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Nepal promoted as a “Fountain of Buddhism” in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand

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Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), in coordination with Society of Travel and Tour Operators Nepal (SOTTO-Nepal), organized Nepal Sales Missions in Hanoi, Phnom Penh and Bangkok, the major cities of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand on June 10, 12 and 14, 2019 respectively. The Sales Missions were focused on promoting Nepal as a “Fountain of Buddhism” as well as a premiere holiday destination in the emerging source market.

‘Nepal Presentation’ featuring on major tourism attractions and activities of Nepal was made by NTB officials in the Nepal Evening Programs in Phnom Penh and Bangkok. The Presentation was also highlighted on Visit Nepal Year 2020 Campaign and Lifetime Experiences that tourists can have in Nepal. Nepal promotional video that was screened in the programs drew the attention of the audiences and awared them about destination Nepal. Mr. Ghanshyam Upadhyaya, Joint Secretary of Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, in his remarks amid the audiences tried to enhance the confident of the local travel trade people by emphasizing the priority concern of Government of Nepal for tourism development. Nepal promotional video made by SOTTO-Nepal was also screened in the programs. Mr. Madhusudhan Upadhyaya, President of SOTTO-Nepal, addressing the audiences requested the local travel trade to join in hands with Nepali counterparts to sell Nepal as a destination choice for Buddhist pilgrims.


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The participating travel trade companies from Nepal had business to business (B2B) meetings with the local buyers. The buyers were found interested in selling Buddhist site specific packages of Nepal. The meeting helped to enhance confident among the local outbound operators to keep Nepal in their travel itineraries.

In the Nepal Evening Program in Bangkok, His Excellency Mr. Ganesh Prasad Dhakal, Ambassador of Nepal to Thailand, expressing his satisfaction over the remarkable diplomatic relations existing between the countries since last 60 years, appealed the local travel agents to incorporate Lumbini in their outbound packages. Mr. Bikram Pandey, Goodwill Ambassador for Lumbini, had an insightful presentation on ‘Buddhist Circuits on Buddha’s Life across South Asia’. The program in Bangkok was coordinated by The Embassy of Nepal, Bangkok.

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Thus, the Sales Missions have provided an opportunity to showcase tourism products of Nepal amid a gathering of local media and outbound travel companies of those countries, to educate them about Nepal as a must travel destination and finally create a strong network among the operators. It is hoped that more tourists will be visiting from these countries in the year 2020, when Nepal is celebrating Visit Nepal Year 2020.

These three countries are Buddhist dominant countries. So, Nepal can be a must visit destination for people of these countries. In the year 2018 around 12,454 tourists from Vietnam, 3,790  from Cambodia and 53,250 from Thailand visited Nepal. Nepal is well connected with these countries via Bangkok. Nepal Airlines operates three flights a week in Kathmandu-Bangkok-Kathmandu Sector. Similarly, Thai Airways and Thai Lion Air operate daily flight in the sectors.

Nepal Tourism Board was represented by Managers Mr. K. B. Shah and Mr. Suman Ghimire. Similarly, Immediate Past President of SOTTO-Nepal Mr. Anil Lama and 1st Vice President of NATTA Mr. Achyut Prasad Guragain were the special delegates along with other delegates form Nepali travel trade companies.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Sudhan Subedi ssubedi@ntb.org.np    

Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok to reaffirm status as Thailand’s leading MICE venue with more than 89,000 delegates expected in 2019

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is anticipating one of the strongest years to date for Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok, its flagship hotel and MICE destination in Thailand’s capital city, with a series of major business events set to boost delegate numbers in 2019.

Named as Asia’s “Best Meetings and Conventions Hotel” at the 2018 TTG Travel Awards, Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok provides a world-class setting for international conferences and events. In fact, the hotel is set to reaffirm its position as Thailand’s top MICE hotel in 2019, with a forecast total of 89,000 delegates.

A packed calendar of major international events is already scheduled for this year, including the Techsauce Global Summit 2019, which is expected to attract 15,000+ delegates from 18-20 June; and the 27th Incentive Travel & Conventions, Meetings Asia (IT&CMA) and Corporate Travel World (CTW) Asia Pacific, the double-bill travel trade expo featuring approximately 3,000 delegates from 24-26 September.

Other major events scheduled to take place at this major downtown venue include the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons’ Annual Scientific Congress (6-10 May), International Conference on Biodiversity (22-24 May), 33rd International Epilepsy Congress (22-26 June), Thai Dental Association Annual Meeting (12-14 June) and ASCO 2019 Breakthrough Thailand (11-13 October 2019).

Centara Grand at CentralWorld will also raise the bar for culinary events in 2019, with high-profile occasions including an Italian Wine Dinner and Master Class in collaboration with Marino Braccu, general manager and sommelier of 8½ Otto E Mezzo Bombana in Hong Kong – the only Italian restaurant outside of Italy to have achieved three Michelin stars. Hosted on 2-3 May at UNO MAS, the acclaimed 54th floor Mediterranean restaurant, these exclusive events will give diners the opportunity to experience world-class cuisine and learn from one of the world’s best sommeliers.

Wine lovers can also enjoy refined evenings at the CRU Champagne Bar at Red Sky, one of world’s best and highest Champagne bars, which is now the exclusive Thai seller of brand new Mumm No.6 Champagne. With dramatic 360-degree views of the Bangkok skyline, this spectacular 55th floor venue promises unforgettable evenings.

CRU Champagne Bar at Red Sky, Centara Grand at CentralWorld

Underpinning every event hosted by Centara is the group’s innovative “New Agenda: Meetings Redesigned” concept, which is designed to provide seamless MICE services and enhance the customer experience. This intuitive initiative is built around three main elements: a one-stop ‘Meeting Guru’ to ensure the successful execution of every event; a redefined approach to team-building in partnership with the professional experts at Asia Ability; and creative catering concepts such as ‘Dinner in the Dark.’

New Agenda is currently being rolled out at 25 Centara’s properties, including Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok.

Centara Hotels & Resorts wishes to reassure all guests and event planners that Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok was untouched by the recent fire at the CentralWorld lifestyle mall, which was misreported to have started in the hotel. This was not the case and operations at the hotel and convention centre were completely unaffected by the incident. The hotel adheres to the most stringent safety regulations and procedures to ensure the safety of its guests at all times.

Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok commands a prime location in the heart of Bangkok’s central business district. The state-of-the-art Bangkok Convention Centre features 5,250 square metres of space for up to 7,000 delegates, including a 1,000-seat ballroom and multiple meeting rooms in flexible configurations, all supported by the services of the adjacent 505-room Centara Grand hotel, making it the country’s most complete MICE venue.

For more information about Centara Grand & Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok, please CLICK HERE. Alternatively, to learn more about Centara Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

ABOUT CENTARA
 

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 69 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands -Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families.Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.
 

Over the next five years Centara aims to double its size with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1 Card, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com  

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For more information and media enquiries, please contact:

Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)
Corporate Public Relations Manager – International, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email: pornchanokth@chr.co.th
Tel.: +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6733       

The Development and Promotion of MICE in Thailand

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The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is leveraging the development of Thai MICE business in long haul markets in collaboration with foreign chambers of commerce representing Australia, UK, USA and Germany.
​Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, disclosed, “The signing of this MOU – The Development and Promotion of MICE –  between TCEB and Foreign Chamber Alliance (FCA), comprising 4 chambers of commerce representing our main target countries, which are Australia, UK, USA and Germany.
It’s considered another remarkable step of TCEB in altering our role to leverage MICE by serving as a business partner who joins hands with foreign organisations to promote the development of Thai MICE in international markets, as well as to penetrate into long haul MICE markets in Oceania, Europe and the USA, side by side with our main short haul target markets in Asia.
“Indeed, the collaboration is a new dimension of promoting Thai MICE business in long haul markets with concentration on Oceania, Europe and the USA. This is the very first time that the Foreign Chamber Alliance – FCA, which represents Australia, UK, USA and Germany, signed an MOU with a Thai government agency. Interestingly, FCA has more than 20,000 members that include businessmen, investors, entrepreneurs from business, industrial and service sectors, such as Minor Hotels Group, AccorHotels Group, Marriott Hotels Group, convention centres business, as well as oil, mining, pharmaceutical, automobile and other industries,” he added.
“These are considered high potential business groups for propelling the national economy and are included among the targeted industries that the Thai government is keen to encourage in line with the 4.0 Policy. For this reason, this is a lucrative opportunity for us to collaborate to develop and raise the competitiveness of Thai MICE. The 4 chambers of commerce have recognised the importance of using MICE as the gateway to the development of commerce and investment in Thailand and ASEAN,” he said.
With this MOU, the framework for the development of MICE business will embrace 5 dimensions of operation:
• The sharing of MICE statistics and events
• MICE business development
• MICE market promotion
• MICE business research
• MICE personnel development.
Mr. Chiruit further said, “The initial collaboration to mutually promote MICE business will mainly focus on hospitality service, because members of the FCA have long records of investment in Thailand, which have been running alongside their nationwide service businesses. Hence, they have eyed to extend collaboration with Thai government agencies, as they believe the endeavour will open a new door to operate MICE business in Thailand and ASEAN.
“This, in turn, will allow them to study about the dynamics and direction of the Thai MICE market. By joining with TCEB in formulating a marketing development scheme, the synergy will open a new door to connecting with other alliances who relate with the promotion of Thai MICE business in targeted countries. Moreover, there will be co-operation in drawing international events into Thailand, marketing promotion and provision of support for events previously held in Thailand,” he said.
“Target groups and alliances will be invited to participate to strengthen the potential of MICE events held here in Thailand. The FCA will join with us in the exchange of marketing information related to targeted industries held by allied chambers of commerce and TCEB will exchange information on Thai MICE business, including statistics and events, to fully bolster mutual MICE business development,” said the TCEB President.

​He went on to say, “Nevertheless, the FCA expects the Thai government to leverage the competitiveness of Thai MICE business in order to serve global competition. For example, facilitation of customs and immigration procedures; development of infrastructure and transportation; construction of convention centres; development of MICE personnel that meets international standards, and establishment of One-Stop-Service MICE centres. All of which will open a new door to the holding of MICE events in Thailand by efficiently offering enhanced convenience for MICE entrepreneurs and organisers,“ he declared.

Proposals to establish MICE service centres has been included in TCEB’s earlier strategic plan, and the Ease of Doing Business project as well  as the draft of a national strategy of NESDB (National Economic and Social Development Council).
​Mr. Chiruit went on to explain, “After the completion of MOU signing, TCEB is set to discuss with the FCA on the preparation of Phase I work plan, which lasts two years. Both parties will encourage practical co-operation in a rapid and consistent manner. Initially, we have planned to attract events and provide support to the holding of events that relate to targeted industries according to the government’s 4.0 Policy, particularly in the provinces governed by the administration of EEC (Eastern Economic Corridor),” he said.

​“TCEB expects that the collaboration will not only leverage the competitiveness of Thai MICE in long haul markets in Oceania, Europe and the USA, but will also help to attract international events into several regions in Thailand, especially those considered main markets in MICE City project, which are Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen. Definitely, we believe the rapport will encourage transfers of technology and knowledge of each industry among one another, and thus will promote advancement in all regions and stimulate income distribution to communities nationwide,” concluded Mr. Chiruit.

Mr. Benjamin Krieg, Vice President, Austcham, explained, “The role of the Foreign Chamber Alliance (FCA) in Thailand and the purpose of signing the MOU combines key Foreign Chambers and their members through this important collaboration, we provide a common voice on advocacy to develop and grow opportunities that can benefit our members and the country of Thailand,” he said.

“The MICE industry is growing, and will also continue to grow in importance and contribution to the overall tourism sector within Thailand, and of course the greater Thai economy. Our primary aim is to continue to increase and grow the competitiveness of Thailand as a leading destination for MICE not only within Asia, but the world, further complimenting the amazing tourism industry that we already are so fortunate to be a part of,” concluded Mr. Krieg.

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Akaryn Hotel expansion: Aleenta Mountain Retreat in Bali and Akyra resort in Hoi An

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Akaryn Hotel Group, a Thailand based boutique hotel specialist, is preparing to expand into international markets for the first time, with the launch of its pioneering hospitality brands in Indonesia and Vietnam.

In the coming months, two of the group’s hotel concepts will make their international debuts. Aleenta, the original barefoot luxury brand that first launched in Thailand in 2004, will be introduced to Bali, Indonesia’s “Island of the Gods”, and akyra, the trend-setting boutique brand, will arrive in Hoi An, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed port town in central Vietnam.

Aleenta Retreat Bali will be a spiritual sanctuary in the island’s mountainous north, an hour’s drive from Ubud. Designed in a classical low-rise Balinese style, this serene wellness retreat will feel a million miles away from the busy tourist resorts in the island’s south. Nestled in the lush, jungle-clad hills, this exquisite hideaway will allow guests to relax and reconnect with each other in paradise. The 50 rooms will be large and luxurious, whilst also exuding authenticity and being equipped with the latest amenities.

A spa village and yoga resort, Aleenta Retreat Bali will feature an extensive Ayurah Wellness centre, where guests can unwind with an array of soothing treatments, including traditional Balinese massages and natural therapies. An outdoor yoga area will overlook reflective ponds and a fitness centre will allow guests to enjoy an invigorating workout in paradise.

A choice of restaurants will focus on fresh, organic ingredients, while the Pool Bar will serve refreshing drinks during the day and after dark. Local handicrafts will be available at the Galleria boutique, and guests will have plenty of opportunities to head out and discover the local area, including Ubud, Bali’s cultural capital. Aleenta Retreat Bali will also provide an elegant setting for weddings and functions, with a choice of indoor or alfresco event spaces.

“Aleenta was our first brand and our pioneering resorts in Phuket and Hua Hin have become hugely popular among guests. Every Aleenta property is designed to reflect the timeless charm and character of its destination, featuring large living spaces and world-class facilities while also operating in harmony with the environment. Aleenta Retreat Bali will be a fantastic addition to our portfolio; secluded, spiritual and sensual, this sublime sanctuary will allow guests to discover the true essence of the Island of the Gods,” said ,” said AKARYN Hotel Group’s Founder and Managing Director, Anchalika Kijkanakorn.

Also opening its doors in 2019 will be akyra Hoi An, unique waterfront resort nestled midway between Hoi An’s historic town centre and golden China Beach. Located on the banks of the Thu Bon estuary, this low-rise boutique retreat will be accessible either by car or by boat and many of the 110 stylish rooms and pool villas will sit on the water’s edge.

Guests can soak up this stunning setting with a morning yoga class, a spa treatment at the Ayurah Wellness centre, a dip in the onsen or a workout in the modern fitness centre. Alternatively, they can simply plunge into the inviting outdoor infinity pool. Young guests will be kept entertained at the kids’ club, and all ages can discover delectable Vietnamese and international cuisine at a choice of two restaurants and a pool bar.

akyra Hoi An will provide the perfect balance between cultural exploration and tropical relaxation; the enchanting port town of Hoi An, with its diverse heritage and alluring architecture, is just a short distance away, while the golden sand and azure sea of Vietnam’s central coast is also easily accessible. It will also provide a spectacular setting for events and dream weddings.

“With its peaceful and picturesque waterfront setting, halfway between the city and the sea, akyra Hoi An will allow visitors to discover everything this charming destination has to offer. Guests who have experienced akyra’s hotels and resorts in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai will be familiar with the brand’s trend-setting style. We look forward to introducing guests to a new era of contemporary, cutting-edge hospitality in this idyllic location,” Anchalika added.

AKARYN Hotel Group currently operates a collection of captivating boutique hotels and resorts across Thailand, including Aleenta Hua Hin-Pranburi, Aleenta Phuket-Phang Nga, akyra Beach Club Phuket, akyra Manor Chiang Mai, akyra Thonglor Bangkok and the most recent addition to its portfolio, akyra TAS Sukhumvit Bangkok. The group will continue to introduce its luxurious and personalised style of Asian hospitality to even more destinations across the region in the months and years ahead.

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Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina opens at the end of April

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Dusit International has signed a Franchise Agreement with Al Masar Hotel Management LLC, to upgrade the former Dusit Residence Dubai Marina to the Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina.

Located at the Marina, a popular tourist destination and preferred residential area just off the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone, which includes Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City and Dubai Knowledge Village, the 146-key property is currently being refurbished and will comprise Serviced Apartments, Holiday Homes and Residential units in a choice of one, two or three-bedroom configurations.

Designed to facilitate business and leisure, the upgraded property will feature meeting facilities, a fully equipped gym, a spa, a wellness-focused restaurant serving healthy and organic foods, and a bakery.

Damac Metro and Tram Stations, the Marina Mall, and The Beach Mall are all within walking distance. Attractions such as Mall of Emirates, Ski Dubai, Ibn Battuta Mall, Emirates Golf Club, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Park and Wild Wadi Water Park can all be reached in 10 – 15 minutes by car. The Dubai World 2020 Expo site is also only a short drive away.

“We are delighted to sign this franchise agreement with Al Masar Hotel Management LLC for Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina,” said Mr Lim Boon Kwee, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “The comfort and convenience of the Dusit Princess brand, and the property’s prime location, make it an attractive proposition for anyone looking for a short- or long-term base in the city, especially with the Dubai Expo 2020 coming up.”

H.E. Abdulla Alnuaimi, Chairman, Al Masar Hotel Management LLC, said, “By signing this franchise agreement we can further position the property to delight residents and guests with Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality. And we look forward to establishing Dusit Princess Residences Dubai as the premier place to live, stay, visit and conduct business.”

Known globally for its distinctive brand of gracious hospitality inspired by authentic Thai values, Bangkok-based Dusit International opened its first hotel in the Middle East more than 15 years ago, in Dubai. Today, the company operates five hotels across the region, including three in the GCC – namely Dusit Thani Dubai, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, and dusitD2 Kenz Dubai. According to its plans, Dusit will have nine hotels in operation in the GCC by the end of the year.

Dusit Princess Residences Dubai will be the third Dusit-branded property in Dubai, following Dusit Thani Dubai and dusitD2 Kenz. A fourth Dusit-branded property, Dusit Princess Rijas, is slated to open in 2020.

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