Indonesia website adopts AI integration to become a smart travel companion

April 1, 2025

Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism (MoT) is transforming Indonesia.travel website into a smart travel companion, with the aim of making trip planning seamless, intuitive, and personalised.

The first phase introduced 360-degree virtual experiences, allowing travellers to explore destinations before they arrive. In May, the next stage will integrate AI to personalise itineraries, provide real-time recommendations, and enable businesses to anticipate demand, tailor their services, and enhance the overall travel experience for visitors.

The website will feature AI-powered tools for personalised itineraries and real-time recommendations

Speaking at a press briefing in Jakarta, minister of tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana stated that the platform is evolving towards a more interactive experience, noting that Indonesia.travel is no longer a source of information but also a smart companion that “guides, inspires, and adapts to each traveller’s needs”.

Three AI-driven tools power this transformation: Travel Planner, Travel Companion, and the Command Centre. The Travel Planner creates customised itineraries based on preferences, budget, and schedule. Once in Indonesia, the Travel Companion suggests activities, dining options, and local events in real time. Meanwhile, the Command Centre works behind the scenes, analysing travel patterns and visitor behaviour to help businesses and regional tourism authorities make data-driven decisions.

MoT’s assistant deputy for marketing strategy and communications, Firnandi Gufron, said: “We’re not just enhancing the traveller experience, but also strengthening the entire tourism ecosystem,”

To simplify trip planning, the website will serve as an aggregator, connecting travellers with airlines, hotels, and tour operators. A built-in Application Programming Interface will synchronise with booking platforms, ensuring prices and availability remain up to date.

While major OTAs are already integrated, the ministry is open to working with any partner that meets the technical requirements.

“At the end of the day, it’s about making travel planning simple and stress-free. As long as a partner’s system integrates smoothly, we’re happy to collaborate,” Firnandi said.

Sri Lanka rolls out campaign highlighting its year-round appeal

By Feizal Samath

April 1, 2025

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Sri Lanka has launched a new campaign, Sri Lanka, A Story for Every Season to promote the country as a year-round destination rather than one for the winter season, with content spotlighting wildlife safaris, cultural heritage, spiritual pilgrimage sites, scenic landscapes, and adventure tourism.

The campaign relies on digital storytelling and influencer collaboration, where influencers will produce high-impact content for platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, reaching over 2.2 million travel enthusiasts globally.

An Indian influencer speaking at the event

The campaign kicked off on March 27 in Colombo, with 12 travel influencers from India, the UK, Hong Kong, Australia, and Portugal, along with their families, in attendance. They were hosted by tourism authorities.

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau chairman Buddhika Hewawasam, speaking at the event, pointed out the challenges facing the tourism sector, particularly the seasonal dip in arrivals during the summer months.

“The next few years will be the most challenging period for all of us,” he said, emphasising the need for international collaboration and strategic development. He also mentioned the critical role of international travel influencers in raising awareness of Sri Lanka’s hospitality and inspiring tourists worldwide to visit.

During the event, the travel influencers shared their thoughts on Sri Lanka’s uniqueness as a destination. They noted that Sri Lanka is a country where travellers need not worry about finding incredible experiences, as nature has already done the hard work.

The campaign aims to secure an equivalent of US$110,000 in media coverage and engage with a wide range of travel segments.

Perth and Guangzhou Baiyun Airports ink Sister Airport Agreement

By TTG Asia

April 1, 2025

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Perth Airport and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport have solidified their partnership with the signing of a Sister Airport Agreement at the Routes Asia Conference 2025, marking a commitment to enhanced collaboration and a shared vision for the future.

Perth Airport CEO Jason Waters stated that the Sister Airport Agreement marks a milestone in strengthening the ties between the two airports, cities, and the broader relationship between Australia and China. He noted that with Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport serving as a major aviation gateway in China and Perth Airport as the western gateway to Australia, their collaboration holds potential for growth and innovation in the aviation sector.

The partnership focuses on expanding aviation links and fostering economic development between both countries

Guangzhou, as a key gateway in China’s opening-up, plays a central role in driving socioeconomic development. Baiyun Airport, an international aviation hub, and Perth Airport, the economic gateway to Australia’s western coast, are united by a shared commitment, recognising that each flight and cargo movement enhances connectivity and promotes industry integration, shared Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s vice president (director) Yaoming Qi.

“We’re particularly excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring in facilitating increased air connectivity, boosting tourism and trade, and supporting both of our regions’ economic development. By working together, we can build stronger networks that benefit airlines, passengers, and our respective communities,” added Waters.

Frasers Hospitality celebrates 27 years with six new additions across Asia

By TTG Asia

April 1, 2025

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Frasers Hospitality is marking its 27th anniversary this month with a pipeline of five new openings and a newly signed management agreement across China, Japan, and Malaysia.

These additions to its portfolio aim to strengthen Frasers Hospitality’s foothold in the extended stay lodging sector and reinforce its commitment to delivering enriching stay experiences to modern travellers around the world.

Frasers Hospitality is expanding with five new openings across China, Japan, and Malaysia; Modena by Fraser Wujiaochang Shanghai opening in 2Q2025, pictured

This year, Frasers Hospitality will expand its portfolio in China with openings in Dalian, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, including the launch of Modena by Fraser Shenzhen and Modena by Fraser Wujiaochang Shanghai. In Malaysia, Fraser Residence Putrajaya and Capri by Fraser Penang are set to open in 2025, bringing its presence to four properties across the country. Additionally, the signing of Fraser Place Roppongi Tokyo will increase Frasers Hospitality’s footprint in Japan to two properties by 2026.

The new developments set to open include Modena by Fraser Shenzhen, opening in 2Q2025, with 325 rental apartments and facilities like a pickleball court, gym, and lobby café. Modena by Fraser Wujiaochang Shanghai, also opening in 2Q2025, will offer 307 units in the Wujiaochang area, each equipped with kitchenettes and amenities like a gym, yoga room, and residents’ lounge. Modena by Fraser Dalian, opening in 4Q2025, will provide 120 apartments in Dalian’s Economic and Technological Development Zone, designed for both short and long-term stays with kitchens and Wi-Fi.

In Japan, Fraser Place Roppongi Tokyo, opening in 1Q2026, will offer 170 units in the Roppongi district, with amenities including a residence lounge and gym. In Malaysia, Fraser Residence Putrajaya, opening in 3Q2025, will have 283 serviced apartments with full facilities. Capri by Fraser, Penang, opening in end-2025, will feature 248 rooms with spaces for business and leisure.

“2025 marks our 27th year of establishment and a transformative chapter for Frasers Hospitality, as we expand our portfolio to meet the evolving needs of global travellers. With six new properties in high-growth destinations, we are well-positioned to deliver our renowned world-class hospitality experiences, while strengthening our brand presence in key markets,” said Eu Chin Fen, CEO of Frasers Hospitality.

Banyan Tree Spa Krabi floats new weightless therapy experience

By TTG Asia

April 1, 2025

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Banyan Tree Spa Krabi in Thailand is introducing a new experience for guests with complimentary weightless therapy classes, a holistic technique that involves floating in water, using buoyancy to help alleviate pain and stress.

Also known as flotation therapy, this sensory deprivation treatment is renowned for inducing deep relaxation. The wellness team at Banyan Tree Spa Krabi will guide guests gently upon the water in one-on-one sessions lasting one hour. Floating in the water helps to relax and exercise muscles, joints, and bones, creating a meditative state.

Weightless therapy is a holistic technique that involves floating in water, whereby the buoyancy helps alleviate pain and stress

Guests can choose between a Wave Stretch session, which combines a rhythmic flow of water with gentle tension-point massage, or a One Weightless treatment, offering a fully immersive experience in a zero-gravity environment. Both private and complimentary group classes are available. Banyan Tree Spa Krabi also provides a variety of other wellness experiences to suit guests’ needs.

For more information, e-mail to Banyan Tree Krabi.

Amari ushers in a new era of hospitality in Laos

By TTG Asia

April 1, 2025

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Amari-Vientiane---Exterior_640 — The 248-room Amari Vientiane marks the brand’s second hotel in Laos

Brought to you by Onyx Hospitality Group

Laos’ popularity as a travel destination has been steadily growing in recent years. 2024 saw over four million tourists, an increase of almost one million from 2023, according to data from the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

On top of the encouraging numbers, the ministry has unveiled a tourism development plan for 2026 to 2030 that aims to expand tourism across Laos’ northern, central and southern regions and improve infrastructure and services at key tourist destinations, according to various news sources online.

Poised to be in the midst of this tourism boom are Onyx Hospitality’s two hotels in Laos, Amari Vientiane and Amari Vang Vieng.

Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of Onyx Hospitality Group, said: “Amari Vientiane is the second Amari hotel in Laos, following the successful launch of Amari Vang Vieng in 2018. This milestone underscores Onyx Hospitality Group’s operational success in Laos and reinforces our ongoing commitment to expanding our presence in Laos and throughout South-east Asia.”

Amari Vientiane: A serene stay by the Mekong

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Newly opened on March 1, Amari Vientiane offers accommodation for travellers in the heart of the culturally rich capital.

Located along the scenic Mekong river bank, the 248-room hotel blends contemporary elegance with local charm.

For extra special moments, the hotel’s rooftop bar offers unparalleled views to catch the sunset over the Mekong River as well as the city, thanks to its central location, or have an exclusive dining session at the executive private dining area with a view of the Mekong in the background.

Guests can also immerse themselves in Laos’ rich heritage by exploring nearby landmarks such as Wat Sisaket and the Patuxai Monument, have breakfast at the nearby morning market and participate in the traditional morning almsgiving ritual.

Charanachitta added that: “In line with our vision of becoming The Best Medium-Sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia, and as experts with a deep understanding of the region’s tourism industry, we are confident that Amari Vientiane will swiftly establish itself as a successful hotel, earning the trust of travellers both in Laos and internationally.”

Amari Vang Vieng: A riverside retreat amidst nature

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Often regarded as the second gem of Laos, Vang Vieng is the spot for travellers looking to experience the country’s stunning natural landscapes and adventure activities, and Amari Vang Vieng offers the perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Similarly located along the river, Amari Vang Vieng flanks the Song River. It offers 160 rooms and suites, each decorated in an elegant contemporary style that blends Lao craftsmanship with the Amari brand. Tall windows in each room let guests take in the surrounding scenery, while modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi and 40-inch interactive TVs help them stay connected.

Its strategic location puts it in close proximity to popular tourist attractions. Guests can explore Vang Vieng’s renowned Blue Lagoon, a natural emerald pool, and join the various outdoor activities such as swings and ziplines, take a hot air balloon ride for panoramic views, go kayaking, or get up close to stalactites and stalagmites in Pu Kham Cave and other similar caves.

After a day of exploration, the hotel’s Essence restaurant serves an array of Laotian, Thai, and international dishes, while the outdoor pool offers a serene escape with breathtaking riverside views.

As Amari continues to strengthen its footprint in Laos, these hotels offer their own appeal for travellers looking to experience Laos’ culture and nature at their convenience.

To book your next stay, visit Amari Hotels & Resorts.

StarCruises, Dream Cruises relaunch with maiden voyage of Star Voyager

By Audrey Ng

March 31, 2025

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Star Voyager, the latest ship to homeport in Singapore, embarked on its maiden voyage on March 26, heralding the revival of the StarCruises and Dream Cruises brands, and a new chapter for the former Star Cruises, a brand with over 30 years of history in the region.

The vessel, with a capacity of 1,940 passengers, will offer a new cruising experience tailored for the Asian market, travelling to Malacca and Jakarta before returning to Singapore.

Star Voyager’s maiden voyage on March 26 marks the return of StarCruises and Dream Cruises to Singapore

Positioned as an affordable, lifestyle-driven cruise experience, StarCruises will operate mid-sized ships, including the Star Voyager and Star Navigator, catering to travellers seeking comfort, entertainment, and adventure at sea.

Dream Cruises offers a more luxurious experience with exclusive privileges and premium amenities on larger ships, including its flagship, Genting Dream, which accommodates over 3,000 guests.

“By clearly differentiating between StarCruises and Dream Cruises, we are able to cater to distinct segments while reinforcing our leadership in the Asian cruise industry and beyond,” said Michael Goh, president, StarCruises and Dream Cruises. “This is an exciting milestone for StarCruises and we are honoured to play a key role in supporting and contributing towards the growth of Singapore’s inbound and outbound cruise travel.”

The Star Voyager will offer three-, four- and five-night cruises connecting Singapore to dual homeport cities of Jakarta, Malacca, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City – further increasing inbound tourists to these destinations – as well as to other destinations such as Medan, Koh Samui, and Redang island.

A total of US$50 million was invested in refurbishing areas such as the lobby, restaurants, and Palace class suites. The entertainment programme and activities were also carefully planned to cater to multigenerational travellers, including a teens club with activities designed by the ship’s youngest crew to appeal to teenagers.

“We are strong believers in providing good experiences,” said Goh, adding that happy customers make for the strongest ambassadors of the brand.

Colin Kerr, senior vice-president of Cruise Entertainment, echoed this sentiment, noting that some guests are so invested in the product that their feedback has been taken into consideration.

The MICE segment, which contributes to 30 per cent of the business, is also another segment the company plans to continue growing.

StarCruises has plans to offer fly-cruise options to Australia and is exploring the Indian market as well.

Star Voyager will homeport at the Singapore Cruise Centre until July 21.

Hyatt Centric expands global footprint with new openings

By TTG Asia

March 31, 2025

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The Hyatt Centric brand saw growth in 2024 with openings in destinations such as Cairo, Shanghai, San José, and Santo Domingo. Building on this success, the brand plans to add over 35 new hotels by 2028, expanding its portfolio by 50 per cent and reaching over 100 hotels globally by 2029. This expansion is expected to include significant growth in Asia-Pacific, with a 75 per cent increase in the region’s footprint, alongside new openings across the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East.

Hyatt Centric hotels are tailored to their destinations, incorporating elements that reflect the local vibe through interpretations of culture, art, and attractions. Planned openings following the 2024 debut in new markets will drive further growth, including Hyatt Centric San José Escazú (the first in Costa Rica), Hyatt Centric Malta (the first in Malta), Hyatt Centric Santo Domingo (the first in the Caribbean), and Hyatt Centric Zhongshan Park Shanghai (the first in Shanghai).

Hyatt Centric is set to introduce new hotels in key regions, offering culturally rich experiences for guests; Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hong Kong, pictured

In 2026, the brand will expand further in Asia-Pacific with openings including Hyatt Centric East Taipei (the first in Taiwan), Hyatt Centric Shanghai Jinqiao and Hyatt Centric Todtown Shanghai, Hyatt Centric Tianxin Changsha in Hunan province, Hyatt Centric Vrindavan in northern India, and Hyatt Centric Sapporo (the first in Hokkaido, Japan). This year will also see the brand’s first hotel in southwest China, Hyatt Centric The Ring Chengdu.

Hyatt Centric hotels offer curated programming, such as locally inspired art, pop-up events, social spaces, and dining options. Each hotel reflects its location, with Egyptian statues at Hyatt Centric Cairo West and textiles at Hyatt Centric Guatemala City. Social spaces like the recording studio at Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid and the House of Music at Hyatt Centric Ocean Front Xiamen encourage guest interaction. Dining options range from modern Asian cuisine at Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hong Kong to rooftop views at Spaceman in Atlanta.

Emily Wright, vice president, global brand leader for Hyatt’s Classics & Essentials Portfolios, said: “The brand’s recent growth, including openings and planned developments, meets the rising demand from guests and members, especially millennial and Gen Z travellers, for more contemporary accommodation with playful details, sophisticated furnishings and socially connected spaces.”

TTG Asia breaks for Hari Raya

By TTG Asia

March 31, 2025

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TTG Asia is taking a break on Monday, March 31, for the Hari Raya Puasa public holiday.

The online news bulletin will resume on Tuesday, April 1.

From all of us at TTG Asia Media, here’s wishing all our Muslim readers a Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!

Magical moments await: An unforgettable voyage on the Disney Adventure

By TTG Asia

March 31, 2025

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Jack-Sparrow-and-the-Siren-Queen_640 — Watch the captivating Jack Sparrow as he fights monsters on his quest for treasure

Brought to you by Disney Cruise Line

With new sailing dates until September 2026 now available for booking, get ready for a magical experience on the Disney Adventure, Disney Cruise Line’s first ship to homeport in Asia.

As it gears up towards its maiden voyage that will set sail from Singapore on March 10, 2026, Disney Cruise Line has revealed some new experiences, including several firsts for the fleet, designed to give passengers, both adults and children alike, a more immersive experience on board.

Here are four ways for guests to have a truly memorable Disney experience:

From hair to outfit, get a full makeover into your favourite Disney character

Step into the shoes of your chosen Marvel Super Hero or Disney Princess
For the first time on a Disney Cruise Line ship, guests can suit up as their favourite Marvel Super Hero at the Marvel Style Studio. Offering a range of hair, makeup, and clothing options through different styling packages, the studio caters to both children and adults who want to transform into iconic characters such as Iron Man, Spider-Man, Captain America, Captain Marvel, or Thor, making for fun photo opportunities. At select times, the venue will also transform into an adults-only lounge offering bookable exclusive beverage tasting experiences.

Younger guests aged three to 12 can enjoy an enchanted salon experience at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices will provide themed makeovers. From elegant royalty to adventurous sea captains, children can don a selection of costumes such as long sleeve Princess dresses to look like their favourite Disney princesses, or dress up as knights or sea captains, complete with hairstyling, makeup, and accessories. A private photo experience will also be available for booking to capture these special moments.

Enjoy a royal tea party with Disney princesses at the Royal Society for Friendship and Tea’s party

Partake in afternoon tea
A delightful afternoon tea experience awaits younger guests at the Royal Society for Friendship and Tea. Designed for children aged three to 12, this charming tea party will take place at the Hollywood Spotlight Club where the young ones can enjoy a magical gathering with beloved Disney princesses.

Enjoy delicious treats, enchanting stories, and whimsical songs while learning about the society’s values of kindness, bravery, and determination. At the end of the tea party, new society members’ get to take home official society membership keepsakes as tokens of their induction into the society.

Watch the captivating Captain Jack Sparrow as he faces off the towering Siren Queen on his quest for treasure

Meet with your favourite characters

In Captain Jack Sparrow & The Siren Queen, this action-packed stage show will take guests on an exciting adventure. Held at the Disney Imagination Garden’s open-air Garden Stage, this show invites passengers to dress in their finest pirate attire and join Captain Jack and his crew as they search for rare treasure and face off against the towering Siren Queen, who will be brought to life on LED screens.

Start your quest at the Duffy and Friends Shop

In another first for Disney Cruise Line, Duffy and Friends will appear onboard the Disney Adventure, through a series of character encounters, a retail store, and an original stage show, Duffy and The Friend Ship, which will play at the Disney Imagination Garden. Guests will be able to meet and take photos with Duffy and his friends, and take home memories of their favourite friends at the Duffy and Friends Shop.

Guests can embark on a playful, interactive scavenger hunt with the Duffy and Friends Discovery Quest. Starting at the Duffy and Friends Shop, participants can purchase a discovery guide and follow clues to find missing items from Duffy and his friends that will take them to different locations across the ship. Once you find all the items, return to the shop to claim a commemorative gift and take home the prize.

Apart from these new experiences, there are heaps of ways for guests to make the most out of their three- or four-day Disney Cruise Line experience on-board. From taking the thrilling rollercoaster and whizzing down the water slides to engaging in friendly competition with the family at arcade games, and exclusively for the kids, having fun in the action-packed kids’ clubs, while the adults can unwind at the spa and spaces, including bars and lounges, designed for them.

Disney Cruise Line logo

The Disney Adventure will offer three-night and four-night cruises, with sailing dates available for booking for its maiden voyage starting from December 15, 2025 till September 2026. Visit Disney Cruise Line for the dates or contact a travel agent to find out more.

Indonesia website adopts AI integration to become a smart travel companion

Sri Lanka rolls out campaign highlighting its year-round appeal

Perth and Guangzhou Baiyun Airports ink Sister Airport Agreement

Frasers Hospitality celebrates 27 years with six new additions across Asia

Banyan Tree Spa Krabi floats new weightless therapy experience

Amari ushers in a new era of hospitality in Laos

StarCruises, Dream Cruises relaunch with maiden voyage of Star Voyager

Hyatt Centric expands global footprint with new openings

TTG Asia breaks for Hari Raya

Magical moments await: An unforgettable voyage on the Disney Adventure

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