UN Tourism, Philippines to boost gastronomy tourism in Asia-Pacific

July 4, 2024

UN Tourism has issued the Cebu Call to Action for resilient food tourism in Asia-Pacific to attract more tourists and bring socio-economic benefits to the people while proposing an international tourism school based in Cebu.

These took place in Cebu where UN Tourism held its first-ever Regional Gastronomy Tourism for Asia-Pacific, back to back with the 36th Joint Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and the UN Tourism Commission for South Asia.

Seated from left: UN Tourism’s Zurab Pololikashvili, Philippines’ Christina Garcia Frasco, and Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort’s Dottie Viajar Cronin (Photo: Rosa Ocampo)

Sandra Carvao, UN Tourism market intelligence, policies and competitiveness director, identified 12 points of action for member countries to implement, among them developing comprehensive strategies at national, regional and local levels to integrate gastronomy tourism into policy formulation and practice; promoting culinary identity; and supporting small businesses to enhance their market position.

Meanwhile, UN Tourism secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili shared that there are ongoing discussions with Philippine tourism secretary Christina Garcia Frasco to have a UN-backed international tourism institute or academy that will include gastronomy and culinary training in Cebu, where Asian students can attend instead of travelling to culinary and tourism institutes in distant destinations.

Pololikashvili noted that UN Tourism has formed the Tourism Online Academy in 2019, in partnership with Spain’s IE University, and has now over 50 different products and courses on offer with an existing 28,000 students.

Part of the talks with UN Tourism is coming up with a framework to help Asia-Pacific countries attract more foreign investments in tourism this year or next even as the Philippines is already crafting a gastronomy roadmap with funds already allotted for it, Frasco disclosed.

Putting the spotlight on gastronomy tourism is a significant boon for halal tourism, which is proving to be in demand from the destination’s new source markets like the Middle East, Indonesia and Malaysia, among others, said Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, Philippine tourism undersecretary for Muslim affairs and Mindanao promotions.

Tourism Australia participates in ILTM APAC for the first time

By Rachel AJ Lee

July 4, 2024

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According to a new report from Marriott International Luxury Group, Australia is at the top of the list of hottest destinations among luxury travellers in Asia-Pacific, ahead of Japan and Hong Kong.

Thus, it is only fitting that Tourism Australia decided to join ILTM Asia Pacific for the first time this year.

Tourism Australia’s booth at the recent ILTM Asia Pacific; photo by Rachel AJ Lee

Robin Mack, executive general manager, commercial & business events Australia, told TTG Asia: “The Asia-Pacific region is a highly valuable market for Australia’s luxury travel industry. ILTM Asia Pacific enables us to connect with the luxury travel trade in Asia, introduce Australia’s newest premium tourism offerings, and showcase Australia’s unique style of luxury – where the brilliance of nature, culture, hospitality and exclusivity meet.”

In the same Marriott report, 91 per cent of respondents also cited safety as important for a luxury experience, and fine dining is a major travel draw, with 88 per cent planning trips around food.

“What luxury travellers are looking for aligns with the experiences that Australia prides itself on offering – safe travel and gastronomic experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the world,” Mack pointed out.

One of the growth areas post-lockdown for high-net-worth individuals is the appeal of “secluded luxury”, which Australia “offers in spades”, said Mack.

For example, the exclusive 40-key Lizard Island Resort off the coast of Queensland on the Great Barrier Reef recently unveiled The House, a private three-storey three-bedroom holiday home. A 45-minute plane ride from Cairns, the resort is located in a 1,013-hectare National Park boasting 24 sandy beaches and a lagoon.

Mark Leslie, Lizard Island’s general manager, told TTG Asia: “It is also our first time at ILTM Asia Pacific, and it is our first time marketing to the Asia-Pacific market (to date, the resort mainly receives clients from the US and Europe). The Asia-Pacific market is at our doorstep, but is largely untapped by us.”

Leslie added that with flight connections twice weekly from Singapore to Cairns, and Cathay Pacific mounting flights from Hong Kong to Cairns in October, it presents a huge opportunity for luxury travellers in the region.

Earlier this year, Tourism Australia also hosted the first showcase event in Asia for the Signature Experiences of Australia to increase awareness among South-east Asian agents of the trade-friendly programme, and the diversity of exclusive and special interest experiences on offer across Australia, from Luxury Lodges of Australia to Discover Aboriginal Experiences.

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong to undergo transformation

By TTG Asia

July 4, 2024

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The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong is partaking in Landmark’s transformative project Tomorrow’s CENTRAL, which will set a new benchmark for ultra-luxury living in the heart of Hong Kong.

During the hotel’s refurbishment, which is scheduled to begin in November this year, the hotel will continue to operate its F&B offerings. Two new dining and bar concepts will be introduced, including an al fresco terrace in the heart of Central.

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong will undergo refurbishment in November

The project will also be extended to the guestrooms and suites, as well as the hotel’s spa.

In addition, the transformation will provide guests with access to 10 luxury Maison destinations – Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Saint Laurent, Sotheby’s, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels – which feature over 200 additional retail experiences and more than 100 gastronomic offerings.

Collinson expands partnership with China Eastern Airlines

By TTG Asia

July 4, 2024

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Collinson has expanded its partnership with China Eastern Airlines, adding 24 airport lounges in China to Priority Pass’ network.

These new additions complement the current China Eastern Airlines operated lounge at Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport, which was made available to the Priority Pass network last year. Of the 24 newly-added airport lounges to the Priority Pass network, 20 are live as of today.

Collinson has added 24 airport lounges in China to Priority Pass’ network; China Eastern Airlines V8 Lounge at Kunming Changshui International, pictured

China Eastern Airlines’ portfolio of airport lounges offers a variety of unique experiences that reflects the local culture and tradition of the city that the airport lounge is present in. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences such as local folk culture exhibits, traditional festival treats and tea art performances. They can also experience a taste of popular local delights such as the highly acclaimed MU Noodles as well as traditional Yunnan and Sichuan cuisine. For travellers visiting the China Eastern Airlines No 101 lounge at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, they can also enjoy a view of the sunset at the outdoor platform facing the tarmac.

“We’ve made significant strides in enhancing the travel experience via our partnership with China Eastern Airlines and we are delighted to continue elevating every journey into something special,” said Todd Handcock, global chief commercial officer and Asia-Pacific president, Collinson International.

New hotels: Ta’aktana Labuan Bajo, Hoshino Resorts 1955 Tokyo Bay and more

By TTG Asia

July 4, 2024

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Ta’aktana Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo is Marriott International’s first property in this gateway to Komodo National Park and The Luxury Collection’s second property in Indonesia.

Featuring 70 rooms, including 25 villas and 45 suites, the resort boasts seven overwater villas, three restaurants, a lounge and bar, fitness centre and spa.

Located about 10-minute drive from the airport, the waterfront property is nestled between a canopy of surrounding wild forests and the Flores Sea.

Hoshino Resorts 1955 Tokyo Bay, Japan
Hoshino Resorts 1955 Tokyo Bay is located in the Maihama and Shin-Urayasu area of Chiba Prefecture in Japan, and provides a convenient stay for guests visiting Tokyo Disney Resort.

It offers 638 retro-themed rooms with facilities such as a cafeteria, restaurant, and social space.

Guests staying here can access a 24-hour Food & Drink Station, as well as enjoy a free shuttle bus that runs between the hotel and the theme park – no reservation required.

Grand Hyatt Singapore, Singapore
Grand Hyatt Singapore has unveiled the first phase of its multi-year transformation with the reopening of its Terrace Wing, refreshed dining concepts and lush public spaces.

Facilities such as the fitness centre and pool have also been revamped, along with an outdoor lawn area, where guests can partake in guided meditation, yoga, and Pilates.

When the Grand Wing reopens in early 2025, the hotel will complete its evolution into a Grand Living Room and Wellness Haven with 699 guestrooms and suites.

Park Hyatt Changsha, China
This new 230-key hotel occupies the uppermost floors of the Tower Two skyscraper, the capital’s tallest building, allowing guests access to one of China’s largest luxury malls, and just a short stroll away from the lively Wuyi Square.

Park Hyatt Changsha is also a quick drive to Changsha’s leading attractions, including Orange Isle Park, Hunan Museum, Hunan Art Museum, and Yuelu Mountain.

The hotel offers restaurants and a bar, wellness and fitness centres, and event venues.

Accor highlights Cambodian culture with month-long campaign

By TTG Asia

July 4, 2024

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Accor hotels in Cambodia, including Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, have launched the Discover Cambodia campaign spotlighting Khmer culture, heritage and hospitality.

The month-long campaign will run throughout August and will feature an array of activities, meals, discounts and more.

*Accor hotels in Cambodia will offer special discounts, meals and unique happenings throughout August;* Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap, pictured

Some highlights include Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, which will host an exclusive Khmer dinner and dance performance at Le Phnom 1929 at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, in addition to a special cocktail menu inspired by famous Cambodian singers at the hotel’s iconic Elephant Bar.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap will offer a Golden Age Tasting Menu from August 1-10 at the Khmer fine dining restaurant 1932, as well as an exclusive Sunday Champagne Brunch on August 4 celebrating 1960s Cambodian pop music with the Khmer Magic Music Bus.

TRIBE Phnom Penh Post Office Square will offer a traditional Khmer-themed dinner at Hemisphere Sky Bar, with a concert by Sok Visal on August 15.

For younger guests, Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra will host a kids’ camp with tennis, badminton, tae kwon do, football and more, along with cooking classes, treasure hunts and creative challenges. The hotel will also host a special Sunday Brunch at Do Forni on August 11, plus other activities.

Other participating Accor hotels include ibis Styles Siem Reap, Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Novotel Phnom Penh BKK 1, Novotel Sihanoukville Holiday Resort, and more.

For more information, visit Accor.

Dusit Thani Bangkok adds to leadership team

By TTG Asia

July 3, 2024

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Dusit Hotels and Resorts has appointed key leadership talent to spearhead the return of its flagship Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel, which is set to officially reopen its doors on September 27.

Somruedee Getwansopon joins as executive assistant manager of rooms and will oversee several departments at the property. Nuengruethai Sa-nguansakpakdee is the director of sales and distribution and will oversee all aspects of sales, revenue management, and distribution for Dusit Thani Bangkok.

From left: Jonathan Forestier, Somruedee Getwansopon, Nuengruethai Sa-nguansakpakdee, Peeradej Charoendireksup

Peeradej Charoendireksup, will drive Dusit Thani Bangkok’s strategic marketing and communication initiatives as director of marketing, while new director of food & beverage Jonathan Forestier brings over 10 years of experience working in Thailand for luxury brands such as Sofitel and Anantara, most recently leading the food and beverage team at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.

Aloft Singapore Novena appoints new GM

By TTG Asia

July 3, 2024

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Aloft Singapore Novena has named Tan Kim Seng as its general manager.

With an experience spanning four decades in some of the most internationally-acclaimed properties in the industry, Tan will lead and steer the property in delivering exceptional hospitality experiences through a multi-faceted approach that enhances its music-inspired design concept and culture of hospitality excellence across various guest touch points of Aloft Singapore Novena.

Prior to this appointment, he was the chief operating officer of Meritus Hotels & Resorts and the Asia-Pacific managing director for IFH Worldwide.

Industry leaders term China inbound “a sleeping giant”

By Anne Somanas

July 3, 2024

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The opportunity for inbound tourism to China is often overlooked, a sentiment echoed by industry leaders during the high-level industry leaders dialogue session at the China-Thailand Cultural Tourism Industry Summit, held in Bangkok on July 1.

“We shouldn’t lose sight of inbound tourism while strategising to attract Chinese tourists abroad,” stated Xu Jing, vice-chairman of the Global Tourism Economy Research Centre (GTERC), who was the panel moderator at the summit.

Industry leaders convened to discuss bilateral cooperation opportunities at the China-Thailand Cultural Tourism Industry Summit (Photo: Anne Somanas)

Highlighting China’s cultural richness, PATA chairman Peter Semone pointed to the country’s ranking within the top five for cultural resources globally on the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index.

“China has 57 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 43 intangible cultural heritage offerings. This is a massive opportunity for China, and it’s one that remains largely untapped,” remarked Semone.

He further emphasised the recent merging of China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism as a strategic move and highlighted tourism’s role in fostering global understanding and peace.

He stated: “People travel to immerse themselves in different cultures and connect with others. If destinations offer homogenous experiences, why travel? One might as well stay home and use virtual reality. Those cultural experiences (are the ones) that promote empathy, respect, and cross-cultural communication, ultimately contributing to social harmony and global interconnectedness.”

William Heinecke, founder and chairman of Minor International, underscored the significance of both inbound and outbound tourism for China.

“We have hotels in China and we have restaurants in China so the domestic market and even the foreign market that goes to China is very important to us for our hotels. But equally important to us is, of course, the outbound market from China,” he said.

Heinecke remarked that his strategic acquisition of Spanish chain NH Hotel Group pre-Covid, which added 350 hotels to Minor’s portfolio, reflects what he foresees as a growing trend – Chinese tourists will increasingly seek diverse experiences beyond Asia.

He elaborated: “We made a very big bet that the travellers of China will not only be going to Asia and be heavy users of Asia, but they’ll also be going to Europe. They’re going to go around the world, because they are seeking richer, more experiential journeys.”

Additionally, Heinecke observed Chinese outbound travel today is less shopping-driven than in the past, saying that the Parisian shopping landscape has already been transposed to major cities like Shanghai or Beijing, and shopping is “less critical” today – having been replaced with the outbound hunger for experiences, food and culture.

Minor is also equally keen on the inbound travel market to China, with Heinecke predicting it will become “one of the largest markets”.

He shared that Minor is working with its partner in China for a pipeline of hotels that will cater to experiential travel, leveraging the country’s plethora of untapped cultural heritage and natural attractions.

The summit, which kicked off a cultural and tourism industry exchange visit by over 200 delegates comprising various industry leaders from Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR over two days on July 1 and 2, convened key industry figures to discuss bilateral cooperation and unlock new promotional avenues in the Sino-Thai cultural tourism sector ahead of the 50th anniversary of Thailand-China diplomatic relations in 2025.

China’s affluent Chinese females shape the future of luxury travel

By TTG Asia

July 3, 2024

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High-value Chinese female travellers are seeking more meaningful travel experiences, seeing travel as opportunities for enrichment, new learnings, and personal fulfilment, revealed Finn Partners in its latest industry report, China’s Women in Charge.

This report was presented by the global marketing agency in association with ILTM Asia Pacific 2024.

Affluent Chinese females will continue to have a profound impact on luxury travel

According to the UNWTO, China has reclaimed its position as the top spender on international travel in 2023, with an expenditure of over US$195 billion, 23% higher than the US in second place. Moreover, six out of 10 Chinese tourists last year were women. Given their increased spending power and economic status, high-net value Chinese females will continue to have a profound impact on luxury travel.

“Debunking the stereotypical image of affluent Chinese females shopping at designer boutiques or dining out with their multi-generational family when travelling, our study reveals affluent Chinese women have a newfound sense of empowerment,” stated Joshua Wang, associate vice president of brand & market intelligence of Finn Partners.

“Where travel was once a form of conspicuous consumption, it is now a sign of independence.”

Determined to make their mark on the industry, 54% of high-valued Chinese females intend to increase their leisure travel over the next three years, while over 60% intend to spend more on travel, including hotels and accommodation.

In detailing the ways Chinese women are using their economic and social influence on the travel industry, the report highlighted five key takeaways:

1. Redefining luxury
Luxury is no longer associated with acquiring material possessions. As the report reveals, the definition of luxury has shifted away from external validation to self-fulfilment. 63% of respondents define luxury as enjoying total privacy or “me time”, while 50% interpret luxury as things or experiences that evoke joy.

2. Travel to enrich, not escape
For China’s female luxury tourists, the benefits of travel go beyond escaping daily routines or family obligations. Instead, they view travel as an opportunity to challenge themselves or learn new skills. An overwhelming 99% believe that travel brings profound joy, and over 99% see it as essential to expanding their horizons.

3. The need for niche
While most Chinese tourists travel familiar routes, almost 90% of Chinese female travellers are attracted to niche destinations for their natural beauty and landscapes. As an expression of individuality and nonconformity, 66% are drawn to unsung destinations that offer unique local experiences, while 58% are willing to veer off the beaten path to visit destinations of cultural or historical significance.

4. Seeking solo
While multi-generation travel remains a mainstay of Chinese outbound tourism, there is a growing trend for solo travel, particularly among female travellers. Solo travel illustrates their independence and cultivates a sense of self-empowerment. Regardless of their marital status, over 80% of respondents said that they were equally comfortable travelling on their own as with a spouse or partner. Interestingly, 73% of married respondents said they are likely to increase their solo travel in the coming years. For those with children, 46% plan to travel without or travel less with their children. In response to the growing number of solo tourists, 31% of female travellers prefer accommodation designed specifically for women.

5. Rising self-influence
Women are overwhelmingly in control of travel plans. Empowered by financial autonomy and the rising demand for solo travel, 82% of women say they their opinions matter more than before when arranging future travel. While they may be influenced by partners (60%), this demographic is less likely to be swayed by celebrities and social media influencers (10%) or advertisements (9%). Older affluent female travellers favour travel advisors, trusting their insights and seeking guidance from experts when curating bespoke travel experiences, while younger affluent female travellers are more open to celebrities, influencers, and travel bloggers for inspiration.

‌China’s female travellers can be categorised into individual tribes. The study identifies the following five distinct archetypes that reflect the current market forces:

Daring Dragon: Confident, independent, and ambitious, these women prefer solo travel and are likely to be among the first to visit niche destinations or try new experiences. They value the freedom they have and are willing to splurge on meaningful luxury travel.

Curious Deer: While keen to explore the world, they may lack the adventurous spirit of the Daring Dragon. Heavily influenced by marketing, social media and mainstream culture, they are quick to identify emerging trends and eager to follow them.

Magnificent Phoenix: Defying expectations, these older travellers are seizing opportunities that were not available to them earlier in life. Rather than travel with family members, they choose to explore the world with friends.

Mama Tiger: These women are deeply committed to fostering their children’s success, viewing travel as an active learning experience. However, unlike the traditional, self-sacrificing tiger mums, they prioritise self-care, using family travel opportunities to explore and unwind.

Spirited Dolphin: This open-minded, well-educated millennial traveller seeks hedonistic – yet enriching – experiences. While they may eschew the trappings of luxury travel, they will prioritise wellness experiences.

“This in-depth study offers revealing insights into the changing priorities, spending habits and motivations of China’s upwardly mobile female travellers,” said Jenny Lo, managing partner for China of Finn Partners.

“As this growing demographic continues to reshape the luxury travel industry, we hope this report will help destinations, hospitality groups, travel brands and companies anticipate the evolving needs of this sought-after market segment.”

The China’s Women in Charge report also provides in-depth analysis of other areas of interest, including the factors that drive their passion for travel, the importance of sustainability, and female travellers’ expectations of hotel brands and guest services, and more.

View the report here.

UN Tourism, Philippines to boost gastronomy tourism in Asia-Pacific

Tourism Australia participates in ILTM APAC for the first time

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong to undergo transformation

Collinson expands partnership with China Eastern Airlines

New hotels: Ta’aktana Labuan Bajo, Hoshino Resorts 1955 Tokyo Bay and more

Accor highlights Cambodian culture with month-long campaign

Dusit Thani Bangkok adds to leadership team

Aloft Singapore Novena appoints new GM

Industry leaders term China inbound “a sleeping giant”

China’s affluent Chinese females shape the future of luxury travel

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