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Emirates opens Travel Store in Jakarta

Emirates Boeing 777-300ER

JAKARTA 28 April 2025: Emirates has officially opened its reimagined Travel Store in Jakarta, Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s commitment to enhancing travel experiences for its Indonesian customers. 

The Jakarta store follows the introduction of Emirates’ retail stores in Hong Kong and Manila, which are part of the airline’s continued investment in the region.

Photo credit: Emirates. Emirates opens travel store in Jakarta’s Sequis Tower.

Located in Sequis Tower, the new retail space spans 221 sqm and was officially inaugurated by Orhan Abbas, Emirates Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Far East, in the presence of HE Abdulla Salem AlDhaheri, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Indonesia, along with other distinguished guests, trade partners, and media representatives.

“We are delighted to launch Emirates’ newest travel store in Indonesia, bringing our world-class hospitality and personalised service closer to our valued customers. This innovative concept reflects our commitment to excellence, customer-centricity, and delivering seamless travel experiences. By blending cutting-edge technology with the expertise of our dedicated consultants, we aim to offer a holistic travel experience for customers, starting from the moment they begin planning their journey — until they board our aircraft.” said Orhan Abbas.

A new chapter in retail travel excellence

Emirates Travel Store in Jakarta offers Indonesian customers an in-person space where personalised services and immersive brand experiences come together under one roof. Thoughtfully designed to embody modern luxury and comfort, the store offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere – soft beige and sofas, complemented by sleek, contemporary furnishings, create a comfortable lounge setting for customers before they consult with Emirates travel advisors. While waiting, guests are encouraged to browse a curated selection of Emirates-branded merchandise and exclusive travel accessories, elegantly displayed at the store’s heart.

At four dedicated customer service counters, Emirates’ trained travel advisors offer customers personalised support with flight reservations, ticketing, and inquiries about the airline’s latest offerings, products, and destinations. Committed to delivering Emirates’ signature hospitality at the highest standard, the team ensures every visitor enjoys a seamless, thoughtful, and elevated experience from the moment they enter the store.

A prominent feature of the space is a wall display of the iconic Ghaf tree, the UAE’s national tree, positioned above a dynamic LED screen highlighting Emirates’ milestones, destinations, and exclusive offers. Adding to the innovative experience, a voice-activated LED selfie screen at the entrance invites guests to snap fun photos with backdrops of iconic Emirates destinations. Images are then accessible via QR codes, eliminating the need for printed images.

Emirates’ Jakarta Travel Store is the first to implement a queue management system, providing guests and Emirates Skywards members with a more seamless and personalised retail experience. The queue management system reduces waiting time and enables guests to share feedback on their experience via WhatsApp. 

Emirates in Indonesia

Emirates has been proudly serving Indonesia for more than thirty years. It currently operates double daily flights from Jakarta and Denpasar to Dubai, with onward connections to over 140 destinations across six continents. The airline currently serves Bali with the only scheduled daily A380 service, significantly boosting weekly seat capacity in and out of the city.

For bookings or more information on the airline, visit www.emirates.com

MSC unveils Explora Club

SINGAPORE, 28 April 2025: Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has unveiled Explora Club — a new loyalty programme created to celebrate and reward guests.

Explora Club offers a five-level structure — Classic, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond — with each level unveiling a curated collection of benefits, from priority access and bespoke events to personalised gifts and exclusive savings. With more journeys, Explora Club Members unlock an array of incremental privileges thoughtfully designed to enhance their time on and ashore.

Levels are determined by weighted nights at sea, multiplied by suite category, with additional points earned through Destination Experiences purchased pre-journey or on board and eligible onboard spending, including Ocean Wellness, exclusive culinary experiences and beverages, laundry, and purchases at The Journey boutique.

Explora Club benefits 

Thoughtful Gifts & Surprises: An exclusive welcome gift, signature loyalty delight, birthday surprise (Silver onwards), and surprise ritual turndown service (Gold onwards).

Journey Experience Credit & Value Savings: Meaningful rewards and exclusive savings across Ocean Wellness, Destination Experiences and future journeys. Exclusive access to Explora Club Member offers (Classic onwards), savings at The Journey boutique, value savings on future journeys (Silver onwards), Journey Experience Credit for Ocean Wellness and Destination Experiences (Platinum onwards) and a complimentary week-long journey for two (Diamond).

Pre-Journey Privileges & Services: Priority access and dedicated assistance ensure a seamless and elegant experience. It features priority access to the new journey collections, a dedicated Explora Club Members area on explorajourneys.com (Classic onwards), priority assistance at the Explora Experience Centre (Silver onwards), private airport transfer, and a complimentary suite upgrade (Diamond).

Exclusive Events: An invitation to an exclusive cocktail party with ship leadership (Silver onwards), President Journey experience and complimentary culinary experience, Chef’s Kitchen, Anthology dinner or caviar tasting experience (Diamond).

Elevated Onboard Services: Personalised welcome from the General Manager (Silver onwards), complimentary laundry bag (Gold onwards), priority reservation for onboard services, behind-the-scenes tour to the bridge and engine room (Platinum onwards), private shopping experience outside of boutique opening hours (Diamond).

Explora Club invites guests to enrol and begin their reward journey. By July 2025, Members will have access to a personalised ‘My Explora’ area, where benefits and level status will be visible. Past journeys will also be recognised and factored into each member’s level.

Explora Journeys is on course to build a fleet of six luxury ships by 2028, setting a new standard in ocean travel defined by elegance, personalisation, and purpose. EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II are already sailing, with four additional ships joining the fleet between 2026 and 2028.

Upskill tourism executives with a T-LEAP

SINGAPORE, 28 April 2025: EHL Hospitality Business School, a global institution in hospitality management education, has launched the Tourism Leadership Excellence & Advancement Programme (T-LEAP) in collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). 

This pioneering executive programme empowers senior executives and business leaders in the tourism sector with cutting-edge leadership, sustainability, and technology skills essential for shaping the sector’s future.

Melissa Ow, Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, presented programme certificates to graduates at the inaugural T-LEAP closing ceremony.

Each run of the programme takes place over five days at EHL Campus (Singapore). T-LEAP equips high-potential professionals with the expertise to navigate and drive innovation in Singapore’s dynamic tourism landscape. With a curriculum crafted in collaboration with STB, the programme is tailored to address the evolving needs of tourism executives.

The T-LEAP programme comprises three core modules:

  • Leadership Excellence & Strategic Growth: Covering Singapore’s tourism goals, strategic planning, and business partnerships.
  • Sustainability & Innovation: Addressing sustainability in tourism, circular solutions, and sustainability reporting.
  • Technology & Digital Transformation: Exploring digital trends, AI-driven operational efficiency, and the role of technology in shaping the future of tourism.

Through T-LEAP, participants will develop leadership acumen, gain sustainability insights, leverage technological advancements, and expand professional networks through interactions with industry experts. Additionally, they will be inducted into the Singapore Leaders Network (SGLN), a platform to encourage cross-collaboration and knowledge sharing.

The launch of T-LEAP marks a significant milestone in EHL’s strategic expansion in Asia-Pacific, reinforcing its commitment to creating a dynamic hub for hospitality and tourism education. Furthermore, it is EHL’s first SkillsFuture-funded programme, underscoring its relevance to the evolving needs of Singapore’s workforce.

“At EHL, we are committed to fostering the next generation of tourism leaders through innovative and impactful learning experiences. T-LEAP brings together cutting-edge academic excellence, industry expertise, and real-world application to prepare professionals for the rapidly changing landscape of tourism,” said EHL Faculty Member Dr Guy Llewellyn.

“Tourism leadership development is critical in navigating our rapidly evolving industry. Through T-LEAP, we aim to build a future-ready tourism sector and nurture a new generation of tourism leaders capable of driving innovation and forging strategic collaboration,” said the Singapore Tourism Board Chief Executive Melissa Ow.

Following the successful delivery of a pilot programme in February this year, STB has validated and extended the initiative for additional runs, demonstrating confidence in its impact on the sector. The first two runs are confirmed to take place in May and over October and November 2025, with the possibility of additional iterations based on demand and participant feedback.

Air India planning flights to Manila?

MANILA, 28 April 2025: Air India is expected to introduce direct flights to Manila from the Indian capital, Delhi, by the year’s end, according to a Philippines News Agency report quoting the Philippines Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco.

On the sidelines of a European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) luncheon meeting in Makati, the Tourism Secretary who heads the country’s Department of Tourism noted that the government considers India as a “huge potential source market for the Philippines.”

The Philippines News Agency quoted the DOT chief: “We are hopeful that the Air India flights will begin in the latter part of this year. We have had various coordination with Air India, our private sector, the Department of Transportation, CAAP (Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines), and CAB (Civil Aeronautics Board.” 

In February, CAAP met with Air India executives and discussed the application process for establishing direct air service between the two states.

PNA reported that CAAP would streamline the flight approval process while ensuring compliance with all applicable safety and operational standards.

About 79,000 Indian visitors travelled to the Philippines in 2024, more than 12% higher than the previous year but fewer than the numbers recorded by neighbouring Southeast Asian states.

According to the latest Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) data, more than 4.2 million Indians travelled to the region in 2024 alone. However, there are no direct flights from any major city in India to destinations in the Philippines. The most convenient route involves travellers flying Air India to Singapore to connect with Philippine Airlines flights to Manila.

Once Air India starts direct flights from Delhi, the Philippines can boost tourism from India, one of the largest source markets generating tourist visits to Southeast Asia. Air France and Air Canada recently introduced direct flights from Paris and Vancouver to Manila.

Based on the information and recent media reports, there are strong indicators that Air India will commence flights between Delhi (DEL) and Manila (MNL) later this year, even though the company has not commented on its expansion plans.

Several reliable sources state that Air India plans to launch flights to Manila from Delhi, often mentioned alongside other plans to expand routes to Jakarta, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

Earlier this year, reports suggested that the Manila and Jakarta routes are targeted for initiation by the fourth quarter of 2025. The launch of these new routes depends on aircraft availability as Air India expands its fleet.   

Currently, there are no direct flights between India and the Philippines. Air India’s entry into this route would bridge this gap, catering to the increasing demand for travel between the two countries for tourism, business, and education (especially for Indian students pursuing medical education in the Philippines).   

Given their suitability for medium-haul international flights, the Boeing 787 Dreamliners are identified as likely aircraft for the Manila route.   

(Source: PNA and reports on Air India expansion plans)

Cathay Pacific launches Dallas flights

HONG KONG, 28 April 2025: Cathay Pacific expanded its passenger network by launching direct flights between Hong Kong and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on 24 April 2025. 

Dallas marks the sixth new passenger destination launched by the Cathay Group, which includes Cathay Pacific and low-cost carrier HK Express. A total of 15 new destinations have already been announced for 2025, and more are to come.

Cathay Director of Customer Travel Erica Peng (second from left) and Airport Authority Hong Kong Executive Director, Airport Operations Steven Yiu Siu-chung (second from right) marked the new service’s launch at Hong Kong International Airport.

This new route heralds an expansion of Cathay Pacific’s North American network, further enhancing the global connectivity of its home hub, Hong Kong, while providing greater choice and convenience for customers.

To mark the occasion, Cathay Director of Customer Travel Erica Peng and Airport Authority Hong Kong Executive Director of Airport Operations Steven Yiu Chung gathered at Hong Kong International Airport to celebrate the new service’s launch.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “The launch of our direct passenger flights between Hong Kong and Dallas for the very first time demonstrates our commitment to providing our customers with convenient access to the most exciting destinations around the world from our Hong Kong hub. As a group, we are continuing to add more ports to our passenger network, which will exceed 100 destinations within the first half of this year.

“With our Cathay Pacific codeshares and other flight options, customers can connect to domestic destinations in the United States as well as destinations in Central and South America via Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. We also look forward to welcoming customers from the dynamic city of Dallas and the wider Americas onboard our flights as they travel to Hong Kong or connect to the many onward destinations available through our extensive global network.”

Cathay Pacific operates four return flights per week between Hong Kong and Dallas using its modern Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, featuring business, premium economy and economy cabins. 

Flight schedule

During the peak summer period, Cathay Pacific will operate more than 110 return flights per week to eight destinations in North America, including Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, and Vancouver.

In addition to Dallas, Cathay Pacific will launch a new nonstop service to Urumqi on 28 April, followed by Rome on 5 June, Munich on 16 June, and Brussels on 3 August.

Cathay Pacific’s new passenger service to Dallas will also complement Cathay Cargo’s freighter services via Anchorage. Cathay Cargo is operating close to 40 return freighter flights per week to North America this summer.

Thai Lion Air expands routes

BANGKOK, 28 April 2025: Thai Lion Air is expanding its route network with new international flights to Changsha, China and Surabaya, Indonesia, plus two domestic routes Bangkok (DMK) – Nakhon Phanom and Utapao (UTH) – Udon Thani in northeast Thailand.

The new services are scheduled to start from May to mid-June 2025 using Boeing 737-8 aircraft.

Domestic routes

The Bangkok (DMK)—Nakhon Phanom (KOP) route will commence with double daily flights on 19 June 2025.

SL670 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 0730 and arrives in Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 0855.
SL674 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1720 and arrives in Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 1845. 

SL671 departs Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 0935 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1100.
SL675 departs Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 1925 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 2055.

Udon Thani (UTH) – U Tapao (UTP) every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday starting 11 June 2568.

SL588 departs Udon Thani (UTH) at 1120 and arrives in U Tapao (UTP) at 1240.
SL589 departs U Tapao (UTP) at 1330 and arrives in Uthai Thani (UTH) at 1450.

International routes

Bangkok Don Mueang – Changsha, China. Direct daily flights start on 1 May 2025.

SL934 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 0920 and arrives in Changsha (CSX) at 1335.
SL935 depart Changsha (CSX) at 1435 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1650.

Bangkok Don Mueang – Surabaya (Indonesia). Flights are scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, starting 30 May 2025.

SL268 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1120 and arrives in Surabaya (SUB) at 1520.
SL269  departs Surabaya (SUB) at 1620 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 2030.

Commenting on the new routes, the airline posted on its Facebook account that opening the direct routes, both domestic and international, “will make travel between regions and neighbouring countries more convenient and faster for travellers whether on business or visiting relatives.”

MH schedules three daily flights to Melbourne

KUALA LUMPUR, 28 April 2025: Malaysia Airlines and Melbourne Airport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that supports the airline’s expansion in Melbourne marking a significant step forward in strengthening air connectivity between Malaysia and Australia.

The signing ceremony held at the MATTA Fair 2025 19 April focuses on expanding Malaysia Airlines’ network and helps establish Kuala Lumpur as a gateway for Australians travelling to Malaysia and beyond. 

As part of its expansion, Malaysia Airlines will introduce a third daily service from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne starting October 2025, increasing weekly flights from 14 to 21. 

Malaysia Aviation Group, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines Dersenish Aresandiran said: “This collaboration marks an exciting new chapter for Malaysia Airlines as we expand our network with the introduction of a third daily service to Melbourne. 

We are committed to providing passengers with more direct flight options while ensuring an exceptional travel experience defined by comfort, premium service, and the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality. Through our collaboration with Melbourne Airport, we aim to enhance connectivity, drive demand, and reinforce our position as the gateway to Asia and beyond. Our partnership with Melbourne Airport aims to enhance connectivity, drive demand, and reinforce our position as the gateway to Asia and beyond. This initiative will strengthen ties between Malaysia and Australia, supporting cultural, business, and tourism exchanges and creating new opportunities for both regions.”

Malaysia Airlines will progressively deploy its brand-new A330neo aircraft on the Kuala Lumpur – Melbourne route, aiming to operate all 21 weekly flights using the new fleet by the end of the year. It will also improve connections via Kuala Lumpur to destinations across Southeast Asia, India, and Europe.

Additional flights scheduled through to 31 October 2025

Malaysia Aviation Group reports 2024 net profit

Meanwhile Malaysia Aviation Group Malaysia Aviation Group reports a positive Net Profit After Interest and Tax of MYR54 million for the year 2024, marking a third consecutive year of positive operating profit at MYR113million. 

The performance, underscored by robust Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of MYR788 million, was achieved despite operational headwinds, including proactive network cuts in Q4 2024, which reduced capacity by 18%.

The airline group maintained a strong cash balance of MYR3 billion as of 31 December 2024, without any capital injections from its main shareholder, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, since October 2021.

The capacity cuts, driven by supply chain disruptions which extended maintenance times and delays in new aircraft delivery, were implemented during a traditionally strong quarter, impacting the group’s full-year revenue, which stood at MYR13,679 million — a marginal 1% decrease year-on-year on the back of a 6% increase in Available Seat Kilometre (ASK). However, passenger traffic remained robust in the premium segment, with stronger load factors for both passenger and cargo segments. The group also expanded its international network through new routes and deep partnership collaborations..

By 2030, the group aims to operate a new generation narrowbody fleet of 55 aircraft comprising the Boeing 737-8 and 737-10, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and flexibility to better serve both domestic and international markets. In parallel, the group is integrating A330neo aircraft into its long-haul network. Two aircraft have already entered service, operating to Melbourne, Bali and Auckland, with eight more expected this year.

With forward bookings increasing approximately 9% year-on-year, the group anticipates expanding its presence in key markets, including ASEAN, Australia, New Zealand, and South Asia, reinforcing Kuala Lumpur as a gateway to Asia and beyond. This strategic growth is further complemented by its return to Paris on 22 March 2025, marking the second European destination in the network.

MAB’s yearly capacity increased by 7%, with a 17% rise in passengers carried and a load factor of 81% compared to 77% in 2023.

MAB introduced three new destinations: Male (Maldives), Danang (Vietnam), and Chiang Mai (Thailand), and resumed flights to Kolkata, India.

Centara presents ‘Suite Heaven’ Offer

BANGKOK, 25 April 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts invites travellers to experience unparalleled luxury with its ‘Suite Heaven’ offer that delivers savings, complimentary hotel credit, and exclusive members-only benefits.

Incentives are available when booking premium rooms, suites, and villas at participating Centara hotels and resorts across Thailand, the Maldives, Japan, Vietnam, the Middle East, and beyond.

Guests who book until 31 December 2025 for stays until 31 March 2026 will enjoy 25% off the best available rates at participating Centara hotels and resorts worldwide, ensuring the ultimate comfort and style. Each stay includes a hotel credit worth 15% of the total paid booking, redeemable toward exquisite dining, drinks, and rejuvenating spa treatments. 

CentaraThe1 members enjoy an extra 15% off plus triple points as an added privilege.

From the overwater villas of the Maldives to the dynamic cityscapes of Bangkok and Osaka, and the cultural wonders of Vietnam and the Middle East, ‘Suite Heaven’ offers the perfect opportunity to experience luxurious comfort in extraordinary destinations worldwide. Whether seeking a serene beachfront sanctuary, family fun by the sea, or an exciting urban retreat, Centara’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality and world-class service are at the heart of every stay.

For more details  or to make reservations, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/suite-heaven

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 87 properties span all major Thai destinations, including the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.

Dusit community project teaches kids to swim

KRABI, 25 April 2025: From “I can’t swim” to competing with the world: How Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort empowers local youth through swimming. Check its latest video, Heroes of Hospitality.

In the serene paradise of Krabi, Thailand, a heartwarming initiative is making waves — transforming young lives through the life-changing power of swimming.

Co-founded in 2019 by the resort’s Recreation Manager, Thaworn Srimun, the Junior Sports Team began with a simple mission — teach local children from nearby Ban Klong Muang School how to swim. Since then, it has grown into a meaningful initiative that nurtures not only essential water safety and swimming skills, but also confidence, resilience, and a sense of ambition.

Each year, Thaworn and a dedicated team of Dusit associates contribute more than 600 volunteer hours to coaching. Under their patient guidance, children progress from learning in the resort’s pool to swimming confidently in the open waters of the Andaman Sea. For those who show incredible swimming skills, it may culminate in the extraordinary opportunity to compete in Oceanman Krabi, one of the region’s most prestigious open-water swimming events.

Behind the scenes, Dusit Krabi’s Administration and Social Media Executive, Supranee Ruenreung, plays a vital role in ensuring every session is safe, balanced, and aligned with the programme’s true purpose: empowerment, not just podium finishes.

The Junior Sports Team is more than just a swimming programme. It’s a powerful example of how hospitality can extend beyond hotel walls —  creating opportunities, unlocking potential, and fostering lasting change in the community.

Chance to shine at the Oceanman Krabi

The Oceanman Krabi is an open-water swimming event in the Oceanman series of races, which are held in various locations worldwide. 

Location: The event is typically held at Klong Mueang Beach in the Nong Thale sub-district of the Mueang Krabi district, near the Ao Nang and Noppharat Thara beaches.   

Distances: The Oceanman Krabi offers several race distances to cater to different levels of swimmers:

  • Oceanman: 10 kilometers   
  • Half Oceanman: 5 km   
  • Sprint: 2 km   
  • Oceankids: 500 metres
  • Oceanteams: 3 x 500 metres relay   

Schedule: The event held in late March annually typically lasts three days and includes social swims, registration, race briefings, primary races, and award ceremonies. 

Part of a series: Oceanman Krabi is part of the international Oceanman series, which aims for a significant global presence.

The Oceanman Krabi has been held annually since at least 2018, with the most recent event in March 2025. 

Oceanman on Facebook OCEANMAN Thailand 
For more information on the resort visit Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort in Krabi, Thailand 

For information on Dusit International visit www.dusit-international.com

Laguna Phuket Marathon sets the pace for 19th edition

BANGKOK, 25 April 2025: The Laguna Phuket Marathon 2025, presented by Supersports, returns for its 19th edition, 14 to 15 June, welcoming over 8,000 runners from 50 countries to the tropical shores of Phuket, Thailand. 

More than just a race, this internationally certified event blends fitness, fun, and philanthropy in one vibrant weekend.

Photo credit: Laguna Phuket Marathon.

Held in Laguna Grove, the event features the “Run Sunset & Run Sunrise” format, with family-friendly races on Saturday evening and the flagship Half and Full Marathons on Sunday morning. The scenic course winds through rubber plantations, coastal roads, and local villages, offering runners views of Phuket’s coastal beauty.

This year, the marathon deepens its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and inclusivity — introducing new race categories for runners aged 70 plus. It also supports local charities through the Laguna Phuket Foundation and the Children First Fund.

For more details visit www.phuketmarathon.com.

About the author 
Andrew J Wood is a respected travel writer, hotelier, and tourism lecturer with over four decades of experience in Southeast Asia’s hospitality and tourism sectors. A former general manager of several leading hotels in Thailand and a regular speaker at international tourism forums, he is widely recognised for his insight into emerging travel trends and his passionate advocacy for Thailand as a world-class destination.