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PATA Gold Award Winners to be Announced Live September 8

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PATA Gold Award Winners to be Announced Live September 8 - TRAVELINDEX - VISITMACAO.orgMacao, Macao SAR, September 6, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) will be announcing the winners of the 2021 PATA Gold Awards live on September 8, 2021.

Supported and sponsored since 1995 by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), this year’s awards will recognise the achievements of 18 Gold Awards and two Grand Title Winners during the virtual 2021 PATA Gold Awards Presentation on Wednesday, September 8 at 12.30 pm Macao, China time (GMT+8).

The winners were chosen by an independent judging committee of 18 select travel industry peers from around the world.

Ms Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of MGTO, said, ““In these challenging times due to the pandemic, the best practices in tourism marketing and sustainability to be unveiled by the PATA Gold Awards are even more deserving of our attention as they show the tourism industry at its best. I look forward to seeing you join us at this year’s virtual ceremony to announce the list of awardees live. Macao is honoured to continue its long-standing support to PATA and contribute to rebuild a more sustainable tourism industry.”

PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera said, “The winners of the PATA Gold Awards set industry standards for excellence and innovation and provides the Association with the perfect opportunity to recognise and reward the very best the Asia Pacific travel industry has to offer. I encourage all industry stakeholders to join us in celebrating the achievements of all the winners and be inspired by their accomplishments. In addition, we are sincerely grateful to MGTO for once again sponsoring the PATA Gold Awards 2021 and for their continued commitment to a responsible and sustainable tourism industry.”

PATA will present 18 Gold Awards and two Grand Title Winners for best of show entries in Marketing, and Sustainability and Social Responsibility.

All interested parties can register for the event at

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok Iconic Shopping Centers Reopen

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Bangkok Iconic Shopping Centers Reopen

Bangkok, Thailand, September 2, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Shopping centers now reopen, according to Thailand’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA)’s ease of business restrictions so that people can restore their normal lives as close to normal as possible. OneSiam – the synergy of Siam Paragon Siam Center and Siam Discovery together with ICONSIAM and their tenants now open under strict preventive pandemic  control measures as well as health screening 100 percent of the staffs before resuming their operation. These stringent measures are to ensure utmost confidence to retail businesses in the shopping centers, tenants, staff and customers. The reopening is rolled out under “One Smile Forward” concept – that all of us will move forward, to embrace this new normal together.

Siam Paragon Siam Center and Siam Discovery together with ICONSIAM have taken hygiene and health safety measures our top priorities and has been taken proactive measures to the highest level, applied to  both our staffs and visitors. The shopping centers’ operation has been strictly carried under the guidelines by the Department of Disease Control and the Ministry of Public Health since the early spread of Covid-1 in 2020. The reopening is also operated under maximum preventive pandemic control measures and stringent staff screening before the official reopening, to reassure visitors’ utmost safety.

Naratipe Ruttapradid, Senior Executive Vice President – Operation, Siam Piwat Co., Ltd, said “Siam Paragon Siam Center, Siam Discovery and ICONSIAM now open under the highest level of sanitization and health safety measures, in compliance with guidance from CCSA to curb the  so that businesses are able to reopen safely and sustainably. We are implementing Covid-Free Setting Protocol to ensure best safety to our staffs and visitors. Our measures include stringent staff screening before resuming their operations. All staffs on duties must be vaccinated and tested negative with the antigen test kit, Thai Safe Thai platform registration, staffs must wear protective face masks at all time and strictly follow D-M-H-T-T rules (Distancing, Mask wearing, Hand washing, Testing, and using the Thai Chana app). Individual retail setting and food operators must complete self-assessment for Thai Stop Covid+ standard as instructed by the Ministry of Public Health.

The operation system is effectively maintained such as sanitizing the air cooling, air ventilation system,  water quality control, proactive big cleaning with disinfectant spray in the public areas and in the shops. Frequent touch points are sanitized every 30 minutes. Car park cards are cleaned after each use to ensure maximum hygiene and safety for both staffs and customers.

For visitors, we recommend they strictly adhere to the hygienic measures to best safeguard themselves including check-in and check-out via Thai Chana platform in comply with CCSA’s guideline. Visitors must wear facemasks at all time and follow the shopping centers’ mandatory such as frequent use of hand sanitizer, health screening at the checkpoint, safeguard themselves and use cashless or E-payment system for safety and convenience.

Additional facilities are on offered. Touchless Building Facilities are installed such as automatic parking entrance without having to receive car park card, automatic parking fee payment is an option for customers who prefer cashless service over paying cash at the exit, automatic hand sanitizers in the properties and elevators and for the restrooms – taps, toilets, and hand sop dispensers are automatic.

“We strictly comply to CCSA’s regulations at the maximum levels to leverage our hygiene and health safety measures to the highest levels, to ensure safe journeys to all visitors. We would like to be a part to support the government in encouraging Thai people to strictly safeguard themselves according to the measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19, to steer our country out of the crisis,” said Naratipe.

Siam Piwat is confident that OneSiam – the synergy of Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery together with ICONSIAM are more than ready to serves our customers under the most stringent levels of hygiene and health safety. We want to bring back happiness and smiles to everyone. The reopening, under the government’s announcement, is under the concept “One Smile Forward.” Indulging promotion campaigns for shoppers are also on offer, to bring happiness, good experienced and smiles to all, from this moment on.

The operation hour (until further notice)
ICONSIAM: 11.00 -20.00 hrs.
For more information, please call 1338
Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery
Monday – Friday: 11.00 -20.00 hrs.
Saturday – Sunday: 10.00 -20.00 hrs
Gourmet Market at Siam Paragon: opens daily 10.00 -20.00 hrs

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Centara EarthCare Announced as GSTC-Recognized Standard

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Centara EarthCare Announced as GSTC-Recognized Standard

Bangkok, Thailand, August 31, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is pleased to announce that the Centara EarthCare has achieved the ‘GSTC-Recognized Standard’ status. Centara Hotels & Resorts is a Thai leading hotel operator with 48 properties throughout the Kingdom of Thailand, and 36 properties overseas including the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. There are six different brands within Centara.

The Centara EarthCare is Centara’s internal sustainability standard, used by the group’s hotels and resorts for adherence to sustainable practices based on the GSTC Criteria. For tracking, measuring and improving in areas of environmental sustainability and social responsibility at property or multi-site level, Centara is using the Greenview Portal, which is a GSTC-Recognized System. The platform allows Centara to track, benchmark, report and improve on various aspects of environmental and social performance.

By 2025, Centara aims to have 100% of its properties certified as sustainable by accredited certification bodies, further demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to long-term sustainability.

“By adopting sustainable, green practices, we are actively choosing to be more aware of our environmental impact. This not only protects the natural surroundings that enhance the guest experience in so many of the locations where we operate, it also creates long-term benefits for the company, our customers and our employees. Setting long-term sustainability goals allows us to incorporate green practices into our identity and ensures that all our stakeholders are aligned with Centara’s values and vision for a more mindful, ecologically conscious future,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

The GSTC-Recognized status refers to the standard itself and means that a sustainable tourism standard or system has been reviewed by GSTC technical experts and the GSTC Assurance Panel and deemed the standard or system equivalent to the GSTC Criteria for sustainable tourism. It shows that the set of standards are based on the 4 pillars of the GSTC Criteria: Environment, Social, Cultural, and Management principles. This does not relate to the process of certification, nor to accreditation.

“Centara is the first Asian hospitality group to formally incorporate the GSTC Criteria in its internal sustainability system, along with long-term sustainability plans and goals, applying meaningful sustainability practices into their management approaches. We are proud to formally confirm Centara EarthCare’s compliance with the GSTC Criteria by undergoing the process of GSTC Recognition,” says Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC. “By using GSTC-Recognized systems, hotel and tourism companies are able to embed the GSTC Criteria, which includes the full range of environmental and social considerations specifically developed for the tourism sector, throughout their management processes and set them on the path of continuous improvement and towards third-party external certification.”

Currently, 11 destination standards, 34 hotel standards, and 15 tour operator standards have achieved GSTC-Recognized status. The status offers the market a proof that these standards adhere to international norms. GSTC Recognition does not ensure that a certification process is reliable, only that the set of standards used to certify are equivalent to the GSTC Criteria. GSTC-Recognized standard owners are encouraged to complete the accreditation process, which assures that the certification process used to apply the standard meets international best practice, transparent, and rigor. List of GSTC-Accredited certification bodies is available here.

About the GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, known as the GSTC Criteria. There are two sets: Destination Criteria for public policy-makers and destination managers, and Industry Criteria for hotels and tour operators. These are the guiding principles and minimum requirements that any tourism business or destination should aspire to reach in order to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources, while ensuring tourism meets its potential as a tool for conservation and poverty alleviation.

The GSTC Criteria form the foundation for Accreditation of Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services; but it accredits those that do. The GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including UN agencies, NGO’s, national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism.

About Centara Hotels & Resorts
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 84 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. The group’s newest Centara Reserve brand was unveiled in 2020 as an experiential luxury collection, inviting guests to discover a new era of story-driven hospitality starting with Centara Reserve Samui.

Centara also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

 

 

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Slate Phuket Prepares to Welcome Businesses Back

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The Slate Phuket Prepares to Welcome Businesses Back

Phuket, Thailand, August 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Bill Bensley’s whimsical beachfront resort looks forward to the return of domestic and international events with two attractive MICE packages that combine world-class meetings with innovative elements and an all-new Art Journey. The Slate is a great MICE venue for art lovers. This stylish space outside the pillar-free Tongkah Hall is perfect for pre-function gatherings, creative coffee breaks and original exhibitions. The Slate, art-inspired beachfront resort on Phuket’s secluded northwest coast, is preparing for the return of business meetings with a series of attractive MICE packages that combine world-class facilities and out-of-the-box experiences to create truly exceptional events.

• Discover the Phuket and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Following 18 months of travel restrictions, The Slate foresees plenty of pent-up demand for face-to-face corporate functions. While online meeting tools such as Zoom have played an important role in connecting people during the pandemic, there is no substitute for personal contact and many companies are already planning to host their long-awaited events in 2022. For businesses that want to encourage and incentivise their teams after a challenging time, there can be few better places than The Slate, where Bill Bensley’s breath-taking design blends seamlessly with the tropical landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Phuket.

With 25 acres of inspiring space, including lush landscaped gardens, The Slate offers endless event options to enable the safe restart of domestic and international events, The Slate has crafted a pair of packages that include plenty of added value, so every company can maximise their MICE budget. The Slate understands that for every organisation, the health and safety of its associates is its top priority. With this in mind, these new packages will allow groups of guests to come together in an uplifting ambience, while also taking every precaution to take care of delegates.

Under the Meet Again at The Slate package, businesses will benefit from reconfigured venues that strike the perfect balance between personal connections and physical space, including the use of larger areas for smaller groups and one-way systems to ensure social distancing. In line with the hotel’s advanced biosecurity measures, all attendees will be subject to temperature checks, advanced sanitation procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE), and all facilities will undergo intensive deep cleaning.

Half-day and full-day meeting packages are available, including private roundtrip airport transfers, fully-equipped function room rental, priority check-in, a dedicated hospitality desk, a 30-minute cocktail reception upon arrival, daily breakfast, coffee breaks, a conference lunch, late check-out, a one-hour outdoor team activity and a group photo, which will be framed and presented to each guest as a turndown gift. To boost the group’s wellbeing, a choice of yoga and meditation breaks will be offered to cleanse the mind, body and soul, guests will be able to plant herbs in the resort’s organic garden, and every attendee will enjoy 20% discounts at the award-winning Coqoon Spa and KRU Precision Wellness, the onsite healthcare facility.

Priced at THB 1,600 per person for a half-day meeting package and THB 1,800 for a full-day package, this offer is valid for bookings made until 30th April 2022 and events staged by 31st October 2022, for groups of 30-50 guests. One VIP will also be treated to a complimentary upgrade to a Private Pool Suite.

Alternatively, the Healthy Meeting at The Slate package lets event planners create salubrious experiences that are inspired by the natural, transformative elements of Nai Yang Beach. Ideal for corporate away days, company conferences and team-building sessions, this four-day, three-night package includes luxurious accommodation (starting from a Pearl Bed Suite), daily breakfast with fresh juice, smoothies and nutrient-packed dishes, two full-day meeting packages with wholesome morning and afternoon breaks, a specially prepared conference lunch with options for vegans and vegetarians, and a gala dinner. To enhance physical and mental wellbeing, The Slate will also provide 20-minute stretchercise and sunset rituals, along with mindfulness moments at KRU Precision Wellness, and the meeting room will even include fitness elements.

• Discover the Phuket and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Priced at THB 16,888 (single) and THB 11,888 (double), this innovative health-giving package is valid until 31st October 2022 for groups of 20-50 people.

Rivet, the modern Japanese restaurant, is a sophisticated and intriguing setting for one-of-a-kind dining experiences The Slate is a heavenly destination for business events, with a collection of modern meeting spaces that blend international amenities with authentic Thai grace and charm, all surrounded by Bill Bensley’s whimsical dreamscapes and original artworks. To showcase The Slate’s artistic interiors, the new Art Journey is an intriguing, QR code-enabled tour that transports guests through this living gallery and introduces its original sculptures and installations.

Dirty Monstera is a mysterious spot nestled deep within The Slate – ideal for informal get-togethers and after-parties Meeting planners can choose from a selection of state-of-the-art venues, including the pillar-free 500-pax Tongkah Hall, the bright and bold Jomon Pavilion with its vast windows, elevated ceilings and skylights, two more intimate suites, and the Coliseum Garden, an enchanting space for alfresco receptions and cocktail evenings under the stars. Every occasion will be fully supported by expert planners who can think out of the box and craft truly unique concepts.

About The Slate, A Phuket Pearl Resort
Inspired by Phuket’s tin mining past, The Slate blends Bill Bensley’s whimsical design with industrial elements to create highly unique guest experiences. A collection of stunning suites and villas, including pool villas and the spectacular Bensley Suite, surround glistening pools and gardens, and the serene Coqoon Spa blends seamlessly into the natural landscape. Discover delectable dining in a selection of stylish restaurants and bars, enjoy authentic locally-inspired activities, from yoga to Muay Thai, or simply stroll along the pure shores of Nai Yang Beach.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Hotels Unveils Serene Destination in Phuket

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Accor Hotels Unveils Serene Destination in Phuket - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS-PHUKETPhuket, Thailand, August 26, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / MGallery Hotel Collection, part of the world-leading Accor group, has unveiled its latest storied offering in Thailand, with the opening of V Villas Phuket – MGallery. Inspired by the lush nature found on the southern tip of this tropical island, the boutique resort is perfect for travellers seeking an enriching escape into unparalleled privacy and bespoke indulgence.

• Discover the Phuket’s Best Luxury Hotels and Prestigious Hotel Awards in Phuket and around the Worlds at Top25Hotels.com

The 19-pool villa resort seamlessly blends a charming landscape, absolute privacy, and captivating Andaman Ocean views for the most memorable island escape

V Villas Phuket – MGallery offers the utmost privacy with a collection of 19 pool villas, offered in one-, three- and four-bedroom configurations. Each villa boasts charming interiors with a natural colour palette, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive wooden decks that allow for a seamless blend between indoor and outdoor living. Well-heeled travellers, families, and couples will discover a resort that allows guests to immerse in nature whilst enjoying the seclusion of their villa with spacious bedrooms, vast en suite bathrooms with twin spa baths, private infinity pools, and 24-hour butler service.

Perched on the verdant Ao Yon hillside allowing for vast ocean views, the design of the resort truly embraces the landscape of the property. Villas, restaurants and the spa hover above the trees, blend into the hills, and seamlessly connect with the outdoors. Natural materials, bespoke design and locally inspired art pieces can be admired throughout the resort, with unique stories waiting to be uncovered by engaged explorers who appreciate the original and authentic experiences for which the MGallery collection is renowned.

“The opening of our third MGallery resort in Phuket is testament to our confidence that travellers will continue to seek out more authentic and meaningful experiences. The MGallery collection now boasts more than 100 addresses globally, each one singularly captivating and unique in its own right, for a truly boutique experience. MGallery guests are inspired through their visits to these stylish, thoughtful and decidedly singular hotels, so we are delighted to unveil this new destination in Phuket for those seeking a truly serene experience overlooking the Andaman Sea. We know that the privacy and natural beauty of V Villas Phuket – MGallery will be a drawcard for many explorers as the world reopens,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor, Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea.

Gastronomic excellence and breath-taking ocean views make for a memorable dining experience. Yon|Ocean House offers three distinct dining spaces, the highlight being an outdoor terrace surrounded by tropical greenery. The restaurant serves Thai coastal cuisine and European-inspired dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The wine cellar houses an extensive wine list with esteemed labels from around the world. Soaring 55 meters above sea level, AKOYA|Star Lounge is a stunning sunset spot, offering a relaxed rooftop bar experience with gorgeous 360-degree ocean and night sky views, ideal for intimate social gatherings.

The resort’s holistic wellness offerings will enable guests to feel truly revitalized throughout their stay. The treatments at V Villas Spa take inspiration from locally cultivated pearls and the restorative energies of sunlight and nature. Below the resort, pearls have been harvested from the azure waters of Ao Yon Bay for many years, and guests will discover various links to this precious gemstone throughout the resort. The gym features state-of-art fitness equipment, whilst swimmers and sunbathers can relax at the main infinity pool that merges with the seaside horizon. The resort also offers personalised wellness programs and in-villa yoga classes.

Three outstanding wedding venues, including the YON|Ocean House, AKOYA|Star Lounge, Hilltop Cliff and Owner’s Villa, each provide romantic luxury wedding experiences with Andaman ocean views. The resort’s wedding specialists can assist in all arrangements from the pre-wedding party to the ceremony.

• Discover the Phuket’s Best Luxury Hotels and Prestigious Hotel Awards in Phuket and around the Worlds at Top25Hotels.com

“V Villas Phuket – MGallery will offer guests a new way to experience Phuket. Every detail of the resort is in harmony with nature, sunlight, an ocean views. Its Cliffside location will make guests feel like floating above Ao Yon Bay. Our butlers are dedicated to meeting guests’ every desire and making their holiday memorable. We are truly excited to welcome guests for a singular experience rooted in nature and absolute indulgence,” said Pannaphat Lapa, Hotel Manager of V Villas Phuket – MGallery.

V Villas Phuket – MGallery is located above the pristine Ao Yon Beach, which can be reached by foot from the resort via a hidden pathway that winds through the hillside, among the natural landscape and local residences. The resort is located one hours’ drive from Phuket International Airport and a 15-minute drive to the culturally rich Phuket Old Town.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Welcomes Renowned Thai Film Director

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Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Welcomes Renowned Thai Film Director

Phuket, Thailand, August 25, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket, led by Andres Rubio, General Manager of the hotel together with Boonsong Suratod, Front Office Manager of the hotel, recently welcomed Apichatpong Weerasethakul, the famous Thai film director, during his stay under the Phuket Sandbox campaign at Cape Panwa Hotel.

Cape Panwa Hotel is one of the luxury hotels in Phuket that passed the Safe Travel Standard (SHA Plus+) under the supervision of the TAT and have been certified as safe travel by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

Image caption: Andres Rubio, General Manager (right), Boonsong Suratod, Front Office Manager (left), Apichatpong Weerasethakul(centre).

For more information, please contact Public Relations Department: Tel 02 253 3791-7 Ext. 144, 215
Website: www.capekantaryhotels.com

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary Nominated for Top 25 Luxury Hotels in the World

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Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary Nominated for Top 25 Luxury Hotels in the World - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, August 23, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Kamalaya has been one of the top destinations for people seeking to improve their health and well-being for the last 15 years and is delighted to be recognized as one of the leaders in the world with this prestigious nomination at Top25 Hotels.

“It is a joy and an honor for the whole team to be counted among the best hotels in the world. Kamalaya has stayed open during this whole challenging time, and each one of our fantastic hosts truly deserves this nomination“, says Bruce Ryde, Kamalaya’s General Manager. “And while we watch the world slowly recover, we become increasingly aware of how much we need physical and emotional balance. Therefore, I am happy to announce that we can bring the authentic Kamalaya experience to your own home while you are waiting to travel to Thailand. We called it ‘Kamalaya Connect’ because it allows everyone to take full advantage of the legendary holistic wellness expertise. Our online platform provides access to custom-made wellness programs and educational courses, personalized support from expert practitioners and one-on-one consultations, engaging podcasts and helpful life-hacks on health, food, and wellness. The only thing that’s missing is the beach.”

How does it work?

Kamalaya’s approach to wellness has always been holistic, considering every aspect of a guest’s health. Body, heart, and mind are all given careful attention to achieve optimal goals. And exactly like at Kamalaya Koh Samui, at the beginning of a Kamalaya Connect journey, guests decide on which area of their life they want to focus on: increase physical energy and strength, relieve stress and anxiety, or find a new peace of mind.

There are four wellness programs to choose from: Emotional Transformation, Fit for Life, Immune Support and Weight Management. Each program consists of tailormade one-on-one sessions and depending on the choice, they include personal mentoring and stress management, individual meditation, yoga, Pilates, physiotherapy exercises and breathing classes, nutritional guidance, and mindfulness training. Together with a wellness expert, a schedule is set up to follow the program – just like someone would at Kamalaya Koh Samui.

Wellness programs start from USD 684, or guests may prefer to instead book select wellness consultations, which start at USD 86. All Kamalaya Connect bookings can be made directly online.

With this wonderful worldwide recognition of our wellness expertise, our hosts are looking forward to welcoming guests from near and far to discover for themselves the magic of Kamalaya.

About Kamalaya Koh Samui
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa is a multi-award-winning wellness sanctuary located on the southern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. Founded by John and Karina Stewart in 2005, Kamalaya offers a synergistic wellness experience that helps people reconnect to life’s potential and achieve optimal wellbeing. It integrates healing therapies from East and West, a beautiful natural environment, inspired healthy gourmet cuisine and a variety of results-oriented wellness programs ranging from Detoxification to Stress & Burnout, as well as Healthy Lifestyle, Yoga Synergy and Emotional Balance. Kamalaya’s latest wellness program ‘Immunity & Resilience’ was launched in May 2020. It is dedicated to support physical health and resilience of heart and mind. More info: www.kamalaya.com

About Top25Hotels.com – World’s Best Luxury Hotels
Top25Hotels.com is a collection of exceptional hotels, resorts, eco-lodges, retreats and private islands featuring the top 25 luxury properties in the world and each destination. Top25Hotels.com by Travelindex is the world’s only rating system based on natural language processing technology combined with human expertise. The ratings and rankings are synthesized by a proprietary, artificial intelligence algorithm and re-assessed by some of the world’s top hospitality experts. The company puts a priority on the integration of reliable data with human discernment to make trusted information accessible to all.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dusit Hotels Invests in Technological Transformation

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Dusit Hotels Invests in Technological Transformation - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 21, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has completed the first stage of its most significant technologi-cal transformation project to date – including investing in the latest cloud-based ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), and Data Management soft-ware to drive group-wide efficiency across its five business units (Hotels and Resorts, Hospitality Education, Food, Property Development, and Hospitality-Related Services) and leverage big data to create exceptional consumer experiences and identify new business opportunities in line with Dusit’s three-pronged strategy for balance, expansion, and diversification.

Hospitality company’s accelerated overhaul of its legacy core systems and software will help to drive efficiency, increase business resilience, and lay the foundation for long-term value creation across all of its business units.

Carried out as part of Dusit’s strategic roadmap for technological transformation, which was first announced in January 2019 and expedited to increase business resilience in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the project encompasses the entire Dusit group, including 24 different enti-ties across 17 countries.

The state-of-the-art cloud-based software Dusit is implementing includes SAP S/4HANA, which includes centralised processes for everything from finance and accounting to inventory and purchasing on a single, unified ERP solution; Microsoft Azure, for secure data storage and management; and Cendyn, for efficient group-wide CRM. The new ERP system is now live, with the integrated CRM and Data Management elements set to be introduced later this year

“While investing in such a significant project during this uncertain period may seem against the grain, for swift post-pandemic recovery we must deeply understand the needs of consumers and how we can best meet and, most importantly, exceed their expectations with our various services and products, and investment in this area is of critical importance,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “During the pandemic, personalisation has become a key expectation across so many industries – especially hospitality – and digital-savvy consumers have demonstrated a growing need for highly customised experiences that they can enjoy on their terms. Key to meeting these expectations is data. And the more effectively and efficiently we can collect and use data, the greater our ability to create products, services and experiences that make our customers feel exceptional.”

Throughout the pandemic, which has significantly impacted Dusit’s core hotel business, the company has optimised its operations around total revenue generation, rather than cost-cutting, and innovated its way through the challenges by seeking ways to leverage its existing strengths and resources to create additional experience, convenience, and value for its guests and customers.

Chief among its efforts has been the introduction of four new pillars of Dusit Graciousness –Service (personalised and gracious), Well-Being (delivering wellness experiences beyond the spa), Locality (uniquely linking guests with the local community), and Sustainability (social, eco-nomic, and environmental) – and creating new experiences in each of these areas.

“Our company, like many others, has had to transform our organisation and rethink our capabili-ties to enhance our resiliency and deliver not only short-term financial improvement, but also long-term value creation through innovation, efficiency, and agility,” said Ms Suthumpun. “From a product standpoint, we have also had to swiftly yet considerately reimagine our services and put the infrastructure in place to ensure our hotels and resorts can suitably cater to accelerated trends – and ultimately achieve long-term success.

“The new real-time, centralised solutions we have invested in as part of our significant group-wide technological transformation will expedite our efforts in these areas, allowing us to deliver the value-driven experiences our existing guests and customers expect and deserve, efficiently identify new market segments, and ultimately position our properties for long-term value creation to the benefit of all stakeholders.”

Making further use of digital technology, Dusit recently expanded into e-commerce by launching dedicated stores on the popular LINE Shopping and LazMall platforms.

Aimed at consumers in Thailand and featuring attractive promotions on stays, meals and fitness experiences at Dusit Hotels and Resorts throughout the kingdom, the online shops continue Du-sit’s efforts to establish new sources of recurring domestic revenue while the country’s borders are closed to international travel.

“While the effects of the pandemic will be felt for some time, we firmly believe that travel will come back stronger than ever when the COVID-19 situation improves,” said Ms Suthumpun. “And we are confident that our technological transformation and new customer offerings will contribute significantly to driving short- and long-term business, extending our market reach, and cementing the competitive advantage of Dusit Hotels and Resorts and our other business units worldwide.”

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Ex-change of Thailand. Building on its two core areas of business – Hotels & Resorts and Hospitality Education – the company has expanded its operations over the past four years to comprise five business units. The additional units include Foods, Property Development, and Hospitality-Related Services. Today, the company’s property portfolio comprises more than 300 distinctive hotels, resorts and luxury villas operating under six brands across 17 countries worldwide, as well as two leading hospitality colleges with campuses in Thailand and the Philippines. Following a three-pronged strategy for sustainable growth, including balance, expansion and diversification, the company has recently expanded into food production, on-demand hospitality services, and property development to reach new markets and add further recurring streams of revenue to the company.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Phuket Tourism Leaders Hail Approval of Sputnik Vaccine

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Phuket Tourism Leaders Hail Approval of Sputnik Vaccine

Phuket, Thailand, August 20, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism stakeholders in Phuket are heralding the landmark approval of the Sputnik vaccine by the Thailand’s Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) that is set to unleash the Russian market on the southern Thai island. Industry eyes a portion of the 700,000-plus direct-to-Phuket Russian arrivals over a five-month period (November-March) as the so-called “snowbirds” plan their return.

Phuket has for years been a very popular destination with Russian travellers, peaking in 2019 with over 700,000 arrivals in a short five-month period in 2019, all arriving on direct flights from the Russian Federation. A total of 1.4 million Russians visited Phuket in 2019.

The traditional snowbird period from November to March is when temperatures drop severely in Russia and also in many parts of northern Europe, signaling travelers to take flight for the tropical chimes and clear blue skies of Phuket.

“This is great news for Phuket. It’s time to go beyond the Sandbox and build a foundation for a broader tourism initiative,” said Phuket Tourist Association President, Bhummikitti Ruktaengam. “The industry can now get back to basics and focus on the northern European winter season. This is a big opportunity for Phuket. These are our legacy markets.”

Laguna Phuket, an integrated destination in the popular Bangtao Beach area, consisting of seven hotels, a Bangkok Hospital operated PCR test-centre and acres of open spaces, gardens and lagoons, has already been a beneficiary of the Phuket Sandbox given its safe haven reputation, but this is a major step up according to its Managing Director, Ravi Chandran.

• Discover the Phuklet’s Best Luxury Hotels and Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

“The acceptance of the Sputnik vaccine is a game-changer for Phuket,” he said. “The outbound Russian market is the biggest one in the world outside of China and the timing is perfect with the high season starting in November this year. Phuket Sandbox has proven to be a success and this will now take these achievements to greater heights still for all hotels, tourism stakeholders and the local community on the island.”

Since July 1, over 300,000 hotel rooms have been booked up until the end of August by international visitors arriving via the Phuket Sandbox initiative a number expected to rapidly rise as the high season approaches. Scheduled and chartered Russian carriers are expected to arrive in Phuket from October 2021.

Talking about ‘ready-made’ market potential, C9 Hotelworks Managing Director, Bill Barnett said “coming into the 2021 winter wonderland, and changing marketplace, the Russians, who typically have a 11-12-night average length of stay, are a perfect fit for the Sandbox.”

Laguna Phuket, in association with Delivering Asia Communications and C9 Hotelworks, will be hosting a special one-hour online virtual event featuring representatives from government, tour operators, hotels and airlines on September 9 at 3pm to discuss the impending arrival of the Russian market to Phuket.

About Laguna Phuket
Laguna Phuket resort is home to 7 deluxe hotels; Angsana Laguna Phuket, Angsana Villas Resort Phuket, Banyan Tree Phuket, Cassia Phuket, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, Laguna Holiday Club Phuket Resort and SAii Laguna Phuket – all sharing 1,000 acres of tropical parkland along a 3-kilometre stretch of the pristine Bangtao Beach. Facilities and services include 18-hole award winning golf course, world-renowned spas, shopping village, tour operators and MICE-certified event and facilitator teams. With inter-resort transportation allowing guests to travel anywhere within minutes via shuttle bus or ferry.

For attractive Phuket Sandbox hotel packages, visit Top25Hotels.com

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thailand Confirms Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension

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Thailand Confirms Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension

Phuket, Thailand, August 18, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to announce that the Phuket Sandbox programme has received the green light from the Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) to be upgraded as the “Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension” providing fully vaccinated international travellers with more options to visit multiple Thai destinations without the need to quarantine.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said, “The Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension programme signifies the progress of Thailand’s plan to gradually reopen to fully vaccinated international travellers within the set time frame. The launch of the Phuket Sandbox from 1 July, Samui Plus from 15 July, and Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension from 16 August will lead the way to the reopening of more pilot destinations, which are currently preparing appropriate measures to ensure the health and safety of both the tourists and local people.”

Starting from 16 August, 2021, the “Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension” programme allows eligible international travellers to reduce the mandatory stay in Phuket from 14 to 7 days, after which another 7 nights can be spent in Krabi (Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai, or Railay), Phang-Nga (Khao Lak or Ko Yao), or Surat Thani (Samui Plus – Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, or Ko Tao).

The existing entry measures in place for the Phuket Sandbox programme remain unchanged for the 7+7 extension. But, travellers planning to spend another 7 nights outside of Phuket must obtain a ‘Transfer Form’ issued by their hotel in Phuket indicating that they have stayed in Phuket for 7 nights, which they will need to show together with the negative results of their two COVID-19 tests (conducted on Day 0 and Day 6-7 in Phuket).

Travelling from Phuket to the selected areas in Krabi, Phang-Nga, or Surat Thai is available only via approved routes and modes of transport.

Surat Thani (Samui Plus – Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, or Ko Tao) can be reached via Bangkok Airways’ direct domestic flight on the Phuket-Ko Samui route.

Krabi (Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai, or Railay) can be reached by SHA Plus-certified boat and ferry services from approved piers.

Phang-Nga (Khao Lak) can be reached by SHA Plus-certified car transfer services from Phuket direct to the SHA Plus-certified hotels.

Phang-Nga (Ko Yao Noi or Ko Yao Yai) can be reached via SHA Plus-certified boat and ferry services from approved piers.

Once travellers have completed the 7-night extension in Krabi, Phang-Nga and Surat Thani (Samui Plus), and are tested negative in their third COVID-19 test (conducted on Day 12-13), they will receive a ‘Release Form’ from their hotel and will be able to continue their journey to other destinations in Thailand.

If the stay in Krabi, Phang-Nga or Surat Thani (Samui+) is less than 7 nights, travellers must proceed directly to Phuket International Airport on the day of departure. At the port of entry back into Phuket, they will need to show a plane ticket or other proof of their international travel from Phuket.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News