TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Monday, 29th December 2025
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Hong Kong Disneyland celebrates 20th anniversary with year-long party for all

By Karen Yue
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Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will mark its 20th year in operations with a full year of celebrations that will feature new attractions, characters in specially-designed anniversary costumes, anniversary collectibles, limited edition performances and parades – and it is opening its party, from June 2025 to May 2026, to the world.

In a press meeting in Singapore on April 10, Michael Moriarty, president and managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland Management, said the hotels and theme park complex recorded 7.7 million visitors in 2024, and he hopes to welcome “everyone” throughout the celebratory year.

Hong Kong Disneyland kicks off year-long 20th anniversary celebration this June

“Hong Kong is within a five-hour flight time from so many places in Asia, making Hong Kong Disneyland Resort accessible to almost half of the world’s population. We would like everyone to join us in our celebrations,” said Moriarty, adding that different Asian countries have different vacation periods and school holidays, which helps to spread crowds throughout the months.

He added that The Most Magical Party of All, as its year-long celebration is named, will offer an opportunity for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort “to capture Disney aspirers” – Disney fans who have yet to visit a Disneyland park.

“When we look around the (Asia) region, we see millions of people who are Disney+ subscribers, who watch Disney movies, or have a relationship with Disney by buying Disney merchandise online or in stores. They are connected with the brand, but have yet to visit a Disneyland resort. We call them Disney aspirers, and we want to create a strong reason for them to visit now,” he said.

That motivation will come in the form of special 20th anniversary arrangements and programming. All characters will be “debuting their costumes just for the anniversary in a large fashion show”, and the resort will be decked out in “magic inspired” decorations. Merchandise and F&B will also adopt a celebratory tone.

Visitors can expect brand new songs and special “Disney spectaculars” live events.

Mickey and Friends, Duffy and Friends, and Disney princesses will put on an anniversary-only castle stage show. The largest-ever Friendtastic Parade will also make its debut, featuring 11 party floats – including one designed just for Hong Kong with petals of the city’s official flower, the Bauhinia Blakeana – and 11 groups of Disney friends.

When the sun prepares to set, the Momentous spectacular will come to life with an anniversary edition, taking park visitors from day to night with enchanting drone choreography.

The celebrations extend beyond the theme park and into the resort’s three hotels that are equipped with 1,750 guestrooms.

Corporate groups looking at a park buyout during the year-long celebrations can take the opportunity to weave anniversary elements into their programme.

According to Moriarty, the resort has attracted “several large buyouts” for 7,000 to 15,000 people post-lockdown, and corporate clients recognise Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s bleisure appeal.

Moriarty’s stop in Singapore to meet with travel trade partners and the media was part of a wider Asia road show covering Indonesia, the Philippines, Taiwan and China.

He told TTG Asia that traditional trade agencies and online travel agencies remain crucial partners in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s distribution strategy.

“Traditional travel trades and online travel agencies are not all fighting for the same customer, and they know best what their customer wants and how they would like to travel and experience Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. They work with us to come up with the right product mix, perhaps more food coupons for this customer segment and merchandise discount for the other,” said Moriarty.

Moriarty and team are particularly keen on communicating The Most Magical Party of All to the Singapore travel audience, as the market is one of the resort’s top five international markets.

“There is such a huge Disney fandom here in Singapore. In fact, in December 2024, one out of every three seats on a plane coming from Singapore to Hong Kong is occupied by someone going to visit Hong Kong Disneyland Resort,” he shared, adding that Singapore visitors give a 95 per cent satisfaction rating after their visit.

Hilton Garden Inn debuts in the Philippines

By TTG Asia
0

Hilton has signed two new hotels in the Philippines, continuing its expansion of focused service properties in South-east Asia. Hilton Garden Inn Manila Quezon City and Hilton Garden Inn Cebu Mactan mark the debut of the Hilton Garden Inn brand in the Philippines, making it Hilton’s third brand in the country and expanding its portfolio from three to five properties.

These additions follow recent signings of Hilton Garden Inn Hoi’An Tra Que Village, Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu, and Hilton Garden Inn Bali Nusa Dua, as the brand strengthens its position in South-east Asia to meet growing demand for affordable, upscale accommodation.

Hilton Garden Inn Manila Quezon City is Hilton Garden Inn’s first property in the Philippines’ capital

Hilton also plans to more than triple its focused service portfolio in the region, increasing Hilton Garden Inn and other mid-market properties from 12 to 40 in the coming years. The company currently operates 102 properties in South-east Asia and aims to expand its portfolio by more than 50 per cent in the near future.

Hilton Garden Inn Manila Quezon City, located in Quezon City’s Central Business District, is Hilton Garden Inn’s first property in the capital. The hotel is part of a mixed-use complex, offering guests access to various amenities and attractions. It features 210 guestrooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, over 450m² of meeting and event space, an outdoor pool, and a fitness centre. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the Metro Manila Mass Transit System and nearby attractions, including the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Hilton Garden Inn Cebu Mactan features 151 rooms in a mixed-use complex with retail and entertainment options. The hotel offers rooms starting at 26m², a fitness centre, outdoor pool, all-day dining, and event venues. Located 25 minutes from the airport, the property caters to business, leisure, and transit travellers, with easy access to Cebu’s Hilton Port and nearby islands and beaches.

Both hotels will be part of Hilton Honors, Hilton’s loyalty programme across over 8,400 properties globally. Members who book directly through Hilton channels enjoy benefits such as flexible payment options, exclusive discounts, and free standard Wi-Fi.

Maria Ariizumi, vice president, development, South East Asia, Hilton, said: “The Philippines is a strong focus for Hilton, as we see the massive long term tourism potential for the country. As markets across the Philippines continues to develop, Hilton Garden Inn is the perfect product for owners and travellers – offering just the right level of comfort and service. Anchored by Metro Manila and Cebu, we are thrilled to launch Hilton Garden Inn in the country with our new owners, and we see this as just the beginning of our exciting focused service growth story in the market.”

oneworld welcomes Fiji Airways to global alliance

By TTG Asia
0

Fiji Airways, the flag carrier of Fiji and the South Pacific, has joined the oneworld alliance as a full member as of April 1.

Customers now have access to a range of oneworld benefits, including entry to nearly 700 airport lounges worldwide, priority check-in and boarding, and the ability to earn and redeem miles and Tier Points across the alliance. This also includes access to newly opened oneworld-branded lounges at Amsterdam Schiphol and Seoul Incheon airports.

Fiji Airways joins the oneworld alliance

Fiji Airways, based at Nadi International Airport, serves 25 destinations across 14 countries and territories worldwide, including oneworld hubs in Hong Kong, Tokyo, Sydney, and its newest global destination, Dallas-Fort Worth, enhancing its connectivity within the oneworld network.

As part of its oneworld integration, Fiji Link also joins as an affiliate airline, further expanding the alliance’s reach with domestic services across Fiji and regional connections to Tonga, Samoa, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

Additionally, Fiji Airways has also adopted the American Airlines AAdvantage travel rewards programme as its frequent flyer programme, allowing its most frequent travellers to enjoy all the benefits of the oneworld alliance as AAdvantage members.

“The introduction of Fiji Airways marks an important strategic step for our alliance as we connect even more people, places and experiences than ever before,” said Nat Pieper, CEO of oneworld. “Fiji Airways customers will benefit from oneworld’s global reach of more than 900 destinations, priority services and premium lounge access, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the oneworld family.”

Andre Viljoen, managing director and CEO of Fiji Airways, added: “As a full member, we are excited to offer our customers even greater benefits and seamless connectivity across the extensive oneworld network. We look forward to welcoming more oneworld customers onboard to experience the beauty of Fiji and the exceptional service of Fiji Airways.”

Air New Zealand unveils new uniform

By TTG Asia
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Air New Zealand has revealed its new uniform, a collection that reflects the cultural heritage and artistry of Aotearoa New Zealand. The print, colour, and design aim to represent aspects of Aotearoa to an international audience.

The uniform was designed by New Zealand-born designer Emilia Wickstead and features hand-painted prints by tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana. It marks a change in Air New Zealand’s uniform design and incorporates elements of identity and storytelling.

The new uniforms aim to represent identity, inclusivity, and the airline’s connection to New Zealand

Worn by 6,000 Air New Zealand staff globally, the airline’s uniforms are a recognisable part of its identity. The new designs by Emilia and Te Rangitu continue this tradition with a new approach.

The new Air New Zealand uniform collection includes a mix of colours, prints, and tailored designs. Key pieces include The Fine Print – Dress, with a tui knot neckline and the kōwhai print inspired by Māori heritage and the story of Ngatoro-i-Rangi; The Collective Thread – Shirt, a design with printed patterns, suitable for any crew or ground staff member; and The Wrap Around – Trench, a trench coat in violet pinstripe designed for consistency across the uniform. The Woven One – Ie Faitaga is a garment to be trialled by Pasifika staff, reflecting Pacific heritage, while The Runway Cut – Waistcoat is a new design for male crew and ground staff, intended to convey a sense of presence and authority.

Air New Zealand will begin trialling its new uniform in May 2025, following an initial reveal. After a period of testing and feedback from staff across the airline, the uniform will be introduced across its network, with team members expected to begin wearing it from 2026.

Air New Zealand chief executive Greg Foran commented: “For us, this is more than just a uniform; it is a celebration of our people, our culture, and our values. Air New Zealand has never been about standing still or blending in. As an airline, we are all about being bold, celebrating what makes us unique, and celebrating our team members. This new uniform encapsulates everything we stand for – a combination of innovation, rich cultural heritage, and a sense of pride and belonging.”

Centara Villas Phi Phi Island opens with special offers

By TTG Asia
0

Centara Hotels & Resorts is introducing an opening offer at its newest property, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island, which will open on May 1 this year.

Located in the Andaman Sea, the retreat offers sea views and relaxation, with room rates starting from 5,500 baht (US$160) per night. This includes daily breakfast for two, a daily resort credit of 500 baht, and early check-in and late check-out. Guests who book a minimum of three consecutive nights will also receive round-trip boat transfers from Tonsai Pier.

Centara Villas Phi Phi Island opens May 1 with special rates and perks

In addition, CentaraThe1 members will earn triple points during their stay.

A two-hour ferry ride from Phuket, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island features an infinity pool, direct access to the sea from the resort deck, treatments at Cense by Spa Cenvaree, restaurants and bars, and activities for families, couples, and groups.

For more information, visit Centara Villas Phi Phi Island.

Singapore Tourism Board expands global reach with new partnerships

By TTG Asia
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The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has signed seven MoUs and one collaboration agreement with local and international partners to strengthen Singapore’s position as a top tourism and lifestyle destination.

These partnerships aim to enhance marketing efforts, attract new events and brands, improve visitor experiences, and promote sustainable tourism growth.

STB’s new partnerships aim to position Singapore as a leading destination for tourism, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences

Key collaborations include partnerships with CapitaLand, Fever Labs, Pop Mart, Klook, and the Singapore Business Federation, targeting areas such as lifestyle, entertainment, business events, and destination branding.

The partnership with CapitaLand Investment has been renewed with a three-year collaboration agreement, running from June 2025 to May 2028. This collaboration will focus on attracting international brands and events to Singapore, supporting the development of local concepts with tourism potential, and updating CapitaLand’s existing properties – such as CQ @ Clarke Quay, Funan, and Raffles City Singapore – to offer new experiences.

A new partnership, the Dempsey Precinct Partnership, has been formed by representatives from Dempsey, HSBC Bank (Singapore), and STB to promote the Dempsey area. It will focus on increasing awareness and encouraging visits through joint marketing campaigns, and highlight the area’s unique mix of heritage architecture, retail, dining, and green spaces.

The partnership with Fever Labs will further support efforts to position Singapore as a hub for attractions and entertainment in Asia. Over the next three years, this collaboration will aim to secure first-in-the-world or first-in-Asia events, foster partnerships with industry stakeholders, and share insights to better understand international visitor preferences, ultimately growing visitor numbers and tourism spending.

STB’s expanded partnership with Klook, formalised through a new three-year MoU, will support the STB’s Tourism 2040 goals. It will focus on growing visitor numbers, identifying future demand, developing new tourism products, and strengthening the sector’s long-term resilience. Key initiatives include a global marketing campaign, co-developing tourism offerings, supporting major events, promoting cruise-related travel, and testing emerging technologies such as AI.

In partnership with Pop Mart International, a three-year collaboration will introduce exclusive experiences and events in Singapore, including the Pop Toy Show, which will be the brand’s only showcase outside China in 2025 and 2026. Additionally, Pop Mart is collaborating with Mandai Wildlife Group and STB to launch a themed experience at selected wildlife parks in 2026.

Meanwhile, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and STB have signed a two-year MoU to support the local business events ecosystem and increase the number of local hosts for association conferences. This partnership will aim to improve the capabilities of local trade associations, provide networking opportunities, and assist them in bidding for and hosting international business events in Singapore.

Finally, Singapore Flyer and STB are collaborating with South Korean lifestyle brand Wiggle Wiggle to transform one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks starting from 2Q2025. This four-month partnership – the brand’s first in South-east Asia – will feature five themed capsules and giant inflatables at the Singapore Flyer. Visitors can also enjoy a 111.5m² experience zone and pop-up store showcasing Wiggle Wiggle’s popular products.

Trisara expands villa collection to welcome multi-generational guests

By Karen Yue
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Luxury Phuket hotel, Trisara has recently unveiled its largest-ever residence villa on site, a nine-bedroom ocean-front property that welcomes extended families and groups on holidays. This addition, according to the general manager, further sharpens Trisara’s appeal among its repeat multi-generational guests.

Known simply as Villa No.2, the 9,711m² nine-bedroom residence villa comes with seven well-furnished master bedrooms and two additional rooms as well as a collection of lush tropical gardens, manicured lawns, seafront decks, infinity pool, and an air-conditioned living and dining hall.

Trisara enhances its appeal to multi-generational travellers with the launch of its largest residence villa

Guests could enjoy their time together in complete privacy, if they so wished, with their daily requests attended to by a dedicated butler while a private chef, specialising in authentic Thai cuisine, could curate and present all meals onsite.

Villa No.2 is among many other residence villas sharing the sprawling grounds of Trisara with hotel villas and hotel facilities. The smallest residence villa is designed with two bedrooms.

General manager Claudia Schwarze said Trisara is familiar with welcoming and caring for extended families and groups of friends choosing to holiday together.

“As we speak (on April 4), there is a group of 16 guests here with us. They are actually owners of one of Trisara’s villas, but have also booked another to accommodate everyone in the group,” she shared.

Schwarze added: “We are so used to having multi-generational travel groups with us, and it makes sense that our guests love coming back to Trisara because our owners designed the resort the way they would like to enjoy it with their family. Our owners come by often, from grandparents to young grandchildren.

“We thought carefully about family time, kids’ time, and adults’ time, and are giving each person what they need.”

Trisara’s kids’ club, which offers daily fun and educational programmes as well as both a book and video library, helps to keep young guests occupied should guardians seek personal time indulging in one of many experiences curated by the Trisara team. At Trisara, guests can join a cruise on a luxury motor yacht, go snorkelling in the Andaman Sea, get a crash course on MuayThai boxing from expert trainers, join a Thai cooking class, and more.

Trisara’s revamped F&B concept is complemented by a thoughtful children’s menu that is available at all resort restaurants.

Schwarze said: “We have been told that Trisara offers one of the most diverse and healthiest kids’ menu around Phuket. We don’t just offer nuggets and chips – yes, we need to have these favourites, but we also serve dishes like poached sea bass. We consider the different age groups and what they would want to eat.”

The multi-generational travel segment is lucrative, opined Schwarze, as most of such guests tend to stay all day on property to enjoy various facilities.

Cathay paves the way for future growth through sustainability

By TTG Asia
0

Cathay has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, outlining progress in its sustainability activities and confirming its commitment to long-term sustainable development.

As the Cathay Group enters its next phase of growth, sustainability remains a priority.

Cathay continues sustainability progress with SAF, circular economy goals, and community-focused programmes

Key highlights from the 2024 Sustainability Report include Cathay’s efforts to support a local Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) ecosystem, including the launch of a tripartite SAF partnership with HSBC Hong Kong and EcoCeres, enabling SAF usage from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and highlighting the potential for developing an SAF system in Hong Kong. The airline also co-founded the Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition (HKSAFC), a multi-stakeholder group aimed at supporting SAF policy development and adoption. Globally, Cathay’s Corporate SAF Programme recorded a 22-fold increase in SAF usage compared to its launch in 2022.

In support of a circular economy, Cathay Pacific reduced the average number of single-use plastic (SUP) items per passenger to 2.6 and introduced two new 2025 targets – to increase in-flight recycling of water bottles to 33 per cent and to ensure that at least 50 per cent of remaining passenger-facing SUP items are made from recycled plastics. A new workflow for recycling plastic bottles and cans was also implemented at HKIA.

In the community, 2024 marked the 20th anniversary of Cathay’s youth development programme, I Can Fly, which resumed after a five-year pause and was expanded to include an exchange tour in the Greater Bay Area.

Cathay’s CEO Ronald Lam said: “Having successfully completed our two-year rebuilding journey, we have now set our sights on growth and development, where sustainability remains an area where we aspire to lead and is at the forefront of our path forward.

“Our environmental focus continues to be on climate change and a circular economy. Beyond our environmental efforts, we remain committed to our deep roots in Hong Kong, enriching our communities through youth, sports, and arts initiatives while setting our sights on future growth by attracting, developing and retaining a strong pipeline of global talent.”

The 2024 Sustainability Report can be viewed here.

Cross Hotels & Resorts adds Cross Bali Waluya to its Bali portfolio

By TTG Asia
0

Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a hotel management agreement with Agungwaluya Kuta Pengembang for Cross Bali Waluya, a 115-key resort in Bali’s Berawa neighbourhood.

The resort is set to open in 2029 and will operate under the Cross brand.

The 115-key Cross Bali Waluya is set to open in 2029

Located near Berawa and Batu Belig beaches, Cross Bali Waluya is situated in one of Bali’s most sought-after areas. The resort will feature one-bedroom suites, one-bedroom penthouses with jacuzzis, and two- and three-bedroom residences and penthouses with private rooftops, lap pools, and wellness facilities. Additional amenities will include a spa, fitness centre, infinity pool, kids’ zone, plunge pool, restaurant, and bar.

The resort’s design follows Tri Hita Karana, the Balinese philosophy of harmony between people, nature, and spirituality. From landscaped spaces to hospitality experiences, every aspect of Cross Bali Waluya is created to meet the modern traveller’s need for well-being, peace, and a connection with the environment.

Vigor Agungwaluya, director of Agungwaluya Kuta Pengembang, said: “Our collaboration with Cross Hotels & Resorts brings a fresh, dynamic approach to hospitality, offering spacious and thoughtfully curated stays that blend comfort with the unique charm of Berawa. We’re excited to open doors to a wider market and create memorable experiences for every guest.”

“Cross Bali Waluya embodies our brand philosophy of Luxury by Design. Every room category, amenity, and guest touchpoint has been envisioned to offer understated luxury in a setting that feels both inspiring and relaxed. Berawa is where culture meets creativity, and this resort will offer a refined base for guests who want to experience Bali through a new lens,” added Evan Burns, country manager – Indonesia, Cross Hotels & Resorts.

Digital Travel APAC Summit marks 10th edition, spotlights AI in 2025

By TTG Asia
0

The 10th edition of the Digital Travel APAC Summit will be held from August 12-13, 2025 at a new venue, One Farrer Hotel, Singapore.

The summit focuses specifically on digital developments in the travel sector, covering marketing, eCommerce, customer experience, and data. It is designed for professionals responsible for leading digital initiatives.

From left: Trip.com Group’s Amy Wei, Cathay Pacific’s Gordon Chu, TripZilla’s Winnie Tan, AMAN’s Olivier Jolidon, Teleperformance’s Andrew Budiman, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Kim Chua

After highlighting emerging trends and disruption in 2024, the 2025 event will move towards actionable strategies, practical solutions, and scalable models to support digital progress across the industry.

This year’s theme, Navigating the Future of Travel: Building Trust in an AI-Driven World, focuses on the impact of AI on the travel industry. The summit will bring together over 300 senior leaders from airlines, hotels, online travel agencies, and tourism boards to discuss innovation, customer trust, and the sector’s digital future.

The two-day event will include sessions, networking opportunities, and travel technology showcases. The 2025 agenda will feature more panels and fireside chats, encouraging open discussions and increased audience engagement.

More than 50 industry experts will lead discussions on key challenges facing the travel sector in 2025. Topics will include how tourism boards define success and remain top-of-mind, adapting to shifting consumer behaviour, effective strategies for social media marketing, driving long-term success with AI, and using customer data platforms (CDPs) to enhance personalisation.

Attendees will also get to explore a lively exhibition zone, showcasing the latest in travel technology – from seamless booking tools to AI-powered CX platforms.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Hilton appoints Marco Neukom to lead dual Bali hotels
TTG Asia | Productivity in tourism economy takes centre stage at 11th GTEF
TTG Asia | JAL steps up sustainable aviation efforts