DISCOVER 5 MORE MUSEUMS, LANDMARKS, AND MONUMENTS OF AAPI CULTURE IN LOS ANGELES

James Hong receives his Walk of Fame star

Photo: Kevin Winter / Getty Images

Los Angeles is home to some of the largest Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) enclaves outside of their native countries. Generations of AAPI immigrants and Asian Americans have helped make LA one of the most diverse cities in the country. From cultural institutions to landmark buildings, World War II monuments and more, explore the rich cultures and vital histories of the AAPI community in Los Angeles.

1) HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME

7018 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles 90028
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The world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame features more than 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. The five-pointed stars honor actors, musicians, directors, producers and others in the entertainment industry.

At a joint ceremony in February 1960, Anna May Wong and Sessue Hayakawa became the first Asian Americans to receive stars on the Walk of Fame. An LA native, Wong is renowned as the first Chinese American Hollywood movie star.

In May 2022, legendary character actor James Hong was honored with a star, located on Hollywood Boulevard between the TCL Chinese Theatre and Madame Tussauds. At 93, Hong became the Walk of Fame's oldest honoree - he is the only living actor to have worked with Clark Gable and Groucho Marx. Hong's extraordinary list of credits includes Chinatown, Blade Runner and Everything Everywhere All at Once.

Other Walk of Fame stars include the first Korean American honoree, Philip Ahn (posthumous, 1984); Bruce Lee (posthumous, 1993), East West Players founding member Mako (1994) and the second AAPI actress, Lucy Liu (2019). Liu's star is located next to Wong's at the corner of Hollywood and Vine.
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2) HSI LAI TEMPLE

3456 S. Glenmark Dr., Hacienda Heights 91745
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One of the largest Buddhist temples in the Western Hemisphere, Hsi Lai Temple is a mountain monastery located on a 15-acre site in Hacienda Heights. Spanning more than 102,000 square feet, the temple's architecture, gardens and statuary are modeled after ancient Chinese monasteries from the Ming and Ching dynasties. Meaning "coming to the West," Hsi Lai is affiliated with Fo Guang Shan, a Buddhist organization from Taiwan. The temple serves as a spiritual and cultural center for those interested in learning more about Buddhism and Chinese culture.
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3) THE HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART MUSEUM, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS

1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino 91108
626-405-2100
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Pavilion of the Three Friends and the Jade Ribbon Bridge
at Garden of Flowing Fragrance
Photo: The Huntington Library

Founded in 1919, The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is world-renowned as a cultural, research and educational center. The Botanical Gardens at The Huntington feature more than a dozen specialized gardens spanning 130 acres.

Perhaps The Huntington's most popular spot, the beloved Japanese Garden features a moon bridge, koi ponds, the historic Japanese House, and ceremonial teahouse. The garden also includes a bonsai collection and Zen Court.

Liu Fang Yuan ("Garden of Flowing Fragrance") is one of the largest classical-style Chinese gardens in the world. Designed to promote the rich traditions of Chinese culture, the 15-acre garden is filled with Chinese plants, pavilions, and references to literature and art.
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4) JAPANESE AMERICAN CULTURAL & COMMUNITY CENTER

244 S. San Pedro St., Ste. 505, Los Angeles 90012
213-628-2725
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Since opening its doors in 1980, the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC) has become one of the largest cultural art and community centers in the U.S. Its campus includes the Center Building, Aratani Theatre, JACCC Plaza (designed by Isamu Noguchi), and the award-winning James Irvine Japanese Garden. Known formally as Seiryu-en ("Garden of the Clear Stream"), this hidden green space was designed in the Zen tradition of the famous gardens of Kyoto, Japan.
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5) JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

100 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles 90012
213-625-0414
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Located in Little Tokyo, the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) is dedicated to telling the story of Americans of Japanese ancestry through historical and art exhibitions. Common Ground: The Heart of Community is a permanent exhibit that spans 130 years of Japanese American history, from the early days of the Issei (first generation) pioneers in the 1800s, through the World War II incarceration in internment camps, to post-war resettlement and the present. One of the artifacts on display is a Heart Mountain barracks, an original structure that's been saved and preserved from the WWII camp in Wyoming.

In 2005, JANM established the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy (NCPD). The project added 9,800 to the existing 23,800 square feet in the renovated Buddhist temple building. The major addition was the creation of the 200-seat Tateuchi Democracy Forum theatre.
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Hoshino Resorts - 2024 New Openings

OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda by Hoshino Resorts

Hoshino Resorts operates 70 properties within and beyond Japan under 5 sub-brands: HOSHINOYA (luxury hotels), KAI (known for hot spring ryokan), RISONARE (countryside resort hotels), OMO (city-tourism hotels), and BEB (free-spirited hotels). In 2024, Hoshino Resorts will add 5 new hotels to the collection. With a range of accommodations under each brand that cater to guests' different needs and preferences, each location celebrates its unique locality and provides unforgettable experiences. Hoshino Resorts is committed to evolving our hospitality to become a globally competitive hotel management company.

OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda by Hoshino Resorts | Tokyo

Opened: April 11th, 2024
Location: Gotanda JP Building, 8-4-13 Nishi-gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Number of Rooms: 188
Starting Room Rate：28,000 JPY per night
This new OMO hotel, located just 5 minutes away from Gotanda Station and on the high-rise of a new commercial and office building, has the concept "A Paradise of Night Views and Culinary Delights." Indulge in the local gourmet scene of Gotanda, estimated to have around 1,300 eateries near the station.
For more information click here

Hoshino Resorts KAI Akiu | Miyagi

Opened: April 25th, 2024
Location: 1 Hirakura Yumoto, Akiu-machi, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi
Number of Rooms: 49
Starting Room Rate：31,000 JPY
First in Miyagi Prefecture, this KAI ryokan overlooks the Natori River, which flows from the Ou Mountains. Indulge in this historic hot spring town with abundant nature and rich culture spanning 1,500 years, in close relation to the territorial lord and founder of modern-day city of Sendai, Masamune Date.
For more information click here
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OMO7 Kochi by Hoshino Resorts | Kochi

Opening: June 13th, 2024
Location: 9-15 Kutanda, Kochi
Number of Rooms: 133
Starting Room Rate：36,000 JPY per night
Kochi is a place of hospitable locals, keen to celebrate any and all occasions together. Feel Kochi's passion and energy by experiencing the essence of this unique Okyaku or banquet culture and the Yosakoi dance performance held every night at the grand staircase stage.
For more information click here

Hoshino Resorts 1955 Tokyo Bay | Tokyo

Opening: June 20th, 2024
Location: 7-2-3 Hinode, Urayasu, Chiba
Number of Rooms: 638
Starting Room Rate：9,000 JPY per night
The hotel‘s design concept, “OLDIES GOODIES,” evokes 1950s Americana, during a period when the economy and culture developed greatly, and notably, 1955 was the year when the world's first Disneyland® was born. The hotel stay is designed to spark joy guests experience all day at the theme park.
For more information click here

OMO5 Hakodate by Hoshino Resorts | Hokkaido

Opening: July 6th, 2024
Location: 24-1 Wakamatsu-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
Number of Rooms: 245

OMO5 Hakodate by Hoshino Resorts

Starting Room Rate：31,000 JPY per night (includes breakfast)
Located about a five-minute walk from Hakodate Station, facing the historic entertainment district, the hotel will serve as a base for Hakodate tourism with the concept “120% Hakodate.” A unique lodging experience that fully embraces the allure of Hakodate, including its unique seafood through a full breakfast buffet and free loop bus service to various tourist attractions, from morning to night.
For more information click here

Hoshino Resorts KAI Okuhida | Gifu

Opening: Autumn 2024
Location: 138 Hirayu, Okuhida-onsengo, Takayama, Gifu
Number of Rooms: 49
Starting Room Rate：31,000 JPY per night
At the foot of the Northern Alps, Okuhida is a hot spring town in Gifu Prefecture and one of the largest hot spring sources in the country. This destination has long been regarded as a prominent hot spring town featuring various types of onsen set against exceptional mountain views that beautifully showcase all the seasons.
For more information click here

Luxury hoteliers must prioritise authenticity, personalisation and guest experience to stand out in a competitive market

Industry professionals explored ways to stand out in the Middle East’s oversaturated luxury travel segment at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024. Panellists speaking during the exhibition’s luxury summit said authenticity, personalisation and the guest experience were among the key considerations for brands looking to distinguish themselves from the competition.

Industry experts noted that while the architectural designs of hotel operators’ premises may vary, it is important for luxury brands to establish common values and authentic experiences across their portfolios. From the language used to convey a company’s offering to the integration of local heritage and culture within individual hotels, speakers told ATM attendees that luxury players must remain laser-focused on delivering unique value propositions for guests.

Panellists participating in the Next-level Luxury: How to Stand Out as Truly Premium in an Oversaturated Market summit included Claudia Kozma Kaplan, SVP & Global Head of Brand at Raffles; Richard Alexander, GM of The Lana (Dorchester Collection); Michael Grieve, Chief Brand Officer at Jumeirah; and Marco Franck, Chief Hospitality Officer at Boutique Group. The session was moderated by John O'Ceallaigh, Founder of The Luxury Travel Edit Limited.

Participants said that rather than attempting to replicate luxury across multiple locations, the most successful luxury hospitality brands are infusing their hotels with local art, music and cuisine. For example, panellists acknowledged the value that can be added by the personal involvement of renowned celebrity chefs, but noted the importance of simultaneously nurturing and providing opportunities for homegrown culinary talent.

Speakers also emphasised the pivotal role of effective recruitment and retention in establishing teams that are equipped to meet and exceed expectations through hyper-personalised service. From retaining information about customers’ favourite foods to their children’s birthdays, summit participants told attendees that exceptional guest experiences are essential for luxury hoteliers looking to distinguish themselves in an overcrowded market.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “Given the number of players in the Middle East’s luxury hospitality segment, it is no surprise that hoteliers are looking for new ways to stand out from the crowd. It was fascinating to hear such a diverse array of insights from our panellists, who provided some excellent examples of how brands can redefine what modern luxury means to their guests.”

Elsewhere on the final day of ATM 2024, attendees took to the Global Stage to share their knowledge and expertise with the next generation of travel and tourism talent at the Network with Future Leaders session, which was attended by university students from around the UAE. Meanwhile, the Sustainability Summit concluded four days of engaging industry summits today, exploring topics such as COP 28 Unpacked: Charting Travel's Path to Sustainability and Leveraging Sustainability for Luxury Markets. A panel of 12 international speakers gathered for the final session on ATM’s Future Stage, addressing The Top Trends to Tap in 2024.

Localities expand activities to develop carbon credit market

Local people in a forest in the coastal central
province of Quảng Bình.—VNA/VNS Photo

The development of the carbon credit market is considered a concrete step towards policies on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, allocating emission quotas, carbon credit trading and creating green financial resources for Việt Nam.

Localities across the country are undertaking activities to develop the carbon credit market.

The development of the carbon credit market is considered a concrete step towards policies on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, allocating emission quotas, carbon credit trading and creating green financial resources for Việt Nam.

Nguyễn Văn Duẩn, deputy director of the Quảng Bình Province’s Forest Protection Department, said that besides leveraging the strengths of natural forests, the province would expand its scope, evaluate eligible areas and estimate the potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by implementing new forest planting activities according to international standards, converting small wood plantations to larger ones to increase forest carbon reserves in the future.

The province would also hold meetings with relevant organisations and individuals to consult on the assessment results and propose activities to develop forest carbon credit projects, he said.

The province currently has over 590,000ha of forest, including over 469,000ha of natural forest. The forest coverage rate reaches 68.7 per cent and the forest quality is relatively good.

During the 2023-25 period, the province received VNĐ235 billion (US$9.25 million) from carbon credit sales, thereby providing income for nearly 11,000 forest owners, contributing to sustainable forest management and protection.

Meanwhile, HCM City has been selected as the first locality to pilot the carbon credit trading mechanism.

Specifically, the city will implement potential projects to generate carbon credits, such as upgrading street lights to LED, installing rooftop solar systems for public and private assets in the area, and equipping buildings with energy-saving devices.

Under this plan, the city’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment will collaborate with the city's Department of Finance to finalise the pilot project on the financial mechanism to implement measures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions through carbon credit trading and offsetting mechanisms, submitting it to the People's Committee of the city for approval.

Additionally, they will coordinate with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to determine the contribution ratio for greenhouse gas emission reduction and absorption within the city's area towards the national greenhouse gas emission reduction target before engaging in carbon credit trading.

In the Mekong Delta province of Bến Tre, it currently boasts the largest coconut plantation area in the country, covering approximately 78,000ha.

According to researchers, with the area, the province has the potential to store between 1.9 - 5.8 million tonnes of CO2 (excluding crops under coconut trees).

Recognising the agriculture sector's significant potential to participate in the carbon credit market, as well as move towards a green and circular economy, the provincial agriculture sector has been focusing on continuing to develop eco-friendly agriculture, circular economy, low-carbon emissions, environment-friendly and climate-resilient agriculture.

The provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has collaborated with the provincial Department of Natural Resources and Environment and relevant agencies to assess the province's potential participation in the carbon market.

Supporting policies

In order to establish mechanisms and policies for organisations and individuals to participate in the development of the carbon market; and address the import, export, consumption and handling of substances that deplete the ozone layer in accordance with international conventions that Việt Nam committed on January 7, 2022, the Government issued Decree 06/2022/NĐ-CP on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the ozone layer.

However, to response to current situations, the draft decree proposes amending and supplementing certain provisions of Decree 06/2022/NĐ-CP, suggesting amendments to Article 17 regarding the development roadmap and the timing of launching the domestic carbon market.

A man harvests coconuts in a coconut plantation in Thới Thạnh Commune,
 Thạnh Phú District in the Mekong Delta province of Bến Tre.
VNA/VNS Photo Hồng Đạt

Accordingly, by the end of 2027, the country has to build regulations for managing carbon credits, greenhouse gas emission quota exchange activities, and carbon credit exchange; operation regulations for the carbon exchange will be developed; pilot projects for carbon credit exchange mechanisms in potential sectors will be implemented; guidance for implementing domestic and international carbon credit exchange mechanisms consistent with Vietnamese laws and international agreements will be provided; and a pilot Carbon Exchange will be established and operated from 2025 onwards.

From 2028 to the end of 2030, official operation of the Carbon Exchange will commence in 2028; regulations for connecting and trading carbon credits domestically with regional and global carbon markets will be established; and financial products based on greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits exchanged on the Carbon Exchange will be regulated.

In the post-2030 period, expansion of domestic carbon market participants; connection of domestic carbon markets with regional and global carbon markets will be implemented.

Carbon quota transfer, borrowing, repayment and offset activities will be conducted on the National Registration System.

The draft decree also proposes adding provisions on the responsibilities of relevant units in managing and operating a unified exchange consistent with the contents of the Carbon Market Development Project in Việt Nam.

The greenhouse gas emission quota traded on the Carbon Exchange will be matched and traded in accordance with the trading regulations of the competent securities exchange authority.

Carbon credits traded outside of buying and selling can be traded through negotiation but must be registered on the Carbon Exchange.

Guidance on buying and selling greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits on the Carbon Exchange will be issued by the Minister of Finance.

Decree 06/2022/NĐ-CP currently does not regulate the issuance of approval letters for international carbon credit transfers.

Therefore, in the draft new decree, the environment ministry has proposed adding some regulations such as: the project management authority signs the Carbon Credit Purchase Agreement under the International Agreement Law, including content on the expected greenhouse gas emission reduction amount to be transferred.

The environment ministry is responsible for issuing approval letters for international carbon credit transfers based on proposals from the project management authority, the opinions of relevant management ministries, agencies, and the implementation status of the national greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. — VNS

Boomer ‘cara-fan’ influencers are on the rise

Alison Chapman

In September 2023, Arthur Chapman, aka Chappys Travels and his wife Alison, decided to pack up and embark on a full time road tripping adventure documenting their travels on social media after a nudge and a bit of education from their children. 

Prior to their travels, Arthur spent time with his children who taught him how to use the two social media platforms and set him up for success to create a visual diary to document their travels and be able to look back on in the future. 

“My kids got me on to TikTok and YouTube to learn the ways of social media, I’ve always been someone who likes to keep up with the times so thought why not just give it a go. “I’m very outgoing and thought it was a great idea to document our travels not only to share a visual diary with my kids, grandkids and friends but it also gives us the opportunity to share with likeminded people who can also follow along. 

“Alison wanted me to take the plunge so that we can look back on all the places we’ve been and are yet to visit, plus we get to show people the beautiful backyard we live in and that they have the opportunity to visit these amazing places too.” 

Arthur adds. Arthur has posted hundreds of TikTok and YouTube videos, documenting his travels, sharing helpful tips, providing a realistic lens on what to expect from each location and of course an insight into the caravanning lifestyle. 

“I love creating and editing videos, I’m hooked on it! I enjoy sharing a variety of content whether it be the reality of what to expect when arriving in towns, for example what the streets look like and the facilities on offer, not just the picturesque views. After just under a year of posting, Arthur has created an online community with an engaged audience commenting and following along. 

“We are quite excited as comments have started to come through asking us questions on the caravanning lifestyle, ranging from advice on towing, caravans and the locations we have visited. 

"We never imagined we would be using social media at our age or that I would become a content creator or influencer, but it has given us the opportunity to meet likeminded people and to encourage others to get out there and live the dream. To any Boomers out there considering jumping on the bandwagon, Arthur comments “Life is too short to not visit your bucket list destinations, and just give social media a go, you might get hooked on sharing your journey too,” Arthur adds.

Vivid Dreams: where to stay

Vivid Sydney

A comfortable place to put up your feet after a night exploring is essential during Vivid Sydney, and the city has a room for everyone.

Luxe Listings

Located in the heart of the CBD, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has reopened its doors after a stunning refurbishment to offer five-star luxury in the city, while Kimpton Margot Sydney fuses Art Deco ambience with modern luxe, including a glamorous rooftop bar and pool. Crown Sydney is a prime spot to access Vivid Sydney locations Barangaroo and Darling Harbour, and for twinkling harbour panoramas and full views of the Vivid Sydney lights, waterfront Park Hyatt Sydney or Shangri-La Sydney at The Rocks can't be beaten.

Family-friendly

There are plenty of accommodation options that meet all the requirements of travelling with little ones. The waterfront Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour is a great base base to explore Vivid Sydney from, as well as being conveniently located to many family-friendly food options. Rydges Sydney Central is sleek, modern and right near Central Station. Alternatively, head across the bridge and settle in for a slumber party with the animals at Taronga Zoo – wildlife safari tents look out on the illuminated Sydney Harbour.

Designer digs

After you've sparked your creativity exploring the festival, rest your inspired head at one of Sydney's many designer boutique hotels. Close by the beginning of the Light Walk at Central Station, Ace Hotel Sydney brings the Palm Springs brand's artistic flair to the harbour city. Paramount House Hotel offers 29 unique Japanese-styled rooms, or take a dip in The Old Clare Hotel's luxurious rooftop pool while staying in this Mid-Century-style hotel. If waterfront is what you seek, check into one of Hotel Palisade's eight guestrooms at Walsh Bay, or get even closer to the water at Pier One Sydney.
*Website: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au

Dry Tripping in Sonoma Wine Country

Sonoma County

From creative mocktails to inventive alcohol-free concoctions, Sonoma County is home to a burgeoning scene of expert mixologists and crafters. Exploring Sonoma County with non-alcoholic options allows visitors to savor the picturesque landscapes and renowned culinary offerings without the pressure to imbibe, meaning a relaxed and inclusive experience for all.

Sonoma Valley-based winemaker Georgos Zanganas produces a 0.0 per cent sparkling Sonoma Soft Seltzer made from de-alcoholized, premium California wine, while Lagunitas Taproom in Petaluma crafts its own alcohol-free beers. The plant-based restaurant Little Saint, dedicated to climate justice and animal welfare, offers a wine list that is also peppered with zero-proof cocktails, beers, and wines.

There are plenty of other ways to enjoy an endorphin rush in Sonoma County. From zip-lining between towering redwood trees to kayaking down the Russian River or whale watching from the headlands of Bodega Bay, where film director and screenwriter Alfred Hitchcock shot “The Birds” movie.

A New Era for Singita's Founding Lodge

Singita Ebony Lodge

Singita Ebony Lodge, in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, has reopened following a refresh designed to meet the changing needs of modern guests while remaining true to the origin of the Singita story that began 30 years ago. The main guest area includes a new wine cellar and a Conservation Room, with several spacious lounge and deck areas encouraging a relaxed flow and uninterrupted views.

A New Interpretation

The layout of the main lodge has been rearranged to create a greater sense of space and fluidity. The chunky, rounded shapes of Adobe architecture (inspired by North and West Africa) combined with thatch, timber and canvas elements, and views of the Sand River, give the lodge a laid-back and light-filled feel.

Cécile & Boyd’s Design Director, Geordi De Sousa Costa, says, “The new design is an intentional mix of past and present. This classic safari lodge takes it to the next level by successfully contrasting bold and lightweight, dense and open.”

Textures. Layers. Contrasts

This mix of old and new continues throughout the interiors, where utilitarian furniture sits alongside simple sofas and armchairs. Cotton slipcovers update antique chairs, and contemporary African art is the perfect paradox to chandeliers and vintage traveller chests.

Existing Berber rug murals underline the North African theme, and leather buckles and fold-up-style furniture adds layers. The pared-down look introduces natural fabrics with texture, mood, and feeling, and softer colours inspired by nature – indigo, écru, ochre, and chocolate brown.

Elevating the Guest Experience

The main guest areas at Singita Ebony include a few significant updates to the guest experience. A new Conservation Room has been added – a thought-provoking space placed strategically in the centre of the lodge, where guests can view interactive displays and learn more about the 30-year history of Singita, the biodiversity of the region and the inspiring work of the Singita Lowveld Trust (Singita’s conservation partner in South Africa).

Singita Ebony Lodge

The beloved wine cellar has been moved, leading onto a deck overlooking the Sand River exuding warmth, with brass, steel, and leather details. As with our other lodges, Ebony now has a signature bar-deli fridge, giving guests easy access to snacks and drinks throughout the day. There is a new informal lounge at Ebony, a warm and homely space with a TV, a well-stocked library, board games, cards and puzzles, where guests can relax.

Shaded by ancient trees on the banks of the Sand River, Ebony Lodge has evolved gently while retaining the unwavering commitment to conservation and the 100-year purpose that guides Singita. This fitting refresh marks the next chapter of our founding lodge.

Georgie Pennington, Singita’s Group Head of Creative Direction, says: “Ebony is the keeper of many beautiful stories and memories, and we have updated the lodge to evolve our product, brand, and guest experience, but the essence of Ebony remains the same.”

About Singita

Singita is a conservation and ecotourism brand that has been helping to preserve Africa’s wildlife and wilderness for the past 30 years, offering guests exceptional safari experiences at 16 luxury, award-winning lodges, and camps across four countries. In partnership with non-profit Funds & Trusts which implement strategic conservation projects in each region, Singita’s 100-year purpose is to preserve and protect large parts of African wilderness for future generations. www.singita.com

For reservations: +27 21 683 3424, enquiries@singita.com

Tourism projected to account for 12% of UAE GDP this year, as GCC policymakers gather to discuss future of regional travel at ATM 2024

Gulf-wide collaboration, ease of inter-regional travel and infrastructure development were placed under the microscope at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, which saw a selection of policymakers discuss the streamlining of the GCC’s thriving tourism industry. The 31st edition of ATM is being hosted at Dubai World Travel Centre (DWTC) until Thursday 9 May.

H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, noted the tourism sector’s growing contribution to the Emirates’ economy in his opening comments on ATM 2024’s Global Stage. “According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), our tourism sector has been a dynamic force within our economy, contributing an impressive 11.7% to GDP [in 2023], amounting to AED 220 billion,” H.E. Al Marri told attendees. “For 2024, the forecast is set even higher, with an anticipated contribution of 12% to the [UAE’s] GDP, equating to AED 236 billion.”

H.E. Al Marri’s speech was followed by a panel discussion between H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; H.E. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority; H.E. Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Oman; and H.E. Sarah Buhijji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority. The session was moderated by Dubai Eye presenter, Richard Dean.

During the in-depth discussion, the ministerial panellists explored the importance of inter-regional initiatives in elevating the GCC tourism industry to the next level, while striking the right balance between collaboration and competition between destinations and nations. The planned GCC Unified Tourist Visa was cited as a key facilitator for the region, alongside factors such as sustainability, infrastructure and culture.

Panellists said that the planned unified visa would allow member nations to present the GCC as a connected destination, boosting accessibility and driving KPIs such as length of stay, average spend and employment. Speakers noted they would continue to ensure that the travel industry positively impacts local businesses, communities and ecosystems, contributing to the long-term sustainability of tourism across the region.

Participants also explained that current and future infrastructure will complement the GCC Unified Tourist Visa by enhancing accessibility within and between Gulf nations. In addition to ongoing investment in new and existing airports and cruise terminals, the ministerial speakers highlighted the central role of the upcoming GCC Railway in facilitating and optimising region-wide access for both domestic and international visitors.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “While it’s clear that healthy competition will continue to play an important role in strengthening the GCC’s world-class tourism offering, it was also encouraging to hear how collaboration is enabling the region to become more than the sum of its parts in terms of attracting global travellers. We are immensely grateful to this year’s ministerial participants, who provided a diverse range of valuable insights into the region’s unified tourism future.”

The opening day of ATM 2024 featured 12 sessions across the Global and Future Stages. Welcoming attendees to the Global Stage today, H.E. Issam Abdulrahim Kazim, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, hosted the fascinating Global Stage Welcome: The Gateway to Global Insights session, outlining the key tourism objectives for Dubai for the coming years.

Meanwhile, the all-new Future Stage kicked off a week of innovation-focused sessions, including Branding in the AI Era: How Travel Brands Can Capture Wanderlust. and The New Age of Island Tourism.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony

A symbolic ploughing procession, conducted by the King himself, marks the beginning of the rainy season in Cambodia, and traditionally predicts a range of events depending on what the royal oxen choose from a selection of seven golden trays.

Although there are various other scientific methods to forecast the weather and to determine harvests, Cambodians have their methods to foretell the future. Through traditional rituals that are often ceremoniously celebrated nationwide, Cambodians are warned of calamities, assured of good harvest and so forth.

The Royal Ploughing ceremony, or Pithi Chrat Preah Neanng Korl in Khmer, and the Festival of Water and full Moon Salutation, know as Pithi Bonn Om Touk and Ak Ambok Sampeah preah Kher in Khmer, are such ceremonies. Predictions gleaned from these traditional ceremonies for the coming year are taken very seriously.

The Festival of Water and Full Moon Salutation is celebrated usually in late October. Drippings from burning candles predict rainfall distribution to provinces across the country. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony predicts the weather, epidemics and farming conditions.

By observing what feed the royal oxen choose after the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, Cambodians believe they can predict a range of events including epidemics, floods, good harvests and excessive rainfall.

This year, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony will be held on May 26 at the Veal Preahmein Square, situated across the road from the northern perimeter of the Royal Palace.

At the end of a symbolic Ploughing procession before His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk, the royal oxen were relieved of their harnesses and led to seven golden trays containing rice, corn, sesame seeds, beans, grass, water and wine to feed. The royal oxen chose to eat out of only three trays this year and because their feast consisted of varying percentages of rice and corn while they largely ignored the trays of sesame seeds, grass, water and wine, prognostications were as follows: Farmers would enjoy a moderate output for their rice harvest but good yields in secondary crop production, especially corn and beans. Because the royal oxen only sniffed on the tray of water and turned away from the wine, the prediction was made that farmers would not suffer any serious floods.

Every year, Cambodian farmers anxiously await the predictions at the end of this ritualistic ceremony, which they observe with strong faith and belief. Most Cambodians today still consult traditional manuals before making any major decisions regarding business matters or meeting important persons, etc.

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony has been observed for many centuries at the initiative of an earlier Khmer king who had paid great attention to farming conditions of the people. Traditionally, the Pithi Chrat Pheah Neang Korl is performed in the month of the Khmer calendar and marks the beginning of the rainy season in Cambodia.

When asked, most Cambodians stand staunchly by these traditional methods of predicting the future and vouch for their accuracy. It is comforting to believe that the angels are still watching over us. As they say in Cambodia, long live the Khmer traditions. Long Live Cambodia.