Maldives aims for US$5 billion in tourism revenue in 2025

January 3, 2025

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) has announced an ambitious target of US$5 billion in tourism receipts for 2025, building on the success of 2024.

The Maldives welcomed two million tourists in 2024, setting new records for daily and monthly arrivals, particularly in February. MMPRC highlighted that extensive marketing efforts contributed significantly to this success, including 23 fairs and roadshows, 15 social media campaigns, and 23 virtual events. Notably, the Discover Maldives Webinar Series played a key role in showcasing the destination’s unique experiences to key markets.

MMPRC targets US$5 billion in tourism receipts for 2025 with new initiatives and expanded global marketing efforts

The Maldives also achieved its largest-ever representation at ITB Berlin 2024 and ATM Dubai 2024, and for the first time, served as the Host Country sponsor at ITB China in Shanghai, expanding its reach in these key markets. Additionally, The World’s Biggest Giveaway 2025 campaign was launched at WTM London, one of the most highly anticipated global initiatives for the upcoming year.

Increased connectivity, with new airline routes and more frequent flights, also played a key role in making the Maldives more accessible and driving the success of its tourism sector.

MMPRC hosted the inaugural Data Forum 2024 and Tourism Symposium 2024 to drive industry growth, signing key agreements with partners like Fliggy, Weixin Pay, and Maldivian Airlines.

Tourism receipts grew by 15 per cent in 2024, and government tax revenues from tourism increased by eight per cent. The Maldives also won several awards, including World’s Leading Green Destination and World’s Leading Destination for the fifth consecutive year. 2024 also marks the 11th anniversary of reaching one million annual tourist arrivals.

MMPRC’s plans for the year ahead include Visit Maldives shifting from trade shows to conversion-driven marketing, focusing on video-based campaigns and strengthening partnerships with airlines, tour operators, and retail brands to expand reach.

Key initiatives to support this direction include the launch of the Visit Maldives Shop for branded merchandise, the Visit Maldives Calendar for event planning, and the Visit Maldives Academy offering Destination Specialist certification. The Visit Maldives Content Portal will showcase curated content and provide a platform for local creatives to sell digital assets, while the Visit Maldives Data Dashboard will centralise industry insights in partnership with global data leaders.

To boost its global presence, Visit Maldives will launch Visit Maldives Week in key markets, featuring media events, seminars, networking evenings, food trucks, and outdoor marketing initiatives. Targeted campaigns will focus on markets such as Germany, Dubai, India, and Russia. While the annual highlight moves from ITB Berlin to ATM Dubai, major activities will still take place in Berlin.

Building on the success of Winter is Blue, which reached 22 million unique users, Visit Maldives will strengthen collaborations with Meta and other platforms. New campaigns will target segments like MICE, solo travellers, and “bestie” getaways. The Visit Maldives Club will also launch Burunu Boma, the world’s largest sustainable fishing competition, in April-May 2025, attracting a global audience.

Visit Maldives aims to sustain consistent quarterly engagement in the top 25 markets throughout 2025, supported by major summer campaigns and a strong public relations strategy. The organisation is focused on building solid industry partnerships to drive success across all initiatives.

How Ascott builds loyalty by ensuring its members ‘stay rewarded’ with unique and exclusive experiences

By TTG Asia

January 3, 2025

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Ascott_Chelsea — Chelsea Football fans and also Ascott Star Rewards members got to meet Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola (front row, second from left)

Brought to you by The Ascott Limited

Fans of Chelsea Football Club – also Ascott Star Rewards members – with Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola (front row, second from left)

Last year, the wildest dreams of Chelsea Football Club (Chelsea) fans came true. They spent an unforgettable weekend with Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola: witnessing his football skills up close, receiving personal tips during coaching clinics, and gaining insights into his journey during an intimate fireside chat. To cap it all off, they watched the Blues in action against Aston Villa alongside Zola in an exclusive watch party.

The two-day event, hosted by Chelsea and global hospitality company The Ascott Limited (Ascott), took place at lyf Funan Singapore, the flagship property of Ascott’s experience-led social living lyf brand. Additional fringe activities were held at The Robertson House by The Crest Collection and Ascott Orchard Singapore.

This was part of The Famous CFC, Chelsea’s flagship international fan engagement event, brought to the region for the first time following Ascott’s recent appointment as the club’s Official Global Hotels Partner in July 2024. This partnership brings exclusive Chelsea experiences, including access to matches at Stamford Bridge stadium and VIP visits to The Blues Cobham Training Ground, to all members of Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) – Ascott’s loyalty programme that offers a host of elevated member experiences and hospitality packages with exceptional value, ensuring its customers “Stay Rewarded”.

Top-tier global events
As part of the ASR programme, members gain access to exclusive global events including major sporting highlights, top-class entertainment, gastronomy greats, lifestyle events and more, through the introduction of the new Ascott Privilege Signatures.

These elevated member experiences were introduced in April 2024 to celebrate the fifth-year milestone of the ASR programme. This was alongside other enhancements such as full 24-hour stays from the time of check-in, and a 48-hour room guarantee. The expanded suite of benefits also includes late check-out, milestone rewards, and airport lounge access.

Ascott Star Rewards members indulged in an afternoon of fine dining at Le Gavroche in London with renowned chef Michel Roux Jr. (standing)

At the inaugural Ascott Privilege Signatures event in London, ASR members indulged in an afternoon of fine dining at Le Gavroche with renowned chef Michel Roux Jr, alongside VIP access to the Wimbledon finals, and a prime city-centre stay at The Cavendish London.

Another Ascott Privilege Signatures event saw loyalty members invited to the exhilarating Singapore Night Race, where they had a bird’s eye view of the action, complemented by a gourmet selection of food and beverages at the Ascott Privilege Signatures Lounge at the Singapore Flyer.

Curated local experiences
In tandem with the global events offered to platinum tier members under its Ascott Privilege Signatures programme, Ascott has also launched a series of by-invite-only ASR Local Signatures to also engage and reward members through local experiences planned in key cities around the world.

In foodie paradise Penang in Malaysia, ASR members stayed at the vibrant lyf Georgetown Penang and embarked on a gastronomic journey, uncovering hidden local gems and relishing culinary delights across three other Ascott properties. They joined MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur and Penang 2024 Young Chef Award recipient Chef Johnson Wong on a local food trail, enjoyed a quick stop for local coffee, and indulged in a specially curated menu at Chef Wong’s restaurant. The adventure concluded with dinner at the stylish Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang

Members were treated to a five-course dinner and wine pairing at Sol & Luna, the rooftop restaurant and bar at Somerset Sukhumvit 71 Bangkok

Over in Bangkok, Thailand, another South-east Asian city known to be a powerhouse of local cuisine, ASR members enjoyed an exclusive culinary-focused Local Signatures event at its newly opened Somerset Sukhumvit 71 Bangkok. They had an unforgettable evening at the hotel’s Sol & Luna rooftop restaurant and bar, where they relished an exquisite five-course dinner and wine pairing. Complementing this gastronomic experience was a live violin recital and the unbeatable views from the well-located property in the vibrant yet tranquil Ekamai district. They also had the privilege of being among the first guests to stay at the property.

Singapore, too, played host to the first-ever ASR Local Signatures event, held at The Robertson House by The Crest Collection in November. Diners were treated to an interactive dining experience, with each course accompanied by a unique dance performance that drew inspiration from corporate life. Apart from gourmet experiences, ASR members based in the romantic city of Paris, France, were immersed in the fine arts. They were invited to a private concert by award-winning violinist Pilar Winter Hill at the elegant La Clef Louvre Paris by The Crest Collection.

More star-studded experiences to come
In the pipeline for the Ascott Star Rewards loyalty programme are a host of global events spanning sports, entertainment, gourmet, arts as well as lifestyle themes for its loyalty members, says Ascott. These incoming ASR perks include more exclusive experiences with Chelsea Football Club, as well as invites to first-class tennis tournaments, The French Open, Roland Garros Paris in May, and The Championships, Wimbledon in June.

ASR members can enjoy these privileges and more at Ascott properties across 14 brands in more than 30 countries. Find out more about the global loyalty programme.

IATA urges faster SAF production for net-zero aviation by 2050

By TTG Asia

January 2, 2025

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With sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) being crucial for reducing carbon emissions in aviation and transitioning to cleaner energy, new estimates from IATA show strong growth in SAF production, although it remains below previous expectations.

In 2024, SAF production reached one million tonnes, double the 0.5 million tonnes produced in 2023. SAF accounted for 0.3 per cent of global jet fuel production and 11 per cent of global renewable fuel. However, this is still below earlier projections of 1.5 million tonnes, as key SAF production facilities in the US have delayed their ramp-up to the first half of 2025. In 2025, SAF production is expected to reach 2.1 million tonnes, representing 0.7 per cent of total jet fuel production and 13 per cent of global renewable fuel capacity.

IATA calls on governments to accelerate SAF development, focusing on long-term sustainability in aviation

“SAF volumes are increasing, but disappointingly slowly. Governments are sending mixed signals to oil companies which continue to receive subsidies for their exploration and production of fossil oil and gas. Investors in new generation fuel producers seem to be waiting for guarantees of easy money before going full throttle. With airlines, the core of the value chain, earning just a 3.6 per cent net margin, profitability expectations for SAF investors need to be slow and steady, not fast and furious,” said IATA’s director general Willie Walsh.

However, he added that “airlines are eager to buy SAF and there is money to be made by investors and companies who see the long-term future of decarbonisation”.

He stressed: “Governments can accelerate progress by winding down fossil fuel production subsidies and replacing them with strategic production incentives and clear policies supporting a future built on renewable energies, including SAF.”

IATA’s senior vice president sustainability and chief economist Marie Owens Thomsen echoed the sentiment, stating that aviation’s decarbonisation should be part of the global energy transition. Renewable fuel refineries will support various industries, with SAF as a small share, and airlines simply want access to their fair portion of renewable energy.

To achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, IATA analysis suggests that between 3,000 and 6,500 new renewable fuel plants will be required. These plants will also produce renewable diesel and other fuels for different industries. The annual capital expenditure needed to build these facilities over the next 30 years is estimated at around US$128 billion per year, in a best-case scenario. Notably, this figure is significantly lower than the US$280 billion per year invested in solar and wind energy markets between 2004 and 2022.

Governments must implement policies quickly to accelerate renewable energy production, using the wind and solar transition as a model. The energy shift, including SAF, will require less than half the investment needed for wind and solar, with much of the funding potentially coming from redirecting fossil fuel subsidies, continued Walsh.

To further accelerate SAF production and use, three key actions are needed.

First, existing refineries should be allowed to co-process up to five per cent renewable feedstocks alongside crude oil. Expanding this practice could save 347 billion pounds (US$425 billion) by 2050, as it would reduce the need for building over 260 new renewable fuel plants.

Second, while the HEFA method currently accounts for around 80 per cent of SAF production, increasing investments in alternative certified pathways like Alcohol-to-Jet and Fischer-Tropsch, which use biological and agricultural waste, would help boost SAF volumes.

Finally, creating a global SAF accounting framework is essential. A transparent registry would allow airlines to track and claim the environmental benefits of their SAF purchases, ensuring a well-functioning global SAF market and preventing double counting.

Australia’s tourism boom and the shifting trends transforming the industry

By TTG Asia

January 2, 2025

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Australia’s tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable renaissance, with both domestic and international travel surpassing pre-pandemic levels, according to a report by Canvas8.

The How Shifting Trends Are Shaping the Tourist Boom Down Under report was authored by Gwyneth King and includes expert commentary from Sofia Geraghty, deputy editor of Travel Weekly Australia, and Gina Gaw, a veteran inbound travel agency manager with over 20 years of industry experience.

Australia remains a top destination for those seeking adventure, nature, and unique cultural experiences

The report highlights that, as one of the world’s most diverse and stunning destinations, Australia continues to attract visitors seeking adventure, a connection with nature, and unforgettable cultural experiences. However, this new wave of tourism is driven by shifting travel preferences, particularly among younger generations and international visitors from the Asia-Pacific region.

Increased interest in once-in-a-lifetime experiences, a growing desire for authenticity, and the rise of bleisure travel – which combines business and leisure – are all driving the tourism boom Down Under. Insights from industry experts provide a deeper understanding of how brands can adapt to these shifting trends and meet the evolving demands of today’s tourists, offering a glimpse into the future of Australia’s tourism sector.

Young Aussies embrace experiential travel
Among the most noticeable trends in Australia’s tourism sector is the growing inclination of younger Australians to prioritise travel over traditional financial milestones, such as homeownership. According to recent reports, 71% of Aussies under 30 prefer spending their money on vacations rather than investing in property. For these young travellers, the appeal of nature-centric experiences and proximity to coastal areas is undeniable, with 64% seeking out natural adventures and 59% favouring destinations near the coast.

Fuelled by social media and the continued rise of post-lockdown ‘revenge travel’, young Australians are willing to invest in unique and transformative travel opportunities, Geraghty noted. More and more, this generation is choosing to trade future savings for once-in-a-lifetime experiences, eager to live in the moment.

This change in mindset has also led to an unexpected surge in interest in cruise vacations. Once primarily associated with older generations and families, cruises are now attracting younger age groups. Destinations like North Queensland, Tasmania, and Sydney are popular among this younger crowd looking for affordable, convenient ways to explore.

A rise in international tourism from the Asia-Pacific
Australia’s tourism sector is also benefiting from a growing influx of international visitors, particularly from the Asia-Pacific region. Tourism Australia’s Come and Say G’day campaign, launched in 2022, has helped boost awareness and engagement, especially in key markets like Indonesia, and Singapore, with 73% and 48% from each country, respectively, planning a visit. Notably too, Indian travellers have also surged to record numbers, with 402,200 Indian visitors arriving in the year between February 2023 and January 2024 – surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Gaw attributed this surge to several factors, including the country’s proximity and ease of access for Asia-Pacific visitors. The rise in direct flights from India to Australia and the introduction of three-year, multiple-entry visas has significantly eased travel for Indian tourists.

Additionally, Australia’s expanding network of international flights, including Qantas’s partnership with IndiGo, has made it easier for travellers from India to explore key Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Luxury tourists and the allure of nature
In an era where personal enrichment and meaningful travel are highly valued, luxury tourists are flocking to Australia for its exclusive, nature-infused experiences. Australia is the most anticipated destination for Asia-Pacific luxury travellers, with 46% planning to visit the country in the next 12 months. These high-end travellers are drawn not only to the country’s vibrant cities but also to its pristine natural landscapes. From luxury lodges to immersive Aboriginal-guided experiences, Australia offers something for every taste and budget.

Travellers are seeking restorative, meaningful connections with the environment. Australia’s diverse ecosystems, including its 12 Natural World Heritage Sites, offer transformative experiences for those looking for more than just a vacation.

The growing demand for authentic and sustainable travel
With a focus on sustainability, 95% of Indian travellers prioritise eco-friendly practices when planning trips. While this interest in sustainability is strong, Geraghty noted that it does not always translate into a willingness to spend extra money on green alternatives. Still, there is an increasing appetite for experiences that foster genuine connections with local communities.

To respond to this demand, Tourism Australia recently launched an Aboriginal Culture and Australia Highlights tour, focusing on cultural education and indigenous empowerment. This immersive 13-day experience is designed to honour the heritage and natural beauty of Australia, giving travellers an authentic and transformative journey.

Geraghty pointed out that brands offering sustainable and community-centred experiences are likely to attract more loyal customers.

Opportunities for brands
As Australia’s tourism industry continues to flourish, brands have numerous opportunities to connect with both domestic and international visitors. To capture the interest of young Aussies, brands should focus on offering value-driven experiences that cater to a generation eager for meaningful and affordable travel. Additionally, promoting sustainable and culturally immersive experiences will resonate with international tourists seeking authenticity.

For the growing luxury travel market, providing exclusive experiences that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in Australia’s natural beauty will be key. From eco-lodges to tailored, once-in-a-lifetime adventures, the demand for high-quality, nature-based travel experiences is set to rise.

Nick Morris, founder and managing director of Canvas8, said: “Australia’s tourism sector is at a pivotal moment in its growth, fuelled by shifting consumer desires and an increasingly globalised travel market. By embracing these trends and responding to the needs of today’s travellers, brands can help shape the future of Australian tourism for years to come.”

View the full report here.

Norwegian Cruise Line introduces new guest experiences on Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Breakaway

By TTG Asia

January 2, 2025

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Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Breakaway will undergo major updates, including the new Silver Screen Bistro, Horizon Park, expanded dining options like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Teppanyaki, and enhanced accommodations in The Haven by Norwegian.

After Norwegian Bliss‘ dry dock from January 17 to February 2, guests can enjoy Horizon Park, a new outdoor venue which will feature lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga, plus reclining loungers for sunbathing.

Norwegian Breakaway enhancements start February 19, before immersive European itineraries

Norwegian Bliss will update its Premiere Owner’s Suites to include three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a separate dining room, and fully refurbished living areas, master bedrooms, and outdoor balcony furnishings. Additionally, 24 new balcony staterooms and two club balcony staterooms will be added by repurposing part of the Observation Lounge on deck 15.

Due to guest demand, Norwegian Bliss will enhance public areas with an expanded Cagney’s Steakhouse (replacing Los Lobos), an enlarged Teppanyaki (replacing Coco’s), and the introduction of Palomar, a seafood specialty restaurant from Norwegian Prima. After a two-week dry dock, the ship will begin a 13-day journey from Southampton to Miami on February 2, followed by Western Caribbean and Mexican Riviera cruises, and its Alaska season starting in April 2025.

Norwegian Breakaway will undergo enhancements from February 19 to March 14, 2025. The ship will introduce the Silver Screen Bistro, an immersive movie and dining experience for all ages featuring oversized recliners, retractable tables, and a menu of shareable handheld items, including select dishes from the global fusion restaurant, Food Republic. This will replace the existing Spiegel Tent.

Like Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Breakaway will debut Horizon Park, an outdoor recreation area offering 360-degree ocean views. This al fresco space will also include a large stage for live music and entertainment, providing guests with a vibrant space to enjoy performances with family, friends, and fellow cruisers.

Due to its popularity on the Prima Class ships, Norwegian Breakaway will introduce The Stadium, a complimentary outdoor activity space offering family-friendly games. Additionally, the guest-favourite Cagney’s Steakhouse will replace Moderno Churrascaria, providing more seating, while Ocean Blue will be transformed into Palomar. The Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only outdoor venue, and The Haven Sundeck will be expanded with more seating and cabanas, offering guests enhanced views of the sea and destinations.

After a three-week dry dock, Norwegian Breakaway will embark on a variety of European itineraries from Barcelona, Spain, and Venice (Trieste), Italy, visiting cities such as Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Palma (Majorca), Cannes, Corfu, and more.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of tropical cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas from over 10 ports, including Miami, Orlando (Port Canaveral), New York, and San Juan. These sailings visit destinations like St. John’s (Antigua), Bridgetown (Barbados), Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), Harvest Caye (Belize), and the private island Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas), which will debut a new pier in late 2025.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s president David J. Herrera said: “From creating new concepts that offer more outdoor gathering spaces for making memories with friends and family, to expanding dining options that consistently bring joy to our guests across our fleet, we’re providing more to do and more to enjoy for all types of travellers.”

Hong Kong Tourism Board welcomes new development blueprint for tourism industry

By TTG Asia

January 2, 2025

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Following the announcement of the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau on December 30, Pang Yiu-kai, chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), expressed strong support for the initiative. He highlighted that HKTB will fully commit to implementing the measures outlined in the blueprint.

He stated that the blueprint “provides crystal-clear strategic guidelines for the long-term growth of Hong Kong’s tourism, which is imperative for driving the sustainable development of the industry” and that it also “encourages cross-departmental and cross-industry partnerships at various levels, consolidating the efforts across the city to further establish Hong Kong as a world-class travel destination and international tourism hub”.

The Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 outlines a strategic plan for the sector’s sustainable growth and long-term success

HKTB will leverage its team’s expertise and global network to support the measures in the blueprint. The organisation will work closely with the travel trade to maximise the economic contribution of tourism. HKTB has long promoted Hong Kong’s unique offerings through its “+tourism” experiences, such as the ongoing optimisation of the Hong Kong Neighbourhoods campaign, which has encouraged the travel trade to develop related tourism products.

Furthermore, HKTB has tapped into the potential of the Muslim travel segment, launching initiatives to educate the trade and encourage the enhancement of Muslim-friendly facilities and certification, to better serve this growing visitor segment.

Pang added: “As we welcome the commissioning of Kai Tak Sports Park and the third runway at Hong Kong International Airport, the gradual recovery of air capacity, combined with Hong Kong’s unparalleled edge as a Super-connector between the Mainland and overseas cities, I have great confidence in the outlook for Hong Kong’s tourism industry.”

Taiwan reaches welcoming hand out to Manila

By TTG Asia

December 30, 2024

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The Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) has opened the doors to its Taiwan Tourism Information Center (TTIC) in Manila, all with the intention of providing direct tourism services to the Philippine market and hoping to attract more Filipino tourists to Taiwan.

TTA regards the Philippine market as an important one, and has adopted a dual strategy of public relations through celebrity ambassadors and travel agency incentive programmes.

Taiwan Tourism Information Center in Manila works to deepen Taiwan’s destination image in the Philippine travel market

These efforts have led to impressive growth in tourist arrivals this year. TTA data showed more than 378,000 Filipino tourists visited Taiwan by the end of October 2024 – a 35 per cent increase over the same period in 2023. The Philippines ranks top among South-east Asian source markets for Taiwan.

TTA director Ben Huang stated that Taiwan offers ease of access – flight duration between Taiwan and the Philippines is only two hours while there are hundreds of flights every week with convenient schedules.

TTIC will endeavour to deepen Taiwan’s destination image in the Philippine travel market.

Thailand surpasses 2024 arrivals targets

By TTG Asia

December 30, 2024

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Thailand has surpassed its target of 35 million visitors in 2024 a few days ahead of the year’s end, establishing a landmark achievement that highlights the country’s strong tourism rebound and setting the foundation for an even greater year ahead.

The strong international tourist arrivals performance comes with 1.8 trillion Baht (US$53 billion).

Thailand welcomed 35,047,501 visitors from January 1 to December 27, 2024

Tourism Authority of Thailand governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool credited this achievement to strategic government initiatives that enhanced Thailand’s appeal as a world-class destination.

Key policies included the visa exemption for citizens of 93 countries, allowing stays of up to 60 days, and the elimination of TM.6 immigration forms at 16 key border crossings, streamlining entry processes. These measures significantly improved travel convenience, encouraging more visitors to choose Thailand.

The aviation sector also played a vital role, with international airlines resuming routes and introducing new ones from primary and secondary cities worldwide. This expansion increased total airline seat capacity into Thailand to 47 million in 2024 – a 26 per cent rise compared to 2023. Over 311 additional flights were scheduled during the December high season, adding over 70,000 seats.

Adding to Thailand’s appeal were high-profile events and festivals, as well as attractions inspired by popular TV series, music videos, and movie filming locations.

With 2025 declared the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year, the tourism authorities have set targets of between 36 and 39 million in international arrivals and 1.98 to 2.23 trillion Baht in tourism revenue.

Tourism Authority of Thailand aims to build on 2024’s strong tourism momentum by hosting even more world-class events and festivals, showcasing unique Thai cultural experiences, enhancing travel convenience and offering exclusive visitor benefits, and collaborating with global influencers to amplify Thailand’s appeal.

From Changi to the world

By Caroline Boey

December 30, 2024

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shutterstock_2390792531_rgb — Singapore Changi Airport’s refreshed Terminal 2

Admired far and wide, multi-award-winning Singapore Changi Airport has embedded its genetic code in more than 20 countries and 60 airports globally via strategic partnerships with Changi Airports International (CAI).

CAI is a leading airport investor, manager and consulting firm that designs bespoke integrated solutions to help clients and partners fulfil their potential to become world-class airports.

Singapore Changi Airport’s refreshed Terminal 2

Incorporated in 2004, CAI is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Changi Airport Group. Its global expertise spans the Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas.

Its CEO, Eugene Gan, said: “Airports are a vital part of a country’s infrastructure, intricately linked to economic growth and development.To unlock an airport’s full potential, careful master planning and investment in operational capabilities is important.”

New business for CAI In 2023 included two agreements with Cairo Airport Company to jointly develop Cairo International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Africa and the largest airport in Egypt by passenger and cargo traffic.

Later that year, CAI completed a six-month consultancy agreement in Uzbekistan to improve the operation and management of Tashkent International Airport.

In February, CAI sealed a technical partnership agreement with Sociedade Gestora de Aeroportos to strengthen the performance of 16 regional airports in the Republic of Angola through new corporate and traffic strategies. This was followed by agreements with Vietnam’s Cam Ranh International Joint Stock Company to manage Cam Ranh International Terminal’s non-aeronautical businesses and to support the growth of Cam Ranh International Airport’s global route development.

That month, CAI also completed the master plan review for Velana International Airport in Maldives.

Shortly after, CAI and Wuxi Airport Group embarked on a new joint venture (JV) to uplift Wuxi Shuofang International Airport’s non-aeronautical business. The JV company will have exclusive concessionary rights for 20 years, and the five key areas comprise retail (including duty-free shops), F&B, advertising, car park and passenger services at the airport’s passenger terminals.

CAI’s overseas airport investments comprise a 51 per cent stake in the concessionaire that operates Tom Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

In China, CAI has a 49 per cent stake in Sino-Singapore Chongqing Airport Commercial Management. This JV with Chongqing Airport Group manages the non-aeronautical business of Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, including multi-brand retail space Starry Galleria.

Velana International Airport, the Maldives

In India, CAI has a 30 per cent stake in Bengal Aerotropolis Projects Limited, developer of Durgapur Aerotropolis, the country’s first privately managed airport city. Durgapur enjoys direct connections to five metro cities – Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai – via daily flights from Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport.

CAI also holds a 15 per cent stake in Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp., operator and manager of Clark International Airport in the Philippines.

New hotels: NH Collection Samui Peace Resort, Moire Hoi An and more

By TTG Asia

December 27, 2024

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NH Collection Samui Peace Resort, Thailand
NH Collection Samui Peace Resort, situated on Bophut Beach, has reopened with 122 rooms, suites, and villas, set between lush hills and golden sands, near the Fisherman’s Village.

Accommodation includes Garden View Rooms with al fresco tubs, Family Suites with bunk beds, and Pool Suites with private pools. The resort’s 42m² villas and beachfront villas with plunge pools are key highlights, along with the 230m² Presidential Pool Villa.

Guests can enjoy one of the area’s largest freeform pools, dining venues, a fitness centre, kids’ club, as well as classes like Muay Thai, yoga, and cooking. In addition, Bophut Bay’s sheltered setting makes it an ideal location for weddings and events, be it for a beachside banquet for 200 guests or an intimate Thai water blessing ceremony for close family and friends.

Moire Hoi An, Vietnam
Moire Hoi An is a 128-key resort along the Hoai River, offering views of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage ancient town.

Guests can experience Vietnamese coffee culture at The Yellow Bicycle, learning traditional brewing methods like Phin filter coffee and egg coffee. The resort also partners with a local school to support art programmes and preserve Hoi An’s cultural heritage.

Dining options include a modern Vietnamese deli, an American BBQ with Asian flavours, and a bar. The property also features a spa, and an infinity pool overlooking the river.

Habyt Kada at Maxwell, Singapore
Habyt Kada at Maxwell in Tanjong Pagar offers flexible stays with provided amenities, including a performance gym, wellness centre, co-working space, and social areas for networking.

Located in a 1920s heritage building, it features 18 rooms, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, each with a kitchenette. The property is steps from Maxwell Food Centre, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and MRT stations.

The ground floor hosts shops and eateries, the second floor offers wellness zones, and the third floor features a co-working space and curated rooms. Guests enjoy unlimited access to wellness facilities like cold plunges, infrared saunas, and hot tubs.

Wafaifo Resort Hoi An, Vietnam
Wafaifo Resort Hoi An is a boutique hotel offering 135 rooms and suites, an all-day bistro, spa, fitness centre, coffee shop, and a Heritage and Culture Pathway.

The resort is also just a 10-minute walk from Hoi An’s historic attractions.

Maldives aims for US$5 billion in tourism revenue in 2025

How Ascott builds loyalty by ensuring its members ‘stay rewarded’ with unique and exclusive experiences

IATA urges faster SAF production for net-zero aviation by 2050

Australia’s tourism boom and the shifting trends transforming the industry

Norwegian Cruise Line introduces new guest experiences on Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Breakaway

Hong Kong Tourism Board welcomes new development blueprint for tourism industry

Taiwan reaches welcoming hand out to Manila

Thailand surpasses 2024 arrivals targets

From Changi to the world

New hotels: NH Collection Samui Peace Resort, Moire Hoi An and more

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