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Tauck Unveils 2027 Global Journeys & Safaris as It Celebrates 25 Years of Life‑Changing African Adventures
Tauck has opened bookings for its full 2027 Global Journeys & Safaris portfolio, marking a milestone 25 years of African safaris and reaffirming its long‑term commitment to the people, wildlife and landscapes at the heart of its trips. The family‑owned tour company is expanding its collection of shorter‑format safaris and worldwide journeys, an approach that has strongly resonated with both first‑time and loyal guests seeking immersive experiences in less time. Travellers can explore the full collection on the official Tauck website. 2027 Global Journeys & Safaris Now Open Tauck’s 2027 portfolio spans land journeys, African safaris, European river cruises and small ship ocean itineraries, curated with its hallmark blend of insider access and seamless logistics. The new program builds on the success of Tauck’s 11 existing safari itineraries—which consistently rank among its highest‑rated journeys—and responds to record demand for shorter, highly focused wildlife and cultural experiences. CEO Jennifer Tombaugh highlights that 25 years of safaris in Africa have been shaped by deep partnerships with conservation organisations, local communities and guides, all supported through the company’s Tauck Impact efforts. Shorter African Safaris for Time‑Poor Wildlife Lovers Tauck’s growing range of shorter African safaris is designed for travellers who want rich, wildlife‑intensive itineraries without committing to longer time away. New for 2026, Spotlight on South Africa and Victoria Falls is a nine‑day journey that begins with three nights in Cape Town, including Table Mountain and Cape Point, followed by three nights of game drives in the Greater Kruger Area at Kapama River Lodge and two nights at Victoria Falls. This itinerary joins established favourites such as Tanzania: Serengeti to Zanzibar, a 10‑day expedition from Arusha to Zanzibar through Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, and Tanzania: A Grand Family Safari, a 10‑day multi‑generational Tauck Bridges journey with experiences like a sunrise hot‑air balloon over the Serengeti and visits to local schools. Shorter Global Journeys: Australia and Beyond Beyond Africa, Tauck is applying the same shorter‑format philosophy to global land journeys that maximise depth in a compact timeframe. Spotlight on Australia is a 10‑day itinerary that links Melbourne’s cultural scene, the spiritual landscapes of Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney’s harbour icons, all connected by three private charter flights that minimise transit time and maximise time on the ground. This mirrors Tauck’s broader strategy of designing journeys that pair strong storytelling and expert local guides with efficient routing, helping guests experience more in each day without feeling rushed. Tauck Impact: Travel with Purpose in Africa and Worldwide As Tauck celebrates 25 years of safaris, its Tauck Impact initiative underscores a commitment to responsible travel that benefits both destinations and local communities. In southern Africa, Tauck partners with the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, which protects vulnerable wildlife and supports nearby communities through rescue, rehabilitation and conservation science—removing snares, treating injured animals and reaching more than 1,200 local participants, including hundreds of students, through education programs. In northern Tanzania, the Save the Rain collaboration has brought rain‑harvesting systems to hundreds of households and schools, dramatically improving access to clean water, reducing water‑borne illness and helping more girls remain in school. Tauck extends similar community‑based partnerships across its global portfolio, from conservation education in South America to clean water initiatives in Southeast Asia. In Cambodia, where Tauck operates The Mekong, Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia itinerary, the company works with organisations such as APOPO and Just a Drop, and in 2027 the journey will feature a three‑night cruise aboard the luxury Aqua Mekong, offering an intimate window into life along the river. How to Plan a 2027 Journey with Tauck With 2027 departures now open for booking, travellers can choose from Tauck’s expanded slate of shorter African safaris, in‑depth land journeys, river cruises and small ship ocean trips across multiple continents. Journeys feature Tauck’s signature small and even smaller group sizes, expert local guides, thoughtfully selected lodges and hotels, and exclusive cultural encounters that are difficult to arrange independently. To explore detailed itineraries, dates and availability—or to learn more about Tauck Impact projects that your trip may support—visit Tauck’s official website and search the newly released 2027 Global Journeys & Safaris collection.
Tantawan Tented Camp: Changing the Luxury Adventure Game in More Ways Than One
Up in Chiang Rai’s hill country, just on the border between Thailand and Myanmar, Tantawan Tented Camp offers a unique approach to luxury tourism, one rooted in a love for nature and a deep sense of compassion for others. This unique luxury property takes the concept of glamping and gives it a refined sensibility punctuated with cultural and aesthetic nuances that are distinctively Thai. At the same time, the camp prides itself on being a part of Dusit International’s Tree of Life programme which highlights sustainability as one of the pillars of Dusit Graciousness. To quote Titiya Xuto, Dusit’s vice-president of operations and pre-opening services: “We are absolutely thrilled to be a part of this amazing tent camp, this amazing hotel in such a beautiful, natural, and serene environment. For us, this is an opportunity to be a part of a hotel that will be offering high-end eco-friendly accommodations with great service that will pamper you while you're here. We want to make your vacations really wonderful; we at Dusit are very good at doing that.” The art of rustic luxury As Camp co-founder and co-owner Jane F McBride puts it: "We built Tantawan Tented Camp to provide a beautiful place in nature for guests coming from overseas or from Bangkok or from even local areas; as well as an experience of excellent dining in a casual, comfortable setting." Accommodations at Tantawan Tented Camp come in the form of ten safari-style tents ranging from two-bedroom spaces for families or groups of friends to a romantic suite that is perfect for those contemplating an adventure for two. Each of these tents is characterised by Dusit Graciousness in all their aspects from decor inspired by Thai traditions, to exceptional comfort rivalling that of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, to amenities adhering to the highest standards of quality. The Camp’s exceptional facilities have also been developed to enhance each stay, and include a scenic central pool area framed by tall palms and boasting of glorious views of the mountains beyond, as well as an open-air amphitheatre where guests can enjoy movie nights under the night sky or convivial gatherings with fellow guests around the cosy firepit. For those wanting to experience local culture or to simply immerse themselves in their natural surroundings, the Camp offers private “Forest and Field” picnics where baskets are filled with artisanal delights all made in-house; trips to visit local hill tribes in order to learn more about their culture; and even jaunts into the nearby elephant sanctuary to meet the conservation specialists taking care of Thailand’s famed gentle giants. The more sports-minded may wish to try their hand at archery, or play a good game of pickleball next door at either of Sunflower Farm’s two covered courts. Exploration of the Camp's expansive area to gain a greater understanding of its endemic wildlife is also encouraged and may be done so either on foot or on a bike. Indeed, as Xuto says with a smile: “There's lots you can do here. I think two, even three days would just go by without you knowing it; hopefully you stay a bit longer and see more of the charms of Northern Thailand." When it comes to dining, guests are certainly spoilt for choice and it is guaranteed that the ingredients that go into exceptional meals are not only sustainably-sourced, but are also of the best quality. McBride said of this: "They can opt to eat healthy or they can be indulgent; that's really their choice. We even have a wonderful BBQ offering for for meat eaters and carnivores. Guests can dine under the stars and watch a film, enjoy wonderful organic food that's sourced locally, like produce from our farm where our happy eggs are delivered to the Camp every morning." An inspiring beginning The tale behind this unique establishment is one deeply rooted in compassionate philanthropy, as its founders McBride and Patricia Zinkowski are also the women behind the philanthropic organisation Friends of Thai Daughters (FTD) which also owns the Sunflower Organic Farm next door. FTD is a non-profit charity that was created to protect the children of the tribes resident in the hills of Chiang Rai, particularly the girls, from human trafficking, child marriage, and other forms of exploitation. According to McBride: "These children grew up in broken families, and many of them come from Myanmar or Laos. They don't have [the rights from] citizenship, so they're very, very vulnerable. So we take them into our home, educate them, and send them to the public schools. We provide them with a loving housemother and housefather, as we're a family cell organisation. Later, we carry them through college or university if they choose to do so." From its end, Dusit plans to further support the girls with training programmes and workshops conducted by institutions under Dusit Hospitality Education, namely Dusit Thani College and The Food School, as well as structured work experience at Tantawan Tented Camp and other Dusit properties. As Xuto explains: “We want to be actively against human trafficking, so we are supporting and offering equal employment to the people in the community. We provide opportunities for development and learning, enabling them to learn and grow and be successful within the community and elsewhere. Dusit has the great ability to do that from an education point of view, what with our college and other training facilities. Our food school can also help support these girls through internships where they can come and practise. We are planning to actually bring those here for the Tantawan girls next door to come and learn and be a part of it and be developed for careers in hospitality.” Where compassion matters Indeed, the beauty of Tantawan Tented Camp is not only found in its exquisite surroundings or even its storied location, but in the heartfelt way that it gives back to the local community as well as the environment. As the Camp was envisioned to be the living showcase of the Dusit Tree of Life, the property actively promotes responsible tourism that has quantifiable benefits for its host community, especially the daughters of local tribes who live under the grim spectre of human trafficking. Indeed, philanthropy is tightly woven into the fabric of Tantawan Tented Camp’s identity thanks to its close affiliation with FTD's Sunflower Organic Farm next door. Not just a source of exceptional organic produce, Sunflower Farm is also a residential and training facility that provides education, safe shelter, and emotional support to girls belonging to the local tribes. Indeed, being able to collaborate with organisations like FTD on such initiatives serves as a wonderful opportunity to showcase Dusit’s overall commitment to sustainability in a major way. Luxury gets organic Aside from active philanthropy, the Tantawan Tented Camp’s Tree of Life ethos is also rooted in eco-dynamic principles: safeguarding the environment through adherence to the highest standards for organic and sustainable farming, as well as for the protection of local wildlife, especially protected species endemic to the area. As Xuto puts it: “We are very committed to what Dusit is doing under the Tree of Life programme. [Here at Tantawan, that involves] reducing our carbon footprint with regard to energy use, reducing overall waste, and even the sourcing of our ingredients from within the local community.” Indeed, as stated above, the Sunflower Farm brings exceptional, sustainable, and humanely-farmed produce to the table from seasonal fruit and vegetables to eggs fresh from the free-ranging hens at the facility. At the same time, staff are also able to answer guests' questions regarding the natural environment of the area, giving them a better idea of the delicate balance between luxurious facilities and the green world that surrounds them. A luxurious learning experience open to all Aside from sustainability and compassion, another thing that sets the Tantawan Tented Camp apart from similar luxury accommodations is the way that it personalises the experience for individual guests. For each guest making their way to the Camp, its staff crafts a truly bespoke experience that will go beyond their expectations to create a memorable stay that is bound to linger in the mind, an experience to be shared with others. There is something for everyone here: arts, crafts, and understanding of local traditions for the contemplative, sports and exploration for the more active, as well as learning experiences for the youngest guests. Best of all, these experiences and the luxury that surrounds them need not cost the earth; the Tantawan Tented Camp opens its doors to a surprisingly wide audience. As Xuto explains: “An experience like this could be very costly, but here at Tantawan Tented Camp, our price positioning is such that we allow access to diverse groups of people.” Indeed, the Camp offers exceptional value for money that enables more people to experience its luxury as well as the lesson it seeks to teach, as opposed to limiting access to such unique and authentic experiences to the rarefied few. Xuto said: “Most places we're talking about being unique and being authentic, but it comes with a price. Here, we make it very friendly, very good value for money. What we're offering here is second to none in terms of comfort, relaxation, eco-friendly practices, and everything that we do. Yet, it comes at a price point that will allow more people, both local and foreign tourists; just about anyone that comes here to be able to say ‘Wow, this is really worthwhile!’” To learn more about the Tantawan Tented Camp, log on to the property's official website; also, those wishing to learn more about the Dusit Tree of Life programme can visit the official initiative page. Photos: Gary Marshall
Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel launches its game-changing Plaii Hybrid Meetings & Entertainment Complex
Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel has formally launched its Plaii Ballroom and the Plaii Hybrid Meetings & Entertainment Complex. This landmark development elevates the hotel into Northern Thailand’s most advanced integrated MICE and lifestyle destination. At the same time, this new facility reinforces Chiang Mai’s position as a rising regional hub for business events and experiential travel, in line with Thailand’s growing influence within Asia’s MICE landscape. Hotel general manager Rajat Chatterjee pointed out that Plaii represents a transformational moment for Chiang Mai and for Marriott’s presence in Northern Thailand. He said: “Our vision is to establish Chiang Mai as a globally recognized MICE and lifestyle destination where advanced event technology, business creativity, and cultural heritage converge. The recent recognition of Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel as MICE Hotel of the Year 2025 at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Thailand further affirms our commitment to excellence. With Plaii, we are able to deliver immersive, meaningful, and high-impact experiences that speak to the evolving expectations of event organizers and global travelers.” With the debut of the Plaii Complex, Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel now offers a total of 22 meeting rooms and over 2,800 square meters of flexible event space, positioning the property as a regional hub for large-scale events and hybrid conferences. The launch of Plaii has also generated strong interest from both domestic and regional markets, particularly South Korea, Taiwan, and Greater China, underscoring Chiang Mai’s growing appeal as a global event destination. A noble symbol of dignity and strength The name ‘Plaii’ is inspired by the elegance and cultural significance of the Thai Royal elephant, a symbol of dignity, strength, and noble presence deeply rooted in Northern Thai heritage. The Plaii Complex is a three-storey integrated event and lifestyle destination, anchored by the Plaii Ballroom and supported by 11 fully equipped meeting rooms, executive breakout suites, and a naturally illuminated Mingle Space for networking. At its core, the Plaii Ballroom stands as an architectural and technological statement. As Thailand’s first 360-degree immersive LED ballroom, it features an 84-meter wraparound LED display, 6.24-meter screen height, and 400 square meters of pillarless space for purpose-built for international product launches, global conferences, creative showcases, luxury celebrations, and weddings. The complex is also home to The Wang Bar, Chiang Mai’s first private golf simulator rooms, private karaoke lounges, and The Plaii Eatery Café & Bar, creating a cohesive environment where business, entertainment, and social connection converge.
SIA first class SilverKris Lounge at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 is open
The opening of the all-new Singapore Airlines (SIA) First Class SilverKris Lounge at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 completes the first phase of the Airline’s two-year, S$45 million renewal project for its lounges in the terminal. Located on level 3 near Departure Gate E, the 1,050-square-metre space is 11% larger than the previous First Class SilverKris Lounge in the terminal. It can accommodate around 130 customers, and access is available to SIA’s Suites and First Class customers, Solitaire PPS Club members, and First Class customers travelling on Star Alliance member airlines. As part of SIA’s flagship SilverKris lounges in Singapore, the design language is consistent across Terminals 2 and 3. Design consultancy Ong & Ong has refined the layout and features to give the Terminal 2 lounge its distinct character. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light in, while a newly designed bar and a stunning chandelier centrepiece elevate the ambience. The result is a light-filled, luxurious sanctuary that stands out in its own right. The lounge features distinct zones for dining, work, and relaxation, as well as upgraded restrooms and shower facilities. Signature elements such as SIA’s wingback chairs, productivity pods, and bespoke furniture in familiar hues reinforce the understated elegance that defines the SilverKris Lounge experience. It is also designed for inclusivity, with step-free access throughout, Braille signages, and hearing loop systems. The Entrance and Foyer – A Multi-sensory Welcome Customers are greeted by a striking batik wall spanning over 20 metres in length and nearly three metres in height as they approach the First Class SilverKris Lounge. This signature installation is an artistic interpretation of the SIA batik motif, crafted from 97 laser-cut plexiglass batik flowers with gold powder-coated aluminium accents. A programmed lighting sequence makes the flowers pulse softly, brightening and fading in slow rhythm, bringing the wall to life while creating a calming sense of movement at the entrance. At the reception, a curved LED screen displays the gentle flow of SIA’s signature batik motif, creating a captivating visual welcome and an ideal backdrop for photos and videos. As customers step into the foyer, they are welcomed by the floral scent of the Airline’s bespoke Batik Flora, inspired by the floral notes from the flowers in the batik motif. The soothing melodies of Sound of Singapore Airlines, SIA’s sonic signature, adds to the refined, multi-sensory experience of elegance and tranquillity. The Signature Bar The Signature Bar, an evolution of the popular Crystal Bar in the Terminal 3 lounge, now seats 12, allowing more customers to enjoy fresh barista-made coffee, signature cocktails, a curated list of premium wines and spirits, and a new bar bites menu. The bar’s design features a concentric ceiling that creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, adding warmth and sophistication to the ambience. Work, Dining, and Relaxation Spaces The high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows give the living and dining areas a bright and spacious feel. Two stunning chandeliers, featuring 128 hand-blown glass stars, serve as the captivating centrepiece of the lounge. Designed by Czech designer Michaela Mertlova and produced by Czech-based designer of bespoke lighting installations LASVIT, the installation is inspired by the night sky, casting a soft, ethereal glow in the lounge. For customers who wish to relax in comfort with a cocktail in hand, the bespoke wingback chairs, embroidered with SIA’s batik motif and positioned strategically by the windows, are the place to be. Seating options in the living and dining areas cater to the diverse needs of customers, from plush armchairs for cosy individual relaxation to spacious booths for groups of up to four to dine together. Those needing to work can settle into the popular individual productivity pods, which are equipped with reading lights and charging points. A meeting room for up to six people, equipped with video conferencing facilities, offers a private space for collaboration, while two soundproof booths are available for private calls. For a pre-flight power nap or quiet rest, the lounge offers four semi-private resting pods in a separate soundproofed room with soft lighting. Each resting pod features an adjustable Poltrona Frau reclining armchair and a sliding door for privacy. Pillows, blankets, and eyeshades are provided for added comfort. A playroom for children features the Sony PlayStation 5 game console, alongside specially selected tactile games, to keep children of various ages entertained while caregivers relax nearby. A separate nursing room, equipped with a comfortable armchair and baby changing station, provides a private space for parents. The Lounge Dining Experience The dining spread will continue to feature favourites such as the SilverKris Signature Laksa and Chwee Kueh. SIA will also introduce new dishes prepared à la minute by in-house chefs at the live cooking stations, including Stir Fried XO Carrot Cake with Bean Sprouts and Hawaiian Chicken Burger with Crinkle Cut Fries, which will be served to the guests at their tables. In November 2025, customers can enjoy an exclusive dishes featuring international flavours such as Herb-roasted Chicken Cacciatore, wellness-inspired creations like Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, and Singaporean favourites such as Ondeh Ondeh Cake from the buffet menu. The beverage section includes specialty cocktails such as the SilverKris Bloody Mary, the iconic Singapore Sling, and a refreshing, wellness-inspired Root Recovery made from apple, beetroot, carrot, and ginger. An extensive range of champagne, wines, and spirits, as well as soft drinks, freshly brewed coffee, and premium TWG teas, ensures a drink to suit every taste and occasion. Restrooms and En-suite Showers Four unisex en-suite shower rooms offer customers a space to refresh before their flight. Each suite features GROHE and TOTO fixtures and is stocked with Lalique Neroli body lotion, facial mist, and eau de toilette, alongside shampoo and shower gels. Dyson hairdryers are also provided for convenience. A separate wheelchair-accessible shower room is also available.
WCS Launches Global Strategy to Secure the Future of Coral Reefs in a Changing Climate
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) launched its 2025–2030 Coral Reef Conservation Strategy, a landmark plan to conserve the world’s most climate-resilient coral reefs. Rooted in more than 40 years of WCS experience and new cutting-edge science, the strategy places high integrity climate-resilient coral reefs (HICOR) at the heart of global conservation action. Coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots and lifelines for coastal communities, covering less than 1% of the ocean but sustaining more than 25% of marine species and supporting nearly 1 billion people. Yet, they are among the ecosystems most at risk from climate change – some estimates show half of the world’s live coral has already been lost with the worst global bleaching event on record that has now hit more than 80% of the planet’s reefs. But not all hope is lost. “The world has likely already crossed 1.5°C of warming, and coral reefs are at a tipping point, but our science shows a clear path forward,” said Dr. Stacy Jupiter, Executive Director of WCS’s Global Marine Program. “Some coral reefs are defying the odds and have the ability to survive and fight back against the impacts of climate change – if we find them and protect them. This strategy is our commitment to act on that evidence.” To turn the tide for coral, WCS is centering its new strategy on these high integrity climate-resilient coral reefs: reefs with enough live coral cover, species diversity, and reef fish biomass to avoid, resist, and recover from climate impacts. These are the reefs with the ecological integrity needed to withstand climate impacts and serve as the foundations for nature’s global recovery. "This strategy is about more than just preventing loss and saving coral reefs,” said Dr. Emily Darling, Director of Coral Reef Conservation at WCS who led the strategy process. “It’s about building a future where oceans thrive, communities prosper, and hope endures. By focusing on the coral reefs most likely to withstand climate change, we can spark recovery, build a resilient future, and show what’s possible when science, collaboration, and commitment come together." The new strategy sets out three goals: 1) understand and identify HICOR, 2) safeguard reefs through diverse and integrated conservation action, and 3) connect people to drive system-level change. By 2030, WCS and partners will: Deliver a new global map of high integrity climate-resilient reefs, pinpointing the reefs most likely to survive climate change and guiding where the world should invest most in protection and management. Help ensure at least 30 new marine protected areas include HICOR, directly expanding protection for reefs that matter most. Scale solutions, from co-managed fisheries to pollution reduction, to reduce reef threats across at least 100,000 km² of coastal areas. Support governments to launch 5 national coral reef action plans that put HICOR at the center of climate and biodiversity strategies. Mobilize 31 countries containing more than 90% of the world’s reef area to commit to protecting their climate-resilient reefs by COP31 in 2026. Drive global recognition of HICOR through 50+ new scientific papers and media features, ensuring they remain top of mind in conservation and climate policy. “In the face of unprecedented pressures on coral reefs, this strategy renews our focus on resilience," said Joe Walston, Executive Vice President for Global Conservation at WCS. “By combining cutting-edge science, political action, and the co-creation of local solutions, we are investing in the reefs that have the greatest chance of surviving today. These reefs will not only endure but also drive recovery for the oceans and communities of tomorrow.” WCS runs the world’s largest field-based conservation program, protecting habitat for more than 40 percent of Earth’s known biodiversity in partnership with governments, Indigenous Peoples, Local Communities, and the private sector. The 2025-2030 Coral Reef Conservation Strategy was co-created by more than 70 conservation practitioners across WCS, who came together in early 2025 to generously contribute knowledge and insights from their cumulative decades of experience in place-based, collaborative conservation work. This work builds on years of collaboration with long-standing funding partners – including the Bloomberg Ocean Initiative, The Tiffany & Co. Foundation, and the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation – whose support has advanced coral conservation around the world.
Strong leadership keeps growth sustainable in a fast-changing market – HVS’ Florian Kittler
He highlighted that the best leaders today combine commercial discipline with human-centred technology. Indonesia is positioning itself as a premium destination in the Asia Pacific, with its rich diversity and authenticity. To succeed, companies must adapt to shifting traveller preferences, strong leadership, and ensure sustainability remains at the core of their strategies. Offering his invaluable insights is Florian Kittler, Managing Director at HVS Executive Search for Europe and Asia Pacific. With over 30 years of experience in hospitality and executive recruitment, he has partnered with hotel owners, operators, and investors to place senior executives who deliver business transformation and long-term value, drawing on a deep network and first-hand knowledge of luxury hospitality. Before joining HVS, he held senior operational leadership roles with leading global hotel groups such as Shangri-La, Mandarin Oriental, and Hyatt, where he refined his expertise in service excellence and strategic management. As a judge at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 - Indonesia, Kittler shares his perspective on Indonesia's role in Asia Pacific, emerging trends, and the leadership qualities essential to shaping the industry’s future. Based on your international experience, how do you see Indonesia’s travel and hospitality sector positioning itself in the Asia Pacific region? Indonesia is moving from chasing visitor numbers to higher visitor spend by focusing on quality, yield, and diversity. Bali is still the anchor, but investment in five Super-Priority Destinations is spreading demand and raising the country’s profile. With RevPAR (Revenue Per Available Room) growth driven by higher rates and policies like the Bali levy and Golden Visa, Indonesia now positions itself as a premium yet accessible alternative to Thailand or Vietnam. What trends are currently shaping traveller preferences in Asia Pacific, and in what ways can companies in Indonesia adapt? Travellers in Asia Pacific want meaningful, higher-value trips—wellness, cultural depth, and “quiet luxury” over flash. China’s return is selective, India is booming, and ASEAN demand is strong. For Indonesia, the key is tailoring products by market, simplifying arrivals with e-VOA (Visa-on-arrival) and levy messaging, and proving sustainability through visible impact. AI will help personalise experiences, but authenticity will seal the deal. What role does strong leadership play in shaping the future of travel and hospitality businesses, and what qualities do you consider most important today? Strong leadership is what keeps growth sustainable in such a fast-changing market. The best leaders today combine commercial discipline with human-centred technology. They use AI to optimise, but also coach teams to deliver high-touch service and authentic storytelling, like turning sustainability initiatives like the Bali levy into tangible guest value. They’re destination builders too—collaborating beyond their hotels to strengthen Indonesia’s tourism ecosystem. Indonesia’s travel offering spans luxury, culture, and adventure. How can companies best leverage this diversity to attract global travellers? The opportunity is to connect Indonesia’s strengths into holistic journeys rather than selling them in isolation. For example, a trip could begin in Bali for wellness and culinary immersion, continue to Yogyakarta for heritage and crafts, and finish in Labuan Bajo for marine adventure. This circuit approach raises trip value and spreads benefits beyond Bali. For luxury travellers, private villas paired with authentic experiences—craft workshops, reef dives, or chef’s tables—fit the new definition of quiet luxury. Culinary trails and event-led tourism, like MotoGP in Mandalika or arts festivals in Yogyakarta, can further differentiate Indonesia on the global stage. Looking ahead, how do you see the travel and hospitality industry transforming in the coming years, and what can businesses do to stay ahead? In the next few years, Asia Pacific demand will surpass pre-pandemic levels, with Indonesia reaching record spend if access stays smooth. AI and automation will become standard, freeing teams for personal service. New hubs like Nusantara will expand Indonesia beyond leisure into MICE. The leaders will be those who cut friction, protect rate, and innovate with wellness, sustainability, and market-specific products. As a judge at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 - Indonesia, what key qualities will you look for in the nominees? I’ll be looking for companies that combine results with innovation and impact. Tech is important, but it must elevate—not replace—the human touch. Transparency in sustainability is critical, as is contributing to destinations beyond Bali. And those who adapt their products for China, India, and ASEAN will stand out as true leaders in Indonesia’s future.
WTM London 2025 to revolve around reimagining travel in a changing world
WTM London 2025 this November will revolve around the theme Reimagining Travel in a Changing World. For the first time ever, WTM London introduces a unified theme across all six conference tracks to maintain focus and enhance clarity throughout the event. While the tracks remain consistent with last year as they cover Sustainability, Technology; Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI); Marketing, Geo-Economics, and Travel Trends, the unified theme will create a cohesive experience for all attendees. As WTM London conference manager Brooke Gilbertson explains: “Introducing a unified theme across the programme brings greater consistency and coherence to our content. Reimagining Travel in a Changing World is a theme designed to inspire attendees to reflect on the evolving purpose of travel in the face of global shifts, emerging challenges, and fresh opportunities. It lays the foundation for meaningful dialogue, innovation, and collaboration across every facet of the travel and tourism industry.” Call for content Organisers likewise invited bold thinkers, fresh voices, and forward-looking innovators to submit proposals for WTM 2025. As such, this call for submissions served as an opportunity to share expertise with a wide-reaching, global audience of travel industry professionals and contribute to shaping the future of the sector. Submissions, which all came in last 7th July, are in alignment with one of the six key conference tracks and clearly demonstrate how the proposed session supports this year’s overarching theme Amplifying highlights WTM’s keynotes, panel discussions and presentations are a highlight of the event, as evidenced by the overwhelmingly positive feedback each year from attendees, sponsors and speakers alike. Conference session attendance rose by 29 percent in 2024 compared to 2023. In response, WTM London quickly expanded stage capacity, including a debut extension into Level 0 of Excel London. For 2025, conference space will be increased even further to accommodate expected growth in audience numbers. This year’s conference advisory team is made up of six global experts who will curate the submissions for their respective tracks and tap into their extensive networks to bring interesting and relevant stories to the stage. Team members are: DEAI - Uwern Jong, Experientialist®-in-Chief at OutThere Geo-economics - Mark Frary, Author, Writer and Consultant Marketing - Matthew Gardiner, Director of Travel Massive and Senior Vice President at FINN Partners and Tina Charisma, Director and Founder of the Charisma Campaign Sustainability - Tina O’Dwyer, Founder & CEO of The Tourism Space Technology - Timothy O’Neil-Dunne, President at T2Impact LLC How the event will play out this year Opening day on 4th November brings on the WTM Global Travel Report, sustainability summit and geo-economics summit taking place from 11am on the yellow, purple and orange stages respectively. The technology and DEAI summits are happening on 5th November, also starting at 11am on the purple and orange stages. On 6th November, the final day of the event, the marketing summit goes on the yellow stage, along with the ITT Future You Forum and the closing keynote, details of which will be announced shortly. Previous closing keynote speakers include businesswoman and comedian Katherine Ryan, award-winning documentary maker Louis Theroux and entrepreneur Steven Bartlett.
Changing the narrative about ‘Hostelling’ can save money
Let’s be honest, planning a summer holiday as a UK family right now feels like walking a financial tightrope. With a number of weeks to run of the school holidays, there is a great travel hack that every family should know about. With average holiday costs reaching nearly £2,000 per person (yes, per person!), and reports showing package holiday prices rising by as much as 4-11% in peak season, many parents are stuck between a rock and a hard place. Some are even risking fines by taking their kids out of school early or going into the new academic year late, just to dodge the summer price hike. But there’s a little-known holiday hack that more families are starting to catch onto, independent hostels. And no, I’m not talking about shared bunk rooms with strangers and cold showers. This is a whole new world of family-friendly hostels that feel more like laid-back holiday homes than budget backpacker digs. IndependentHostels.co.uk, a UK-wide network of over 350 hostels, has become a game-changer for families who want an affordable break without compromising on comfort or timing. The best part? They don’t increase their prices in summer. Whether you’re booking in March or August, the cost stays the same. That means no frantic searches for off-peak dates or stress about last-minute deals that never materialise. And what do you actually get? Think ensuite family rooms with space to stretch out, self-catering kitchens to keep meal costs down, and locations that put you right next to some of the UK’s best beaches, national parks, lakes, and walking trails. The vibe is relaxed, welcoming, and kid-friendly. Perfect for parents who want their kids to have space to roam without feeling like they’re constantly being told to be quiet in a hotel lobby. Many hostels in the network even welcome dogs, making it a genuinely inclusive option for the whole family. And while hotels and holiday parks are already heavily booked this summer, these independent hostels still have availability in popular spots like Cornwall, the Lake District, Snowdonia, and the Peak District. You can spend your days fossil hunting on the coast, splashing in the sea, or wandering through forests and countryside trails. And when the weather turns (this is the UK, after all), there are nearby castles, heritage railways, adventure centres, and museums to explore. Sam Dalley, the founder of IndependentHostels.co.uk, put it best: “Families are often priced out of summer holidays. Our independent hostels break that trend—offering friendly, comfortable, family-friendly stays at the same price in August as they are in March.” So if you’re feeling the pressure of holiday planning and your budget is already stretched, take a look at what’s available at Independenthostels.co.uk. It might just be the mid-summer holiday hack your family has been waiting for.
Donavanik: Thai hospitality continues to hold sway in a changing world
Dusit International's vice-chairman and executive committee chairman Chanin Donavanik shared his thoughts regarding how his company continues to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving field of global hospitality. The hospitality mogul sat down for a keynote session with Hoftel chairman Simon Allison earlier today, 23rd June, at the South East Asia Hotel Investors' Summit (SEAHIS) at Dusit Thani Bangkok. As the session began, Donavanik said: "One of the most unique things about Thailand for us is that the feedback about us is very positive anywhere we go in the world. In fact, the good thing about Thailand is that, in terms of hospitality, we don't have any issues." Keeping a Thai sensibility Donavanik further pointed out that Dusit International has made it a point to retain a certain modicum of Thai charm and tradition in its properties on a global scale. He cited some recent property developments in Japan to illustrate his point. As he put it: "Our team opened two hotels in Japan around 18 months ago. While they featured Japanese architecture and interior design, we also added a touch of Thai interior design." Donavanik further pointed out that Dusit has long been considered a Thai-focused hospitality company. He said: "Not a lot of hotels can say that, so I'd like to think that, as a hospitality company, we understand who we are. I hope our team will continue to do that." Coping with evolving demographics During the course of the session, Allison pointed out the recent trend of travellers being considerably younger these days. He raised a key point as to whether Dusit International will make adjustments to cater for younger guests or if the matter will be one for sub-brands like Dusit Princess or dusit d2 to get into. Donavanik pointed out that the recently revitalised Dusit Thani Bangkok would serve as a good case study for this. He explained: "I remember when we first launched the hotel: some of the families I knew wanted their children to get married at the Dusit Thani like they'd been. The children, however, would say that they weren't sure if they wanted to go with Dusit Thani because, at the time, our hotel was old-fashioned." But following the hotel's extensive refurbishment, younger customers have expressed greater interest in it. As Donavanik puts it: "I think that, for any good property, it needs to be one that even younger guests can enjoy. They don't have to come to us everyday, but they can come whenever they wish. In fact, I hope that we will continue to draw all kinds of people to our hotels.'
Fintech is changing the way we travel…and here’s why
Financial technologies, colloquially referred to as fintech, have significantly changed the way the world does business, and this is becoming even more pronounced in the travel and tourism sectors. Case in point: prior to covering ITB China this year, the organisers sent an info packet regarding some things I needed to do before the trip, and one of those tips was to download and install either Alipay or WePay into my mobile device. This was because the bulk of daily financial transactions in China were now being done through mobile payment applications like those mentioned, and those run from simple purchases at the local convenience store to settling the bill for one’s hotel stay and even transportation tickets. Indeed, using mobile payment systems was an unexpected boon and the more widespread adoption of such technologies is already transforming the way we travel. In this feature, we show how widespread these already are in terms of use, along with both the benefits and disadvantages they have for both travellers and the businesses they interact with whilst on the go. Global players like Bakuun were presenting their products to travel professionals at ITB China Increasing use worldwide According to a 2024 study conducted by Euromonitor International, the total global value of mobile payment transactions was up 12 percent year-on-year, hitting a total of US$8.146 billion across 47 key markets. Euromonitor experts attributed this to the growing number of smartphone users throughout the world, abetted by more affordable models and brands, some of which are actually tailored to specific user needs, as well as wider access to the internet. Indeed, 87 percent of global households had at least one smartphone as of end-2023, and 71 percent globally had access to broadband internet and a host of useful applications for everyday living. At the same time, leading fintech companies like PayPal have been working with point-of-sale (POS) systems providers, thus leading to the more widespread adoption and use of evolving mobile payment tools for everything from banking to retail. Fintech in the context of travel At last year’s WebinTravel (WiT) Singapore, the panel Payments: Powering the Next Generation of Travel specifically touched upon how financial technologies are becoming a key part of the experience for many travellers. According to one post-event report: “The ability to pay with familiar methods can be as important as trying local food or exploring new destinations. Travel companies are tapping into this by offering local payment options, making it easier for travellers to use payment methods they’re comfortable with even abroad.” South Korea’s Ken Kim, chief executive at GLN International, went so far as to refer to this as payment roaming. According to Kim: “People travelling want to use the same financial services abroad as they do at home. GLN customers make over 20 more QR payment transactions per person during a three or four-day trip. They see payment as a part of the travel experience.” Likewise, mobile payment applications address key issues regarding cross-border payments, essentially doing away with high surcharges and slow processing and enabling users to transact in real time. Also, using payment apps does away with the need to have one’s cash on hand changed at local money changers: travellers need not lose money to marked up exchange rates and have the freedom of transacting like a local. While Alipay and WeChat's WePay are the dominant players in China, local tech firms are stepping up to the plate The primary benefits (and disadvantages) of using mobile payment apps while travelling Payment apps are more accessible and convenient Mobile payment apps enable users to make purchases without needing to bring large amounts of cash or several credit/debit cards. Likewise, apps streamline the payment process, and many are integrated with popular travel applications, making it much easier to book tours, flights, and other forms of transportation; They are more secure than most of the conventional payment options As above, linking the app with an international bank card of one’s choice does away with carrying wallets that could be stolen and could compromise one’s personal safety. Transactions are also done in real time and are put under two-factor encryption for optimal online security; and No need to bother with the local money changer Several apps offer competitive foreign exchange rates compared to physical money changing services. Indeed, some go so far as to offer low or even zero currency conversion fees. Likewise, applications like Alipay and PayPal can automatically convert currencies, simplifying transactions in different countries. Of course, these do not mean that the use of mobile payment apps and other forms of fintech are completely hassle-free. Older users may find themselves askance as to how to install and use these products while they’re on the go. Likewise, losing the device in which your primary cash app is installed while overseas can be more than a little inconvenient. It should also be noted that not all countries accept mobile payments, and it still helps to bring some actual cash and at least one credit or debit card for banking and shopping. However, given the constant innovation of these applications and related technologies, it is safe to say that fintech in travel is here to stay and the possibilities are endless.
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