TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Sunday, 15th February 2026
Page 233

Michelin awards keys to 58 hotels in Thailand

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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 Keys aim to guide travellers to properties that stand out for their hospitality concept, character, warm welcome and service

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 enhances Citadines brand experience through fitness collaboration with ClassPass

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Star Princess floats out for first time

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Marriott International, Sands China to bring The Luxury Collection to Macau

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Air New Zealand offers a taste of Aotearoa with new premium menu

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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.

Air New Zealand has launched its new premium menu, with dishes such as the rose veal with green bean and the beef short rib with black truffle jus, pictured

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.”

Save, indulge and explore the world’s most exclusive destinations with Silversea

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Dine in luxury on the Silver Ray while heading to the next destination

Brought to you by Silversea Cruises

Dine in luxury on board the Silver Ray while enjoying scenic landscapes

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. 

Explore the world’s most remote destinations such as Neko Harbour in Antarctica with Silversea

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

Indulge in the luxurious Veranda Suite of the Silver Endeavour while being whisked away to the next exotic unexplored territory

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.

Taipei promotes its bleisure appeal

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Taipei promotes its bleisure appeal ahead of IMEX America and ITB Asia, as well as the upcoming World Master Games in March 2025

Brought to you by JCIM Destination Marketing & Consulting

Taipei promotes its bleisure appeal ahead of IMEX America and ITB Asia, as well as the upcoming World Master Games in March 2025

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). 



UN Tourism issues a call for peace this World Tourism Day

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In celebration of World Tourism Day 2024, UN Tourism has brought sector leaders from every global region together around a common vision and commitment to building a “peace-sensitive sector”, recognising its potential to build bridges and foster understanding.

The official celebration in Tbilisi, Georgia welcomed almost 500 participants from 51 different countries, including 13 tourism ministers.

UN Tourism’s Zurab Pololikashvili says there is no tourism without peace

Reflecting its firm commitment to the day and its theme of Peace and Tourism, the host country was represented by prime minister Irakli Kobakhidze as well as seven other ministers, showcasing tourism’s cross-sectoral importance.

UN Tourism secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili stressed that “without peace, there is no tourism”.

He said: “I call on all of you to help build a peace-sensitive tourism sector, one that plays a key role in building peace and ending conflicts, provides tourism stakeholders with tools to realise this potential, promotes tourism education as peace education, and links tourism to other peace building initiatives”.

Ministers representing Georgia, Uzbekistan, Sierra Leone and Bahrain made clear how peace and security are the foundations for prosperity, providing examples from their own countries and personal travels of how tourism connects people and promotes understanding. Key takeaways include the important role of tourism in combatting disinformation and mistrust, and the essential need to ensure the benefits tourism delivers are enjoyed fairly and equally across societies.

To complement the public sector view, the September 28 event also featured a private-sector panel. The dialogue explored the private sector’s potential and responsibility, and to leverage its strengths and capabilities to promote peace and stability through tourism, and how it can work with the public sector to achieve these essential goals. From the field of entrepreneurship and digital innovation, panellists highlighted the potential for tourism to rebuild post-conflict and create resilience against future shocks.

Natalia Bayona, executive director of UN Tourism, set out the case for tourism investments as key to both growth and peace and opportunity. She said: “We have seen time and again how tourism can transform post-conflict regions, provide employment and foster entrepreneurial initiatives. The private sector must remain committed to using its resources to build peace and create opportunities in emerging and vulnerable regions.”

TTC Tour Brands commits to nature support with donations tied to bookings

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In line with World Tourism Day’s theme this year, Tourism and Peace, TTC Tour Brands – Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver & Contiki – has committed donations to nature-based solutions partners GreenWave and Rainforest Rescue with every booking made between September 27 and October 4, 2024.

Donations will go to GreenWave’s Kelp Farming Project and Rainforest Rescue’s Daintree Project. The Kelp Farming Project focuses on supporting regenerative ocean farms through sustainable practices that restore marine ecosystems, support economies and global food systems, and draw down carbon. The Daintree Project is dedicated to protecting and restoring the Daintree Rainforest, one of the world’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests, through reforestation and conservation efforts.

Bookings made this week with Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver & Contiki will result in TTC Tour Brands donating to its nature-based solutions partners GreenWave and Rainforest Rescue

TTC Tour Brands hopes to ensure that the power of travel can be enjoyed by future generations.

“At TTC Tour Brands, responsible tourism isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a promise. We want to ensure that the joy of travel can be experienced by future generations. Our longstanding partnerships with GreenWave and Rainforest Rescue reflect this commitment. By focusing on carbon removal, we are going beyond simple offsets, working towards real environmental change.” said Mae Cheah, managing director of TTC Tour Brands, Asia.

“Every guest and every booking plays a role in protecting our planet’s future,” she added.

Travel advisors can be confident about making a positive impact when they choose TTC Tour brands for their clients, not only this week, but all year round. Every TTC Tour Brand itinerary includes at least one Make Travel Matter Experience, which directly connects guests with local communities and cultures while advancing at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

In addition, parent firm The Travel Corporation’s five-year How We Tread Right sustainability strategy acts as a blueprint to addressing the impact of its business, offices and trips – all anchored to advancing the UNSDGs.

Cheah said: “Our commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of our operations, from the tours we design to the projects we support. So, when our travel advisor partners work with us and their clients join us on tour, they can feel good in the knowledge that they are making a real difference. The donations we’re making for each booking this week are our way of saying thank you to our travel advisor partners, guests and our suppliers, who both support our sustainability journey and make it possible.”

ForwardKeys to launch 36-month route-level forecast tool for travel retailers

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Travel intelligence firm ForwardKeys will launch in October a 36-month forecasting solution that is specifically tailored to brands and retailers located in airports. Said to be an industry-first, the tool will help brands and retailers to optimise strategy, enhance long-term marketing, and plan growth with precision.

Powered by self-learning and machine learning AI models, the solution continuously improves, offering duty-free retailers and other airport businesses an evolving tool to make smarter, more accurate strategic decisions.

ForwardKeys’s new forecasting tool will aid brands and retailers located in airports

Unlike traditional forecasts, which extrapolate from historical data, ForwardKeys combines up-to-the-minute booking data with its proprietary air capacity projections to deliver a more dynamic and responsive outlook.

It boasts global coverage spanning 4,750 airports and 900 airlines, and will differentiate domestic and international traffic.

The new tool complements ForwardKeys’ more granular 12-month forecast, which remains valuable for optimising day-to-day operations and reacting quickly to short-term shifts in traveller behaviour in a dynamic market.

Marina Giuliano, vice president, travel retail at ForwardKeys, said in a press release: “Our clients can now enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve decision-making up to three years into the future, which was not possible before. These forecasts enable brands and retailers to adapt strategy to the specific preferences and habits of different customer groups. Updates on market changes ensure decisions are always based on the freshest data available.”

ForwardKeys underscored the importance of accurate forecasting for the travel retail industry, as it faces rapid changes due to external factors like fluctuating market conditions and passenger flow disruptions.