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Asia/Singapore Friday, 26th December 2025
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Mastercard-CrescentRating introduces new tools in Global Muslim Travel Index 2023 report

By Caroline Boey
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The latest Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 Report – which ranks 138 destinations – has a new tool that offers insight into Muslim Women Friendly Destinations for the first time.

According to CrescentRating’s CEO Fazal Bahardeen, only the top 10 destinations were ranked for 2023, but all 138 destinations will be scored in the 2024 index.

Fazal presenting the Mastercard-CrescentRating GMTI 2023 Report’s new tool that offers insight into Muslim Women Friendly Destinations

Three other new tools in the eighth edition, launched last week, also include the Muslim Travel Intent Tracker, Muslim Traveller Responsible Tourism Framework and the GMTI Performance Matrix.

Fazal noted the 82-page report – the longest so far – offers deeper insight and recommendations regarding this demographic of 110 million international arrivals in 2022 and is forecast to reach 140 million this year.

“By 2028, Muslim arrivals are expected to hit 230 million, with projected expenditure of US$225 billion,” he said, adding that GMTI will start researching Gen Z travellers and the Muslim cruise market.

Fazal also announced the introduction of “live tracking” by the 1H2024.

Safdar Khan, division president, South-east Asia, Mastercard, said the GMTI showed faith-based travellers had evolved in their needs.

Both organisations shared the same commitment in using the power of data and insight to create more relevant solutions and unearth new economic opportunities, he added.

Malaysia, which has dominated as the number one Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) destination, shared the 2023 ranking with Indonesia, followed by Saudi Arabia in the top three positions.

Among non-OIC destinations, Singapore was number one, followed by the UK and Taiwan.

Malaysia was in top spot again in the Muslim Women Friendly Destination, while Indonesia and Qatar were joint second among OIC countries. Singapore, Taiwan and Japan were the top three for non-OIC countries.

The report found that global travel behaviour was impacting trends among Muslim travellers, with the demographic increasingly incorporating sustainability into their travel; opting for destinations and activities to improve their health and wellness; finding opportunities for immersive experiences and authenticity; and incorporating personal development into their travel plans.

Boeing partners RSB to scale SAF production in South-east Asia

By TTG Asia
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Boeing and the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) will conduct a joint study to scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production in South-east Asia.

This project builds on the long-standing partnership between Boeing and RSB to explore SAF feedstock opportunities in different regions of the world, including Ethiopia, South Africa and Brazil.

The joint study will help to scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production in South-east Asia

SAF will play a critical role in enabling sustainable growth and meeting commercial aviation’s goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. It has the potential to reduce carbon emissions over the fuel’s life cycle by up to 80 per cent compared to petroleum jet fuel.

While the current global SAF supply accounts for only around 0.1 per cent of jet fuel consumption, the Asia-Pacific region can play a crucial role in SAF production with a potential of 40 per cent of global feedstock supply.

Phase one of the study will evaluate whether SAF production could scale sustainably in South-east Asia based on the availability and sustainability of feedstocks across the region. The study will also assess the sustainable feedstock policy environment, as well as the technical and economic viability of main SAF production pathways. Findings and recommendations will be published in 1Q2024.

“We are excited to start a new partnership with Boeing in South-east Asia, looking at supporting the regional aviation sector to decarbonise in a way that goes beyond emission reductions and also considers wider sustainability impact on the environment and society,” said Arianna Baldo, programme director, RSB.

Boeing is acting on its commitment to deliver 100 per cent SAF-compatible airplanes by 2030 and expand the SAF supply it is scaling regionally and globally.

“It’s imperative to expand the supply of SAF to decarbonise aviation, as they are safe and used every day as a drop-in replacement for fossil-based jet fuel,” said Jacqueline Lam, sustainability lead for Boeing in South-east Asia. “The findings of the study will provide an evidence-based, data-driven set of recommendations for promoting the SAF industry in South-east Asia.”

Boeing and RSB have established an advisory group of key stakeholders including policymakers, companies and environmental and financial institutions to provide subject matter expertise. Additional stakeholders will be consulted as the study progresses.

Wyndham debuts in Singapore with Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, a Wyndham Hotel

By TTG Asia
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The first Wyndham Hotel in Singapore is slated for a soft opening in early July 2023 and marks Wyndham’s commitment to expand its presence in the city-state (rendering)

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts will introduce its flagship Wyndham brand to Singapore with Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, a Wyndham Hotel, slated to soft open in July.

The 591-key hotel will feature facilities such as a fitness centre, sauna, two swimming pools, lounge, and meeting venues, and the rooms offer views of the Marina Bay, Singapore River and Fort Canning Hill.

Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, a Wyndham Hotel will open in July

The property is nearby major shopping malls as well as the nation’s most iconic buildings including Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, Old Parliament House, The Arts House and the Padang. It is within walking distance to City Hall MRT station which provides guests accessibility to other tourist spots in Singapore.

Matt Holmes, vice president of business development South East Asia & the Pacific Rim, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, said: “Being a major hub and gateway city to the rest of South-east Asia and the world, Singapore plays a significant part in Wyndham’s regional growth strategy… this opening further illustrates our growth momentum in the region and builds upon our strong pipeline of recent signings and openings.”

The introduction of Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, a Wyndham Hotel, comes at a time when bleisure travel continues to grow across the region, coupled with the recovery of Singapore’s growing tourism industry.

Wyndham has plans to further establish a larger presence with its distinctive, upscale, midscale, lifestyle, and value brands in the country.

Hyatt completes acquisition of Mr & Mrs Smith travel platform

By TTG Asia
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Hyatt Hotels Corporation has completed its acquisition of London-based Mr & Mrs Smith, a global travel platform that provides direct booking access to a carefully curated collection of more than 1,500 boutique and luxury properties.

With this addition to the portfolio, World of Hyatt members will soon have even more rewarding stays and experiences to choose from, including more than 20 new countries for Hyatt such as Fiji, Croatia, Iceland and Anguilla.

Hyatt Studios is the new extended-stay brand entry into the upper-midscale segment in the US

Hyatt is poised to build upon the momentum of its transformative growth journey with expansive opportunities globally across its brand portfolio and immediate developer interest in Hyatt Studios, Hyatt’s new extended-stay brand entry into the upper-midscale segment in the US.

Intervals introduces airport bar concept to Hong Kong International Airport

By TTG Asia
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Intervals will soon open at Hong Kong International Airport’s (HKIA) Skybridge, allowing travellers to experience an elevated drinks and food programme.

Due to open in late June, the space at Intervals has been designed to host different travel profiles – solo, couples or groups – and boasts unobstructed front-row views of HKIA’s runways.

Intervals’ has curated a drinks programme that is tailored according to how much time a guest has to spare

Designed for the airport setting, Intervals will offer F&B, interactive and engaging experiences, an app that provides knowledge about the drinks alongside beverage-focused travel inspirations, and more.

Its drinks programme will showcase a series of miniature sips, aptly named as ‘flight of cocktails’, that have been tailored according to how much time a guest has to spare – from a 15-minute experience to a 45-minute one. There will also be a non-alcoholic ‘flight of cocktails’ that riffs on the seasons and features special drink creations.

For travellers who have the shortest available interval of time – and are unable to sit down for an experience – Intervals has also created custom takeaway boxes of cocktails and pinchos (tapas-style bar snacks) perfect for on-board dining.

The concept and name of Intervals was inspired by the idea that the time of day becomes fluid while travelling, and that instead key actions are measured in intervals of time. It was the brainchild of Mei Mei Song, director of global brands and transformation of Plaza Premium Group, and Victoria Chow, creative director and founder of acclaimed Hong Kong bar, The Woods.

Tourism Representation Services for Tourism Northern Territory in Singapore

By TTG
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A unique and rare opportunity for a destination that is different in every sense. Tourism NT in Australia’s Northern Territory is looking for a representation agency to conduct trade and consumer marketing services in Singapore. For more information please visit https://tendersonline.nt.gov.au/Tender/Details?id=22578 Tender number D23-0167.

There’s nowhere in the world like Australia’s Northern Territory. Represent Tourism Northern Territory in Singapore. Apply now.

Village Hotel Sentosa adds new mini hotelier experiences

By TTG Asia
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Village Hotel Sentosa has unveiled two new experiences for its signature Mini Hotelier brand to offer young guests more fun and exciting ways to learn what it takes to run a hotel through play.

The latest additions, Mini Concierge and Mini Responder, join the existing experiences – Mini Concierge, Mini Responder, Mini Artist, Mini Housekeeper, Mini Engineer, and Mini Chef.

Kids will learn more about the role of a concierge and how to better guide hotel guests around Singapore

Mini Concierge will allow children to understand the role of a concierge in a hotel. To better guide hotel guests on their trip to Singapore, the children will don smart jackets and learn about the history of Singapore, the popular tourist attractions in the city, how to navigate the comprehensive MRT system.

Mini Responder will introduce children to items in a first aid kit and how these items are utilised when a minor incident happens to or around them. They will learn how to tie an arm sling and even try completing a crossword puzzle.

Children will receive a stamp after every experience they participate in. Those who complete all seven experiences will be rewarded a graduation gift pack and be certified as a Village Hotel Sentosa Mini Hotelier – all part of the new Mini Hotelier Graduation programme.

The Mini Hotelier Experience is included in the Village Playcation stay package, as well as for guests who book their stays in Deluxe Family Rooms at Village Hotel Sentosa.

Priced at SG$40 (US$29) per child per stay, the experience is also available at The Barracks Hotel Sentosa and Oasia Resort Sentosa.

For more information, visit Village Hotel Sentosa.

BWH Hotels adds three new hotels in Bangkok & Kyoto

By TTG Asia
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The newly-opened Best Western Ratchada Hotel is located in the heart of the vibrant up-and-coming downtown Ratchada district
The newly-opened Best Western Ratchada Hotel is located in the heart of the vibrant up-and-coming downtown Ratchada district

Brought to you by BWH Hotels

BWH Hotels has expanded its footprint in Asia with the recent opening of three new hotels in two of the region’s most compelling cities, Bangkok and Kyoto.

Serving as convenient launchpads to experience the energy of Thailand’s pulsating capital city and explore Japan’s most captivating cultural destination, BWH’s latest hospitality additions will appeal well to the cultural seeker, avid shopper and business traveller.

Indulge in retail options at nearby Chatuchak Market
Best Western Chatuchak is a brand-new hotel located next to the iconic Chatuchak Market, one of Asia’s largest markets and a well-known tourist attraction for avid shoppers.

Easily accessible, the 192-key hotel is also within close proximity to Bangkok’s new main rail terminal, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, as well as Kamphaeng Phet MRT subway station and Don Mueang International Airport, making it a convenient accommodation of choice for domestic and international travellers alike.

All guestrooms come complete with signature king or twin beds, stylish interiors, a working desk and views of the city.

Best Western Chatuchak is also an ideal venue suited for events of varying sizes from corporate to social gatherings. It houses a naturally-lit ballroom which can accommodate 300 guests, complete with 280m2 of pillar-free floor space and soaring 8.4-metre-high ceilings. The world-class venue also extends onto a 3,200m2 outdoor terrace and garden, which provides the perfect setting for glamorous alfresco receptions, as well as a separate functional meeting room to host 100 guests.

Best Western Chatuchak
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Best Western Chatuchak is located next to the iconic Chatuchak Market, one of Asia’s largest markets and a well-known tourist attraction
The hotel is an ideal venue suited for events of varying sizes from corporate to social gatherings
All guestrooms come complete with signature king or twin beds, stylish interiors, a working desk and views of the city

Discover a new side of the Thai capital
For leisure tourists keen for a fresh take on Bangkok, they can choose to stay at the newly-opened Best Western Ratchada Hotel located in the heart of the vibrant up-and-coming downtown Ratchada district, surrounded by commercial towers, restaurants and retail malls.

Just a few minutes from the Chinese Embassy and the Stock Exchange of Thailand, the contemporary 120-key midscale hotel provides excellent connectivity via the Phra Ram 9 and Thailand Cultural Centre MRT subway stations, with the bustling Sukhumvit district a few stops away.

Utilising the city’s elevated expressways, the hotel is also less than 40 minutes from Bangkok’s two major airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang.

Business travellers will find the boardroom useful for intimate meetings and strategy sessions, with complimentary high-speed internet throughout the premises. The outdoor swimming pool is also a great place to unwind and the on-site restaurant serves daily breakfast in a cozy atmosphere.

Best Western Ratchada Hotel
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The hotel restaurant serves daily breakfast in a cozy atmosphere
The hotel is less than 40 minutes from Bangkok’s two major airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang
Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool

Uncover the cultural wonders of Kyoto
For culture seekers keen to explore the charming historical Kyoto, the KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle, BW Signature Collection by Best Western is now welcoming guests in the heart of Japan’s former capital.

Surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Nijo Castle, which dates back from the 1600s and transports travellers back to the era of the shoguns, as well as the famed Imperial Palace, the 57-room boutique hotel puts guests at the doorstep of some of the city’s most significant landmarks and attractions.

Designed in a contemporary Japanese style and equipped with organic amenities, innovative technology and complimentary Wi-Fi, travellers can keep to their wellness routine on the road with workouts at the hotel gym and dine at the restaurant specialising in French cuisine within the premises.

KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle, BW Signature Collection
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The 57-room boutique hotel is designed in a contemporary Japanese style
The hotel is within close proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Nijo Castle
The hotel is equipped with organic amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi

For more information on BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit www.bestwesternasia.com.

Vote for your favourite travel brand to win at TTG Travel Awards 2023, Asia-Pacific’s Most Prestigious Travel Industry Accolade
Vote Best Western Hotels & Resorts (BWH Hotels) for Best Mid-range Hotel Brand here.

Dan Ruff helms as CEO of Belmond

By TTG Asia
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Belmond has named Dan Ruff as its new chief executive officer with effect from July 1. He will succeed Roeland Vos, who has been at the helm of the company for the past eight years.

Ruff has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, and is currently the chief operating officer of Belmond, a position he’s held since 2018.

Prior to joining Belmond, he held senior roles at Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Wyndham Hotel Group across operations, asset management, and mergers & acquisitions, and served on the Supervisory Board of Design Hotels AG.

Star Alliance names Theo Panagiotoulias as CEO

By TTG Asia
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Theo Panagiotoulias has been appointed as Star Alliance next chief executive officer.

With more than 25 years of commercial and operational expertise in the airline and travel industry, Panagiotoulias has worked in Australia, China, Japan, Singapore and the US.

He joins Star Alliance from Hawaiian Airlines, where he was senior vice president for global sales and alliances since 2014.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Hilton teams up with Explora Journeys to expand loyalty programme to luxury ocean voyages
TTG Asia | PATA Singapore Chapter debuts industry dialogue on hot issues
TTG Asia | JAL steps up sustainable aviation efforts