Centara Hotels & Resorts has named David Martens as vice president of operations and general manager of Centara Karon Resort Phuket.
The Australian has over 30 years of hospitality experience and has been an integral part of the Centara family since 2012.
He most recently served as senior director of operations and general manager at the same property.
Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road has named Nicolas Mercier as its general manager.
The French national has amassed over 20 years of experience in South-east Asia’s international luxury hospitality landscape, and was most recently the hotel manager at InterContinental Hotel & Residences Jakarta Pondok Indah.
Mercier will work on developing creating guest experiences, keeping sustainability goals and responsibility towards the community, as well as strengthening the hotel’s position in the competitive Bangkok market, such as culinary experiences.
Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) has appointed Angela Zhou as its new senior vice president – finance. She will also serve as a member of LHG’s Executive Committee.
Stationed at the company’s headquarters in Hong Kong, Zhou will oversee its global hotel finance operations, corporate finance, legal, and financial planning and analysis functions.
Bringing a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry to her new role, she was most recently vice president of finance at Rosewood Hotels & Resorts.
Tourism Australia is expanding its outreach to Muslim travellers in Indonesia with its first consortium of travel agencies, providing tour packages and itineraries that feature Australia’s array of Muslim-friendly experiences.
The consortium launches with four travel partners in Indonesia: AntaVaya Umroh, As-Salam by Dwidaya Tour, Cheria Holiday, and Ramah Umroh & Halal Tour. As part of this campaign, the agencies have launched a collection of itineraries across Australia featuring Muslim-friendly experiences, tailored for different traveller styles, seasons and Australian destinations – both familiar and undiscovered.
Travellers can enjoy stargazing in the Blue Mountains, get up close to the alpacas of Port Stephens, ride the iconic Puffing Billy in Melbourne, experience the Australian Gold Rush era in Ballarat’s Sovereign Hill, cruise along Sydney Harbour and indulge in retail therapy at Chadstone Shopping Centre – Australia’s largest shopping mall.
Itineraries depart next year on February 19, April 2, April 23 and May 28, with flights by airline partner Qantas Airways.
Tourism Australia has been marketing Muslim-friendly visitor experiences for more than 20 years, bringing the latest offerings and promotions to Muslim travellers through travel guides, media hosting programmes and key distribution partners who specialise in Muslim-friendly tourism.
Agitya Nuraini, country manager for Indonesia, Tourism Australia, said: “Indonesia is one of Australia’s top five recovery markets in rebuilding back to 2019 arrivals and trip expenditure levels. In the past financial year, Australia welcomed 213,000 Indonesian travellers – 96 per cent of 2019 levels – who collectively spent A$1.1 billion (US$737.36 million) which was 26 per cent more compared to 2019.
“Furthermore, Muslim travel from Indonesia is a huge segment for Tourism Australia. Around 80 per cent of Indonesia’s middle class is Muslim, and this population has a high discretionary income, a strong desire to travel, and are looking for authentic cultural experiences.”
She explained that tourism in Australia is focused on providing a diverse range of multicultural experiences, and with Islam as the second-largest religion in Australia, “visitors will find major supermarkets offering halal-certified products”.
She continued: “Our consortium is another leap in our ongoing efforts to extend Australia’s many Muslim-friendly experiences to Indonesians planning their next holiday – whether it’s their first time Down Under, or if they are looking for their next Aussie adventure. We will continue to work closely with our on-ground partners to uncover new destinations for our customers wanting to experience Australia’s Muslim-friendly travel offering.”
Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy has now been separated into two new ministries under president Prabowo Subianto’s Red and White Cabinet, and marks the nation’s commitment to fostering its tourism sector.
Just hours after Prabowo took the oath on Sunday, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, chief operating officer of Teladan Resources, was appointed as the new minister of tourism. This role was previously combined with the creative economy and led by Sandiaga Uno.
Widiyanti Putri Wardhana is an entrepreneur with diverse interests in industries such as agro-resources, energy, oil and gas technology, strategic properties, and media. A graduate of Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, she also serves as the secretary-general of the Indonesian Heart Foundation.
Prabowo also announced Ni Luh Ernik Ermawati as the deputy minister of tourism. Known as a television presenter, Ni Luh will support Widiyanti in developing tourism in Indonesia.
The inauguration earlier today included the line-up of 109 ministers, deputy ministers, and heads of state institutions. The first cabinet meeting will be held tomorrow, where the president will outline the duties and objectives of each ministry for the next five years.
From 2014 to 2019, Indonesia had a single Ministry of Tourism. In the second term of then-president Joko Widodo’s government, tourism was integrated into the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy.
Prabowo views tourism as a key pillar of Indonesia’s future economy, requiring dedicated focus and a stand-alone ministry. This separation aims not only to unlock the full potential of the tourism sector but also to support the goal of achieving an economic growth target of eight per cent, up from the current five per cent.
Efforts to increase overnight stays in Nara are coming to fruition with the opening of government-subsidised hotels, but it remains unclear whether more beds will encourage visitors to spend the night.
Nara has long-been considered a day trip destination, with inbound tourists typically visiting Nara Park to see Todaji Temple and the free-roaming deer before returning to Kyoto or Osaka in the evening. As a result, only 2.64 million visitors stayed overnight in 2023, the fourth-lowest prefecture for overnight stays, according to the Japan Tourism Agency.
Attributing this trend to insufficient accommodation, the prefectural government set a goal of increasing the number of guest rooms by 1.2 times (to 12,000) by the end of March 2025, and introduced a 200 million yen (US$1.4 million) subsidy for each new hotel to open in the area.
French hotel brand Novotel, which opened in Nara in September, and Japanese business hotel brand Toyoko Inn, which opened last year in Tenri, are among the businesses receiving the subsidy.
InsideJapan Tours representatives recently spent two nights in Nara at some of the new accommodation, and the company is confident that their customers will be interested in Nara as an overnight destination.
“Walking around (Nara) park early in the morning or in the evening is a magical experience,” said Tyler Palma, global head of operations, adding that InsideJapan aims for staying overnight rather than day tripping as “an important step in positively impacting the local community”.
More accommodation alone, though, will not boost overnight stays, according to local guide Yuri Watanabe, who noted: “When my customers learn about Nara from me while I’m guiding, they often say they wished they hadn’t planned to leave so soon. They simply don’t know what Nara has to offer before getting here.”
The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, in partnership with Live Nation, recently hosted internationally acclaimed band LANY in the country, marking a pivotal step in positioning the Philippines as a premier destination for world-class entertainment.
The partnership marks the beginning of a larger initiative aimed at revitalising the Philippine tourism landscape. While Manila and Cebu serve as the initial launchpad, plans are already underway to bring more international acts to various regions of the Philippines.
LANY’s sold-out concert captivated fans from across the country and showcased Manila and Cebu’s potential as top-tier venues for international events.
TPB COO Maria Margarita Nograles noted that LANY’s strong fanbase and their track record of sold-out shows made Cebu – one of the major hubs in the Philippines – an ideal venue for this landmark collaboration. Prior to their three-night run in Cebu, the band also performed at the iconic Philippine Arena in Bulacan as part of their A Beautiful Blur world tour.
Fans from across the Philippines and neighbouring countries flocked to Cebu for the concert, driving hotel occupancy, F&B sales, and overall economic activity.
Upcoming concerts are expected to integrate other tourism initiatives, such as food festivals and eco-tourism experiences, ensuring that visitors enjoy a holistic travel experience.
Maria shared: “When Live Nation proposed a destination music festival, it felt like a natural step for us. It aligns with our goal to promote the Philippines as a global hub for entertainment.
“Concerts like these are not just about the performance; they’re about creating lasting memories for visitors who experience the Philippines in a new light.”
Known for its heritage as a royal resort town, Hua Hin has made a strong comeback as a popular post-lockdown destination, and Avani+ Hua Hin Resort has played a role in this revival by attracting millennials with a mix of wedding venues, wellness-focused MICE programmes, and pet-friendly facilities.
According to resort manager Ravi Ganglani, the property primarily serves as a “MICE-leisure” hotel, with around 65 per cent of its business coming from MICE and weddings, especially Indian weddings, and 30 per cent from leisure travellers, including families and honeymooners.
“Hua Hin’s accessibility from Bangkok, beautiful beaches and weather, and family-friendly atmosphere, make it ideal for destination weddings,” said Ravi, adding that with no flights involved, it makes it convenient to transit “for both local and international guests”.
The resort has also capitalised on the growing wellness trend, opening an integrated wellness centre on the property.
“We see a lot of travellers extending their stay one to two days to unwind, and they turn to our wellness programmes for activities, such as whole body assessments or physiotherapy,” explained Ravi.
He continued: “We’ve also integrated wellness into our MICE offerings. We offer a physiotherapist during break time to teach people how to sit and how to get the maximum best posture, and avoid what leads to tiredness during the day.”
Additionally, Avani+ Hua Hin Resort was one of the first hotels in the area to become pet-friendly.
“Previously, there was little demand for pet-friendly travel, but during this time, pets became valued members of the family. That’s why we transformed into a pet-friendly hotel. We trained the staff, developed best practices, and now it’s natural to see pets walking around the hotel without fear or hesitation (on our part),” he shared.
To further engage pet parents – many of whom frequently drive their pets from Bangkok to enjoy the beach side – the resort hosts an annual pet weekend where the entire resort becomes a haven for pets with a pet fashion show, games, and sessions with professional trainers.
Looking ahead, Avani+ Hua Hin Resort is preparing for the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 with a full moon island-themed farewell party. Ravi shared that the event will feature local culinary highlights from Petchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan in a relaxed atmosphere where participants can really let their hair down.
While the destination has seen growth, Ravi believes there is still potential to unlock.
“Hua Hin is starting to take off, but we need government support. With infrastructure improvements, like completing the expressway from Bangkok and increasing flights, Hua Hin can thrive even more, much like Pattaya after its expressway was built,” he concluded.
Cathay Pacific has unveiled of its all-new Business class, Aria Suite, together with its new Premium Economy and refreshed Economy onboard its retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
The aircraft debuted on its Hong Kong-Beijing route on October 18, and will be progressively deployed on other regional and longhaul routes.
Soon to follow will be a new First Class experience onboard the airline’s 777-9s, and a brand-new flat-bed Business class product on its Airbus A330s.
Aria Suite passengers will be able to enjoy a holistic and immersive experience where comfort, privacy and a sense of personal space are completely reimagined.
Cathay Group chief customer and commercial officer Lavinia Lau said: “To solidify our role in both the industry and the community, we’ve committed a significant investment of over HK$100 billion over the next seven years into our fleet, cabin products, lounges, and digital and sustainability leadership, reflecting our confidence in Hong Kong’s long-term growth and its position as a key player in global aviation.”
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Asia’s diverse food culture makes it a pure paradise for food lovers and enthusiasts alike. The region is home to many of the world’s richest and storied culinary destinations, with famous dishes that have been honed through time tested traditions through the centuries, and modern, innovative techniques that produce powerful flavour combinations.
However, there’s no need to book a fine dining restaurant to experience the region’s best food. Some of the most authentic dishes can be found on the streets. Whether you are planning a dedicated gastronomic adventure or simply want to soak up the local culture, Asia’s street food offers a great introduction to your destination.
To be in the best location so you can hit the ground running for your food haunts, BWH Hotels has a variety of comfortable, conveniently located accommodations that serve as the ideal base for exploring the vibrant street food scene of your destination. Here are some of the hotels and guide to some of Asia’s best street food:
Fukuoka, Japan
The capital of the southern island of Kyushu, Fukuoka, has a lively street food scene. Head for the city’s open air food stalls known as ‘yatai’ in the evening around the Tenjin and Nakasu areas. They seat up to eight people, and are great for socialising with friends or the locals. Soak in the convivial atmosphere as you tuck into a simmering bowl of hakata-style ramen, specific to the region, or try yakitori, tender chicken skewers grilled over coals.
Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin-minami, is perfectly positioned in the heart of Tenjin, Fukuoka’s vibrant downtown district, surrounded by stylish bars and cafés.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bustling Yaowarat Road in Bangkok’s Chinatown district is the place to be as it comes alive at night with neon lights illuminating the busy street. Countless food stalls line both sides, serving a diverse array of dishes from grilled seafood to steaming bowls of noodle soup. Popular treats include crispy pork, pad Thai, dim sum, roasted chestnuts, and mango sticky rice.
Stay at the Seekers Finders Rama IV Hotel, SureStay Collection by Best Western at Khlong Toei filled with modern comforts and amenities in its spacious rooms.
Alternatively, SureStay Plus by Best Western Sukhumvit 2 offers contemporarily decorated rooms in the heart of the city, and is crowned with a spectacular rooftop pool and bar.
Jakarta, Indonesia
For those who want authentic Indonesian street food, head to north Jakarta for the Gajah Mada Food Street, a trendy food court with wooden tables and live music.
Known for its vibrant mix of traditional Indonesian and Chinese street food, must try dishes include nasi goreng, bakso, and spicy soto ayam. The atmosphere is lively, with the aroma of grilled meats and sizzling woks filling the air, while colourful displays of food create a feast for the eyes.
Staying at Best Western Mangga Dua Hotel & Residence places guests in the historic heart of North Jakarta, with its various suites and residences, as well as facilities including a pool, spa and restaurant.
There is also Best Western Premier The Hive, an upscale hotel in East Jakarta located in the central business Cawang district, and near to amusement parks, recreational areas, and cultural experiences. From the hotel, it takes just 10 minutes to get to Halim Perdana Kusuma Airport.
Bali, Indonesia
Popular Bali has no shortage of Indonesian cuisine. But to immerse yourself in the local culinary scene, head to Kuta Night Market, a bustling market where residents come to socialise and grab a bite.
Do not miss out on the grilled satay skewers and gulai, Indonesian meat stew which is cooked in a fragrant soup with turmeric, ginger and many other herbs and spices.
To get the most out of your street food ventures, stay at Best Western Resort Kuta, situated in the centre of this popular tourist hub, and within easy walking distance of the beach and shops.
Also in Kuta is the Best Western Kuta Villa, designed in modern Balinese architecture with fully equipped rooms, in-house gourmet restaurant, a pool bar, and easy access to the beach.
Vientiane, Laos
Although laidback, Vientiane promises a gastronomic feast at the food stalls of the iconic Pha That Luang temple. Try dishes such as Khao Piak Sen, traditional Lao noodle soup, Lao Sausage, or khao tom, steamed banana leaf parcels filled with sweet sticky rice and coconut. At times, fillings could be black beans or savoury versions with pork.
Stay at SureStay by Best Western Vientiane, which offers well-equipped rooms, a spa and rooftop bar, just a short walk from the Mekong River.
Angeles, Philippines
The province of Pampanga is said to be the culinary capital of the Philippines. So, there can be few better places to discover this Filipino cuisine than Pampanga Food Street in Angeles City.
Try popular street food isaw, which is pigs intestines wrapped around skewers and barbecued, then dipped in vinegar and spices for a mouth-watering treat. For those who prefer something more familiar, there are fried chicken wings, or sisig, a traditional dish made from grilled and chopped pork.
The Best Western Plus Hotel Metro Clark is located right next to the Saver’s Mall in downtown Angeles City, surrounded by restaurants, bars and shops.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Known as the ‘pearl island’, the southern island of Phu Quoc is also known for its peppercorns and seafood.
For an authentic street food experience, head to the vibrant port town of Duong Dong for the Phu Quoc Night Market. Here the catch-of-the-day is taken ashore and grilled on traditional street-side stalls at the night market. Have a feast of freshly grilled seafood, Vietnamese grilled bananas wrapped in sticky rice, ice cream rolls and Vietnamese pizza, made with a thin sheet of rice paper and topped with egg and spring onions.
Stay at Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc, a stunning upscale resort nestled on the island’s sunset coast, with a large lagoon pool, spa and sky bar.
Book a BWH hotel to earn points and enjoy exclusive benefits with the Best Western Rewards programme. Members get exclusive rates on hotel bookings and can earn points towards their next stay.
