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Bangkok, Thailand, April 17, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The fashion show, held at the Jim Thompson store in CentralWorld, showcased the iconic collaboration between FitFlop and Jim Thompson, presenting the new lifestyle footwear collection, ‘House on the Klong’.

A star-studded show launched a major cross-industry collaboration between two iconic brands: FitFlop x Jim Thompson. Celebrating a summer of color and style, Jim Thompson, the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand, has teamed up with FitFlop, the UK-based smart engineering footwear company, to unveil their exciting FitFlop x Jim Thompson collection, titled ‘House on the Klong’.

To celebrate the relocation and opening of the new CentralWorld store, a dazzling fashion show was held, drawing fashionistas and famous celebrities to witness the collaboration as two iconic lifestyle brands join forces. The event buzzed with excitement as attendees got a first look at the stunning, contemporary collection.

Renowned actresses and fashion icons, including Diana Flipo, Sirin “Chippy” Preediyanon and Phulita “Whan” Supinchompoo were in attendance at the exclusive fashion show unveiling the collection, bringing further glamor and sparking trendsetter attention to this spectacular event and collaboration.

Nunnapat Verojanavat, Marketing Director of Jim Thompson, stated, “Last year, we collaborated with three amazing Thai artists and brands through our artists-in-residence project, including Panpuri and Revested Miliano. One collaboration we had never explored before was footwear. This latest partnership perfectly embodies the strengths of both brands. FitFlop’s technology and comfortable design combined with Jim Thompson’s celebrated iconic prints. Together, it’s the perfect match.”

“Our ‘House on the Klong’ collection was inspired by Jim Thompson’s Thai house, blending imagery of traditional Thai architecture with organic designs straight from Mr. Jim’s garden, creating a pattern that’s truly one-of-a-kind.”

Venus Tsang, Head of Merchandising, APAC FitFlop, expressed excitement about the partnership with Jim Thompson, highlighting the fusion of FitFlop’s smart engineering with Jim Thompson’s craftsmanship and creativity. She said, “Each piece is biomechanically engineered to promote optimal body alignment and natural movement, showcasing FitFlop’s technology with Jim Thompson’s elegance. The ‘House on the Klong’ collection perfectly fuses FitFlop’s innovative engineering with Jim Thompson’s world-renowned prints.”

The FitFlop x Jim Thompson collection showcases five striking models that blend comfort, style, and artistry. All feature Jim Thompson’s signature prints inspired by the lush vibrancy of florals and botanicals from the Jim Thompson House.

● The iQUSHION X JIM THOMPSON SLIDES offer sleek design with advanced comfort technology, including high-rebound EVA with impact pillows for superior support.
● The iQUSHION X JIM THOMPSON LEATHER FLIP-FLOPS blend style with ergonomic design, featuring high-rebound EVA and impact-absorbing pillows for unparalleled support.
● The LULU X JIM THOMPSON LEATHER SLIDES feature a triple-density Microwobbleboard midsole for sophisticated comfort.
● The LULU X JIM THOMPSON LEATHER TOE-POST SANDALS combine sleek design with biomechanical precision, providing support and stability for extended wear.
● The RALLY X JIM THOMPSON LEATHER TRAINERS offer a blend of comfort and movement precision, featuring Anatomicush midsoles for lightweight cushioning.

“As a leader in the distribution and management of over 40 world-class brands in fashion, beauty, watches, and technology products, CMG is dedicated to innovation. The launch of the FitFlop x Jim Thompson ‘House on the Klong’ Collection exemplifies our commitment to this vision. We believe the collection will surprise and delight our lifestyle fashion customers across Asia,” said Jitrudee Panitpon, Head of Fashion and Watch Category of Central Marketing Group (CMG).

FitFlop x Jim Thompson is now available online and in select Jim Thompson and FitFlop stores worldwide. To celebrate the launch, customers purchasing any FitFlop x Jim Thompson item, along with additional items, totaling 5,000 THB or more will receive a specially designed shoe bag valued at 790 THB. The limited-time offer is valid while supplies last.

About Jim Thompson
No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an architect, art collector, socialite, and entrepreneur who is recognized as the driving force behind the revival of Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries. Today, Jim Thompson is the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand with a reputation for beautiful silks and “Beyond Silk”.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Zagreb, Croatia, April 16, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism is to work with the Government Croatia and the University of Zagreb to establish a research and development centre focused on sustainable tourism.

Croatia currently serves on UN Tourism’s Committee on Tourism and Sustainability, having chaired it between 2019 and 2023. Alongside the Government’s record of promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices, this clear leadership and support for UN Tourism’s core values make it the ideal location to host a collaborative platform to drive innovation and catalyse positive change in the tourism sector.

Croatia leads by example in growing tourism in a sustainable manner

This landmark centre will engage stakeholders from the public and private sectors, academia, and civil society to will address some of the most critical challenges facing tourism, including:

Reducing the Environmental Impact of Tourism: The centre will prioritize initiatives to minimize waste generation and plastic usage, thereby mitigating the environmental footprint of tourism activities.
Increasing Usage of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency: By promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources and implementing energy-efficient practices, the centre aims to reduce carbon emissions associated with tourism operations.
Accelerating Adaptation to Climate Change: Recognizing the urgent need to address climate-related risks, the centre will support adaptation strategies to enhance the resilience of tourism destinations and communities.
Preserving Social Sustainability and Local Communities: The centre will work to safeguard the cultural heritage and livelihoods of local communities by promoting responsible tourism practices and equitable distribution of benefits.
Enhancing Evidence-Based Policy Making: Through rigorous research and data analysis, the centre will provide policymakers with the evidence needed to formulate effective policies that balance tourism development with environmental and social considerations.
Providing Relevant and Updated Research: The centre will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research and knowledge exchange, delivering timely insights and best practices for the sustainable development of tourism.

In Zagreb, the Minister of Tourism and Sport of Croatia Nikolina Brnjac and UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili signed a Memorandum of Understanding to create the cutting-edge research institution.

Welcoming the collaboration, Secretary-General Pololikashvili said: “Croatia leads by example in growing tourism in a sustainable manner. The new research centre in Zagreb will contribute to UN Tourism’s commitment to data-driven policymaking at the regional, national and destination level, ensuring tourism grows responsibly and inclusively, for the benefit of communities everywhere.”

Minister of Tourism and Sport of Croatia Nikolina Brnjac adds: “I am proud that UN Tourism, the most relevant tourism organization globally, has recognized our efforts in Croatian tourism management reform and our strong commitment to sustainable tourism and put forward the initiative to create the first UN Tourism Centre for sustainable tourism in Croatia together with the Ministry of Tourism and Sport of the Republic of Croatia. With the University of Zagreb as a partner in the establishment of this Centre, I am convinced that this Centre will be successful and provide very relevant research for future sustainable development of tourism.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Harare, Zimbabwe, April 15, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The collaboration between Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG), an African hotel company, and Grand Metropolitan Hotels (GMH), a leading European hotel company, could potentially be transformational for Africa’s hospitality industry. By partnering with Grand Metropolitan Hotels, RTG will leverage their expertise, resources, and international network to expand its operations and capitalise on the projected growth potential in Africa’s hospitality industry.

Africa has been experiencing significant growth in tourism and business travel in recent years, driven by factors such as improved infrastructure, rising middle-class population, and increased connectivity. Africa will be the new growth frontier of global tourism with tourism arrivals expected to reach 134 million in 2030 from the current 22 million – a 6-fold growth. By 2030 Africa will be home to 124,000 hotels from the current 52,000 hotels. This partnership will allow RTG to tap into these opportunities and benefit from Grand Metropolitan Hotels’ experience in operating successful hotels in Europe.

International air connectivity and intra-regional & intra-Africa travel will drive airline volumes growth at an annual rate of 8% between now and 2030 compared to global average of 4½%.

The partnership involves various aspects, which include management contracts in hotels across Africa, sharing of best practices in hotel management, marketing collaboration, cross-promotion of properties as well as the establishment of a hospitality school in collaboration with Swiss Hotel School Lucerne, which is known for its global excellence in hospitality education. By combining their strengths, RTG and Grand Metropolitan Hotels will enhance their competitiveness, attract a broader customer base, and create a unique value proposition in the African hospitality market.

Speaking on the side lines at the launch the Rainbow Tourism Group Chief Executive Mr. Tendai Madziwanyika told journalists that “This partnership with Grand Metropolitan Hotels is a significant milestone. As RTG we intend to leverage the capabilities of world leaders in the industry. This partnership will not only benefit Zimbabwe, but the entire continent as we will impart best practices to our students. We want to raise the standards to world-class international standards”.

“Grand Metropolitan Hotels’ international network and marketing capabilities will support RTG in promoting African countries as attractive tourist and business travel destinations, further driving growth and attracting investment. Through joint marketing efforts and cross-promotion, the partnership will help to showcase African destinations to a global audience” said Mr. Martin Smura the Board Chairman and President for Grand Metropolitan Hotels.

Overall, this partnership between RTG and Grand Metropolitan Hotels is poised to capitalise on the projected growth potential of Africa’s hospitality industry. By leveraging their respective strengths, they will enhance their market presence and offer high-quality hotel experiences to cater to the evolving needs of travelers in the region.

About Grand Metropolitan Hotels
Grand Metropolitan Hotels (GMH) is a distinguished white-label hotel operator, Grand Metropolitan Hotels specializes in delivering bespoke management services tailored to the unique needs of hotel owners and investors. With a solid equity foundation of 200 million EUR, and backed by a broad range of institutional investors and family offices, our company has successfully established a diverse portfolio of over 80 esteemed properties. Leveraging an interdisciplinary approach, our international team of dedicated professionals merge diverse areas of expertise to excel in results-driven, responsible, and agile decision-making. Sustainability and advanced digitalization are intrinsic to GMH operations, enhancing the classic service excellence that distinguish GMH from competitors. GMH has six strategic offices across the Globe, and is focused on consistently exceeding market benchmarks, providing unparalleled support to hotels in their portfolio to achieve remarkable results.

About Rainbow Tourism Group
Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG), is one of the largest tourism companies in Zimbabwe. Listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange, RTG is a dominant player in the tourism and online retail industry. The company has expanded its business scope beyond hotels with the launch of its local tour operations subsidiary Heritage Expeditions Africa and its digital platform; the Gateway Stream Digital Platform; a one-stop online marketplace that offers a diverse range of products, services and experiences. RTG also has a marketing & sales office in Johannesburg South Africa. The Group has six hotels located in Zimbabwe; two are in the capital city Harare, one in Zimbabwe’s mining town – Kadoma, one in the country’s second largest city – Bulawayo and two in the resort town of the world-renowned tourist attraction Victoria Falls. The Group has the largest convention centre in Zimbabwe – Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), which has a seating capacity of 4500. Heritage Expeditions Africa, is the Group’s tour operations arm which provides heritage packages covering adventure, wildlife, historical and cultural experiences in Zimbabwe.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Valetta, Malta, April 12, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / A Youth Summit to create tomorrow’s Climate Friendly Travel leaders through a virtual program of engaging and inspiring sessions, as well as create Climate Friendly Travel Champions.

We would like to invite you to join us at the Strong Earth Youth Summit 2024 happening on 29th April at 14:00 – 15:30 CEST.

Please Register Here: https://seys2024.eventbrite.co.uk

SEYS is an annual tribute to Maurice Strong, climate activist for over 50 years and Secretary General of the first “Earth Summit” in 1972 and second Earth Summit in 1992. The event, organized by SUNx Malta (Strong Universal Network) will highlight the need for a clean and green future for tourism, in line with Maurice’s vision, Paris 1.5, SDG-linked and Nature Positive.

We are excited to offer some exclusive incentives to all attendees:

1. Free Access to our Climate Friendly Travel Course: Kickstart your journey toward sustainability with complimentary access to our online Introductory CFT course. Gain knowledge and practical skills to become a Climate Champion in your community.

2. Complimentary 12-Month Membership to the Climate Friendly Travel Club: As a member of the CFT Club, you’ll gain access to a vibrant community of eco-conscious travellers and exclusive resources to help you plan and enjoy sustainable travel experiences.

3. A free 12-month subscription to ‘Low Season Traveller’, the Travel magazine dedicated to the unique and sustainable travel experiences found across the world during the low season months.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of a global movement for change. Register now for the Strong Earth Youth Summit 2024 and secure your spot.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok, April 11, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / From Mumbai’s streets to the Himalayas, Tapori on Sukhumvit 47 offers a menu that goes beyond clichéd Indian cuisine, showcasing the rich tapestry of the country’s gastronomic heritage. Tapori promises to take diners on an exciting roller coaster ride around India with a menu that showcases flavours from across its length and breadth.

Tapori, Hindi slang for ‘wanderer’ or loveable, street-smart rascal, reflects the journeys of the chef patron, who compiles authentic dishes from across India that are largely undiscovered by Indian and global palates.

India’s vast landscape is matched only by its incredible diversity; 28 states and eight union territories, each region with its own unique culture, language and culinary traditions. Food in India is incredibly diverse and regionally specific and is shaped by a history of invasions, trade connections, and the varied religious and cultural practices of its inhabitants. For far too long, Indian restaurants globally have relied heavily on the Mughal-Punjabi-Frontier recipe book, resulting in a clichéd representation of the multi-hued gastronomic heritage of the country. Tapori plans to change that. So expect the unexpected.

THE FOOD
Tapori’s menu, a mosaic of India’s diverse culinary landscape, is the culmination of extensive travels and research inviting diners to explore the lesser-known treasures of India. Handpicked from every region or community, these traditional recipes tell a story on your plate, each a vibrant expression of the country’s complex flavours and spices. The menu, thoughtfully divided into small and large plates, is designed for communal eating. Diners can order in any combination, creating their own unique experience, much like a family dinner table. There’s no room for typical fare like dal makhani, butter chicken or idli-sambar here; Tapori is designed for adventurers looking to discover an unseen India.

The small plates offer dishes such as Kala Chana Ghugni or flattened rice and black chickpeas from Bihar, Siddu (stuffed dumplings) from Himachal Pradesh, Andhra-style squid, scallop ceviche from Goa, Tabak Maas (lamb chops) from Kashmir, Kheema Ghotala (ground beef in spices) from Mumbai, and Tripura’s pork salad – Wahan Mosdeng. For the larger plates, the menu presents a taste of regional favourites like Natukozhi Pulusu, a rustic chicken dish from Telangana, the tangy Masur Tenga (fish curry) of Assam, the famous Kerala Beef Chilli Fry, Lobster Assad from Pondicherry and Jadoh, a pork-rice dish that’s breakfast to the Khasi tribe in country’s Northeast.

Tapori doesn’t do ‘lazy’ vegetarian either, with protein swapped out for vegetarian alternatives. Instead, it features traditional vegetarian dishes like the Gujarati mixed root vegetable dish, Undhiyu served with fenugreek and millet flatbread, potato and banana blossom Mochar Chop from West Bengal, Gobhi Musallam (grilled cauliflower) from Uttar Pradesh, and the hearty Rajasthani lentil and millet porridge, Bajra Khichda. And this is just the beginning of the food coma tours diners can design for themselves.

Desserts become an alchemist’s playground for Tapori’s pastry chef, such as the Bun-Maska ice cream, a homage to Mumbai’s Irani cafes. These cafes are known for their simple yet iconic bun maska, a buttered bun enjoyed with tea. This ice cream reimagines that experience, offering a delightful mix of creamy sweetness and buttery richness in every bite.

Yet another example is Lonavala Chocolate Fudge, a trip down memory lane to the hill station of Lonavala, famous for its chikki (peanut brittle) and chocolate fudge. At Tapori, it takes the shape of a delightful tart filled with old-fashioned chocolate almond fudge and a side of house-made vanilla ice cream.

THE TEAM
Heading this intriguing narrative is culinary storyteller and chef-owner Rohit Sharma. With a background in hospitality, he has set up over 100 food and beverage projects through his consultancy R4 Hospitality. These include the popular Maroon Room and Freemasons Brew Works in Guwahati (Assam), and his own Joint Café in Gurgaon (Delhi NCR). Rohit conceptualises restaurants end-to-end, overseeing not just the initial concept but also the design and curation of the decor, and of course, the creation of the menus. His projects reflect the vast diversity of Indian cultures and cuisines.

His latest restaurant project, Tapori, is his food dream come to life, a meticulously crafted concept reflecting his deep passion and knowledge of Indian cuisine, embodying a love for tradition and innovation. To develop this concept, research involved traversing India for traditional recipes to create a menu that captures the travels of ‘tapori’ across the country. This fact-finding mission led to a rich database of 300 dishes, with 29 making it to the first iteration of the menu.

“Culinary art is not just about cooking; it’s about telling a story that resonates with the soul,” says Sharma. “At Tapori, we journey across India, reaching out to grandmothers and mothers, the guardians of our kitchen traditions. We explore the tapestry of flavours that define our heritage for a menu that is a tribute to the authentic recipes passed down through generations. Each dish represents one of India’s states or communities and is a chapter in the story of the food culture of India. With every bite, we invite you to discover an India that’s unseen, unexplored, and unforgettable.”

Helping Rohit finalise his dream is Chef Anirban Chowdhury, his Delhi-based R&D chef from R4 Hospitality, as well as pastry chef Swati Harsha, who created the desserts for the menu.

THE DESIGN
The restaurant’s commitment to showcasing India’s diversity and vibrancy extends beyond its food and into its space. The interiors reflect the owner’s vision, seamlessly blending modern elements with traditional Indian accents for an elegant and warm ambiance that feels both intimate and sophisticated.

The interiors, envisioned by the owner, blend modern elements with traditional Indian accents, for an elegant and warm setting that is both intimate and sophisticated. Past the 200-year-old wooden door brought in from Rajasthan that leads to the sprawling bungalow, the decor pays homage to India’s rich artistic heritage, featuring a collection of artwork that draws from the country’s vast cultural traditions. The bold, black and white floor sets a striking foundation, harmonising with the warm tones of woven leather chairs and marble-esque tables that glow invitingly from within. Standing tall are cinnabar columns evoking Indian spices, while a parade of colourful Indian elephants punctuates the aesthetic.

From the geometric patterns of Warli art and the tribal motifs of Bastar to the detailed narratives of Madhubani and the vibrancy of Pichwai art, each storied art form celebrates India’s unique visual language. A towering hand-cut mirror mosaic of a preening peacock and a 32-foot long oil on canvas of the backwaters of Kerala animate the space, bridging the gap between contemporary design and traditional artistry.

Outside, the terrace offers a tranquil dining escape, seamlessly integrating with nature to the backdrop of murals that capture the essence of Indian storytelling through vibrant colours and patterns.

Tapori is more than just a dining destination; it is a journey across India, offering an experiential plunge into the richness of Indian culture and heritage through its flavours and designs.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News