Distinction in travel journalism
Is independent travel journalism important to you?
Click here to keep it independent

Archive for November, 2020

26 Nov, 2020

Research Shows Younger Millennials Demand Societal Change, Their Top Concerns Now Include Death, Losing Loved Ones and Mental Health

NEW YORK, Nov. 24, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — A new research study of more than 1,000 young Americans aged 14 to 28 found Generation Z and younger Millennials cited “equality for all” among their top hopes, “death and losing loved ones” among their top fears, and “better access to mental and emotional health services” as their […]

more…

26 Nov, 2020

U.S., Thai Space Research Scientists Develop App to Monitor Air Quality in Mekong region

COLUMBIA, Md., Nov. 24, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientists have collaboratively developed a web application that will help mitigate the impact of air pollution in Thailand where seasonal air pollution resulting from forest fires and agricultural burning create a major human health issues. The new app builds on existing air quality […]

more…

18 Nov, 2020

Arabian Travel Market 2021 to run live event in Dubai as “New Dawn” beckons

Dubai, 16 November 2020 (ATM Press Release) – Reed Travel Exhibitions, organiser of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), has announced that the 2021 edition of its annual showcase, will take place live at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) on Sunday 16 to Wednesday 19 May. Now in its 27th year and working in collaboration with DWTC and […]

more…

18 Nov, 2020

Five key trends emerge as tourist hotspots glimmer in Europe’s travel gloom

17 November 2020 (European Cities Marketing Press Release) – The latest edition of the ECM-ForwardKeys Quarterly Barometer, published jointly by ForwardKeys, the travel analytics company, and the non-profit organisation, European Cities Marketing, reveals that Europe’s most resilient destinations in the face of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic are leisure hotspots. As at 27th October, total inbound […]

more…

18 Nov, 2020

Oman Air adds flights to Chennai and Hyderabad, effective Nov 19

Muscat, Oman, (16 Nov 2020) Oman Air media release — Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, is adding twice-weekly service to the Indian cities of Chennai and Hyderabad with service set to start on 19 November Flights to and from both cities will be operated on Thursdays and Saturdays. These schedules […]

more…

18 Nov, 2020

Xigera Safari Lodge: Baobab treehouse elevates experience of the African bush

12 November 2020, Perowne International media release – Opening in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Xigera (“Kee-jera”) is a safari lodge set to reinvent what it means to experience the African bush through inspired hospitality and design. Opening in January 2021, the Tollman family have handcrafted every aspect to beguile guests’ senses and stir their souls […]

more…

17 Nov, 2020

Fast-Moving Consumer Brands Capitalize on Innovation Trends to Drive Business Growth in the New Normal

Hong Kong, 17 November 2020 (Nielsen) – BASES, a Nielsen Global Consumer Business, released its Top Breakthrough Innovation winners for 2020. This year’s winners from Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea showcase the winning strategies adopted by companies as they extended their existing product lines to deliver exceptional product experiences. Aside from the above […]

more…

17 Nov, 2020

‘Staycay’: Marriott Brings Guests’ Favorite Destinations to the Comfort of Their Asia Pacific Backyards

Hong Kong, 17 November 2020 (Marriott International media release) – Guests can now experience signature elements of some of their favourite destinations through Marriott International’s #YourDreamDestinationAwaits campaign. Throughout the month of November and December, 13 Marriott International properties across Asia Pacific will recreate signature iconic destination elements of its sister properties for domestic travelers. “We […]

more…

17 Nov, 2020

Asian Aviation leaders await travel revival with a focus on survival and continuity

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 16 November 2020 (AAPA media release) – With cross border travel effectively grounded, the Assembly of Presidents of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA)  during their virtual meeting on 13th November 2020. The Assembly concluded with AAPA, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airports Council International Asia-Pacific (ACI Asia-Pacific), jointly declaring […]

more…

17 Nov, 2020

Sydney Harbour Bridge becomes a “birthday cake” as Australia marks Qantas Centenary

SYDNEY, 17 November 2020 (PRNewswire) – Sydney has commemorated Qantas Airways’ 100-year anniversary by lighting up its iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge as a larger-than-life birthday cake complete with illuminated candles that were blown out by a Qantas 787 as it did a low level overfly at 1,500 feet. More than 1,300 LED tubes, 126 LED […]

more…

17 Nov, 2020

U.S. Govt faces accountability for reportedly spying on Muslims using data from religious apps

WASHINGTON, DC – 11/16/2020 — CAIR media release –  The Council on American-Islamic Relations, a leading U.S. Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today strongly condemned the U.S. government’s reported use of personal data from popular Muslim religious applications to target Muslims around the world, called for a congressional inquiry into the possible warrantless surveillance […]

more…

13 Nov, 2020

WHO Director-General hails Thai success in containing Covid-19, urges world to follow suit

Geneva — World Health Organisation Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has hailed Thailand’s success in battling the Covid-19 virus as “an excellent example that with a whole-of-government, whole-of-society, comprehensive approach, this virus can be contained – even without a vaccine.” Delivering his closing remarks at the World Health Assembly on 13 November 2020, Dr […]

more…

13 Nov, 2020

SDG 8, Decent Work, Dominates Entries by 30 Finalists of The Hospitality Challenge

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (PRWEB) November 12, 2020 – In June 2020, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Sommet Education launched the Hospitality Challenge. This was designed to identify ideas and individuals capable of accelerating the recovery of the tourism sector in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative has received almost 600 applications from all […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

WHO Director-General reminds the world: “There is no vaccine for poverty, hunger, climate change or inequality”

Geneva, 10 November 2020 (WHO media release) – The resumed 73rd World Health Assembly (WHA73) opened to the tune of the classic hit song “We are Family” by Sister Sledge, the Kingdom of Tonga’ Nurses’ Choir and a powerful speech by the WHO Director-General calling for predictable and sustainable WHO funding, the launch of a Universal Health and Preparedness […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Anantara Celebrates Success with Conde Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence

9 November 2020 (Source: media release) – Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas have been recognised by the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence and Luxury Spa Awards of Excellence with three prestigious accolades.   Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel – Best Service Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara – Best for Families Anantara Al Jabal Al […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

8th Macao International Travel Industry Expo balances physical and virtual formats for the first time

9 November 2020 (Source: media release) – Organized by Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and coordinated by Macau Travel Agency Association, the 8th Macao International Travel (Industry) Expo (referred to as the “Expo” or “MITE”) culminated in success on Sunday (8 November). The Expo was joined by 188 Mainland hosted buyers offline as well as […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Mastercard now usable as Shanghai Metro App, eliminating ticket purchase

Singapore, November 10, 2020 (Source: media release) – Shanghai Shentong Metro Group recently partnered with Mastercard to launch a card-on-file service for its Shanghai Metro App, which allows overseas travellers to use their Mastercard cards to access the metro system in Shanghai, positioning the group as China’s first urban public transportation system to accept international […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Improved air quality, green areas key to future of Shenzhen Tourism

SHENZHEN, China, 10 November 2020, PRNewswire – 2020 marks the 40th anniversary of Shenzhen, the miracle city in China. The vibrant city made its name as the world’s factory floor when it was set up as an economic free zone at the end of the 1980s. In the past decades, it has transitioned into a […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Travel “Around the World in 180 Minutes” with Sala Hospitality Group’s Wine Dinner

Bangkok, Thailand, 10 November 2020 (Source: media release) – SALA Hospitality Group will transport diners on a culinary journey around the world on 3rd December 2020, when it hosts its second wine dinner. Staged at sala rattanakosin Bangkok, this epicurean evening will feature rooftop canapés and a sensational six-course dinner that showcases exceptional cuisine and fine […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

European Tourist Information Centres discuss new ways to adapt and innovate

10 November 2020 (Source: media release) – 140 senior executives from Tourist Information Centres’ representing 42 leading European cities joined the Digital ECM TIC Expert Meeting on September 30 – October 2, 2020 to exchange knowledge and best practices of adaptation and innovation on Tourist Information Centres. The TIC Expert Meeting traditionally takes place physically […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Airline alliances back ICAO’s harmonised approach to health testing

11 November 2020 (Source: media release) – The three global airline alliances, oneworld, SkyTeam and Star Alliance, are in full support of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) second-phase Council on Aviation Recovery Task Force (CART) report released on 10 November. Together, they urge governments to implement the report guidelines for passenger testing protocols, as well […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Onefinestay offers new private in-stay Festive Season experiences

10 November 2020 (Source: Hotel media release) – onefinestay the hospitality brand offering homes and villas with personalised service, launches ‘Festive Magic’ a new menu of private in-stay experiences and amenities to enjoy throughout the holiday season.  Whether reuniting with family and friends or simply looking for a change of scenery, travellers and local residents […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

New Michelin Guide Menu at Chiang Mai’s James Bond spy-themed restaurant

10 November 2020 (Source: Hotel media release) – The Service 1921 Restaurant and Bar, Chiang Mai’s James Bond spy themed restaurant, has launched a new Michelin Guide menu just in time for the festive season. Located in the 100 year old colonial British consulate on the grounds of Anantara Chiang Mai the restaurant in a […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Capella Hotels and Resorts boosts festive season cheer with youth education and opportunity

Singapore, November 2020 (Source: Hotel media release) – As the world works together to recover from the impacts of COVID-19, Capella Hotels and Resorts pledges to support the youths of their community with the launch of their Capella Youth initiative, just ahead of the festive season. Focused on empowering younger generations to create a better tomorrow, […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon scores double win at World Travel Awards 2020

11 November 2020 (Source: hotel media release) –  Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon has been awarded Myanmar’s Leading Business Hotel 2020 and Myanmar’s Leading Hotel Suite 2020 at the 27th Annual World Travel Awards 2020. Ms. May Myat Mon Win, General Manager, said, “I send heartfelt gratitude to all of our loyal guests around the globe who took […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Singapore-based TravelRevive strives to restore the balance with a physical MICE experience

Singapore, 11 November 2020 (ITB Asia media release) – TravelRevive, powered by ITB Asia and Singapore Tourism Board (STB), will be held at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore, from 25-26 November 2020. It claims to be the first pilot tradeshow to trial the newly developed ‘hybrid event’ prototype for safe business events, […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Airports hail Singapore-HK Quarantine-free Travel Bubble as “Leading Example for Asia-Pacific Region”

Hong Kong, 11 November 2020 – Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific welcomes the implementation of a quarantine-free air travel bubble between Hong Kong SAR and the Republic of Singapore, planned to start on Nov 22. The arrangement, open to all types of travelers, is a much-needed progressive step towards recovery of the sector.     “This first-of-a-kind […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

Public Development Banks make historic joint commitment to tackle global hunger and poverty

Rome, 11 November 2020 (ADB media release) – For the first time in history, today 13 Public Development Banks (PDBs) made a joint commitment to strengthen investments in food and agriculture in the context of a global pandemic and a changing climate, with more signatories expected in the coming days. This unprecedented move comes as […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

From sports cars to boutique hotels: Lamborghini eyes its first luxury property in Phuket

11 November 2020 – Tonino Lamborghini, the legendary Italian brand famous for its luxurious products and designs, has unveiled plans to launch its inaugural hotel project on the idyllic Thai island of Phuket in collaboration with Utopia Corporation. Scheduled to welcome guests in 2023, Tonino Lamborghini Boutique Hotel Phuket will be located on the beachfront […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

sbe and Accor Expand Mondrian Brand in Gold Coast, Australia

10 November 2020 – Accor and sbe, international hospitality group that develops, manages and operates award-winning brands, today announced Australia’s first Mondrian hotel and branded residences will be built at the iconic Burleigh Heads Beachfront on the Gold Coast.   The dual tower Mondrian Gold Coast is being developed in collaboration with Chris and Letitia Vitale’s Vitale […]

more…

12 Nov, 2020

TAT continues to target expats as domestic travel saviours

Bangkok, 6 November 2020 (Source: TAT media release) – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will be spreading plenty of festive cheer this holiday season with the ‘Expat Festive Deal 2020’ to take place at the EmQuartier shopping mall in Bangkok from 20-22 November from 10.00-21.00 Hrs. To be held in EmQuartier’s Quartier Gallery and […]

more…

10 Nov, 2020

World Resources Institute hails Biden win as a “New Day for Climate, Equity and the Economy”

  WASHINGTON (November 7, 2020) — Joseph R. Biden and Kamala D. Harris have been elected as the next president and vice president of the United States. They received the most votes by a presidential ticket in U.S. history and were able to win several states that Donald Trump won in 2016. The U.S. House […]

more…

10 Nov, 2020

Landmark study by Global Wellness Institute Finds Mental Wellness Is a $121 Billion Market

Palm Beach, FL, 9 November 2020 – The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) today released its major research report for 2020: “Defining the Mental Wellness Economy.” It’s the first study to define mental wellness as opposed to mental health and to clarify the key concepts and pathways. It’s also the first research to measure mental wellness […]

more…

10 Nov, 2020

Goa bags Skal Club of the Year 2020 at 81st Skal World Congress

Goa, India 5 November 2020 – The 81st Skal World Congress was held as a Virtual Zoom AGM meet on 17th October 2020 where Skal International Goa ( 691 ) was announced as the best of the best winning Skal Club Of The Year 2020 amongst 350 + Clubs in 87 countries across the world. […]

more…

10 Nov, 2020

The Opposite House in Beijing Unveils a Reimagined Experience with Art, Culture and Cuisine

Beijing, 9 November 2020 – The Opposite House, located in the heart of Beijing within the bustling Sanlitun neighborhood, unveils the completion of an inspired renovation, creating new experiences at its public spaces as well as dining and bar venues. Originally designed by acclaimed Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma in 2008, The Opposite House was the […]

more…

10 Nov, 2020

Rising Star, Chace, Appointed As The First Guest Music Curator For W Hotels In China

HONG KONG, 9 November 2020 – W Hotels Worldwide welcomes one of China’s most promising musical talents, electro-pop sensation Chace as Guest Music Curator for its new/next #WMUSICSERIES, set to kick-off across China from December 2020 to February 2021. Chace, the talented Chinese musician who has already made waves on the international music scene, will be […]

more…

10 Nov, 2020

Kamalaya Samui detox programme to help guests become healthier, happier and more beautiful

Koh Samui, Thailand, 9 November 2020 – Our hectic lifestyle, coffee and sweets to keep us going and the stressful times we are all living in take their toll. The skin is often the first to show signs ­- we lose this beautiful shine we had before. BEAUTY & GLOW Kamalaya combines modern research with […]

more…

10 Nov, 2020

Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok boosts Alternative State Quarantine programme

BANGKOK, 9 November 2020 – The Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) programme at Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok, which blends world-class hospitality and medical monitoring from Bangkok Hospital, all in a soothing natural setting, claims to have become the leading choice for travellers arriving back in Thailand in the post-pandemic era. In addition to offering some of […]

more…

6 Nov, 2020

EAST Hong Kong reimagines use of space to champion the future of hospitality

Hong Kong, November 2020 – Making waves in the world of business and lifestyle hospitality once again, EAST Hong Kong unveils new renovations and additions to its dining and social spaces fit for modern business travellers, locals and families. Domain, the property’s new part café, part co-working space is perfect for coffee or casual meetings, and […]

more…

6 Nov, 2020

Maltese Michelin-star chefs link rich culinary experience with unique history

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 5 November 2020 – The Malta Tourism Authority in collaboration with Heritage Malta’s ‘Taste History’ project and the three Michelin-starred restaurants in Malta – UnderGrain, Noni and De Mondion – launched a year-long initiative called ‘Taste History Meets the Stars’. Through this collaboration, a number of dishes having a historical link […]

more…

6 Nov, 2020

Volvo Cars Thailand launches an expansive new warehouse in Thailand

BANGKOK, 5 November 2020 – Volvo Cars Thailand has launched a new dedicated Volvo warehouse for the first time in Thailand. The “Volvo Car Thailand Central Distribution & Training Center” (VCT CDTC) on Bangna-Trad Road Km 23, Samut Prakan Province, spread over an area of 23,331 square meters, is set to become Volvo’s one-stop hub […]

more…

6 Nov, 2020

Centara Inspires Guests to Discover Their Perfect “Place to Be” in Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand, 5 November 2020 – Following the uncertainty of recent months, it is more important than ever that couples and families have an opportunity to rediscover their personal happiness. Now, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is now inspiring Thai residents and international travellers to find their own sense of space and place […]

more…

6 Nov, 2020

Oman National Carrier scores trip wins at the World Travel Awards

Muscat, 5 November 2020 – Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has been recognised in the 2020 World Travel Awards Middle East programme, being named the “Middle East’s Leading Airline” Business Class and “Middle East’s Leading Airline” Economy Class. The airline’s in-flight magazine, Wings of Oman, also earned the title, “Middle East’s Leading Inflight […]

more…

6 Nov, 2020

Kandolhu celebrates reopening with big wins!

The beautiful island of Kandolhu Maldives has reopened for business. The team at Kandolhu Maldives has worked tirelessly throughout the period of closure to make sure our beloved guests are welcomed back warmly to their home away from home! Through the uncertain times, the team at Kandolhu gained hope and motivation with the exciting announcement of being […]

more…

6 Nov, 2020

Bangkok Airways forges points partnership with Samui Palm Beach and Celes Beachfront resorts

Bangkok, 6 November 2020 – FlyerBonus, the frequent flyer program of Bangkok Airways PCL, has forged a new partnership with “Samui Palm Beach Resort” and “Celes Beachfront Resort”. FlyerBonus members can now earn points as well as redeem points for a stay at both resorts, starting from only 10,000 points. Celes Beachfront Resort & Samui Palm Beach Resort are […]

more…

5 Nov, 2020

Enter the tourism industry’s new normal: Learning to live with the pandemic

by Julian Spindler Thailand’s world-class tourism industry, one of the twin drivers of our economy, is in a deep, coronavirus-induced coma, close to death. No life support is currently available. Pandemic paranoia has gripped the nation, freezing our bio-security risk management in full containment mode, meaning zero tolerance for local Covid-19 transmission. The socio-economic, and […]

more…

3 Nov, 2020

25 Years since the death of the slogan “Peace Promotes Tourism”

Tomorrow, Nov 4, the world will be mesmerised by the U.S. elections. Forgotten in the heat of the political competition will be the 25th anniversary of The Day The World Really Changed — the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin, Israeli Prime Minister and Nobel Peace Prize winner, by a Jewish fanatic extremist terrorist named Yigal Amir. […]

more…