Rú Chá Mangrove Forest: Discover the Golden Autumn Colours of Hue, Vietnam

Rú Chá, a beautiful mangrove forest

Many visitors associate Hue, Vietnam, with its imperial heritage, historic temples, royal tombs and the gentle waters of the Perfume River. Yet around September and October, another remarkable natural attraction reveals a different side of the former imperial capital. Rú Chá, a beautiful mangrove forest beside the Tam Giang lagoon system, transforms into a golden autumn landscape filled with flowering trees and tranquil waterways.

Located approximately 15 kilometres from central Hue, Rú Chá is an appealing destination for nature lovers, photographers and travellers seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

The Story Behind the Name Rú Chá

The name Rú Chá reflects the forest's distinctive natural environment. In the local dialect, rú means forest or mountain, while chá refers to a type of tree that thrives in brackish water.

These trees dominate the landscape, accounting for approximately 90 per cent of the forest's vegetation. Their extensive roots grip the muddy ground, helping protect the shoreline and providing an important natural habitat within the Tam Giang lagoon ecosystem.

Rú Chá is not simply a scenic woodland. It is an important coastal mangrove environment that supports biodiversity and helps protect the surrounding land from erosion.

Hue's Extraordinary Golden Autumn Landscape

Rú Chá, a beautiful mangrove forest

September and October bring a particularly beautiful transformation to Rú Chá. While some visitors might assume the autumn colours are caused entirely by changing leaves, much of the forest's golden appearance comes from the flowering of the chá trees.

During this seasonal period, thousands of trees produce clusters of small, bright yellow flowers. Their golden blooms contrast beautifully with the deep green foliage and the occasional red-orange leaves of trees beginning to shed.

From an elevated viewpoint, the forest presents a spectacular natural pattern. Narrow waterways wind through the dense vegetation, while the golden flowering canopy creates a striking contrast against the blue waters of the surrounding lagoon.

For photographers, this seasonal display provides wonderful opportunities to capture a lesser-known landscape of central Vietnam.

Sunrise and Sunset on the Tam Giang Lagoon

Tam Giang Lagoon

Rú Chá is particularly enchanting at sunrise and sunset, when the changing light transforms the forest and surrounding waterways.

Early in the morning, mist often hangs above the calm water, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The slender mangrove trees are reflected on the lagoon's surface, while the first rays of sunlight gradually illuminate the forest. 

Sunrise and Sunset on the Tam Giang Lagoon

As evening approaches, the setting sun casts warm golden light across the water and flowering canopy. The combination of golden blossoms, reflections and quiet waterways creates a memorable landscape for visitors wishing to experience Hue beyond its traditional sightseeing attractions.

These quieter hours are also ideal for photography, nature observation and simply enjoying the tranquillity of the lagoon.

Discover a Different Side of Hue

At approximately 15 kilometres from Hue city centre, Rú Chá makes an interesting addition to a sightseeing itinerary.

Visitors can explore the mangrove environment, enjoy the seasonal flowers, photograph the winding waterways and appreciate the natural beauty of the Tam Giang lagoon system.

A visit can also be combined with other attractions around Hue, including its historic imperial sites and traditional cultural experiences.

The best time to plan a visit for the golden flowering landscape is generally September and October, although seasonal conditions and flowering times can vary.

An Autumn Experience to Remember

Rú Chá, a beautiful mangrove forest

Rú Chá challenges the idea that Hue is only a destination of hot summers and rainy seasons. Its seasonal transformation reveals a beautiful natural attraction that deserves a place on the travel itinerary of anyone visiting central Vietnam.

Whether arriving at sunrise to watch the mist lift from the water or visiting in the late afternoon to photograph the golden flowers, travellers will discover a quieter, more natural side of Hue.

For those seeking autumn scenery, photography opportunities and an authentic connection with Vietnam's coastal environment, Rú Chá Mangrove Forest is a memorable discovery.

Hue Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Website: https://visithue.vn/
Official government website: https://svhttdl.hue.gov.vn/
Email: svhttdl@hue.gov.vn
Telephone: +84 234 382 3024
Address: 8 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City, Vietnam

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Win a Taste of South Africa: South African Airways Celebrates African Connections in Australia

South African Airways

South Africa is a country renowned for its vibrant culture, welcoming people, spectacular landscapes and unforgettable food. From traditional South African recipes and delicious local specialities to the country's rich cultural heritage, there are plenty of reasons why Australians have a special connection with this fascinating part of the world.

South African Airways is celebrating those connections through its Win a Taste of South Africa competition, inviting Australians to share their personal stories for the chance to win a Southern African-inspired hamper filled with South African goodies.

The competition provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the links between Australia and South Africa while sharing stories of family, friendship, travel and cultural connections.

Celebrate Your Connection to South Africa

The competition celebrates the connections between Australia and Africa, recognising the many Australians who have family heritage, friendships, travel experiences or personal interests linking them to the African continent.

Whether you were born in South Africa, have relatives or friends living there, have travelled through its remarkable destinations or simply appreciate African culture, South African Airways wants to hear your story.

It is an opportunity to share what makes South Africa meaningful to you and celebrate the cultural connections that bring people together across countries and generations.

Win a Southern African-Inspired Hamper

South African Airways

One lucky winner will receive a special hamper featuring a selection of South African-inspired goodies.

South African food is an important part of the country's identity, reflecting a fascinating blend of African, European and Asian influences. Its culinary traditions include distinctive spices, flavours and recipes that have developed through generations of cultural exchange.

From traditional treats and savoury favourites to popular South African delicacies, a taste-inspired hamper offers an enjoyable way to discover more about the country's food culture without leaving Australia.

For South Africans living in Australia, it may bring back memories of home, while for others it could provide an introduction to some of the flavours associated with this remarkable destination.

South Africa: A Country Worth Celebrating

South Africa offers travellers an extraordinary diversity of experiences. Cape Town is famous for Table Mountain, its beautiful coastline and vibrant waterfront. Johannesburg provides an insight into the country's history, contemporary culture and urban energy, while the country's celebrated wine regions, wildlife reserves and scenic Garden Route attract visitors from around the world.

Its cultural diversity is reflected in its languages, music, art, hospitality and food. These connections also extend to Australia, where communities with African backgrounds contribute to the country's multicultural character.

Through this competition, South African Airways is encouraging Australians to celebrate their connections with South Africa and recognise the country's enduring appeal as a travel destination.

How to Enter the Competition

South African Airways

Entering is an opportunity to tell South African Airways about your connection to South Africa or the wider African continent.

Whether your connection comes through family, friendships, travel, heritage or an appreciation of African culture, share your story through the official competition entry page.

One lucky winner will receive the Southern African-inspired hamper.

Enter here: https://hello.walshegroup.com/

Take this opportunity to celebrate your African connection and perhaps enjoy a little taste of South Africa at home in Australia.

South African Airways

Website: https://www.flysaa.com/
Competition entry: https://hello.walshegroup.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Central Coast Australia Wins International Ecotourism Recognition for Sixth Consecutive Year

Central Coast 

The Central Coast of New South Wales has strengthened its reputation as one of Australia's leading sustainable tourism destinations, earning a place on the prestigious Green Destinations Top 100 Stories List 2026 for the sixth consecutive year.

Adding to the achievement, the Central Coast is the only Australian destination recognised on the 2026 international list, highlighting its commitment to responsible tourism, environmental protection and innovative visitor experiences.

The recognition celebrates the region's latest sustainability initiative, titled ‘Guardians of the Ocean: Rallying Resilient Oyster Tourism’, which demonstrates how local oyster farmers and tourism operators are working together to protect the marine environment while creating memorable experiences for visitors.

Central Coast Recognised Among the World's Sustainable Tourism Destinations

The Green Destinations Top 100 Stories List showcases destinations around the world that are making meaningful contributions to sustainable tourism through innovative projects, environmental initiatives and responsible destination management.

The Central Coast was recognised in the Visitor Experience and Destination Management category, reflecting its successful collaboration between local businesses, tourism operators, oyster farmers and the community.

The region has participated in the international program for six consecutive years through Central Coast Council's partnership with Ecotourism Australia.

Central Coast Mayor John McNamara said the achievement demonstrated the region's leadership in sustainable destination management.

The Central Coast attracts approximately 5.9 million visitors annually, contributing around $2 billion to the local economy.

Oyster Tourism Creates Unique Experiences on the Hawkesbury River

Central Coast 

At the centre of the award-winning initiative is the region's thriving oyster industry, particularly around Mooney Mooney and the beautiful waterways of the Hawkesbury River.

Local oyster producers are working alongside tourism businesses to develop distinctive visitor experiences that introduce travellers to oyster farming, local seafood production and the importance of protecting coastal ecosystems.

The project involves Broken Bay Pearl Farm, Sydney Oyster Farm Tours and Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed.

These businesses are helping visitors discover the journey from oyster cultivation to the dining table while experiencing the natural beauty of the surrounding waterways.

The initiative demonstrates how sustainable tourism can support local producers, strengthen regional businesses and encourage visitors to appreciate the importance of healthy marine environments.

Discover the Central Coast's Oyster Industry

The Central Coast is part of a wider New South Wales oyster industry encompassing approximately 230 farms across 30 estuaries.

Oyster farmers produce several varieties, including Sydney Rock, Pacific, Angasi and Akoya oysters, supporting employment across farming, processing, retail and tourism.

For travellers, oyster tourism offers an opportunity to enjoy authentic regional experiences, discover local food traditions and learn about the people whose livelihoods depend on maintaining healthy waterways.

With growing interest in food tourism and nature-based holidays, the region's oyster experiences provide another reason to explore the Central Coast.

Visitors can combine oyster experiences with coastal sightseeing, waterfront dining, boating, beaches and exploring the region's picturesque towns and villages.

Sustainable Tourism Secures the Central Coast's Future

Central Coast 

The Central Coast Destination Management Plan 2026–2029 identifies oyster tourism as an emerging strength and highlights opportunities to develop sustainable food and nature-based experiences.

The international recognition reinforces the importance of partnerships between local government, tourism operators, producers and the wider community in building a resilient visitor economy.

The Green Destinations Top 100 Stories List 2026 was officially unveiled at the Green Destinations Global Conference in Kranj, Slovenia.

As a finalist, the Central Coast may also be eligible for further recognition at ITB Berlin 2027, one of the world's leading international travel trade exhibitions.

For Australian and international travellers seeking authentic experiences, beautiful waterways, regional food and environmentally responsible tourism, the Central Coast continues to offer compelling reasons to visit.

Its sixth consecutive appearance on the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories List confirms that sustainable tourism and memorable visitor experiences can successfully work together.

Visitor Information and Contacts

Love Central Coast

Discover local oyster experiences, regional attractions, accommodation and visitor information.
Website: https://www.lovecentralcoast.com/
Local Oyster Guide: Search for Local Oyster Guide on the Love Central Coast website.

Central Coast Council

Website: https://www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/
Address: 2 Hely Street, Wyong, NSW, Australia.
Phone: (02) 4306 7900.

Green Destinations

Website: https://www.greendestinations.org/
Top 100 Stories information: https://www.greendestinations.org/

Ecotourism Australia

Website: https://www.ecotourism.org.au/

Broken Bay Pearl Farm

Website: https://brokenbaypearlfarm.com.au/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Millennium Hotels and Resorts: Discover Exceptional Hotels and World-Class Business Events Across New Zealand

Millennium Hotel Queenstown

From luxury city hotels and stylish waterfront accommodation to impressive conference venues and memorable incentive destinations, Millennium Hotels and Resorts brings together international hospitality expertise and local knowledge to create outstanding travel and business events experiences.

With a globally recognised portfolio spanning more than 130 properties across four continents and 80 destinations, Millennium Hotels and Resorts is an established name in international hospitality. Its extensive New Zealand collection offers travellers and event organisers an impressive choice of accommodation, meeting facilities and destinations throughout the country.

The group was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, organised by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), highlighting its extensive accommodation and conference offering to New Zealand's business events industry.

A World of Hospitality and Accommodation Choices

Millennium Hotels and Resorts combines global experience with the individual character of its destinations. Its diverse collection includes premium conference hotels, luxury properties, lifestyle accommodation and regional hotels.

In New Zealand, the portfolio includes well-known brands such as Grand Millennium, Millennium, M Social, Copthorne, Kingsgate, The Mayfair and Leng's Collection.

With 18 hotels across the country, guests can discover accommodation in destinations ranging from Auckland and Wellington to Rotorua, Queenstown, Dunedin and the Bay of Islands.

Whether travelling for business, planning a family holiday, enjoying a weekend escape or organising an extended stay, the group's hotels offer different styles of accommodation to suit a wide range of visitors.

Outstanding Conference and Meeting Venues

Millennium Hotel Queenstown 

Millennium Hotels and Resorts has developed a strong reputation as a partner for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, incentive programmes and corporate functions.

Its New Zealand venues offer flexible meeting spaces, contemporary audiovisual technology, professional event teams and accommodation options for delegates.

Organisers can choose from intimate executive boardrooms, training facilities, conference rooms, exhibition spaces and impressive ballrooms.

One standout destination is Grand Millennium Auckland, located in the heart of Auckland's central business district. The hotel offers 15 flexible event spaces, more than 1,500 square metres of dedicated event space and capacity for events of up to 1,000 guests.

For waterfront events, M Social Auckland offers a contemporary lifestyle setting beside the vibrant Viaduct Harbour, with stylish meeting spaces and impressive harbour views.

Across the country, the group's hotels provide opportunities to combine business programmes with the attractions, dining and natural beauty of their surrounding destinations.

Creating Memorable Business Events Experiences

Millennium Hotels and Resorts believes successful business events should deliver more than a meeting room and accommodation.

Its dedicated event specialists work with organisers to develop tailored proposals, coordinate facilities and catering, and manage the details required for successful events.

From national conferences and multi-day conventions to incentive travel, gala dinners, product launches and executive retreats, the group offers flexible solutions designed around individual event objectives.

Sustainability is also an important part of its hospitality approach. Millennium and Copthorne Hotels New Zealand holds Toitū Carbon Reduce certification, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to measuring and reducing its environmental impact.

MEETINGS 2026 Highlights New Zealand's Business Events Opportunities

Grand Millennium Auckland

As one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, Millennium Hotels and Resorts connected with conference planners, corporate buyers, professional event organisers and incentive travel specialists.

The exhibition provided an opportunity to showcase its nationwide hotel network and demonstrate how its properties can support business events of different sizes and requirements.

For international conference organisers considering New Zealand, the combination of destination variety, accommodation choice and experienced event professionals makes Millennium Hotels and Resorts a valuable hospitality partner.

Discover Millennium Hotels and Resorts

Whether planning a New Zealand holiday, a corporate conference, an incentive programme or an international business gathering, Millennium Hotels and Resorts offers a diverse collection of destinations and event facilities.

Combining international hospitality standards with local expertise, the group continues to create opportunities for travellers and organisations to connect, explore and enjoy memorable experiences.

Millennium Hotels and Resorts

New Zealand Contact Person: Kyle Habershon
New Zealand Office: Level 7, 23 Customs Street East, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.
Telephone: 0800 4 633 846 (New Zealand conference and events enquiries)
International telephone: +64 3 367 3301
General Auckland office: +64 9 353 5010
Email: meetings@millenniumhotels.co.nz
Website: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/
New Zealand meetings and events: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/meetings-events/new-zealand/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MCHNZ

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/ .

Four Seasons Unveils Spectacular 2028 Private Jet Journey: Coastlines and Culture Around the World

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake

Luxury travel is reaching extraordinary new heights with the announcement of the Four Seasons 2028 Private Jet Experience, Coastlines and Culture. This exclusive 23-day around-the-world adventure promises an exceptional combination of breathtaking coastlines, fascinating cultural discoveries, remarkable destinations and world-class hospitality.

Departing on 6 May and concluding on 26 May 2028, the extraordinary journey will take guests across Asia, Africa and Europe, connecting some of the world's most captivating destinations aboard a luxurious private aircraft.

With prices starting from USD 238,000 per person, this remarkable luxury travel experience offers discerning travellers an opportunity to explore the world in exceptional comfort while enjoying exclusive experiences unavailable on conventional holidays.

A New Era of Luxury Private Jet Travel

Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco

The Coastlines and Culture itinerary introduces several exciting destinations and celebrated Four Seasons properties to the brand's Private Jet Experience for the first time.

These include Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco, Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire and the forthcoming Four Seasons Resort Zanzibar.

According to Marc Speichert, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Four Seasons, the itinerary has been carefully designed to bring together destinations that are rarely experienced within a single journey, creating memorable encounters through culture, discovery and personalised service.

From Asian Traditions to the Beauty of Sri Lanka

Asian Elephants in Sri Lanka

The adventure begins in San Francisco before crossing the Pacific to Seoul, South Korea. Guests will discover the country's spiritual heritage through an immersive visit to Jingwansa Temple.

In Hangzhou, China, the experience becomes a celebration of traditional culture, with private encounters with tea masters at Meijiawu Tea Plantation and a visit to the centuries-old Jinshan Temple. A special excursion to Shanghai provides further insight into the city's fascinating history and contemporary lifestyle.

Sri Lanka brings another dimension to the journey, with ancient kingdoms, spectacular scenery and traditional industries taking centre stage. Guests will visit a private cinnamon estate to discover the production of Ceylon cinnamon, from harvesting to the creation of cinnamon quills and oil.

Zanzibar and Sharm El Sheikh: Coastal Wonders

Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt

The journey continues to Zanzibar, where Swahili culture, historic traditions and the island's famous spice heritage provide an unforgettable introduction to East Africa.

Guests will stay at the highly anticipated Four Seasons Resort Zanzibar, offering a luxurious base from which to appreciate the island's distinctive character.

Next comes Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, where the dramatic Sinai desert meets the spectacular waters of the Red Sea. Guests can discover the region's remarkable marine environment and enjoy a private yacht charter along its beautiful coastline.

The French Riviera and English Countryside

Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire

Europe provides a glamorous final chapter to this international adventure.

At Cap-Ferrat, guests will stay at the legendary Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, one of the French Riviera's most celebrated luxury properties.

A privately chartered yacht excursion to Cannes offers an opportunity to experience the Mediterranean coastline in style.

The final destination is Hampshire, England, where countryside elegance and British royal heritage await. An exclusive visit to Hampton Court Palace provides a fascinating insight into Britain's royal history.

Exceptional Service Throughout the Journey

West Lake (Xi Lake) in Hangzhou

An important feature of the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience is its dedicated Journey Team, comprising a Concierge, Executive Chef and Journey Physician.

Travellers enjoy personalised assistance and attentive care throughout the adventure, with carefully coordinated private flights, accommodation and destination experiences.

The custom-configured Airbus A321neo-LR accommodates just 48 travellers, providing a spacious and exclusive environment for discovering the world.

Four Seasons Private Jet Adventures for 2027

For travellers who would prefer to explore sooner, limited availability remains on selected 2027 itineraries:

• International Intrigue: 3–23 March 2027.
• New World Icons: 26 March–14 April 2027.
• World of Adventures: 10 August–2 September 2027, welcoming families.
• Ancient Explorer: 3–25 September 2027.

Each itinerary offers a distinctive combination of cultural encounters, natural wonders and exceptional accommodation.

Start Planning an Extraordinary Journey

Four Seasons Private Jet Experience

The Four Seasons Coastlines and Culture Private Jet Experience represents a remarkable opportunity for luxury travellers seeking something beyond an ordinary holiday.

From Asian temples and Sri Lankan cinnamon estates to Zanzibar's cultural heritage, Egypt's Red Sea and the glamour of the French Riviera, this 23-day adventure promises an unforgettable journey across some of the world's most fascinating destinations.

For travellers dreaming of an extraordinary international escape in 2028, this is an opportunity to experience the world through the distinctive hospitality and service of Four Seasons.

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/
Private Jet Experience: https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/
Head Office: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, 1165 Leslie Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M3C 2K8.
Private Jet operator: TCS World Travel Website: https://www.tcsworldtravel.com/
Journey dates: 6–26 May 2028.
Starting price: USD 238,000 per person.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Discover Kyoto Through Pictures: A Beautiful Exhibition Celebrating the Timeless Charm of Japan

Discover and Enjoy Kyoto Even

More Through Pictures

Kyoto is a city that captures the imagination, where ancient temples, traditional gardens, historic streets and timeless Japanese culture create an unforgettable travel experience. For visitors who love discovering the beauty and history of Japan, an upcoming cultural attraction offers another wonderful reason to explore this remarkable destination.

The exhibition, Discover and Enjoy Kyoto Even More Through Pictures, invites visitors to appreciate Kyoto from a fresh perspective through the power of photography and visual storytelling.

Presented at the Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture, this special exhibition provides an opportunity to discover more about the city's distinctive character, celebrated landmarks and cultural treasures.

Running until 28 February 2026, the exhibition is an appealing addition to a Kyoto sightseeing itinerary for travellers interested in Japanese art, photography and heritage.

Discover the Beauty of Kyoto Through Pictures

Kyoto is renowned for its extraordinary combination of traditional Japanese architecture, natural scenery and cultural traditions. From the graceful wooden buildings of historic districts to peaceful temples surrounded by seasonal gardens, the city offers endless inspiration for photographers and visitors.

The exhibition's theme encourages guests to look beyond the familiar tourist attractions and appreciate the many details that make Kyoto such a special destination.

Pictures provide a wonderful way to explore a city's atmosphere, capturing moments, landscapes and architectural details that can sometimes be overlooked during a busy sightseeing holiday.

For international visitors, the exhibition also offers an opportunity to develop a deeper appreciation of Kyoto's cultural identity and the experiences that make the former imperial capital one of Japan's most treasured destinations.

Visit the Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture

Discover and Enjoy Kyoto Even More Through Pictures  

The exhibition takes place at the Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture, situated in the beautiful Arashiyama area of western Kyoto.

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most popular sightseeing districts, attracting visitors with its scenic natural surroundings, historic attractions and traditional Japanese atmosphere.

The area is particularly famous for its beautiful bamboo grove, the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy riverside walks, explore traditional streets, visit temples and experience local Japanese cuisine.

Combining a museum visit with sightseeing around Arashiyama makes for a rewarding cultural day out.

Make More of Your Kyoto Holiday

Kyoto offers an exceptional range of attractions for travellers seeking Japanese history, art, architecture and traditional experiences.

Visitors can explore the city's magnificent temples and shrines, discover beautifully maintained Japanese gardens, enjoy traditional tea culture and wander through historic neighbourhoods.

The Arashiyama district is particularly appealing during the changing seasons, when spring blossoms and autumn foliage transform the surrounding scenery.

A visit to the Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture provides another reason to include this fascinating district on a Kyoto travel itinerary.

Whether visiting Kyoto for the first time or returning to discover more of its hidden treasures, cultural exhibitions such as Discover and Enjoy Kyoto Even More Through Pictures offer an enjoyable way to connect with the city's artistic and cultural heritage.

Discover and Enjoy Kyoto Even More Through Pictures

Discover and Enjoy Kyoto Even More Through Pictures

Venue: Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture
Location: Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan.
Closing date: 28 February 2026.

Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture

Website: https://www.sagano.or.jp/
Address: Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture, Saga-Tenryuji, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Greater Mekong Tourism Partnerships Build Skills for a Stronger and More Sustainable Travel Industry

Tourism partnerships across the Greater Mekong Subregion are helping strengthen the skills, knowledge and professional capabilities needed to develop a more competitive and sustainable travel industry. Through collaboration between tourism authorities, international organisations, universities and private-sector businesses, initiatives are providing practical training in digital marketing, online accommodation management, sustainable hospitality and customer service.

Spanning Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam, the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) is an important tourism destination offering extraordinary cultural heritage, historic cities, spectacular landscapes, diverse cuisines and unique travel experiences.

The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), together with Agoda, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), educational institutions and national tourism authorities, is helping local tourism businesses and industry professionals prepare for the changing demands of international travel.

Digital Training Helps Local Hotels Reach International Travellers

One important area of cooperation is improving the digital capabilities of smaller accommodation providers.

In Lao PDR, the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office, Agoda and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism delivered an e-commerce training programme in Vang Vieng on 8 October 2026.

The programme provided practical guidance for local two, three and four-star hotels on improving their visibility in the online travel marketplace.

Training covered online travel agency listings, room availability, pricing strategies, promotional offers, customer reviews and digital tools to improve occupancy and revenue.

A similar programme was delivered in Siem Reap, Cambodia, on 22 October 2026, in collaboration with the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Tourism and Agoda. The training brought together 25 participants from local accommodation businesses.

These initiatives help smaller hotels compete more effectively online and connect with international travellers searching for accommodation throughout the Mekong region.

Sustainable Tourism Training Expands in Lao PDR

Sustainability is another important priority for tourism development across the Greater Mekong Subregion.

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council, Agoda and the Skills for Tourism, Agriculture and Forestry (STAF) Programme are working to expand access to the Sustainable Tourism Academy in Lao PDR.

The initiative makes sustainability education more accessible to local tourism professionals through Lao-language learning resources and practical training.

The academy provides knowledge and guidance on sustainable hotel management, environmental responsibility, cultural preservation and positive economic and social impacts.

By helping accommodation providers understand and implement recognised sustainability practices, the programme supports responsible tourism development and encourages businesses to protect the destinations and communities that attract visitors.

China Strengthens Regional Tourism Education

Yunnan Minzu University in China is also contributing to regional tourism skills development through its international tourism training initiatives.

In October 2026, the university hosted an advanced training programme for international tourism professionals working in the Lancang-Mekong River region.

The programme attracted more than 60 participants and covered nine learning modules, including international tourism policies, cross-cultural service, industry innovation, destination marketing, talent development and regional cooperation.

Through specialist instruction, case studies, practical activities and professional exchanges, the initiative aims to strengthen tourism knowledge and encourage closer cooperation between countries throughout the region.

Cambodia Invests in Professional Hospitality Standards

In Cambodia, the Ministry of Tourism and P.S Hospitality Group are working together to improve hospitality skills and service standards.

A two-day luxury hotel service training programme took place in Poipet City, Banteay Meanchey Province, on 15 and 16 October 2026.

Approximately 40 hotel department heads and employees participated in the programme, which focused on professional service delivery, courtesy, attentiveness and improving the guest experience.

The initiative highlights the importance of developing a skilled hospitality workforce capable of meeting the expectations of both domestic and international visitors.

Building a Stronger Future for Greater Mekong Tourism

Together, these partnerships demonstrate how regional cooperation and investment in professional development can strengthen tourism across the Greater Mekong Subregion.

From improving online hotel bookings and digital marketing to developing sustainable hospitality practices and professional customer service, the initiatives are helping local businesses become more competitive.

For international travellers, a stronger tourism workforce means better visitor experiences, more professional accommodation services and greater opportunities to discover the remarkable destinations, cultures and communities of the Mekong region.

By investing in people, knowledge and collaboration, the Greater Mekong countries are building a stronger foundation for inclusive, responsible and sustainable tourism growth.

Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO)

Website: https://mekongtourism.org/
Email: info@mekongtourism-mtco.org
Address: c/o Department of Tourism, 6th Floor, Government Complex Building C, Chaeng Watthana Road, Thung Song Hong, Lak Si, Bangkok 10210, Thailand.

Further information:
Lao PDR e-commerce training
Cambodia e-commerce training
Global Sustainable Tourism Council
Agoda
Yunnan Minzu University tourism training
Cambodia hospitality training

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/