TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Monday, 15th December 2025
Page 65

Accor Plus to rebrand as ALL Accor+ Explorer across Asia-Pacific

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Accor Plus, a travel loyalty subscription programme in the Asia-Pacific region, will rebrand and transition all existing memberships to a new format under the ALL Accor+ Explorer subscription from October 1, 2025.

The updated subscription will include guaranteed ALL Accor Gold status or higher within Accor’s global loyalty programme, two complimentary nights per year, and wider global discounts. Existing members will automatically be upgraded to the ALL Accor+ Explorer membership.

The new ALL Accor+ Explorer offers expanded discounts and guaranteed loyalty status for members; Pullman New Delhi Aerocity India, pictured

The shift aligns with the broader growth of subscription models globally. ALL Accor+ Explorer will provide members with access to two free nights annually across Asia-Pacific, hotel stays at up to 50 per cent off under the Red Hot Rooms offer, and a 15 per cent discount off public rates at over 4,500 hotels worldwide under more than 30 hotel brands.

Dining discounts include 30 per cent off food and 15 per cent off drinks at more than 1,600 restaurants and 1,200 bars across the region. Members will also receive 30 Status Nights annually, securing ALL Accor Gold status, which includes benefits such as room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out, where available. Additional benefits include priority access to limited-time offers and member-only events.

Accor Plus stated that the upgraded membership benefits were informed by research conducted with more than 7,000 members and 200 hotels across 12 countries in October 2024. CEO Emilie Couton said the company reviewed data and feedback over the past 18 months to align the subscription with current member expectations.

The rebranded subscription will be integrated into the wider ALL Accor global loyalty platform, allowing members to use benefits while earning and redeeming ALL Accor Reward points and Status Nights through a single booking system and app.

In 2024, Accor Plus members stayed five times more nights than non-members, with more than 3.1 million room nights booked. They also redeemed over one billion reward points and accessed more than 2,300 exclusive offers.

ALL Accor+ Explorer will apply across more than 25 Accor hotel brands in Asia-Pacific, including Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, MGallery, Pullman, Swissôtel, Mövenpick, Novotel, Mercure, Tribe, ibis and others. It also offers a 15 per cent discount on stays at over 30 brands globally and includes ALL Accor Gold status or above.

All active Accor Plus members will be automatically upgraded from October 1. New members can subscribe at S$299 (US$222) per year.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor presents new contemporary art exhibition

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Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, a 93-year-old hotel located near ancient Khmer archaeological sites in Cambodia, has opened a new art exhibition featuring works by two Cambodian contemporary painters.

The exhibition, titled Harmony, presents new paintings by Morn Chear and Nak Noy, both born and raised in Siem Reap. It opened last month and runs until September. The show was curated by Nat Di Maggio from Tribe Art Gallery.

The artworks can be seen in hotel’s public spaces or via private tours led by resident artists

The paintings depict birds, fish, elephants and other animals that represent Cambodia’s biodiversity. These creatures are also significant in Khmer culture, folklore and the livelihoods of people today. Against the backdrop of global environmental changes, the exhibition highlights the importance of shared responsibility in protecting natural heritage for future generations.

This exhibition is part of Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor’s ongoing art and cultural series. It follows an exhibition of works by Khmer painter Channy Chhoeun that opened in January.

The hotel originally opened in 1932 as a rest stop for archaeologists and explorers visiting the Angkor Wat area, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Last year, the hotel introduced ‘Curated Journeys’ to provide guests with cultural and historical experiences in Siem Reap. Its on-site Resort Programme presents local heritage and traditions.

For more information, visit Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor.

Allen Howden takes helm as GM of The Westin Yokohama

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The Westin Yokohama has appointed Allen Howden as general manager.

Howden brings more than 25 years of international hospitality experience across Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. A long-standing member of Marriott International, he has held senior commercial roles at properties including W Bangkok, Swissôtel in London and Bangkok, and The Cadogan in London.

He most recently served as general manager of The St Regis Singapore.

Originally from the UK, Howden is recognised in the industry for his leadership and commitment to service.

Novotel Sydney Cabramatta confirms key hires before November opening

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Novotel Sydney Cabramatta has made two key leadership appointments ahead of its planned opening in November: Sam Fakih as general manager, and Anthony Hoang as director of sales.

With more than 23 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Fakih previously held senior roles at IHG-branded properties, most recently serving as cluster general manager for Crowne Plaza Burwood and Holiday Inn & Suites Parramatta Marsden Street. His knowledge of the local market will support the hotel’s development in Western Sydney.

From left: Sam Fakih and Anthony Hoang

Hoang brings over 25 years of experience in hospitality sales and marketing, having held senior positions at InterContinental Sun Peninsula Resort, Holiday Inn Parramatta, Stamford Plaza Brisbane, Eastin Grand Hotel, Hanoi Hotel, Paddington Hotel Halong Bayview and Merperle Hotels & Resort. His background in revenue generation and partnership development will support the hotel as it prepares to open.

Chinese travel agents report stronger sales in experiential and small group tours for 2025

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Sixty-one per cent of 280 Chinese outbound travel agents surveyed in Dragon Trail International’s (DTI) June report say 2025 has improved over 2024, with best sales in small or private tours, “one-of-a-kind experiences” and “in-depth experiential journeys”.

The survey also highlights that B2B engagement remains essential to the trade.

Chinese travellers show growing interest in Japan, the top destination for fam trips and training among travel agents

Face-to-face meetings and in-person experiences are preferred, with 45 per cent favouring offline training, 42 per cent fam trips, and 39 per cent live streaming initiatives. A recent DTI webinar showed a strong link between destinations where agents see the most sales potential and those where they have attended fam trips and training.

Market research analyst Janice Meng said: “Japan in particular stands out as the top country for both fam trips and training in the last two years and it is also the most popular international destination for Chinese tourists. For Europe, all of the recent B2B events that survey respondents have attended have been organised by Western European countries, including leading destinations France, Italy and the UK.”

Agents prioritise cultural information such as historical attractions, local culture and customs to better understand and promote travel to Europe.

Market research analyst Tiana Tian added that Chinese travel agencies have embraced AI, with 82 per cent saying their company uses the technology. Intelligent travel assistants and translation support are the most common applications.

Director of marketing and communications Sienna Parulis-Cook noted Shanghai remains China’s top outbound source market, with Hangzhou and Guangzhou also key.

“Chengdu, Chongqing and Sichuan are also seeing big growth,” she said. “It’s also interesting to note that new international flights are being launched out of Shenzhen.”

Resorts World Genting steps up courtship of Singapore holiday-makers

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Malaysia’s integrated resort, Resorts World Genting, has intensified its marketing efforts in Singapore, with special offers and exclusive gala events lined up just for holiday-makers coming from across the border.

The promotions are part of Resorts World Genting’s year-long 60th anniversary celebrations and coincide with Singapore’s 60th year of independence.

Crockfords in Malaysia sees more Singapore guests as Resorts World Genting rolls out exclusive deals and events across the border

For the month of August, guests from Singapore can enjoy buy-one-free-one tickets to Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park and use them before September 14.

The SG60 Gala Dinner, created in partnership with Singapore travel agency, WTS Travel, promises an evening of culinary excellence and cultural spectacle as a tribute to the shared heritage of Singapore and Malaysia. It will be hosted on August 25 at the Genting International Convention Centre. This limited-capacity event is exclusive to Genting Rewards Card members.

Another Singapore-exclusive promotion is the 3D2N Resorts World Awana Gala Dinner Experience. Running from November 22 to 24, the weekend experience will bring guests into the restful rainforest setting of the rejuvenated Resorts World Awana property. The programme includes a gala dinner hosted by popular Singapore Malay radio station DJs at the Awana Wawasan Grand Ballroom, as well as a two-hour guided walk down the Awana Trail.

This package is available for booking through authorised travel partners in Singapore – WTS Travel, Transtar Travel, and EU Holidays.

Spencer Lee, executive vice president of sales, marketing and public relations at Resorts World Genting, said the Singapore market is valuable to the company. He noted that holiday-makers from Singapore are not only familiar with Resorts World Genting, they are also strong repeat visitors through generations and come with a strong spending power.

Arrivals from Singapore to the integrated resorts grows 10 per cent annually.

While Singaporean guests typically favour the complex’s Resort Hotel, Lee said more are booking the luxurious Crockfords, which is the one and only hotel in Malaysia to receive the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award for seven consecutive years.

“Our tagline, Enjoy More For A Lot Less, emphasises how far the strong Singapore dollar can stretch for our Singapore guests who are coming to Resorts World Genting. Singapore guests can enjoy a Forbes five-star hotel at a good price in Malaysian ringgit,” he remarked.

A check on the hotel website shows that a night’s stay in a superior room in Crockfords is priced at 1,483 ringgit (US$373) for non-members over the August 8 to 10 Singapore National Day weekend. In comparison, Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star-awarded hotels in Singapore command between S$1,450 (US$1,126) and S$10,000 per night for the same weekend.

Lee added that Singapore guests can enjoy a variety of experiences in the misty highlands, from nature-focused retreats at Resorts World Awana to high-energy entertainment at Resorts World Genting, and from gourmet indulgences to retail therapy. Furthermore, a new botanical themed attraction, Eufloria, is set to welcome guests in 1Q2026.

To highlight new developments and transformation across the integrated resort,  Resorts World Genting will join the Travel Malaysia Fair from October 3 to 5 at the Singapore Expo, where travellers can also snag hot deals and exclusive gifts.

Minor Hotels expands footprint with Avani’s first Singapore hotel

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Minor Hotels has broken ground on its first Avani property in Singapore, marking a key milestone for the lifestyle brand. Located at 24 Peck Seah Street in the Tanjong Pagar district, the 14-storey hotel is scheduled to open in 2Q2027.

Developed through a partnership with Singapore-based Kajima Development and Abu Dhabi-based Al Wathba Investment, Avani Singapore will feature 200 keys and offer an elevated urban escape that blends the heritage charm of the shophouse precinct with the brand’s modern aesthetic. Facilities will include a pool deck, gym, dining outlets, and a pedestrian link connecting Peck Seah and Tras Street.

Minor Hotels has broken ground on Avani Singapore, its first property in the city, scheduled to open in 2027

The hotel’s location, less than 200m from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station and 350m from Maxwell MRT Station, will provide seamless access to key business and leisure districts including the Downtown Core and Marina Bay.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by over 50 guests, including William E Heinecke, chairman and founder of Minor International; Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and group CEO of Minor International; Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, managing director of Al Wathba Investment; and Shuichi Oishi, CEO of Kajima Development. Also present were the ambassadors of Japan and Thailand to Singapore.

Heinecke opened the event with a speech highlighting the project’s strategic significance and its role in expanding Avani’s presence in major global cities. A project overview followed, after which guests gathered for the ceremonial turning of the soil.

“With our trusted partners Kajima and Al Wathba, we are bringing to life a project that not only reflects our shared commitment to innovation and excellence, but also celebrates the city’s unique blend of culture and modernity,” said Heinecke.

New Lux resort set to boost cultural tourism in China’s northern Guangdong

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The Lux Collective, in partnership with Shaoguan Greater Nanhua Investment & Development Company, has signed an agreement to manage Lux* Shaoguan – the first international luxury hotel in Shaoguan City, northern Guangdong.

Located in the city’s Qujiang District near the Nanhua Zen Temple, the resort will be positioned close to key landmarks including Danxia Mountain, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, and Zhuji Ancient Lane, recognised as the ancestral home of the Cantonese community.

The signing marks the start of Lux* Shaoguan, a landmark resort bringing Zen-inspired luxury hospitality to the city for the first time

Through this collaboration, The Lux Collective and Greater Nanhua Company intend to position Shaoguan as a new cultural and tourism destination, while creating economic and lifestyle opportunities for the surrounding community.

With an estimated investment of 360 million yuan (US$50 million), Lux* Shaoguan will be developed as an integrated luxury resort. It will feature 108 guestrooms, a multi-functional event space, a fitness and spa centre, restaurants, and a kids’ club. The property aims to attract business and leisure travellers, families, and wellness-focused guests.

The partnership between The Lux Collective and Greater Nanhua Company aims to blend international hospitality standards with the cultural heritage of the Cao Xi River region. The resort is expected to contribute to the growth of Shaoguan’s tourism industry and broader cultural development.

The hotel management signing was attended by local government officials, representatives from both companies, and project partners.

During the ceremony, speakers highlighted the project’s role in enhancing Shaoguan’s cultural tourism and setting a new standard for regional hospitality. The development was described as a blend of Zen influences and luxury, supported by confidence in the partnership. The design was introduced as a fusion of Zen aesthetics and local heritage. A panel discussion also explored how traditions and local culture, including the nearby Nanhua Zen Temple, could shape distinctive resort experiences.

The Hari Hong Kong launches new after-dark tour in Wan Chai

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The Hari Hong Kong is offering guests a new way to explore the city with its private Best of Wan Chai at Night Tour – Explore Hong Kong like a Local.

Led by a licensed guide, the 2.5-hour experience begins at 17.00 and covers Wan Chai and Causeway Bay, combining history, culture and local traditions. Highlights include street snacks, visiting a century-old tea shop, crossing one of the city’s busiest roads, and riding the historic Ding Ding Tram. Guests will also try unique experiences like ‘Villain Hitting’ and learn about Hong Kong’s feng shui.

The Hari Hong Kong features 210 guestrooms, including three signature rooftop suites overlooking Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak, and Victoria Harbour

Located on Lockhart Road, the 30-storey hotel features 210 rooms and suites with views of Victoria Harbour, The Peak and more. Dining options include Lucciola (Italian), Zoku (Japanese), The Terrace (alfresco bar) and The Lounge.

The Hari Hong Kong also supports local art through initiatives like The Hari Art Prize and has been recognised for its sustainability efforts.

For more information, visit The Hari Hong Kong.

Plaza Premium Group appoints new GM for South-east Asia

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Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has promoted Cavin Loh as regional general manager for Southeast Asia – Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Thailand.

With over 15 years of experience in hospitality and airport services, Loh will oversee and drive the strategic growth, operational excellence, and commercial performance of PPG in his new role.

His previous roles include area general manager and regional commercial director of Southeast Asia, which highlights his deep understanding of regional operations and commitment to customer service excellence.