IHG Hotels & Resorts has appointed Bryan Chan as its new vice president, development for South-east Asia and South Korea.
In this role, Chan will lead the strategic expansion of IHG’s brands in the region, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and manage a team of developers.
With over 10 years at IHG, Bryan has taken on increasing leadership responsibilities. He brings 15 years of deal-making experience across various industries, including hospitality real estate, energy, infrastructure, transport, and industrials.
The integration of branded residences into the hospitality landscape is making waves in the Philippines, bridging the gap for high-end living spaces and providing funding for hotel groups to expand.
C9 Hotelworks managing director Bill Barnett stated that branded residences are now “critical to the growth of global hospitality brands”, highlighting that 65 per cent of Four Seasons’ global project pipeline is mixed-use. He also noted that major chains like Marriott and Accor now have dedicated teams for branded residences.
The C9 Sessions event was held at The Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila
In the Philippines, Sheraton Mactan Cebu launched Sheraton Residences before the hotel, which helped the developer, Apple One, build the hotel and provided early returns, Barnett told TTG Asia.
Apple One is adopting the same approach for the new JW Marriott Panglao Bohol, where branded residences play a crucial role in internationally branded hotels and support developers in investing in new greenfield projects, he emphasised.
Melissa Lim, general manager of IM Hotel and Oakwood Makati Avenue, said in a previous interview that mixed developments are a “natural progression in our journey forward… in capturing the long-stay and corporate markets, where Ascott and its Oakwood brand have a strong presence”.
Lim added that IM Hotel Group, which plans to expand into franchising in three to five years, converted the upper floors of IM Hotel into 150-suite Oakwood Makati Avenue last year, allowing long-stay guests to enjoy the hotel’s spa, event spaces, and other facilities.
Barnett stated that Manila, where mixed developments dominate the hospitality landscape, has the potential to evolve into a global playground city like Bangkok and other cosmopolitan hubs, which have successfully integrated luxury real estate with vibrant entertainment, sports, resorts, and lifestyle offerings.
As tourism continues to drive growth in the country, Barnett said the fusion of branded residences and hospitality paves the way for the Philippines to become an even more attractive choice for both travellers and investors.
Predominantly Catholics, throngs of Filipinos are going on a spiritual pilgrimage to Europe this Holy Year of Jubilee for the Catholic Church, which takes place every 25 years in remembrance of the incarnation of Jesus Christ.
The ailing Pope Francis has themed this Jubilee Year Pilgrims of Hope as the faithful are encouraged to make pilgrimage in Rome and Jubilee churches around the world and obtain plenary indulgences for the forgiveness of sins.
With Holy Land pilgrimages closed and Japan visa delays, more Filipinos are turning to Europe for their travels; St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, pictured
Travel Specialist Ventures managing director, Rowena Coloma, noted that as a result of “very strong demand for Europe… most hotels in Rome are full this year”.
Coloma noted a number of tour offerings focused on mono Italy, mono Spain and mono France, and the continuing popularity of pilgrimages to Marian apparition and miraculous sites, with extension to Paris for shopping and leisure.
Miki Travel CEO Asia Division, Olivier Moeschler, observed that Philippine outbound to Europe has started getting stronger since 2023, not just for religious pilgrimages but also for family travel and emerging activities like river cruising and to emerging destinations like the Balkans and Nordic countries.
Europe’s allure, Moeschler said, is such that the Philippines is Miki Travel’s fastest growing market to Europe, with Singapore ranking second.
Pilgrimage is not the only reason why Filipinos flock to Europe. Amkor Travel and Tours owner and operations manager, Marianne Malinao Tismo, said travellers are shifting to Europe as Holy Land pilgrimage destinations are not yet open and due to the longer processing period for Japan visa application.
This year, Tismo said the volume of pilgrimage groups to Europe will start departing by April and that they are now preparing for departure October onwards.
Thailand’s strategic use of soft power, particularly in luxury tourism, has ignited a surge in demand for immersive experiences, such as experiential dining and hyperlocal activities, according to industry leaders.
Daniel Fraser, CEO of Smiling Albino, highlighted the rising demand for curated food experiences: “From the best street food to top-tier matcha spots, travellers are arriving with savvy, media-driven requests for specific culinary highlights.”
More travellers are seeking unique and specific culinary experiences
Georgie Walsh, general manager of Elevate DMC, said social media trends are a key driver, pointing out that restaurants featuring celebrity chefs and Instagrammable spots are also gaining traction among the firm’s key source markets. These include the UK, France, and the Commonwealth of Independent States nations.
High-end properties are also making such immersive – yet exclusive – culinary experiences available to their guests, such as Centara Reserve Samui’s distinctive market-to-table experience, where guests accompany a chef to handpick ingredients for a personalised meal.
“It’s a wonderful, well-received experience,” shared Tom Thrussell, vice president – brand, marketing and digital at Centara Hotels & Resorts.
Additionally, today’s luxury travellers seek more than just indulgence – they crave luxury that is integrated with hyper-authentic, meaningful connections to local craftsmanship and culture.
Walsh noted “a clear rise in luxury experiences incorporating local culture”, adding that travellers want to combine high-end stays with authentic elements like street food, Muay Thai, and glimpses into local life.
Meanwhile, Fraser shared that these “high-craft” experiences span the gamut, from traditional textile workshops and fine woodworking to designer jewellery making, immersive Muay Thai experiences, VIP offerings from clubs or lounges, or one-of-a-kind contemporary performances.
“Travellers from North America, Europe, and Australasia are requesting these things from us more and more,” he added.
Michael Henssler, chief operating officer at Centara Hotels & Resorts, noted a broader trend – today’s luxury guests are no longer seeking a “home away from home”; instead, they want unforgettable moments, which can also be about embracing spontaneity and finding joy in the unplanned.
“Gone are the days of predictable opulence; today’s discerning guest demands something more. The experiences we treasure are the ones that live on in our memories – and that we can showcase to our friends online.
“These could even be impromptu yet exclusive moments that come together on the fly,” he pointed out.
Capella Singapore has appointed Paul Jackson as its new general manager.
With over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Jackson is set to elevate the hotel’s legacy by creating immersive experiences that celebrate both global sophistication and Singapore’s rich cultural heritage.
His career includes a nine-year tenure at Claridge’s in London, along with experience at renowned properties worldwide, such as Mandarin Oriental, The Ritz, and Grand InterContinental.
Ahead of its transition to the Singapore Oceanarium, the SEA Aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa marks 12 years of operation with a special anniversary campaign.
Named 12 Years of Creating Wonder, the campaign features three new interactive exhibits, and runs from now till April 30.
Guests can use viewfinders at the Ocean Oracle zone to explore marine animal relationships and lenses to get a close-up view of shark teeth, photo by Audrey Ng
“We have come a long way since we opened SEA Aquarium, and our 12th anniversary is a moment to reflect on the milestones that have shaped our journey. The anniversary programme features immersive experiences, interactive exhibits, and community-driven collaborations – reflecting how we have connected with our guests over the years – all designed to bring together the friends of SEA Aquarium and our communities through a shared love for the ocean,” said Lam Xue Ying, vice president at SEA Aquarium.
Nestled along the regular route of the aquarium, each of the exhibits mark the aquarium’s efforts toward marine education, conservation, and research.
Visitors will first come across the Treasures of Curios, an interactive station that highlights the aquarium’s ongoing efforts in research and conservation. Among them are the successful breeding programme of the critically endangered Bowmouth Guitarfish and beach clean-up initiatives. A motion sensor Lightbox also shows the animals that live in the internal zone.
Next up, the Marine Mirage introduces a sensory element to the experience. Visitors can put their hands in an enclosed space to touch replicas that mimic the textures of zebra sharks, sea jellies, sea urchins and cownose rays.
Lastly, at the Ocean Oracle zone, guests use viewfinders to discover facts about marine animal relationships and lenses to see close ups of shark teeth.
Apart from these exhibits, SEA Aquarium is also partnering with Arts & Disability Singapore (ART:DIS) to create a special three-part artwork series titled Evolving Oceans: A Symphony of Life. The triptych will symbolise transformation, marine biodiversity, and community engagement, bridging the past, present, and future.
ART:DIS also conducts marine-themed art workshops during the campaign, designed for kids, where guests can sign up inside the aquarium.
There will also be daily mascot meet-and-greet sessions by the aquarium’s manta ray trio, Mika, Manja and Mako, and Sam, the hammerhead shark.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train will launch its three-night Wild Malaysia journeys on April 28, featuring the best of the region’s cuisine. Three Michelin-starred chefs from Asia will join Culinary Curator Chef André Chiang to showcase exceptional dishes on these special journeys.
Entitled Tastes of Tomorrow: A Culinary Gathering with Chef André Chiang, Chiang is joined by Chef Vicky Cheng of restaurant Wing and VEA in Hong Kong (April 28), Chef Jason Liu of restaurant LING LONG in Beijing and Shanghai (July 28); and Chef Jungsik Yim of restaurant Jungsik in Seoul and New York (September 8) – each chef will share their kitchen secrets and offer guests a unique culinary experience.
From left: André Chiang, Vicky Cheng, Jungsik Yim and Jason Liu
Onboard, the chefs will craft menus using regional ingredients and spices that tell the story of the land. Alongside Chef Chiang’s menu, the guest chefs will each prepare a signature dish reflecting the region’s heritage. On the final evening, they will join forces for a special four-hands dinner, celebrating the blend of friendship, flavour, and Malaysia’s local cuisine.
Furthermore, bartender and mixologist Shelley Tai will craft a unique cocktail menu for each gala dinner onboard, complementing the chefs’ diverse flavours with her own creations inspired by Singapore’s vibrant culture and history. Guests can also join the chefs in the Observation Car for an intimate conversation about their creative process, accompanied by live Malaysian jazz.
In addition, guests are invited to join each chef on curated offboard excursions. These include a guided tour of Taman Negara National Park, offering exclusive insights into their inspirations, philosophies, and the artistry behind their creations.
The Eastern & Oriental Express offers three-night itineraries year-round, with the Wild Malaysia itinerary running from March to October. Accommodation starts from US$5,800 per person in a Pullman cabin including all meals, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, on board entertainment, on and offboard activities.
India is seeing a rise in health conscious travellers seeking wellness holidays and medical treatment
As the world becomes increasingly health conscious amid mounting air pollution and congested urban hubs, India is noting an uptick in wellness tourists seeking to rebalance their body, soul and mind.
Baby Mathew, chairman and managing director of Somatheeram Ayurveda Group, noted an increase in interest from Asia, especially Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan and South Korea, and notably among the young.
India is seeing a rise in health conscious travellers seeking wellness holidays and medical treatment
“India is famous for Ayurveda, yoga and natural remedies, and we’re seeing more people looking for spirituality and healing, while wanting to escape the pollution and cities,” said Mathew.
Aman Amola, inbound manager at Explore Bharat, also noted an uptick in increasingly younger people investing in medical tourism.
“Young people are now seeking healthier lifestyles, they are health conscious, and this health trend is increasingly bringing them to India,” he told TTG Asia.
He said that in addition to wellness tourism, Delhi – India’s capital territory – is luring both domestic medical travellers as well as a rising number of young people from Bangladesh, Afghanistan and other countries in South Asia seeking fertility treatment.
“Delhi has some of the best hospitals in the region for this, and this is becoming a big sector,” Amola noted, adding that India’s affordable healthcare is also luring international visitors needing other forms of treatment.
In 2024, the nation’s medical tourism market was valued at US$7.69 billion, with an estimated 7.3 million foreigners visiting for treatment. This is expected to hit US$8.71 billion this year.
Mathew said the government’s announcement of visa relaxations will help drive business to India’s medical tourism industry, making it easier and cheaper for many nationals to enter the country.
Western Hokkaido is one of the destinations that offer sports and culture
The Japan Tourism Agency, Japan Sports Agency and Agency for Cultural Affairs have pledged to strengthen the brand of Japan and its regions through collaboration in a newly signed comprehensive partnership agreement.
Building on a cooperation agreement inked in 2016, the partnership will see the three agencies promote emerging destinations that combine sporting, cultural and artistic resources to offer attractions unique to Japan that will enthuse visitors at home and abroad.
“We aim to further increase the number of foreign visitors to Japan and revitalise domestic tourism, thereby realising a virtuous cycle of the economy, with the keywords of ‘sustainable tourism,’ ‘increased consumption’ and ‘promotion of tourism to regional areas,” the Japan Tourism Agency and the Agency for Cultural Affairs said in a joint statement.
Western Hokkaido is one of the destinations that offer sports and culture
Western Hokkaido, for example, offers top-quality skiing and snowboarding as well as an introduction to the culture of the island’s indigenous people through attractions such as the Ainu Culture Promotion Center in Sapporo and the Ainu Culture Museum in Nibutani.
Meanwhile, around the Seto Inland Sea, there are dedicated cycling routes, to and around the many islands including Naoshima, which is renowned for its contemporary art and the Benesse House Museum, and Ikuchi island, home to the culturally rich Kosanji Temple complex.
The agreement also aims to support the creation of opportunities to visit and tour Japan, including through hosting international sporting, cultural and artistic events.
Sheraton Nai Harn Beach will be a new-build resort with an expected 600 keys
Marriott International recently signed an agreement with Jee Teng Hospitality to open Sheraton Nai Harn Beach in Phuket, a new-build resort that marks the brand’s debut on the Thai island.
Nestled within a 4.3-hectare beachfront site, majority of the resort’s 600 rooms, suites and villas is expected to offer uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea, with a dedicated beach sports center for kayaking, paddle-boarding and more.
“With the upcoming launch of Sheraton Nai Harn Beach, Marriott International and Jee Teng Hospitality will operate two outstanding properties in Phuket, totalling over 1,000 keys with three additional projects in the pipeline. This follows the successful debut of Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort in 2020,” said Rajeev Menon, president, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi now form Marriott’s second-largest destination in Thailand, with 17 hotels and resorts, this milestone also highlights the incredible potential of the region”.
Sheraton Nai Harn Beach will be a new-build resort with an expected 600 keys
Guests can look forward to discovering Sheraton’s new design and inviting spaces that foster a sense of belonging, connection and collaboration. The hotel will house two swimming pools, a large fitness centre, spa, Kid’s Club, and 763m2 of function space to host events including weddings.
The surrounding Nai Harn area is known for its peaceful charm, with local restaurants, boutique shops, and lively a beachside night market. Phuket Town is over 30 minutes away, and Phuket International Airport an hour’s drive away.
Sheraton Nai Harn Beach becomes the fifth Sheraton branded property in Thailand.
With over 10 years at IHG, Bryan has taken on increasing leadership responsibilities. He brings 15 years of deal-making experience across various industries, including hospitality real estate, energy, infrastructure, transport, and industrials.
His career includes a nine-year tenure at Claridge’s in London, along with experience at renowned properties worldwide, such as Mandarin Oriental, The Ritz, and Grand InterContinental.
