China has eased visa rules for Indian travellers, removing online appointments, exempting biometrics for short stays, reducing fees, and speeding up approvals. As of March 17, 2025, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in India have issued over 50,000 visas, signalling a significant step towards smoother travel between the two nations.
This surge in visa issuance comes alongside a series of new, traveller-friendly measures designed to make exploring China easier than ever.
IndiGo announces the launch of new direct flights connecting Bhubaneswar and Goa, commencing April 1, 2025. This new service offers travellers a seamless and convenient way to explore the diverse cultural and scenic landscapes of both regions, whether seeking spiritual enrichment coastal relaxation or gastronomic delight.
The new flight is designed to cater to the growing demand for air travel in India, while promoting tourism and economic growth. With the commencement of these flights, IndiGo will now operate, over 200 weekly flights from Bhubaneshwar connecting 20 destinations.
Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, expressed enthusiasm for the new route, stating, “At IndiGo, our ongoing endeavour is to enhance connectivity and make air travel more accessible and hassle-free for our customers. The launch of the Bhubaneswar-Goa route offers our travellers a seamless link between two vibrant cities. Whether it’s a spiritual visit to Bhubaneswar’s ancient temples or a relaxing getaway to Goa’s scenic beaches, this direct flight will save time and make travel more convenient & affordable.”
Goa, renowned for its stunning coastline, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese heritage, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From pristine beaches and historic forts to bustling markets and lively shacks, Goa has something for everyone.
Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is a city steeped in history and spirituality. Known as the “Temple City,” Bhubaneswar boasts magnificent ancient temples, showcasing intricate architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city also serves as a gateway to explore Odisha’s diverse landscapes, including serene beaches and wildlife sanctuaries.
(In the image Left to Right): Abhinav Jindal, Director, Jindal Group, Anshul Jindal, Director, Jindal Group, Vinay Kumar Jindal, Chairman, Jindal Group, Vikas Jindal, Managing Director, Jindal Group, Pawan Chahar, General Manager, Jim Corbett Marriott Resort and Spa, Arun Kumar, Market Vice President – North India, Nepal and Bhutan – Marriott International, Vedansh Jindal, Director, Jindal Group)
Marriott Hotels announced the opening of Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, located in the pristine wilderness of Uttarakhand. Set amidst the dense forests of Jim Corbett National Park and on the bank of river Kosi, this retreat is a gateway to nature’s wonders and authentic local experiences. Guests can embark on thrilling jungle safaris, serene nature walks by the river or birdwatching excursions and indulge in the rich flavours of Kumaoni cuisine as they explore the vibrant culture through guided village tours, offering a deep connection to the traditions of the region.
Jim Corbett National Park, rich in flora and fauna, and home to one of the densest tiger populations in India, is a unique and breathtaking wildlife destination. As India’s first national park and the cornerstone of Project Tiger, it plays a crucial role in tiger conservation, offering visitors a rare chance to witness the majestic Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. The thrill of spotting a tiger amidst the wilderness, coupled with the park’s rich biodiversity, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and serenity. Easily accessible by road and well-connected to major cities in North India, Jim Corbett National Park is 145 kms from Bareilly Airport, Uttar Pradesh and 270 kms from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking comfortable yet adventurous stays in the heart of the wild.
“We are thrilled to bring Marriott Hotels to Jim Corbett National Park, a renowned sanctuary of natural beauty and rich biodiversity,” said Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International. “This opening reflects our commitment to expanding in India’s most sought-after travel destinations, providing guests with world-class hospitality in harmony with nature. Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, our 13th hotel under the brand in India, is designed to provide refined accommodations, exceptional service and immersive experiences. We look forward to creating unforgettable stays for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature, whether they are wildlife photographers, nature lovers, or simply seeking an escape from the hustle of city for a weekend.”
Building on the brand’s legacy of exceptional hospitality, the 99 modern, contemporary rooms are well-furnished and offer stunning views of the Malani Range and Kosi River, immersing guests in the raw beauty of Jim Corbett. Private balconies and large windows enhance the experience, whether overlooking the river’s serene flow or the lush, landscaped resort surroundings. Each room features comfortable bedding, technology-enabled work surfaces, and spacious, meticulously appointed bathrooms. Designed to create a seamless fusion of indulgence and convenience, every detail ensures every stay is as enriching as it is rejuvenating.
The resort offers delightful culinary experiences with its eclectic mix of dining spaces. The Corbett Kitchen, a contemporary all-day dining restaurant, features international favorites that highlight the myriad flavors of traditional Kumaoni cuisine. Guests can also dine under the stars with lush forest views at Malani Grill, which includes a menu of artfully reimagined delicacies and skillfully crafted concoctions. The speciality restaurant offers a unique dining experience inspired by the five elements of nature. Overlooking the majestic Malani Range and serene Kosi River, the restaurant blends fresh, locally sourced ingredients with traditional flavors, creating a harmonious culinary journey in the heart of the wilderness.
The Greatroom, which is Marriott Hotels’ take on the traditional lobby space, is the heart and soul of the resort, offering an inviting and sophisticated space for guests to relax and reconnect over artisanal teas and full-bodied coffees as well as an indulgent menu of creatively infused cocktails with seasonal ingredients. Sal Bar is a refined yet cozy indoor and outdoor space where guests can unwind with handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits, and a selection of fine wines. Inspired by the towering Sal trees that dominate the region, the bar is an ode to Indian spirits and blends rustic charm with modern sophistication. Complementing the drinks is a thoughtfully curated menu of gourmet small plates and hearty bar bites, featuring locally inspired flavors and international favorites—perfect for refueling after a thrilling day in the wild.
The resort caters to travelers across age groups, offering a range of activities to indulge in. Guests can enjoy the tranquillity of nature while kids stay engaged at the Kids Club, a nature-inspired playground, and The Jungle, an entertainment zone. Other recreational options include a gaming arcade, a golf simulator, and board games to be enjoyed as a family. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Quan Spa offers six therapy rooms with treatments that embrace the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and contemporary wellness practices. Guests can also indulge in some quiet calm by the poolside while fitness enthusiasts can recharge their body and mind at a fully equipped fitness center.
Adding to the immersive experience, guests can participate in morning yoga sessions, set against the serene backdrop of the Corbett wilderness, offering a perfect start to the day. The resort also hosts interactive cooking classes, where guests can learn the art of crafting regional delicacies, guided by expert chefs—making for a memorable and enriching culinary experience.
With 5068 sq. meters of event spaces, including the largest pillarless ballroom in Jim Corbett and a spacious pre-function area, the resort offers versatile venues with stunning Malani Hills views, perfect for weddings, social gatherings, and corporate retreats. The 2,100 sq. meter central lawn, next to the swimming pool, provides an elegant setting for celebrations and weddings. The 2,400 sq. meter riverside lawn, the largest in Jim Corbett, features a wooden deck with the jungle as backdrop, creating a picture-perfect space for wedding rituals by the Kosi River. For a more intimate setting, Sal Bar’s terrace offers uninterrupted Malani Hills views, making it an ideal spot for cocktail evenings and private gatherings.
“Jim Corbett National Park is a land of adventure, beauty, and rich traditions,” said Pawan Chahar, General Manager of Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa. “We are excited to bring guests closer to nature while offering them the signature Wonderful Hospitality our brand is known for, with the finest comfort and curated experiences. Whether it’s a wildlife safari, a cultural immersion, or a relaxing retreat, our resort is designed to create unforgettable memories.”
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Kingsmen Exhibits have revealed an exciting lineup of programmes for The Dream Sphere, Singapore’s Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. The programme features an assembly of creative talents – from installation artists and performers to visual designers and local brands – that will be showcased at the Pavilion.
“The Dream Sphere embodies the hopes and aspirations that shape Singapore’s future. Drawing inspiration from the Japanese art of origami, we invite Singapore residents to contribute their personal aspirations into our collective story on the global stage,” said Juliana Kua, Assistant Chief Executive, International Group, Singapore Tourism Board.
A taste of Singapore at the Pavilion
Visitors to the Pavilion can look forward to a multi-sensory journey, offering an immersive showcase of Singapore’s rich culinary heritage, distinctive retail offerings, and dynamic performing arts. From a range of exclusive collectibles to world-class gastronomy and live entertainment, the Pavilion is a celebration of SG60 as it tells the story of how Singapore transforms its hopes and dreams into realities, presented through a diverse lineup of experiences that celebrate the flavours, creativity, people and cultural essence of Singapore.
Exhibition Showcase: Four of Singapore’s brightest talents – Ashley Yeo, Jerrold Chong, Melissa Tan and Zul Mahmod, have created immersive spaces that reflect the diverse and future-forward dreams of Singapore. The Singapore Pavilion also showcases the works of local designers, curated in collaboration with the DesignSingapore Council, the national agency that promotes design. These thoughtfully crafted pieces embody our nation’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and resilience, reflecting Singapore’s creative spirit and forward-thinking approach to design.
60 Dreams Collection: In celebration of SG60, 60 ‘dreams’ contributed by diverse communities who call Singapore home, namely, Nature Society Singapore, SG75, SG Enable and The Japanese Association, Singapore, have been printed on the red discs that cover the Dream Sphere’s façade, and are on display within the Pavilion. These diverse voices are testament to Singapore’s efforts in maintaining a multicultural and inclusive society over the last 60 years and beyond.
Dream Boutique: Visitors can bring home a piece of Singapore with exclusive souvenirs and merchandise from local brands such as Onlewo, The Animal Project and more, including limited-edition collectibles featuring Merli, the Pavilion’s official mascot.
Cloud Bar: Offering a taste of the city’s innovation spirit, experience the artistry of Singapore’s cocktail scene with expertly crafted beverages curated from local gins by Brass Lion Distillery, Compendium Spirits and Tanglin Gin.
Shiok! Café: A culinary tribute to Singapore’s renowned hawker culture, Shiok! Café serves up iconic dishes such as Chicken Rice, Satay, and Laksa, inviting visitors to indulge in authentic local flavours. Refer to Annex C.
Dream Rhythms: The Pavilion’s entertainment lineup features an eclectic mix of performances blending traditional and contemporary music, dance, and visual arts. The Pavilion also champions inclusivity by integrating the works of artistes with disabilities into its immersive experiences such as live performances and art installations. Audiences can enjoy performances by local artistes, including 53A, Azariah Tan & Claire Teo, ReDeafination, Shye and The Island Voices.
As part of the Pavilion’s opening weekend in April, The Island Voices will perform a curated set of original and familiar tunes, echoing the Pavilion’s themes of dreams, creativity, and cultural connection. Additional details on artist collaborations, performances, and key experiences can be found in Annex D.
Inviting Singapore Residents to be part of the Pavilion’s journey
To bring the Singapore Pavilion experience closer to home, STB will launch ‘The Dream Messenger’ campaign. In collaboration with the Nippon Origami Association, a specially designed ‘Sunny’ origami has been created. Inspired by the crimson sunbird native to Singapore, this dream messenger invites everyone to share their expressions of hope and dreams for the future.
From 13 April 2025, residents can participate in a four-week campaign by crafting their own ‘Sunny’ origami, sharing a photo of their creation along with their dreams for the future. Participants could win a trip to experience the Singapore Pavilion in Osaka..
Running from 13 April to 13 October 2025, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, is expected to welcome over 28 million visitors, offering Singapore a global platform to showcase its innovation, creativity, and sustainable solutions. Through technology-driven exhibits, cultural showcases, and interactive experiences, the Singapore Pavilion will tell the story of a nation that dares to dream while staying rooted in its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company announced the signing of a resort in Pench, Madhya Pradesh. This greenfield project will be branded a Gateway resort.
Speaking on the occasion, Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate and Development, IHCL stated, “As one of the country’s key national parks, Pench is seeing increasing demand for quality hospitality services. This signing is in line with our strategy of expanding in high-potential tourism corridors. We are delighted to partner with Abhijit Mujumdar for this project.”
Located near the Maharashtra border, the 105-key Gateway Pench is an authentic reflection of its location, embodying the spirit of Pench and offering immersive guest experiences. Spread across over 10 acres, the resort features an array of culinary options including an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a bar, a pool bar and meeting venues. Guests can also unwind at the spa, rejuvenate at the fitness centre and the swimming pool.
Abhijit Mujumdar, Managing Director of Abhijit Realtors and Infraventures Pvt Ltd. said, “We are excited to partner with IHCL for this resort in Pench and look forward to an immersive hospitality experience in the region.”
“This collaboration marks an important milestone for us. The hotel will add to the region’s offerings,” added Sanket Bawankule, Director, Shree Jagdamba Construction Pvt. Ltd.
Located in the Seoni district of Madhya Pradesh, Pench is renowned as the ‘Mowgli Pench Sanctuary’, inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 15 hotels in Madhya Pradesh including 6 under development.
Farnborough Airport announced that it has signed a landmark deal with Hydrogen Refinery for 12.5 million litres or 10,000 tonnes per annum of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) produced locally from waste.
Farnborough Airport is already one of the largest single-site suppliers of SAF to the business aviation community, having sold over 2 million litres of 38% blended SAF since 2021. With the introduction of SAF mandates taking effect at the start of this year, domestic sales of SAF are increasingly being put at risk by the lack of production and investment within the UK.
The UK and the European Union have legislation-backed mandates on both the amount of SAF that must be used from January 2025 and also the way that SAF must be produced in the future. This is to ensure advanced fuels can be developed over time to support the required growth in SAF production without incentivising farmers to switch from growing food to growing SAF feedstocks. SAF today is almost entirely produced from waste cooking oil or HEFA (Hydro processed Esters and Fatty Acids), however Hydrogen Refinery’s ground-breaking technology is able to produce carbon negative SAF from a variety of mixed waste products, sourced locally or from landfill sites.
Simon Geere, CEO at Farnborough Airport, commented: “We are delighted to be forging this ground-breaking alliance with e-fuels developer Hydrogen Refinery. Their patented technology has the potential to provide Farnborough Airport with enough proprietary supplies of SAF for us to become the first and only airport in the world to be offering fuel with a 20% blend across its entire supply by 2028, well ahead of the UK Government’s own target of 10% by 2030. What’s more, this is entirely consistent with our ambitions to be an incubator for the advancement of sustainable technologies, as well as being a vital commercial enabler for kick-starting the domestic refining of SAF, at scale and right here within the UK.
He went on to comment “The transition to new fuelling technologies like this requires markets like ours which are able to sustain the higher upfront investment costs necessary to make things happen. Farnborough Airport is in a unique position to advance this technology given the smaller-modern aircraft which we handle and the significant economic value of the flights we support. As a local company, Hydrogen Refinery exemplify the deep-rooted technological capabilities of the companies which form part of Farnborough Airport’s aeronautical research heritage, and this is a fantastic example of a partnership which will generate significant local inward investment and will reinforce our ambitions to become a Global Sustainability Showcase for Airports around the world.”
This news follows a series of successful milestones in recent years at the Airport. In 2024, Farnborough Airport was awarded Level 4+carbon accreditation status by the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) scheme, one of only five UK airports and the only business aviation airport to achieve such recognition. Also last year, Farnborough Airport completed one of the largest light-weight solar installations in the South East, enabling the Airport to generate 25% of its own power. In 2022, for a two-week trial period in the lead up to the Farnborough International Airshow, Farnborough Airport became the first airport in the world to offer SAF at the same price as standard Jet A1 fuel, after it took a major step in driving the adoption of SAF by offering it to all customers the year prior. Also in 2022, Farnborough Airport made a commitment to be Net Zero by 2030 or sooner for emissions within its control, setting one of the most ambitious targets in the aviation industry.
Stephen Voller, CEO at Hydrogen Refinery, commented: “We live in a throwaway society, and waste such as mixed plastics and municipal solid waste (MSW) continues to rise despite efforts towards recycling. Hydrogen Refinery has a unique process called the plasma electrolyser system (PES) that can process mixed waste, including airline passenger food waste, into SAF. This is not only a low-cost process but is also carbon negative because the waste is processed without the emissions from incineration or landfill. We are excited to be working with Farnborough Airport to make their vision of sustainability a reality”.
Minor Hotels has unveiled its evolution into a guest-facing masterbrand and reinforced its commitment to creating innovative and insightful hospitality experiences that deliver what matters most to its guests.
The brand refresh marks a significant milestone for the global hospitality group as it paves the way to add nearly 300 properties to its portfolio by the end of 2027. It also follows the 2018 acquisition of NH Hotel Group, now operating as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, which tripled the group’s global footprint.
Ian Di Tullio, Chief Commercial Officer of Minor Hotels, commented: “The reimagined Minor Hotels brand represents more than just a new identity. Our value-driven evolution, powered by enhanced digital platforms, a streamlined loyalty program, and a strong distribution strategy, reflects our ambition to deliver extraordinary hospitality experiences to our guests and be the partner of choice for owners and investors. By uniting our brands under the Minor Hotels masterbrand, we’re excited to enter a new era of growth where Minor Hotels will resonate as powerfully with travellers as it already does with our partners.”
The guiding principle behind the brand evolution is to deliver what matters most to guests, team members, investors, owners and partners. Minor Hotels’ new masterbrand strategy brings its eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and travel experience brands together under the Minor Hotels banner, highlighting the group’s offerings and solidifying Minor Hotels’ perception among its stakeholders.
New brand identity
The first thing guests will notice is Minor Hotels’ fresh new look. The arrowhead within the ‘M’ of the Minor Hotels logo represents direction and guidance, pointing the way to discovery, connection and adventure, and reflects Minor’s role in shaping meaningful guest journeys. The visual identity is completed with a refreshed colour palette, signature brand fonts and eye-catching photography. The new brand essence – What Matters Most – and voice will share Minor Hotels’ stories in tune with the needs and desires of today’s consumers, stakeholders and team members.
Guests will interact with the Minor Hotels brand through all consumer touchpoints, starting with digital and mobile platforms and other changes involving marketing and sales channels and at Minor Hotels’ properties. They can also expect to see Minor Hotels more frequently and prominently through multi-brand communications and advertising, utilising the power of its hotel brands to drive awareness of the umbrella brand.
Minor Hotels’ hotel brands, each with a unique character and offering, will retain their brand identity, websites and marketing. They will also benefit from the development of the overarching Minor Hotels brand, done in tandem with the hotel brands. Coinciding with the Minor Hotels rebrand, the group has updated its brand architecture to categorise its hotel brands into three segments – Luxury, Premium and Select – to guide guests’ decisions on selecting the right brand for their travel needs. The group also plans to expand its hotel brand portfolio to fulfil guest and owner needs, with at least two additional brands launching later this year.
Upgraded digital experience
The group has relaunched minorhotels.com as a consumer site, shifting its focus from a corporate and development-centric site. For the first time, guests can book any of Minor Hotels’ over 560 properties on one Minor Hotels website as well as find destination information.
Minor Hotels has also launched a new mobile app, creating a single go-to app for all its brands and moving away from hotel brand-specific apps. Travellers can use the Minor Hotels app to book stays, manage bookings and gather destination information. During their stay, guests can enhance their experience by using the app to interact with hotel team members and request services.
The group will continuously increase functionality and personalisation on minorhotels.com and the Minor Hotels app, including integration of the group’s restaurants and spa and wellness offerings, drawing from user preferences and incorporating guest feedback.
Simplified loyalty programme under Minor DISCOVERY
Minor Hotels will continue to recognise its guests through the Global Hotel Alliance’s (GHA) loyalty programme, GHA DISCOVERY, under a new name: Minor DISCOVERY. Minor DISCOVERY will replace hotel brand-specific monikers – Anantara DISCOVERY, Avani DISCOVERY, NH DISCOVERY, Oaks DISCOVERY, Elewana DISCOVERY, Tivoli DISCOVERY – to streamline member access to one of the most transparent and rewarding hotel loyalty programmes. Rewards and benefits for members of Minor DISCOVERY are unchanged, including earning 4-7% back in DISCOVERY DOLLARS (D$1=US$1), exclusive member rates, live local offers, and elite perks all conveniently accessible within the app.
To mark the new programme’s launch, new Minor DISCOVERY members can unlock $100 in DISCOVERY DOLLARS by completing two stays at Minor Hotels properties.
Refreshed B2B customer proposition
Businesses, professionals, event planners and travel agents will have a dedicated space in the newly created Minor PRO. The programme encompasses all the products, services and communications for B2B audiences, including existing programmes under hotel brand-specific names, such as NH PRO, Anantara Journeys and Oaks Professionals. Minor PRO will offer its professional customers solutions that meet their needs.
Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, added: “The Minor Hotels rebrand is a natural progression for us, building on a success story spanning more than five decades. It isn’t just about driving revenue and profitability; it’s also about harnessing the strength of our diversity, our knowledge and team members to achieve long-term sustainable growth and invest in the guest experience. Unifying all our hotel brands and travel experiences under the Minor Hotels umbrella will help us strengthen our positioning in the hospitality industry and help us deliver on our growth ambitions.”
AIME 2025 is a testament to the enduring value of face-to-face connection and the power of shared experiences. It requires commitment, perseverance and resilience to organise an event of this scale. Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of our various stakeholders – from exhibitors and buyers to attendees and sponsors. Cadre feels that it was the incredible passion and dedication of the AIME team that kept her motivated.
In an interview with TDM, Silke Calder, Event Director, Talk2 Media & Events shares more about making AIME 2025 a success.
Travel Daily Media (TDM): What are the five things that can help curate the perfect event? What is closest to your heart as far as AIME 2025 is concerned?
Silke Calder (SC): For AIME 2025, witnessing the power of human connection is important. Seeing industry professionals come together, forge new relationships, and reignite their passion for the business events industry is incredibly rewarding. AIME 2025 is a testament to the enduring value of face-to-face connection and the power of shared experiences. was the incredible passion and dedication of the AIME team
The perfect event?
Understanding your audience
Crafting a compelling narrative
Curating meaningful experiences
Embracing technology strategically
Provide opportunities for professional and personal development
Generating an amazing outcome for our exhibitors and visitors
Continual improvement with our event sustainability efforts
TDM: What were the main challenges of developing and putting together AIME 2025? What kept you and your team motivated?
Silke Calder (SC): AIME 2025, like any large-scale event, presented its share of challenges. One of the key hurdles was navigating the evolving landscape of the business events industry. We had to ensure AIME remained relevant and cutting-edge, reflecting the latest trends and technologies, while also maintaining its core value proposition as a platform for connection and business generation. Another challenge was managing the diverse needs and expectations of our various stakeholders – from exhibitors and buyers to attendees and sponsors. Balancing these competing priorities required careful planning, communication, and a degree of flexibility.
What kept us motivated, however, was the incredible passion and dedication of the AIME team. We are driven by a shared vision to create an exceptional event experience that delivers real value to the industry. Seeing the positive impact of AIME – the connections made, the deals closed, and the knowledge shared – is immensely rewarding and fuels our commitment to making each year even better than the last. The support and enthusiasm from our partners and the broader industry also plays a huge role in keeping us going, especially when the going gets tough.
TDM: Can you tell us about your team and what main role they played?
Silke Calder (SC): The AIME team is a group of talented and dedicated professionals who bring a diverse range of skills and experience to the table. They are the heart and soul of this event. I’m incredibly proud to work alongside such a passionate and collaborative team. While everyone contributes across the board, we do have some key areas of focus.
We have a dedicated sales team responsible for securing exhibitors and sponsors, ensuring we have a vibrant and diverse show floor. Our marketing and communications team works tirelessly to promote AIME and engage with our audience, both domestically and internationally. The operations team is the backbone of the event, managing everything from logistics and venue coordination to attendee registration and on-site support. Our dedicated hosted buyer team focuses on bringing the best possible buyer audience to AIME each year. We also make use of our partners like BEAMexperience who we work with to curate our educational sessions and ensure we’re delivering valuable insights and thought leadership to our attendees. And of course, my role as Event Director is to provide strategic direction, oversee all aspects of the event, and ensure we achieve our goals. It’s a true team effort, and each member plays a crucial role in AIME’s success.
TDM: How is the exhibitions and conventions space developing in Australia, especially Melbourne?
Silke Calder (SC): The exhibitions and conventions space in Australia, and particularly in Melbourne (the home of AIME), is dynamic and evolving. We’re seeing a growing demand for high-quality events that offer unique and more bespoke experiences and deliver tangible business outcomes.
Melbourne, with its world-class infrastructure, vibrant culture, and strong business community, is a leading hub for business events in the Asia-Pacific region. We’re witnessing increased investment in new venues and technologies, which is enhancing the overall event experience. There’s also a greater focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with event organisers increasingly prioritising environmentally friendly practices and community engagement. The industry is also becoming more data-driven, with organisers leveraging data analytics and AI to better understand attendee needs and personalise the right event experience.
TDM: What are your future plans for AIME?
Silke Calder (SC): Our future plans for AIME are focused on continuous improvement and innovation. We want to ensure AIME remains the leading platform for the business events industry in the Asia-Pacific region. We’re constantly exploring new ways to enhance the event experience, whether it’s through incorporating new technologies, expanding our educational program, or creating more opportunities for networking and business generation. Ultimately, our goal is to make AIME an indispensable event for anyone involved in the business events industry in Asia Pacific.
TDM: What advice would you give any youngsters wanting to follow in your footsteps and join the events and exhibition industry?
Silke Calder (SC): My advice is to be passionate, curious, and adaptable. This industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to be willing to learn and embrace new challenges. Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills, as building relationships is crucial in this business.
Gaining experience through mentorship initiatives like our Accelerate Program (AIME Rockets) and Next Steps Program is pivotal. Networking is also essential, so attend industry events and connect with experienced professionals as much as possible. And most importantly, be prepared to work hard. The events and exhibition business can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. If you have a passion for creating memorable experiences and connecting people, then this could be the perfect career for you.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officially launched the Amazing Thailand Health and Beauty initiative.
The initiative aims to expand Thailand’s presence in the ASEAN health and beauty tourism market, drive demand among health-conscious travellers, and increase awareness of Thailand’s high-quality healthcare and beauty services.
It should also be noted that the Amazing Thailand Health & Beauty initiative aligns with insights from the 2024 International Tourist Behaviour Analysis Report, which found that 1.48 percent of international travellers visit Thailand for medical, health, and wellness services, staying an average of 10 days and spending 100,259 Baht per visitor.
Among ASEAN, South Asia, and the South Pacific regions, 2.17 percent of travellers visit Thailand for wellness tourism, with Cambodia and Myanmar among the top markets.
Three days of wellness
This new project was launched through a three-day consumer fair in Cambodia that ran from 21st to 23rd March.
The Amazing Thailand Health and Beauty Consumer Fair held at Lively Plaza Event Area, AEON Mall I, Phnom Penh featured 14 leading Thai health and wellness providers.
Visitors were invited to explore top-tier medical, wellness, and beauty services, taking part in interactive activities, including a chance to win exclusive Amazing Thailand souvenirs, such as elephant pouches, luggage straps, diving bags, and backpacks.
The fair was graced by Thai ambassador to Cambodia Tull Traisorat who presided over the opening ceremony.
This event reinforced Thailand’s position as a leading health and wellness tourism hub in ASEAN while marking 75 years of diplomatic relations with Cambodia.
Cambodia and Thailand exclusives
As part of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, under the Grand Privilege campaign, one of the year’s five Grand Concepts, TAT partnered with VISA to offer exclusive benefits to Cambodian VISA cardholders, enhancing access to Thailand’s premium health and beauty services.
In addition to in-person promotions, ASEAN VISA cardholders can access exclusive health and wellness travel deals through the official Thai VISA site from 1st April to 15th June, offering special discounts on medical treatments, spa services, and wellness retreats across Thailand.
TAT deputy executive director for ASEAN, South Asia, and the South Pacific Phimpha Rattanapruk stated: “Health and wellbeing are top priorities, and Thailand is ready to welcome Cambodian and ASEAN visitors with exclusive privileges and world-class wellness experiences. Through this initiative and our Grand Privilege campaign, we invite travellers to discover Thailand’s premier health and beauty services while strengthening regional tourism and cultural exchange.”
A dual approach
The broader Amazing Thailand Health & Beauty initiative follows a two-pronged strategy.
The first involves direct consumer engagement, offering visitors firsthand access to Thailand’s premium medical, wellness, and beauty services.
The second leverages strategic partnerships across ASEAN, extending promotions and exclusive travel packages through industry networks.
TAT expects the initiative to attract at least 600 direct buyers, engage over 600,000 consumers, and secure participation from at least 15 key industry partners across ASEAN, including leading health and wellness providers, financial institutions, and travel service operators.
By fostering cross-industry collaboration, the initiative aims to enhance the accessibility and appeal of Thailand’s health and beauty tourism offerings, driving greater regional engagement and long-term sector growth.
The decommissioned Philippine Navy vessel BRP Rizal (PS-74) is slated to become the newest tourist attraction in the Southern Philippines.
Dinagat Islands governor Nilo Demerey Jnr announced on Monday, 24th March, that he formally received approval for the vessel’s transfer.
Originally lodged in October 2022, Demerey’s request to acquire the BRP Rizal was finally cleared by the US State Department as the vessel was built in the United States.
Demerey said: “We’re scheduled to meet Philippine Navy officials this week to process the transfer documents.”
A storied vessel
Originally named the USS Murrelet (AM-372), the vessel was built during the Second and will find a new life as a floating museum, hotel, and educational facility for both local and foreign tourists.
The Auk-class minesweeper served in the Korean War before being transferred to the Philippines in 1965 under US military assistance.
It was decommissioned in January 2020.
According to Demerey: “The people of Dinagat are grateful to both US and Philippine administrations for this approval.”
