Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo has appointed Ashan Peiris as hotel manager, strengthening its leadership team.
He joins from within Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, where he most recently served as director of brand development. With experience across operations, brand strategy and resort management, he has held roles at Cinnamon Red Colombo, Cinnamon Grand Colombo and Cinnamon Bentota Beach.
1926 Heritage Hotel has named Angelina Lazuardi as general manager, overseeing the property’s overall strategy, operations and performance.
She brings over 17 years of experience, most recently holding leadership roles with Kempinski, Marriott and The Parisian Macao, with a focus on operational and commercial performance.
Discussions at the PATA Annual Summit 2026 this week on building a resilient future for the tourism industry highlighted a common view: a responsible approach to tourism development gives destinations the agility needed to navigate a volatile environment.
Natasha Montesalva, principal consultant – destinations, strategy and insights at EarthCheck, told TTG Asia that sustainability and resilience go hand in hand.
“Businesses that are sustainable (in terms of environmental, social and governance considerations) are economically viable for the long term. That’s because they have the systems and structures in place to deliver what is needed to do stay in business.
“Governance reporting means that businesses have the right policies and procedures in place to protect themselves and that they are adhering to the right legislation in whichever jurisdiction they are operating within. When businesses fulfil social responsibilities, they build trust in their community and will be able to attract a skilled workforce. When businesses respect the natural environment, the community and other businesses will rely on them.
“So, by building and integrating ESG principles and broader sustainability goals into their business, they creating these resilient frameworks that can help them recover from some of the shocks that they would face in the future.”
Destination leaders echoed that a structured and responsible approach to tourism development can lead to lasting positive outcomes.
Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of Azerbaijan Tourism Board, said aligning destination development with the UN Sustainable Development Goals helps ensure accountability, rather than focusing on arrival numbers, which he described as “vanity metrics”.
With this approach, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board has shifted from destination marketing to destination management, focusing on stakeholder coordination across communities, businesses, government entities, and global markets.
As her destination experiences “fantastic growth”, Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, representing Cape Town and the Western Cape, said public-private collaboration is essential to advance tourism development in a sustainable and resilient manner.
Stander identified three priorities: diversifying source markets to reshape demand, increasing connectivity and expanding carrying capacity, and facilitating the movement of travellers, including through visa-free access.
Insook Lee, executive director of the Korea MICE Bureau at the Korea Tourism Organization, noted that sustainable tourism development requires support beyond the tourism sector, including from national leadership.
This is particularly relevant as South Korea faces an imbalance in post-pandemic tourism performance. The country recorded 18.9 million international arrivals in 2025, but 80 per cent of visitors concentrated their time in Seoul.
“We are worried that this will limit the long-term sustainability of South Korea’s tourism industry,” Lee said.
She noted that the national tourism strategy meeting is now overseen by the president, rather than the prime minister, reflecting tourism’s growing economic importance.
“We have an ambitious goal of attracting 30 million inbound visitors by 2030 or earlier. To achieve this, our government has rolled out a two-pillar strategy: the first is to expand the inbound demand and the second is to revitalise regional tourism across South Korea. This strategy is reinforced by comprehensive reforms to the immigration procedures, regional airports, lodging infrastructure, and development of high-value tourism companies,” Lee added.
Sengstschmid said all government officials “should be made a tourism minister”, believing that policy decisions across sectors affect tourism outcomes.
He urged ministers to consider tourism’s contribution to GDP, job creation, business development, regional inclusion, and education.
Régine Lee, president and CEO of Guam Visitors Bureau, added that governments play a critical role “in communications and PR efforts, in creating policies that will lift our island up and provide the infrastructure for sustainable growth, and in shaping the kind of future that we want for our residents and visitors”.
Conditions for resilience
Shijun Liu, executive director of UN Tourism, outlined a vision for resilient tourism in his keynote at the summit.
“At UN Tourism, we see resilience taking place first in communities, not just cities. Yet, today, 80 per cent of international travellers are concentrated in a small number of destinations. This creates a significant concentration risk, where when a gateway city suffers, the entire tourism economy often suffers along with it,” Liu said.
He described rural tourism as a “structural solution”, provided it is approached thoughtfully.
“The objective is not simply to disperse visitor numbers, but to rethink how destinations function. A truly resilient destination is one where residents experience tourism as improving their lives, protecting their culture, and strengthening their community. Without this, sustainable cannot be achieved,” stated Liu.
He added that resilience requires investment in infrastructure, digital systems, workforce development and destination management, noting that “tourism remains underfunded relative to its contribution to GDP and employment”.
Liu also highlighted opportunities for tourism to align with global shifts towards greener infrastructure and digitalisation.
“Capital is increasingly flowing toward decarbonisation and climate resilience, and tourism can attract it if we make the right case,” he advised.
He further noted the importance of innovation, including AI and data-driven management, in strengthening destination operations.
He explained: “When external platforms define a destination story, they also shape its economic future. Preserving that autonomy is a strategic priority.”
New research from Mastercard and CrescentRating highlights continued growth in Muslim travel, alongside changing expectations around inclusivity, safety and purpose-led experiences.
The reports, Halal Travel Trends 2026 and Muslim Women in Travel 2026, estimate international Muslim arrivals reached 186 million in 2025 and are projected to grow to 245 million by 2030. Muslim women accounted for 90 million arrivals in 2025, representing 48 per cent of the total, up from 45 per cent in 2019.
The findings point to a shift beyond basic requirements such as halal food and prayer facilities, with travellers placing increasing emphasis on safety, trust and digital access when planning trips.
Asia remains central to this growth. The region attracted nearly 120 million Muslim visitors in 2024, accounting for 65 per cent of global arrivals. Within this, South-east Asia is well positioned, with destinations such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei identified as preferred markets, particularly among Muslim women travellers.
The reports highlight the growing influence of Muslim women in shaping travel decisions across segments including family holidays, solo trips and group travel. Safety and comfort were cited as key considerations by 60 per cent of respondents, followed by the availability of Muslim-friendly services.
Digital platforms are also playing a larger role, with 68 per cent of respondents indicating that social media influences their travel choices. AI tools are increasingly used for trip planning, including identifying halal dining options and assessing destination suitability.
A central theme across both reports is the RIDA framework, which outlines four areas for destinations to address: responsible tourism, immersive experiences, digital capability and assurance. The approach is intended to help tourism stakeholders better meet evolving traveller expectations.
“Muslim travel is entering a more sophisticated phase, where confidence, inclusion and purpose are becoming as important as access and convenience,” said Aisha Islam, senior vice president, customer solutions centre, South-east Asia at Mastercard. “Through the RIDA framework, destinations and businesses have a practical way to think about the full traveller journey from trusted digital information and secure payments to meaningful experiences that respect faith, culture, safety and personal values.”
“For destinations, the opportunity is to move from availability to assurance,” said Raudha Zaini, director of operations, CrescentRating. “Muslim travellers are looking for experiences that are meaningful, inclusive and easy to trust. The destinations that clearly communicate their readiness and deliver consistently across the journey will be best positioned to earn long-term loyalty.”
StarDream Cruises is marking the 10th anniversary of Genting Dream with an expanded line-up of themed sailings, combining culinary, entertainment and wellness experiences into a year-long programme designed to deepen guest engagement.
The anniversary celebrations began with a series of preview sailings, featuring collaborations across lifestyle and entertainment. These included a movie launch for Ah Beng Vs Liang Po Po with onboard cast appearances, pickleball activations and a wellness-focused sailing, leading up to more recent highlights such as the “French Papa” culinary collaboration.
Michael Goh, president of StarDream Cruises, said these early programmes were designed to “set the tone for the anniversary celebrations, focusing on immersive and lifestyle-driven guest experiences”.
The momentum continues through the year with a diverse calendar of themed cruises. Highlights include a July sailing featuring fitness personality Amotti from Netflix’s Physical: 100, with activities such as a Hyrox-inspired challenge and wellness workshops. Later in October, a K-pop themed cruise will feature performances by rising group KIIRAS, alongside broader entertainment programming.
According to Goh, “each sailing is designed to feel fresh and different, but still part of one cohesive celebration of our anniversary at sea”.
The programme reflects a more deliberate approach to themed cruising, with concepts shaped by guest insights, market trends and brand positioning.
“Each theme was carefully selected to resonate with a wide range of guest profiles, while reflecting elements of discovery, celebration and cultural relevance,” Goh noted.
Compared to previous years, the anniversary line-up has been expanded into a connected series rather than standalone events. Goh described it as “more structured and expansive… designed as a connected series of experiences that collectively celebrate the milestone year”.
Guest response so far has been encouraging, with strong engagement across sailings and growing anticipation for upcoming departures. Feedback has highlighted the distinctiveness of each theme and the depth added to the overall cruise experience.
With high-profile collaborations spanning chefs, performers and lifestyle brands, the programme signals a shift towards more integrated, experience-led cruising – positioning themed sailings as a key driver of differentiation in the premium cruise segment.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has signed a master franchise agreement with Huanyue International Holdings, a subsidiary of Dossen Group, to develop and operate Hyatt Select hotels in China.
The agreement grants Dossen Group exclusive rights to grow the Hyatt Select brand in the market, combining Hyatt’s global brand platform with Dossen’s local network and operational capabilities.
Hyatt Select is positioned within the group’s Essentials portfolio, offering a streamlined stay experience focused on comfort, convenience and consistency. The brand is designed to cater to travellers seeking reliable, midscale accommodation with modern design and access to the World of Hyatt loyalty programme.
The partnership comes as China’s upper-midscale hotel segment continues to evolve, with demand increasing for internationally recognised brands offering quality and value. The model is also intended to support owners through flexible development options, including new builds and conversions.
The collaboration is expected to support Hyatt’s broader expansion in China, with a focus on scaling the brand across key destinations.
“This collaboration with Dossen Group is a pivotal step forward in our thoughtful growth strategy for China,” said Stephen Ho, president – Greater China and growth, Asia Pacific, Hyatt. “The introduction of the Hyatt Select brand in our Essentials portfolio strengthens our ability to serve a wider range of stay occasions and reinforces our commitment to this priority market.”
Xinhua Cheng, founder, chairman and CEO of Dossen Group added: “Together, we will leverage our complementary strengths to drive high-quality growth of the brand in China.”
Sono Hotels & Resorts Asia has signed a hotel management agreement with Nelayan Development for Sono Felice Bali Canggu, a 90-room property scheduled to open in July 2028.
Located on Jalan Nelayan near Batu Bolong Beach, the hotel sits in Canggu, an area known for its surf culture, dining scene and growing appeal among international travellers.
The project is designed as a residential-style hospitality concept, catering to both short- and longer-stay guests. The approach reflects increasing demand for flexible accommodation options, particularly among digital nomads and extended-stay travellers.
Sono Felice Bali Canggu will comprise four architecturally distinct buildings inspired by the elements of water, fire, air and earth. Planned features include rooftop dining, ocean views and personalised services.
The signing forms part of Sono’s broader expansion in Indonesia and South-east Asia, with a focus on destinations showing sustained tourism growth and lifestyle appeal.
“Canggu represents one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in the region, and this hotel reflects our focus on aligning product, location, and partner vision to deliver sustainable performance,” said Jihong An, senior vice president – Asia, Sono Hotels & Resorts Asia.
“Canggu continues to evolve as one of Bali’s most desirable destinations. With Sono Hotels & Resorts Asia, we have a partner who understands how to translate this into a distinctive hospitality concept,” added Ahti Khiili, president director, Nelayan Development.
Shangri-La Kunming, China
Shangri-La Kunming is a 75-room hotel in Yunnan’s capital, designed around the concept of a “Tea Merchant’s Mansion” and inspired by the region’s landscapes and tea culture.
Rooms and suites range from 55m² to 192m², with options including city-view suites, romantic-themed accommodation, and a tea-inspired residence suite. Family rooms are also available, designed with interactive features for children.
The hotel offers several dining venues showcasing Yunnan ingredients and flavours, an indoor heated pool, fitness centre and yoga room. The hotel also has tea-focused experiences led by tea masters.
For events, there is over 2,000m² of space, including a 1,000m² pillarless ballroom. The hotel is positioned as a base for exploring Kunming and wider Yunnan.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Almaty Airport, India
Radisson Blu Hotel, Almaty Airport is a 171-room property located 2.6km from Almaty International Airport, around a 25-minute drive from the city centre.
Rooms and suites include junior suites, a presidential suite with panoramic views, and accessible options. Facilities include several dining venues, such as an all-day restaurant, lobby bar and a rooftop sky bar with terrace views.
Wellness amenities feature a spa, indoor pool and fitness centre. The hotel also offers 285m² of meeting space, along with a crew lounge, children’s game room and beauty salon.
City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South, Japan
City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South is a 143-room hotel located in Hanazono-kita, Nishinari-ku, offering convenient access to central Osaka. The hotel is adjacent to Hanazonochō Station on the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line, with Kansai International Airport around 45 minutes away by train.
Guestrooms are designed with practical layouts, modern amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi. A daily breakfast with hot and cold options is included, as well as a self-service beverage corner in the lobby.
The hotel is within easy reach of key attractions, including Tennoji, Namba, Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, with accessibility to Osaka Castle Park and Osaka Dome.
Noormahal, Delhi NCR Karnal, Autograph Collection, India
Noormahal, Delhi NCR Karnal, Autograph Collection is a 176-room hotel set along the historic Grand Trunk Road in Karnal, Haryana. Located on NH44, it is around two hours from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and Chandigarh International Airport, and 15 minutes from Karnal Railway Station.
Rooms and suites combine traditional Indian design, including penthouse options with private terraces and butler service. Facilities comprise four dining venues, a spa, outdoor pool, gym, and activities such as tennis, pickleball and ziplining.
The hotel also offers over 27,800m² of event space, with indoor venues and large lawns for gatherings. Nearby, guests can visit Kurukshetra or travel onwards to destinations such as Shimla, Amritsar and Mussoorie.
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to avoid non-essential outbound travel and weddings has prompted debate over its potential impact on the tourism sector.
Modi on Sunday (May 10) urged citizens to adopt a range of austerity measures while addressing a public gathering in Secunderabad, Telangana. These included reducing fuel consumption, increasing the use of public transport, limiting spending on gold, and avoiding non-essential overseas travel and weddings for a year. He noted that discretionary international travel adds pressure on foreign exchange reserves amid ongoing global uncertainty.
While expressing support for the government’s efforts to navigate the global energy crisis linked to tensions in West Asia, stakeholders in India’s tourism industry also highlighted the sector’s vulnerability during such periods.
Ashwani Gupta, managing director, Dove Travels, said: “Such statements can have a significant negative impact, creating uncertainty around future travel and holidays. Airfares are already dearer due to the Middle East crisis with fares to Europe more than doubling. At a time like this, such remarks further dampen sentiment.”
Shares of InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, declined by 4.93 per cent on May 11 on the National Stock Exchange of India. Meanwhile, Easy Trip Planners also saw its share price fall by 3.51 per cent during the same trading session.
The Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), in a statement, expressed support for the government and the vision outlined by Modi, while also raising concerns over the livelihoods of thousands of travel professionals and allied service providers who rely on outbound tourism. The association has initiated efforts to seek an audience with the Prime Minister’s Office to present the industry’s concerns.
“If high-spending Indians choose domestic destinations and venues, it directly boosts local tourism, hospitality and wedding market. It is also a forex saver at a time when the rupee faces pressure. Post the PM statement there could be an uptick in bookings for destinations like Goa, Rajasthan, Kerala and Andamans. Hotels, resorts and wedding venues in India could see higher demand, especially in the luxury segment,” said K Vijay Mohan, managing director, Holiday World.
According to the Navigating Horizons: The Rise and Future of Indian Outbound Tourism report, jointly prepared by Nangia NXT and FICCI in 2024, the Indian outbound market is expected to reach US$55.39 billion by 2034.
“While the PM statement may influence short-term sentiment, it is unlikely to change the long-term growth trajectory of Indian outbound travel. Indian travellers today are globally aware, aspirational and increasingly experience-focused. Travel is no longer viewed purely as a luxury but also as an important part of wellness, business, education and cultural engagement,” said Harjit Singh, founder and chief of guest experience at Travel Twist.
Agoda’s 2026 Sustainable Travel Survey indicates rising interest in travel experiences that deliver meaningful connections and support local communities across Asia.
The survey found that 35% of travellers prefer tours and experiences that protect the environment and benefit local communities, compared with 26% who prioritise accommodation with recognised sustainability certifications. This reflects a broader shift towards travel choices that emphasise purpose and local engagement.
Sustainability is becoming a more prominent factor in travel planning, with 77% of Asian travellers considering it important in 2026, up from 68% the previous year. Thailand recorded the highest level of interest at 95%, followed by Indonesia (93%), India (88%), Malaysia (88%) and Taiwan (83%). Looking ahead, 83% of respondents expect sustainability to remain a consideration over the next three years.
The findings also point to changing travel behaviours. Nearly half of respondents (48%) reported travelling during off-peak periods to avoid overcrowding, while longer stays and repeat visits are increasingly associated with exploring new experiences and destinations beyond established hubs.
Agoda highlighted the role of slower, more immersive travel in supporting balanced tourism growth, noting that extended stays and localised experiences can help distribute visitor spending more evenly across communities, including secondary destinations.
The survey suggests that motivations for sustainable travel are closely linked to local impact. Around 29% of respondents prioritise ensuring their spending benefits local people and businesses, while 28% value building stronger connections with destinations. In addition, 38% identified economic support for local businesses as the most significant potential impact of responsible tourism.
Agoda’s Eco Deals programme, developed in partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), links accommodation discounts with contributions to conservation projects across 10 markets, enabling travellers to explore Asia affordably while supporting local ecosystems and communities.
“Travellers are looking for more purposeful involvement in the destinations they visit, looking for ways to contribute to local growth and nature preservation as part of their journey,” said Andrew Smith, senior vice president, supply at Agoda. “As travellers explore beyond the usual gateways, the opportunity for communities in secondary destinations to benefit from tourism dollars spreading more widely continues to increase.”
