TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Monday, 15th December 2025
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Page 146

Cairns to host 2025 CAPA Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific

By TTG Asia
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Tourism and Events Queensland’s Ollie Philpot; Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker; CAPA Centre for Aviation Events' Claudia Kunz; Cairns Convention Centre's Melissa Belevski, and Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen at the Cairns Esplanade

Cairns will host one of Australasia’s most lauded tourism and aviation summits this year, the first time the event has ever been held outside a capital city.

Presented in partnership with Cairns Airport, the 2025 CAPA Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific will take place at Cairns Convention Centre on July 31 and August 1, bringing leaders from the aviation, tourism and hospitality industries to the region for a series of strategic sessions aimed at shaping the future of air travel.

Speakers will include high-ranking executives from Australian and international airlines, as well as senior government leaders and subject matter experts from various air travel sectors.

Tourism and Events Queensland’s Ollie Philpot; Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker; CAPA Centre for Aviation Events’ Claudia Kunz; Cairns Convention Centre’s Melissa Belevski, and Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen at the Cairns Esplanadecair

Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker spoke of the opportunities from hosting the event: “Hosting CAPA will enable us to welcome the cream of the aviation and tourism sectors to Cairns, the northern gateway to Australia. We will be front and centre as our industry’s top executives examine where we’re headed, with insights into local and global trends.

“We can also showcase why Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef remain iconic drawcards for international visitors and why Cairns Airport is working closely with our partners to increase access options to Tropical North Queensland.”

The summit will combine industry presentations, keynotes, high-level interviews and panel discussions on a range of topics, including regional airline capacity, consumer and passenger spending, changes in thinking around tourism and the influence of government regulations on travel.

Tourism and Events Queensland’s Ollie Philpot said: “Cairns stands as a vital gateway to Queensland, with 448,000 inbound seats scheduled for Cairns Airport during 2025. The increasing number of new flight routes to the region is a clear testament to its growing importance on the global stage.

“In April, Jetstar will launch services from Christchurch, and Fiji Airways will begin flights from Nadi. Additionally, major hub carriers like Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific operate direct flights to Cairns, enhancing Queensland’s accessibility for visitors from Asia, Europe, and the UK. Now is the perfect time for Cairns and the Tropical North to be hosting this important annual conference, to continue momentum and explore route development and aviation industry issues with partners from across our region.”

Global passenger numbers to reach 22.3 billion by 2053

By TTG Asia
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International passenger traffic is expected to grow at a faster rate than domestic traffic over the next three decades

The Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053 by Airports Council International (ACI) World released last month projects that global passenger numbers are expected to reach 17.7 billion by 2043 and 22.3 billion by 2053, the latter nearly 2.4 times the projected volume for 2024.

International passenger traffic is expected to grow at a faster rate than domestic traffic over the next three decades. From 2024 to 2053, international traffic is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.3 per cent, while domestic traffic will expand at a slightly slower pace of 2.8 per cent.

International passenger traffic is expected to grow at a faster rate than domestic traffic over the next three decades

These projections indicate a steady upward growth in global aviation, driven by factors such as rising middle-class travel demand in emerging markets, strengthened international travel, and continued investments in airport infrastructure.

However, short-term challenges include geopolitical tensions, economic instability, trade shifts like reintroduced tariffs, and supply chain bottlenecks, which may slow recovery in some regions.

ACI World director general Justin Erbacci said: “Despite the challenges in the near term, global air travel is poised for steady, sustained growth. It is crucial for airports, airlines, and policymakers to take bold, forward-thinking action to anticipate and meet the demands of the future. ACI World remains unwavering in its commitment to support its airport members, helping them navigate evolving dynamics and seize opportunities ahead.”

Global air cargo is also projected to grow steadily, with a CAGR of 2.7 per cent from 2024 to 2043 and 2.4 per cent from 2024 to 2053. However, ACI World cautions that evolving trade policies and supply chain disruptions could introduce volatility in the sector.

The number of aircraft movements is expected to increase significantly, reaching 149 million by 2043 and 176 million by 2053. Airports worldwide will need to prepare for this growth by enhancing operational efficiency and investing in infrastructure.

Indonesia e-Visa on arrival available for 97 eligible countries

By TTG Asia
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Travellers can now enjoy a quicker and smoother visa application journey

VFS Global’s new Indonesia Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) platform is now available for nationals of all the 97 countries eligible for e-VoA, including Australia, South Korea, the Philippines, Greater China (excluding Macau), Japan, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Singapore, Vietnam, and New Zealand.

Travellers can now enjoy a quicker and smoother visa application journey

Travellers can now enjoy a quicker and smoother visa application journey by completing the 10-minute process online and receiving a pre-approved e-VoA before departure.

Saffar Muhammad Godam, acting director general of immigration of the Republic of Indonesia, said: “We are committed to continuously improving immigration services, both in terms of quality and integrity. This partnership with VFS Global will help in ensuring that applicants receive seamless, reliable, and efficient service.”

Tato Juliadin Hidayawan, director of visa and travel documents, said: “The implementation of e-VoA, which is integrated with auto gates, not only facilitates tourists but also reduces queues at airports, increasing the comfort and efficiency of immigration clearance. Additionally, this digital system reduces direct interaction between immigration officers and passengers, minimising the potential for abuse of authority.”

Application for a visa extension can be done on the same system, once, for a stay period of 30 days.

Khiri Travel launches sensory and colonial heritage tours across SE Asia

By TTG Asia
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Celebrate heritage icons in Khiri Travel's new tours; Manila Cathedral pictured

Khiri Travel has launched two major series of tour products – Asian city day tours that indulge all five senses, and a series of multi-day colonial travel experiences.

The senses series has been launched in five countries – Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam – with Laos, Philippines and Myanmar to come. Each tour is private and will have a guide.

Celebrate heritage icons in Khiri Travel’s new tours; Manila Cathedral pictured

Guests will experience sights such as sunsets from golden stupas, the smell of fresh turmeric as they make a herbal drink, the sound of Balinese gamelan or Sri Lankan baila music, tastes of local food, and the touch of a massage or yoga session.

The heritage and history tours, ranging from nine to 13 days, have been launched in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and Laos, with Myanmar to follow. The focus is on colonial-era mansions, antique decor and grand estates from the times of Henri Mouhot, Francis Garnier and others.

Guests get to stay at heritage era buildings repurposed as hotels, such as The Phoenix Hotel in Yogyakarta, Azerai La Residence in Hue, 137 Pillars in Chiang Mai, and Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan. They can also enjoy expert insights from historians such as Francis Engelmann in Luang Prabang and, in Hoi An, Rehahn, an award-winning photographer specialising in the ethnic groups of Vietnam.

“Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a journey through time, our history and heritage mansion house tours promise a deep connection to the elegance, intrigue, and timeless beauty of Asia’s colonial-related past,” says Sofia Tan, group product coordinator at Khiri Travel.

Hyatt Centric accelerates global expansion in key markets

By TTG Asia
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Hyatt Centric will be opening more than 35 new hotels worldwide by end 2028, with eight opening across India, China and Japan next year

The Hyatt Centric brand plans to grow its portfolio by 50 per cent by the end of 2028, opening more than 35 new hotels worldwide.

This follows a year of growth for the brand in 2024 with hotel openings in cities such as Cairo, Shanghai, San José, Santo Domingo and more.

The next three years are expected to see substantial regional growth in Asia-Pacific, increasing the brand’s footprint in the region by over 75 per cent.

Hyatt Centric will be opening more than 35 new hotels worldwide by end 2028, with eight opening across India, China and Japan next year

“As part of our strategic brand realignment and bringing more focused expertise and support to five distinct brand portfolios, the Hyatt Centric brand serves as a fantastic addition to our Classics Portfolio, a group of captivating brands offering timeless style and unrivalled care in the world’s most-travelled places,” said Emily Wright, vice president, global brand leader for Hyatt’s Classics & Essentials Portfolios. “The brand’s recent growth, including openings and planned developments, meets the rising demand from guests and members, especially millennial and Gen Z travellers, for more contemporary accommodations with playful details, sophisticated furnishings and socially connected spaces.”

Hyatt Centric hotels are designed to reflect their destinations through eclectic elements that represent the local culture.

Opening later this year will be the 259-key Hyatt Centric The Ring Chengdu, marking the brand’s entry into China’s southwest.

New hotels that will be opening across Asia-Pacific in 2026 include: the 166-room Hyatt Centric Bengaluru Airport; Hyatt Centric Electronic City Bangalore; Hyatt Centric East Taipei; Hyatt Centric Shanghai Jinqiao; Hyatt Centric TODTOWN Shanghai; Hyatt Centric Tianxin Changsha; Hyatt Centric Vrindavan, and Hyatt Centric Sapporo.

TTG Conversations: Five Questions with Lavinia Rajaram, Expedia Group

By Karen Yue
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When The White Lotus Season 2 aired on screens in October 2022, Expedia recorded a 300 per cent increase in searches all over the world for San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel, and Sicily, where the drama series was set and filmed. A similar frenzy erupted when Season 3 was announced, according to Lavinia Rajaram, Asia travel expert and director of public relations at Expedia Group, and this time Thailand is the beneficiary.

In this episode of TTG Conversations: Five Questions, Rajaram discusses the persuasive power TV shows, music videos and concerts have on travel and tourism desires and bookings, the business impact The White Lotus Season 3 is having on Koh Samui, Bangkok and Phuket, and what travel suppliers and destination marketers should do to leverage business opportunities gifted by hit shows and music videos.

Social media, budget main factors in travel decision-making for millennials and Gen Z: Klook survey

By TTG Asia
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Klook's Travel Pulse research found that social media recommendations have a large influence on how 79% of millennials and Gen Z travellers plan their trips

Travel is a from of escape and stress relieve for millennial and Gen Z travellers but nine in 10 are unable to take their trips.

The finding comes from Klook’s latest Travel Pulse research, conducted with consumer insights platform, GWI. It surveyed over 7,000 respondents across 14 markets including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Mainland China, India, Indonesia, and the United States.

Time constraints, work commitments and financial concerns were the top reasons for not being able to travel, with travellers from Mainland China feeling the most time-strapped (74%).

Klook’s Travel Pulse research found that social media recommendations have a large influence on how 79% of millennials and Gen Z travellers plan their trips

“Millennials and Gen Z increasingly turn to travel as their ultimate form of therapy,” says Eric Gnock Fah, president and co-founder, Klook. “While life’s stressful demands often leave many frustrated, the transformative power of travel is undeniable. With 92% hit hard by post-travel blues, and nearly 40% immediately planning their next getaway, it’s clear that travel offers more than just a break – it’s a force for self-discovery, creativity, and renewal.”

However, while they feel time strapped, 84% of travellers have already planned international trips for 2025, compared to 71% in 2024. Japan tops the list, followed by Mainland China, seeing a seven time increase in yearly demand. When choosing their next destination, 28% seek out new places they have never visited.

Cost is also a factor in travel decisions. While these travellers are budget conscious, they are not willing to compromise on experiences, with 91% allocating up to half their budget on experiences, instead of splurging on other areas like flights. Unique and authentic experiences remain a top priority, with local cuisine and off-the-beaten-path destinations topping the list.

Gen Z travellers are more budget-conscious, preferring bundled travel packages to stretch their spending.

Social media is another determining factor in holiday planning, driving 79% of travellers to book activities, accommodations and dining experiences based on social media recommendations.

Travellers from Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines tend to act on social recommendations, while those from Australia, Japan, and the US are less influenced. 27% of those surveyed are willing to pay up to 20% more to visit trendy and social media-worthy spots.

Minor Hotels expands China footprint with Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort

By TTG Asia
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The 160-key Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort will be the fifth Minor Hotels' property in China

Scheduled to open on the banks of Qiandao Lake in Hangzhou City in October 2027, the Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort is Minor Hotels’ latest project in China.

The hotel group and its Chinese joint venture Funyard Minor have partnered YouChao International Tourism Hotel to develop the 160-key resort, which blends Anantara’s luxury and lifestyle expertise with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

The 160-key Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort will be the fifth Minor Hotels’ property in China

The property is designed to accommodate a wide range of guests, from solo travellers to families and business travellers. Rooms will range from 62m² to 340m², while dining outlets will include all-day dining, specialty and Chinese restaurants.

Facilities include a fitness centre, swimming pool, spa, tennis court, tea garden, a forest oxygen bar, as well as a multifunctional banquet and meeting space.

“This cooperation marks another significant milestone in our expansion in the Yangtze Delta Region, while also showcasing our deep commitment and confidence in the Chinese market. We look forward to this project bringing positive economic impact to the local community and promoting the sustained development of the tourism industry,” said Eddy Tiftik, vice president of development for Greater China at Minor Hotels Group and a board member of Funyard Minor China.

Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort will be located 22km from Qiandaohu Railway Station that links it to tier one cities such as Hangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing and Nanjing, and 150km from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport.

Minor Hotels currently operates four properties in China and plans to grow to 15 properties within the next three years.

What’s on the 2025 hospitality horizon in Asia-Pacific?

By Industry Expert
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Amadeus vice president Paul Wilson is confident that the hospitality sector will continue to see growth based on changing travel trends
Amadeus vice president Paul Wilson is confident that the hospitality sector will continue to see growth based on changing travel trends

Optimism is on the cards for hospitality markets in Asia-Pacific (APAC) this year. A broadly positive economic landscape combined with easing regulation in several key destinations and a widespread appetite for technology investment will create robust conditions for a positive year ahead.

The region is home to some of the fastest growing economies in the world. Both India and Vietnam, for example, are experiencing annual GDP growth of above 6 per cent, according to the International Monetary Fund, while APAC can expect GDP growth of 4.4 per cent over the course of the year ahead.

This background paints a positive picture for the region.

A rapid rebound in tourism continues across APAC after the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks in part to the continued easing of travel restrictions and improved air connectivity in 2024. Amadeus’ own figures reveal that hotels in the region are seeing strong demand, with 67 per cent average occupancy rates from January to October 2024.

This year, inbound and outbound travel to and from Asia, including China, is expected to reach pre-pandemic levels for the first time. Given the importance of China as a key travel source market, this comeback has been long-awaited, with the destination easing restrictions to accelerate the process.

Until the end of 2025, visa exemption will be applied to ordinary passport holders from Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia and Japan on a trial basis, while officials have also confirmed visa-free stays will be extended to 30 days, up from the current 15. Thailand, another tourism powerhouse, has also expanded its tourism visa exemption scheme to include 93 countries, illustrating renewed ambition in the sector.

Looking ahead, the growing APAC middle class is expected to account for 50 per cent of global air passenger growth over the next 15 years, according to IATA. Next year alone, the global share of leisure travel spending from APAC is expected to increase from 29 per cent in 2023 to 35 per cent in 2025.

Finally, over the festive period, destinations including Phu Quoc in Vietnam, Macau in China and Cebu in the Philippines saw some of the highest hotel occupancy rates anywhere in the world – and these trends can be expected to continue into 2025.

How are hoteliers responding?

There is, then, plenty to suggest the year ahead will be a positive one for APAC hospitality. In our Travel Technology Investment Trends report, we asked 100 industry leaders and found, not only are there clear signs of broad investment, but also substantial increases in funding for technology.

On average, hoteliers planned to spend 16 per cent more on technology investment in 2024 than in the prior year, with 65 per cent of the industry planning to expand investment by more than 10 per cent.

Our study revealed the average spend on digital media, per property, is currently $74,337, with the greatest focus of campaigns being to target new segments of guests. This remains a key area of investment, where campaigns can also help companies identify where guests are currently searching and booking, help businesses make strategic decisions.

At the same time, virtually all (98 per cent) of the 100 hospitality leaders we spoke to recognise that artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to bring significant benefits to their businesses. Generative AI, such as chatbots, was considered the most important technology by 37 per cent of respondents, with hoteliers hoping that the technology will help them identify and upsell opportunities to travellers at all stages of the booking process and create personalised experiences for guests.

What impact will this have on travellers?

For travellers, these investments have the potential to translate over time into quicker and smoother service throughout their trip. AI generated personalised offers, for example, will elevate guest experiences, as they will be able to have more comprehensive and connected trips, with easy access to compelling offerings such as car hire, added excursions or specific room attributes.

Other new capabilities will allow for quicker service time and a smoother booking process. These changes increase the opportunity for improved guest satisfaction and more memorable travel experiences.

From the moment travellers begin their search to the time they return home, new solutions empower hotels, destinations and travel providers with insights to enable exceptional experiences at every step of the journey. ​

Avani offers affordable multi-room villas, suites and residences

By TTG Asia
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Travelling with a big group? Avani+ Khao Lak Resort’s Two Bedroom Royal Beachfront Pool Villa features a private pool, al fresco jacuzzi and living room for all to enjoy

Avani Hotels & Resorts has introduced a collection of multi-room villas, suites, and residences designed at several of its properties at more affordable prices with its Suite Escapes package.

In Thailand, Avani+ Khao Lak Resort’s Two Bedroom Royal Beachfront Pool Villa (765m²) is targeted for groups of friends features a private pool, al fresco jacuzzi and living room. Prices start from US$1,420 per night.

Travelling with a big group? Avani+ Khao Lak Resort’s Two Bedroom Royal Beachfront Pool Villa features a private pool, al fresco jacuzzi and living room for all to enjoy

For families, Avani+ Fares Maldives offers an expansive 368m² Three Bedroom Sunset Over Water Pool Residence surrounded by the sea. Make the most of the villa’s facilities the moment you step out of bed into the blue lagoon or dine on the sun deck. Parents can relax in the AvaniSpa while children can play in the AvaniKids club.

Price is approximately US$4,906 per night for up to two adults and five children.

Another child-friendly place is the Avani+ Hua Hin Resort with a 268m² Avani Two Bedroom Sea View Villa, complete with sunlit nooks, uninterrupted sea views and separate bathrooms. Villa stays also come with extra perks including AvaniClub Executive Lounge access, daily breakfast, all-day refreshments and sundowner.

Price is approximately US$550 per night for up to five adults and one child.

Couple seeking a romantic retreat may consider the Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort. The 265m² Grand Ocean Residence (from approximately US$1,286 per night) located on the clifftop offers an unmatched view, while the private pool, in-residence barbecue, kitchenette helps guests feel at home. Daily complimentary Thai massages are also available.

Another option is Avani Kalutara’s Avani Ocean View Pool Suite (from approximately US$234 per night) in Sri Lanka. The 60m² Ocean View Pool Suite is an intimate retreat and comes complete with a private plunge pool, direct beach access and a cosy terrace.

For more information visit Avani.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | InterContinental Halong Bay Resort presents Hidden Wonders experience
TTG Asia | Lufthansa Group unveils new brand identity
TTG Asia | Taiwan sets new course for tourism sector