As part of WTTC’s membership, Allianz Partners will contribute its expertise in travel protection, assistance, and digital innovation to advance discussions around traveller confidence, emergency services, and the evolution of seamless, end-to-end travel experiences.

WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara said:  “Welcoming Allianz Partners to WTTC highlights the increasing importance of resilience and traveller assurance in a rapidly evolving Travel & Tourism landscape. As the sector grows and adapts, integrated insurance and assistance solutions play a vital role in enabling safe, confident, and frictionless journeys. Allianz Partners brings valuable global insight and innovation that will help strengthen our collective efforts to build a more resilient and future-ready sector.”

Allianz Partners, interim Chief Officer Global Strategic Partnerships & Travel Anna Kofoed, noted:  “The travel industry is transforming faster than ever, and WTTC is at the heart of that transformation. Becoming a member allows us to bring our digital expertise and global perspective to a network that is actively shaping the future of travel.

At the same time, it allows Allianz Partners to learn from WTTC and its members, leaders who are redefining resilience, sustainability, and innovation across the sector. I’m thrilled for us to contribute to this collective momentum, to exchange knowledge, and to work alongside WTTC members to push boundaries and unlock new possibilities for travellers worldwide.”

Through its participation, Allianz Partners will support WTTC’s research, policy engagement, and industry collaboration—helping to strengthen resilience, enhance traveller trust, and reinforce the sector’s long-term economic and social impact globally.

About Allianz Partners
Allianz Partners is a world leader in B2B2C insurance and assistance, offering global solutions spanning international health and life, travel insurance, and mobility and assistance. 

(Source: WTTC)

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According to a recent survey conducted by MATTA on tour bus and van operators, 68.5% of tour van operators consume more than 1,500 litres of diesel per month per vehicle. In comparison, 54.8% of tour bus operators consume more than 3,500 litres per month per bus.

These figures highlight the significant fuel dependency of tourism transport operators, many of whom are already operating at minimal return on investment (ROI) and can only maintain day-to-day operations and fulfil existing contractual obligations.

The continuing increase in diesel prices is threatening the business viability of operators and the wider tourism ecosystem. MATTA is recommending temporary measures, such as targeted subsidies and a surcharge mechanism, to help provide relief to stakeholders during the current crisis.

To preserve customer trust while ensuring business continuity, MATTA recommends implementing a temporary fuel surcharge mechanism, similar to that adopted in the aviation sector, that emphasises transparency and the adoption of industry best practices to address this challenge.

Such surcharges should be implemented in a manner that does not contradict any relevant laws or regulations, with each company independently determining the appropriate surcharge based on its actual fuel consumption and operational profile.

This ensures that the surcharge remains fair, proportionate, and directly reflective of the additional costs incurred. The mechanism must also be clearly communicated to consumers, applied transparently, and be strictly temporary, with removal once diesel prices stabilise.

It should also be designed solely to offset the additional fuel costs incurred by operators, rather than to generate excess profit.

“The continued rise in diesel prices is placing an unsustainable burden on tourism transport operators, many of whom are already operating on very thin margins. We must adopt practical, balanced measures to ensure business continuity without compromising consumer trust. A temporary and transparent fuel surcharge mechanism, combined with targeted government support, will help the industry navigate this challenging period while maintaining service standards across Malaysia’s tourism sector,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.

At the same time, MATTA calls on the Government to introduce targeted diesel subsidies to support tourism transport operators.

A proposal of up to 3,500 litres per month per vehicle operated by legitimate tour operators would provide immediate and meaningful relief, helping operators manage escalating fuel costs while continuing to deliver essential services to the tourism industry.

“Tourism transport operators are not in a position to absorb continuous fuel cost increases. A temporary, transparent fuel surcharge mechanism is the most practical way to ensure service continuity while maintaining customer trust,”  said MATTA Vice President of Land Transportation, Subramaniam Kandasamy. “At the same time, targeted subsidies, such as the proposed monthly allocation of 3,500 litres, would provide immediate relief to operators who are struggling to sustain operations under current market conditions. This is not about increasing profits, but about survival and maintaining the integrity of Malaysia’s tourism supply chain.”  

(Source: MATTA)

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The collaboration reflects MATTA’s continued commitment to advancing digitalisation in the tourism industry by enhancing the visibility, accessibility, and online booking potential of its members’ travel packages.

Through this partnership, both parties will explore developing a digital booking ecosystem, including a mobile application to support seamless promotion and booking of travel products. The initiative also aims to strengthen digital marketing capabilities and encourage greater adoption of technology among MATTA members.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, MATTA President Nigel Wong said this collaboration underscores MATTA’s commitment to innovation and to helping its members adapt to an increasingly digital travel landscape. By working with MyTravelKaki, MATTA aims to enhance the way travel products are marketed and distributed, while improving accessibility for consumers through integrated digital platforms.

PMJ AI Sdn Bhd Chief Technology Officer Justin Tang expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting that the company’s MyTravelKaki platform will empower travel businesses with advanced digital tools while enhancing the overall user experience for travellers. He added that this partnership will accelerate the development of a comprehensive and user-friendly ecosystem that connects travellers directly with MATTA members.

Under the MOU, MATTA will provide industry insights and support to facilitate the development and adoption of the platform. At the same time, PMJ AI Sdn Bhd will lead the design, development, and operation of the digital infrastructure.

The collaboration is expected to play a key role in strengthening Malaysia’s tourism digital ecosystem, in line with ongoing efforts to future-proof the industry and enhance its global competitiveness.

(Source: MATTA)

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The Phuket Hotels Association Benefit (PHAB) annual online auction is a charitable initiative that donates all proceeds to the association’s education programme, which funds hospitality scholarships and internships for young people in Phuket. 

Talent development is a key pillar of the Phuket Hotels Association, which collaborates closely with local colleges, universities, and hotels to empower the next generation of Thai hospitality professionals.

To date, PHAB campaigns have raised funds to support 125 local students through professional development opportunities, including three- and four-year scholarships. Now in its eighth year, PHAB continues to rely on the generosity of its supporters to create life-changing opportunities for Phuket’s talented youth. Phuket Rajabhat University students are supported by the Phuket Hotels Association’s educational programme.

This year’s Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale gives members of the public the chance to bid for multi-night stays at hotels and resorts in dream destinations worldwide, such as the Maldives, Phuket, Bali, Bangkok, Japan, Samui Island and Hong Kong. With prizes donated by renowned brands, such as Rosewood, Six Senses, COMO and InterContinental, the auction promises once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

In addition to the hotel stays, other prizes include dining and spa therapies, as well as educational online certificate courses. 

For the full list of prizes and to take part, visit PHAB 2026.   

“PHAB is one of the most meaningful initiatives we run each year, because it directly changes lives. To date, we have funded 125 full scholarships for local students, giving them the chance to complete three- and four-year hospitality degrees and build rewarding careers, said Phuket Hotels Association President Bjorn Courage. “This year’s Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale offers incredible experiences around the world, and every bid helps open a door for a young person in Phuket. It’s a chance to travel, give back, and be part of something truly life-changing.” 

The Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale runs from now until 1400 (Bangkok time) on 27 May 2026. Click here to place bids.

Talent development is one of the key pillars of the Phuket Hotels Association, which works hand-in-hand with local educational institutions and hotels to empower the next generation of Thai hospitality professionals.

To learn more about the Phuket Hotels Association, visit www.phukethotelsassociation.com

(Source: PHA)

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Over seven decades, the club has evolved from a small circle of travel professionals into one of Asia’s most active and influential tourism networking organisations.

Established at a time when international travel was still limited, the club provided a vital platform for executives in aviation, cruise, rail travel, hospitality and tour operations to meet, exchange ideas and build business relationships. As Bangkok developed into one of the world’s most visited cities, Skål International Bangkok grew alongside it, reflecting the strength and resilience of Thailand’s tourism sector.

Today, the club remains a cornerstone of the travel and tourism community in the Thai capital. Its enduring principle of “doing business among friends” continues to underpin a culture of trust, collaboration and professional exchange that benefits members across all sectors of the industry.

Over the years, Skål International Bangkok has developed into a high-level forum and was instrumental in organising two Skål World Congresses (1996 and 2006) and Asia Congresses, bringing together senior leaders from hotels, airlines, destination management companies, tourism authorities and service providers globally to meet with local members. 

Skål International Bangkok events are recognised not only for their networking value but also for fostering collaboration, innovation and industry resilience.

A defining strength of the club has been its commitment to maintaining a consistent and engaging calendar of events. Monthly luncheons, evening gatherings and special functions, hosted at many of Bangkok’s leading hotels, provide regular opportunities for members to connect, exchange insights and develop business relationships.

For nearly 70 years, Skål International Bangkok has organised events year-round, remaining a constant presence within the tourism community. This continuity has reinforced trust and ensured the club’s relevance in an industry often shaped by rapid change.

Even during the global pandemic, when the travel sector faced unprecedented disruption, Skål International Bangkok continued to support its members. While government regulations in Thailand temporarily prohibited meetings, the club maintained communication and engagement throughout that period. As soon as restrictions were eased and gatherings were permitted again, Skål Bangkok moved swiftly to reinstate its full programme of events and meetings.

This ability to adapt and recover quickly has strengthened the club’s reputation as a resilient and forward-looking organisation.

Leadership has played a central role in the club’s evolution, with successive presidents and boards drawn from experienced industry professionals committed to maintaining relevance and driving progress. Recent priorities have included expanding membership, strengthening partnerships and aligning the club with the needs of a rapidly changing tourism landscape.

Recognition at the international level has further reinforced the club’s standing, including being named “Club of the Year” at the Skål World Congress in 2019, a testament to its dynamic programming and strong member engagement. The club has also honoured two of its long-standing members with the prestigious title of Membre d’Honneur, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the global Skål movement.

The club’s evolution has been closely linked to strong leadership. Over the years, Skål International Bangkok has been guided by experienced professionals drawn from senior roles within the tourism and hospitality industry.

Recent leadership has focused on modernisation and growth. During his presidency, Andrew J. Wood strengthened the club’s international profile and reinforced its position within the global Skål network. Building on this foundation, the current president, James Thurlby, has set a forward-looking agenda centred on membership expansion, strategic partnerships, and increased industry engagement.

Supported by a committed leadership team, including Vice Presidents Marvin Bemand and Andrew Wood, Secretary Jennifer Ferris, Treasurer John Neutze, Events Director Pichai Visutriratana, Membership Director Dr Max Ma, and Young Skål lead Dr Scott Smith, the committee works tirelessly voluntarily in service of the club and its loyal members.

A key element of our modernisation has been the adoption of digital tools. Enhanced communication, a stronger social media presence, and more structured event promotion have enabled the club to reach a wider, more diverse audience while complementing traditional face-to-face networking.

At the same time, Skål International Bangkok has embraced modernisation. Enhanced digital communication, stronger event promotion and an active presence across professional platforms have enabled the club to engage more effectively with both established members and emerging professionals.

Looking ahead, Skål International Bangkok remains focused on the future. Innovation, sustainability and the development of next-generation talent are expected to shape its agenda in the years to come. The club is also placing greater emphasis on supporting women in leadership and promoting greater diversity across the tourism industry, recognising the importance of inclusive growth in building a stronger, more resilient sector. At the same time, a renewed focus on digital marketing and communication ensures the club remains at the forefront of member engagement, strengthening its position as a modern, forward-thinking professional association. With tourism continuing to evolve, the club is well positioned to remain a platform for dialogue, partnership and progress.

As part of the wider Skål International network, spanning hundreds of clubs in more than 70 countries, Bangkok continues to play an important role at both national and regional levels, acting as a bridge between Thailand’s tourism industry and global partners.

As it marks its 70th anniversary, Skål International Bangkok stands as a testament to the enduring value of professional connections. By combining a proud heritage with a forward-looking mindset, it continues to support the growth, resilience and future success of the tourism industry in Thailand and across Asia.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a Bangkok-based travel writer and former hotelier who has lived in Thailand since 1991. With more than four decades in the international hospitality industry, he has held senior leadership roles with several leading hotel groups, including Thistle Hotels, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts and Minor Hotels.

A long-standing member of Skål International, Andrew has served as a Director of Skål International, is a past President of Skål Asia, and was the former National President of Skål Thailand and twice President of Skål International Bangkok. In recognition of his contribution to global tourism, he has received numerous awards, including Skål’s Order of Merit and the President’s Award. 

He writes widely on tourism and hospitality trends across Asia and is a regular contributor to international travel and trade publications.

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Ewan Cluckie, co-founder of Tripseed, a Thailand-based social-purpose destination management company, People and Planet First Verified Social Enterprise, and Alisara Sivayathorn, CEO of Sivatel Bangkok Hotel, a five-star boutique hotel in Bangkok, have jointly launched ICRT in Thailand.

The network joins an established international community of responsible tourism practitioners already operating across Africa, Europe, India, Sri Lanka, Latin America and Southeast Asia, all coordinated by the non-profit ICRT global, which Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin founded.

ICRT Thailand founder Ewan Cluckie said: “Thailand’s tourism industry is one of the most important in the region, but the benefits don’t always reach the communities and environments that need them most. ICRT Thailand creates a space where organisations of any size — from community-based operators to major hotels — can come together to share what’s actually working and hold each other to a higher standard. By connecting to the global ICRT network, we can bring international best practice into the Thai context and, just as importantly, share what Thailand is doing well with the rest of the world.”

ICRT founder Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin noted: “Our independent networks focus on the issues and ideas that are most important in their region, but above all, we act as a global hub to facilitate sharing knowledge about responsible tourism. Thailand’s inclusion in the network is an important step in deepening that conversation.”

ICRT Thailand will also encourage Thai organisations to enter the 2026 ICRT Southeast Asia Responsible Tourism Awards, which are free to enter and open to businesses of all sizes. 

The awards recognise achievements across six categories: Local Economic Benefit; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Nature Positive; Championing Cultural Diversity; Adapting to Climate Change; and Regenerative Tourism.

The entry deadline is 3 April 2026. Regional winners go on to compete at the Global Responsible Tourism Awards, announced at World Travel Market in London in November 2026.

About ICRT 

The International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) is a non-profit network on a mission to share education, training and best practice in responsible tourism. 

Founded by Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin and chaired by Debbie Hindle, it operates independent chapters across Africa, Europe, the Indian Subcontinent, Latin America and Southeast Asia. All members commit to the principles of the 2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism in Destinations.

For more information, visit: ICRT global. 

(Source: ICRT Thailand)

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The report by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) and Pear Anderson showed that inbound operators in particular were pessimistic about future enquiries, with 74% of inbound travel businesses much gloomier about prospects than at the start of the year, compared with 50% of outbound travel businesses.

Singaporean travel businesses were the most pessimistic overall, with two-thirds (67%) expecting enquiries in Q2 2026 to be worse than what they expected at the start of the year, compared to 64% in Malaysia, 54% in Indonesia, 50% in the Philippines, and 43% in Thailand.

Almost three-quarters (72%) of outbound travel businesses reported at least some postponements and cancellations for trips to the Middle East, 70% to Europe, and 58% to other regions, demonstrating that the impact on travel was beyond connectivity.

As for a potential redirection of outbound travel flows, 64% of businesses believed Southeast Asia would benefit, followed by East Asia (47%) and Europe and Central Asia (24%). Thai travel businesses were the most confident that Europe would see growth in interest (56%), likely due to the higher number of direct flights to Europe already operating to Thailand, whilst the Philippines saw a greater chance of travel interest being redirected to domestic travel (30%).

For inbound travel businesses, 54% have received cancellations for May, with the number sharply decreasing for cancellations received in June (21%), and just 3% seeing cancellations from October and onwards, a sign that travellers are taking a wait-and-see approach. 62% of businesses reported that some trips were postponed or cancelled by Middle East travellers, with a higher share (67%) among travellers from Europe, signalling the significant role that Middle East transit hubs play in facilitating inbound travel to the ASEAN region.

Fuel price increases, leading to higher airfares, as well as fuel shortages in general, remain a concern for Southeast Asian travel businesses, who noted their impact on inbound operations in-destination and their potential knock-on impact on travellers’ purchasing power in the medium-term.

“The high percentage who believe that travel will be redirected to Southeast Asia confirms that we must work together as one ASEAN to support our tourism and travel ecosystem,” said ASEANTA President Eddy Soemawilaga. “Travel businesses commenting on the current situation were quick to point to the overall resilience of the Southeast Asian travel industry, and that they believed traveller demand would recover once the situation stabilises.”

“There is no denying that travel businesses, whether outbound or inbound, are suffering at the moment,” stated Hannah Pearson, director at Pear Anderson. “Whilst on the face of it the lack of transit flights to the Middle East is immediately impacting flows both in and out of the region, ASEAN has an opportunity to present itself as an alternative transit hub between Australia and Europe, potentially opening up more direct flight routes – and new opportunities.”

To read the full report, visit: https://www.pearanderson.com/insights/2026/03/the-impact-of-the-middle-east-conflict-on-the-southeast-asian-travel-industry/

About ASEANTA
The ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) was founded in 1971 as a non-profit organisation dedicated to the development and promotion of tourism within the ASEAN region. It was formed through collaboration between the private and public tourism sectors of several ASEAN countries.

About Pear Anderson
Pear Anderson is a boutique consultancy firm specialising in Southeast Asian tourism. It partners with organisations across the spectrum of tourism-related organisations to build a lasting foundation in these markets, providing sales representation, unique insights, research, and training. The global Muslim travel segment is a core specialisation, and Pear Anderson provides insight and access to it.

For more information, visit Pear Anderson. 

(Source: ASEANTA)

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Visa and its project partner, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter, launched the baseline survey phase of the ‘Cross-Border (XB) Acceptance in Thamel’ initiative earlier this week.

PATA Nepal Chapter has engaged 30 tourism and hospitality students from its educational member institutions to conduct a survey assessing how small and medium enterprises in Thamel are meeting the challenges of adopting digital payment systems and participating in cross-border commerce.

The study has the backing and support of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), and the Thamel Tourism Development Council (TTDC).

Survey objectives will focus on measuring the current status of digital payment usage, merchant readiness, challenges, and knowledge gaps among SMEs operating in Thamel. 

PATA Nepal Chapter CEO Suresh Singh Budal said: “At PATA Nepal, we are committed to enabling our tourism SMEs to thrive in a digital-first global economy, with Thamel serving as a model destination. We sincerely thank Visa, NTB, TTDC, and CNI for their collaboration and support in this initiative.”

The project will later implement training programs, merchant engagement activities, and capacity-building initiatives to create a replicable model for SME digital transformation in other tourism destinations across Nepal.

Thamel is an iconic district in Kathmandu, famed for its maze of lanes and alleys packed with shops, restaurants and rooftop bars. The longest street in Thamel is known as Thamel Marg, a hive of jewellery shops, trekking stores, and souvenir shops. Chaksibari Street, also one of the longest streets in Thamel, is famous for trekking gear stores, travel agents, and book shops.

(Source: PATA Chapter Nepal)

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Championing the call for change is the Thai Yachting Business Association (TYBA), which is working to secure passage to a more user-friendly crew visa following the Ministry of Transport’s recent changes to the Thai Charter License for yachts regarding ‘length overall’. 

The ministry has issued an announcement concerning Superyacht Commercial Operation in Thai Water (BE 2568/2025), granting permission for yachts of 24 meters and larger, carrying no more than 12 passengers, to apply for the Thai Charter License to conduct commercial charter in Thailand. Previously, the rule applied to yachts 30 metres or more in length from bow to stern. (Length Overall — LOA).

The Association believes adopting a lower LOA could double the number of foreign-flagged yacht visits to Thailand for superyacht charters. 

Charters on vessels over 24 metres have been a small part of that market, as few boats of this size register in Thailand due to the high VAT on a yacht worth millions of dollars. Now, foreign-flagged superyachts can apply for a license to operate commercially in Thai waters without paying the 7% VAT on the yacht’s book value. 

The license is available for yachts 24 metres and above and is valid for one year. During this time, the yacht will be free to cruise and charter in Thai waters.

There will be a tax of 7% VAT and another 5% Corporate Income Tax or CIT to be paid on the charter fee only and not on the yacht’s value. To obtain the license applications, the Ministry of Transport must be filed through an appointed TYBA member agent.  

The TYBA is now working to align crew visa durations (currently 30 days) with the vessel’s permitted stay to support foreign operators better. That requires discussions with the Immigration authorities and the Ministry of Interior Affairs.

“Few yachts were chartering here as legalities meant you had to have a Thai flag, and this wasn’t really viable for most international superyacht owners”, explains Asia Pacific Superyachts co-founder & director Gordon Fernandes. “Now more and more locally owned yachts are obtaining a charter license, and this will fuel the growth in the charter market and the country’s extended seasonal window will support recurring annual basing and strengthen marina occupancy and associated services.”

(Source: Asia Pacific Superyachts)

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Established as a charity organisation in the US in 1984, the PATA Foundation has donated over USD1.3 million to support human capital development in 38 destinations worldwide. 

Andrew Jones, Guardian of Sanctuary Resorts, has been named Chair of the Foundation. A PATA Life Member, he has also served as Vice Chair and Trustee of the Foundation and Chair of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). 

Upon his appointment, Jones said: “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the PATA Foundation experienced a hiatus of activity. We are now fully operational and moving forward with renewed passion and purpose as our industry transitions from recovery to sustainable growth.” 

He added, “Our vision and mission to safeguard the livelihoods of the underprivileged communities and support the responsible and sustainable environmental efforts of our industries remain as relevant as ever during this critical period. As the industry evolves, progress must be inclusive, and no one should be left behind.” 

Alongside Jones, Simon Lloyd, Dean of Hospitality Management and Business Administration at Dusit Thani College, was appointed Vice Chair of the Foundation. 

Three other members of the Board of Trustees comprise: 

Hiran Cooray, Chairman, Jetwing Symphony/Lighthouse Hotel PLC;
Sarah Mathews, CEO, e-Tourism Frontiers;
Stephen Pearce, Partner, Tourism and Leisure, Gaining Edge.

Access the PATA Foundation webpage to learn more about its mission and impact: www.patafoundation.org. 

(Source: PATA)

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