Silveursea's Silver Dawn set sail from Tokyo on January 13 on a 136-day World Cruise
Silversea’s Silver Dawn departed from Tokyo on January 13 on its 2025 World Cruise, Controtempo, a 136-day voyage to 59 destinations in 30 countries.
It will arrive in New York on May 29, 2025, taking guests through off-the-beaten path destinations – including 19 that are new to a Silversea World Cruise – through Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America during unconventional seasons.
Silveursea’s Silver Dawn set sail from Tokyo on January 13 on a 136-day World Cruise
“Controtempo will open the world to even the most well-travelled guests like never before, allowing them to journey deeper into four diverse continents,” said Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea.
Controtempo is a musical term that means off tempo, and the voyage was designed to rediscover the world off-tempo and offbeat for more in-depth, authentic experiences.
World Cruise guests will enjoy an enhanced onboard experience including S.A.L.T, Silversea’s culinary programme that showcases the unique flavours of each destination, Otium spa and wellness programmes, and specially crafted signature events.
These events are designed to experience the destinations through unique culinary and entertainment experiences to get the most out of the cities they visit, such as a sunset cruise along the rivers of Hoi An, dinner between the dunes of the desert in Namibia, and dinner in the Palace of Versailles.
Keraton at The Plaza, Indonesia
Keraton at The Plaza is located in the heart of Jakarta’s Plaza Indonesia complex, and boasts 138 rooms and suites that comes with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Guests enjoy exclusive access to The Club on the 7th floor, which offers à la carte dining, afternoon tea, evening canapés, and curated daily experiences. The Club also showcases Indonesian artwork, available for purchase, and provides a space for intimate gatherings with a chef’s table and boardroom.
Keraton at The Plaza also offers direct access to Plaza Indonesia Mall and the Grand Hyatt Jakarta’s facilities, including a fitness centre, pool, Balinese garden, and restaurants.
Four Points by Sheraton Nashik
Four Points by Sheraton Nashik, India
The 125-key Four Points by Sheraton Nashik offers guests a stay in the city that is known for its vineyards, historical significance, and natural beauty.
Just 30 minutes from Nashik International Airport, the hotel features a lounge bar with local craft beers, an all-day dining restaurant, and a nightlife hotspot with curated DJ performances and finger foods.
Facilities comprise an infinity pool, fitness centre, and event spaces.
Dusit Princess Chiang Mai
Dusit Princess Chiang Mai, Thailand
Located on Chiang Mai’s Chang Klan Road, Dusit Princess Chiang Mai has reopened after a three-year transformation.
The redesign features refreshed guestrooms and lobby, as well as upgraded facilities such as meeting spaces, swimming pool, and gym. Dining options now include Jasmine Restaurant, serving Chinese and Cantonese cuisine, and the new Casa Verde, offering a mix of international, Asian, and Mexican-inspired dishes.
Situated near landmarks like Wat Chedi Luang and the Night Bazaar, the hotel offers an ideal base for exploring the city’s vibrant culture.
The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam
The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, India
The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate is nestled in Assam’s lush tea gardens in India, where guests can choose between the colonial-style Planters’ Bungalow or contemporary Luxury Chalets, both offering views of the surrounding landscapes.
Guests can enjoy the hotel’s F&B offerings, go on guided trails, visit Kaziranga National Park, explore Nameri National Park, and try rafting on the Jia Bhoroli River.
Marjorie Aquino has stepped into the role of group director of sales at DTH Travel Group, focusing on driving strategic growth and fostering strong partnerships across 14 countries.
From left: Marjorie Aquino and Jonalyn Lee
She was with DTH Travel’s Blue Horizons Travel and Tours in the Philippines for 15 years, rising from the ranks to become its head of sales and marketing.
Filling Aquino’s position at Blue Horizons Travel and Tours is Jonalyn Lee, previously senior sales and marketing manager.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), which has commissioned internationally recognised Halal-travel certification authority CrescentRating (CR) to assess and benchmark local hotels, attractions and meeting venues, is making “good achievement” in a short span of time.
CR has been providing research and training services since May last year.
Several hotels in Hong Kong have been rated for their Muslim travel readiness, and now attractions and shopping malls have expressed interest in doing the same
Speaking to TTG Asia on this initiative, Fazal Bahardeen, founder and CEO, of CR, shared that the city has chalked up a number of firsts.
As of January 2025, 50 hotels have successfully applied for and obtained certification from CR compared to just a handful of accredited Muslim-friendly properties previously.
It is encouraging to see the Hong Kong hotel industry coming onboard, Fazal told TTG Asia, adding that Grand Hyatt Hong Kong and Marriott Hong Kong Ocean Park, among others, achieved a five rating – the maximum is seven; and those with a three rating offer at least a Halal breakfast option.
For the first time, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre achieved a CR gold rating for setting up a prayer room and for offering Halal catering.
Fazal commented: “Now, attractions and shopping malls also want to be rated.”
He added that HKTB, in collaboration with another leading certification authority – the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong (Board of Trustees) – for the first time awarded fine-dining Chinese restaurant Chinesology Halal certification.
Becky Ip, HKTB deputy executive director, said: “The population of countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council and South-east Asia, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, consist of a significant portion of Muslims.
“In recent years, Hong Kong has been dedicated to developing visitor sources in the Middle Eastern and (South-east Asian) markets to capitalise on the vast potential and spending ability of the Muslim consumer segments.
“As such, HKTB deploys a diverse strategy to make our city a Muslim-friendly tourism destination. At the same time, we have also stepped up promotions in Muslim source markets.”
Fazal shared that the focus for 2025 will be to build capacity of CR-rated establishments and to promote Hong Kong as a Muslim-friendly destination.
More seamless intra-ASEAN travel and enhanced air connectivity to secondary cities as Protocol 5 comes into effect
The recent announcement by the Malaysian transport minister, Anthony Loke, that airline operators from South-east Asia can make stopovers within ASEAN member state airports before heading to another point in the region and which will come into effect this year, is poised to enhance air connectivity and drive greater travel and tourism within the region.
The Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA) president, Tan Kok Liang, said: “Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights between Points within the Territory (Protocol 5 for short) encourages seamless intra-ASEAN travel, making it easier for travellers to explore multiple destinations within a single trip.
More seamless intra-ASEAN travel and enhanced air connectivity to secondary cities as Protocol 5 comes into effect
“Through Protocol 5, the potential for further developing travel and tourism within the region is huge.
“Airlines in the region stand to benefit from improved load factors by offering more flexible routing options while also reducing the environmental footprint of travel. This is achieved by minimising the need for backtracking and optimising flight routes.
“Additionally, it will enhance air connectivity to secondary cities within the region, enabling tour operators to develop and promote packages to lesser-known destinations.
“We fully support this initiative by ASEAN transport ministers, as it aligns with our mission to promote sustainable growth and seamless connectivity within the region.”
Tan is confident of increased footfall across South-east Asia, which will in turn stimulate local economies and generate demand for accommodation, tours, and other travel services.
Although detailed implementation plans for Protocol 5 have yet to be announced by ASEAN governments, Tan stressed the importance of FATA members engaging proactively with their national carriers.
“It is vital for our members to understand how airlines in the region plan to leverage Protocol 5 to expand their networks,” he told TTG Asia.
He stressed: “Early collaboration with airlines as well as national and state tourism boards will not only help our members prepare for the changes but also allow them to design innovative travel products that maximise the Protocol’s potential.
“Proactive engagement will position us to seize the opportunities Protocol 5 creates.”
The prolonged weekend monsoon rain cleared up just in time for the Malaysian state of Johor to play host to ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025, which kicked off this morning at Persada Johor International Convention Centre.
Top ASEAN tourism representatives show a united front at the opening ceremony for ATF 2025; photo by Caleb Richard Lai
Apart from meetings among the region’s tourism ministries, the event also provides a B2B business matching platform through the ASEAN Travel Exchange, more commonly known as TRAVEX. This year, almost 100 seller organisations from the region will meet with over 300 potential buyers.
ASEAN Tourism Conference will present three days of insightful discussions and presentations alongside TRAVEX.
4 cities in Vietnam dominated the top 10 list, including Da Nang, Hanoi, Nah Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City
Agoda has released its top 10 ranking of the most pet-friendly travel destinations in Asia, and Vietnam’s Danang, the Philippines’ Cebu, and Vietnam’s Hanoi have taken up the top three positions in descending order.
The ranking is calculated based on the average number of accommodation that allows pets.
4 cities in Vietnam dominated the top 10 list, including Da Nang, Hanoi, Nah Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City
The rest of the list in descending order comprises: Nha Trang, Vietnam; Tainan, Taiwan; Pattaya, Thailand; Taichung, Taiwan; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; New Delhi, India; and Manila, the Philippines.
Pet travel is on the rise in Asia with millennials and gen Zs leading the way, according to a study by Allied Market Research. Agoda saw a 64 per cent growth in pet-friendly properties last year.
Lam Vu, country director Vietnam at Agoda said: “Our latest ranking of pet-friendly cities is a testament to our commitment to making travel inclusive for everyone, including our four-legged friends. Vietnam, with its welcoming culture and diverse landscapes, stands out as a pet paradise.”
The Traveller DMC pledges commitment to sustainable tourism in Singapore
Singapore-based The Traveller DMC has been awarded the GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification, signifying the company’s dedication to promoting responsible tourism practices within Singapore.
The GSTC certification, granted by Control Union Certifications, verifies that The Traveller DMC adheres to the stringent GSTC Tour Operator criteria. These standards ensure businesses operate with a focus on environmental well-being, cultural preservation, and fair economic practices.
The Traveller DMC pledges commitment to sustainable tourism in Singapore
The company has launched several initiatives to further solidify its commitment to sustainability. These include sustainable walking tours, prioritising hybrid vehicles, and implementing a CO2 tracking system to measure and analyse operational emissions
Moreover, the GSTC certification aligns with The Traveller DMC’s recently established three-year sustainability plan (2025-2028), which focuses on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and supporting local communities. Key initiatives include transitioning to LED lighting; promoting recycling and digital tools; collaborating with social enterprises; and contributing to impactful projects like the Garden City Fund and Sultan Mosque in Kampong Gelam.
Ryan Low, co-founder of The Traveller DMC, shared: “Achieving GSTC certification is a proud moment for us. It validates the hard work we’ve put into integrating sustainability into our operations. But more importantly, it’s a starting point. We’re committed to championing sustainable tourism practices that not only reduce our environmental impact, but also create meaningful experiences for travellers and support local communities.”
InterContinental Singapore has unveiled A Suite Experience, a package designed for guests to elevate their getaway with opulence, personalised service, and a shopping spree.
Guests who book A Suite Experience will enjoy a one-night stay in a suite, complete with premium welcome amenities, dining credits, and a S$300 (US$219) Takashimaya shopping voucher. The package is available for bookings in the King Junior Suite Club Lounge Access, One Bedroom Suite, Royal Suite, Ambassador Suite, or the Presidential Suite.
InterContinental Singapore makes suite stays sweeter
Adding to the allure, guests can enjoy privileged access to Club InterContinental, where gourmet breakfasts, afternoon teas, and evening cocktails are served in an intimate and refined setting.
Other inclusions in the package, excluding Junior Suite bookings, comprise complimentary front porch parking, and butler service upon request.
A Suite Experience is available for bookings from now to February 15, for stays through March 31. Rates start from S$600++ per package.
ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATE) 2025 will make its debut in Kota Kinabalu from June 19 to 21; Sipadan island, pictured
A private sector driven B2B travel fair focusing on the South-east Asian region will make its debut this June in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATE) 2025 is an initiative led by ASEAN’s travel champions, namely the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA), Malaysia Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), and AirAsia Group.
The three-day event from June 19 will offer both conference and travel exchange components, and is supported by Sabah’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment.
ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATE) 2025 will make its debut in Kota Kinabalu from June 19 to 21; Sipadan island, pictured
Sabah’s rich culture, heritage and tourism products will be highlighted at ATE 2025, which will also serve as a platform to showcase Sabah as a preferred destination for business events and leisure travel.
FATA president Tan Kok Liang emphasised the strategic importance of ATE 2025, aligning with the ASEAN governments’ preparations for the implementation of ASEAN Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights.
Expected to come into effect this year, Protocol 5 will grant South-east Asian airlines the ability to make stopovers at ASEAN member airports en-route to other destinations within the region. This landmark development is anticipated to significantly bolster intra-regional travel and connectivity.
Tan noted: “Protocol 5 will be a game-changer for air connectivity in ASEAN, benefiting both main and secondary cities across the region. We urge the travel trade across the region to seize the opportunity that ATE 2025 presents, leveraging the expanded air access to promote tour packages, destination experiences, and unique product offerings.”
He added that the increased accessibility provided by Protocol 5 is likely to trigger a surge in both leisure and business travel – segments that are aligned with ASEAN’s broader goals of fostering regional integration and driving economic growth through tourism.
Tan encouraged travel trade players to collaborate across borders to create innovative and competitive offerings that meet the needs of the expected influx of travellers.
He added: “Hosting ATE 2025 is especially fitting for Malaysia as we take on the ASEAN chairmanship this year. We will also invite Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim to officiate the event.”
ATE 2025 will target 230 hosted buyers from South-east Asia as well as China and India, underscoring the travel trade’s commitment to engaging with key markets outside region. Some 100 sellers from ASEAN member nations, including hoteliers, tour operators, product owners, and travel technology providers, will also participate.
Tan revealed plans for ATE to become an annual event, rotating among ASEAN member countries, to ensure consistent engagement and long-term growth of the region’s tourism sector.
He added that the initiative complements government-led efforts, such as the ASEAN Tourism Forum, which advances regional tourism cooperation.
Through its annual format and rotating host cities, the event aims to ensure consistent engagement and highlight ASEAN solidarity and commitment to advancing tourism and economic cooperation in South-east Asia.
