Skål International Krabi, in partnership with the Ao Nang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, has launched a recycling initiative to support sustainability in Krabi, Thailand.
The initiative, led by Ingeborg Fallet Kristensen, managing director of Krabi Spesialisten and Skål International Krabi president, was introduced last week at an event at Ao Nang’s Aloe Villas, which included an update on key projects from the governor’s office and a pledge to ensure efficient recycling.
Skål International Krabi’s recycling initiative introduces new bins in Ao Nang to support waste management and sustainable tourism
Working with stakeholders to address various environmental challenges, including waste reduction and long-term conservation efforts, Skål International Krabi’s initiative highlights the importance of community involvement in promoting sustainable tourism.
The pilot project features the first four sets of collection bins sponsored by Krabi Spesialisten Co., Krabi Cliff Villas Co., Aloe Boutique Villas, and Fast Manta Diving Krabi Co. Moving forward, Skål International Krabi is inviting local businesses to sponsor additional bins, offering a unique opportunity to promote their brands while actively contributing to Ao Nang’s environmental efforts.
Etienne Jay from NatureMind-ED, representing the Skål International Krabi executive committee, shared that the focus was on improving waste management in Ao Nang by installing new recycling bins throughout the community.
Kristensen commented: “We are thrilled with the success of our sustainability event and the enthusiastic response to our 2025 Trash and Recycling Program. It is inspiring to see this initiative taking shape, and I hope it will encourage both locals and visitors to take part in protecting our beautiful environment.”
ITA Airways has been approved to begin integrating into Star Alliance, after a decision by the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board. Following the airline’s inclusion in the Lufthansa Group earlier this year, this marks the beginning of its entry into the world’s largest airline alliance, with the integration process now moving forward.
ITA Airways will add 360 daily flights to the Star Alliance network, strengthening its presence in Europe, particularly from its home cities of Rome and Milan, which are currently served by 16 Star Alliance members. Lufthansa Group is mentoring ITA Airways throughout its integration into the alliance.
ITA Airways will become the fifth hub airline of the Lufthansa Group to join Star Alliance
Upon completing induction, the Star Alliance network will grow to 26 member airlines, offering over 18,000 daily flights connecting 192 countries.
Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias stated: “In early 2026, ITA Airways is expected to officially join the Star Alliance network as a full member. The decision by our Chief Executive Board underscores the strong confidence our members have in ITA Airways. As a gateway for Italy, its addition strengthens our global network, offering seamless and connected journeys to more travellers worldwide.”
Joerg Eberhart, CEO and general manager of ITA Airways, said: “This is a significant milestone in ITA Airways’ growth, and we look forward to offering our customers the future privileges of the world’s largest airline network.”
Banyan Tree introduces a new private well-being immersion for two, combining movement, mindfulness, and shared rituals to nurture both relationships and inner well-being.
The Banyan Tree Connections programme will launch next month at four selected locations: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru (Maldives), Banyan Tree Phuket (Thailand), Banyan Tree Mayakoba (Mexico), and Banyan Tree Anji (China).
Banyan Tree Connections will offer experiences that nurture relationships, well-being, and shared renewal in unique settings
Each destination offers unique experiences that reflect its natural and cultural essence. Guests will enjoy a private well-being immersion for two, starting with a personalised consultation, followed by a series of experiences based on Banyan Group’s 8 Pillars of Wellbeing, designed to foster shared moments of connection for partners, friends, and family.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Maldives (available from May) offers a two- to three-night programme with Yoga Duo, Breathwork & Sound Meditation, Lagoon Floating Therapy, and a Holistic Wellbeing Treatment. It also includes a Maldivian Cooking Class, Private Sunset Cruise, and Bonding Destination Dining.
Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand (available from June) features a two-night programme with Sound Healing Meditation, Private Yoga Duo, Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop, and a Time Together Spa Treatment. Guests can also enjoy a Private Lagoon Kayak tour and a sharing-style Japanese dinner at Hojo.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Mexico (available from July) offers two- to three-night experiences with Private Yoga Duo, Mangrove Movement, Drum Breathwork Meditation, and a Temazcal ritual. Additional activities include a Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop, Time Together Spa Treatment, private mangrove kayaking, and a La Copa Mexican dinner.
Banyan Tree Anji, China (available from August) provides a two-night programme with Private Duo Stretch, Sound Healing Meditation, and a Time Together Spa Treatment. Guests can also enjoy a guided hike through Lingfeng Mountain, a White Tea Aroma Bath Bomb workshop, and a sharing-style Saffron Thai dinner.
The Banyan Tree Connections programme is now available as a supplementary booking to room reservations at all four resorts.
Ayana Bali has unveiled its new Rimba Kids Club, featuring the Rimba Jungle Adventure, on March 25, marking the first of several family-friendly additions to the resort. Ayana Ocean Adventure will open in August, offering water play and ocean exploration, with Tevana Kids Club following later this year.
Designed to offer young explorers a space for adventure, learning, and play, while allowing parents to relax and enjoy the resort’s amenities, Rimba Jungle Adventure features themed playgrounds, interactive activity zones, and storytelling sessions, providing an engaging experience where children can explore nature and wildlife in a safe environment.
The Rimba Jungle Adventure, along with the Ayana Ocean Adventure Kids’ Club and Tevana Garden Kids’ Facilities opening later this year, will offer enriching experiences for young guests
At the heart of the outdoor experience is Sproutroots, an adventure playground for older children. The space includes a zipline, climbing structures, and nature-based play elements that promote physical activity, confidence, and teamwork. Children can explore and connect with Ayana’s natural surroundings while engaging in outdoor play.
For younger children and toddlers, the Lumincave on the lower ground floor offers a soft play area designed to support sensory development and interactive learning. This safe space includes cushioned play structures, tactile experiences, and activities that help develop motor skills in a protected environment.
On the first floor, Whisperwood is a nature-inspired play zone with puzzle games, nature hunts, and storytelling sessions, offering an immersive and educational experience for children.
InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping has appointed Adnan Yücel as its new general manager.
In this role, he will oversee all aspects of hotel operations, ensuring guests experience exceptional service while embracing the charm and rich culture of Chiang Mai. His leadership will further enhance the hotel’s offerings, including the recently launched spa and Club InterContinental.
With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Yücel brings a wealth of experience to this position, having most recently served as general manager at Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas.
The Thai capital is experiencing a luxury renaissance, recently receiving its first Ritz-Carlton hotel and its first three-star Michelin restaurant, Sorn – the world’s first restaurant serving Thai cuisine to attain the accolade. Other high-profile openings such as Nobu Bangkok, the Okura Cruise, and new ventures by Gordon Ramsay have solidified Bangkok’s reputation as a fine-dining capital. Indeed, Michelin’s 2025 Guide recognises nearly 500 restaurants in 13 provinces across the country.
The hospitality sector is keeping pace, with long-anticipated luxury developments like Dusit Central Park – the brand’s redeveloped flagship showcasing the height of Thai-inspired luxury architecture – and Aman Nai Lert Park hitting the capital, while Andaz, Nobu, Plaza Athénée, Six Senses and The Langham are all set to make their mark in Bangkok by 2026.
Vertigo Rooftop Restaurant and Moon Bar are among the best rooftops in Bangkok
Designer brands are also embracing the trend, with LV The Place Bangkok and Dior’s Gold House being unveiled last year.
Meanwhile, the hit series The White Lotus, whose third season debuted in February on HBO Max, has captured the allure of jet-setting glamour under the Thai sun, enticing its fanbase to visit filming locations at ultra-luxury resorts like Four Seasons Koh Samui, and three Anantara properties by Minor International in Phuket and Samui.
In a nod to the series, the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River has even introduced a White Lotus-themed afternoon tea.
Antonio Saponara, general manager of Capella Bangkok, whose F&B outlet Côte by Mauro Colagreco earned an additional Michelin star – making it the one venue to rise to two stars in the latest guide – emphasises the importance of quality and personalisation. These elements, which are integrated in the hotel’s Capella Curates programme, play a key role in shaping Thailand’s luxury appeal.
“The exceptional quality of offerings across Thailand’s luxury sector – hospitality, retail, and experiences – has led to a surge in interest from affluent travellers, bolstered by the strategic efforts of the Tourism Authority of Thailand in attracting luxury travellers,” Saponara noted.
He pointed to the “very high rate of returning clientele” as a testament to Thailand’s enduring draw.
Capella Bangkok itself has acquired a loyal following in shorthaul markets with a rising affluent demographic, such as Singapore, South Korea and Hong Kong, while Saponara said longhaul markets, particularly in Europe and the Americas, are increasingly drawn to Thailand’s luxury sector.
Daniel Fraser, co-founder and CEO of Smiling Albino, said the influx of world-class dining and hospitality brands is a catalyst for positioning Thailand as a top choice for high-end travelers.
“While luxury itself may not be the sole driver, we’ve seen a significant uptick in requests for high-profile restaurants and hotels in Bangkok and Phuket. This past festive season, we arranged numerous reservations at places like Sorn, Nobu, and other exciting new venues,” Fraser told TTG Asia.
Beyond five-star accommodation and Michelin-starred dining, Fraser observed a growing appetite for deeply personalised experiences.
“Travellers today want more than just a premium hotel stay – they’re seeking exclusive access to cultural touchpoints that can’t simply be booked online,” he said.
Andre van der Marck, founder and managing director of Travel Exclusive Asia, echoed this sentiment, emphasising that high-end tourists increasingly favour depth over breadth.
“Luxury travellers prefer fewer destinations with in-depth, private experiences rather than packed itineraries. Exclusive options, such as private jet-skiing on the Mekong or after-hours visits to the Grand Palace, are in high demand,” he explained, adding that sustainability has also become a core expectation, with eco-conscious travel emerging as a crucial factor in decision-making.
It is no surprise that the rise in luxury travel demand has attracted new players to the market. Earlier this year, Elevate DMC opened its first office in Bangkok, a testament to the city’s evolution as a premier luxury destination.
“When I first moved to Thailand in 2006, Bangkok still felt very much like a Thai city. Today, it’s an international standard destination, on par with places like Hong Kong and Singapore. The overall service levels across Thailand have risen to meet global luxury benchmarks,” reflects Georgie Walsh, general manager of Elevate DMC.
With better infrastructure for premium experiences, Walsh sees more creative freedom for DMCs.
She stated: “We can now offer a broader range of independent experiences outside of luxury hotels for high-end travellers.”
Walsh also noted that the quality and availability of services in Thailand made it “easier to craft bespoke journeys,” extending trips beyond Bangkok and into lesser-known but equally refined destinations.
While luxury properties, fine dining venues, and designer brands flourish, there remains a stark disconnect between private investment and public infrastructure development.
“Thailand is full of luxury developments – malls, hotels, villas – but the public sector hasn’t kept pace,” van der Marck pointed out.
“Traffic congestion, waste management issues, and overcrowding detract from the exclusivity of Thailand’s luxury offerings. Ultra-high-net-worth travellers often reconsider destinations like Phuket due to infrastructure concerns,” he added.
Moreover, the influx of mass-market tourism, particularly from China, Russia, and India, presents another challenge. While these travellers contribute significantly to overall arrivals, they often gravitate toward mainstream attractions, creating a perception of over-tourism that high-end clientele seek to avoid.
“Some affluent travellers are opting for more secluded, under-the-radar destinations rather than traditional luxury hubs like Phuket,” van der Marck said.
That said, some industry players see this as an opportunity to redefine luxury beyond opulence.
Fraser believes that Thailand’s true competitive edge lies in offering “high-value experiences for discerning travellers” rather than being driven purely by “luxury.”
“The real opportunity is in positioning Thailand as a place where travellers can access world-class experiences – whether in fine dining, wellness, or high-end accommodation – at a fraction of the cost they’d pay in Europe, Japan, or the US,” he opined, summarising that what will set Thailand apart is the ability to pair these premium offerings with authentic, meaningful and even life-changing cultural experiences.
The 223-room Penang Marriott Hotel offers plush rooms that overlook either the city or sea
Marriott Hotels has officially made its debut in Penang, Malaysia, with the launch of Penang Marriott Hotel, bringing a luxurious new addition to the island’s hospitality scene.
Located along the prime seafront stretch of Gurney Drive and overlooking the Gurney Bay seafront park, Penang Marriott Hotel offers a charming blend of architecture, contemporary luxury, and the rich cultural heritage that makes Penang a world-renowned destination.
Gurney Drive, which is in George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its rich colonial history, vibrant cultural heritage, and renowned street food scene. The hotel places guests near the heart of the city’s offerings where they can seek out Penang’s cultural landmarks and experience the energy and the best of Penang cuisine along the bustling streets.
Whether exploring the city’s colonial architecture, visiting local markets, or enjoying a walk along the waterfront, guests are well-placed to experience the best of Penang. Its strategic location also offers convenient access to nearby business hubs, shopping districts and access to Penang’s famous food scene.
“As one of Malaysia’s most lively leisure destinations and a hub for business travelers, Penang is an ideal destination to welcome a Marriott Hotel,” said Ramesh Jackson, area vice president – Indonesia and Malaysia, Marriott International. “With the opening of Penang Marriott Hotel, we continue to share our legacy of wonderful hospitality as part of the brand’s evolution and modern appeal that is customised to our guests’ every need.”
The hotel features 223 well-appointed rooms and suites designed for both business and leisure travellers. Each room includes modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing views of the sea or city. Guests can relax in a bathtub included in every room, offering a private space to unwind after a day of exploration or business.
Culinary variety and thoughtful facilities
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Kucina is the hotel's Italian restaurant
Take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool while gazing out over the Gurney seafront
The Great Room Bar offers a variety of tipples in a plush, comfortable setting
Penang Marriott Hotel enjoys an unobstructed view of the sea
Penang Marriott Hotel offers a selection of dining experiences catering to different tastes. Guests can choose from several dining venues within the hotel.
Kucina offers Italian cuisine with a menu that highlights classic dishes prepared with quality ingredients, while Sago, the all-day dining restaurant, serves a selection of local and international dishes, catering to different tastes throughout the day. Lava Java provides freshly brewed coffee, pastries, and light snacks for those looking for a quick refreshment. The Greatroom Bar & Lounge serves cocktails, wines, and spirits in a relaxed setting, making it an ideal place to unwind in the evenings. La Siena is a multi-functional dining space that hosts themed buffets, wine pairing dinners, and afternoon teas.
There is also a range of facilities for guests seeking both relaxation and wellness. The outdoor infinity pool overlooks the Gurney seafront, offering a tranquil setting to unwind. A 24-hour fitness centre is available with modern equipment, ensuring guests can maintain their fitness routine at any time. For those in need of some extra relaxation, the steam room provides an additional space to unwind.
Families travelling with children can benefit from the Kids Club, where younger guests can enjoy supervised activities in a dedicated space. The M Club Lounge offers an exclusive setting for Marriott Bonvoy elite members, providing personalised services and additional conveniences.
Book your stay now and indulge in a luxurious experience at Penang Marriott Hotel.
The Government of Arunachal Pradesh officially launched its new tourism policy on April 2, with a vision to position the north-eastern state as a world-class tourism destination while preserving its pristine landscapes, rich tribal culture, and unique biodiversity. The policy also aims to promote sustainable tourism and encourage community empowerment.
Alongside this policy, the state has also revealed a new logo and brand identity – Arunachal: Beyond Myths and Mountains.
The new tourism policy focuses on sustainability and experiential tourism, highlighting farm, spiritual, adventure, eco, tribal, and border tourism
Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Manjunath R, director of the department of tourism, government of Arunachal Pradesh, said: “The new tourism policy places a significant emphasis on experiential tourism with key areas of focus including farm tourism, spiritual tourism, adventure tourism, eco-tourism, tribal tourism and border tourism. Arunachal Pradesh, which shares borders with Tibet, Bhutan and Myanmar as well as Indian states Assam and Nagaland offers vast opportunities for border tourism. Adventure enthusiasts can explore a range of activities, from hiking and mountain terrain biking to jungle safaris.”
A major focus of the policy is improving infrastructure and accessibility. The government is prioritising upgrades to road and air connectivity, wayside amenities, transport facilities and tourist signage to enhance visitor experiences. Additionally, the state aims to expand its accommodation capacity by 50 per cent.
Currently, Arunachal Pradesh has 793 registered home stays and 237 registered hotels, and the department of tourism is in talks to collaborate with major aggregators like Airbnb and MakeMyTrip to promote its home stays and farm stays in both domestic and international markets.
The state is also looking to learn from global best practices in ecotourism.
“We are planning to visit Costa Rica next month to study its model for promoting biodiversity. Arunachal Pradesh boasts 14 wildlife sanctuaries, three tiger reserves, four national parks and one biosphere reserve. We are also collaborating with overseas tour operators to market our diverse tourism products and experiences internationally,” stated Pasang Dorjee Sona, minister for tourism, government of Arunachal Pradesh.
The tourism sector in Arunachal Pradesh has seen impressive growth in recent years. In 2023, foreign tourist arrivals surged by 300 per cent to 4,496 visitors, while domestic tourist footfalls saw a 368.91 per cent increase, reaching 1.04 million compared to the previous year.
With the introduction of the new tourism policy, the state aims to double domestic tourist arrivals and increase inbound tourism tenfold.
Destination Asia, a DMC operating across nine countries in Asia, recently launched a new division, Expeditions by Destination Asia, focusing on bespoke cruise expeditions to Asia’s remote and culturally significant destinations.
The new division partners with expedition cruise operators to design and lead journeys to Asia’s lesser-explored destinations.
Materi: the expedition cruises are designed for travellers who seek adventure, discovery, and deeper engagement with nature and local communities
Expeditions by Destination Asia ensures safe, sustainable, and engaging travel experiences that balance adventure with cultural and ecological responsibility.
The first two destination guides feature Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay in Vietnam, as well as Raja Ampat in East Indonesia.
Alvin Materi, director of Expeditions by Destination Asia, shared: “These destinations are a paradise for nature lovers and underwater explorers, offering a glimpse of the wonders that await on our unforgettable expedition journeys.
“We look forward to unveiling more incredible destinations, including those in Thailand, Japan and Malaysia, in the near future.”
He shared that the inspiration behind the new division stems from a growing demand for off-the-grid travel experiences where travellers can also engage in meaningful cultural exchanges and ecological exploration.
He noted: “We saw an opportunity to partner with expedition cruise lines to bring these incredible experiences to life while ensuring they are sustainable and responsible in these delicate regions. Our extensive knowledge of Asia, combined with our passion for adventure travel, inspired us to create this specialised service to cater to the evolving needs of modern explorers.
“Expeditions by Destination Asia differs from our existing cruise services by focusing exclusively on expedition-style cruises in remote and often less-explored parts of Asia. While our regular cruise services may involve more traditional, leisure-based experiences, the expedition cruises are designed for travellers who seek adventure, discovery, and deeper engagement with nature and local communities.”
Materi added that the activities are more specialised, ranging from wildlife encounters and environmental research to cultural immersion in remote villages.
“Moreover, the logistics and operations of these expedition cruises are tailored to the specific challenges of remote locations, with a keen focus on sustainability, minimal environmental impact, and close collaboration with local communities,” he said.
Materi foresees that demand for expedition cruising in Asia will grow significantly in the coming years, as travellers increasingly seek authentic experiences in off-the-beaten-path destinations, as well as those that highlight conservation and environmental protection. “Expedition cruises in Asia, especially in pristine or sensitive regions like South-east Asia, and Hokkaido are well-positioned to cater to this demand,” he shared.
Materi shared that operating in remote regions presents unique challenges, including logistical complexities, cultural sensitivities, unpredictable weather, and varying local regulations. Destination Asia uses its extensive network, strong relationships with local communities, and in-depth knowledge of each region to navigate these obstacles.
The company works closely with environmental experts, local authorities, and conservation groups to ensure responsible operations that benefit both travellers and host communities. It is also a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, which guides members on best practices and provides guidelines for sustainable operations.
Plaza Premium Group (PPG) and Hong Kong Airlines (HKA) have signed an agreement to enhance cooperation and expand the services available to their guests. As part of this arrangement, business class passengers and frequent flyer members of HKA will be eligible to access Plaza Premium Lounges worldwide.
Currently, HKA operates a network of over 30 destinations across Asia-Pacific and North America. PPG runs its flagship Plaza Premium Lounges in more than 150 locations worldwide, covering almost all of HKA’s destinations. This year, the airline is launching longhaul routes to further expand its network, and Plaza Premium Lounges are already operating at these new destinations.
The agreement expands services for HKA passengers, offering global lounge access and integrated loyalty rewards
As part of their future cooperation, PPG and HKA will also develop integrated benefits for their respective loyalty programmes – Smart Traveller, PPG’s digital experience and rewards platform, and Fortune Wings Club, HKA’s global loyalty programme.
This includes promotions that facilitate the conversion of points between each other’s loyalty programmes. Additionally, members will be able to redeem points accumulated on the Smart Traveller marketplace for HKA’s special offers, including e-vouchers and seasonal promotions.
The two parties also plan to develop marketing campaigns to cross-promote HKA ticket packages, bundling them with Smart Traveller’s global range of services and products. Additionally, they aim to jointly create social impact programmes that support community-driven initiatives, aligning with shared social responsibility goals.
With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Yücel brings a wealth of experience to this position, having most recently served as general manager at Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas.
