BWH Hotels, the global hospitality enterprise comprised of WorldHotels, Best Western^® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay^® Hotels, is excited to announce the launch of its “Mid-Season Savvy Sale,” with amazing savings of up to 35% in dream destinations all across Asia!

For eight days this June, travelers can save up to 35% when they book an escape at a choice of 35 hotels & resorts across five captivating countries: Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan and the Philippines.

The booking window is open from June 22-29, 2026 (Monday to Monday), and every guest will enjoy up to 20% discount. Best Western Rewards® members will also receive an additional 15% discount – for total savings of up to 35%! Stays are available from June 22 to September 30, 2026.

Members of Best Western Rewards® (BWR), the award-winning loyalty program, also enjoy exclusive benefits and points that never expire. These points can be redeemed for attractive rewards like free room nights, airline miles and gift cards. Not a member yet? Click here to join for free!

So, whether guests are seeking an upbeat city break in Bangkok or Jakarta, an idyllic island retreat in Bali, Phuket or Okinawa, a vibrant weekend getaway to Pattaya or Angeles City, an inspiring cultural sojourn in Lahore or Ubud – or any other style of stay – BWH Hotels and BWR are the perfect partners for every occasion.

Life’s a Trip, so don’t miss the “Mid-Season Savvy Sale” and create unforgettable adventures in Asia with BWH Hotels and BWR!

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Miri, Sarawak, June 22, 2026 / VISITSARAWAK / The successful staging of the World National & World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition, Festival and Seminar (WATCEFS) 2026 has firmly established Miri as one of Asia’s emerging culinary and business events destinations, reinforcing Sarawak’s growing reputation as a powerhouse for gastronomy tourism.

Held from 18 to 21 June 2026 across Meritz Hotel, the four-day event attracted more than 3,000 visitors and delegates, over 100 exhibitors, and 55 elite chefs from 13 countries, transforming the northern Sarawak city into a vibrant hub for culinary excellence, trade exchange and international networking.

Now in its third edition, WATCEFS has evolved from a niche culinary competition into a significant regional platform that combines gastronomy, tourism, trade and cultural diplomacy. The event brought together participants from Malaysia, Spain, China, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Indonesia, South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, Jordan and Abu Dhabi, showcasing the growing international appeal of Sarawak as a host destination for global events.

A Showcase of Culinary Tourism and Business Events Excellence
Far more than a competition, WATCEFS 2026 demonstrated how food can serve as a catalyst for destination marketing, economic development and international collaboration.

The programme featured the World National Tapas Competition, World Asia Tapas Competition, Borneo Barista Championship, WATCEFS Food Festival, industry seminars, masterclasses, trade exhibitions and structured business-matching sessions. Together, these elements created a comprehensive ecosystem that connected chefs, producers, hospitality operators, tourism stakeholders, buyers and investors under one roof.

Thirty Malaysian chefs competed in the World National Tapas Competition, while 25 culinary professionals from 12 countries contested the World Asia Tapas Championship. Alongside them, 11 multicultural community associations participated in the food festival, highlighting Sarawak’s rich ethnic diversity and reinforcing the state’s multicultural identity through cuisine.

International exhibitors ranging from artisanal food producers and premium beverage brands to hospitality technology providers and culinary innovators used the event as a gateway to engage with Asian markets, creating new opportunities for trade partnerships and market expansion.

Positioning Sarawak as Asia’s Capital of Tapas
The event’s growing stature reflects Sarawak’s broader ambition to position itself as a leading gastronomy destination in Asia.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting, described WATCEFS as a strategic platform that extends well beyond culinary competition.

“Every connection made during this event represents future opportunities for trade, investment and cultural exchange,” he noted, highlighting the role of business events in driving tourism growth and economic development.

Ting further emphasised Sarawak’s emergence as the “Asia Capital of Tapas”, a title that reflects the state’s unique blend of cultures, traditions and culinary influences. The successful hosting of WATCEFS aligns closely with Sarawak’s efforts to diversify its tourism offering beyond nature and adventure travel by developing a strong gastronomy tourism proposition.

As one of the flagship events within the WAK Miri Satellite Festival, WATCEFS also contributed to strengthening Miri’s profile as a creative and cultural hub. The wider festival featured 45 events spanning arts, culture, lifestyle and community engagement, further enhancing the destination’s attractiveness to both domestic and international visitors.

International Exposure for Miri
For Miri, hosting WATCEFS marked another milestone in its evolution as an international meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination.

The city’s strategic location in northern Sarawak, modern hospitality infrastructure and proximity to world-renowned attractions such as Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park provide a compelling backdrop for international events. By welcoming delegates, chefs and industry leaders from across Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Miri demonstrated its capacity to host world-class gatherings while showcasing its cultural diversity and tourism assets.

The event also generated significant international media exposure, positioning both Miri and Sarawak before global audiences and strengthening awareness of the destination among travel professionals, culinary enthusiasts and potential investors.

Local Talent Takes Centre Stage
One of the event’s most celebrated moments came when Miri-born Chef Kenny Gan of Hatchi by Kenny’s captured the World National Tapas Competition title.

His victory earned him the honour of representing Malaysia at the prestigious World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain, later this year, providing a powerful example of how international culinary platforms can elevate local talent onto the global stage.

The achievement was particularly meaningful for the host city, underscoring the depth of culinary expertise emerging from Sarawak and highlighting the opportunities that events such as WATCEFS create for professional development, international recognition and cross-border collaboration.

A Model for Future Gastronomy Tourism Growth
The success of WATCEFS 2026 highlights the growing role of gastronomy as a driver of destination competitiveness and economic impact. By combining culinary excellence with trade engagement, cultural exchange and business networking, the event delivered benefits that extended far beyond the competition kitchen.

For Sarawak, the success of WATCEFS 2026 marks another significant milestone in its journey towards becoming one of Asia’s leading culinary destinations. The momentum continues with the upcoming TOP25 Restaurants Sarawak Awards in August in Kuching, an initiative that further strengthens the state’s reputation for culinary excellence and reinforces its positioning as a premier gastronomy tourism destination. These global, high-profile events are helping to elevate Sarawak’s profile among food travellers, industry professionals and international media, showcasing the state’s rich culinary diversity on a global stage.

For Miri, it reinforces the city’s position as a gateway for international events and cultural tourism. And for the wider travel industry, WATCEFS offers a compelling example of how food-focused events can create meaningful economic opportunities while celebrating local identity and global connectivity.

As the final plates were cleared and international delegates departed Borneo, one thing was evident: the World Tapas movement has found a thriving home in Sarawak, and its influence on the region’s tourism and hospitality landscape is only just beginning.

To all restaurants in Sarawak submit your restaurant to get a complimentary nomination and page at the global gastronomy tourism platform: TOP25 Restaurants Sarawak: submit here.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / STEM Racing Thailand successfully delivered its Professional Class Teacher Training Programme on 16–17 May 2026 at the Grand Richmond Stylish Convention Hotel, bringing together educators, coaches, and STEM learning leaders from across the country to strengthen teaching capabilities and prepare students for the upcoming STEM Racing Thailand National Finals 2026, scheduled for 29 October – 1 November 2026.

The programme represents a key milestone in STEM Racing Thailand’s mission to equip educators with industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills that support the development of future-ready talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Designed for teachers and mentors working with students in the Professional Class category, the training covered advanced engineering design processes, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), aerodynamics, manufacturing and prototyping, project management, team development, competition regulations, and international competition preparation.

“STEM Racing Thailand is committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that connect classroom education with real-world engineering and innovation,” said Mr. Robert ‘Bobby’ Ortiz, STEM Racing Thailand Coordinator. “By investing in teacher development, we are strengthening the foundation that enables young people to develop the technical expertise, creativity, leadership, and problem-solving skills required to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.”

Inspired by the world of Formula 1 and motorsport engineering, STEM Racing is an internationally recognised STEM education programme that combines engineering, innovation, and project-based learning. Students design, manufacture, test, and race miniature Formula 1-style cars while developing essential technical and professional skills that are highly valued by universities and employers worldwide.

A distinctive feature of STEM Racing is its international competition pathway, providing students with opportunities to represent Thailand at global championships and engage with peers, educators, and industry professionals from around the world. These experiences help participants build internationally recognised portfolios, expand global networks, and explore future careers in engineering, technology, innovation, and motorsport.

The Teacher Training Programme also reflects the growing collaboration between STEM Racing Thailand and the Grand Richmond Stylish Convention Hotel, the official venue partner for major STEM Racing activities in Thailand.

“Richmond Hotel Group is proud to support initiatives that inspire learning, innovation, and youth development,” said Mrs. Laksawan Wongworakarn, Chief Executive Officer of Richmond Hotel Group. “Through our partnership with STEM Racing Thailand, we are pleased to contribute to opportunities that empower young people and help prepare the next generation of innovators and future leaders.”

Following the successful completion of the training programme, preparations are now underway for the STEM Racing Thailand National Finals 2026, where students from across the country will compete in engineering, innovation, teamwork, and business challenges. The event is expected to attract participation from schools, universities, industry leaders, government agencies, and media representatives, further reinforcing Thailand’s growing role as a regional hub for STEM education and innovation.

As Thailand continues to advance towards a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy, STEM Racing Thailand remains committed to empowering educators and inspiring young people to pursue pathways in science, technology, engineering, and innovation—helping shape a more competitive and sustainable future for the nation.

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Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, June 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / At The Hari Hong Kong this summer, choosing where to brunch may be the hardest decision of the weekend.

In a dining room defined by warm amber and green tones, timber-lined walls and abundant natural light, Lucciola serves a weekend brunch centred on seasonal ingredients and classic Italian flavours.

Guests begin with a selection of antipasti before moving on to dishes such as sauteed black mussels with parsley and garlic, roasted lamb T-bone, and Lucciola’s signature tiramisu. The brunch is priced from HKD 628 per person and includes 90 minutes of free-flow red, white and sparkling wine. Guests can also opt for a newly extended two-hour free-flow Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Champagne package for an additional HKD 368 per person.

A floor above, Zoku and adjacent outdoor venue The Terrace offer a contrasting take on the weekend ritual. Meaning “clan” in Japanese, Zoku is characterised by leather fluted booths and crimson velvet banquettes under an origami-inspired ceiling of angled timber slats. The Terrace overlooking Wan Chai provides an open-air setting framed by lush greenery and a striking triple-height living wall.

The brunch begins with “Otoshi: The Izakaya Way” – a selection of Japanese snacks – followed by an assorted sashimi platter showcasing seasonal seafood before a choice of mains and desserts. Highlights include truffle Yaki soba and A-4 Miyazaki Wagyu steak. Priced from HKD 628 per person, brunch at Zoku & The Terrace includes free-flow drinks. Guests can also upgrade to a newly extended two-hour free-flow package featuring Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Champagne and premium sake for an additional HKD 368 per person.

“One of the things we love about our weekend brunches is that they offer two completely different experiences under the one roof,” said Francesco Gava, the hotel’s Director of Food & Beverage. “Some guests are drawn to the warmth and conviviality of our Italian brunch, yet others prefer contemporary Japanese flavours with sake at Zoku & The Terrace.”

Weekend Brunch is available at Lucciola every Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays, and at Zoku & The Terrace on Saturdays and public holidays. Both brunch experiences are served between 12:00pm and 4:30pm (with last orders at 2:30pm). Food items are subject to seasonal rotation, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit. Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.

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Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia / TRAVELINDEX / YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, visited the World National & World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition, Festival and Seminar 2026 (WATCEFS 2026) during its four-day run at Meritz Hotel Miri, meeting personally with competing chefs from across Asia and Malaysia and declaring the event a tremendous success.

The Minister engaged with the 55 competitors from 13 countries, the 12 international jurors, and witnessed an event that brought together over 100 exhibitors and food vendors, 15 speakers and masterclass presenters, and more than 3,000 attendees. He called for Miri to host more international events of this calibre.

“Miri should have more international events such as WATCEFS,” YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim said. “Events like this are investments. And the returns are measured not just in ringgit, but in relationships that compound over years and decades.”

WATCEFS 2026 was more than a culinary competition. It was a bridge between Sarawak and the kitchens of thirteen nations, between our rich multicultural heritage and the global markets, between aspiration and achievement.

Delegations from Spain, China, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, Jordan, and Abu Dhabi filled the Meritz Hotel from 18 to 21 June. Every handshake was a potential trade agreement. Every exhibitor on that trade floor was building a commercial relationship that will outlast this week. The 30 Malaysian chefs who competed in the World National Tapas Competition and the 25 Asia chefs who battled in the World Asia Tapas Competition will carry Sarawak’s flag to the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain, in November 2026.

Beyond the competitions, the programme featured the Borneo Barista Art & Coffee Blending Challenge, sustainability seminars on eco-conscious gastronomy and digital tourism, masterclasses led by award-winning practitioners from six countries, the “Asia on a Plate” culinary showcase at Jinhold Hotel & Serviced Apartment, and the WATCEFS Food Festival at The Santai Terrace featuring 11 community associations celebrating Miri’s 34 ethnic communities.

Sarawak is not waiting for the world to discover it. It is going out to meet the world, and it is inviting the world to come. WATCEFS 2026 is proof that when government vision, private sector commitment, and community passion come together, the world listens.

About WATCEFS 2026
Now in its third consecutive year, WATCEFS is organised by Ethos Connect International Consulting Sdn Bhd and the Sarawak International Technical & Vocational Education Association under the leadership of Organising Chair Ms Sim Ling Ling. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak). Sponsors: Malaysian Pepper Board (Platinum), Carlsberg and Jinhold Hotel & Serviced Apartment (Gold), BonCafe Malaysia (Silver).

Media Contact:
Ms Sim Ling Ling | Tel: 012-873 9900
Ethos Connect International Consulting Sdn Bhd | support@sustainableborneo.my | www.sustainableborneo.my

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Paris, France, June 24, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / With less than four years remaining in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remains significantly off track: Only 16% of targets are projected to be achieved by the deadline. The vast majority of UN Member States remain committed to the framework, but a small number of countries, most notably the United States, have moved into active opposition to the paradigm of sustainable development and the multilateral institutions that underpin it. These are among the key findings of the 11th edition of the Sustainable Development Report (SDR), released today by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN).

This year’s SDR calls for stronger SDG implementation and renewed global cooperation as the world enters the final years of the 2030 Agenda and begins laying the groundwork for a post-2030 framework. The report includes the SDG Index and Dashboards, ranking all UN Member States across the 17 SDGs, and the Index of Countries’ Support for UN-Based Multilateralism (UN-Mi), which tracks countries’ engagement with the UN system.

The report also features two new surveys: 1) The “SDSN Expert Survey on Government Efforts for the SDGs” and 2) a large-scale public survey spanning 127 countries on “SDG Challenges and Means for Implementation.” Together, they reveal broad public support for maintaining the SDG framework beyond 2030, while also exposing significant regional and country-level disparities in governance, policy effort, and implementation capacity. Across respondents, stronger mechanisms for financing, governance, and the use of science and data emerged as the top priorities for accelerating sustainable progress by 2030 and beyond.

“Support for sustainable development as the global paradigm remains strong throughout the world. Notable success stories have emerged across East and South Asia and in many other countries and regions. Sustainable development cannot be achieved amid ongoing conflict, making peace the top priority of our time,” said Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs, President of the SDSN and a lead author of the report. “As the 2030 landmark approaches, the next era of sustainable development must put the global emphasis on implementation and ensuring strong financing and effective governance at all levels.”

“The 2030 Agenda was always an ambitious undertaking, and today’s geopolitical headwinds are testing the resilience of the multilateral system,” said Dr. Guillaume Lafortune, Vice President of the SDSN and a lead author and coordinator of the report. “The moment calls for all countries to reaffirm the principles of the UN Charter, starting with Article 1, and to cooperate in building a credible global and regional security architecture. The next era of sustainable development must prioritize implementation through a reformed Global Financial Architecture, greater involvement of continental, regional, and local institutions, but also a central role for civil society and universities in driving accountability, innovation, and solutions on the ground.”

The report is available online from 22 June 2026 at 11:59 PM CET.

Citation Details: Sachs, J.D., Lafortune, G., Fuller, G., Iablonovski, G. (2026). Implementing Sustainable Development 2030 and Beyond. Sustainable Development Report 2026. Paris: SDSN, Dublin: Dublin University Press.

This year’s SDR highlights the following key findings:

1. Global commitment to the SDGs remains strong. A large majority of countries continue to support UN General Assembly (UNGA) resolutions referencing sustainable development, with more than 170 of the 193 UN Member States backing all of these resolutions in 2025. Argentina and the United States were the only countries to consistently vote against resolutions linked to the sustainable development framework.
2. East and South Asia outperform all other regions on SDG progress. East and South Asian countries have recorded the strongest SDG progress since 2015. Among major economies, India (+18) and China (+14) show the largest rank improvements. Finland leads this year’s SDG Index, followed by Sweden and Denmark. However, even these top performers face significant challenges on SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land), partly due to unsustainable consumption patterns and negative international spillover effects.
3. Goals related to cities, the environment, sustainable agri-food systems, and peace are particularly off-track. Among these, the most concerning are SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). At the indicator level, the areas furthest from their targets include progress toward sustainable agriculture (SDG 2), the prevalence of obesity (SDG 3), as well as the timeliness of administrative proceedings, press freedom, and the Corruption Perceptions Index (SDG 16). In contrast, several indicators are progressing at the global level. These include rising mobile broadband subscriptions and internet use (SDG 9), declining adolescent fertility rates and HIV infections (SDG 3), and expanded electricity access (SDG 7).
4. Barbados ranks first in commitment to UN-based multilateralism, while the U.S. ranks last. Barbados ranks as the country most committed to UN-based multilateralism in the SDR’s 2026 Index of Countries’ Support to UN-based Multilateralism (UN-Mi), which assesses countries’ engagement with the UN system and their support for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) using six headline indicators. At the opposite end of the Index, the U.S. ranks last. This is highlighted in recent actions from the U.S. federal government, which withdrew from more than 60 international organizations in January 2026; voted with the international majority in only 5% of recorded UNGA votes in 2025; and formally opposes the SDGs, the 2030 Agenda, and the Paris Climate Agreement.
5. Strengthening implementation is the defining priority for the next era of sustainable development. In 2026, the SDSN surveyed its networks across 64 countries and the European Union, alongside over 1,000 respondents from 127 countries, to assess government efforts and barriers to SDG implementation. Respondents broadly support maintaining the SDG framework beyond 2030, pointing to financing, governance, and the use of science and data as the areas most in need of strengthening. Views on progress vary significantly by region, with East and South Asia reporting more optimistic assessments of national and local SDG performance.
6. Eight priorities for the next decades of sustainable development. The report identifies eight priorities to accelerate progress toward 2030 and beyond: (1) end ongoing wars and redirect military expenditures toward peace and human development; (2) establish an ambitious timeline for SDG implementation; (3) organize implementation around six major transformations; (4) adopt long-term investment plans to support these transformations; (5) strengthen continental, regional, and local cooperation and investment; (6) introduce new global taxes to finance global public goods; (7) develop global governance frameworks for AI, biotechnology, and other emerging technologies; and (8) establish new UN campuses in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Since 2016, the SDR has provided the most comprehensive data available to track and rank the performance of all UN Member States on the SDGs. This year’s edition draws on nearly 250,000 individual data points to produce more than 200 country and regional SDG profiles. The report was produced by a group of independent experts at the SDG Transformation Center, a flagship initiative of the SDSN.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 24, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / AirAsia MOVE (MOVE), one of Asia’s leading online travel agencies (OTAs), has signed a collaboration agreement with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) as a strategic partner to support TAT’s Amazing 5 Economy framework, especially the Platform Economy pillar, leveraging digital platforms to deliver seamless travel experiences and drive tourism growth.

The three-year strategic partnership will support Thailand’s tourism growth by combining AirAsia MOVE’s traveller insights and digital platform capabilities with TAT’s “Five Must Do in Thailand” campaign. Through joint marketing initiatives and co-branded campaigns, the collaboration aims to drive domestic and international travel, create economic opportunities across Thailand, and strengthen the country’s position as a leading global tourism destination.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand, said, “This partnership with AirAsia MOVE marks another important step in advancing the Platform Economy, one of the five strategic pillars that TAT is leveraging to strengthen Thailand’s tourism industry alongside the Life Economy, Night Economy, Subculture Economy and Circular Economy. With a strong regional footprint, AirAsia MOVE is a strategic partner that can help seamlessly connect online and offline travel experiences and leverage data-driven insights to support tourism development in both major and secondary destinations. AirAsia MOVE’s commitment includes promoting travel to UNESCO Creative Cities and green destinations, which represent important directions for Thailand’s tourism future.”

Ms. Nadia Omer, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia MOVE, said, “This partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand is a pivotal step in advancing regional travel. By actively supporting the ‘Platform Economy’ pillar of the Amazing 5 Economy framework, AirAsia MOVE is uniquely positioned to accelerate this growth. Over the next three years, we will leverage our expansive ecosystem and data-driven insights to transform traveller aspiration into action, directly funneling demand to local operators, empowering communities, and fostering sustainable economic growth across Thailand.”

Together, TAT and MOVE aim to unlock new opportunities for Thailand’s tourism ecosystem by leveraging technology, traveller intelligence and regional connectivity to deliver more seamless, meaningful and sustainable travel experiences for travellers around the world.

For the latest updates, follow @airasiamove on Instagram & TikTok. Download the app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Huawei AppGallery for a smoother and enhanced travel booking experience.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 24, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / SKYVIEW Hotel Bangkok has officially opened Madura Rooftop Bangkok — a rooftop restaurant & bar inspired but the Bright Bold and Expressive Culture that is Miami’s Latin backbone on the 32nd where the bold flavours of Miami’s mixed Latin American culture are brought to the City of Angels above Sukhumvit. The venue celebrated its grand opening on Friday 19 June 2026, welcoming more than 200 guests from Bangkok’s hospitality, business, diplomatic, media, and social communities.

The launch welcomed an influential mix of guests including embassy representatives from Peru, Bahrain, and Japan, top F&B leaders, KOLs, influencers, nightlife personalities, and members of Bangkok’s leading lifestyle and hospitality media.

A Rooftop Where Fire Meets Rhythm
Madura is not defined by a single country or cuisine. Instead, it draws inspiration from the cultures, flavours, and spirit of Miami’s expressive culture, blending fire-driven cooking, handcrafted cocktails, music, and social energy into one immersive rooftop experience.

Perched above Sukhumvit Soi 24, Madura offers panoramic views of Bangkok alongside a menu built around open-fire cooking, fresh seafood, tacos, ceviches, premium meats, and tropical cocktails influenced by the drinking culture of Miami and the Americas.

The concept embraces the energy of movement and discovery. Guests are encouraged to explore the venue through its open kitchen pass, terrace bars, live cooking stations, and evolving atmosphere that naturally transitions from dining into nightlife.

A Grand Opening Filled with Flavour and Entertainment
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed complimentary cocktails, wines, beers, and signature drinks created exclusively for the celebration, including Banana Fashioned, Spicy Guava Gimlet, Mango Menta, Tamarind Meets Mezcal, and Madura’s signature Margaritas.

A series of live culinary stations showcased the venue’s food philosophy, featuring Hamachi Tiradito, Grilled Octopus Tacos, Short Rib Tacos, Gambas al Ajillo, Charcoal-Grilled “Burnt Ends” Tomahawk, and fire-roasted vegetables inspired by Latin American cooking traditions.

Entertainment brought the rooftop to life with live DJs, percussionists, trumpet and saxophone performances, flamenco dancers, cocktail theatrics, and immersive performances designed to reflect the rhythm and energy that define the Madura experience.

Bringing a New Social Dining Experience to Bangkok
“Madura was created to capture the feeling, energy, and soul of Miami,” said Aaron Foster (Resolute Hotels & Resorts), the creative mind behind Madura’s concept and direction.

“We wanted to build a place where great food, amazing cocktails, music, and most importantly, people come together naturally. Inspired by Miami and its rich Latin American culture, Madura is designed to evolve throughout the evening; it should feel different to everyone – energetic, social, and alive.”

With its combination of elevated dining, handcrafted cocktails, live entertainment, and rooftop atmosphere, Madura introduces a fresh addition to Bangkok’s dining and nightlife landscape. From sunset cocktails & dining a curated Champagne and wine list, and late-night cocktails to special events and social gatherings, Madura invites guests to experience a different side of Bangkok from above.

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Bangkok, Thailand, June 26, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar at VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery Collection invites guests to experience A Rare Kaiseki Journey, an exclusive two-night culinary engagement featuring Chef Mitsutaka Tsukihara from Japan, presenting an intimate expression of traditional Washoku Kaiseki. Available for 31 July – 1 August 2026 only, this limited dining experience showcases a specially curated 10-course Kaiseki menu inspired by the philosophy of Japanese culinary tradition — where seasonality, craftsmanship, balance and ingredient purity come together in a refined progression of flavours. Crafted exclusively for the event, the menu highlights premium seasonal seafood sourced from Japan, transformed through meticulous technique and thoughtful presentation that reflect the elegance and restraint at the heart of authentic Kaiseki. 

Hosted within the intimate setting of YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar, guests will have the rare opportunity to experience Japanese tradition in its most immersive form, with only 9 seats available per round and direct proximity to the chef’s craftsmanship throughout the evening.

The Chef | Rooted in Tradition, Guided by Seasonality
Inspired by his father, who was a chef, Chef Mitsutaka Tsukihara developed a passion for cooking from an early age and continues to express his culinary philosophy through the values deeply rooted in Japanese food culture.

For A Rare Kaiseki Journey, Chef Tsukihara presents an authentic expression of Washoku — Japan’s traditional culinary philosophy that celebrates seasonality, balance, and respect for ingredients. Through this exclusive menu, he invites guests to experience the understated elegance of Kaiseki dining through thoughtful sequencing, delicate technique, and a genuine connection between food and season.

The Experience | Seasonal Japanese Craft in an Intimate Setting
Unlike conventional omakase experiences, Kaiseki unfolds as a curated sequence of courses where flavour, texture, temperature, and presentation evolve throughout the meal. Guests may also select an optional sake pairing, thoughtfully chosen to complement the menu and deepen the overall dining experience. Set within YTSB’s contemporary and intimate atmosphere, A Rare Kaiseki Journey offers a rare opportunity to experience traditional Japanese dining in the heart of Bangkok.

THE DETAILS
A Rare Kaiseki Journey by Chef Mitsutaka Tsukihara
31 July – 1 August 2026 | 6 PM & 8 PM
YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar, VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery Collection
10-Course Washoku Kaiseki Dinner | THB 2,900++ per person
10-Course Washoku Kaiseki Dinner with Sake Pairing | THB 3,900++ per person
Limited 9 seats per round > urlkub.co/V5lctW

About YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar
YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar offers artistic and superb omakase sessions, sashimi menu, and á la carte sushi. The Chef Takeovers are part of the restaurant’s ongoing efforts to introduce Bangkok to the best rising star sushi chefs in the world. YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar also hosts guided sake tastings and exclusive cooking workshops that delve into the art and enjoyment of Japanese cuisine. Under the direction of master sushi chefs, YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar  upholds the traditions of Japanese cuisine from the Edo era while infusing with creative contemporary flourish. The menu features fresh fish and ingredients imported from Japan, along with a wide selection of top sakes, including some rarely found brands. YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar is located on the 4th floor of YTSB – Yellow Tail Sushi Bar Building at VIE Hotel Bangkok—MGallery Collection, with onsite parking and 50m from BTS Ratchathewi.

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London, United Kingdom, June 26, 2027 / TRAVELINDEX / The African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA®) and The Long Run have launched a new practical guide designed to help tourism businesses communicate their sustainability and impact initiatives with greater credibility, transparency and effectiveness.

The Communicating Impact guide, launched during Experience Africa (held in London from 22 – 24 June 2026), provides tourism operators, lodges, camps, DMCs and travel businesses with practical guidance on how to share their conservation, community, culture and sustainability achievements in a way that builds trust, avoids greenwashing and inspires meaningful action.

The launch coincided with Experience Africa, the UK’s leading B2B trade event for African tourism, which brings together African tourism suppliers and international buyers through a programme of curated meetings, networking and industry content.

As travellers, trade partners and investors increasingly seek evidence of genuine sustainability commitments, many tourism businesses face the challenge of communicating complex impact work clearly, authentically and to meet legislative requirements.  The new guide addresses this need by offering practical frameworks, examples and recommendations that help organisations move beyond marketing claims and towards transparent impact communication.

Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO of ATTA® said: “Africa has never been late to the values that define world-class tourism. Long before sustainable tourism became a global trend, many of its principles were already embedded across the continent and reflected in how visitors experienced Africa. African businesses face a structural disadvantage:  the frameworks through which global buyers measure and validate sustainability were not designed with Africa in mind. Buyer demand for data is growing, and the cost of not meeting it is market access.  Communicating Impact builds on this strong foundation, while helping tourism businesses measure and communicate impact in ways that are credible, measurable, and aligned with buyer expectations.”

The guide draws on The Long Run’s internationally recognised 4Cs framework – Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce – which promotes a holistic approach to sustainable tourism and long-term positive impact. The resource builds on the growing collaboration between ATTA® and The Long Run to advance regenerative tourism practices across Africa.

Dr Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner, Executive Director of The Long Run, said: “Communicating impact with integrity and transparency has never been more important. Tourism businesses have an opportunity to demonstrate the real difference they make for people and nature, but doing so requires evidence, honesty and thoughtful storytelling. We hope this guide will support organisations across Africa in sharing their impact more effectively and authentically.”

The guide is available online and is intended for tourism businesses at every stage of their sustainability journey, from those beginning to measure their impact to organisations already implementing comprehensive reporting frameworks.

The launch initiates a partnership between ATTA® and The Long Run which will continue to provide members with ongoing workshops and support to accelerate momentum to provide innovative, world-class sustainable tourism with measurable impact.  Members can find Communicating Impact on the members’ section of ATTA.travel.

About The Long Run
The Long Run is a global community of tourism businesses, conservation organisations and destinations committed to driving positive impact through its 4Cs framework: Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce. Collectively, members protect and regenerate millions of acres of biodiverse landscapes while supporting communities and cultural heritage around the world.

About ATTA
The African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA®) is the leading trade association promoting tourism to Africa and the Indian Ocean islands. Through its global membership spanning the entire tourism ecosystem, strategic partnerships and internationally recognised events, ATTA® connects African tourism businesses with buyers, media and industry leaders worldwide, helping drive sustainable growth and opportunity across the continent.

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