Intrepid Travel expands its boutique accommodation portfolio

June 4, 2025

Intrepid Travel has acquired two new properties – the 20-room Edge of the Bay resort in Tasmania, Australia, and a 17-room riad in Marrakech, Morocco.

Edge of the Bay is located in Coles Bay on Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula, set on 7.3 hectares overlooking Wineglass Bay. Established in 1980 by Jill and Ray Johnston, the family has operated the resort since then. Intrepid plans to integrate its foundation partner Greening Australia at the property, introducing nature-based guest experiences and fundraising efforts for the environmental organisation.

Intrepid Travel reinforces its commitment to community-led, sustainable tourism; Daintree Ecolodge, acquired in 2023, pictured

In Marrakech, Intrepid Travel’s newly acquired traditional Moroccan guesthouse covers 470m² and is situated within a five-minute walk of the medina. Purchased from a private owner, Intrepid will begin full operation in July 2025. Guests will have access to culinary experiences both onsite and in the medina, with chefs recruited through Intrepid Travel’s foundation partner, the Amal Association, which offers culinary training to women in Morocco.

These acquisitions form part of Intrepid Travel’s accommodation strategy to build a portfolio of small-scale properties focused on community impact. All accommodation, available for independent booking outside of Intrepid tours, aim to provide authentic experiences while supporting local communities.

With these additions, Intrepid Travel’s accommodation portfolio expands to four properties. The company acquired the Daintree Ecolodge in Tropical North Queensland in 2023 and holds a multi-year lease on a hotel in Hoi An, Vietnam. It plans to increase to 20 properties worldwide over the next three years.

Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton said: “Our approach to accommodation is underpinned by a commitment to preserving culture, fostering connection, supporting communities and boosting travel’s economic contribution within the local community.”

“At the heart of this strategy is Intrepid’s accommodation philosophy: to offer an immersive stay that acts as a gateway to explore the destination and connect meaningfully to its community, culture and environment, while providing a comfortable base to relax,” added Celine Hurelle, general manager of accommodation at Intrepid.

IHG signs deal for Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Pithampur, India

By TTG Asia

June 4, 2025

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IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement with Kevit Retreats for the development of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pithampur, scheduled to open in 1Q2028.

The project aligns with IHG’s strategy to expand in high-demand and secondary markets in India.

IHG will open Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Pithampur by early 2028 to serve growing business travel demand; rendering of Holiday Inn Express Generation 5 Express Café & Bar design concept, pictured

Holiday Inn Express, IHG’s largest brand with more than 3,200 hotels globally, aims to provide streamlined service and practical accommodation. The upcoming hotel will incorporate the brand’s Generation 5 concept, which includes flexible design elements tailored to meet the needs of business travellers.

The hotel will be located in Pithampur, part of the Indore Metropolitan Region, and integrated into a mixed-use development that includes industrial, logistics and warehousing facilities. It will feature 150 rooms, two dining venues, meeting spaces, a fitness centre and on-site parking. The location is expected to attract business travellers working in the area’s industrial and automotive sectors.

Pithampur, in Madhya Pradesh, is one of central India’s key industrial zones. It is home to major automobile and pharmaceutical companies, as well as NATRAX, one of Asia’s largest automotive testing facilities. The area also hosts India’s first greenfield Special Economic Zone, contributing to its status as a commercial hub.

Sudeep Jain, managing director, South West Asia, IHG, said the signing supports the group’s efforts to grow in untapped markets and meet demand for international-standard accommodation – Pithampur’s growth in the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors made it a strong fit for Holiday Inn Express.

Aditya Agarwal of Kevit Retreats added that the partnership with IHG aligns with Pithampur’s growth, noting demand for international-standard accommodation and IHG’s suitability to meet it.

Tourism Australia’s Phillipa Harrison to pursue new opportunity overseas

By TTG Asia

June 4, 2025

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The Board of Tourism Australia has announced that managing director Phillipa (Pip) Harrison will leave in August 2025 to pursue a new opportunity overseas.

Appointed managing director in 2019 and reappointed in 2024, Harrison joined Tourism Australia in 2017 as executive general manager international, overseeing international operations, global distribution, and partnerships.

Penny Fowler, chair of the Tourism Australia Board, praised Harrison’s leadership, noting that under her tenure, Australia welcomed more than eight million visitors last year for the first time in five years.

Fowler said: “Under Pip’s leadership, Tourism Australia has demonstrated the importance of our tourism industry to our nation. Pip’s vision has been to grow a sustainable tourism sector, which was particularly challenging when faced with the devastating impacts of the Black Summer bushfires of 2019 and 2020 and a global pandemic.

“When the world reopened, Tourism Australia was ready to go with global campaigns and innovative support programmes such as the first-ever National Experience Content Initiative to help industry accelerate their preparedness to attract and welcome visitors.”

She added: “On behalf of everyone at Tourism Australia, we sincerely thank Pip for her enormous contribution to the organisation and industry and look forward to continuing to work with the strong leadership team supporting the organisation.”

Commenting on her time leading Tourism Australia, Harrison thanked the 300,000 operators in Australia and 200 staff across the world who work to support and grow tourism and create the experiences visitors love.

She commented: “It’s been the greatest privilege of my career to lead Tourism Australia on behalf of an industry I love and have dedicated my life to.”

The recruitment process to appoint a new managing director will commence shortly.

NUSTAR Hotel Cebu

By Rosa Ocampo

June 4, 2025

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Location
Located on the 89,000m² Kawit Island in Cebu City’s South Road Properties (SRP), NUSTAR Hotel and Casino is the only integrated resort in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. Its ultra-luxury NUSTAR Hotel held a soft opening in early May, following the launch of the five-star Fili Hotel three years earlier. The development is around 15 minutes from Cebu’s historic and commercial districts, and approximately an hour from Mactan Cebu International Airport via the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX).

Accommodation
NUSTAR Hotel’s 223 rooms are among the largest in the Philippines. Signature rooms start at 52m², suites range from 77m² to 225m², and three villas span 435m² to 670m², each with full-length windows offering sea or city views. Every floor is staffed by a butler trained by Heilbron Hospitality.

A stay in a signature room features a king-sized bed, wood furnishings in warm tones, and modern conveniences such as a heated smart toilet and push-button controls for lighting, curtains, and door signs. Complimentary drinks, snacks, and fresh flowers contribute to a homely atmosphere. The marble bathroom is a focal point, with a large bathtub facing the sea, a chandelier overhead, and full-sized Guerlain bath products – larger than typical amenities in comparable hotels.

F&B
As of the latest count, NUSTAR Hotel & Casino hosts over 30 dining outlets, ranging from casual options at the Food Hall to cafés and fine dining restaurants. Among them is Mott 32, one of nine branches globally, known for its Peking duck and handmade dim sum. The restaurant’s detailed interiors complement its Cantonese menu. Italian restaurant Il Primo also draws consistent crowds, noted for its quality. On a return visit, a meal began with Angus beef carpaccio served with black truffle tapenade, 18-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano and young greens, followed by braised Angus beef cheek with saffron risotto, and finished with a classic tiramisu.

Facilities
The NUSTAR Lounge, set in the hotel’s expansive lobby, is emerging as a popular meeting place for both business and leisure guests, with its sea views and neoclassical design featuring colonial columns and arches by Hirsch Bedner Associates, Hong Kong. Guests of NUSTAR Hotel also have access to the Fili Executive Club Lounge, offering meals, cocktails, meeting spaces, and panoramic sea views.

The Mall spans four floors and features a mix of 22 high-end fashion boutiques including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, and Bulgari, alongside 11 specialty shops such as Jo Malone, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery, Diagold, and Luk Fook Jewellery. Its broad hallways and brand line-up rival those of luxury malls in Manila.

NUSTAR Hotel Cebu

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For leisure, the Crucero yacht offers sunset cruises along the Mactan Straits with live music, canapés, and drinks, accommodating up to 60 passengers. Later this year, The Wine Cellar tasting room is set to open, equipped with climate-control technology. Also expected to launch is the glass-floored, open-air Skydeck and Leisure Park, cantilevered with unobstructed views of the city and Cebu skyline.

Family-friendly facilities are also in development, including additional attractions to complement existing ones like Break 100 with golf simulators, NUSTAR Premier cinemas, Timezone, and a children’s play area.

Service
Paul, the butler, met me at the lift and escorted me to my room. While I did not require butler service, he proved well-informed about the hotel, its amenities, and the wider Cebu area.

During my stay, I heard from the caregivers of a guest with a disability who shared how smoothly her journey unfolded – from the Cebu Pacific flight from Manila, a sister company of NUSTAR, to her arrival at the hotel. By chance, I witnessed the hotel staff, including general manager Roel Constantino, personally welcoming the guest and her companions. They were later guided to a gala dinner at the NUSTAR Convention Center with attentive care, reflecting the hotel’s effort to ensure a relaxed and comfortable experience for all guests.

Verdict
NUSTAR positions itself as a destination in its own right, catering to both family and business travellers. With a wide range of amenities and access to Cebu’s many tourist attractions, guests have the option to stay indoors or head outdoors to explore.

The hotel’s claim to ultra-luxury status is supported by its breath-taking and sweeping sea views, high room standards, butler service, overall quality of hospitality, and the wide range of activities available throughout the property.

Contact details
E-mail: contactus@nustar.com.ph

Oceania Cruises unveils 2026 specialty culinary voyages

By TTG Asia

June 4, 2025

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Oceania Cruises has revealed its 2026 Specialty Cruises, offering a combination of carefully curated itineraries and immersive onboard experiences led by renowned culinary experts and guest hosts.

These cruises offer culinary demonstrations, exclusive chef-hosted dinners, and hosted shore excursions that combine culinary expertise with cultural immersion, creating tailored experiences for travellers seeking deeper engagement with food, wine, and the cultures of the destinations visited.

Oceania Cruises’s 2026 Specialty Cruises combine expert-led culinary events with immersive journeys to iconic global destinations; Oceania Riviera in Monaco, pictured

The line will feature returning personalities including chefs Claudine Pépin and Sara Moulton, alongside Oceania’s executive culinary directors and master chefs of France: Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale.

The 12-day Sara Moulton cruise, departing from Lisbon to Paris on May 12, 2026, offers guests the chance to enjoy specially selected dishes and participate in exclusive events both onboard and ashore.

The 12-day Claudine Pépin cruise, departing Seattle on July 2, 2026, includes culinary demonstrations, Q&A sessions, a Chef’s Market Dinner, and shore excursions accompanied by Pépin herself.

The 10-day Culinary Luminaries cruise from Belfast to Lisbon, departing September 15, 2026 focuses on food and wine with visits to vineyards near Bordeaux and the historic cellars of Cognac, complemented by live cooking demonstrations and panel discussions hosted by Quaretti and Barale.

Lastly, the 10-day Oceania Club Reunion cruise, departing Barcelona for Rome on November 5, 2026 offers guests a series of special events including visits to the Casino de Monte Carlo, gala brunches, cocktail receptions, and curated shore excursions highlighting key Mediterranean destinations.

For more information, visit Oceania Cruises.

Philipp Weghmann joins Preferred Travel Group as chief development officer

By TTG Asia

June 4, 2025

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Preferred Travel Group has appointed Philipp Weghmann as chief development officer, a new role in which he will lead strategic growth and innovation across the company. He will also serve as president of Beyond Green, supporting the brand’s global expansion.

Weghmann will oversee the group’s global development, working with leadership teams to identify opportunities for brand growth and portfolio alignment. He will also manage the company’s Integrated Quality Assurance and Alliance Partner programmes.

With over 20 years in hospitality, Weghmann previously served as vice president and global brand leader for The Luxury Collection at Marriott International, leading brand strategy and growth for more than 120 hotels worldwide.

Agoda and Tourism Malaysia join forces ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026

By TTG Asia

June 3, 2025

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Tourism Malaysia and Agoda have formed a strategic partnership to promote Malaysia as a leading travel destination in South-east Asia, supporting the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

This collaboration leverages Agoda’s digital expertise to showcase Malaysia’s diverse attractions to a global audience while demonstrating both organisations’ commitment to VM2026 and driving growth in Malaysia’s tourism sector.

The partnership highlights richer travel experiences in Malaysia, including its lush rainforests; Canopy Walk Tower In Sepilok, Borneo, pictured

Under a newly signed two-year memorandum of collaboration, the two organisations will launch targeted digital campaigns highlighting Malaysia’s cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and urban experiences. Agoda will use its digital platform and social media channels to feature the country’s unique offerings, from culinary delights to scenic wonders.

The partnership aligns with Tourism Malaysia’s goal of attracting 45 million international visitors in 2025. Agoda will provide global travel insights to assist Tourism Malaysia’s policy planning and enhance promotional efforts, targeting both international and domestic travellers.

Tourism Malaysia’s director-general, Manoharan Periasamy, expressed confidence that the partnership will boost tourist arrivals and help achieve VM2026 goals by embracing digitalisation. Meanwhile, Agoda’s Malaysia country director, Fabian Teja, highlighted the company’s commitment to connecting Malaysia with global travellers through innovative technology and engaging content, emphasising the country’s rainforests and cultural heritage.

Both organisations plan to share best practices through joint workshops focused on traveller behaviour and sustainable tourism development, aiming to improve user experience and encourage exploration of Malaysia’s diverse destinations.

IATA flags high costs, calls for smarter sustainable aviation fuel policies

By TTG Asia

June 3, 2025

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has forecast that sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production will reach two million tonnes (2.5 billion litres), accounting for 0.7 per cent of airlines’ total fuel consumption in 2025.

IATA director general Willie Walsh noted that while the expected doubling of SAF production to two million tonnes is encouraging, it still represents a small fraction of aviation’s fuel needs. He added that the increase would add US$4.4 billion globally to the fuel costs, and stressed the need to accelerate production and improve efficiencies to reduce expenses.

The global SAF output is set to double in 2025, but IATA urges policy reform to avoid rising fuel costs and slow decarbonisation

Most SAF currently supplies Europe, where EU and UK mandates came into effect on January 1, 2025. Walsh highlighted concerns about the doubling of SAF costs to airlines in Europe due to compliance fees imposed by producers or suppliers. For the estimated one million tonnes of SAF to meet European mandates in 2025, the cost at market prices is projected at US$1.2 billion, with additional compliance fees adding US$1.7 billion. Walsh pointed out that this extra cost could have been used to reduce a further 3.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions. Instead, Europe’s SAF mandates have made SAF five times more expensive than conventional jet fuel.

He questioned the implementation of mandates ahead of adequate market conditions and safeguards, noting that increasing the cost of decarbonisation – already estimated at US$4.7 trillion – could hinder progress. Walsh suggested that Europe may need to reassess its current approach.

To support a global SAF market, IATA has developed two initiatives. The first is a SAF registry, managed by the Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO), which provides a transparent, standardised system for tracking SAF purchases, usage, and emissions reductions in line with international regulations such as the Carbon Offsetting Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. The second initiative, the SAF Matchmaker, aims to facilitate SAF procurement by connecting airline requests with supply offers.

IATA has called on governments to take urgent action in three key areas. First, governments should create more effective policies by removing the disadvantages renewable energy producers face compared to fossil fuel industries, including reallocating some of the US$1 trillion global subsidies currently directed at fossil fuels. Second, a comprehensive energy policy is required, one that increases renewable energy production and ensures an appropriate allocation for SAF. This should include support for shared infrastructure and co-production to benefit aviation and other sectors. Third, governments should ensure the success of CORSIA by making Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs) available to airlines; to date, only Guyana has made its carbon credits accessible for this purpose.

India, the world’s third-largest oil consumer after the US and China, has launched the Global Biofuels Alliance to promote biofuels as a key component of its energy transition and economic growth. This includes a target of two per cent SAF blending in international flights by 2028, supported by policies such as guaranteed pricing, capital support for new projects, and technical standards. IATA is collaborating with the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association and Praj Industries to provide guidance on global best practices for life cycle assessment of feedstocks in India.

As the third-largest civil aviation market globally, India is positioned to strengthen its leadership in biofuels by accelerating SAF adoption through progressive policies.

Hyatt expands with new brand and hotel openings

By TTG Asia

June 3, 2025

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Hyatt Hotels Corporation has launched Unscripted by Hyatt, a new brand within its Essentials portfolio aimed at travellers who prefer simplicity and flexibility. The brand offers a collection-style approach, with each property reflecting its own local character while maintaining Hyatt’s standards of quality and service.

Positioned in the upscale market, Unscripted by Hyatt targets growth through flexible agreements, adaptive reuse, and conversion opportunities. With over 40 hotels worldwide in discussions to join the brand, it provides independent properties and small groups a light operating model and flexible standards, allowing them to keep their unique identity while benefiting from Hyatt’s global reach and the World of Hyatt loyalty programme, which has more than 56 million members.

Hyatt introduces a flexible new brand and broadens its hotel and residence offerings worldwide; Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, pictured

Hyatt’s Essentials portfolio is part of a strategy to develop guest and owner experiences across five brand categories. While expanding select service hotels in this portfolio, Hyatt is also growing its Lifestyle and Luxury segments to reach more markets and customers.

The Lifestyle portfolio has increased its room count by more than 11 per cent by the end of 1Q2025 compared to the previous year. The portfolio added over 30 new properties and 3,500 rooms in the past year, including the acquisition of Standard International’s brands.

Hyatt recently formed its Lifestyle Group to manage its position in this segment. Several new openings are planned through 2026. Thompson Miami Beach is expected to open in the 3Q2025 with 147 rooms near the beach and Lincoln Road shopping. Thompson Shanghai Expo will open in November 2025 as the brand’s first property in Asia-Pacific, with design and local cuisine reflecting the city. Andaz Lisbon, located in the Baixa district, will open in late 2025 across five buildings with 232 rooms and rooftop spaces. Andaz Turks & Caicos at Grace Bay will be Hyatt’s first hotel in the Caribbean, offering resort amenities including three restaurants, a spa, and water sports. Andaz Gold Coast, Hyatt’s first Andaz in Australia, will open in 2026 as part of a mixed-use development in Queensland. Other planned openings include The Standard Lisbon, Thompson Seville, Andaz Shanghai ITC, and The Standard Mexico City, timed to coincide with a major soccer event.

Hyatt’s Luxury portfolio continues to grow, with more than five per cent increase in rooms compared to 1Q2024. The portfolio includes brands such as Park Hyatt, Alila, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. Upcoming openings include Park Hyatt Los Cabos, which will feature a wellness complex and 163 rooms, and Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, set in Asia-Pacific’s tallest skyscraper. Alila Mayakoba will resume operations in 2025 following rebranding, offering wellness services connected to local culture. Park Hyatt Johannesburg will open in mid-2025 with 31 rooms in the Rosebank district. Miraval, The Red Sea, the brand’s first resort outside the US, will open on Shura Island with 180 rooms and a wellness focus. The Barai in Thailand will debut The Unbound Collection with wellness-inspired design. Park Hyatt properties in Mexico City and Cancun are also planned.

Hyatt continues to expand its branded residences, a growing segment in real estate, with projects linked to Park Hyatt, Thompson Hotels, Andaz, The Standard, and Miraval. New residences are planned in locations such as Los Cabos, Mexico City, Cancun, and Puerto Vallarta, alongside upcoming hotel openings.

“The Unscripted by Hyatt brand gives owners a flexible path to join the Hyatt system while still delivering the high-quality, dependable experience guests expect from Hyatt,” said Dan Hansen, head of Americas Development, Hyatt. “By joining the growing World of Hyatt loyalty programme, owners benefit from our powerful network where an innovative new brand like Unscripted by Hyatt widens our guest and customer reach and strengthens the value of the whole Hyatt system.”

Regent Seven Seas Cruises reveals suite categories for Seven Seas Prestige

By TTG Asia

June 3, 2025

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises has unveiled the suite designs for its new ship, Seven Seas Prestige, showcasing innovative accommodation options such as two-storey Skyview Suites with rooftop terraces, double-height Grand Loft Suites, and Horizon Penthouse Suites featuring large balconies.

Twelve suite categories have been detailed so far, ranging from 26m² to 41m² Deluxe Veranda Suites to the 189m² Signature Suites. A new suite type, the Skyview Regent Suite, will be revealed later.

Seven Seas Prestige debuts fresh suite designs offering style and expansive ocean views; photo by Regent Seven Seas Cruises

All 411 suites include balconies and have been designed to reflect a consistent, modern style across the 822-guest ship. The layouts are based on Regent’s existing suite designs, with updates and new configurations.

Fares include shore excursions, dining at 11 venues including a new Mediterranean restaurant, beverages, entertainment, Starlink Wi-Fi, laundry service, gratuities, a pre-cruise hotel stay for Concierge-level guests and above, and butler service for Penthouse Suites and higher.

The Skyview Suites range from 123m² to 188m² and include rooftop terraces, outdoor seating, and in-suite lifts. Grand Loft Suites are 80m² across two levels, with large windows and loft bedrooms. Horizon Penthouse Suites range from 56m² to 67m², with oversized balconies and indoor-outdoor space.

Signature Suites are the largest at 189m², with two bedrooms and large balconies. Grand Suites range from 113m² to 132m² and include terraces and dining areas. Prestige Suites measure between 76m² and 126m², with separate living and dining areas.

Seven Seas Suites are 67m² with open-plan layouts and balconies. Penthouse Suites are 57m² and include separate living and sleeping areas, walk-through wardrobes, and butler service. Concierge Suites range from 41m² to 45m², with verandas and added booking privileges.

Serenity Suites are 41m² with simple layouts and built-in minibars. Deluxe Veranda Suites range from 26m² to 41m², each with a private balcony.

Interest registration for the ship’s maiden season opens on June 11, 2025, with bookings available from June 26.

Jason Montague, chief luxury officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, said: “Debuting in late 2026, guests will be able to experience these extraordinary accommodation while sailing to the world’s most sought-after destinations and enjoying the highest standards of service though our signature Heartfelt Hospitality. Excitement for Seven Seas Prestige is already sky-high, and we know our discerning guests are eagerly anticipating reservations opening on June 26, 2025.”

Intrepid Travel expands its boutique accommodation portfolio

IHG signs deal for Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Pithampur, India

Tourism Australia’s Phillipa Harrison to pursue new opportunity overseas

NUSTAR Hotel Cebu

Oceania Cruises unveils 2026 specialty culinary voyages

Philipp Weghmann joins Preferred Travel Group as chief development officer

Agoda and Tourism Malaysia join forces ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026

IATA flags high costs, calls for smarter sustainable aviation fuel policies

Hyatt expands with new brand and hotel openings

Regent Seven Seas Cruises reveals suite categories for Seven Seas Prestige

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