Travel News

In the first half of 2023, Dubai International Airport (DXB), the biggest international airport in the world, welcomed 41.6 million travelers, up more than 100% from H1 2019. The second quarter saw DXB have a strong performance, with passenger traffic increasing by 42.7% year over year to 20.3 million. With 6.9 million visitors, May was the busiest month during Q2. DXB’s H1 traffic totaled 41.6 million visitors, up 49.1% over the 27.9 million guests registered in H1 2022 thanks to a robust Q2. In H1 2023, DXB’s luggage performance grew by 7% over pre-pandemic H1 2019 levels, maintaining its position as a global leader. DXB has handled almost 37.2 million bags so far this year without interfering with the delivery of luggage to consumers; 92% of all baggage was delivered to clients within 45 minutes. For its continued efforts to ensure a safe and inclusive airport experience for visitors with both physical and hidden disabilities, DXB received multiple honors, including a certification from Airports Council International – a significant accomplishment. It welcomed a number of fresh airlines to the DXB family, enhancing connectivity to further new locations and nations. DXB handled 201,800 flights in total in the first half, up 13% from H1 2019 and up 30.2% year over year. During the first half, there were an average of 214 passengers each trip, with a load factor of 77%. Source- Travel daily Link-https://www.traveldailymedia.com/dxb-welcomed-41-6-million-guests-in-the-first-six-months-of-2023/

A variety of wine tastings and guided tours are offered by The Ultimate Winery Experiences all throughout Australia. Wine lovers, come and learn about the distinctive qualities of well-known wines from renowned Orange, Barossa, and Rutherglen wineries. Swinging Bridge in Orange, New South Wales offers a sustainable approach to viticulture and winemaking; Artisans of Barossa in Barossa Valley, South Australia, teaches about small-batch winemaking; and Stanton and Kileen in Rutherglen, Victoria, commemorates 150 years of tradition and innovation. Travel at your own pace while experiencing some rural beauty. New South Wales’s Murrumbateman Bicycle to prestigious wineries The self-guided Murrumbateman Winery Trail, a novel way to discover the Canberra District Wine Region, will liven up your trip. A 30-minute journey from Canberra, Murrumbateman provides visitors a breathtaking sample of country charm and beautiful scenery as they wine and dine while pedaling past eight of the area’s award-winning wineries on Lekker e-bikes. Visit family-run Clonakilla, award-winning Dionysus, The Vintner’s Daughter, and more. You may also take quick side trips to other places of interest in Murrumbateman Village. Penfolds opens up a whole new universe. Sydney/Warrane, Adelaide/Tarntanya, Melbourne/Narrm Enjoy an unforgettable tasting to uncover the charm of the Penfolds wine tale. Transcend by Penfolds is a redesigned version of the classic wine tasting experience. The Penfolds Collection 2023, which includes wines from Australia, France, and California, will be featured at the private tasting, which will travel to three major towns throughout the nation: Melbourne/Narrm, Sydney/Warrane, and Adelaide/Tarntanya. Enjoy the perfect blending of soundscapes, narrative, graphics, and lighting that gives the collection a new lease on life. Enjoy a shared tasting lunch from Magill Estate Kitchen along with three wine pairings as you learn about one of Australia’s most renowned winemakers’ 175-year history. For you, a special cocktail Australian Capital Territory, Canberra You’re invited by Cabo to a tequila haven in the middle of Canberra. Now you may enjoy the amazing flavors of Mexico without flying halfway around the world. The new tequila bar Cabo delivers a taste of Mexico to Canberra with an alluring assortment of margaritas, a remarkable collection of 44 tequilas, and 26 different kinds of mezcal. Choose from the Build Your Own Margarita, Tequila Tastings, or Sunday Sangria Sessions. You can be sure you’ll have an authentic experience with the equally unique culinary menu, which includes bloody maria oyster shooters, corn-ribs, chorizo porteno with olives, tacos, chips, and salsa. Sunlight and beverages In Queensland, Noosa Enjoy some wine with seasonal and sustainable foods. Lánai, a lovely restaurant with a view of the Noosa River, is only a little more than an hour’s drive north of Brisbane/Meeanjin. The Sunshine Coast community of Noosa gains island-style cuisine from Lanai, which embodies the charm of the Noosa region. Lánai, which translates to “porch” in Hawaiian, was designed as a place where customers may savor delectable cuisine and beverages while conversing on the outside terrace. Focusing on sustainability, their menu employs regional ingredients and locally made artisan goods that change with the seasons, and their choice of mezcal, Mexico’s ancestral spirit, is responsibly grown on plantations. Unlock the doors to a chic wine cellar. South Australia’s McLaren Vale Take enjoy breathtaking views while indulging in world-class wines from Australia’s wine districts. The Wonder Room is Dandelion Vineyard’s breathtaking new interpretation of a cellar door, and it is situated above the old ridge of Firehawk Farm, 45 minutes south of Adelaide/Tarntanya. The brand-new structure has a large number of feature windows that provide expansive views of the surroundings, including the lush vineyard estate, the gently sloping hills of McLaren Vale, and the breathtaking Gulf St. Vincent. All events include complementary bites selected by chef Chris Bone that highlight seasonal ingredients and feature a selection of wine tastes. Western Australia’s interpretation of New York and Parisian bistros Western Australia, Perth and Borloo Choose from a variety of martinis, cocktails, draft beers, and wines on the decadent menu at Subi Continental. Miles Hull, a renowned hospitality titan from Australia, has just launched a contemporary restaurant called Subi Continental. This cozy café, located in Perth’s downtown Subiaco, offers food with inspirations from both Paris and New York. Fresh seafood, pastas, aged beef, and a menu of just Western Australian wines and beers are included on the all-day eating menu. Bright decor, local sandstone and timber, as well as a sizable outdoor space for a relaxed Australian vibe, are just a few of the welcoming and contemporary amenities available to guests. Source- Travel daily

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has sponsored a number of expertly selected familiarization excursions over the past two months to increase business. These trips were designed to further tap into the region’s unmet need for incentive travel and highlight Hong Kong’s most recent and significantly improved offers. More than 160 agents and business representatives from the Mainland, South Korea, and India will visit Hong Kong to get a firsthand look at the city. As Hong Kong hosted the largest incentive group from the Mainland, they returned home filled with wonderful memories, excitement about new discoveries, and quick plans to organize significant events to the city. Hong Kong has been increasing the development of its infrastructure and tourism resources, according to Mr. Kenneth Wong, General Manager of MICE & Cruise for the HKTB. The greatest way for anyone to experience what the city has to offer is to “see is believe,” especially now that new attractions, inventive MICE products, and substantial funding support have all been presented. We are overjoyed that Hong Kong was well received by our visitors and is still a popular incentive travel destination. There is always new content to give wow factors. New and improved attractions are enhancing incentive-related material. The Hong Kong Palace Museum and M+ are two outstanding museums that add a touch of culture to activities in the thriving West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD). The Peak Tram, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and theme parks are all developing cutting-edge items to provide entertaining experiences. Agents who participated in the familiarization tours had the following to say: The MICE’s section manager from South Korea, Ms. Nam Hyo Rim, said that Hong Kong is a multicultural city with a great fusion of East and West. The brand-new museums in the city’s premier arts and cultural district, WKCD, offer MICE organizations a variety of customizable event spaces in addition to world-class art exhibitions. “My perception of Hong Kong has been renewed by the wide range of new experiences,” said Ms. Kong Yan, General Manager of NEW VIEW (Shenzhen) M.I.C.E SERVICE CO., LTD from the Mainland. “From exclusive group arrangements at theme parks, including the magnificent multimedia show – Visions of Hong Kong and Soul of the Ocean at Ocean Park Hong Kong and the Momentous show at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, to VIP horse-racing parties. It’s genuinely unique.  A variety of fresh encounters for groups In addition to Hong Kong’s well-known attractions, there are inventive incentive concepts that satisfy the thirst for immersive experiences among event planners and corporations. To provide MICE guests with a distinctive and memorable adventure in Hong Kong, a wide variety of themed activities are carefully created. See how our agent buddies felt after participating in the motivational group exercises: With exciting parties, recharge “Hong Kong is full of party ideas, day and night, perfect for team bonding,” remarked Ms. Dipti Narvekar, Senior Manager – MICE of Thomas Cook India. From bar-hopping to a poolside party at the new Water World Ocean Park or adrenaline-racing VR Sandbox, or a more luxury horse-racing celebrations, Hong Kong has a lot of excitement to keep my clients who are party-goers coming back for more!” MICE suggestions for Lantau Island at one place “Lantau is a neighborhood that is full of surprises and exceptional experiences – Discovery Bay is exotic and off the beaten path,” remarked Ms. Liu Jun, Procurement Director of Hunan Ruizhi International Conference Exhibition Co. Ltd. from the Mainland. Yachting is a fantastic way to unwind, and the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is, as usual, packed with imaginative entertainment options for creating special team-building activities. outdoor recreation for better team cohesion The Deputy General Manager of CYTS M.I.C.E. (Shanghai) Service Co., Ltd. from the Chinese mainland, Ms. Zhang Xin, stated that Hong Kong’s timeless charm is its main draw for MICE travelers despite its abundance of tourist attractions. The city features a 75% green space in addition to an outstanding cityscape, exciting restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. In this small city, the undulating, unspoiled scenery of rocks, beaches, cliffs, hills, and lakes will undoubtedly amaze incentive groups in a big way. largest Chinese mainland incentive group Due to the city’s newest attractions and variety of experiences, close to 300 incentive and meeting groups of different sizes have visited Hong Kong in the last six months. Leading liquor company Luzhou Laojiao has swiftly chosen to send 1,250 of its top distributors to Hong Kong in five batches in August after being impressed by the city’s recent improvements and variety of products. “We’re happy to host the first cross-border trip since the pandemic,” the corporate spokesperson exclaimed. The groups are eager to see Victoria Harbour’s boat party as well as Hong Kong’s newest cultural art district. We can create a rich and smooth travel experience for our multi-destination itinerary that includes Hong Kong and Macao by utilizing cutting-edge cross-border infrastructure. Source- Travel daily

Here is a summary of the data, and the full findings can be seen here: Autumnal Journey The top five international travel destinations for autumn are the United States, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and Mexico. While many Americans continue to travel within the country, Virtuoso has observed a return to international travel among tourists from all over the world, including Australia, Canada, and the United States. Some of the most dynamic and exciting cities in the world have tourists swooning, and they’re prepared to pay for it. Hotel rates are 11 percent higher in Paris this fall than they will be in 2022, while they are up 16 percent in London and New York. Rome has increased by 19 percent, and Florence has increased by the most, at 37 percent. Looking for a fantastic deal? Rates for hotels have decreased in Palm Beach, Athens, and Cabo San Lucas. Holiday Season The United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Thailand are predicted to be the most popular international destinations this holiday season. Dream vacation destinations for tourists include Anguilla, Turks & Caicos, the Bahamas, and St. Barts. The Kohala Coast/Kailua-Kona, Wailea, Argyll and the Scottish Isles, and London are also in high demand. The cost of hotels is consistently rising year after year; during the holiday season, the average daily fee for preferred hotels has risen to around $1,600 (almost £1,254) per night. New York, Los Angeles, and Vail are good holiday vacation choices in the United States, but a 13 percent drop in hotel prices only amounts to a relative discount on ski resorts. Everything Relies on the Experience Travel that is customized is even more popular. According to a recent survey, 57% of travelers from all around the world believe that “creating a travel experience that best fits my expectations is more important than price.” Travelers from Mexico, Hong Kong, Brazil, China, and Australia in particular should be aware of this. Private travel is a luxury that many people have attempted during the pandemic and are unwilling to give up even as prices rise due to the lack of products designed exclusively for such use. In the Caribbean, Croatia, Greece, and St. Tropez, yachting is becoming more popular, and Virtuoso’s 2023 yacht bookings are up 79% over 2019. While commercial first-class is still the preferred option for longer-distance flights, private aircraft is becoming more and more popular for domestic and shorter international flights. Travelers are increasingly looking for experiences that demand more physical and mental effort. Scientific expeditions like accompanying scientists on fieldwork in the Galapagos and Antarctica are growing in popularity, and C-suite clientele are engaging in activities that go beyond the usual comforts. High-net-worth individuals travel for a variety of reasons, including adventure, expedition, and culture (37%, 34%, and 16%, respectively). Wine and food are top priorities, particularly for Baby Boomers and Generation X: Twenty percent of clients book vacations with food and wine as the primary focus, and 70% of Virtuoso advisors have noticed a rise in culinary travel. A staggering 47 percent of them spend between $10,000 and $25,000 (about $7,840 and £19,600) per trip, and another 15% spend between $25,000 and $50,000 (roughly £19,600 and £39,201) per trip. The two most popular culinary experiences are eating on the street (60%) and touring a brewery or distillery (88%) followed by a celebration with family and friends (57%). In the meantime, hyper-local, neighborhood-to-table dining (53 percent), high-low foodie experiences (48 percent), authenticity and cultural immersion (87 percent), and high-low foodie experiences are some of the developing culinary experiences. Participants were free to select from a variety of choices. Culinary hotspots like Portugal, Copenhagen, Croatia, and Colombia are on the rise and each is positioned to become a culinary capital. The popularity of wellness travel is on the rise, with 44% of travelers spending between $10,000 and $25,000 (about £3,920 and £7,840) and 47% spending between $5,000 and $10,000 (roughly £3,920 and £7,840) every trip. Mexico, the United States, and Europe are the most popular locations, and 59 percent of travelers take solitary wellness vacations there. Emerging wellness experiences include sleep programs (34%), creative and performance art (44%) and sustainable wellbeing (34%). In addition to an increase in African safaris with a wellness component, emerging wellness destinations include Thailand, Bali, Fiji, Iceland, and Thailand. Sustainability During this week’s Virtuoso Travel Week, the Virtuoso Impact Report, Sustainable Travel, 2023, was launched. It features Virtuoso partners and how customers perceive their business practices. Eighty-eight percent of tourists want their money spent on travel to go toward preserving the environment, especially programs like waste disposal and recycling, preserving and restoring landscapes, and utilizing, implementing, or supporting sustainable and renewable energy sources (like solar, wind, hydroelectricity, or geothermal energy). Sixty-four percent of tourists are dedicated to maintaining cultural sustainability, including assisting in the restoration of historical places and helping Indigenous people. The economic potential of initiatives like assisting small, independent enterprises and youth initiatives also interests another 64% of people. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/virtuoso-reveals-top-travel-trends/

Bustling cities are the ideal settings for novels, from London’s unique personality to Edinburgh’s gothic atmosphere. And for many others, books can serve as literary passports that take them anywhere in the world from the comfort of their own homes. But which UK cities are mentioned in literature the most? The printing professionals at Aura Print looked through the enormous Google volumes corpus (a repository offering 25 million volumes) to find all references to 31 well-known UK cities in books published between 1920 and 2019.Unsurprisingly, London tops the list to be named the most well-known British city in literature. This city was featured an astounding 286,675,501 times, which is more than nearly five times as many times as all other cities examined. The British city, dubbed by Charles Dickens as the “magic lantern” that sparked his imagination, has hosted a plethora of books during the past century. A Tale of Two Cities, Sherlock Holmes, and The House by the Thames are three books to read in London. Cambridge (52,028,629) is in second place, with Oxford (51,723,380) trailing behind as the two long-time rivals compete once more. Cambridge distinguishes itself as a more ideal location for writers compared to its historical rival, Oxford, in which both form a good backdrop for crime and mystery books, thanks to the lovely banks of the River Cam and the well-traveled cobble streets. The Longest Journey, Death of an Expert Witness, and The Versions of Us are three books to read in Cambridge. Oxford book suggestions include His Dark Materials, The Last Enchantments, and Brideshead Revisited With an amazing 23,578,466 mentions in novels over the previous 100 years, Manchester takes the fourth rank. The famous metropolis in the “south of the north,” with its secret neighborhoods and rich industrial history, inspires Gothic and horror authors with its revolutionary spirit. Manchester book suggestions: Sirens, Vurt, and Mary Barton Birmingham completes the top five UK cities with the most articles written on them. With a respectable 22,321,473 book references, Birmingham has captivated novelists for decades, garnering 74% more literary attention than Worcester, its neighboring city, which is ranked tenth (11,808,009 mentions). Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/10-most-written-about-uk-cities-in-literature-new-study-reveals/

Children have shown a particular interest in talking about environmental issues in Japan because the Japanese government may be releasing nuclear wastes. In order to experience the ocean before it is tainted by nuclear pollution, they have also participated in beach cleanup initiatives. Children from Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan came together to clean the Okinawa beach, which has not yet been contaminated by nuclear waste, during a beach cleanup event that the JCI North District specifically arranged from August 10 to August 14. The program was spearheaded by JCI North District President Raymond Lai. The natural beaches of Okinawa were covered in trash after being hit by two typhoons. After realizing that nuclear waste could soon pollute the ocean, the kids became passionate about environmental protection, focusing not only on beach and mountain clean-up but also on marine litter and conservation. Hong Kong’s aquatic ecosystem is valuable but currently polluted by trash. To preserve this maritime ecosystem, which has exceptional biological value, we must act. On May 28, we conducted the “Nature Rangers – Clean Up Fun Dive” event, and we invited Mr. Chan Tin-Ming MH, a very well-known ghost net hunter, to take part in this chance to enjoy the lovely ocean while they still could. Along with actively scrubbing the beach, the kids also went to the DMM Kariyush aquarium to learn more about marine ecology and the value of conservation. In addition to cleaning the beach, the 5-day, 4-night “International Children’s Cultural Exchange Camp” gave the kids a chance to leave Hong Kong and interact with kids from other countries, such as Taiwan, China, and Japan. The agenda includes trips to the Ogimi Shiikuwassa Park and the Ryukyu Cultural Village. The kids gained knowledge of colonial history and Japanese culture while learning about environmental preservation. The “International Children’s Cultural Exchange Camp” brought together 14 kids from three different locations to learn about and share cultures. “I am concerned about the potential harm that could be brought about by the discharge of nuclear wastewater,” said Raymond Lai, president of The JCI North District. Even more harmful than marine trash, this might have a significant influence on the marine ecosystem. We discussed our ideas with the Naha JCI Japan, a sister organization, in the hopes of pressuring the Japanese government to halt the release of radioactive effluent. Additionally, we want to clean up Okinawa’s beaches to show that the “Nature Rangers” are dedicated to preserving the environment no matter where they are. Kayton Ng, an 11-year-old participant, said, “I was able to learn about the traditional culture and arts of the Ryukyu Kingdom as well as its history thanks to the International Children Cultural Exchange Camp.” It made it easier for kids to comprehend the essence of crafting. He thought the trip would have a significant impact on his future development. Kayton continued, “It was the first time I participated in cleaning work for a beach in Japan, and I am adamant that environmental conservation is a global issue rather than just a personal concern. The same duties apply to all global villagers. Tierra Wong, a participant, stated, “This International Children’s Cultural Exchange Camp has allowed me to see the culture of Japan (mainly Okinawa) and met new friends from Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.” “I want to express my gratitude to our teachers for taking great care of me and making me feel safe throughout this journey,” participant Charmaine Ng said. I also like to thank the organizers for all their hard work. I wouldn’t have been able to travel to Japan on such a pleasant and thrilling vacation without your devotion and hard work. I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU. This trip will have a particular place in my memories forever. Not only was this trip a chance for cultural interaction, but it was also a chance to learn about the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. It sought to raise the kids’ knowledge of clean water and environmental protection while also working together to find answers to world problems. We sincerely hope that the Japanese government will pay attention to our concerns, consider how best to grow the world sustainably, and promptly stop releasing nuclear wastes into the ocean in order to protect marine life. This is what moral beings ought to do! Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/children-from-hong-kong-japan-and-taiwan-conduct-beach-cleaning-in-okinawa/

As soon as the project’s top floor and building structure are finished, a subsidiary of DoubleDragon conducts ASCOTT’s topping off at DD Meridian Park. By 2024, it is anticipated that ASCOTTDD Meridian Park, which is just behind DoubleDragon Plaza and contains over 300 luxurious serviced homes, would be operational and start to bring in recurring income. As the Mini-CBD (Central Business District) in the Bay Area of Pasay City, Metro Manila, the high-end luxury development ASCOTT-DD Meridian Park will complete and further enrich the mix of the entire complex. Ascott-DD Meridian Park will be run and managed by The Ascott Limited, a unit of Singapore-based Capital Land, which has activities all over the world. Given its great landmark location at the intersection of EDSA, Roxas Boulevard, and Macapagal Avenue in the Bay Area, Pasay City, Metro Manila, DoubleDragon Plaza at DD Meridian Park is positioned as a miniature central business district (CBD) in the Bay area. In addition to many private corporate head offices, DoubleDragon Plaza is LEED Gold certified and currently houses two government agency headquarters, namely PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority) and TIEZA (Tourism Infrastructure Economic Zone Authority) and expects to soon welcome a third government agency to relocate its headquarters in the complex. Given its extremely prominent landmark location with numerous top food chain brands in the Ground Floor, including Jollibee, Mang Inasal, and many others, DoubleDragon Plaza at DD Meridian Park as a complex brings undeniable advantage to a variety of office tenants whether corporations, government agencies, or BPO companies. The only complex in the area featuring 8 commercial banks (Landbank, RCBC, PNB, BPI, AUB, Unionbank, Chinabank, and BDO) makes DD Meridian Park feel like a mini-CBD for the Bay Area, making it incredibly convenient for office tenants to do their banking business nearby. The ground floor of DoubleDragon Plaza houses MerryMart Grocery, a full-service supermarket, which serves as a nice addition to these dining and banking alternatives. Additionally, the complex has a vast parking facility with thousands of spaces that is conveniently positioned in the basement and is just for visitors from outside the complex who come to the DD Meridian Park for either business meetings or recreation. The top 3 conference centers in the Philippines (PICC, SMX, and World Trade Center) are within a short drive of DoubleDragon Plaza, which is situated in a prominent double corner site. It is also not too far from other CBDs in Metro Manila.By 2025, the 5-hectare DoubleDragon Meridian Park complex is anticipated to have reached its full potential as a major hard asset portfolio, having been fully constructed by 2024. Source- Travel daily

Koh Lanta, an island off the coast of Thailand, is a slice of heaven. This unusual location, which is blessed with lush, jungle-covered hills, lovely beaches, and crystal-clear oceans, realizes every traveler’s fantasy of a tropical island paradise. Koh Lanta is significantly less visited by visitors than neighbouring islands like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, but it nevertheless has a genuinely authentic atmosphere and culture. Experience-seeking visitors can take advantage of extremely opulent and environmentally conscious getaways at Pimalai Resort & Spa, the natural five-star retreat hidden in 100 acres of lush, native forest on Koh Lanta. This charming resort has worked hard to protect the environment and uplift the community ever since it was originally weaved into Koh Lanta’s coastline landscape 21 years ago. It is now asking select travelers to go on a journey with it that is sustainable. A HUB OF BIODIVERSITY Monkeys, monitor lizards, eagles, and hornbills can be observed in the trees at Pimalai, which is also home to a wide variety of marine species. As part of its dedication to protecting the marine environment, the resort recently assisted in the release of 50 endangered turtles and millions of crabs into the Andaman Sea. Visitors can also participate in frequent beach cleaning events to maintain the beachfront and nearby islands litter-free. Although Pimalai does not allow motorized water activities, there are several free options for experiencing the ocean’s waves, including windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Koh Lanta is a top snorkeling spot as well, and Pimalai is committed to maintaining the health of the offshore reefs through coral propagation programs, the most recent of which takes place this month, and the introduction of a new coral restoration instructor course. Explorers can also visit breathtaking locations that are teeming with colorful water life, such as huge schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, and rays, on PADI-certified scuba diving excursions. REASONABLE EXCUSES Travelers can set out on sustainable, small-scale trips to far-off, exotic islands. While the “Koh Ngai & Emerald Cave” itinerary offers the chance to explore an amazing limestone cave that shimmers and shines, swim in a stunning hidden lagoon, and relax on a pristine beach, the “Koh Haa Sunset” trip showcases an incredible collection of limestone islets that enclose a brilliant aquamarine lagoon, a technicolor reef, and a pure white beach. In addition, the “Talabeng + Koh Lanta Old Town” tour reveals the dramatic limestone karsts and cliffs of Koh Talabeng island before arriving at Koh Lanta’s Old Town, a charming port with more than 100 years of history. The “Mangroves Tour” transports visitors into a lush coastal forest where wildlife abounds. THE ENTIRE POINT IS COMMUNITY Visitors can rest easy knowing that Pimalai has a zero-waste food policy. As part of a number of “reuse, reduce, and recycle” initiatives, extra organic food is utilized to fertilize the resort’s plants. Thai Princess Sirindhorn developed the “Little Scientist House” program, which invites youngsters from nearby schools to acquire scientific concepts. Pimalai also provides three- to six-month internships for Thai students, with the possibility of future employment. The Pimalai resort’s “Our People = Our Family” philosophy, which has guided resort operations from its inception, includes a commitment to the local community. HIGH-QUALITY FACILITIES Back at the resort, visitors can unwind in style in a selection of 121 roomy suites and villas, plunge into shimmering infinity pools that seem suspended in the jungle canopy, indulge in soothing treatments at the renowned Pimalai Spa, play tennis on full-size courts, or take part in immersive activities like Thai cooking classes, yoga, muay thai, cycling, fitness, and more. Rak Talay, a beachfront restaurant specializing in fresh Andaman seafood, Seven Seas, a stunning international fine-dining establishment perched on a hillside overlooking the bay, Spice & Rice, a remarkably authentic Thai eatery, and The Banyan Tree Poolside Café, which offers light fare and refreshments during the day, are four of the world’s most luxurious dining establishments. “Our company’s founder, Khun Anurat Tiyaphorn, fell in love at first sight with this beautiful piece of property in the 1990s. Pimalai was established with the intention of protecting the environment and bringing advantages to the local community since, according to Chinese feng shui concept, “a house leaning against the mountains and facing waters can bring good luck for people living in it.” Our multinational clients, who need to know that they are making a difference, are people with whom we are proud to share that vision. Every visitor to Pimalai can relax knowing that they are doing their part to protect the environment and the local population while simultaneously taking a magnificent holiday in paradise, according to Pimalai’s general manager, Brice Borin. Source- Travel daily

Authentic local flavors, artisanal products, and specifically curated gifting options from regional businesses and designers can be found at the new dining and retail area Pacific Emporium, which has just opened at Pan Pacific Singapore, the flagship property of the Pan Pacific Hotels Group.   The Kitchen, The Bar, The Deli, and The Gifting are four separate sections of Pacific Emporium, each of which offers a unique experience that captures the panache of Singapore. The Pacific Emporium combines a touch of luxury with warm comfort to create a pleasant location for all hotel guests. It features a colorful open space decorated with fresh produce, comfortable and inviting sitting options, and elegant marble accents.  The last orders are taken at 10:30 p.m. Pacific Emporium is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. A Celebration of Singapore’s Diverse Culinary Heritage, The Kitchen  The Kitchen’s menu, which combines traditional dishes with well-known hawker favorites, offers a culinary journey of Singaporean flavors. The menu items were designed by award-winning Executive Chef Nicholas Shadbolt to highlight the finest of Singaporean cuisine, including both traditional favorites and fresh new dishes.  Specialty Menu Items  A strange but exquisite combination of a traditional cheeseburger with fish otah and ginger-infused lemongrass mayonnaise is the Peranakan Wagyu Beef Burger.  An tribute to the kong bak bao, the braised pork belly burger features pillowy buns and fork-tender meat surrounded by an Asian slaw and cilantro mayonnaise. Rice with Heritage Chicken: A substantial serving of the national cuisine of Singapore, which includes fragrant rice, tender steamed chicken, and a variety of sauces, from the well-known garlic chilli sauce to minced ginger. • Lobster Laksa: Indulge in a cherished Singaporean staple that has been elevated to new heights with our Laksa, which has been covered with a lavish coating of juicy lobster meat that goes well with the creamy coconut gravy.  The Bar: Drink concoctions and infusions Singaporean flavors are present Quench your thirst at The Bar with a variety of drinks, including freshly squeezed juices with local names and creative blends with regional twists. To give foreign visitors a sense of Singaporean culture while still staying at the hotel, the menu contains definitions of each term.  Specialty Menu Items  Boba-Cane is a special drink that combines modern and traditional tastes. It is made with fresh sugarcane juice and comes with a selection of toppings, including white pearls, grass jelly, and others. The dish “Die Die Must Try” is from the “Fizz-ical” menu. The mixture blends pink peppercorn, basil, and a tad of spice with the subtle sweetness of fermented peaches. A choice from the “Fizz-ical” menu is Catch No Ball. A lovely blending of the earthy tones of cinnamon and clove with the richness of cherry and the acidity of lime. The Deli: A Tasteful Exploration of Sweet and Savory Delights  The counters at The Deli are adorned with a cornucopia of delectable treats, including quality charcuterie, handcrafted sausages from the on-site Pan Pacific Butchery run by Master Butcher Haiko Mayer, gourmet cheeses that have been painstakingly sourced, freshly baked pastries, and a choice of the best patisserie.  Original menu item  Soft black sesame sponge and light Sakura mousse combine to create the magnificent teacake known as Sakura, which is made of delicate and aromatic ingredients.  The Gifting Festival showcases Singapore’s craftsmanship and inventiveness.  Instead of having a standard gift shop, Pacific Emporium smoothly integrates retail into the eating area, showcasing Singaporean producers and designers through a variety of distinctive high-end designs, accessories, food products, and souvenirs that capture Singapore’s artistry and heart. The Gifting, a platform created in collaboration with the Singapore Fashion Council’s (SFC) Design Orchard, is outfitted with the top regional brands. Retail items are tastefully presented on fixtures by LA Design, one of Design Orchard’s partner brands, and are available for customers to browse at their leisure throughout the Pacific Emporium area.  With a goal of empowering and inspiring Singapore brands, the SFC works closely with a variety of partners, including Pan Pacific Singapore, to open up fresh possibilities for significant growth. The Pacific Emporium area and Design Orchard’s mission to give local brands a platform to share their creativity with the world harmoniously combine to capture the panache of Singapore.  Authentic Brands  Coconese – COCOONESE was developed to highlight the beauty of handcrafted artwork. They are dedicated to producing excellent and distinctive women’s bags with Asian-inspired patterns. Singapore is where COCOONESE’s handcrafted goods are created. Since every one of their bags is painstakingly handmade and hand-sewn, they have extremely few stock options, which also makes each design one of a kind. Strait Lights is a luxury design studio that creates one-of-a-kind products to improve daily life and commemorate the area we call home. Strait Lights was inspired by Singapore’s city of villages. Strait Lights is a design firm that produces high-end fragrances and lifestyle products that highlight life in the Lion City. Strait Lights was inspired by Singapore’s “city of villages.” Our goods are painstakingly handmade and are full of soul. Everything we do is meant to highlight the subtle but resonant message of belonging and to deepen the bond between people and place.  The Animal Project (TAP) is a social company that supports, promotes, and recognizes the talents of people and artists with special needs. Products from its exquisitely designed line of goods include artwork, presents, housewares, and lifestyle items. They are adorned with animal drawings created by artists with disabilities. Through the sale of these goods, the artists receive royalties. TAP also offers jobs to those with disabilities.  Source- Travel daily

Slow travel may be the ideal trend to adopt when planning your next vacation, whether you’re aiming to reduce your carbon footprint or are just looking for new levels of fun. There are countless possibilities for rail travel throughout Asia, from Japan’s fabled bullet trains to sleeper trains that carry travelers the whole length of Vietnam. See below for Marriott Bonvoy’s picks for the top train excursion for ideas for your upcoming journey. Fukuoka to Tokyo Time: five hours High-speed trains in Japan have come to represent the nation’s renowned efficiency, exquisite design, and engineering expertise. These luxurious, ultra-timely railroad icons give travelers a convenient, secure, and up-to-date way to travel throughout the nation. While Tokyo tops every traveler’s list, Fukuoka is quickly becoming known throughout the world for its thriving start-up sector and exceptional culinary tradition. It couldn’t be any easier to go from Tokyo to the capital of Japan’s Kyushu Island thanks to this quick train trip. Places to stay  Tokyo’s Ritz-Carlton and Fukuoka’s Ritz-Carlton Only the most luxurious hotels will do when traveling in current style. Travelers are welcome to stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo for an urban retreat atop a stunning building. Visitors can thoroughly immerse themselves in Japan’s major cultural center from the top of the 53-story Midtown Tower in the city’s Roppongi District. This tower offers travelers unbroken views of Tokyo landscapes. The guest rooms and suites offer a stunning design fusion of East and West and are renowned throughout Asia for their opulent areas and facilities. The Michelin-starred cuisine, first-rate service, and serene décor of this sky-high hotel stand in striking contrast to the busy streets of Tokyo outside. The newly-opened Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka is located on the ninth highest levels of a 25-story glass tower created by Kume Sekkei, reaching comparable heights. The Genkai Sea and the surrounding hills provide a stunning backdrop for guests to enjoy throughout their stay. Four dining establishments and two bars within the hotel depict Fukuoka’s thriving food scene, from Viridis’ innovative farm-to-sky Western cuisine to the chic Genjyu’s presentation of Japan’s finest culinary traditions. The spa, which is on the 24th floor, has rooms for luxurious spa treatments made with natural ingredients, an indoor pool with a view of the bay, and a gym with spectacular city views. Chiang Mai to Bangkok Time: ten hours This classic Thai rail excursion, which was Thailand’s first long-distance railway line, is a must-do for leisurely travelers. Travelers are treated to the waking vision of the Thai countryside as they leave Bangkok in the late afternoon and make their way into the night.  Highlights like the untamed woodland of Doi Khun Tan National Park, located just south of Chiang Mai, will rouse tired eyes. A ticket on one of Thailand’s brand-new SRT trains ensures an opulent and ultra-modern travel for a small premium over the going rate. Places to stay  Le Méridien Chiang Mai and W Bangkok The contemporary and recognizable W Bangkok is well situated for a Bangkok trip, being only a short stroll from the BTS Station for quick access to trains and the rest of the city. Within seconds after leaving their hotel door, visitors can embark on a cruise down the Chao Phraya River and take in the views and sounds of this unmatched metropolis. On the sixth level of the hotel, W Bangkok offers guests access to a 24-hour fitness center, outdoor pool, and cocktail deck. While enjoying these ultra-hip places, visitors can take in Bangkok’s striking skyline. Since it first opened in 2015, the hotel’s restaurant, The House on Sathorn, has established itself as one of the most distinctive dining and drinking destinations in the city. It is renowned for its wonderful seafood dishes, which include lobster, crab, prawns, and fish. Visitors can enjoy the greatest cuisine the restaurant has to offer by ordering off the Experience or Discovery menus. When arriving in Chiang Mai after spending the night on a sleeper train, Le Méridien Chiang Mai offers the perfect place to unwind. The Le Méridien Chiang Mai is the ideal home base to explore the bustling city. It is situated in the center of Thailand’s northern capital, just steps away from colorful markets and a wealth of dining and nightlife venues. After a long day of walking, visitors are welcome to unwind in the expansive rooftop infinity pool while taking in the breathtaking views of the city and distant mountains.  If you’ve worked up an appetite, the award-winning Favola restaurant offers modern Thai food for the ideal way to round off the day. 30 hours from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). Vietnam is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous nations to see from a train’s window, with breathtaking vistas beckoning to be marveled at by onlooking slow travelers. The Reunification Express provides a relaxing, effective, and breathtakingly gorgeous rail journey between the capital city of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Adventurers are in for a 30-hour train ride, but if that sounds a little too long, there are several possibilities for stopovers. Among them are Hoi An and Hu, a beautiful city that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the Van Long Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatchers. Source- Travel daily