Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah has named Shanmugam Thangavelu as its new general manager. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Shan has held senior roles at renowned hotel brands, including Four Seasons, Raffles, Westin, and most recently, Fairfield by Marriott, where he was general manager of the Bintulu Paragon property.
Shan’s background includes leading successful pre-openings, achieving strong business results, and bringing expertise in operations and leadership to support the property’s growth. His passion for hospitality, along with his commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, positions him to effectively lead the hotel into its next phase of development.
The Standard, Singapore has appointed Amy Lu as general manager. She brings 19 years of regional hospitality experience and previously served as director of operations at Andaz Singapore for five years.
Originally from Taoyuan, Taiwan, Lu’s experience spans a range of properties, from resorts in Saipan to hotels in Shanghai. She now brings that international background to her new role in Singapore, where she will focus on team collaboration, guest experience, and operational improvement, drawing on a leadership style shaped by curiosity, resilience and a strong commitment to the industry.
Asia-Pacific accounts for eight of the world’s top 15 trending summer travel destinations, according to Travel Trends 2025: Purpose-driven Journeys, the annual Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI) report on consumer spending in the travel sector.
While exchange rates and geopolitical dynamics influence behaviour, the report notes that personal interests and purpose-driven travel remain key factors shaping travel decisions. Drawing on aggregated and anonymised transaction data and third-party sources, the report outlines current influences on travel choices.
Nha Trang makes its debut as a top summer hot spot
Destination shifts and travel drivers
Japan leads the list, with Vietnam’s Nha Trang rising rapidly. Tokyo and Osaka are the top two trending destinations for summer travel (June-September 2025), reflecting the largest increases in tourism demand compared to previous years. In 2024, Tokyo moved from second to first place globally. Nha Trang entered the list for the first time, growing in popularity.
China and India continue to dominate Asia’s outbound travel. The Chinese mainland remained the world’s largest outbound travel market in 2024. Travellers from China are prioritising destinations offering value and relaxed visa policies, including Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore. Interest in Central Asian destinations such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan is also rising.
India recorded its highest number of outbound travellers to date in 2024. The most visited destinations included Abu Dhabi, Hanoi, and Bali. Growth is supported by expanded direct flight routes and a growing middle class. These two markets continue to influence global travel flows significantly.
Across Asia-Pacific, travellers are focusing on dining, nature, and wellness rather than traditional sightseeing. Locations such as Gianyar in Bali, Indonesia, and Queenstown, New Zealand, have seen increased attention. MEI’s Wellness Trend Index (WTI) indicates that Thailand remains a leading destination for wellness-focused travel, with activities such as eco lodges and meditation retreats. New Zealand’s rising WTI score indicates increasing interest in this segment.
Sports tourism is also expanding. Events such as the Australian Open and the Baseball World Series in Los Angeles generated significant international spending. During Shohei Ohtani’s World Series debut, spending by Japanese visitors increased by 91%, highlighting the influence of sporting events on travel.
Currency sensitivity and travel patterns
Travellers from Asia-Pacific are particularly sensitive to exchange rate changes. A weaker yen throughout 2024 contributed to increased inbound tourism to Japan. A 1% depreciation of the Japanese yen against the Chinese yuan corresponded with a 1.5% increase in Chinese visitors. By contrast, similar currency movements led to only a 0.2% increase in visitors from New Zealand and the US.
The number of Singaporean visitors to Japan reached record levels in 2024, driven by a 40% rise in the Singapore dollar against the yen, despite higher prices for airfares and accommodation.
In relation to the US, MEI found that tourists from India, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan are highly responsive to exchange rate movements. A 1% depreciation of the US dollar against these currencies was linked to a 0.6-0.8% rise in tourist numbers. These patterns mirror those observed in Japan, suggesting currency value plays a strong role in travel decisions.
Business travel and security concerns
Business travel patterns are also changing. Companies are reducing global travel in favour of regional trips. Although fewer trips are being taken, they tend to last longer. For example, the average duration of US-based travellers’ trips to Asia-Pacific increased from 8.8 to 10.2 days.
Fraud remains a concern, especially during peak travel seasons. MEI reports that fraudulent activity in popular destinations can rise by up to 28% during these times. Common scams include overcharging in restaurants and taxis, fake tour operators, and fraudulent property listings.
David Mann, chief economist, Asia Pacific, Mastercard, said: “This report is designed to offer a clearer view of how consumer behaviours are evolving – and what that means for tourism growth.
“The Asia-Pacific region continues to set the pace for global travel, with buzzing destinations like Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, and Singapore capturing the imagination of travellers around the world. Even as economic uncertainty persists, travel remains a bright spot, driven by people seeking meaningful, value-driven experiences.”
Indonesia is stepping up efforts to access the European market through the Discovering the Magnificence of Indonesia (DMI) exhibition in Amsterdam, to be held from October 30 to November 2, 2025. The event brings together tourism and creative economy stakeholders under a single platform.
Following its 2024 launch, which focused primarily on the creative economy, this second edition sees organiser Nuswantara Adhidaya Perkasa (KUPU) partnering with the Indonesia Tourism Industry Association (GIPI) and the Indonesia Exhibition Companies Association (IECA) to expand the event’s scope into tourism and business events.
From left: KUPU’s Dicky Yunanto and IECA’s Hosea Andreas Rungkat
DMI 2025 will occupy 3,725m² of exhibition space and is expected to host between 120 and 150 exhibitors, attracting approximately 15,000 visitors. Of the total area, 1,000m² will be allocated to tourism, with the remainder dedicated to Indonesian small and medium-sized enterprises involved in culinary, fashion, crafts, digital content, and design.
DMI 2024 attracted over 2,000 visitors and generated an estimated US$1.8 million in potential business. For 2025, organisers are targeting 500 structured business-to-business meetings, with projected transactions expected to exceed US$11 million.
“We want to establish Indonesia’s presence in Europe by creating lasting connections and real opportunities for growth in both the tourism and business sectors. This is just the beginning of what we hope will become a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership,” said Dicky Yunanto, co-founder of KUPU.
To extend the impact beyond the main event, a series of post-show roadshows is being planned in collaboration with Indonesian embassies across Europe. These roadshows aim to provide exhibitors with direct access to potential partners and buyers in key markets.
“While the Wonderful Indonesia Tourism Fair brings buyers to Indonesia, DMI takes Indonesia to the buyers,” remarked Haryadi Sukamdani, chairman of GIPI. “This proactive approach is vital now that industry development can’t rely on government-led initiatives alone.”
GIPI will oversee seller curation and buyer invitations for the event.
A formal partnership agreement has also been signed between DMI and IECA. This includes the creation of a dedicated IECA showcase within the tourism section, designed to promote Indonesia’s growing exhibition calendar to an international audience and build interest in the country’s business events sector.
“Indonesia’s exhibitions already have strong regional standing. It’s time we step up and be recognised globally,” said IECA chairman Hosea Andreas Rungkat.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has launched its first Ramada Encore by Wyndham property in Adelaide, South Australia, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s regional expansion and underscores confidence in the state’s thriving tourism and business sectors.
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Adelaide, South Terrace is scheduled to open in 1Q2028.
Rendering of Ramada Encore by Wyndham Adelaide
The development of the new property is strategically positioned in the state’s cultural and commercial heart, offering easy access to the CBD, the Adelaide Convention Centre, and key attractions.
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Adelaide, South Terrace will offer 94 guestrooms, catering to both business travellers and leisure guests. The property is poised to meet current market demands, ensuring competitive advantage and strong returns for investors.
Marina Bay Sands has completed its hotel room renovations as part of a US$1.75 billion transformation, marking a significant milestone in the resort’s development. The update includes approximately 1,850 rooms, with 775 suites, across two distinct collections: the Sands Collection and the Paiza Collection.
The Sands Collection, which includes 1,480 rooms and suites, has been fully refurbished. Designed as an urban sanctuary, it caters to a variety of guest needs, offering a range of room types from the Sands Premier Room to the Sands Family Suite. A dedicated Premium Services team is available to assist select guests throughout their stay.
Marina Bay Sands unveils 1,850 updated rooms and suites following extensive renovation; Presidential Suite living room, pictured
The Paiza Collection, consisting mainly of suites, offers around 370 high-end accommodation, including the three- to four-bedroom Chairman Suite, the two-bedroom Presidential Suite with a golf simulator, and the one-bedroom Horizon Suite featuring a spa area with a Himalayan salt wall and private gym. Guests in the Paiza Collection are served by a 160-member Butler Services team.
As a result of the renovations, the number of suites at Marina Bay Sands has increased to 775, up from 180 prior to the revamp.
Looking ahead, the resort’s reinvestment programme will include the opening of Jin Ting Wan, an authentic Cantonese restaurant, in July. Further refurbishments, including upgrades to LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, lobby enhancements, and a new spa, are also planned. Additional details will be announced in due course.
Resorts World Sentosa’s Singapore Oceanarium will open its Research and Learning Centre in May 2025. The facility aims to support marine biodiversity conservation, ecosystem protection and restoration, and contribute to education, research, and community engagement.
Serving as a hub for marine research, education, and global conservation dialogue, the new facility builds on more than a decade of foundational work under S.E.A. Aquarium, where education, research, and conservation have been core to its mission. Previous efforts have included breeding programmes, behavioural studies, and collaborations with both regional and international organisations. The establishment of a dedicated centre will allow Singapore Oceanarium to expand these activities, strengthen cross-sector partnerships, and serve as the focal point of its education and conservation initiatives.
The new centre will drive and further boost marine research, education and conservation efforts; photo by Resorts World Sentosa
Certified Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy by Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority, the building is designed for energy efficiency. Its concrete façade and aluminium shading reduce heat and cooling demands, while natural lighting helps limit the use of artificial lighting. The facility’s energy needs are met entirely through solar power.
The centre includes laboratories, seminar rooms, collaborative spaces, and a rooftop event area. Among the key facilities are flexible classrooms that can be configured to suit various learning needs, a stepped seating area to support informal discussion, a multi-use space equipped for digital learning and events, and a rooftop venue suitable for public or private functions. The Marine Lab comprises three sections: a teaching lab for marine science education, a research lab for visiting scientists, and a wet lab designed for practical, hands-on experiments.
Research activities will focus on areas such as ex-situ coral reproduction, breeding and culturing methods for threatened marine species, and the study of genetic diversity in animals under care. The centre will also support public engagement through citizen science programmes and training workshops.
In addition, the centre will host regional and international events through partnerships with global associations, including a workshop on May 28 for the upcoming CITES Global Youth Summit (May 27-31), which will bring together youth from more than 50 countries to promote collaboration and raise awareness of marine wildlife trade issues.
“As the ocean faces mounting challenges, Singapore Oceanarium’s Research and Learning Centre aims to inspire the next wave of ocean leaders by demonstrating the power of knowledge, collaboration and shared purpose in driving meaningful change. The Research and Learning Centre reflects our ongoing commitment to create a collaborative ecosystem that brings together like-minded partners to turn science into action and advance our efforts in marine conservation, research and education,” said Lam Xue Ying, vice president of Singapore Oceanarium.
“We hope for this to be a space that combines forces across the ocean community – and beyond – to restore vital marine habitats towards a thriving future for our oceans.”
Airbnb has expanded its platform to include professional services, curated local experiences, and a redesigned app that brings together homes, services, and activities in one place.
The move marks a shift for the company, which has been known primarily for short-term accommodation since its founding in 2007. With this update, Airbnb is positioning itself as a broader travel platform offering more than just a place to stay.
Airbnb’s new platform allows travellers to book experiences, such as crafting noodles and broth with a ramen legend in Setagaya City, Japan, pictured; photo by Saeka Shimada
Airbnb Services, now available in 260 cities, allows users to book offerings such as in-home chefs, massages, spa treatments, fitness sessions, and beauty services. These are open to anyone – regardless of whether they are staying at an Airbnb – and provided by verified professionals with relevant licences and an average of ten years’ experience. Prices start under US$$50, and bookings are made directly through the app.
Airbnb has also relaunched its Experiences product, now focused on locally-led activities in over 650 cities worldwide. These include food tours, cultural outings, outdoor experiences, and creative sessions. All offerings are reviewed for quality, and a new category, Airbnb Originals, features events hosted by public figures and recognised professionals. Social features such as guest messaging and group visibility will be added later this year.
The app has been rebuilt to support these updates, with a redesigned Explore tab to browse listings and a Trips tab showing booking details and itineraries. The new Messages feature includes photo and video sharing, as well as integrated payments for customising services. Airbnb profiles have also been updated, allowing users to share where they’ve travelled, connect with others they have met through the platform, and see verification details for over 200 million guests and hosts.
The app has also been redesigned for hosts, with tools to manage homes, services, and experiences more efficiently. A simplified Airbnb Setup process helps hosts create listings with ease. The Today tab gives an overview of upcoming reservations, while the updated Calendar includes a daily view with hour-by-hour scheduling and Google Calendar integration. The Listings tab has been improved to allow hosts to manage all aspects of their offering, from location to pricing.
“Seventeen years ago, we changed the way people travel. More than two billion guests later, Airbnb is synonymous with a place to stay,” said Brian Chesky, Airbnb co-founder and CEO. “With the launch of services and experiences, we’re changing travel again. Now you can Airbnb more than an Airbnb.”
He added: “People choose hotels for their services. People choose Airbnbs for the space. Now, we’re giving you the best of both worlds – amazing homes with services that make them even more special.”
All new features are available globally from today, and applications are open for professionals interested in hosting homes, services, or experiences.
Taste Port Douglas by Sheraton returns from August 7 to 10 for its ninth edition, marking its first full four-day format. Co-founders Reina and Spencer Patrick will bring a line-up of culinary talent to Far North Queensland for a programme of dining experiences, masterclasses and events.
Set against the backdrop of the region’s rainforests and reefs, this year’s festival will feature returning signature events and new additions, including the Takeover Series presented by Singapore Airlines, long seaside lunches, and the Night of Fire: Flames of the Forest, a fire-cooked feast in the Daintree Rainforest.
Experience a fire-cooked feast in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest, as flames light up the night at Taste Port Douglas’ Night of Fire event
Three international chefs will join the local and national talent. Roger Pizey, executive head chef at Fortnum & Mason, will revisit his well-known tarte tatin, first created during his time with Marco Pierre White. Michael Wilson of Singapore’s Michelin-starred Marguerite returns with his creative approach, while Ryan Clift, formerly of The Tippling Club, brings his experimental dining style following the recent closure of his award-winning venue.
With a packed programme of F&B and entertainment across the region, the festival opens with a beachfront launch party at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, followed by a series of standout events including the Brit Pack 2.0 dinner at Harrisons restaurant, the Lexus Long Lunch hosted by Manu Feildel, and the Night of Fire in the Daintree rainforest, headlined by Matt Preston. August 9 also sees the Fat Mango Music Festival with DJ sets and VIP access, and the Festival Village running over the weekend with cooking demos, masterclasses and local food stalls. The event concludes with a closing party at Harrisons Restaurant. This year’s chef line-up includes Matt Stone, Ryan Clift, Manu Feildel, Nelly Robinson, Colin Fassnidge, Raymond Capaldi, Roger Pizey and more.
Pre-sale tickets are available now, while tickets to the general public will go on sale on May 22.
Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas will homeport in Singapore for the first time from October 2026 to February 2027, offering a range of three- to 12-night sailings across South-east and East Asia.
Itineraries include visits to destinations such as Penang, Langkawi, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Bangkok, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Taipei.
Navigator of the Seas’ Caribbean poolscape includes more pool space for all, a Splash Pad for children, The Lime and Coconut bar, and Johnny Rockets Express
Shorter cruises of three to five nights will focus on regional ports, while longer sailings of up to 12 nights will include extended visits and overnight stays.
Navigator of the Seas will feature a variety of onboard activities and dining options. These include waterslides, a surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, laser tag, and an escape room. Dining venues will range from seafood and Mexican eateries to American diner-style options. Entertainment includes theatre productions and ice skating shows.
The ship also offers a Caribbean-style pool deck, a blow dry bar, and themed bars such as The Bamboo Room.
Shan’s background includes leading successful pre-openings, achieving strong business results, and bringing expertise in operations and leadership to support the property’s growth. His passion for hospitality, along with his commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, positions him to effectively lead the hotel into its next phase of development.
Originally from Taoyuan, Taiwan, Lu’s experience spans a range of properties, from resorts in Saipan to hotels in Shanghai. She now brings that international background to her new role in Singapore, where she will focus on team collaboration, guest experience, and operational improvement, drawing on a leadership style shaped by curiosity, resilience and a strong commitment to the industry.
