Asia/Singapore Wednesday, 8th April 2026
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Fairmont Hotels & Resorts introduces five new hotels across Asia

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As part of its expansion, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a brand under Accor, has unveiled five new properties, each reflecting a strong connection to local culture.

The new hotels are set to open in India, Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand.

A rendering of Fairmont Tokyo, which will open on July 1 this year

India will see two openings, including Fairmont Mumbai, opening in April 2025, with 446 rooms and suites located near the international airport. The hotel will feature a Grand Ballroom for over 2,000 guests, five restaurants, a wellness suite, and an outdoor pool.

Fairmont Udaipur Palace, opening in July 2025, will be set in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan. Spanning 7.28 hectares, the property will feature 327 rooms, over 12,077m2 of event space, and multiple dining options offering Mediterranean, Italian, Asian, and global cuisines.

Fairmont Tokyo, opening on July 1, 2025, will be located in the south tower of the Blue Front Shibaura Project, featuring 217 rooms and suites with views of Tokyo Bay and the city skyline. The hotel is 13 minutes from Haneda Airport and near major train stations. It will offer a spa, fitness centre, indoor infinity pool, five restaurants, two bars, outdoor terraces, and event spaces, including the Fairmont Grand Ballroom, which can host up to 1,200 guests.

Fairmont Hanoi, opening in November 2025, will be the first Fairmont in Vietnam. Located near Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, the hotel will feature 241 rooms, six dining and bar venues, a rooftop restaurant, spa, fitness centre, bathhouse, and two swimming pools.

Finally, Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit, opening in Thailand in November 2025, will offer 419 rooms and a range of facilities, including speciality restaurants, a rooftop bar, wellness and spa centres, and meeting rooms. The property will be located near Bangkok’s Central Business District and major transport hubs.

Florian Blois joins Dida as strategic partnerships director

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Dida, a tech-driven global travel distribution company, has appointed Florian Blois as its director of strategic partnerships.

In this role, Blois will lead global partnerships, focusing on DMOs, international hotel chains, airlines, as well as tour and activity providers to drive business growth through strategic collaborations and innovative marketing initiatives.

Reporting directly to Dida’s CMO, Gareth Matthews, Blois will work to develop and execute personalised marketing and sales strategies that further elevate Dida’s partners across its global platforms and distribution channels.

Before joining Dida, he was the senior regional manager – destination development & marketing at HBX Group (formerly Hotelbeds) where he managed global partnerships and led strategic marketing campaigns for DMOs across EMEA and Asia-Pacific.

New hotels: W Maldives, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou and more

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W Maldives

W Maldives, the Maldives
W Maldives has completed its transformation, with newly redesigned rooms, suites, restaurants and cocktail concepts, and the brand’s signature WET Deck.

Reimagining its 77 overwater and beach villas, new additions like the Supreme and Oasis Overwater Two-Bedroom Villas, featuring spacious living areas and private pools, are ideal for larger groups. The two new Oasis Two-Bedroom Beach Villas feature water slides connecting the second floor to private pools.

Guests at W Maldives can enjoy the resort’s dining venues, spa, and water activities like snorkelling and diving. The resort is also home to one of the largest biogas plants in the Maldives, alongside a fruit and vegetable garden.

The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou

The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou, China
Located in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou offers travellers seamless access to the rich history and dynamic charm of Suzhou, with nearby attractions such as the Lingering Garden, Xiyuan Temple, and Shantang Street.

The hotel has 190 guestrooms and suites, inspired by Suzhou architecture. The Ritz-Carlton Suite spans 306m² with views of Gusu and Suzhou’s gardens. Club Level guests enjoy access to the Ritz-Carlton Club, offering cultural experiences like embroidery sessions, tea masterclasses, and fan workshops.

The hotel offers four restaurants and bars, the Ritz Kids programme, fitness centre, swimming pool, and four event spaces including a 508m² grand ballroom.

Kinn Habitat

Kinn Habitat, Singapore
Kinn Habitat, Kinn’s flagship hotel, offers a blend of capsule accommodation and private rooms, with 120 capsules across 15 dormitories, including mixed, female-only, and male-only options, as well as Cosy Rooms.

The hotel provides convenient amenities like personal lockers, black-out blinds, power outlets, and a folding desk with a mirror.

Shared spaces, curated activities, and partnerships encourage guests to connect with the local scene. The Marketplace on Level 5 features local artists and artisans, along with workshops on creativity and sustainability. Guests can also enjoy specially crafted coffee at brwd / Kinn on Level 1.

Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta

Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta, Pakistan 
Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta forms part of a major new mixed-use development in Quetta, the capital and largest city in the province of Balochistan.

With a choice of 25 rooms and suites, this contemporary hotel also features facilities for business and leisure, including an all-day dining restaurant, lobby lounge, fitness centre, yoga studio, and business centre.

Guests also enjoy the convenience of direct access to the Hanna Mall retail complex.

The hotel is situated on the outskirts of the city, and easily accessible via National Highway 25. It is 10km from Quetta International Airport, which offers direct connections to and from major cities including Dubai, Jeddah, Karachi and Lahore.

Minor Hotels introduces new master brand strategy to fuel growth and innovation

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Minor Hotels has unveiled its evolution into a guest-facing master brand, supported by a new brand identity, enhanced digital experience, and simplified loyalty and B2B propositions to drive strategic growth.

This is the most comprehensive evolution in the company’s history and marks a key step for the global hospitality group, which plans to add nearly 300 properties to its portfolio by 2027. It follows the 2018 acquisition of NH Hotel Group, now operating as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, which tripled the group’s global presence.

The new Minor Hotels mobile app streamlines bookings, offers personalised services, and connects guests with hotel staff for a seamless stay

The brand evolution is guided by the aim of delivering what matters most to guests, team members, investors, owners, and partners. Minor Hotels’ new master brand strategy brings together its eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks, and Tivoli – under the Minor Hotels name, highlighting the group’s offerings and strengthening its perception among stakeholders.

Minor Hotels’ refreshed look features an arrowhead within the ‘M’ of the logo, symbolising direction and guidance. The updated visual identity includes a new colour palette, brand fonts, and photography. The brand’s new essence, What Matters Most, and voice reflect the needs of today’s consumers, stakeholders, and team members.

Guests will engage with the Minor Hotels brand across digital, mobile, marketing, sales channels, and properties. The brand will also feature more prominently in multi-brand communications and advertising to raise awareness.

Minor Hotels’ hotel brands will maintain their individual identities, websites, and marketing, while benefiting from the development of the overarching Minor Hotels brand. Alongside the rebrand, the group has updated its brand architecture, categorising its hotel brands into three segments – Luxury, Premium, and Select – to help guide guests in choosing the right brand for their travel needs. The group also plans to expand its portfolio with at least two new brands launching later this year.

In addition, the group has relaunched its website as a consumer-focused platform, shifting from its previous corporate and development focus. Guests can now book stays at any of Minor Hotels’ 560+ properties and access destination information all in one place.

Minor Hotels has also introduced a new mobile app, replacing brand-specific apps. Travellers can use the app to book and manage their stays, access destination details, and interact with hotel staff to request services during their stay.

The group will continually enhance functionality and personalisation on both the website and app, integrating restaurants, spa, and wellness offerings based on user preferences and guest feedback.

Minor Hotels will continue recognising guests through the Global Hotel Alliance’s loyalty programme, now rebranded as Minor Discovery. This replaces individual hotel brand names to simplify access to the programme. Rewards remain the same, including four to seven per cent back in Discovery Dollars (D$1=US$1), exclusive rates, local offers, and elite perks, all accessible via the app.

Minor Pro will offer businesses, professionals, event planners, and travel agents a dedicated space, combining all B2B products, services, and communications, including existing programmes like NH PRO, Anantara Journeys, and Oaks Professionals – providing tailored solutions to meet professional customers’ needs.

Dillip Rajakarier, group CEO of Minor International, commented: “The Minor Hotels rebrand is a natural progression for us, building on a success story spanning more than five decades. It isn’t just about driving revenue and profitability; it’s also about harnessing the strength of our diversity, our knowledge and team members to achieve long-term sustainable growth and invest in the guest experience. Unifying all our hotel brands and travel experiences under the Minor Hotels umbrella will help us strengthen our positioning in the hospitality industry and help us deliver on our growth ambitions.”

Sustainability in travel a key focus for most Asian travellers, Agoda survey reveals

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Agoda’s 2025 Sustainable Travel Survey ranks Asia’s most sustainability-conscious travellers, with those from the Philippines taking the top spot – 86% of Filipino travellers stated that sustainability is important in their travel choices for 2025, while travellers from India (82%), Taiwan (80%), Malaysia (80%), and Vietnam (77%) follow in the top five.

This survey, which gathered responses from over 6,000 participants across 11 Asian markets, highlights the shifting trends in sustainable travel in Asia, with a growing focus on authentic and purposeful tourism, as well as off-peak travel.

Nearly a quarter of Asian travellers choose off-peak seasons to reduce overcrowding and environmental impact

The survey found that the majority of Asian travellers (68%) consider sustainability when planning their trips for 2025. However, less than one in ten (8%) travellers ignore sustainability in their travel decisions. In contrast, in places like Hong Kong and Japan, a higher percentage of travellers – 21% and 17%, respectively – reported that sustainability was not a significant factor in their travel choices.

Authentic experiences drive more sustainable choices
Asian travellers are increasingly motivated by the allure of authentic experiences and the opportunity to contribute positively to local communities. Nearly one in four respondents prioritise authentic tourism, while 22% are keen on supporting local economies when they travel. Indian travellers, in particular, are guided by personal values and beliefs, with 24% citing these as their primary motivation for more sustainable travel. This trend underscores a broader movement towards travel that is not only enjoyable but also meaningful and impactful.

Exploring off-peak takes centre stage
Many travellers in Asia seek to mitigate their impact on the environment by travelling during off-peak seasons to alleviate overcrowding, a choice made by nearly a quarter of respondents.

Additionally, 20% of travellers are opting for accommodation with sustainability certifications while 18% are packing reusable items to reduce waste. Japanese travellers stand out for being the most committed out of all Asian travellers to reducing waste, with 25% packing reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags on a trip.

Agoda’s Eco Deals programme offers travellers up to 15% off at partner hotels across 10 Asian markets, including Japan and South Korea for the first time this year. For every booking made through Eco Deals, a dollar is donated to WWF conservation projects focused on protecting wildlife and habitats in Asia.

Andrew Smith, senior vice president, supply at Agoda, said: “Asian travellers are increasingly seeking ways to make a positive impact on the destinations they visit. By offering great value deals on partnering properties and donating one US dollar to local conservation projects for every programme booking, we are not only helping travellers save but also enabling them to contribute to the preservation of the places they love.”

Millennium Hotels and Resorts welcomes VP of sales and partnerships

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Millennium Hotels and Resorts has appointed Melanie Beattie as its vice president of sales and partnerships for New Zealand.

A dynamic leader with a background in both start-ups and corporate settings, Beattie specialises in driving growth, sales performance, and strategic partnerships across various industries.

Prior to joining Millennium Hotels and Resorts, she was head of distribution at Fidelity Life Assurance Company.

Bertrand Margerie helms as GM of Kuramathi Maldives

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Bertrand Margerie brings over 30 years of experience with leading hospitality brands across four continents to his new role as general manager of Kuramathi Maldives.

With expertise in rooms and revenue management, his career spans over three decades of operational expertise, with notable leadership roles including most recent appointments at Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort, Chaweng Regent Beach Resort, Melati Beach Resort & Spa in Samui, and Mövenpick Karon Beach, Phuket.

Bhutan launches global training programmes to empower its youth

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Bhutan is inviting global trainers and industry experts to join the De-Suung Skilling Programme (DSP), an initiative aimed at equipping Bhutanese youth with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

The DSP is one of the largest paid training programmes globally, offering accelerated, high-impact training in over 157 disciplines. Designed to enhance skills, build confidence, and create economic opportunities, the programme focuses on empowering Bhutan’s youth. Through collaboration with international trainers, DSP aims to bring global expertise, best practices, and innovation, bridging the gap between talent and opportunity while supporting long-term career development.

The DSP equips Bhutanese youth with training, bridging skills and opportunities while offering trainers a chance to experience Bhutan’s culture

The programme also offers an opportunity to make an impact on young lives while experiencing Bhutan’s cultural landscape. Trainers play a role in shaping the future of Bhutanese youth by equipping them with industry-relevant skills and professional confidence. The programme provides a cultural experience, allowing trainers to explore Bhutan’s heritage, landscapes, and traditions.

To support trainers during their time in Bhutan, the programme offers furnished accommodation, monthly remuneration ranging from US$800 to US$2,000, return economy class flights to and from Bhutan, visas, and flexible training dates. Bhutan’s daily Sustainable Development Fees are also covered.

The DSP is seeking experienced professionals and educators with industry expertise, relevant certifications, and a strong command of English, which is the primary medium of instruction. Trainers should possess excellent interpersonal skills, cultural adaptability, and a passion for mentoring and skills development.

The programme offers training across a wide range of industries, including construction (plumbing, carpentry, masonry, and mechanical fitting), culinary arts (international cuisine, food processing, bakery, pastry, and restaurant management), tourism and hospitality (foreign language instruction, concierge services, and bartending), as well as beauty and wellness (spa therapy, advanced hair treatments, and nail art).

Trainers will be assigned to various training centres across Bhutan, where they will deliver high-quality training in line with international standards. The programme emphasises professionalism, strong work ethics, and an entrepreneurial mindset, ensuring participants are not only skilled but also prepared to assume leadership roles in their respective fields.

DSP chairperson Tashi Dorji said: “This initiative is more than just training – it’s about shaping futures, fostering resilience, and creating a generation of skilled, confident youth ready to build Bhutan’s future. This initiative represents the largest voluntourism training project ever undertaken in Bhutan.

“This programme is ideal for a diverse group of trainers, including mid-career professionals looking for a meaningful experience, retirees seeking to share their knowledge, and individuals who have previously visited Bhutan as well as those discovering the country for the first time.”

Tourism New Zealand strengthens partnerships to boost Indian arrivals

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Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) is working to make it easier for Indian travellers to visit and experience New Zealand’s landscapes and culture through initiatives that remove traditional barriers, simplify booking processes, and offer new reasons to choose New Zealand as a year-round holiday destination.

A potential direct flight route between India and New Zealand could remove travel barriers and simplify longhaul journeys. At a tourism reception hosted by TNZ, prime minister Christopher Luxon witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Air India and Air New Zealand to explore direct connectivity, making New Zealand more accessible to Indian travellers.

Tourism New Zealand aims to increase Indian visitation through direct flights, partnerships, and targeted marketing campaigns; Auckland in New Zealand, pictured

TNZ is also reinforcing its commitment to increase Indian arrivals through strategic alliances and seasonal travel initiatives. It recently signed an MoU with Auckland Airport and Air New Zealand committing investment to a joint seasonal marketing campaign to build demand and drive off-peak visitation to New Zealand.

Additionally, joint venture agreements were signed with nine Indian travel partners to drive visitation through curated travel experiences tailored to Indian traveller preferences, with a focus on promoting New Zealand’s winter and spring seasons.

An integrated winter campaign was also launched, combining media content with promotional travel packages. The initiative aims to target Indian visitors through digital media placements and provide conversion opportunities via travel partners, showcasing New Zealand’s winter destinations, adventure sports, and luxury stays.

René de Monchy, chief executive of TNZ, said: “We are focused on enhancing these commercial partnerships and through improved connectivity and strategically targeted high-impact marketing campaigns, we are keen to convert this interest into bookings and visitation.

“With Indians typically travelling outbound during their key holiday periods that align perfectly with New Zealand’s traditionally quieter seasons, we see a significant opportunity for medium and long-term growth as a preferred, premier holiday destination for Indian visitors all-year round.”

Ponant rebrands as Ponant Explorations Group

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Ponant is embarking on a new chapter with a refreshed identity as Ponant Explorations Group, following its recent acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions.

This evolution aligns with the Group’s international growth strategy to build a portfolio of leading exploration voyage brands, while reinforcing its ambition to accelerate development and strengthen its position in a dynamic and evolving market.

Ponant Explorations Group’s three commercial brands are Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises, and Aqua Expeditions; photo by StudioPonant-SofiaSteeg

CEO Hervé Gastinel confirmed that as Ponant Explorations Group, the company remains focused on providing unique travel experiences to key destinations, offering access to exclusive locations, and maintaining high service standards.

Additionally, Ponant Explorations Group is also developing a portfolio of brands recognised for their expertise and destination-driven exploration cruises.

Staying true to its heritage, Ponant Explorations Group maintains continuity in its brand identity, keeping the iconic three-sail logo. At the same time, each of the group’s three commercial brands features its own unique visual identity.

Ponant Explorations, its historic brand, is renowned for its exploration voyages, offering guests close encounters with nature and culture beyond traditional maritime routes for over 35 years. The brand provides expert-led expeditions, including shore excursions and cultural, scientific, and historical conferences on board. Paul Gauguin Cruises, a specialist in French Polynesia since 1998, offers a unique exploration experience aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, with 165 cabins. Aqua Expeditions, a pioneer in luxury small-ship expeditions, explores biodiverse and culturally rich destinations with bespoke five-star itineraries, a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, and expert-led excursions.

“The Asia-Pacific team is excited and proud to be part of this phase of strong expansion,” said Deb Corbett, CEO Asia Pacific for Ponant Explorations Group. “We all look forward to implementing our diverse and dynamic go-to-market action plans to support the vision and growth of this portfolio.”