Thailand’s Constitutional Court has dismissed prime minister Srettha Thavisin for appointing ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister. It ruled Srettha guilty of a gross violation of ethics. The move has also resulted in the dismissal of all positions in the cabinet.
Ministers will stay on in a caretaker capacity, with deputy prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai serving as acting prime minister until a new premier can be selected by the House of Representatives.
During his tenure as prime minister, Srettha, who found his fortune in real estate, was a strong supporter of the tourism industry. Recognising the contribution travel and tourism makes to the national economy, he championed various initiatives, including Ignite Tourism Thailand. Announced in April, Ignite Tourism Thailand is focused on elevating the tourist experience, promoting must-do activities, raising awareness of hidden-gem destinations, developing intra-regional travel linkage with neighbouring countries, and hosting more world-class events.
With more than 25 years of experience in the travel industry, Lowe previously held senior roles at Flight Centre Travel Group.
Prior to joining The Westin Kuala Lumpur, he was general manager at the Four Points by Sheraton, Kuala Lumpur Chinatown, earning numerous awards and accolades during his tenure.
Before joining Minor Hotels, Beh served as global vice president, hotel chains at Trip.com.
IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding its portfolio in Indonesia with eight properties launching in four cities this year, following the opening of the 144-room Holiday Inn Resort Canggu, Bali in December 2023.
This announcement was made by Andreas Bergel, area general manager of IHG Indonesia, at Meet and Mingle in Jakarta – the company’s first media event in Indonesia since the pandemic.
Earlier in March, Holiday Inn Lampung Bukit Randu in Lampung Province unveiled its first phase opening with 155 rooms. It targets to finalise the remaining 84 rooms by December. Following that, the 277-key Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar opened its doors on July 6.
Pascal Caubo, general manager of Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar, told TTG Asia that the Indigo brand hotel captures the spirit of the city. Located at the stylish Dago neighbourhood, its design is influenced by Bandung’s cultural traditions and folklore, where guests can enjoy local coffee in the café and authentic delicacies in the restaurant. The hotel also offers two infinity pools and a rooftop bar that frames stunning city views.
Opening in 3Q2024 are the 72-room Holiday Inn Express Sunset Road and the 162-room voco Bali Seminyak – the latter will mark the entry of the voco brand into Indonesia.
The Rumah Luwih Bali, a Vignette Collection, will open later in the year with 72 keys. It will be joined by the 150-suite Regent Bali Canggu.
IHG said in a media statement that, with the introduction of these new brands, it is “ushering in a new era of experience-seeking travellers”.
“This includes couples, friends, and families, all drawn to the continued growth of mainstream brands such as Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express,” it cited.
IHG will also open two properties in Bintan in 4Q2024 – the 258-room Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach and the 122-room Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach.
Michael Beechey, cluster general manager of the two Bintan hotels, said they would be differentiated by customer segments. “Hotel Indigo is for experienced travellers; when they have (a) family and want to stay in Bintan, they can come to Holiday Inn Bintan.”