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Asia/Singapore Wednesday, 24th December 2025
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Page 174

Hong Kong Tourism Board welcomes new development blueprint for tourism industry

By TTG Asia
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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
0

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
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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
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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
0
NH Collection Samui Peace Resort

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

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

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

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.

Millennium’s global reach, local touch

By S Puvaneswary
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The lobby of M Social Hotel New York Times Square

Headquartered in Singapore, Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ (MHR) strategic expansion into global markets, marked by its commitment to providing tailored experiences, has solidified its presence across 145 properties worldwide.

Saurabh Prakash, interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer, MHR, said: “We saw immense potential in cities like London, New York, and Dubai, where the synergy between business and leisure tourism aligned with our offerings.”

The lobby of M Social Hotel New York Times Square

This international expansion has helped MHR tap into new source markets, which has “significantly strengthened” the company’s business in Asia.

He related: “Dubai is a key source market for our properties in London, attracting high-end travellers from the Middle East to our UK hotels, such as The Biltmore Mayfair and The Bailey’s Hotel London.”

Meanwhile, US and UK travellers represent “crucial source markets” for MHR’s hotels in Singapore, such as Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel and M Social Singapore.

“Our learnings from the competitive markets of Europe and the US have allowed us to fine-tune our offerings in Asia, ensuring we stay ahead of trends and continue delivering top-tier experiences,” he pointed out.

This global recognition has also helped to bring about increased referrals to MHR’s Asian properties, particularly among frequent travellers, as well as the brand’s loyalty programme members.

“The familiarity of these travellers with MHR from their stays abroad makes them more likely to choose our properties when they visit Asia, boosting our performance in the region,” he explained.

The MyMillennium loyalty programme, with its global benefits and incentives, plays a pivotal role in fostering this cross-border engagement.

“We recognise the importance of a robust loyalty programme, which is why we are taking steps to revamp MyMillennium to introduce more benefits and rewards to our loyal members,” shared Prakash.

However, expansion is more than just opening more hotels, it is also about creating sustainable travel experiences that benefit guests.

He said: “Our approach is  never to be ‘cookie-cutter’. Each of our hotel is fresh, surprising, and tailored to the local environment, ensuring that guests experience something unique with every stay.”

MHR also prides itself on its ability to “seamlessly blend the warmth of Asian hospitality with the comfort and expectations of Western standards”.

“This balance allows us to maintain our brand identity while also adapting to the cultural nuances and preferences of each market,” he added.

Traveloka’s latest study reveals shifting travel trends in Asia-Pacific

By TTG Asia
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Traveloka, in partnership with YouGov, has released its latest study Travel Redefined: Understanding and Catering to the Diverse Needs of APAC Travellers, which draws insights from nearly 12,000 respondents across nine countries.

From shifting travel motivations to the rise of digital platforms, these insights reveal the trends transforming Asia-Pacific’s diverse travel market and provide actionable guidance for businesses to thrive in 2025 and beyond.

Asia-Pacific travellers seek a range of experiences, from rest and adventure to culture, nature, and cuisine, reflecting the region’s diverse vacation preferences

Across the region, Asia-Pacific travellers pack their bags and hit the road for a variety of reasons, but five categories consistently top the list: travel to rest and recharge, travel to visit tourist attractions, travel to be immersed in nature, travel to experience other local cultures, and travel to try different types of cuisine.

When travelling for leisure, Asia-Pacific respondents display distinct preferences for their vacation destinations, reflecting the diversity of the region. Three examples that highlight these varying preferences include 75% of Indonesians seek outdoor adventure, listing attractions like mountains and nature reserves as their top destinations; 62% of Japanese lean towards historical or cultural experiences, such as museums and castles; and 59% of Vietnamese favour coastal escapes, preferring beaches and resorts for their getaways.

Beyond motivation and destination preferences, factors such as technology adoption, sustainability concerns, and payment preferences exert a strong influence on how travellers plan and experience their journeys, shaping the broader trends in the region.

“Asia-Pacific is bursting with opportunities, but its diversity demands creativity and nuance. Understanding the unique needs of this diverse market is critical for travel providers seeking to thrive in this dynamic travel landscape. Success lies in weaving these insights into innovative strategies, bringing travellers closer to the experiences they seek,” said Caesar Indra, president of Traveloka.

The full study is available for download here.

Accor expands its footprint in Goa with new luxury hotel projects

By TTG Asia
0

Accor has partnered with Dangayach Group to develop two new luxury hotels in Goa, India: Raffles Goa Shiroda, featuring 120 luxury villas, and the 400-room Fairmont Goa Shiroda. Scheduled to open by 2030, both hotels will share a beachfront club and offer unique experiences reflecting the brands’ distinct identities.

Both hotels will feature a variety of dining options, wellness and fitness facilities, pools, and retail offerings. For events, weddings, and conferences, the properties will provide multi-purpose ballrooms, meeting rooms, and bridal suites.

From left: Dangayach Group’s Atul Dangayach and Raffles and Fairmont’s Omer Acar

Raffles Goa Shiroda will showcase the brand’s signature features such as the Long Bar and Raffles’ Butler Service, while Fairmont Goa Shiroda will focus on connecting guests to the destination through personalised experiences and special moments.

Both properties will be developed according to Accor’s ESG guidelines, adhering to energy performance reporting tools, sustainability standards, and third-party eco-certifications.

Accor remains committed to expanding its presence in India, having recently opened several new hotels, including Raffles Jaipur, Grand Mercure Goa Candolim, Mercure Chandigarh, ibis Styles Mysuru, and Novotel Goa.

Raffles and Fairmont’s CEO Omer Acar commented: “This dual-branded project presents a wonderful opportunity to grow our luxury hospitality offerings in the region, and to work with Dangayach Group. Together, we are confident that these new luxury resorts will add excitement and new frontiers for travellers as well as locals.”

“We believe Goa presents a remarkable growth opportunity, and these two new properties are set to redefine luxury and establish Goa as a premier global destination for weddings, events and leisure travel. Goa’s rich culture and natural beauty provide the perfect setting for this new chapter in hospitality. The new Raffles and Fairmont resorts will bring cultural authenticity, world-class service, and their extraordinary guest experiences that will not only put an international spotlight on Goa but will infuse the community with a sense of prestige, purpose and excitement,” said Atul Dangayach, managing director, Dangayach Group.

Aviation roundup: West Air, Hong Kong Airlines and more

By TTG Asia
0
West Air

West Air launches new Lhasa-Chongqing-Singapore route
Starting December 25, West Air will launch a new international route connecting Lhasa, Chongqing, and Singapore, aimed at boosting cultural exchanges between western China and Singapore. This marks the first international route since the renaming of Lhasa Gongga International Airport.

Operated by an Airbus A319, the route will run three times a week, with outbound flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and return flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Hong Kong Airlines

Hong Kong Airlines kicks off direct flights to Sendai, Japan
Hong Kong Airlines celebrated its inaugural flight to Sendai, Japan, on December 18, providing travellers with convenient access to the Tohoku region.

Sendai is now the airline’s ninth scheduled destination in Japan, with three direct flights per week.

The service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, with flexible morning departure times.

A ceremony was held at the boarding gate to mark the occasion before the inaugural flight took off.

Philippine Airlines

PAL reopens Cebu-Osaka service
Philippine Airlines (PAL) relaunched its direct Cebu-Osaka flights on December 22, operated with a 199-seater Airbus A321ceo.

The Cebu-Osaka service will operate three times a week (Monday, Thursday, and Sunday) from December 22, 2024, to February 24, 2025. Starting February 26, 2025, the service will increase to four weekly flights, with an additional Wednesday departure.

This relaunched service complements PAL’s twice-daily flights between Manila and Osaka, as well as other international connections from Cebu, including daily flights to Seoul (Incheon) and thrice-weekly flights to Bangkok.

Plaza Premium Group becomes first IATA accessibility partner

By TTG Asia
0

In its mission to ensure safe, reliable, and dignified travel for all passengers, especially those with disabilities, Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has been recognised as the world’s first IATA Strategic Partner in Accessibility.

This recognition highlights PPG’s commitment to delivering inclusive, thoughtful services that meet the needs of every traveller.

PPG’s ALLWAYS offers a comprehensive suite of services in a cohesive, accessible package that prioritises convenience and personalised support for all travellers

PPG pioneered inclusive airport hospitality with its ALLWAYS brand, launched in 2012. ALLWAYS offers a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance the travel experience, including meet and assist, porter service, wheelchair assistance, and concierge services, catering to a wide variety of traveller needs. Committed to accessibility for all, ALLWAYS ensures its services are available to every traveller, not just those flying in premium classes.

To further optimise its operations and enhance the travel experience, ALLWAYS uses oneTECO (One Travel Experience Ecosystem), an omnichannel booking engine developed by PPG – a key initiative under the group’s US$10 million technology investment.

This platform centralises all airport passenger services, enabling travellers to easily book services online prior to arriving at the airport. By streamlining the booking process for both consumers and business operators, it ensures a more seamless and user-friendly experience.

“This pioneering recognition extends beyond the validation of our commitment, it represents a transformative step in our mission to ensure exceptional travel experiences are universally accessible to all passengers, with full inclusion. Through this strategic partnership, we’re proudly setting new standards for inclusive travel and airport hospitality,” stated Bora Isbulan, deputy CEO of PPG.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Cross Hotels to develop Bali Uluwatu Resort
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