Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has appointed Jonathan Song as chief commercial officer and Mei Mei Song as chief transformation officer.
In his new capacity, Jonathan will spearhead the global development of new airport hospitality services and facilities in new airports. He will also lead key strategic partnerships, enhancing and growing sales channels, product development, and drive PPG’s loyalty programme – Smart Traveller.
From left: Jonathan Song and Mei Mei Song
Mei Mei will oversee the brand’s evolution and implement transformation initiatives including enhancing customer experiences, diversifying PPG’s sales mix and anticipating future trends and opportunities, as well as lead PPG’s sustainability strategy.
The St. Regis Jakarta Hotel and Residences has named Oliver Kreuzer as general manager, where he will lead the team at the 282-key hotel.
With a career in the hospitality industry spanning over three decades, Kreuzer has worked in countries such as Europe, Asia, the US, and the Middle East.
As environmental disruptions and climate-related events increasingly impact travel, PATA has devised a multifaceted response to address these challenges.
PATA chiefs said the association’s response would involve strategic advocacy, bespoke consultancies, and capacity building – all aimed at fostering a more resilient and sustainable tourism sector.
Climate change is occurring at different paces across the world
“Our members across the region are actively pursuing sustainability and responsible tourism,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “A lot of organisations, especially in the tourism sector, are looking at it in a serious way. Many hotels are getting themselves certified, for example. More importantly, certification is spreading through the whole supply chain.”
One significant hurdle in tackling climate change within the tourism industry is the uneven impact across different geographical regions. Some destinations are bearing the brunt of climate change more visibly and urgently than others.
PATA chair Peter Semone noted: “The industry is still struggling a little to come to grips with climate change. Evidence must first be seen before there is motivation to think about mitigation and adaptation. However, some areas of the world are still lagging behind others in feeling the effects of climate change.”
Semone cited his experience in Timor-Leste, where he worked for five years, observing first-hand the devastating effects of climate change. “Hotels were washed into the ocean and people lost millions of dollars in the process,” he shared.
“In small island developing states like Timor-Leste, and even in Bali and many other coastal areas, the evidence is there. In other places, the evidence is a little more subtle, which is why the travel industry is waking up to the issue at different paces across the world.”
PATA’s approach to combating climate change involves not only working with national governments, but also engaging with provincial, municipal, and local level stakeholders.
Semone said: “In the past, our relationship with the government was national. We always felt (climate change) was a national governance issue, but what we’re recognising now is that so much has been decentralised across Asia-Pacific that we must work more at the (local) levels.”
This shift in focus allows PATA to tap into local hierarchies and involve communities more deeply in the sustainability conversation.
“Civil society is the first to recognise the problem because they’re experiencing it first-hand,” commented Semone. “Then, it can flow up to the government. I think this is the insertion point for an organisation like PATA.”
Another critical aspect of PATA’s strategy is to collaborate with development partners to support public sector efforts in delivering better public services and responding to climate change challenges.
“Governments are often supported by development partners from Europe and the US, or institutions like the Asian Development Bank,” informed Semone.
An essential, yet often overlooked, driver of sustainable tourism is the role of customer demand.
While PATA and other industry bodies can set the framework and provide guidance, it is ultimately travellers themselves who must push the industry towards more sustainable practices. Semone emphasised that customers need to take the reins and use their power of expression to drive changes in the industry.
“We’ve got to have this turning point where the customer says: tourism needs to do better and respond to climate change challenges,’” stressed Semone.
While the public sector has the resources to lead, he believes that consumer demand is the catalyst that will drive real change.
“If the market starts to shift towards sustainability because that’s what travellers want, then the entire industry will follow. It’s not just about top-down regulation; it’s about bottom-up demand. We need consumers to be part of this journey,” he concluded.
As the tourism industry evolves in response to technological advancements and changing consumer preferences, new career opportunities are being carved out, expanding professional roles beyond the more visible ones like tour guides or hotel managers.
Experts speaking at the PATA Youth Symposium at Dusit Thani College on August 27 shed light on how youths can navigate their way into fulfilling roles within the industry.
Industry experts highlighted emerging career paths during the PATA Youth Symposium on August 27 (Photo: Anne Somanas)
Nerea Caldes, senior software developer at Travel Compositor, emphasised the growing importance of technology in tourism, highlighting the need for tech-savvy professionals who can bridge the gap between traditional tourism practices and innovative digital solutions.
She said: “We have developed a new search box powered by AI (artificial intelligence), where you can type in your holiday preferences in natural language, and it will filter the best options for you. This machine learning-driven approach is something that will become increasingly powerful in the coming years. The future will see even more integration of AI, making tech roles in tourism increasingly vital.”
She noted that youth entering the field should consider careers in software development, data analysis, and AI implementation.
Mike Stewart, general manager for Thailand and Laos at Intrepid Travel, noted opportunities for environmental sustainability experts.
For young professionals passionate about environmental issues, careers in sustainability management, eco-tourism consulting, and environmental impact assessment offer promising prospects.
He said: “The marketplace is changing; 10 years ago, sustainability was just talked about. Now, it’s gone into hyperdrive. True sustainability is being demanded and recognised, and it’s only going to grow.”
Andrew Jones, who holds the role of guardian at Sanctuary Resorts, shared his unique career path that led him to merge hospitality with community service.
“Tourism can be a force for good in the community. I’ve found a way to balance my career in hospitality with my passion for community service,” he reflected.
Speakers also underscored the growing importance of human resources (HR) and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) roles as businesses strive to create inclusive environments and manage diverse teams.
Jones highlighted opportunities in often-overlooked roles within the various industry sectors.
“The airline industry offers more than just pilot and cabin crew positions. There are opportunities in aircraft maintenance, engineering, and even AI-driven loyalty programmes. Similarly, resort management encompasses roles in community development and sustainability, not just front-line positions,” he explained.
There are also opportunities to work in museum event management or as a mystery shopper for hotel chains.
“As the industry continues to adapt, there is a wealth of opportunities for young professionals to explore,” he concluded.
Niramol Jindanuwat, chief people officer at Dusit International, also pointed to the top ten “power skills” and attributes for a hospitality career in the modern era: detail orientation, the ability to be high-touch and high-tech, collaboration and teamwork, multi-tasking, global citizenship, and more.
Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) has signed an agreement with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku to order a fourth Icon Class ship for delivery to Royal Caribbean International in 2027.
The agreement also includes options to build a fifth and sixth Icon Class ship. With this order, Meyer Turku will have built 21 ships for Royal Caribbean Group over 28 years.
Royal Caribbean Group has signed for three more Icon Class ships to be built
The first ship in the Icon Class launched in January 2024, with Star of the Seas and the yet-to-be-named third Icon Class ship launching in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
RCG welcomed four new industry-leading ships this year, including Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, Silversea’s Silver Ray and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 7. This order also comes on the heels of the company’s announcement for a seventh Oasis Class ship, set to debut for Royal Caribbean International in 2028.
Jason Liberty, president and CEO, RCG, commented: “Since its debut, Icon has changed the game in vacation experiences and exceeded our expectations in both guest satisfaction and financial performance.”
“This order is an important milestone for the future of shipbuilding in the maritime network in Finland,” added Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku. “With Icon of the Seas, our team, consisting of the shipyard and partners, have built an extraordinary ship in respect of naval architecture, energy efficiency and customer experience. This is yet another recognition of the professionalism of our personnel and of our leadership in the maritime industry’s innovation and green transition. The options underline the strong outlook of our order book.”
“This is great news for Finland. Royal Caribbean Group’s long-term partnership will continue to have a positive impact on our employment and economy,” said Petteri Orpo, prime minister of Finland. “Their commitment and investment in Finland speaks volumes about the strength of our maritime cluster and our world class shipyards.”
EA Rooftop, an integrated culinary lifestyle complex by Asset World Corporation (AWC) atop the Empire Tower in Sathorn’s CBD is set to launch on September 18. The project, spearheaded by AWC CEO and president Wallapa Traisorat, aims to tap into the growing bleisure trend.
With an investment of over one billion baht (US$29.3 million), the EA Rooftop project is expected to elevate The Empire into a global lifestyle destination.
EA Rooftop at The Empire is one of the world’s largest F&B rooftop destinations that aims to heighten Bangkok competitiveness with culinary offerings (Photo: AWC)
The 10,000m² EA Rooftop, pronounced “ey-ah”, is a multi-level culinary haven featuring 2,500m² of outdoor dining and entertainment spaces. A unique lift, dubbed the Aya Experience, will transport guests between the various levels, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
The complex, spanning more than six-storeys, offers a diverse range of dining options. EA Gallery on the 55th floor houses casual dining options while a level up, EA Chef’s Table floor features Michelin-starred chefs and experiences such as competitions and collaborations between high-end chefs. Highlights on the 56th floor include Le Du Kaan, the first rooftop Thai restaurant by chef Thitid Tassanakajohn; K by Vicky Cheng, the first overseas venture by chef Vicky Cheng; and Sartoria by two-star Michelin chef Paulo Airaudo.
The experience culminates on the top four floors with Nobu Bangkok and its open-air Nobu Rooftop Bar on the 60th floor.
EA Rooftop will also offer some of the highest and most spacious high-end culinary and event spaces in Thailand, capable of accommodating large groups and events.
By end-2024, AWC will partially open a floor devoted to wellness cuisine.
Wallapa said: “Globally, high-end travellers are seeking new highlights, and places for their culinary bookings and dining programmes. EA Rooftop will offer a diverse selection of choices right in the city centre. We see immense potential in the Sathorn CBD, particularly in attracting MICE travellers who are increasingly merging leisure with business.”
Agoda has unveiled the top beach destinations in Asia, ahead of International Beach Day celebrated on September 1.
The list, based on accommodation searches made on Agoda for September and October, highlights the most sought-after coastal getaways, with Indonesia’s Bali taking the top spot.
Bai tops the list as the most searched beach destination in Asia
The island’s popularity continues to grow as Agoda recorded an 11% increase in Bali-related accommodation searches compared to the same period last year. Other beach hotspots in Asia include Okinawa in Japan and Danang in Vietnam, with both making it into the top three.
The Agoda rankings showcase a diverse array of beach destinations that cater to various preferences, from serene retreats to vibrant beach parties. Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines each boast two destinations in the top ten, underscoring their popularity among beachgoers.
The top 10 most searched beach destinations in Asia according to Agoda are Bali, Indonesia; Okinawa, Japan; Danang, Vietnam; Pattaya, Thailand; Phuket, Thailand; Nha Trang, Vietnam; Jeju, South Korea; Penang, Malaysia; Boracay Island, the Philippines; and Cebu, the Philippines.
These destinations offer a mix of activities, from water sports and nightlife to cultural experiences and relaxation.
Andrew Smith, senior vice president supply at Agoda shared: “With the monsoon season drawing to a close in many parts of Asia, travellers are eagerly anticipating the sun, sand, and sea. Asia boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches, and International Beach Day is the perfect time to celebrate these coastal treasures.”
The Osaka Station Hotel, Autograph Collection, Japan The Osaka Station Hotel, Autograph Collection in Osaka features 418 rooms and is located in JP Tower Osaka, with each room arranged in an L-shape along the perimeter of the building, allowing guests to enjoy different views from the east, west, north and south.
The hotel’s Specialty Suites comes with check-in and check-out assistance, breakfast, snacks, afternoon tea, cocktails and nightcaps served in the Specialty Salon on the 38th floor.
For F&B, there is seasonal Afternoon Tea at the lobby bar, a Farm to Table & Charcoal Grill buffet, as well as a teppanyaki restaurant. Facilities include a fitness centre and events spaces.
Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura
Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura, Indonesia Best Western Sagita Hotel Jayapura is nestled in the centre of Jayapura, the province’s largest city which lies on the north coast of the island of Papua.
Offering 72 rooms and suites, hotel facilities comprise a social lobby lounge, all-day dining restaurant, and six meeting rooms.
Nearby attractions include Hamadi Beach, mangrove forests, and Jayapura City Tower’s viewing platform, while the Sentani International Airport is just 30km away.
Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101, Thailand Situated in the South Sukhumvit district of Bangkok, Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 puts guests on the doorstep of the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center, True Digital Park and Mega Bangna, one of the country’s biggest shopping complexes.
The serviced residence is just a 40-minute drive away from Suvarnabhumi International Airport and nearby BTS Punnawithi Station.
It has a selection of 140 serviced apartments, ranging from studios to two-bedroom suites, with most units including a private balcony. Onsite are also an all-day dining bistro, fitness centre, swimming pool and meeting spaces.
The StandardX, Melbourne
The StandardX, Melbourne, Australia The StandardX, Melbourne boasts 125 rooms across eight floors, from a Cozy King to a Suite Spot that offer views of Fitzroy and the city skyline.
The hotel offers three dining venues: the all-day Thai restaurant that draws influence from Asian flavours to redefine street food; The Roof, a secret hideaway accessible exclusively to hotel guests; and The Box in the lobby that includes everyday essentials, lifestyle items, as well as snacks and beverages to be enjoyed on-the-go or in room.
IHG Hotels & Resorts is launching its exclusive tropical resort offer where IHG One Rewards Members receive up to 20 per cent off when booking the Stay Longer & Save rate on stays of three nights or more at participating IHG resorts in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Maldives, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Saipan, Guam, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.
The Stay Longer Pay Less rate gives members flexibility with no payment needed until 21 days prior to their stay. It also includes complimentary daily breakfast for two.
Guests can save when they stay longer at IHG’s participating properties, like InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, pictured
Available for bookings made from now to September 11, 2024 for stays from August 30, 2024 to June 30, 2025.
The 29th edition of the PATA Gold Awards brings yet another triumphant moment to the editorial team at TTG Asia Media. TTGmice’sGoing green story, authored by Caroline Boey and Karen Yue, was named the Business Article winner.
The winning feature looked into what convention centres in the region are doing to make a significant impact on net zero carbon goals set by the business events industry and their national government.
TTG Asia Media’s managing director Darren Ng and group editor Karen Yue received the award on behalf of their team.
This is TTG Asia Media’s 11th PATA Gold Award recognition. TTG Asia and TTG Asia Luxury were also recipients of past Business Article awards.
With a career in the hospitality industry spanning over three decades, Kreuzer has worked in countries such as Europe, Asia, the US, and the Middle East.
The winning feature looked into what convention centres in the region are doing to make a significant impact on net zero carbon goals set by the business events industry and their national government.
As the tourism industry evolves in response to technological advancements and changing consumer preferences, new career opportunities are being carved out, expanding professional roles beyond the more visible ones like tour guides or hotel managers.
Experts speaking at the PATA Youth Symposium at Dusit Thani College on August 27 shed light on how youths can navigate their way into fulfilling roles within the industry.
Nerea Caldes, senior software developer at Travel Compositor, emphasised the growing importance of technology in tourism, highlighting the need for tech-savvy professionals who can bridge the gap between traditional tourism practices and innovative digital solutions.
She said: “We have developed a new search box powered by AI (artificial intelligence), where you can type in your holiday preferences in natural language, and it will filter the best options for you. This machine learning-driven approach is something that will become increasingly powerful in the coming years. The future will see even more integration of AI, making tech roles in tourism increasingly vital.”
She noted that youth entering the field should consider careers in software development, data analysis, and AI implementation.
Mike Stewart, general manager for Thailand and Laos at Intrepid Travel, noted opportunities for environmental sustainability experts.
For young professionals passionate about environmental issues, careers in sustainability management, eco-tourism consulting, and environmental impact assessment offer promising prospects.
He said: “The marketplace is changing; 10 years ago, sustainability was just talked about. Now, it’s gone into hyperdrive. True sustainability is being demanded and recognised, and it’s only going to grow.”
Andrew Jones, who holds the role of guardian at Sanctuary Resorts, shared his unique career path that led him to merge hospitality with community service.
“Tourism can be a force for good in the community. I’ve found a way to balance my career in hospitality with my passion for community service,” he reflected.
Speakers also underscored the growing importance of human resources (HR) and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) roles as businesses strive to create inclusive environments and manage diverse teams.
Jones highlighted opportunities in often-overlooked roles within the various industry sectors.
“The airline industry offers more than just pilot and cabin crew positions. There are opportunities in aircraft maintenance, engineering, and even AI-driven loyalty programmes. Similarly, resort management encompasses roles in community development and sustainability, not just front-line positions,” he explained.
There are also opportunities to work in museum event management or as a mystery shopper for hotel chains.
“As the industry continues to adapt, there is a wealth of opportunities for young professionals to explore,” he concluded.
Niramol Jindanuwat, chief people officer at Dusit International, also pointed to the top ten “power skills” and attributes for a hospitality career in the modern era: detail orientation, the ability to be high-touch and high-tech, collaboration and teamwork, multi-tasking, global citizenship, and more.