TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Tuesday, 7th April 2026
Page 175

Malaysia introduces turtle discovery experience to boost conservation

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Tourism Malaysia has launched the Turtle Discovery Experience, an eco-tourism initiative that allows travellers to explore Malaysia’s marine wildlife while supporting the conservation of endangered green sea turtles, including participating in their release into the wild.

This two-day, one-night package takes guests to Redang Island, located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Terengganu. The island is known for its clear waters, beaches, coral reefs, and opportunities to observe marine wildlife, including sea turtles.

The Turtle Discovery Experience lets participants support green sea turtle conservation while exploring Malaysia’s vibrant marine life

The Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary, located on Redang Island in the South China Sea, is a key nesting site for sea turtles, particularly the endangered baby green sea turtle. Visitors can learn about marine life and join in conservation efforts, including releasing baby green sea turtles into the sea, offering a rewarding experience while helping protect these turtles.

The sanctuary was designated a protected area by the Terengganu state government in 2005, and hosts between 700 and 1,700 turtle nests annually, with peak nesting from May to July. It focuses on protecting Green and Hawksbill turtles through population monitoring and nest protection.

The Turtle Discovery Trip offers a unique eco-tourism experience for families, friends, and groups of up to 150 people. The trip includes return transfers from Kuantan and stays in a three-star hotel with breakfast. From there, guests travel to Redang Island, where they can take part in sea turtle conservation efforts, including releasing baby green turtles to help protect the species – a hands-on experience that supports marine life preservation.

The trip also allows visitors to explore Malaysia’s coastal ecosystems, far from crowded areas – a great way to learn about marine heritage while making a positive impact on conservation.

Prices start from just 99 pounds (US$126.95) per person, based on two sharing on a bed and breakfast basis.

This offer ends on July 31, 2025.

For more information, visit Turtle Discovery Experience.

Fukuoka Airport starts work on new commercial complex as expansion continues

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Work begins this month on a new large-scale commercial complex at Fukuoka Airport in northern Kyushu, part of the ongoing expansion of the hub amid an increase in passengers.

Fukuoka is Japan’s fourth busiest airport, handling 25 million passengers in fiscal 2023, following Haneda, Narita, and Kansai, according to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Fukuoka Airport embarks on a new 11-storey project, aimed at expanding retail and hospitality offerings to meet growing demand

The development follows the opening of a second runway at the airport in March to ease congestion. With both runways, the airport can now accommodate 188,000 take-off and landing slots annually, up from 176,000 in 2024.

The new runway will primarily be used for international flight take-offs. A new airport control tower, along with a renovated international passenger terminal, were also completed last month.

Now, efforts are focused on the new complex, scheduled to open in summer 2027. The 11-storey facility will feature 180 new shops, bringing the total number of shops at the airport to about 270, making it one of the largest retail centres of any airport in Japan.

With the theme of a “travelling airport,” the F&B offerings will showcase Fukuoka’s local delicacies and Asian cuisine, reflecting the city’s role as a gateway to the continent.

The upper floors of the building will house the 165-room Solaria Nishitestu Hotel, a boutique brand focused on business and leisure travel, with direct airport access.

“This will truly be a year of growth,” said Shinji Tagawa, president of Fukuoka International Airport.

Hyatt plans seven 2025 openings in India and South-west Asia

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Hyatt Hotels Corporation is building on its 2024 deal momentum with an expansion plan that includes seven new hotels set to open in 2025. This follows the signing of agreements for 21 new properties across India and South-west Asia in 2024, strengthening Hyatt’s position in the region.

Looking ahead, Hyatt’s growth in 2025 will include new properties in Ghaziabad, Kasauli, Kochi, Bhopal, Vithalapur, Jaipur, and Butwal (Nepal). These locations represent a mix of business, religious, and leisure travel, catering to both domestic and international travellers.

Hyatt is expanding in India and Nepal, with a target of 100 hotels in India by 2029; Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru, pictured

Hyatt aims to have 100 hotels in India within the next five years, contributing to the country’s expanding hospitality sector.

Hyatt’s 2024 growth included key signings across various segments. The company plans hotels in business hubs like Gift City, Greater Noida, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. It is also expanding into leisure and cultural destinations such as Vrindavan, Kumbhalgarh, Katra, Kandaghat, Jim Corbett National Park, and Pushkar, as well as popular getaway spots like Goa and Jaipur.

Hyatt is also growing its Lifestyle Portfolio in India with new Andaz and JdV by Hyatt properties, and expanded in Nepal with two new signings with plans to introduce its 10th brand in India, Destination by Hyatt.

Hyatt currently operates 52 hotels across South-west Asia, with 50 in India and two in Nepal, covering nine distinct brands. The company recently reached the milestone of 10,000 keys in the region.

“2024 marked a watershed year for Hyatt in India and South-west Asia, with unprecedented growth and the successful signing of 21 new properties across diverse markets,” said Sunjae Sharma, managing director, India & Southwest Asia, Hyatt.

“As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on this momentum with even more aggressive expansion plans, and a goal of 100 hotels in India within the next five years reflecting our confidence in the region’s potential and our commitment to being a leader in the hospitality industry in India.”

Resorts World Sentosa, Marriot International introduce The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort

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Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) will host Singapore’s first The Luxury Collection branded property, set to open in 3Q2025. Developed in collaboration with Marriott International, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, will offer a private, all-suite hotel with 183 rooms, available for bookings from May 2025.

Named after the laurel leaves traditionally used to crown victors, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, is a five-storey hotel with 183 suites, located at the edge of a tropical forest next to RWS.

The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort blends Singapore’s tropical charm with colonial elegance, offering guests a luxurious home away from home; photo by Resorts World Sentosa

The resort offers 183 suites across five floors, along with courtyard spaces and a function room for events and ceremonies. Each suite is designed with quality bedding, furnishings, and simple monochromatic accents. The property also includes a bar, outdoor swimming pool, spa, and an all-day dining restaurant.

Embracing the idea that the best journeys bring one home, this space welcomes guests like the residence of a traveller. Blending Singapore’s tropical charm with colonial style, it offers guests a place to explore and enjoy a home away from home.

Tan Hee Teck, CEO of RWS, stated: “The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, embodies the very essence of our ongoing pivot to offer curated destination experiences as part of RWS’ transformational expansion plans. We are thrilled to invite guests to immerse themselves in Singapore’s rich heritage, reconnect with the captivating beauty of Sentosa’s lush flora and fauna while experiencing RWS’ hallmark hospitality, defined by unparalleled sophistication, outstanding quality and innovation.”

“Marriott International is pleased to collaborate with RWS to introduce The Luxury Collection brand to Singapore. Drawing inspiration from Singapore’s storied past and rich cultural heritage, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, will celebrate the essence of the city, and we look forward to welcoming global explorers and collectors to experience Singapore’s captivating charm through the lens of our brand,” said Rajeev Menon, president, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.

Cordelia Cruises expands fleet with two ships from Norwegian Cruise Line

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Cordelia Cruises, India’s premier cruise line, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) have officially signed an agreement for the transfer of Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun to Cordelia’s growing fleet.

These additions mark a significant milestone in Cordelia’s journey to make cruise holidays more accessible, aspirational, and world-class for Indian travellers.

Cordelia Cruises adds Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun to its fleet

Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun, both part of NCL’s Sun-class series, bring with them a legacy of world-class cruising, thoughtful design, and guest comfort. Each ship is capable of accommodating around 2,000 guests and 900 crew members. Together, they will more than double Cordelia’s current capacity and enable the brand to explore new regions and offer broader, more immersive cruise experiences.

One of the most significant upgrades with this expansion is the improved mix of stateroom categories. Both ships feature over 1,000 cabins each, including a selection of accommodation from solo staterooms to balconies and suites. Guests can look forward to an elevated onboard experience with multiple speciality dining venues, theatre and entertainment venues, casinos, wellness centre, shops, arcade, pools, sun decks, fitness zone, and dedicated children’s and family entertainment areas. These sister ships are known for their spacious layouts, warm ambience, and versatility –catering seamlessly to both short getaways and longer destination-focused itineraries.

Since her launch in 2021, Cordelia Empress has welcomed over 600,000 guests across 450+ sailings, offering a uniquely Indian cruising experience.

Cordelia Cruises will soon announce deployment timelines and destinations for the two new ships, with plans to serve a mix of domestic and international routes. The addition of these ships will enable the cruise line to reach more ports across India, South-east Asia, and the Middle East, opening doors to longer itineraries, increased frequency, and a more diverse and enriched guest experience.

Jurgen Bailom, president and CEO of Cordelia Cruises, said: “With the addition of Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun, we are entering a new era of cruise holidays for Indian guests – one that is bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever before.”

Oceania Cruises unveils 2026-2027 Tropics & Exotics Collection

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Oceania Cruises has launched its 2026-2027 Tropics and Exotics Collection, featuring over 120 itineraries. The sailings will be available for booking from April 10.

The 2026-2027 Tropics and Exotics Collection offers a range of voyages, from one-week getaways to expansive 244-day expeditions, including Oceania Vista’s Around the World journey. The itineraries take travellers to a diverse array of destinations, from lesser-known ports in Africa and India to the Arabian Peninsula and South Pacific islands.

Oceania Vista in port of Roseau, Dominica; photo by Oceania Cruises

Designed for those looking for more than just a trip, these sailings provide the chance to explore some of the world’s most captivating regions. The collection also includes nearly 30 Grand Voyages, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the cultures and landscapes of Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and Oceania.

The 2026-2027 Tropics and Exotics Collection features a range of global voyages. In the Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Mexico, sailings aboard Oceania Marina, Oceania Vista, and Oceania Allura visit destinations like St Kitts, Bonaire, and Guadeloupe.

Oceania Insignia will explore South America, including Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo, and Patagonia, with a journey along the Amazon River. Nearly 30 sailings to Asia and Africa aboard Oceania Riviera, Oceania Nautica, Oceania Sirena, and Oceania Vista visit cities such as Hong Kong and Singapore.

South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand itineraries offer trips to islands and the Great Barrier Reef. The collection also includes Grand Voyages ranging from 17 to 68 days, with Oceania Vista hosting a 180-day Around the World cruise in 2027. Shorter regional segments are also available.

For more information, visit Oceania Cruises.

Mimaru’s Pokémon Room returns with a fresh look

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Mimaru Apartment Hotels will reopen its popular Pokémon Room on July 1 this year. With the relaunch, the number of participating locations will increase to 10 across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Reservations for the new Pokémon Room will open on April 21.

The revamped Pokémon Room reopens at Mimaru on July 1, with reservations starting April 21

The relaunch will feature a redesigned room, bringing the Pokémon world to life in a new way. This includes a life-sized Snorlax plush on the bed and Pokémon-themed walls, as well as exclusive kitchenware like Poké Ball-designed plates and mugs.

Over 100 Pokémon are featured throughout the space – water-type Pokémon decorate the bathroom, while food-loving Pokémon are found in the kitchen. Guests can also enjoy an exclusive Pokémon-themed recipe set, available only in Mimaru’s Pokémon Room, for a fun and interactive cooking experience.

The Mimaru Original Pokémon Room goods collection is designed for the whole family, with a touch of Japanese flair. It will include a laundry bag, drawstring bag, small purse, and stickers, with one set provided per family per reservation. The items will also feature five hidden Pokémon, offering a charming keepsake to take home.

The Pokémon Rooms are available at the following locations: Mimaru Tokyo Ueno East, Mimaru Tokyo Hatchobori, Mimaru Tokyo Ginza East, Mimaru Tokyo Kinshicho (new), Mimaru Tokyo Ikebukuro (new), Mimaru Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo, Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo, Mimaru Kyoto Nishinotoin Takatsuji, Mimaru Kyoto Station, and Mimaru Osaka Namba North.

Updates will be available on the website on April 21.

For more information, visit Mimaru.

Sunway Hospitality Group welcomes Alex Castaldi as CEO

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Sunway Hospitality Group has appointed Alex Castaldi as CEO to lead its expansion.

In his new role, Castaldi will focus on expanding Sunway’s global presence and integrating hospitality with other Sunway Group sectors. He also oversees Sunway Travel and is committed to talent development, serving as an adjunct professor of practice at Sunway University’s School of Hospitality & Service Management.

With extensive experience in luxury resorts across Asia and the Middle East, he previously served as senior general manager of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Hotels, where he oversaw the transformation of Sunway Resort Hotel.

Prior to joining Sunway in 2017, Alex held senior roles at luxury resorts in Bali, Thailand, the Philippines, Seychelles, and Dubai, working with renowned brands such as Shangri-La, Banyan Tree, Anantara, and the Jumeirah Group.

Maldives targets global sports fans with new tourism initiative

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The Maldives is tapping into the massive fan bases of two popular sporting giants in a new effort to spur more tourist interest in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

Last month, the Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC) signed sponsorship agreements with the UK’s Liverpool Football Club (LFC) and India’s Mumbai Indians cricket team to promote the country’s tourist attractions and increase footfall from the UK, India, and around the world.

The Maldives partners with Liverpool FC and Mumbai Indians to attract millions of global sports fans and boost tourism

“This is not sports tourism; we are not attracting teams to play in the Maldives. What we hope to achieve is attracting thousands of fans of these two clubs to visit the Maldives,” said MMPRC chairman Abdulla Ghiyas. The two sports clubs represent millions of fans across the world, he added.

Ghiyas told TTG Asia that the LFC deal is a 3.5-year partnership starting in August, coinciding with the next British football season. He explained that Liverpool positions itself as a premium brand, making this a collaboration between two premium brands – the Maldives and Liverpool.

With the partnership, the Maldives aims to increase its awareness and visibility through the club’s growing social media platforms, which have more than 200 million global followers. Last season alone, Liverpool registered nearly 12 billion views and 1.5 billion fan engagements, the highest of any English league club. Liverpool is also the most-watched team globally in the league, with a cumulative audience of 471 million last season, a trend that has continued into the current season.

While the Mumbai Indians deal targets just the Indian Premier League, the Liverpool deal is different.

“Every (Liverpool) home-and-away match, we would have access to the LEDs (giant billboards) plus all their material, their website, social outlets,” Ghiyas explained, noting that this is the first time in over 50 years of tourism that they have undertaken such an initiative, similar to their previous campaigns with the BBC and CNN.

MMPRC will also promote the two deals with Liverpool FC and Mumbai Indians at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, from April 28 to May 1, as well as at other international trade shows this year. Outdoor advertising for the LFC deal will soon roll out in the UK, with billboards in key locations such as the London Underground and airports.

The Maldives expects to attract a few hundred thousand tourists this year through the LFC engagement, generating over US$200 million in revenue. “We are not merely chasing arrival targets; we want to keep yields high, and Liverpool’s premium clientele can help us achieve this,” stated Ghiyas.

The announcement of the LFC-MMPRC deal reached 80 million people, and to celebrate the launch of the partnership, fans will have the chance to win a five-night trip to the Maldives, including flights and accommodation, through a MyLFC competition.

With a record two million tourist arrivals last year and the World Travel Awards (WTA) World’s Leading Destination title for the fifth consecutive year in 2024, the Maldives is targeting 2.2 million arrivals this year, along with a goal of US$5 billion in tourism receipts.

Cricket, the second most-watched sport in the world, has an audience with high disposable income, making the partnership with the Mumbai Indians a strategic move to elevate the Maldives’ brand among Indian and international travellers. The Maldives aims to attract 200,000 Indian tourists this year by boosting brand awareness and generating excitement across various Indian cities.

Private sector involvement is also key. For example, Heritance Aarah Maldives led the way in sports tourism by sponsoring Bologna FC in the UEFA Champions League last October, combining luxury travel with global sports before anyone else in the Maldives, according to Suresh Dissanayake, assistant vice president of sales and marketing at Adaaran Group, which owns Heritance Aarah.

“LFC and Mumbai Indians partnerships enhance brand visibility of the destination, attract passionate sports travellers, and position the Maldives beyond just a honeymoon destination. By associating with elite sports teams, we tap into loyal fan bases, drive high-value tourism, and create year-round demand,” said Dissanayake, adding that the group would support any initiative by Maldives tourism aimed at boosting arrivals to the country.

Dusit International expands footprint in India with multiple hotel signings

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Thailand-based hospitality company Dusit International has ramped up its expansion efforts in India following the opening of its first property in the country, dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) in December 2024. The hotel chain has signed agreements for nearly 800 keys across various locations reinforcing its commitment to the Indian market.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi on April 3, Deepika Arora, head – India, Dusit International announced that the company has secured deals for wellness-focused Devarana Sakleshpur and a Dusit Princess property in Coorg, Karnataka.

From left: Dusit International’s Deepika Arora and Siradej Donavanik

The Dusit Princess brand is also making its way to Hyderabad (Telangana), Raipur (Chhattisgarh), Bhiwadi (Rajasthan), Lonavala (Maharashtra) and Kolkata (West Bengal), signalling a strategic push into both metro and non-metro markets.

“We are also entering some very scenic boutique destinations in the country including Kasol and Manali (both in Himachal Pradesh) under our Dusit Collection brand. All these properties are expected to be operational in the next two to three years,” said Arora, adding that Dusit International has plans to sign 3,000 keys in India over the next three years.

Highlighting the company’s approach to expansion, Siradej Donavanik, vice president – development (global), Dusit International, shared: “Apart from metro cities, we are focusing on tier-II and tier-III markets in India. Our conscious decision is to pick strategic locations that are underserved with quality products and to seek the right local partners.

“Our strategy for the Indian market is currently asset-light, but in the future, we will be open to investment as well. As a company, we own about 30 per cent of our portfolio, which is a significant chunk compared to our peers.”

In addition to its expansion plans, Dusit International is set to enhance hospitality education and local talent development in India through Dusit Hospitality Education.