HONG KONG, CHINA - Hang Lung Properties is set to mark a historic milestone in the history of its flagship Shanghai project, Plaza 66, on September 8 with a world-class celebration featuring 15-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter-producer Alicia Keys, celebrated art photographer, David LaChapelle, celebrity chefs, and top-notch performers. Plaza 66, with its unique positioning as Shanghai's Home to Luxury, is set to redefine the realm of luxury retail in China after a stunning transformation, spearheaded by US-based architecture firm, Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF). Warm lighting illuminates the luster of the bronze and gold features used to create a unique ambiance that is contemporary, comfortable, and opulent as it unfolds its luxury into an extended retail gallery and expansive public enclosures. The newly minted VIC lounge offers a plethora of enhanced shopping rewards and privileges alongside carefully curated bespoke experiences to exceed the expectations of even … [Read more...]

Hong Kong - The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel, will debut four world-class restaurants and bars when the hotel opens in late 2017. In addition to Guo Fu Lou, the hotel's restaurants and bars will showcase local and international flavours inspired by diverse culinary traditions. Destined to be an exciting new lifestyle destination, the highly anticipated hotel will offer a variety of gastronomic and entertainment experiences to inspire guests and excite gourmands. With its stylish interiors, Murray Lane is poised to be the go-to bar venue for after-work gatherings among the city's finance community. The bar will serve a selection of craft beers, premium spirits and wines, as well as a variety of gourmet small plates, ideal for pre-dinner cocktails and casual dining. Discreetly positioned on the ground floor, Murray Lane will accommodate 46 guests indoors and offer light lunch options as well as premium teas and barista-made coffees. Adding a contemporary twist to an elegant … [Read more...]

COPENHAGEN, Denmark - Charming Beijing Tourism Presentation, one of the important events within the framework of China-Denmark Tourism Year 2017, hosted by the Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development, was held on 14th August in Copenhagen. Nearly 100 people from the Embassy of China in Denmark, Wonderful Copenhagen and representatives from local tour operators and media attended the event. Hu Hongbo, Deputy Head of Mission of the Chinese Embassy in Denmark; Song Yu, Director-General of Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development; Lars Thykier, Managing Director of Association of Danish Travel Agents and Tour Operators, and Philip Wenzel Kyhl, Senior Project Manager-China of Wonderful Copenhagen spoke at the presentation. Cui Hua from Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development, gave a presentation on Beijing tourism resources as well as supporting facilities and services including transportation, accommodation, catering etc.; and Ivan Xu, Deputy Managing … [Read more...]

SINGAPORE - Agoda, one of the world's largest accommodation booking platforms, revealed the motivations and booking behaviors driving the rise in non-hotel accommodation (NHAs) - also known as homestays. agoda's inventory of over 1.5 million properties worldwide have included all sorts of homestays for years, providing a unique lens to the impact of NHAs over time. (1) Travelers are more likely to stay in a home when close to homeDomestic travelers are more likely to book homestays. But they are also more likely to consider booking privately-owned homes/apartments when traveling to neighboring countries. Travelers from Indonesia (79%), Singapore (71%), Philippines (82%) and Thailand (80%) will most likely consider booking homestays when traveling within Asia. Similarly, travelers from the UK (88%), US (84%) and Australia (75%) will most likely consider booking a privately-owned home within their home continent. (2) Reasons for choosing a hotel alternative varies across … [Read more...]

As Director of Human Resources, he is responsible for overseeing all HR functions including employee relations and Ambassador management, compensation and benefits, training and development and ensuring the implementation, maintenance and improvement of the Food Safety, Quality, Environmental, Safety and Health (FOQESH) and Business Continuity Management Systems. KUALA LUMPUR – The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre) is proud to announce the appointment of Muhammad Vickneswaranas its new Director of Human Resources (HR). Vickneswaran is a senior HR professional with over 27 years' experience in human resources specifically in the hospitality industry. Welcoming Vickneswaran to the Centre's award-winning team, General Manager, Alan Pryor, shared "We are excited to have Muhammad Vickneswaran onboard. We are confident that the Centre will benefit immensely from his vast knowledge and experience in Human Resources to further grow our HR capabilities to better meet our … [Read more...]

HAPUNA BEACH, Hawaii - Mauna Kea Resort LLC announced it has signed a franchise agreement with Westin Hotels & Resorts to debut the renowned wellness hospitality brand on the Big Island of Hawaii, with the $46 million renovation and conversion of Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel to become The Westin Hapuna Beach Resortin February of 2018. The hotel will remain part of Prince Resorts Hawaii. Beginning as early as September 2017, the hotel will participate in SPG (Starwood Preferred Guest), one of Marriott International's award-winning loyalty programs, allowing guests to redeems points to stay at the hotel. "Well-being is a big part of the local culture here, so we couldn't be more excited to bring the Westin brand to the island of Hawaii," said Donn Takahashi, President of Prince Resorts Hawaii. "With longtime Westin-veteran Craig Anderson at the helm, we're confident that his leadership will allow us to leverage the brand's successful lifestyle positioning and elevate the guest … [Read more...]

DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways has announced it will launch flights to beautiful Chiang Mai, its fourth destination in Thailand, as it expands to meet increased demand for Thai destinations from holiday-makers. The new route comes in addition to existing services to the Thai capital Bangkok, and to the top holiday destinations of Phuket and Krabi.The new four-times weekly seasonal service will operate between Doha and Chiang Mai (CNX), using a wide-body aircraft, from December 2017 until May 2018. Laid-back Chiang Mai offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, and has been called the 'Rose of the North' in recognition of its calm vibe and lush setting. Nestled amid surrounding rainforest, Chiang Mai offers visitors an amazing authentic Thai experience, with scores of stunning temples, fabulous restaurants and incredible natural scenery. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: "Thailand continues to grow in popularity with … [Read more...]

BANGKOK - Bombardier Transportation has announced two contracts for its Innovia Monorail 300system for two mass rapid transit lines in Thailand. The contracts are with the Northern Bangkok Monorail Co. Ltd. (NBM) and the Eastern Bangkok Monorail Co. Ltd. (EBM), who will be responsible for the turnkey construction and 30-year concession of the new, elevated lines which will improve the commute for over 400,000 people every day. The contract with NBM concerns the new 34.5km Khae Rai-MinBuri (Pink) Line to operate with 42 train sets and EBM's contract comprises 30 trainsets for the 30.4km Lat Phrao-Samrong (Yellow) Line. The contracts also include providing the project management, systems engineering and integration, testing and commissioning for the new trains and systems. Thailand monorailBombardier will design and supply the mechanical and electrical elements for the two monorail lines, and will deliver 72, four-car INNOVIA Monorail 300 trains (288 cars) equipped with Bombardier … [Read more...]

SINGAPORE - Raffles Hotel Singaporehas entered into the second phase in its careful and sensitive three-phase restoration. Some new lifestyle and social experiences that guests can look forward to when the hotel re-opens in middle of 2018 include a new 300-guest Grand Ballroom – formerly the Jubilee Hall theatre –, a new spa in the Arcade, as well as refreshed dining concepts that will build on the charm and heritage of the hotel, offering guests an elevated level of sophistication and refinement. Raffles Hotel Singapore's new Grand Ballroom will be able to accommodate over 300 guests in the former historic Jubilee Hall theatre, with subtle design motifs and techniques recalling the heritage of the space. The introduction of the Grand Ballroom will enable guests to choose from two ballrooms in different areas of the hotel – with the former ballroom becoming the secondary ballroom due to its smaller capacity. "The restoration of Raffles is a careful and sensitive … [Read more...]

BEIJING - Hainan Airlinesis scheduled to launch non-stop service between Chengdu and New York on October 26, 2017. Following the roll-out of the Chengdu-Los Angeles service, this will be Hainan Airlines' second direct flight from Chengdu to North America. With the new service, travelers will be able to fly directly from Chengdu to both the East and West coasts of the US via Hainan Airlines. The route will be serviced by a Boeing B787 Dreamliner with spacious cabins. Business Class passengers will be provided with 180-degree lie-flat seating with an in-seat massage feature. Passengers in all classes will have access to premium onboard amenities and a gourmet selection of Western and Oriental meals. Hainan Airlines will provide travelers choosing the new route with a variety of all-inclusive travel packages as well as, for Business Class passengers, private limo service, assuring each passenger a convenient and pleasurable experience. Hainan Airlines has, to date, launched 12 direct … [Read more...]

Kuching - Sarawak's boldest campaign, Redefining Global Tribes, has received unwavering support from over a dozen organizations from all over Malaysia in realizing the state's Business Events aspiration this coming weekend. Major sponsors include Borneo Tru Events, Qatar Airlines, Hilton Hotel Kuching, Pullman Kuching, CPH Travel Agency, Place Borneo, Evenesis (Y Us Sdn Bhd), and Intellect Asia. The Redefining Global Tribes campaign also engages BESarawak partners such as destination management company Aiman Planet Borneo, UCSI Hotel, and event organisers Spiral Events and Event Horizon for offsite venues for the 4-day 3-nights familiarization (FAM) trip. International associations such as the International Congress and Conventions Associations (ICCA) Asia Pacific rallied to join the campaign movement as well, with Regional Director Mr Noor Ahmad Hamid elected as the main facilitator for the "We Are the Global Tribes- Redefined Business Forum"; a deep dive into the significance of … [Read more...]

Singapore - Asia Pacific today sits at the heart of the global travel industry. It's already the world's largest travel market, even though the vast majority of its population have never crossed their country's borders. Consider that in China, the world's leading outbound market, less than 9% of its population owns a passport. This makes the Asia Pacific traveller a force to be reckoned with – one that presents the greatest opportunity for the travel industry, but also many challenges. According to Albert Pozo, President of Amadeus Asia Pacific, "Travellers are the bedrock of travel, and there is no traveller today quite as important as the Asia Pacific traveller. Yet the irony is that even as we talk about the 'Asia Pacific traveller' – it doesn't exist. The diversity we see across nationalities, gender and generation in this region is astounding. More than that, our research has showed us that the preferences, behaviours and demands of travellers vary enormously from one … [Read more...]

SINGAPORE - The Philippines' largest airline, Cebu Pacific (CEB), has updated all its booking systems to ensure that passengers who are exempt from the International Passenger Service Charge (IPSC), or the Terminal Fee, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport(NAIA) can avail of this regardless of how they book their flights on Cebu Pacific. The move is seen to benefit thousands of Filipino expats who book flights on Cebu Pacific to get to their job sites. Since July 8, 2017, passengers who book their flights through the Cebu Pacific mobile app and website have been able to claim the NAIA Terminal Fee exemption by simply ticking a box before booking and payment is processed and confirmed. Bookings made through the Cebu Pacific Reservation Hotlines or via the website, www.cebupacificair.com on the other hand, have been exempted from paying the P550.00 NAIA Terminal Fee since April this year. Passengers need to present valid documents upon check-in to verify their eligibility for the … [Read more...]

Business Events Sydney (BESydney) has announced the appointment of new Chair, Bruce Baird AM, effective 1 September 2017. Mr Baird replaces the highly respected Col Hughes, who had a 15-year association with the organisation. "The appointment of Bruce Baird as Chair to Business Events Sydney is a huge asset to not only our business, but also the business events sector. Bruce has had a distinguished career spanning government, industry and not-for-profit sectors. A skilled operator and experienced board member, he will provide a unique perspective on supporting our efforts to secure global events that generate trade and industry growth," said BESydney CEO, Lyn Lewis-Smith. Bruce Baird served as the Federal Member for Cook for close to a decade, a seat now held by Treasurer Scott Morrison. He previously held roles as New South Wales (NSW) Minister for Transport, Tourism, Roads and for Sydney's Olympic Bid. His career has included stints in the petroleum industry, as Australia's … [Read more...]

The Philippines' leading airline, Cebu Pacific, expands its domestic route network and presence in Southeast Asia as it announces four new routes aimed at improving accessibility for travellers outside Metro Manila, but more so increasing connectivity within the region. Cebu Pacific announced it would begin operations of a thrice-a-week Kalibo-Clark flight (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) on October 30, 2017, linking Western Visayas, including the world-class Boracay Island, to tourists from North and Central Luzon, as well as foreigners via the Clark International Airport. The return Clark-Kalibo flight, on the other hand, begins on October 31, 2017 (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays). The carrier's wholly-owned subsidiary, Cebgo, will boost its presence in Northern Mindanao, through the Cagayan de Oro (Laguindingan) Airport, with new inter-island connections. Starting October 20, 2017, Cebgo will fly from Cagayan de Oro to Boracay (Caticlan); and to Dumaguete three times a week. On … [Read more...]

JEJU, South Korea - Landing Jeju Development Co., Ltd. (LJDC), a wholly owned subsidiary of Landing International Development Limited and the developer and operator of Jeju Shinhwa World, and global content leader Lionsgate announced plans to develop Lionsgate Movie Worldat Jeju Shinhwa World, Korea. Lionsgate Movie World, spanning approximately 1.3 million square feet (approximately 122,000 square meters) and centered around multiple renowned Lionsgate film properties, is Lionsgate's first branded outdoor theme park and the latest milestone in the continued ramp up of Lionsgate's location-based entertainment business around the world. In addition to being Korea's first international theme park, Lionsgate Movie World at Jeju Shinhwa World will be the first outdoor theme park built exclusively around world-famous movies. It is also the largest destination attraction to date in Lionsgate's growing international network of branded theme parks, entertainment centers and other attractions … [Read more...]

SHANGHAI - Mileslife, an innovative mileage earning program operator in China, announced an exclusive strategic partnership with All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan's largest and the only 5-Star airline, offering the ANA Mileage Club(ANA's frequent flyer program) members further options to earn miles in the China market. Through this strategic tie-up, Mileslife app users can now earn ANA miles directly through daily lifestyle and travel purchases. This partnership will allow users in China and Japanese customers visiting China to earn ANA miles while spending with local merchants Members can redeem ANA and Star Alliance member airlines award tickets or upgrades with ANA Mileage Club miles. With ANA Mileage Club onboard, Mileslife's frequent flyer network has now extended its service to cover Greater Asia, Europe, America and the Middle East. Mileslife endeavors to cultivate and elevate the entire airline loyalty program industry in China as well as strengthens the connection between … [Read more...]

SINGAPORE - RCI, worldwide leader in the vacation exchange industry, has officially launched its RCI Pointsprogram in Asia. Affiliates in Asia now have the option to offer a points-based exchange program to their owners, in addition to the RCI Weeks exchange program. RCI Points was first launched in 2000 in the U.S. and is the industry's largest worldwide points-based exchange program. It provides RCI members with a flexible way to exchange their vacation ownership for time at other resorts around the world. Their vacation ownership is assigned a points value, depending on a range of factors such as supply and demand at their resort, location and quality of the resort, type of unit owned and comment card feedback from members who have stayed in the resort. They can then use those points to exchange for a resort stay of similar value. An RCI Points membership offers many benefits: For example, RCI Points members could use their annual Points allotment to book a big family holiday … [Read more...]

AUSTIN, Texas - Ridesharing company Arcade Citylaunched its mobile app this month to the Apple and Android app stores, now available everywhere in the Philippines. Arcade City is recruiting and activating drivers same-day all across the Philippines to provide service in the gap left by Uber's abrupt withdrawal yesterday. After Uber similarly withdrew last year from Austin, Texas (USA), Arcade City built the world's first self-governing ridesharing network, now totaling over 43,000 members. Arcade City Austin has provided safe, reliable city-wide transportation in Austin for the past fifteen months. Riders and drivers in Austin communicate directly and coordinate rides with no corporate intermediary. The community sets its own standards for driver vetting and other policies. Arcade City embraces a new peer-to-peer model of ridesharing. Instead of controlling drivers from a corporate headquarters, Arcade City frees drivers to build up their own transportation businesses like true … [Read more...]

XINGYI, China - The 2017 International Mountain Tourism and Outdoor Sports Conferencekicked off in Xingyi, the capital of Qianxinan prefecture, a region in the southwestern part of China's Guizhou province, on August 16, 2017. The event was expected to attract over 1,200 government officials and business executives as well as influencers and experts across the worlds of mountain travel and outdoor sports from 29 countries and regions worldwide. The conference, with the tagline "promoting harmony between man and nature as well as healthy lifestyles" hosted over 20 international mountain sports events, including hiking, a fire balloon event hosted by the Chinese Balloon Club League, the China Rally Championship, a camping event, a cycling competition, a cross-country running competition and a mountain sport challenge. In addition, a series of meetings and seminars directed to the travel industry were held during the event, including the first annual forum of the International Mountain … [Read more...]