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TAAN Introducing Luxurious Dinner Under the AYUTTHAYA Concept

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TAAN Introducing Luxurious Dinner Under the AYUTTHAYA Concept - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, August 29, 2023 / TOP25RESTAURANTS / TAAN by Pranai Phornprapha, Managing director of Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok and Chef Monthep Kamolsilp, TAAN Executive Chef invite you to experience new seasonal menu, “Ayutthaya” inspired by the ancient city of Ayutthaya, this menu pays homage to the diverse influences that have contributed to Thailand’s culinary heritage. With the honor from Natapohn Tameeruks, Peranee Kongthai, Nittha Kuhapremkit, Jongkol Palarit, Veekrit Palarit, Janesuda Parnto, and Paul Sirisant at TAAN 25th Fl. Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok.

TAAN’s creative Thai cuisine celebrates the country’s food artisans and their unique ingredients. Chef and his kitchen team pride themselves on working closely with independent local farmers, whose high-quality, seasonal ingredients provide the inspiration for an ever-changing menu.

Every dish here has a story to tell. The name TAAN itself comes from the Thai word meaning “to have a meal” and it is also a play on pra-taan, which means leader or head of a group. In this respect, TAAN serves farmer-led food. Familiar flavor profiles meet with unexpected combinations and timeless techniques for curries, grilled dishes and soups that are new but unmistakably Thai.

Going beyond a mere culinary experience, the menu aims to connect diners with the cultural heritage and culinary journey that have shaped Thai cuisine. Each course tells a story of tradition, innovation, and enduring flavors that have been passed down through generations, celebrating the past, present, and future of Thai cooking. Immersed in the atmosphere of Ayutthaya through the decorations from Bad Burger, representatives of a group of undergraduate art students from various regions across Thailand come together to present contemporary art, completing the ambiance for the perfect dinner.

Perched on the 25th floor of Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok, TAAN welcomes diners with sweeping 180-degree views of the inner city. To one side is the charming Old Town with its low-rise buildings stretching to the Chao Phraya River; to the other, the vibrant Siam neighborhood with its gleaming malls and sport stadiums.

You are inviting to experience new seasonal menu, “Ayutthaya” at TAAN THB 3,190 ++

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Unveils The Ultimate Jazz Afternoon Tea Experience

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 Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Unveils The Ultimate Jazz Afternoon Tea Experience - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 28, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Living Room at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok’s premier destination for live jazz music, is proud to announce the launch of its all-new Jazz Afternoon Tea experience on 26 August 2023. Renowned for hosting some of the finest musicians on the jazz scene, including multiple Grammy Award winners, the venue is now poised to elevate your afternoon tea experience with a live duo jazz band accompaniment.

Our commitment has always been to offer unparalleled experiences to our guests,” said Mr. Andras Borocz, Director of Food and Beverage, reflecting on the ethos of The Living Room. “Throughout our journey, we’ve constantly sought to elevate the sensory experiences of our patrons. With the Jazz Afternoon Tea, we are setting a new benchmark. We believe in evoking emotions, and what better way than by blending the elegance of our afternoon tea with the raw, soulful power of live jazz? Our Jazz Afternoon Tea isn’t just a meal; it’s a crescendo of senses, a serenade for the soul.” Behind this innovative experience lies the synthesis of two arts ¬– culinary finesse that goes into each bite served and the enchanting melodies of live jazz — music that moves, that tells stories, that resonates deep within the soul.

The Jazz Afternoon Tea presents a selection of savouries and sweets on a unique tea stand, artfully crafted from classic wind instruments like the French horn, saxophone, and trumpet. This stand, with its elevated tiers for treats, seamlessly merges the culinary and musical worlds. Begin with an indulgent selection of savoury treats, from the refined Iberico ham paired with refreshing mint and compressed melon, to the rich smoked salmon on rye bread, enhanced with horseradish crème and ikura. For those with an affinity for traditional flavours, the Skagen toast – a classic Swedish shrimp masterpiece – and the decadent watercress and egg sandwich topped with truffle caviar are sure to captivate. As you transition to the sweeter side of the menu, freshly baked classic scones await, perfectly paired with clotted cream and strawberry jam. Dive deeper into a world of desserts with enticing strawberry truffles, salted caramel lollipops enrobed in sumptuous chocolate, fragrant lavender and white chocolate mousse, tart green apple mousse, and a lavish honey & lemon cheesecake. Enhance your afternoon indulgence with a handpicked selection of TWG teas or a hearty Segafredo coffee. For an added touch of luxury, guests can elevate their experience with a sparkling glass of prosecco. The pricing for this opulent affair is THB 1,200++ per person, or THB 1,400++ should you choose to include the prosecco. The afternoon tea is offered every Saturday from 14:00 – 17:00 hrs.

Elevating the afternoon tea experience is the jazz duo, featuring the vocalist – Naritha Ari (Pim) and Jirayu Wantanabode (Boss) on the piano. Their synergy brings forth a blend of classic jazz standards interspersed with contemporary improvisations; their sonic tapestry complementing the gourmet offerings of the afternoon tea.

The Jazz Afternoon Tea is a testament to The Living Room’s dedication to pushing boundaries, constantly innovating, and ensuring every guest walks away with a memory, not just a meal. With a captivating live music schedule that includes piano music and live jazz sets, The Living Room promises an auditory treat for all its patrons.

For more information, please call 02 649 8888 or visit https://sheratongrandesukhumvit.info/dining

About The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection®, part of Marriott International, Inc., is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of nearly 120 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Strengthens Relationship with Israel During Official Visit

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UNWTO Strengthens Relationship with Israel During Official Visit - TRAVELINDEXTel Aviv, Israel, August 25, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX  Innovation, tourism for rural development and high-level cooperation were the focus of this week’s official visit of the UNWTO Secretary-General to Israel.

As a founding Member State, joining in 1975, Israel has played an active role in UNWTO’s work and continues to serve on several important Committees and bodies. Following on from the official visit of Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, to the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid in July, the UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili led a delegation to Israel for a series of high-level discussions around shared priorities.

In Jerusalem, Secretary-General Pololikashvili held a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel Eli Cohen. Mr Pololikashvili commended Israel’s active role in tourism governance and its commitment to several UNWTO priorities for the sector.

  • Israel is an elected member of the Task Force on Redesigning Tourism for Future. Alongside Spain, Israel was chosen to represent the region of Europe in this UNWTO subsidiary body.
  • Israel also serves as member of the UNWTO Committee on Tourism and Competitiveness for the period 2019-2023.
  • Discussions explored possibilities of deepening relations with Israel around shared priorities for tourism. The focus here was on topics including tourism innovation and entrepreneurship and also investments in tourism.

Also in Jerusalem, Secretary-General Pololikashvili and the UNWTO delegation received a warm welcome at the Ministry of Tourism, to discuss the deepening of cooperation between UNWTO and Israel. Discussions focused on shared priorities for tourism both in the country and across the wider region, most notably education, innovations, sustainability, data collection, accessibility, legal instruments

Tourism for Rural Development: Israel’s Best Tourism Villages

To conclude the official visit, the UNWTO delegation visited Kfar Kama, named as one of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO in 2022. The village was given the award in recognition of its commitment to harnessing the power of tourism to preserve and celebrate its unique local culture. The Israeli village of Neot Semadar was also selected to be part of the Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme.

Advancing Tourism Innovation

Recognizing Israel’s focus on innovation and digital transformation, the UNWTO delegation met with leading representatives of the country’s start-up community. Led by UNWTO Executive Director Natalia Bayona, the delegation worked with local innovators to identify the benefits that innovation and digital transformation can deliver both within tourism and in other economic sectors.

  • UNWTO invited the start-up community to take advantage of its leading support network for innovators, including the various UNWTO innovation programs and competitions.
  • To date, Israel participated in all UNWTO global competitions and challenges with 7 winners selected from more than 150 applicants.
  • Executive Director Bayona led discussions exploring potential opportunities to further cooperate on capacity building, training and sharing knowledge related to the innovation expertise the country has when it comes to startups, entrepreneurship in the tourism sector and how they can mentor others to scale up their projects.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Winners of 2023 PATA Gold Award Announced

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Winners of 2023 PATA Gold Award Announced - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Winners of the 2023 PATA Gold Awards are announced today by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). Generously supported and sponsored by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) since 1995, this year’s awards recognise the achievements of 23 separate organisations and individuals, including the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), Galaxy Entertainment Group, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Incheon Tourism Organization, Jeju Tourism Organization, Kerala Tourism, Korea Tourism Organization, MGM China, Nepal Tourism Board, Sabah Tourism Board, Sands China Limited, Sivatel Bangkok Hotel, SriLankan Airlines, SOTC Travel Ltd, Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tourism Fiji, and TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd.

The 2023 PATA Gold Award Presentation hosted by MGTO will take place in New Delhi, India on Thursday, October 5 during PATA Travel Mart 2023.

Ms Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office said, “Congratulations to all winners for the talent displayed in this year’s amazing initiatives which bring a new vigour to tourism in the post-pandemic era. With Macao committed to build a diverse and quality destination, we are honoured to support the PATA Gold Awards and help inspire a vibrant and sustainable development of the industry in the Asia Pacific region.”

“On behalf of PATA, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations to all PATA Gold Award winners and Grand Title winners, as well as all of this year’s participants for their submissions. I look forward to celebrating the accomplishment of this year’s winners who truly represent the values of the Association in working towards a more responsible travel and tourism industry in the Asia Pacific region,” added PATA Chair Peter Semone. “In addition, I would also like to once again thank MGTO for their valuable support and cooperation towards this mission.”

Under the guidance of PATA headquarters, 22 independent judges from around the world selected the winners of the 21 Gold Awards and two Grand Title Winners.

The PATA Grand Title Winners were presented to outstanding entries in two principal categories: Marketing, and Sustainability and Social Responsibility.

MGM China, China received the PATA Gold Award 2023 Grand Title in Marketing for its “Turning A Traditional Cultural Symbol Into A Marketing Catalyst” campaign. Ten years ago, MGM launched the Lion IP brand strategy with the first Lion Dance Championship, leveraging the lion dance – an internationally recognised Lingnan culture icon — and turned this local cultural symbol into long-term brand engagement strategy. The company proposed the development concept of “tourism+”, which champions local culture as its central theme under the Lion IP strategy. Using this one element, the team injected new vitality with modern techniques to create multiple touch points and experiences that ranged from art, exhibitions, and performances, to competitions and training programs. These initiatives transformed a common, everyday language into a powerful cultural symbol that was embraced by audiences of all ages, transcending generations and regions. The success of this strategy is seen through the results that proved how it resonates – and continues to resonate – with a local and global audience. Just as importantly, the strategy has not only inspired MGM, but has also reinvigorated the city of Macau.

The PATA Gold Award 2023 Grand Title in Sustainability and Social Responsibility was awarded to Waterbom Bali, Indonesia for its innovative ‘Karmic Returns’ program. The renowned waterpark, located in Bali, Indonesia, is at the forefront of sustainability practices. Since becoming the first waterpark to achieve carbon neutrality in 2017, Waterbom has set ambitious goals to become the world’s leading sustainable waterpark, focusing on waste, water, and energy reduction. Through its vigilant ‘Green Team,’ the park meticulously monitors, records, and reports its resource consumption, fostering a team culture of ecological awareness. Waterbom employs various methods to conserve water, including rainwater harvesting and a closed-loop filtration system, while also replacing groundwater with recharge wells. The park has an onsite waste management facility, where they create their own compost for gardens. In Q1 2023, they achieved a 97% recycling rate for materials and reduced waste sent to landfills to just 3.4%. Sustainability is deeply ingrained in the park’s ethos, influencing staff training and all operational facets. This highlights Waterbom Bali’s exceptional dedication to environmental responsibility.

Open to both PATA and non-PATA members, this year’s awards attracted a total of 108 entries from travel and tourism organisations and individuals from around the globe.

PATA Grand Title Winners 2023

Marketing
Turning A Traditional Cultural Symbol Into A Marketing Catalyst
MGM China, China

Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Karmic Returns
Waterbom Bali, Indonesia

PATA Gold Award Winners 2023 – Marketing

Marketing Campaign (National – Asia)
Through the lens of GenZ
Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong SAR

Marketing Campaign (National – Pacific)
Where Happiness Comes Naturally
Tourism Fiji, Fiji

Marketing Campaign (State and city – Global)
Pack Up for Kerala
Kerala Tourism, India

Marketing – Carrier
Around the Island
SriLankan Airlines, Sri Lanka

Marketing – Hospitality
Melco Style x B. Duck @ Studio City
Melco, Macao, China

Marketing – Industry
Kick – starting travel again & connecting diverse Indian traveler
SOTC Travel Ltd, India

Digital Marketing Campaign
Incheon smart tourism project
Incheon Tourism Organization, Korea (ROK)

Printed Marketing Campaign
Korea Unique Venue Promotion Project
Korea Tourism Organization, Korea (ROK)

Travel Video
Catching Sabah
Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia

Travel Photograph
A Valley in Bloom
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thailand

Destination Article
Hiking in Australia’s Healing Lands
Rachel Lees, Australia

Business Article
Fancy Feasts
TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd, Singapore

PATA Gold Award Winners 2023 – Sustainability & Social Responsibility

Climate Change Initiative
Galaxy Entertainment Group Environmental and Sustainability Practices
Galaxy Entertainment Group, Macao, China

Corporate and Social Responsibility
Beacon of Sustainability
Sivatel Bangkok Hotel, Thailand

Community-Based Tourism
Kareum Stay
Jeju Tourism Organization, Korea (ROK)

Culture
The Revitalization of Old Phetchaburi Town Riverside Community through the Establishment of Cultural Community-Based Tourism
Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration – DASTA, Thailand

Heritage
Rejuvenating and Appreciating
MGM China, China

Human Capital Development Initiative
Sands Retail Academy – “Ticket To A Lifestyle Journey”
Sands China Limited, Macao, China

Tourism Destination Resilience (Asia Pacific)
Alabao Bay Secret Land Reappearance Plan
Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Chinese Taipei

Tourism for All
Leofoo Senior Travel Service
Leofoo Tourism Group, Chinese Taipei

Women Empowerment Initiative
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal

JUDGING COMMITTEE FOR GOLD AWARDS 2023

Ms. Ana Savšek, Head of Department, Content Digital Marketing, Slovenian Tourist Board, Slovenia, Slovenia
Ms. Ana Tripković Marković, Phd, Director, National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro, Montenegro
Mr. Chris Adams, Global Head of Research & Insights, Miles Partnership, New Zealand
Mr. Fabrizio Orlando, Global Director, Industry Relations, Tripadvisor, United Kingdom
Dr. Faith Ong, Senior Lecturer, The University of Queensland, Australia
Ms. Hannah Pearson , Regional Director APAC, Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), USA
Ms. Jen Grover, Senior Regional Manager, Business Development APAC, Expedia Group Media Solutions, USA
Ms. Jessie F. McComb, Senior Private Sector Development Specialist – Tourism, World Bank Group, USA
Mr. Justin Farmer, SVP, Business Strategy, MMGY Global, USA
Prof. Kaye Chon, Dean and Chair Professor, School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR
Mr. Kok Kee LIM, Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific Public Sector Lead, Mastercard Inc., Singapore
Mr. Leon Rais, Head of Cross Border Travel Asia Pacific, Visa Worldwide Pte Ltd, Singapore
Ms. Montakarn Suvanatap Kittipaisalsilp, Programme Officer for Culture, UNESCO Bangkok, Thailand
Ms. Natalia Bayona, Executive Director, United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Spain
Ms. Natalie Kidd, Managing Director, Asia, Intrepid Travel, Australia
Mr. NobuTaka ISHIKURE, Chairman, Goltz et ses amis, Japan
Mr. Ralf Ostendorf, Director Market Management & Media Relations, Berlin Tourismus & Kongress GmbH / visitBerlin, Germany
Mr. Shiva Dhakal, Managing Director, Royal Mountain Travel, Nepal
Mr. Steven Liew, Director of Public Policy – APAC, Airbnb Singapore Pte Ltd, Singapore
Ms. Suyin Lee, Managing Director, Discova Travel, Singapore
Ms. Topaz Smith, Community Lead, Aviation, Travel & Tourism, World Economic Forum (WEF), USA
Ms. Verra Wang, Senior PR manager, Trip.com Group, China

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its member organisations, which includes government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WorldHotels Grows Presence in Tokyo with Largest Airport Hotel

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WorldHotels Grows Presence in Tokyo with Largest Airport Hotel - BESTWESTERN - TRAVELINDEX - BWHTokyo, Japan, August 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The New Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport joins WorldHotels Distinctive Collection. WorldHotels is delighted to announce its second new hotel in Tokyo, Japan with the addition of Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport, Tokyo. The property is an exceptional 1,557-room hotel comprised of 12 thoughtfully designed room categories. The hotel is committed to providing an opulent stay experience that only a high-end hotel can provide.

“As WorldHotels expands throughout Asia, we continue to identify leading, luxury properties to add to the brands portfolio,” said Ron Pohl, President of WorldHotels. “Villa Fontaine Grand Hotel Airport perfectly fits that mold, providing high-end accommodations right outside of Japan’s busiest international airport.”

Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport was originally developed in response to the diverse requirements of Haneda Airport, a 24-hour international hub. Connected directly to the airport, the hotel provides a truly hospitable and seamless arrival and departure experience expected of an international airport hotel. The property also serves as an ideal location for events and conferences, supported by the culinary delights within its restaurants and lounge. Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport provides convenient access to the Tokyo monorail, which can take passengers directly to Tokyo in 15 minutes, as well as an all-weather bus terminal that connects travelers to regional cities and tourist destinations throughout Japan.

Haneda Airport has been recognized as the Best Airport in Asia for two consecutive years and in 2022 was ranked second in the World’s Best Airports for a fourth consecutive year by Skytrax.

Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport is the comprehensive next step of growing our portfolio of hotels and resorts in select destinations around the world,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President of International Operations-APAC. “It is an honor to partner with Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd., a well-established developer in Japan. It’s also a great opportunity for WorldHotels to increase our footprint in Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis, mixes of ultramodern and the traditional, the city is a truly unique destination both domestically & internationally.”

Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport is a significant addition to WorldHotels’ Distinctive collection in Asia Pacific. Providing an array of products and services, the property fulfills an important need for WorldHotels to further strengthen its portfolio near Haneda Airport, which is consistently recognized as one of the world’s best airports for its seamless international access and further support of Haneda Airport as the primary gateway to Japan.

In joining WorldHotels Collection, Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport is now part of the industry-leading loyalty program, WorldHotels Rewards℠. The third largest hotel loyalty program in the world offers guests exclusive access and privileges with “member-only” offers such as room upgrades, priority privileges, bonus points eligible and more.

About WorldHotels
WorldHotels is a privately held hotel soft brand within the BWH Hotels global enterprise. Founded by independent hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, WorldHotels offers one of the finest portfolios of independent hotels and resorts around the globe, expertly curated to inspire unique, life enriching experiences that connect people and places. WorldHotels is comprised of four unique collections, each with its own personality and style to appeal to the needs of today’s traveler. The collections include: WorldHotels™ Luxury, WorldHotels™ Elite, WorldHotels™ Crafted and WorldHotels™ Distinctive. For more information visit WorldHotels.com.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

When an Iconic Heritage Brand Meets Modern Art

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 When an Iconic Heritage Brand Meets Modern Art - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson’s ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE Campaign redefined Thai fashion by seamlessly blending its exquisite Thai silk heritage and craftsmanship with the vibrant works of celebrated contemporary Thai artists. The resounding success of the campaign has left an indelible mark on the fashion world, infusing the Thai fashion industry with fresh energy and new possibilities.

Jim Thompson, the iconic lifestyle brand known for its exquisite Thai silk and craftsmanship, has pushed the boundaries of fashion by combining heritage charm with modern art. The resounding success of the innovative ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE campaign, launched at the beginning of 2023, has redefined art and fashion, leaving a lasting impression on the Thai fashion world. Celebrated Thai artists Pichaya Osothcharoenpol, Nakrob Moonmanas and Kittipong Khamsat (Goh M) infused the world of fashion with the vibrancy of modern art in their distinctive collections, captivating fashion enthusiasts like never before.

Nunnapat Verojanavat, Marketing Director of Jim Thompson, said of the campaign, “The ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE project has been a tremendous success, with celebrated Thai artists bringing unparalleled innovation and excitement to our collections this year. This unique and exceedingly effective campaign is a testament to the immense creativity and ingenuity within Thailand’s flourishing fashion and art industry.”

The Collaborations: A Fusion of Art and Fashion

Jim Thompson launched its Artists in Residence campaign with the Jim Thompson X Pichaya Osothcharoenpol Collection, which celebrated Chinese New Year. Inspired by traditional Chinese cultural elements, renowned artist, designer, and illustrator Pichaya celebrated the Year of the Rabbit with symbols of peace, patience, and prudence. Her contemporary digital painting techniques infused the collection with a vibrant palette of colours: reds, pinks, blues, greens, and yellows.

In time for Songkran (Thai New Year) was Jim Thompson X Nakrob Moonmanas’ Collection. Renowned Thai collage artist and illustrator, Nakrob Moonmanas, drew inspiration from the antiques and fine arts on display at the Jim Thompson House Museum. His artwork masterfully blended local history and culture, uniting the East and the West. The result was a visually striking and thought-provoking collection with historical iconography interwoven with cosmic and space exploration themes.

The third collaboration – Jim Thompson X Goh M Collection – challenged conventional perceptions of colour, fusing pop art, street art, and graffiti with Jim Thompson’s iconic lifestyle aesthetic. Goh M’s distinctive designs featured vibrant pop art-inspired prints with motifs of flowers, local fruits, plants, and elephants. The collection in purple, orange, and green featured Goh M’s signature print and graffiti style.

The ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE campaign has sparked significant interest among fashion enthusiasts, redefining the fashion landscape in Thailand.By collaborating with exceptionally talented Thai artists, Jim Thompson has successfully infused the Thai fashion industry with fresh energy and creativity. The exclusive collections created by these artists have garnered widespread admiration and accolades, attracting new audiences to the brand.

Jim Thompson remains committed to supporting Thai artists and as an iconic lifestyle brand continues producing unique and distinctive works that set it apart in global fashion and lifestyle trends. Stay tuned for more exciting projects from Jim Thompson that exemplify the perfect fusion of tradition and innovation.

About Jim Thompson No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an architect, art collector, socialite, and entrepreneur who is recognized as the driving force behind the revival of Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries.

Today, Jim Thompson is the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand with a reputation for beautiful silks and “Beyond Silk”.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thomas Deledalle Appointed Director of F&B at The Sukhothai Bangkok

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Thomas Deledalle Appointed Director of F&B at The Sukhothai Bangkok - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 18, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Alexander Schillinger, General Manager of The Sukhothai Bangkok appointed Thomas Deledalle as Director of Food & Beverage.

Thomas is no stranger to Bangkok, as he previously served as Restaurant Manager at renowned D’Sens Frenh Restaurant at Dusit Thani Bangkok, Food & Beverage Manager at Plaza Athenee Hotel A Royal Meridien Bangkok and General Manager at Vogue Lounge Bangkok from 2014 – 2018. Afterwards, he has relocated back in France and took over the position of Food & Beverage Director at La Grande Maison de Barnard Magrez and Chateau de la Gaude in respectively.

With over 20 years of experience in this particular field and with the aiming to increase awareness of the hotel’s culinary offerings, we look forward to seeing Thomas apply his experience and grow The Sukhothai Bangkok’s Food and Beverage broadly locally and internationally.

Thomas will manage the hotel’s top-tier restaurants. Celadon is our famous traditional Thai restaurant that serves authentic dishes in an enchanting setting with a view of our famous Lotus Pond. Colonnade is the go-to for Bangkokians and in-the-know visitors for a breakfast and legendary Sunday Brunch that provides an unrivaled gastronomic adventure.

Please join us in welcoming Thomas Deledalle.

About The Sukhothai Bangkok
The Sukhothai Bangkok combines traditional refinement with immaculate contemporary style. A haven of calm set amid six acres of lush gardens and water ponds in bustling Bangkok. Once inside its classically elegant grounds, guests are quite literally far from the madding crowds. Wining and dining is a pleasure with world class Restaurants and Bars, including the award-winning La Scala Italian Restaurant, Celadon, home of delicious Thai cuisine and Colonnade an international cuisine Restaurant. On-site leisure facilities include Spa, Fitness Studio with fully-equipped Gym, Sauna and Jacuzzi and a 25-metre outdoor Swimming Pool.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Predicts Germany Tourism Sector to Rebound Fast

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WTTC Predicts Germany Tourism Sector to Rebound Fast - TRAVELINDEX - GLOBALTOURISMFORUM.comBerlin, Germany, August 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals Germany’s Travel & Tourism sector is recovering at pace to recover to within 95% of pre-pandemic levels.

The sector is set to contribute €355BN to the national economy this year, getting to within 95% of the 2019 highpoint, and representing 9.3% of the economy. WTTC is also forecasting that the sector will create more than 168,000 jobs this year, recovering most of the jobs lost due to the COVID 19 pandemic to reach 5.6MN.

A look back on last year

Last year, the Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution grew by 43.4% to reach more than €338BN, representing 8.8% of the economy, edging closer to the 2019 high of €374BN.

Last year the sector also created 550,000 more jobs from the previous year to reach 5.4MN jobs nationally – one in eight jobs across Germany.
The sector has now recovered over 50% of the 1MN jobs lost during the pandemic.

Last year also saw the return of international travellers heading to Germany with spending from overseas visitors growing 61% to reach almost €31BN.

Domestic visitor spend is within touching distance of the pre-pandemic level of €307.8BN and is currently €304.4BN, a year-on-year increase of 49%.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The Travel & Tourism sector in Germany is making a strong recovery. It will contribute €355BN to the German economy this year and employ one in eight jobs across the country.

“Germany is forecast to remain the fifth most popular tourism destination in Europe over the next decade, demonstrating its enduring appeal.”

What does the next decade look like?

The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to more than €440BN by 2033, 10.3% of the overall economy and will employ almost 6.1MN people across the country, with one in seven Germans working in the sector.

Europe

In 2022, the European Travel & Tourism sector contributed €1.9TN to the regional economy, just 7% below the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the region’s GDP contribution from the sector will reach more than €2TN in 2023 – within touching distance of the 2019 highpoint.

The sector employed almost 35MN people across the region in 2022, an increase of 2.9MN from the previous year but still 3.2MN behind pre-pandemic levels. WTTC forecasts the sector will fully recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of 2024.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Raffles at Galaxy Macau Welcomes Guests to All-Suite Experience

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Raffles at Galaxy Macau to Welcome Guests to All-Suite Experience - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comMacao, Macao SAR, August 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Accor, and Galaxy Macau announced the soft opening of Raffles at Galaxy Macau – a stunning new city landmark. The highly anticipated, all-suite, luxury hospitality experience brings together the best of two world-renowned brands – Galaxy Macau, one of the world’s leading integrated resort, hospitality and entertainment companies; and Raffles, Accor’s legendary hospitality brand which originated in Singapore in 1887. With 450 sumptuous suites, Raffles at Galaxy Macau is the brand’s first destination in Macau, raising the bar for luxury hospitality and trendsetting guest experiences in the region. A grand opening, celebrating the addition of the remaining signature restaurants, bar, and a spa, is expected towards the end of the year.

“Raffles will bring its graceful, intuitive and generous style of hospitality to the dynamic culture of Galaxy Macau,” said Gary Rosen, CEO, Accor Greater China. “As our third Raffles destination in Greater China, Raffles at Galaxy Macau is the most exciting and luxurious hotel in all of Macau and is a new flagship for the brand. Demand for high-end luxury hospitality is growing exponentially across the region and this is especially true for Raffles – a brand with prestige and heritage that transcends generations and sets the standards in luxury hospitality with its growing portfolio of distinguished locations.”

Marking the latest chapter in the brand’s storied 136-year history, Raffles at Galaxy Macau is carefully designed and tastefully decorated to create the ambience of cultured luxury and refined elegance that is the hallmark of the brand. Located on the resort’s east promenade, the stunning architectural landmark consists of two towers with a glass airbridge that connects the towers across every floor and offers breath-taking vistas towards the Macau skyline, the resort, and neighbouring Hengqin island.

Imagined as the private residence of a fictional 14th-century Italian merchant with an extensive collection of unique artifacts from around the world, Raffles at Galaxy Macau is replete with exquisite art pieces, detailed craftsmanship, and precious materials, from Italian white Statuario marble to hand-crafted crystal chandeliers. The feeling of a luxurious residential pied-à-terre is further conveyed through the discreet, attentive and intuitive service of the Raffles Butlers. Professionally trained, their aim is to make every guest’s stay as seamless, memorable, and heartfelt as possible.

“Set against the captivating allure and glamour of Macau’s brilliance, Raffles at Galaxy Macau represents a remarkable addition to the Raffles portfolio, where narratives transform into enduring legacies and the art of hospitality is positioned to flourish,” affirms Omer Acar, CEO, Raffles & Orient Express. “We are excited to embrace this new arrival as part of our treasured brand, for generations of travellers past and present who appreciate all that Raffles has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you as guests, staying as friends, and returning as family… the Raffles way.”

Spectacular East-Meets-West Interiors and Services
Reflecting Macau’s rich East-Meets-West heritage and modern vibe, Raffles at Galaxy Macau immerses guests in impressive and highly curated spaces that blend the storied traditions of the Raffles brand with the dynamic energy of Galaxy Macau. Paying tribute to Galaxy Macau’s brand heritage, and symbolic of beauty, good luck, and royalty, the property features a subtle peacock motif in a geometric pattern that flows from the beautifully etched glass motifs on the ceilings of the lobby to the suspended ceilings in the residential suites.

An Art-filled Sanctuary
At the heart of Raffles at Galaxy Macau is the show stopping lobby, an art-filled garden sanctuary where the interior and exterior come together to form one stunning space illuminated by natural light. Landscaped with 90 trees, 50,000 shrubs and seasonal flowers, this green space celebrates the beauty of nature with a sustainable design that conserves energy, saves water, and reduces carbon. Here, guests also encounter a magnificent collection of art pieces themed around the four seasons, and which pay tribute to the beauty of Asian nature and the spirit and character of the Raffles brand.

A Sparkling Centrepiece
Taking centre stage in the property’s stunning lobby is the Raffles Lounge & Terrace, featuring traditional European afternoon tea with a twist, including an Éclair Trolley and an array of dining options curated by the French culinary artist Yorick Soh Chin Chiang, the newly appointed Chef de Cuisine of Raffles Lounge & Terrace. By night, Lounge guests will enjoy delicious cocktails, including heritage creations designed by Raffles bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in the early 1900s – the Singapore Sling and the Macau Million Dollar Cocktail. Cascading above the Lounge is a custom-made chandelier formed of 500,000 crystals and 23,000 crystal rods that connect seamlessly to resemble a diamond. Measuring 15 metres in length, this iconic piece floats against a programmable backlit glass ceiling. Live performances on a beautifully handcrafted piano entertain guests of the Lounge’s champagne and oyster bar.

Raffles Lounge & Terrace is also home to ‘Green Art Wall’, a 70-metre expanse that incorporates hundreds of plants and LED lights to create a unique natural spectacle for guests on arrival. Above, a glass ceiling creates an imaginary sky with ever-changing moods and scenes, using more than 30,000 individually programmable LED nodes. The wall and sky provide an ideal backdrop for ‘Kaleidoscope’ by Singaporean artist Sun Yu-Li – a striking three-metre-tall sculpture that uses changing lights to hint at nature while giving off a distinctly Macau vibe.

Coming Soon
Looking ahead to the grand opening later in the year, guests of Raffles at Galaxy Macau will have the opportunity to experience an array of world-class collaborations that reflect the region’s finest culinary and design talents. Chef and Sushi Master Masaaki Miyakawa, one of only five Michelin-three-starred sushi chefs in Japan, will helm a new signature Sushi-Kappo concept. There will also be an unexpected and modern take on Raffles’ iconic Long Bar, which is being crafted by celebrated interior designer Joyce Wang and will feature a curated cocktail list, including an official Macau Sling, created by Asia’s 50 Best Bars legend Antonio Lai.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mauritius Standard Bureau is now GSTC-Accredited

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Mauritius Standard Bureau is now GSTC-Accredited - TRAVELINDEXPort-Louis, Mauritius, August 15, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is pleased to announce that Mauritius Standard Bureau (MSB) has gained the GSTC-Accredited Certification Body status.

The Mauritius Standards Bureau (MSB), a non-profit Mauritius Standards Bureau parastatal body in the island of Mauritius, has embarked on a project to provide third-party certification to tourism businesses with the aim of boosting the local tourism industry towards sustainability.

After having developed its own Mauritian Standard (MS 165:2019) for Sustainable Tourism, which has gained recognition from the GSTC in 2019, MSB has successfully completed all the steps towards accreditation.

The stated scope of the GSTC Accreditation of Mauritius Standards Bureau is for certifying hotels/accommodations and tour operators in Mauritius according to the Mauritian Standard on Sustainable Tourism: Blue Oasis (MS 165:2019).

Achieving the GSTC-Accredited status means that a Certification Body has been verified to be conducting proper certification of businesses, such as hotels or tour operators, in a competent and neutral manner, following processes and procedures detailed in the GSTC Accreditation Manual.

Mauritius Businesses certified by a GSTC-Accredited Certification Body, meeting all the GSTC Criteria (or a GSTC-Recognized Standard), have the highest level of assurance* and credibility available. With an accredited certification, customers and buyers are assured that the business was certified in a credibly verified procedure in a transparent, impartial, and competent manner.

Attesting to that, those businesses certified by a GSTC-Accredited Certification Body can display a unique GSTC logo with a traceable code. The purpose of the GSTC Accreditation is to provide a higher level of assurance and reward genuine practitioners of sustainable tourism, which builds confidence and credibility with consumers.

The Accreditation process usually takes more than a year to complete, as GSTC looks very hard at the Certification Body’s operation and its process of certification to assure that they issue certifications based on merit and neutrality.

“Mauritius is one of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) which suffers directly from impacts of climate change. Therefore, it is crucial for us to gear towards Sustainable Development. Tourism is a major pillar of our economy and through Sustainable Tourism we are considerably addressing socio-cultural, economic and environmental impacts.

This accreditation shows that the Mauritius Standards Bureau has achieved international affirmation for providing third-party certification for Sustainable Tourism to the local Hotels/Accommodations and Tour Operators. It is a major step towards the ultimate goal of making Mauritius a sustainable destination for tourism.” says M Yusuf Foondun, Officer-in-Charge of MSB.

The GSTC Accreditation Manual for Certification of Mauritius Hotel/Accommodation & Tour Operator provides detailed technical requirements for certification of Hotel/Accommodation and Tour Operator. Certification Bodies are required to comply with ISO 17065 Conformity Assessment (Requirements for bodies certifying products, processes and services) and GSTC specific requirements. Among these requirements are impartial and competent certification procedures, auditor experience and qualifications, certification decision making, rigorous surveillance of certified businesses, and proper promotion of their services.

“GTSC Accreditation is a mark of quality that the GSTC places on Certification Bodies that choose to provide formal evidence of compliance to the GSTC Accreditation Manual for rigorous and impartial certification. We congratulate MSB’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of fairness and quality. With this accreditation, theirs is the first national program to gain such accreditation and join a select group of Certification Bodies who have reached such a pinnacle of achievement,” says Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News