Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, a prominent hotel in Southeast Asia, has received its first Green Globe certification, recognizing its dedication to environmentally sustainable practices. The hotel has implemented various initiatives, including Smart Room technology, food waste reduction through the Winnow system, elimination of single-use plastics, furniture refurbishment, and a shift towards reusable containers and water filtration systems.
Cebu Pacific, a leading low-cost carrier in Asia, has announced the launch of a new direct route between Manila and Bangkok, starting July 16th. This new service will be operated by the Airbus A320neo, offering three weekly flights and convenient travel options for both business and leisure travelers.
From July 1 to September 30, 2024, the ONESIAM Tourist Grand Giveaway offers international visitors to Bangkok the chance to win over 90,000 prizes, including luxury trips, hotel stays, and exclusive deals. The campaign aims to enhance the ONESIAM experience and support Thailand’s tourism recovery.
Bangkok, Thailand, is set to host the IT&CMA and CTW APAC 2024 event from September 24-26. This event not only offers a platform for industry professionals but also provides a chance to experience the vibrant nightlife and rich culture of the city.
ITA Airways, Italy’s flagship carrier, is expanding its reach with a new nonstop service connecting Rome Fiumicino to Bangkok, starting November 16, 2024. This marks the airline’s first direct connection from Italy to Thailand and adds to its growing intercontinental network.
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) successfully hosted its ‘Experience Macao’ roadshow in Bangkok, Thailand, attracting over 190,000 visitors and generating significant interest in Macao’s tourism offerings. The event featured themed booths, interactive games, and special travel offers, showcasing the vibrant ‘tourism +’ experience of Macao. This initiative aims to strengthen Macao’s presence in the Southeast Asian market.
Jetstar has announced direct flights between Brisbane and Bangkok, starting December 13, marking its 20th route to and from Brisbane. This new service will operate with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, reducing travel time to just over 8 hours. Jetstar is offering a 24-hour sale with one-way fares starting at $205 to celebrate the launch. The route is part of Jetstar’s expansion strategy in Brisbane, supported by the Queensland Government’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund. Queensland’s Minister for Tourism, Michael Healy, emphasized the strategic importance of this route for tourism recovery and connectivity. Brisbane Airport CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, expressed delight at reconnecting Queensland and Thailand through this highly anticipated route.
Bangkok has been hailed as the ‘Best City’ in the prestigious DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2024. This marks the Thai capital’s fourth triumph in this category, highlighting its unwavering popularity among international travelers. Other Thai destinations also shone, with Phuket and Ko Samui ranking third and fourth in the ‘Best Islands’ category. In the aviation sector, Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport was recognized as the second ‘Best Airport’. Thai Airways International (THAI) continued its winning streak, securing third place in the ‘Best Airlines’ category and excelling in various subcategories, including ‘Best Airlines: Premium Classes’, ‘Best Airlines: Economy Class’, and ‘Best In-flight Entertainment’. THAI’s frequent-flyer program, Royal Orchid Plus, was also recognized as the third ‘Best Frequent-Flyer Programme’.
One Bangkok, a collaboration between TCC Assets (Thailand) and Frasers Property Holdings (Thailand) Company Limited, has forged a strategic alliance with Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Co., Ltd., Japan’s premier department store group. This partnership is set to bolster Bangkok’s retail and office sectors, centered on two pivotal projects: the introduction of Thailand’s inaugural Mitsukoshi supermarket and food hall, and a joint investment in One Bangkok Office Tower 4.
Passenger traffic in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is experiencing a robust rebound, driven by the increasing ease of travel and the successful implementation of vaccination campaigns. Singaporean travelers are leading the way this summer, with Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Perth emerging as the top destinations. This resurgence in intra-regional travel is supporting the recovery of the region’s travel and tourism industry, which was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
