KRABI, Thailand, 30 September 2025: The spa at Banyan Tree Krabi resort in southern Thailand scooped two major accolades at the Thailand Tourism Awards last week.
Banyan Tree Spa Krabi was presented with the Thailand Tourism Outstanding Award in the Hotel and Resort category and the Thailand Tourism Sustainability Award in the Health and Wellness Tourism category.
While Banyan Tree Spa Krabi was awarded second prize in both categories, its sister venue in Koh Samui, Banyan Tree Spa Samui, was also listed in the Top 5 for the Outstanding Award, and made the top 10 in the Sustainability list, underscoring the Banyan Tree brand’s ascendancy in the fields of sustainability and wellbeing.
The Thailand Tourism Awards, often referred to as the “Kinnaree Awards,” are organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and recognised as Thailand’s Hallmark of Excellence in the spa industry.
Many of its therapists have undergone intensive training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy in Phuket. Since its inception in 2001, the Academy has trained more than 2,000 spa therapists.
Nestled along the Andaman coastline, Banyan Tree Spa Krabi offers eight treatment suites, accompanied by a private garden. The venue also boasts Krabi’s first hydrotherapy spa, The Rainforest, a holistic and innovative wellness experience designed to heal and soothe. Guests are invited to embark on an experiential journey with a sophisticated hydrothermal circuit comprising a Rain Walk, Steam, Sauna, Ice Fountain, Vitality Pool, Outdoor Cold Plunge Pool, Outdoor Hot Plunge Pool, Jet Pool, and Heated Bed.
The prestigious MICHELIN Guide recently singled out Banyan Tree Spa Krabi as one of the seven most luxurious spas in Thailand. MICHELIN also accredited the hotel with Two Keys in its inaugural hotel listings for Thailand.
DUBAI, UAE, 30 September 2025: Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), a global alliance of independent hotel brands, has announced two senior leadership appointments that reinforce the organisation’s commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and operational excellence.
Steve AvaloMatthew Lloyd
Steve Ayalo has been promoted to Vice President, IT Governance, Risk & Compliance and Matthew Lloyd to Vice President, Marketing Technology & CRM, recognising their exceptional contributions and leadership within the business.
Steve Ayalo joined GHA in 2015 and consistently demonstrated a strategic understanding of how IT impacts both performance and risk. Ayalo has been instrumental in building GHA’s robust cybersecurity and compliance frameworks, leading the establishment of the cybersecurity operations centre, threat intelligence services, and scalable IT, all while establishing governance around emerging technologies like AI.
In his new role as Vice President IT Governance, Risk & Compliance, Ayalo will oversee ISO certification efforts, continue to drive GHA’s enterprise IT strategy, and lead the company’s information security risk management function. He will ensure regulatory compliance across all business units and manage cybersecurity, incident response planning & testing, as well as overall organisational cyber resilience efforts.
Matthew Lloyd has been appointed to an expanded leadership role within GHA’s marketing department, continuing his trajectory as a key driver of the company’s marketing technology and customer engagement strategies. Lloyd joined GHA in 2018, bringing 10 years of experience in the travel industry from his previous roles at Hilton and Southwest Airlines. Over the past seven years, he has led the development and implementation of GHA’s global CRM initiatives, driven data-led innovation across digital platforms, overseen D$ promotions, and played a critical role in rolling out the company’s customer data platform.
His passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences and finding innovative solutions has helped position GHA at the forefront of loyalty marketing and MarTech integration in the hospitality sector. In his new role as Vice President of Marketing Technology & CRM, he will assume a broader leadership role in shaping departmental culture, championing cross-functional collaboration, and mentoring emerging talent to enhance GHA’s overall marketing capabilities.
“These appointments reflect the highly skilled team we have at GHA and our continued investment in strengthening our technology and loyalty marketing leadership,” said Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance. “Both Matt and Steve have consistently demonstrated vision, expertise, and leadership that are critical to our success as we scale and innovate.”
KUALA LUMPUR, 30 September 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) will host the inaugural MATTA Muslim Friendly Travel Fair (MFTF), from 18 to 19 October 2025 at the World Trade Centre (WTC), Kuala Lumpur.
This new initiative represents a significant step in MATTA’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation in the travel and tourism industry, highlighting the rapidly growing Muslim-friendly travel segment.
Spanning 2,700 square metres in Tun Razak Hall 4, WTC KL, the Fair will feature 115 booths hosted by licensed tour and travel agents and other tourism players. While MFTF is smaller in scale compared to MATTA’s signature Fair at MITEC, it offers a focused and curated experience for all travellers interested in destinations, products, and services that are aligned with Muslim-friendly values.
MFTF is not exclusive to Muslim travellers. It is designed to welcome all visitors seeking culturally respectful, family-oriented, and accessible travel options. The Fair responds to public demand for a central venue, and WTC Kuala Lumpur provides a convenient location that enhances accessibility for attendees.
MATTA’s official partners: RHB Bank Berhad as the Exclusive Platinum Sponsor; Islamic Tourism Centre as Strategic Partner; Hwajing Travel & Tours as the Official Cruise Liner
Their collaboration underscores a shared commitment to elevating the standards of Muslim-friendly tourism and positioning MFTF as a one-stop centre for travel planning.
“MATTA recognises the challenges Muslim travellers often face in finding destinations that offer Halal food, prayer facilities, and family-friendly attractions. MFTF aims to bridge that gap,” said MATTA Muslim Friendly Travel Fair Organising Chairman Dr Fazil Khan. “We’re also proud to feature trusted agencies offering Umrah and Hajj packages, enabling travellers to fulfil their religious obligations with confidence and peace of mind.”
The Fair reflects MATTA’s broader mission to promote safe, convenient, and culturally respectful travel experiences. By launching MFTF, MATTA reinforces its leadership in the travel and tourism industry and contributes to Malaysia’s growing reputation as a global hub for Muslim-friendly travel.
MFTF is open to the public from 1000 to 2100 on Saturday and Sunday, 18–19 October 2025. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport to reduce carbon emissions. On-site parking is also available.
MELAKA, Malaysia, 29 September 2025: UN Tourism celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 in the historic city of Melaka, Malaysia, under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
This global day of recognition, celebrated on 27 September, marks a pivotal moment in advancing tourism as a catalyst for positive change, resilience, and sustainable development worldwide.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili attended the official celebrations, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture of Malaysia, which culminated in the 7th edition of the World Tourism Conference (WTC). The conference showcased Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
Global call for sustainable action
This year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” underscored tourism’s potential to drive social progress, economic growth, and environmental stewardship. The event highlighted the importance of effective governance, strategic planning, and inclusive policies in ensuring that tourism benefits all, while preserving cultural and natural heritage. Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, HE Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, welcomed participants from around the world to Melaka at the opening of World Tourism Day 2025 and the 7th World Tourism Conference.
In his official message, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised: “Tourism is a powerful driver of transformation. It creates jobs, fuels local economies, and builds bridges across cultures. Yet, it must be sustainable to protect the very places and communities it celebrates. Let’s harness tourism as a force for resilience, sustainability, and shared progress.”
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili noted that the “World Tourism Day 2025 in Melaka showed the world that tourism can be a force for good when guided by sustainability and inclusivity. By working together, we can transform tourism into a tool for empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental protection.”
Affirming this commitment, the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah bin Yusof, stressed that growth must be inclusive and resilient, underpinned by sustainability, innovation, and global cooperation.
He outlined Malaysia’s initiatives — from expanding high-value tourism segments and digital nomad hubs, to investments in sustainable aviation fuel and community-led ecotourism — as examples of balancing economic progress with social and environmental responsibility. He also announced that Malaysia will join the UN Tourism International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) with a pilot project in Mersing, Johor.
The UN Tourism Secretary General joined a high-level panel discussion and cultural showcase focused on sustainable tourism practices and innovative strategies geared towards the resilience of the tourism industry.
Focus on sustainable transformation
Investing in Education and Skills: Programmes to empower women, youth, and marginalised communities through tourism-related training and employment opportunities.
Accelerating innovation and digital transformation: Identifying tourism game-changers, including entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups and supporting them to transform ideas into action and scale up. Investing in digital education and closing the ‘digital gap’ through empowering rural communities, youth and post-conflict societies.
Supporting Local Economies: Promoting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises to ensure tourism benefits reach local communities.
Cultural Exchange: Showcasing Malaysia’s vibrant heritage through performances, culinary experiences, and exhibitions, reinforcing tourism’s role in preserving traditions.
World Tourism Conference 2025: The 7th edition of the World Tourism Conference (WTC) in Melaka brought together stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustainable tourism development, focusing on resilience, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Key sessions explored topics such as digital transformation in tourism, community-based tourism models, and climate-neutral travel solutions, aligning with the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
Looking Ahead
To conclude the official celebrations, Malaysia handed over the hosting of World Tourism Day to El Salvador. World Tourism Day 2026 will be held under the theme of “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to redesign tourism”. It will address the role of tourism in embracing digital transformation and integrating artificial intelligence (AI).
DUBAI, UAE, 29 September 2025: Twenty-five years of innovation, excellence and redefining the loyalty experience for more than 37 million members worldwide.
Emirates Skywards, the award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai, is celebrating its Silver Jubilee by giving back to its members with 25 days of prestigious prizes until 20 October.
From bonus Miles, surprise activities, to a whopping 25 million Skywards Miles raffle – the loyalty programme is marking its quarter-century milestone with unforgettable ‘fly better’ moments in the air and on the ground.
Emirates has also announced it will unveil a bespoke ’25 years’ aircraft livery featuring a striking silver design to celebrate the loyalty programme’s Silver Jubilee. The special decal aircraft is set to take to the skies starting next month.
Emirates Skywards, Divisional Senior Vice President Dr Nejib Ben Khedher said: “25 years, we are thrilled to celebrate such a monumental milestone. Emirates Skywards is a true success story – one that was born in Dubai and has now become one of the most recognised and loved loyalty programmes in the world with millions of members based in the UK, US, UAE, India, Australia and beyond.
Our success stems from consistently placing members first. Over the years, we listened, adapted, and innovated. We continuously introduced new, personalised offerings to create valuable and memorable rewards for our members worldwide. It has been an incredible journey made possible thanks to the trust and confidence of our members. Thank you for being at the heart of our story. And what better way to celebrate than give back to our community with 25 days of nonstop surprises and offers– all while we take our loyalty message global with the special Emirates A380 ’25 years’ livery.”
Members can look forward to exciting giveaways until 20 October:
25 Million Miles Raffle draw: As part of a whopping 25 million Skywards Miles giveaway, members can enter the raffle for a chance to win 100,000 Miles or 250,000 Miles, with one lucky winner taking home 1 million Miles.
50% bonus Skywards Miles when booking with Emirates and flydubai.
25% bonus Miles just by booking with partner airlines, shopping, dining, or unwinding in the UAE with Skywards Everyday partners, shopping online on Skywards Miles Mall, booking through Emirates Skywards Hotels, using an Emirates Skywards Credit Card or spending with any participating travel and lifestyle partners.
Up to 50% bonus Miles on an early bird ‘Buy or Gift’ Miles offer.
Surprise at Dubai International (DXB): In early October, passengers travelling to and from Dubai Airport (DXB) can play interactive quizzes to win Skywards Miles, as well as get complimentary airport lounge access and Dubai Duty Free vouchers. Activities kick off in Terminal 3 from 1-5 October and continue in Terminal 2 from 8-9 October.
‘Spot the tag’: Arrive in Dubai and keep your eyes peeled for special tags placed on luggage at the baggage belts. You will be rewarded with complimentary lounge access, Emirates-branded merchandise, and bonus Skywards Miles via Skywards Everyday, Skywards Miles Mall, and Emirates Skywards Hotels. The special tags will be appearing for customers in Terminal 3 from 1-3 October, and for customers in Terminal 2 from 8-9 October.
For more information on flights and to make a booking, visit www.emirates.com.
BANGKOK 29 September 2025: BWH Hotels, a leading global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotels, is celebrating a highly successful evening at the 34th TTG Travel Awards 2025, as BWH Hotels reaffirmed its place in the prestigious Travel Hall of Fame, while Best Western Chatuchak was voted as the Best Mid-Range Hotel – Bangkok.
TTG Asia’s Travel Hall of Fame is reserved for companies that have won their award for 10 consecutive years. First inducted in 2019, this honour reflects how BWH Hotels continues to lead the midscale hotel sector with its iconic brands, creative new concepts and sustained commitment to exceptional guest service.
Best Western Chatuchak, which opened in 2023, exemplifies BWH Hotels’ commitment to elevating the midscale hotel segment in Asia. Ideally located just steps from the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market, this contemporary property has quickly become a favourite among both leisure travellers and meeting planners.
The TTG Travel Awards are determined by the readers of TTG Asia and its six sister publications, comprising highly respected members of the region’s travel trade. The accolades were presented during a glittering awards ceremony and gala dinner held in central Bangkok on 25 September 2025.
“We are honoured to retain once again our place in TTG Asia’s prestigious Travel Hall of Fame. We are especially thrilled that Best Western Chatuchak has been recognised as Bangkok’s Best Mid-Range Hotel — a fantastic achievement that caps an outstanding start for this impressive property. I would like to sincerely thank all our valued travel trade partners for their continued support and votes,” said BWH Hotels Vice President-APAC Olivier Berrivin.
KUCHING, Sarawak, 29 September 2025: Interhill Hospitality, the hospitality arm of Interhill Group, has made several key leadership appointments, naming Sunardi Song the General Manager of Pullman Kuching and Randy Constantine the General Manager of Pullman Miri Waterfront, effective immediately.
Furthermore, the company has promoted Adrian Ng, formerly General Manager of Pullman Kuching, to Vice President, Operations and Alan Tham, former General Manager of Pullman Miri Waterfront, to Vice President, Food and Beverage (F&B).
Interhill Hospitality owns and operates three Accor-branded hotels in Malaysia: Pullman Kuching, Pullman Miri Waterfront, and the four-star ibis Melaka, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site town.
Interhill Hospitality Chief Operating Officer, Eric Tan, stated: “Pullman Kuching and Pullman Miri Waterfront are crucial strategic contributors to the hosting of MICE events and driving state tourism revenues in line with Sarawak’s development. With these new leadership appointments, we are bolstering our commitment to delivering world-class hospitality while driving sustainable growth for the state and our organisation.”
Sunardi Song will lead the highly anticipated relaunch of Pullman Kuching, which is currently undergoing a multi-million-ringgit transformation to become an Accor iconic landmark in Southeast Asia. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality leadership, Song most recently spearheaded the debut of Swissôtel Living Jakarta Mega Kuningan. Previously, he successfully opened the Novotel Jakarta Cikini in 2019, guiding the property through challenging market conditions with transformative leadership that delivered operational resilience and progress.
His leadership during the pandemic was recognised with Accor Indonesia’s Special Award for Outstanding Contribution, and he has long championed sustainability, earning the Indonesia Sustainability Champion title for initiatives that he launched, such as ‘Linen for Life’ and ‘No More Single-Use Plastic’.
BANGKOK, 29 September 2025: Skål International has announced the winners of the 2025 Sustainable Tourism Awards, which attracted 106 entries from 30 countries competing across eight categories that reflect the association’s global commitment to responsible, ethical, and innovative tourism.
Since 2002, the awards have recognised best practices in sustainable tourism, aiming to highlight exemplary initiatives that serve as models and inspiration for businesses, organisations, and tourist destinations around the world.
Waterbom Bali (PT Bali Ocean Magic), Indonesia, receives the award for education and social programmes from (left) Skål International Director of Sustainability José Luis Quintero.
The awards ceremony took place during the opening of the 84th Skål International World Congress, held in Cusco, Peru, on 26 September.
The awards are selected through an independently evaluated by a jury, made up of the official partners including the UN Tourism Affiliate Members Department (Skål International has been an affiliate member UN Tourism since 1984); Biosphere Tourism and the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI), a partner since 2018 (offers each winner a one-year subscription to the Biosphere Sustainable platform for customised sustainability planning and recognition). Sustainable Travel International has been a partner since 2023, offering a complimentary one-year membership to all winners and a 50% discount to other participants, providing them with access to exclusive resources and a global network of responsible travellers.
Recognition for sustainable excellence
Skål International Director of Sustainability José Luis Quintero announced this year’s winners at a presentation during the association’s annual World Congress.
The trophies handcrafted in Cusco, the heart of Peru, represent the Tunki (Andean Cock-of-the-Rock), the national bird of the country. This symbol honours those who make tourism a tool for respect, conservation, and transformation.
Asia’s winners 2025: Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards
ACCESSIBLE TOURISM WINNER Hayleys Leisure PLC, Sri Lanka
ACCOMMODATION, FOOD AND HOSPITALITY SERVICES WINNER ITC Maurya, New Delhi, India
COMMUNICATION WINNER The Asian Footprints (Whitehat Media), India
EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL PROGRAMMES Waterbom Bali (PT Bali Ocean Magic), Indonesia
LAND AND MARINE BIODIVERSITY Saudi Red Sea Authority, Saudi Arabia
SEOUL, South Korea, 29 September 2025: Seoul’s global tourism campaign, “Absolutely in Seoul,” starring global K-pop artist ‘JENNIE,’ has reached a cumulative 600 million views worldwide since the videos were released.
This milestone sets a new record in the history of Seoul’s global tourism campaigns — the most significant achievement in eight years — and underscores the powerful synergy between JENNIE and Seoul.
‘Absolutely in Seoul’, starring global K-pop artist JENNIE.
Centred on the theme “Anything is possible in Seoul,” the campaign was produced with cinematic, slightly fantastical storytelling and striking visual direction, designed to play like a short film.
The first main episode, “DALTOKKI,” follows a moon rabbit character (JENNIE) who loves Seoul and ultimately embarks on a whimsical journey to the city.
The second main episode, “SEOUL CITY,” features the track “Seoul City” from JENNIE’s debut solo album, “Ruby,” as its soundtrack and showcases JENNIE as she explores the city’s hotspots.
Featured locations include the Hangang Bus, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), SEOULDAL, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, COEX, Seongsu-dong, Bukchon Hanok Village, Euljiro, and Nodeulseom Island.
Public response to the campaign has been exceptionally enthusiastic. JENNIE’s appointment as Honorary Tourism Ambassador for Seoul generated 1,181 international news reports, and the campaign videos have been reposted over 50,000 times across social media, propelling the campaign to global virality.
Viewers worldwide left enthusiastic comments in multiple languages, praising the creative concept and JENNIE’s portrayal of Seoul: “JENNIE perfectly captures the charm of Seoul, where the old and the new coexist,” “Using JENNIE’s track “Seoul City” was a perfect match for a tourism campaign,” “After watching this, I’m eager to visit Seoul immediately,” etc.
Building on strong digital performance, the Seoul Tourism Organisation plans to sustain global momentum through TV advertising and high-impact outdoor media in major overseas markets throughout the second half of the year.
“Today’s results demonstrate how Seoul has become a magnetic destination through K-pop and broader Hallyu content,” said an official from the Seoul Tourism Organisation. “We will continue to pursue active global marketing to achieve our goal of attracting 30 million international visitors.”
SYDNEY, 29 September 2025: The Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) has officially opened its Australian Taiwan Tourism Information Centre (TTIC) in Sydney, as Taiwan continues to grow in popularity as a destination for Australian and New Zealand travellers.
The new information centre’s official opening comes as recent visitor data shows a growing trend for Australian and New Zealand travel to Taiwan. Visitor numbers have increased by more than 26% in the past year and are forecast to rise a further 16% in 2025.
From left, David Wu – Director General of Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Sydney, Douglas Hsu- Representative of Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Australia, Shih-fang Huang- Deputy Director General of Taiwan Tourism Administration and Paul Shih- Director of Taiwan Tourism Administration Singapore Office.
More than 60% of Australians and New Zealanders who travel to Taiwan do so for leisure, making it one of Asia’s most exciting emerging leisure destinations for travellers from the two Pacific nations. Arrivals between January and May 2025 were already up 17.47% against the same period in 2024, and TTA anticipates 150,000 ANZ visitors in 2025.
Officials unveiled the Taiwan Tourism Information Centre in Sydney on 25 September, located at 22 Market Street, Sydney.
“Australian travellers are adventurous and discerning, seeking meaningful cultural encounters and authentic nature experiences, and Taiwan has it all,” said Taiwan Tourism Administration Deputy Director General Shih-fang Huang. “With the opening of our new TTIC Sydney office, we’re making it even easier for Australians to discover Taiwan’s beauty, flavours and culture, while strengthening our partnerships here and underscoring our commitment to the country,”
Why Australians are choosing Taiwan
From buzzing night markets to mountain escapes, Taiwan offers a unique blend of adventure, culture and relaxation. ANZ travellers are also increasingly drawn to Taiwan for its safety, value, and variety.
Relaxation and escape: Hot springs, mountain trails, and island-hopping.
Cultural discovery: Temples, indigenous traditions, lantern festivals, and night markets.
Spectacular nature: Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, and Alishan forests offer world-class outdoor adventure.
Culinary excellence: Street food, bubble tea, and fine dining are now recognised by the Michelin Guide Taiwan 2025.
Sustainable Travel: Green transport and low-impact activities appeal to eco-conscious visitors.
Warm hospitality and safety: Consistently ranked among Asia’s friendliest and safest destinations.
Ease and value: Efficient transport and excellent value make exploring Taiwan seamless and rewarding.
What’s On in Taiwan – 2025/26 Highlights
Taiwan’s cultural calendar blends Minnan and Hakka heritage, Japanese influences, and Austronesian traditions. Culinary experiences, ranging from street food to Michelin-starred dining, further enhance its appeal.
Taiwan Lantern Festival (March 2026, Chiayi): A dazzling celebration of light and technology, with multimedia-enhanced lantern displays.
East Coast Land Art Festival and Moonlight Sea Concerts (June–Sept): Art, music, and sea views under the stars.
Cycling & Birdwatching Festivals (Autumn): Ideal for active travellers and nature lovers.
Gold-label marathons: Internationally certified races, including the Taipei and Wan Jin Shi Marathons.
Next Steps in ANZ
Alongside the office opening, TTA will launch out-of-home campaigns in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Auckland, and participate in trade events such as TADA Sydney and Total Holiday Options (THO) across the Australia and New Zealand outbound travel markets.
Direct flights are available on China Airlines and EVA Air from Australia to Taiwan, with additional options via Singapore, Bangkok, and Hong Kong. Air New Zealand also has direct flights from Auckland to Taiwan.
