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Langkawi ranks among top 10 best Islands

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Your Stories
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LANGKAWI, 27 March: Langkawi continues to cement its position as one of Asia’s most loved island destinations, most recently ranked among the Top 10 Best Islands in Asia in the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards. 

The recognition adds to a growing list of international accolades that consistently place Langkawi among the region’s top island destinations.

In 2025, Langkawi was also voted the #2 Top Island in Asia in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and featured among Asia-Pacific’s best island destinations in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific, reflecting the island’s continued appeal among international travellers for its scenery, nature, and experiences.

The island’s tourism growth reflects this continued appeal. In 2025, Langkawi recorded 3.2 million visitor arrivals and generated RM8.3 billion in tourism-related revenue, underscoring its growing appeal as a premier island destination in Southeast Asia. That same year, Langkawi welcomed 370,395 visitors from the United Kingdom and Europe, reaffirming the region’s importance as one of the island’s key long-haul markets.

While awards and rankings highlight Langkawi’s growing international recognition, what brings travellers back to the island year after year is something less measurable — space, nature, and a slower pace of travel that feels increasingly rare.

Unlike destinations built around crowds and packed itineraries, Langkawi offers travellers something different: quiet beaches, mangrove forests, rainforest-covered mountains, and long stretches of road where the journey itself becomes part of the experience. It is a destination that invites visitors to slow down rather than rush, to explore rather than tick off attractions.

Langkawi is also home to the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark, the first UNESCO Global Geopark in Southeast Asia, recognised for its geological heritage, biodiversity, and conservation efforts across the Langkawi archipelago of 99 islands.

As travel trends continue shifting toward nature, wellness, and more meaningful travel experiences, Langkawi’s continued recognition across major international travel awards reflects a broader shift in what travellers are looking for today — not just destinations to visit, but places to reconnect, reset, and experience travel at a different pace. Rather than competing to be the busiest destination, Langkawi has quietly built a reputation as a destination defined not only by its landscapes but by how it makes people feel.

About Naturally Langkawi
Naturally, Langkawi is a story 550 million years in the making. It has a nature that is beautifully unique, wonderfully rare, and vastly accessible. It envelopes the 99 islands and the people who live there, creating a culture rich with stories as unique as the archipelago itself. A land steeped with captivating legends, myths and folklore as interesting as the people who tell them. It is a place full of diverse, incredible experiences where moments naturally become memories.

For more information on Langkawi’s attractions, visit: Naturally Langkawi. 

(Source: Naturally Langkawi)

Air Premia reduces seats for improved pitch

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Newsdesk
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SEOUL, 27 March 2026: Air Premia, Korea’s hybrid airline, is reducing the number of seats while expanding seat pitch to enhance passenger comfort on its B787-9 aircraft.

The airline announced that the economy-class seat pitch on aircraft HL8701 has been increased from 31 to 33 inches. Following the adjustment, the aircraft’s total seat capacity has been reduced from 344 to 326 seats, a decrease of 18 seats.

Photo credit: Air Premia.

The aircraft completed its seat reconfiguration in mid-March and entered service on 16 March. Passengers on flights operated by this aircraft will now experience the expanded seat pitch.

Air Premia has been continuously improving seat space to enhance comfort for passengers travelling on long-haul routes. In 2024, the airline also reconfigured two aircraft previously configured with 338 seats, reducing them to 320 seats while expanding economy-class seat pitch.

The airline is currently implementing sequential seat adjustments on aircraft configured with 344 seats, with plans to expand the economy class seat pitch on all aircraft to 33 inches or more this year.

Air Premia currently operates a fleet of nine aircraft, configured with 309 seats (three aircraft), 320 seats (two aircraft), 326 seats (two aircraft), and 344 seats (two aircraft). All aircraft except the 344-seat configuration currently have an economy-class seat pitch of 33 inches or greater.

(Source: Air Premia)

Agoda promotes underwater adventures

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SINGAPORE, 27 March, 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed its recommendations of Asia’s top diving destinations, where coral reefs, rare marine species, and dramatic underwater landscapes attract divers from around the world. 

As adventure travel continues to gain popularity, more travellers are adding scuba diving and snorkelling to their itineraries to experience Asia’s rich marine biodiversity firsthand.

Agoda has curated a list of standout diving destinations across Asia that offer memorable underwater encounters.

Sipadan Island, Malaysia – Sipadan Island is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier dive sites. Formed by living corals growing atop an extinct volcanic cone, the island is surrounded by thriving marine ecosystems. Divers regularly encounter sea turtles, barracudas, and reef sharks, while dramatic wall dives descend along a steep drop-off reaching depths of around 600 meters.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia – Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Raja Ampat is known for its extraordinary marine biodiversity. The region is home to more than 1,500 species of fish and over 600 species of coral. Its remote location helps preserve pristine reef systems, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for both diving and snorkelling.

Similan Islands, Thailand – The Similan Islands are famous for their clear waters and striking underwater rock formations. Divers explore granite boulders, swim-through passages, and coral gardens, while encountering marine life such as manta rays and whale sharks.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines – A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is one of the Philippines’ most protected marine areas. Accessible mainly by liveaboard boats, the remote reef system offers encounters with sharks, manta rays, and large schools of pelagic fish in a pristine environment.

Komodo National Park, Indonesia – Known for its powerful currents and nutrient-rich waters, Komodo National Park offers some of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic dive sites. Drift dives reveal vibrant coral reefs and large marine species, while the surrounding islands are also home to the famous Komodo dragon.

Malapascua Island, Philippines – Malapascua Island has become globally known for its regular sightings of thresher sharks. Divers gather at Monad Shoal at dawn, where these elusive sharks visit cleaning stations. The area also offers night dives and macro photography opportunities among colourful reef habitats.

Andaman Islands, India – The Andaman Islands offer a mix of coral reefs, underwater cliffs, and historic shipwrecks. Clear waters and relatively untouched marine environments make the islands appealing for scuba diving and freediving.

Yonaguni Monument, Japan – Off the coast of Yonaguni Island lies one of the ocean’s most debated formations. The Yonaguni Monument features massive underwater stone structures that resemble terraces and steps. Whether natural or artificial, the site attracts divers intrigued by its scale and mystery.

 Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply, Andrew Smith, shared: “Many travellers come to Asia for its beaches, but beneath the sea, there are ecosystems that are just as remarkable. From coral reefs to rare marine encounters, these locations offer experiences that stay with travellers long after the trip ends. At Agoda, we are passionate about helping travellers discover such wonders and create unforgettable memories, with great deals across our wide range of accommodation, flights, and activities.”

For those planning their next diving getaway, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning your next underwater adventure today.

(Source: Agoda)

Radisson reports strong growth in 2025

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SINGAPORE, 27 March 2026: Radisson Hotel Group closed 2025 with more than 272 new hotel signings and openings, reinforcing its position as a leading, owner-centric hospitality group, while leveraging its successful momentum to accelerate into more relevant growth. 

Throughout the year, the group retained Radisson Blu as Europe’s largest upper-upscale brand, with a presence in 154 cities. It also continues to lead Europe’s resort segment, with Radisson Blu resorts spanning 27 destinations across the continent. 

Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group.

“We are grateful for the trust of our owners in our brands and our people. We create more opportunities and possibilities for our investors and guests across continents and segments, from midscale to lifestyle, luxury to resorts, and eventually crossing into alternative segments, said Radisson Hotel Group Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer Elie Younes. “The momentum that we achieved over the last few years, alongside the competence and grit of our leadership teams, will secure more growth, resilience and opportunities in 2026 and beyond.”  

Global growth highlights in 2025

Southeast Asia Pacific (SEAP) continues to be a key engine of growth for Radisson Hotel Group, driven by strong owner demand, evolving travel patterns, and the rise of lifestyle and resort destinations across the region. The group is accelerating its expansion across Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and the Pacific, with a diversified pipeline. 

Recent additions to the portfolio include ANTA Hotel Bali Canggu, a member of Radisson Individuals; Radisson RED Resort Mactan Cebu; Return to Paradise Resort Samoa, a member of Radisson Individuals; and Radisson Hotel Nusantara, alongside upcoming developments such as Radisson Blu Resort, Dong Mo Lake Hanoi. 

In China, Radisson Hotel Group signed and opened 170 hotels during the year, bringing its pipeline to nearly 300 properties. Growth was concentrated in the mid- to upper mid-scale segments, driven by Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, now the fastest-growing brand in the country.

India continued to stand out as one of the group’s most dynamic markets. Radisson Hotel Group crossed the milestone of 200 hotels in operation and under development. Backed by strong economic fundamentals, sustained owner confidence and robust domestic travel demand, India remains a cornerstone of the group’s long-term growth strategy.

Across EMEA, the group recorded around 70 signings and openings, with continued focus on Southern Europe, the UK, France, Germany, and Poland. Key highlights included the signings of The Medlock, a Radisson Blu Hotel, in partnership with Manchester City football club; Banke Opera Paris, a Radisson Collection Hotel; Radisson RED Bucharest Old Town; Radisson Serviced Apartments COY Sheikh Zayed City in Egypt; Prize by Radisson Osnabrück in Germany, the first Prize hotel with the new interior concept; and Radisson Oriente Hotel Barcelona.

(Source: Radisson Hotel Group)

Jetstar launches business class BidCash

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Newsdesk
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SYDNEY, 27 March 2026: Jetstar has introduced a new upgrade bidding product that lets travellers make a cash bid for a Business Class seat on most of Jetstar’s Boeing 787 international flights.

The launch comes as the first of Jetstar’s 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliners nears the end of a major interior refit in Hong Kong, with 44 new Business Class seats fitted to the aircraft just last week.

Jetstar gives customers the chance to bid for Business seats from AUD180.

As part of the 787-cabin overhaul, Jetstar is more than doubling capacity in the business cabin in response to growing demand for premium seats on longer-haul flights – giving customers even more choice.

How BidCash works

Check your eligibility: eligible customers will receive an email invite to bid, or they can access the BidCash upgrade page directly at jetstar.com

Place your bid: customers can use the simple slider to choose their cash bid amount. There will be a minimum and maximum amount per route per person. For example, at launch, minimum bids on Jetstar’s Melbourne-Ho Chi Minh City route will start at AUD180.

Stay tuned: customers will receive an email before they fly, notifying them whether their bid has been accepted. Successful customers will receive an ‘offer successful’ email, and a new itinerary will be sent.

We are continuing to extend this new and exciting product to Qantas Frequent Flyer members. Coming soon, Qantas Frequent Flyers will be able to bid for Business Class upgrades using Qantas Points, including a Classic Upgrade Reward-style product and a Points Plus Pay offering that combines Qantas Points and cash. 

The new 787 cabin

The first Jetstar 787s with refreshed interiors will soon re-enter service, with the brand-new business cabin more than doubling in size from 21 to 44 seats.

The cabin will feature all-new seating designed for comfort on longer international routes:

38-inch seat pitch, seven-inch recline, and 21-inch width

Six-way adjustable headrest and generous seat cushioning

Bi-fold in-arm tray tables with a cocktail table

Seat-back device holders with high-power dual USB-C charging points

Calf and footrests

The cabin upgrade programme will be rolled out across the entire 787 fleet over the next two years.

(Source: Jetstar)

ICRT gains foothold in Thailand

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Newsdesk
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BANGKOK, 27  March 2026: A new professional network dedicated to advancing responsible tourism in Thailand has been established, connecting Thai tourism businesses, policymakers and academics with the global International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT).

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)

Asians ready to embrace adventure travel

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 27 MARCH 2026: Asia is emerging as one of the most powerful regions in adventure travel based on a new report from the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). 

Backed by EF Adventures and CBI, Asia’s outbound “Open to Adventure” travel segment represents an estimated USD424 billion market, nearly one-third of the world’s total adventure travel economy.

Based on the latest research, 72% of Asia’s international outbound travellers fall into the “Open to Adventure” category, which means they’re willing to incorporate cultural exploration, nature-based experiences, and active discovery into their trips, even when adventure is not the primary motivator. These findings challenge long-standing perceptions of Asian travellers and highlight a growing preference for more immersive and meaningful travel.

“Adventure travel in Asia is no longer about a single activity or adrenaline-driven pursuit,” said ATTA Director of Research and Knowledge Heather Kelly. “What we’re seeing instead is a large and diverse audience that is open to discovering destinations through culture, landscapes, and meaningful experiences. That openness dramatically expands the opportunity for destinations and tourism businesses.”

The report also underscores the economic impact of this market. On average, Asian travellers spend approximately USD366 per night and more than USD2,200 per trip, with a significant portion of that spend benefiting local businesses, guides, and community-based tourism experiences.

“The Asian outbound traveller is incredibly curious,” said ATTA’s President Gustavo Timo. “They’re looking for experiences that feel meaningful, whether that’s exploring landscapes, connecting with local culture, or discovering new perspectives. Destinations that design journeys around those elements will resonate strongly with this audience.”

Travellers’ interest in sustainable and responsible tourism is rising, demonstrating a growing preference for locally owned businesses, community-focused cultural experiences, and destinations that prioritise environmental stewardship.

“Sustainability is increasingly intertwined with how travellers define a meaningful trip,” said ATTA Regional Director for APAC Hannah Pearson

“When you look at a USD424 billion adventure-oriented travel market coming out of Asia, the trends become clear: Travellers want authentic cultural experiences, nature-based exploration, and opportunities to travel in ways that feel responsible and enriching.”

Globally, outbound adventure travel is valued at USD1.6 trillion, with Asia playing a significant role in that growth. As Asian travellers continue to seek immersive, culturally rich, and sustainable

experiences, understanding this evolving mindset may be key to capturing one of the most dynamic travel markets of the next decade.

For more information about the ATTA, visit www.adventuretravel.biz. 

(Source: ATTA)

Fliggy goes live with bookings via AI

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Newsdesk
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HONG KONG, 27 March 2026: Chinese online travel platform Fliggy — the travel division of Alibaba Group — confirms that following a trial period, its AI interface is now able to process bookings.

This has been made possible through the use of parent company Alibaba’s consumer-facing application Qwen App, which is available to users in China and experienced over 200 million AI-native shopping orders during the recent Chinese Spring Festival campaign.

As a result, during the Spring Festival period, Fliggy’s overall AI orders increased by 800% — with attraction ticket bookings proving the most popular use case and orders soaring more than 24-fold. Meanwhile, conversion rates for air,  train and attraction tickets have become comparable to those of OTAs with decades of experience.

Fliggy Chief Technology Officer Alex Chen comments: “After launching a suite of AI travel‑planning products in 2025, our AI interface has moved closer to fulfilment, evolving from planning support to enabling actual booking fulfilment.

“Alibaba’s AI-native application, Qwen, can now integrate core services across Alibaba’s ecosystem — including Fliggy, Taobao, Taobao Instant Commerce, Alipay and Amap. Leveraging this capability, Fliggy is leading the shift: consumers can now use natural language to ask the AI to complete travel bookings on their behalf, while travel is increasingly integrated into more lifestyle scenarios, such as shopping, food delivery, and booking cinema tickets.

“Already consumers are moving from using AI just for search to actually using AI to execute tasks — we are pleased to see that dozens of forward-thinking destinations and major travel brands have already partnered with Fliggy to explore potential AI collaborations to be a part of this shift.” 

Late last year, Fliggy adopted a multi-agent approach to building AI-powered products to prepare for the shift from ‘online travel agencies’ to ‘omni-intelligent travel agents’.

About Fliggy

Fliggy was founded in 2016 and is one of China’s leading travel platforms. The company provides merchants with a B2C platform that reaches consumers directly, and also distributes products through B2B channels.

The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group. As such, travel suppliers selling via Fliggy benefit from the vast user base of the Alibaba ecosystem, including an active consumer base in China of over 1 billion users and its digital infrastructure, efficiency tools, and vast marketing reach.

(Source: Fliggy)

AirAsia Move wins citation

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 27 March 2026: AirAsia MOVE has been named ‘Digital Innovator of the Year’ at the Aviation Festival Asia Awards 2026. 

The accolade, presented at the ceremony on Wednesday, recognises the platform’s pivotal role in transforming the digital travel booking landscape in the region.

AirAsia MOVE team led by Lim Ben-Jie, Chief People & Partnerships Officer (right), accepted the award from Sohail Ali, Aviation Consultant and AFA Award presenter (middle) at Aviation Festival Asia Keynote Stage on Wednesday.

Aside from being a travel platform that offers access to over 700 global carriers and more than a million hotels, MOVE is powered by enhancements to its AI-driven AskBo chatbot, a refreshed user interface, and offerings such as MOVETIX, its global live-events ticketing platform and the Easy Cancel feature. 

 AirAsia MOVE CEO Nadia Omer said: “Being recognised alongside industry leaders like Qatar Airways and Changi Airport Group reinforces our position at the forefront of travel innovation. With over 15 million monthly users, we are encouraged by this award to continue providing affordable travel, enabling our guests to favour discovery for less. This is a testament to the hard work of our Allstars and the trust of our partners, guests and those who voted for us.”

MOVE’s next phase will emphasise social discovery, enabling users to find trip inspiration through content and booking it all seamlessly in one place.

(Source: AirAsia Move)

Dusit joins GSTC community

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Your Stories
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BANGKOK 26 March 2026: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel management arm of Dusit International, has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, marking a significant step in the company’s ongoing efforts to embed responsible practices throughout its global operations.

GSTC is a global non-profit organisation that brings together public and private sector stakeholders to advance sustainable tourism practices worldwide. By joining as a member, Dusit becomes part of a global network committed to knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and promoting responsible tourism principles across the industry.

Dusit Thani Maldives implements a range of sustainability initiatives, from solar energy and plastic reduction to coral planting, with guests invited to take part in conservation activities.

Founded in 1949, Dusit International has evolved into a diversified hospitality company spanning hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, real estate development, and hospitality-related services. Today, its portfolio includes 290 hotels, resorts, and luxury villas across 18 countries, representing more than 11,800 rooms under nine distinctive brands.

Central to Dusit’s sustainability strategy is Tree of Life, a group-wide programme that guides responsible growth while creating positive environmental and social impact. Aligned with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Climate Action, Responsible Consumption, and Community Engagement, the framework integrates sustainability across hotel operations, from energy and water efficiency to waste management, employee and guest well-being, and community initiatives.

As part of its commitment, Dusit has introduced property-level energy management systems to improve efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy solutions, including solar photovoltaic installations, are already in place at several properties, including Dusit Thani Maldives, Dusit Beach Resort Guam, Dusit Thani Kyoto, ASAI Kyoto Shijo, and Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort.

Water stewardship is supported by water conservation measures and wastewater treatment systems, with treated water reused for irrigation and landscaping where possible. The group has also introduced measures to reduce single-use plastics, including refillable amenities, reusable water bottles, and more sustainable packaging alternatives.

To address food waste, Dusit applies a three-pronged approach focused on minimising waste during preparation, redistributing surplus food through local partnerships where feasible, and composting organic waste for use in gardens and community projects.

Beyond environmental initiatives, Dusit continues to advance responsible tourism practices. The company joined The Code – The Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism – in 2018, integrating preventive measures into its policies and conducting staff training across its hotels in Thailand.

The company has also signed the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Declaration on Illegal Trade in Wildlife, reinforcing its commitment to responsible sourcing and a zero-tolerance approach to illegal wildlife products.

Community engagement remains a key pillar of the group’s approach. Through initiatives such as Dusit Smiles, a partnership with Operation Smile Thailand, the company has raised more than THB 13 million since 2010, supporting life-changing surgery and care for over 750 children in Thailand.

“Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration across the travel ecosystem, and it is important that we continue to learn, evolve, and engage with respected organisations helping to shape the future of responsible tourism,” said Dusit International Group CEO and Chairman of the Sustainability Committee Chanin Donavanik. “Joining GSTC marks an important step in our journey as we expand internationally. Through Tree of Life, we aim to create meaningful, long-term value for the destinations and communities we serve.”

For more information, visit: dusit-international.com

(Source: Your Stories — Dusit International).

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