Chad Grospe has been appointed as vice president and managing director, Asia-Pacific for Royal Caribbean International (RCI).
He has been with RCI since 2017 and most recently led the international marketing team, supporting efforts across the Asia-Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
With his vision, deep industry knowledge, and proven experience working across international markets at RCI, Grospe will lead the team to continue the growth and success of the company.
The Danna Langkawi Resort & Beach Villas has named Aditya Shamsher Malla as its new general manager.
With over three decades of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Malla brings a strong commitment to excellence to the team at The Danna.
He has worked with brands like Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Taj Luxury Hotels, Shangri-La, Hyatt Regency, The Westin, Marriot International, and Hilton, and most recently served as the general manager in Indonesia, transitioning it to full service following acquisition and conversion from Accor.
After consultation with local and foreign airlines’ representatives, the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has launched the new Airport Network Development Programme in June to strengthen its international aviation hub status.
The programme consists of two parts – New Route Scheme and the Strategic Development Scheme – to incentivise home-based and foreign airlines to open more new routes and increase the frequency of flights connecting to Hong Kong. Rewards range from HK$10,000 to HK$20,000 (US$1,282 to US$2,564) per trip, for routes continuously operated for over 20 weeks – this means about HK$7 million to HK$8 million for each new route per year.
Hong Kong aims to increase inbound flight services by introducing two new incentive schemes (Photo: Hong Kong International Airport)
The New Route Scheme covers all passenger and cargo airlines that launch new destinations connecting to Hong Kong International Airport with a defined continuity, and qualified carriers will be eligible to receive financial incentives for two years. Applications are open from now to December 31, 2027.
The Strategic Development Scheme rewards airlines that launch new routes and/or increase frequencies to AAHK’s targeted regions or countries – namely North America, Europe and Australia/New Zealand – will be granted financial incentives for three years.
According to AAHK, the programme has already received positive response from airlines. Since June, five airlines have initially qualified for this scheme – Starlux Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, HK Express and Jin Air, covering eight routes, including Taipei and Taichung in Taiwan; Xining, Harbin and Kashgar in China; Danang (Vietnam); Clark (the Philippines); and Seoul (South Korea).
Prince Travel, director of sales and marketing, Wing Wong noted that while airlines have introduced new routes and increased flight frequency to meet demand, what Hong Kong really needs are arrivals from new destinations.
Welcoming the initiative, an Emirates spokesperson said: “These incentive programmes not only support airlines expanding their route networks but also contribute to the recovery of air travel in the region. Emirates is dedicated to working collaboratively with industry stakeholders to drive the recovery of Hong Kong’s aviation market and deliver enhanced travel options for passengers.
“While financial incentives are certainly a compelling factor for airlines to consider when evaluating route expansions or frequency increases, the decision-making process also takes into account various factors such as market demand, operational feasibility, and more. We will continue to monitor market dynamics and customer needs to optimise our route network and flight schedules.”
Home-grown Cathay Group remains on track with their plan to reach 100 per cent of pre-pandemic passenger flights within 1Q2025. So far this year, the Cathay Pacific Airways has already announced 10 new destinations, seven of which have commenced services with Ningbo, Riyadh and Cairns set to follow over the coming months.
The Emirates spokesman added: “Aviation is a very competitive industry and before the pandemic we were already competing with more than 100 carriers in Hong Kong. We welcome competition and recognise that an active and vibrant market for air services is critical to the success of Hong Kong as an international aviation hub.”
Findings from the second annual Dragon Trail International (DTI) research – Chinese Outbound Travel Trade Survey 2024 – show new traveller behaviour that emerged when the market exited lockdown last year is persisting.
Sienna Parulis-Cook, DTI, director of marketing and communication noted five key trends: price sensitivity becoming a key feature of the market; Chinese travellers strongly preferring small groups, with demand for customised tours continuing to grow; safety being more important than ever; nature becoming the leading travel theme of 2024; and family travel remaining a top trend, but with the younger demographic creating more opportunities for travel with friends.
Key trends show that Chinese travellers prefer small group travel, travel with family and friends, with more emphasis on travel safety and nature experiences
Of the 295 travel agents actively selling China outbound polled, DTI market research analyst, Janice Meng, noted the post-2000s age group of their customers increased 33 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023.
During the recent webinar, Parulis-Cook, quoting TravelSky, shared that summer outbound travel was up 93 per cent year-on-year; international flight bookings on Qunar, by late-June, were 150 per cent of last year’s volume; and the platform’s prediction of recovery levels this summer reaching 2019 levels.
Visa waivers and new visa-free policies, such as by Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, and with Australia introducing a new five-year, multi-entry visa, are expected to stimulate demand.
There has also been a surge in travel to South Korea, which remains popular; Japan, due to the weak yen; Dubai, with travel increased by 100 per cent in the first four months of the year; and Saudi Arabia, which was granted Approved Destination Status in July.
Jane Carter, international sales manager, Informa Markets, presenting on COTTM – China Outbound Travel & Tourism Market, who also spoke during the webinar, shared that the China Tourism Academy predicts that the number of Chinese outbound travellers will reach 130 million in 2024.
While price sensitivity is trending, Carter commented that travellers have higher requirements for tourism quality and demand for customised services is increasing.
Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts is set to grow its presence across Indonesia with the addition of four new properties this year.
The Indonesian hospitality company recently announced at a media dinner in Jakarta that three properties, the 123-room hotel Santika Blitar in East Java, the 102-room Kampi Hotel Legian – Bali, and the 96-room Amaris Hotel Lampung have opened between January and August while the 108-room Hotel Amaris Manado is scheduled to open in September.
Santika aims to open five properties every year over the next three years; Kampi Hotel Legian – Bali, pictured
These additions bring Santika’s presence in Indonesia to 50 cities. In total, Santika Indonesia manages 118 property units across seven brands, claiming its position as the largest home-grown hotel company in the country.
Sudarsana, general manager Corporate Business Development & Sales Marketing at Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts, told TTG Asia that the group will open another 15 new hotels over the next three years. Hotel Santika Cibadak is scheduled to open in 2026, while the projects in Samarinda, Balikpapan, Pekalongan, Serpong, and Borobudur are targeted to launch in 2027.
“The company targets to achieve five openings every year over the next three years,” added Sudarsana.
The group also intends to make deeper inroads through Kalimantan and Sulawesi islands.
“We see potential in cities around the Ibukota Nusantara (IKN), the new Indonesian capital city, such as Samarinda and Balikpapan. The company is currently searching for opportunities to develop more hotel in these cities,” added Sudarsana.
Over the next three years, the group also plans to enter Papua, East Indonesia, with one property in the pipeline, and to expand to areas like South-west Papua, Central Papua, and Papua Mountains.
Santika Indonesia also plans to bring the Anvaya brand to Jakarta – the only property is the 493-key Anvaya Bali currently. “We are eyeing locations around the Sudirman-Thamrin, CBD, and Kuningan areas,” said Sudarsana.
Aside from new openings, the company is planning to launch in 2025 a new modern lifestyle hotel brand, which targets the upper middle segment and offers standard facilities provided by four- and five-star hotels. This brand will also offer immersive local culture experiences to capture the maturing millennials.
“The new brand is similar to Kampi, but is more luxurious, which we believe will strengthen the presence of Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts in the country,” he shared, adding that the new brand “is expected to open its first hotel in Bali and in Jakarta” soon.
Corporate International Travel and Tours (CITTI) has launched its sister company, CITTI Elite, which specialises in ultra-luxury travel itineraries.
Shan Dioquino David, CEO and president of both companies, said CITTI Elite offers a high level of service “designed for high net worth individuals from the Philippines who know that there is more to explore and to experience (at) an extraordinary destination”.
More travellers from the Philippines are keen to explore destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic (Photo: CITTI Elite)
There is demand from these “discerning travellers who prioritise unique and new experiences over mere destinations, convenience, luxury down to the smallest details, and seamless planning,” David told TTG Asia.
She also noted changes in the mindset of affluent travellers – they have become the most active travellers and have also included the younger generation.
David is currently training her daughter, Daniela David, to take over the operations of CITTI Elite which, while focusing on outbound, will also encompass inbound in the future.
She said CITTI Elite represents the Philippines luxury cruise lines like Silversea, Ponant, Scenic luxury cruise, and The Yacht of Ritz Carlton; luxury trains such as the Orient Express and Rovos Rail; and African camps like the Sanctuary Retreats and Safari Collections – these enable the travel agency to offer ultra-luxury expeditions that covers all seven continents.
Regarding luxury travel trends from the Philippines, David shared that the Polar region, Antarctica and the Arctic, are both emerging destinations. Based on last year’s market share, 44 per cent of the cruise market explored those two destinations.
In line with the year-end holiday period, Hwajing Travel has announced new cruise charters on the Costa Serena, departing from Port Klang to Penang, Phuket, and Hong Kong.
The highlight is a one-way, six-day/five-night chartered cruise from Port Klang to Vietnam (Phu My) and Hong Kong, starting December 15.
Costa Serena will offer sailings departing from Port Klang to Penang, Phuket, and Hong Kong
“Guests can visit the bustling Ho Chi Minh City from Phu My, Vietnam, before continuing on a relaxing sojourn to the iconic harbour city of Hong Kong,” shared Kenny Cheong, managing director of Hwajing Travel and Tour.
The cruise is priced from 1,599 ringgit (US$358) per person, with early bird promotional perks such as “Kids Cruise Free” and 10 per cent off for seniors, offering exceptional value for multi-generational family holidays.
Additionally, in December, Hwajing Travel will offer a four-day/three-night return cruise from Port Klang to Phuket.
Departure dates on Costa Serena are December 4, 7, and 10, making it the only cruise ship sailing from Port Klang to Phuket in December.
There will also be a three-day/two-night return local cruise departing Port Klang for Penang on December 13.
Hwajing Travel’s chartered cruises come in the wake of recent announcements by transport minister Anthony Loke to entice cruise operators to homeport in Malaysia.
Developing the cruise industry aligns with the government’s goal of attracting 35.6 million foreign tourists during Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Last year, Malaysia received 1,055 cruise ships, which drew some 1.5 million tourists to the country.
As part of its multi-year expansion, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will be expanding the epicentre of the Marvel Super Heroes at the theme park, with all-new entertainment, shopping and dining offerings in the line-up.
The upcoming project comprises an extended area in Tomorrowland at Hong Kong Disneyland.
The expanded Marvel-themed area will feature all-new entertainment, shopping and dining
The Marvel saga began with Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, choosing Hong Kong as the Asia headquarters of Stark Industries. The park also became the home of the Stark Expo, showcasing the largest and latest high-tech creations of Stark Industries.
Existing Marvel-themed experiences, Iron Man Experience and Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle!, both of which are available only at Hong Kong Disneyland, have proved to be popular. The park also has seasonal offerings such as a line-up of Marvel Super Heroes, the Avengers Deployment Vehicle, and the one-of-a-kind Marvel-inspired drone show.
Plans include bringing new pavilions to the Stark Expo to showcase their most recent inventions and technologies, with Peter Parker (Spider-Man), the newest Stark Industries intern, as the host.
Japan is intensifying its courtship of luxury travellers by way of developing and launching a wide range of high-end experiences nationwide.
The high-end traveller market is important to the country as it makes its inbound tourism recovery. Although only about one per cent of international arrivals to Japan in 2019 spent one million yen (US$7,000) during their stay, their combined spend represented 11.5 per cent of total inbound tourism expenditure, according to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
In Japan, snow sports resorts offer on-mountain activities complemented by luxury offerings
Most of those high-spending visitors, who the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) define as “high-value travellers”, hailed from the US, the UK, France, Germany, Australia and China.
As part of the Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Plan, in place until March 2026, JNTO and the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA) have “positioned luxury tourism as one of the most prioritised initiatives”, a JNTO spokesperson told TTG Asia.
Among the plan’s main goals, which were set in April 2023, are achieving five trillion yen in annual inbound tourism spend, up from the 4.8 trillion yen recorded in 2019. This target has already been exceeded, with total consumption by international travellers in calendar year 2023 totalling 5.3 trillion yen.
However, other goals remain, such as increasing the number of luxury travellers who visit the country’s lesser-known destinations and the average time spent in local areas to two nights, up from 1.4 nights in 2019.
“We recognise that it is essential to increase visitors to regions other than Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, where 70 per cent of luxury traveller spend was concentrated in 2019,” continued the JNTO spokesperson.
This need has prompted the JTA to select 11 model tourist destinations around the country including Eastern Hokkaido – known for its lakes, marshes and volcanic landscapes – and the Seto Inland Sea, which is home to some 700 islands.
“Visitors can experience authentic and unique culture based on nature in each region, which is distinguished from the luxury travel offerings (available in Japan) thus far,” said the spokesperson.
New offerings in the region focus on exclusivity, communities, and the environment. Examples include seeing ama (sea women) divers, who have free-dived for millennia, in Mie Prefecture; training with yamabushi mountain ascetics in Yamagata Prefecture; and learning about reintroduced wild storks in Ramsar-designated wetlands in Hyogo Prefecture.
In the corporate sector, too, the race is on to cater to inbound luxury travellers, both now and as their numbers increase.
Increasingly, in snow sports resorts, Lindsay Colbert, managing director of Japan Ski Experience, told TTG Asia that “on-mountain activities are complemented by luxury offerings such as spa facilities, fully equipped gyms, yoga classes and pampering packages”.
“Emerging accommodation developments, both in Japan’s most popular resorts and up-and-coming destinations, are heavily focused on catering to this demand,” she added.
Expanding to offer more experiences is also top of mind for Max Mackee, founder of Kammui Inc. – the premium nature and adventure travel experience provider recently completed its first successful winter season (2023-2024) offering Kammui Adventures, a series of curated multi-day packages centred around skiing and snowboarding in Hokkaido’s backcountry and luxury experiences like Japanese whiskey tastings.
With more offerings planned, Kammui Inc.’s mission is “developing the premium adventure tourism market in Japan”, he shared.
Successful uptake of these experiences, though, depends on the availability of exclusive transport to ensure high-end visitors can travel quickly and easily around the country, even during short trips. However, there are legal and logistical challenges to offering luxury transport options on demand.
Bespoke travel design company Infinity Mugen, a member of the Regional Revitalization and Inbound Tourism Council, has developed 50 luxury experiences across Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, targeting high-end travellers mainly from Europe and the US. Each experience is designed to be tailor-made, including through the use of chartered aircraft.
However, Japan’s Travel Industry Law stated that a tour cannot be offered until all necessary arrangements including travel and accommodation are made. Furthermore, an application for a business jet slot at Haneda Airport, for example, must be submitted three days in advance. There are also no separate airports in Japan for small aircraft, unlike in Europe and the US, resulting in a limited number of slots for take-off and landing.
Kenji Inaoka, chairman of Infinity Mugen, said he is therefore able to arrange charter flights, hotels and experiences only after receiving a booking.
Still, he believes that Japan’s nascent luxury travel industry has the potential to not only exceed the demands of high-end visitors but also develop rural areas.
“There are many wealthy people in Japan but they don’t have a culture of spending large sums on leisure, so there is a lack of travel content for wealthy visitors; the regions can offer unique experiences for them through the utilisation of technology and human resources,” Inaoka told TTG Asia.
“Introducing regional culture and hospitality to luxury visitors is the key to revitalising Japan’s regions.”
Korea's stunning natural beauty offers the perfect environment for rejuvenating and therapeutic wellness activities, such as at Hwadam Botanical Garden
Korea’s stunning natural beauty offers the perfect environment for rejuvenating and therapeutic wellness activities, such as at Hwadam Botanical Garden
Known for its trendy shopping streets, hearty and flavourful cuisine, and vibrant K-pop culture, Korea is also a premier wellness destination.
Amidst some stunning natural landscapes, there is an array of serene and therapeutic wellness experiences designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.
Hwadam Botanical Garden’s meticulously landscaped gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life. Wander through themed gardens, each showcasing a unique collection of plants, and experience the calming effects of nature.
Located just 40 minutes outside of Seoul, Hwadam Botanical Garden spans 165,265m² and offers a rich sensory experience. Opened by the LG Evergreen Foundation to preserve the natural ecosystem, the garden features the largest pine tree sanctuary in Korea, along with a diverse array of trees, insects, and birds. Visitors can explore 17 themed gardens showcasing approximately 4,000 plant species and walk on the easy accessible 5.3km trail. Advance reservations are required online.
Yeongnam Alps, Ulsan: A natural and cultural treasure
The Ganwoljae Pass in the Yeongnam Alps, known for its scenic hiking trails
Adventure awaits in the Yeongnam Alps, a breathtaking mountain range known for its scenic hiking trails and panoramic views. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the Yeongnam Alps provide a perfect escape for those seeking physical activity amidst stunning natural beauty.
The stunning mountain range in the southeastern region of the Korean Peninsula comprises nine peaks that soar over 1,000m high. It is home to significant cultural heritage sites, including Tongdosa Temple, Unmunsa Temple, Seoknamsa Temple, and Pyochungsa Temple. The Ganwoljae trail offers an accessible six-hour trek with breathtaking views of the mountains and Ulju-gun. Rich in natural beauty and steeped in legend, the Yeongnam Alps is a must-visit destination for both nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Damyang Juknokwon, Jeollanam-do: A sanctuary of bamboo and Pungryu culture
Experience the healing benefits of nature at Damyang Juknokwon
Experience the serene atmosphere of Damyang Juknokwon and stroll through the towering bamboo groves, breathe in the fresh air.
Damyang Juknokwon, nestled in the city of Damyang, is a celebrated haven for bamboo and traditional Korean culture, known as Pungryu, which encompasses art appreciation, song, and dance. The forest, appearing fortified from the outside, reveals a pristine interior with dense groves of tall, straight bamboo. Unique for its high levels of negative ions, which are said to purify the air, the 2.4km path offers a rejuvenating walk.
Seogwipo Healing Forest is an ideal sanctuary for self-reflection and healing, set within the diverse and serene environment of Jeju Island. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, the forest spans altitudes of 320m to 760m and features both warm-temperate and temperate vegetation. Visitors can explore an array of flora, including 60-year-old cypress and Japanese cedar trees, and partake in forest healing programmes. For those with hectic schedules, the forest offers a true retreat with its phytoncide-rich air, abundant sunlight, gentle winds, and breathtaking scenery, providing a profound sense of healing and tranquillity.
Nestled in the serene mountains of Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, Healience Seonmaeul is a “well-ageing” resort designed to proactively enhance guests’ health and prevent illness. Combining healing and science, the resort emphasises four healthy habits: exercise, a balanced daily schedule, nutritious diet, and mental conditioning.
Free from TVs, air conditioners, and smartphones, guests follow a flexible schedule with options for yoga, meditation, exercise, and walks, complemented by healthy meals. Activities include trekking, meditation, and yoga, all aimed at significantly reducing stress. Additional features include a detoxifying carbureted spring, bedrock therapy, and a red clay jjimjilbang Korean sauna.
SPA 1899: Revitalise with six-year-old red ginseng
SPA 1899 incorporates six-year-old red ginseng in its revitalising treatments
Historically, Korean women drank ginseng tea and bathed in ginseng-infused water to enhance their skin’s health and beauty. SPA 1899, operated by the renowned CheongKwanJang and owned by the Korea Ginseng Corporation, continues this tradition by utilising six-year-old red ginseng in all its spa treatments.
The spa integrates the therapeutic benefits of aged red ginseng with traditional Asian healing practices to offer unique skincare programmes. Embracing the wisdom and aesthetics of Korean beauty rituals, SPA 1899 ensures ultimate relaxation with its luxurious services, available at its Daechi-dong and Haeundae (Busan) locations.
Tea Therapy: An elegant experience with traditional herbal tea
Soothe the soul with traditional tea therapy
Engage in the ancient Korean tradition of tea therapy, which promotes wellness through the soothing properties of herbal teas. Located in Seoul, Tea Therapy offers an easy and elegant way to enjoy traditional herbal tea, renowned for its benefits like preventing colds, aiding fatigue recovery, improving blood circulation, and enhancing skin care.
Set in a renovated hanok house designated as a cultural heritage, this rustic teahouse provides a serene environment where visitors receive personalised tea recommendations based on their physical condition and taste preferences. Tea Therapy also offers a class to explore the taste and aroma of 10 different tea ingredients and a relaxing foot bath in herbal-infused hot water.
Located in Jeju-do, the We Hotel is a wellness retreat nestled in a woodland forest renowned for its abundant production of phytoncides. The hotel’s natural volcanic rocks, sourced from 2,000m underground, provide pure drinking water and are utilised in water therapy.
The Wellness Center offers comprehensive health checkups, water therapy, and various healing and healthcare programmes aimed at providing a holistic alternative to modern healthcare. Guests can participate in the Healing Forest programme to learn about the surrounding trees and forests, engage in Aqua Exercise as well as other educational wellness activities.
With a wide variety of wellness attractions that offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and traditional practices, Korea is an ideal destination for wellness travel. Plan your next rejuvenating holiday to Korea and check out Visit Korea for more travel inspiration.
With his vision, deep industry knowledge, and proven experience working across international markets at RCI, Grospe will lead the team to continue the growth and success of the company.
He has worked with brands like Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Taj Luxury Hotels, Shangri-La, Hyatt Regency, The Westin, Marriot International, and Hilton, and most recently served as the general manager in Indonesia, transitioning it to full service following acquisition and conversion from Accor.
Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts is set to grow its presence across Indonesia with the addition of four new properties this year.
The Indonesian hospitality company recently announced at a media dinner in Jakarta that three properties, the 123-room hotel Santika Blitar in East Java, the 102-room Kampi Hotel Legian – Bali, and the 96-room Amaris Hotel Lampung have opened between January and August while the 108-room Hotel Amaris Manado is scheduled to open in September.
These additions bring Santika’s presence in Indonesia to 50 cities. In total, Santika Indonesia manages 118 property units across seven brands, claiming its position as the largest home-grown hotel company in the country.
Sudarsana, general manager Corporate Business Development & Sales Marketing at Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts, told TTG Asia that the group will open another 15 new hotels over the next three years. Hotel Santika Cibadak is scheduled to open in 2026, while the projects in Samarinda, Balikpapan, Pekalongan, Serpong, and Borobudur are targeted to launch in 2027.
“The company targets to achieve five openings every year over the next three years,” added Sudarsana.
The group also intends to make deeper inroads through Kalimantan and Sulawesi islands.
“We see potential in cities around the Ibukota Nusantara (IKN), the new Indonesian capital city, such as Samarinda and Balikpapan. The company is currently searching for opportunities to develop more hotel in these cities,” added Sudarsana.
Over the next three years, the group also plans to enter Papua, East Indonesia, with one property in the pipeline, and to expand to areas like South-west Papua, Central Papua, and Papua Mountains.
Santika Indonesia also plans to bring the Anvaya brand to Jakarta – the only property is the 493-key Anvaya Bali currently. “We are eyeing locations around the Sudirman-Thamrin, CBD, and Kuningan areas,” said Sudarsana.
Aside from new openings, the company is planning to launch in 2025 a new modern lifestyle hotel brand, which targets the upper middle segment and offers standard facilities provided by four- and five-star hotels. This brand will also offer immersive local culture experiences to capture the maturing millennials.
“The new brand is similar to Kampi, but is more luxurious, which we believe will strengthen the presence of Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts in the country,” he shared, adding that the new brand “is expected to open its first hotel in Bali and in Jakarta” soon.