Disney Cruise Line sheds more light on its 2025 cruise season out of Singapore
Seven themed areas inspired by Disney, Pixar and Marvel stories within the soon-to-sail Disney Adventure cruise ship have been unveiled at a presentation by Disney Cruise Line on June 26, as the company approaches the cruise ship’s scheduled launch from its Singapore homeport in 2025.
Through Disney’s expertise in storytelling, the themed areas promise character interactions with guests and unforgettable experiences.
Disney Imagination Garden is said to be the “emotional heart of the Disney Adventure”. It is an enchanted valley, charming garden and open-air performance venue all in one, with visuals, design and experiences inspired by 100 years of Disney tales.
Disney Discovery Reef features shopping and dining opportunities “in an ethereal and ever-changing retreat” set amid nautical stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, including The Little Mermaid, Lilo & Stitch, Finding Nemo, and Luca.
Inspired by the eclectic world of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Big Hero 6, San Fransokyo Street will be a family entertainment area pulsing with the energy and atmosphere of a vibrant street market and boasting an assortment of interactive games and activities, shops, cinemas, and more.
Wayfinder Bay is an open-air poolside retreat, where relaxation and exclusive entertainment reflect the Pacific Islands-inspired artistry of Disney Animation’s Moana. This is also the venue for some of the most stunning views of the sea and sky onboard Disney Adventure.
Town Square brings Disney royals together in a fantastical forest filled with shops, lounges, cafés, restaurants and entertainment venues.
At Marvel Landing, heroes unite for fans of all ages, offering Avengers-level adventure and all-new attractions and experiences with popular superheroes.
The seventh themed area is Toy Story Place, a whimsical and interactive play land packed with thematic food venues and water play areas reflecting Pixar’s Toy Story movies and shorts.
Describing Disney Adventure as a destination in itself, Sarah Fox, vice president and regional general manager, Asia with Disney Cruise Line, said: “Disney Cruise Line guests have always loved their days at sea, and they tell us how their time onboard is spent relaxing and being with friends and family, and most importantly, enjoying all the incredible experiences offered on our ships. And so, Disney Adventure is intentionally designed for great days at sea.”
While details of experiences to be expected have yet to be disclosed, both Fox and Laura Sanden Cabo, portfolio executive creative director of Walt Disney Imagineering – who leads the creative vision for Disney Adventure – told TTG Asia that guests can expect numerous indoor and outdoor fun, special entertainment, Broadway-level performances, and world-class dining delivered by exceptional crew.
Cabo said each of the seven themed areas are “so different and unique, and do not exist on any of our other ships in this way”.
Fox emphasised that the Disney cruise experience is perfect for all ages and multi-generation families. The ship offers dedicated spaces and clubs for kids, tweens and teens, as well as premium dining, lounge and spa experiences for grown-up cruisers.
“I have enjoyed Disney Cruise Line with my extended family – my mum and dad, husband and kids. Our cruises are the kind of vacation where everyone can really enjoy everything onboard,” opined Fox.
Disney Adventure will offer three- and four-night voyages around Asia. However, travel trade and cruise fans will have to hold their breath a little longer for further information on sailing dates, pricing, and booking processes. Fox said these would be released progressively this year.
Meanwhile, the marketplace can get a hint of what to expect from existing Disney Cruise Line sailings.
“Many of our world-class restaurants are included (in the fare), and there are some select restaurants that come with an incremental charge. There are also beverage, photography and spa packages, along with other additive elements that guests can take up at their discretion,” said Fox in an interview with TTG Asia.
Cabo pointed out that the majority of entertainment onboard are included, while guests wanting premium experiences can opt for the Concierge programme.
Fox found interest from travel trade partners to be “tremendous”. She acknowledged the importance of the trade network, and shared that the cruise line’s director of sales has been “out in the region making important connections – many of which we already have as a Disney company”.
Travel agents are supported by a commission structure.
As for target markets, Fox said Disney Adventure would “drive inbound tourism and fly-cruise tourism in Singapore”, adding that the ship would expect guests from the top performing source markets that Singapore already has, like China, Indonesia, and India. With Singapore regarded as an Asian travel hub, Fox also expects to see interest from Australian, Thai and South Korean travellers.
Concluding, Fox said the new ship would “give us more flexibility to bring the magic of a Disney Cruise Line vacation to new global destinations”.
“This will include the opportunity to provide an avenue for MICE-related group bookings as well, and we look forward to group enquiries.”
Plaza Premium Group fuels growth with US$300m investment
Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has committed an investment of US$300 million to boost its growth initiatives over the next three years.
This investment will focus on several key areas: strategic market expansion, research and development, enhancing sustainable practices, fostering talent development, and product diversification.
The Hong Kong company will also be launching a travel solution programme, Smart Traveller, in 3Q2024.
PPG aims to strengthen its presence in strategically chosen international markets, specifically the world’s top 100 busiest airports. US$160 million will be invested in growth in Asia-Pacific, with a focus on South-east Asia and India, while another US$100 million is being spent on developing operations in the Middle East, with a new office opening in Riyadh. Other strategic markets where investment will be spent include the UK and the Americas.
The company will also increase its investment in research and development to advance services and customer experience using technology, digitalisation, and robotics, including the opening of an innovation hub to pilot new technologies in Hong Kong. PPG is working on developing robotic assistance in lounges and AI technology to streamline and facilitate services across WhatsApp, and is also working on building its own dynamic pricing based on heatmapping to move to a demand-based pricing model.
Investment will also be spent on OneTECO (Travel Experience Ecosystem), a management system that seamlessly connects the demand and supply sides of the entire airport hospitality ecosystem under one platform that serves as a centralised marketplace, bringing together various airport services including lounges, hotels, and over 17 airport passenger services. This digital product aims to bridge the fragmented market and enhance operational efficiency for airport services.
PPG will also focus on accelerating efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the business, as well as cultivating a dynamic and inclusive workplace that attracts and retains top talent.
PPG now has more than 250 locations in over 30 countries with a strong pipeline of new openings in key destinations including Abu Dhabi, London, Vancouver, Kenya, Kuala Lumpur, Indonesia, Chongqing and Osaka.
“Our industry is developing rapidly, and it’s crucial that we stay ahead of the curve,” commented Song Hoi-see, founder of PPG.
Jonathan Song, global director of business development, added: “Our investment in global expansion and innovation will support our aspiration to become a household name in airport hospitality. We believe it will also propel the growth of the entire airport business ecosystem.
“By working closely with the world’s leading airports, we aim to strengthen global connectivity and deliver exceptional experiences to make travel better for travellers.”
Travelport introduces NDC content from Emirates
Travelport and Emirates have joined forces to deliver New Distribution Capability (NDC) content from the airline and enhanced NDC servicing capabilities on the Travelport+ platform.
With this launch, Travelport’s agency customers will be able to easily view and compare NDC offers and ancillaries from Emirates and create a more streamlined, personalised experience for travellers. It also provides agents the ability to service NDC bookings, which includes modifications and cancellations.
Travelport’s NDC content and servicing solution for Emirates is now available to all agency customers located in Australia, Indonesia, the UAE, and the UK. Access to Emirates NDC solution in Travelport+ will expand to agency customers located in additional countries in the coming weeks.
Adnan Kazim, deputy president and chief commercial officer at Emirates, commented: “The integration of our systems will strengthen the expansion of our reach across the global travel retail community and allow them to offer travellers more choice among our best-in-class products and services.”
“This pivotal NDC milestone with Emirates proves Travelport is at the forefront of modern retailing with our ability to provide the best content and tools that agents require to create superior booking and servicing experiences for their customers,” said Jason Clarke, chief commercial officer, travel partners, Travelport.
Hyatt invites guests to be more present
Hyatt has introduced Be More Here, a new brand platform in Asia-Pacific that invites guests, members and customers to lean into the transformative powers of travel and be more present.
Be More Here follows the new World of Hyatt loyalty programme updates that allow members to earn more and enjoy more reward choices, and encourages guests to embrace the moment through purposeful experiences such as well-being rituals and culinary journeys.
Whether encouraging guests to Be More Foodie, Be More Immersed, Be More Celebrated, Be More Wanderlust or Be More Family, the platform will mark a new way for Hyatt to demonstrate care and offer unique experiences across the Asia-Pacific region and its global portfolio.
Hyatt offers unique ways for guests to care for their well-being, including healing rituals, wellness retreats, and the signature Sleep at Hyatt programme, as well as embraces its culinary ethos of Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully Served by promoting well-being and sustainability from sourcing ingredients responsibly.
In addition, Be More Here invites guests to discover cultural experiences and more at Hyatt properties across Asia-Pacific – Park Hyatt Kyoto in Japan offers guests an exclusive access via a guided tour to the spiritual landmark Kiyomizu, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site; Taoxichuan Hotel, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in China immerses guests in the city’s heritage through specially curated cultural experiences like ceramic craftsmanship workshops and art exhibitions; in India, journey through the vibrant tapestry of Delhi’s culture with Andaz Delhi’s crafted experiences; or stroll through the historic streets of Shanghai on a new-meets-old city walk with Hyatt Centric Zhongshan Park Shanghai in China.
Families can embark on adventure experiences designed to foster bonding and create cherished memories for all ages, such as hands-on lessons about marine life at Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort’s Marine Biological Centre, as well as beachcombing activities at Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort.
“Through Be More Here, we aim to create transformative journeys where every interaction leaves a lasting impression,” shared Carina Chorengel, senior vice president – commercial, Asia-Pacific at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts.
New hotels: Holiday Inn Resort Bali Canggu, NH Collection Colombo Hotel and more
Holiday Inn Resort Bali Canggu, Indonesia
The Holiday Inn Resort Bali Canggu in Indonesia boasts 144 guestrooms comprising standard, suite, and even kids suites for families.
Guests can enjoy facilities like an infinity pool with pool bar, kids’ club, fitness centre, and the all-day dining restaurant which offers vegetarian options.
Just a 60-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, the resort is within walking distance of Batu Bolong Beach and Canggu’s lively district, where guests can explore an array of local boutiques, eclectic cafés, restaurants, beach clubs, and nightlife options.
NH Collection Colombo Hotel, Sri Lanka
The 219-key NH Collection Colombo Hotel features accommodation ranging from 33m² to 254m², and includes the city’s largest Presidential Suite. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows providing expansive views of the Indian Ocean or the city.
Just steps away from Liberty Arcade and the Indian Ocean, the hotel is within a 10-minute drive of the National Museum, Independence Square and Pettah Market.
Sri Lanka’s main airport, Bandaranaike International Airport, is a 45-minute drive from the property.
Alma House, Singapore
Serviced apartment Alma House features 83 rooms in six options, including Deluxe Room, Studio, 1-Bedroom Suite, 2-Bedroom Suite, 2-Bedroom Executive Suite and the Alma Family Suite.
Located just steps away from the Singapore River in New Bahru, this new 83-room property caters to short- and long-stay guests with everything from locally roasted coffees, handcrafted freshly baked granola, indoor playground for those travelling with kids, and more. Guests can hand pick experiences from gym and wellness packages to breakfast, lunch and fine dining options from a number of conveniently located restaurants.
The lobby lounge features individual nooks and sofas, providing a setting for work, relaxation, and social connection.
NH Bentota Ceysands Resort, Sri Lanka
NH Bentota Ceysands Resort is a 166-room property nestled between the Bentota River and the Indian Ocean, just 90 minutes south of Colombo along the island’s west coast.
Facilities comprise a swimming pool, water sports centre, spa and kids’ club. The resort offer F&B options, including an international all-day dining restaurant, Thai and seafood specialty restaurants, a light bites café and pool bar.
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Singapore brings new frights
Universal Studios Singapore’s Halloween Horror Nights 12 will amp up the scare factor once again – this time with Netflix’s global Korean horror hit Sweet Home.
In the third collaboration with Netflix, this partnership follows haunted houses based on the global hit zombie series All of Us Are Dead last year and Stranger Things at Halloween Horror Nights 8.
Sweet Home will come to life in a haunted house based on some of its most spine-chilling scenes and grotesque monsters from seasons one and two. Part of the journey will have fans retracing the steps of characters through key locations in the Green Home apartment complex, including the protagonist’s apartment and the basement.
USS Halloween Horror Nights 12 will span 18 event nights on select dates from September 27 to November 2.
Tickets will go on sale on August 13. Fans can also sign up for the Halloween Horror Nights 12 mailing list to be the first to know when new details are announced.
For more information, visit Universal Studios Singapore.
Disney Cruise Line reveals more magic sparks ahead of Singapore launch
Prior to her 2025 launch and homeport in Singapore, Disney Cruise Lines’ Disney Adventure has unveiled seven uniquely themed areas onboard the new ship.
Each area will teem with dozens of characters and unforgettable experiences. They include Disney Imagination Garden, an enchanted valley, charming garden, and open-air performance area rolled into one; Toy Story Place, where the popular movie comes to life; Town Square, a fantastical forest filled with shops, eateries and entertainment venues; and more.
While booking and further product details will only be released later, the cruise line has said three- and four-night voyages will be crafted for fans of cruise holidays and Disney magic.
Rebranding Langkawi as preferred Muslim destination triggers controversial response
The move by Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to position Langkawi Island as a preferred Muslim destination emphasising spiritual tourism and family-friendly experiences has sparked concern among the travel trade, who doubt its benefits for the island.
In a recent parliamentary announcement, deputy minister of tourism, arts and culture of Malaysia, Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, explained that the strategy aims to focus on niche sectors, such as the Muslim market, to enable Malaysia to compete with other countries and islands in the region ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
However, local trade stakeholders worry that rebranding Langkawi Island might be counterproductive. They note that Langkawi is a UNESCO Global Geopark and a key destination for European, Indian, and Chinese tourists.
Nigel Wong, president of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents, highlighted that Langkawi is already well-known for its sun, beach, and ecotourism holidays. He argued that rebranding it as a Muslim destination would alter its current appeal and promotional dynamics.
Shaharuddin M Saaid, executive director of the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners, questioned the necessity of making Langkawi a preferred Muslim destination when Malaysia is already recognised as such and has consistently won the Global Muslim Travel Index Awards. He pointed out that Langkawi already offers halal food, Muslim prayer facilities, and religious attractions, which are available elsewhere in the country as well. He suggested that for Langkawi to stand out, it would need unique elements not found in other parts of Malaysia.
Arokia Das Anthony, executive director of Essence of Asia Tours & Travel, expressed concerns about potential bans on alcohol and cigarettes following this new direction. He warned that such measures could alienate non-Muslim tourists who visit Langkawi for relaxation and to enjoy its beaches.
Japan streamlines digital payment methods
Making digital payments in Japan as an international traveller is becoming easier thanks to efforts promoting the digitalisation of payments and integration of systems used in other countries.
Improving inbound tourists’ experience through the promotion, acceptance and integration of digital payments is part of the government’s New Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Plan launched in April 2023, and Japan’s standardised QR Code (JPQR) is expected to be launched by 2025.
The JPQR will “ensure easier acceptance of QR code/barcode-based payments”, Mayu Suzuki, director of Payments Japan Association, told TTG Asia.
To enable cross-border payment acceptance, Payments Japan, which formulated the JPQR, is establishing a new merchant acquiring system, appointing a switching system dedicated to cross-border purposes and arranging for interlinkage with countries that have adopted common standards for QR payments.
“Experiencing smooth payment will eventually lead to increased efficiency as well as credibility for Japan. We believe this is a small but vital point to boost the satisfaction of every tourists’ stay in Japan,” said Suzuki.
Private companies, too, are driving change.
Since January 2024, users of Naver Pay and Toss from South Korea, OCBC Digital and Changi Pay from Singapore, MyPB from Malaysia and MPay from Macau have been able to use PayPay Corporation’s cashless payment service in Japan using the “user scan method”.
The latest integration aims “to create an environment that supports merchants seeking to capture tourist-driven demand while enhancing traveller experience”, stated SoftBank Corporation, the parent company of PayPay Corporation.
Use of digital payment methods have been on the rise in Japan in recent years, with the non-cash payment ratio reaching 39.3 per cent in 2023, according to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Expo 2025, which will be held in Osaka, aims to be the first cashless world’s fair.
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) has announced six key appointments in the functions of business development, strategy and operations that will support its global expansion in management and franchise contracts as well as catalyse strategic growth.
The new appointments to Ascott’s business development team are Venessa Koo, vice president, business development for Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines and Vietnam; Teo Junrong, vice president, business development for Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia; and Thomas Lamson, vice president, business development and product & technical services for Europe, Middle East and Africa.
In addition, Joseph Wong, managing director for China, will drive business development on top of overseeing all aspects of Ascott’s operations, in this key market.
Ascott also welcomed Steven Chan as vice president, global franchise services and regional general manager for Indochina, as well as Sophie Mougel as vice president, strategy and regional general manager for the Philippines and Malaysia. Both helm dual portfolios that tap into their deep local knowledge to harness new opportunities in these markets.