Staff members welcome Chinese tourists at Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Sept. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)
BANGKOK – Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated on November 22 that the cancellation of flights from multiple Chinese cities to Suvarnabhumi Airport was due to insufficient demand, emphasising that it does not impact the visa exemption policy for Chinese tourists.
“It is not a complete cancellation. If there is a free visa policy, there could be an increase in bookings. However, China’s domestic policy supports domestic tourism and the country’s economic situation is not as good as expected. So although we expected a significant increase in Chinese tourists, this has not materialized. If we had not had this policy, it would have been even worse” he said.
The PM mentioned that during a meeting with Booking.com‘s executives, the parent company of Agoda, they confirmed that Chinese tourists were making transactions roughly three times more than before. The government has focused on the length of stay and spending per person, considering the increased travel expenses after the COVID-19 situation.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin greets Chinese tourists who come under the VISA exemption for Chinese and Kazakh tourists on their arrivals at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023. (Khaosod Photo)
Chairman of the Executive Board of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, Piyasvasti Amranand, pointed that economic slowdown within China and the emphasis on promoting domestic tourism by the Chinese government contribute to the lower-than-expected number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite the government’s free visa policy for Chinese tourists.
As a result, he said that the airline is considering reallocating aircraft to routes with higher demand, such as those to Perth, Australia, Oslo, Norway, and increasing flight frequency to Japan.
“Thai Airways had prepared our capacity for the Chinese market at 60 percent of the 2019 level. So far, we have only reached 40 percent and have not been able to increase the frequency and route as expected,” said Piyasvasti.
Thai Airways currently operates flights on five routes to China, including Kunming, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xiamen, and Beijing. However, the frequency has not returned to pre-COVID levels.
Kerati Kijmanawat, CEO of Airports of Thailand (AOT), explained that the recovery of China-Thailand flights is about 60 percent compared to 2019, before the pandemic. This phenomenon is not unique to Thailand. Other countries are also facing the challenge of resuming normal air traffic with China, with the recovery rate only around 50 percent of pre-pandemic levels.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), acknowledged that the current influx of Chinese tourists is around 10,000 per day, with an expected increase to about 15,000 per day by the end of the year. TAT is considering proposing an extension of the free visa policy until the end of 2024.
Chinese tourists
According to tourism economic data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, there was a significant increase in the number of Chinese tourists in Thailand during the Golden Week from 1 to 7 October, which rose from an average of 10,000 to 17,000-18,000 per day.
In the past, an average of around 30,000 Chinese tourists came to Thailand every day. Currently, however, these are mainly independent travelers, not tour groups. It is expected that the number of them will gradually increase in 2024.
TAT has set a target of 4–4.4 million Chinese visitors visiting Thailand in 2023 to drive the income of the Chinese tourist market to the target of 257,500 million baht. However, the number of Chinese tourists who visited Thailand in 2023 from January 1 to November 19 was 2,975,155, the second highest after Malaysia which had 3,908,345.
ONYX Hospitality Group, a prominent player in the Asian hospitality industry, has achieved a significant milestone with the signing of Amari Vientiane in Laos, marking the group’s second Amari brand property in the country, complementing Amari Vang Vieng. The signing ceremony took place on 16th November 2023 at Tang Chareon (TCR) Group’s office in Laos, with Mr. Houa Sengaroun, Chairman of Tang Chareon (TCR) Group, Mr. Pheutsapha
Phoummasak, President of Asia Investment, Development & Construction Sole Co., Ltd., and Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, reaffirming ONYX’s commitment to expanding its presence in Southeast Asia.
Amari Vientiane, scheduled to open in 2024, promises an impressive array of world-class facilities, including all-day dining, 248 well-appointed rooms, a rooftop executive lounge, a specialty rooftop restaurant, rooftop bar, extensive banqueting facilities including a ballroom and meeting rooms, a state-of-the-art gym, Breeze Spa, a main pool, a children’s pool, a kids’ club, and ample parking.
Notably, this exceptional property’s location is a mere 4.8 kilometres from Wattay International Airport, ensuring unparalleled convenience for travellers and making it an ideal choice for those seeking a seamless and stress-free arrival experience.
Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, emphasised the significance of this expansion, stating “Our signing of Amari Vientiane represents an exciting leap forward in our cluster expansion strategy across Laos and the broader Southeast Asian region. We remain dedicated to creating exceptional hospitality experiences for our guests, and this new property underlines our commitment to that mission. As we continue to expand our footprint in Southeast Asia, our aim is to provide diverse and captivating destinations for travellers to explore.”
Headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, ONYX Hospitality Group has earned a renowned reputation in the Southeast Asian hospitality industry over five decades. With a brand promise of ‘A Tailored Approach to Hospitality,’ ONYX aligns its business with local market expectations and partner goals, focusing on three key pillars for sustainable growth: Corporate excellence, Owner partnerships, and Product standards. This approach enables them to effectively expand businesses,
deliver internationally recognised standards, and cultivate long-term relationships with visionary partners.
As ONYX Hospitality Group continues to expand its portfolio of hotels, resorts and serviced apartments across Southeast Asia, they are poised to operate over 50 properties by 2025. This expansion includes the recent opening of Amari Raaya Maldives and the upcoming launch of Amari Colombo Sri Lanka. Furthermore, properties under brands such as Amari, OZO, and Shama are in the pipeline, solidifying ONYX’s commitment to offering diverse and exceptional experiences to travellers.
An Israeli officer fires tear gas at Palestinians during a military operation in the Balata refugee camp, West Bank, Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Majdi Mohammed)
JERUSALEM (AP) — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will continue its war against Hamas, even if a temporary cease-fire is reached with the Islamic militant group to release hostages.
In comments Tuesday ahead of an expected Cabinet vote on a cease-fire proposal, Netanyahu vowed to press ahead.
“We are at war, and we will continue the war,” he said. “We will continue until we achieve all our goals.”
The Israeli Cabinet was expected to vote on a plan that would halt Israel’s offensive in Gaza for several days in exchange for the release of about 50 of the 240 hostages held by Hamas. Israel has vowed to continue the war until it destroys Hamas’ military capabilities and returns all hostages.
A girl weeps as she holds a placard during a protest against Israel’s attack on the Gaza Strip, in front of the headquarters of U.N. Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) in Beirut, Lebanon, Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023 (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)
The comments came as Israel and Hamas appeared close to a deal to temporarily halt their devastating six-week war so that dozens of hostages being held in the Gaza Strip could be freed in exchange for Palestinians in Israeli prisons.
Hamas predicted a Qatari-mediated deal could be reached in “the coming hours,” while Netanyahu was convening top decision-makers to discuss the matter.
“We are advancing,” Netanyahu told troops during a visit earlier Tuesday to a training base. “I hope there will be good news soon.”
The announcement came as Israeli troops battled Palestinian militants in an urban refugee camp in northern Gaza and around hospitals overcrowded with patients and sheltering families.
Netanyahu’s office said the special three-member War Cabinet met Tuesday and would be followed by meetings of his Security Cabinet, a forum of senior security officials, and the full Cabinet.
There was no word on whether a vote would take place, and details of a deal were not released. Israeli media reported that an agreement would include a five-day halt in Israel’s offensive in Gaza and the release of 50 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for some 150 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Israeli soldiers carry a stretcher toward a helicopter near the border with Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel, Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)
Israel’s Channel 12 TV said the first releases would take place Thursday or Friday and continue for several days.
Talks have repeatedly stalled. But even if a deal is reached, it would not mean an end to the war, which erupted on Oct. 7 after Hamas militants stormed across the border into southern Israel and killed at least 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and kidnapped some 240 others.
THE TOLL IN GAZA
In weeks of Israeli airstrikes and a ground invasion, more than 11,000 Palestinians have been killed, two-thirds of them women and minors, and more than 2,700 others are missing and believed to be buried under rubble, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ministry says it has been unable to update its count since Nov. 11 because of the health sector’s collapse.
Gaza health officials say the toll has risen sharply since, and hospitals continue to report deaths from daily strikes, often dozens at a time.
The Health Ministry in the West Bank last reported a toll of 13,300 but stopped providing its own count Tuesday without giving a reason. Because of that, and because officials there declined to explain in detail how they tracked deaths after Nov. 11, the AP decided to stop reporting its count.
Palestinians mourn their relatives killed in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, in the hospital in Khan Younis, Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)
The Health Ministry toll does not differentiate between civilians and combatants. Israel says it has killed thousands of Hamas militants but has not provided evidence for its count.
In southern Lebanon, an Israeli strike killed two journalists with Al-Mayadeen TV, according to the Hezbollah-allied Pan-Arab network and Lebanese officials. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. A separate Israeli drone strike in Lebanon killed four Hamas members, a Palestinian official and a Lebanon security official said.
The Israeli military has been trading fire almost daily across the border with Lebanon’s Hezbollah group and Palestinian militants since the outbreak of the war.
TALKS ON HOSTAGES
Israel, the United States and Qatar, which mediates with Hamas, have negotiated for weeks over a hostage release that would be paired with a temporary cease-fire and the entry of more aid.
In Washington, President Joe Biden said Tuesday that a deal on releasing some hostages was “very close.”
“We could bring some of these hostages home very soon,” he said at the White House.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed al-Ansari expressed optimism, telling reporters that “we are at the closest point we ever had been in reaching an agreement.” He added that negotiations were at a “critical and final stage.”
Izzat Rishq, a senior Hamas official, said Tuesday that an agreement could be reached “in the coming hours,” in which Hamas would release captives and Israel would release Palestinian prisoners. Hamas’ leader-in-exile, Ismail Haniyeh, also said they were close to a deal.
Israel’s Channel 12 TV, citing anonymous Israeli officials, said a truce could be extended and additional Palestinian prisoners released if there were additional hostages freed.
FIGHTING IN JABALIYA AND AROUND HOSPITALS
Inside Gaza, the front line of the war shifted to the Jabaliya refugee camp, a densely built district of concrete buildings near Gaza City that houses families displaced in the 1948 war surrounding Israel’s creation. Israel has bombarded the area for weeks, and the military said Hamas fighters have regrouped there and in other eastern districts after being pushed out of much of Gaza City.
The fighting in Jabaliya also affected two nearby hospitals, trapping hundreds of patients and displaced people sheltering inside. A strike Tuesday hit inside one of the facilities, al-Awda, killing four people, including three doctors, the hospital director told Al-Jazeera TV. The director, Ahmed Mahna, blamed the strike on Israel, a claim that AP could not independently confirm.
Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel, Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)
Residents of Jabaliya said there was heavy fighting as Israeli forces tried to advance under the cover of airstrikes. “They are facing stiff resistance,” said Hamza Abu Mansour, a university student.
The Israeli military said strikes hit three tunnel shafts where fighters were hiding and destroyed rocket launchers. Footage released by the military showed Israeli soldiers patrolling on foot as gunfire echoed around them.
It was not possible to independently confirm details of the fighting.
It’s unclear how many Palestinian civilians remain in northern Gaza, but the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees estimates that some 160,000 people are still in its shelters there, though it can no longer provide services. Thousands more still shelter in several hospitals in the north even after many fled south in recent weeks.
Most hospitals are no longer operational. The hospital situation in Gaza is “catastrophic,” Michael Ryan, a senior World Health Organization official, said Monday.
With Israeli troops surrounding the Indonesia Hospital, also near Jabaliya, staff had to bury 50 dead in the facility’s courtyard, a senior Health Ministry official in the hospital, Munir al-Boursh, told Al-Jazeera TV.
Up to 600 wounded people and some 2,000 displaced Palestinians remain stranded at the hospital, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
A similar standoff played out in recent days at Shifa Hospital, Gaza’s largest, where over 250 patients and medical workers are stranded after the evacuation of 31 premature babies.
Israel has provided evidence in recent days of a militant presence at Shifa. But it has yet to substantiate its claims that Hamas had a major command center beneath the facility, allegations denied by Hamas and hospital staff.
DIRE CONDITIONS IN NORTH AND SOUTH
Most of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million have crowded into the southern section of the Gaza Strip, where Israeli strikes have continued and where the military says it intends to extend its ground invasion. Many are packed into U.N.-run schools and other facilities across the territory’s south or sleeping on the streets outside, even as winter rains have pelted the coastal enclave in recent days.
There are shortages of food, water and fuel for generators across all of Gaza, which has had no central electricity for over a month.
Strikes overnight crushed residential buildings in the Nusseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, killing at least 20 people, according to hospital officials. Footage from the scene showed the legs of five young boys sticking out from under a collapsed concrete slab of one home.
Israel continues to strike what it says are militant targets throughout Gaza, often killing women and children. Israel accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields.
BANGKOK – Six Chinese beggars were arrested in Bangkok on November 21, 2023, and are being questioned. The investigation is still underway to determine whether it is an international human trafficking organisation using Thailand as a base to send money back to China after they found that each of them earned approximately 10,000 baht a day.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti Saengsaeng, commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, ordered the arrest of Chinese beggars in the area of Pathumwan, Phaya Thai, Bang Phlat, Bang Rak, and Thung Maha Mek, a total of 6 people, since Sunday, November 19.
Officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the Bang Phlat Police Station started to inspect the Pinklao area in front of a well-known department store on Sunday after receiving reports that there are Chinese men and women begging there.
Firstly, they found two Chinese women whose faces appeared to have acid burns. They also have incomplete hands. One of them, who wore a Thai student uniform, fled inside the department store lavatory. The cops then came in and invited her to be inspected. They noticed she had multiple 20-baht coins and bills, totaling 10,700 baht from begging all day.
Later, a Thai woman claimed to be the interpreter for Chinese beggars who came to the police station and requested their release by promising to pay bail. However, the police did not release them because they needed to examine whether these people had been trafficked.
According to investigation It is believed that Chinese beggars and their interpreters know each other, even though they did not enter to Thailand at the same time. Two Chinese beggars lived together in the Wang Thonglang neighbourhood, while others were allocated among Bangkok’s hotels.
The beggars who were apprehended at Phaya Thai and Bang Phlat police stations claimed to have been travelling till they ran out of money. One beggar tried to convert a tourist visa to a student visa by applying to a Thai university.
A female Chinese beggar whose face and head appeared to have acid burns was arrested on November 18, 2023.
It was initially assumed that Thais were involved. Officials will also take action against individuals who supply such beggars with shelter.
Sarawut Munpho, Director of the Division of Welfare Protection and Quality of Life Promotion, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, stated that since 2016 until now, there have been 7,151 beggars, comprising 4,678 Thais and 2,473 foreigners aged 22–47 years, the majority of whom are Cambodians, and 68 Chinese.
Varawut Silpa-archa, the Minister of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, addressed the issue of Chinese beggars at Government House, suggesting that these Chinese beggars may be victims of international human trafficking.
The Chinese beggar had multiple 20-baht coins and bills, totaling 10,700 baht from begging all day.
The ministry has been coordinating with various agencies, including the security and police forces. He stressed that cases involving Thai nationals are easier due to existing laws, but for foreign cases, especially those with expired passports, there are additional legal difficulties in entering the country.
Varawut emphasized that begging is illegal throughout Thailand, whether through trespassing or violations of various related laws. The problem of human trafficking in Thailand is a top priority and investigations into each case are continuing. He urged law enforcement agencies to intensify investigations into similar cases to understand their link to human trafficking.
He sent a message to the public through the mass media asking them to report any case of begging. He pointed out that both begging and giving alms to beggars is an offence against the law. When encountering foreign beggars, especially in crowded areas, citizens are urged to immediately report to the Human Security Emergency Management Center (HuSEC) by calling the hotline 1300. The center has rapid response units and officers to deal with such problems urgently.
Currently, Thailand is in the process of preparing the Tip Report or reporting on human trafficking to the relevant foreign authorities. It is expected to be finalized by the end of this year and submitted to the relevant authorities in January 2024.
Thailand is therefore required to submit this report annually, which consists of three main sections: 1) judicial proceedings and prosecution, 2) prevention and awareness raising, and 3) victim assistance and support. Various agencies, including the National Police, the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, oversee each section.
Thailand is currently classified as Tier 2, which corresponds to a medium level. The government has been actively working to maintain this status both in the current and previous terms of office. The aim is to elevate Thailand to Tier 1.
BANGKOK – Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin rode the MRT Pink Line, also known as the Pink Cold Milk Line, for a test run from Minburi Station to Wat Phra Sri Station on Tuesday, November 21.
The Pink Line Skytrain runs 34.5 km from Khae Rai to Min Buri, with 30 stations in between. Free fare will be available to the public from November 21 at 3:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m., and the service will be open for trial between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. daily until December 17, 2023.
The fare will be introduced starting December 18 and range from 15 to 45 baht, subject to Cabinet approval. However, the government will consider again whether to extend a free fare until the New Year festival as a gift to the people.
Thailand’s Prime Minister enters the Minburi station on the outskirts of Bangkok to try out the service of the MRT Pink Line on November 21, 2023.PM Srettha Thavisin on Tuesday rode on the newly operated the Pink Line sky train from Minburi Station to Wat Phra Sri Station on Nov. 21.
“Infrastructure development is important. The country has a good image that there is convenience in travelling and that it is suitable for foreign investment coming to establish offices in Thailand, thanks to BTS, which provides good infrastructure to provide comfort to citizens living on the outskirts of the city, starting from the Green Line that has been made for more than 20 years,” remarked the Prime Minister.
The Pink Line electric train construction has been delayed for nearly two years, according to Keeree Kanjanapas, the founder and chairman of BTS Group Holdings. We are very happy that it can be opened. The Cabinet is scheduled to review and authorise the collection of fares at the rate of 15-45 baht next week.
Thai Prime Minister and his staff get off the train at Wat Phra Sri Station on November 21, 2023.
“We fully support the government’s policy of charging no more than 20 baht for electric trains running the entire length of the line.” However, we must wait to see how the government will care for the private sector that invests, which takes time. “This is a very sensitive situation,” Keeree explained.
He also responded to a question concerning the Green Line charging passengers at station extensions by saying it is up to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and that the BTS will not intervene.
Marriott Relaunches and Expands its Donation Program in the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific by raising over $50M for UNICEF over the course of nearly three decades, benefiting more than 4.5M children worldwide.
BETHESDA, MD, NOVEMBER 20, 2023 – In recognition of World Children’s Day, Marriott International announced it is working together with UNICEF to relaunch and expand its donation program “Check Out for Children.” The program—which invites guests to make a voluntary donation for each night of their stay—is now live in over 500 properties across 40 countries in Marriott’s Caribbean, Latin America (CALA), Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA) and Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) regions.
Over the course of nearly three decades, hotels in the company’s portfolio have helped Marriott raise over $50M for UNICEF, benefiting more than 4.5M children worldwide, mainly through the Check Out for Children donation program. With the program’s official relaunch in February 2023, Check Out for Children has generated over $250,000 in further support for UNICEF. Additionally, since 2022, Marriott, along with the Marriott Disaster Relief Fund, Marriott Bonvoy and Marriott guests, have contributed over $1.3M to UNICEF.
These contributions have gone toward responding to some of the world’s most severe challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters and humanitarian crises as well as providing ongoing care for the world’s most vulnerable children.
“Marriott is proud to continue its legacy of serving our world in collaboration with UNICEF,” said David Marriott, Chairman of the Board, Marriott International. “Since 1995, we have worked with UNICEF to provide much needed funding for youth health and nutrition, safe water and sanitation, quality education and skill building, and the protection and care of children in the face of natural disaster. The Check Out for Children program is an incredible opportunity for our guests and our hotels to support UNICEF’s relentless pursuit of bettering the lives of children around the world.”
Marriott’s Check Out for Children program helps fund UNICEF’s ongoing efforts to make a better world for every child in over 190 countries and territories. The program invites guests to make a voluntary donation to their bill at check-in, with the option to remove or modify the donation at any time during their stay. Donations will be used to help further UNICEF’s work across the regions through initiatives like creating safe and clean environments for children in CALA; providing access to education in APEC; and helping protect refugees and advocate for children with disabilities in EMEA.
“For nearly 30 years, Check Out for Children has raised funds to support UNICEF’s work to protect the rights of every child. Our partnership with Marriott International is helping UNICEF reach children wherever and whenever the need is greatest,” said Carla Haddad Mardini, Director of Private Fundraising and Partnerships, UNICEF. “We are grateful for the innovative way in which Marriott has invited its guests to learn more about UNICEF and support our work to meet children’s needs throughout every stage of childhood and adolescence, including being there before, during and after emergencies, providing vital assistance.”
As part of Marriott’s Serve 360 sustainability and social impact platform, the Check Out for Children program reflects the company’s larger commitment to Nurture Our World, making the communities where Marriott operates better places to live, work, and visit.
To learn more about the Check Out for Children program visit https://serve360.marriott.com/nurture/unicef-checkout-for-children
FILE - Women kiss while holding a poster to support marriage equality, during a Pride Parade in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 4, 2023. Photo: Sakchai Lalit / AP File
BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s Cabinet on Tuesday approved an amendment to its civil code to allow same-sex marriage, with an expectation for the draft to be submitted to Parliament next month.
Karom Polpornklang, a deputy government spokesperson, said the amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code will change the words “men and women” and “husband and wife” to “individuals” and “marriage partners” for same-sex couples to be able to receive the same rights that heterosexual couples receive.
He said the law would guarantee the right to form a family in a relationship between same-sex couples, adding that the next step will be an amendment to the pension fund law to recognize same-sex couples as well.
FILE – Participants hold a rainbow flag during a Pride Parade in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 4, 2023. Thailand’s Cabinet on Tuesday, Nov. 21, approved an amendment to its civil code to allow same-sex marriage, with an expectation for the draft to be submitted to Parliament next month. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File)
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin told reporters that the draft law is expected to be proposed to Parliament on Dec. 12. If it becomes law after Parliament’s approval and King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s endorsement, Thailand will be the third place in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to allow same-sex marriage.
While famous for being an LGBTQ+ friendly country, Thailand has struggled to pass a marriage equality law. Parliament last year debated several legal amendments to allow either marriage equality or civil unions, which do not grant same-sex couples all the same rights as heterosexual couples. All of the bills failed to be passed before the parliamentary session of the previous government ended.
The new government led by the Pheu Thai party, which took office in August, revived the attempt to pass a marriage equality bill, which it had promised during its election campaign.
The police officers discover the lifeless body of a Thai woman, aged 25, inside the Pattaya hotel's room before midnight on November 20, 2023.
PATTAYA – Pattaya police received a report that an Indian man had killed his Thai girlfriend at a hotel in Nong Prue sub-district, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, before midnight on November 20.
Police officers, investigative units, Pattaya Tourist Police and Immigration Police jointly investigated room 313 on the third floor of a building where they discovered the lifeless body of Ms. Jirapha Wongputkham, aged 25, with signs of strangulation with a shoelace around her neck. There was also evidence of a struggle and scattered belongings in the room.
The Immigration Police jointly investigated the incident at a hotel in Nong Prue sub-district, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, before midnight on November 20.
Pol. Col. Thanapong Photi, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, said that the suspect, Mr. Narendra Soni, 36 years old and an Indian national, fled the scene in the direction of Bangkok. Pattaya police coordinated with neighbouring police stations and set up checkpoints to arrest the suspect based on descriptions from witnesses. At the same time, the deceased’s relatives tried to persuade him to turn himself in for trial.
Later, in the early morning of November 21, it was reported that Narendra had informed the relatives that he wanted to jump off a bridge over the Bang Pakong River to end his life, following his Thai girlfriend.
The police were called in to help control the situation. However, when they approached the reported location, the Indian man had already jumped off the bridge. Authorities searched for his body in the Bang Pakong River.
Bang Pakong Police Station in Chachoengsao, together with a rescue team, found the body of Narendra in the Bang Pakong River in the morning of November 21, 2023.
Ms. Parawadee Saetern, 47, an aunt of the Thai victim, said her niece had been in a relationship with the Indian man for about a year. Before the incident, they had arranged to meet in the hotel room to discuss their relationship. After that, however, there was no further communication. Concerned relatives went to investigate and discovered the tragic scene.
Subsequently, at 8:00 am, Bang Pakong Police Station in Chachoengsao together with a rescue team found the body of Narendra in the Bang Pakong River, near Ban Bang Pakong, Moo 9, Bang Pakong District. The rescue team recovered the body and confirmed the identity. Pattaya Police have been notified to contact the next of kin for further action.
The company is solidifying its role as a leader in the Southeast Asian hospitality industry and is collaborating with partners to advance toward sustainable growth.
Bangkok, Thailand 2023 – ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in Southeast Asia’s hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands – Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence – across Asia Pacific, catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers in Southeast Asia where their expertise lies, actively participated in the largest travel industry trade show in Asia, ITB Asia 2023, which took place from October 25 to 27 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Singapore.
ITB Asia, the premier business-to-business (B2B) travel and tourism trade show in Asia, gathered a multitude of prominent figures within the regional tourism sector. ONYX Hospitality Group’s participation in ITB Asia 2023 presented a valuable opportunity to extend its business network and fortify partnerships. These partnerships aim to collectively stimulate and propel the region’s tourism industry towards steady and sustainable growth.
Participating in this event enabled ONYX Hospitality Group to share its vision of success with fellow industry leaders. This exchange focused on ensuring the quality and standards of hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments within the network, as well as discussing strategies for enhancing and expanding investments in the hospitality business. All these efforts are aimed to solidify its position as “The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia.”
Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, shared his thoughts on the company’s involvement in ITB Asia 2023, stating, “Our aim is to showcase our unwavering commitment to establishing benchmarks in the hospitality sector and our ongoing expansion within the region.
With over 50 years of experience in the industry, ONYX Hospitality Group is not only dedicated to delivering an exceptional guest experience but is also deeply committed to fostering sustainable growth in terms of business, society, and the environment by employing a diverse range of strategies and activities.
Furthermore, we are in a constant state of development as we strive to establish a leadership position in the MICE market, which encompasses Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. Simultaneously, in another facet of our operations, we persistently extend our investments to foster growth, even in the face of intense competition within the Southeast Asian hotel industry.”
During this event, Mr. Yuthachai had the privilege of being a distinguished guest on the MICE Leaders’ Panel, where he shared insights and expertise on the topic “The Power of Many – Collaborations for Success in the MICE Ecosystem.” This panel discussion took place on October 25th.
As part of its key strategies, ONYX Hospitality Group has introduced an approach aimed at establishing connections with industry partners, emphasizing a profound commitment to a ‘Tailored Approach to Hospitality.’
This approach has been central to their business development and serves as a guiding principle in their collaborations with partners and alliances over the past period. As a result, the company has gained the trust of esteemed trade partners, both on a domestic and international scale, fostering their successful and sustainable business ventures.
Presently, ONYX Hospitality Group oversees the management of 44 hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments across Thailand, Malaysia, China including Hong Kong, Maldives, Bangladesh, and Laos. These properties fall under the banner of four main brands, namely Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence, all of which are renowned regionally and globally.
The company has outlined plans to expand its investments to encompass over 50 properties by 2025, with a further target of reaching 70 properties by 2028. In the forthcoming years, particularly between 2023 and 2024, the focus will be on investment opportunities within Southeast Asia, specifically in key markets like Thailand and Malaysia.
Furthermore, the company is actively exploring prospects in markets such as Hong Kong, while also venturing into new territories like Indonesia and Singapore. This strategic expansion aims to drive consistent and substantial growth throughout the entire region.
Exciting developments are underway for ONYX Hospitality Group in 2023 with the opening of Amari Raaya Maldives, which welcomed its first guests in Q3 2023, and the eagerly anticipated Amari Colombo Sri Lanka set to open its doors in 2024. Additionally, the group has a further 9 properties in the pipeline, encompassing all three core brands: Amari, OZO, and Shama.
The MICE business, comprising Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions, holds a significant place in the strategic priorities of ONYX Hospitality Group. It is recognised as a key pillar for the company’s rapid growth. During ITB Asia 2023, ONYX Hospitality Group made a deliberate effort to showcase services and facilities adhering to international standards. This commitment ensures the seamless and modern organisation of MICE events, ensuring their success as intended.
Mr. Yuthachai highlighted the significance of the MICE business dimension presented at the event, stating, ‘It is widely recognised that the MICE business is gaining considerable momentum in the Asia Pacific region.
At ITB Asia 2023, ONYX Hospitality Group was, therefore, gearing up for a confident entry into the MICE market. We actively showcased our affiliated hotels and resorts, emphasising comprehensive and high-standard services and facilities tailored for MICE activities.
This approach captured the attention of MICE entrepreneurs. We are moving forward with full force to capitalise on this opportunity, aiming to deliver an impressive experience in organising MICE events for organisers and meeting planners throughout Asia.
At ITB Asia 2023, ONYX Hospitality Group showcased a special highlight—the unveiling of the newly renovated and rebranded Amari Bangkok. This launch symbolises the essence of being a hub, akin to the heart of a bustling city that never sleeps, much like the vibrant energy of Bangkok.
Building on a legacy of over 30 years as an iconic landmark in the heart of the business district, the newly renovated Amari Bangkok maintains a commitment to excellence in both location and service. Guided by the concept of ‘Brighten Your World,’ the hotel stands ready to greet visitors with a vibrant display of colour and vitality. This mirrors the brand’s mission to provide guests with life’s joyful moments.
The relaunch of Amari Bangkok Hotel brings a refreshed aesthetic to its rooms, featuring contemporary decor and upgraded amenities. Additionally, to accommodate diverse guest preferences, the hotel has introduced a range of new restaurants.
An exciting addition to the offerings is ‘maai spa,’ a premium spa with a unique concept inspired by Thai silk, set to commence services at Amari Bangkok Hotel in 2024. This transformation is driven by the goal of establishing Amari Bangkok Hotel as a premier destination for travellers, catering to those seeking a tranquil retreat, embarking on business travel, or engaging in MICE-related activities.
Amari Bangkok Hotel goes beyond providing complete convenience. Offering 19 versatile spaces for meetings, seminars, and MICE events, including the well-decorated, spacious grand ballroom, it stands out as one of the top choices for hosting such gatherings in the heart of Bangkok.
In addition to Amari Bangkok Hotel, ONYX Hospitality Group offers an array of exceptional projects in MICE organizing services and leisure travel. Notable mentions include Amari Don Muang Hotel, Amari Pattaya, Amari SPICE Penang, Amari Kuala Lumpur, and more. These offerings were showcased at ITB Asia 2023, emphasising the group’s commitment to delivering a wonderful guest experience and driving sustainable, positive growth in a dynamically competitive market.
Chef Wuttisak “Wut” Wuttiamporn to surprise and delight diners with a trio of exciting epicurean experiences for Christmas and New Year
Bangkok, Thailand – EKKALUCK, the innovative dining destination at Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, is inviting discerning local diners and international explorers to come together and enjoy a highly creative and cosmopolitan festive season, with a trio of culinary experiences that will immerse every guest in the magic of the holidays.
Chef Wuttisak “Wut” Wuttiamporn, whose avant-garde style is reimagining traditional Thai cuisine with a cosmopolitan touch, is now ready to help couples, families and friends elevate their Christmas and New Year to new heights at EKKALUCK.
On 24th December from 18:00 – 22:00 hrs, the “Christmas Eve Semi-buffet” will see Chef Wuttisak put his own unique, contemporary twist on a classic Christmas dinner. All ages can savor an extensive array of delicacies, including handcrafted Thai appetizers and salads, imported cold cuts and cheeses, succulent seafood on ice, soups, a live Bagel Station, and a Christmas Carving Station featuring turkey breast, honey-glazed ham with cloves, roasted lamb leg and more, plus a series of side dishes.
Guests can also choose two main courses from a selection that includes roasted pork tenderloin with cranberry glaze, Chef Wut’s signature shepherd’s pie, slow-cooked beef short ribs with vegetables & mashed potatoes, and many more. And of course, every meal ends on a sweet note with handcrafted desserts, such as Christmas pudding, stollen and yule log. All diners will be treated to a welcome drink and entertainment from a live saxophonist.
Then on 31st December from 18:00 – 22:00 hrs, couples and friends are invited to celebrate the last day of the year in style at EKKALUCK’s “New Year’s Eve 7-Course Set Dinner.” This sophisticated evening will transport guests on a gastronomic journey that showcases the finest local and imported ingredients.
Following a French Gillardeau oyster with caviar, diners can savor Carabineros carpaccio (Spanish red prawns) with Kumquat-shoyu vinaigrette, Korean chili & yuzu oil, and fresh Phuket lobster with orange & avocado salad. A sublime soup using Thai mushrooms from Mahrarakram and coconut milk from Chumphon will then be followed by a palate cleanser of Phetchaburi tamarind and longan honey from Chiang Mai.
Two mouth-watering main courses will highlight the finest produce from land and sea: pan-seared turbot with Ceylon spinach, seaweed caviar & tom kha beurre blanc or tenderloin wagyu beef with crispy cowslip creeper, foie gras and a red wine & truffle jus. Finally, this culinary journey concludes with a raspberry yoghurt panna cotta, made with milk from Chiang Mai. With a welcome glass of Champagne and live music from a saxophone and traditional Thai musical instruments, this enchanting evening will live long in the memory.
Then on 1st January 2024 from 11:00 – 15:00 hrs, diners can step into 2024 together at EKKALUCK with the “New Year Brunch.” This fantastic feast will be a celebration of family, friendship and flavors with an extensive array of succulent seafood on ice, a salad bar, cheeses and cold cuts.
Diners can choose from two main courses, freshly cooked on EKKALUCK’s charcoal grill, including wagyu flank steak, chicken breast, Australian lamb chops, river prawns, sea bass, grilled snow fish, or roasted cauliflower, all accompanied with sides and sauces. And of course, the Dessert Station will feature sumptuous sweets, organic ice creams and smooth sorbets.
The “Christmas Eve Buffet” is priced at THB 4,453++ per person, with an optional free-flow beverage package for THB 1,350++. The “New Year’s Eve 7-Course Set Dinner” is also available for THB 4,453++ per person, including one glass of Champagne and an optional wine-paring package for THB 1,500++, and the “New Year Brunch” is priced at THB 1,753++ per person, with free-flow Prosecco and Bloody Mary cocktails.
A 15% early bird discount is available for bookings made before 15th December (for the Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve events) or 20th December (for the New Year Brunch), and Marriott Bonvoy members get 10% off!
For more information and to book your table, call +66 (0) 2 127 5999, email [email protected] , or follow us on LINE @ekkaluckbangkok.
To learn more and to reserve an urban escape at Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, please visit http://www.madipaidibangkok.com/
