Minor Hotels will be rebranding Reethi Beach Resort as NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort in partnership with a private equity fund managed by Ares Management.
Reethi Beach Resort will remain open until April 25, 2025, after which it will close and undergo an extensive renovation before reopening in 4Q2025. The renovation will include upgrades to the villas, dining outlets, and leisure facilities.
NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort will open in late 2025 following an extensive renovation
Boasting 129 keys, NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort is set on an island in Hanifaru Bay within the Baa Atoll, just a 35-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport in Male.
The property will offer a mix of on-land and overwater villas, 10 distinctive F&B outlets, spa, swimming pools, fitness centre, tennis, badminton and squash courts, as well as water activities such as diving, snorkelling, fishing, and water sports.
“Renowned for its breath-taking marine life, this iconic destination will offer guests an unparalleled Maldivian experience, with enhanced offerings and sustainability at the forefront. We look forward to unveiling the reimagined NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort in late 2025,” said Puneet Dhawan, head of Asia at Minor Hotels.
“For over 25 years, Reethi Beach Resort has been a sanctuary of tranquillity in the Baa Atoll, offering guests a truly authentic Maldivian retreat. We believe our collaboration with Minor Hotels will redefine this legacy, elevating the resort’s appeal while preserving the essence of its natural beauty and heritage,” added Kieran Bestall, managing director in Ares Asia at Ares Management.
Yokohama, a city in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, has developed a business events and tourism strategy for 2030, where the plan is to attract more visitors by highlighting the city’s cultural, natural, and historical assets.
Yokohama’s initial focus is to enhance its appeal as a destination by developing more attractions and experiences centred around the city’s waterfront, port, cultural arts, and event calendar. This approach aims to increase visitor satisfaction and encourage repeat visits.
Local businesses and citizens are encouraged to help create an urban resort that appeals to a global audience; Yokohama pictured
Next, Yokohama intends to continue attracting major international conferences and medical conventions. Alongside these efforts, the city plans to invigorate the local economy by engaging local companies, DMCs and residents to promote the sustainable growth and development of business events and tourism in the area.
The plan will also prioritise the development of human resources that will support the growth of business events and tourism services. Additionally, the city will foster partnerships with businesses, research institutions, startups, and industry clusters that can contribute to the business events sector.
Building on this strategy, the Yokohama Convention & Visitors Bureau has introduced eight new tours specifically designed to cater to the preferences of convention attendees. These tours were developed based on a survey indicating that visitors are particularly interested in Yokohama’s cultural attractions, sightseeing spots, and local cuisine.
Tours include bar-hopping in Yokohama’s dining district; a wellness experience at a Zen temple; a seafront walk along the Port of Yokohama; and an introduction to the city’s design and architecture at sites including the Red Brick Warehouse and Yokohama Landmark Tower.
Singapore, Tokyo, and Bangkok have emerged as top destinations for corporate meetings and events in Asia-Pacific for 2025, according to a new report by American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT).
The other two destinations that made the top five rankings are Hong Kong and Sydney.
The 2025 Forecast reflects notable shifts in each region, where changes in the rankings are largely influenced by accessibility, corporate demand, and cost efficiencies.
American Express Global Business Travel 2025 Forecast lists Singapore (pictured) as the top-most favourite destination for meetings in Asia-Pacific
For North America, the top five destinations are New York, Chicago, Miami, Las Vegas and Dallas. New York has overtaken Las Vegas as the top destination, while Miami and Dallas entered the top five for the first time, replacing Los Angeles and Toronto.
In Latin America, Cancun surged to the top, driven by accessibility and all-inclusive options, followed by Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Costa Rica, and Sao Paulo.
Over in Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), the top destinations for corporate meetings are London, Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, and Berlin. London remains the dominant city in EMEA, with Madrid rising to second place, overtaking Barcelona.
Gerardo Tejado, senior vice president of professional services at Amex GBT, commented: “The Asia-Pacific region continues to be a dynamic hub for corporate events. Its combination of accessibility, diverse offerings, and cultural experiences makes it an attractive choice for businesses seeking to make a lasting impression.”
South by Southwest Sydney (SXSW Sydney), a premier festival for creatives, will kick off this week from October 14 to 20, turning International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) into a bustling hub packed with more than 300 sessions led by over 1,000 world-class speakers as well as workshops, mentoring, networking events, and more.
The event will coincide with the SXSW Sydney Tech & Innovation Expo from October 16 to 19, showcasing groundbreaking new technologies from exhibitors such as Andromeda Robotics, B Lab, Charitabl, and more. Part of the Expo is the SXSW Sydney Pitch 2024, which will see 22 startup finalists compete live at the event in front of a prominent panel of judges.
International Convention Centre Sydney is ready for SXSW Sydney 2024
ICC Sydney will also host Grammy-nominated, Platinum-selling UK sensation Jorja Smith when she brings her ‘falling or flying’ Australian tour to Sydney on October 15 for a performance as part of the SXSW Sydney Music Festival. In addition, headline film premieres and screen launches will take place each day in Darling Harbour as part of the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, the positive impacts of SXSW Sydney continue to resonate with both trade and consumer audiences, promising even more opportunities for Sydney communities to discover exciting talent, explore inspiring ideas, and make meaningful new connections in 2024.
Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox credited ICC Sydney’s world-class infrastructure and its highly skilled event professionals for creating the perfect environment to showcase the Harbour City as a creative industries hub during SXSW Sydney 2024.
ICC Sydney general manager, Adam Mather-Brown said the venue’s well resourced team of passionate professionals were ready to welcome patrons of SXSW Sydney while making a difference for the community.
“Beyond providing an extraordinary experience for the diversity of SXSW Sydney visitors, we welcome the opportunity to collaborate on delivering a positive legacy for years to come – from the economic benefit across our dynamic city to environmental sustainability solutions and facilitating connections with First Nations Peoples and culture or our local, entrepreneurial and creative community – every area of our corporate social responsibility strategy is brought to the fore through SXSW Sydney,” Mather-Brown said.
SXSW Sydney chair and TEG group CEO, Geoff Jones, said: “TEG has partnered with ICC Sydney on the delivery of hundreds of events over the years. We are looking forward to again hosting SXSW Sydney in this world-class and state-of-the-art venue to showcase thought-provoking speakers, and the newest in games and entertainment from across the globe.”
Ayana Hospitality Group has updated its loyalty programme, Ayana Rewards, with enhanced benefits and a range of exclusive privileges which can be enjoyed across the group’s properties in Bali, Jakarta, and Komodo, as well as on Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach’s luxury yacht, Ayana Lako di’a.
Some of the latest updates to Ayana Rewards include a welcome gift for all Gold and Platinum members upon arrival; expanded dining discounts across all participating properties; late check-out for members of the Gold and Platinum tiers; massage extensions with any purchase at Ayana Spa at Ayana Resort, Bali; as well as savings on green fees at Riverside Golf Club.
Guests can enjoy even greater flexibility and luxury at Ayana’s properties; Ayana Komodo Waecicu, pictured
Along with the new additions, the programme continues to provide members with benefits such as room, dining and spa discounts, preferential room upgrades, and complimentary wellness activities.
Ayana Rewards is free to join and features three tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Guests can upgrade to Gold with 20 nights or 8,000 points and to Platinum with 50 nights or 20,000 points.
Designed for travellers who are looking to relax, refresh and rest, while on vacation The Art of Slumber package from Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana in Bali contains elements designed to promote rejuvenating sleep.
Highlights include a 90-minute signature Tanah Gajah Jade Massage and a purification ceremony, Melukat, to help people feel more calm and centred.
Tanah Gajah sets the scene for sweet dreams with its The Art of Slumber package
Guests also enjoy a three course sleep-inducing dinner designed by the resort’s chef, then return to their villa to listen to a curated Spotify playlist of ambient music as a serenade to a special sleep turndown service that includes a tea of chamomile, pandan, and ginger. There is also a complimentary incense set-up in the room for those who wish to enjoy some meditation before turning in for the evening.
The resort also offers a daily morning yoga sessions from 7.30 to 9.00.
Additional club benefits comprise a welcome drink, butler service, daily a la carte breakfast, seasonal fresh fruits delivered to the villa or suite, afternoon tea at Panen Padi Lounge, sunset cocktails at Tempayan Restaurant, complimentary minibar including alcohol selections (replenished once daily), laundry service of up to six pieces per villa per day, car service to/from Ubud Centre in a private car, additional yoga classes as per hotel schedule, a guided rice paddy trekking along the rice fields and neighbouring village, and a one-time photo session and one complimentary digital photo.
Prices start at US$2,140 nett for a two-night stay for two people and is available until March 31, 2025.
AirAsia Cambodia adds direct flights to Singapore
AirAsia Cambodia will commence its Siem Reap-Singapore service from November 9.
The services between Siem Riep and Singapore will operate daily.
The airline recently introduced direct services from Siem Riep to Kuala Lumpur and Phuket, and also offers Fly Thru services to China, Japan, Australia, India and beyond, allowing more people to fly to/from Cambodia.
Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific introduces new route to Dallas Fort Worth, to expand US network
Cathay Pacific is expanding its North America network with the launch of non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) for the very first time.
The new service, scheduled to commence on April 24, 2025, marks Cathay Pacific’s sixth passenger destination in the US and eighth in North America. The airline will operate four return flights per week between Hong Kong and DFW using its Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, flying on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Cathay Pacific is also increasing frequencies on its North America passenger services in 2025, and by May next year, the airline will be operating 108 return flights per week. Aside from the new Dallas service, this will include three return flights per day to New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles respectively, and a daily return flight to both Boston and Chicago. Cathay Pacific also continues to increase flights on its services to Canada, with two daily return flights to Vancouver and 13 return flights per week to Toronto.
Malaysia Airlines
Malaysia Airlines launches Danang-Kuala Lumpur service
Tourism Malaysia welcomed Malaysia Airlines’ inaugural flight from Danang, Vietnam to Kuala Lumpur at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 on September 24.
Operated on a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the launch of this new daily route will expand the airline’s presence in Vietnam and adds to its existing routes from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Tourism Malaysia, was present to greet 150 passengers on this maiden flight alongside Malaysia Airlines and Malaysia Airports Holdings representatives.
Korean Air
Korean Air increases South-east Asian frequencies for winter
Korean Air will expand its flight frequencies to South-east Asian destinations, including Bali, Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, to meet the growing demand during the upcoming winter season.
Starting from October 20, the airline will increase flights on the Seoul Incheon-Bali route, offering a twice-daily service, up from the current 11 weekly flights. Operated on a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, this schedule will continue through to March 27, 2025.
The airline will also double its daily service to twice daily on its Seoul Incheon-Nha Trang route from October 27 and Seoul Incheon-Phu Quoc route from December 15.
In addition to South-east Asia, Korean Air will increase frequencies on key North American and European routes. Starting from October 27, the Seoul Incheon-Las Vegas route will expand to a daily service from five weekly flights. The Seoul Incheon-Vancouver route will increase to 11 flights per week, followed by a twice-daily service from December 1. The airline will also increase its Seoul Incheon-Madrid service to four weekly flights, up from three, with departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
In Asia, the airline plans to enhance schedules on its Kagoshima and Taichung routes, increasing frequencies to a daily service throughout the winter season. Currently, the Seoul Incheon-Kagoshima route offers three to five weekly flights, while the Seoul Incheon-Taichung route operates four times a week.
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore has appointed Kristy Lee as director of sales and marketing.
With over three decades of experience, Lee joins The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore from The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, where she led the sales and marketing teams for over 10 years.
Her extensive hospitality background includes her experience in a number of major international hotel groups such as The Langham, Hong Kong, Conrad International, and Shangri-La.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort, the Maldives
NH Maldives Kuda Rah features 51 deluxe suites and villas, as well as F&B options, a spa, gym, infinity pool, and kids’ club.
It is situated in South Ari Atoll, a well-known hotspot for some of the Maldives’ largest marine wildlife, so guests can choose to go on whale shark and manta ray spotting adventures just a short boat ride away from the resort.
The resort is accessible via a 25-minute seaplane journey from Malé, followed by a five- to 10-minute transfer by speed boat or traditional Dhoni.
Ace Hotel Kyoto
Ace Hotel Kyoto, Japan
Ace Hotel Kyoto pays tribute to the city’s rich history and creative spirit, and is located within the historic ShinPhuKan complex.
The hotel provides diverse programming that engages both local and visitors, such as live performances, and offers a wide variety of dining options.
Pets are also welcomed at Ace Hotel Kyoto.
Moxy Mumbai Andheri West
Moxy Mumbai Andheri West, India
Nestled in the heart of Mumbai’s vibrant Andheri West, the 105-key Moxy Mumbai Andheri West is located nine kilometres from the Mumbai International Airport, and nearby cultural landmarks like Prithvi Theatre and Juhu beach.
Facilities comprise a lounge, three dining venues, gym, as well as event spaces.
SureStay by Best Western Iconic Suvarnabhumi
SureStay by Best Western Iconic Suvarnabhumi, Thailand SureStay by Best Western Iconic Suvarnabhumi boasts 196 rooms and suites, and offer amenities such as an outdoor pool, restaurant, and meeting room.
Situated close to the Bang Na-Trat Expressway, the hotel provides convenient access to Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown Bangkok. Nearby are major shopping centres such as Central Village, Siam Premium Outlets and Mega Bangna.
Plaza Premium Group (PPG) is expanding its presence in Macau with the opening of its Plaza Premium First lounge at Macau International Airport.
This year also marks the group’s 10th Anniversary in Macau since the inception of Plaza Premium Lounge in Macau International Airport.
The launch of the Plaza Premium First lounge at Macau International Airport coincides with PPG’s 10th Anniversary since its debut in Macau
Located near Departure Gate 10/10A of the airport, Plaza Premium First Macau is the fourth lounge in this exclusive collection of airport lounges which has opened in the capitals of Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.
The new elevated lounge concept transforms and elevates the travel experience with personalised hospitality, made-to-order signature dishes (including iconic Macanese delicacies) and a cross-brand journey for elite travellers.
“Ten years ago, we opened our first lounge at Macau International Airport. Today, we are excited to expand in Macau with our new Plaza Premium First. Through the new lounge, we aim to enhance the journeys for travellers who value curated experiences,” said Song Hoi-See, founder and CEO of PPG.
“With the airport expansion plan and the opportunities presented by the Greater Bay Area and China, we believe this is a favourable time for PPG to expand in Macau.”
Her extensive hospitality background includes her experience in a number of major international hotel groups such as The Langham, Hong Kong, Conrad International, and Shangri-La.
