“Discover Your Korea” Captivates the Midwest and the West

“Discover Your Korea” Captivates the Midwest and the West

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 8, 2024

Recently, Chicago and Los Angeles were abuzz with excitement as the "Discover Your Korea" events unfolded, offering a captivating glimpse into the vibrant culture of South Korea. Hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism along with the Korea Tourism Organization, these events aimed to showcase the allure of Korea as a premier travel destination, particularly to the Midwest and Western US regions.

In Chicago, “Discover Your Korea” took center stage at the Blackstone Hotel, drawing travel industry professionals from across the Midwest. Jaesok Park, executive director of the Korea Tourism Organization's NY Office, expressed enthusiasm about bringing Korea's vibrancy to Chicago and fostering stronger ties with key decision-makers in the region: “We are thrilled to bring a glimpse of the vibrant destination of Korea to Chicago and showcase the unique adventures that await visitors. The Midwest market is incredibly important to us, and these promotional events will strengthen our connections with key decision makers with the goal of inspiring more visitors to experience Korea firsthand.”

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With the number of U.S. tourists visiting Korea surpassing pre-pandemic levels, the event capitalized on this momentum, highlighting Korea's appeal as a top travel destination. Attendees immersed themselves in Korea's captivating history, K-pop culture, and cuisine while enjoying performances by Korean musicians and dancers.

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, “Discover Your Korea” event unfolded at the JW Marriott LA Live, offering participants an enriching journey into Korean culture. Business meetings, seminars, and cultural activities captivated the imaginations of over 160 participants from the Western US B2B Tourism Industry.

Distinguished speakers from leading airlines and tourism organizations highlighted the significance of regional tourism resources, while attendees experienced traditional Korean attire, calligraphy, and gift-wrapping firsthand.

The event culminated in an extravagant dinner banquet featuring a keynote speech by Chan Ho Park, the first South Korean Major League Baseball player, who shared inspiring anecdotes from his personal journey and career: “We appreciate the collaboration of all our partners and look forward to even more prominent and dynamic tourism activities this year.” 

Heejin Cho, the executive director of international marketing of Korea Tourism Organization, said, "We are so happy with the great turn out and the continued interest in Korea as one of top travel destinations. We appreciate the collaboration of all our partners and look forward to even more prominent and dynamic tourism activities this year."

Korea’s diverse attractions, from the bustling streets of Seoul to the tranquil shores of Jeju Island, were showcased, inviting travelers to explore this dynamic destination further.


Atmosphere Core to Debut in Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast with AMAGI SECRET by Atmosphere Tangalle

Atmosphere Core to Debut in Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast with AMAGI SECRET by Atmosphere Tangalle

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 8, 2025

Atmosphere Core, a fast-growing international hospitality company, in partnership with the Amagi Group, is set to make its debut in Sri Lanka with a new boutique resort in Tangalle. A part of the award-winning Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand, AMAGI SECRET by Atmosphere Tangalle is scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2026, blending soulful Sri Lankan heritage with crafted indulgence.

“Sri Lanka is a land of stories, rhythms and rich heritage, and with AMAGI SECRET by Atmosphere Tangalle we intend to honour and celebrate those stories,” said Salil Panigrahi, Cofounder and Managing Director of Atmosphere Core. “This resort is not simply a destination, it is an immersion. With our expansion across India, the Maldives, and Italy, and now this important step into Sri Lanka, we are placing thoughtfully curated, distinctive landscapes on the global tourism map.”

Spread across 11 acres around a serene natural lake and located near Sri Lanka’s golden southern coastline, the resort will feature 33 private pool villas, including six 40 sqm lake view villas perched over the water, 23 one-bedroom pool villas of 60 sqm, and four two-bedroom family villas spanning 111 sqm.

Designed with mud-plastered walls, clay-tiled roofs, and locally inspired landscaping, the property immerses guests in the island’s natural rhythm. Curated comforts provide a seamless blend of tradition and elegance, offering a setting that reflects the spirit of Sri Lanka.

The resort will house an all-day dining restaurant, a poolside bar, and a signature restaurant celebrating Sri Lankan flavours. Guests can also rejuvenate through ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and meditation at the ELE│NA Ayur Spa and Wellness Centre.

Mr. S. Ganeshanathan, Chairman of the Amagi Group, shared,

“From our early days in seafood export we have always regarded Sri Lanka’s natural resources and human craftsmanship as our foundation. With a hospitality background myself, I have long valued the art of service and the pursuit of excellence in guest experience. Partnering with the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand enables us to bring forward a property that respects and elevates those foundations, where sustainability, culture, and community are as central as international luxury hospitality standards.”

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is witnessing a strong revival, with rising international arrivals and increased visitor spending. Simplified visa access and renewed global interest are contributing to its position as one of Asia’s leading experiential travel destinations.

Set against this vibrant backdrop, AMAGI SECRET by Atmosphere Tangalle will invite travellers to slow down and connect deeply with the island’s culture and nature. By blending luxury with authenticity, the resort aims to set a new benchmark for immersive, sustainable hospitality in Sri Lanka.


Plant Forests with a Click: SAii Hotels & Resorts Launches Green Button Initiative

Plant Forests with a Click: SAii Hotels & Resorts Launches Green Button Initiative

By Hariharan U

Published on October 7, 2025

In a bold move to make sustainability effortless and engaging for travelers, SAii Hotels & Resorts, part of S Hotels & Resorts PCL, has launched the Green Button – a new feature on the SAii mobile app that transforms guest actions into tangible environmental impact.

Already live at SAii Phi Phi Island Village, SAii Laguna Phuket, and SAii Lagoon Maldives, with SAii Koh Samui Villas joining in December, the initiative combines smart digital innovation with real-world conservation.

With just a tap, guests can now choose to skip daily linen refreshes, and that single choice directly supports tree planting efforts at Singha Park Chiang Rai under Singha Estate Group’s “Pleuk Pa Duay Plai New” (Million Trees for Tomorrow) programme.

So far, the initiative has contributed to the reforestation of over 1,000,000 sqm of land over the past three years, planting native species like Rain Tree, Indian Cork, and Gurjan Tree to restore biodiversity and strengthen local ecosystems.

What makes the Green Button stand out is its transparency and interactivity, guests can track their real-time impact, including water and energy savings and contributions to biodiversity. It’s sustainability made simple, measurable, and meaningful.

Sustainability should be simple, engaging and rewarding,” said Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts. “The Green Button gives our guests a direct way to make a positive impact from conserving resources during their stay to planting trees that will thrive for generations. It’s a small click with a big impact.”

The initiative aligns with S Hotels & Resorts’ long-term sustainability vision, which targets carbon neutrality and a 30% biodiversity uplift by 2030.

Through its Green Button project, SAii Hotels & Resorts continues to bridge technology, guest engagement, and environmental stewardship — redefining what responsible travel can look like in today’s luxury hospitality landscape.

About SAii Hotels & Resorts

A lifestyle brand under S Hotels & Resorts PCL, SAii Hotels & Resorts redefines affordable luxury with nature-inspired design, heartfelt service, and sustainability at its core. The brand operates distinctive resorts across Thailand and the Maldives and is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.
Learn more at saiiresorts.com.


Ras Al Khaimah Joins World’s Elite Luxury Travel Circles with Virtuoso® and Serandipians Membership

Ras Al Khaimah Joins World’s Elite Luxury Travel Circles with Virtuoso® and Serandipians Membership

By Hariharan U

Published on October 5, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah has officially joined the ranks of the world’s most prestigious luxury travel destinations, following its invitation-only acceptance into Virtuoso® and Serandipians by Traveller Made two of the most respected global networks in high-end travel.

This milestone marks a major step for the emirate, reflecting its growing global appeal and positioning it alongside iconic destinations such as Santorini, Kyoto, the Amalfi Coast, and the Serengeti.

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Membership in Virtuoso® and Serandipians is highly selective and reserved only for destinations and partners that meet exceptional standards in authenticity, service, and sustainability. Ras Al Khaimah’s inclusion showcases not just its luxury offerings, but also its cultural depth and commitment to meaningful, experience-driven tourism.

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Through these partnerships, Ras Al Khaimah will gain direct access to an elite network of travel advisors and luxury providers who design bespoke journeys for discerning travellers worldwide. The emirate’s growing portfolio of high-end hotels, combined with its diverse attractions, helped secure its place among these global leaders.

“Becoming part of Virtuoso and Serandipians marks a pivotal moment for Ras Al Khaimah as it continues to evolve as a destination. These partnerships will showcase the emirate’s exceptional blend of nature, culture, and exceptional hospitality to a global audience of travellers who value authenticity, exclusivity, and meaningful experiences. With our pipeline of world-renowned hotels and unique attractions, we are poised to redefine luxury in the region, reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah as a must-visit destination for discerning travellers,”
said Iyad Rasbey, Vice President – Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

Famed for its stunning landscapes and high-end hospitality, Ras Al Khaimah offers an impressive mix of resorts and experiences. From luxury stays at Waldorf Astoria and The Ritz-Carlton, to new additions like Anantara Mina Al Arab and Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, the emirate continues to expand its premium offering. Future projects by Wynn Resorts, Four Seasons, and Nobu Hotels promise to further elevate its status.

Beyond opulent stays, the emirate’s experiences are equally captivating from the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais and sunrise hot-air balloon rides, to stargazing in the desert and exploring the Suwaidi Pearl Farm. These adventures blend thrill, culture, and natural beauty to create a truly unique luxury experience within the UAE.

For more on Ras Al Khaimah’s luxury offerings, visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.com

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