Anchoring history: Amerigo Vespucci makes waves in Phuket
The prestigious Italian Navy ship Amerigo Vespucci made a historic stop in Phuket as part of its ongoing 22-month World Tour, visiting 31 countries across five continents.
Docked at Phuket Deep Sea Port from November 6 to 10, the vessel represented a significant naval diplomacy initiative by the Italian Ministry of Defense and the Italian Navy.
The tour aims to foster dialogue across a wide range of domains, including security, economy, culture, tourism, and education.
Phuket’s role as a central hub for diplomatic, cultural, and economic connectivity in Southeast Asia was further highlighted by the ship’s arrival.
As one of only nine ports in the region chosen to host the vessel, the event underscored the Amerigo Vespucci World Tour’s mission to promote Italy’s cultural and economic excellence, showcasing the best of Italian craftsmanship and innovation.
On this special occasion, the Embassy of Italy in Bangkok led by H.E. The Italian Ambassador Paolo Dionisi, and the Italian Trade Agency under the Trade Commissioner Paola Guida, together with the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce jointly hosted the Amerigo Vespucci in Phuket event.
Bringing together an esteemed group of Italian and Thai partners, the evening celebrated Italian excellence across various sectors, highlighting the nation’s contributions to global culture, fashion, cuisine, and business.
The initiative emphasised the Amerigo Vespucci World Tour as an essential force in strengthening bilateral ties and promoting Italy’s Made-in-Italy heritage. The exhibition featured a curated selection of Italy’s top brands and innovations, offering a unique opportunity to explore Italian excellence in marine culture, food & beverages, and beyond.
Key sponsors of the event included Minor Group, Anantara, Avani, Central Group, Phuket Solar, Closer Asia, Gucci, Chaipattana Foundation, and Prestige Magazine.
Local organisations such as the Phuket Provincial Governor’s Office, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) also played a crucial role in making the event a success, ensuring it was an impactful platform for future collaboration between Italy and Thailand.
Coinciding with Italian Cuisine Week 2024, the annual global celebration of Italy’s culinary excellence, the evening featured a fine food and beverage experience – some of the best in Italian culinary craftsmanship.
Renowned restaurants, including Rossovivo – Viva Restaurant, La Napoletana – Casina Rossa, Mario Eleonori Forni-Pizza, Café del Mar, Franco Roma Ristorante, Umberto’s Restaurant, Babbo Restaurant, Luca Cini – A Wine Story, Il Tagliere, Pepe Nero, Prego Restaurant, La Bottega del Prosciutto, Thai Union Group, Gelati Manzoni, and renowned gelato chef Massimiliano Scotti, with support from I-Cream Solutions offered guests an unforgettable taste of Italy.
Fine wines, artisanal products, and authentic Italian dishes were enjoyed by visitors throughout the event.
The beverage sector was equally impressive, with contributions from Thai Bev, Aperol, Moet Hennessy Thailand, Sabatini Gin & Tonic, Chalong Bay Rum, Festilia, IC Wine, Independent Wine & Spirit – Banfi, Tops Wine Cellar, Bangkok Beer & Beverages, Boozia, Italasia, and IHC Hospitality Solutions.
These esteemed brands provided a premium selection of Italian and international beverages, enhancing the culinary offerings and guest experience.
Amerigo Vespucci’s visit to Phuket reflects the growing partnership between Italy and Thailand, fostering collaboration across culture, business, food, and tourism sectors. The event also saw tremendous interest from Phuket’s residents, Thai nationals, and international tourists, with an overwhelming number of visitors attending daily to experience the ship and its exhibitions.
The excitement and engagement demonstrated a strong admiration for Italian culture and innovation, making this visit a remarkable cultural event for both the local community and international guests.
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