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Asia/Singapore Friday, 26th December 2025
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Page 83

The Anam Group introduces AI chat function across hospitality websites

By TTG Asia
0

The Anam Group has introduced an AI chat function on its websites, providing real-time responses to user queries in around 150 languages. The technology operates 24/7, offering information quickly and comprehensively.

The group, which owns The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne resorts and the Axi Plaza convention centre, has partnered with a US-based company to deploy technology combining innovations from OpenAI and Google.

The Anam Group introduces AI to handle customer questions 24/7, reducing staff workload and response times

The chat function, located in the bottom right corner of each website page, connects directly to The Anam Group’s property management system. Users can ask questions about accommodation availability, dining options, pool sizes, and other aspects of a potential stay.

Martin Koerner, commercial director of The Anam Group, said the independently owned group was the first in Vietnam to implement this technology, which he said performed better than typical chatbot functions.

He explained that travellers no longer need to browse accommodation categories or check availability manually, as the chat function provides all necessary information instantly. Koerner added that the chat delivers responses in a warm and friendly manner, offering helpful suggestions and polite greetings, including phrases in Vietnamese with translations.

Regarding concerns about AI replacing human roles, Koerner said staff remain responsible for monitoring the system and updating the property management database to ensure accurate responses.

The technology also frees staff from handling routine phone and email enquiries, allowing them to focus on guest services. Currently, the AI manages messages received via Facebook, Instagram, and the group’s website.

The Anam Group plans to extend AI support within the next few months to answer in-house guest queries via WhatsApp in multiple languages.

“We are using the latest in AI to deliver good ol’ fashioned Vietnamese hospitality; in this case, providing accurate and comprehensive information to serve the needs of our potential guests, and guests too, on our website,” said Koerner, adding that the AI’s ability to communicate in around 150 languages removes potential communication barriers between staff and customers worldwide.

Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Maritim Hotels expand guest benefits through loyalty collaboration

By TTG Asia
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Millennium Hotels & Resorts (MHR) and Germany-based hotel group Maritim Hotels have announced a cross-brand loyalty partnership, allowing members of their respective loyalty programmes – MyMillennium and MyMaritim – to access benefits when staying at participating properties in both groups.

The agreement was signed at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa in London by Saurabh Prakash, interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer of Millennium Hotels & Resorts, and Roland Elter, chief commercial officer of Maritim Hotels.

Millennium and Maritim have launched a joint loyalty scheme, expanding member benefits across international hotel networks; M Social Singapore, pictured

As part of the partnership, MyMillennium members will receive discounts on Best Available Rates, including Room Only and Bed & Breakfast options, at selected Maritim Hotels. MyMaritim members will gain access to similar discounts on Flexible Rates at participating Millennium Hotels & Resorts properties worldwide. These benefits are intended to provide additional booking flexibility while preserving the individual features of each programme.

The collaboration expands the number of destinations available to members. MyMaritim members can now access Millennium properties in cities such as Singapore, London, New York City and Dubai, as well as resort locations including Phuket and Penang. In turn, MyMillennium members will now have access to hotels in Germany, located in Dresden, Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin and other cities.

Millennium and Maritim will also take part in joint trade show appearances and roadshows, combining their market presence to attract both corporate and leisure clients. The partnership includes joint sales activity and reciprocal employee privileges, such as access to friends and family rate programmes.

Both companies stated that the agreement reflects a broader shift toward collaboration in the hospitality sector, aimed at enhancing loyalty offerings and improving operational efficiency across brands.

“Our collaboration with Maritim Hotels is a strategic step to expand our access to Germany and the larger European Union, an important travel and business region. It will enhance travel and strengthen our shared vision to cross borders with quality hospitality experiences,” said Kwek Leng Beng, chairman of MHR.

Globus unveils South Africa itinerary with wine, wildlife and national parks

By TTG Asia
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Globus has introduced a new 13-day Small Group Discovery tour in South Africa, designed for a limited number of participants, with group sizes averaging 18 and capped at 24. The tour runs from Cape Town to Johannesburg and includes a range of experiences across cultural, natural and conservation-focused settings.

The itinerary features guided travel through several locations across South Africa, with transportation, domestic flights, and accommodation arranged in advance. The tour includes visits to wine estates, nature reserves, and coastal towns, as well as safari experiences at private game reserves.

The small group tour explores South Africa from Cape Town to Kariega, with stops including Tsitsikamma National Park, pictured

Highlights include a cable car ride to the summit of Table Mountain, a private garden tour and dinner at a historic estate, and a picnic at Boschendal Wine Estate. In Hermanus, participants can walk along the cliffs of Walker Bay or take a boat excursion for whale watching, depending on the season.

The trip continues with a river safari to Kariega Private Game Reserve, game drives with opportunities to see wildlife such as lions and rhinos, and a guided walk through coastal caves in Knysna’s Featherbed Nature Reserve.

Accommodation includes a range of hotels and lodges selected for location and access to local attractions. These include The Cellars-Hohenort in Cape Town, the Lanzerac Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, The Marine in Hermanus, The Plettenberg in Plettenberg Bay, and Settlers Drift Lodge in Kariega Game Reserve.

Travellers also have the option to extend their trip with a four-day visit to Victoria Falls.

For more information, visit Globus Tours.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki’s eruption disrupts air travel once more

By Mimi Hudoyo
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Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki’s eruption on July 7 has again caused flight delays and cancellations. While operations at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport have resumed by late afternoon on the same day, 26 flights were impacted.

Ahmas Syaugi, general manager of the Bali airport said in a statement that 24 flights serving Labuan Bajo, Australia, Singapore and South Korea were cancelled while two flights to Australia and South Korea were delayed on Monday evening.

Operations at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport were disrupted for several hours on July 7

Ahmas said airlines were able to coordinate flight arrangements, cancellations and refunds via email, allowing affected passengers to avoid having to report to the airport.

Affected passengers that were already at the airport had onsite assistance.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki Volcano Observation Post (PGA) reported that the height of the observed ash column on July 7 reached 18,000m above the peak, approximately 19,584m above sea level.

Half-Half Thailand Travel campaign kicks off with mixed reception

By Anne Somanas
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Thailand’s Half-Half Thailand Travel campaign officially launched on July 1, generating strong interest from the domestic hospitality sector.

While demand from both travellers and suppliers has been high, the campaign has faced technical difficulties, with citizens and hotel operators reporting glitches and bottlenecks during registration.

The campaign aims to stimulate domestic travel during Thailand’s low season, which coincides with heavy rains and fewer foreign arrivals; Ao Nang bay, Thailand, pictured; photo by Nextvoyage

“Everyone is willing to support the campaign. We want to see it succeed,” shared Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk, marketing chair for the Thai Hotels Association (THA).

“As the campaign coincides with the low season, hotels are eager for it to be fully operational. They’re eager to go live, knowing the campaign will attract strong demand,” she added.

The stimulus has a budget of 1.75 billion baht (US$54 million), aiming to generate up to 35 billion baht in revenue. It offers Thai citizens subsidies of 40 to 50 per cent on hotel stays, capped at 3,000 baht per night for up to five nights, plus a 500 baht cash voucher for food and attractions.

One key concern from hoteliers is the pricing requirement. Participating hotels must submit fixed weekday and weekend rates for the entire campaign period.

“Many hotels prefer dynamic pricing. If OTAs pull a cheaper Best Available Rate, it could make the Half-Half rate appear costly and discourage travellers,” Prachoom explained.

The campaign structure mirrors its Covid-era predecessor but is now fully hosted on Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) own infrastructure, managed with support from Krungthai Bank.

“TAT has stepped up to manage the system directly for the first time. It’s a learning curve, but they’re working hard to resolve issues swiftly,” Prachoom noted.

Meanwhile, TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool apologised for the technical difficulties on her Facebook page and promised to ease registration problems for citizens.

The campaign launched with 500,000 entitlements – 300,000 for major destinations and 200,000 for secondary cities.

Bookings opened on July 1 and will continue until October 27, 2025. Stays can be made from July 4 to October 30, with final check-out on October 31. Business operators have until July 31, 2025, to register.

Sri Lanka hosts second consecutive year of Bohra religious convention

By Feizal Samath
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A religious gathering involving approximately 15,000 members of the Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community concluded in Colombo on July 5, following a nine-day retreat that began on June 27. Participants travelled from 20 countries, marking the largest single group of overseas visitors to attend an event in Sri Lanka.

The programme was held simultaneously in India and Sri Lanka, with sermons delivered by the Dawoodi Bohra leader, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, from Chennai, India. In Colombo, community members attended live telecasts at designated venues.

15,000 Dawoodi Bohras from 20 countries gathered in Colombo for a nine-day religious retreat

Tourism and government authorities in Sri Lanka facilitated the event, which was hosted in both countries for the second consecutive year.

Many Dawoodi Bohras are engaged in trade in their respective countries. The community has established populations in India, the Middle East, East Africa, and other regions.

“We’re fortunate that Syedna Saifuddin has chosen our city as an overseas venue,” said Mufaddal Zainuddin, a member of the project management team in Colombo. “As we open our homes and hearts to welcome approximately 15,000 Dawoodi Bohras from different parts of the world, we are grateful to government authorities and local bodies for their extraordinary support and permissions in hosting attendees,” he added.

Attendees were accommodated in hotels, guesthouses, and rental homes, contributing to tourism numbers for June and July. Tourist arrivals in June reached 138,241, a 21.8 per cent increase from 113,470 in June 2024. Sri Lanka is targeting 2.5 million tourist arrivals in 2025, compared to two million last year.

The daily sermons focused on personal reflection, community unity, and ethical conduct, covering themes such as patriotism, compassion, discipline, environmental sustainability, and social service.

Meliá Hotels International targets Asia-Pacific expansion with luxury focus

By TTG Asia
0

Meliá Hotels International (MHI) is increasing its presence in Asia-Pacific, with one in every three new properties planned for the luxury segment. This includes the regional debut of its Paradisus by Meliá and The Meliá Collection brands, starting with Paradisus Bali — the group’s first all-inclusive resort in Asia, scheduled to open in December 2025.

Paradisus Bali will introduce the brand’s Destination-Inclusive concept, which emphasises local engagement and wellness. The resort will offer daily on- and off-site experiences aimed at connecting guests with Balinese culture and surroundings. Facilities will include eight restaurants, twelve venues, wellness activities, and family-friendly programming.

Meliá brings its Destination-Inclusive concept to Asia with Paradisus Bali

With 485 rooms and suites and seven private villas, Paradisus Bali will also include The Reserve, an adults-only area with exclusive services, and Family Concierge, a programme tailored for families.

The Meliá Collection will debut in Asia in 2026. Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat is located in the Vietnamese highlands. In Laos, Grand Luang Prabang reflects colonial-era architecture with views of the Mekong River. In Inner Mongolia, The Meliá Collection Arxan will be set in forested mountains, intended as a quiet location that integrates natural surroundings and local traditions.

MHI is also expanding its F&B portfolio in the region. In Vietnam, Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel, located on the coast of Nha Trang, includes the restaurant Hispania, which showcases Spanish cuisine using local produce. Originally developed by Spanish chef Marcos Morán, the kitchen is now led by chef Azizskandar Awang.

In Indonesia, ERRE & Urrechu Jakarta – Asia’s first Basque fire-grilled dining concept by chef Iñigo Urrechu – has opened at Gran Meliá Jakarta.

Meliá Hotels International’s luxury developments extend beyond Asia-Pacific, with new properties planned in global locations. The ME by Meliá brand continues to expand in urban centres.

ME Malta, which opened in April 2025, is located in Mercury Towers in St Julian’s, marking the brand’s entry into the country. ME Marbella opened on July 1, 2025, bringing the brand to the Spanish coastal city.

Additional openings include ME Lisbon (expected 3Q2025) and ME Málaga (4Q2025), the latter marking the brand’s return to the Costa del Sol with a property owned by former footballer Gerard Piqué.

Elsewhere, the group’s luxury portfolio includes Paradisus Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands (opening August 1, 2025), which will be the island’s first high-end resort. It will offer an all-inclusive experience incorporating wellness and local culture along Sotavento Beach. In Italy, Residenza Cardinale, Member of Meliá Collection (opening 4Q2025), will offer accommodation in a restored historical building.

“Asia-Pacific is one of the most dynamic and promising regions for luxury travel,” said Ignacio Martin, regional managing director, Asia-Pacific, MHI. “As traveller preferences evolve and demand for high-end, culturally resonant experiences grows, Meliá is uniquely positioned to lead… creating not just exceptional hotels, but flagship destinations that reflect the future of luxury in Asia.”

Six Senses to launch Bangkok property within Hatai mixed-use project

By TTG Asia
0

Six Senses has signed a hotel management agreement with Narai Hospitality Group to open Six Senses Bangkok in 2028 as part of Hatai, a new mixed-use development on the site of the former Narai Hotel in Silom, coinciding with the property’s 60th anniversary.

Opened in 1968, Narai Hotel played a formative role in Thailand’s hospitality sector, establishing itself as a key part of Silom’s business and social district. The site is now being redeveloped into Hatai, with Six Senses Bangkok forming part of the project.

Rendering of Six Senses Bangkok, opening 2028 in Silom’s Hatai development

Foundation work has commenced, with architectural design led by Heatherwick Studio. Inspired by traditional lantern craft, the design aims to reflect Bangkok’s cultural heritage while incorporating sustainable elements.

Six Senses Bangkok will feature around 100 rooms and suites, alongside wellness facilities and hospitality services consistent with the brand’s existing approach. The property is targeting LEED Gold and WELL Gold certifications. Materials from the original Narai Hotel, including its wooden foundations, will be reused in the design, aligning with the brand’s focus on local and sustainable sourcing.

The hotel will include a 700m² suite and a signature restaurant by Joyce Wang. The main restaurant will be connected to a sky lobby via a sky garden with biophilic elements. Facilities will include a rooftop pool and Six Senses Spa Bangkok, which will offer wellness treatments, sleep support programmes and health-focused cuisine.

Six Senses Bangkok is the third Six Senses hotel in Thailand, joining properties in Samui and Yao Noi. The project represents an extension of the brand’s urban strategy following openings in Rome and Kyoto. Additional properties have been announced in London, Milan, Lisbon, Dubai and Tel Aviv.

Hatai will include a second hotel, along with retail and dining outlets and public gathering areas covering nearly 6,000m². Located on Silom Road, the development is accessible via the BTS and MRT networks and is close to local landmarks including the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and King Power Mahanakhon, and in proximity to the Chao Phraya River.

Neil Palmer, COO of Six Senses, commented: “Together with Narai Hospitality Group, we’re creating something truly special, a place that respects its history while embracing signature wellness, crafted experiences, and sustainable design and operations, all defining characteristics of the Six Senses core ethos.”

Narai Hospitality Group CEO Nathee Nithivasin added: “This development continues our longstanding care for the community and reinforces our commitment to building thoughtfully for future generations.”

Aviation roundup: Juneyao Airlines, Scoot and more

By TTG Asia
0
The inaugural Juneyao Airlines Shanghai-Kuala Lumpur flight was greeted with a water cannon salute

Juneyao Airlines launches direct Shanghai-Kuala Lumpur flight
Juneyao Airlines has started a new direct service between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), operating four times weekly. The route uses Airbus A320neo aircraft, each with 162 seats.

The inaugural flight was welcomed at KLIA by Samuel Lee Thai Hung, deputy director general of Tourism Malaysia, alongside representatives from Juneyao Airlines, Malaysia Airports Holdings, and Pos Aviation.

Scoot

Scoot adds Danang, Nha Trang and Kota Bharu routes from October 2025
Scoot will launch new flights to Danang and Nha Trang in Vietnam, and Kota Bharu in Malaysia, starting between October and November 2025.

Flights to Danang will begin on October 20, 2025, initially three times weekly with Airbus A320 aircraft, increasing to daily by December 2025. Services to Nha Trang will start on November 21, 2025, twice weekly with Embraer E190-E2 planes, rising to five times weekly by January 2026.

Scoot will also begin two weekly flights to Kota Bharu from October 26, 2025 using the E190-E2 aircraft.

With these additions, Scoot will operate 115 weekly flights to 12 cities in Malaysia and 44 weekly flights to five cities in Vietnam.

Subject to approvals, Scoot plans to start flights to Medan and Labuan Bajo in Indonesia, and Okinawa in Japan, during Northern Winter 2025.

Scoot is also increasing flight frequencies across South-east Asia and Australia from July 2025 onwards. Jakarta flights will rise from 25 to 28 weekly, Clark from five to seven, Davao from 10 to 12, and Manila from 13 to 14 weekly, with some services operated by Boeing 787 aircraft. Hat Yai flights will increase from 10 to 11 weekly.

In Australia, flights to Perth will increase from 12 to 14 weekly from August 2025, while Sydney flights will rise from 10 to 14 weekly starting July 2025.

Oman Air; photo by Soos Jozsef

Oman Air becomes 15th alliance member
Oman Air has joined oneworld as its 15th member airline, strengthening the alliance’s presence in the Middle East and expanding global travel options.

oneworld customers can now access Oman Air’s growing network, including a new non-stop service between Muscat and Amsterdam.

As a full oneworld member, Oman Air will offer Emerald, Sapphire, and Ruby customers benefits such as earning and redeeming miles, earning status points, priority check-in and boarding, and lounge access. Oman Air’s top tier customers will also receive oneworld priority benefits, including access to nearly 700 premium airport lounges worldwide, as well as oneworld branded lounges at Amsterdam Schiphol and Seoul Incheon airports.

Oman Air, based at Muscat International Airport, serves 42 destinations in 22 countries and territories, including key oneworld hubs. The airline operates three cabins, including Business Studio with private suites on select longhaul flights.

Philippine Airlines

Philippine Airlines adds new routes and increases flights to key destinations
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has launched several new routes and expanded services to meet growing demand.

The airline has started a direct Manila to Danang route with three weekly flights. PAL plans to increase this service to four weekly flights by November 2025. The route is operated using Airbus A321 aircraft with business and economy classes.

PAL will also increase its Manila to Seattle flights from three to five times weekly starting November 25, 2025. The route is operated with Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which seat 370 passengers across business and economy classes.

In addition, PAL has commenced daily flights between Manila and Doha in partnership with Qatar Airways. This route uses Airbus A330-300 aircraft with business and economy cabins, and offers seamless connections via Qatar Airways’ hub at Hamad International Airport.

Legoland Malaysia’s Splash Carnival returns for 2025 edition

By TTG Asia
0

Legoland Malaysia is turning up the tempo this summer as its signature Splash Carnival returns for a third year, promising its biggest celebration yet. Running from July 3 to August 3, the five-week festival transforms the resort’s water park into a high-energy playground with a new Music Fiesta theme, combining beachy vibes, family fun and live music.

Positioned as South-east Asia’s largest Lego-themed water festival, Splash Carnival 2025 is designed to drive summer attendance and reinforce Legoland Malaysia’s appeal as a go-to destination for families seeking a fun, music-filled escape.

Legoland Malaysia makes a splash this summer with live music, games and family fun at its biggest-ever Splash Carnival

This year’s carnival takes the celebration up a notch with weekend performances by some of Malaysia’s top emerging artists.

Concerts at the wave pool will take place every Saturday starting July 5, featuring a line-up of popular and rising Malaysian artists, each bringing their unique style and energy to the stage.

Throughout the festival, guests can expect non-stop entertainment across the park. Highlights include a musical-themed treasure hunt, fast-paced water games, Lego boat races, dunk tanks, fitness sessions and interactive live shows led by the resort’s iconic mascots. Roaming performers and weekend carnival parades add to the vibrant atmosphere, while a live DJ spins beach-ready anthems to keep the party going.

Timed to coincide with peak school holiday travel, the Splash Carnival is supported by an annual pass campaign offering Singapore residents unlimited year-round access to Legoland Malaysia Resort for the price of a single-day ticket, valid until July 15, 2025. Existing passholders enjoy up to 30 per cent off renewals, while those whose passes expired in 2025 can renew with 20 per cent savings for a limited time. One-day water park tickets remain available for guests seeking a shorter visit.

For more information, visit Legoland Malaysia.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Cross Hotels to develop Bali Uluwatu Resort
TTG Asia | PATA Singapore Chapter debuts industry dialogue on hot issues
TTG Asia | Hilton teams up with Explora Journeys to expand loyalty programme to luxury ocean voyages