Destination Management Companies (DMCs) are at the forefront of transforming travel hubs into vibrant, tourist-friendly spaces. Their expertise in blending sustainability with local culture is paving the way for a stronger and more resilient tourism infrastructure. Here’s how notable DMCs are shaping global tourism:

1. Kenya: Wild Whispers
Kenya's iconic safari experiences owe much to the innovative efforts of Wild Whispers. Focused on eco-friendly practices, the company partners with local communities and wildlife conservancies to safeguard Kenya's rich biodiversity.

“Tourism in Kenya is about more than luxury lodges; it’s about preserving wildlife and empowering local communities,” says Aman Shah, CEO of Wild Whispers. By training local guides, creating private conservancies, and adopting sustainable solutions like solar-powered camps, the company ensures an elevated travel experience while benefiting the environment and communities.

2. Bali: Tria Uma Wisata Tours & Travels
Tria Uma Wisata in Bali is redefining tourism with a focus on cultural preservation and authentic local experiences. Collaborating with artisans and farmers, they bring Bali’s rich traditions to life for visitors.

“Bali is a cultural and spiritual haven beyond its beaches. Our aim is to ensure tourism supports and preserves this identity,” shares Niluh Werdiani, Managing Director. By promoting eco-resorts and organizing workshops in traditional crafts like batik and gamelan music, the company strengthens Bali’s cultural legacy while enriching its tourism offerings.

3. Jordan: Plan B Travel & Tourism
Jordan’s timeless heritage finds a global audience thanks to Plan B Travel & Tourism. The company curates diverse travel experiences that highlight both iconic attractions and hidden gems.

“Our mission is to honor Jordan’s heritage while making it accessible to the world,” says Rana Abu Alhala, CEO. Plan B’s itineraries seamlessly combine famous sites like Petra and Wadi Rum with lesser-explored destinations such as Jerash and Madaba, catering to every type of traveler.

4. Sri Lanka: Hayleys
Despite challenges, Hayleys is driving Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery with innovative offerings like wellness retreats, cultural tours, and wildlife safaris.

“Sri Lanka has a powerful story to share, and we’re helping shape its future through enhanced tourism infrastructure,” explains Suchitra Aluwihare, COO of Hayleys Travels. Their initiatives include training naturalists, collaborating with Ayurvedic resorts, and creating eco-lodges to showcase the island’s breathtaking biodiversity.

DMCs like Wild Whispers, Tria Uma Wisata, Plan B, and Hayleys exemplify how a localized, sustainable approach can redefine tourism. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and conscious experiences, these companies are leading the way in building stronger, more enriching destinations.

The iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok is set to reopen on September 27, 2024, following a major transformation. To celebrate its return, the hotel has launched a 10-episode docuseries, An Icon Reimagined: The Docuseries, which chronicles the hotel’s redevelopment over the past five years. This series, which began with a teaser trailer on September 3, 2024, is available on the hotel's official Facebook page and YouTube channel.

The series documents the hotel’s history, starting with its original construction in 1969 by Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui. "When talking about Dusit Thani Bangkok, many people think about my mother, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, who built the original hotel following her vision to uniquely deliver gracious Thai hospitality to the world," said Chanin Donavanik, Vice Chairman of Dusit International. The hotel, with its unique design, became a landmark and stood for over 50 years as a symbol of Thai hospitality.

The new Dusit Thani Bangkok will continue to reflect this legacy while incorporating modern design and luxury. According to Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO of Dusit International, the hotel’s redesign has been guided by three pillars: “The legacy continues – Gracious, now and always,” “Iconic grandeur for a new generation,” and “Luxury redefined through distinctive experiences.” These pillars ensure that the hotel retains its identity while adapting to modern needs.

The new hotel, situated in the same location as the original property, is part of the Dusit Central Park development. This mixed-use project includes luxury residences, offices, retail spaces, and a rooftop park, all set to open in 2025. The 39-floor, 257-room hotel offers spacious guest rooms with views of Lumpini Park. Designed by André Fu Studio, the rooms combine cultural heritage with contemporary aesthetics, providing guests with a luxurious and immersive experience.

The hotel also features a variety of dining options, a multi-level rooftop bar, expansive meeting spaces, and one of the largest ballrooms in Bangkok, all overlooking Lumpini Park. Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy the Devarana Wellness Centre, offering a range of health and relaxation services.

Several elements of the original Dusit Thani Bangkok have been preserved in the new building, including the golden spire inspired by the stupa of Wat Arun, traditional artworks by National Artist Paiboon Suwannakudt, and carved teakwood ceiling panels. The hotel’s Heritage Floor also features a virtual library showcasing the history of the hotel and the Silom area.

"Maintaining Dusit Thani Bangkok’s iconic identity has been our mission from the very start," said Suthumpun. The preservation efforts, including artworks by Silpakorn University artists, are featured in the docuseries. New episodes of An Icon Reimagined: The Docuseries will be released every Tuesday throughout September.

After a thoughtful restoration and the addition of numerous enhancements, a long-time European summer favorite has reopened as a new Four Seasons experience. Set in the heart of a vast private estate with carefully restored gardens, seaside woodlands, rugged cliffs, and secret beaches, the Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor has reemerged as a sustainable and soulful luxury holiday destination, retaining its glam-chic charm.

“With our legacy of reviving legendary hotels with a respectful approach to modernization, we are very pleased to add Hotel Formentor to our portfolio of historic European properties that have been restored and enhanced as a new Four Seasons experience,” says Rainer Stampfer, Four Seasons President, Global Operations – Hotels and Resorts. “As we welcome a new generation of holidaymakers who love the sun, sand, and sea, all wrapped in the heartfelt care for which Four Seasons is renowned, the story of this beloved destination continues.”

The 40-hectare (100-acre) resort is set amid a large estate that also includes a working vineyard, offering a world away from the hustle and bustle, yet easily connected to surrounding sites and recreational activities. The resort blends poetic charm with luxury hospitality and European sophistication, respecting the natural beauty of the land and its history.

Modern Interiors Surrounded by Thoughtfully Restored Gardens and Natural Wilderness

Sustainability is at the core of the resort’s restoration efforts. All 110 guest rooms and suites feature terraces facing the sea, with some offering private plunge pools. The bright and airy décor uses natural materials throughout, evoking a seaside glamour that is both nostalgic and modern. The surrounding landscape has been meticulously restored, with native plantings of fragrant flowers among towering pine groves, allowing for walking paths, exotic garden settings for events, and quiet spaces for reflection.

A Destination Within: Exploring the Formentor Peninsula

Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor is the starting point for explorers of all interests. The resort’s concierge team offers a suite of unique experiences and one-of-a-kind excursions guided by local experts. Highlights include the full-day Enchanting Tramuntana mountain tour, yachting tours around the Formentor Coastline, and a full-day trip to the island of Menorca. Guests can also enjoy hiking, biking, snorkelling, and a variety of water sports, with expert instruction and guided treks available.

From the Height of Excitement to the Ultimate in Relaxation

The resort offers something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping water sports to relaxing on the beach with a cold drink. Guests can borrow bicycles, play tennis, or simply unwind on the plush sunbeds provided. For families, the Kids For All Seasons program offers a range of activities, with a dedicated teen center set to open in 2025.

A Gastronome’s - and a Cook’s – Paradise

Culinary experiences at the resort are overseen by Executive Chef Francesco Mannelli. Dining options include Mel, which serves a farm-and-sea-fresh Mediterranean menu, Quiosc, an open kitchen and terrace by the pool, and Xiringuito, a beachfront eatery offering refreshing drinks and light fare. Oenophiles will appreciate the resort’s private vineyard, where they can learn about the grapes and the growers.

The concierge team has also curated special experiences, such as a morning at a farmer’s market and an olive oil tour. The Ancient Finca Discovery tour offers a hands-on cooking class at sunset in a 13th-century stone house, followed by stargazing with a local astronomer.

Mind, Body, and Soul – Spa and Wellness at Four Seasons

Wellness is a key focus at the resort. Guests can practice Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, led by a mindfulness expert, or join an oil painting workshop with a local artist. The resort’s gym offers state-of-the-art facilities, and a pop-up spa is available for the 2024 season, with a full-service spa set to open in 2025.

Book Now and Be Part of a Continuing History

In celebration of its grand opening, Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor is offering several packages for guests of its inaugural season, running until October 31, 2024. The resort will reopen in March 2025 for its second season. Guests can arrive in style with limousine service from the airport to Port de Pollensa, where they will board a luxury yacht for the final leg of the journey.

With its variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, the resort is also an ideal setting for corporate retreats and destination weddings. The resort’s expert events specialists are available to help plan memorable occasions.

About Four Seasons

Four Seasons opened its first hotel in 1961 and has since become a global leader in luxury hospitality and branded residential properties. The company currently operates 132 hotels and resorts in 47 countries and continues to grow with a guest-centric mindset. Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world’s best hotels, resorts, restaurants, and bars, offering unparalleled service experiences. For more information and reservations, visit fourseasons.com.

Contact: fourseasons@kwtglobal.com