Monday, September 15, 2025
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A meeting of minds and medicines

BANGKOK, 5 September 2025: Bangkok will host the We Are The World Biotech – AI Innovative & Integrated East-West Medicine Global Summit from 9 to 11 November at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC) meeting room 101-120, Level 1.

‘We are the World’ is a nonprofit movement and organiser of the Bangkok summit* that promises to reframe how we think about wellness, treatment, and longevity in the twenty-first century.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

For too long, patients and families facing chronic conditions such as Cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and Autism have been told that Western medicine offers only limited options. While modern pharmaceuticals and hospital systems are invaluable, they often focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing root causes. Eastern traditions, particularly Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), have for centuries pursued balance and prevention. Now, with the help of artificial intelligence and biotechnology, the two worlds are set to converge in Bangkok.

The summit will bring together global experts in bioscience, TCM, Western medicine, and AI innovation. Their mission is to share reliable medical information, promote transparency, and highlight therapies that combine the best of Eastern and Western approaches. The ambition is nothing less than to create a new healthcare paradigm for Asia that also has a global impact.

Cutting through the noise

One of the most significant challenges today is separating genuine treatment from marketing hype. Patients are often left confused by conflicting advice and misleading claims. The organisers of We Are The World pledge to provide a professional platform where knowledge is accurate, evidence-based, and accessible. This is not about miracle cures, but about building trust and demonstrating how integrative medicine can offer genuine hope.

Why Bangkok

Bangkok is a fitting host for this ground-breaking event. Thailand has long been a leader in wellness tourism and medical travel, boasting a combination of advanced hospitals, respected traditional therapies, and affordability that rivals Western markets. The summit will showcase how Asia can leverage cost efficiency, centuries of TCM wisdom, and cutting–edge AI to deliver innovative healthcare solutions.

Over three days, delegates will explore case studies and breakthroughs across conditions that stretch the limits of conventional medicine. Topics include autism, Alzheimer’s, cancer, lupus, diabetes, kidney disease, AIDS, stroke, and hypertension. Participants will hear from professors, doctors, and researchers who are at the frontier of integrating East–West treatments.

A summit with direct Impact

Combining the wisdom of East and West

The event is not only about dialogue. Delegates will have access to second medical opinions from leading doctors, and 1% of patients will receive free cutting–edge treatments, including longevity consultations. This unique initiative extends hope to those who might otherwise feel left behind.

Dr Michael Yao, PhD, a biopharmaceutical policy leader and recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the FDA, summarises the vision: “No illness should deprive anyone of their right to hope and comprehensive care. By combining the wisdom of East and West with today’s most advanced technologies, we can open new possibilities for patients everywhere.”

Whether you are a medical professional, a wellness traveller, or someone personally touched by illness, We Are The World in Bangkok is an opportunity to connect with the brightest minds and most compassionate healers. In a city known for its hospitality, the world will gather to explore the future of health.

For more details, visit www.wearetheworldasia.org.

  • * “We Are The World Biotech – AI Innovative & Integrated East-West Medicine Global Summit” does not appear to have a permanent, single headquarters. An internet search suggests it is a “nonprofit movement and summit,” a collaborative event rather than a project of a single company. Editor’s note.)

Agoda lists Asia’s top caving destinations

SINGAPORE, 5 September 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda invites travel enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore some of Asia’s most incredible caves. 

As the trend for immersive travel experiences grows, cave exploration promises unforgettable adventures with truly breathtaking views.

Photo credit: Vietnam Airlines. Son Doong Cave, located in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, is the largest cave in the world and a global icon of adventure tourism.

Cave exploration offers a chance to witness the artistry of nature, sculpted over millions of years. From intricate stalactites and stalagmites to serene underground lakes, these caves offer a glimpse into a world rarely seen. 

But before you decide to embark on caving as a leisure pursuit, there are essential safety instructions when caving for the first time.

Caving can be an incredible and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to prioritise safety, especially for your first trip. The best way to learn is by going with an experienced caver or a local caving club (known as a “grotto”). 

Here are some key safety instructions to follow, along with the support that cave tour specialists should provide.

Before you go

Never cave alone. The minimum recommended group size is four people. This ensures that if one person is injured, one can stay with them while the other two go for help.

Find an experienced leader. Go with someone who knows the cave and can guide you through the hazards and challenges.

Tell someone where you’re going. Establish a “surface watch” with a reliable person who is not on the trip. Give them your caving plan, including the cave location, the names of everyone in your group, your vehicle information, and your estimated time of return. Have a plan for what they should do if you don’t check in by a specific time.

Check the weather. Be aware of the forecast, especially for rain, as caves can flood quickly and without warning.

Know your limits. Caving is physically demanding. Be honest about your fitness level and don’t push yourself beyond your limits.

Essential gear and clothing

Three sources of light. This is the most crucial rule of caving. Your primary light should be a helmet-mounted headlamp to keep your hands free. You should also carry two reliable backup lights, such as waterproof flashlights, along with extra batteries for all of them.

A sturdy helmet with a chin strap. This is non-negotiable. You will hit your head, and a helmet will protect you from falling rocks and low ceilings.

Proper clothing. Dress in layers and avoid cotton, as it absorbs water and can cause you to feel cold. Synthetic materials are a better choice. Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin from scrapes and dirt.

Sturdy footwear. Wear boots with good ankle support and traction to prevent falls on wet and slippery surfaces.

Knee and elbow pads. These will be a lifesaver when crawling through tight spaces.

Gloves. They will protect your hands from scrapes and the cold.

A small backpack. Pack a first-aid kit, a small amount of food, and plenty of water.

While caving

Move slowly and carefully. Falls are the most common cause of caving accidents. Always be deliberate with your movements.

Maintain “three points of contact.” When moving over uneven or slippery ground, always have three points of your body (e.g., two feet and one hand) in contact with a stable surface.

Stay with your group. Do not wander off on your own. Maintain communication and make sure everyone is within earshot.

Don’t run or jump. The ground is uneven, slippery, and full of unseen hazards.

Be a good steward of the cave. Remember the caver’s motto: “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time.” Do not touch or damage cave formations (stalactites, stalagmites, etc.), as the oils from your skin can prevent them from growing. Pack out all your trash, including food scraps.

For travellers eager to take in these underground wonders, Agoda presents a guide to cave destinations that will deliver lasting memories. Ensure the tour guide company you use prioritises safety and provides the necessary support gear for participants.

Seven must-visit caves in Asia

Here’s Agoda’s curated list of seven must-visit caves in Asia supported by guided tours:

  1. Son Doong Cave, Quang Binh, Vietnam:
    As the world’s largest cave, Son Doong is a bucket-list destination for adventurers. Its vast chambers and unique ecosystems, including a fast-flowing subterranean river, provide a dramatic backdrop for photography, with guided tours offering insights into its geological wonders.
  2. Borra Caves, Andhra Pradesh, India:
    Nestled in the Ananthagiri Hills, Borra Caves are renowned for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can explore the intricate formations on guided tours, capturing the play of light and shadow that creates a magical atmosphere.
  3. Ryusendo Cave, Iwate, Japan:
    Known for its crystal-clear underground lakes, Ryusendo Cave offers a serene escape into nature’s artistry. There are guided tours, and photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture the cave’s ethereal beauty, especially with the vibrant blue hues of the water.
  4. Hwanseon Cave, Gangwon, South Korea:
    Formed around 530 million years ago, Hwanseon Cave is the largest limestone cave in Asia. The cave boasts a labyrinth of tunnels and stunning rock formations. Guided tours offer visitors the chance to explore its natural splendour, providing ideal opportunities for capturing awe-inspiring photographs.
  5. Mulu Caves, Sarawak, Malaysia:
    Located in Gunung Mulu National Park, these caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The vast chambers and unique formations offer endless photographic opportunities, with guided tours providing insights into the cave’s history and geology.
  6. Gua Gong, East Java, Indonesia:
    Known for its mesmerising stalactites and stalagmites, Gua Gong is a hidden gem in East Java, offering guided tours. The cave’s natural acoustics and stunning formations make it a must-visit for photographers seeking the perfect shot.

“Agoda has created a list of cave destinations to capture the imagination of nature enthusiasts, shared Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply Andrew Smith. We’re proud to be a trusted partner in exploration, unearthing the best deals so travellers can experience the world’s majestic beauty with ease and confidence.”

STB revokes travel agency licence

SINGAPORE, 5 September 2025: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) confirmed on Thursday that Zayn Travels Pte Ltd’s licence (TA03229) (Zayn Travels) has been revoked effective 3 September 2025 in accordance with the Travel Agents Act 1975.

Zayn Travels is no longer permitted to carry out any travel agent activities. The travel agency’s licence was revoked for continued failure to submit its Audited Statement of Accounts (AA) and Annual Business Profile Returns (ABPR). 

Photo credit STB: TRUST.

Under the Travel Agents Regulations 2017 (TAR), licensees must submit these documents within 6 months after the close of their financial year. The revoked travel agent must refund all their existing customers or hand over their existing obligations to licensed travel agents to fulfil.

A Google search reveals that Zayn Travels Pte Ltd offered various curated travel experiences, including packaged tours to destinations such as Taipei, Yunnan, and Europe.

Additionally, the company provided a range of travel services, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruise bookings, sightseeing tours, travel insurance, and visa services.

Earlier in the year, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) temporarily withheld the revocation of Zayn Travels’ license pending an appeal by the company, filed in June 2025.

STB takes a serious view against errant travel agents and will not hesitate to take necessary actions to protect the reputation of Singapore’s travel industry. 

For the most up-to-date list of licensed travel agents in Singapore, please visit the Travel Related Users’ System (“TRUST”) website, TRUST.  

CX names team leader changes

SINGAPORE, 5 September 2025: Cathay announced earlier this week changes to key management roles as it continues to strengthen its presence in Southeast Asia and Oceania. 

The leadership announcement follows the integration of the Southeast Asia and Oceania regions, with the new structure enabling closer collaboration and greater efficiency, while continuing to drive growth and deliver exceptional service to customers across the region’s markets.

Southeast Asia & Oceania regional appointments

Frosti Lau, Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia & Oceania. He was previously the Regional General Manager for the Southwest Pacific.

Jonathan Ng, Regional Head of Customer Travel and Lifestyle, Southeast Asia & Oceania. He was previously the Regional Head of Customer Travel and Lifestyle for Southeast Asia. 

Ashish Kapur, Regional Head of Cargo, Southeast Asia & Oceania. He was previously the Regional Head of Cargo for Southeast Asia. 

Lynn See, Regional Head of People, Southeast Asia & Oceania. She was previously the Regional Head of People for Southeast Asia. 

Steve Cheung, Regional Head of Finance, Southeast Asia & Oceania. He was previously the Regional Head of Finance for Northeast Asia.

Adam Nelson, Regional Head of Engineering, Southeast Asia & Oceania. He was previously the Regional Head of Engineering for the Southwest Pacific. 

Dominic Vallado, Regional Head of Airports, Southeast Asia & Oceania. He was previously the Regional Head of Airports, Southeast Asia.

Area and country managers

The following are the new Area Heads and Country Managers, who will lead efforts to boost Cathay’s lines of business in their respective countries.

Kelly Tsang, Area Head, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. She was previously the Country Manager for Thailand. 

Nicolas Masse, Area Head, Singapore and Malaysia. He was previously the Area Head for Vietnam and Cambodia. 

Tony Sham and Vishnu Rajendran remain Country Heads of Indonesia and the Philippines, respectively.

The appointments follow the Cathay Group’s 2025 Interim Results on 6 August 2025, with the Group’s announcement of a HKD3.7 billion profit in the first half of 2025 and the exercise of purchase rights for an additional 14 new Boeing 777-9 aircraft amid a solid performance.

Laguna Phuket’s Race of Legends returns

PHUKET, 5 September 2025: The “Race of Legends” is back as Laguna Phuket with the 31st edition of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon (LPT), scheduled for Sunday, 23 November 2025.

As Southeast Asia’s longest-running triathlon, the LPT has become a leading sporting attraction, drawing elite athletes and amateur competitors alike to one of Asia’s top lifestyle destinations.

From left to right: Team effort from all stakeholders, TriHub, Laguna, Phuket Governor Khun Sophon Suwannarat, Thai Airways and Thai Triathlete Khun Kitpong.

This year’s race should welcome over 1,000 athletes and 3,000 spectators, further cementing Phuket’s role as an active lifestyle destination. Supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and Thai Airways International, the event showcases Phuket’s reputation as both a leisure paradise and a hub for sports, health, and wellness. 

The triathlon is also a sustainable event, inspiring participants not only in health and fitness but also in the pursuit of longevity and well-being.

Course and categories

The Laguna Phuket Triathlon is celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty and international standards. The 2025 route includes a 1.8 km swim in the Andaman Sea and the lagoons of Laguna Phuket, followed by a 50 km bike ride across coastal hills and villages, and finishing with a 12 km run through lush tropical scenery.

In addition to the primary race, the Sprint Triathlon (0.5 km swim, 20 km bike, 6 km run) and Duathlon (4 km run, 50 km bike, 12 km run) return, making the event accessible to a broader range of athletes. The newly introduced age group categories in Sprint further expand inclusivity. A USD20,000 prize purse awaits top performers.

Elite athlete line-up

The 2025 edition will feature a world-class roster of triathletes. Among the men: Antony Costes (France), Joel Wooldridge (Australia), Rostyslav Pevtsov (Ukraine), Guy Crawford (New Zealand), Casimir Moine (France), and James Thorp (Australia). Women competitors include Kate Bevilaqua (Australia), Ksenia Levkovska (Ukraine), Alanis Siffert (Switzerland), and Dominika Jamnicky (Canada).

Thailand’s own Kitpong Chavaldit, celebrated for his Ironman endurance across four continents, will also return. “Every time I race in Phuket, I feel the same spirit of friendship and challenge,” he said. “The Laguna Phuket Triathlon is more than a race – it is a celebration of culture, camaraderie, and global sportsmanship.”

Open water swim by TriHub

Adding to the excitement is the Open Water Swim by TriHub, scheduled for Saturday, 22 November 2025, a day before the main event. Staged on the beaches of Laguna Phuket, the competition features multiple distances for professionals and amateurs. According to TriHub, Managing Director Sasitast Kulsubtrakull, the swim is “an experience that connects people with nature and with each other, while strengthening the triathlon community across Thailand and the region.”

Lifestyle tourism and hospitality

The LPT is more than a race; it is a driver of tourism. Athletes and their supporters enjoy luxury accommodation at Angsana Laguna Phuket, Banyan Tree Phuket, Cassia Phuket, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, HOMM Suites Laguna, and SAii Laguna Phuket, with shuttles and exclusive packages under booking code LPT2025. The event contributes significantly to Phuket’s economy, igniting the island’s high season and spotlighting its world-class appeal.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a Bangkok-based British travel writer and former hotelier. A Skål member since 1992, he is a past President of Skål International Thailand and Skål Asia. Andrew is a regular contributor to global travel publications and writes extensively about tourism, hospitality, and lifestyle across Thailand and the Asia-Pacific region.

Malaysia Airlines 9.9 deals

KUALA LUMPUR, 5 September 2025: Kick off September by checking out Trip.com’s 9.9 Mega Sale, which returns bigger in partnership with the Malaysia Airlines Online Travel Fair. From 5 to 9 September, travellers can unlock savings on flights, hotels, and attractions, 

Fly for Less with MAS: All-in Fares from MYR299

On 5 September, Malaysia Airlines offers Trip.com users exclusive all-in return flight fares to popular destinations, including Bangkok, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and beyond, starting from just MYR299.

Travellers can enjoy even more savings with limited-time only promo code drops for up to 50% off on all Malaysia Airlines flights and 15% off on Malaysia Airlines Business Class tickets.

Hotel Flash Sales from MYR99

Don’t miss exciting flash sales on 9 September, with hotel stays from as low as MYR99 at premium hotels across Malaysia, including the Parkroyal Collection Kuala Lumpur, Parkroyal Penang Resort, G Hotel Kelawai, Mercure Langkawi and Pantai Cenang.

Stretch the travel budget with 9.9 deals

  • Daily Midnight Promo Codes: Save up to MYR500 off on all flights, hotels, and attractions, dropping at midnight every day from 5 to 9 September.
  • Buy 1 Get 1 Free Attractions: Double the fun with Buy 1 Get 1 Free tickets to Legoland Malaysia, SplashMania WaterPark, Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park, Immersify KL. Limited-time offers from 6 to 8 September.
  • Japan Calling: Headed to the Land of the Rising Sun? Score a deal at Universal Studios Japan, plus have fun in Kansai with a bundle deal, available only on 5 September at 1400.
  • Mastercard Privileges: Enjoy discounts of up to MYR160 on Malaysia Airlines flights and MYR70 on hotel bookings when you book on selected dates with a Mastercard.
  • RM100 Off for New Users: New to Trip.com? Sign up and enjoy an extra MYR100 off on flight bookings from 5 to 12 September.

Car Rental Deals: Get around town with ease, at lower rates. Enjoy up to 30% off on car rental bookings from 5 to 9 September for selected cities across Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and more. Lucky early birds may even snag limited coupons for an additional 50% discount!

ITB Asia Conference adopts Future Forward theme

SINGAPORE, 4 September 2025: ITB Asia 2025 Conference, organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, will deliver three days of curated content across three specialised stages — the Knowledge Theatre, MICE Show Asia Theatre, and Travel Tech Asia Theatre — 15 to 17 October 2025 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre.

“In times of rapid change, ITB Asia serves as an important platform for the global travel community to exchange ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and develop strategies for the future. “Future Forward” highlights our focus on harnessing technology, advancing sustainability, and reimagining the traveller experience to turn challenges into opportunities,” said Messe Berlin Asia Pacific Executive Director Darren Seah.

Photo credit: ITB Asia 2025.

Opening keynotes from global leaders

The event will open with Michael Shoory, Head of APAC Tourism Analysis at Tourism Economics, who will present an in-depth outlook on travel to and within the APAC region, highlighting changes in traveller source markets, the future of business and MICE travel, and the economic forces shaping demand.

He will be followed by Nick Lim, CEO (Asia) of The Travel Corporation, who will share forward-looking perspectives on how travel experiences in Asia are evolving in response to shifting expectations, cultural dynamics, and innovations in the sector.

Conference highlights — three stages

Knowledge theatre

This stage brings together C-suite executives and senior leaders to address strategic industry issues and share their vision for the future of the travel and tourism sector. Sarah Wang, Regional Director for Asia at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), will discuss key drivers of growth in the Asia Pacific travel economy, focusing on evolving traveller preferences and opportunities for market expansion. 

Todd Handcock, Global Chief Commercial Officer and Asia Pacific Executive Chair at Collinson International, and Katrina Nicholas, Asia Transport Team Leader and Deputy Managing Editor for Global Business, Bloomberg, will reveal findings from the “2025 Asia Pacific Consumer Happiness Report” and explain how travel can enhance happiness, build brand loyalty, and create lifetime customer value. 

Chew Hang Song, Chief Operating Officer at Frasers Hospitality, will explore how the hospitality sector can respond to growing demands for personalised, seamless, and tech-enabled experiences while balancing technological innovation with human service.

Photo credit: ITB Asia.

MICE Show Asia theatre

The MICE Show Asia Theatre will spotlight the latest developments in business events, corporate travel, and meetings innovation.
Vishal Sawant, Chief Experience Officer for India at ATPI, and Sheryn Sethoe, Head of MICE – Asia at ATPI, will discuss how Asia’s business travel sector can integrate innovative technology without losing the human touch. 
Eugene Ng, Senior Vice President and Executive Creative Director for Asia at Jack Morton Worldwide, will share strategies for crafting immersive, multisensory event experiences that captivate audiences. Ilaria Cicero, CEO of IEG Asia, and Errol Lim, COO of Jublia, will explore how networking in MICE events is evolving from traditional exchanges to purposeful connections that drive ROI and create meaningful experiences for attendees.

Travel Tech Asia theatre

At the Travel Tech Asia Theatre, industry innovators will discuss the technologies redefining tourism. Masahiro Yamashita, Senior Director for APAC at KAYAK, will explain how generative AI is reshaping travel engagement and personalisation.
Scott Krivokopich, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at 1982 Ventures, will share insights into how venture capital is identifying and investing in the most promising travel tech innovations, from AI trip planning to borderless mobility solutions. 
Léa Vernet, Vice President of Partnerships & Connectivity at D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions, will provide practical examples of how strong partnerships and connectivity can transform hospitality ecosystems, delivering greater agility and enhanced guest experiences.

For further information on ITB Asia 2025, visit itb-asia.com

IATA passenger demand grows 4% in July

SINGAPORE, 4 September 2025: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for July 2025 showing passenger demand expanding 4% when compared with the passenger traffic performance in July 2024.

Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), was up 4.4% year-on-year. The July load factor was 85.5% (-0.4 ppt compared to July 2024).

International demand rose 5.3% compared to July 2024. Capacity was up 5.8% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.6% (-0.4 ppt compared to July 2024).

Domestic demand increased 1.8% compared to July 2024. Capacity was up 2.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 85.2% (-0.4 ppt compared to July 2024).

“It’s been a good northern summer season for airlines. Momentum has grown over the peak season, with July demand reaching 4% growth. That trend appears across all regions and is particularly evident for international travel, which strengthened from 3.9% growth in June to 5.3% in July,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.” Moreover, with flight volumes showing a 2% year-on-year increase for September after five months of decelerating growth, airlines are positioned to take advantage of this market momentum into the coming months.”

Air passenger market in detail 

Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets

International RPK growth reached 5.3% in July year-on-year, but load factors fell in all regions except Africa.

Asia-Pacific airlines achieved an 8.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 9.0% year-on-year, and the load factor was 83.8% (-0.2 ppt compared to July 2024).

European carriers had a 4.0% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 4.2% year-on-year, and the load factor was 87.3% (-0.2 ppt compared to July 2024).

North American carriers saw a 2.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 3.6% year-on-year, and the load factor was 88.4% (-1.0 ppt compared to July 2024). International traffic routes for the Americas were all positive except for traffic between North America and South America, which declined 0.8%.

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 5.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity rose by 5.6% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.1% (-0.2 ppt compared to July 2024). Middle East growth rebounded after the disruptions caused by the military conflict in June.

Latin American airlines saw a 9.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 11.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 85.8% (-1.6 ppt compared to July 2024). Intra-regional traffic was robust.

African airlines saw a 2.8% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 2.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 74.9% (up 0.4 ppt compared to July 2024). Traffic on routes between Africa and Asia had a notable surge.

Thailand’s Hotel Act faces more scrutiny

BANGKOK, 4 September 2025: Thailand has unveiled sweeping hospitality law reforms, the first in decades, that promise to catapult the industry into the modern era. 

Observers have suggested a new act will replace the outdated Hotel Act of 1994 with a modern framework that reflects how people travel today.

Photo credit: AJW. Stormy waters ahead for lawmakers.

Gone are the days when “hotel” meant only big properties with marble lobbies. Now it may just as easily mean a homestay in Northeast Thailand, a luxury villa in Phuket, or an Airbnb condo in Bangkok. The new act brings all of these under one roof, aiming to regulate, tax, and encourage innovation while promoting sustainability.

Expanding the definition

The law will potentially broaden the definition of accommodation to include tents, rafts, eco-lodges, and homestays. A tiered system will allow small operators to register with a simplified notification process, rather than the whole licensing process, thereby lowering barriers for family-run or rural businesses.

A Super Licence will also cover multiple services under one approval, integrating building permits, guest registration, and operations into a single streamlined process. For a country attracting more than 35 million international arrivals annually, efficiency matters.

However, what is unclear is whether it is yet legal. Many say not. As of early September 2025, Thailand’s new Accommodation Act has not yet been formally promulgated in the Royal Gazette, meaning it is still at the draft and consultation stage under the Council of State.  
While widely reported as a landmark reform intended to replace the Hotel Act BE 2547 (2004), the legislation remains under review, with industry groups, such as the Thai Hotels Association, actively voicing concerns. Until publication in the Gazette confirms its enactment, the act’s provisions on broader definitions, tiered licensing, and digital platforms remain proposals rather than enforceable law.

The new act’s potential Strengths for tourism revenue

Thailand hopes the reforms will generate significant new revenue while making tourism more inclusive and accessible.

By regulating platforms such as Airbnb, the government hopes to capture lost tax revenue worth billions of baht.

Five revenue strengths

Legalising short-term rentals and taxing them fairly.

Opening the door for thousands of small operators to enter the formal economy.

Diversifying accommodation types to appeal to eco-tourists, wellness travellers, and backpackers.

Introducing digital systems to reduce loopholes and under-reporting.

Encouraging investment through the Super Licence system, especially in hotels offering multiple services.

Five weaknesses

Concerns over fire, health, and guest safety if oversight weakens.

An uneven playing field where budget homestays undercut licensed hotels.

Tax collection may remain patchy in rural areas.

Mid-scale hotels could lose occupancy to unregulated alternatives.

Community tensions over noise, disruption, and cultural dilution.

Balancing Growth and Responsibility

Photo credit: AJW. Condominiums and homestays will be scrutinised. 

The government insists the act will promote sustainable and responsible tourism, ensuring that community and environmental concerns are not sidelined. Yet, the Thai Hotels Association remains cautious, warning of risks to quality and standards.

For Thailand, the stakes are high. Tourism is a pillar of the economy, generating a significant percentage of the National GDP. If well enforced, the new act could boost revenues, support local businesses, and keep Thailand competitive as a regional leader. If poorly implemented, it risks undermining safety and trust. Further procrastination will only confuse potential investors. 

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, Andrew is widely recognised for his insight into emerging travel trends and his passionate advocacy for Thailand as a world-class destination. He is a past president of Skål International Asia, Thailand’s National President, and a two-time Past President of Skål International Bangkok. Andrew contributes regularly to leading regional and global travel publications

Scoot adopts Dohop interline technology

SINGAPORE, 4 September 2025: Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), announced Tuesday the launch of its virtual interline platform, developed in collaboration with leading travel solutions technology company Dohop. 

Dohop’s interline technology enables airlines to form flexible partnerships quickly, complementing traditional interline and codeshare agreements. 

Photo credit: Scoot.

With this integration, customers starting their search from the airline’s website (flyscoot.com) can seamlessly connect to the new platform (dohoppowered.flyscoot.com), enabling them to book self-connect itineraries where one leg of the journey is operated by Scoot and the other by a partner airline.  

Through initial partners, easyJet and Citilink, customers can now book flights from Singapore to over 30 additional destinations across Europe and Indonesia, complementing Scoot’s network of 70 international destinations. 

For instance, users who initiate their flight search on Scoot’s website can now conveniently book flights from Singapore to European destinations such as Milan, Paris, Geneva, as well as Indonesian destinations like Kendari, Solo, and Ambon, among others. 

Scoot Chief Commercial Officer Calvin Chan said: “This launch represents an exciting step forward for Scoot as we continue to enhance the travel experience for our customers. This collaboration with Dohop enables our customers to explore a wider range of destinations with ease, and we look forward to building on this momentum and working with additional airline partners to unlock even more travel opportunities for our customers, at the same great value.” 

“We are delighted to support Scoot as they launch their new booking platform,” said Sarah Hanan, Chief Commercial Officer at Dohop. “Scoot has been a valuable partner, and we’re excited to see them take this step towards expanding their footprint even further. This partnership exemplifies the growing trend in the airline industry towards flexible, passenger-centric connectivity.” 

In addition to the convenience of a seamless booking experience, journeys booked through Scoot’s new platform are protected by ConnectSure, which protects passengers in the event of flight delays or cancellations.