Starfish Travel Corporation Team

The study by the travel specialists at Bounce examined various nations’ views on issues like violence against women, how safe women felt traveling alone at night, and broader indications of gender equality to identify the safest (and least safe) locations for women traveling alone. The top 10 most secure nations for female travelers alone in 2023: The percentage of women who have ever been subjected to physical or sexual abuse by an intimate relationship.*Percentage of women who concur that, in some situations, it is acceptable for a husband or spouse to physically abuse their wife or partner. With a 7.45 out of 10 overall safety rating, Spain is the safest nation for female tourists traveling alone.  Four of the seven criteria were among the highest-scoring countries, with Spain ranking among them. With a score of 9.6%, it received a 0.3 out of 1 rating for its acceptance of violence against women and the laws that are in place to protect women from abuse. Norway ranks as the second-most secure nation on the list for female travelers traveling alone, with a safety rating of 7.41 out of 10. Having a high female homicide rate (0.6 per 100,000 people), a high gender gap index score (0.879 out of 1), and a high score for the safety of women traveling alone at night (83%). Oslo, the capital of Norway, has a reputation for being a very safe city with minimal crime. The Netherlands ranks third among safest countries for female travelers traveling alone, with an overall safety score of 7.14 out of 10. The nation receives top marks for having strict laws against domestic violence. With low crime rates and a safety score of 73.8 out of 100, it is also considered a safe country for people of all genders. With a 5.49 overall safety score, the UK came in at number fourteen on the list. Source- Travel daily

OYO, a leading provider of hospitality technology, has announced discounts of up to 60% for Indian visitors staying in OYO hotels in Thailand. OYO boasts a network of more than 170 hotels throughout Thailand, including both luxury and affordable accommodations. In Thailand, OYO operates a number of hotel brands, including Capital O, a luxury hotel, and OYO Rooms, a budget hotel. Key tourist hotspots in Thailand like Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi as well as commercial hubs like Bangkok, Rayong, and Chonburi all have OYO footprints. Guests may book bookings at OYO hotels in Thailand through December 31, 2023, thanks to the discount program, which will run from October 11 through October 31, 2023. By login into the OYO app or website, choosing the city, and selecting a suitable hotel, guests may take advantage of this offer. They should choose “OYOSPLDEAL” from the list of coupon codes before clicking “Book Now and Pay at Hotel.” OYO recently opened Super OYO hotels in Thailand in order to give its visitors a relaxing and enjoyable stay. These hotels were chosen after carefully examining their performance on a number of factors, including customer feedback and reviews, consistently operating the maximum number of rooms, and a pleasant check-in process, among others. 13 Super OYO hotels have already been added by OYO in locations like Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. Thailand has become a well-liked international travel destination for Indian tourists due to its pristine beaches, vast nature reserves, picturesque countryside, alluring hill stations, vibrant cities decorated with magnificent temples, mouthwatering cuisine, exciting nightlife, and a wide selection of top-notch accommodations offered at reasonable prices. Thailand is now exploring loosening visa requirements for Indian tourists, which may increase Indian tourists’ access to and interest in visiting Thailand. The purpose of this action is to boost tourism and solidify ties between Thailand and India. Daniel Khoo, Country Head, OYO Thailand, explained the program in more detail and said: “This initiative is our way of showing our gratitude to the Indian community for choosing OYO as their preferred vacation destination. We understand that affordability is a crucial factor when planning a trip.” India was the second-largest source of tourists visiting Thailand after Malaysia, according to information provided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Out of the 11 million tourists who traveled abroad in 2022, over a million were Indian.  Thailand was noted as one of the top three countries that Indians wanted to visit in a report by Thomas Cook published in 2021. Maldives and UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) make up the other two. Customers prefer OYO’s platform for a variety of factors, such as easy access to OYO’s hotels at affordable rates, high-quality lodging, the OYO app’s usability, personalisation, and flexibility. Yo! Chat, OYO’s 24-hour chatbot, may help customers quickly find answers to their questions. OYO also contributes to a positive client experience by offering automated tools like AI chatbots, loyalty programs, and simple reimbursements when necessary. Most of OYO’s clients return to the platform as a result of these factors. Source- Travel daily

An exciting array of dining and wellness options, including the hotel’s signature fine-dining restaurant, Ayatana, were unveiled at the grand opening of the new luxury hotel Dusit Thani Kyoto, which is managed by Dusit International, one of Thailand’s top hotel and real estate development companies, on September 1. created especially for the hotel by renowned Thai chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava and Dylan Jones, who at their former Bangkok restaurant, Bo, received international acclaim and a Michelin Star.Ian, Ayatana provides an unparalleled sensory experience. Every aspect of the restaurant has a narrative to tell, drawing influence from the rich civilizations of both Thailand and Japan. The name, Ayatana, is a Sanskrit word that, in Buddhist philosophy, relates to the six senses: sight, hearing, aroma, taste, touch, and thinking. All of these senses are integrated into Ayatana’s distinctive multisensory culinary journey, creating dining experiences that thrill and delight on numerous levels and create a symphony of sensations from beginning to end. When a visitor checks into the hotel, the journey officially starts. Each customer is greeted warmly upon arrival and given a traditional Japanese fan that has been infused with essential oils (representing aroma). Following a graceful tour of the hotel’s tranquil courtyard garden, they participate in a traditional handwashing ritual using water laced with organic Thai herbs that will be employed in the upcoming dining experience (touch, scent, sound, mind). The culinary journey then starts in the restaurant’s open kitchen with a first bite that honors Kyoto’s incredible bounty, specifically the famed kyo-yasai vegetables, with a tasty morsel of vibrant kyo-yasai aubergines and a pepper relish that was influenced by a Northeastern Thai specialty. After guests are seated, the narrative of Ayatana continues with the serving of five amuse-bouches that make reference to Shojin Ryori, the conventional Japanese dining practice used by Buddhist monks. Shojin Ryori focuses on seasonal vegetables and wild mountain plants, which are thought to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. The five different cooking methods (grill, smoke, steam, boil, raw), five different flavors (sweet, salty, bitter, sour, umami), and five different colors (green, red, black, yellow, white) used in the amuse-bouches also pay respect to the five elements of nature: Water, Fire, Air, and Ether (Space). The skilled chefs at Ayatana choose different pairings depending on the season and the availability of fresh ingredients, guaranteeing a dynamic and always changing sensory experience. The dining experience then moves on to a fine-dining homage to the usual Thai family supper, with six flavorful Thai dishes—organic rice, salad, classic curry, stir-fry, steaming dish, soup, and several relishes—arriving at the table. The degree of spice in foods cannot be changed in the spirit of authenticity. There is, however, a non-spicy menu option for people who like only a little spice. The Nashi pear and sweet prawn, Southern style rice salad, Peneang curry of short ribs, and Coconut soup of Hirame and vermicelli are some of the standout dishes on the season’s menu. Ayatana takes pride in offering more than just drinks; it provides a purposeful beverage experience to go with its food. The restaurant will soon serve a number of specialized food-based mocktails in addition to a special wine pairing menu that was developed in conjunction with Intangible, a renowned non-alcoholic cocktail bar located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The mocktail menu, which promotes the idea of “mocktails with soul,” claims to honor local and sustainable Thai produce and to provide a symphony of lively flavors and fragrances. The Dusit Tea Garden in Wazuka, which Dusit established in partnership with TeaRoom Inc., a renowned sustainability-focused tea manufacturer, will create organic green tea especially for Ayatana, as well as Thai-inspired wagashi (a traditional Japanese confection), which will be served to diners as part of the dining experience. Delectable tiny treats from Kati, the distinctive dessert atelier of the Dusit Thani Kyoto, add to the sweetness of the encounter. It takes pride in being the first business in the area to serve sweets made with freshly imported organic coconut cream from Thailand. The full meal experience lasts for around 2.5 hours, and each extraordinary voyage ends with a musical treat: the calming singing bowl tones. This musical touch is not simply pleasant to the ears; it may also aid in digestion and encourage restful, rejuvenating sleep. “Every aspect of Ayatana is a testament to the pursuit of ultimate guest comfort and enjoyment, from the gentle illumination to the thoughtfully designed seating to the fine Thai and Japanese ingredients and unique multisensory experiences we offer,” said Makoto Yamashita, Area General Manager Kyoto and Cluster General Manager, Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo. “Ayatana is a setting that cradles patrons in its embrace and invites them to linger, indulge, and immerse themselves in the symbiotic union of Thai culinary creativity with the time-honored elegance of Japanese traditions. We are eager to wow our guests with this unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Just 850 meters separate the Dusit Thani Kyoto from the busy Kyoto Station in the city’s Hanganji Monzen-machi neighborhood. Following the lifestyle-focused ASAI Kyoto Shijo, which opened in June, it is Dusit’s second hotel in Kyoto. Ayatana is open every day for supper journeys from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. (last orders at 8 p.m., except Tuesday and Wednesday). Price per person (tax and service charge included) starts at JPY 24,800 / USD 170. There are also possibilities for wine and mocktail pairings. Beginning in November, a lunch menu will be offered. Reservations are strongly advised in advance due to the restricted seating. Source- Travel daily

Prepare to go on a spine-tingling cinematic experience this October, Halloween fans and movie lovers! The top Halloween movie sites in the United States have been identified by a thorough investigation carried out by travel insurance comparison website InsureMyTrip.  This research offers a wide variety of terrifying settings to satisfy all your Halloween movie desires, from the Gothic charm of New Orleans to the gloomy streets of San Bernardino.   An alphabetical and numeric table Medium confidence automatic description generation  With an astonishing 104 films set there, Pittsburgh is the #1 Halloween movie location in the United States. Pittsburgh, known for its Gothic architecture and sinister atmosphere, served as the setting for classic movies like “Night of the Living Dead” and “Dawn of the Dead.”  Baltimore comes in second place, with 94 horror films featuring this city as their setting. Due to its historic appeal and eerie backdrops, this city is a favorite for horror movies like “The Blair Witch Project.”  After being featured in 93 horror movies, Missouri City, Texas, takes third place. It’s hardly surprising that Missouri City has been featured in terrifying movies like “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” given the city’s mix of urban and suburban surroundings.  With 89 and 87 pictures, respectively, Tampa, Florida and Dayton, Ohio round out the top five cities featured in horror movies.   California wins the title of scariest state if you want to limit your horror marathon to just one. establishing itself as the ultimate Halloween movie setting, with a whopping 2484 movies filmed there. Its varied scenery, including the spooky streets of Los Angeles and the unsettling woods of The Shining, Psycho, and other famous films have all been filmed in Northern California.  Florida takes third place with 749 films set in the Sunshine State, followed by Texas in second place with 1089 films set within its boundaries.   Director of Marketing at InsureMyTrip, Sarah Webber, offered the following analysis of the data:  It’s always fun to go on vacation around Halloween and visit the locations of your favorite horror movies. For fans of scary movies, this study will help them focus their options so they may book a trip early and possibly save money.  Visit InsureMyTrip for the full study and interactive map to view the entire list of the top Halloween movie destinations by state and learn which city nearby has the right vibe for your spooky movie marathon.  Source- Travel daily

The St. Regis Venice is honored to declare its support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month by taking part in the esteemed Venice Hospitality Challenge 2023. A portion of The St. Regis Venice’s Pink Spritz sales will be donated to assist breast cancer awareness month as part of the effort, which will also see the hotel support Associazone Dinamici’s “Take Care of You” Pink fundraising campaign. The St. Regis Venice will participate in the Venice Hospitality Challenge’s 2023 edition, which is known for fusing elite sailing with opulent hospitality and promises to be an exhilarating display of cooperation, excellence, and sportsmanship. On October 14, this renowned regatta will take place on the serene waters of the Venice Lagoon, drawing sailors and tourists from all over the world. The St. Regis Venice is supporting Associazione Dinamici’s “Take Care of You” Pink project as part of the Venice Hospitality Challenge and in recognition of the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Visitors and guests to The St. Regis Bar can savor their delicious Pink Spritz beverage all throughout the month of October. The “Take Care of You” Pink initiative will receive a share of the proceeds from the sale of Pink Spritz. “The St. Regis Venice invites everyone to join in this important cause by savoring the Pink Spritz at The St. Regis Bar, where every sip contributes to breast cancer prevention and education efforts in collaboration with Associazione Diamici’s ‘Take Care of You’ initiative,” said Patrizia Hofer, the hotel’s general manager. By supporting our initiative, guests not only get to enjoy a delicious beverage but also make a difference in the lives of a lot of people.  Visit https://events.veneziaunica.it/it/content/venice-hospitality-challenge-2023 for more details about the Venice Hospitality Challenge 2023.  Please visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/vcexr-the-st-regis-venice/overview for more details about The St. Regis Venice.  # # # Concerning The St. Regis Venice The St. Regis Venice, the ultimate sophisticate and arbiter, merges historical tradition with contemporary luxury in a prime location beside the Grand Canal with views of Venice’s most famous sites. With 130 guestrooms and 39 suites, many of which feature furnished private terraces with unrivaled views of the city, the hotel’s design embraces the modern essence of Venice via the painstaking restoration of the one-of-a-kind collection of five Venetian palaces. Uncompromising glamour naturally extends to the hotel’s restaurants and bars, which provide a variety of exquisite dining and beverage options for Venetians and tourists alike. These options include the private Italianate Garden, which is a chic setting for guests and local tastemakers to mingle, Gio’s, the hotel’s signature restaurant, and The Arts Bar, where cocktails have been created especially to honor works of art. The hotel has a variety of spaces that can be easily customized to entertain guests for celebration events and more formal functions. These spaces are complemented by an extensive menu of mouthwatering cuisine. Crafted events are held in the Library’s urbane ambience, the Lounge’s plush furnishings, or the neighboring Astor Boardroom. The Canaletto Room provides the perfect setting for important gatherings since it captures the modern ambiance of a Venetian palazzo and grand ballroom. Please visit stregisvenice.com for additional details.  Concerning St. Regis Hotels & Resorts   St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, a division of Marriott International, Inc., is dedicated to providing outstanding experiences at more than 45 premium hotels and resorts in the most prestigious locations throughout the world. Since John Jacob Astor IV initially established the first St. Regis hotel in New York City more than a century ago, the company has remained dedicated to providing every one of its guests with an unwavering level of personalized and anticipatory care, flawlessly executed by its renowned St. Regis Butler care.  Visit stregis.com for more details and updates on job openings, or follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Being a part of Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s international travel program, makes St. Regis proud. Members of the program get access to a remarkable selection of international brands, unique experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unrivaled advantages including free nights and Elite status recognition. Visit MarriottBonvoy.Marriott.com to sign up for the program for nothing or to learn more about it.  Source- Travel daily

The top global hospitality business Hilton has identified a new generation of Asian travelers who are seeking travel experiences that will help them better understand their identities as it prepares to release its 2024 Trends Report. Asians who are motivated by self-discovery and seek a deeper understanding of their own cultural and ancestry through travel are known as “GenerAsian travelers.” A resounding chorus of visitors from the Asia Pacific area reported a growing confidence in self-exploration in a global poll conducted in conjunction with Ipsos. In fact, a startling 83% of respondents said they are pleased of how much their own nation is becoming a sought-after travel destination, and 84% said they are gratified by how much Westerners value Asian cuisine, fashion, and culture. Globalization, which has improved accessibility to and understanding of Asia for foreign audiences through pop culture and social media, is to blame for this shift in global taste. In addition, the region has experienced significantly increased representation in the entertainment, food, and beverage, and other businesses — from internationally acclaimed restaurants to top-grossing Hollywood movies. In order to design experiences that are specific to each generation’s requirements and preferences, we regularly track their travel inclinations. Ben George, senior vice president and commercial director, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said: “Fueled by a sense of pride that Asian food, design, and culture are gaining prominence globally, we know this will have even more relevance and intrigue for tourists in the future year. In fact, according to our research, 77% of APAC visitors want to travel in order to better understand their own cultures, and 75% want to discover more about other Asian cultures. We continue to be dedicated to providing creative solutions to guarantee that our guests can fully immerse themselves in both our hotels and their communities since we feel that a wonderful stay is the heart of a fantastic vacation. For Asians, access to regional cuisine is a top priority. When choosing their lodging, travelers have different priorities. Convenience may be important to some, but pricing is still a major consideration for others. Asian consumers are more likely than survey respondents from other nations to base their hotel reservations on having access to special local experiences, which is consistent with their travel motivations. According to respondents in Hilton’s global study, a much larger percentage of those from China (81%), India (77%) and Singapore (70%) said they always or frequently do this. 88% of respondents categorically listed discovering local and traditional cuisine and drink as the most significant experience that Asian visitors value throughout their visits. A sizable majority (84%) also expressed a want to learn more about the culture, history, and traditions of the place they are visiting, and a comforting 78% expressed a desire to interact with the local community while traveling. In the Hilton 2024 Trends Report study, respondents from China, India, Japan, and Singapore all cited culinary experiences as the top priority for their travel plans for the coming year. Food and drink also emerged as a common interest among Asian respondents. In contrast, in the majority of the other markets surveyed, pleasure or pampering as well as exploration and adventure activities appeared as the top financial priorities. In comparison to other markets examined, a higher percentage of consumers in Asian nations are cutting back on other aspects of their lives (82% in India, 74% in China, and 74% in Singapore against 64% globally) to make sure they can prioritize travel in the upcoming year. Compared to the global average of 65%5, significantly more tourists from China (85%), India (81%) and Singapore (73%) are also likely to spend more on travel in 2024 than they did in 2023. “At Hilton, we’ve observed a growing interest in self-discovery and the desire for an even deeper understanding of one’s heritage, and this will be an even more important consideration for travelers in 2024,” the statement continued. This idea of the GenerAsian traveler and their desire for exploration is supported, interestingly, by 71% of all Asia Pacific respondents who said they will prioritize traveling in the coming 12 months, according to Alexandra Jaritz, senior vice president, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton. She continued, “Hilti will enable customers to thoroughly connect and immerse themselves in the destinations they choose to travel to through our continual brand innovation, gastronomic experiences, and world-renowned hospitality. Understanding Generational Differences in Expectations of International Travelers These studies were conducted as part of research for Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report, which intended to identify the traveler’s profile in 2024 while also focusing on the needs and preferences of the various generations. In-depth interviews with hundreds of Hilton travel experts and a global survey of more than 10,000 travelers from nine countries led to the discovery of four themes that are anticipated to drive change and innovation in the travel industry in 2024 and beyond: Travelers Will Invest in Their Sleep: Gen Zs are the most deliberate about relaxing, with 21% controlling their exercise schedule and 25% abstaining from alcohol before bed. The top sleep factors in Asia Pacific, according to respondents, were listening to music or podcasts (33%) and picking a reputable hotel chain with consistent mattress quality (27%). Travelers Will Value Personalization and Connectivity: 86% of Millennials and 83% of Gen Z respondents stated it’s crucial to be able to book their vacation totally online, with 80% of global travelers and 83% in Asia Pacific agreeing. Leisure Travel Decisions Will Be Influenced by Culture and Experiences: Globally and in the Asia Pacific area, travelers’ top priorities are food and drink (49%) and exploration and adventure (47%). Gen Xers (48%) and Baby Boomers (45%) are the generations most passionate about their plans for their dining budgets, while Gen Z and Millennials (52% for both) set aside more money than other generations do for travel and adventure events. More than a third of Gen Z and Millennial business travelers say they intend to extend a business trip to enjoy leisure time before or after their

Hotel101 Global Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of DoubleDragon Corporation, has formally opened and started operating both its global corporate office and global sales hub in Singapore. For Hotel101 Global Pte Ltd’s global corporate headquarters, DoubleDragon has acquired a premium office space on the 4th floor of PLUS Building, 20 Cecil Street in the center of Raffles Place in Singapore. On the ground floor of the PLUS Building, which is in the same structure, is where the Global Sales Hub is situated. The newest iteration of Hotel101’s iconic 21 square meter HappyRoom with its globally recognized amenities, including the Queen bed and Single bed using Emma Sleep mattresses, IOT (Internet of Things) App operable smart lighting using one single type of bulb, 55 inch smart TV, work desk, universal power outlets, electronic device charger ports, kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave, and an ensuite modern pre-fabri is available at the Hotel101 Global Sales Hub in Singapore. The new Hotel101 Global design maximizes the utilization of modular furnishings and fixtures, prefabricated bathrooms, and construction and operational efficiency. In all facets of its value chain, Hotel101 is anticipated to establish itself as one of the most technologically cutting-edge hotel companies. The completely automated self-check-in system with IOT capabilities will be integrated in the upcoming version of the Hotel101 App. The ‘banig’, a traditional handwoven mat from the Philippines, has been chosen by Hotel101 as its hallmark style. Filipino families would congregate at banigs to create enduring ties and enduring memories. The banig is a symbol of home, and we want Hotel101 to make you feel at home during your stay. The Hotel101 banig colors were deliberately chosen to exude joy and to evoke a Filipino touch in all Hotel101 projects throughout various nations around the world. Artificial intelligence (AI) created the Hotel101 distinctive modern banig as a representation of the hotel’s commitment to staying in front of technological advancements. According to DoubleDragon Chairman Edgar Injap Sia II, “If there is one hotel chain that can optimize the use of contemporary technology in the global hospitality space, we believe it will be Hotel101, given its pioneering standardized signature 21sqm HappyRooms and asset-light concept globally.” Mr. Sia said, “Eventually, when you stay in any Hotel101, regardless of the nation you are in, for the first time, you will know exactly what to expect.” As we put together the ideal team of seasoned team members who will effectively lead the expansion of the Hotel101 Unique and Asset-Light business model concurrently in various countries, the Hotel101 Global Corporate Office serves as the hub for our team members who are based in different countries, according to Hotel101 Global CEO Hannah Yulo-Luccini. To enter, simply download the free Hotel101 Global Booking App, said Ms. Yulo-Luccini. “We invite everyone to drop by the Hotel101 Sales Hub on the Ground Floor of PLUS Building in Singapore and have some complimentary Filipino Blend Coffee. Asset-Light Business Model of Hotel101: Because there is just one type of room unit across the whole worldwide ecosystem of Hotel101’s hybrid condotel business model, it is incredibly cost-effective to create and run. Through direct development, collaborative ventures, and licensing, the highly adaptable Hotel101 idea also enables it to grow and establish a standard global inventory. DoubleDragon can produce money and revenue twice thanks to Hotel101’s Asset-Light concept: first from the pre-selling of condotel units, and then secondly after the project is built, when the enrolled units are used to run the hotel. In order to appeal to the mid-range market, Hotel101 rooms are designed to be typical or comparable in size and appearance worldwide. This enables a highly efficient booking procedure and lets customers know precisely what to anticipate in a Hotel101 wherever it may be located. The innovative condotel concept of Hotel101 has already been submitted for a concept patent, and numerous countries around the world have registered the Hotel101 brand and country-specific domains. Currently under development is the Hotel101 App for Apple iOS and Android, which is intended to operate effectively in numerous nations. Similar to airline tickets, Hotel101 uses dynamic pricing for its hotel rates, which causes the price of a certain room to fluctuate based on the availability and demand in the market at the time the reservation is made. Hotel101’s International Growth: The first three Hotel101 projects will be located in Madrid, Spain, California, USA, and Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan. These initial three international locations will act as bridge projects to accelerate Hotel101’s transformation to being a global brand with a truly original business model that can be planted in more than 100 countries. The Philippines, Japan, Spain, USA, UK, UAE, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Mexico, South Korea, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Turkey, Italy, Germany, France, and China are the first 25 countries on the target near-term expansion roadmap for Hotel101 Global Pte. Ltd. DoubleDragon’s Attention: Positioning Globally While Strengthening the Base. The DoubleDragon team now has two clear-cut objectives. First, by 2025, DoubleDragon’s Philippine portfolio must be completely developed and at its highest level of revenue creation. Additionally, by 2025, DoubleDragon’s Offshore Hotel101 Global portfolio must significantly expand its market share abroad. According to DoubleDragon Chairman Edgar Injap Sia II, “Given that the global economy is becoming more and more fragile and volatile, we deemed it imperative, that the only way to future-proof itself is to passionately pursue the target of DoubleDragon’s revenues to be derived from geographically diversified sources, that eventually over the long term, we aim that no single country will contribute over 10% of DD’s revenue and income.” However, it goes without saying that the core of your company, DoubleDragon Corporation, will always be Filipino.  And your DD team will never stop carrying out its unwavering duty to consistently make a substantial contribution to nation-building as we work together to create a first-world Philippines, said Mr. Sia. Source- Travel daily

Nestled in the center of Southeast Asia, the landlocked nation of Laos is renowned for its verdant scenery, tranquil temples, and a unique way of life that has escaped the fast urbanization that has affected other nations in the area. However, as the consequences of climate change and the depletion of natural resources were more widely recognized, Laos saw an opportunity to not only protect its distinctive beauty but also to embrace the idea of sustainable tourism. The “Supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in the Lao Tourism Industry Supply Chain to Access Markets for Sustainable Practices Project” (SUSTOUR Laos) is where this concept came to fruition. Transforming long-standing customs The core foundation of SUSTOUR Laos is to promote sustainable consumption and production (SCP) of products and services, and it all begins with the MSMEs at the center of the travel and tourist sector. The tourism industry in Laos depends heavily on these tiny firms, which provide travelers distinctive services and goods. However, it is imperative to make sure that these businesses run sustainably, protecting the environment, conserving natural resources, and acting ethically toward the communities in which they operate. To aid in this process, SUSTOUR Laos was created. Plan International, the Department of Trade Promotion (MOIC), the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), and the European Centre for Ecological and Agricultural Tourism (ECEAT) are the main partners in the project, which is supported by the European Union. The certification of sustainable practices is one of the pillars of SUSTOUR Laos. The Travelife certification criteria will recognize MSMEs that adopt and apply SCP principles. Internationally renowned as the top sustainability certification standard for the travel and tourism sector, Travelife was created by ECEAT. To be certified by Travelife, a business must be a tour operator, travel agent, or lodging (hotels, guest homes). The Lasting Laos accreditation, meanwhile, is a regional sustainability program for tourism-related supplier companies that have proven sustainable environmental, social, and economic practices. By offering benchmarks and direction for supplier enterprises to measure and improve their sustainability, this program, which is facilitated and managed locally by LNCCI, seeks to increase the overall sustainability of the tourist supply chain. These certifications offer travelers the certainty that they are making ethical and environmentally sound decisions in addition to serving as a badge of merit. As a green vacation spot, Laos An objective of SUSTOUR Laos encompasses more than MSMEs. It goes beyond that to include the entire country. This program will lead to an increase in market demand for SCP practices throughout the tourist industry supply chain by positioning Laos as Asia’s greenest travel destination. The desire for ethical and environmentally friendly experiences will increase as more travelers and foreign travel agents learn about Laos’ dedication to sustainability. The tourist industry will be forced to change and adapt as a result of this shift in consumer behavior, which will eventually help the environment, local communities, and the country’s economy. The benefits are numerous for MSMEs. Adopting sustainable practices enables them to compete more successfully in the global tourism market while also ensuring that they are environmentally responsible. They will distinguish themselves as the ethical option for tourists looking for real, sustainable experiences thanks to the Travelife and Lasting Laos accreditation. The Laotian people benefit from improved income and job opportunities as a result of this competitive advantage. SUSTOUR Laos is aware that its tourism sector cannot function independently in the quest for sustainability. Local vendors who are equally committed to ethical business conduct must be involved. A thorough and all-encompassing approach to sustainability is fostered by establishing connections between these suppliers and the MSMEs in the supply chain. Additionally, protecting natural resources is a crucial component of this project. MSMEs will help to improve the environment generally by taking steps like lowering energy use, limiting waste, and protecting water resources. They will work in unison with Laos’ stunning surroundings to preserve the nation’s distinct beauty for future generations. However, it goes beyond just being environmentally conscious. Equally dedicated to promoting social responsibility is SUSTOUR Laos. MSMEs are urged to engage in local communities in a way that respects their customs, cultures, and general well-being. This strategy not only makes the visitor experience more real, but it also makes sure that the benefits of tourism are fairly distributed among Laotians. One of the most fascinating aspects of this project as it develops is increasing consumer awareness, particularly among visitors and foreign travel agencies. Laos will be able to draw tourists while simultaneously serving as an example for other places to adopt sustainable tourism practices. Source- Travel daily