Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach is celebrating seven years of operations with a special anniversary package for guests to enjoy.
Guests who book a minimum three-night stay will be treated to daily breakfast, a complimentary resort activity, a 60-minute Thai massage for two, one-hour of free-flow drinks every day at Big Fish Bar, one romantic beachfront dinner, roundtrip airport transfers, and a 20 per cent discount at all restaurants and bars.
Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach celebrates seven years with an anniversary package
Bookings are open from now to June 17 for stays till September 30.
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has released updated forecasts for 39 Asia-Pacific destinations showing a strong increase in aggregate international visitor arrivals (IVAs) under each of three scenarios in 2023, with robust annual growth continuing to the end of 2025.
Sponsored by Visa and with data and insights from Euromonitor International, the PATAAsia Pacific Destination Forecasts 2023-2025 suite of reports build on the current forecasts by delving deeper into the changing dynamics of travel and tourism into and across the Asia-Pacific region at the single destination level facilitating the development of appropriate strategies over the next three years.
PATA’s new suite of reports reveal a strong increase in international visitor arrivals in 39 Asia-Pacific destinations; Koh Samui in Thailand, pictured
Predicted international arrival numbers in 2023 range from 705 million under the mild scenario to 516 million under the medium scenario, and almost 390 million under the severe scenario, equating to visitor numbers in 2023 that exceed that of pre-pandemic 2019 by 3.3% under the mild scenario, but still nearly 25% short of it under the medium scenario, and some 43% behind it under the severe scenario.
By the end of 2024, the 2019 benchmark level of IVAs will be exceeded even further under the mild scenario and by 6.7% under the medium scenario, with both positions increasing in strength to 2025. Under the severe scenario, however, IVAs in 2025 are still predicted to fall short of the 2019 level by some 10%.
In this suite of reports, PATA covers each of 39 destinations in much greater detail, with a focus on source markets and air capacity changes in each case. Forecasts for mainland China indicate that very strong annual growth rates are expected in 2023 under each of the three scenarios, but not passing the 2019 volumes until 2024 under the mild and medium scenarios.
Despite very strong annual increases in arrivals from mainland China to Asia-Pacific destinations, under the severe scenario, that number is still expected to lag the 2019 peak by around 6% by the end of 2025.
PATA chair Peter Semone noted that “while these forecasts are extremely encouraging, hurdles still remain, and the travel and tourism sector will require ongoing vigilance and operational flexibility as these issues present themselves over the coming years” and although Covid-19 is no longer at the global pandemic stage, “it has not disappeared entirely, and we must come to grips with living with it for some time yet”.
He added that the conflict in Ukraine will “all have to be dealt with in ways that satisfy the increasingly diverse demands of the traveller of both today and tomorrow”.
David Fowler, head of cross-border & sales excellence, Asia-Pacific, Visa, said: “PATA’s forecasts offer the travel industry with a much-needed and renewed sense of optimism after almost three years of border closures. Nonetheless, many headwinds lie ahead as traveller habits and preferences have changed substantially in a post-pandemic and hyper-digitalised world. The travel industry needs to understand the unique needs of travellers, many who are digital natives, in order to offer the flexible, novel and personalised travel experiences that they have come to expect.
“Building data capabilities will continue to be a key area of investment for the travel ecosystem as it navigates the shifts in travel patterns through data insights, and in turn respond with data-backed customer engagement strategies.”
Visa recently set up a new Centre of Excellence for travel in Asia-Pacific dedicated to help clients and partners use data insights to maximise opportunities in the travel space. Fowler pointed out that it is “now more critical than ever that the travel industry is well-informed through data, so enterprises – especially smaller ones – and local communities can react faster as travel recovery accelerates across Asia-Pacific”.
Each of these 39 reports covers a specific destination in the Asia-Pacific and individually provides annual forecasts of visitor arrival numbers into each destination between 2023 and 2025 by scenario and source region; recovery rates for international visitor arrival growth back to the 2019 benchmark; annual changes in relative visitor share by top source market, year, and scenario; seasonality pattern; quarterly changes in scheduled international inbound air seat capacity to 3Q2022; and economic, income and expenditure outlook & trends, and domestic tourism.
The PATA Asia Pacific Destination Forecasts 2023-2025 are now available here.
Bespoke Habitat has launched a new affordable short-term accommodation service (STAS) to provide flexible, convenient, and affordable housing solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern families.
Located in the Telok Kurau neighbourhood in Singapore, STAS is designed to help families who are looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay.
Bespoke Habitat’s new short-term accommodation service offers flexible lease options ranging from three months to a year
Comprising eight units with a variety of two- to three-bedrooms and penthouses starting from S$4,500 (US$3,321) to S$7,500, the service will provide fully-furnished apartments with living areas, fully-equipped kitchens, and private bedrooms, as well as amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry facilities – nearby the property are shopping malls, Marine Park and East Coast Park.
Flexible lease options are available, ranging from three months to a year.
Bespoke Habitat plans to expand into new markets across Asia such as Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand, with a focus on major cities where demand for affordable and convenient housing solutions is high.
Centara Hotels & Resorts is marking this year’s World Environment Day (June 5) and Ocean Day (June 8) events with the revival of its successful 2019 Plastics Only, Please (P-O-P) campaign to raise awareness and take action against plastic waste.
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, all Centara’s properties will feature P-O-P sculptures – wire sea life creations – that serve as bins for plastic waste found on or around the beach from June 5 to 30.
Centara Hotels & Resorts’ campaign aims to raise awareness and take action against plastic waste
These ‘plastic-eating’ sculptures collected over 400kg of plastic waste in 2019 with the aim to lessen the burden of plastic in local landfills and ensure reusable plastic materials were recycled and reused properly rather than thrown away.
Throughout this initiative, guests and staff are encouraged to collect plastic refuse and “feed” it to the hungry P-O-P creatures. At the end of each week, Centara’s waste management teams will remove the contents, weigh the trash, and prepare it for sorting and delivery to local recycling facilities.
“After the success of our Plastics Only, Please campaign in 2019, we are looking forward to achieving even greater results this year with a new range of P-O-P sculptures to be featured at our incredible beachfront properties,” said David Good, executive vice president, hotel operations, Centara Hotels & Resorts.
By 2025, Centara targets to have 100 per cent of its properties certified as sustainable by accredited certification bodies as a key element of the organisation’s long-term sustainability objectives and eliminate single-use plastic items to minimise environmental impact across the entire guest journey.
The Premium Economy experience on Emirates has officially launched in Singapore with one of Emirates’ upgraded four-class A380 aircraft, which is deployed on flights EK 354 and EK 355 between Singapore and Dubai.
Emirates launched its Premium Economy Class last year which received positive customer response. The product is currently deployed to seven destinations worldwide including London Heathrow and New York JFK.
Emirates passengers flying between Singapore and Dubai can now enjoy the Premium Economy experience
On a four-class Emirates A380, the Premium Economy cabin is located at the front of the main deck with 56 seats laid out in a two-four-two configuration, and features a generous seat pitch and width, six-way adjustable headrests, calf rests and footrests, in-seat charging points, a side cocktail table, pillow and blanket, complimentary amenity kits, an inventive menu and extensive beverage options.
For dining, meals are prepared with seasonal ingredients and regional influences, while the drinks menu will include a selection of beverages including premium wines and a sparkling Chandon Vintage Brut 2016 exclusively for Emirates Premium Economy passengers.
For entertainment, passengers can enjoy an array of up to 6,500 channels of music, movies, TV, news, and other content on the 13.3-inch screen.
In addition, Premium Economy passengers can make use of the dedicated check-in area at Dubai International airport or utilise the self-service check-in kiosks in the hall.
TIA Wellness Resort is moving beyond yoga and massage with its new Creative Healing Retreat.
The four- or seven-night retreat begins before guests arrive with a pre-arrival consultation, wellness guidance, and intention setting, through the TIA app. Once checked in, the programme draws on three main elements that are offered daily: Reiki, creative art workshops, and breath work.
TIA Wellness Resort introduces four- and seven-day options for its creative healing retreats
Guests will participate in daily therapies, singing bowl sessions, yoga and tai chi, and indulge in balanced nutrition with the plant-based meal plan.
The four-night option will be centred at the resort, while the seven-night stay incorporates exploration of the destination with options like a private tai chi session in the Marble Mountains, and meditation at Lady Buddha, Vietnam’s tallest Buddha statue.
The four-night retreat is priced from US$2,753, and the seven-night stay starts from US$4,353 for single occupancy only.
Floral Princess, one of the most famous Cantonese operas of all time, will celebrate 65 years with its debut in Macau from July 28 to 30 for three performances only.
The 65th Anniversary remake is created by Utopia Cantonese Opera Workshop, and will be held at the Venetian Theatre in The Venetian Macao.
Floral Princess debuts in Macau for its 65th anniversary at The Venetian Macao
This special edition of Floral Princess will pay tribute to the invincible trio in Canto-opera, namely Yam Kim Fai, Pak Suet Sin and Tong Tik Sang. The lead roles of Floral Princess and Consort Chow will be played by a different mix of trans-generational actors in each performance. The show will go beyond tradition, fusing art and technology – designs of grand mobile stage, projections, lighting, rearranged music and tailor-made Harmonic Canto-opera Audio.
Tickets will go on sale from June 9 at all Cotai Ticketing box offices. Prices start from HK$280 (US$35), with VIP tickets selling at HK$880.
Show times for Floral Princess will be at 19.30 for July 28 and 29, and 15.00 for July 30.
La Vie Hotels & Resorts is bolstering its teams across Australia, Sri Lanka and Thailand, with the following appointments.
Alan Christie is the new area general manager in Sri Lanka and will drive the strategic performance of the group’s three Radisson properties in the country.
From left: Alan Christie, Suthiroj Sathitpornkitti, and Abhey Sachdeva
As the new director of growth and business development, South and South East Asia, Suthiroj Sathitpornkitti (Chris) will be based in Bangkok and will focus on expanding La Vie Hotels & Resorts portfolio across the region.
In Sydney, Abhey Sachdeva takes on the role of business development manager, Australia, and will drive sales performance for hotels within the Australian shared services portfolio.
Other appointments in the Australian team include Andrew Marin as group manager of sales, Justin Furkhan as business support manager, and Catriona McKay as group manager revenue and distribution.
Armed with new and enhanced tourist infrastructure as well as improved accessibility, Lantau Island is now recognised as an attractive “double gateway” that connects Hong Kong with Greater Bay Area (GBA) and other parts of the world via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Macao Bridge and Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).
HKIA commenced aircraft take-off and landing operations on its third runway in July 2022, while remaining enhancement works on the aviation facility is pressing ahead. HKIA is due to get a reconfigured central runway, expanded Terminal 2 and a new concourse, updated automated people-mover system, and high-speed baggage handling system.
Wisdom Path at the foot of Lantau Peak
The ultimate goal is to complete HKIA’s three-runway system by 2024, since work first started in August 2016.
The airport opened its Sky Bridge – a 200m-long and 20m-width footbridge equipped with escalators and automated walkway – last November, enabling airport users to cover Terminal 1 (T1) to T1 Satellite Concourse on foot.
The Sky Bridge is also an architectural magnet – it is the world’s longest airside bridge that allows the largest passenger aircraft, like the A380, to pass under. Featuring panoramic views, the Sky Bridge has become a prime viewing spot for passengers. An observation deck, catering outlet and shop will soon open in phases.
The vicinity of HKIA has also been enhanced with the progressive opening of 11 SKIES next door. This landmark, when completed in 2025, will be home to over 800 shops, including more than 120 dining concepts, and Hong Kong’s largest indoor entertainment hub that will host world-class entertainment attractions never seen before in the region.
Hong Kong International Airport
11 SKIES is also meant to integrate workplaces for GBA enterprises, with a focus on wealth management, wellness and medical services.
There is development on the hotel front too. After welcoming the 206-room Silveri Hong Kong-MGallery last summer, Tung Chung, on the north-western coast of Lantau Island, has its hotel inventory expanded further with the opening of the 1,208-key Regala Skycity Hotel early this year.
Owned and operated by Regal Hotels International, this new hotel is directly connected to AsiaWorld-Expo and 11 SKIES via an enclosed footbridge, making it an ideal accommodation option for both leisure and business travellers.
Regala Skycity Hotel packs in five game rooms, cabana rooms with patios available for private hiring, and a landscaped rooftop Sky Deck that offers panoramic views of Lantau Island. For fitness buffs, the hotel charms with a jogging track and organic farm.
Hong Kong’s largest island has also raised its fun quotient, with its most notable attraction – Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) – launching fresh draws.
HKDL has unveiled a reimagined Castle of Magical Dreams, home to a fully-refreshed Follow Your Dreams daytime musical stage show and the all-new night-time spectacular, Momentous. Its activity calendar for 2023 is packed with immersive experiences, such as StellaLou’s Wonderful Wishes Ballet in April; a series of Heroic Encounters with Marvel Super Heroes in May; Disney Halloween Time with Disney Villains November to December; and A Disney Christmas special to round up the year.
Artist’s impression of the completed 11 SKIES
Furthermore, a number of world’s firsts will come to HKDL – The World of Frozen will open in 2H2023 and Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse Statue-Dream Makers in October 2023.
Commenting on Lantau Island’s various developments, HKDL director of sales for Hong Kong and international, Eva Lau, told TTG Asia that travellers would be encouraged to stay on longer in the destination. More travellers from around the world would also have a reason to explore Hong Kong.
“In the long run, these (developments) will definitely enhance the overall appeal of Hong Kong as a tourist destination, attracting more tourists to Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau and Hong Kong,” Lau added.
Renee Kim, general manager of Regal Hotels International, said the developments play a crucial role in contributing to the success of Lantau Island as a tourism central, especially with the opening of 11 SKIES, which she expects will attract more travellers from the GBA.
She said: “(Lantau Island) has changed a lot in the past decade. With all the natural scenery, history and culture, plenty of famous attractions as well as new developments coming on line in the near future, I believe that this area will become one of the most popular destinations for tourists who visit Hong Kong.”
Strategically located in the culturally rich precinct of Kampong Gelam, PARKROYAL on Beach Road began life in 1971 and continues to stand out today with its distinctive city fringe address that offers close proximity to a mixture of vibrant cultures which provide unique and authentic experiences for guests.
While staying at the hospitality landmark, travellers can explore the diverse facets of Singapore, all within walking distance with the eclectic mix of cultural, heritage and lifestyle offerings available at Kampong Gelam.
Venturing into the captivating cultural locales allows tourists a glimpse into the heritage intricacies of the Arabic, Indian, Malay, Western, and Chinese communities – whether they choose to shop at a speciality boutique or visit a religious place of worship.
Within the hotel premises, the corridor walls on the Club floors also spotlight eye-catching artwork by local artists, with more creative pieces displayed in the PARKROYAL Club Deluxe and PARKROYAL Club Premier Rooms.
Hotel highlights
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Hotel guests can explore the diverse facets of Singapore, all within walking distance with the eclectic mix of cultural, heritage and lifestyle offerings at Kampong Gelam
Club 5's interesting concoctions draw inspiration from the unique flavours and spices of Kampong Gelam
Opening its doors in 1971, the hotel stands out for its distinctive city fringe address offering close proximity to vibrant cultural locales
About 1.6 million single-use plastic packaging is reduced every year by replacing in-room amenities with sustainable materials
Indulge in authentic Asian fare The 346-key property prides itself on its wide array of culinary delights served at the hotel’s delectable mix of F&B options.
For guests keen to sample Singapore’s foodscape, the all-day halal-certified kitchen, Ginger, helmed by executive chef Vincent Aw, celebrates the rich flavours and heritage of the city-state’s culinary fare from chilli crabs to Hainanese chicken rice.
The hotel also houses Singapore’s pioneering Sichuan restaurant, Si Chuan Dou Hua Restaurant, famed for its exquisite Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine. The connecting Tian Fu Tea Room, which carries a selection of over 30 types of premium Chinese teas, provides the ideal prelude or end note to a hearty meal.
The 1920s-inspired cocktail bar, Club 5, introduces guests to an interesting variety of concoctions, drawing inspiration from the unique flavours and spices of Kampong Gelam.
Showcasing sustainable hospitality At the forefront of sustainability, PARKROYAL on Beach Road is the first hotel in the Pan Pacific Hotels Group to take on a pilot Food Digester Al project to ensure food waste is processed properly.
The hotel also launched green initiatives such as “Food for Second Life” to educate both guests and staff on proper disposal and on reducing food waste. Currently, plastic straws, cutlery and takeaway boxes have been replaced with sustainable alternatives.
This year, the hotel is recreating the chiller plant system in all F&B outlets to further reduce its carbon footprint.
Solar panels have been installed to harness green energy and as part of a future energy-saving project, all guestrooms will be converted to smart rooms.
Hotel guests are also encouraged to go green by opting for alternate days of housekeeping to reduce water and energy wastage.
Presently, about 1.6 million single-use plastic packaging is reduced every year by replacing in-room amenities with sustainable materials.
Instead of utilising plastic bottles, premium filtered water taps and water dispensers are now available in all rooms and meeting rooms respectively.
Sustainable MICE packages have also been introduced to help meetings and events become more eco-friendly as part of the hotel’s commitment to sustainable hospitality.
Kung Teong Wah, general manager, said: “Our brand continues to thrive and retain popularity because we remain dedicated to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. By consistently exceeding expectations and embracing innovation, we create a sense of trust and loyalty that keeps our guests returning. Together, we shape the future of hospitality and redefine what it means to be a trusted brand.”
Check out insider’s recommendations on exploring the hotel’s surrounding highlights here.
