Discova Thailand has appointed Peter Weibel as its new country manager.
In his new role, Weibel will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of Discova Thailand’s operations, including product development, sales, operations, accounting, and client services.
With over 30 years of experience in the Thai tourism sector, his diverse background and expertise across all segments and departments of the destination management business make him a valuable asset to the company.
Lufthansa Group has named Felipe Bonifatti as vice president Asia Pacific & Joint Ventures East.
Bringing over three decades of experience to his new role, Bonifatti will be based in the Lufthansa Group regional headquarters of Singapore, and will lead all commercial activities, including Joint Venture sales, in Asia-Pacific region from November 1.
He is fluent in German, English, Portuguese and Spanish.
Michelin has presented the very first Michelin Key selection for Thailand, awarding 58 properties offering the most outstanding stays throughout the country. Eight hotels were awarded with Three Michelin Keys, 19 with Two Michelin Keys, and 31 with One Michelin Key.
This inaugural Thai selection makes the Kingdom the second Asian country to see its hospitality scene rewarded by the Michelin Guide after earlier Michelin Key selections in France, Spain, Italy, Japan, the US, Canada and Mexico.
The Michelin Guide’s hotel selection provides users with recommendations for a complete travel experience. Awarded by the Michelin Guide inspection team based on anonymous stays or visits – independently of existing labels, tourism stars and pre-established quotas – the Michelin Keys are a new international benchmark that aim to guide travellers to accommodation that stand out for their unique hospitality concept, distinctive character, warm welcome and extremely high level of service.
Eight hotels were awarded the highest ranking of Three Michelin Keys, indicating an extraordinary stay. The eight awarded hotels include Keemala and Amanpuri in Phuket, Samujana Villas in Koh Samui, Soneva Kiri in Koh Kood, Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai in Chiang Mai, as well as Mandarin Oriental and The Siam in Bangkok.
Two Michelin Keys – describing an exceptional stay – were presented to 19 properties, comprising seven in Bangkok, such as Capella Bangkok and The Sukhothai Bangkok; four in Koh Samui, namely Napasai, A Belmond Hotel, Banyan Tree Samui, SALA Samui Choengmon Beach, and Six Senses Samui; Rachamankha located in Chiang Mai; and The Sarojin in Khao Lak.
Of the 31 newly-awarded hotels receiving the One Michelin Key, which means a very special stay, eight are located in the Bangkok, five in Phuket and four in Chiang Mai. These include InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, Iniala Beach House, Rayavadee, InterContinental Bangkok, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, 137 Pillars Suites Bangkok, and Raya Heritage, among others.
All Michelin Guide hotel recommendations are available for free on the Michelin Guide website and mobile application. To assist travellers throughout their stay, the Michelin Guide also provides a concierge service run by travel experts employed by the Michelin Guide.
Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide, stated: “This selection is an open invitation to explore Thailand, enjoy its heavenly landscapes and warm hospitality, and experience memorable stays at some of the most attractive prices.
“Using the Michelin Guide’s digital platforms, travellers can now filter their search and book hotels for stays that we hope will be unforgettable.”
The next Michelin Keys will be announced in Great Britain and Ireland on October 1 and in Germany, Austria and Switzerland on October 9.
Ascott’s Citadines brand has joined forces with ClassPass, a monthly fitness subscription service, to provide its guests and loyalty members access to the world’s largest fitness platform.
As part of the partnership, guests of Citadines properties and members of Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) will enjoy upsized ClassPass new member benefits during a two-month campaign from October 15 to December 14 across various markets in Asia-Pacific, France and the UK. These include a complimentary one-month membership for new ClassPass members to enjoy fitness classes at different studios, gyms and wellness centres within each market.
In China, the campaign – which commenced on September 26 and runs until November 30 – offers ASR members discount codes to offset the cost of ClassPass sessions. In addition, ClassPass members in China who sign up as ASR members can receive a 75 per cent discount on their first stay at any participating ASR properties.
Following this campaign, more Citadines properties across Asia-Pacific will gradually be added to the ClassPass app, where fitness facilities such as the pool and gym will be made available for booking by ClassPass members.
These initiatives with ClassPass are integral to activ∞, a curation of amenities and programmes to promote an active lifestyle among Citadines’ guests. Under activ∞ Unlimited, amenities and signature programmes are specially curated at each Citadines property, catering to the unique characteristics of each city and addressing the needs of guests.
Citadines properties in the UAE, Oman, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, the Philippines, China, Malaysia, and Singapore have also solidified partnerships with various fitness studios to offer guests classes such as yoga, Pilates, and body combat. Leisure hiking and cycling tours were also made available at Citadines properties in the UK and Vietnam.
In addition, For the Love of Coffee, another signature programme of Citadines, has kicked off International Coffee Week today with its _#CitadinesLovesCoffee_ campaign.
This features over 210 activities inviting coffee lovers to experience coffee-inspired activities underpinned by three themes: Unlimited Connections, Unlimited Experiences, and Unlimited Discoveries.
Princess Cruises celebrated a major construction milestone on September 26 with the traditional maritime float out ceremony of its second Sphere-Class vessel, Star Princess, at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.
Following that, the new ship will transfer to the outfitting quay where construction will continue in anticipation of her Fall 2025 debut.
Star Princess joins her sister Sun Princess as the largest ships ever built for Princess Cruises. She is also the second in the new Sphere-class of ships for the cruise line and will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).
While 20 per cent larger than any of Princess Cruises’ existing ships, Star Princess’ design retains the more intimate settings the line is known for, with several new spaces such as The Dome which is a transformational entertainment venue on the top deck inspired by the terraces of Santorini, and a three-storey dining room positioned at the aft of the ship to deliver breath-taking views. A suspended Sphere Piazza is also featured at the centre of the cruise ship, and the main theatre: The Princess Arena.
Star Princess’ inaugural sailing is set for October 4, 2025 when the ship will depart from Barcelona on an 11-day Mediterranean roundtrip cruise, visiting six ports such as Marseille, Rome, Naples, Sicily, Gibraltar and Cartegna in Spain.
The ship will then sail a seven-day cruise in the Mediterranean on October 15, 2025 before embarking on a 14-day transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale in Florida, the US on October 22, 2024 where she will commence her inaugural season in the Caribbean.
Commodore Nick Nash and captain Gennaro Arma, who both were on hand for the ceremony, will serve as masters of Star Princess.
“Star Princess is the second ship in our new Sphere class, and now as she prepares to take to the water for the first time it is a testament to the incredible dedication and skill of the entire shipyard team,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.
Marriott International and Sands China have signed an agreement to debut The Luxury Collection brand in Macau.
Londoner Grand, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Macao is expected to open in January 2025.
The hotel is slated to feature 2,405 rooms and suites, as well as five distinct dining concepts. Located at the heart of Macau’s Cotai Strip with the city’s premier entertainment, shopping, and dining districts right at the guests’ doorstep, the hotel is approximately 4.9km away from Macau International Airport and 6.2km away from Taipa Ferry Terminal. Renowned sites such as Senado Square, Taipa Houses, and Ruins of St. Paul’s are also nearby and accessible by a short car ride.
Gavin Yu, chief development officer, Greater China, Marriott International, said: “The highly anticipated hotel will blend Macau’s East-meets-West culture with The Luxury Collection’s distinctive perspective on luxury, providing our guests unparalleled access to a city rich with heritage, cuisine, and captivating experiences.”
“Building on the success of The Londoner Macao, adding Londoner Grand, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Macao to its portfolio represents a pivotal moment in our mission to elevate Macao’s luxury hospitality landscape,” added Grant Chum, CEO and president of Sands China.
Air New Zealand has introduced its onboard premium menu, A Taste of Aotearoa, which features authentic flavours of New Zealand.
The curated menu will be available in Business Premier and Premium Economy cabins on longhaul flights departing New Zealand from October.
It features contemporary cuisine with a focus on showcasing the country’s finest produce, such as kahawai, a popular fish found around the New Zealand coastline, and tāmure (snapper), caught from the waters of the North Island’s Hauraki Gulf.
Some highlights of A Taste of Aotearoa offerings include smoked kahawai mousse, crayfish bisque with chive crème, rose veal with green bean, slow-cooked beef short rib with black truffle jus, seared Hauraki Gulf snapper with nori butter, and for dessert, peach and raspberry warm melba pudding with vanilla crème anglaise.
A selection of wines including Craggy Range Te Kahu Gimblett Gravels, Neudorf Tiritiri Pinot Rosé, and Aotea Seifried Sauvignon Blanc will also be available.
Air New Zealand head of culinary Justin Koen shared: “Our latest menu, inspired by manaakitanga – the Māori tradition of hospitality – reflects who we are and our dedication to delivering a world-class experience. Those travelling in Economy don’t miss out either, with special menu items to choose from. Our culinary team has crafted each meal to create an onboard experience so good, you’ll forget you’re in the skies.”
Brought to you by Silversea Cruises
From the icy realms of Antarctica to the storied coasts of the Mediterranean, travellers who appreciate the finer things in life can discover the world’s most distant and captivating destinations in luxury on Silversea’s expedition and classic voyages.
Every voyage is a masterful blend of adventure and indulgence, designed for travellers who wish to experience the extraordinary without compromise. Whether seeking the exhilaration of an expedition or the elegance of a classic voyage, Silversea delivers a journey that is both enriching and effortlessly refined.
Silversea’s expedition voyages are curated for the adventurous spirit, yet steeped in the elegance for which the brand is renowned. Sail through the serene, icy waters of Antarctica, where pristine glaciers, majestic whales, and colonies of penguins welcome those fortunate enough to explore this remote part of the world. Or get up close to the rugged beauty of the Galápagos Islands, where encounters with rare wildlife is unmatched.
These voyages are accompanied by an expert team of naturalists and guides who provide unparalleled insight into the history, ecology, and culture of each destination. While the landscapes may be rugged, the onboard experience remains nothing short of luxurious. Silversea’s expedition ships are purpose-built to access some of the world’s most far-flung corners, while offering an atmosphere of intimacy, with all-suite accommodations, personalised butler service, and world-class cuisine.
Expeditions with Silversea transcend the ordinary; they are journeys to places where few have ventured, all while basking in the finest comforts at sea.
For those who prefer to savour the journey at a more leisurely pace, Silversea’s classic voyages offer a sophisticated exploration of the world’s most storied regions. From the sunlit piazzas of the Mediterranean to the ancient wonders of Asia, Silversea brings its guests to destinations that capture the essence of history, art, and culture.
Hospitality at its finest
Onboard, the experience is as remarkable as the destinations themselves. Guests enjoy a personalised, all-inclusive service, complete with a dedicated butler for every suite. Silversea’s all-suite accommodations, most with private verandas, provide panoramic views of the ever-changing scenery. Whether it’s assisting with unpacking, arranging private excursions, or delivering a perfectly timed nightcap, the butler service is a hallmark of the impeccable attention to detail that defines the Silversea experience.
With an exceptional crew-to-guest ratio, personalised attention is the hallmark of a Silversea journey. Whether enjoying a private tour of a Mediterranean vineyard or marvelling at the cultural treasures of Asia’s ancient cities, every moment aboard a Silversea classic voyage is crafted with precision, elegance, and sophistication.
Silversea’s “Save. Indulge. Explore.” promotion provides a rare opportunity for guests to experience the world’s most desirable and remote destinations, all while enjoying exceptional value. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the world’s wonders, indulge in Silversea’s renowned service and luxuries, and explore the planet’s most remote regions in the comfort and style that only Silversea can offer.
Save $3,000 per suite while indulging in the Silversea Experience and choose from a collection of over 520 voyages exploring all seven continents. Make plans to take advantage of these limited-time savings and 15 per cent reduced deposit – available on the Port-to-Port All-Inclusive fares.
With the “Save. Indulge. Explore.” promotion, now is the perfect moment to set sail. Reserve by October 31, 2024 to enjoy the promotion. Visit silversea.com.
Brought to you by JCIM Destination Marketing & Consulting
The Taipei City Government will be showcasing its unique blend of modernity and tradition at IMEX America and ITB Asia this October, demonstrating how the city provides both a dynamic urban experience and opportunities for relaxation and wellness.
Taipei is increasingly recognised as a premier bleisure destination, encouraging business travellers to extend their stay, and explore the city’s rich culture, world-class cuisine, scenic beauty, and diverse activities tailored to both business and leisure visitors.
A major highlight of Taipei’s presence at IMEX America and ITB Asia will be the promotion of the upcoming World Master Games, an international sports event set to take place in Taipei from May 17 to 30, 2025.
This prestigious event will feature 35 sports disciplines, both modern and traditional, and is expected to attract around 40,000 sports enthusiasts from around the world. The World Master Games will seamlessly integrate culture, tourism, and international exchange.
As a top choice for event organisers in Asia, Taipei offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of festivals and events, all conveniently located near the main exhibition venues. With its efficient transportation network, including a world-class metro system and an international airport close to the city centre, Taipei provides unparalleled accessibility for international travellers.
For more travel information and in-kind support from Taipei City Government, contact MICE One-stop Service by email: micetour@gov.taipei or call: +886 2 2720 8889 (#2104/#2105).
Hilton’s 2025 Trends Report has revealed how Gen Alpha and Gen Z in Asia-Pacific are now leading the charge in family travel planning, reshaping travel and prioritising experiences that reflect their personal interests and cultural pride.
The report surveyed over 13,000 global travellers across 13 countries, comprising insights from more than 4,100 Hilton Team Members, and in-depth interviews with Hilton travel experts.
Key insights in the report include how travellers are embracing slow travel to deeply immerse themselves in local cultures; more global travellers seeking adventure travel and sleep retreats; dining decisions are being led by children; and global travellers hunting for more culinary experiences, booking restaurant reservations before their flights.
How young travellers are steering family travel
In Asia-Pacific, family travel is increasingly guided by the preferences of Gen Alpha and Gen Z, with 87% of young travellers actively contributing to their family’s vacation planning. This is particularly so in China (98%) and India (93%), where more than nine in 10 Gen Alpha and Gen Z are somewhat or very involved in trip planning. Moreover, 69% of Asia-Pacific parents choose vacation destinations based on their children’s interests.
While these young travellers’ input is strong in picking activities and destinations, logistical decisions – such as dining (39%), transportation (38%), accommodation (32%), budgeting (20%), and trip duration (18%) – are still primarily managed by parents. This growing involvement highlights the evolving dynamic of family travel, with younger generations taking the lead in creating memorable experiences, while still leaning on their families for practical planning.
Turning travel into growth experiences
For Gen Alpha and Gen Z in the region, travel is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. A strong connection to cultural heritage drives these young travellers, with 75% taking pride in the region’s global cultural influence and 73% eager to explore their roots through travel.
Asia-Pacific families use travel as a way to connect with their cultural identities. Notably, 61% of parents choose destinations that reflect their heritage, traditions, and values.
Key travel trends in 2025
Beyond cultural exploration, 68% of young travellers in the region view travel as a key to enhancing their education and personal development, and the parents agree, with 60% selecting culturally significant destinations to support their children’s learning and growth.
In addition, trips centred around entertainment, sports, adventure, and meaningful connections with loved ones are at the top of their agenda. Sports events, like the ODI World Cup for Women, Table Tennis World Championships and FIFA Club World Cup, are the hottest tickets in 2025, with 35% of young travellers in Asia-Pacific planning their trips around these events.
This growing interest in sports tourism is also reflected in Hilton’s own data. From 2019 to 2024, Hilton Worldwide Sport Sales revenue tripled in volume, with 80% of this growth driven by youth or amateur sports. Following closely for Asia-Pacific’s Gen Alpha and Gen Z travellers are nature events and camps (34%) such as cherry blossom festivals and ski trips, and music concerts and festivals (26%), particularly K-pop concerts.
Gen Alpha and Gen Z embrace annual travel
Gen Alpha and Gen Z across Asia-Pacific are avid travellers, with 92% taking at least one trip in the past year. Gen Alpha and Gen Z’s appetite for travel is particularly pronounced in China, India and Singapore, where young travellers have gone on two to three trips on average in the past year.
This passion for travel is evident in their future plans as well, with 88% of Gen Alpha and Gen Z in Asia-Pacific likely to travel in the next year. Additionally, 72% take pride in their ability to explore new destinations. These findings highlight the strong and growing demand for travel among younger generations.
The role of technology in Gen Alpha and Gen Z travel
In today’s digital age, technology is central to the travel experience for Gen Alpha and Gen Z. In Asia-Pacific, parents and children stay online throughout their trips, spending up to four hours a day on their devices. Gen Z, in particular, spends more time online, averaging three hours daily, compared to Gen Alpha’s two hours.
Smartphones (64%), digital tablets (38%), and smartwatches (33%) are travel essentials for these young adventurers, primarily being used to stream videos (55%), play games (45%), and stay in touch with loved ones via messaging apps (44%). Additionally, more than a third (42%) use their devices to listen to music and 30% share their experiences on social media.
These trends are consistent with Hilton’s team member survey findings, showing that access to technology is ranked as the top amenity for Gen Alpha travellers and their families, with entertainment and child-friendly activities also high on the list.
Domestic versus global travel
Gen Alpha and Gen Z travellers in Asia-Pacific are excited about exploring both local and international destinations. With the exception of Singapore, there is a strong preference for domestic travel among Gen Alpha and Gen Z across all Asia-Pacific markets.
This emerging generation is also increasingly interested in travelling beyond Asia to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, with Australia, Japan and South Korea emerging as top destinations across the markets surveyed. Other popular holiday destinations for Gen Alpha and Gen Z in Asia-Pacific comprise China, India, Singapore, Hawaii, the US, New Zealand, and Malaysia.
“The growing influence of Gen Alpha on family travel signals a transformative shift in the travel industry – one that Hilton is excited to embrace. As these trends accelerate, we recognise the importance of adapting to evolving preferences,” said Ben George, senior vice president and commercial director, Asia Pacific, Hilton.
Alexandra Jaritz, senior vice president, brand management, Asia Pacific, Hilton, added: “As Gen Alpha and Gen Z step into the role of key influencers in family travel decisions, they are redefining the landscape of travel. Their evolving preferences are driving the industry to innovate, creating opportunities for more meaningful, immersive, and culturally enriching experiences that align with their values.
“This shift is not just about the destinations they choose, but how they interact with and experience the world,” concluded Jaritz.
Read Hilton’s full report here.