The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has successfully concluded the Amazing Thailand Experience Forum 2024, which took place from January 13 to 20. The event featured a substantial 3,000 B2B appointments and showcased the kingdom’s premium travel experiences and commitment to sustainable tourism practices. It targeted 35 qualified luxury travel advisors from the United States and Canada.

Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, said “The Amazing Thailand Experience Forum 2024 offers an excellent opportunity for Thailand to present our finest luxury travel experiences to discerning North American travellers while also highlighting our efforts to promote sustainable tourism. The event underscores the TAT’s strategic direction towards high value and sustainable growth.”

The collaborative effort between TAT offices in New York and Toronto, the Amazing Thailand Experience Forum 2024, aimed to connect qualified luxury travel advisors in the Virtuoso network with luxury travel suppliers in Thailand. Attendees were given the opportunity to firsthand experience the latest luxury offerings and services across the kingdom.

The program included pre-tours on four bespoke routes (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phang-nga – Ko Yao Yai, and Krabi), a one-day trip on two routes (Bangkok and Ayutthaya), and the two-day Amazing Thailand Experience Forum Trade Meet in Bangkok.

The trade meet, held on January 17 and 19, featured a comprehensive agenda. This included a market briefing for Thai suppliers, welcome remarks by Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, the “Amazing Thailand” Product Presentation, a special session on “Sustainable Elephant Conservation,” table-top sales for North American travel advisors and Thai suppliers, and a welcome reception.

Seventy Thai suppliers, including hotels, resorts, and other luxury travel product and service providers, attended the B2B trade meet event.

The post Amazing Thailand Forum 2024′ concludes with 3,000 B2B appointments triumph appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently organized the ‘Amazing Thailand Product Update 2024’ in Jakarta and Bandung, two major cities in Indonesia. This initiative aligns with the strategic goal of providing a platform for collaboration and partnership discussions among professionals in the Thai and Indonesian tourism industries.

Taking place on January 18 in Bandung and January 19 in Jakarta, the event witnessed active participation from approximately 100 Indonesian tourism professionals engaged in business negotiations and receiving updates on Thailand’s tourism developments.

The Thai contingent included 20 businesses related to tourism, encompassing hotels, airlines, tour operators, attractions, golf courses, as well as notable entities like King Power Mahanakhon, Bumrungrad Hospital, and Masterpiece Hospital.

In addition to fostering business discussions, the event aimed to update Indonesia’s tourism operators in Jakarta and Bandung about Thailand’s high-quality tourism products and services, particularly in the areas of health and wellness, sports, and responsible tourism.

Mrs. Sirinard Chatsupakul, Director of the TAT Jakarta Office, said “The Amazing Thailand Product Update in Jakarta and Bandung underlined Thailand’s ongoing direction towards high value and sustainable tourism. The event showcased a range meaningful travel experiences exclusive to Thailand, while promoting stronger business relationship between Thai and Indonesian tourism partners.”

The Thailand Product Update session emphasized the importance of building comprehensive partnerships (360º) with various stakeholders in the tourism industry, including destination management companies (DMC), airlines, hospitals, and other private sectors. These alliances with local partners are integral to TAT’s strategy for enhancing tourism to Thailand.

The event in Jakarta also saw the presence of H.E. Prapan Disyatat, the Ambassador of Thailand to Indonesia, and representatives from Team Thailand, including the Thai Trade, Board of Investment Thailand, and Thailand Agriculture in Jakarta.

Jakarta and Bandung, being economically significant cities in Indonesia, have direct flight connections with Bangkok through various airlines. In 2023, Indonesia stood as the 13th largest source of tourist market to Thailand, with 760,938 visitors. TAT anticipates an increase to 800,000 visitors from Indonesia in 2024.

The post TAT presented the amazing Thailand product update 2024 in Indonesia appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Dona Regis-Prosper, the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), warmly embraces the arrival of 2024 by acknowledging the organization’s 35th anniversary in January. She extends an invitation to regional tourism stakeholders to partake in a yearlong celebration, embracing the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that define the Caribbean.

Introducing the CTO’s theme for this year, “Connecting the Globe, Celebrating Diversity”, Regis-Prosper explained that it underscores the CTO’s commitment to inclusivity, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism practices. “This is a call to embrace the uniqueness of each destination while recognizing the shared thread that binds us together as one vibrant and diverse Caribbean family,” she stated.

The Secretary-General reflected on the resilience and recovery of the Caribbean tourism sector in 2023, acknowledging the challenges faced and the collective strength demonstrated. “Our Caribbean tourism sector demonstrated remarkable strength and adaptability in the face of challenges and uncertainties,” she noted, adding, “We persevered, worked together, and welcomed visitors back to our beautiful destinations.” 

Regis-Prosper highlighted the successful reintroduction of hallmark CTO events, including Caribbean Week in New York and the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), and the revitalization of tourism offerings in the region, “ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all who chose to experience the magic of the Caribbean.”

The Secretary-General acknowledges the strides made by CTO members in sustainable tourism and emphasizes the organization’s ongoing focus on effective communication. She underscores the critical role of research in reimagining Caribbean tourism, positioning the CTO as a leading research authority in the field.

Regis-Prosper points out the significance of the region hosting the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase the Caribbean’s hospitality, cultural richness, and sporting prowess to the global community.

Inviting stakeholders to join the CTO in promoting the region, the tourism executive expresses eagerness to engage with industry officials at upcoming events, including the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development scheduled for April 22-24, 2024, in Grenada.

The priorities for the 25-member intergovernmental organization in the new year include sustainable tourism, membership services, communication and market engagement, research, and the revitalization of the CTO.

The post Caribbean Tourism Organization celebrates 35 years of diversity in 2024 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Dona Regis-Prosper, the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), warmly embraces the arrival of 2024 by acknowledging the organization’s 35th anniversary in January. She extends an invitation to regional tourism stakeholders to partake in a yearlong celebration, embracing the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that define the Caribbean.

Introducing the CTO’s theme for this year, “Connecting the Globe, Celebrating Diversity”, Regis-Prosper explained that it underscores the CTO’s commitment to inclusivity, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism practices. “This is a call to embrace the uniqueness of each destination while recognizing the shared thread that binds us together as one vibrant and diverse Caribbean family,” she stated.

The Secretary-General reflected on the resilience and recovery of the Caribbean tourism sector in 2023, acknowledging the challenges faced and the collective strength demonstrated. “Our Caribbean tourism sector demonstrated remarkable strength and adaptability in the face of challenges and uncertainties,” she noted, adding, “We persevered, worked together, and welcomed visitors back to our beautiful destinations.” 

Regis-Prosper highlighted the successful reintroduction of hallmark CTO events, including Caribbean Week in New York and the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), and the revitalization of tourism offerings in the region, “ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all who chose to experience the magic of the Caribbean.”

The Secretary-General acknowledges the strides made by CTO members in sustainable tourism and emphasizes the organization’s ongoing focus on effective communication. She underscores the critical role of research in reimagining Caribbean tourism, positioning the CTO as a leading research authority in the field.

Regis-Prosper points out the significance of the region hosting the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase the Caribbean’s hospitality, cultural richness, and sporting prowess to the global community.

Inviting stakeholders to join the CTO in promoting the region, the tourism executive expresses eagerness to engage with industry officials at upcoming events, including the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development scheduled for April 22-24, 2024, in Grenada.

The priorities for the 25-member intergovernmental organization in the new year include sustainable tourism, membership services, communication and market engagement, research, and the revitalization of the CTO.

The post Caribbean Tourism Organization celebrates 35 years of diversity in 2024 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

With the highly anticipated Ras Al Khaimah Championship just around the corner, Al Hamra Golf Club is gearing up for a week of thrilling sporting action. The Championship Village promises a plethora of fun-filled activities for the entire family as the third edition of the tournament kicks off from January 25-28.

This year’s lineup features golf legends such as three-time Major Champion Padraig Harrington and 2018 Ryder Cup-winning Captain Thomas Bjørn. With impressive careers spanning three decades, both players have secured 15 DP World Tour titles each. They will face stiff competition from rising stars on the DP World Tour, including Yannik Paul, Jordan Smith, Alex Fitzpatrick, Tom McKibbin, and Rasmus Højgaard, who is eager to follow in his twin brother Nicolai’s footsteps, the winner of the inaugural edition in 2022.

“I enjoy playing at Al Hamra Golf Club; I have fond memories from there,” said Højgaard, expressing his desire to add his name to the trophy alongside his brother’s. Other confirmed participants include former Hero Dubai Desert Classic champions Stephen Gallacher and Rafa Cabrera Bello, 2014 Abu Dhabi Championship winner Pablo Larrazábal, and Japanese ace Keita Nakajima.

Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, expressed excitement about hosting the championship, emphasizing its role in promoting sports tourism. Christopher Hewett, Senior Vice President of Hospitality at Al Hamra, highlighted the event’s significance on the UAE’s sports calendar, underscoring Al Hamra’s commitment to providing world-class experiences.

Before the tournament commences on January 25, the week officially begins on January 22 with the inaugural G4D (Golf for the Disabled) Tour @ Ras Al Khaimah Championship. Ten leading golfers with disabilities, including Michelle Lau, the first player with autism spectrum disorder, will participate in the Net competition.

Aside from on-course excitement, the Championship Village offers various family activities, food trucks, and live music performances by UAE artists each evening. Free general admission is available, with options to upgrade to the Championship Chalet or Clubhouse Terrace for an enhanced experience. Additionally, the Golf Getaway package allows fans to enjoy a one-night stay at select Ras Al Khaimah hotels along with exclusive access to the Championship Chalet.

The post Ras Al Khaimah Championship: Less than one week away appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

With the highly anticipated Ras Al Khaimah Championship just around the corner, Al Hamra Golf Club is gearing up for a week of thrilling sporting action. The Championship Village promises a plethora of fun-filled activities for the entire family as the third edition of the tournament kicks off from January 25-28.

This year’s lineup features golf legends such as three-time Major Champion Padraig Harrington and 2018 Ryder Cup-winning Captain Thomas Bjørn. With impressive careers spanning three decades, both players have secured 15 DP World Tour titles each. They will face stiff competition from rising stars on the DP World Tour, including Yannik Paul, Jordan Smith, Alex Fitzpatrick, Tom McKibbin, and Rasmus Højgaard, who is eager to follow in his twin brother Nicolai’s footsteps, the winner of the inaugural edition in 2022.

“I enjoy playing at Al Hamra Golf Club; I have fond memories from there,” said Højgaard, expressing his desire to add his name to the trophy alongside his brother’s. Other confirmed participants include former Hero Dubai Desert Classic champions Stephen Gallacher and Rafa Cabrera Bello, 2014 Abu Dhabi Championship winner Pablo Larrazábal, and Japanese ace Keita Nakajima.

Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, expressed excitement about hosting the championship, emphasizing its role in promoting sports tourism. Christopher Hewett, Senior Vice President of Hospitality at Al Hamra, highlighted the event’s significance on the UAE’s sports calendar, underscoring Al Hamra’s commitment to providing world-class experiences.

Before the tournament commences on January 25, the week officially begins on January 22 with the inaugural G4D (Golf for the Disabled) Tour @ Ras Al Khaimah Championship. Ten leading golfers with disabilities, including Michelle Lau, the first player with autism spectrum disorder, will participate in the Net competition.

Aside from on-course excitement, the Championship Village offers various family activities, food trucks, and live music performances by UAE artists each evening. Free general admission is available, with options to upgrade to the Championship Chalet or Clubhouse Terrace for an enhanced experience. Additionally, the Golf Getaway package allows fans to enjoy a one-night stay at select Ras Al Khaimah hotels along with exclusive access to the Championship Chalet.

The post Ras Al Khaimah Championship: Less than one week away appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The US will get its first dedicated high-speed railway built by Network Rail Consulting (NRC).

The British company received an award of a £57.5m contract in the development of a new 220 mph service in California.

It will connect trains from Los Angeles to San Francisco in less than three hours.

There will be later branches to Sacramento and San Diego, according to its official website.

Construction is already under way on the route.

It will compete with Amtrak’s Coast Starlight route that offers daily services between Los Angeles and Seattle.

Amtrak takes a minimum of 9 hrs and 30 mins to traverse 348 miles between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Primarily a tourist route, the new route hopes to slash.

California’s High-Speed Rail Project will be the nation’s first truly high-speed rail system. It aims to be operational by the end of 2030.

The goal is for train testing on the first 119-mile, electrified track to begin in four years.

NRC’s establishement was in 2012 to demonstrate British expertise overseas and be an international ambassador for Britain’s rail industry.

Public has funded Network Rail, and the fess earned has funded NRC’s operations.

According to its website, NRC has successfully delivered more than 150 consultancy contracts for government, public and privately-owned organisations.

Its operations are currently active in Australia the Middle East (Riyadh) and North America.

The California high-speed development forms part of a wider revolution in US train travel.

It is a country that considers its finger firmly on the pulse of much technological innovation.

High-speed rail travel has failed to take flight. Cars, buses and airplanes are the favourite methods of transportation for most residents and tourists.

In December 2023, President Joe Biden announced $8.2bn (£6.5bn) in new funding for 10 major passenger rail projects across the country.

In addition to the Los Angeles-San Francisco route, other projects include a route between California and Nevada.

According to the official release, the investment marks the largest investment in [US] passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak over 50 years ago.

Brightline West will comprise a 218-mile line connecting Las Vegas and the outskirts of Los Angeles. Here passengers can transfer onto suburban services.

The government claims Brightline West will serve more than 11 million passengers annually.

Travelling at 186 mph, the route has a journey time of about two hours and 10 minutes.

It is less than half the time of the five hours it takes to travel between the two metropolises by car.

The ambitious project may be up and running in time for the Los Angeles Olympics in July 2028 to the tune of an estimated $12bn (£9.4bn).

The news comes less than six months after Rishi Sunak scrapped the northern leg of HS2. It is the UK’s own high-speed rail route.

In a move, business leaders called a “monumental betrayal” of the Government’s promise to level up the country and achieve net zero.

A subsidiary of Network Rail manages the HS1 infrastructure.

It supports high-speed services between London St Pancras International, Stratford International, Ebbsfleet International and the Channel Tunnel and Eurostar services to the continent.

The post Network Rail Consulting (NRC) gets the US its first dedicated high-speed railway appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The US will get its first dedicated high-speed railway built by Network Rail Consulting (NRC).

The British company received an award of a £57.5m contract in the development of a new 220 mph service in California.

It will connect trains from Los Angeles to San Francisco in less than three hours.

There will be later branches to Sacramento and San Diego, according to its official website.

Construction is already under way on the route.

It will compete with Amtrak’s Coast Starlight route that offers daily services between Los Angeles and Seattle.

Amtrak takes a minimum of 9 hrs and 30 mins to traverse 348 miles between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Primarily a tourist route, the new route hopes to slash.

California’s High-Speed Rail Project will be the nation’s first truly high-speed rail system. It aims to be operational by the end of 2030.

The goal is for train testing on the first 119-mile, electrified track to begin in four years.

NRC’s establishement was in 2012 to demonstrate British expertise overseas and be an international ambassador for Britain’s rail industry.

Public has funded Network Rail, and the fess earned has funded NRC’s operations.

According to its website, NRC has successfully delivered more than 150 consultancy contracts for government, public and privately-owned organisations.

Its operations are currently active in Australia the Middle East (Riyadh) and North America.

The California high-speed development forms part of a wider revolution in US train travel.

It is a country that considers its finger firmly on the pulse of much technological innovation.

High-speed rail travel has failed to take flight. Cars, buses and airplanes are the favourite methods of transportation for most residents and tourists.

In December 2023, President Joe Biden announced $8.2bn (£6.5bn) in new funding for 10 major passenger rail projects across the country.

In addition to the Los Angeles-San Francisco route, other projects include a route between California and Nevada.

According to the official release, the investment marks the largest investment in [US] passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak over 50 years ago.

Brightline West will comprise a 218-mile line connecting Las Vegas and the outskirts of Los Angeles. Here passengers can transfer onto suburban services.

The government claims Brightline West will serve more than 11 million passengers annually.

Travelling at 186 mph, the route has a journey time of about two hours and 10 minutes.

It is less than half the time of the five hours it takes to travel between the two metropolises by car.

The ambitious project may be up and running in time for the Los Angeles Olympics in July 2028 to the tune of an estimated $12bn (£9.4bn).

The news comes less than six months after Rishi Sunak scrapped the northern leg of HS2. It is the UK’s own high-speed rail route.

In a move, business leaders called a “monumental betrayal” of the Government’s promise to level up the country and achieve net zero.

A subsidiary of Network Rail manages the HS1 infrastructure.

It supports high-speed services between London St Pancras International, Stratford International, Ebbsfleet International and the Channel Tunnel and Eurostar services to the continent.

The post Network Rail Consulting (NRC) gets the US its first dedicated high-speed railway appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

PM Modi inaugurates Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, expected to attract over 100 million global travelers annually, showcasing India’s rich spiritual heritage.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently unveiled the statue of Lord Rama to the world with Pran Pratishtha rituals, marking a historic moment in the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The ceremony was graced by prominent dignitaries and revered saints, highlighting the temple’s significance not only in India but across the globe.

The newly built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, India, is a monumental beacon of cultural and spiritual significance. Attracting an estimated 0.3 million global travelers daily, this temple is not just a religious symbol but a site of architectural beauty, set to draw Hindus from various parts of India and around the globe.

Global Hindu Population and Its Influence:
Hindus from every continent are eagerly anticipating a visit to the Ram Mandir. The global Hindu community is vast, with over 2 million in Africa, more than a billion in Asia, over 2 million in Europe, nearly 3 million in America, and around 0.8 in Oceania. This widespread community shares a deep connection with the temple, uniting them in their eagerness to experience its spiritual and architectural magnificence.

Architectural Splendor:
The Ram Mandir’s architecture is a masterful combination of traditional Indian temple design and contemporary elements. The temple’s intricate carvings, towering spires, and imposing structure are expected to captivate a global audience. It showcases not only India’s rich cultural heritage but also the creativity and expertise of modern-day architects.

Spiritual Essence:
The temple stands as a major destination for spiritual tourism. It offers a serene and uplifting environment for global travelers, inviting people from diverse backgrounds to immerse themselves in the spiritual teachings and practices of Hinduism.

Attracting Global Travelers:
Ram Mandir’s appeal extends well beyond the Hindu community. It is anticipated to attract over 100 million visitors annually. This includes global travelers, history buffs, and enthusiasts of architectural beauty and spiritual exploration. The temple is a symbol of unity and inclusiveness, welcoming people from all walks of life to experience its tranquility and beauty.

The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of India’s rich spiritual heritage and architectural grandeur. As a global attraction, it offers a unique blend of religious importance, architectural elegance, and cultural diversity. This magnificent temple is poised to become a pivotal destination for millions of global travelers worldwide, transcending religious boundaries and fostering a sense of global unity and understanding.

The post Ayodhya to attract more than 100 million global travelers annually appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

PM Modi inaugurates Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, expected to attract over 100 million global travelers annually, showcasing India’s rich spiritual heritage.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently unveiled the statue of Lord Rama to the world with Pran Pratishtha rituals, marking a historic moment in the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The ceremony was graced by prominent dignitaries and revered saints, highlighting the temple’s significance not only in India but across the globe.

The newly built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, India, is a monumental beacon of cultural and spiritual significance. Attracting an estimated 0.3 million global travelers daily, this temple is not just a religious symbol but a site of architectural beauty, set to draw Hindus from various parts of India and around the globe.

Global Hindu Population and Its Influence:
Hindus from every continent are eagerly anticipating a visit to the Ram Mandir. The global Hindu community is vast, with over 2 million in Africa, more than a billion in Asia, over 2 million in Europe, nearly 3 million in America, and around 0.8 in Oceania. This widespread community shares a deep connection with the temple, uniting them in their eagerness to experience its spiritual and architectural magnificence.

Architectural Splendor:
The Ram Mandir’s architecture is a masterful combination of traditional Indian temple design and contemporary elements. The temple’s intricate carvings, towering spires, and imposing structure are expected to captivate a global audience. It showcases not only India’s rich cultural heritage but also the creativity and expertise of modern-day architects.

Spiritual Essence:
The temple stands as a major destination for spiritual tourism. It offers a serene and uplifting environment for global travelers, inviting people from diverse backgrounds to immerse themselves in the spiritual teachings and practices of Hinduism.

Attracting Global Travelers:
Ram Mandir’s appeal extends well beyond the Hindu community. It is anticipated to attract over 100 million visitors annually. This includes global travelers, history buffs, and enthusiasts of architectural beauty and spiritual exploration. The temple is a symbol of unity and inclusiveness, welcoming people from all walks of life to experience its tranquility and beauty.

The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of India’s rich spiritual heritage and architectural grandeur. As a global attraction, it offers a unique blend of religious importance, architectural elegance, and cultural diversity. This magnificent temple is poised to become a pivotal destination for millions of global travelers worldwide, transcending religious boundaries and fostering a sense of global unity and understanding.

The post Ayodhya to attract more than 100 million global travelers annually appeared first on Travel And Tour World.