Far East’s new light
Managing director Mark Rohner, who has been primed for his new leadership role at Far East Hospitality, has finally taken over the reins since the start of the new year – he discusses his immediate tasks and the company’s future-ready strategy
From motor scooters to billionaires
As Smiling Albino marks its silver jubilee, CEO and co-founder Daniel Fraser reflects on 25 years of redefining luxury “one inch off the map” – from gritty motor scooter adventures in northern Thailand to crafting off-the-grid journeys for billionaires, global CEOs and Hollywood royalty
Travel takes the lead
Simon Baptist, principal economist, Visa Asia Pacific, discusses 2026 spending trends, the effects of economic uncertainty, and how affluent demand and digital payments are redefining Asia-Pacific tourism
Lights on local festivals
Thailand has attracted global attention by securing international mega-events, but local organisers are reflecting on whether greater long-term value could come from investing in home-grown festivals – Pongsiri “Tom” Hetrakul, founder of Awakening Bangkok, shares his perspective on the potential of domestic events
Connecting the dots
Calvin Chan, chief commercial officer of Scoot, charts the carrier’s future, from absorbing key routes to adding new aircraft to serve smaller cities across Asia
Connection over crowds
Jens Thraenhart, co-founder of the High-Yield Tourism Podcast, discusses why meaningful growth starts with strengths
A decade-long streak
From the launch of flagship properties to the integration of AI-driven training tools, Frasers Hospitality is proving that staying at the top requires a blend of local respect and global innovation – CEO Eu Chin Fen dives into the philosophy and future plans of a brand that continues to set the benchmark for extended-stay living
Building a new world
China’s H World Group has marked South-east Asia as a key pillar of its globalisation strategy, with a growing presence across Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia and Laos — chief strategy officer He Jihong outlines the path ahead
A new chapter in Asia-Pacific
Family-owned Riu Hotels & Resorts will enter South-east Asia in April 2026 with the 504-room Riu Palace Phuket – Oliver Kluth, SVP sales & business development for the Indian Ocean & Dubai, discusses the group’s eastward expansion, its all-inclusive model in Phuket, and completing its global footprint
A weird and wonderful career
Seasoned hospitality personality, Arthur Kiong, will bow out of his role as managing director of Far East Hospitality (FEH) at the end of 2025 – he recalls lessons from his four-decade-long career and is certain that retirement will continue to bring fruitful days
