BANGKOK, September 17, 2024: The inaugural PATA Youth Symposium and Career Fair 2024 welcomed over 200 local and international youth, as well as industry delegates from 12 destinations.
Hosted by Dusit Thani College and organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the event underscored the vital role of nurturing the next generation of tourism leaders. The event featured presentations, panel discussions, and roundtable talks led by international thought leaders and tourism educators, fostering meaningful engagement with students. The career fair segment also provided students with opportunities to secure positions within prestigious organisations.
The symposium was officiated by PATA Chair Peter Semone, whose welcome remarks addressed the future of Asia Pacific travel and the tourism industry’s technological advancements.
He stated: “As a new generation of talent is being trained, keeping pace with rapid technological development and leveraging it to enhance the traveller’s experience while preserving the true value of human-to-human service. We hope to support this generation’s journey into the workforce by equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to excel and remain competitive in this ever-evolving industry.”
“The PATA Youth Symposium and Career Fair 2024 serves as a powerful convergence of young, passionate minds and seasoned industry professionals, fostering a transformative exchange of ideas and experiences,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “We take immense pride in nurturing the next generation of tourism leaders, as we believe their growth is vital to driving innovation and ensuring the sustainability of our industry. This edition of the youth symposium is dedicated to empowering students with opportunities to engage directly with the industry, offering them the invaluable experience needed to shape the future of global tourism.”
Dusit Thani College’s Dean of International Programmes, Simon Lloyd noted in his opening remarks: “As students from various schools and destinations across Southeast Asia gather here at PATA Youth Symposium and Career Fair 2024, we are committed to providing a platform for youth to share ideas, learn from each other’s experiences, and drive the advancement of the travel and tourism industry.”
To ensure that the perspectives of the new generation play a pivotal part in the workforce’s strategic planning and future development, youth participants engaged in roundtable discussions to share their insights on the tourism workforce with their peers and present their collective viewpoints to experienced industry professionals.
During the afternoon, a career fair segment invited students to meet representatives from leading Asia Pacific tourism and hospitality companies.
BANGKOK, 16 September 2024: AirAsia Thailand will introduce more direct flights to Indian destinations, starting with a Bangkok to Hyderabad service followed three days later by a Phuket to Chennai service.
Flights to Hyderabad will commence on 27 October, followed by flights to Chennai on 30 October. The Bangkok – Hyderabad route will kick off with four flights weekly, while the Chennai-Phuket route will be served by three flights weekly.
AirAsia expands flights between Thailand and India to support tourism to Thailand.
To celebrate the launch, AirAsia is offering promotional fares to Bangkok from Hyderabad for only INR7,390* all-in-one-way. These fares are available for booking now until 22 September 2024 for travel between 27 October 2024 and 29 March 2025.
Flights for the Chennai-Phuket route start from INR6,990 all-in-one-way*. Bookings are open until 22 September for travel between 30 October 2024 and 29 March 2025.
Thai AirAsia expands its Indian network to 14 routes by adding these two new routes.
Thai AirAsia currently flies from Bangkok to India via 12 routes serving Kolkata, Chennai, Jaipur, Kochi, Bangalore, Gaya, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Tiruchirappalli, and Hyderabad. Now, travellers from Phuket can also fly to Kolkata and Chennai directly with 67 weekly flights.
*This promotion is only applicable for flights with carrier code FD. The frequency of flights varies weekly. This promo is not available during school breaks and public holidays in Thailand. Promotional seats are limited. Fares exclude add-ons and other fees.
SINGAPORE, 17 September 2024: QT Hotels & Resorts (part of the EVT group) has opened QT Singapore, a lifestyle hotel and the first QT branded property in Southeast Asia.
The group’s newest hub brings QT’s branding to a transformed Telegraph heritage building at 35 Robinson Road.
EVT Hotels and Resorts Director Norman Arundel commented: “QT Singapore is ready to bring its bold and creatively charged hospitality to Singapore with a new signature restaurant led by award-winning chef Sean Connolly and a rooftop pool and bar.”
QT Singapore offers 134 rooms and suites and the latest technology, including iPad-controlled room functionality, Chromecast, and wireless Bose speakers.
SINGAPORE, 17 September 2024: Travel DMC Group Singapore (TDMC) has sealed a deal with 20 local hawker centres as part of its commitment to sustainable tourism and local community support.
The new initiative will elevate the travel experience for guests from China and India, showcasing Singapore’s rich culinary heritage while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Celebrating Local Flavors and Sustainability
By collaborating with 20 renowned hawker centres, the company aims to offer tourists a unique taste of Singapore’s diverse food culture. This partnership not only introduces travellers to the best of local cuisine but also contributes to the economic vitality of these cherished local establishments.
Innovative Welcome Kits
As part of this initiative, Travel DMC Group will provide all clients with reusable water bottles in welcome kits. These kits will also include comprehensive information about the participating hawker centres, sustainability tips, and a guide to responsible tourism. Introducing reusable water bottles is a step towards reducing single-use plastics and promoting environmentally conscious travel habits among guests.
Ambitious Goals and Sustainable Future
Travel DMC Group Singapore is set to welcome nearly 9,500 guests within the next six months. This ambitious target underscores the company’s commitment to offering exceptional travel experiences while making a positive impact on the local community. During their tours, guests will be guided to explore local tastes and flavours, supporting local vendors and contributing to the sustainable tourism landscape.
Electric Vehicle Fleet for a Greener Future
Looking ahead, Travel DMC Group Singapore is taking a significant step towards reducing its carbon footprint by incorporating electric vehicles into its fleet. Starting in 2025, the company will introduce six electric vehicles (brand undisclosed) to its transportation services. This move is expected to lower carbon emissions by 30%, aligning with the company’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
“Partnering with local hawker centres is a natural extension of our commitment to promoting Singapore’s rich culture while supporting the local economy,” said Travel DMC Group Singapore Managing Director Shiv Kumar Gokhar. “We are excited to offer our guests an authentic culinary journey and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
BANGKOK, 16 September 2024: Just days from making its highly anticipated comeback on 27 September 2024, the iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel will reaffirm its status as one of the city’s most recognised landmarks and a beacon of gracious Thai hospitality.
The hotel is launching a new docuseries to celebrate the reopening titled ‘An Icon Reimagined: The Docuseries’, which chronicles the hotel’s journey over the past five years.
Launched with a teaser trailer on 3 September 2024 and accessible online via the hotel’s official Facebook page and via youtube.com/@dusitinternational, the 10-episode series will highlight the new hotel’s meticulous development process and offer an intimate look at the vision and dedication passed down through generations. It will culminate in the 50-year-old hotel’s much-anticipated reopening in a new, reimagined form.
“When talking about the Dusit Thani Bangkok, many people think about my mother, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, who built the original hotel following her vision to deliver gracious Thai hospitality to the world,” said Dusit International Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Executive Committee Chanin Donavanik.
“Back in 1969, when the hotel was being built, people questioned the strange building she was constructing. It was neither Thai nor Western in its architectural style. However, as the years passed, Dusit Thani Bangkok, with its unique identity and personality, established itself as one of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks. And it stood tall and proud for over 50 years.
“The original property was also distinguished by my mother’s belief in the strength of Thai culture and hospitality and how these could be leveraged to create a hotel that could compete in the international market. The new Dusit Thani Bangkok continues her vision to create a recognised landmark in Thailand, reflecting the nation’s culture while delivering service and hospitality with true Thai heart and soul.”
Dusit International Group CEO Suphajee Suthumpun said: “There have been so many changes in our industry over the past 50 years. To bring back the past glories of the original Dusit Thani Bangkok within a modern context, we knew thoughtful change was essential.
Under the concept of ‘An Icon Reimagined,’ we have worked to create an innovative and modern hotel that retains the beloved identity of the original property. Three key pillars have guided our approach: ‘The legacy continues gracious, now and always’, ‘Iconic grandeur for a new generation’, and ‘Luxury redefined through distinctive experiences’.
These pillars define the new paradigm of rest and relaxation offered at the new Dusit Thani Bangkok, with design, facilities, and service elevated in every way.”
Situated in the same prime location as the original Dusit Thani Bangkok, which graced the Bangkok skyline from 1970 – 2019, the highly anticipated, reimagined version of Dusit’s luxury flagship hotel sits at the heart of Dusit Central Park, a landmark mixed-use development also comprising ultra-luxury residences (Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside), a state-of-the-art office tower, a high-end retail centre, and an 11,200 sq m Roof Park (all slated to open in 2025).
Designed to deliver a fresh take on its predecessor’s esteemed heritage and once again stand as a beacon of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality for discerning travellers from all around the world, the newly built, 39-floor, 257-key hotel offers ample space for guests, including elegant suites exquisitely crafted by internationally acclaimed Asian interior design firm André Fu Studio, starting at an impressive 50 sqm.
Simultaneously connecting guests with nature while enveloping them in luxurious comfort, every spacious guest room in the new hotel offers a breathtaking view of Lumpini Park. This unparalleled vista is impressively framed by floor-to-ceiling windows and inviting window seating, immersing guests in the stunning scenery beyond. This exquisite backdrop is complemented by elegant interior décor that harmoniously fuses cultural heritage and modern aesthetics.
Guests will also find elevated dining experiences created in collaboration with renowned chefs, a stylish multi-level rooftop bar created in partnership with award-winning mixologists, and expansive banqueting and meeting facilities, including one of the largest grand ballrooms in Bangkok, which also overlooks Lumpini Park.
Health and wellness enthusiasts will be delighted by the comprehensive spa and wellness facilities, including the Devarana Wellness Centre, which offers unique opportunities to pause, focus, and grow.
The new Dusit Thani Bangkok has also incorporated several iconic elements of its past heritage into the new structure. The original hotel’s signature golden spire, inspired by the stupa of Wat Arun Ratchawararam, or the Temple of Dawn, has found a new home at the new hotel. So have the precious artworks of Thailand’s National Artist Paiboon Suwannakudt, whose traditional paintings and murals were carefully removed and reintegrated into the reimagined premises. The same applies to the original property’s elaborately carved teakwood ceiling panels and valuable flora from its renowned waterfall garden. These beloved remnants of the past have all been seamlessly woven into the new Dusit Thani Bangkok.
“Maintaining Dusit Thani Bangkok’s valued iconic identity has been our mission from the very start,” said Suthumpun. “The preservation of artworks, woodwork, and landscaping from the original property ensures various areas of the new hotel will remind guests of the hotel’s storied past. Visitors can also relive their Dusit memories on our Heritage Floor, which features a virtual library dedicated to the history of the hotel and the Silom area. Moreover, the new Dusit Thani Bangkok features artworks by talented artists from Silpakorn University, who drew inspiration from their memories of the original hotel to create a diverse range of paintings. These preservation efforts are all highlighted in the docuseries.”
SINGAPORE, 16 September 2024: Travellers flying from Dubai to Singapore on Emirates on 16 and 17 September will enjoy a slice of Mid-Autumn festivities onboard.
Emirates will be serving traditional mooncakes filled with luscious red bean paste to all passengers onboard EK352 and EK404, turning the skies into a canvas of celebration.
Mid-Autumn festival, a traditional festival celebrated in Singapore and across Asia, is often enjoyed with lanterns and mooncakes in the warm company of loved ones. Emirates has partnered with renowned Singaporean brand Kwong Cheong Thye to craft delectable mooncakes to be served onboard, a perfect harmony of sweet and savoury flavours encased within a delightfully thin and crumbly crust.
For those travelling in First and Business Class, a 100gm mooncake will be served after their first meal service, alongside chocolate treats. In Premium Economy and Economy Class, a 60-gram mooncake will be included with the first meal tray, adding a festive touch to the dining experience.
Fly Better with Emirates today. Tickets can be booked online through www.emirates.com or with both online and offline travel agents.
SINGAPORE, 16 September 2024: In 2025, Oceania Cruises will offer more than a dozen immersive explorations of Alaska. These voyages take travellers beyond typical tourist sights to discover local culture, soaring glaciers, and the pristine wilderness of the ‘Last Frontier’.
The cruise line’s 1,250-guest Riviera will sail its first season in Alaska from May through September 2025, offering seven- to 12-day itineraries departing from Seattle, Vancouver, and Whittier.
Oceania Cruises to Showcase New Culinary Tours and Imaginative Itineraries.
Each itinerary features lesser-known and iconic ports such as Homer, Sitka, and Juneau, giving travellers plentiful opportunities to engage with the destination on an entirely new level through Native tribe site visits, national park excursions and wildlife encounters.
Land programmes
To further enhance Oceania Cruises’ cruise itineraries, guests can include a pre- or post-cruise land programme such as the Discover Denali, where travellers will enjoy views of North America’s highest peak while exploring Denali National Park, the first national park created to protect wildlife.
Covering six million acres, Denali offers insight into the 49th state. With over two full days in the park, guests can travel by domed railcar and along scenic byways through the iconic wilds of Alaska. Wildlife-spotting opportunities abound – including bald eagles, caribou, and Dall sheep – alongside marvelling at glacial-fed rivers and the chance to see the original ranger’s cabin, once the only outpost in the vast park. The four-day/three-night programme also features an Alaskan Native presentation on the history of the land and a natural history tour.
Alaska Voyage Highlights
Alaska Reflections: Eight days from Vancouver to Whittier, visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Hoonah and Sitka. Departs 13 May.
Explorer’s Alaska: Eight days from Whittier to Vancouver, visiting Hoonah, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan and Prince Rupert. Departs 21 May.
Wilds of Alaska: 12 days from Vancouver to Whittier, visiting Klawock, Ketchikan, Wrangell, Hoonah, Haines, Juneau, Sitka, Kodiak and Homer. Departs 29 May.
Alaskan Accolades: Seven days from Whittier to Vancouver, visiting Hoonah, Haines, Juneau and Ketchikan. Departs 10 June.
Majestic Alaska: Nine days from Vancouver to Seattle, visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Haines, Wrangell and Victoria. Departs 17 June.
Gems of The Last Frontier: 12 days from Seattle to Seattle, visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Hoonah, Haines, Sitka, Wrangell, Klawock and Victoria. Departs 26 June & 17 July.
Wonders of Alaska: Nine days from Seattle to Seattle, visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Victoria. Departs 8 July.
Radiant Alaska: 10 days from Seattle to Seattle, visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Hoonah, Sitka and Victoria. Departs 29 July.
Frontier Adventures: 10 days sailing from Seattle to Seattle, visiting Ketchikan, Sitka, Haines, Juneau, Wrangell and Victoria. Departs 8 August.
BANGKOK, 16 September 2024: Celebrating its 8th anniversary flying from its Thailand home base, Vietjet Thailand launches the ‘8th Anniversary Mega Sale’ promotion, offering special fares starting from THB 8 (excluding taxes and fees).
The deal, valid for travel on the airline’s entire domestic and international flight network, is open for bookings made by midnight on 19, 2024. The travel period runs from 1 October 2024 to 31 May 2025 (excluding public holidays).
The special promotional tickets apply toVietjet Thailand’s entire domestic flight network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai, Surat Thani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Ubon Ratchathani and cross-country routes connecting Phuket to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, as well as Vietjet Thailand’s international network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Vietnam, China, Fukuoka, Phnom Penh, Singapore, Taipei, and from Chiang Mai to Osaka. The promotional fares can be booked on the airline’s website and mobile app.
Since launching its first scheduled commercial flight in September 2016 with just three aircraft, Vietjet Thailand has expanded its network to include 21 domestic and international routes, carrying 28 million passengers worldwide. As Vietjet Thailand enters its 8th year, its fleet will serve 11 Thailand domestic routes. It is also expanding its international flight network to destinations across the Asia-Pacific, connecting Thailand with Vietnam, China, Singapore, Cambodia, Japan and Taiwan.
GEORGE TOWN, Malaysia, 16 September 2024: Marriott International opened the Penang Marriott Complex last week, marking the company’s 50th property in Malaysia.
The complex represents a significant milestone for Marriott in Malaysia. It comprises three properties: Penang Marriott Hotel, Marriott Executive Apartments, Penang, and Marriott Residences Penang.
Penang Marriott Complex
Set along the iconic Gurney Drive in Penang, the Penang Marriott Complex is the first in Malaysia to include three brands from the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio under a single roof.
Penang Marriott Complex contributes to Marriott’s presence in Malaysia, where 20 brands within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio currently have a presence.
“This development strengthens our capacity to welcome visitors from all over the world while also enriching the experiences they will have here. By doing so, we further bolster Penang’s appeal as a top-tier destination, creating new opportunities for our local economy,” said Penang’s former Chief Minister YB Lim Guan Eng.
Situated along a prime seafront location in George Town with breathtaking sea and city views, Penang Marriott Hotel offers 223 rooms. Guests are welcome to prioritise a healthy lifestyle with a fully equipped 24-hour fitness centre and an outdoor infinity swimming pool with breathtaking views of the Gurney seafront.
Marriott Executive Apartments Penang
A brand entry into Malaysia, Marriott Executive Apartments Penang features the brand’s signature 90 apartments with premiere hotel services for long stays and all the comforts of home.
Marriott Residences Penang
With 302 units, Marriott Residences Penang offers amenities such as a 45m infinity pool, a communal Clubhouse, a state-of-the-art gym, and a herb garden. The Residences also provide comprehensive services, including concierge, housekeeping, engineering, and 24-hour security.
MUMBAI, 16 September 2024: ITB India 2024 concluded on Friday with over 600 top-tier Indian and international buyers attending the B2B travel show.
The three-day B2B trade show, held from 11 to 13 September, also hosted the MICE Show India, Travel Tech India, and the ITB India Conference, ITB India 2024, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai,
The second in-person edition attracted key travel industry professionals and created unparalleled pathways to the Indian and South Asian travel markets for quality buyers and global exhibitors representing the MICE, Corporate, Leisure, and Travel Technology sectors. The event launched the inaugural ITB India Gala Dinner, which brought together over 400 international exhibitors and top buyers in a high-level B2B networking function.
This year’s event drew over 600 top-tier Indian and international buyers and empowered over 25,000 business engagements. Key exhibitors include AsiaPay, Club Med, Collinson Group, EVA Airways, Encalm Hospitality, Kenya Tourism Board, Melia Hotels International, Mize, Mondee, Novotel Jaipur, Prince Hotels & Resorts, Sarawak Tourism Board, Tourism Office of Spain, Taiwan Tourism Administration, Uzbekistan Airways, visitBerlin, and Visit Oulu.
“India’s travel industry is experiencing remarkable growth, and the increasing demand for this market is sparking renewed interest worldwide. This year’s edition proved instrumental in forging strategic partnerships and driving growth in one of the world’s most dynamic travel markets. With a focus on staying ahead of the curve, our conference tracks provided key insights to ensure attendees are future-ready”, said Messe Berlin Asia Pacific (organiser of ITB India, MICE Show India, and Travel Tech India) Executive Director Joyce Wang.
The high turnout of Indian and South Asian buyers was attributed to the efforts of show partners such as the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), Enterprising Travel Agent’s Association (ETAA), Network of Indian MICE Agents (NIMA), and Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI).
ITB India Conference 2024
Driven by the theme “Future-Ready Travel: Embracing Innovation, Sustainability, and Global Connectivity”, the ITB India Conference 2024 provided a comprehensive platform, for over 35 hours, of in-depth insights into the trends, challenges, and future of the rapidly growing Indian and South Asian travel market. In over 80 sessions across three conference theatres, more than 120 industry innovators and thought leaders addressed and discussed topics vital to the future of MICE, corporate travel, leisure travel, and travel technology.
ITB India 2025
The next edition of ITB India will take place from 2 to 4 September 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre. Super Early Bird rates on booth registration for ITB India, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech India are available until 15 May 2025. To secure a booth visit itb-india.com/exhibiting
