TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Wednesday, 28th January 2026
Page 126

Accor, Bayview to introduce three new hotels across Australia and New Zealand

0

Accor will expand its regional footprint through a new partnership with Bayview International Hotels & Resorts, established in 1993, bringing together Bayview’s local legacy and Accor’s global scale and experience.

From May, Accor will assume management of three existing properties: The Sydney Boulevard Hotel in East Sydney; Bayview Geographe Resort in Busselton, Western Australia; and Wairakei Resort Taupo in New Zealand’s North Island.

From left: Accor’s Adrian Williams and Bayview’s Peter Pysk at The Sydney Boulevard Hotel

The agreement marks a strategic step in Accor’s regional growth, with plans to refurbish and rebrand all three properties under Accor’s hotel portfolio. The hotels will continue to operate under their current names until the refurbishments are complete.

The Sydney Boulevard Hotel includes 277 rooms, seven suites, 11 meeting spaces, a ballroom, restaurant, café, and a top-floor meeting room with views of the CBD and Sydney Harbour.

Bayview Geographe Resort, located in Busselton three hours south of Perth, comprises 137 rooms and villas, an indoor heated pool, tennis court, golf putting green, and direct access to the beach.

Wairakei Resort Taupo, situated near Lake Taupo in a geothermal area, includes 187 rooms, a nine-hole golf course, geothermal swimming pool, day spa, multiple dining options, and conference facilities.

Adrian Williams, chief operating officer for Accor in the Pacific, said: “These three properties are well-loved by locals and visitors alike, and we are thrilled to bring them into the Accor family. Our vision is to elevate their guest experiences through our powerful brands, ALL loyalty programme, and world-class service offering.”

Derek Yan, vice president projects and product development for Bayview International Hotel & Resorts, added: “With Accor’s global expertise and strong brand portfolio, we are confident that these hotels will thrive, offering even greater experiences for our valued guests. It reaffirms our commitment to growth and excellence in the region.”

Edit Hotels & Resorts launches across New Zealand

0

Edit Hotels & Resorts officially launched on May 5 with four properties across New Zealand, targeting value-conscious travellers seeking straightforward, comfortable accommodation. The Edit brand, developed by the team behind Fable Hotels & Resorts, features recently refurbished properties in Auckland, Picton and Hanmer Springs, and is designed to offer a simplified hospitality experience centred on practicality, minimalism and local engagement.

The initial portfolio includes Edit Auckland Central (formerly President Hotel), Edit Auckland Greenlane (formerly Greenlane Suites), Edit Picton (formerly Picton Yacht Club Hotel), and Edit Hanmer Springs (formerly Hanmer Springs Hotel). Each location offers mid-range accommodation focused on essential services, such as reliable Wi-Fi, quality bedding and streamlined service, in central locations.

Edit Hotels & Resorts has opened four refurbished properties in New Zealand, introducing a new brand focused on simple, cost-effective stays; Edit Hanmer Springs, pictured

Edit Picton and Edit Hanmer Springs also include conference and event spaces, accommodating up to 100 and 250 guests respectively. These venues are designed for business meetings, retreats and social events in regional settings.

A digital-first approach underpins the brand’s guest experience, with features such as digital compendiums, interactive activity guides and business cards already in use. Chromecast streaming and paperless check-in are currently being developed.

Edit Hotels & Resorts is also involved in local community initiatives. In Auckland, the group supports Bailey Road School in Mt Wellington by providing students with school supplies and sponsoring a leadership programme. A summer work experience scheme is also in development. In Picton, Edit contributes funds each school term to help students access extracurricular activities and basic school needs. In Hanmer Springs, the brand sponsors weekly school lunches at the local primary school.

“Edit is for the savvy traveller from families looking for value, business travellers needing seamless connectivity, or travel hackers who know how to make the most of every trip,” says Lisa Breckon, director of sales and marketing, Edit Hotels & Resorts. “We designed Edit Hotels & Resorts to be affordable without ever feeling cheap. It’s smart, comfortable, and uncluttered – ideal for guests who would rather spend more on experiencing the destination, than the room they sleep in.

“Being part of a community means more than just operating in it; it’s about lending a hand and building meaningful, long-term relationships. We’re proud that each Edit property gives back to local school children and families who need a little extra support in a way that’s personal, tangible, and truly makes a difference.”

Royal Caribbean reveals entertainment and dining line-up for Star of the Seas

0

Royal Caribbean has released details of the entertainment and dining options that will be available aboard Star of the Seas, set to debut in August 2025 from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. The new vessel will feature a wide range of performances, food venues, and activities for all ages.

The ship will host five main shows spanning theatre, water, air, and ice. These include a new Royal Caribbean production, Create, following a robot character named KRE-8 through a story told via music, dance, and visual arts. Families can also watch Pirates & Mermaids at the AquaTheater, which combines dance, diving, and synchronised swimming with comedic storytelling.

Star of the Seas will feature new entertainment and dining offerings on Caribbean sailings from August 2025

The highlight of the programme is Back to the Future: The Musical, adapted from the Broadway version. It will be performed with the support of the largest orchestra at sea and feature choreographed sequences and special effects. Other shows include Torque, a water-based performance involving divers, swimmers, and slackliners, and SOL, an ice show themed around the journey of the sun.

Dining options include more than 40 restaurants and bars. Among them is the AquaDome Market, exclusive to the Icon Class, which will feature five food stands including new options offering American barbecue, South-east Asian dishes, and South American snacks. Central Park’s Lincoln Park Supper Club, new to the fleet, will offer a multi-course meal with live jazz and cocktails inspired by 1930s Chicago.

Other venues include Chops Grille for steak, Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, and Celebration Table for private dining. Casual options include Surfside Eatery, Basecamp, and Windjammer, which will continue to serve a variety of international cuisines.

Evening entertainment will extend beyond the shows. Guests can visit the adults-only comedy club The Attic, try karaoke, or visit Casino Royale. There will be more than 20 bars and lounges, including favourites such as Dueling Pianos, Rye & Bean, Lou’s, and Bubbles in Central Park.

Star of the Seas will sail seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including stops at Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. From December 2025, itineraries will also include Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, part of the new Royal Beach Club Collection.

“At Royal Caribbean, we know that dining and entertainment are at the heart of our guests’ vacation experiences and memories. With the Icon Class line-up redefining what it means to vacation, Star pushes the boundaries of flavours and entertainment with a mix of brand-new and fan-favourite offerings, so every kind of vacationer can make memories of a lifetime together and in their own ways,” said Kara Wallace, chief marketing officer, Royal Caribbean.

TTG Asia breaks for Vesak Day

0

TTG Asia online news bulletin will take a break for the Vesak Day public holiday on May 12, 2025.

The online news bulletin will resume on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

Here’s wishing all our Buddhist readers a happy Vesak Day!

Rosewood Hotel Group strengthens team with two new appointments

0

Rosewood Hotel Group has made two key appointments: Anthony Ingham as chief operating officer and Luca Finardi as vice president, operations, EMEAC (Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Caribbean Atlantic).

Ingham will assume his role on September 1, reporting to CEO Sonia Cheng. He brings extensive global experience from previous senior roles at Marriott International, Starwood, and InterContinental. Most recently, he led hospitality operations, branding, and customer experience at The Hong Kong Jockey Club.

From left: Anthony Ingham and Luca Finardi

As COO, he will oversee global operations, guest experience, commercial strategy, and digital functions across Rosewood’s portfolio.

Finardi will join on June 1 and report to Ingham. with over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, he previously served as general manager of Mandarin Oriental Paris and area vice president for France, Italy, and the Czech Republic. He will oversee regional operations in the EMEAC region, working closely with property leaders and global teams.

Taiwan-Sabah partnership aims to boost sustainable tourism

0

Five universities from Taiwan have formalised a partnership with four Sabah-based tourism associations to promote agro- and community-based tourism in the Malaysian state.

The collaboration was formalised with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Kota Kinabalu. It aims to promote sustainable tourism development through knowledge exchange, community engagement, and academic-industry cooperation. The MoU is also expected to support capacity-building among local stakeholders and contribute to long-term, values-driven tourism initiatives.

The partnership aims to promote rural and sustainable tourism through education and community collaboration

The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Sabah government and representatives of the Malaysia Talent Education and Industry-Academia Collaboration Association, who accompanied the Taiwanese delegation.

The participating Taiwanese institutions are Dayeh University, National Chi Nan University, Nan Kai University of Technology, Lee-Ming Institute of Technology, and the Taiwan Agro and Rural Tourism Association. Their Sabah counterparts include the Kiulu Tourism Association, Tambunan Tourism Association, Sabah Tenom Coffee Entrepreneurs Association, and the Tambatuon Village Women’s Community Association in Kota Belud.

The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) will facilitate the collaboration as part of its broader efforts to develop inclusive and sustainable tourism models.

STB chairman and assistant minister of tourism, culture and environment, Joniston Bangkuai, said the initiative aligns with the Sabah Maju Jaya development blueprint, which highlights agriculture and tourism as key economic drivers.

He noted that “agro-tourism plays a vital role in enhancing visitor experiences while directly empowering rural communities”, adding that STB has identified 51 agro-tourism products across Sabah and is piloting a digital data platform in Kiulu to guide rural tourism strategies.

Disney to open theme park resort in Abu Dhabi

0

The Walt Disney Company and Miral have joined forces to develop a Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, in the UAE. The resort will be located on Yas Island, a leisure and entertainment hub in the capital.

The project will be Disney’s seventh theme park resort globally and the first in the Middle East. It will feature Disney attractions and characters, integrated with elements reflecting the local culture and environment.

From left: Miral’s Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi and Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, The Walt Disney Company ‘s Robert A Iger, and Disney Experiences’s Josh D’Amaro

Miral will oversee the full development and construction of the resort. Disney will lead the creative design and provide operational oversight through its Imagineering team. Miral, which has previously partnered with international brands on Yas Island, will operate the site.

Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, group CEO of Miral, said that bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marked a significant step in the company’s efforts to enhance the island’s status as a global destination for entertainment and leisure.

The UAE’s geographical location, within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population, positions it as a key travel hub. Its aviation infrastructure, including major airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, handles over 120 million passengers annually.

Once completed, the resort will include Disney-themed entertainment, accommodation, dining, and retail. The project is expected to contribute to the tourism sector and support long-term economic development in Abu Dhabi.

Miral chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak said. “The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence. What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination – an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world, creating magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever.”

Robert A Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company, added: “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways and will become a source of joy and inspiration for the people of this vast region to enjoy for generations to come.”

Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Experiences, remarked: “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio. The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront – which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways. This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before.”

Further details will be announced as the project progresses.

UOL, Hilton to open first NoMad Hotel in Asia-Pacific in Singapore

0

UOL Group has partnered with Hilton to introduce the first NoMad Hotel in Asia-Pacific, set to open on Singapore’s Orchard Road in early 2027.

The 173-room luxury hotel will be built on the site of the former Faber House, which is being redeveloped into a 19-storey hotel with retail and commercial spaces.

Rendering of NoMad Hotel, which will bring luxury lifestyle experience to Singapore’s Orchard Road in 2027

NoMad, which recently joined Hilton’s luxury portfolio, is known for its unique blend of luxury and lifestyle. The hotel brand, acquired following Hilton’s purchase of a majority stake in Sydell Group, is expanding its footprint from its flagship in London to high-end markets worldwide. This marks Hilton’s first entry into Singapore’s luxury lifestyle hotel market.

The Singapore hotel will feature distinctive local design elements, including curated artworks by Singaporean artists with special needs. The property is expected to offer guests access to the city’s shopping, entertainment, and cultural hubs, with key districts like the financial centre, Bras Basah-Bugis, Arab Street, and Chinatown just a short distance away.

Designed by the architecture firm WOHA, the hotel will feature a biophilic design, incorporating a 15-storey cascading waterfall and vertical greenery on its façade. The third level will host a public space for art and design programming, and the hotel will connect with surrounding developments.

The guest experience will begin at the fifth level, with a lobby, sky terrace, and infinity pool overlooking Orchard Road. Guestrooms will be located above, with a rooftop bar and restaurant completing the offering.

Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said: “With demand for high-end, experience-driven stays surging across the region, the luxury gateway of Singapore offers the perfect backdrop to debut NoMad’s uniquely local luxury hospitality – and will be the first of many cities in Asia to welcome the brand.”

UOL chief operating officer Neo Soon Hup added: “NoMad Singapore will bring together modern elegance and the city’s dynamic cultural energy, offering a distinct experience that reflects the brand’s character. We look forward to making NoMad a standout presence in the market, delivering exceptional stays that go beyond traditional luxury and resonate with discerning travellers.”

Norwegian Cruise Line to update two ships ahead of summer 2025

0

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will complete refurbishments on Norwegian Epic and Pride of America ahead of the 2025 summer travel season, adding new features and upgraded facilities.

Norwegian Epic will complete a three-week dry dock on May 8, 2025, with updates including a new hot tub on deck 18, a redesigned Kids’ Aqua Park, and an expanded adults-only Vibe Beach Club featuring extra seating, a second hot tub, and private cabanas. Eight new staterooms – balcony and ocean view – will also be added.

Norwegian Epic’s expanded Vibe Beach Club adds more seating, a second hot tub, and private cabanas

The ship will also offer nine- to 11-day cruises from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, visiting ports in the Mediterranean and Greek Isles, including Santorini, Mykonos, Valletta, Naples, Catania, and Florence/Pisa. Later in the year, she returns to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for seven-day Southern Caribbean cruises to ports including Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, and St Thomas.

Pride of America will undergo upgrades from May 3 to 31, 2025, including a new Starbucks on deck five and the addition of pickleball to the sports court. She will also gain 12 club balcony suites and three inside staterooms on deck 12. Youth spaces will move to deck six, along with a new Library and Card Room.

Following dry dock, Pride of America will resume her seven-day inter-island Hawaii cruises from Honolulu on May 31, 2025, operating year-round with port calls across four islands and overnights in Maui and Kauai.

“Delivering the best vacation experience for our guests, where they have the freedom and flexibility to do more of what they love is and will always continue to be our goal,” said David J Herrera, president of NCL.

“By listening to guests’ feedback, we are excited to provide them with more to do on board starting this summer as Norwegian Epic sets sail for Europe and Pride of America continues to offer the world’s only seven-day inter-island Hawaii voyages departing from Honolulu 52 weeks out of the year.”

Southern Discoveries unveils new experiences in Queenstown, New Zealand

0

Southern Discoveries is adding new travel experiences, including a wine tour, marking its return to the Queenstown market.

The company’s new tours focus on slower, more personal travel, encouraging guests to explore the landscapes and stories of Queenstown, Central Otago and Fiordland. The aim is to create meaningful experiences that reflect the value of kaitiaki (guardianship).

Sip on local wine at top Central Otago vineyards with Southern Discoveries’ new Queenstown tour

The Queenstown Wine Tour takes small groups to four Central Otago wineries, including Chard Farm, Brennan Wines, and Mora Wines in Arrowtown. A private charter option is now available, offering exclusive use of a Mercedes Sprinter van.

The company has also introduced its longest Milford Sound cruise, the Discover More Milford Sound Cruise, lasting up to two hours and fifteen minutes. A nature guide is on board, and also travels with guests by coach if included.

A new VIP upgrade is available on the Milford Sound Nature Cruise. The Cascade Room offers a private cabin, top-deck access, and food and drink service for up to 20 guests.

In Te Anau, Southern Discoveries will launch a new farm and cruise experience in October. Guests will visit a working farm with shearing and dog demonstrations, followed by morning tea and a Milford Sound cruise.

For more information, visit Southern Discoveries.