AirBooking.com transforms business travel with AI and IATA integration

April 8, 2025

AirRetailer Travel Technology has launched AirBooking.com, an AI-powered corporate travel and expense management platform designed to transform the business travel industry.

Integrated with the IATA Financial Gateway (IFG), AirBooking.com offers an advanced solution for travel management companies (TMCs), corporate clients, and airlines. The platform combines AI with travel content and automated expense management, enabling businesses to automate and optimise their travel and expense processes for cost savings, policy compliance, and improved traveller experiences.

The new AI-powered platform streamlines corporate travel management, offering dynamic pricing, policy enforcement, and seamless financial transactions for businesses and travellers

AirBooking.com provides dynamic pricing, real-time travel policy enforcement, and automated travel expense reconciliation, ensuring a seamless experience for both businesses and travellers. Its AI features personalise travel bookings by suggesting options based on company policy and traveller preferences, while a dynamic pricing engine ensures businesses get the best value for their travel spend. The platform also includes a 24/7 AI concierge for round-the-clock assistance and automated expense management to reduce manual work and improve accuracy.

AirBooking.com’s integration with the IFG enhances the platform by enabling streamlined payment solutions and seamless financial transactions. This partnership ensures multi-currency support, dynamic foreign exchange capabilities, and a wide range of payment options, including industry settlement solutions. It also optimises payment costs and automates payment reconciliation, creating a frictionless payment process for businesses and offering a customised payment experience based on the merchant’s needs.

AirBooking.com is designed to support TMCs, corporates, and airlines by offering a unified solution that integrates content from multiple sources. It connects to airlines through New Distribution Capability for real-time availability and personalised offers, alongside traditional GDS for global inventory access. This gives businesses access to travel content from full-service carriers, low-cost carriers, and aggregators in one place.

The platform also uses AI to predict future fares and ensure bookings align with corporate policies, helping businesses manage travel spending in real time.

In addition, AirBooking.com automates expense management, with features like intelligent receipt processing, real-time spend tracking, and automated expense reconciliation. It integrates corporate card data to simplify reconciliation and speed up reporting. Its integration with the IFG supports various payment methods, including cards, digital wallets, and mobile payments, with top-level security and compliance.

Tailored solutions are available to suit different business needs, such as direct booking for in-house travel management, TMC multi-client management, direct corporate access for greater control, and white-label options for brands to personalise the platform under their own label.

Aligned with the Modern Airline Retailing vision, AirBooking.com allows businesses to embrace the future of travel by offering dynamic and personalised bundles. The platform supports the full transition to Offers and Orders, enabling airlines, TMCs, and corporates to collaborate seamlessly with a unified view of the traveller’s journey.

“This integration enhances payment orchestration across the travel ecosystem. By combining IFG’s robust global payment infrastructure with AirBooking.com’s AI-powered travel platform, we enable a seamless payment experience that accelerates the industry’s transition to modern airline retailing,” stated Frederic Leger, senior vice president of commercial products and services, IATA.

Kavitha Jagannathan, chief product officer at AirRetailer, shared: “Our platform is built from the ground up with modern retailing principles, seamlessly blending artificial intelligence, dynamic pricing, and real-time policy enforcement. By automating everything from booking to expense reconciliation, we empower companies to reduce travel spend by up to 15 per cent, streamline operational workflows, and ensure 100 per cent compliance with corporate travel policies.

“It’s not just about savings – it’s about giving travel managers and employees a smarter, faster, and more personalised experience.”

New audio tour brings Singapore’s Dempsey Hill heritage to life

By Audrey Ng

April 8, 2025

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A new audio tour has been launched to bring the storied heritage of Dempsey Hill to life. This enclave, just a five-minute drive from Singapore’s main thoroughfare, Orchard Road, was once the site of British military barracks dating back to the 1860s. Today, it is home to restaurants, grocers, art galleries, and lifestyle shops.

“The idea for this immersive audio tour came from our experience with conducting heritage tours here that are usually guided,” shared Kee Luah, marketing consultant for Dempsey Hill, Ginger Consultancy.

The self-guided audio tour allows visitors to explore Dempsey Hill’s colonial history and present, providing a journey through its historic landmarks and attractions

“These tours have always been incredibly popular, often selling out within just two hours of launch. We wanted to offer something more flexible, so we created a self-guided tour that allows visitors to explore at their own pace and on their own schedule. The app lets visitors pause at various destinations to enjoy a break, such as a brunch, before continuing on to the remaining historical spots,” she added.

The audio tour, available on the Cinewav app and Klook platform, guides visitors through various points of interest around Dempsey Hill, including the barracks built during Singapore’s colonial era. Visitors will learn about the transformation of these former army barracks into the vibrant lifestyle destination the area has become.

“By offering a self-guided option, we aim to appeal to those looking for a more independent and flexible way to explore heritage sites. This flexibility makes the experience more personalised and convenient for our visitors,” said Luah.

Beyond the tour, she shared how the area continues to market its offerings to attract both local and international tourists. These efforts include collaborations with local artists and musicians to host pop-up events, the incorporation of art installations, and regular partnerships with tenants to provide a wide variety of dining experiences, as well as collaborations with bank partners for promotions.

There are also regular events that draw visitors, such as the annual Motoring Heritage Day, which features vintage cars, and the Latadina Festival, Singapore’s largest Latin American food and music festival.

“This combination makes Dempsey Hill an attractive place not only for locals and expatriates but also for tourists looking for a unique experience in Singapore. Its mix of heritage and modernity significantly contributes to the country’s tourism appeal, offering visitors an authentic and tranquil escape right in the heart of the city,” concluded Luah.

Explore a prehistoric world at Gardens by the Bay’s new exhibition

By TTG Asia

April 8, 2025

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Dinosaurs will soon roam the misty landscapes in the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay, with Jurassic World: The Experience opening on May 29. The exhibition will feature life-sized animatronic and sculpted dinosaurs set amid the foliage of Cloud Forest, bringing elements of the Jurassic World film franchise to life.

Visitors will be able to explore various zones, including an 8.5m tall Brachiosaurus at the entrance, a close encounter with a Tyrannosaurus rex, interactions with baby dinosaurs in the Petting Zoo area, and the chance to spot small Composognathus, or “Compys,” hidden along garden pathways.

Brachiosaurus Falls features a duo of brachiosauruses, their calls echoing through the forest and waterfalls; photo by NEON

The Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay mirrors the cool, moist climate of Tropical Montane regions found 1,000m to 3,500m above sea level. It is home to over 72,000 plants, including more than 50 species from the Jurassic period, such as ferns, cycads, and conifers. These plants once grew alongside dinosaurs and were a food source for them. Visitors can learn how these plants still thrive today and how past and present ecosystems are connected.

An exclusive experience in Cloud Forest is Evolution Walk, where visitors can explore ancient plant species that existed before dinosaurs and learn how plants evolved. The walk features reconstructions of extinct plants, showcasing their development over time. Fans of the Jurassic World films will also enjoy seeing iconic moments brought to life through animatronics and interactive exhibits, offering a close encounter with lifelike dinosaurs.

For more information, Jurassic World: The Experience.

Regent Phu Quoc’s new exhibition explores the boundaries between reality and imagination

By TTG Asia

April 8, 2025

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Regent Phu Quoc will host the art exhibition Pursuing Fantasia – Journey to The Enchanted Island from April 9 at the Regent Phu Quoc Gallery.

The exhibition features contemporary Vietnamese art, showcasing lacquer sculptures by Lamphong Studio and silk paintings by Nguyễn Minh Quân.

The exhibition invites viewers to explore a world where the boundary between reality and dreams becomes increasingly fragile

Curated by ChuKim, the exhibition invites viewers to explore a fictional space where art blends beauty and surrealism. The “enchanted island” refers to Phú Quốc, known for its natural beauty, while the “journey” suggests an inner exploration, encouraging reflection on the boundaries between the real and the imaginary.

The exhibition will run from April 9 through to September this year at the Regent Phu Quoc Gallery, located in Bai Truong, Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.

For more information, visit Regent Phu Quoc.

Thomas Hoeborn helms as GM of Conrad Singapore Orchard

By TTG Asia

April 8, 2025

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Conrad Singapore Orchard has appointed Thomas Hoeborn as its new general manager.

With over four decades of global experience, he brings expertise in luxury hospitality operations, talent development, and guest experience management.

Most recently, Hoeborn led operations at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. His experience also includes senior roles overseeing multi-property portfolios across China, South-east Asia, and Japan.

Star Voyager

By Audrey Ng

April 7, 2025

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What
Star Voyager, the revamped ship from StarCruises, set sail on its maiden voyage to Jakarta on March 26. Formerly P&O Australia’s Pacific Explorer, Star Voyager’s launch also marks the brand’s refresh of StarCruises and Dream Cruises, as it transitions from Resorts World Cruises.

Homeporting at the Singapore Cruise Centre until July 21, the Star Voyager offers itineraries from Singapore to South-east Asia destinations such as Bangkok, Koh Samui, Pulau Redang, Port Klang and Medan. The ship will also sail from dual homeports in Jakarta, Melaka, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City, with more cities to be added in the future.

Facilities
Part of the ship’s refit focused on enhancing the lobby and reception area, which now opens into a two-floor space with a stage for performances.

Many of the common areas, from the lobby and restaurants to the uppermost deck with the pools, have been refreshed and look very inviting.

Unfortunately, the Adventure Park, with its zipline, rock wall, and water slides, was closed during my voyage, so I didn’t get to try them. Instead, I headed straight for the spacious gym, equipped with weights, weight machines, several treadmills, rowing machines, and spin bikes – all with an unobstructed view of the endless ocean – to keep me active, allowing me to indulge more during mealtimes.

Room
I stayed in the 16.6m² Balcony Stateroom, a quaint vintage-style room offering a private view of the sea. It was perfectly functional, with a dresser, TV, and ample space to unpack.

We also had a brief tour of the refurbished Palace Suites (ranging from 33.9m² to 38.4m²) and Palace Deluxe Premium (ranging from 33.2m² to 34m²), which offered much more spacious accommodations, including a separate living area, ideal for families or groups.

Star Voyager

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F&B
Star Voyager houses a total of 14 restaurants and bars. The Lido, the ship’s inclusive buffet restaurant, provided most of the sustenance, offering a variety of Asian cuisines. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, its casual setting and spacious dining area were ideal for large groups and casual chats.

For more refined dining, the ship’s specialty restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines, from Italian and Chinese to international fusion. My favourite was Silk Road, which specialises in Chinese and Japanese cuisine. The menu during my trip focused mainly on Chinese dishes, including broccoli and abalone, rich soups, melt-in-your-mouth steamed cod fillet, and tender braised duck.

I also enjoyed the beef dishes at Bistro on separate occasions, as they were cooked to the perfect doneness and retained their juiciness.

While there were a few service hiccups, I’m confident these will be sorted in no time.

Entertainment
With a wide variety of specially curated programmes, it’s clear that entertainment is a priority. The opening performance at the Zodiac Theatre was particularly impressive, with performers showcasing acts requiring incredible athleticism and skill, such as one performer shooting an arrow with her feet while balancing in a handstand, and acrobatic feats from a group of dancers.

The Zodiac Theatre also hosts different performances each night, providing post-dinner entertainment. For a more casual experience, head to the nearby Palm Court, where the live band and talented singers will have you singing and dancing along.

While exploring the ship on other days, I could hear singing from performances in various areas and even caught a workout class at one point – proof that there was always something happening.

Excursions
We had the chance to stretch our sea legs in Melaka and Jakarta. Both shore excursions were guided, and I appreciated not having to worry about where to go, as we were led to various sites.

The logistics were well-organised, from disembarkation to passing through customs, with groups being split and taken by air-conditioned buses to different stops.

In Melaka, the tour included a visit to a Peranakan mansion, followed by a trip to the Encore Melaka Theatre to watch an immersive live play about the city’s history, featuring digital visuals, a stage set, and a 360-degree rotating platform.

In Jakarta, the tour explored sights in Old Batavia, where some colonial-style buildings remain, and also included a visit to a puppet museum showcasing the different types of puppetry used throughout the centuries.

Both tours focused on the culture and history of the cities, providing a valuable learning experience rather than just shopping.

Verdict
Ideal for those seeking shorter trips around South-east Asia and less common destinations, the Star Voyager is a mid-sized ship that accommodates up to 2,000 passengers, perfect for those who prefer a more intimate setting with fewer people on board.

Contact details
Website: https://rwcruises.com/home

Indonesia hotels diversify to offset government business decline

By Mimi Hudoyo

April 7, 2025

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Major hotel operators in Indonesia are working to fill the gap left by the government sector, which traditionally contributes between 30 and 40 per cent of business, by diversifying their market segments.

Hariyadi Sukamdani, president of the Indonesia Hotels and Restaurants Association (IHRA), stated that the association, in collaboration with the Indonesian Tourism Industry Association (GIPI), is actively pushing for the government to amend the regulation that restricts government agencies from holding events in hotels. However, he also urged members to reduce their reliance on this segment moving forward.

With the government sector’s contribution decreasing, major hotel chains in Indonesia are shifting focus to attract new clients from sectors like corporate and healthcare

He said: “The hospitality industry, particularly in regional destinations in Indonesia, has been relying heavily on the government sector. We need to find a balance moving forward.”

For Swiss-Belhotel International in Indonesia, where the government sector plays a significant role in its overall business, the restrictions have had some impact. However, the company worked closely with its teams and partners to navigate the situation, according to Teresia Wibowo, regional director of sales and marketing for Indonesia.

“We have always focused on diversifying our offerings to ensure that we can meet the needs of various market segments. While the government sector was an important component, we are exploring other opportunities to fill any gaps,” she said.

Archipelago International, which operates hotels across the country and relies on the government market for 30 to 40 per cent of its business, has identified that government activities tend to decline every few years. This has prompted the company to take steps to diversify and expand its client base beyond government contracts to maintain business balance.

Archipelago International CEO John Flood told TTG Asia: “By appealing to a wider audience, such as corporate clients, families, and FIT, we can buffer against the effects of potential downturns and create a more resilient revenue stream.”

The recent years’ market diversification efforts have helped dampen the impact on business, according to Flood. He mentioned that, for example, the company achieved 97 per cent of its budgeted revenue in February and expects similar results in March. However, he noted that this period coincided with Ramadan, a traditionally slow month, making it difficult to determine how much of the performance was due to that versus actual government cutbacks.

Diversifying and penetrating new markets is also a strategy Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts is using to bridge the gap left by the government segment in its properties. Its

general manager of business development, Sudarsana, said: “The financial sector remains active, as do the pharmaceuticals and healthcare industries. We will organise health-related events to attract participants, particularly in major cities like Jakarta and Surabaya, and develop memberships that will eventually create social gatherings and weddings, especially in Jakarta and Surabaya.”

However, Sudarsana did not expect to see a significant impact immediately, considering how the government regulation has affected not only meetings but also overall business.

He explained that the government had not only restricted events in hotels but had also cut budgets across nearly all sectors. As a result, this had affected not only government agencies but also related companies, such as state-owned enterprises, contractors, and suppliers of government projects. He also mentioned that some regional governors had recently imposed restrictions on holding graduations in hotels, further closing another potential market for ballrooms.

As such, Sudarsana said that the business pie was shrinking significantly and the number of competitors was growing, which would lead to a price war, adding that his wish was for the regulation to change soon.

Flood added: “From experience, we know that new governments and governors, who took office in February, often take a few months to get organised. With over three million civil servants, it is essential to hold meetings in hotels, so we are confident that, in the next month or two, we will see a return of much of the government business.”

SKÅL International Krabi launches recycling initiative

By TTG Asia

April 7, 2025

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Skål International Krabi, in partnership with the Ao Nang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, has launched a recycling initiative to support sustainability in Krabi, Thailand.

The initiative, led by Ingeborg Fallet Kristensen, managing director of Krabi Spesialisten and Skål International Krabi president, was introduced last week at an event at Ao Nang’s Aloe Villas, which included an update on key projects from the governor’s office and a pledge to ensure efficient recycling.

Skål International Krabi’s recycling initiative introduces new bins in Ao Nang to support waste management and sustainable tourism

Working with stakeholders to address various environmental challenges, including waste reduction and long-term conservation efforts, Skål International Krabi’s initiative highlights the importance of community involvement in promoting sustainable tourism.

The pilot project features the first four sets of collection bins sponsored by Krabi Spesialisten Co., Krabi Cliff Villas Co., Aloe Boutique Villas, and Fast Manta Diving Krabi Co. Moving forward, Skål International Krabi is inviting local businesses to sponsor additional bins, offering a unique opportunity to promote their brands while actively contributing to Ao Nang’s environmental efforts.

Etienne Jay from NatureMind-ED, representing the Skål International Krabi executive committee, shared that the focus was on improving waste management in Ao Nang by installing new recycling bins throughout the community.

Kristensen commented: “We are thrilled with the success of our sustainability event and the enthusiastic response to our 2025 Trash and Recycling Program. It is inspiring to see this initiative taking shape, and I hope it will encourage both locals and visitors to take part in protecting our beautiful environment.”

ITA Airways to join Star Alliance by early 2026

By TTG Asia

April 7, 2025

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ITA Airways has been approved to begin integrating into Star Alliance, after a decision by the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board. Following the airline’s inclusion in the Lufthansa Group earlier this year, this marks the beginning of its entry into the world’s largest airline alliance, with the integration process now moving forward.

ITA Airways will add 360 daily flights to the Star Alliance network, strengthening its presence in Europe, particularly from its home cities of Rome and Milan, which are currently served by 16 Star Alliance members. Lufthansa Group is mentoring ITA Airways throughout its integration into the alliance.

ITA Airways will become the fifth hub airline of the Lufthansa Group to join Star Alliance

Upon completing induction, the Star Alliance network will grow to 26 member airlines, offering over 18,000 daily flights connecting 192 countries.

Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias stated: “In early 2026, ITA Airways is expected to officially join the Star Alliance network as a full member. The decision by our Chief Executive Board underscores the strong confidence our members have in ITA Airways. As a gateway for Italy, its addition strengthens our global network, offering seamless and connected journeys to more travellers worldwide.”

Joerg Eberhart, CEO and general manager of ITA Airways, said: “This is a significant milestone in ITA Airways’ growth, and we look forward to offering our customers the future privileges of the world’s largest airline network.”

Banyan Tree charts new path for wellness travel

By TTG Asia

April 7, 2025

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Banyan Tree introduces a new private well-being immersion for two, combining movement, mindfulness, and shared rituals to nurture both relationships and inner well-being.

The Banyan Tree Connections programme will launch next month at four selected locations: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru (Maldives), Banyan Tree Phuket (Thailand), Banyan Tree Mayakoba (Mexico), and Banyan Tree Anji (China).

Banyan Tree Connections will offer experiences that nurture relationships, well-being, and shared renewal in unique settings

Each destination offers unique experiences that reflect its natural and cultural essence. Guests will enjoy a private well-being immersion for two, starting with a personalised consultation, followed by a series of experiences based on Banyan Group’s 8 Pillars of Wellbeing, designed to foster shared moments of connection for partners, friends, and family.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Maldives (available from May) offers a two- to three-night programme with Yoga Duo, Breathwork & Sound Meditation, Lagoon Floating Therapy, and a Holistic Wellbeing Treatment. It also includes a Maldivian Cooking Class, Private Sunset Cruise, and Bonding Destination Dining.

Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand (available from June) features a two-night programme with Sound Healing Meditation, Private Yoga Duo, Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop, and a Time Together Spa Treatment. Guests can also enjoy a Private Lagoon Kayak tour and a sharing-style Japanese dinner at Hojo.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Mexico (available from July) offers two- to three-night experiences with Private Yoga Duo, Mangrove Movement, Drum Breathwork Meditation, and a Temazcal ritual. Additional activities include a Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop, Time Together Spa Treatment, private mangrove kayaking, and a La Copa Mexican dinner.

Banyan Tree Anji, China (available from August) provides a two-night programme with Private Duo Stretch, Sound Healing Meditation, and a Time Together Spa Treatment. Guests can also enjoy a guided hike through Lingfeng Mountain, a White Tea Aroma Bath Bomb workshop, and a sharing-style Saffron Thai dinner.

The Banyan Tree Connections programme is now available as a supplementary booking to room reservations at all four resorts.

For more information, visit Banyan Tree Connections.

AirBooking.com transforms business travel with AI and IATA integration

New audio tour brings Singapore’s Dempsey Hill heritage to life

Explore a prehistoric world at Gardens by the Bay’s new exhibition

Regent Phu Quoc’s new exhibition explores the boundaries between reality and imagination

Thomas Hoeborn helms as GM of Conrad Singapore Orchard

Star Voyager

Indonesia hotels diversify to offset government business decline

SKÅL International Krabi launches recycling initiative

ITA Airways to join Star Alliance by early 2026

Banyan Tree charts new path for wellness travel

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