TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Tuesday, 27th January 2026
Page 111

Sentosa celebrates Peranakan heritage with island-wide showcase

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Sentosa Development Corporation and Mount Faber Leisure Group have launched Peranakan Reimagined, a showcase running from now to August 31, 2025, across Sentosa in celebration of SG60 and the 10th anniversary of the Sentosa Line cable car.

The showcase explores Peranakan heritage through installations, storytelling, performances, workshops and curated dining. At Sensoryscape, the space has been reimagined with displays designed to engage the senses. A central feature is a 7.2m-tall Peranakan House at Lookout Loop, which serves as a photo spot by day and projection canvas by night. It houses a photo exhibit of Peranakan communities and becomes animated with digital projections after sunset.

Peranakan Reimagined transforms Sentosa into a cultural hub with dining, workshops, a unique cable car design, and installations like the Peranakan House at Lookout Loop, pictured; photo by Sentosa Development Corporation

Nearby, the Field of Beaded Blooms at Tactile Trellis features 198 panels with designs inspired by kasut manek (Peranakan beaded slippers). A pair of oversized slippers lets guests experience the detail of Peranakan beading. At night, a light show projects batik patterns throughout the garden.

Along the Sensoryscape walkway, seating areas have been turned into displays featuring Peranakan icons such as kamcheng jars, wedding baskets and sequinned artworks. These transform visually when seen through a camera lens. Other gardens showcase Peranakan food, clothing, instruments and replicas, inviting guests to explore the culture through a multi-sensory lens.

Live music from Peranakan Sayang and a monthly festive market with themed workshops add to the atmosphere.

Cable car cabins on the Sentosa Line now feature Peranakan-inspired designs, created with input from Baba Alvin Yapp of The Intan Peranakan Home Museum. The designs reference Koon Seng Road’s shophouses and provide an aerial view of the island’s showcase.

To mark the kebaya’s addition to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, an exhibition at the Sensoryscape Cable Car Station displays eight kebayas by four Singapore designers. Among them is a replica of the kebaya worn in the TV series Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story. Guests can also try on kebayas and browse themed merchandise at the Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape.

At Siloso Point Station, two large-scale tiffin carrier sculptures and models of nyonya kueh are on display. Weekend workshops include mini clay kueh-making and embroidery.

Sentosa is also offering promotions and Peranakan-themed activities across the island during the campaign period. Sentosa Islander members can redeem a pair of Sentosa Line cable car tickets with a minimum spend of S$40 (US$29.60) at selected outlets through August 31, 2025.

For more information, visit Peranakan Reimagined.

www.sentosa.com.sg/peranakan

Experience romance at Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay

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Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay invites couples to immerse themselves in a dreamy escape with its special Two Hearts One Paradise offer, celebrating love with views of the Andaman Sea.

Ideal for honeymooners, anniversaries, or romantic getaways, the package includes five per cent off rooms with private pools (10 per cent off for stays of four nights or more), a complimentary heart-shaped floating breakfast served in guests’ private pools, and a 20 per cent discount on all treatments at ZANA Spa and dining at all resort outlets.

Dive into romance with exclusive offers and serene sea views at Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay

The offer is valid for bookings and stays until October 31, giving couples the chance to enjoy luxury, privacy, and connection in one of Phuket’s most scenic hideaways.

Nestled in the tranquil hills on Phuket’s west coast, the resort features 194 non-smoking rooms and villas, many with private infinity pools and sweeping sea views. Facilities include a full-service spa and wellness centre, gym, and several dining options.

Couples can enjoy special activities like Thai cooking and cocktail-making classes, day spa treatments, and tours of the hotel’s organic orchard. Popular attractions such as Kamala Beach, Patong Beach, and Old Phuket Town are nearby.

For more information, e-mail Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay.

Celebrate June wellness at resorts across South-east Asia

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June marks a focus on health and wellness across South-east Asia, with hotels and resorts offering guests a range of fitness activities in celebration of Global Wellness Day on June 14 and International Yoga Day on June 21.

Banyan Tree Samui invites guests to enjoy its Wellbeing Sanctuary with a health and fitness programme alongside seaside activities like paddle boarding, snorkelling, and kayaking. On June 14, visitors can join a Tai Chi class to improve balance and flexibility, while a yoga session aimed at strengthening posture is available on June 21.

Banyan Tree Samui offers Tai Chi and yoga classes by the sea to promote balance and flexibility during June’s wellness celebrations

In Vietnam, Alma Resort Cam Ranh offers discounted private yoga sessions and free group classes throughout the week, featuring styles such as Traditional Hatha, Power Yoga, and evening stretching classes that target key muscle groups. A limited-edition yoga t-shirt is also available, bundled with sessions.

Banyan Tree Krabi marks Global Wellness Day with a Design from the Sea workshop for creating jewellery from natural sea materials, followed by a Buddhist-inspired walking meditation. For International Yoga Day, guests can participate in beachfront yoga and singing bowl meditation to promote mindfulness.

At TIA Wellness Resort near Danang, guests can start their day with a guided climb of Marble Mountain, followed by Tai Chi practice and exploration of sacred sites, blending physical activity with cultural elements.

Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang celebrates the month with outdoor yoga, meditation, and painting meditations, promoting wellbeing and mindfulness. Throughout June, Fusion properties across Vietnam and Thailand offer wellness experiences that balance body, mind, and spirit.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay and Azerai La Residence, Hue, offer a three-day Wellness Journey package featuring spa treatments, yoga, and rituals, set against gardens and colonial heritage.

Meliá Pattaya Hotel offers yoga and Pilates classes at the Yitong Sky Bar, combining fitness with views of the Gulf of Thailand ­– suitable for beginners seeking to improve posture, flexibility, and core strength.

Anam Cam Ranh offers an early morning Hatha yoga and pranayama breathing session on Long Beach, focusing on balance between mind and body through asanas and breathwork.

Together, these resorts provide wellness experiences, inviting guests to embrace healthier lifestyles and find balance during this month of health awareness.

Visit the property websites for more information.

The Westin Singapore supports disability inclusion at Standard Chartered 2025 marathon

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The Westin Singapore will support persons with disabilities (PWDs) at this year’s Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM), marking its third year as the event’s Official Elite Hotel. PWDs will take part in various race categories on December 6 and 7, running alongside other participants through central Singapore.

SCSM 2025, the region’s only World Athletics Gold Label race, is expected to draw participants from around the world. The 2024 edition attracted over 55,000 runners.

The Westin Singapore marks its third year as Official Elite Hotel of the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon by championing participation for persons with disabilities

Through a collaboration with the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) and hotel ambassadors Gregory Burns and Natalie Dau, selected PWDs will receive complimentary race entry. The initiative was announced on June 4 at a launch event attended by partners and guests.

Burns, a former Paralympian and endurance athlete, also unveiled an artwork titled Runners, created to reflect the journey of race participants. The piece will feature on merchandise, with all proceeds supporting the SDSC. Burns noted the importance of normalising disability inclusion in public events, highlighting how sport can serve as a platform for personal growth.

Dau, an ultra-marathon runner and advocate, said the initiative was important for breaking down barriers and enabling broader participation. She recently completed a 1,000km charity run in the Philippines and will be participating in the 10km race at SCSM 2025.

Both ambassadors shared personal stories and training tips at the event, which also included a short run and recovery demonstrations.

The Westin Singapore will continue to host wellness-related sessions in the lead-up to the marathon. It is also offering a marathon package for guests, including early start access, breakfast, and recovery support. Marriott Bonvoy members can access an exclusive package featuring race-day benefits and ambassador meet-and-greet opportunities.

A recovery lounge will also be available at the post-race village at the Padang.

James Walkden, general manager of The Westin Singapore, commented that the hotel was pleased to return as the Official Elite Hotel for the SCSM for a third year. Through the One Race, Many Journeys initiative, he explained that selected para-athletes would receive complimentary race entry as a way to promote inclusion and encourage wider community participation.

SDSC executive director Kelly Fan said they were grateful for the opportunity for persons with disabilities – many of whom would be participating in a race like this for the first time – to join SCSM alongside runners of all abilities. It is also a chance for them to step out of their comfort zone and stay active.

She added: “We hope this inspires more partners to join us in building inclusive platforms that foster strength, resilience, and unity through sport, regardless of ability or background.”

Mandarin Oriental to expand in Malaysia with beachfront resort at Desaru Coast

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Mandarin Oriental is set to expand its presence in Malaysia with the rebranding of a luxury resort and private residences in Desaru Coast, Johor. Surrounded by rainforest and fronting the South China Sea, the resort is expected to join the Mandarin Oriental portfolio in June 2025, ahead of a full rebranding as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast in January 2026.

Located along 17km of unspoiled beachfront, the property benefits from its proximity to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Mandarin Oriental is set to rebrand a Desaru Coast resort this month, ahead of its full launch as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast in January 2026

The resort blends tropical modernism with the natural landscape, featuring 44 suites and villas, many with plunge pools and sea or rainforest views. Five dining venues offer global cuisine with local flavours, while a beach club and lounge bar add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Wellness is a central focus, with The Spa at Mandarin Oriental offering Oriental-inspired treatments, a yoga pavilion, gym, salon, and tennis and padel courts. A Kids’ Club with indoor and outdoor facilities enhances the family-friendly appeal.

The resort also offers event spaces and panoramic views for weddings and private gatherings, and is located near the Els Club Desaru Coast, which features championship courses by Ernie Els and Vijay Singh.

Looking ahead, 40 branded residences are planned to provide year-round luxury living with Mandarin Oriental’s signature service.

“Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast represents a significant step in our strategic vision to bring the group’s legendary service and crafted experiences, that resonate deeply  with today’s luxury traveller, to new and exceptional locations,” said Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental.

Karina Ridzuan, interim group CEO of Destination Resorts and Hotels, added: “We are confident this partnership will set a new global benchmark and firmly place Desaru Coast as a destination for luxury travel.”

Aviation roundup: Air Astana, Air New Zealand and more

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Air Astana

Air Astana expands network with new flights from Atyrau and Almaty
Air Astana has expanded its international network with several new routes and enhanced partnerships.

On May 27, 2025, the airline inaugurated direct flights from Atyrau to Tbilisi, operating three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. This route strengthens connectivity between western Kazakhstan and Georgia and is expected to attract both leisure and business travellers.

On May 31, 2025, Air Astana launched a new service from Atyrau to Baku, Azerbaijan, also operating three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Additionally, on June 1, 2025, Air Astana commenced direct flights from Almaty to Frankfurt using Airbus A321LR aircraft, scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

This new route complements existing services from Astana and Uralsk to Frankfurt. Air Astana currently operates several international flights from western Kazakhstan, including Uralsk to Frankfurt, and Atyrau to Istanbul, Dubai, and Amsterdam.

The airline has also signed an updated codeshare agreement with Lufthansa for the Almaty-Frankfurt route, enhancing passenger connectivity through both airlines’ networks.

Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand restores jet service to Hamilton from Christchurch
Christchurch is set to strengthen its position as a national hub for business and leisure travel, with Air New Zealand introducing a new year-round domestic jet service between Christchurch and Hamilton from September 18, 2025.

Domestic jet flights will return to Hamilton for the first time in 25 years, with selected services operated by a 171-seat Airbus A320 running five times weekly.

The introduction of the A320 will increase capacity on the route by 14 per cent, adding 25,000 extra seats annually. The jet flights will complement existing ATR 72 turboprop services, providing passengers with more options, greater seat availability and faster travel between two of New Zealand’s key cities.

China Eastern Airlines; photo by Markus Mainka

China Eastern Airlines launches Lanzhou-Kuala Lumpur flight
China Eastern Airlines has launched a new direct route connecting Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province in northwest China, to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital. This inaugural service marks the first direct air link between Lanzhou and Malaysia and aims to enhance tourism and economic ties between the two countries.

The Lanzhou-Kuala Lumpur route will operate three times weekly using an Airbus A320 aircraft with 156 seats. It complements the existing daily Kunming-Kuala Lumpur flights and provides additional connections via Kunming, expanding access for travellers from key Chinese cities to Malaysia.

The inaugural flight was welcomed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport by Samuel Lee Thai Hung, deputy director general of Tourism Malaysia, along with representatives from China Eastern Airlines, Malaysia Airports Holdings, Tourism Malaysia, and AeroDarat, the airline’s ground handling partner.

T’way Air; photo by Johann Kirby Datoy

T’way Air connects Jeju and Kaohsiung with new direct route
South Korea’s low-cost carrier T’way Air has launched a new Jeju-Kaohsiung service, creating a direct link between Taiwan region’s south and South Korea’s island destination.

Since its inaugural flight on April 22, the service operates four times weekly using Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This route marks T’way Air’s third direct connection between southern Taiwan region and South Korea, joining its Gimpo-Kaohsiung and Incheon-Kaohsiung services.

The airline’s broader Taiwan region-South Korea network also includes Gimpo-Songshan, Jeju-Taipei, Daegu-Taipei, and Incheon-Taichung routes.

Long weekends drive Asia-Pacific travel demand, observes Agoda

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Asia’s regular stream of public holidays is supporting steady growth in the Asia-Pacific travel industry, as travellers across the region look to maximise their leisure time. According to Agoda, long weekends are driving a rise in short-stay travel within the region, offering hoteliers a chance to capture increasing demand.

Agoda recorded an 80% month-on-month increase in accommodation searches from Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore ahead of the Hari Raya long weekend. Top destinations included Japan, Thailand, China, South Korea and Taiwan.

Hoteliers are advised to take advantage of additional public holidays to maximise occupancy and revenue

A similar pattern was observed during Thailand’s Songkran long weekend, with Hong Kong, Osaka, Shanghai and Seoul among the most searched cities. During Vietnam’s recent Liberation Day and Labour Day long weekend, Bangkok, Singapore, Tokyo and Seoul ranked highest in search volume.

Several long weekends remain across Asia-Pacific in 2025, offering ongoing travel opportunities in countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. Notable holidays include Deepavali in Malaysia on October 20, the Philippines’ National Heroes Day on August 25, Singapore’s Mid-Autumn Festival on October 6, and multiple significant dates in Thailand such as Queen Suthida’s Birthday in early June and King Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday in late July. These holidays present prime occasions for travellers to take short breaks and for hotels to capture increased demand.

Hotels can tap into rising demand for long weekend and short-stay travel by creating targeted packages that appeal to regional travellers. By aligning offers with public holiday periods and consumer preferences, properties can increase bookings and drive revenue.

Effective strategies include content marketing that highlights local attractions for weekend visitors, launching extended stay deals in partnership with travel platforms, and offering extras like late check-out or attraction tickets. With wellness travel on the rise, hotels can also attract premium guests through curated experiences such as spa retreats and local culinary packages designed for quick getaways.

“The opportunity for hotels and airlines to secure bookings and incentivise travellers to extend their trips and add ancillary items to boost revenue over long weekends has never been greater,” said Andrew Smith, senior vice president of supply, Agoda.

“Hotels should ensure they are using the right data to target the hottest consumers from across the Asia-Pacific region and ensure that their service offerings are tailored to their regional tastes.”

Jati Koh Russey

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Location
Located just a 10-minute speedboat ride from a private peer in Sihanoukville, Jati is the latest private island resort to enter Cambodia. Nestled on a pristine patch of Koh Russey – or Bamboo Island – this tropical haven comprising 82 one- and two-bedroom villas one- boasts postcard-perfect vistas of untouched jungle and azure waters lapping golden sand.

Accommodation
I was treated to a stay in the double beachfront pool villa, a dreamy 104m² space that features a separate living area and twin bedroom, and the largest walk-in closet with plenty of space to hang your clothes, and do cartwheels, as well as a large shower and separate toilet.

The villas embody understated luxury, with the rustic decor brought to life with bold splashes of colour and high-quality, locally-made products completing the look. Think ceramic cups made in Cambodia, woven mats, and stylish hand-made baskets that pay homage to the island’s fishing roots. Outside is a large deck overlooking the ocean, with a private plunge pool.

F&B
The resort boasts five F&B outlets. Breakfast is served at Arun beach café, which overlooks the sea. At the weekend, when the resort was almost fully-booked, a buffet breakfast taking in Asian and Western delights was served. While on a quieter week day, an a la carte menu was on the table.

The Beach Club is a stylishly casual affair, serving a separate lunch and dinner menu. Seeing as the resort is located on an island, it comes as no surprise that seafood features heavily on the menu. There’s also Banyan Bar, where you can chill poolside under a banyan tree with a cocktail in hand.

A few Phnom Penh favourites have also set up shop, with KoKo steakhouse serving a range of prime cuts, as well as mouth-watering seafood – the slipper lobsters are to die for – and Le Manolis Wine Cellar offering perfect wine pairings.

Facilities
The vast 46-hectare resort hasn’t sacrificed space for profit. Meandering paths wind in between villas, with plenty of foliage maintaining privacy and peace. Bicycles and electric buggies are available for those who don’t fancy a stroll.

The Bamboo Spa is a bright, breezy, and lofty space, home to several treatment rooms and a gym. The 90-minute signature massage is a must. There’s also a racquet and sports club for tennis and pickle ball, as well as paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkelling, and a large infinity pool that seemingly flows into the sea.

Other facilities to be added this year include the Seahorse Kids Club and a 300m² events and conference centre.

Service
The service was impeccable, from each member of staff remembering my name, to them cycling down the trails after noticing I was having trouble adjusting my bike seat, or asking if I wanted my morning espresso after noting my daily habit.

Verdict
While the term barefoot luxury has become a bit of a cliché, Jati perfectly embodies it. The villas are so divine, you really don’t want to leave, unless it is to savour food, dip your toes in the sea or unwind at the spa.

Contact details
Website: www.jati-resort.com

oneworld alliance adds three senior leaders to executive team

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oneworld alliance has appointed three senior executives to its leadership team as part of its strategy to strengthen global operations and collaboration.

Stephan Nagel has been appointed vice president – global partnerships. He brings over 25 years of experience in aviation, having held roles at Qatar Airways, Air Berlin, Star Alliance and Lufthansa. In his new role, he will lead strategic partnerships across the alliance, including with member airlines, technology platforms and loyalty partners.

From left: Stephan Nagel, Chris Kelly Singley and Guido van Til

Chris Kelly Singley joins as vice president – communications and marketing. She has more than 20 years of experience in the aviation and aerospace sectors, with previous roles at JetZero, Boeing, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. She will oversee global communications and marketing strategy, including media relations, employee engagement and stakeholder outreach.

Guido van Til has been named vice president – digital. He brings experience in digital transformation across the aviation and retail sectors, having worked with brands such as Rituals, Dyson and Air France-KLM. At oneworld, he will lead the alliance’s digital strategy and delivery, with a focus on customer experience and integrated platforms.

ECKO Hotels and Resorts welcomes Shekhar Chandra as GM

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Ecko Hotels & Resorts has appointed Shekhar Chandra as general manager – operations and pre-opening.

With more than 20 years of experience in the hotel industry, he has held senior roles with companies including Royal Orchid Hotels, Wyndham Worldwide, Radisson, Hilton Hotels and Ministry of Sound.

In his new role, Chandra will be responsible for managing pre-opening and operational activities, ensuring efficiency and supporting the brand’s focus on sustainability, community engagement and technology integration.