TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Friday, 26th December 2025
Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Hilton teams up with Explora Journeys to expand loyalty programme to luxury ocean voyages
TTG Asia | PATA Singapore Chapter debuts industry dialogue on hot issues
TTG Asia | JAL steps up sustainable aviation efforts
Page 90

Wellness gets a new definition at Parkroyal on Beach Road

By Karen Yue
0
xx

Parkroyal on Beach Road has unveiled a brand new look and enhanced facilities across its wellness floor, which comprises the upscale St Gregory Spa, fitness centre, and swimming pools. The vision is for the wellness floor to offer a complete ecosystem of well-being.

Parkroyal on Beach Road’s revamped gym features three zones focusing on strength training, reformative exercises for body sculpting, and cardio workouts

The refreshed wellness sanctuary now features calming earthy tones, soft stone textures, gentle lighting, and abundant greenery. Natural materials are used throughout to create a warm, grounded atmosphere, while tall willows, reeds, and fountain grass lend a graceful, aquatic feel reminiscent of Asian resorts. The lush greenery also screens the space from surrounding tall buildings, framing views toward the horizon and reinforcing a resort-like seclusion.

The outdoor pool deck has been transformed to offer flexible spaces for yoga or social gatherings.

The refreshed St Gregory Spa has new fibre optic lights embedded in the ceiling to form constellations, bringing about a more tranquil experience.

The gym has been reconfigured into three areas – strength training, reformative exercises for body sculpting, and cardio workouts. A dedicated studio hosts weekly group classes, while a generous central seating area encourages rest and conversation between sessions. A highlight at the gym is the Body composition analyser, which allows in-house personal trainers to conduct a series of physical assessments for guests. The advanced machine is able to perform body composition analysis, body posture analysis, shoulder joint range of motion evaluation, and more.

Along with the enhanced infrastructure, the hotel has introduced tailored wellness packages and annual memberships designed to meet the needs of both hotel guests and the local community.

For more information, contact enquiry.prsin@parkroyalhotels.com

Jennifer Cronin joins The Star Gold Coast as interim CEO

By TTG Asia
0

Australian casino group The Star Entertainment Group has appointed Jennifer Cronin as interim CEO of The Star Gold Coast, subject to regulatory approvals.

Starting on July 1, 2025, Cronin has agreed to assume the leadership of The Star Gold Coast for up to 12 months, while the company continues its search for a permanent CEO. She has also been appointed director of The Star Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast local was previously president and CEO of Wharf Hotels, Marco Polo Hotels and Niccolo Hotels in Hong Kong. Her extensive experience also includes working at Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove, Hololiday Inn Hope Island and at The Kooralbyn Hotel Resort on the Gold Coast before she pursued an international career working for global brands in Singapore and Thailand.

Bali’s tourism levy collection in 2024 exceeds expectations, money being put to good use

By Mimi Hudoyo
0

The Bali provincial government has collected 318 billion rupiah (US$19.2 million) in 2024 through the Foreign Tourism Levy (PWA), which is paid by arriving travellers via the We Love Bali app or at designated counters at the airport. The collection had surpassed the target of 250 billion rupiah.

According to Ida Ayu Indah Yustikarini, head of marketing, Bali Provincial Tourism Office, the money collected in 2024 is being used this year “on protecting the environment; improving Bali’s waste management — collecting, processing and disposal systems, such as at Suwung landfill; and preserving Balinese culture (by supporting traditional performances) such as at the annual Bali Art Festival and funding artists communities”.

Bali’s Foreign Tourism Levy is being used on programmes that conserve the environment, improve waste management, and preserve local culture

Encouraged by the success of the PWA in 2024, the government now aims to collect 325 billion rupiah this year – 30 per cent more than the 2024 goal.

Bali governor Wayan Koster told the media that the 2025 PWA funds would be used to finance the development of Balinese culture and a healthy environmental ecosystem that will lead to quality tourism. He explained that money would be allocated to various programmes, including those that groom traditional villages for tourism. Each village would receive 300 million rupiah in financial support, while funding will also be provided to the Council of Traditional Villages.

To optimise PWA collection, Koster has formed the PWA Monitoring and Implementation Team, with Putu Winastra, chairman of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies Bali Chapter, standing as coordinator.

Speaking at a press conference at the recent Bali and Beyond Travel Fair 2025, Putu said his team would tackle three major issues: the lack of payment control, the lack of accurate, real-time data of tourist arrivals to Bali, and the need for transparency in the programmes funded by PWA.

He shared that the Bali government is discussing with the central government on having a third party entity to collect the tourism levy.

“We’ve recommended that the regional government form agreements with airport and immigration authorities (to facilitate) a system (to share) real-time data on arrivals to Bali, allowing us to monitor payments and apply sanctions on those who fail to pay,” he added.

He added that transparency in the use of the PWA would allow travellers to clearly see how their contributions are being utilised.

Frasers’ investment in Japan bears fruit; Yotel Tokyo Ginza opens

By Kathryn Wortley
0

Frasers Hospitality has completed its first ground-up investment and development project in Japan with the official opening of Yotel Tokyo Ginza.

Situated in the upscale shopping, dining and entertainment district of Ginza, yet in close proximity to the business areas of Shimbashi and Shiodome, the new hotel is the Yotel brand’s first property in the country. With 244 keys, it features a fitness centre, a robotic concierge, motorised “smart beds,” digital check-in and check-out facilities, and a bar-restaurant called Komyuniti that acts as a social hub and co-working space.

Yotel Tokyo Ginza opens this month, marks Frasers Hospitality’s first ground-up investment and development project in Japan

The property marked its official opening in June with a party for some 200 guests featuring a taiko drum performance, a kagami biraki (sake barrel breaking ceremony), a DJ party, and F&B that included signature drinks and “global bites”. Guests were given Yotel-branded passports and invited to inspect the rooms via a series of interactive experiences, including arcade games and hand massages, all under the theme of Yotel to the World: Non-Stop.

Eu Chin Fen, CEO of Frasers Hospitality, said the hotel’s opening underscores Frasers Hospitality’s “commitment to deepening our hospitality investments in existing markets while optimising our portfolio for sustained performance”, adding that the company’s collaboration with Yotel “is well-positioned to set a new benchmark in Japan”.

Jason Leong, chief investment officer at Frasers Hospitality, told TTG Asia that the development is the culmination of the right time, right location, and right brand.

“We’ve been looking at Japan for a very long time,” Leong said, noting that Tokyo and Osaka are among the key cities in Asia for the company.

Within those cities, Leong prioritises sites where properties could cater to business travellers as well as FITs because the combination is “what we’re good at” as a company.

“We’re always thinking about our Unique Selling Proposition because real estate is about getting the best cash flow,” he explained.

The site in Ginza presented an opportunity as the area is popular with international tourists as well as the local market, while also being close to offices and lots of F&B, he said. The next step was choosing an operator.

The company’s approach to investment is “brand-agnostic,” Leong explained, noting that Yotel was chosen from many international brands based on the business model: who will stay, what is the price point of the property, what are the site constraints such as height and footprint, and so on.

Yotel was chosen as the three-star lifestyle brand is capable of charging a four-star rate due to its offering of comfort, including well-appointed rooms that make best use of the space available, convenience and technology.

The partnership with Yotel in Japan builds on Frasers Hospitality’s inaugural acquisition of premium rental apartment assets in Japan in 2023. Situated in Namba, a commercial district in Osaka, the 124-unit property is a freehold asset acquired through a joint venture with Alyssa Partners.

While Frasers Hospitality would like to increase its foothold in Japan, Leong recognises that it is a competitive market and the opportunity has to be right.

The company has an expanding portfolio in North Asia, with almost 3,400 units in 16 properties across Japan, China and South Korea.

Amrit Mukhopadhyay moves to Ecko Hotels & Resorts

By TTG Asia
0

Ecko Hotels & Resorts has appointed Amrit Mukhopadhyay as area general manager.

Amrit has over 18 years of extensive expertise in the hospitality sector, and has held key leadership positions such as head of department and hotel manager (unit head) at hospitality businesses including The Fern, Royal Orchid, and Clarks Inn.

Cheong Wa Dae adjusts visiting procedures

By TTG Asia
0

Popular landmark, Cheong Wa Dae, also known as the Blue House, will return to its original function as the Presidential Office, prompting changes to the current visiting procedures starting July 2025.

Opened to the public in 2022, the attraction in Seoul conveys South Korean culture and history, and offers a peek into what was once the official office and residence for South Korean presidents from 1948 to 2022.

Tours of the Blue House will change as the building returns to its original function as the Presidential Office

The current online and on-site reservation system will remain in place until July 14.

However, the number of reservations and sightseeing route will be adjusted starting July 16.

Reservations for tours conducted between July 16 and 31 will be available from 10:00 on July 1 via the Cheong Wa Dae Foundation website.

From August 2025, tours will be temporarily suspended for security and facility inspection.

According to the Cheong Wa Dae Foundation, there are plans to resume the visiting programme once the president officially relocates to Cheong Wa Dae, but the exact date remains undetermined.

Well and good

By Karen Yue
0

There has been plenty of talk about how growing global tensions will impact travel and tourism. As the organiser of an event that facilitates the advancement of luxury travel and tourism, how are you reading this situation? Would this high-yield segment be less vulnerable to economic dips?
Travel, as a famous travel journalist once said, is “the industry of human happiness”. We know from well-known luxury brands that their guests are increasingly turning to experiences rather than high-end products, and we have not seen this demand slowing down recently.

Our ILTM Latin America, which took place in May, is the largest yet, and ILTM Asia Pacific next week is set to also break records.

Of course, what is happening in the geopolitical world is creating a level of uncertainty across the world but in the long term, we do believe high-net-worth travellers might be less likely to change their travel plans.

We are also seeing some luxury travel brands emphasising sustainability and craftsmanship to broaden their appeal to a new wave of consumers, especially within famously welcoming destinations such as Italy and California.

Given Asia’s robust economic growth – a region where almost half of the world’s largest trade routes reside and which is a major contributor to global GDP – as well as strong intra-Asia trade and travel flows, would luxury travel and tourism in this region be more stable than the rest of the world?
The Asian luxury market is a complex landscape with growth in some areas and slowdown in others, particularly in China. While China’s luxury market is facing challenges such as decreased consumer confidence, South-east Asian markets are showing resilience and growth, particularly in Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Additionally, as mentioned, the concept of luxury is evolving, with a greater emphasis on experiences, cultural engagement, and sustainability, particularly among younger generations, all of which bode well for luxury travel and tourism in the region.

Will you shed light on some interesting travel trends picked up by your latest Buzz vs. Reality report that will be unveiled at ILTM Asia Pacific from June 30 to July 3?
Wellness is no longer a luxury add-on; it’s a defining priority for affluent travellers across Asia-Pacific who are planning their trips, according to ILTM’s latest report in partnership with Aliant. People (77 per cent) now incorporate wellness routines into their daily lives, and 55 per cent say wellness services are essential when choosing a hotel.

The concept of wellness has evolved beyond spa days to include fitness, mental health, and personalised therapies, reflecting a broader shift towards purpose-driven, meaningful travel.

Trends like slow travel, long-distance train journeys, and ‘coolcationing’ highlight this move toward intentional experiences. “White Lotus effect” destinations, like Thailand, which boast deep-rooted holistic traditions and modern wellness offerings, are well-positioned to ride on the wellness wave.

Savvy destinations like Thailand and Singapore have upgraded their wellness tourism development, choosing to pursue science-backed wellness products and experiences. How do you see this next stage of wellness tourism development shaping luxury travel demand into Asia-Pacific?
Recent years have seen the travel industry evolve in different directions. Travelling with purpose and meaning has become a cornerstone for many wealthy travellers’ plans.

Many countries in Asia have a long history in holistic and tradition-based practices, but they too are embracing the modern. The detailed research we will reveal at ILTM Asia Pacific 2025 will include evidence that travellers increasingly want wellness experiences to be unique and personalised. From bespoke health assessments to innovative therapies, luxury travel is being redefined by this demand for customisation.

Will there be a wider array of wellness exhibitors at ILTM Asia Pacific 2025 as a result of this growing interest in wellness travel ideas?
ILTM events always profile a wide range of luxury travel experiences to meet the demands of travellers from across the specific regions.

ILTM Asia Pacific 2025 will be no exception, with brands that focus on wellness, including Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi; Forestis Dolomites in Italy; The Dolder Grand in Zürich, Switzerland; Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Sichuan, China; and RAKxa Integrative Wellness in Thailand. These standout properties represent the pinnacle of wellness tourism, offering transformative experiences that blend holistic healing, advanced therapies and exceptional hospitality.

Whether it’s the overwater serenity and Aqua Wellness Centre at Waldorf Astoria Maldives, the nature-powered health philosophy of Forestis Dolomites, or the medical-grade spa excellence at The Dolder Grand, these destinations redefine wellness at the highest level.

Rissai Valley offers spiritual immersion and Tibetan healing in a stunning mountain reserve, while RAKxa Integrative Wellness merges Eastern tradition with cutting-edge functional medicine delivering deeply personalised wellness journeys.

Together, these brands showcase how wellness has become an essential pillar of the luxury travel landscape.

Wyndham Singapore Hotel grants guests front row seats to nation’s birthday parade

By TTG Asia
0

Travellers keen to get a taste of Singapore’s National Day celebrations can do so from some of the best spaces at the Wyndham Singapore Hotel, an upscale property located in the civic district.

The hotel’s Bayview Suites overlooks the Padang, where the action is, allowing guests prime views of the parade, performances, aerial fly-pasts and fireworks on official rehearsal nights on July 26 and August 2.

View of the parade from the Sky Lounge

On July 26 and August 2, guests can also take in the action from the Sky Lounge, where free flowing house wine, beer, and soft drinks along with a wide selection of canapes will be offered from 18.00 to 21.00. This is priced at S$60++ (US$46.80) per person.

On August 9, the very day when Singapore celebrates its 60th year of independence, the hotel’s Sky Lounge transforms into party central, with a lavish buffet featuring local favourites and global signatures. The feast is available from 17.30 to 21.00, while free flow champagne, house wine and beer is offered from 18.00 to 20.30.

The hotel’s Jaspé restaurant also marks the occasion with a special offer – diners aged 60 and above will get 60 per cent off one local dish of their choice on August 9. Guests of other ages will enjoy 20 per cent off local dishes from July 1 to August 31.

Visit www.wyndhamsingapore.com for all National Day specials at the hotel.

Indonesia’s Raja Ampat risks tourism damage from abrupt island closures

By Tiara Maharani
0

Tourism players in Raja Ampat – Indonesia’s major marine destination and a UNESCO Global Geopark – are warning that destination brand image would be impacted by the abrupt closure of Wayag Islands by protesting indigenous landowners earlier this month.

The protest, triggered by the central government’s revocation of four nickel mining permits, has reignited long-standing tensions between conservation-led tourism and extractive industries operating near the region’s marine corridors.

Mining activities in Raja Ampat have escalated, resulting in travellers passing dredged hillsides and mining barges en route to marine parks

“Wayag is not just a destination, it’s the face of Raja Ampat,” said Yulius Ricky Soeharto, chairman of the Southwest Papua chapter of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA). “When it’s shut down, the whole brand suffers.”

Nickel mining has existed in Raja Ampat for over a decade, but industry players say activity has escalated significantly in the past three years, with new sites emerging on Kawe and Batang Peleu, two key islands located along the main route to Wayag. These locations, while outside core protected zones, are highly visible along main visitor routes, turning what was once an abstract policy debate into a real and visible concern for travellers.

“What used to feel distant is now in plain sight,” said Daniel Abimanyu Carnadie, chairman of the Raja Ampat Dive Resort Association. “Guests come for pristine nature, but now they pass dredged hillsides and mining barges en route to marine parks.”

Daniel said the risk of damage to reputation is no longer abstract. “We’re fielding difficult questions from guests and trade partners alike, about where conservation fees go and what Indonesia’s priorities truly are. It’s increasingly difficult to uphold our sustainability message when the view from the boat tells a different story.”

He stressed that credibility is critical for Raja Ampat’s high-value tourism market, particularly among environmentally conscious visitors from Europe and North America.

“We can’t afford mixed messages. The damage is not only environmental, it’s integrity. And that’s far harder to repair,” he stated.

While most resorts report no cancellations to date, protected by seasonal closures and geographical distance from mining activity, concerns over long-term perception are growing.

“It’s not the reefs under threat today, it’s credibility,” said Ketut Astawa, resort manager of Raja Ampat Dive Lodge. “And once that’s lost, recovery is difficult.”

The protest also underscores local tensions. Some community leaders argue that tourism has imposed restrictions on traditional livelihoods while delivering limited economic returns, whereas mining, despite its environmental impact, promises jobs. The sudden revocation of permits, they say, has reignited frustration and disrupted investor confidence.

Responding to the situation, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, Indonesia minister of tourism, emphasises that the safety and comfort of tourists are top priorities in the management of national destinations, including Raja Ampat.

At present, the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Home Affairs, security forces, and local community leaders have come together to strengthen cross-sector cooperation in maintaining the stability and safety of Raja Ampat. The Ministry of Home Affairs has provided directives to the Southwest Papua Provincial Government and the Raja Ampat Regency Government to ensure coordinated efforts in protecting tourists from potential disturbances.

“We are committed to positioning Raja Ampat as a benchmark for high-quality, conservation-based tourism,” said Widiyanti.

The government is now drafting an integrated masterplan designed to align tourism development with environmental protection and community welfare. The plan aims to ensure sustainable investment while upholding Raja Ampat’s status as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

“This requires cross-sector coordination and a long-term vision that places local communities and ecosystem resilience at its core,” Widiyanti added.

Plaza Premium elevates travellers’ comfort at Senai airport

By TTG Asia
0
ppl

Plaza Premium Group has soft-opened the Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru at Senai International Airport – and is the only lounge operator at this facility.

The 80-seater lounge offers a premium, comfortable and innovative space for both international and domestic travellers, making the same level of premium service accessible to travellers flying near and far.

Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru at Senai International Airport welcomes both international and domestic travellers

The lounge is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to streamline the guest experience, such as self-check-in kiosks for a more efficient and hassle-free access to the lounge. Implementation of QR code-based food ordering system also allows lounge guests to browse and order their meals effortlessly.

With the aim to further enhance lounge experience with digital solutions, this facility has integrated the Smart Traveller app to enable personalised experiences, rewards and a smooth transition through the lounge and airport.

The Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru has also created the Lounge To-Go corner for passengers on tight schedules. Here, they can grab a premium selection of food and beverages to enjoy on the go.

Lounge can also enjoy a spot of cultural immersion – F&B selection showcases Malaysian culinary heritage while artworks featured in the space are borne from the hands of Malaysian artists.

Cavin Loh, regional general manager (Southeast Asia) from Plaza Premium Group, said the new lounge is “more than just a place to wait for your flight – it’s a space to experience the best of Johorian hospitality, art and innovation”.

1...899091...2,863Page 90 of 2,863

Tried and Tested

What to Buy Now

 
Subscribe To
Advertise With Us
 
Asia-Pacific's Leading Travel Trade Business Resource Since 1974

  • All Rights Reserved

Copyright TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd © 2024-2025
Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Hilton teams up with Explora Journeys to expand loyalty programme to luxury ocean voyages
TTG Asia | PATA Singapore Chapter debuts industry dialogue on hot issues
TTG Asia | JAL steps up sustainable aviation efforts