Welcome to the PATA UK & Ireland Chapter

 

The MatchaSho® experience is perfect for travellers keen to challenge their inner calligrapher. This is a unique activity seamlessly blending the serene art of zen Japanese calligraphy with the essence of beloved matcha green tea, while also contributing to the reduction of food waste by using tea leaves that would otherwise be unavoidably discarded during manufacturing processes. The session is taught by its creator calligrapher Ms. Shoran, who teaches participants how to write their name in Japanese Kanji characters using a powdered green tea solution instead of ink. While painting, the green tea ‘ink’ is of a vivid green colour and turns brown as time passes. Once the task is completed, participants are treated to a refreshing matcha ice-cream and gifted a calligraphy kit to take back home. 

 

The four-hour Wasabi fields and Tofu-making workshop offers participants the opportunity to delve into the rich culinary heritage of two of Japan’s most iconic ingredients: wasabi and tofu. As the producer of more than half of all wasabi grown in Japan, Shizuoka is dotted with wasabi fields. For this experience, participants visit the fields of the onsen town of Shuzenji (perfect spot for a relaxing overnight stay with an array of traditional ryokan accommodation) to learn about the over 270 year old cultivation process directly from the local producers. This is followed by a hands-on tofu-making masterclass using locally sourced ingredients. 

 

This tour allows you to not only discover Shizuoka’s stunning scenery and Mt. Fuji foothills, but also its traditional life and local flavours enroute. The experience includes visiting Lake Tanuki, riding through a traditional Japanese village, trying fresh spring water from Mt. Fuji and fresh rainbow trout at a local farm, as well as riding to the World Heritage Shiraito Falls. For more information, view here.

 

There are a number of interesting and educational walking tours in the Izu Peninsula Unesco Global Geopark, to choose from.

 

One example: The 4.2km Amagi tour offers a two-hour walk starting and ending at Amagi Visitor Center. You’ll see volcanic rock formations, local history, shrines, plants, and wildlife, guided by an expert. It highlights wasabi cultivation, natural rivers, and ends at the 500-year-old Taro cedar, a prefectural natural monument.

 

Check out more walking tours here.

 

Please get in touch with Sandra at sandra@humewhitehead.co.uk for more information and training opportunities.

Harbour Plaza Hotels & Resorts with 13 hotels and nearly 10,000 hotel rooms and serviced suites, is committed to integrating environmental, social governance principles into its business operations.  This commitment extends across its suppliers, partners, colleagues and guests, ensuring that every aspect of the business contributes to protecting the environment. The group is a signatory to the Hong Kong Government’s Energy Saving Charter and 4T Charter (Target, Timeline, Transparency, Together), reinforcing its pledge to conserve energy and reduce emissions. These efforts align with the city’s vision of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
 

• Energy efficient LED lighting, dimmers, and motion sensors save 15,000,000 kWh annually.

• Water efficient dual flush toilets and linen/towel reuse programmes conserve precious resources.

• Feasibility studies for solar panel installation highlight the group’s long term vision.
 

• Recycling programmes for soap, glass, plastic bottles, aluminium cans, and cooking oil.

• Replacement of single use toiletries with pump dispensers and eco friendly bathroom amenities.

• Food waste recycling programme converts leftovers into biogas for electricity and compost.

• Digital transformation reduces paper usage through QR codes and electronic brochures.
 

• Partnering with local and regional suppliers to reduce carbon footprint.

• Supporting sustainable seafood and sourcing responsibly.

• Offering vegan, plant based, and special dietary options for greener dining.

• Monitoring food waste and introducing reduction initiatives across restaurants.

 

Located on the pristine southern coastline of Koh Samui, Silavadee integrates sustainable practices across its operations—minimising environmental impact, supporting local communities, and upholding ethical labour standards—while continuing to deliver refined luxury experiences.
 

The resort focuses on energy and water efficiency, waste reduction, plastic-minimisation initiatives, and responsible sourcing through local farmers and suppliers. These efforts support the local economy and reduce environmental footprints, in line with Travelife’s sustainability criteria.
 

Silavadee also places strong emphasis on social responsibility, including fair labour practices, staff development, cultural preservation, and respect for human rights. Guests are encouraged to engage in responsible travel through meaningful experiences inspired by Thai traditions, wellness, and nature.
 

“Travelife Certification reflects our belief that true luxury must be responsible,” said the resort’s management. “It validates our ongoing efforts to protect our environment, empower our people, and create positive impact for the community we call home.”

 

With Travelife Certification, Silavadee Pool Spa Resort continues to position itself as a leading sustainable luxury destination in Thailand—offering conscious travellers authentic experiences without compromising comfort or quality.