Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Home Blog Page 79

Dusit International taps TDF pipeline

BANGKOK, 15 November 2024: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tourism Development Fund (TDF), the national enabler of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia, to establish a preliminary framework for developing hospitality projects that will enhance the country’s tourism infrastructure.

Signed at the World Travel Market 2024 in London earlier this month, the MoU signifies Dusit’s dedication to sustainable international expansion in key global markets and highlights TDF’s commitment to fostering international partnerships to develop luxury hotels and resorts across Saudi Arabia.

The Kingdom experienced an 8.2% growth in inbound visitor spending within its travel account during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, reaching approximately SAR92.6 billion. The Kingdom also recorded a surplus in the travel account of around SAR 41.6 billion. This surge in visitor spending highlights Saudi Arabia’s significant achievements in tourism, as it led all G20 countries in international tourist arrivals and in the growth rate of international tourism receipts during the first seven months of 2024. Compared to the same period in 2019, international tourist arrivals increased by 73%, and international tourism receipts rose by 207%, based on data from UN Tourism.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy and the Saudi Vision 2030 framework, TDF aims to diversify the Kingdom’s tourism sector by supporting high-impact projects focused on sustainable development and world-class infrastructure. Under the MoU, Dusit will collaborate with TDF to identify prime hotel development opportunities that leverage Dusit’s 75 years of hospitality expertise and diverse brand portfolio — ranging from lifestyle hotels to exclusive villa rentals. Together, they aim to deliver unique guest experiences and enduring value for hotel owners, investors, and the broader community. 

“Dusit International is deeply honoured to sign this MoU,” said Dusit International Group CEO Suphajee Suthumpun. “This marks a significant milestone for us as we seek to bring our unique Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to one of the world’s most dynamic tourism landscapes. Saudi Arabia is a key focus for our growth, and partnering with TDF provides invaluable opportunities to connect with high-potential investments across the Kingdom. We look forward to contributing to Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy and delivering hotel experiences that bring enduring value to all stakeholders.”

With 301 properties in 18 countries, including eight hotels in the Middle East, Dusit’s portfolio features established brands such as Dusit Thani (luxury), dusitD2 (lifestyle/midscale), Dusit Princess (midscale), Dusit Suites (upscale/extended stay), and ASAI Hotels (affordable lifestyle). Dusit recently added Devarana – Dusit Retreats (luxury wellness) and Dusit Collection (bespoke luxury) to its expanding brand lineup.

In addition to hospitality, Dusit contributes to the industry through its educational arm, Dusit Hospitality Education, which includes Dusit Thani College, Le Cordon Bleu Dusit Culinary School, and The Food School, training future hospitality leaders. Dusit’s expertise is further enhanced through its group-wide synergies with Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate (property development), and Hospitality-Related Services.

About Dusit Hotels and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide. For more information, visit dusit.com

About Dusit International
Dusit International, or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT), is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services. 

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

For more information, visit dusit-international.com

BW Premier Collection lands on Vietnamese beach

BANGKOK, 15 November 2024: BWH Hotels, the global network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, has expanded its portfolio in Vietnam with the signing of an elegant new BW Premier Collection resort nestled directly on the beach in Phan Thiet, on the country’s stunning southeast coast.

The Costamigo Phan Thiet, BW Premier Collection, is positioned on a long stretch of golden sand in Vietnam’s Binh Thuan province, overlooking the ocean. With its neo-classical European architecture, naturally-lit interiors, impressive amenities and easy accessibility, just a 2.5 hour’s drive from Ho Chi Minh City, this boutique hotel will become a popular option for domestic and international travellers.

Guests can stay in stylish villas and spacious rooms, all fully equipped with modern amenities — ideal for families, friends, and couples alike. This beachside resort will also feature extensive leisure and business facilities, including a restaurant, beach bar, cabanas, a swimming pool, and a stage for beachfront events. In the spirit of the BW Premier Collection brand, the new resort will immerse visitors in an ambience of refined sophistication with an original concept that celebrates the unique essence of its locale.

Travellers can spend endless days unwinding on the beach and by the pool or head out to explore this attractive destination. It is blessed with spectacular natural scenery, including lush forests and sand dunes, along with quaint fishing villages, traditional temples, golf courses, and long coastal roads.

“We are delighted to announce the signing of the Costamigo Phan Thiet, BW Premier Collection, which marks the latest phase of our development strategy in Vietnam, one of BWH Hotels’ key Asian markets. With its beachfront location and collection of spacious villas and accommodations, this exceptional resort is set to become a popular option for guests on short breaks or extended vacations. We look forward to working with our esteemed partners to bring this exciting project to life,” said BWH Hotels Vice President – APAC Olivier Berrivin.

It will join BWH Hotels’ rapidly expanding portfolio in Vietnam, which currently includes four Best Western Premier® branded properties in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang and Ha Long, with many more hotels and resorts in the pipeline. 

About BWH Hotels 
BWH Hotels is a leading global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies: WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels. The enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide. With 18 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.

To book a stay with BWH Hotels in Asia, visit bestwesternasia.com.

ANA hires Travelport to display NDC content

SINGAPORE, 15 November 2024: Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for travel suppliers worldwide, and Japan’s All Nippon Airways have signed a multi-source content distribution agreement that includes New Distribution Capability (NDC) content and servicing. 

Travelport is the first global distribution system (GDS) to confirm an NDC distribution agreement with the airline. Travelport and ANA are actively collaborating to make ANA’s NDC content available via Travelport+, targeting a completion date in mid-year 2025.

“Travelport has been a valued partner of ANA for many years due to our productive collaboration that enhances our modern retailing approach so we can provide exceptional experiences for our travellers,” said ANA Executive Vice President of Customer Experience Keiji Omae. “As we advance our NDC strategy, I am confident that Travelport can play a crucial role in helping us expand our reach and simplify the booking and servicing process as agents and travellers shop for our best offers.”

Travelport and ANA have deepened their long-standing relationship to ensure that Travelport-connected agencies will continue to have simplified access to ANA’s wide range of product offerings, including ancillary services. 

“This pivotal agreement confirms that agencies using Travelport+ will be able to access relevant, personalised, and enriched multi-source content from ANA, which means travellers are presented with more choice among ANA’s best offers and fares,” said Travelport Global Head of Air Partners Damian Hickey.

AAPA assembly checks out future-proofing

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei Darussalam, 15 November 2024: Leaders of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) gathered for the 68th Assembly of Presidents in Brunei Darussalam to discuss the future of aviation under the theme “Jetting into 2050: Future Proofing Asian Aviation”.  

Airline leaders were optimistic, as regional air travel and cargo growth continues to surpass the global industry’s growth while load factors remain steadfastly strong.

Reflecting the collective priorities and shared resolve of Asian airline leaders, the Assembly of Presidents today passed a series of resolutions covering sustainability, aviation safety and the streamlining of regulations.

Airlines are firmly committed to reducing their carbon footprint. With extreme weather events rising, airline leaders are only too aware of the risks to aviation safety from climate change. With Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in short supply, AAPA believes that a multi-prong strategy in line with the ICAO net zero emissions reduction roadmap, is critical to meeting the industry’s net zero emissions target.

The Assembly passed a resolution calling on governments, suppliers, air navigation service providers and airlines to deploy all aspects of the ICAO roadmap, namely SAF, breakthrough technology, CORSIA offsets and operational efficiency, in pursuing the net zero emissions by 2050 goal.

In particular, SAF produced by co-processing sustainable feedstock together with crude fossil fuel in conventional aviation fuel refineries, is a cost-effective way to stimulate SAF supply. Airlines and fuel suppliers could give impetus to the transition to SAF with co-processed SAF being made available at airports immediately.

“Every new generation of aircraft and engine delivers 15-20% more fuel efficiency. The acceleration of plans for carbon-friendly aircraft and propulsion systems is an effective pathway to the common goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, starting with short-haul aircraft that currently account for some 28% of industry emissions. With delays in the delivery of new-generation aircraft, airlines are extending the use of older equipment. A strategy prioritising technology alongside SAF, is a surer route to carbon neutrality than one over-reliant on SAF,” said AAPA Director General Subhas Menon.

Aviation safety remains the top priority of all airlines. The Assembly adopted a resolution calling for civil aviation authorities, aviation safety agencies, and airlines to work closely together to share best practices through data analysis to mitigate risks such as loss of control in flight. The resolution also called on all stakeholders to support adopting safety measures that address the most critical risk categories identified in the Asia Pacific region.

“The Assembly welcomed the results and recommendations of the safety culture survey conducted by the Flight Safety Foundation, as aviation safety is about promoting a proactive safety culture, leveraging data and sharing best practices to improve performance,” Menon noted.

The Assembly of Presidents acknowledged that supply chain disruptions and air space closures are leading to more flight diversions, delays, and cancellations, while also inhibiting future growth. Such issues, including component failures and labour shortages, impeded schedule reliability. Conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the Middle East crisis have resulted in airspace closures, exacerbating the situation. Knee-jerk reactions by some governments target only the symptoms of failure while burdening airlines with more cost and complexity.

A third resolution called on governments to refrain from introducing unilateral measures that would disproportionately inconvenience the travelling public and increase the cost burden on the airline industry. Greater recognition of aviation’s value to the global economy and closer collaboration among governments, industry, and service providers needed to streamline protocols for international travel.

Menon concluded, “The outlook for the region’s airlines is broadly positive, given the sustained demand for air travel and a strong rebound in trade activity. It is a remarkable recovery on key metrics, considering air transport ground to an almost complete standstill for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic 2020. This is also a timely testament to the industry’s endurance and longevity as we commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the ICAO Chicago Convention in 2024. By keeping the travelling public and the economies we serve at the core of our strategy, the industry is well positioned to tackle upcoming challenges and pursue sustainable growth in the years ahead.”

Five urban hikes in Asia

SINGAPORE, 15 November 2024: Digital travel platform Agoda introduces five urban hikes across Asia, offering travellers a chance to experience the perfect blend of city life and nature. 

The hikes, ranging from family-friendly to more challenging trails, provide an unmatched perspective on some of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

Photo credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board. Hong Kong’s Dragon’s Back.

Whether it’s Elephant Hill in Taipei, with its stunning views of the Taipei 101, or Hong Kong’s famous Dragon Back, active travellers are in for a treat when embarking on these city hike adventures.

Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply Andrew Smith said: “Asia is special to have so many incredible hike routes right in the heart of these popular cities. The five highlighted hikes are just a sample of the many breathtaking city trails the continent has to offer. Adventurous travelers will want to try them all and thankfully Agoda helps make travel affordable with great value deals on over 4.5 million properties globally.”

Five city hikes

Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve offers a distinctive trekking experience through a tropical rainforest in the city centre. The trail is relatively easy, with well-marked paths and informative signboards about the local flora and fauna, making it a great choice for families and nature enthusiasts.

Elephant Hill in Taipei offers a short (40-minute trek) but rewarding climb that is moderately challenging. The well-maintained trail provides stunning views of Taipei’s skyline, including the famous Taipei 101. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a quick escape into nature without straying far from the city.

In Singapore, the Southern Ridges trail offers a moderate hike through interconnected parks and gardens. Spanning 10 km, this trail provides a lush green corridor amidst the urban environment, with highlights including the Henderson Waves bridge and panoramic city views.

Namsan in Seoul presents a slightly more challenging hike, leading to the N Seoul Tower. The trail is popular among locals and tourists alike, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Depending on the desired difficulty level, several routes are available.

Finally, Hong Kong’s Dragon’s Back is a favourite for its breathtaking views of the coastline and the South China Sea. This moderately challenging hike is known for its undulating ridges and scenic vistas, providing a rewarding experience for those willing to tackle its ups and downs.

Agoda offers accommodation in each of these city hike destinations. In addition to holiday properties, the platform presents 130,000 flight routes and 300,000 activities, making it a one-stop travel solution for booking an entire trip. 

The latest Agoda deals can be found in the Agoda app or on agoda.com/deals

(SOURCE Agoda)

LH presents summer 2025 destinations

SINGAPORE, 15 November 2024: Lufthansa Group Airlines has given travellers a glimpse of its 2025 summer flight schedule, which is now available for Lufthansa Airlines, Discover Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, and Edelweiss.

Flights to new intercontinental and European destinations are now available for booking. 

Photo credit: Lufthansa.

New hub connections and first-time flights are scheduled within Europe for the summer timetable. They include Bydgoszcz, Ålesund, Kefalonia, Bodø, Edinburgh, Sylt, Burgas, Harstad-Narvik, Niš, Montpellier, Heringsdorf, Calvi and Terceira.

New with Lufthansa Airlines from Frankfurt to:
Bydgoszcz (Poland)

New with Discover Airlines from Frankfurt to:
Ålesund (Norway)

New with Discover Airlines from Munich to:
Windhoek (Namibia)
Calgary (Canada)
Orlando (USA)
Bodø (Norway)

New with Austrian Airlines from Vienna to:
Edinburgh (Scotland)
Sylt (Germany)
Burgas (Bulgaria)
Harstad-Narvik (Norway/Lofoten)

New with Swiss International Air Lines from Zurich to:
Niš (Serbia)
Montpellier (France)
Heringsdorf (Germany)

New with Edelweiss from Zurich to:
Halifax (Canada)
Seattle (USA)
Calvi (France)
Terceira (Portugal/Azores)

The additions will ensure Lufthansa Group’s airlines offer travellers more than 12,000 weekly connections to over 300 destinations in more than 100 countries via their hubs in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Belgium.

Good news for Airbus A380 fans

The airline’s  A380s will again take off from Munich next summer to Boston, New York (JFK), Washington, Los Angeles (all USA) and Delhi (India).

Fliggy reports strong Double 11 sales

HANGZHOU, China, 15 November 2024: Fliggy, an online travel platform and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group, has posted strong growth during the 2024 Double 11 shopping event, marking a standout finish to this year’s Global Travel Festival. 

The platform reported robust double-digit year-on-year sales growth, with a 40% increase in shoppers and 22 brands generating over RMB100 million in gross merchandise value (GMV).

As of midnight on 12 November, the GMV for reserved promotional items increased by nearly 90% compared to last year, indicating faster bookings. Fliggy’s official content-driven sales channels, including its Fliggy Super VIP livestream, performed strongly, with 19 individual products exceeding RMB10 million each.

‘Buy Now, Plan Later’ drives growth

The “Buy Now, Plan Later” model – where consumers purchase travel products for future use without committing to immediate travel dates or visa arrangements at the time of purchase – emerged as the dominant trend in tourism. This year’s Double 11 event saw a 40% increase in the number of shoppers compared to last year, with new users making up about one-third of the total number of shoppers.

Fliggy reported record-breaking sales across a wide array of travel products. Nearly 1 million flexible “All You Can Fly” tickets and multi-trip flight passes were sold, along with nearly 3 million hotel packages and over 1.1 million amusement park tickets and leisure packages. 

New offerings, including RV travel passes, car charter tours, Arctic cruises, and hotel stays across 32 global cities, further bolstered the platform’s growth.

These products spanned nearly 200 countries and regions, from domestic destinations like Nujiang in Yunnan to Bomi in Tibet and from Svalbard in Norway to Queenstown in New Zealand.

Outbound travel, in particular, saw strong demand, with Fliggy data revealing that this mega campaign’s share of outbound travel products increased by 30% year-on-year. 

Popular destinations included Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Macau SAR, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, the US, Singapore, Vietnam, and Australia. Meanwhile, Iceland, Turkey, Cambodia, Fiji, and France were among the fastest-growing destinations compared to last year.

Fliggy’s success during the Double 11 sales campaign also highlighted the appeal of its “Buy Now, Plan Later” offerings. At midnight on 12 November, the platform reported a nearly 90% year-on-year surge in GMV for reserved promotional products. High demand has been

evident across popular theme parks, with Shanghai Disney Resort, Beijing Universal Resort, and Universal Studios Japan all seeing significant increases in reservation rates. Some tour activities have reached booking rates of nearly 50%, while flight passes are also experiencing strong demand. 

For example, China United Airlines’ seasonal unlimited one-way tickets have seen reservations top 40%. Car rental pass bookings have risen sharply, while hotel packages are seeing a notable uptick, with bookings for ski resorts are approaching one-third of total reservations.

A strong season for merchants

Fliggy’s Double 11 event sets a new benchmark for merchant success. This year, a record 22 major brands — eight more than last year — surpassed RMB100 million in GMV. These included Shanghai Disney Resort, Beijing Universal Resort, Chimelong Tourist Resort, Songtsam, Hong Kong Disneyland, and major hotel groups like Marriott,

Wanda Hotels & Resorts, New Century Tourism Group, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Banyan Group, Accor, Club Med, Senbo Resort, as well as airlines such as Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Loong Air, Sichuan Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Qatar Airways.

The platform partnered with major brands, including 40 airlines — such as Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and over 6,000 hotel brands, including Marriott, Hilton, Accor, Hyatt, Wanda, and Narada to offer flash sales, with some offering deals starting at RMB1 and additional loyalty points. The strategy proved successful, with Fliggy recording a 120% year-on-year increase in GMV for hotel bookings and an approximately 70% rise in conversion rates.

About Fliggy
Fliggy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group and is one of the leading online travel platforms in China.

Elite Havens rewards travel partners

Villa Jia, a luxury villa located in Jivana Estate, Natai beach, Phuket, Thailand

SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: To celebrate the grand opening of the Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel, Elite Havens, Asia’s premier luxury villa rental and management provider, is offering registered travel partners an exclusive opportunity to win a three-night luxury stay when making a booking with Elite Havens between now and 31 December 2024.

To celebrate the grand opening of the Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel, Elite Havens, Asia’s luxury villa rental and management provider, is offering registered travel partners an opportunity to win a three-night luxury stay when making a booking with Elite Havens between now and 31 December 2024.

As part of Dusit International, Elite Havens is proud to invite one lucky registered travel partner to be one of the first to experience the iconic charm of this newly reopened Bangkok hotel. To be eligible to win, travel partners just need to confirm and have a paid booking with Elite Havens to receive an automatic entry along with additional cash prizes to be won every week.

Pick of the Prizes

● Three nights in a deluxe room at Dusit Thani Bangkok

● Exclusive Porsche Panamera limousine airport transfers

● Complimentary USD200 welcome dinner voucher at Pavilion restaurant

● Daily breakfast for two people

To become an Elite Havens travel partner, email: [email protected]

Existing travel partners can book directly or via our travel partner portal.

Elite Havens manages villas across Thailand, Bali & Lombok (Indonesia), Niseko (Japan), Goa, India and beyond, including:

To become an Elite Havens travel partner, email: [email protected]

Existing travel partners can book directly or via our travel partner portal.

To view the full list of villas available to book through Elite Havens, visit: https://www.elitehavens.com

Terms and conditions apply:
● Travel partners must be registered with Elite Havens to enter. Existing travel partners will automatically be entered for each booking made.

● Every booking is an entry. There is no limit on the number of entries made per travel partner.

● Each Tuesday in November and December, a weekly winner will be selected randomly from the previous week’s bookings to win $100 cash.

● On 31 December 2024, the major prize winner will be selected randomly from all bookings received during the promotion period – 30 October to 31st December. The winner will be announced on Monday, 6 January 2025.

● Prize must be redeemed before 31 December 2025.

● Stay dates are subject to availability.

Sarawak embraces Indigenous Tourism

SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: Indigenous Tourism is reshaping the travel landscape in Sarawak, according to Sarawak Tourism Board CEOS Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor.

Sharzede shared how indigenous-led efforts fostered meaningful connections for travellers while honouring cultural legacies, supporting local economies, and conserving vital natural resources during a panel discussion co-hosted with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) in London earlier this month.

The session, “Indigenous Tourism… A Legacy Reawakened in Heritage, Community, and Conservation,” highlighted the power of Indigenous-driven tourism initiatives to preserve cultural heritage, promote sustainable practices, and drive economic and social impact within local communities.

Sarawak’s Pioneering Role in Indigenous Tourism

Sharzede highlighted how Sarawak Tourism Board’s initiatives place indigenous communities at the core of its tourism strategy. Sarawak’s approach empowers communities to share their heritage and traditions while directly benefiting from tourism activities.

“Indigenous Tourism in Sarawak is a testament to responsible tourism that honours both people and the planet,” Sharzede reflected. “We are proud to create experiences where culture, nature, and sustainability intersect, positively impacting local communities and visitors alike.”

Key Highlights

  1. Cultural Engagements and Authentic Experiences
    • Sarawak offers travellers immersive experiences, from traditional longhouse stays to vibrant celebrations like Gawai Dayak, providing unique insights into Sarawak’s indigenous way of life. Cultural festivals and crafts workshops foster interaction between visitors and locals, deepening their understanding of Sarawak’s rich cultural landscape.
  1. Economic Empowerment and Sustainability
    • Sarawak’s indigenous tourism strategy generates sustainable income for artisans, musicians, and local homestay operators, particularly through events such as the Rainforest World Music Festival. These initiatives showcase the state’s cultural treasures and empower indigenous communities to sustain their livelihoods and preserve their heritage.
  1. Environmental Stewardship and Conservation Initiatives
    • Emphasising environmental responsibility, Sarawak’s tourism model incorporates sustainable practices, including the Forest-to-Table initiative and EcoGreen Planet programme, which involves reforestation efforts. By embracing green innovation, local artisans also produce eco-friendly crafts, preserving traditional artistry while appealing to eco-conscious travellers.
  1. Empowerment through Digital Tools
    • Through the Jejak Digital programme, Sarawak equips local communities with the tools to share their unique stories and tourism offerings with a global audience. This digital empowerment initiative ensures that Indigenous communities can reach wider markets and sustainably promote their cultural heritage.
  1. Sarawak Responsible Tourism (RT) Pledge
    • Sharzede also highlighted Sarawak’s Responsible Tourism Pledge, which encourages visitors to respect and conserve the state’s cultural and natural heritage. This pledge attracts eco-conscious travellers who value sustainable and mindful tourism by fostering mutual respect between locals and visitors.
  1. Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
    • Sharzede illustrated how Sarawak’s tourism strategy aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), prioritising quality education, climate action, and sustainable tourism practices. This commitment underscores Sarawak’s dedication to responsible tourism, drawing travellers who value authenticity, community empowerment, and conservation.

The Lasting Impact of Indigenous Tourism

Sharzede’s insights underscored Sarawak’s commitment to fostering a sustainable tourism model that respects cultural heritage and empowers local communities. By positioning Indigenous Tourism as an essential part of its identity, Sarawak is pioneering a model for responsible tourism that benefits both residents and visitors, strengthening its global reputation as a destination for cultural and environmental stewardship.

For further information, visit: www.sarawaktourism.com

Absolute Hotel Services expands in Laos

BANGKOK, 14 November 2024: Absolute Hotel Services Group will add its fourth hotel in Laos after signing a management contract with the property developer Manignom Auto Group Company Limited.

Set along the banks of the picturesque Song River in Vang Vieng, Laos, the upcoming U Vang Vieng hotel will open in 2028 in the popular riverside tourist destination, which is around 400 km north of the Lao capital, Vientiane and on the highway to Luang Prabang.

Absolute Hotel Services Group CEO Jonathan Wigley commented on the news: “We are pleased to expand our footprint in Laos with this stunning riverfront property. Vang Vieng is a destination of unparalleled charm, and we look forward to crafting memorable experiences for our guests in such a beautiful setting.”

The 60-key hotel will offer spacious rooms, a food and beverage outlet, a modern fitness centre, and a swimming pool. The new development reinforces Absolute Hotel Services Group’s commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence, setting new standards in the world of hospitality.

The group already has properties in Vientiane and Luang Prabang under its popular Eastin and U brands.

About Absolute Hotel Services 

AHS is one of Asia’s fastest-growing hospitality management and branding companies, with an ever-expanding geographic portfolio of hotels, resorts, and serviced residences. The group’s headquarters are in Bangkok, Thailand, and it has regional offices in Vietnam, Indonesia, Hong Kong, India, and now Europe.