Stephen Cane has been promoted to area general manager, Australia at Dorsett Hospitality International.
He will oversee the group’s Australian portfolio while continuing as general manager of Dorsett Melbourne, a role he has held since 2023.
In his expanded position, he will also lead the pre-opening of Dorsett Perth and Dorsett Brisbane.
Affluent travellers are showing a bigger appetite for destinations and experiences that are new and inaccessible to most, creating new opportunities for luxury travel advisors to establish their reputation as expert purveyors of bespoke journeys while motivating luxury travel suppliers to stand out with new products in refreshing locations.
Annie Jatnipis, regional director – Asia with Travelbullz, said affluent travellers are now heavily influenced by opinion leaders on social media.
“If a respected travel influencer says this is a hidden gem, our affluent clients will want to be there too. If our clients discover an image or video of a destination few have heard of, they will want to be there right away. Ultimately, affluent travellers want the bragging rights of being at a place or engaging in an experience that few other travellers have access to,” Jatnipis told TTG Asia.
While social media influencers have persuasive power, Jatnipis said travel advisors have the expertise to turn travel dreams into a real journey.
“Travel advisors like us will have to change the way we connect with customers. We have gone onto social media channels to be seen as travel influencers ourselves, and are studying the marketplace more, such as through events like ILTM Asia Pacific, to pick out new and interesting products that we can recommend to our guests,” she added.
Simon Cordeiro, a luxury travel advisor and cruise specialist based in Adelaide, Australia, has also witnessed a stronger lure of new and lesser-known destination experiences.
As high-net-worth Australian clients “place a lot of trust in their travel advisors, and most would simply rely on my recommendations”, Cordeiro said it is crucial that he is aware of and has access to “interesting options”.
Tailormade journeys are now one of Abercrombie & Kent’s fastest-growing segments, driven by demand for personalised, experience-led travel, shared vice-president of marketing Michelle Mickan during a press briefing at ILTM Asia Pacific 2026. To better serve guests exploring all corners of the world, the company is expanding its network of destination offices.
“We cover all seven continents with bespoke adventures, intimate small-group journeys, private jet adventures – anything you can think of. We are operating in over 100 countries around the world with 70 offices, with recent openings in Scandinavia, South Korea, Bolivia, Indonesia and Costa Rica. We have plans to open more,” said Mickan.
She added affluent explorers are now drawn to Africa’s Botswana and Kenya, Egypt, China, Japan, India, Peru, Italy and Scandinavia, while Sri Lanka, South Korea, Costa Rica, Patagonia, Namibia, Uzbekistan, Armenia and Georgia are fast gaining attention. Abercrombie & Kent is ready to cater to travellers who want to go further and deeper, with new itineraries for all up and coming destinations.
For many affluent travellers, Asia-Pacific is a region of interest.
Jatnipis pointed out that many parts of the region are still unexplored.
“There are also many new hotel openings and fresh renovations in Asia-Pacific, even in familiar destinations. This region always offers something interesting for new travellers as well as repeat guests,” she said.
Good examples, according to Jatnipis, are the JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, which she found to have stunning architecture and the promise of privacy, as well as Niccolo-branded hotels in Chongqing and Chengdu, China, both of which “are so trendy and suited for multi-generational travel”.
Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, an all-inclusive luxury ocean travel specialist, said clients around the world had pressed for itineraries in Asia-Pacific, leading the company to launch its Asian deployment for 2027-2028. Travellers can look forward to itineraries with longer port stays and multiple overnight calls in gateway cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Shanghai and Ho Chi Minh City for a more relaxed pace of travel.
“There’s something magical about sailing into some of these Asian ports – there is a real sense of maritime history and drama, and it beats arriving through a big airport,” Nash told TTG Asia.
She noted that clients based in Asia-Pacific are keen to cruise in their region too, after having travelled with Explora Journeys in the Mediterranean.
Fiza Han, managing director, APAC sales at Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), agrees that Asia-Pacific is “considered a land of mystery for many foreigners”, especially China and India, which are both rich in history and culture, with many destinations in both countries being “still new” to international tourists.
“There was a time when travel buyers would come to us and be keen on meeting hoteliers from the big cities of New York and Paris. Now, they want to connect with hoteliers from niche destinations so that they can get information on authentic activities and experiences that cannot be easily found online,” she said.
With LHW’s hotel inventory being 60 per cent resorts and 40 per cent city hotels, in both established and emerging destinations, Han believes that her group is well positioned to support travel advisors who have to curate off-the-beaten-track journeys.
Some of the latest additions to its global portfolio include the 25-key Nihi Rote & Hospitality Academy on a secluded corner of Rote Island in West Timor; the 100-room Espacio Nagoya Castle that faces the moat of historic Nagoya Castle; and the 148-suite Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, with a secluded island setting.
Indonesia is seeking to capture a larger share of Asia’s growing yacht tourism market by expanding marina infrastructure, developing integrated marine tourism itineraries and promoting high-value travel experiences.
Industry stakeholders said the country has some of the world’s strongest natural assets for marine tourism, but significant opportunities remain untapped in yacht tourism, liveaboard travel and premium diving experiences.
Speaking at a national marine tourism seminar in Jakarta, Itok Parikesit, assistant deputy for tourism product development at the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), said: “Marine tourism is one of the government’s priorities because of its significant potential to contribute to economic growth and foreign exchange earnings.”
Indonesia is home to more than 700 dive sites across 14 provinces, while seven of the government’s 10 priority tourism destinations are marine-based. According to Itok, diving remains a major contributor to marine tourism revenue, while yacht tourism and liveaboard travel are emerging as high-value products capable of attracting longer-stay visitors.
Rinaldi Duyo, secretary general of the Indonesian Jetsport Boating Association, said that while cruise tourism represents 35 to 40 per cent of the global marine tourism market, “yacht tourism is among the fastest-growing marine tourism segments globally” and “is one of Indonesia’s most promising growth opportunities”.
However, industry stakeholders stated Indonesia continues to face several challenges that could limit its ability to compete with other yacht tourism destinations in the region.
Hellen Sarita de Lima, vice chairwoman of the Indonesian Marine Tourism Entrepreneurs Association, identified lengthy licensing procedures and limited marina infrastructure as key obstacles.
“There are many procedures, such as arrival clearance, inspections by various agencies, shipping administration, and inter-agency licensing. In some countries, the clearance process can be completed in a few hours. In Indonesia, it still requires quite a long process.”
She added that marina development is essential to support yacht tourism growth and attract more international visitors.
“In Australia, people can use marinas as places to meet family, gather, and engage in various recreational activities. So, marinas serve more than just ports,” she noted.
Industry stakeholders opined that addressing these challenges will be crucial if Indonesia is to fully capitalise on growing demand for yacht tourism.
In response, Itok said the MoT is developing tourism routes in eastern Indonesia that combine diving, yacht tourism and liveaboard experiences into integrated itineraries designed to encourage longer stays and wider visitor dispersal.
The government is also exploring opportunities to develop marinas to support the growing yacht and superyacht market.
“Sorong is one of the locations with strong potential to serve as a gateway for marine tourism in eastern Indonesia,” Itok said.
Meanwhile, Bambang Aditya Nugraha, director of Marine Services at the Directorate General of Marine Management, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MoMAF), said Indonesia’s 134 marine conservation areas and coastal communities should play a greater role in tourism development.
The MoMAF is promoting village-based economic programmes through small businesses, village-owned enterprises and community groups.
“We want coastal villages to become part of national tourism development, not merely spectators to the growth of major destinations,” he shared.
Despite the challenges, Hellen said Indonesia has the natural assets needed to become a leading yacht tourism destination in South-east Asia.
“The potential is there. Indonesia offers an extraordinary combination of islands, marine biodiversity and coastal destinations that few countries can match.”
A new series of accommodation packages for families with children has led to a spike in bookings for Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), reflecting growing demand for hotel stays that combine space, convenience and family-friendly experiences.
Launched in May, MHR’s Family Staycation Packages are available at participating hotels in Singapore and London. The packages include family-friendly room options, children’s dining benefits and additional inclusions designed to make family travel more convenient. They are offered year-round, with no booking or stay deadlines.
According to Cinn Tan, MHR’s chief commercial officer, the packages have been a hit with young families, resulting in “a substantial increase” in bookings.
Tan expects demand to continue through August during the summer school holiday period.
“We understand that families with young children need to stay together, so our Family Staycation Packages offer dual-key units, connecting rooms or family suites where possible. We also include special treats and activity kits in the rooms, so that the little ones know they are welcomed too,” shared Tan.
As multi-generational travel continues to grow, MHR has made family travel a strategic priority.
Carolyn Wishnowski, vice president, global branding, marketing and loyalty, told TTG Asia that MHR is “enhancing the family guest experience with a more consistent approach, while allowing each hotel to reflect its destination and local market”.
The group plans to further strengthen its family offering with a new initiative launching in August that will focus on younger travellers.
The Sanchaya in Bintan has been inducted into The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), a global collection of independently owned luxury hotels.
Located on Lagoi Bay and accessible from Singapore by ferry, the beachfront property joins a portfolio of hotels recognised for their individual character, service standards and independent ownership.
According to The Sanchaya, the affiliation reflects the property’s focus on personalised hospitality, design and its South-east Asian setting. Membership also provides access to LHW’s Leaders Club loyalty programme.
Through the programme, eligible guests can access member rates, earn and redeem points across participating LHW properties worldwide, and receive benefits including complimentary breakfast, welcome amenities and Wi-Fi.
Additional privileges may include room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability. Benefits vary according to membership tier.
The Sanchaya said participation in Leaders Club will also allow returning guests to have their preferences recognised across future stays within the network.
Greg William, general manager of The Sanchaya, said: “Joining The Leading Hotels of the World reflects our commitment to delivering distinctive and memorable experiences to our guests. Through this partnership, we are able to offer our guests an elevated journey that extends the essence of The Sanchaya far beyond our shores.”
Location
Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, is set right in the heart of the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX), Kuala Lumpur’s business and financial district. It spans 26 storeys, and the name actually comes from two Malay words: Naluri (instinct) and Ria (joy), which is meant to represent following your inner voice to find happiness.
Accommodation
The property features 466 rooms designed with a lifestyle focus, with entry-level rooms starting at a comfortable 30m² all the way up to the massive 195m² Presidential Suite.
I checked in for a two-night stay in the Studio Suite, and walking into the room was an absolute “wow” moment, starting with the standalone walk-in closet. While the room itself was beautiful – complete with a working desk and cosy chaise neatly arranged in front of the plush king-sized bed – what made our jaws drop was the massive bathroom. There was a standalone marble tub, a separate shower, two sinks, a vanity, and a toilet, all stocked with high-end products from Penhaligon’s. Given that bathtubs are a rarity in space-starved Singapore, my travelling companion was delighted to soak in it every evening.
As for me, I preferred to sink into luxurious bliss on the bed. It was wonderful, and the pillow had just enough structure that my neck was perfectly supported. Having had my fair share of bad pillows in hotels, I am always incredibly grateful when I find a great one.
For the interiors, the hotel partnered with Hassell Studio, using a rainforest-inspired theme called Botanic Beyond Aesthetics. It actually works well – the spaces mix a lot of natural textures, earthy stone, and tons of greenery with high ceilings and local artwork to keep things feeling calm despite being right in the city centre.
F&B
I really enjoyed the halal breakfast spread at Tuai & Till. The restaurant offered a great selection of pastries, breads, juices, and Western options, alongside a dim sum station with steamed dumplings and buns. There was even a build-your-own nasi lemak corner the morning I was there. Eggs are made à la minute, and bonus points go to the chefs for graciously making me an off-menu Eggs Benedict.
While I did not get a chance to try the hotel’s full dining line-up, the property also features Rise & Grind, a contemporary lobby espresso bar; Four Siblings Rooftop Bar & Lounge for craft cocktails and small bites; and Sabato’s, a retro-inspired 1970s Italian-American restaurant.
When we arrived, it was just in time for the Kimpton Social, a signature offering across all Kimpton properties worldwide. At sundown (usually 17.00 to 18.00), the property hosts a complimentary daily happy hour where guests can mingle with fellow travellers and locals over house wines, signature cocktails, and seasonal chef’s bites.
Facilities
I spent an evening by the rooftop pool at sunset, and it was incredible because it faced the dramatic city skyline and rolling hills in the distance. The fully-equipped gym is conveniently located on the same floor, letting me work out with a view.
For business, networking, or social gatherings, the hotel also features five flexible meeting and event spaces. They also offer a complimentary bicycle rental service on-site, though Kuala Lumpur does not exactly seem like a suitable or safe place to ride a bicycle, at least for me. I can imagine utilising a perk like this in more bike-friendly cities under the same chain, but here, I passed.
Service
As the hotel is still relatively new and situated within the sprawling TRX complex, which features multiple overlapping road levels, finding the property can be challenging for ride-hailing drivers. To help address this, the hotel has installed dedicated way-finding signage to make arrivals more straightforward.
Despite the slight navigation hiccups outside, the welcome inside was seamless. The front desk staff were absolutely lovely and made checking in on the second floor a breeze.
Verdict
Between the custom breakfast orders, the sunset pool views, and the evening happy hour, I reckon that Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur is a great addition to the city, and would love to stay again.
Contact details
Website: https://www.ihg.com/kimptonhotels/hotels/us/en/kuala-lumpur/kulte/hoteldetail/
Oceania Cruises has opened bookings for its 2028 and 2029 cruise programme, featuring more than 230 itineraries worldwide.
The collection includes sailings ranging from seven to 180 days, with more than 60 overnight stays in destinations such as Copenhagen, Lisbon, Bangkok, Bali, Seville and Malé.
Among the highlights is the debut of inaugural world cruises aboard Oceania Aurelia, which will operate 180-day voyages in 2028 and 2029. Oceania Riviera will return to Alaska before operating Asia itineraries with calls at smaller Japanese ports including Kagoshima, Ishigaki and Miyazaki, while Oceania Allura will continue its Mediterranean winter season through Greece, Turkey, Italy and Spain.
The programme spans Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and New England, alongside a series of transoceanic repositioning voyages.
In Asia, Oceania Marina and Oceania Riviera will operate itineraries featuring destinations across Japan, South-east Asia and Indonesia, with overnight stays in Bangkok and Singapore.
The collection also includes sailings through Australia and New Zealand, Panama Canal crossings, Caribbean voyages and autumn cruises through Canada and New England.
Bookings are now open for both seasons.
For more information, visit Oceania Cruises.
Kelvin Dodt has been appointed general manager of Crystalbrook Sam ahead of the hotel’s opening in Adelaide later this year.
He joins from The Star Entertainment Group, where he most recently served as chief operating officer of The Star Brisbane and led the pre-opening of the Queen’s Wharf development.
He previously held senior leadership roles with The Star Entertainment Group, Accor and Mirvac Hotels & Resorts.
Brought to you by Silversea Cruises
A region where the past sits comfortably in the present, where sun-bleached ancient ruins overlook azure waters, and where life slows to a beautiful, rhythmic crawl – the Mediterranean is one that has long enchanted travellers.
Taking travellers there in exclusive luxury is Silversea, through immersive, sensory voyages.
Aboard its ultra-luxury Nova-class ships – Silver Nova and Silver Ray – the traditional Mediterranean cruise is entirely reimagined to focus on the true soul of the region: its centuries-old culinary heritage, brought to life through exclusive partnerships with Michelin-starred culinary masters.
Moving away from traditional enclosed cruise ship designs, these vessels feature a pioneering asymmetrical layout and sweeping, floor-to-ceiling glass facades designed to flood the interiors with natural light and maximise coastal views.
Operating with an intimate capacity of 728 guests, the suite-only ships maintain a near one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, delivering premium hospitality supported by intuitive butler service across all suite categories.
Whether it’s sipping a morning espresso in your expansive suite or lounging on the multi-tiered pool deck, guests will feel one with the world outside.
A central pillar of the Mediterranean experience is Silversea’s signature S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) programme, which is designed to be a holistic exploration of regional culture with an immersion into the gastronomic heritage of each destination.
Onboard, S.A.L.T. Lab offers a state-of-the-art culinary workshop where guests participate in and learn traditional techniques using local ingredients in hands-on masterclasses led by guest Michelin-starred chefs and regional food historians.
For dining, the menu at the S.A.L.T. Kitchen changes daily to reflect the ship’s specific port of call that day. For a truly elevated evening, the intimate S.A.L.T. Chef’s Table offers a curated multi-course tasting menu paired with rare regional wines and interactive culinary storytelling.
The culinary narrative extends seamlessly to land operations through Silversea’s bespoke S.A.L.T. shore excursions.
These curated itineraries bypass conventional tourist routes, granting guests private access to the local artisans and producers who preserve the region’s heritage food traditions.
By weaving together regional history, modern naval design, and exclusive culinary access, the product allows Silversea guests to thoroughly engage with the destinations.
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Preferred Hotels & Resorts has launched a new global designation programme that brings together more than 50 member hotels and resorts offering holistic and transformative wellness experiences, four of which are in Asia-Pacific.
Introducing the new Preferred Wellbeing programme at ILTM Asia Pacific 2025, president Michelle Woodley said the initiative was borne from the group’s desire to “anticipate what’s next and guide the conversation in luxury travel”.
“Wellness is definitely becoming a defining force in travel decisions,” said Woodley, adding that it is also becoming a core reason why travellers choose a hotel or resort.
The launch of Preferred Wellbeing was informed by insights from the company’s recently released Luxury Travel Report, which identifies wellness as a defining force in travel decisions. The report found that more than a third of luxury travellers are actively seeking transformational wellness journeys, while 77 per cent agree that true luxury today means escaping the pressure to post and impress online. Today’s luxury traveller is increasingly motivated by experiences that support genuine disconnection and reset.
Together, these shifts point to a new era of wellness travel – one that blends science, tradition, personalisation and design into deeply transformative experiences that extend far beyond the spa.
To help luxury travellers discover and book hotels and resorts that would satisfy their wellness needs, Preferred Hotels & Resorts have carefully curated the collection to feature “properties that go beyond the traditional spa offerings, creating immersive journeys through things like hydrothermal circuits, nature-based retreats, and nutritionally-driven culinary programming”, shared Woodley.
Selection abides by a 12-point criteria, and qualified hotels and resorts must check off at least 10 requirements. These include Environmental and Sustainability; Purpose-built Wellbeing Spaces; Nourishing Culinary Philosophy; Nature Immersion & Outdoor Renewal; Welcoming & Adaptive Guest Experience; Mental Presence & Inner Practices; Local Connection & Cultural Exchange; Personalised Wellbeing Journeys; Learning, Discovery & Self-Development; Advanced Wellness Technologies; Human Centred Hospitality; and Ethical Operations & Culture.
In Asia-Pacific, the four highlighted properties are: The Meru Sanur; The Leela Palace Udaipur; The RuMa Hotel & Residences; and Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo.
In her media address, Woodley also discussed top trends in wellness tourism.
She identified longevity in wellness, where travellers are drawn to “intentional, results-driven experiences centred on long-term health”; the convergence of ancient rituals and modern science; the growing importance of hydrotherapy as the “centrepiece of the wellness journey”; a shift away from one-off treatments towards personalised, multi-day wellness journeys; and growing momentum behind nature as part of the healing experience.
