Global experts convene in Guizhou to advance mountain tourism and outdoor sports

November 14, 2025

Guiyang, Guizhou Province, hosted the 2025 International Conference of Mountain Tourism and Outdoor Sports on November 11, 2025, bringing together over 350 delegates from 30 countries and regions to explore the future of sustainable mountain tourism.

Centred on the theme Integration of Culture, Tourism and Sports Presents a High-Quality Life, the event underscored China’s growing role in promoting mountain tourism as a driver of cultural exchange, outdoor recreation, and rural revitalisation.

Leaders and innovators gathered at the conference to advance sustainable mountain tourism worldwide

The conference programme included the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) Annual Conference, the International Mountain Tourism Promotion Conference (IMTPC), field visits to Guizhou’s mountain attractions, and the Bank of Guizhou – Mountain Culture, Tourism and Outdoor Sport Equipment Exhibition.

Opening speakers included IMTA chairman Dominique de Villepin and senior Guizhou officials. IMTA also signed cooperation agreements with PATA, Everest Alliance Nepal, and the Department of Culture and Tourism of Hubei Province.

A new publication, Innovation in Mountain Tourism and Community Co-development, was released and certificates were awarded to eight World Famous Tourism Mountains and six International Mountain Hiking Tourism Demonstration Routes.

Fifteen new members also joined IMTA.

The IMTPC, themed Promote Mountain Prosperity and Create Shared Brilliance, featured presentations from IMTA vice chairman Liu Zhaohui, FAO project coordinator Giorgio Grussu, and PATA chairman Peter Semone, who introduced research on strategies to expand Guizhou’s inbound tourism from Asia-Pacific markets. Delegates from several countries shared updates on mountain tourism initiatives and sustainable practices.

Complementing the discussions, the exhibition showcased the latest innovations in mountain tourism and outdoor sports equipment, while the photography display Life Amid the Earth’s Folds celebrated the natural beauty and cultural diversity of mountain communities worldwide.

The post-conference field trip to the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge offered delegates a first-hand look at Guizhou’s pioneering approach to integrating tourism with sustainable infrastructure, reinforcing the province’s position as a model for mountain tourism development.

Meliá Hotels accelerates luxury expansion across Asia through 2026

By TTG Asia

November 14, 2025

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Meliá Hotels International is expanding its luxury presence across Asia with a series of landmark openings from late 2025 through 2026.

The growth is led by the debut of Paradisus by Meliá Bali in December 2025, marking the company’s first all-inclusive luxury resort in Asia.

Meliá Serenity Cam Ranh, opening in 2Q2026, will offer beachfront villas, family facilities and wellness experiences along Vietnam’s Long Beach

Paradisus by Meliá Bali will introduce the brand’s Destination Inclusive concept, offering curated experiences that immerse guests in Bali’s culture, nature and wellness. The resort will feature The Reserve adults-only enclave, Family Concierge, Kidsdom club, Yourway club for teenagers, a water park and modern sports facilities.

In 2Q2026, Meliá Serenity Cam Ranh Beach Resort will open along Vietnam’s Long Beach as a retreat for personalised well-being. Families will enjoy pool villas and dedicated clubs for children and teenagers, while adults can relax at the YHI Spa and Level Pool. Later in 2026, Meliá Aurea Nha Trang will join the portfolio beside Villa Le Corail Gran Meliá, bringing beachfront hospitality to one of Vietnam’s key coastal destinations.

Over the next two years, Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat, located in Ba Vi National Park near Hanoi, will be rebranded under The Meliá Collection. The transformation will highlight its French colonial and Vietnamese architectural blend amid a mountain setting. In Laos, the Grand Luang Prabang, Affiliated by Meliá, will also join The Meliá Collection, marking the brand’s debut in the country. Overlooking the Mekong River, the property combines colonial heritage with tranquil gardens in the UNESCO World Heritage city.

Opening in 2027, Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah will offer a Spanish-inspired luxury experience in Jumeirah 1. The resort will feature restaurants from globally recognised names including Zuma, Novikov, Park Chinois, Cazibeli, and Rubia Gallega, alongside an infinity pool, full-service spa, wellness programmes, and direct beach and marina access.

Following the opening of Meliá Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives, the group will expand with Amilla Maldives, Member of The Meliá Collection, its second property in the country. Located in Baa Atoll, the resort will feature private villas, a spa and leisure centre, and multiple dining options, with direct access to coral reefs and popular dive sites.

“Luxury travel in Asia is evolving rapidly. It’s no longer defined by exclusivity, but by meaningful connection and sense of place,” said Ignacio Martin, managing director, Asia Pacific, Meliá Hotels International. “With one in every three Meliá openings worldwide positioned in the luxury segment, we’re accelerating that transformation.”

Aviation roundup: Philippine Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines and more

By TTG Asia

November 14, 2025

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Philippine Airlines and Southwest Airlines

Philippine Airlines, Southwest to broaden transpacific travel options
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has partnered with Southwest Airlines to offer single-ticket journeys for transoceanic travellers. The new interline itineraries are now available through Philippine Airlines and third-party booking sites.

The collaboration provides access between Southwest’s US network and PAL’s routes across the Philippines, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, via shared gateway airports in Los Angeles, Seattle/Tacoma, San Francisco, and Honolulu, where Southwest operates frequent inter-island flights.

Hong Kong Airlines and Etihad expand codeshare partnership

Hong Kong Airlines, Etihad relaunch codeshare partnership
Hong Kong Airlines and Etihad Airways have relaunched their codeshare partnership and signed their first loyalty programme reciprocity agreement, expanding travel options between Asia, the Middle East and beyond.

The inaugural codeshare flight between Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong took off on November 3. Under the arrangement, Hong Kong Airlines flights to Japan, including Fukuoka, Sapporo, Okinawa and Osaka, are included in the codeshare, while Etihad operates flights between Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong as part of the partnership.

The reciprocal loyalty programme will allow members of both airlines to earn and redeem miles across each other’s networks, enhancing convenience and rewards for business and leisure travellers. The renewed partnership also strengthens commercial ties and supports growing travel demand between the Gulf region and major Asian cities.

Cathay Pacific returns to Adelaide with seasonal flights
Cathay Pacific has resumed flights to Adelaide with the launch of a thrice-weekly seasonal service connecting Hong Kong and the South Australian capital. The first flight departed Hong Kong International Airport just before midnight on November 11 and arrived in Adelaide the next morning.

The service restores a direct link between the two cities, supporting travel, trade and cultural exchange between Asia and Australia. Travellers fly on Cathay Pacific’s Airbus A350-900, which offers fully flat beds in Business, spacious Premium Economy seats and Economy cabin comfort. In-flight entertainment is available throughout, with menus developed in collaboration with Michelin-starred Hong Kong restaurants.

Wi-Fi connectivity is offered across the fleet, currently complimentary for Business class passengers and Cathay Diamond members, with roll-out to Gold and Premium Economy passengers scheduled later in 2025.

Turkish Airlines expands codeshare with Hong Kong Airlines
Turkish Airlines and Hong Kong Airlines have expanded their codeshare partnership, strengthening both airlines’ international networks and offering passengers greater flexibility and convenience.

The enhanced collaboration now includes Hong Kong Airlines’ services to Australia, providing seamless access to Sydney and Melbourne via Hong Kong for a smoother one-stop travel experience. Passengers can also enjoy improved connectivity between Hong Kong and key destinations in Asia, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Bangkok, through the extended partnership.

Zentis Osaka celebrates independent travel with solo stay offer

By TTG Asia

November 14, 2025

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Zentis Osaka has introduced Ohitori Osaka by Zentis, a new stay package designed for solo travellers. The package offers a two-night stay in a Studio, Corner Studio or Suite, with daily breakfast at Upstairz, the hotel’s restaurant and lounge.

Guests will find the in-room mini-fridge pre-stocked with local Osaka beers and juices, and receive a complimentary cocktail tailored to their taste at Upstairz Bar.

Solo guests receive a SISI skincare set or The Flavor Design fabric mist as part of the Ohitori Osaka package

Additional inclusions are a skincare set by Japanese brand SISI or a fabric mist from Osaka-based The Flavor Design, along with a Zentis eco-bag. SISI products use natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, while The Flavor Design’s scents – two created exclusively for the hotel – reflect Zentis’s focus on calm creativity.

Solo guests can also enjoy afternoon tea or seasonal French cuisine at the restaurant. Located between Dojimahama and Kita-shinchi, the hotel is within walking distance of the Nishi-Umeda district and Nakanoshima’s cultural attractions, including the National Museum of Art and Osaka Science Museum.

The hotel’s main floor features a guest lounge with shared workspaces overlooking a garden, and Room 001, a multifunction area with laundry facilities, a Nespresso bar, and a shoe-shine corner run by The Shoeshine Guild.

Zentis also curates local experiences such as river cruises through Osaka’s waterways, connecting guests with the city’s historic “city of canals” charm. The team offers route suggestions for solo exploration, including a nearby post-war café known for its retro interiors and cutlet sandwiches.

The Ohitori Osaka by Zentis package is available to book from November 18, 2025 for stays starting from January 3, 2026, with rates starting at 58,000 yen (US$385) for single occupancy.

For more information, visit Zentis Osaka.

Saudi Tourism Authority launches campaign targeting Chinese travellers

By TTG Asia

November 13, 2025

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The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has introduced a new campaign, Immerse Your Soul in Arabia, aimed at attracting Chinese travellers.

The initiative, based on the Chinese concept of Qi Yu (serendipity), highlights Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and modern developments.

The campaign film follows a young Chinese family exploring Saudi Arabia, from the deserts of AlUla to the Red Sea’s luxury resorts

The campaign film showcases key destinations including the rock tombs of AlUla, historic cities Al-Balad and Diriyah, Riyadh’s cityscape, and the Saudi Red Sea, where resorts such as The St Regis Shebara and InterContinental offer water villas.

The film also illustrates local cultural experiences, including traditional dress, music, dance, and market interactions, emphasising the country’s safe and welcoming environment.

The launch comes as interest from Chinese travellers rises. Around 140,000 visited Saudi Arabia in 2024, marking a record high. Overall, the country welcomed approximately 116 million visits, a six per cent increase from 2023, including 29.7 million international arrivals, up eight per cent. Destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla and the Saudi Red Sea are increasingly popular among international travellers.

The campaign aims to position Saudi Arabia as a destination where cultural heritage and modern experiences coexist, encouraging visitors to explore cities, historic sites and coastal resorts. With a focus on immersive experiences and authentic human connections, STA is targeting travellers seeking meaningful and safe journeys.

Solo travel on the rise across Asia in 2025, Agoda reports

By TTG Asia

November 13, 2025

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Agoda has observed a rise in solo travel interest across Asia in 2025, with a 16% increase in accommodation searches compared to last year, highlighting a growing movement of travellers embracing the freedom and adventure of solo journeys.

The data, shared in the wake of Singles Day on November 11, underscores how individuals are increasingly seeking personal discovery and independent travel experiences.

Solo travel rises across Asia in 2025, with Tokyo, Bangkok and Seoul, pictured, among the most popular destinations

When planning trips, solo travellers gravitate towards major cities, with Tokyo (Japan) leading the pack, followed by Bangkok (Thailand), Seoul (South Korea), Osaka (Japan) and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia).

These urban hubs offer a wide range of attractions, from cultural landmarks to dining and lively entertainment, making them ideal for those exploring the world at their own pace. While these destinations have long been popular with all types of travellers, their unique offerings make them particularly appealing to those travelling solo.

At the forefront of this trend are travellers from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia and Taiwan, who make up the top five solo travel groups in Asia. While Japanese travellers dominate in numbers, interest in solo travel has grown fastest among Indonesians, with a 72% increase in searches. Thai travellers follow with a 37% rise in solo travel interest. This growth highlights a shift in how individuals across Asia are redefining their travel experiences and looking beyond traditional group trips.

Jay Lee, regional director, North Asia at Agoda, remarked that the rise in solo travel across Asia had become a defining trend in 2025, reflecting a growing desire for personal discovery and meaningful cultural immersion.

IHG partners to boost hospitality careers in India

By TTG Asia

November 13, 2025

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IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has partnered with The Job Plus and the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) to provide skills training and career opportunities for young people from underserved communities in India.

The long-term initiative aims to strengthen youth employability in the hospitality sector.

Jain: we remain focused on creating shared value – for our people, our partners, and the communities we serve

Aligned with its Journey to Tomorrow responsible business plan, IHG is addressing the industry’s growing skill gap, where many trained workers are leaving the sector, by supporting economic and social change through training and innovation. With IHG’s educational sponsorship, participants will have the chance to build careers that offer financial independence and choice rather than roles dictated by circumstance.

The Job Plus will oversee on-ground implementation by leveraging its expertise in skilling and employment across India’s hospitality sector, while THSC will assess and certify all participants under nationally recognised standards.

Sudeep Jain, managing director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “This partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing local talent, bridging the industry’s skill gap, and enabling young people from diverse backgrounds to build meaningful careers in hospitality. As we continue to grow in India, we remain focused on creating shared value – for our people, our partners, and the communities we serve, guided by our purpose of True Hospitality for Good.”

“Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline, align skilling with global hospitality standards, and create long-term, dignified career pathways for young individuals across India,” stated Divya Krishan, chief growth officer, The Job Plus.

THSC CEO Rajan Bahadur added: “At THSC, we believe true progress comes from empowering individuals through skills. This initiative is a step towards creating equitable opportunities, enabling youth to become confident professionals who strengthen the hospitality ecosystem.”

Amadeus, SmartRyde to streamline airport transfers

By TTG Asia

November 13, 2025

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Amadeus and SmartRyde have partnered to make airport transfers easier, starting with travel agents in Japan and South Korea. With Japan and South Korea as the launch point, this partnership is the start of a wider effort to bring improved airport transfer solutions to travellers globally.

The collaboration integrates SmartRyde, a Japanese provider of pre-booked airport transfer services, into Amadeus Transfers, allowing travel sellers worldwide to offer seamless ground transportation as part of their itineraries.

*Travellers in Japan and South Korea will soon be able to book airport transfers directly through Amadeus for a smoother journey*

The first phase will see the service rolled out to travel sellers in Japan and South Korea. Travellers will be able to pre-book door-to-door airport transfers, while travel agents will have the service fully integrated within Amadeus’ booking platform.

For travellers, especially those heading abroad, arranging airport transport can be stressful. The partnership allows them to book a ride from the airport before leaving home, saving time, reducing anxiety and ensuring a smoother journey from departure to hotel check-in.

Travel sellers using the Amadeus Travel Platform will have access to the full range of SmartRyde services, including standard vehicles and premium chauffeur options, with real-time availability, instant confirmation and transparent pricing.

“This collaboration is designed with the traveller in mind,” said Sota Kimura, CEO of SmartRyde. “Starting with Japan and South Korea, we want to help travel agents offer a full-service experience – with safe airport transfers in addition to flights and hotels.”

Peter Altmann, vice president of mobility and travel protection at Amadeus added: “This partnership reflects our ongoing mission to connect the travel ecosystem and deliver more choice, convenience, and peace of mind to our customers.

“By integrating SmartRyde’s trusted airport transfer services into our platform, we’re empowering travel sellers in Japan and South Korea to offer travellers a truly end-to-end experience – from the moment they leave their home to when they arrive at their destination.”

New hotels: Anantara Hua Hin Resort, Thompson Shanghai Expo and more

By TTG Asia

November 13, 2025

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Anantara Hua Hin Resort, Thailand
Anantara Hua Hin Resort has completed extensive renovations ahead of its 25th anniversary, updating its 171 rooms and suites while retaining its traditional Thai village design. Room categories include Garden View Rooms, Pool Access Rooms, Deluxe Rooms with spacious balconies, and Two-Bedroom Family Suites and Pool Suites.

Facilities feature a refreshed main pool, adults-only lagoon pool, expanded Active Zone with CrossFit and sports options, a new kids’ club, and an interactive Mini Farm. Dining options include Sea. Fire. Salt., Rim Nam for Thai cuisine, and Issara Café.

The resort offers direct beach access and is set close to Hua Hin’s key attractions.

Thompson Shanghai Expo, China
Thompson Shanghai Expo, the first Thompson Hotels property in Asia-Pacific, is located in Shanghai’s World Expo district, close to the Mercedes-Benz Arena, China Art Museum and Expo Culture Park.

The hotel offers 254 rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Huangpu River or city. Dining options include Fishermen’s Pavilion for regional Chinese cuisine, BAOBAO Lounge with steamed delicacies and light bites, and rooftop bar TOTS with Italian and Asian tapas. Facilities include eight event venues, rooftop views, and easy access to cultural, shopping and transport hubs.

SureStay Plus by Best Western T Pattaya, Thailand
SureStay Plus by Best Western T Pattaya, the first SureStay Hotels property in the city, is located close to Pattaya’s downtown attractions. The 95-room hotel features a restaurant, rooftop infinity pool, fitness centre and rooftop bar with panoramic views.

The property is two hours from Bangkok and near Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya international airports. Guests are within walking distance of restaurants, bars, shopping and nightlife, with beaches, golf courses, water parks and gardens nearby.

KiN Hotel Hai Ba Trung, Vietnam
KiN Hotel Hai Ba Trung, a 10-storey property in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, is located near Notre Dame Cathedral and Diamond Plaza. The hotel offers rooms and suites with blackout curtains, freestanding bathtubs in select suites, minibars, premium toiletries and quiet work areas.

Facilities include a business lounge with local snacks and coffee, and Kudochi Onsen, a Japanese-style bathing experience with private mineral-water rooms.

Wickedly magical staycations await at Grand Hyatt Jakarta

By TTG Asia

November 13, 2025

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Grand Hyatt Jakarta has launched a collaboration with Universal Pictures’ Wicked: For Good, the conclusion to last year’s global film, arriving in theatres on November 19, 2025.

From now to January 3, 2026, guests can book the Wicked: For Good Staycation package. The first 20 bookings will receive two complimentary tickets to the official movie premiere on November 15, 2025. Subsequent bookings will be offered tickets for a limited period at Plaza Indonesia XXI’s Studio Deluxe.

Guests at Grand Hyatt Jakarta can book the Wicked: For Good staycation to enjoy film-themed rooms and exclusive experiences

The staycation also includes a Wicked: For Good Afternoon Tea at the Fountain Lounge, featuring a selection of sweet and savoury treats inspired by the film.

Guests can enjoy a film-themed Cocktail Hour, with drinks inspired by the world of Emerald City.

For more information, visit Grand Hyatt Jakarta.

Global experts convene in Guizhou to advance mountain tourism and outdoor sports

Meliá Hotels accelerates luxury expansion across Asia through 2026

Aviation roundup: Philippine Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines and more

Zentis Osaka celebrates independent travel with solo stay offer

Saudi Tourism Authority launches campaign targeting Chinese travellers

Solo travel on the rise across Asia in 2025, Agoda reports

IHG partners to boost hospitality careers in India

Amadeus, SmartRyde to streamline airport transfers

New hotels: Anantara Hua Hin Resort, Thompson Shanghai Expo and more

Wickedly magical staycations await at Grand Hyatt Jakarta

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