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Asia/Singapore Friday, 3rd April 2026
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Page 7

Sun Group, Changi Airports International to develop Phu Quoc airport as tourism hub

By TTG Asia
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Sun Group and Changi Airports International (CAI) have entered into a strategic agreement to develop Phu Quoc International Airport, with plans to integrate aviation infrastructure with tourism, retail and entertainment.

Under the agreement, CAI will provide advisory services covering airport operations, commercial planning, air connectivity and service standards. The initiative aims to position Phu Quoc as an aviation and tourism hub in the Asia-Pacific region ahead of the APEC 2027 Summit.

Sun Group and Changi Airports International have inked an agreement to support the development of Phu Quoc International Airport; photo by Sun Group

Phu Quoc International Airport handled about six million passengers in 2025 and has seen growth in international and regional travel demand. A government-approved master plan includes the development of a new runway and Terminal 2. The airport is expected to handle up to 24 million passengers per year, with long-term capacity of up to 50 million.

The partnership will align airport operations with international standards while supporting broader tourism development on the island. It also builds on prior discussions in Vietnam and Singapore on combining airport management and destination planning expertise.

Through the agreement, the companies aim to integrate airport infrastructure with visitor experiences, positioning the airport as part of the wider tourism offering rather than solely a transport facility. This approach reflects a broader trend of airports being developed as integrated destinations. Singapore Changi Airport is often cited as an example of combining operational efficiency with retail and leisure offerings, while Sun Group has developed tourism and resort projects across Vietnam.

“Through this partnership with Changi Airports International, we aim to develop Phu Quoc International Airport into a true ‘airport destination’ where the travel experience begins the moment visitors arrive,” said Dang Minh Truong, chairman of Sun Group.

“(Phu Quoc’s) integrated tourism and entertainment eco-system provides a strong foundation for the long-term development of Phu Quoc International Airport as a key gateway for the island. We look forward to contributing our expertise to enable Sun Group to create a world-class airport experience,” added Eugene Gan, CEO of CAI.

Hilton signs agreement with Yotel to expand lifestyle hotel portfolio

By TTG Asia
0

Hilton has entered into an agreement with Yotel to expand its global hotel portfolio, adding a brand focused on compact, technology-driven accommodation in urban markets.

The franchise agreement brings Yotel into Hilton’s network while allowing the brand to continue operating independently under its existing model. Yotel currently manages and licenses 23 hotels across 10 countries and aims to more than triple its portfolio in the coming years.

Yotel properties will join Hilton’s network while retaining independent branding and operations under a new partnership

Yotel will become part of a new category known as Select by Hilton, which is intended to include established hotel brands that retain their identity while gaining access to Hilton’s distribution systems and loyalty programme. Participating brands will connect to Hilton Honors, the group’s global guest programme.

Founded in London in 2007, Yotel operates in cities including New York, Tokyo, Amsterdam, Glasgow and Singapore. The brand focuses on compact rooms with features such as adjustable beds and automated luggage storage, designed to maximise space and efficiency.

Under the agreement, Yotel properties will access Hilton’s distribution and technology platforms while maintaining their existing service model. Hilton said the partnership aligns with its asset-light strategy and supports growth in the lifestyle segment.

Hilton Honors members will be able to earn and use points at participating Yotel properties once integration is completed. The programme has nearly 250 million members who book through Hilton’s direct channels.

The first Yotel hotels are expected to be available for booking through Hilton’s channels later in 2026.

Christian Charnaux, executive vice president and chief development officer, Hilton said: “This agreement further strengthens our network effect by connecting a beloved independent brand like Yotel into the powerful Hilton Honors network and commercial distribution system, while preserving what makes the brand unique.”

“Yotel’s relationship with Hilton allows us to expand our reach while staying true to who we are. What changes for Yotel is access – not identity – in a capital-light, and scalable way,” added Phil Andreopoulos, CEO, Yotel.

Singapore’s Swissotel and Fairmont complex scores a profitable 2025

By Karen Yue
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Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford, a dual-brand hotel complex in Singapore’s civic district, is said to have marked its “best year ever” in 2025, an achievement rooted in the conscientious “management of the 3Ps”, shared its managing director, William J Haandrikman.

The 3Ps refers to people, product and profit, with people being the topmost focus, stated Haandrikman in an interview with TTG Asia.

Themed afternoon tea sets at Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford support efforts to boost repeat visits and local demand

He said: “2025 was the best year ever for us since our opening in 1986, and it is our people that make this property. We have team members who have been with us for 40 years, and we have customers and guests coming back because of them. Therefore, for me and for my leadership team, we know it is super important to ensure that our staff are well taken care of. With a happy team that takes care of our customers and guests, profits will come.”

He added that team member satisfaction rating was the “highest ever in 2025”. Surveys conducted by a third-party agency looked into various factors including staff access to training, internal communications, and openness of leadership.

The complex’s focus on product has also resulted in several unique market activations last year to draw both new and repeat customers and guests. Activations spanned F&B specials, including a Paddington Bear-themed high tea at Skai restaurant, complete with a red phone booth photo corner and character meet-and-greet sessions. Guests are invited to taste Paddington’s favourite moments – marmalade sandwiches and edible recreation of iconic red London buses and his well-travelled suitcase.

Anti:dote bar also entered a partnership with National Gallery Singapore and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston to present an afternoon tea inspired by the Into the Modern: Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston – said to be South-east Asia’s largest exhibition of French Impressionism. The menu featured elegant afternoon tea treats like forest mushroom mousse with winter truffle, which captured the rustic tones and dappled light of Camille Pissarro’s Two Peasant Women in a Meadow.

Haandrikman noted that these activations were not only especially impactful on the domestic market, but also encouraged repeat visits.

“It is important to build repeat guests, as they spend 2.6 times more on our property (than other guests),” he added.

Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford also benefitted from Singapore’s vibrant events calendar, which included Lady Gaga’s Mayhem concerts (May), the World Aquatics Championships (July to August), the Toyota World Para Swimming Championships 2025 (September) and Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix (October).

Haandrikman said the complex’s prime location in the city centre and access to two train lines played a vital role in drawing event visitors.

Looking ahead, Haandrikman is hopeful of another strong year, and shared that more creative market activations will be introduced throughout 2026.

“January and February did better than we expected. The Chinese New Year festivities helped. While a lot of flights through the Middle East are now cancelled, there is still a bright side. People who planned trips to and through the Middle East are now diverting to Asia. Summer looks strong – demand is high from China, South Korea, Japan and Indonesia while corporate bookings and meetings are picking up for 2H2026,” he said.

He added that Singapore has an opportunity to capture more longhaul transits and international visitors amid current geopolitical tensions, especially as Singapore is regarded as a “safe and stable” destination while Asia offers “great opportunities” for businesses.

Vivid Sydney 2026 unveils 23-day programme

By TTG Asia
0

Vivid Sydney 2026 will present the breadth of Sydney, Australia’s creative identity over 23 days, through events spanning light, music and food, most of which will be free to visitors.

Vivid Sydney festival director Brett Sheehy said this year’s programme represents a “bold new horizon” for the event.

Sydney’s Vivid festival returns with a citywide programme of light, music and food, featuring installations and events across major waterfront precincts

“For 2026, we are expanding our programme into new artforms including aerial performance, daytime public art, theatre and dance. These join our vast Vivid Minds, Light, Music and Food offerings to now make your Vivid Sydney one of the great comprehensive arts festivals of the world.”

A highlight is the 6.5km Vivid Light Walk, featuring more than 43 installations and projections by local and international artists. The free attraction stretches across Circular Quay, The Rocks, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour, with additional venues across the CBD hosting related events.

Vivid Sydney 2026 will include collaborations with Biennale Sydney and cultural institutions such as the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Australian National Maritime Museum, City Recital Hall, The Mint, Carriageworks, State Library of NSW and Sydney Opera House.

The Vivid Light programme will be anchored by two centrepieces: Molecule of Light, the festival’s tallest installation at 23m, and Obstacle, one of the longest works stretching 45m along the harbour.

Vivid Minds will feature leading storytellers and cultural figures including Academy Award-winning filmmakers Sean Baker and Chloé Zhao (Nomadland, Hamnet), music broadcaster Zane Lowe, Pulitzer Prize-winning art critic Jerry Saltz and author Roxane Gay.

The series also includes weekly keynote talks showcasing contemporary creative practice, featuring architect Dong-Ping Wong, designer and researcher Mindy Seu, The New Yorker creative director Nicholas Blechman, and filmmakers Leela Varghese and Emma Hough Hobbs.

Vivid Food will bring together chefs and producers to showcase dining across New South Wales, including the debut of the Regional Dinner Series. Its centrepiece, A Shared Table with Yotam Ottolenghi, aims to “celebrate the outstanding produce and beverages of New South Wales and share the kind of food that I love and that also tells the story of the region’s creativity and generosity”.

Additional dining experiences will be available at Vivid Fire Kitchen at Barangaroo Reserve and through pop-ups across the city.

Vivid Music will present a curated programme of international and local artists, alongside special events and performances.

As part of the Biennale of Sydney’s Art After Dark series at White Bay Power Station, the programme will include headline shows from UK soul singer anaiis and American ambient electronic trio Purelink, as well as a free closing night party with a line-up to be announced.

Vivid Sydney 2026 will also extend to the Sydney Opera House, where more than 50 international and Australian artists will contribute content, and to Carriageworks, which will host music, performance and dining across three weekends.

Minister for jobs and tourism Steve Kamper said: “No other city in the world can host Vivid, because no other city in the world has what Sydney has to offer. Vivid Sydney 2026 will redefine how we experience our city, delivering a bigger and bolder event programme that will come to life both day and night.

“With more than 80 per cent of the programme free to attend, Vivid Sydney is focused on making world-leading cultural experiences accessible to everyone… this year’s festival will bring colour and creativity to the city while delivering a significant boost to local businesses.”

Kamper added that the New South Wales government aims to grow the state’s visitor economy to A$91 billion (US$63.6 billion) over the next decade, with major events such as Vivid Sydney playing a key role in driving domestic and international visitation as well as supporting jobs and delivering real economic and social benefits across the state.

Tourism Australia unveils industry sustainability initiative

By TTG Asia
0

Tourism Australia has launched a new sustainability initiative aimed at encouraging the tourism sector to adopt shared standards for responsible travel.

The initiative, titled Green is Our Gold, invites tourism and business events organisations across the country to commit to a set of principles designed to support environmental protection, cultural respect and community engagement.

The Bay of Fires Experience in Tasmania, pictured, showcases Australia’s natural landscapes, a focus of Tourism Australia’s sustainability efforts

Organisations that join the programme will be asked to align with five principles: Celebrate Community, Embrace Culture, Preserve Place, Respect Wildlife and Take Care. The initiative is intended to provide a common framework for sustainable tourism practices across the industry.

Tourism Australia said the programme responds to increasing demand from travellers for experiences that deliver social and environmental benefits. According to its Consumer Demand Project, 77 per cent of travellers consider sustainability important in their daily lives, while 70 per cent factor it into their travel decisions.

Among business events planners, 76 per cent consider sustainability credentials an important factor when selecting destinations.

The initiative builds on existing national policies, including the National Sustainability Framework for the Visitor Economy and the Sustainable Tourism Toolkit introduced in 2023 as part of the Thrive 2030 strategy.

The programme was introduced at Tourism Australia’s Destination Australia conference in Melbourne, which brought together more than 800 industry participants.

“Australia has a strong track record of sustainable growth in tourism, and many businesses have already embraced sustainability – delivering world-class experiences that are sensitive to our natural environments, our cultures and our communities,” said Robin Mack, managing director of Tourism Australia.

Hospitality HR pivots to cross-training amid talent shortage

By Anne Somanas
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Hospitality operators across Asia are overhauling traditional human resources structures to address the mounting talent shortage. Rather than focusing solely on hiring new staff, organisations are shifting towards retaining their existing workforce by decentralising management and creating internal career pathways.

Speaking during a strategy panel titled Leading with Heart: Redefining Talent and Culture in Hospitality, senior executives outlined how removing rigid operational hierarchies is becoming essential for business sustainability.

A panel at Thaifex HOREC Asia 2026 on March 13, 2026 at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, discussed the future of HR with senior hospitality executives; photo by Thaifex HOREC Asia

Marriott International has responded to the ongoing talent shortage by rolling out an integrated job training programme across its properties to support internal mobility. The initiative cross-trains hotel employees to operate across multiple departments. This shift allows staff to build broader skill sets and qualify for supervisory roles beyond their original departments.

“We started working on making sure that (our employees) can multitask – that the same person who can deliver in-room dining can also work in a banquet, or at an Italian restaurant,” noted Priya Panjikar, senior area director of human resources for Thailand, Myanmar & Cambodia at Marriott International.

Panjikar indicated this operational flexibility improves career progression and reduces staff overtime. When employees see a clear path for advancement, they are more likely to remain with the company.

Bali-based LYD Group is taking a similar approach to retention by empowering frontline workers to make immediate operational decisions. The consulting company, which manages boutique hotels, has found that waiting for senior approvals can create operational bottlenecks. To support faster service and build staff confidence, the group allows employees to bypass central offices for minor financial decisions.

“We do have some structure of decision-making, like for instance, giving them small budget approvals,” said Rosana Meldawati, chief talent and culture officer at LYD Group.

Meldawati said that giving employees autonomy reduces delays in decision-making. This approach is paired with a focus on internal promotion and cross-training, with LYD Group prioritising internal transfers across its properties over external hiring.

Meldawati noted that current market conditions require a shift in how hospitality operators view their workforce.

“Retention is the new recruitment now. That’s why we have to build from the beginning,” Meldawati commented.

Hari Raya travel drives 33 per cent rise in Singapore outbound trips: Trip.com

By TTG Asia
0

Outbound travel from Singapore increased during the Hari Raya Puasa holiday period, with bookings rising by 33 per cent year-on-year, according to Trip.com data.

The figures cover travel between March 20 and 29, 2026, compared with March 28 to April 6, 2025. Short- and medium-haul destinations in Asia-Pacific remained the preferred choice, with Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur ranking as the most popular cities.

Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, pictured, are among the top destinations for Singapore travellers during the Hari Raya travel period

Shanghai emerged as the top destination this year, while Manila moved up to fourth place from seventh in 2025. Other destinations in the top 10 include Tokyo, Taipei, Seoul, Bali, Hong Kong and Penang.

Medium-haul flights accounted for 70 per cent of bookings, followed by shorthaul flights at 24 per cent and longhaul travel at six per cent.

Younger travellers were a key driver of demand, with Gen Z and millennials accounting for a large share of outbound bookings.

Inbound travel to Singapore also increased by 12 per cent during the same period. China, Malaysia and Thailand remained the largest source markets, while Germany, the US and Turkey recorded the fastest growth.

Visitors were drawn to attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, reflecting demand for a mix of entertainment and nature-based experiences.

Edmund Ong, general manager, Trip.com Singapore noted: “As Singaporeans take time to celebrate Hari Raya Puasa, many are also seizing the opportunity to travel abroad. The desire to venture abroad during the key festive seasons also reflects Singaporeans’ desire to create memorable shared moments through travel.”

Quantum of the Seas to return to Singapore for 2027-28 season

By TTG Asia
0

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas will return to Singapore for the 2027-28 cruise season, offering sailings across Asia from October 2027 to March 2028.

The ship will operate itineraries ranging from three to 10 nights, departing from Singapore to destinations including Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Japan. The homeport deployment allows travellers to begin and end their journeys in Singapore.

Quantum of the Seas will offer sailings from Singapore to destinations across Asia from October 2027 to March 2028

Shorter itineraries include three- and four-night sailings within South-east Asia, with stops such as Penang in Malaysia and Phuket in Thailand. Longer options include four- and five-night cruises to Phuket, as well as 10-night voyages to Bangkok.

Extended itineraries will also include destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Hong Kong, alongside sailings to Japan, with ports including Tokyo, Nagoya and Kobe.

The deployment reflects continued demand for cruises in the region, with Singapore serving as a key departure point for both local and international travellers.

Onboard, the ship offers a range of recreational facilities, including a skydiving simulator, surf simulator, rock-climbing wall and an observation capsule that extends above the deck. Indoor facilities include a multi-use sports and entertainment space with activities such as bumper cars and roller skating, as well as a water play area for children.

Dining options include a range of international cuisines, with venues such as Chef’s Table, Izumi, Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grille and Wonderland.

“Quantum of the Seas has become a familiar and much-loved ship for guests across Asia, and we’re excited to bring these adventures back to Singapore,” said Chad Grospe, vice president and managing director, Asia-Pacific, Royal Caribbean.

JR East launches expanded rail pass to boost travel beyond Tokyo

By TTG Asia
0

East Japan Railway Company (JR East) has introduced an expanded JR East Pass since March 14, 2026, as part of efforts to encourage travel beyond Japan’s main cities.

The new pass combines the previous Tohoku and Nagano-Niigata passes into a single product, offering unlimited travel on JR East lines, including Shinkansen, limited express and local services. It also covers selected partner railways such as the Tokyo Monorail.

The new JR East Pass will provide access to rail travel across eastern Japan, including the Tohoku region

The pass will be available in two options: five consecutive days priced at 35,000 yen (US$235) and 10 consecutive days at 50,000 yen. Child fares are set at half the adult price.

JR East said the move is intended to support travel to regions such as Tohoku, which currently accounts for about 1.5 per cent of overnight stays by inbound visitors. The company aims to increase this share to five per cent by 2034.

The pass provides access to destinations across eastern Japan, including Tokyo, Nagano, Niigata and the Tohoku region. Travellers can reach cities such as Aomori, Akita and Sendai without purchasing separate tickets, which can help reduce travel costs and simplify itineraries.

Seasonal travel is a key focus. In spring, visitors can travel north to view cherry blossoms in areas such as Fukushima and Aomori. Summer offers festivals including the Aomori Nebuta Festival and Sendai Tanabata Festival, while autumn and winter highlight foliage and ski destinations such as Zao Onsen.

JR East said the expanded coverage is part of a broader strategy to support regional tourism and distribute visitor demand more evenly across the country.

“As global interest in Japan continues to rise, we want to support more balanced tourism growth and sustainable regional revitalization,” said Ayumi Utagawa, project manager at East Japan Railway Company. “The JR East Pass removes barriers to deeper exploration, allowing travellers to experience the full richness of regional Japan.”

Club Med opens reservations for Borneo resort in Sabah

By TTG Asia
0

Club Med will begin taking reservations on March 24 for Club Med Borneo, its first resort in East Malaysia. The property is scheduled to welcome guests from November 16, 2026.

Located in Kuala Penyu, Sabah, around 90 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the beachfront resort spans 17 hectares. It is also accessible by road from Brunei International Airport, approximately four hours away.

Club Med Borneo will offer a beachfront resort with 400 rooms and family facilities when it opens in November

Club Med Borneo will feature 400 rooms, including 39 Exclusive Collection Suites. A dedicated Mutiara Exclusive Collection area will include a private lounge, pool and bar. Facilities include an infinity pool, family splash park, kids club, three dining venues, meeting rooms and a main theatre for performances.

The resort is designed as a BREEAM-certified beach property in Asia-Pacific, incorporating architectural elements influenced by Borneo’s cultural heritage.

To mark the launch, guests booking stays between November 16, 2026 and January 3, 2027 will receive a complimentary upgrade to Deluxe rooms, subject to availability.

For more information, visit Club Med.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Thailand rolls out targeted fuel subsidies ahead of Songkran travel
TTG Asia | Colbert Collection to debut in Italy as Minor Hotels targets soft brand growth
TTG Asia | TTG Asia takes Good Friday break