Nicholas Smith has been appointed vice president of operations for Asia at Minor Hotels, where he will oversee the group’s growing portfolio in the region and lead a team of experienced leaders.
He brings over 25 years of hospitality experience, having developed his operational expertise at Shangri-La Group. Joining in 2008 as a F&B manager in Malaysia, he held senior leadership roles across multiple locations, including China, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Most recently, he was vice president of food & beverage and operations for MEIA, overseeing 17 properties.
His career also includes roles with Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and Savoy Group, as well as leading the launch of Sindalah Island, Neom’s first luxury island and yacht club destination in Saudi Arabia.
Virtuoso has named Lori Sheller as vice president, global cruise. She brings extensive experience in sales, marketing, and business development, having held leadership roles at EBG, Swan Hellenic, MSC Cruises USA, and Tourico Holidays/Hotelbeds Group.
In her new role, Sheller will lead Virtuoso’s global cruise strategy, strengthen partnerships with top cruise lines, and drive growth in the global cruise market. She will report to Úna O’Leary, vice president, global partnerships, and be based in Parkland, Florida.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has appointed Emma Darby as global vice president spa & wellness.
In this role, Darby will oversee spa and wellness operations across Fairmont’s global portfolio of 92 properties.
With over 20 years of hospitality experience, she has held senior roles at Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Group. Most recently, she served as chief operating officer at Resense Spas, where she managed a global portfolio of luxury spas, leading business expansion and maintaining high wellness standards.
Following the recent escalation in hostilities between India and Pakistan, a significant segment of India’s outbound travel sector is witnessing a steep decline in demand for Turkey. Indian travellers and travel agents have expressed strong displeasure over Turkey’s statements of support for Pakistan during the conflict, leading to widespread cancellations and a freeze on new bookings.
According to Sandeep Khetarpal, founder of Zotrav, a B2B marketplace for travel agents, there has been “a sharp decline in interest for Turkey as a travel destination with nearly 80 per cent of bookings either cancelled or postponed”.
Indian travellers freeze bookings as political tensions spill into travel choices, slashing demand for Turkey-bound trips; Kizil Kule in Turkey, pictured
“India was once among the top source markets for Turkey, with a 20.7 per cent year-on-year increase in Indian visitors in 2024 as compared to 2023. However, the current scenario is quite different. Since the recent Indo-Pakistan conflict, we have not received any new enquiries for Turkey and the outlook for the upcoming holiday season remains bleak,” he said.
The downturn follows a deadly militant attack in Kashmir’s Baisaran Valley last month which killed 26 tourists. India responded with Operation Sindoor, launching airstrikes on militant infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The subsequent military exchanges heightened tensions across the region.
Amid these developments, Turkey issued a statement expressing solidarity with Pakistan, triggering a strong backlash from the Indian travel trade community and outbound travellers alike.
“Sentiments of Indian travellers have been badly hurt due to Turkey’s support to Pakistan. There are some business trips still happening but the leisure demand is almost zero. In the short run, we see demand impacted across all segments, whether leisure, MICE or weddings. Destinations like South-east Asia and Europe will benefit from the decline in demand for Turkey,” noted Aman Baweja, director, strategic alliances and partnerships, Travomint.
Aditya Tyagi, founder, Luxe Escape highlighted the slowdown in overall outbound demand post the border skirmishes, however, he stressed that “our clients just do not want to visit Turkey at the moment”.
Meanwhile, both India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire last week, bringing a halt to hostilities.
Rosewood Hotel Group has made two key appointments: Anthony Ingham as chief operating officer and Luca Finardi as vice president, operations, EMEAC (Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Caribbean Atlantic).
Ingham will assume his role on September 1, reporting to CEO Sonia Cheng. He brings extensive global experience from previous senior roles at Marriott International, Starwood, and InterContinental. Most recently, he led hospitality operations, branding, and customer experience at The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
From left: Anthony Ingham and Luca Finardi
As COO, he will oversee global operations, guest experience, commercial strategy, and digital functions across Rosewood’s portfolio.
Finardi will join on June 1 and report to Ingham. with over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, he previously served as general manager of Mandarin Oriental Paris and area vice president for France, Italy, and the Czech Republic. He will oversee regional operations in the EMEAC region, working closely with property leaders and global teams.
The Walt Disney Company and Miral have joined forces to develop a Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, in the UAE. The resort will be located on Yas Island, a leisure and entertainment hub in the capital.
The project will be Disney’s seventh theme park resort globally and the first in the Middle East. It will feature Disney attractions and characters, integrated with elements reflecting the local culture and environment.
From left: Miral’s Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi and Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, The Walt Disney Company ‘s Robert A Iger, and Disney Experiences’s Josh D’Amaro
Miral will oversee the full development and construction of the resort. Disney will lead the creative design and provide operational oversight through its Imagineering team. Miral, which has previously partnered with international brands on Yas Island, will operate the site.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, group CEO of Miral, said that bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marked a significant step in the company’s efforts to enhance the island’s status as a global destination for entertainment and leisure.
The UAE’s geographical location, within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population, positions it as a key travel hub. Its aviation infrastructure, including major airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, handles over 120 million passengers annually.
Once completed, the resort will include Disney-themed entertainment, accommodation, dining, and retail. The project is expected to contribute to the tourism sector and support long-term economic development in Abu Dhabi.
Miral chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak said. “The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence. What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination – an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world, creating magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever.”
Robert A Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company, added: “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways and will become a source of joy and inspiration for the people of this vast region to enjoy for generations to come.”
Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Experiences, remarked: “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio. The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront – which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways. This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before.”
Further details will be announced as the project progresses.
Macau’s compact layout and vibrant cultural scene make it ideal for walking tours that unravel the destination’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Macau’s historic centre holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the entire city is recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. These elements enrich the experience, allowing visitors to savour local cuisine while exploring historical landmarks and other attractions, according to the Macao Government Tourist Office (MGTO).
Neighbourhoods such as the lively Taipa and Cotai areas, combined with the tranquil charm of Coloane Village, further enhance the walking experience. They offer a blend of unique cultural and modern attractions, providing visitors with plenty to explore on foot.
Visitors can discover the charm of Macau’s hidden corners through guided tours and cultural activities. Picture by Macao Government Tourism Office
So far, the MGTO has introduced four major walking routes on its website and mobile app, namely World Heritage Tour in Central District; Art & Cultural Tour in St Lazarus Parish; Portuguese Ambiance Tour at Taipa Island; and Tranquility Tour in Coloane Village.
Additionally, MGTO offers an online Smart Trip Planner on its website and mobile app, allowing visitors to customise their time in Macau based on personal preferences in the areas of Sightseeing, Experiences, Shopping, Dining, and Recommendations.
Indeed, visitors are spoiled for choice, as The Walking Routes Map offers 38 thematic routes to explore. Created by the Cartography and Cadastre Bureau, Municipal Affairs Bureau, and the Cultural Affairs Bureau, the routes span from popular spots like Taipa Village and Guia Hill to the memorable buildings of Coloane and the scenic rockscapes along the Southern Coastline of Coloane. Visitors can immerse themselves in a journey through streets and alleys, rediscovering the charm of old Macau and uncovering the forgotten history and tales of these areas.
The recent recognition by Skyscanner as one of the Top 9 Walkable Cities in Asia and South Asia has significantly reinforced Macau’s appeal as a travel destination. Skyscanner highlights the city’s pedestrian-friendly layout, safety, and rich cultural and historical attractions, all within walking distance.
An MGTO spokesman said the accolade highlights the city’s commitment to sustainable tourism and strengthens Macau’s development as a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.
In fact, MGTO is actively driving tourism into different neighbourhoods. To support this, it has introduced financial support programmes for local associations, enabling them to utilise resources to develop diverse community activities that will attract tourists and bring about economic revitalisation.
Join a chef-guided cooking tour. Picture by Macau Cultural Explorer
Activities are centred around three main themes: Travel around Macau Community Tourism, Taste of Macau Food Promotion, and Waterfront Fun Maritime Tourism.
A total of 43 community activities have been approved this year. Among them is the 2025 Chinese Temple Journey, which offers guided tours of three temples, where guests will explore the historical and cultural significance of these sites and their surrounding communities. There will also be a traditional handicraft experience.
Another activity is the Macau Full of Fun – Community Tourism Guided Tour, which offers insights into local merchants of various districts, along with participation in handicraft workshops.
Seven community activities or tours will be available from May to June, including the Mong Ha Creatives Market, Family Adventure Macao Consumer Carnival 2, 2025 Chinese Temple Journey, Macao Full of Fun – Community Tourism Guided Tour, Past Memory Roaming Project, Songkran 2025, and Funny Island: Lotus Creativity Marketplace.
Private sector tour operators are already on the walking tour bandwagon. Agency Macau Explorer Cultural Travel started offering in-depth cultural walking tours, such as the Protestant Cemetery and Pilgrimage tour, six years ago. Recently, it collaborated with the historic Hotel Central on a 2.5-hour tour and partnered with young entrepreneurs on a gastronomy community tour. These tours are subsidised by the MGTO.
Managing director Manuel Wu told TTG Asia that the latter tour has been fully booked since its launch.
Fleshing out the gastronomy community tour, Wu said guests would follow a local to pick up ingredients before cooking in a studio kitchen. They would get to encounter local culture along the way. As such, the tour is ideal not only for international tourists and students from China but also locals who are keen to familiarise themselves with their community.
“It’s environmentally friendly too, as no transportation is used,” said Wu.
He added that Macau has around 300 pátios (courtyards in Portuguese) and becos (alleys), and these are where cultural experiences can be found.
As Macau celebrates the 20th anniversary of the historic centre’s UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription, there is a stronger push for visitors to explore beyond popular spots like the Ruins of St Paul’s and Senado Square, which are mainly frequented by backpackers.
Wu hopes to see the addition of new elements, such as blending local religions and pop culture to create unique intellectual property (IP) products.
He suggested integrating the IP of Chinese blockbuster animation Ne Zha 2 to create a Ne Zha mini show as part of walking tours in Macau.
Wu also addressed the lack of night walking tours in the destination, and suggested that an after-dark photography tour bundled with resident shows at leading integrated resorts, such as House of Dancing Water (performed at City of Dreams) and Macau 2049 (performed at MGM Theater) could work.
With traveller preferences evolving across the Asia-Pacific region, tourism authorities in the Middle East are adjusting their strategies to meet changing expectations and booking behaviours.
Insights from Euromonitor International’s Passport Travel 2025 edition, shared during the recently concluded Arabian Travel Market 2025 in Dubai, show a significant shift in how Asia-Pacific consumers plan trips. Online bookings in the region are projected to grow from 53 per cent in 2019 to 75 per cent by 2029.
Tourism boards discussed the influence of Asia-Pacific travel trends during Arabian Travel Market 2025 in Dubai
“One of the key trends we are noticing is that travel bookings in the Asia-Pacific market are increasingly led by online channels. Social media is playing a huge role in turning interest into demand. Previously, we saw mostly family travellers from China in their 40s and 50s. Now, younger Chinese travellers are proactively exploring Dubai,” said Shahab Shayan, regional director, Asia Pacific at Dubai’s department of economy and tourism.
This digital shift is prompting tourism boards across the Middle East to increase their focus on targeted social media strategies. Rather than relying on celebrity endorsements, destinations are working with niche influencers who have strong influence over specific interest groups.
“We recently hosted a group of Indian culinary specialists and food enthusiasts. Their credibility and loyal followers make them ideal ambassadors for showcasing the rich diversity of Saudi regional cuisines,” said Alhasan Aldabbagh, president of Asia Pacific Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority.
Another trend emerging from Asia-Pacific markets is the growing demand for experiential travel. According to Euromonitor’s Voice of the Consumer: Lifestyle Survey (January-February 2025), 59 per cent of Asia-Pacific respondents consider it important to spend money on experiences.
“Earlier, Chinese travel demand was more itinerary and accommodation driven, often handled through tour operators. Now we are seeing strong demand from the FIT segment and less group travel. There is more demand for experiences among Chinese travellers as now they want to know about aspects like food and culture,” said Shayan.
Beyond China and India, Middle East tourism boards are also focusing on other key Asian markets. Saudi Arabia is planning to introduce direct flights to Japan and South Korea.
“We have a huge participation at Osaka Expo 2025 to create awareness in the region for Saudi Arabia. We get millions of travellers from markets like Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Pakistan for Hajj and Umrah. Our strategy is to make them stay longer and experience offerings beyond Makkah and Medina,” added Aldabbagh.
Moxy Kuala Lumpur Chinatown, Malaysia
Moxy Kuala Lumpur Chinatown has opened in the restored Oriental Bank building on Jalan Hang Lekiu, marking the brand’s debut in the city.
The 21-storey hotel offers 320 guestrooms, a social area for check-in and networking, a breakfast spot, and Bar Moxy, a rooftop space for cocktails with city views. The hotel’s playful design blends 1970s architecture with bold Chinatown-inspired interiors, located steps away from the city’s bustling food streets and nightlife.
Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi
Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi, Vietnam
Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi is situated along West Lake, about 20 minutes from Noi Bai International Airport. The hotel has 207 rooms and suites with views of the lake or city.
Dining options include Thai dishes at Soi Restaurant, Italian food at Vinci Italian Restaurant and Rooftop Bar, and Vietnamese noodle soup at Phở Lụa. For light bites, Dusit Gourmet serves pastries and coffee. The hotel also features four private dining rooms designed for exclusive gatherings and VIP occasions
Facilities include a gym, wellness spaces, three ballrooms, and a rooftop event space with lake views.
AC Hotel by Marriott Ipoh
AC Hotel by Marriott Ipoh, Malaysia
The 291-key AC Hotel by Marriott Ipoh is located on Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil in
It features 291 rooms, restaurants, lounge, and event venues, such as The Tin Mine Club, which offers panoramic city views.
The hotel is also home to Ipoh’s largest pillarless ballroom, hosting up to 1,600 pax, as well as a gym, pool, co-working spaces, and four indoor pickleball courts.
Centara Life Wisma Hotel Ratchaburi
Centara Life Wisma Hotel Ratchaburi, Thailand
Centara Life Wisma Hotel Ratchaburi boasts 69 guestrooms and suites, and features Terra Bar & Café, serving Thai and Western cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, and flexible meeting and event spaces suited for business and social gatherings.
Located in the heart of Ratchaburi, the hotel is close to key attractions such as Ratchaburi National Museum, Wat Mahathat Worawihan, and Ruesi Khao Ngu Cave.
Trafalgar will expand into river cruising in spring 2026, launching two itineraries along the Rhine and Danube. This marks the company’s entry into the river cruise market, with both journeys available for booking from today through travel partners, ahead of public sales.
The first two itineraries include an eight-day Danube cruise aboard the 128-passenger Trafalgar Reverie, and a 10-day Rhine itinerary aboard the 128-passenger Trafalgar Verity. Both routes will feature guided excursions, guest-hosted dining experiences, and onboard programmes focused on culture, sustainability, and wellness.
Trafalgar will debut two European river cruises in April 2026; Trafalgar Verity sails down the Rhine from Basel Amsterdam, pictured
The Best of the Danube itinerary runs from Budapest to Passau, and includes guided visits in Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, as well as a hosted meal at Weingut Nikolaihof, one of Austria’s oldest wineries. The itinerary also includes a visit in Bratislava focused on post-war history. Optional extensions in Prague and Budapest are available. Prices start at US$2,799 per person, based on double occupancy.
The Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam itinerary travels from Basel to Amsterdam, with scheduled stops including Cologne, the Rhine Gorge and Strasbourg. Guests will join the Bohrer family for a hosted meal on their farm and visit Weinessiggut Doktorenhof for a vinegar production experience. An optional extension in Lucerne is also offered.
Rates start at US$3,399 per person, based on double occupancy.
Both vessels will offer seven cabin categories, onboard activities and facilities, and are scheduled to begin sailing from April 11, 2026.
His career also includes roles with Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and Savoy Group, as well as leading the launch of Sindalah Island, Neom’s first luxury island and yacht club destination in Saudi Arabia.
In her new role, Sheller will lead Virtuoso’s global cruise strategy, strengthen partnerships with top cruise lines, and drive growth in the global cruise market. She will report to Úna O’Leary, vice president, global partnerships, and be based in Parkland, Florida.
With over 20 years of hospitality experience, she has held senior roles at Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Group. Most recently, she served as chief operating officer at Resense Spas, where she managed a global portfolio of luxury spas, leading business expansion and maintaining high wellness standards.
