TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Page 7

Transforming meetings and events into luxurious affairs at The Reverie Saigon

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Sumptuous luxurious spaces such as the lobby on level 7 (pictured) await business travellers

Brought to you by The Reverie Saigon

The Reverie Saigon sits on top of Times Square in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City
The Reverie Saigon sits on top of Times Square Building in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City

For a five-star experience in Ho Chi Minh City, look no further than The Reverie Saigon. Occupying the top 39 floors in the iconic Times Square Building that stands between Nguyen Hue Boulevard and Dong Khoi Street, the lavish, opulent European-style hotel is designed to impress. 

Nguyen Hue and Dong Khoi are recognised as Saigon’s most prestigious streets, placing travellers at the vibrant crossroads of major cultural landmarks like the Opera House, the City Hall (People’s Committee Building), and the historic Central Post Office. The Reverie Saigon’s prime location offers a truly luxurious base, providing guests with easy walkability to many interesting sites.

From its rooms to meeting and dining facilities, every part of the hotel ensures that guests receive an exceptional and memorable experience, seamlessly blending art, comfort, and sophistication, alongside breathtaking city and Saigon River views, thanks to its high rise spot.

Plush accommodations 

The Grand Deluxe Room, decorated in elegant furnishings, offers panoramic views of the city and Saigon river

The Reverie Saigon houses 224 luxury rooms, 62 suites, and 89 service apartments, each an expression of uniqueness through Italian interiors and contemporary Vietnamese art. Soft lines, mosaic walls, and arched ceilings add to the sense of grandeur and warmth. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, guests are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Saigon River or the city, offering a tranquil scene or one of the city’s vibrance.

Event extravaganza

Its meeting spaces are equally grand, thoughtfully designed to meet each client’s requirements. 

The hotel features 15 grand venues, meeting, and conference rooms, each equipped with the latest technology and designed for flexibility and comfort.

Flexible meeting rooms, located on the eighth floor, are ideal for partner meetings, executive discussions and private gatherings. With capacities ranging from 8 to 100 guests, these spaces offer exquisite city and river views, creating a private and inspiring environment.

For large-scale and prestigious events, the La Scala Ballroom, one of the largest in the city at 618m², provides an unrivalled setting for conferences, banquets, and sophisticated celebrations. Its column-free design, accentuated by crystal detailing, onyx-framed entryways, resplendent Swarovski chandeliers, and walls clad in fabric designed by renowned Italian textile brand Rubelli, evoke a sense of grandeur and timeless elegance. With floor-to-ceiling glass panels across all ballroom and conference spaces, natural light floods the interiors, illuminating the chandeliers for a visual spectacle. 

Standing in the foyer in front of the La Scala Ballroom is The Reverie Saigon’s pièce de résistance – a 19th-century Bechstein grand piano. It has been re-imagined and transformed by the Florentine company Baldi into a grand masterpiece. Dating back to 1895, the still-pitch-perfect instrument’s original veneer has been refinished with precious malachite stone in a striking, Russian mosaic-style with chiseled, gilded bronze accents.

Behind each event is a dedicated team of event specialists ready to support and anticipate client’s needs. 

Culinary delights 

Dining at The Reverie Saigon is a journey through diverse cuisines and refined spaces, with four distinct restaurants each with their own culinary style.

Long Trieu, a one Michelin star restaurant, evokes the grandeur of the Chinese imperial court with its imperial interiors and authentic Cantonese cuisine, while The Long @ Times Square offers a vibrant, open-air setting where guests can enjoy international dishes and creative cocktails in a lively atmosphere.

Café Cardinal presents a European-inspired design and an ambiance of elegance and luxury, serving international cuisine. Its flexible layout allows events to transition effortlessly from the refined indoor dining area to the expansive outdoor poolside space, perfect for elegant receptions. For more intimate gatherings, The Long Lounge provides a cozy and stylish venue ideal for cocktail parties and private functions.

With this diversity of options, The Reverie Saigon ensures that every event – from grand celebrations to small, themed gatherings – finds the perfect setting to complement its purpose.

To experience the grandeur for yourself, visit The Reverie Saigon for more information.

Sri Lanka declares state of emergency as cyclone batters island nation

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The Sri Lanka government on November 29 declared state of emergency as cyclone Ditwah swept through the country, and appealed to foreign leaders and Sri Lankans living abroad for financial aid.

While the rain has started to ease today, cyclone Ditwah has left behind a trail of destruction to public infrastructure and homes.

Cyclone Ditwah has disrupted tourism in several popular hill country destinations, including Nuwara Eliya and Kandy, pictured

Local news reported many FITs being stranded and helped to safer locations by rescue services operated by armed forces, police and emergency rescue teams.

Severe disruption in mobile communications in many areas also hampered rescue efforts.

An executive of a travel company told TTG Asia on Saturday that he struggled to contact a group of tourists organised by his company.

The natural disaster has left many incoming tourists anxious for updates. They are relying on social media for information to help them decide if their trip should be postponed.

“We got several cancellations and postponed travel plans,” said the general manager of a hotel in the flooded hill town of Kandy.

Nishad Wijetunga, managing director at Wayfarers and former president of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Operators, said DMCs did not suffer any cancellations but had to deal with itinerary rescheduling as national parks and many other tourist sites were closed.

Wijetunga said one of his groups would arrive as planned today.

Tourism industry players are critical of the management of the crisis by state-owned Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), which issued a statement on Friday declaring that it was safe to travel to Sri Lanka. It failed to explain the extent of the crisis and disruption.

“They (SLTDA) said everything was fine when it was not, with parks and tourist sites closed,” said an angry executive of a local travel agency.

SLTDA followed up on November 30 with information on teams operating round the clock to assist tourists and industry stakeholders affected by cyclone Ditwah. It also urged tourists to remain vigilant regarding weather updates and strictly follow government guidelines.

SriLankan Airlines has cancelled several flights since Nov 28 while some arriving flights are rerouted to nearby South Indian airports. Affected tourists are allowed free visa extensions, full waivers on flight cancellation and date-change fees, and flexible rebooking at hotels.

Sri Lanka is targeting 2.3 million to 2.5 million tourists this year, but may fall short due to disrupted travel in December.

Adverse weather impacts Sri Lanka’s tourism activities

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Winds and incessant rain sweeping across Sri Lanka, causing widespread disruption and loss of life, have also disrupted tourism movement and activities in popular scenic spots, reported industry operators.

According to Nalin Jayasundera, chairman of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators, movement has been affected particularly in the hill country and some parts of the North-Central region, which is dealing with floods.

Heavy rain and strong winds in Sri Lanka have disrupted tourism in several popular hill country destinations, including Kandy and Nuwara Eliya; Kandy Lake, pictured

The most affected areas owing to floods and landslides are Kandy, a popular hill country resort, and Nuwara Eliya further up in the hills that is also popular with tourists.

A hotel manager in Kandy, who declined to be named, said flooded rooms have forced at least 35 guests to be housed in the bar area.

The country is battling what is said to be its worst-ever natural disaster, as incessant rain and strong winds lashed across the island in the past few days, resulting in extensive destruction, disrupted businesses, displaced residents, and fatalities.

However, local authorities said on November 28 that Sri Lanka remains safe for tourists. The situation is being closely monitored, and major tourist destinations are operating as usual, with hotels, transport services, and attractions continuing without disruption.

Tourism Australia rolls out Aussie Specialist Program in Vietnam

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Tourism Australia has launched its Aussie Specialist Program (ASP) in Vietnam to promote Australia as a holiday destination at events in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

The Aussie Specialist Program is Tourism Australia’s global frontline travel seller training programme. It provides international travel sellers with the knowledge and skills to sell Australia more effectively.

Vietnamese travel agents join Tourism Australia’s ASP to showcase destinations, MICE options and visa support as visitor demand rises

The expansion into Vietnam responds to growing interest in Australia as a holiday destination. As of year-ending September 2025, Vietnam is one of Australia’s strongest growth markets for visitor arrivals, up 37 per cent on the same period in 2019.

The launch events on November 25 and 27 target Vietnamese product managers, travel planners and agency frontline staff from 91 companies, equipping the country’s travel trade with product knowledge and confidence to meet rising demand.

The events include destination showcases from five State Tourism Organisations: Destination New South Wales, South Australia Tourism Commission, Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Western Australia and Visit Victoria. They also highlight Australia as a MICE destination and provide visa training delivered by the Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City and the Australian Embassy in Hanoi.

Tourism Australia regional general manager for South and South-east Asia Jennifer Doig stated that Vietnam has historically been an important partner for Australia, with strong economic, education and cultural ties.

“It is now one of our most important emerging markets, evidenced by 37 per cent growth in visitor arrivals since 2019. The ASP provides a platform to help partners convert this interest into holiday bookings,” she said.

Doig also announced Junnie Tran as business development manager, South-east Asia. Tran will manage relationships with trade partners and lead the ASP launch in Vietnamese.

Research shows key factors attracting South-east Asian markets to Australia include its positioning as a familiar yet new destination, proximity for holidays closer to home, expanding aviation routes, pleasant climate, and a vibrant dining scene.

Australia aims to provide experiences for all travellers across South-east Asia, including high-yield travellers, groups, families and Muslim travellers. This is supported by State Tourism Organisations actively promoting Australia’s offerings.

First Destination by Hyatt brand in South-east Asia to debut in Lombok in 2028

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A major integrated development is taking shape in Lombok, which will also introduce the first Destination by Hyatt brand in the region.

Samara Lombok, expected to be ready in 2028, comes under a franchise agreement between Hyatt Hotels and Lombok Torok Developments to develop a 135ha site on the southern part of the island, located less than 30 minutes from the airport.

Samara Lombok will combine villas, boutique hotels and community-focused facilities on Lombok’s southern coast

“Samara Lombok will be experience-focused and community led,” said Steve Ebsworth, co-founder, Samara Lombok. He is also the co-founder of Rascal Voyages, which leads luxury yacht charters across Indonesia.

The development encompasses two distinct zones – Samara Hills and Samara Bay – featuring villas and three boutique hotels with a combined total of approximately 249 keys.

Key to the Samara Lombok’s success is ensuring that they are integrating into the land and community, not simply building on top of it, emphasised Ebsworth.

“Our vision for Samara Lombok has always been to create a destination that goes far beyond conventional luxury. It’s about crafting a place where exceptional design, sport, dining, and exploration come together to deliver truly meaningful guest experiences,” he added.

Facilities include a farm-to-table restaurant, spa and wellness facility, purpose-built tennis courts and padel courts, a marine and water sports centre, day clubs and beach clubs, while an educational marine biology centre where children can learn about the region’s ecosystem.

Samara Lombok will also have its own hospitality training school, where its graduates can go on to work with Samara Lombok should they choose to. Ebsworth plans to have over 50 per cent of hospitality staff come from the school, offering a direct path to employment.

Ebsworth is also working on securing “world-class partnerships” with notable brands that will be announced at a later date.

Philippines to host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 in Mactan, Cebu

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The Philippines will stage the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Mactan, Cebu from January 27 to February 4, 2026. The event will bring together ASEAN tourism ministers, National Tourism Organisations, senior officials, Travex exhibitors, international buyers, and media, reaffirming ASEAN’s aim to promote the region as a single tourism destination.

Travex, the forum’s travel-trade component, will run from January 28 to 30. Exhibitors from ASEAN member states will meet hosted buyers and media through a three-day programme of networking sessions and cultural activities. Delegates can join five pre-show and eight post-show tours showcasing Philippine beaches, island resorts, and cultural and heritage sites. Exhibitors and buyers will benefit from 32 pre-scheduled one-to-one business appointments.

Philippines prepares to welcome ASEAN tourism delegates for ATF 2026

TTG Asia Media has been appointed Travex Secretariat. The Philippines will also host a series of social events, including the Opening Ceremony, Welcome Reception and Dinner, and Closing Ceremony.

ATF 2026 will include the ASEAN Tourism Conference, where regional and international experts will discuss tourism trends, challenges, and opportunities to strengthen cooperation and support sustainable development.

ATF 2026 marks the 45th edition of the forum, first held in Malaysia in 1981. Travex will take place in Mactan, Cebu from January 28 to 30, 2026.

Agoda 2026 travel outlook highlights rise of secondary destinations across Asia

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Agoda has released its 2026 Travel Outlook Report, highlighting trends set to influence travel across Asia in the coming year. The report identifies shifts including the rising popularity of secondary destinations, increasing demand for experiential travel, and growing expectations for seamless, technology-driven journeys – providing guidance for hotels, destination marketing organisations (DMOs) and travel industry partners.

The report draws on a survey of 3,353 Agoda customers from nine key Asia-Pacific markets (India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam) conducted in October 2025.

Asia’s travellers are turning to secondary cities for authentic experiences and immersive stays

A rising middle class, streamlined visa processes, and expanding flight networks are shaping travel choices across Asia, with travellers increasingly looking beyond familiar hotspots. Recent Agoda data shows searches for accommodation in secondary cities across Asia have grown 15% faster than in traditional tourism hubs over the last two years. Secondary destinations accounted for 34% of total accommodation searches on Agoda in the first half of 2025. 43% of travellers cited lower costs as their top reason to explore these destinations, while unique local culture, special promotions, and outdoor activities were also key motivations.

Ease of access is an important factor for travellers considering new destinations, particularly in India (91%), the Philippines (89%) and Indonesia (80%). Governments in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan and India are expanding access to more destinations through targeted campaigns and infrastructure improvements. Agoda works with DMOs to leverage data insights and marketing channels to highlight lesser-known destinations and enable rural properties to reach wider audiences through digital platforms.

Diversifying accommodation supply is also important to meet traveller preferences and create new economic opportunities. Non-hotel options such as villas, apartments and boutique guesthouses on Agoda have increased steadily from 2022 to 2025, supporting immersive stays while allowing local property owners to enter the digital economy.

The report also highlights key strategies for industry partners in 2026: enhancing digital visibility with updated listings and reviews, using data insights for targeted marketing, and expanding offerings to include authentic cultural, culinary and outdoor experiences. By adopting these approaches, accommodation providers, local experience providers, DMOs and travel brands can diversify revenue, strengthen resilience, and deliver high-value experiences to travellers.

Andrew Smith, senior vice president, supply, Agoda said: “Secondary cities are no longer hidden gems. They’re becoming the engine of travel growth across Asia. Travellers want authenticity, value and a sense of discovery that the major hotspots cannot always deliver. This shift unlocks real opportunity for local communities and for the partners who move early. At Agoda, our focus is straightforward – we equip our partners with the data, insights and digital tools they need to capture this demand and win in these emerging markets.”

View the full report here.

Amari Bangkok introduces first EV Tuk-Tuk for sustainable city tours

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Amari Bangkok, part of Onyx Hospitality Group, has unveiled its new EV Tuk-Tuk, a modern, eco-conscious version of Thailand’s iconic three-wheeler. The service allows guests to explore Bangkok neighbourhoods such as Pratunam and Ratchaprasong in comfort while promoting sustainable travel.

Guests can enjoy convenient drop-offs at city highlights including the Four Face Buddha, Siam Square, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, and the Jim Thompson House with its teak architecture and gardens.

Guests at Amari Bangkok can enjoy the EV Tuk Tuk as part of their stay, adding a sustainable and distinctive dimension to their Bangkok visit

The EV Tuk-Tuk reflects Amari’s commitment to enhancing guest experiences while reducing environmental impact. It provides a low-emission way to explore the city, combining eco-conscious travel with cultural discovery.

Each ride is guided by a dedicated city explorer who shares the stories, traditions and hidden gems that make Bangkok unique. The experience offers convenient access to key landmarks, cultural immersion at each stop, and sustainable transport throughout the journey.

Rooted in Amari’s brand ethos, the EV Tuk-Tuk transforms each ride into a story-led experience. Guests can visit temples, discover street art, or explore shopping streets, blending environmental responsibility with authentic cultural storytelling.

Tuk-tuks emerged in Thailand after World War II and became widespread by the 1960s. While modern transport relies on taxis, buses and ride-hailing services, tuk-tuks remain popular for short trips and as a cultural experience for tourists.

Aviation roundup: Philippine Airlines, Vietjet and more

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Philippine Airlines

Philippine Airlines resumes Manila-Sapporo seasonal flights
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has resumed seasonal non-stop flights between Manila and Sapporo, operating from November 24, 2025, to March 27, 2026. The service runs three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays using the airline’s Airbus A321neo.

The route strengthens PAL’s network in Japan, which includes non-stop services to Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita, as well as direct flights from Cebu to Osaka and Tokyo Narita.

The Airbus A321neo used on the route has 12 business-class and 156 economy seats, with in-flight entertainment and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Passengers received a welcome reception on the inaugural flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Manila at Tan Son Nhat International Airport

Vietjet expands Vietnam-Con Dao and Manila-Ho Chi Minh routes
Vietjet has strengthened its network with two new routes in Vietnam and the Philippines.

From December 3, 2025, the airline will resume direct flights to Con Dao, offering daily round trips from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. From December 15, the frequency will increase to two round trips per day.

Separately, Vietjet has launched its first route to the Philippines with a direct service between Manila and Ho Chi Minh City, operating five times weekly. The inaugural flights were celebrated at both Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Tan Son Nhat International Airport, with special guests welcoming the first passengers. Ho Chi Minh City serves as a hub with onward connections to Hanoi, Danang, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hue, and other major cities in the region.

Vietjet’s fleet provides complimentary checked baggage, in-flight meals, and eSIM options for international travellers.

TransNusa; photo by axell.rf

TransNusa commences Jakarta-Penang route
TransNusa has launched a new Jakarta-Penang route, expanding its regional network and enhancing connectivity between Indonesia and Malaysia.

The service initially operates three times weekly, moving to daily flights from December 1, with plans to increase frequency in 2026.

Penang becomes TransNusa’s third route to Malaysia, alongside its Jakarta-Kuala Lumpur.

The airline offers bundled fare options including Seat, Seat-Plus and Flexi-Pro, providing additional baggage, seat selection, meals and flexible schedule changes. Aircraft are configured with 174 seats, offering around 30 inches of legroom.

Step into the festive season at Mett Singapore

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This festive season, Mett Singapore becomes the ultimate holiday retreat, offering Italian feasts, sparkling evenings, and leisurely poolside mornings.

L’Amo Bistrò del Mare serves refined Italian cuisine, while Canning Bar & Lounge hosts festive teas, cocktails, and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Guests can complement their celebrations with curated stay packages that pair luxurious accommodation with seasonal experiences.

Festive Italian menus, seasonal cocktails, and indulgent holiday dining await at METT Singapore’s L’Amo Bistrò del Mare and Canning Bar & Lounge

At L’Amo Bistrò del Mare, Christmas Eve Dinner on December 24 features a five-course Italian coastal menu from S$168++ (US$120), with optional free-flow Bolla Prosecco for S$88++ or Boizel Brut Réserve NV Champagne for S$128++.

Christmas Day Lunch on December 25 offers a five-course shared menu from S$138++, with the same Champagne pairings available. New Year’s Eve Golden Soirée on December 31 includes a six-course menu from S$228++ with optional free-flow Boizel or Krug Champagne. New Year’s Day Brunch on January 1, 2026 offers seafood and Italian dishes from S$168++.

Canning Bar & Lounge presents Festive Afternoon Tea from December 25 to 28 (S$88++), with optional Champagne or signature martinis. The venue also hosts the New Year’s Eve celebration with a raw bar, classic roasts, alfresco desserts, and the Midnight Pinsa Parade from S$188++, with free-flow beverage options including Champagne, wines, spirits, and beers.

Signature cocktails across both venues include Panettone Fashioned, Crimson Solstice, Espresso Grey Goose, Passionfruit Patron Silver, and Dirty Bombay Sapphire, combining festive flavours with seasonal twists.

In addition, Mett Singapore’s seasonal stays offer a full festive experience. The Seasonal Celebration package (December 24 to January 2, 2026) includes daily breakfast, welcome cocktails, and a US$74 dining credit, with rates from S$775++. The Mett Festive Escape (December 24-26) includes breakfast and Christmas Day Lunch from S$625++. New Year’s Eve by Mett (December 31 to January 1, 2026) features breakfast and a six-course New Year’s Eve dinner, with rates from S$705++.

For more information, visit Mett Singapore.