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Island Holiday Staycation at W Koh Samui

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Island Holiday Staycation at W Koh Samui - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, November 23, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Celebrate the festive season vibes of joy and fun at W Koh Samui where you are able to select your island escape in style from the end of this 2024 to 2025.

Enjoy selective room packages that cater to your needs, indulge in festive day-to-night dining options, and participate in our resort activities. Experience the year-end in style with a private pool villa, variety options of food and beverage offers throughout December to January 2025 and discover the true essence of an Island within the Island. Your dream getaway awaits!

Imagine waking up to crystal-clear waters, and dancing under the stars where you will never forget. Ready for an unforgettable getaway? Book now www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/usmwh-w-koh-samui/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0

Stay connected and join us at WOOBAR, W Koh Samui Call us: +66 77 915 999

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hotels and Restaurants Across Asia Celebrate with Jolly Good Cheer

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Hotels and Restaurants Across Asia Celebrate with Jolly Good Cheer - TRAVELINDEX

Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, November 23, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Santa Claus Is Coming to Cam Ranh and Mui Ne This Christmas. Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies with choristers and live piano, BBQ seafood buffets and a gift-toting Santa posing for family photos are among the merriment at The Anam Mui Ne and The Anam Cam Ranh this festive season. The Anam Mui Ne’s festivities include a European themed Christmas Eve Dinner with a BBQ buffet featuring roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham and grilled seafood at Indochine Restaurant and Grill from 7-10pm, where Santa will hand out gifts and pose for photos between 7-8pm. The Anam Cam Ranh’s vibrant festive season program features The Colonial’s Festive High Tea with sweets and savories, fruit, juice, teas, coffee and sparkling wine from 3-5pm on Dec. 15 – Jan. 10.

Tis The Season to Give in Hong Kong

The Hari Hong Kong is pulling out all the stops to mark Christmas and New Year’s Eve with merry good cheer, hosting a Christmas market to raise money for charity, festive brunches, lunches and dinners, a stay replete with a chocolate muffin Christmas tree, and more. Situated in the heart of Wan Chai, the hotel’s Christmas Market at the lobby on Dec. 9 from 5pm will see service users from Hong Chi Association serve hand drip coffee and sell upcycling and handmade products. Second-hand books and toys will also be available, with all market proceeds going to Hong Chi to help provide education, training and other empowerment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and their families.

Resort’s Team Builds Giant Gingerbread House in Cam Ranh

A giant gingerbread house, life-sized advent calendar display, a Christmas market showcasing local artisans, and family mini golf tournaments will be among the merriment on offer when Alma Resort Cam Ranh celebrates Christmas. The beachfront resort will host Christmas-themed afternoon tea, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day feasts, wine tasting and more. Activities for children will range from Santa’s Corner where Santa will feature in photos with families to gingerbread house decoration classes. The gingerbread house will be crafted using 232 kilograms of gingerbread – 800 wall tiles that each weigh 155 grams and 1200 roof tiles each 90 grams – and decorated in 40 kilograms of merengue.

For the Love of Good Food in Bangkok

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit will host Christmas Eve feasts at LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar and The Kites Eatery. LUZ will serve a Spanish set menu crafted by Madrid-born chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero in two sessions from 6-8pm and 9pm-11pm. The menu kicks off with ‘scallops with caramelised onion and Iberian ham’ and ‘crab cannelloni’ followed by ‘beef tenderloin in puff pastry with foie gras and sweet wine sauce’. After ‘traditional Spanish rice with seafood and octopus’, dessert is ‘Spanish crepe with vanilla cream and orange ice cream’. The Kites Eatery’s buffet from 6-10pm will brim with seafood on ice, salads, cheeses, a Japanese corner with assorted sashimi, carving corner, BBQ seafood and meats, main courses, paella, a chocolate fountain, and desserts.

Celebrate Christmas in Style on Koh Samui

A gourmet’s paradise of 5-star feasting is on the cards at Banyan Tree Samui this Christmas, with each of its three restaurants offering a colorful variety of dining options from Dec 24-26, inclusive. The resort’s beachfront restaurant, Sands, offers a 3-course set lunch and a 5-course set dinner (or 7-course vegetarian alternative) on each of those three days, while award-winning fine-dining venue Saffron hosts set evening dinners in a sophisticated and tranquil ambience. Meanwhile, The Edge restaurant will lure diners with an abundant buffet menu from Dec 24-26, offering both Western and Eastern cuisine and a host of Christmas surprises.

Twas the Night Before Xmas, and Krabi is Stirring

Located on tranquil Tubkaek Beach, Banyan Tree Krabi is hosting a sumptuous Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at its popular restaurant The Naga Kitchen. Starting from 6:30pm, guests and diners will be paraded with an astounding variety of delectable international culinary choices, including salads and appetizers, cheeses and cold cuts, an Indian Tandoori selection, freshly baked pizzas, a carving station, Japanese favorites, and delicious seafood options such as Spicy Tuna and Salmon Tartare with Local Fresh Herbs.

Adding a Balinese Touch to Christmas Festivities in Ubud

Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, is adding a Balinese touch this Christmas with cultural performances and experiences, alongside decadent feasts. Things kick off with a four-course Christmas Eve dinner with Santa in attendance. On Christmas Day and the 27th of December there will be a traditional torch-lit Kecak and fire dance performance followed by a Royal Balinese Dinner. Local dishes are the highlight of a special dining event, Crispy Duck Feast, on the 26th with menu items including Gedang Mekuah, Balinese chicken soup with young papaya and Bebek Goreng, crispy Peking duck with Balinese condiments.

Home-made Cookies and a Decorated Tree In-Room in Tokyo

Guests of Palace Hotel Tokyo over the festive season will enjoy the 16-foot Christmas tree standing tall in the lobby moat-side, along with their own in-room 5.5-foot-tall tree when they book the one-night stay package, ‘A Tokyo Christmas.’ Along with the decorated tree they’ll also enjoy an assortment of home-made Christmas cookies presented in a limited-edition tin. At the hotel’s one-Michelin-starred French restaurant, Esterre, 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, the 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.

A ‘Candlelit Wonderland’ in Vietnam’s Capital

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the iconic 123-year-old luxury hotel in Vietnam’s capital, has unveiled an enchanting “Candlelit Wonderland” theme ahead of this year’s festive season. The hotel invites guests to immerse themselves in a dreamscape of timeless elegance, with the courtyard bathed in golden hues, and shimmering ornaments and sparkling lights casting magic in every corner. Vietnam’s most storied hotel will host memorable dining events on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at the award-winning modern French fine-dining restaurant Le Beaulieu, and at Le Club, angelina and the modern Vietnamese restaurant Spice Garden. L’Epicerie du Metropole also offers an unparalleled array of specialty products and gifts, with shelves filled with premium turkey, succulent beef Wellington and a variety of festive treats.

From Central Vietnam to the Southern Coast, Celebrate Christmas in Style

Two of Vietnam’s most elegant and sophisticated hotels invite guests to celebrate this year’s festive season in style, with a host of exclusive meals, stay packages, special activities and more. Azerai Ke Ga Bay, a beach resort comprising all suites and villas in southern Vietnam, overlooks a sweeping 5-kilometer stretch of white sand, while Azerai La Residence, Hue is located in the former Imperial capital of Hue on the fabled Perfume River. Both properties have announced a host of family-friendly activities to mark Christmas. Azerai La Residence, Hue’s Festive Season Package includes a two-night stay in a Superior River View room with daily breakfast, a one-way transfer to/from Phu Bai Airport, a signature cocktail and a special Festive Season Set Dinner for two people.

Christmas in Cambodia

Two of Cambodia’s most iconic luxury hotels are set to offer an enchanting blend of tradition, elegance and joy this holiday season, with a host of exclusive meals, gala celebrations, festive treats and more. Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap invite guests to enjoy memorable moments together this Christmas season, as the landmark heritage hotels transform into a wonderland of holiday cheer. Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s Parisian Brasserie Christmas Day buffet dinner will be served at Le Phnom 1929 and feature seafood towers, imported cheese, artisanal charcuterie, foie gras and turkey, with signature French wines and festive cocktails, priced at $120 per person (add $30 for unlimited Champagne Charles Mignon). Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor will present a 7-course Christmas Dinner at 1932 featuring an exciting gastronomic experience by Executive Sous Chef Doeurt.

A Festive Program That Brings Plenty of Yo Ho Ho to Lang Co

Laguna Lang Co in Vietnam is offering a delightful lineup of festive Christmas events. The season kicks off with a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, complete with a festive canapé menu featuring mini banh mi, smoked salmon tartlets, and sweet treats like mince pies and rum chocolate bonbons. Guests can also enjoy a range of drinks, from wine to cocktails. On Christmas Eve, a grand cocktail reception and dinner await, showcasing a diverse menu with dishes from organic salads to seafood on ice, along with live food stations for Vietnamese rolls, noodles, and sushi. For mains, there are grilled selections, carving stations, and a variety of sides. Traditional Christmas desserts like yule logs, ginger cookies, and ice cream complete the evening. Christmas Day brings an indulgent brunch featuring classic holiday flavors. Diners can relish live grill options, a carving station with honey ham and roasted lamb, a pasta station, and seasonal desserts like chocolate yuletide logs and Christmas puddings.

Luxury Phuket Resort Offers a Beachside Yuletide Bonanza

Trisara is hosting an enchanting array of Christmas events by the beach, perfect for a luxurious holiday celebration. On Christmas Eve, enjoy a beachfront BBQ with an international buffet featuring fresh seafood, a dessert station, and a traditional Thai dance and fire show with live band entertainment. The event is priced at THB 6,900++ per adult and THB 3,400++ for children (ages 6-12). On Christmas Day, indulge in a festive brunch at Cielo, complete with live jazz, a kids’ corner, and a visit from Santa. The brunch offers packages, including a premium champagne option (THB 7,900++), regular champagne (THB 6,900++), wine (THB 5,900++), or food only (THB 4,900++). Children’s pricing is THB 2,500++. To close the festive season, a Beach BBQ on December 28th serves global culinary delights, paired with live music and a fire show. Prices are THB 5,900++ per adult and THB 2,900++ for children.

Deck the Halls Amid Limestone Karst-Studded Waters

Leading boutique cruise operator Ambassador Cruise’s overnight cruises of UNESCO World Heritage-listed bays Halong and Lan Ha will celebrate Christmas Eve on December 24 with a wine toast, live band playing festive music, fireworks display and souvenir raffle. Throughout December and January, the overnight cruises will also host a special gala dinner on the sundeck featuring live music against stunning backdrops of both bays’ limestone karst-studded waters. Guests also have the option of starting Christmas Day with a tai chi session on the sundeck before a light breakfast is served at the piano bar and a full breakfast at the restaurant.

Restaurants Across Vietnam Host Festive Soirees

Viet Deli’s restaurants HOME Saigon, Ngon Gallery Nha Trang and All Seasons Danang will offer a festive week from Dec. 23 to Jan. 1 with unique, holiday-inspired menus. Each restaurant will offer its own themed experience titled “Festive Soiree Set Menu & Champagne Night package” including a special set menu paired with a curated wine list including champagne, available for an additional fee. All Seasons Nha Trang – Ambassador Club, HOME Hanoi, HOME Hoi An, MAMMOM Hanoi, also under the umbrella of Viet Deli, the company behind some of Vietnam’s most popular dining establishments, will feature holiday promotions and be decorated for the season.

Chiang Mai Hotel to Sparkle and Shine This Christmas

Meliá Chiang Mai is getting the mulled wine ready for its exciting Christmas and New Year’s festivities including sky-high parties, vibrant buffets, exquisite and four-course dinners. Ruen Kaew Lounge will serve mulled wine to a backdrop of classic holiday melodies from 5-10pm from Dec. 1–Jan. 31. Santa Claus will give children gifts as a live band performs at Laan Na Kitchen’s ‘Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet’ on Dec. 24 from 6-10pm. Eye Styles band will take to the stage with acoustic tunes under the stars at Mai The Sky Bar on the hotel’s 22nd floor for ‘Christmas Eve Sparkles in the Sky’ from 5-12pm. A four-course Northern Thai set dinner marking Christmas Day at 21st floor Mai Restaurant & Bar from 6-10pm.

A Ray of Christmas in Da Nang

A wellness-focused resort along the coastline of Da Nang is extending its wellbeing ethos to its Christmas plans with a “Ray of Christmas” feast set for December 24th from 6:30pm. The Dining Room at TIA Wellness Resort is serving up two decadent and nourishing six-course meals, one of which is fully plant-based. The TIA Christmas Feast includes dishes like Coquilles St Jacques, scallops and prawns with potato gratin, and a turkey roast with traditional stuffing and brussel sprouts. The plant-based feast reinvents many traditional favorites in a veg-friendly way such as a mushroom version of Coquilles St Jacques and a seitan and tofu roast with the same trimmings as its meat counterpart. Course menus start at VND1,400,000++ per person and VND2,600,000++ when a wine pairing menu of six organic wines from around the world is included.

A Ray of Christmas in Da Nang

A wellness-focused resort along the coastline of Da Nang is extending its wellbeing ethos to its Christmas plans with a “Ray of Christmas” feast set for December 24th from 6:30pm. The Dining Room at TIA Wellness Resort is serving up two decadent and nourishing six-course meals, one of which is fully plant-based. The TIA Christmas Feast includes dishes like Coquilles St Jacques, scallops and prawns with potato gratin, and a turkey roast with traditional stuffing and brussel sprouts. The plant-based feast reinvents many traditional favorites in a veg-friendly way such as a mushroom version of Coquilles St Jacques and a seitan and tofu roast with the same trimmings as its meat counterpart. Course menus start at VND1,400,000++ per person and VND2,600,000++ when a wine pairing menu of six organic wines from around the world is included.

Wellness-Inspired Christmas Celebrations in Vietnam

Fusion Resorts, the wellness-inspired brand with multiple properties throughout Vietnam and Thailand, has introduced unique wellness packages, exclusive meals, family friendly activities and much more this holiday season. Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang, the newest property in the Fusion portfolio, has unveiled a rejuvenating Christmas Mindfulness Retreat package at the resort’s flagship Maia Wellness. The 3-day, 2-night retreat promotes enhanced well-being, inner peace and reflection. Meanwhile, the resort’s popular spa packages include the Holiday Bliss Spa Experience (priced at VND 2,465,000) featuring a 50-minute Maia Relaxing Signature Treatment, followed by a 40-minute Brightening Facial. Fusion’s new customer loyalty program, Fusionlife, helps travelers find the best rates and other benefits, including discounts up to 25%. The fast-growing brand includes 23 properties, with five more resorts under development.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Savor the Richness of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall at Wah Lok

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Savor the Richness of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall Wah Lok - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 21, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit proudly presents “Buddha Jumps Over the Wall” as the Dish of the Month for November and December – a masterpiece of Cantonese culinary artistry crafted by Executive Chinese Chef Lam Kok Weng. This legendary dish, known for its irresistible aroma that “even monks cannot resist”, is a luxurious combination of premium ingredients, each adding its own layer of flavor and texture to this rich, soul-warming broth.

“Buddha Jumps Over the Wall” brings together rare and prized ingredients, including succulent sea cucumber, tender abalone, delicate dried scallops, aromatic Chinese mushrooms, nourishing fish maw, and bamboo pith. These components are meticulously slow-simmered, creating a broth that is both refined and deeply comforting, embodying the richness and harmony of traditional Cantonese flavors.

Having been recognized by the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years (2022–2024), Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant continues to elevate Bangkok’s dining scene with authentic, premium Cantonese dishes in an elegant setting.

Make your reservation today and indulge in a refined Cantonese dining experience that is sure to delight all senses.

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant
Level 2, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Dinner: 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm

For more information or to make reservations, please contact 02 090 7888

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages

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UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages 2024 55 Rural Communities Shaping the Future of Sustainable Travel - TRAVELINDEXCartagena de Indias, Colombia, November 21, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Rural destinations consolidate their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development as UN Tourism announces its Best Tourism Villages 2024. From Caviahue-Copahue in Argentina to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Viet Nam, discover the 55 new Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism.

Rural destinations consolidate their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development as UN Tourism announces its Best Tourism Villages 2024.

In this fourth edition, 55 villages from all regions received the recognition, chosen from over 260 applications from more than 60 UN Tourism Member States. Another 20 villages were chosen to join the Upgrade Programme.

The Best Tourism Villages initiative not only recognizes the remarkable achievements of these villages but also highlights the transformative power of tourism

“Tourism is a vital tool for inclusion, empowering rural communities to protect and value their rich cultural heritage while driving sustainable development,” said UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. “The Best Tourism Villages initiative not only recognizes the remarkable achievements of these villages but also highlights the transformative power of tourism. By leveraging their unique assets, these communities can foster economic growth, promote local traditions, and enhance the quality of life for their residents. We celebrate the villages that have embraced tourism as a pathway to empowerment and community well-being, demonstrating that sustainable practices can lead to a brighter future for all.”

The Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism initiative was launched in 2021 to advance tourism’s role in rural areas, preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions. The Best Tourism Villages (BTV) Network grows every year, and with the announcement of its 75 new members, 254 villages are now part of the largest community of rural destinations in the world.

Uniting Rural Destinations for Sustainable Development

The Best Tourism Villages initiative is part of the UN Tourism for Rural Development Programme. The Programme works to foster development and inclusion in rural areas, combat depopulation, advance innovation and value chain integration through tourism, and encourage sustainable practices.

As in previous editions, the villages were evaluated under nine key areas:

  1. Cultural and Natural Resources
  2. Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources
  3. Economic Sustainability
  4. Social Sustainability
  5. Environmental Sustainability
  6. Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
  7. Governance and Prioritization of Tourism
  8. Infrastructure and Connectivity
  9. Health, Safety, and Security

The initiative comprises three pillars:

  • Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism: Recognizes outstanding rural tourism destinations with accredited cultural and natural assets, a commitment to preserving community-based values, and a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
  • Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Upgrade Programme: Supports villages on their journey to meet recognition criteria, helping them improve in areas identified as weakness during evaluation.
  • The Best Tourism Villages Network: A space for exchanging experiences and good practices, learning, and opportunities among its members, and it is open to contributions from experts and public and private sector partners engaged in the promotion of tourism as a driver for rural development.

The 55 Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism 2024 are (in alphabetical order):

  • Abo Noghta Castles & Historic Tabab, Saudi Arabia
  • Abu Ghosoun, Egypt
  • Aínsa, Spain
  • Amagi, Japan
  • Anogeia, Greece
  • Azheke, China
  • Bo Suak, Thailand
  • Capulálpam de Méndez, Mexico
  • Caviahue-Copahue, Argentina
  • Cuatro Ciénegas de Carranza, Mexico
  • El Tambo, Ecuador
  • El Valle de Antón, Panama
  • Esfahak, Islamic Republic of Iran
  • Gaiman, Argentina
  • Gharb Suhayl, Egypt
  • Grand Baie, Mauritius
  • Guanyang, China
  • Huancaya, Peru
  • Jardín, Colombia
  • Jatiluwih, Indonesia
  • Kalopanagiotis, Cyprus
  • Leymebamba, Peru
  • Mindo, Ecuador
  • Mura, Spain
  • Nishikawa, Japan
  • Óbidos, Portugal
  • Ormana, Türkiye
  • Palizada, Mexico
  • Pissouri, Cyprus
  • Portobelo, Panama
  • Pueblo de Maras, Peru
  • Quinua, Peru
  • Ralco, Chile
  • Roches Noires, Mauritius
  • Romoos, Switzerland
  • Ruboni, Uganda
  • San Casciano dei Bagni, Italy
  • San Juan del Obispo, Guatemala
  • San Rafael de la Laguna, Ecuador
  • Santa Cruz da Graciosa, Portugal
  • Shibadong, China
  • Sibayo, Peru
  • Splügen, Switzerland
  • St. Johann in Tirol, Austria
  • Taoping, China
  • Tra Que Vegetable Village, Viet Nam
  • Trevelin, Argentina
  • Uaxactún, Guatemala
  • Urych, Ukraine
  • Villa Tulumba, Argentina
  • Vorokhta, Ukraine
  • Wukirsari, Indonesia
  • Xiaogang, China
  • Xitou, China
  • Yandunjiao, Chin

From Fast Track to Recognition

This year seven villages from the Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme have achieved recognition as Best Tourism Villages. Through the Upgrade Programme villages received mentorship to improve their lowest-scored areas of evaluation and were able to apply through a fast-track process and qualify for Best Tourism Village recognition.

These outstanding villages include Capulálpam de Méndez (Mexico), Grand Baie (Mauritius), Kalopanagiotis (Cyprus), Pissouri (Cyprus), Ruboni (Uganda), Bo Suak (Thailand), and Trevelin (Argentina).

The 20 villages selected to participate in the Upgrade Programme this year are:

  • Breb, Romania
  • Campo Ramón, Argentina
  • Cap Malheureux, Mauritius
  • Cascas, Peru
  • Choshuenco, Chile
  • Dhudmaras, India
  • Lens, Switzerland
  • Malalcahuello, Chile
  • Mexcaltitán de Uribe, Mexico
  • Mittelberg, Austria
  • Pals, Spain
  • Piedades Sur, Costa Rica
  • Polovragi, Romania
  • San Juan Bautista, Chile
  • Santa Catarina Palopó, Guatemala
  • Seonhakdong, Republic of Korea
  • Shirayama, Japan
  • St. Leonhard in Pitztal, Austria
  • Yamakoshi, Japan
  • Yörük, Türkiye

The call for submissions for the fifth edition will take place in early 2025, opening a new opportunity for rural destinations to share their inspiring initiatives and get global recognition as rural development champions.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cardamom Tented Camp Adds Three Premium River View Tents

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Cardamom Tented Camp Adds Three Premium River View Tents - TRAVELINDEXBotum Sakor National Park, Cambodia, November 21, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Cardamom Tented Camp, set within the pristine wilderness of Cambodia’s Botum Sakor National Park, has enhanced its eco-conscious accommodation offering with the addition of three premium river view tents.

The three new tents, now available, feature larger balconies, offering guests riverside views and a unique opportunity to experience nature up close.

One of the new tents is set 70 metres apart from the others at the end of a 220-metre walkway, providing an exclusive retreat perfect for couples seeking extra privacy. Each tent is perched on an elevated frame, featuring amenities such as fan-cooled double or twin beds, hot water bathrooms, and spacious balconies designed for relaxation, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.

“The new riverfront tents offer an unparalleled connection to nature,” says Lodge Manager Allan Michaud. “The serene setting, coupled with opportunities for bird and wildlife spotting right from your balcony, will make these tents a popular option among guests looking for tranquillity and immersion in the wild. Our guests don’t just visit, their stay helps protect this incredible environment.”

Surrounded by lowland mixed forests, the 12 tents at Cardamom Tented Camp circle a natural grassland glade. The camp is a key player in conservation, with profits from its accommodation, riverside restaurant, and eco-activities such as kayaking and guided hikes supporting 18 forest rangers. These rangers patrol the national park, drastically reducing illegal hunting and protecting wildlife such as Asian elephants, silver langurs, and smooth-coated otters.

Guests can engage in the camp’s conservation efforts or simply enjoy the peace and beauty of one of Cambodia’s most remote and untouched environments.

As Michaud puts it, “Cardamom Tented Camp appeals to visitors who want to contribute to a real front-line conservation effort while enjoying the physical and spiritual benefits of being in nature.”

The award-winning camp, accessible only by boat, maintains a five-star rating on TripAdvisor based on 90 reviews. The camp’s motto, “Your Stay Keeps the Forest Standing,” reflects the ecolodge’s commitment to preserving the unique biodiversity of Botum Sakor National Park.

About Cardamom Tented Camp
Cardamom Tented Camp is an ecolodge located in the foothills of the Cardamom Mountains in Cambodia. The 12-unit tented camp, with restaurant pavilion, staff dormitory, ecotourism equipment and boat pier, uses solar power to run lodge amenities. The camp has its own waste water filtration process. There is no road access. The camp is accessible only by river boat – or forest hike.

The lodge aims to minimise the human footprint on the natural world and serve as a role model in promoting sustainable ecotourism practices within both the national park and Cambodia as a whole. Located on an 18,000-hectare (180 sq km) concession, the lodge and its surroundings are home to pristine lowland and coastal habitats linking wildlife corridors to the Cardamom Mountains. Eco-friendly trekking and kayaking packages are available for adventure enthusiasts who are keen to be a part of real conservation work.

Cardamom Tented Camp is a three-way initiative between Minor Group, YAANA Ventures and Wildlife Alliance to ensure the land and its biodiversity does not fall into the hands of loggers, poachers and sand dredging operations.

About Cardamom Tented Camp operator YAANA Ventures
YAANA Ventures is an owner, partner and operator of entrepreneurial travel and hospitality ventures in Asia. YAANA Ventures distinguishes itself by sharing real experiences that are grounded in the cultural richness of Asia. In all its operations, the company strives to champion the 4 C’s: best practice in conservation, community, culture, and commerce. Visit yaana-ventures.com/

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Trade and Development Leads COP29 Baku Initiative for Climate Action

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UN Trade and Development Leads COP29 Baku Initiative for Climate Action - TRAVELINDEXBaku, Azerbaijan, November 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Baku Initiative for Climate Finance, Investment, and Trade (BICFIT) launched at COP29, the 29th UN Climate Change Conference , to bring together finance, investment, and trade to respond to the urgent need for climate action as the window for impactful action narrows. The initiative aims to strengthen and coordinate the response to climate challenges, fostering economic development and meaningful climate action. Climate finance is the backbone of any effective climate response, making it possible to mobilize resources where they are most needed.

  • Unified climate action: Finance, investment, and trade for climate action.
  • Global partnership: Led by Azerbaijan’s COP29 presidency, with UNCTAD, UNDP, and key international partners.
  • Policy coherence: Trade, finance, and climate policies must go together.
  • Support for developing nations: To bridge investment gap for countries most affected by climate change.
  • UNCTAD’s focus: Transition investments, financial architecture reform, integrating trade and investment for climate action.

The initiative is led by the COP29 Presidency of Azerbaijan, co-facilitated by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and UN Development Program (UNDP), in collaboration with other United Nations agencies and global partners, like the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC).

“Trade, investment, and finance has to come together,” said UN Trade and Development Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan alongside Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov and UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner.

Developing countries, despite being on the frontlines of climate impacts, receive minimal climate finance – only 1-2% of foreign direct investment in renewables, for instance, reaches Africa. This investment disparity is a serious barrier to the green transition, as high borrowing costs prevent low-income countries from accessing the capital needed to make impactful climate progress.

“We must have a policy coherence framework that will make these three very important elements, trade, investment and finance, for the future of the global economy to reinforce each other and allow developing countries to thrive and grow appropriately”, Ms. Grynspan said.

Coherence towards climate action

Weak coherence creates bottlenecks and hinders progress towards the scale and speed of transformation when the world is racing to rein in climate change.

Despite calls for sustainable initiatives, “we have trade practices that perpetuate unsustainable patterns – for example, clean energy technologies facing tariffs that are on average twice as high as those on fossil fuels”, said Ms. Grynspan.

Developing countries are on the frontlines of the climate crisis but at the back of queue for climate support. The annual sustainable investment gap across the developing world is about $4 trillion , up from 2.5 trillion a decade ago.

That is why, for example, reforming the international financial system is essential to enable private investment to reach where it is most needed. Multilateral development banks and development finance must scale up, share more risk, and crowd in private funds to support developing countries at long-term and affordable costs.

How UN Trade and Development can help

Looking ahead, UN Trade and Development can support countries in attracting climate foreign direct investment and knowledge sharing and capacity building for national climate and sustainable development ambitions.

It will assist countries in developing “green free economic zones” that seamlessly integrate sustainable development principles within free economic zones, while collaborating with the sustainable investment community.

The organization will also work to restore trust in sustainable finance. A recent decline in sustainable fund investments highlights concerns around greenwashing and transparency. UNCTAD will partner with leaders in sustainable finance to ensure that these funds genuinely support the green transition, directing resources to the sectors and regions where they are needed most.

It will continue advocating for structural reforms to the international financial architecture to help ensure that key players – such as multilateral development banks – are fit for purpose and ready to contribute to finance sustainable development.

The organization will also support countries to prepare their updated national climate action plans to better incorporate a trade and investment policy perspective.

About UN Trade and Development
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is dedicated to promoting inclusive and sustainable development through trade and investment. With a diverse membership, it empowers countries to harness trade for prosperity.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Global Forum Links Key Pillars for Tourism Future

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Global Forum Links Key Pillars for Tourism Future - TRAVELINDEXCartagena de las Indias, Colombia, November 21, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The heightened importance of boosting investments and innovation was underscored as public and private sector leaders met to shape the future of the global tourism sector.

Further advancing UN Tourism’s leading role in these two key pillars of change, the Global Investment and Innovation Forum welcomed Ministers of Tourism, alongside key players from global finance and business. Alongside UN Tourism, the Forum was supported by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism of Colombia, ProColombia, Invest in Cartagena and CAF (the Investment Bank for Latin America and the Caribbean). Underscoring the high-level discussions was a recognition of the vital need to increase investment into the sector while at the same time injecting it with new ideas and energy through promoting innovation at every level.

Opening the Forum, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “There is both an urgency and an opportunity to build sustainable and inclusive destinations that support local economies, empower communities, and preserve their invaluable cultural heritage. This Forum makes clear the vital importance of connections: both between public and private sector players and also between countries, to increase and better direct investments into tourism, and to accelerate its digital transformation, with innovation at the heart of everything we do.”

This Forum makes clear the vital importance of connections: both between public and private sector players and also between countries, to increase and better direct investments into tourism, and to accelerate its digital transformation, with innovation at the heart of everything we do

In a show of high-level political support for UN Tourism’s work, Colombian President Gustavo Petro addressed the Forum. President Petro made clear the important role the sector is playing in diversifying the country’s economy while also advancing goals around sustainability. To further advance this potential, he said, “We not only need money, we need innovation and a lot of it. And innovation has to focus on the decarbonization of tourism activities, integrally. Colombia can replace its coal and oil currencies in large part with tourism, and we would move forward.”

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism of Colombia, Luis Carlos Reyes, said: “This 122nd Session of the Executive Council of UN Tourism was proof that as a country, we have the capacity to work together to carry out events of great magnitude. It has also been a very productive three days, in which we have shown the world our commitment to strengthening community-based, sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism. Tourism can be the central axis for the protection of nature, and we are pleased that the countries that are part of this Council share this purpose.”

UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona said: “More investments and greater innovation are essential to take tourism to the next level. They can unlock many new opportunities, for businesses, jobs and building more resilience and inclusivity. Colombia shines as a top example of how investment in tourism really delivers, not least for rural communities, for women, youth and post-conflict societies.”

Partnerships the key

UN Tourism serves as the bridge, connecting governments and destinations with investors of all sizes. In Cartagena, the Forum put the spotlight on such collaboration, with a Leaders’ Dialogue emphasizing the role partnerships can play in driving growth and transforming tourism. Joining Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Tourism of Bahrain, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Zambia,

The Forum also provided a platform for enhanced cooperation between global regions. High-level conversations focused on investment strategies for tourism, including the growing relevance of free zones, financial instruments and reformed governance as a means of increasing levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) into tourism, both in the Americas and globally.

Investing in Colombia, “Land of Beauty”

The hosts of the Forum, Colombia, stands out as a leading destination for tourism investments. Between 2018 and 2023, 1 billion US dollars were invested in tourism projects in Colombia. That has made Colombia the second-largest destination for tourism investments in the whole of the Latin American and Caribbean region. Furthermore, this strong level of investment has helped to created more than 4,700 jobs in the sector over the same period.

To better showcase the country’s significant potential on the global stage, UN Tourism officially presented its updated guidelines, “Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Colombia”. They provide a comprehensive overview of investment infrastructure and systems in the country, outlining opportunities for growth as well as potential challenges and solutions for overcoming them. UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona said: “Colombia, the “Country of Beauty” is also a land of opportunity for investors. Its tourism sector is one of the strongest in the whole region, with new projects set to create many thousands more jobs and drive further economic growth.”

Also in Cartagena, the “Tourism Investment 2024: Global Greenfield Investment Trends in Tourism” report was launched, a joint collaboration between the FT and UN Tourism, which provides an unrivalled global picture of where the sector is going, including new areas of growth and opportunity for investors.

Innovation for the future of tourism

Alongside the huge importance of investments, the Forum made clear the key role that innovation will play in shaping the future of tourism, including through offering more inclusive and resilient growth. Highlighting the huge pool of talent across the Americas, UN Tourism celebrated the finalists of its Innovation in Green Projects Challenge, organized with CAF. The Challenge attracted ideas from more than 500 young entrepreneurs more than 20 countries from across Latin America and the Caribbean. Of them, more than 180 are based in Colombia. Natoure, from Mexico, which promotes innovation for nature conservation, was named as the winner.

Also looking to the future, a concluding panel on Innovation and Leadership, focused on the part future generations will play in transforming tourism, emphasizing the need to nurture young talent today through education, training and funding and networking opportunities.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tanah Gajah Introduces Pool Villas in Ubud

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Tanah Gajah Introduces Pool Villas in Ubud - TRAVELINDEXBali, Indonesia, November 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / A Balinese resort known for its deep connection to Indonesia’s art scene and scenic location amid the rice paddies of Ubud is highlighting two of its most important attributes with the launch of four New Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villas this January. With a current collection of just twenty villas and suites the addition of a new room category and four villas is a significant expansion for the boutique property.

Overlooking the rice paddies and Mt Agung in the distance, each 250-square-meter abode makes the most of its natural outlook with a 14-meter long private plunge pool that appears to extend into the surrounding landscape.

While many parts of the new villas stay true to the resort’s original Balinese design aesthetic, there are additions not available in the property’s other 20 suites and villas. One new element is an outdoor dining pavilion that features a full complimentary mini-bar (restocked daily) with rattan chairs and a dining table for an alfresco meal or drink.

Families will appreciate a built-in sofa bed, not available in the standard One Bedroom Club Pool Villa, that creates an extra bed for a more comfortable stay. Couples may enjoy the spacious outdoor soaking tub. Digital nomads will benefit from a more spacious working desk with universal plug adapters and a bluetooth sound system.

“With our late founder being one of Indonesia’s most prominent architects and art collectors, we wanted a design that honored our heritage but also looked to the future of how our aesthetic is evolving,” explained Deasy Swandarini, general manager of Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana. “We opted for a more contemporary approach to design elements in the interior and the addition of modern touches and conveniences.”

All furnishings are bespoke and designed by the House of Hadiprana. These include unique hanging and standing lamps, a coffee table, and armchairs. Original artwork adorns the new villa’s walls and a vast collection of local sculptures and paintings can also be found throughout the property. The late Hendra Hadiprana’s art collection still remains at the resort and the grounds are a treasure trove of sculptures and paintings collected over a lifetime and added to by his family since his passing.

Club benefits offered with the Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villa include:

  • Welcome drink
  • Butler service
  • Evening turndown service
  • Daily a la carte breakfast
  • In-villa check in and check out service
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits delivered to your villa or suite
  • Daily afternoon tea from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Panen Padi Lounge
  • Daily sunset cocktails from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Tempayan Restaurant
  • Complimentary minibar including alcohol selections (replenished once daily)
  • Espresso coffee and tea-making facilities
  • Daily laundry service up to six pieces per villa per day (excluding dry cleaning)
  • Car service to/from Ubud Centre with private car equipped with Wi-Fi
  • High-speed internet connection in accommodation and public areas
  • Yoga classes as per hotel schedule
  • Access to wellness facilities
  • A guided rice paddy trekking along the rice fields and neighboring village
  • One time photo session and one complimentary digital photo.

The spacious resort, with 24 villas and suites spread out over six hectares, is available for buyouts for corporate groups, wellness retreats, incentives, and weddings. The property is large enough to offer guests plenty of space but also intimate enough that the entire resort can be booked by one group.

Premier One Bedroom Club Pool Villa rates start from USD 780 per night.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Vivaldi Public Relations Celebrates Major Wins at PRCA Thailand Awards

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Vivaldi Public Relations Celebrates Major Wins at PRCA Thailand Awards - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 19, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Vivaldi Public Relations, Thailand’s leading PR agency and marketing consultancy, has been honoured with two prestigious awards at the PRCA Thailand Awards 2024, held on 12 November. The wins —Consumer Campaign Award for “Jim Thompson – Beyond Silk” and PR Leader of the Year for Chief Operating Officer Pattaranit Imampai — come as the agency celebrates its 20th anniversary, reinforcing two decades of innovation and excellence in Thailand’s PR industry.

Organised by the Thailand chapter of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), the PRCA Thailand Awards celebrate PR excellence across the country. PRCA, the world’s largest professional PR association, represents over 35,000 professionals globally. This year’s awards highlighted Thailand’s top talent, with winners selected by a panel of industry experts.

Joseph Henry, CEO & Co-Founder of Vivaldi Public Relations, attributed the wins to the agency’s dedication and creativity. “Winning the Consumer Campaign Award for ‘Jim Thompson – Beyond Silk’ and having Pattaranit recognised as PR Leader of the Year are monumental achievements. These awards underscore the expertise and passion that every member of Vivaldi brings to our clients. We are constantly pushing boundaries to exceed expectations and drive meaningful engagement.”

The Consumer Campaign Award for “Jim Thompson – Beyond Silk” celebrates Vivaldi’s innovative approach to revitalize one of Thailand’s most iconic brands. The campaign went beyond traditional narratives, reimagining Jim Thompson as a dynamic cultural symbol that appeals to both local and international audiences. Emphasising craftsmanship, heritage, and modern relevance, “Beyond Silk” captivated consumers with a fresh perspective.

Honoured as PR Leader of the Year, Pattaranit Imampai said, “This recognition is a great honour and reflects the achievements of the entire Vivaldi team. We are committed to setting new standards and driving impactful change across various industries. Our focus on innovation, strategic thinking, and results-driven solutions ensures the continued success of our clients.”

With a focus on culture and purpose, Vivaldi Public Relations continues to lead the industry by creating PR and communications campaigns that inspire, connect, and set new benchmarks. These recent recognitions reflect Vivaldi’s dedication to excellence and its commitment to delivering meaningful results that resonate across Thailand and beyond.

About Vivaldi Public Relations
Vivaldi Public Relations is an award-winning PR and Marketing agency based in Thailand. Renowned for its innovative digital strategies and real-time audience engagement, Vivaldi PR connects brands with audiences to drive success and growth. Established as a media-centric PR agency, Vivaldi PR has evolved into a key player at the intersection of all brand media communications, never losing sight of its foundational principles.

We firmly believe that effective communication is greater than the sum of its parts. Therefore, we not only foster a collaborative environment within our team but also extend this team spirit to our partnerships with clients. This unity of purpose consistently yields superior results as we all strive towards a common goal.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Global Greenfield Investment in Tourism Reflects Shift Toward Sustainability

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Global Greenfield Investment in Tourism Reflects Shift Toward Sustainability - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, November 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Greenfield investments into the tourism sector continue to rise, with a growing interest in projects related to sustainability and innovation.

The latest fDi Tourism Investment Report 2024 (“Global greenfield investment trends in tourism”), released by the Financial Times in collaboration with UN Tourism and with the support of the Diriyah Gate Company, offers an in-depth look at global greenfield investment trends in tourism, emphasizing recovery from the pandemic and outlining current developments.

According to the report, the tourism sector (international tourist arrivals and receipts) showed strong growth in 2023, with international tourism receipts already +3% up compared with the level of 2019 (a record high for the sector).

More and better-targeted investment will be key to transforming the tourism sector, creating jobs, and driving inclusive and sustainable growth.

Foreign investors announced a total of 1,943 FDI projects in the tourism cluster between 2019 and2023 according to fDi Markets, the greenfield investment monitor of the Financial Times. These projects garnered an estimated $106.7bn in capital investment and created an estimated 259,800 jobs. Even though tourism investments have not fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, the future of the sector looks positive.

Regional Highlights and Trends

The fDi Tourism Investment Report underscores the regional differences in FDI recovery within the tourism sector:

  • Europe: Leading in global tourism FDI projects, Europe attracted 867 projects between 2019 and 2023, accounting for 44.6% of total global investment, highlighting its resilience in a cautious investment climate.
  • Asia-Pacific: The number of tourism FDI projects in the region grew by 59.5% between 2022 and 2023, from 42 to 67, with capital investment rising by 125.3%, a positive sign taking into account that the Asia and the Pacific Region has just received 65.4% of the international tourist arrivals registered in 2019.
  • Latin America and the Caribbean attracted 221 tourism FDI projects between 2019 and 2023. This resulted in $20.5bn in capital investment and approximately 73,400 jobs. As the region has already surpassed 2019 international tourist arrives levels, this gives a positive investor confidence in the region’s tourism sector’s long term profitability
  • Middle East and Africa: Between 2019 and 2023, the Middle East and Africa recorded 314 tourism FDI projects, totalling an estimated $18.1bn in capital investment and creating approximately 40,700 jobs. The number of tourism FDI projects in the region increased by 16.1%between 2022 and 2023, from 62 to 72, with capital investment growing by 12.2%.

Sustainability and Innovation in Focus

The report identifies an increasing focus on sustainable tourism investments, as destinations leverage innovation and technology, including AI and blockchain, to reduce environmental impact while enhancing visitor experiences, and the growing involvement and appetite of sovereign wealth funds, as they believe that the long term future of the tourism sector looks positive and profitable.

A Call for Sustainable Growth

In light of the industry’s complex recovery, the fDi Tourism Investment Report 2024 advocates for quality over quantity in tourism. It suggests that diversification of destinations, implementation of eco-friendly policies, and advancements in sustainable infrastructure are essential for ensuring long-term growth in global tourism.

Jacopo Dettoni, Editor-in-Chief at fDi Intelligence, emphasized the significance of sustainable tourism, noting, “The world we live in has changed, and so must our approach to tourism. Climate change and resource management are reshaping how and where people travel, which calls for a responsible shift toward sustainable investments.”

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The rise of new technologies and the need for greater sustainability are constantly impacting the tourism sector, presenting both opportunities and challenges that call for innovative approaches. More and better-targeted investment will be key to transforming the tourism sector, creating jobs, and driving inclusive and sustainable growth.”

UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona adds: “This report offers a comprehensive, data-backed perspective on the state of play in greenfield tourism investments, enabling policymakers and industry leaders to make sound, future-oriented decisions for sustainable growth. Investing in people, particularly younger generations, is key as the tourism industry employs more than 50% of the global workforce under the age of 25. As we move forward, our focus on innovation and strategic investments will adapt to the evolving needs of travellers, support community wellbeing, and ensure the sustainability of the sector and our planet.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News