Alma Resort in Vietnam has introduced a romantic package replete with a private candle-lit dinner for two on the beach, floating breakfast, and a couple’s massage.
Enjoy a romantic candle-lit dinner for two on the beach at Alma Resort
With rates starting at US$170 net per night, the Alma Amore package includes a VIP welcome with sparkling wine and local artisanal chocolate-dipped fruits, daily international breakfast for two, daily sunset cocktails at Beach Bar, and a nightly turndown service with romantic surprises. Couples staying at a pavilion with its own private pool will also enjoy a floating breakfast.
Other highlights include a 60-minute couple’s spa massage, a romantic candle-lit dinner for two on the beach, and a Vietnamese cooking class for minimum stays of two nights, three nights and four nights respectively.
Other Alma Amore perks include round-trip airport transfers, late check-out, and access to daily wellness activities, the fitness centre and sports facilities.
The Alma Amore package is valid for stays until March 2025.
Silversea is developing a hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile – the southernmost city on Earth – to create an experience for guests to explore the rugged landscape of Antarctica.
Scheduled to complete by the end of 2025, the new 150-room hotel – built in partnership with a consortium of Chilean investors – will allow guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalised service and hospitality throughout their voyage.
At the ground-breaking ceremony of Silversea’s hotel in Puerto Williams, which will be completed by end-2025
The start of construction was celebrated at a ground-breaking ceremony where the partners were joined by Chilean government representatives and key stakeholders.
Overlooking the Beagle Channel and surrounded by forest, the hotel will feature views of the water and snow-capped Patagonian mountains. Amenities will include an expansive restaurant ideal for group gatherings, bar and lounge, fitness centre and gift shop showcasing handicrafts and art by local artisans.
In addition, Silversea will work with stakeholders to create opportunities for economic growth while preserving the unique cultural heritage and minimising environmental impact in the area.
The only cruise line that homeports from Puerto Williams during the Antarctica season, its Silver Endeavour, Silver Wind and Silver Cloud ships will offer a diverse range of six- to 20-day Antarctic voyages. Silversea guests embarking on its Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise programme will skip the Drake Passage and fly directly to Puerto Williams from Santiago, Chile’s capital city, where they can start their expedition, which is led by a team of specialists who are experts in their field.
“This new hotel allows us to offer an unmatched Antarctic expedition that further enhances our diverse portfolio of world-class vacations across our brands,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Partnering with our experienced teams in Chile, we are providing guests with a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most breath-taking and remote destinations that advances our promise to deliver a lifetime of vacations.”
Silversea president Bert Hernandez added: “This development not only differentiates us from other polar expeditions but also reaffirms our commitment to innovation and excellence as Silversea continues to set the standard in experiential luxury travel.”
For the first time in Australia, the 24th WTTC Global Summit opened in Perth, announcing new records and initiative – including groundbreaking reports on Oceania’s tourism potential and insights into indigenous tourism.
“2024 is a very exciting time for our sector. This year, global travel and tourism in GDP terms is set to surpass the pre-pandemic levels in 2019 and reach a record of US$11.1 trillion,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC president and CEO.
From left: WTTC’s Julia Simpson and WA’s Rita Saffioti during the opening announcements for the media at WTTC (Photo: Adelaine Ng)
“This incredible growth means the sector now represents 10 per cent of the global economy, and travel and tourism will support 348 million jobs around the world,” she added.
Travel and tourism is also growing faster than its environmental impact, demonstrating that the industry’s growth is becoming cleaner.
“Our sector is proving that we can grow responsibly. We’re decoupling growth from emissions, expanding travel and tourism economically while lowering its environmental footprint,” stated Simpson.
“This is a defining moment, proving that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand in shaping the future of global tourism,” she noted, emphasising that while progress is being made, achieving absolute reductions in greenhouse gases must be significantly accelerated to meet the Paris climate goals.
In 2023, the sector’s dependence on fossil fuels decreased to 88.2 per cent, compared to 90 per cent in 2019. Meanwhile, the share of low-carbon nuclear and renewable sources rose from 5.1 per cent in 2019 to 5.9 per cent in 2023, signalling progress towards sustainable goals.
New data and methodological improvements have also led to a revised estimate of the sector’s 2019 greenhouse gas emissions, now calculated at 7.8 per cent, down from the previous figure of 8.1 per cent.
As the first WTTC Global Summit in both Australia and Perth, it is expected to position Western Australia (WA) as a rising global leader in tourism trade and boost the local WA economy with a projected A$3.8 million (US$2.5 million) in impact.
WA deputy premier, treasurer and minister for transport and tourism, Rita Saffioti, said the state has injected more than A$70 million since the pandemic to support new aviation links, which is seen as crucial for an isolated destination.
“We (also) have a strategy to increase the range of events that we host in this state. We understand that tourists continue to look for new experiences but also, sometimes need that reason to travel.
“Finally, another key point of our strategy, is to support and grow our Aboriginal tourism strategy. We know that tourists from around the world want to be able to experience our original, indigenous culture. So, we have a dedicated plan to make sure WA can continue to support new indigenous and Aboriginal tourism,” added Saffioti.
WTTC senior vice president, Virginia Messina, said Australia’s travel and tourism sector is set to reach record-breaking numbers with a projected economic contribution of more than A$265 billion, according to WTTC data.
“(This) represents about 10 per cent of the Australian economy. It is also set to support 1.6 million jobs, representing nearly 11 per cent of the country’s workforce,” she added.
More details on WTTC’s new initiatives and reports will be revealed during the summit.
Trip.com Group and Zhoushan Municipal Development and Reform Commission have jointly launched the Hello Zhoushan x Trip.com Group Yoyo-themed series to support the economic and cultural enrichment of China’s islands, while elevating Zhoushan’s tourism profile on the global stage.
The collaboration between Trip.com Group and Zhoushan will focus on three key objectives: increasing brand visibility, driving customer traffic, and boosting consumer spending.
The collaboration aims to drive transformative growth and elevate Zhoushan’s tourism landscape; Shengshan Island in Zhoushan, China, pictured
As part of the broader Hello Zhoushan initiative launched in 2023, Zhoushan, a picturesque archipelago in China, has adopted the strategy of “one island, one product, one policy”. This approach aims to boost living standards and enhance community well-being through high-quality tourism development. By blending natural beauty with sustainable practices, Zhoushan seeks to create a distinct cultural tourism experience unique to the islands.
This year marks the second anniversary of this project, and the collaboration will help to strengthen international collaboration and expand its circle of “island friends”.
As the first official “Friend of the Island”, mascot Yoyo leads global partners on a journey to explore the depths of the East China Sea, greeting each island and unveiling a variety of activities – from local cuisine and sports to sea fishing and camping. Other initiatives, like the Zhoushan Island Homestay Practitioner Training Program, will enhance the hospitality services, operational efficiency, and pricing strategies of the island’s tourism – all targeting to broaden the visitor base while increasing tourism-related revenue.
By launching the joint Hello Zhoushan x Trip.com Group Yoyo brand globally, along with a series of online marketing campaigns and offline events like an island food search, the goal is to enhance the visibility of Zhoushan’s island tourism. International travellers can also further discover its offerings through innovative ads on the Trip.com app.
Looking ahead, Trip.com Group plans to leverage resources from the Tourism Industry Alliance and its global partners to bring more corporate brands on board with the Hello Zhoushan initiative. By expanding its network and infusing fresh momentum into Zhoushan’s island tourism, Trip.com Group aims to drive transformative growth and elevate the region’s tourism landscape.
Accor underwent a global organisational restructuring several years ago – what has it achieved?
Accor reorganised into two divisions – Economy, Mid-scale and Premium, and Luxury and Lifestyle – everywhere except Greater China, where I am privileged to oversee all sectors. China is unique and it made sense to maintain the continuity and retain singular focus. For development, Greater China is very different when you think about technology, loyalty, consumer behaviour and interaction.
Accor signed partnership agreements with Funyard Hotels & Resorts and Sunmei Digital Intelligence Technology Group in 2022. How do you anticipate them fuelling Accor’s growth?
These groups excite us. The Mövenpick (by Accor) partnership with Sunmei in particular is exceeding expectations with great hotels open, opening and in the pipeline. Its first Mövenpick hotel opened in Qingdao last year. Funyard – Country Garden’s core enterprise – had its first opening in Hangzhou: Jo&Joe was a strong lifestyle brand entry, a good launch pad for further developments.
All our partnerships share values, vision and trust, but each company has very different focus and expertise. We hope for an update or new opportunity by early 2025, like bringing new brands to the region, such as Tribe.
Does China need more new brands and hotels?
China needs more hotels. It’s among the top two countries for hotel growth and undoubtedly will become the world’s largest tourism market considering its domestic market and returning inbound travellers.
There is still huge growth for existing brands. We introduced our extended-stay brand Adagio from France to Chengdu, opening next year in that growing market. (However, we want) quality of growth; we’re not chasing numbers.
China’s vast market keeps offering opportunities, especially in economy and mid-scale hotels. We see continued demand for premium products. However, you must have a reason, and be discerning in placing luxury.
And, why create new brands when we have brands people love?
What are the key challenges of expanding Accor in China?
Understanding whom you partner, and balancing partners. You have to recognise that growth comes from many different quarters and see how you can be flexible (and) structured to handle them.
Greater China uses technology very differently from the rest of the world. We spent recent years completely rebuilding technology, localising it from the reservation system to loyalty and every aspect of business, and during the pandemic, building an entirely local ecosystem within Tencent and WeChat.
The domestic market is expected to drive recovery, and most guests book direct. Will this change how Accor regards its travel trade partners, like agents?
Consumers evolve, so we must too. I think there will always be a demand for agents in luxury stays, and all agents deal with high-end luxury. Specialist and online travel agents will have futures.
Today, people research in different ways and China has a significant population that book through Ctrip. We’ve created client-centric programmes with strategic partners, and we are the only company to have created a loyalty programme for Mainland China members with Ctrip.
Have you covered every segment you want in China?
There will be enormous growth for lifestyle brands, like our first in Greater China – the Mondrian Hotel in Hong Kong – and Jo&Joe in the Mainland China economy sector for lifestyle. Our restaurant brands, like Paris Society, stand on their own. There is more to lifestyle than a hotel room – restaurants and entertainment are equally important.
Which segments have done well after Covid-19?
Deluxe still feels the pinch, especially outside key cities. Luxury’s rates have suffered, but when you look at premium and mid-scale, there is still volume and trip numbers. People are spending differently. Covid-19 taught them that they did not need to sacrifice the ability to travel and discover. There is a huge Hong Kong market for high-end luxury experiences, food and beverage, (as well as) providing a unique cross-border opportunity.
Bearing in mind current macro challenges, how do you think business will pan out for hotels over the next few years?
Development is not slowing down. Having the right brands that owners want and guests love is not a challenge, it’s being disciplined: that’s our approach. That means developing the right brand, the right partner, and the right market – not every brand in every market.
Ayana Bali in Indonesia has opened Tevana Garden, a garden oasis that invites guests to connect with nature in South Bali while appreciating the island’s rich biodiversity. The garden spans over six hectares, features walking paths and stopping points, and houses over 80 species of tropical flora.
Derived from Sanskrit, Tevana refers to a place of divine connection. Visitors are greeted by a striking water feature at the entrance plaza before heading down a narrow, winding pathway to explore this green sanctuary for a restorative break.
Guests staying at Ayana Resort, Ayana Villas, Ayana Segara or Rimba by Ayana can experience Tevana Garden
The Viewpoint Tower boasts panoramic vistas of Jimbaran’s lush landscape and the vast ocean beyond, while kids can have fun at the treehouse playground – there is even a small natural cave to venture into.
For events, the Tea Room offers experiences such as coffee tasting or afternoon tea. There is also a versatile 3,200m² outdoor event space for up to 1,000 guests, ideal for hosting weddings, corporate events, and large gatherings.
Together with SAKA Museum, Ayana Bali’s cultural hub and learning precinct, guests can fully immerse in Bainese culture with a combination of experiences, such as traditional dance at Kampoeng Bali, a jamu workshop at Ayana Farm or boreh treatment at Ayana Spa.
“Ayana Bali is committed to hospitality which blends nature and luxury in perfect harmony,” said Giordano Faggioli, general manager of Ayana Bali. “Whether you’re planning an unforgettable event, or looking for a serene escape, Ayana Bali, with the addition of Tevana Garden, offers an experience that is truly nature-centred, allowing guests to disconnect and rejuvenate during their holiday.”
Centara Karon Resort Phuket is celebrating its reopening following a transformation with an exclusive offer.
Travellers who book before November 30 will be treated to an array of privileges, including complimentary accommodation, meals and activities for up to two children, early check-in and late check-out, complimentary minibar refresh daily, and 500 baht (US$15) daily resort credit to enjoy at the resort’s restaurants and bars or spa.
The redesigned resort features sea-view rooms, family-friendly options and romantic private pool villas, along with dining experiences, activities, and swimming pools
In addition, CentaraThe1 members will receive an additional 15 per cent discount on room rates and earn triple points for stays during the promotional period.
The offer is available for stays from December 1, 2024 to April 30, 2025
Onyx Hospitality Group has launched a festive campaign for the 2024 holiday season, Make Your Moments Merry, across its four brands: Amari, Ozo, Shama, and Oriental Residence.
The campaign features up to 20 per cent off public rates, with an additional 10 per cent discount exclusively for Onyx Rewards members (based on room only or bed and breakfast rates).
Enjoy family-friendly festive activities at Shama
Guests can also enjoy special festive activities and events at participating properties.
The promotion is available for booking from now to January 6, 2025, with stays valid from November 1, 2024 to January 15, 2025.
Shangri-La Singapore has named Stephan Kapek as its new vice president operations and general manager.
He brings over 30 years of international experience in the luxury hospitality to his new role, where he will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s operations, including Shangri-La Apartments and Residences.
Kapek has spent nearly 20 years in leadership roles within the group, managing hotels and resorts across multiple destinations. He was most recently vice president operations at Shangri-La’s China World Trade Center hotels.
Plaza Premium First’s new Infinity Room lets passengers enjoy a moment of luxury and indulgence before their flight
With its ‘lounge within a lounge’ concept, Plaza Premium Group unveils the new Infinity Room where passengers can enjoy moments of luxury before their flights. A private haven amidst the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), one of the world’s busiest airports, the brand-new premium VIP passenger lounge offers a sanctuary-like space for elite travellers.
A ‘lounge within a lounge’, the Infinity Room is nestled within the Plaza Premium First lounge in HKIA, and is conveniently located adjacent to gate 1. As growing passenger traffic in HKIA Terminal 1 soars beyond a new post-pandemic daily high of over 171,000 in July, the bustling airport continues to provide passengers with world-class facilities.
The elevated lounge concept of Plaza Premium First made its global debut in HKIA in 2018, representing a transformative evolution in Plaza Premium Group’s mission to redefine travel and provide sophisticated travellers with the ultimate blend of comfort and personalised service. Plaza Premium Group aims to expand the Infinity Room concept in other global destinations.
The introduction of the Infinity Room as a secluded space within Plaza Premium First serves as an extension to the personalised, all-inclusive lounge, which can be experienced by airline partners’ first class and business class travellers by invitation.
The Infinity Room is also open to walk-in guests by purchasing full access to the luxurious first-class service. Guests will enjoy world-class a la carte dining in a stylishly designed contemporary interior, cosy seating, and a curated selection of contemporary artworks that create an intimate and relaxing ambience.
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The all-day dining menu features local-inspired specialities that blend Chinese and Western influences
Infinity Lounge offers a diverse spread for its all day dining options
A sumptuous breakfast will be served in the morning
The whiskey trolley that offers a selection of spirits for all preferences
Featuring a gourmet all-day menu, which spotlights locally inspired specialities blending Chinese and Western influences, guests can savour made-to-order creations from the ever-changing menu with an international selection of hearty breakfast favourites available until 11.00am daily followed by an all-day menu highlighting sumptuous flavours from various global cuisines. Vegetarian and gluten-free choices are also available, as well as a refined beverage selection of single-malt whiskeys, brandy, cognac, wines, spirits, Chinese and Western teas, and juices.
The superb dining offerings at the Infinity Room is a gastronomic journey throughout the day from high tea in the afternoon with delicate sweet-and-savoury bites served with a premium selection of Chinese and Western loose tea leaves, to tapas in the evening and sweet snacks for a late-night indulgence.
The afternoon tea menu features a selection of sweet and savoury snacks paired with high-end Chinese and Western teas
“We are thrilled to unveil Infinity Room, a pinnacle of comfort and exclusivity within Plaza Premium First,” said John Girard, general manager operations for Hong Kong, Plaza Premium Group.
“In redefining luxury airport hospitality, we are continuing our unrelenting mission to ‘make travel better’ by providing a haven of sophistication for our esteemed guests amidst the dynamic setting of Hong Kong International Airport.”
Exceptional hospitality is at the heart of Plaza Premium First, which offers travellers a stylishly designed haven to relax, unwind, and freshen up before continuing their journey. Dedicated brand ambassadors anticipate every need with round-the-clock personalised services, offering an on-site suite of bespoke hospitality amenities which includes premium shower room facilities and a complimentary 10-minute neck and shoulder massage available on a first come, first served basis. The Infinity Room’s VIP passenger experience continues beyond the sophisticated lounge space with ALLWAYS’ buggy service, seamlessly shuttling guests straight to their boarding gate for a truly effortless travel experience.
Infinity Room at Plaza Premium First is open daily from 06.30 to 01.00 at level 6 (near gate 1), Departures Level, Terminal 1, HKIA. For more information, visit Plaza Premium Group’s website or Instagram.
Accor underwent a global organisational restructuring several years ago – what has it achieved?
Kapek has spent nearly 20 years in leadership roles within the group, managing hotels and resorts across multiple destinations. He was most recently vice president operations at Shangri-La’s China World Trade Center hotels.
