Wyndham Hotels & Resorts will plant its first TRYP by Wyndham hotel in South Australia with TRYP by Wyndham Pulteney Street Adelaide.
Set to open in 1Q2021, the 124-room hotel will feature a mix of rooms and suites along with an elevated lounge area, two restaurants, two bars and meeting rooms. The development will also house commercial office space, which can be accessed via a separate entrance.
A rendering of the upcoming Adelaide property
The new hotel will be the fourth TRYP by Wyndham hotel for Australia, joining TRYP by Wyndham Fortitude Valley in Brisbane which opened in 2014, and two more properties in south-east Queensland – TRYP by Wyndham North Lakes and TRYP by Wyndham Southport – both of which are scheduled to start development later this year.
Construction of the A$35 million (US$24.6 million) TRYP by Wyndham Pulteney Street Adelaide is expected to begin in October this year.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ Joon Aun Ooi, president and managing director, South-east Asia and Pacific Rim, said in a statement:”Tourism in South Australia is soaring; visits to the state increased seven per cent in year ending September 2018, reaching a record high of seven million. Adelaide is leading the way; the city’s robust events calendar, revamped Adelaide Oval, rise in cruise ship visits and additional air links continue to drive growth.”
TRYP by Wyndham Pulteney Street Adelaide will be managed by Resort Management by Wyndham, which currently manages 45 properties across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and South-east Asia.
Capella Ubud, Bali has rolled out a package for guests to spend a weekend with renowned architect and hospitality designer Bill Bensley from November 1-3 this year.
Guests will be able to participate in a sketch class, a morning run and two dinners, trawl through his favourite antique stores, and visit the Neka museum to peruse Rudolf Bonnet’s works, all done together with Bensley.
Capella Ubud
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Bensley Capella BALI
Bensley Capella BALI
Bensley Capella BALI
Bensley Capella BALI
They will also receive one personalised, signed copy of Bensley’s coffee table book Escapism, and a drawing of the tent that guests will stay in during the weekend. The tented accommodations include high-end amenities and a relaxing 75-minutes Balinese massage.
The package is valid for stays from November 1-3, 2019, at the one-bedroom tents. Rates start from US$1,300 plus 11 per cent tax and 10 per cent service charge per tent, per night.
Three per cent of the revenue generated by this weekend package will be donated to the Shinta Mani Foundation, an organisation founded by Bensley to improve the lives of Cambodians and Cambodian communities.
In order for guests to enjoy all of the activities, they must arrive by 11.00 on November 1. Reservations are subject to availability. Cancellation fees of 100 per cent of room charge with taxes for the entire stay will apply immediately upon confirmation. Non-refundable 100 per cent full prepayment is required at the time of reservation and are non-cancellable not changeable.
A reporter running for cover as tear gas canisters explode during clashes with protesters outside the Central Government Office
The recent wave of demonstrations in Hong Kong has deterred travel to the city, but the effect is short-term, according to a report from ForwardKeys.
In the four-week period from June 16 to July 13, flight bookings to Hong Kong from Asian markets fell by 5.4% on the equivalent period last year. In the first fortnight (June 16-29), bookings fell 9.0% and in the second (June 30 – July 30), 2.2%. This sharp set-back in bookings reversed a positive trend in which bookings for the first six and a half months of the year were 6.6% up on 2018.
A reporter running for cover as tear gas canisters explode during clashes with protesters outside the Central Government Office
The analysed period was marked by a two million strong demonstration accompanied by a general strike and riots on June 16, the siege of police headquarters on June 21, the storming of the Legislative Council building on July 1 and riot police charging a group of protesters with batons on July 7.
The bookings data excludes China and Taiwan, with ForwardKeys explaining that a fall in bookings from those destinations in the latter part of June could also be explained by the timing of the Dragon Boat Festival, which fell 11 days earlier this year than it did in 2018.
Olivier Ponti, vice president, insights, ForwardKeys, said: “While the numbers do not look good, things are not all bad for Hong Kong’s visitor economy. So far, the adverse media coverage of the demonstrations has not caused an overall decline in longhaul bookings to Hong Kong and the number of Asian bookings made in 2019 is still ahead of those made during the same time period in 2018 – although growth has slowed substantially since the mass protest of June 16.
“Also, it seems as if the lowest period occurred prior to the storming of the Legislative Council. However, on the less optimistic side, there were further demonstrations after our most recent numbers were run, so another downturn is possible.”
APAC dominated in terms of share of medical tourism revenue in 2017
Medical tourism generates one-third or more of revenue for private hospitals in most South-east Asian countries, according to a new report by Zion Market Research, which found Asia-Pacific dominating the growing medical tourism market in 2017.
Zion Market Research projects that the global medical tourism market could generate revenue of around US$28 billion by the end of 2024, based on an estimated CAGR of around 8.8% from 2018.
In 2017, the global medical tourism market generated revenue of US$15.5 billion.
APAC dominated in terms of share of medical tourism revenue in 2017
Asia-Pacific dominated the medical tourism market in 2017 with “significant revenue share”, Zion Market Research said in its new report.
Private hospitals generate major revenue from foreign patients. In most ASEAN countries, medical tourism represents one third or more revenue of a private hospital, according to the report.
In India, medical tourism accounted for 25% of revenue, and in Taiwan, the Philippines, and South Korea, approximately 10-15%.
In the region, public healthcare reforms are rapidly expanding the private sector, which is expected to drive medical tourism market growth.
Europe contributed to significant revenue share in 2017. The growth is attributed due to the increasing flow of patients, healthcare experts as well as advancement in medical technology in the region.
In particular, the report noted that people in Germany, Great Britain, and the Scandinavian countries use services provided in Polish medical institutions frequently.
However, it foresees that the lack of implementation of the European Directive on the application of patient’s rights in cross-border healthcare may impede industry growth.
In 2012, Passport2Health was the first health insurance plan launched in the UK based on medical tourism; it offers a private diagnosis for patients at home, private treatment overseas in Europe in the selected network hospitals, and follow-up care and rehabilitation in the UK. The policy was provided for small and medium-sized businesses and individuals
Latin America market is projected to experience lucrative growth during the forecast period. Market growth is particularly expected in Brazil and Mexico.
According to Zion, various companies are engaged in building and operating hospitals in Mexico that meet American standards, mostly for American and Mexican patients. Prices in Mexico is around 40% less than the US. Cash-paying, uninsured Americans have benefits for treatment procedures in Mexico, including price quotes and package prices.
Overall, Zion Market Research attributes medical-based migration to low-quality healthcare infrastructure and services and high treatment expenditure. Rising awareness level among people regarding advanced medical facilities are the foremost factors expected to drive medical tourism market growth over the forecast period.
Developing countries are increasingly focussing on technological advancement and quality services in the medical and healthcare sector.
However, the global market research firm said tourists are associated with a wide variety of health risks after they return.
Medical conditions include deep vein thrombosis, TB, amoebic dysentery, paratyphoid, and many others; caused due to poor post-operative care and inadequate rest.
Additionally, stringent documentation processes, visa approval issues, and inadequate insurance coverage are some of the factors which impede the growth of the medical tourism market.
Increasing investment in healthcare by various government and private sectors is anticipated to further drive industry growth.
At present, more than 700 hospitals and medical departments across the globe are accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) in the US. The number of accredited facilities is projected to increase by 20% almost every year.
Based on treatment type, the medical tourism market is segmented into cancer treatment, orthopaedic treatment, fertility treatment, cardiovascular treatment, neurological treatment, and others.
The report includes profiles of end players such as Fortis Healthcare, Bumrungrad Hospital Public, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services, Asian Heart Institute, Prince Court General Hospital, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, KPJ Healthcare Berhad, Samitivej Sukhumvit, Spire Healthcare, Medanta, Min-Sheng General Hospital, IHH Healthcare Berhad, Raffles Medical Group, and others.
The long-standing Eurasian Association (EA), established in Singapore in 1919, has upgraded its Eurasian Heritage Gallery to now feature more multimedia and interactive exhibits, tours and food tastings, as well as more than 100 artefacts – including memorabilia from before and during World War II.
To be officially launched on September 21, the new gallery is divided into 13 different sections. These cover different aspects of the Eurasian community in Singapore, from survivor accounts of the Japanese Occupation to Eurasian fashion and cuisine.
The Eurasian Association in Singapore has upgraded its heritage gallery
As part of its new offerings, the Eurasian Heritage Gallery will also offer tour packages that include a range of community experiences.
Julia D’Silva, chairperson of the Heritage and Culture Subcommittee, described: “We customise tours for different groups. School-going children and students can get to participate in a traditional Eurasian folk dance, while adult groups can have a hand at rolling Meaty Cutlets during a cooking demonstration with food tasting by Eurasian chef Quentin Pereira.”
She said that such activities can “give visitors an immersive experience” of Eurasian lifestyle and traditions beyond the usual guided tour.
Singapore’s Eurasian community, as well as its heritage and culture, has been garnering interest from western visitors, said D’Silva.
She explained: “We are seeing an increase in the number of visitors from the United Kingdom and Australia, who either walk-in or come as part of a tour group organised by a tour company.
“Most are happy to explore the Eurasian Heritage Gallery at their own pace, then adjourn to Quentin’s Eurasian Restaurant (in the same building) for a hearty Eurasian meal.”
The Eurasian Heritage Gallery is located in the Eurasian Heritage Centre and is run by EA, the custodian of Singapore’s Eurasian heritage and culture.
Brent Thomas has been appointed as Airbnb’s regional policy director for Asia-Pacific, taking over from Mike Orgill who is now Airbnb’s general manager for South-east Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Thomas has been with Airbnb since 2016 and was most recently head of public policy for Australia, New Zealand, India and South-east Asia. In this role, Thomas worked with policymakers to develop fair, 21st century regulations that now cover more than 70 per cent of the Airbnb community in Australia.
He was also responsible for developing partnerships with a range of government and non-government organisations, including Emergency Management Victoria, Maharashtra Tourism, the New Zealand Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management and United Voice – the union that supports cleaning workers in Australia.
Prior to joining Airbnb, Thomas held senior policy and corporate affairs roles in the banking and technology sectors, including vice president, public policy and corporate affairs at Mastercard; head of corporate affairs at eBay; and chief of staff to the managing director of PayPal Australia.
Capella Hotels & Resorts has launched its own programme of curated experiences for guests, incorporating interesting characters, traditions and learning opportunities.
Capella Curates’ on- and off-site tours and activities are designed by Capella Culturists, with a focus on giving guests new insights into the destination through experiences.
Capella's curated experiences
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With vistas across the azure South China Sea, Capella Sanya was inspired by the surrounding elements of nature and Hainan’s famous, and rather mysterious, silk road trade history. The Li people are one of the most predominant ethnic minorities that inhabit Hainan’s culturally rich coast, with their history on the island dating back centuries. The Li people have an abundance of fascinating rituals and traditions, and
For example, at Capella Sanya, culturist Troy will take guests on a behind-the-scenes tour of their villages, presenting the opportunity to mingle with the Li people (an ethnic minority inhabiting Hainan’s coast) and learn more about their rich crafts and cultural heritage.
A highlight of the experience is meeting the tribe’s 79-year-old Grandma, who can share more about the infamous facial tattoo techniques practiced by the tribe.
The Capella Singapore team also created Qi & The City, a sidecar tour whizzing guests around the city to learn about the design and Fengshui principles present throughout the urban architecture. The route will take in the Marina Bay Area, Singapore Flyer, Art Science Museum, and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, amongst other highlights.
A luxury tented camp designed by Bill Bensley, Capella Ubud offers Confined to Quarters, whereby couples can escape the humdrum of daily life with 24-hours spent in total solitude within their tent. The day begins with a traditional Balinese blessing ritual and yoga session, enabling guests to reconnect with one another and refocus, followed by a two-hour Senja massage. A cook will set up a rustic campfire in the grounds surrounding the tent, and prepare a feast of traditional dishes to be enjoyed al fresco, washed down with tailor-made cocktails. The next morning, guests can take part in a sunrise purification ritual at the property’s Wos River Temple.
Set to open on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya in 4Q2019, Capella Bangkok offers Little Monks, designed to evoke mindfulness and clarity from an early age. The team is dedicated to encouraging guests to interact with notable characters across the city through their Capella Curates programme.
Princess Cruises hosted perfume-making sessions in South-east Asia as part of its travel advisors’ appreciation programme.
The sessions were designed to provide a mood-lifting and energy-enhancing experience through the creation of hand-made perfumes.
“We wanted to reward our travel advisors who have been working tirelessly to support Princess Cruises. Instead of a typical corporate lunch or dinner, we wanted to give them a unique experience that would be calming and uplifting as their jobs can be quite stressful at times. We also wanted to celebrate Princess Cruises’ expertise in sailing to 380 destinations globally and to evoke the memories from cruising on some of these wonderful journeys,” said Farriek Tawfik, director Southeast Asia, Princess Cruises.
During the sessions, participants could choose from different ingredients ranging from herbs and tea to a variety of floral notes to create their own unique fragrances.
The individual hand-made fragrances were then packaged in a 20ml bottle for travel advisors to take home.
These sessions were tailored by country with localised base scents. For example, in Singapore the orchid floral note was used, in Malaysia the national flower hibiscus and in Indonesia, teak.
New itineraries for the 2020-21 seasons for Asia, Europe, Alaska and Australia/New Zealand were also presented to the travel advisors.
Rosewood Hotel Group has developed a Family Time package for families to bond together while connecting with local cultures and communities they visit.
Available at Rosewood’s 27 properties worldwide, rates start from US$400 with a two-night minimum stay.
Each hotel will have a programme of unique experiences, allowing families to discover the destination based on one of three themes – Cultural Exploration, Culinary Bonding, and Active and Balanced.
Experiences range from visiting an elephant sanctuary at a Laotian World Heritage Site to truffle-hunting with trained canines in Tuscany; “adopting” a coral garden in Bermuda’s ocean waters; horseback riding through California’s redwood forest; and walking through the doors of a chef’s own home for an authentic Middle Eastern feast.
Fusion has hired Hylton Lipkin as the general manager of Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, a natural hot springs resort and hotel on the outskirts of Vietnam’s imperial capital of Hue.
A South African, Lipkin has spent the last two decades honing his spa and management skills around the globe. His most recent role was as general manager of boutique Lao Poet Hotel in Vientiane.
Prior to that he was part of the Fusion organisation, working as executive assistant manager of Fusion Resort Phu Quoc, and was key in developing the property’s wellness concept.
His experience includes having worked as executive assistant manager and wellness director at Arovada by Akaryn, a private island wellness retreat in Cambodia, and the Ayurah Wellness Centers in Thailand from 2014 to 2016. Prior to that, Lipkin spent a year in India where he was head of operations for Apollo Life.
Before he moved to Asia, Lipkin worked as spa and recreation director at Angsana Resort Balaclava Mauritius from 2011 – 2013, and as regional spa director for Angsana based out of Bahrain, overseeing six spas in Egypt, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE from 2008 – 2011. He has also held spa director positions in Hawaii and French Polynesia.
Capella Hotels & Resorts has launched its own programme of curated experiences for guests, incorporating interesting characters, traditions and learning opportunities.
Capella Curates’ on- and off-site tours and activities are designed by Capella Culturists, with a focus on giving guests new insights into the destination through experiences.
With vistas across the azure South China Sea, Capella Sanya was inspired by the surrounding elements of nature and Hainan’s famous, and rather mysterious, silk road trade history. The Li people are one of the most predominant ethnic minorities that inhabit Hainan’s culturally rich coast, with their history on the island dating back centuries. The Li people have an abundance of fascinating rituals and traditions, and
For example, at Capella Sanya, culturist Troy will take guests on a behind-the-scenes tour of their villages, presenting the opportunity to mingle with the Li people (an ethnic minority inhabiting Hainan’s coast) and learn more about their rich crafts and cultural heritage.
A highlight of the experience is meeting the tribe’s 79-year-old Grandma, who can share more about the infamous facial tattoo techniques practiced by the tribe.
The Capella Singapore team also created Qi & The City, a sidecar tour whizzing guests around the city to learn about the design and Fengshui principles present throughout the urban architecture. The route will take in the Marina Bay Area, Singapore Flyer, Art Science Museum, and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, amongst other highlights.
A luxury tented camp designed by Bill Bensley, Capella Ubud offers Confined to Quarters, whereby couples can escape the humdrum of daily life with 24-hours spent in total solitude within their tent. The day begins with a traditional Balinese blessing ritual and yoga session, enabling guests to reconnect with one another and refocus, followed by a two-hour Senja massage. A cook will set up a rustic campfire in the grounds surrounding the tent, and prepare a feast of traditional dishes to be enjoyed al fresco, washed down with tailor-made cocktails. The next morning, guests can take part in a sunrise purification ritual at the property’s Wos River Temple.
Set to open on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya in 4Q2019, Capella Bangkok offers Little Monks, designed to evoke mindfulness and clarity from an early age. The team is dedicated to encouraging guests to interact with notable characters across the city through their Capella Curates programme.