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Asia/Singapore Friday, 15th May 2026
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PATA Annual Summit opens with resilience focus, honours leaders

By Karen Yue
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The dual-city PATA Annual Summit (PAS) 2026 kicks off this week in Pohang and Gyeongju, cities that are part of South Korea’s North Gyeongsang Province, with a focus on how destinations and businesses can transform to thrive in a time of constant, unpredictable changes.

PAS 2026 is co-hosted by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism; Gyeongsangbuk-do Province; the cities of Gyeongju and Pohang; and the Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organization.

PATA Annual Summit 2026 brings together industry leaders to discuss resilience and future growth

It started yesterday with a Youth Symposium and several internal meetings, including the Industry and Education Roundtables, as well as networking opportunities.

A conference programme on May 12 and 13 will be aligned with PAS 2026’s theme, Navigating Towards a Resilient Future, and features a line-up of industry leaders.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid will reflect on his association’s legacy and set the tone for the summit’s agenda; Shijun Li, executive director of UN Tourism, will examine what resilience means for tourism in an era of accelerating change; Gloria Guevara, president & CEO of WTTC, will discuss current challenges and their impact on tourism now and into the future; and David Mann, chief economist, Mastercard Economics Institute, will detail the impact macroeconomic forces have on travel and tourism.

Besides leadership keynotes, the conference programme also offers several deep-dive panel sessions, where a range of topics – from sustainable tourism management to future-proofing the industry – will be discussed.

Commenting on the programme, Noor said PAS 2026 “carries special significance” as it coincides with PATA’s 75th anniversary and offers “an opportunity not only to reflect on PATA’s history, but to learn from it – so we can remain relevant in the years ahead”.

Ahead of the conference, PAS 2026 also held the PATA Executive Board & Board Member and PATA Awards Presentation Dinner on May 11 at Pohang’s Lahan Hotel, during which five distinguished leaders in the Asia-Pacific travel and tourism industry were honoured with the Awards of Merit, Life Membership, and the Chairman’s Award.

PATA Life Membership was granted to SanJeet, director, DDP Publications, and Suman Pandey, group chairman, Explore Himalaya Travel & Adventure. As PATA’s highest individual honour, the award serves to recognise individuals for their leadership and dedication to PATA.

Ben Montgomery, corporate ambassador, Centara Hotels & Resorts, and Judy Torres, deputy managing director, Marianas Visitors Authority, received the PATA Awards of Merit for their consistent contributions to PATA and the PATA chapter network over the years.

Kornchalee Tantimongkonsakul, corporate affairs, PATA, was presented with the PATA Chairman’s Award in recognition of the exceptional behind-the-scenes support she has provided to the chair during his tenure, as well as her commitment, professionalism and dedicated service to the association.

“Each of these changemakers has helped shape the association through their leadership, integrity, and commitment to advancing our community, playing an important role in PATA’s continued growth and relevance today,” remarked Noor.

Blacklane, GHA to extend travel benefits across journeys

By TTG Asia
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Blacklane and Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) have teamed up to introduce combined travel and hospitality benefits for customers, linking chauffeur services with hotel loyalty rewards.

The collaboration connects Blacklane’s chauffeur network, available in more than 500 cities, with GHA Discovery, the alliance’s loyalty programme covering over 1,000 properties worldwide. Benefits will be available from May 8, 2026.

Blacklane and GHA introduce joint benefits linking chauffeur services with hotel loyalty rewards

Under the arrangement, GHA Discovery members will receive added value when booking Blacklane services, including access to selected rewards and vouchers. In turn, Blacklane customers will be able to accelerate their status within the GHA Discovery programme and earn Discovery Dollars (D$), which can be redeemed across participating hotels and selected dining outlets.

The partnership extends the travel experience beyond hotel stays, integrating transport and accommodation benefits within a single framework. It also reflects a broader trend of linking mobility services with hospitality programmes to enhance end-to-end travel planning.

GHA Discovery currently spans more than 50 hotel brands across 100 countries, while Blacklane provides chauffeur-driven services for airport transfers, city travel and longer-distance journeys.

Together, the two organisations aim to offer a more connected experience across different stages of travel, from ground transport to accommodation and on-property services.

“Our collaboration is about more than member rewards; it is a true partnership to enhance luxury travel worldwide. Together, GHA and Blacklane are ensuring international travellers have access to benefits that enhance how they arrive at some of the world’s best luxury hotels and resorts,” said Jens Wohltorf, founder and CEO, Blacklane.

“Partnering with Blacklane extends our hospitality beyond the hotel stay, enriching the entire travel experience. Our members value thoughtful details that create memorable journeys, and Blacklane shares this philosophy. We look forward to adding further benefits as this exciting collaboration grows,” added Christopher Hartley, CEO, GHA.

City Express by Marriott enters Asia-Pacific with Osaka debut

By TTG Asia
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City Express by Marriott has opened its first properties in Asia-Pacific, with two hotels launching in Osaka, Japan. City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya and City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South mark the brand’s entry into the region outside China.

The dual opening introduces the midscale brand to a key urban market, as Marriott International continues to expand its presence in the segment. Osaka’s position as a major tourism and business hub supports demand for accessible, well-connected accommodation.

City Express by Marriott debuts in Asia-Pacific with two hotel openings in Osaka, Japan

The two properties offer a combined 243 guestrooms, with 100 rooms at Shin-Imamiya and 143 at Osaka Namba South. Both hotels are designed to provide value-driven stays, with features including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, daily breakfast and flexible workspaces.

Located in Minami, City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya sits next to Shin-Imamiya Station, offering connections via the JR Osaka Loop Line, Nankai Main Line and Osaka Metro. Nearby attractions include Tsutenkaku Tower, Tennoji Zoo and Kuromon Market, with central districts such as Namba and Shinsaibashi within a short travel time.

City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South is situated in Nishinari-ku, adjacent to Hanazonochō Station on the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line. The hotel provides access to areas including Tennoji, Namba and Dotonbori, as well as connections to Kansai International Airport via the Nankai Line.

The openings form part of Marriott International’s broader strategy to grow its midscale portfolio in Asia-Pacific. Both properties are operated by Shin-Imamiya Hospitality G.K. under a franchise agreement.

Yuji Tanaka, market vice president for Japan and Guam, Marriott International, said: “Osaka is one of the country’s most culturally rich and dynamic cities, and these two hotels provide convenient gateways for both domestic and international travellers to experience its unique energy.”

Cristiano Rinaldi, chief lodging product and services officer, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, added: “City Express by Marriott brings a compelling value proposition that resonates with today’s travellers – combining efficiency, comfort, and accessibility in vibrant urban destinations. We are confident the brand will appeal to guests seeking smart, reliable stays that allow them to relax, recharge, and get ready for whatever comes next.”

World Expeditions expands Vietnam cycling programme

By TTG Asia
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World Expeditions has enhanced its South-east Asia cycling portfolio with a new range of supported journeys across Vietnam, as demand for active travel in the region continues to grow.

The programme includes four itineraries: the 17-day Vietnam Cycle: Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, the 13-day Ho Chi Minh City to Hue Cycle by e-bike, the 10-day Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Cycle, and the five-day Mai Chau to Pu Luong Cycle. Routes cover coastal, rural and mountainous areas, with a focus on quieter roads.

The new Vietnam itineraries range from five to 17 days, with e-bike options and guaranteed departures for 2026

All departures are fully supported by local crews, including guides, mechanics and drivers, with luggage transfers and accommodation included. Group sizes are capped at 16 guests. E-bikes are available on all itineraries.

World Expeditions said the new range is designed to broaden appeal, with guaranteed departures and options suited to both experienced cyclists and those new to active travel.

For more information, visit World Expeditions.

Bali turns to gastronomy to sharpen its global tourism edge at BBTF 2026

By TTG Asia
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BBTF committee welcomes all to the fair for 2026

Brought to you by Bali & Beyond Travel Fair

BBTF committee welcomes all to the fair for 2026

The 12th Bali & Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF 2026) will take place from May 28–30, 2026 at the Bali International Convention Centre located at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua.

Organised by the Association of The Indonesia Tours and Travel Agencies Bali Region, this year’s BBTF theme is Redefining Indonesia’s Gastronomy Journey: A Celebration of Taste, Culture, and Sustainable Heritage. 

This year’s theme was conceptualised in response to today’s crowded regional market.  Destinations need a stronger identity, deeper storytelling, and more distinctive reasons to attract tourism – and gastronomy makes for a compelling lure.

This signals a strategic shift: tourism is no longer sold only through scenery, hospitable people, unique culture, but through experiences that travellers remember, engage with more deeply, and return for through longer stays.

It is especially important as Bali continues to defend its standing as one of the world’s most desired destinations while facing growing pressure to improve visitor experience, strengthen destination management, and build more resilient tourism value. Gastronomy is positioned as a gateway to culture, heritage, local communities, and sustainable tourism product development.

BBTF’s strategic role, then, is not only to generate business leads at this B2B platform, but to help reposition Bali and Indonesia through bookable, experience-led travel that is richer in meaning, stronger in market appeal, and more resilient for the future as destinations of depth, quality and long-term relevance.

For more information about the fair and exhibitors, visit BBTF now.

Singapore enhances cruise infrastructure for tourism growth

By Karen Yue
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Singapore is investing in next-generation cruise ports to support its long-term cruise tourism ambitions. One of the immediate infrastructure projects is the relocation of the Singapore Cruise Centre, currently located at HarbourFront Centre.

Set to open on July 15, 2026, the new Singapore Cruise Centre (HarbourFront) “presents an opportunity for (it) to enhance the overall passenger experience through upgraded facilities that improve passenger flow while supporting future travel demand”, stated Jacqueline Tan, CEO of the Singapore Cruise Centre.

The new Singapore Cruise Centre (HarbourFront) is part of wider plans to improve passenger experience and support future cruise demand

Tan outlined the features of the new passenger terminal in an interview with TTG Asia: “Designed to support a more seamless and efficient passenger journey, the new terminal will incorporate a range of automated features. These include self-service check-in kiosks, baggage drop facilities, self-service boarding gates, and biometric immigration clearance integrated with Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority’s Automated Border Clearance System. These enhancements are aimed at improving processing efficiency and reducing waiting times, particularly during peak travel periods.

“Waiting areas within the terminal have also been expanded and are approximately 50 per cent larger than those at our current terminal. For the profile of cruise lines that call at Singapore Cruise Centre (HarbourFront), a new VIP lounge will also be part of the pre-trip facilities that passengers can enjoy.

“Beyond operational improvements, the new terminal will also house over 20 retail and service tenants, including Lagardère Travel Retail, which operates the duty-free concessions at both our HarbourFront and Tanah Merah terminals.”

The relocation to 5 HarbourFront Avenue, adjacent to the current site, forms part of the broader rejuvenation of the HarbourFront precinct. The area is set to evolve into a business and lifestyle destination within the Greater Southern Waterfront, an urban development stretching from Pasir Panjang to Marina East.

Tan said the proximity of the new facility to the existing site ensures that Singapore Cruise Centre (HarbourFront) retains its “excellent location” and convenient access to multiple transport modes, allowing it to function as a “key gateway for regional ferry and international cruise travel”.

She added that the Singapore Cruise Centre is looking to strengthen partnerships within the Sentosa-HarbourFront precinct to enhance passenger experiences.

Preparations for the move are underway.

“The ferry operators, cruise lines, port agents, and ground service operators have been regularly updated with the progress of the new terminal and even prior to the build-out, we have also taken on board feedback from key stakeholders to shape the new terminal planning and offerings.

“We have conducted familiarisation sessions, covering passenger flow, baggage handling processes, and the terminal’s new systems and operating procedures. These efforts are aimed at ensuring that there will be operational continuity and minimising disruption during the transition in July 2026,” she said.

In addition to the HarbourFront development, a study is underway to assess the potential for an integrated cruise and ferry terminal to meet future demand, said Melissa Ow, chief executive of the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), during her address at the Tourism Industry Conference on May 8.

A proposed integrated cruise and ferry terminal aims to increase capacity and strengthen regional connectivity

The study is being conducted by STB and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore.

Ow noted that “cruise demand is expected to grow steadily”, and “ensuring we have sufficient capacity to support our growing pipeline of cruises is therefore imperative”.

According to Grace Fu, minister for sustainability and the environment and minister-in-charge of trade relations, the proposed site may be at Straits View, adjacent to Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS).

Fu shared that the new terminal could support three cruise berths and up to 10 ferry berths, with a passenger capacity approximately 1.5 times that of MBCCS and twice that of the existing HarbourFront terminal.

“This represents not only a significant increase in international cruise capacity, but also greater regional connectivity,” she said.

According to STB data, cruise passenger throughput has shown strong growth, except during the pandemic years: 1.8 million in 2019; 1.2 million in 2022; two million in 2023; 1.8 million in 2024; and over two million in 2025.

STB told TTG Asia it will continue to work with cruise partners to support cruising experiences that meet the needs of visitors, including through schemes such as the Cruise Development Fund to help defray costs and support cruise deployments in Singapore. These efforts align with Singapore’s Tourism 2040 vision of advancing a future-ready industry while strengthening its appeal to regional and longhaul visitors.

Singapore refreshes Orchard Road, Sentosa precincts

By Rachel AJ Lee
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The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) outlined plans to transform, expand and rejuvenate two key precincts – Orchard Road and Sentosa – at its annual Tourism Industry Conference last Friday.

“We envision Orchard Road to be an iconic lifestyle destination for all – enlivened by vibrant activations, concepts and experiences set within a city garden,” Grace Fu, minister for sustainability and the environment and minister-in-charge of trade relations, said in her opening speech.

Tanglin Shopping Centre will be redeveloped into a mixed-use development as part of Orchard Road’s transformation; rendering by Pacific Eagle Real Estate

Starting in mid-2026, the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative will invite stakeholders to innovate across building façades, experiential art and night-time programming. Mark Shaw, chairman of the Orchard Road Business Association, told TTG Asia that the focus is on “night-time initiatives and experiential concepts” to improve street vibrancy and make the precinct more “Instagrammable”.

To support this, a tender will be launched in May 2026 for three “plug-and-play” pop-up spaces between Wisma Atria and Ngee Ann City. These spaces will host a rotating selection of brands on short-term leases. Shaw noted that success relies on “continuous programming” rather than one-off events to keep the experience evolving. For instance, Scape Street Show, scheduled for July, is a recurring street performance platform showcasing a range of creative talents.

This effort will be supported by infrastructure projects such as the 3,000-capacity Grange Road events venue, managed by Live Nation, which will function as both a business events venue and a space for concerts and local arts. By late 2027, the Somerset Belt will evolve into a dedicated youth precinct, featuring a skate park and incubation spaces.

Orchard Road’s identity will be further developed in 2H2026 through a Creative Exploration System, featuring artistic markers and local poetry across Tanglin, Orchard, Somerset and Dhoby Ghaut. Visitors will be able to scan QR codes on these landmarks to discover activities across the precinct.

“New precinct markers and creatively designed street benches will showcase Orchard Road’s unique identity. We look forward to a transformation that injects new concepts and experiences into the street,” said STB chief executive Melissa Ow.

Meanwhile, hospitality and heritage developments include a forthcoming tender for the 37 Emerald Hill site and the late-2026 opening of Asia-Pacific’s first NoMad luxury hotel at the redeveloped Faber House. The transformation extends to Tanglin, where Tanglin Shopping Centre will be redeveloped into a mixed-use project, while four heritage bungalows at the 1.9-hectare Seton Close site will be tendered for hospitality use.

Looking ahead, Istana Park is set to expand to three times its current size, integrating a pedestrianised stretch of Orchard Road to create a family-friendly green space.

Beyond the city centre, the Greater Sentosa Master Plan – encompassing Sentosa and Pulau Brani – will be developed into a major tourism destination over the next two decades. Fu noted that the 120-hectare Pulau Brani will be a focal point of this transformation, with expansion expected to double the precinct’s current visitorship. A key component is the Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) 2.0 redevelopment, scheduled for completion around 2030.

Si Chen, chief operating officer at RWS, said: “We are refreshing and enhancing our attractions and hotels, as well as building RWS 2.0, which will introduce two new luxury hotels with 700 rooms, an iconic waterfront with its own mountain trail, and a landmark Heatherwick light sculpture.”

In addition, the Brani West zone has been designated for a new anchor attraction. To support increased visitor numbers, the existing monorail is planned to be replaced with a higher-capacity people-mover system.

The transformation will also focus on integrating architecture and nature. Plans include a three-kilometre islet-hopping boardwalk, expanded waterfront areas, and a new Imbiah Canopy offering skywalks and treetop dining. The island’s beachfronts are also set for rejuvenation, featuring a new water and light show and the Sensorium wellness experience.

Scoot adds Airbus aircraft to support network growth

By TTG Asia
0

Scoot has placed a firm order for five Airbus A320neo family aircraft and exercised options for six additional aircraft from its earlier agreement with Airbus. The 11 aircraft are scheduled for delivery from 2028.

With this addition, Scoot’s A320neo family orderbook will increase to 20 aircraft. The new aircraft will be powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM engines and configured in a single-class layout, with 186 seats on the A320neo and 236 seats on the A321neo.

Scoot will expand its Airbus A320neo fleet with new aircraft deliveries from 2028

The additional aircraft are intended to support network expansion within a five- to six-hour range from Singapore, enabling the airline to introduce new routes and optimise connections within the wider Singapore Airlines Group network.

Scoot has continued to expand its network in recent years, adding 25 destinations since FY2022/2023, including Chiang Rai and Phu Quoc, as well as Vienna. By June 2026, the airline is expected to serve 85 destinations, with 37 operated exclusively by Scoot, contributing to connectivity through Changi Airport.

The airline currently operates a fleet of 63 aircraft, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Airbus A320 family aircraft and Embraer E190-E2 jets. As part of its fleet renewal programme, Scoot plans to retire its remaining A320ceo aircraft by 2028.

New-generation aircraft form part of the airline’s efforts to improve fuel efficiency. The A320neo family is expected to reduce fuel consumption and emissions compared to earlier models, supporting broader sustainability targets within the Singapore Airlines Group.

“We expect travel demand to continue growing, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, in the coming years. The range and capacity of the A320neo family aircraft will enable Scoot to expand and deepen the SIA Group’s network connectivity, providing the SIA Group with new growth opportunities and offering customers more seamless travel options,” said Leslie Thng, CEO of Scoot.

“Scoot’s mix of Embraer E190-E2 regional jets, Airbus A320 family narrowbody aircraft, and Boeing 787 family widebody aircraft allows us to operate an extensive network of flights. This covers short, medium, and longhaul routes, which complement the broader SIA network and further enhance Singapore’s position as a leading global aviation hub,” he added.

Klook integrates South Korea’s rail network to support regional tourism access

By TTG Asia
0

Klook has partnered the Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) to introduce a real-time rail booking service, aimed at improving access to destinations beyond Seoul across South Korea.

The integration adds KORAIL’s national network, including high-speed KTX and regional Saemaul and Mugunghwa lines, to Klook’s rail portfolio across Asia-Pacific. The platform now covers the majority of high-speed rail stations in the region, strengthening transportation as a core offering.

Klook’s integration of South Korea’s rail network aims to make regional travel more accessible while supporting broader tourism flows beyond Seoul

The development comes as South Korea continues to attract international visitors, alongside efforts to encourage travel beyond the capital. By linking real-time rail inventory with global booking and payment systems, the service is designed to simplify trip planning for overseas travellers.

Klook’s internal data indicates growing interest in regional destinations. Based on year-on-year 1Q growth, locations such as Busan, Gangneung, Chungcheongnam, Jeonju, Sokcho and Seogwipo have seen increased demand. This reflects a wider shift towards multi-destination travel, particularly among younger travellers, with rail playing a key role in enabling such journeys.

The platform provides real-time seat availability up to 90 days in advance, with access in more than 20 languages and 40 currencies. Travellers can complete bookings using international cards and selected digital wallets, and receive digital tickets for direct boarding.

The addition of KORAIL further expands Klook’s transport offering in South Korea, complementing its existing rail, bus and car rental services. A joint promotional campaign involving KORAIL and the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is planned to support broader connectivity and regional access.

Klook, KORAIL and the KTO will also collaborate on initiatives to support more balanced tourism distribution across the country.

“As rail is a core means of transportation for international tourists in (South) Korea, we aimed to enhance both accessibility and scalability through this integrated system,” said James Lee, general manager of Klook Korea.

“Moving forward, we will expand travel products linked to rail travel and continue to evolve our services so that international tourists can easily experience various regions across (South) Korea.”

Radisson to debut in Western Australia with Perth hotel

By TTG Asia
0

Radisson Hotel Group has signed a new property in Perth, marking the brand’s entry into Western Australia. Radisson Perth is scheduled to open later this year within the Sydney Charles Quarter (SCQ) precinct in West Perth.

Developed by APPL Group and operated by Mandala Hotels & Resorts, the hotel will form part of a mixed-use development combining residential, commercial and lifestyle elements. The project is designed as an integrated precinct on the western edge of the CBD.

Radisson Perth is set to open in West Perth as part of the Sydney Charles Quarter mixed-use development

The hotel will offer 120 guestrooms and studios, alongside a rooftop bar and restaurant, meeting facilities and a swimming pool. The property will also incorporate art and curated guest experiences as part of its positioning.

Located in West Perth, the site provides access to the CBD, nearby commercial districts and major transport links, including connections to Perth Airport. Its location is expected to support both corporate and leisure demand.

Radisson Perth forms part of the Group’s broader expansion strategy in Australasia, focusing on urban locations and mixed-use developments aligned with changing travel patterns.

Danilo Curcuruto, director of development, Australasia, Radisson Hotel Group, commented: “Radisson Perth is a strong addition to our growing presence in Australia and reflects our focus on partnering with high-quality developments in key urban locations.”

“SCQ has been designed as a modern connected village, and the inclusion of Radisson Perth is a key component in bringing that vision to life. We were seeking a brand that stands apart in the market, with a strong identity and the ability to enhance the overall positioning of the village, and Radisson was a natural fit,” said Michelle Prater, director, APPL Group.

“We’re pleased to partner with Radisson Hotel Group and APPL Group to deliver a hotel that elevates the precinct, strengthens the market, and reflects the confidently different approach Mandala is known for,” added Gemma McCourt, COO, Mandala Hotels & Resorts.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGassociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | 1926 Heritage Hotel welcomes new GM
TTG Asia | Tourism professionals see responsible development key to long-term industry resilience
TTG Asia | Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo names hotel manager