local food culture.
Winners receive training opportunities and exposure on tourism channels.

About Thailand Gastronomy Network

The Thailand Gastronomy Network is a national platform dedicated to elevating Thai food culture as a strategic asset for tourism, community development, and global engagement. Through projects like Train Journey to the Southern Soul, the network connects culinary creators, local storytellers, and travelers in authentic, meaningful ways.

Get on board. Taste the South. Tell your story—one bite at a time.

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Phuket, Thailand, August 04, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The ‘City & Island’ 8-hands dinner by TOP25 Restaurants and Tambu Phuket brought together four of Thailand’s most acclaimed chefs for a well-attended rooftop dining experience on 24 July 2025. Beneath Tambu’s Mughal-inspired tented palace, culinary stars Chef Saurabh Sachdeva of Tambu, Chef Tammasak “Noi” Chootong of Suay, Chef Sujira “Aom” Pongmorn of Khaan, and Chef Haikal Johari of Avant united Bangkok and Phuket’s finest flavours in a one-night-only showcase.

The evening began with a crafted welcome drink by guest mixologist John Villaneuva of Mr’s B Bar & Table, setting the tone for the night. The tasting menu followed with standout creations including Chef Haikal’s Amaebi – ume, uni and smoked cream; Chef Saurabh’s charcoal-grilled lamb Burrah with Mathania chilli; Chef Noi’s Andaman crab taco topped with salmon caviar; and Chef Aom’s whimsical “Forget Husband Sticky Rice.” Each dish reflected the chef’s signature style, drawing praise from a delighted crowd of gastronomes.

About Tambu

Located in a breathtaking rooftop ‘tented palace’ at Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong – MGallery, Tambu reimagines the opulence of India’s Mughal era through the culinary mastery of Iron Chef Saurabh Sachdeva. Overlooking the Andaman Sea and surrounded by lush mountains, Tambu offers a unique dining experience with seating for 50 guests that blends the richness of North-Indian heritage with modern charcoal cuisine techniques. Each dish, crafted with premium ingredients and the finesse of open-flame cooking, tells a story of flavour, tradition, and innovation. Tambu Phuket is featured in the Michelin Guide and is open daily from 6pm – 11pm with weekend lunch from 12pm – 2.30pm (Sat & Sun) For information and reservations, please contact:

Website: www.tambuphuket.com

Email: info@tambuphuket.com

Phone: +66 (0)95 834 7208

About TOP25 Restaurants

TOP25 Restaurants is the World’s First AI-Powered restaurant guide. It is the only independent, global rating system based on artificial intelligence enhanced by human expertise and discernment. This dynamic synergy not only ensures unparalleled accuracy but enriches the curation process with a depth of understanding and nuance unparalleled elsewhere. The annual TOP25 Restaurants Awards celebrates the most outstanding restaurants and showcases the ultimate collection of dining venues in each destination. TOP25 Restaurants is owned by Travelindex Group, a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sectors. The media group operates an open and free digital platform, connecting millions of travelers worldwide and providing inspiration and advice for discerning travelers and tourists.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 2, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / On 24-27 September, 2025, The Maestro will return to 1-Michelin Star Signature Bangkok, the renowned floral cuisine restaurant in Bangkok’s Siam District. The four day event brings together Michelin-starred and world renowned chefs with distinctive styles to create a unique culinary experience with a focus on innovative flavours, artistic expression, and intimate culinary storytelling. 

One of Bangkok’s most anticipated culinary events returns! Four Michelin chefs, France’s oldest cheesemaker, and a live performance artist collaborate for four evenings of exquisite gastronomy and artistic expression

This year’s edition begins on 24 September 2025 with Cheese and Wine Night: A Live Culinary Masterpieces — one of Bangkok’s most unique and exciting gastronomical events, featuring live performance small plates created by each Michelin chef, artisanal cheeses by Les Freres Marchand, France’s oldest and most distinguished cheesemaker, and exquisite wines. From 25-27 September, 2025, guests can enjoy Artistic Michelin Nights — three evenings featuring a memorable dinner featuring 8 courses and wine pairing crafted by “Maestro” chefs Thierry Drapeau, Stéphane Burron, Stéphane Cerrada, and Noah Sandoval. Each chef contributes two courses, whilst the remaining courses are collaborative efforts. 

A unique feature of this year’s edition is a nightly live performance by expressionist painter artist Christopher Lecoutre. Christopher will create floral-inspired plate paintings that reflect the spirit of Signature Bangkok’s contemporary French and floral cuisine. Christopher’s “canvas” are handfired plates from Lampang, a Thai province famous for its pottery tradition. 

The Maestro 3.0 | Artistic Michelin Gastronomy will be held at 1-Michelin Star Signature Bangkok, located on the 11th floor of 5-star VIE Hotel Bangkok—MGallery Collection in the heart of Bangkok.  This exclusive event has very limited availability, and guests are encouraged to book early at  sevn.ly/xHsCaq2D

THE MAESTRO — THE CONCEPT 

The Maestro 3.0 | Artistic Michelin Gastronomy is a highly anticipated, one-of-a-kind culinary event that comes after the success of the 2023 and 2024 The Maestro editions. Founded by Signature Bangkok’s Head Chef Thierry Drapeau, the annual event gathers distinguished Michelin-starred chefs who are regarded as “maestros” of the culinary world and recognized for their ability to create dishes that are delicious, innovative, and artistic. The Maestro series  provides chefs an opportunity to collaborate and elevate each other’s art; the chefs relish the opportunity to collectively push culinary boundaries, blend unexpected flavours, and create works of art with a focus on visual appeal and culinary storytelling. Guests, meanwhile, have the opportunity to witness the chefs’ creative process, and participate in one of Bangkok’s most memorable gastronomy experiences.

MEET THE MAESTROS

This year’s Maestros includes internationally renowned Michelin starred Chefs and an expressionist artist. Each chef brings a distinct culinary skill, and together the Maestro chefs and artist weave an unforgettable experience rooted in live performance demonstrations and exciting flavours. 

Chef Thierry Drapeau | Former 2 & Current 1 MICHELIN Star  | France & Thailand

Chef Thierry’s first restaurant Logis de la Chabotterie, in Saint-Sulpice-le-Verdon, Loire Valley, held on to its 2-Michelin star status for nine consecutive years. Chef Thierry continues to make lasting impressions at 1-Michelin star Signature Bangkok his innovative modern French and floral cuisine. His “cuisine of the soil” approach emphasises terroir, or a sense of place, premium ingredients from land and sea, and stunning presentations. 

Chef Stéphane Buron| 2 MICHELIN Stars & Meilleur Ouvrier de France  | France

Joining us from France, 2-Michelin star Chef Stéphane Buron cuisine sparks emotions and creates lasting memories. In the kitchen, he follows a ‘simplicity is perfection’ approach; and his flavours are intense and original. Recipient of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France—France’s highest culinary honour. Chef Stéphane currently runs his 2 Michelin Star restaurant Le Chabichou in Courchevel, France.

Chef Noah Sandoval | 2 MICHELIN Stars | USA

American Chef Noah is the Founder and Head Chef of 2-Michelin Star ORIOLE restaurant in Chicago and a winner of the The James Beard Award. His boundary pushing “Modern American” cuisine is rooted in a deep respect for seasonality and locally sourced ingredients. His menus are a fusion of upbeat global flavours, elegance, depth and precision. 

Chef Stéphane Cerrada | 2 MICHELIN Stars | France

2-Michelin Star and 1-Green Michelin Star Chef Stéphane is a champion of sustainable gastronomy, His “progressive terroir” style of cooking combines the use of local products from South of France with unique ingredient pairings and innovative cooking techniques. 

Les Frères Marchand | France’s Oldest Cheesemaker | France

Les Frères Marchand has been perfecting cheesemaking in France since 1880. The sixth-generation family business works exclusively with small producers, and are considered experts in aging and drying. Their stock of 300+ mature cheeses are among the world’s best, and highlight unique terroirs and AOC appellations. Les Freres Marchand is routinely featured at Michelin restaurants globally and is regarded as a connoisseurs’ cheesemonger.

Christopher Lecoutre | Abstract Expressionist Artist | France

French artist and painter Christopher Lecoutre blends expressionism and street art. His works are widely expressive and experimental, and his works are an invitation to journey into the unknown. 

THE MAESTRO 3.0 | Artistic Michelin Gastronomy 

Event Details & Reservations

24 September 2025 | Cheese & Wine Night – Live Culinary Masterpieces

Les Fréres Marchand cheeses, wines, live performance small plates by The Maestro Chefs, and live performance painting by artists Christopher Lecourtre. 

THB 2,900++ per person

**Limited Tickets Available

25-27 September 2025 | Artistic Michelin Nights

The 8-course menu with wine pairings will focus on innovative flavours and intimate culinary storytelling. The Maestro chefs will oversee two courses each and collaborate on the others. Live performance with Artist Christopher Lecoutre. 

THB 8,500++ per person

**Limited Tickets Available

Book now > sevn.ly/xHsCaq2D

Add us on LINE > lin.ee/J9ewZ9z

About Signature Bangkok

Signature Bangkok presents the city’s first modern French and floral cuisine. Under the direction of Head Chef former 2-Michelin star Chef Thierry Drapeau, Signature Bangkok elevates French and Michelin-calibre gastronomy while keeping it approachable and in-step with Thai culinary culture of enjoying relaxed meals in beautiful settings. The meal unfolds in an open kitchen, where guests can interact with the Chef as he prepares the meal, adding an element of theatre to the experience. Signature Bangkok is located on the 11th floor of 5-star VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery Collection next to the BTS SkyTrain Ratchathewi station.

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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism successfully held the First Regional Congress of the Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean, under the theme “Legal perspectives towards sustainable tourism,” on 15 and 16 July, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

The event was organized by UN Tourism, in conjunction with Grupo Puntacana and Quiroz Advisors – QA Legal, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic. It brought together dozens of legal professionals, government representatives, international organizations, and key players in the tourism sector, from both the public and private spheres.

Over two days, experts and authorities discussed the main challenges and opportunities facing tourism in the region from a legal perspective. Issues such as sustainability, governance, land use planning, short-term tourism rentals, accessible tourism, and access to green investments were analysed with the aim of formulating concrete recommendations to strengthen the legal framework for the sector.

At the opening ceremony, Alicia Gómez, Director of the Department of Legal Affairs and International Standards at UN Tourism, stressed the importance of “clear and transparent legal frameworks, inclusive governance models, and a cross-cutting approach to economic, social, and environmental sustainability”. She added that Tourism Law should be used as a key tool to build more resilient and sustainable tourism destinations.

One of the highlights of the Congress was the formation of a working group on Governance and Land Use Planning, where representatives of Member States, under the direction of UN Tourism and experts in Tourism Law, developed legal recommendations on land use planning and land management as a tourism resource. These conclusions will serve as a basis for developing good practice guidelines and future actions by the LAC Observatory in this area.

In parallel, specialized training was provided to the private sector, focusing on the application of international standards for accessible tourism. In addition, with the participation of the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a post-conference on green investments was held, where financial mechanisms to promote a more inclusive and sustainable tourism economy were explored.

The Congress was attended by prominent international guests, including the Minister of Tourism of Ecuador, Mateo Estrella, and the Vice- Minister of Tourism of the Dominican Republic, Carlos Peguero, as well as representatives from the business, academic, and financial sectors of the region.

This conference marks a milestone in the consolidation of a regional legal approach to sustainable tourism development and reinforces the commitment of UN Tourism and its partners to creating more sustainable and competitive destinations.

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Madrid, Spain, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The second UN Tourism and ICAO Ministerial Conference on Tourism and Air Transport in Africa concluded with a unified call to enhance partnerships and collaboration to unlock the region’s growth.

Jointly organized by UN Tourism, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the Government of Angola, the high-level event drew more than 300 international delegates around the theme “Accelerating Synergies for Resilient and Sustainable Growth”. The three-day conference focused on strengthening the alignment between two of Africa’s fastest-growing sectors: tourism and air transport. Both are critical enablers for job creation, innovation, and greater regional mobility.

In his opening remarks, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism and air transport are not just engines of growth, they are pathways to empowerment, opportunity, and transformation, through strategic leadership and innovation, Africa’s potential can become its reality.” He urged decisive policy action to remove the barriers holding African tourism back.

H.E Daniel Marcio, Angola’s Minister of Tourism said “Angola is proud to host such a landmark event, which positions Angola as a regional hub for dialogue and action. Tourism is a key pillar of our national strategy for inclusive development, job creation, and cultural promotion.”

In his intervention, H.E Mr. Ricardo de Abreu, Angola’s Minister of Transport, emphasized the importance of infrastructure and regulatory reform: “We must build air transport systems that are not only modern and efficient but also accessible and responsive to the needs of our people. Connectivity within Africa is essential to realizing the continent’s economic potential.” ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano commended the initiative’s collaborative spirit: “Tourism and aviation must grow hand in hand. Through shared vision and policy coherence, we can drive sustainable development, enhance safety and security, and ensure no country is left behind.”

Connectivity, Policy Reform, Investment

The Luanda Conference placed a strong emphasis on advancing Africa’s tourism and air transport sectors through enhanced connectivity, regulatory reform, and cross-sector collaboration. Delegates agreed that aligning aviation and tourism policies is vital to unlocking the continent’s potential, particularly through open skies agreements, cohesive infrastructure planning, and public-private investment. A central focus was also placed on simplifying visa processes, promoting joint destination marketing, and removing travel barriers to stimulate intra-African tourism.

The Conference began with an expert-led workshop featuring technical sessions on innovation, connectivity, investment, and regional integration. Participants explored how technologies like AI and digital platforms can improve service delivery, while also identifying new funding models to expand infrastructure. In-depth discussions addressed how frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) can support harmonized policies and boost regional mobility.

Ministerial Discussions and Commitments

Over two days of ministerial sessions, high-level officials focused on aligning policy frameworks, driving innovation for inclusive growth, ensuring equitable access to travel, and building resilient transport and tourism systems. The Conference concluded with the formal adoption of the Luanda Ministerial Statement—an affirmation of Africa’s collective commitment to developing a seamless, sustainable, and integrated travel ecosystem.

Luanda Ministerial Statement

Ministers, leaders of delegations and delegates present pledged to:

• Modernize tourism and aviation infrastructure with support from both public and private investment.
• Deepen partnerships with key institutions including ICAO, UN Tourism, IATA, AFRAA, AFCAC, and others.
• Advance mobility reforms through simplified and more affordable visa regimes, fast-track procedures, and longer-validity multi-entry visas.
• Promote intra-African tourism, including joint destination marketing and greater collaboration with the private sector.
• Empower youth and women through skills training, entrepreneurship support, and educational initiatives focused on the tourism and aviation sectors.

This 2nd conference came at a time of record momentum for African tourism. The continent welcomed 74 million international arrivals in 2024, a 7% increase over 2019 and 12% more than in 2023, signalling strong recovery and renewed global interest in African destinations.

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Phuket, Thailand, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Signature beachfront bar emerges from a complete transformation with an extended terrace, revitalized design, Japanese-inspired menu, serene Sunset Ceremony, and creative cocktails by acclaimed mixologist Jane Kaew-yod.

The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, the secluded five-star sanctuary nestled on an island in the Andaman Sea, is inviting guests to step into tropical tranquility, culinary creativity, and mesmerizing mixology at Zbar, its newly-reimagined social venue nestled on the tip of the island, overlooking Phang Nga Bay.

Zbar unveils a new era of elegance and allure, following a masterful transformation that redefines the art of refined relaxation. Reimagined to perfection, this sophisticated lounge now offers an exquisite retreat for both couples and families seeking tranquil afternoons and captivating evenings. The ambiance is elevated by a bold yet graceful palette of deep crimson and celestial blue, echoing the mesmerizing interplay of sea and sky at dusk. The open-air terrace, now generously expanded, invites guests to unwind in unparalleled comfort while savoring panoramic vistas. Whether indulging in meaningful conversation or simply basking in the beauty of the moment, Zbar promises a sanctuary where luxury meets serenity.

From sunlit mornings to golden dusks, Zbar offers a serene escape where guests sip tropical juices, smoothies, and chilled brews with their feet in the sand and eyes on the sea.

As the sky ignites with evening color, the mood shifts effortlessly. Guests gather to enjoy bespoke cocktails, expertly crafted in collaboration with Jane Kaew-yod, winner of the “Best Bartender Award” at the Diageo Reserve World Class 2018 Thailand Final. This inspired cocktail collection blends elevated classics with original creations, infuse with local herbs and spices to evoke a true sense of place. Signature drinks include Rosé Lips, a delicate homage to twilight’s gentle glow, and Umeshu Spritz, crafted to mirror the nuanced flavors of a seasonal kaiseki experience.

The enchanting “Sunset Ceremony” deepens Zbar’s connection to its Southern Thai coastal heritage. Held daily at 18:30, this candle-lighting ritual pays homage to the mythical dragons of Naka Yai Island, believed in local folklore to awaken at dusk. As the sun sinks into the sea, guests are invited to pause amidst the elemental beauty of ocean, forest, and mangroves, make a wish, and embrace the island’s timeless spirit.

As night falls, Zbar transforms into a haven for memorable moments and unforgettable gatherings. From 18:00 to 22:30, guests can savor a curated menu of light, Japanese-inspired plates, artfully presented and perfect for sharing under the stars.

Zbar extends a warm welcome to both resort guests and outside visitors, offering complimentary speedboat transfers from Phuket, a scenic five-minute journey, available by advance reservation. Marriott Bonvoy members enjoy exclusive privileges, including special savings on food and beverages at this luxurious island retreat.

Whether families seek a tranquil daytime escape or couples long for romantic evenings beneath the stars, the reimagined Zbar promises to elevate every moment in this secluded paradise.

The Naka Island, Phuket is the only resort on Naka Yai Island and a true gem of the Andaman Sea, offering a serene blend of tranquility and adventure. This secluded sanctuary features 90 thoughtfully designed rooms, lavish suites, and private pool villas, complemented by immersive wellness experiences, curated activities, and island-hopping excursions. Whether you’re seeking a solo retreat, a family vacation, a romantic escape, a destination wedding, or an unforgettable honeymoon, The Naka Island, Phuket promises an extraordinary island experience.

To learn more about The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, please call +66 (0) 76 371 400

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Thai Airways arranged THAI Commercial Conference 2025 at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park under the theme “Aim Further, Strive for New Heights” for its global commercial business partners to update its current business operation status and shows future commercial strategy for the second half of 2025 and into 2026. on products and services, the company convened business partners and ticketing agents from all regions worldwide across its route network—including Europe, Asia, Australia—as well as representatives from Thailand. The event was also attended by Thai Airways executives and staff from its international branch offices globally

The event gathered over 300 participants, including top travel agents from across Europe, Asia, Australia, and Thailand, as well as key business partners and senior executives. It served as a vital platform to reinforce confidence in the THAI brand and strengthen collaboration with commercial partners globally.

Under the strategic framework of “Trust in THAI,” the conference introduced the airline’s new commercial direction, showcased new product innovations, and unveiled the upgraded A321neo cabin and seating, which feature an entirely redesigned aircraft interior to elevate the passenger experience.

In line with THAI’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, the airline introduced the “Good Taste for a Good Cause” initiative—promoting Thai-made products that support local communities and small businesses, further expanding Thailand’s soft power on a global scale.

Another key highlight included presentations from expert guest speakers who shared insights on the global economic outlook, offering valuable perspectives on emerging travel trends and the future of the airline industry.

Through this landmark event, Thai Airways reaffirmed its commitment to delivering world-class service, fostering long-term partnerships, and positioning Thailand as a premier aviation and tourism hub in the region and beyond.

Thai airways exit from rehabilitation comes after a robust performance under its restructuring plan. Between April 2024 and March 2025, the airline reported an EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) of 40.31 billion baht — more than double the 20 billion baht target set within the rehabilitation framework.

Over the past four years, THAI has restructured its organization, optimized its fleet and route network, enhanced cabin interiors and service touchpoints, and strengthened its digital infrastructure to better serve passengers and commercial partners alike.

The transformation also included a successful debt restructuring, involving the conversion of liabilities into equity and the issuance of new shares to existing shareholders and staff. These crucial measures restored financial health. As of 31 March 2025, THAI reported shareholders’ equity of 55.22 billion baht a complete turnaround from the 127.23-billion-baht deficit recorded at the end of 2020.

On 8 July, The Central Bankruptcy Court officially approved THAl’s request to exit the rehabilitation program, following a formal submission made in April. This approval marks the culmination of a four-year transformation that has fundamentally reshaped the airline’s financial standing, operational efficiency, and long-term competitiveness.

It aimed to reaffirm our partners’ confidence in the company’s latest developments and strategic direction. The event also highlighted that the company has successfully completed its court-monitored rehabilitation and is now preparing for a major milestone — its relisting on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) scheduled for early August 2025.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 01, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with SYDEL, a French real estate investment company, to establish Dusit France – a joint venture created to bring Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to France for the first time.

Leveraging SYDEL’s local knowledge and operational expertise, the joint venture will focus on identifying opportunities for Dusit Hotels and Resorts, whose portfolio of nine brands spans the lodging spectrum – from affordable lifestyle hotels to full-service luxury retreats.

Brands being considered for the French market include Dusit Thani (Bespoke Luxury), Devarana – Dusit Retreats (Wellness Luxury), Dusit Collection (Character Luxury), Dusit Hotels (Upper Upscale), dusitD2 (Lifestyle Upscale), Dusit Princess (Upper Midscale), ASAI Hotels (Lifestyle Midscale), and Dusit Suites (Lifestyle Long Stay).

Together, Dusit and SYDEL will identify strategic locations, support asset owners with repositioning projects, and introduce innovative hotel concepts focused on delivering memorable guest experiences, championing well-being, and creating long-term sustainable value.

The partnership was formalised at an exclusive signing ceremony held on 10 July 2025 in Paris. At the event, Mr. Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International, shared the vision for Dusit France and outlined the group’s growth ambitions in the region.

“We are thrilled to partner with SYDEL to seek opportunities to expand Dusit’s footprint and bring our distinctive brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to France – one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations,” said Mr Cretallaz. “This partnership marks an important milestone in our global expansion strategy, and we are confident that our unique blend of cultural authenticity, innovation, and gracious service will resonate strongly with travellers and developers alike.”

Dusit’s portfolio currently spans 294 properties across 18 countries, including 55 operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 239 luxury villas under Elite Havens. In Europe, the company operates the upper-upscale Dusit Suites Athens in Greece, located in the vibrant coastal district of Glyfada on the Athenian Riviera.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 01, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / At Jim Thompson, The O.S.S. Room, afternoon tea is more than a ritual – it’s a celebration of curiosity, travel, and the unexpected. This season, The O.S.S. Room unveils an exciting new chapter in its afternoon tea offering, reimagining its signature sets through the lens of Jim Thompson’s adventurous life. The ‘Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience’ and ‘Jim’s Pinto’ sets invite guests on a spirited culinary journey, that blends Thai heritage with international flair.

Known for its unique setting and storytelling approach, The O.S.S. Room offers more than just an afternoon tea – it’s a cultural experience steeped in history, mystery, and unmistakable Thai charm. With interiors that nod to espionage-era elegance and service that reflects warm Thai hospitality, it sets the stage for a culinary journey filled with surprises.

While the names of the afternoon tea sets remain unchanged, the menus have been updated to capture the essence of exploration, and both sets are served with a curated selection of tea.

‘Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience’ begins with a curated selection of savory creations. Blue swimmer crab is paired with creamy Thai chili paste mayo in the Crab & Chili Bliss open sandwich, while slow-cooked Thai Kurobuta pork is layered with a sweet and aromatic spice blend inside a brioche to form the Pulled Pork Harmony Sandwiches. The Chicken Satay Ball reimagines the Thai street food favorite as a golden-fried croquette, served with a traditional cucumber and chili relish. Miang Khum Pla Yarng rounds out the savory section with grilled fish of the day on betel leaves topped with a tangy herbal dressing and cashew nuts.

On the sweet side, the menu features the Mulberry Fig Muffin with clotted cream and Jim Thompson mulberry jam, followed by the Cashew Nut Financier that delivers a rich, buttery bite with a subtle nutty sweetness. The Lychee Blossom Cake, pays tribute to one of Thailand’s most beloved fruits, while the Zesty Lime Meringue Tart adds a refreshing note with its tangy filling. The Mung Bean Dumpling Delight, Pa Ka Krong, brings a traditional touch, and The O.S.S. Macaron ties it all together with a bold Thai bitter lime filling inside a classic French shell.

Guests may also opt for ‘Jim’s Pinto’, a playful, tiffin-inspired set that offers a rotating assortment of light bites and sweets, each layer telling its own delicious story. This set celebrates Thai-style presentation and culinary nostalgia while remaining refreshingly modern.

Both afternoon tea sets are perfectly complemented by over 20 exceptional tea selections from Thailand and around the world. The highlight is the Jim Thompson Exclusive Blend – a distinctive Thai green tea artfully combined with mulberry leaves, lychee, and floral notes, offering a refreshing experience that perfectly accompanies the culinary journey.

Served within the elegant and atmospheric surroundings of The O.S.S. Room – a space that echoes Jim Thompson’s legacy of intrigue and cross-cultural connection – these updated afternoon tea menus are a must. Rich in flavor, rooted in tradition, and shaped by imagination, this is afternoon tea redefined.

The O.S.S. Room welcomes guests every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday, 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm (last order at 4.00 pm).

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Pagoda Chinese Restaurant, the award-winning Cantonese dining destination at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, invites hotel guests and local residents to come together and experience its new Weekday Set Lunch menus. Priced at just THB 488++ per person, an ideal setting for both corporate gatherings and casual get-togethers.

Curated with care by Chef Oscar Pun, this set menu is perfect for a productive business lunch or a relaxing midday escape. Guests can choose from two thoughtfully crafted menus, each featuring seven dishes that blend the timeless elegance of Cantonese cuisine with modern culinary artistry.

Set Menu A is a multi-course lunchtime feast that starts with a selection of handmade dim sum, including steamed prawn & vegetable dumplings with asparagus and lettuce, and classic pork & shrimp dumplings with shiitake mushrooms. Guests can then savor bamboo pith, fungus & wolfberry soup, jellyfish with Sichuan dressing, and roasted barbecued duck. Following two delicious main courses, stir-fried kale in oyster sauce, and baked prawns with egg noodles in superior stock, guests can end their lunch with a fried pancake with Chinese date paste.

Set Menu B also commences with delectable dim sum (truffle & vegetable dumplings with shiitake, corn & Chinese lettuce, and classic pork & shrimp dumplings with shiitake), followed by a sublime double-steamed wolfberry, mushroom & black chicken soup. Friends and colleagues can then enjoy crispy-fried prawns with fresh fruit salad, cold fungus with shredded chili sauce, stir-fried broccoli in oyster sauce, and fried rice with crispy pork and vegetables. This set menu also concludes with a fried pancake with Chinese date paste.

The Weekday Set Lunch is available from August 1 – October 31, 2025. Monday – Friday, 11.30 – 14.30 hrs, served in the elegant ambiance of Pagoda Chinese Restaurant.

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