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TTG ASIA

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

for buyers of premium travel and luxury meetings

Luxury MARKET reports Japan, China, India

GUIDE Independent hotels THE NEW DESTINATIONs Australia, Macau, Japan, GLAMOROUS China, Malaysia

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TTG Luxury Dec2015-p00 FRONTcover.indd 1 21/12/15 9:52 am TTG ASIA 300mmx229mm.pdf 1 30/10/15 12:09 AM

CMY

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The new 10 glamorous

December 2015

04 luxury market report japan 06 luxury market report china 08 luxury market report india 10 focus luxury products 14 focus luxury shopping 16 guide independent hotels 14 19 destination australia Smooth operators 22 destination macau 24 destination japan 28 destination china 32 destination malaysia 35 longhaul italy 38 longhaul switzerland 43 luxury people ﬁ lip boyen 44 gasp! the audacity of luxury 44 Gasp!

Single and More 16 loving it 22 novelties from new hotels

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p01 content_revisedFINALred.indd 1 21/12/15 10:21 am editor’s note

Editorial Sales & Marketing s we go to print, Karen Yue Michael Chow Group Editor Group Publisher international ([email protected]) ([email protected]) tourist arrivals Xinyi Liang-Pholsena Stephanie So Deputy Editor, Business Manager Awere up four per cent to TTG Asia & TTG India ([email protected]) 810 million in the first ([email protected]) Sammi Wu Dannon Har Business Manager eight months of 2015, com- Assistant Editor, ([email protected]) pared with the same pe- TTG Asia Online Cheryl Tan ([email protected]) Corporate Marketing riod in 2014, with Europe Paige Lee Pei Qi Manager as the star of the year. Assistant Editor, Singapore ([email protected]) ([email protected]) Stephanie Toh Going by UNWTO fig- S Puvaneswary Senior Marketing Executive ures, Europe is the world’s Editor, Malaysia/Brunei ([email protected]) ([email protected]) Cheryl Lim most visited region with Mimi Hudoyo Advertisement a five per cent increase in Editor, Indonesia Administration Manager ([email protected]) ([email protected]) arrivals compared with Rachel AJ Lee Carol Cheng four per cent for Asia-Pa- Sub Editor Assistant Manager ([email protected]) Administration and cific, the Americas and the Sim Kok Chwee Marketing Middle East, while Africa Correspondent-at-large ([email protected]) (aviasian.images@gmail. looks set to decline five com) Publishing Services per cent.

Rebecca Elliot Tony Yeo Division Manager I myself had a glorious Correspondent, Australia Raini in Venice ([email protected]) Kristy Lim summer in Switzerland Rosa Ocampo Publishing Services and Italy this year. And if Correspondents, Executive The Philippines Lynn Lim there’s one clear message I ([email protected]) Web Executive got from my own holi- Prudence Lui Katherine Leong Correspondent, Circulation Executive days in Europe, it is that Hong Kong Asian travellers are a force to reckon with. Everywhere I went, from the ([email protected]) TTG Asia Media Caroline Boey Darren Ng promenade of Riva degli Schiavoni in Venice, to Kleine Scheidegg above Senior Correspondent, Managing Director Grindelwald in Switzerland, there were swarms of Asian tourists of differ- China & Special Projects ([email protected]) ([email protected]) Raini Hamdi ent nationalities. Julian Ryall Senior Editor But while these are Asians with high disposable incomes, the luxury Correspondent, Japan ([email protected]) ([email protected]) market is particularly aware of the existence of another stratum – the Rohit Kaul Offices higher-yielding Asian FIT traveller which is multiplying faster than rabbits. Correspondent, SINGAPORE New Delhi 1 Science Park Road, As our reports in this issue show, luxury operators and suppliers are pull- ([email protected]) #04-07 The Capricorn, ing all the stops to meet the new aspirations of these travellers, who are not Feizal Samath Singapore Science Park II Correspondent, Singapore 117528 content anymore with places full of other tourists. They seek instead the Sri Lanka/Maldives Tel: (65) 6395-7575 privilege of exclusive places and experiences. ([email protected]) Fax: (65) 6536-0896 [email protected]; Redmond Sia, This is human nature. Nothing has changed. And the world of luxury www.ttgasia.com Tan Kok Yong, travel is all the better because of it. Goh Meng Yong HONG KONG Creative Designers Unit 3003, 30/F Office On that note, have a swanky 2016. Tower Convention Plaza, Nadra Iwani 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Editorial Intern Hong Kong Lina Tan Tel: (852) 2237-7174 Editorial Assistant Fax: (852)2237-7227

Raini Hamdi, Senior Editor

TTG Asia Luxury is a product by TTG Travel Trade Publishing, a business group of TTG Asia Media. It is mailed free on written request to readers who meet TTG Travel Trade Publishing is a business predetermined criteria. Paid subscriptions are available to those who do not meet the criteria. MCI (P) 115/08/2015. PPS 1815/03/2013(025540). Printed by group of TTG Asia Media Times Printer Pte Ltd, 16 Tuas Avenue 5, Singapore 639340.

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15_512 luxury market report japan Raini Hamdi

Ultra sophisticated travellers Japanese high flyers have not shrunk in numbers – or in their expectations of the best service money can buy, reports Julian Ryall

They fly first class, stay at pealing, as is Cancun in Mexico market, the majority of whom are hotels with a minimum of five stars and Peru as a once-in-a-lifetime wealthy business owners or profes- and dine at the swishest restau- journey to see Machu Picchu and sionals such as doctors or lawyers. rants. Japanese travellers at the At the very the Nazca Lines, said Sato. Retired couples also account for luxury end of the market do expect top end, they But wealthy travellers often a sizable percentage of the mar- to have their every whim catered do not really turn their noses up at destinations ket, with time on their hands, the to – so much so that for some, the care about in North America that cannot be mortgage paid off and the children the destina- destination is less important than reached by a direct flight from flown the nest. tion, just as the experience. Japan. The problem, he pointed They are also getting a lot more long as they “At the very top end, they do get the ser- out, is that they do not like to take adventurous in the destinations not really care about the destina- vice they are internal flights that do not have that they are choosing – at least tion, just as long as they get the paying for. first class. For destinations such as those who do care about where service they are paying for,” said Las Vegas, that can prove to be a they go as much as the service they Tomofusa Sato, assistant manager- Tomofusa Sato, deal-breaker. enjoy. assistant manager, planning and purchasing division, planning and As with all Japanese travel “These are people who have JTB World Vacations. purchasing companies, the high-flyers only already been to Paris and London, “They are happy to pay any division, JTB World account for a small percentage so they want to go somewhere new Vacations price, but it must come with of their overall business, but that and distant, as long as they know guaranteed service, and they come figure has remained constant and the service, the accommodation to us to arrange a package like firm in recent years, despite Japan’s and the food are going to be top that because it can be difficult to well-publicised economic problems quality,” said Kazuo Yoshinari, arrange that sort of programme by of late. manager of the Tokyo office for themselves,” Sato told TTG Asia The financial worries that keep NOE Corp. Luxury. other Japanese firms awake at night Places like Argentina and The Caribbean is currently ap- do not apply to this sector of the Patagonia are beginning to ap-

4 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p04-05 Luxurymarket Japan-CS55rhFINALred.indd 4 21/12/15 9:59 am The Japanese high-end traveller...

having been to Paris and London, wants somewhere new and distant wants good service and exclusivity in general flies only first class, which rules out some exotic Above Japanese travellers are willing to part with serious money for quality destinations

pear on wealthy travellers’ radar, he of international tour planning and tourist’s vacation. said, even though there are no direct operations department for ANA “They just don’t stay for long flights to those destinations from Sales Co. “Also, we are seeing enough, in comparison with Japan to South America. Instead, small, chartered cruises becoming wealthy travellers from Europe, they opt to fly first class to a major quite famous among our clients, for example, so the top hotels US city, then take another first class with groups of around 10 people are going to want to take busi- flight onwards. going together. ness from people who are going Yoshinari has also noticed an “Our consumers pay on average to stay at least 10 days or two increase in interest in the Basque 1.2 million yen (US$9,787) per per- weeks,” he said. region of northern Spain among son for a trip that will last around Cox & Kings is busy with big-spending Japanese, as well as nine days,” he said. Japanese wanting to visit Dubai, in the cultural attractions of Eastern “Good service and exclusivity where the attraction is often European nations such as Hungary, are very important,” Komoda said. exclusive hotels that have six the Czech Republic and Poland. “These customers need high added or more stars which know how All Nippon Airways (ANA) oper- value and something that makes to lavish extravagance on their ates a Diamond Service and Plati- the holiday and the service differ- guests. num Service for frequent flyers that ent to anything that is being offered “A lot of Japanese people still include an array of perks, including by other travel agents.” think about Hawaii when they regularly receiving tour brochures of But Makoto Iida, regional man- picture luxury,” he said. “Sin- the most far-flung – and expensive – ager for Cox & Kings Japan, said gapore is also trying very hard destinations. local companies providing high- to capture more of the high-end “Our passengers really like to go end outbound holidays might find market. And Hong Kong and to exotic destinations, like Tanza- it more difficult to secure accom- Macau have their (appeal) for a nia, the Galapagos Islands and the modation in the best hotels because certain part of our high-spend- Amazon,” said Shoji Komoda, head of the average length of a Japanese ing clientele.”

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 5

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p04-05 Luxurymarket Japan-CS55rhFINALred.indd 5 21/12/15 9:59 am luxury market report china

of China outbound travellers last year was US$22,580. Per family, it’s US$58,000, an increase of 5.5 per cent over 2013. Their length of travel days also Once bitten, rose to 20 last year, from 18 in 2013. Florian Piper, senior international sales manager of Oceanwide Expeditions, did see a slowdown in forever travel bookings this year compared to last year, which he said could be due A weaker economy may tighten the Chinese to the softer economic situation in China; however, the China luxury purse strings for Prada, but not for the travel market remained important to Oceanwide Expeditions, he said. Poles. By Mimi Hudoyo Piper also confirmed that the Chi- nese travellers simply had become “very active”. Despite slower economic last year, according to The Chinese “In the past, they visited exotic growth in China, the general con- Luxury Traveller 2015 report con- places only for sightseeing and pho- sensus is travel remains the biggest ducted by Hurun and ILTM Asia. tography. Now these travellers want discretionary income expenditure Thirty-two per cent of 291 Chi- activities,” he said. for mainland consumers. nese super travellers surveyed said This fits well with Oceanwide And the wealthier ones are just they went to the Poles last year. Expeditions’ offerings. It owns and becoming more flamboyant by the Super travellers were those who operates expedition vessels to places Above Chinese day, hankering for new experiences spent US$30,000 and above on full of nature and wildlife. “We take super travellers and scoffing at run-of-the-mill travel last year. They comprised travellers to the remote polar region, on Oceanwide destinations. 65 per cent of all China outbound where no other means of trans- Expeditions Right Chinese The North and South Poles, for travellers, according to Hurun and portation can reach. If the nature travellers in example, were “hot” destinations ILTM Asia. in Antarctica stops us from going Venice for Chinese upmarket travellers The average spending per person farther, we operate via helicopter,

6 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p06-07 Luxurymarket China-CS55rhFINALred.indd 6 21/12/15 10:00 am for example. We fly people beyond is no longer passive the ice barrier to see, say, emperor The penguins.” Chinese seeks experiences and new With the ship acting as base upmarket locations camp, activities include guided buys luxury products that shore excursions, field camping, ski traveller… trekking and diving. reflect their individualism Piper said just to be on the safe side, he would check with Chinese operators if their clients could But even that has changed. Jace buy anything, they also Care about handle some of the activities, which Tyrell, deputy chief executive of nature and cultures and want to were quite strenuous. London’s Bond Street which rep- experience them. “They convinced me they were resents more than 600 businesses “As such, the so-called personal- serious, and they were!” he said. in Oxford, Regent and Bond Street, ised service is becoming even more Shaun Rein, founder and man- said: “Our Chinese guests are look- personalised for the luxury travel aging director of China Market ing for more than just shopping – operators. Research Group, echoed similar they are looking for an experience.” “As travel consultants catering sentiments of the changing habits This was a reason why Bond for these super rich people, there- of Chinese travellers. Speaking Street has launched Bond Street fore, we can no longer view the at this year’s ILTM Asia opening by Appointment – travel itinerar- market from just the cash point of forum, Rein said: “They are spend- ies curated individually according view (selling expensive products). ing more on experiences and are to travellers’ interests (see Luxury We need to care about the travel- looking to travel to new and more Shopping section). lers’ needs, specifically care enough exotic destinations. According to a study by Global to give them unforgettable experi- “Destinations like the Antarctica, Blue, Bond Street was the centre ences,” he said. South Africa and Canada are ‘hot’ They do not of interest for Chinese shoppers in The increasing demand for spe- only have as it allows consumers to get back London’s West End. China repre- cial interest tours was the reason Cash to buy to nature and share those experi- sented 23 per cent of total inter- behind the opening of Utour last anything, they ences on WeChat.” also Care national spending on the street in year, according to its general man- He also said Chinese travellers about nature 2014, according to Tyrell. ager Yu Hui. were moving away from buying and cultures Meanwhile, Forrest Lynn, found- She said Chinese travellers liked the same luxury products as every- and want to er and president of DIADEMA, to travel together with friends who one else, to brands that reflect their experience which claims to be the first China have the same interests. Therefore, individualism and creativity. them. travel company offering high-end the company has created modules “Over the past five years, the tailormade products, described the and special interest itineraries Forrest Lynn, Chinese consumer...rushed to buy founder and super travellers today as having covering self-drive, golf, medical Louis Vuitton and other luxury president, two Cs: Cash and Care. tourism and cultural tours, to suit items to show they belonged to the DIADEMA “They do not only have Cash to each group’s personal interests. elite group. “This is changing...Blink is out, experiences are in, especially in international travel,” he said. Raini Hamdi Jean-Luc Lai-Lam, regional manager Asia and Australasia of Seychelles Tourism Board, observed:“(Chinese) travellers are more into activities. They want to learn about the destination. They visit different islands to learn about the history and culture. Some bird lovers visit the Bird Island, too,” he said. However, this does not mean they aren’t interested in shopping anymore.

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 7

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p06-07 Luxurymarket China-CS55rhFINALred.indd 7 21/12/15 10:00 am luxury market report india Raini Hamdi

Growing in all sense of the word

The Indian luxury travel market continues to expand, its consumers showing maturity with their travel pickings. By Mimi Hudoyo

Not only is the Indian “Today this has changed. People tech-savvy. They go online, look at luxury market growing significant- are more educated, have money to destinations and get information, ly in numbers, it is also maturing. spend and are well-informed. then they tell us where they want In the past, More travellers are going to “People are ready to do a multi- to go.” travellers travel consultants with a specific million dollar wedding and can Chawla said travellers some- would follow idea of where they want to go and spend between 20 and 25 days on a times were so determined about the sugges- what they want to do. This is in no honeymoon, compared with five to their choices they would not buy tions of travel small measure thanks to informa- 10 days in the past.” the travel consultant’s suggested consultants. tion technology. For such trips, the spending is a places. Their choice of accommo- Travel planners TTG Asia Luxury whopping US$20,000 to US$25,000 “They tell us everything they dation would spoke to at this year’s ILTM Asia per trip. want and just ask us to create the be limited to said while family travel was Amit Chawla, director of OH itinerary and prepare everything. well-known strong, it was the wedding and Travel Experiences, New Delhi, said: They are ready to pay the price brands like honeymoon market that was their “We find more young couples going without bargaining,” he said. Hyatt or Hil- darling. away for honeymoons, exploring Amit Pradhan, senior manager ton. They also saw the growth of new destinations. special product of Ottila Interna- single travellers, especially those “Not only do we see a pick-up tional Mumbai, said: “The hon- Mohit Saigal, general manager, taking adventure trips. in demand to places like Australia eymooners are exploring islands. Travel With Us, Mohit Saigal, general manager and New Zealand, we have received They do not mind spending money New Delhi of Travel With Us (TWU), New enquiries on South America, Chile on their honeymoon. Delhi, said: “In the past, travellers and Peru.” “I had a client going to Australia would follow the suggestions of He added: “I would not say these for a 25-night cruise, including in travel consultants. Their choice of are (hot) destinations at the moment the Pacific area,” he said accommodation would be limited but people are starting to be aware Other popular destinations to the well-known brands like Hy- of them, thanks to information include Alaska, the Seychelles, Fiji, att or Hilton. technology. The young couples are Bali and Koh Samui.

8 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p08-09 Luxurymarket IndiaRHFINAL-CS55red.indd 8 21/12/15 10:00 am in, relaxing by the pool or having spa treatments. But Lai-Lam said they don’t just spend their time enjoying hotel facilities but have a real interest in culture and history and take tours that allow them to learn deeper about the destination. The travellers are also getting more adventurous. Chawla said Indian FIT travellers, honeymooners included, were more into doing things like self- drive in Australia and New Zea- land, or safari tours in South Africa and Kenya. He also noted they were more willing to try new experiences, including consuming local cuisines in the destination. Meanwhile, Otilla is seeing the emergence of more single travellers nowadays. “Such travellers usually take an adventure tour, either to Australia, Above Indian luxury travellers in Switzerland New Zealand or interior Europe doing activities like cycling or hiking,” Pradhan said. The tour companies interviewed The Seychelles in particular has for weddings in Seychelles. are expecting a growth of between seen growth since Air Seychelles The high-end Indian travellers 15 per cent and 20 per cent for this started flying between Mumbai like to travel in style, according to year and for the upward trend to and Mahe last year. Ottila’s Pradhan. They stay in upper continue in the coming years. Jean-Luc Lai-Lam, regional upscale properties, fly business or Saigal said: “I do believe that the manager Asia & Australasia for first class, and are chauffeur-driven Indian outbound luxury market will Seychelles Tourism Board, said: in limousines. grow exponentially in the coming “We have started penetrating the “They like to arrive in style, stay years.” market and opened an office in in style and depart in style. Some Pradhan agreed, saying: “The India a couple of years ago. travellers even take an airport trans- sources are no longer coming just “Air Seychelles opened direct fer in a helicopter,” Pradhan said. from the big cities but from the (thrice-weekly) flights between He also observed that these trav- second-tier and even the third-tier Mumbai and Mahe in December ellers now do not want to be rushed. ones. 2014, and the pick-up in arrivals They can spend an entire day of “The people have the cash to has been significant.” doing something outside their hotel, travel. They are just waiting to be In his visit to India in August, then spending the next day staying tapped.” James Michel, President of Repub- lic of Seychelles, reportedly told the press that there was a record 125 knows exactly where he wants per cent growth in Indian arriv- The to go and what he wants to do als to Seychelles between January Indian and July, compared with the same upmarket is splurging more if on a period of last year. honeymoon Lai-Lam said the Seychelles’ traveller… representative office in India had is more adventurous with even received a couple of enquiries places and activities

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 9

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p08-09 Luxurymarket IndiaRHFINAL-CS55red.indd 9 21/12/15 10:01 am focus luxury products

Clockwise from above Danang helicopter tours; The Strand Cruise poolside; beachfront yoga at The Nam Hai The new glamorous From booking ski champions to accompany guests, to launching a cruise ship just so the service would match the hotel’s, luxury operators add new shine to their product offerings, report Mimi Hudoyo and Raini Hamdi

10 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p10-13 Focus Luxuryproducts-CS55rh_tkyFINALrhred.indd 10 21/12/15 10:01 am Old definition of luxury: grand hotels, first class airline travel, limousine rides New definition of luxury: all of the above, but with out-of-this-world experiences

hat is luxury travel? If the ques- tion was asked five years ago, travellers, suppliers and research- ers would invariably have said it meant staying in grand and five- star hotels, flying first class and taking limousine rides. WToday’s luxury travellers demand more. Having butler service and speedy Wi-Fi in the suite have become the standard for a luxury hotel. Travellers are looking for out-of-the-ordinary experiences, according to luxury travel buyers interviewed at this year’s ILTM Asia. Data from Reed Travel Exhibition itself shows that in 2011 when the ILTM kicked off in Asia, the top five buyer categories were private travel arrangers, outbound tour operators, incentive travel organisers, business travel agencies and group travel organisers. This year, extraordinary experience, business travel, destination wedding, adventure travel and retail travel agencies were the top five buyer categories. However, in terms of products buyers were looking for, little had changed. Alison Gilmore, senior exhibition director ILTM portfolio of Reed Travel Exhibition, said: “You might have thought that with the priority now on delivering out-of-the-ordinary experiences that extreme adventures would have made to the top

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 11

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p10-13 Focus Luxuryproducts-CS55rh_tkyFINALrhred.indd 11 21/12/15 10:01 am focus luxury products

10. But it actually stayed in the same position as four years ago – at number 15. “Products such as luxury hotels, boutique resorts, beach resorts, private villas and cruises remained top of the list. What does it tell us? It is not what you do, but the way you do it,” Gilmore said. Suppliers are racing to be the ‘new glamorous’. Ani Villas, which has new properties in Sri Lanka and Thailand, for example, has come up with the concept of an exclusive all-inclusive service. Anthony Dupont, director of sales of Ani Villas, said: “In Thailand, for example, we have a 10-villa property. If you bring 12 people and only six rooms are needed, we’ll give you the rooms for the price for six and we won’t sell the other four rooms to other people.” The price includes food, drinks, alcoholic bever- ages, a spa treatment, children’s programme and telephone calls. “So it is like staying at your own hotel; you have your own general manager; you decide the food you want to eat,” he said. The Thai property targets families, weddings, special interest groups (for example, yoga) and small board meetings. In Asia, its target markets are Hong Kong, Singapore and China. Over in Yangon, The Strand Hotel is launching its own river cruiser, The Strand Cruise, which will set sail on January 4, so that guests will have a seamless service experience on board and on ground in the hotel. The vessel boasts 27 cabin suites and all the features passengers would expect of a Strand product. Jerome Seban, general manager of The Strand Cruise, said: “Having operated The Strand Hotel in Yangon for the past decade, we know there has been a steady growth in demand from luxury travellers to explore the ancient monuments of Myanmar by using the Ayeyarwady’s waterways. This demand presents us with a opportunity to reinvent the legendary style and unique personality of The Strand Hotel within a contemporary river cruise experience.” Another ‘moving hotel’ is the new Belmond Grand Hibernian, the first luxury sleeper train in Ireland. The train accommodates up to 40 guests in elegant, private en-suite cabins and adds to Belmond’s product offerings in exotic destinations. “We target a very specific customer profile, people who are self-assured and well-travelled,” said Ralph Aruzza, chief sales and marketing officer of Belmond. “Travel for them is deeply personal...they are looking for a sense of uniqueness, a surprise and an opportunity to create very special memories.” Guests staying at the Belmond Copacabana Palace located in Brazil’s Iguazu National Park, for instance,

12 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p10-13 Focus Luxuryproducts-CS55rh_tkyFINALrhred.indd 12 21/12/15 10:01 am four years ago, but Held felt it was time to tap the Asian market and attended ILTM Asia for the fi rst time this year. Over in Vietnam, fi ve luxury products, The Reverie Saigon, The Nam Hai, La Residence Ho- tel & Spa, Sofi tel Legend Metropole Hanoi and a Paradise Peak cruise vessel, have come together under Quintessential Collection to create extraordinary experiences for guests. It recently hatched a US$20,000 package that included two nights in each of the collection’s fi ve luxury products – working out to a princely US$2,000 per night per person. But, transfers were in Bentleys and Rolls-Royces, while exclusives included portraits of the client painted by a distinguished Vietnamese artist; quiet time spent with scholar Phan Thuan An at his house, where a royal dinner also awaited; a private dinner cruise along the Saigon River; and an afternoon with City Treasure Hunt’s Rosemary Cook, a highly informed expat who provides day-long tours that incorporate furniture, home decor, antiques and fashion. “Anyone can visit Hue, but to understand it and know it on any sort of meaningful level, you have to talk to the right people,” said Phan Trong Minh, La Residence’s general manager. “Mr An is a fountain of knowledge, and the cooking techniques his wife uses are generations-old.” Said Quintessential Collection Vietnam’s managing director, Jim Sullivan: “Increasingly, (there is) a cohort of travellers to Vietnam that wants to travel

Above Belmond train in a Rolls Royce or a Bentley, that has the resources Left Away From It All to indulge Vietnam’s most refi ned opportunities, and that wants to interact with some of the country’s most compelling personalities. “The days of Good Morning, Vietnam are over. have exclusive access to Christ the Redeemer atop There is now a range of really capable fi ve-star prop- the Corcovado Mountain at dawn before it opens to erties in Vietnam, and then there is yet another level the public. – the quintessential stratum that comprises proper- Another operator, Away From It All, taps active, ties that are not only the best properties in their experimental travellers seeking outdoor experiences, destination but among the best in the world.” but these are no ordinary programmes. Its Away with the Champs product, for instance, has former world- class athletes such as Marina Kiehl (Olympic gold medallist, Calgary 1988), Mike Kluge (1990 Moun- tain Bike World Cup Winner) and Jan Ullrich (1997 Tour de France winner and 2000 Sydney Olympic gold medallist) go on trips with clients. The main idea (for “If travellers want to tap (a champ’s) professional Away with the Champs) knowledge to improve their skills in skiing, for is to have a champion (world-class athlete) example, the champ is more than happy to share his on the trip as a travel knowledge, but the main idea is to have a champion companion and friend. on the trip as travel companion and friend,” said CEO Tilman Held. Tilman Held, German and Swiss travellers are the main market CEO, Away From It All for the company, which was founded in Germany

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 13

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p10-13 Focus Luxuryproducts-CS55rh_tkyFINALrhred.indd 13 21/12/15 10:01 am focus luxury shopping

From dining with celebrity chefs, to rubbing shoulders with designers Smooth and celebrated artisans, shopping isn’t just about buying luxury goods operators anymore, reports Mimi Hudoyo

14 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p14-15 Focus shopping-CS55rhFINALred.indd 14 21/12/15 10:02 am hop till you drop is so yesterday. As wealthy brands have special London-only products. We would Asian travellers become more affluent, a inform clients of this and take them there,” he said. shopping stop on a tour programme can no Over in Spain, new at El Corte Inglés’ flagship longer cut it. In fact, shopping has quickly store in Madrid, a complex that encompasses several When people moved from being the pleasurable act of buildings and carries the most comprehensive col- travel to idle browsing or buying coveted goods, to being to a lection of designers of any large store in Spain, is a Europe, their Sfull experience that is deeper than instant gratification two-floor culinary paradise, where at least three great first motiva- which buying the latest watch or bag satisfies. chefs are represented: David Muñoz with his restaurant tion is Upmarket department stores and designer outlets in StreetXo, Roberto Ruiz with Cascabel and Jordi Roca leisure, Europe are going the extra mile to offer eyebrow-lifting with Rocambolesc. second is programmes that make shopping just one part of an Not only does the Serrano Gourmet Space combine shopping and overall delightful outing for Asian travellers. the latest gastronomic trends and products, it offers the third is food. Javier Fernandez Take Bond Street by Appointment, for instance, a best views of Madrid’s Golden Mile. Andrino, new, exclusive service launched this year for the Chi- Interviewed during this year’s ILTM Asia in Shang- international nese market. hai in June, Javier Fernandez Andrino, international marketing & tourism director, El Instead of just having visitors browse London’s marketing & tourism director of El Corte Inglés, said: Corte Inglés Bond Street, home to more than 130 luxury retailers, “When people travel to Europe, their first motivation is elegant boutiques, exclusive brands and designer fash- leisure, second is shopping and third is food.” ion, Bond Street by Appointment tailors programmes, Among the Asian customers are Singaporeans, Chi- be it three hours or three weeks, for the ultimate luxury nese, Thais, Filipinos and Koreans. shopping experience around Bond Street and Mayfair, “Here, you can combine amazing shopping with a explained Jace Tyrrell, deputy chief executive of Bond gourmet experience at the same time,” he said Street. Opened early this year, Andrino said the new con- Programmes can include VIP services at boutiques, cept had been well accepted among customers. galleries and restaurants in and around Bond Street Meanwhile, McArthurGlen Group, which owns and and Mayfair; private shopping including out-of-hours operates 20 Designer Outlets in eight cities in Europe access; trunk shows and exclusive previews; hands-free and one in Canada, is working with tourism boards, shopping with hotel drop-offs; tax-free shopping; and tour operators and MICE organisers to promote shop- fast-track service. ping. Beyond the shopping experience, programmes can Anthony Rippingale, head of tourism of McArthur- also include the Royal Warrant and British brands tour; Glen, said: “We want to make sure that travellers know spa and beauty treatments; etiquette experiences and we exist and they come and shop with us.” behind-the-scene insights into Bond Street and Mayfair. To reach out to the market, McArthurGlen Group In reaching out to rich customers, Bond Street works does its own consumer research, and forms partner- with independent tour operators, luxury advisors and ships with tourism boards including NTOs in the Neth- hotels in London. erlands, Italy and Germany, and industry partners. Bond Street by Appointment targets the upmarket For example, noticing that a lot of Indonesians, Ma- travellers who have been to the top-tier cities in Europe laysians and Singaporeans are going to Eastern Europe and visited London a couple of times – “those who nowadays, McArthurGlen works with their planners to want something unique”, said Tyrrell. entice them to its outlet just outside Vienna. Recently, “The programmes are individually created (to it held a champagne reception for a group of about 100 match) the customer’s requirements,” he added. Indonesians there. The travellers were given discount Future plans include promoting Bond Street by Ap- cards to entice them further to shop at the outlet. pointment to the luxury travel markets of Singapore, Last year, McArthurGlen opened an office in Kuala Malaysia and Thailand, he said. Lumpur, with a satellite team in Jakarta and Singapore. With access to iconic flagship stores, international “It is important to have people in the market to han- boutiques and world-renowned art houses, the service dle the business,” Rippingale said. is suitable for international connoisseurs and fashioni- The group also works with planners of congresses stas searching for the elite and memorable ‘Mayfair and incentive travel to arrange meet-and-greet services moment’, Tyrrell said. and special hospitality arrangements at its outlets. “There are many independent businesses in the “We want to add value to the destination and to en- To p Tiffany, Bond lanes and arcades in Mayfair and travellers can visit sure that we are working with the industry to support Street Below McArthurGlen’s their studios and see the (artisans) working on jewel- them and in turn be integrated into their programmes. Castel Romano lery and furniture, for example. We do marketing support and help them with itinerary Designer Outlet, “As well, some of the well-known international development”, said Rippingale. near Rome

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 15

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p14-15 Focus shopping-CS55rhFINALred.indd 15 21/12/15 10:02 am guide independent hotels Single and loving it With changing customer behaviour and as more hotel chains encroach on their territory, established independent players revamp their game to stay ahead

Anthony Ross at Royal Plaza on Scotts, Singapore, a Lifestyle collection of Preferred

Preferred revamps entire portfolio

Background In the biggest strong B2B brand but in the current times it needs to be Anthony Ross change since the Ueberroth a stronger B2C brand. Plus when you have to nurture Executive vice family bought the company 10 three brands, Preferred, Summit, Sterling, it has some president Asia-Pacifi c, years ago, the then Preferred kind of a diluting effect. So we’ve consolidated every- Middle East & Africa Hotel Group retired its estab- thing around Preferred Hotels & Resorts and the fi ve Preferred Hotels & lished brands Summit Hotels collections. Resorts & Resorts and Sterling Hotels The upside for the hotels is our direct-to-consumer in March and moved all 650 website, and a new emphasis on social media. Book- member hotels to just one master brand, Preferred ings in Asia-Pacifi c have doubled since the relaunch. Hotels & Resorts (PHR), under fi ve collections: Legend, LVX, Lifestyle, Connect and Preferred Residences. Should your travel agency partners be worried then? No, it’s a big world and there is enough business for eve- What drove the change? Lindsey (Ueberroth, PHR ryone. As I said, we’ve always been a good B2B with president & CEO) in particular felt that the way people TMCs and agencies, particularly the Virtuoso’s and the were buying travel was changing, thus (we had to as- Signature’s (of the industry). There is always going to sess) the importance of social media, OTAs, the direct be a role for travel agencies, particularly the TMCs and relationship between hotels and consumers, between consultants who can craft itineraries. If anything, it is representation companies like us and consumers, etc. the OTAs for whom we’re going to give a run for the As a former hotelier myself, I can say Preferred is a money.

16 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p16-18 Guide Independent hotel-redrhFINAL.indd 16 21/12/15 10:02 am Take me through the collections briefly. While Pre- ferred Residences is clear-cut, what’s the difference SLH keeps sharp at turn of age between Legend and LVX (luxury), and between Lifestyle and Connect? Legend is ultra luxury, smaller, affluent ones like to know that more personalised, has significant architecture (ie, Victor Wong programmes can be customised less to do with age, though its name implies that) and Area & development for them. The number of discern- director Asia-Pacific is in a great location. Typically it commands one of ing travellers is growing, fuelled Small Luxury Hotels the top two RevPARs in the city. LVX comprises the (SLH) of the World by extensive travel experience, more traditional luxury hotels, is larger, is in the top exhaustion from cookie-cutter ho- 10 in terms of RevPAR and has a more mixed market tel options and, most importantly, – MICE, corporate, leisure – because it is larger. access to social media. Lifestyle is also luxury but it’s more about the style SLH celebrates its 25th anniversary As a result, these travellers of service and decor. Connect is a casual collection – this year. How is it keeping up with are changing the way they book, clean, neat and good but not over-the-top service. the times? We will be rolling out a rooms they choose and rates they number of initiatives targeting our are willing to pay. Fifteen years How is the change deeper than just redistributing 650 hotel members, travel agency part- ago, luxury is reflected by extrava- members into five collections? We’ve completely re- ners and travellers from the end of gant hardware like grand chande- done our mystery shopping audits. We used to have this year. liers, enormous lobbies and gold- some 750 points – if the bed was bad, the hotel didn’t Seeing how travellers are chang- plated taps. Today, luxury means get a point; same if the doorman didn’t have his ing the way they consume adver- having choice and that is why we badge on. But clearly the bed is more important than tisements and search for travel want to help our member hotels the doorman not wearing a night badge. So we’re products, we will be enhancing create unique experiences for their now more heavily weighted on factors like service, our marketing programmes for our guests and, for ourselves, to offer sleep experience, cleanliness, etc, and on the overall hotel members, such as through a diverse portfolio of properties feel of the hotel. the use of new media channels for worldwide. The audit is also far more contemporary now. For marketing communications. The quality of experience at example, who says a restaurant today must have ta- We will also be supporting our various touchpoints has also blecloths? Some restaurants today look cool and have member hotels in their efforts to become far more important now. high average checks without them. offer unique experiences and to be To ensure these touchpoints Aside from the revamped audits, we have other market price leaders. deliver the highest standards of criteria in terms of the hotel’s market positioning, What won’t change is our focus interaction and experience, we are awards they’ve won, etc. So it’s broader than just on maintaining and attracting hotel improving our mystery inspector the fulfilment of standards, although standards are members that serve travellers who programme and expanding our important. are keen on small-sized luxury global pool of mystery inspectors. Preferred revamps entire portfolio properties. The definition of small How do you feel about chains going into your turf? varies – here in Asia, in key cities, How do you feel about hotel chains They try to get into our space but they are still going a small room count can go up to going into your turf? That simply to tell the hotels to do this or that. Whereas we under- 200. In secondary cities, it will be means that the business of hotel stand and love independent hotels; we let them keep around 50 keys and not stretch- affiliation/representation that we their own brand and personality. We provide a plat- ing beyond 80. In fact, the average are in is the right business model. form for them to compete for business in a reasonable room count of all our member That’s why global hotel chains are cost structure compared with the chains. hotels is 49. jumping in. The market is large – Raini Hamdi We will also be enhancing our enough for more hotel affiliation travel agency website and for part- players. ners who are not used to commis- Although more global hotel sions and bookings only via GDS, chains are representing independ- we are looking at ways to enhance ent boutique properties, these There is always going to be a role for travel the reservation channels and entice properties are still operated with agencies, particularly the TMCs and consultants them to book. the chain’s DNA and SOP. I’m who can craft itineraries. If anything, it is the For travellers, we will be im- not sure how that will play out OTAs for whom we’re going to give a run for the proving the benefits of The Club, over time, whether independent money. our loyalty programme. boutique properties belonging to

Anthony Ross, executive vice president, global hotel chains will be able to Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa What drive these initiatives? Travel- retain their individuality. – Karen Preferred Hotels & Resorts lers today like options and the Yue

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 17

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p16-18 Guide Independent hotel-redrhFINAL.indd 17 21/12/15 10:02 am guide independent hotels

Macalister Mansion, Penang, Malaysia, a Design Hotel Worldhotels dreams, dares, does

Background In 2014, World- Roland Jegge hotels embarked on a new Executive vice journey, Dream, Dare, Do, president Asia-Pacific which it charted with the help Worldhotels of IFH and its ‘Reverse Think- ing’ approach. In summary, the strategy is designed to put the dreams and experiences of its guests and hotels at the core of everything it does as an organisation.

Why the new direction? The hospitality industry has moved from a standardised to an experiential model. Millennials, who now comprise a significant percentage of our customers, have different expectations on booking and travel experiences. Technology allows for new booking possibilities and needs.

Design steps up engagement What’s being done this year about it? This year, we are taking the approach to the next phase. We are not only with partners. We also launched evaluating what the Worldhotels story means to our Serdar Kutucu Design Hotels Pro, a new booking clients, but are also helping our hotels to define and Vice president and information platform spe- create their own stories. brand, marketing & cially designed for travel profes- We have relaunched our worldhotels.com brand communications sionals. The sales exchange event website this year, which visualises our Dream, Dare, Do Design Hotels formats were also revamped in approach and allows our customers to book our hotels order to create a more engaging based on their story and the experiences they provide. and educational setting. In total, This will help us increase guest loyalty. Speaking of What are you doing differently?We we have 29 exchanges in 25 cities loyalty, we have also introduced two exciting new recently launched the Design Ho- worldwide. features to Worldhotels’ loyalty programme Peakpoints tels Brand Lab at our Berlin head- this year. They are: Peakpoints Bag Tag, which allows quarters. Home to our in-house How does Design Hotels Pro guests to track their luggage back in case it’s lost dur- creative team – a rarity among benefit consultants?The launch of ing travel, and Peakpoints TravelSure, which provides hospitality brands – the Brand Lab the portal is meant to help travel travellers with emergency support during their travels, is a seedbed for innovative and professionals gain direct access be it with transport in case of illness or translation experimental ideas to be shaped to rates and benefits, and reduce services. and shared. their waiting time to receive The space also operates as a base a proposal, making the entire How do these changes benefit agencies? Our experien- for member hotels and hospital- experience more seamless and tial approach meets the demand for more authentic ity partners to meet and engage in convenient. Membership comes and extraordinary travel experiences – and will equip creative discourse with influencers with numerous benefits including agencies with the information they need to create and innovators from the worlds of travel industry rates of up to 50 one-of-a-kind travel experiences for their clients. Our art, design and commerce. Since per cent off, commission paid in added services, the Bag Tag and TravelSure, give travel 2007, Design Hotels has been creat- local currencies, and added value agencies additional tools to sell a trip or a vacation – if ing platforms for cross-industry extras such as welcome drinks they have a client who is apprehensive about travelling gatherings. and discounted spa treatments for to a new destination, they can ease their worries with We have increased both on- travel agencies and their clients. TravelSure’s emergency services. line and offline engagement with All travel professionals with a Selling hotel rooms is mostly about details – any- the community through events valid travel agency ID are eligible thing extra you can offer a client might just close the at our own Brand Lab as well as to register. – Raini Hamdi deal. – Raini Hamdi

18 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p16-18 Guide Independent hotel-redrhFINAL.indd 18 21/12/15 10:02 am destination australia As gorgeous as Grange Adelaide Hills Wine

Above Adelaide Hills wine region

For travel connoisseurs, Adelaide outh Australia Tourism wine regions and 200 cellar doors. Commission (SATC) is Highlighting that Adelaide hints of Australia’s finest wine, planting the seeds of provides 74 per cent of the country’s a brand campaign to wine exports, SATC’s chief execu- be launched in South- tive, Rodney Harrex, said: “This is Grange, must-visit restaurants east Asia early next year aimed at where all the premium wines come Sshowing that Adelaide is “just as from and we have a lot of experi- such as Appellation at The exciting” as the other major cities in ential offerings for the higher-end Australia. tourists especially. Louise in Barossa Valley and Dana Urmonas, regional direc- “We are the most well-equipped tor, South-east Asia and India at destination to provide the luxury destination resorts such as SATC, declined to provide details clientele with an authentic wining of the campaign as it is still in the and dining experience, which is our Southern Ocean Lodge on planning stage, but revealed that unique proposition.” the overall budget allocated for For example, a mere 20-minute Kangaroo Island. But its luxury Malaysia and Singapore alone this drive takes clients right on the door- financial year is about A$1 million steps of the wine region Adelaide (US$700,000). The two markets, Hills, Harrex pointed out. “Unlike offering is still largely unknown along with China and India, are its other cities, it is so convenient for top Asian sources. visitors to get out of our city centre to Asians. By Paige Lee Pei Qi The wine capital of Australia and be transported into a whole is the only city in the country that new world within minutes.” is within an hour’s drive to seven Pointing to Australia’s widely ac-

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 19

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p19-21 destination Australia-CS55rh_tkyredRHFINALred.indd 19 21/12/15 10:03 am destination australia

Above Remarkable rocks on Kangaroo Island

claimed wildlife sanctuary in Kan- especially attract the luxury seg- garoo Island as another tourism ment.” pull, Harrex said it is the best place However, Yap added: “More in Australia to see native animals high-end consumers networking in the wild in a coastal setting. events should be held to promote A range of accommodations on Adelaide since these luxury prod- the island, which is a 30-minute ucts would not appeal to mass fl ight from Adelaide, includes vil- consumers via the traditional chan- las that will appeal to the luxury nels.” clientele. Vivien Yeo, travel editor at Quo- But despite the multitude of tient TravelPlanner, agreed and sug- offerings that can satisfy upmarket gested: “Regular product updates clients, Harrex acknowledged: and familiarisation trips, as well “There is a need for us to raise as content marketing partnerships awareness about our destination specifi c to the luxury segment, will because while there is so much we also be benefi cial.” can offer, no one knows about it.” Explaining why Quotient has not “There has also been a lot of seen any notable increase in interest changes in the city over the past towards Adelaide, she said: “In few years, including the addition general, Adelaide falls behind cities of new hotels, restaurants and bars such as Sydney and Melbourne in that inject a lot of energy into the attracting the tourist dollar. city,” he added, emphasising that “Travellers may not be attracted Adelaide is not a “sleepy city”. to Adelaide or necessarily know General manager of Country it has much to offer, and it does Holidays Singapore, Jess Yap, not help that Adelaide does not agreed Adelaide can appeal to rich boast iconic attractions such as the Asians. She said: “It has a host of Sydney Harbour Bridge or Sydney small lodges whose exclusivity can Opera House.”

Unlike other cities, it is so convenient for visitors to get out of our city centre and be transported into a whole new world within minutes.

Rodney Harrex, chief executive, South Australia Tourism Commission

20 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p19-21 destination Australia-CS55rh_tkyredRHFINALred.indd 20 21/12/15 10:03 am any – they are provided with either as Australia’s wine capital, the Five a refund or at least, a chance to National Wine Centre’s ‘Wined luxe come back again for free. Bar’ boasts Australia’s largest tasting room experience with products Chocoholics, rejoice visitors able to sample 120 A chocolate lover’s dream-come- different wines thanks to the true, Haigh’s Chocolates is touted installation of Enomatic wine as one of the best chocolates in preservation and dispensing Australia. Discover the heritage machines. The ‘Wined Bar’ is part Swim with dolphins behind Haigh’s, Australia’s oldest of the centre’s Cellar Door where Join Temptation Sailing’s Dolphin chocolate manufacturer, where visitors can choose, pour and Swim from Glenelg, which offers chocolate is handmade in Haigh’s taste every wine from Penfolds’ the unique experience of viewing Chocolates Visitor Centre. The half- famous Grange to boutique wine and swimming with wild bottle- hour tour of the chocolate factory labels. nose dolphins in their natural shows how the bitter cocoa bean is habitat. Come face to face literally transformed into a sweet delicacy. Sofitel Adelaide to with these magnificent and playful Visitors will of course get to sample open in 2018 mammals in this 3.5-hour coastal and buy these mouthwatering Adelaide will welcome a new cruise which includes a wet suit, delights. Accor hotel in 2018 with the mask and snorkel. Temptation opening of Sofitel Adelaide on Sailing also offers a “dolphin Largest wine tasting Currie Street in the city’s CBD. sighting guarantee” so that if – on room in Australia The hotel is part of a 32-storey the rare chance visitors do not see In keeping with Adelaide’s position mixed-use tower, which is slated to become the tallest residential development in South Australia. The five-star property will offer 250 rooms and suites over 24 floors. Suited to both leisure and business travellers, facilities include a restaurant, four bars, ballroom, swimming pool and health and fitness centre.

Luxury amid the ocean Southern Ocean Lodge is one of Australia’s finest luxury lodges, promising an unparallelled experience on Kangaroo Island in South Australia. Perched atop a secluded cliff on a rugged stretch of coast, the lodge commands peerless views of the wild Southern Ocean and pristine Kangaroo Island wilderness. Its 21 luxury suites feature bespoke furnishings, lavish sleeping areas, and glass-walled ensuite and outdoor terrace for spectacular views of the ocean and wilderness.

To p Sofitel Adelaide Left Southern Ocean Lodge’s Osprey Pavilion Lounge

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 21

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p19-21 destination Australia-CS55rh_tkyredRHFINALred.indd 21 21/12/15 10:03 am destination macau More novelties from new hotels

Above Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central

New luxury products espite a recent Outfitted in warm brown and slump in visitor red tones, the latest range of suites continue to rise in Macau, numbers to Ma- comprises one Terrace Suite (242m2) cau, in part due to and 79 Executive Deluxe Suites (over adding many ‘firsts’ to a strip China’s effort to 140m2) and they are located on the cut lavish spending, the SAR is still hotel’s uppermost levels – floors 40 already bursting with novelties. enjoyingD product expansion, in- and 41 in the Sky Tower, and floors dicative of the confidence investors 38, 39 and 40 in the Earth Tower – of- have in its long-term future. fering spectacular views of the Cotai By Prudence Lui Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Strip. Central recently unveiled 80 new The hotel’s spokesperson Jen- luxuriously oversized suites, nifer Welker said: “These suites are further adding to its already vast designed to appeal to many types of selection of suite categories and travellers seeking an ultimate geta- boosting the total number to more way. From business travellers and than 350. This addition creates a groups to couples and families. They “hotel within a hotel” in the now will certainly attract MICE travel- 4,001-room property. lers who may wish to hold evening

22 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p22-23 destination MacauFINALred.indd 22 21/12/15 10:03 am cocktail parties. We are the first and only hotel in Macau to offer a spacious Terrace Suite which is ideal for cocktail parties with its outdoor We are the space and views overlooking the first and Cotai Strip and beyond to the Ma- only hotel cau Tower where they can also take in Macau to offer a in the fireworks.” spacious Another Starwood Hotels & Re- Terrace sorts brand, St Regis Macao, Cotai Suite which Central, is opening this month, is ideal for targeting luxury leisure travellers cocktail and MICE groups of up to 400 parties with delegates. General manager of sales its outdoor and marketing for both the St Regis space and Macao and Sheraton Grand Macao, views over- Above Studio City Macau Below Premier Plus shuttle by Turbojet Daniella Tonetto, expects to draw looking the Cotai Strip... the well-heeled from Hong Kong, porter service within the terminal. Japan, Korea and Taiwan but will Jennifer Welker, Four Advance booking is required. also explore new markets such as spokesperson, India and South-east Asia. Sheraton Macao luxe Hotel Famous Teochew “New St Regis openings in products restaurant enters Mumbai and Kuala Lumpur will certainly increase the brand rec- Pak Loh Chiu Chow Restaurant ognition for these regions. Apart has entered Macau by opening from showcasing architecture and a branch in Galaxy Macau. With more than 40 years expertise in designs, what make The St Regis Studio City opens Macao special is the signature serving fine Teochew cuisine, the experiences guests have come to Officially inaugurated on October restaurant adopts a modern design expect. Our St Regis Butler Service 27, the Hollywood-themed Studio yet is rich in authentic Teochew for all guests marks a first for any City boasts a 5,000-seat multi- themes such as the predominant hotel in Macau. Providing 24-hour purpose entertainment centre use of red and gold colours. Led anticipatory service, it customises a designed to host live concerts, by executive chef Chan Wa Yin guest’s stay according to their spe- theatre shows and sporting events who has decades of experience in cific needs, tastes and preferences. and a myriad of entertainment ex- Teochew cuisine, the outlet offers The e-Butler service enables guests periences including The House of a wide variety of classic Teochew to access this convenience while on Magic and a Warner Bros. Bat- dishes. the go and gives back to guests the man-themed 4-D flight simulation most sought-after of all luxuries – Batman Dark Flight. Guests can More wings at Wing Lei time,” Tonetto said. also ride in Asia’s highest figure- Michelin-star Wing Lei at Wynn Meanwhile, the second resort in eight Ferris wheel called Golden Macau has refreshed its design. An Macau by Steve Wynn, the US$4.1 Reel which straddles the resort’s iconic crystal dragon – over 90,000 billion, 1,700-key Wynn Palace is two-tower hotel at a height of Swarovski crystals and individual scheduled to be unveiled in Cotai some 130m. blown glass elements – catches the on June 25. This 28-storey, floral- eye, as a beautiful moon gate and a themed hotel contains 1,700 rooms, Most agreeable way heroic-scale cloisonné horse at the a performance lake, meeting to Macau entrance from within the hotel. spaces, a casino, a spa, retail offer- Get a hassle-free ferry journey to ings and F&B outlets. and from Macau with TurboJet’s Guests will be transported into Premier Plus service. Patrons in a world of entertainment via a Premier Grand Class and Pre- breathtaking ride in themed, air- mier VIP Cabin enjoy free land conditioned SkyCabs that traverse transfer between Macau Outer a stunning 3.2ha Performance Lake Harbour Ferry Terminal and any into the heart of the resort. destination in Macau, with free

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 23

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p22-23 destination MacauFINALred.indd 23 21/12/15 10:03 am destination japan

Away from the madding crowd

Luxury planners could suggest ead for Japan’s common in Japan at the moment, woods one of but it is certainly being talked ‘glamping’ to clients as the new these nights and about. More venues are appearing you’ll be in for a and it certainly appears that the way to experience Japan, as big surprise – be- trend is developing,” said Fumi cause a nation that loves camping Miyauchi, director-global market- more glam camps sprout up nearlyH as much as it loves luxury ing, Hoshino Resorts. has embraced ‘glamping’. A by-word for luxury ac- At least a dozen sites that are a commodation, Hoshino Resorts in the woods, reports combination of glamour and camp- opened its Hoshinoya Fuji resort ing have recently appeared in Japan on October 30, with 40 luxurious Julian Ryall – of varying degrees of ‘glamour’ guest cabins looking out over and ‘luxury’, it must be admitted – Lake Kawaguchi-ko and the iconic but the enthusiasm for what is still Mount Fuji. Ranging from 44sqm a novel concept is so strong that to 53sqm in size, the cabins are one of the country’s most prestig- clustered around a camp fi re on ious hotel brands has decided that the Cloud Terrace. it needs a glamping property. A grove of red pines surrounds “I wouldn’t say that glamping is its restaurant, while the site also

24 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p24-27 destination Japan-CS55rh_tkyredFINALred.indd 24 21/12/15 10:04 am has a library cafe. Early morning Fuji, but they want to see it and yoga sessions are conducted in the experience it for themselves,” Mi- surrounding forest. It is also fully yauchi said. equipped to host corporate meet- The call of the wild is also taking I wouldn’t say that glamping is common ings. foreign visitors to Tochigi Camp & in Japan at the moment, but it is certainly The resort operates throughout Cabins, in Tochigi Prefecture north being talked about. More venues are the year. of Tokyo. appearing and it certainly appears that “We have already had a lot of “Only a small percentage of the trend is developing. interest from travel agencies and our visitors are from overseas and Fumi Miyauchi, the media in Japan, but also from we have had guests from the US, director of global marketing, other parts of Asia,” Miyauchi told China and South Korea, but they Hoshino Resorts TTG Asia Luxury. are telling us that they want to see The project appears to have par- more of Japan outside of the big ticularly struck a chord with fans cities and they want to see more of the outdoor life – but as with all of the nature for which Japan is mod-cons – in Taiwan, Singapore quite famous,” said owner Toshiro

and South Korea. Ikegami. Above Hoshinoya “A lot of people are interested “We are getting to the point now Fuji – not quite because they know about Mount that we are completely full during camping hardship

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 25

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p24-27 destination Japan-CS55rh_tkyredFINALred.indd 25 21/12/15 10:04 am destination japan

the peak parts of the year and weekends and we really need more space to extend the park,” he said. For Ikegami, the biggest problem I think when dealing with foreign visitors that most is the language barrier. He speaks people live English, but struggles when it comes and work in the big to communicating with Chinese and cities and Korean guests. they just Visitors to the Sweetgrass site, want to get in the mountains of Gunma Prefec- away from ture north of Tokyo, get to stay in that, even comfortably appointed treehouses, if it is only native American-style teepees and for a short log cabins – with the roaring wood time, and stoves one of the most abiding be closer memories for city-dwellers, accord- to nature. ing to reservations manager Ayaka Ayaka Maruyama. Maruyama, “I think that most people live and reservations work in the big cities and they just manager, Sweetgrass want to get away from that, even if it is only for a short time, and be closer to nature,” she said. “When people come here, they really enjoy being able to cook outdoors; they love sitting in front of the stoves in the winter and they like walking in the forests around us.” A small percentage of Sweetgrass’ in one of the hotel’s top suites, visitors is from abroad – again, Five free access to the Heat and Water China, South Korea and nations in luxe area at The Spa and a selection South-east Asia comprise the bulk of of traditional delicacies from the foreign campers – but while Maruy- products Nihonbashi district of Tokyo. ama said the key to the business is to keep repeat visitors coming back, Love this bus! she admitted that will prove more Isetan Mitsukoshi Travel has difficult with overseas guests. reconfigured a bus that was In contrast to the mountain originally designed to transport glamping sites, Hatsushima Island Luxe combo 45 people and fitted it out with Resort is playing to its strengths by The Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, all the top mod-cons for just 10 erecting spacious tents and South has launched a new package that people to travel in comfort and Seas-style bungalows overlooking unites a stay at the luxury hotel luxury. The interior has been the waters of Sagami Bay, off Shi- with a private boat cruise on Tokyo modelled on business class in zuoka, south-west of Tokyo. Bay. The one-hour trip aboard what aircraft, with full reclining leather “People come to us because they is described as the water-borne seats and all the other perks that can camp, but they can also go equivalent of a limousine takes up make returning to economy class fishing, boating and other activities to 12 passengers through Tokyo’s so difficult. in the waters around the island,” historical and cultural centre, and The bus departs from To- said general manager Katsuhito some of the city’s most intriguing – kyo for destinations across the Yamashita. and often overlooked – districts. country, taking the hassle out “I don’t think that’s a combina- The sleek silver cruiser has a sky of getting on and off trains with tion of things that is easy to do roof that rolls back, while the cabin luggage or inconvenient trans- in a place such as China or South is luxurious throughout. The pack- fers. Two-day trips cost around Korea,” he said. age also includes accommodation Y150,000 (US$1,220) and rise to

26 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p24-27 destination Japan-CS55rh_tkyredFINALred.indd 26 21/12/15 10:04 am Y330,000 for three-day excursions, proximity to ski routes and facili- Left also a gym to burn off all that free Ski slopes of with accommodation in high-end ties on a number of mountains. The Rusutsu, where eating and drinking, a relaxation hotels, outings and meals. Destina- resort is less than 90 minutes’ drive Westin is opening spa, a therapy pool and a 1,300- tions include famous festivals in by car from Sapporo’s Chitose this month seat theatre. different parts of the country, and International Airport. Right Combine a stay some of the best places in Japan to at Mandarin World’s oldest hotel see cherry blossoms in the spring First-of-its kind Oriental, Tokyo It may not be brand new, but a and the autumn foliage later in the Celebrity voyage with a luxurious Nihonbashi boat stay at the Keiunkan Inn, in the year. Luxury liner operators Celebrity cruise village of Hayakawa in Yama- Cruises launched a new tour in nashi Prefecture, gives your Westin Rusutsu opens Japan in October, a first-of-its-kind, clients a one-up on other visitors Japan’s fabulous skiing opportu- seven-night voyage that takes in to Japan. nities are no longer a secret and some of the most scenic spots in The inn was established in 705 the slopes here now attract pow- Japan and South Korea. AD and has been recognised by der fans from all over the world. The 91,000-ton Celebrity Mil- the Guinness Book of Records as the Starwood Hotels & Resorts is this lennium sets out from the port of oldest hotel in the world. Previ- month opening its second ski resort Kobe before stopping in Kochi ous visitors have included feudal in Japan, Westin Rusutsu Resort. and crossing the Sea of Japan to lords, shoguns and numerous With 210 rooms, including suites Busan for an evening stopover. The emperors of Japan. Apart from that accommodate families of up to return leg takes in the splendour of being extremely old, the hotel seven, facilities include a workout Japan’s autumn scenery in Akita, is famous for its onsen natural studio, hot spring, sauna, outdoor and delivers an unforgettable view spring baths, with the shower baths and tennis courts. Rusutsu of Mount Fuji in Shizuoka. and bath in each room fed is one of Hokkaido’s most popular The liner accommodates 2,158 directly by the underground hot year-round destinations, although passengers on 12 decks and has no spring. One of the outdoor baths it is particularly renowned for its fewer than 11 restaurants. There’s is open 24 hours a day.

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TTG Luxury Dec2015-p24-27 destination Japan-CS55rh_tkyredFINALred.indd 27 21/12/15 10:04 am destination china Room revolution

Above Ancient tower on city wall in Xi’an at dusk

The emergence of international glamorous air has manager of China International descended upon Travel Service (CITS) Head Office luxury hotels in ancient city Xi’an in Shaanxi Northwest, based in Xi’an, recalled: Province, adding “I’ve seen the changing face of Xi’an has made the destination new glitter to a Xi’an in the last 15 years. Back then, destination that has for decades foreign tourists who came to see more appealing among wealthy beenA enveloped in the mystery the terracotta army stayed in the and romance of an ancient Chinese city centre where most of the hotels kingdom since the 1974 discovery were. They had to wake up very travellers, writes Karen Yue of the terracotta army that forms early to make the long journey to part of the mausoleum of China’s Lintong where the terracotta pits first emperor. are. Their main concerns were While Xi’an continues to draw to find a clean bed and food that history buffs, the growing presence would not give them diarrhoea. of international luxury hotels has “Ever since international hotel helped to attract travellers with chains like Shangri-La, Accor and deep pockets. Starwood entered the market with Li Shuyan, MICE and general their five-star products, the demo-

28 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p28-31 destination ChinaCS-55KY FINALrh.indd 28 21/12/15 10:05 am chuyu/123RF.COM graphic of travellers has changed. company specialised in “extraordi- Xi’an not only received more nary programmes” that were differ- foreign tourists, it also welcomed ent from those in the market. wealthier ones.” The company can take visitors Room revolution Today, numerous prominent ho- into areas that are off-limits to the tels dot the city’s map, some in the common man, such as the recon- commercial centre and others close struction site within the Mauso- to key tourist landmarks. leum of the First Qin Emperor, Agreeing that Xi’an is “increas- where archeologists fi x broken ingly on the radar of the luxury terracotta statues, or special vaults traveller”, Hajar Ali, founder of in the Shaanxi History Museum luxury travel company Urbane and Xi’an Museum. It also offers Nomads, said: “There is a correla- unique activities such an archeo- tion between the opening of luxury logical digging experience at The hotels and a destination becoming Yangling Mausoleum of the Han popular with the well-heeled. Xi’an Dynasty, a visit to Fei Yuan Private has its history going for it but with Museum which carries a large col- the opening of new luxury hotels, lection of porcelain, stone carvings it has become an easier choice for and rubbings of stone tablets done high-end travellers.” by famous Chinese calligraphers, Tourism players noted that the Red Army Tours to the home town city’s luxury market is dominated of president Xi and a visit to a tra- by corporate travellers and special ditional Chinese medicine hospital, interest leisure groups. among others. Steven Wang, director of sales Shi added that more attractions and marketing for The Westin Xian – well preserved ancient cities with revealed that 85 per cent of the stunning scenery – were available hotel’s guest were corporate and in the outskirts of Xi’an but the lack the rest, leisure. of good hotels and restaurants dis- “Business travellers and meeting couraged travel consultants from delegates have bigger budgets,” selling them. reasoned Wang, adding that his However, Jean Philippe Jacopin, leisure clientele comprises mostly general manager of Shangri-La Ho- Ever since individual travellers and small tel, Xian, warned of the danger of international groups on tailored programmes banking entirely on Xi’an’s heritage hotel chains... that focus on history, food or to lure travellers. entered the nature. He said: “These tourists usu- market with their ﬁ ve-star Li opined that Xi’an’s booming ally stay for only a few days and products, the industries, fuelled by Chinese pres- they rarely return. Xi’an needs to demographic ident Xi Jinping’s commitment to co-operate with other (attractions) of travellers developing cities on the Silk Road to improve product diversity which has changed. trading belt for international com- will then entice travellers to book Xi’an not merce, was helping to lure wealthy longer stays (and return).” only received businessmen to the destination. Jacopin suggested that more more foreign These travellers would extend their eco tours, spa experiences and golf tourists, trips for pleasure, requesting for games be promoted to enhance it also special activities, such as a session travellers’ experience, and urged welcomed with a local archaeology professor trade players to join forces in desti- wealthier who could explain the history be- nation marketing. ones. hind art pieces and historical fi nds. The good news is, fresh attrac- Li Shuyan, MICE Ideas for unique experiences are tions are emerging in and around and genegeral limited only by the DMC’s exper- Xi’an. One of Singapore’s leading manager, CITS Head Ofﬁ ce tise and local networks. outbound agency, Dynasty Travel, Northwest based Julia Shi, general manager of has observed stronger interest in in Xi’an Diethelm Travel (China), said her Xi’an over the last fi ve years due

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 29

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p28-31 destination ChinaCS-55KY FINALrh.indd 29 21/12/15 10:05 am destination china Marco Tomasini/123RF.COM Five luxe products

Luxurious baths The new Angsana Hot Spring Xi’an Lintong, which sits next to Angsana Xi’an Lintong hotel, is a sprawling facility at the foot of Lishan Moun- tain. It features a two-storey Hot Spring Complex and 25 outdoor pools in serene surroundings, some of which offer waters infused with herbs like lavender and eucalyptus. Visitors who desire privacy can hire a cabana which comes with a spacious living room and a land- scaped outdoor hot spring pool. to the presence of new attractions tial for the development of high- Above The terra- Superior Cabanas, good for two such as the Tang Dynasty Song and end wellness tours to Lintong,” cotta army people, go for RMB888 (US$140) Dance Performance at the Shaanxi said Mong. in Lintong, nett for 180 minutes, while Delxue Song and Dance Theatre in Xi’an, Angsana Xian Lintong has been Xi’an, continues to Cabanas, which are perfect for four and a growing awareness of natu- attracting ladies of leisure from be a main to six people, cost RMB1,688 nett for ral attactions like Hukou Waterfall other Chinese cities and Taiwan, draw for the same duration. The experience and Mt Huashan elsewhere in who would come as a group of tourists Shaanxi Province. friends for spa retreats. The sleepy district of Lintong, Meanwhile, tourism players are about 50 minutes by car from the hoping for air access improvement heart of Xi’an, is also stirring with to expedite the destination’s tour- new tourism developments includ- ism growth. ing the year-old Angsana Xian Lin- “Xi’an has fewer direct inter- tong and its adjoining Angsana Hot national flights compared with Spring Xi’an Lintong, art museums, first-tier cities which makes it less a park and an outlet mall for big convenient for international trav- fashion labels. ellers to visit,” said Wang. Jerry Mong, Angsana Xian Lin- While Dynasty Travel has seen tong’s general manager, believed a two-fold increase in bookings for that his property was the key to Xi’an this year over 2014, a result advancing Xi’an’s luxury appeal. of new flights by Tigerair (Singa- “We are changing travellers’ pore-Xi’an, launched May 2014) mindsets by reminding them that and Xiamen Airlines (Singapore- Lintong used to be a favourite Hangzhou-Xi’an, launched March retreat of Tang Emperor Xuanzong 2015), its spokesperson Alicia Seah and his consort Yang Guifei. They noted that they were for package used to luxuriate in Lintong’s hot tours. “New links on low-cost car- springs, and we are offering travel- riers have little impact on luxury lers the chance to do the same at demand. High-end travellers our hotel. Travellers do not need to prefer flying by full-service carri- stay in Xi’an’s city centre to enjoy ers even if it requires a transit in the high life. There’s a huge poten- another city,” she said.

30 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p28-31 destination ChinaCS-55KY FINALrh.indd 30 21/12/15 10:05 am can be enhanced with a signature Hermès toiletries and French-de- Visitors can try their hands at mak- Cabana Delight treatment package, signed floral arrangements round ing a xun. priced at RMB2,070 nett. off the luxurious experience. A highlight at the indoor com- Additional features include but- Get a tour designer plex is the Spring Forest By Ang- ler service, an extensive garden set- Shangri-La Hotel, Xian has a sana, a hydrothermal facility with ting, private health club, swimming dedicated tour manager on site who 14 features including an aromatic pool and spa, an Italian restaurant, helps guests customise travel pro- steam chamber with lemongrass an exclusive top-floor Louis XIII grammes ahead of arrival. scent, a tropical rain shower, hot Bar and a private museum. Penny Wang, who has been with and cold plunge pools and a brine The hotel is conveniently linked the hotel since its pre-opening days cavern. to the convention centre and Grand in 2007, is said to have been instru- Theatre and is a short walk to the mental in helping the hotel secure French legend Forest of Steles and the lively Mus- loyal, repeat guests. She specialises arrives in Xi’an lim Quarters. in tailored tours for families with Sofitel’s ultra-luxe Legend Col- young children or elderly people. lection arrived in China with the Literary finds 2014 opening of the Sofitel Legend Literary works by famed Chinese Shopping paradise People’s Grand Hotel Xian, located novelist and chairman of the Writ- Sean Outlets, an outlet shopping within the historical city walls and ers’ Association of Shaanxi Prov- strip in Lintong, Xi’an, opened 40 part of the massive Renmin Square ince, Jia Pingwa, and memorabilia per cent of its facilities on Novem- complex. celebrating his life will be put on ber 7. Its branded tenants include Occupying a grand building display at the new Jia Pingwa Cul- international brands like Givenchy, ture and Arts Museum in Lintong. Below left that had opened in 1953 as the Angsana Hot Giorgio Armani, Gap and Nike as state guesthouse, the hotel marries The first story houses exhibits Spring Xi’an well as cafes and restaurants includ- French and Sino-Russian architec- that tell Jia’s life story and literary Lintong ing Starbucks. Right tural features with local design. All pursuits, while the second floor When completed, Sean Outlets Penny Wang, 71 rooms and suites feature lofty displays a collection of treasured tour manager of will offer more than 230 shops. ceilings and generous proportions, pottery and xun, a traditional Shangri-La Hotel, It is within walking distance of while quality French amenities like glazed pottery wind instrument. Xian Angsana Xi’an Lintong hotel.

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TTG Luxury Dec2015-p28-31 destination ChinaCS-55KY FINALrh.indd 31 21/12/15 10:05 am destination malaysia Red carpet treatment

Above Suria KLCC

Mindful of tough competition alaysia’s in- he said, pointing out that World bound operators Avenues zooms in on Malaysia’s for the luxury market, are competing nature attributes as the USP. hard to attract “Malaysia is known as an Malaysia’s inbound well-heeled eco-tourism destination, with travellers who – they are just too the world’s oldest rainforest. It players are harvesting the Mwell aware – have plenty of desti- is also known for its islands, and nations to choose from. for sports tourism as we have the Those like Ally Bhoonee, ex- Formula 1 PETRONAS Malaysia destination’s USPs to win ecutive director of World Avenues Grand Prix and the Shell Malaysia which specialises in the Middle Motorcycle Grand Prix,” he said. more clients, reports East market, said Malaysia com- “We cannot compete with the likes petes with the likes of Dubai and of Dubai (in terms of the biggest S Puvaneswary Qatar, rich Arab destinations which or largest this and that). Thus, we are creating more attractions and have to take this approach.” marketing themselves aggressively Another luxury operator, Asian to upmarket clients. Overland Services Tours and Differentiation therefore is key, Travel, tries to deliver the best VIP

32 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p32-34 destination Malaysia-CS55rhFINAL_TKYRHred.indd 32 21/12/15 10:05 am Noppasin Wongchum/123RF.com views of the city. the destination. “Periodically some luxury “Many Middle East luxury tour- hotels in the city will also bring in ists spend about three days in Kuala Michelin-star cooks for a short-term Lumpur, with shopping as their Red carpet treatment and this gives our clients the op- main activity. Thus, we place them portunity to (enjoy the gastronomic in luxury hotels such as the Man- experience).” darin Oriental, Westin and Majestic Luxury Tours Malaysia mean- Hotel, then drive them to Pavilion while banks on cultural experi- Kuala Lumpur and Suria KLCC for ences to differentiate Malaysia from shopping,” he said. competitors. Senior manager, Arokia “We also take them on private Das, believes real cultural insights tours using luxury vehicles to eco- are what moneyed people want. tourism sites on the outskirts of the The operator therefore organises city such as Batu Caves, Templer private batik printing or local cook- Park and Forest Research Institute of ing classes, for instance. “In the past, Malaysia. we have also organised programmes “As well, as their average length where we bring in local aboriginal of stay is two weeks, we combine people to teach guests how to shoot Kuala Lumpur with The Banjaran from blowpipes and make a fi re Hotsprings Retreat or destinations without using matches,” Das said. such as Penang and Langkawi.” “If the group size is more than AOS’ Yap, who works with four people, we can take them to a luxury agent partners from China traditional village to see how the to tap exclusive clients, said waiv- locals live, and the tour ends with a ing the visa requirements for luxury meal in the village.” travellers from China will help grow Make no mistake: the setting may the market further. be a humble kampung, but the meal “It is not so much the cost (of is an elaborate affair. Traditional obtaining a visa) but the hassle of dishes are catered for by a hotel and getting one,” she pointed out. expensive cutlery is used. “We don’t Since October 1, the visa require- expect our guests to eat with their ment has been waived only for Chi- fi ngers as we do,” said Das. nese groups with a minimum size To attract more luxury travellers, of 20 people who use tour operators Arokia said he works with out- that are registered with Malaysia’s bound travel agents from various Tourism and Culture Ministry. markets overseas that are specialis- treatment. This can be fi ne dining in ing in the luxury segment. a private club, helicopter rides to en- “We’ve seen a three to six per thral guests with a bird’s eye of the cent year-on-year growth from the We cannot city, or hiring a specialist to accom- Indian subcontinent. We are also compete with pany clients on shopping sprees. seeing an increasing number from the likes of The specialist has an intimate Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary Dubai (in knowledge of the best offerings in and Slovenia).” terms of the the city, and is able to recommend He said there is heightened biggest or confi dently to guests what they awareness about Malaysia’s luxury largest this should buy and where to get it. He offerings due to Tourism Malaysia’s and that). or she will also be a personal shop- promotions overseas. Thus, we have per if required. World Avenues’ Bhoonee added to take this AOS uses the exclusive Malay- that new hotels such as St Regis approach (of sian Petroleum Club restaurant, for Kuala Lumpur, opening in early differentiating the offering). example, to impress rich clients. 2016, and W Kuala Lumpur (2017)

Said managing director, Yap Sook will complement the offerings of Ally Bhoonee, Ling: “Dulang Suites restaurant existing hotels catering to this seg- executive director, is very impressive, and has great ment, aside from adding prestige to World Avenues

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TTG Luxury Dec2015-p32-34 destination Malaysia-CS55rhFINAL_TKYRHred.indd 33 21/12/15 10:05 am destination malaysia

end tourists who want aerial views offers innovative Japanese cuisine Left Nobu Kuala Five of the Malaysian capital and its which is complemented by Lumpur Right Mitsui luxe surroundings. stunning views of the PETRONAS Outlet Park KLIA products The rides take off from the Lake Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur’s Sepang Titiwangsa Kuala Lumpur heliport. skyline. Customers may choose from 15-, Spanning 1,115sqm Nobu Kuala 30- or 60-minute helicopter rides. Lumpur’s main dining area and su- The hour-long ride covers places shi bar can accommodate up to 200 outside Kuala Lumpur such as guests. The restaurant also houses Park the jet or throw Subang, Bukit Jalil and Putrajaya. two bars, a lounge and private din- an event at SkyPark For bookings, email: rlan@ho- ing rooms. SkyPark Regional Aviation ponholidays.com Centre, a new, separate facility An Outlet for some across Subang SkyPark Terminal, St Regis Kuala Lumpur serious retail therapy provides hangars for private jets to open April 1 Mitsui Outlet Park KLIA Sepang and handles aircraft arrival and The St Regis Kuala Lumpur will offers a factory outlet shopping departure, refuelling and aircraft open on April 1, 2016 with 200 mall concept and is conveniently maintenance, among services. rooms and suites. Located at KL located near Kuala Lumpur It is also designed to cater for Sentral Precinct, it is minutes International Airport. exclusive private events, aviation away from the National Museum, Your clients need not worry or non-aviation related. Global Botanical Gardens Kuala Lumpur about having to lug their luggage Kitchen, a subsidiary of Saujana and the shopping paradise of Bukit around while shopping. Facilities Hotel, is the official F&B partner Bintang Road. There are seven to make them shop and spend at of SkyPark and offers inflight and meeting spaces, the largest being ease include a free baggage storage on-site catering services. 1,500sqm. service. A flight check-in centre also allows travellers to obtain their VisitKL from the air Nobu with a view boarding pass, while a flight infor- VisitKL, Kuala Lumpur City Hall Located on Level 56 of Tower mation display system allows them tourism unit, has introduced 3 Petronas in the iconic KLCC to check flight information without helicopter tours targeted at high- development, Nobu Kuala Lumpur leaving the outlet.

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TTG Luxury Dec2015-p32-34 destination Malaysia-CS55rhFINAL_TKYRHred.indd 34 21/12/15 10:05 am longhaul italy

& Chateaux member which cocoons you the way an exquisite glove warms your cold hands beautifully. Dynamic Dolomites It is a convenient location from which to drive to the various must- Once-aspirational destinations have quickly become see trails. It is a destination in itself – those in the know go there just to eat at its two-Michelin-star St Hubertus banal for sophisticated FITs from Asia, which are Restaurant, helmed by executive chef Norbert Niederkofler. Its team, growing in numbers. Recommend Italy’s Dolomites and led by resident manager Stefania Belle while I was there, showers you see their faces light up, says Raini Hamdi with care and love the way only families do. The contrast with the rugged elements of its surroundings What could be more explo- Asians would have the Dolomites No wonder Le is a spell. sive than the everlasting allure of on their radar – like the couple Corbusier, a I’ve wandered around in the Venice with the bizarre ruggedness from Singapore and Hong Kong pre-eminent Death Valley, US, and hiked the of the Dolomites combined? The who recently booked out the entire architect of Swiss Alps, but nothing prepared Dolomites. A name befittingly close Queen of the Alps hotel, Rosa the 1900s, me for the uniqueness of the Do- described to ‘dynamite’ and ‘dynamic’ – eve- Alpina Hotel & Spa (see page 37) lomites. Unlike triangle mounds them as the ry bit this unique mountain range for their wedding. They could have most mountains are, I gasped upon “most beauti- seeing the Dolomites, which are in the northern Italian Alps is. chosen Florence or Rome, but no, ful architec- Venice has feminine, wily they chose the village of San Cas- tonic work in exquisite pinnacles, spires, cathe- charms, while the Dolomites siano. Where??? At 1,537m above the world”. dral-like towers, dramatic verti- exudes masculine, single-focus sea level in the tourist district of cal limestone walls, various other power. A contrast that is so perfect Alta Badia. The village has only remarkable sculptural forms – with and compelling – think ‘His’ & 750 inhabitants. What a way to get colours from pink hues to fiery reds. ‘Hers ’, Ying & Yang, Snow & Ice. away from pesky journalists and No wonder the Dolomites, compris- Venice and the Dolomites are inquisitive aunties alike. ing 18 peaks rising to above 3,000m only a 2.5 hours drive away from But having been there myself covering 141,903ha, are a UNESCO each other. While the former is recently, I believe the real reason World Heritage Site. No wonder Le Below Corbusier, a pre-eminent architect known to every well-clad Asian must lie in the sense of exclusiv- Tre Cime in Lava- tourist, the same cannot be said ity. To experience the Dolomites in redo, the most fa- of the 1900s, described them as the of the Dolomites. Currently, it sheer luxury, one needs a hotel like mous mountains “most beautiful architectonic work in the Dolomites is fair to say only the discerning Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa, a Relais in the world”. Combined with Venice and its

tomas1111/123RF.com lagoon, planners can offer Asian luxury travellers two UNESCO sites at one go. Italy has done well this year. According to results from the latest European Cities Marketing-MKG report, the city of Milan experienced the strongest RevPAR in Europe in the first three quarters of 2015, over the same period last year, thanks to Expo Milan which was held from May 1 to October 31, while the city of romance, Venice, too, was ahead of last year. Venice experienced an average daily rate rise of over 19 per cent, leading to a RevPAR increase of 17.3 per cent. Arrivederci!

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TTG Luxury Dec2015-p35 italyFINALrhred.indd 35 21/12/15 10:05 am longhaul italy

Check-in

to breakfast on the restaurant’s Hotel Londra Palace veranda, to watch the promenade come to life with stalls, buskers and an endless stream of tourists from all over the world. Oh my god, it’s as if the whole of Guangdong has descended upon Venice! I love cruise ships, but I’m not sure, given Venice’s fragile state of being, that this kind of volume is good for it. But that’s another story. I love being in the restaurant’s or the bar’s sheltered outdoor terrace when everyone else is rushing for the sights; it reminds me that because of the hotel’s location, I can do everything at my own time and pace. From the envious glances I get from tourists whose eyes are

Above Superb location with views of Venice lagoon invariably drawn to the inviting restaurant or LondraBar, I know they wish it too. By Raini Hamdi the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. In the evenings, Do Leoni Res- My room is long and spacious, taurant is a must for gourmands. LOCATION with separate living/dining and Venice has no shortage of restau- Superb location right on the prom- bedroom areas. The bathroom even rants, but most of them are too enade of Riva degli Schiavoni and has a bathtub and a separate shower, commercialised for me. My dinner steps away from St Mark’s Square. which is a luxury for a hotel built at Do Leoni Restaurant, however, The freedom this affords to explore more than 150 years ago. puts back my faith in Venice as a Venice by foot, water taxi or public But the best feature of my room place where you can have genu- boat is priceless. is the bed linen: 100 per cent top inely good Italian if you know quality linen on a king-sized bed, where to go. I’m served by David, Name Hotel Londra Palace AMBIENCE starched every so lightly it is a joy whose genteel service is what one No. of rooms and suites 53 Address Riva Degli Schiavoni Its size and scale are to jump onto after a day of a lot of imagines guests in grand hotels 4171, 30122, Venice, Italy not what its name walking. This hotel is king when it of yesteryears had enjoyed. The Contact Tel: (39) 041 5200-533; suggests, ie, a palace, comes to providing luxuries; there’s menu created by executive chef Email: [email protected]; Website: www.londrapalace. but there is a classy air free speedy Wi-Fi, LCD TV with sat- Loris Indri is beautifully modern. com; a Relais & Chateaux hotel about it, no doubt due ellite and Sky channels and authen- I love my scampi tails tempura on to its pedigree in Ven- tic Biedermeier furniture. avocado tartar, sea bass with leek ice as a heritage hotel, which has True to old-school hospitality, cream sauce and, oh my, the souffle seen the likes of Tchaikovsky and a bottle of Prosecco and a tray of is worth the wait. Borges staying at the establishment. friandise cakes, pralines and fruits It has an aura of classic elegance are personally served – at the right SERVICE and the romance of old-school hos- timing after I’ve just finished un- As mentioned, think ‘old school’ pitality that is missing these days. packing. professionalism and attention to details. ROOM FACILITIES Each of its 53 rooms is different. I The hotel’s Do Leoni Restaurant and VERDICT just love mine (room 508), which the LondraBar, both of which have Every bit a palace in location, is right at the rooftop with superb outdoor verandas, are the places service and a king at pampering views of a busy Venice lagoon and to see and be seen. I look forward guests with quality everything.

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TTG LuxuryDec2015-p36 Londra-redFINAL.indd 36 21/12/15 10:06 am Check-in Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa

the thought of returning to the plush hotel is comforting. The highlight begins with a drink at the bar, where the soft-spoken bartender, Omar, serves gracefully while the pianist plays and sings. Then dinner, always at the hotel, for it has the best restaurants. People come here just to eat at its two-Michelin- star St Hubertus, helmed by R&C grand chef Norbert Niederkofler. No wonder! Every dish is a work of art, delicious and served always by a line of white-gloved waiters, led by the dashing Valentine.

Above The hotel exterior in winter The Wine & Grill is where I go for comfort Italian food. It had mucked up the early lunch on ar- By Raini Hamdi ROOM rival (my ‘Salad Leafs with Lobster There are 51 individually-designed and Endives’ came without a single LOCATION rooms. My Chalet Loft Suite is far salad leaf). But as the menu lists In the serene, picturesque village of from a humble chalet or loft. Rather, mouth-watering salads, grills and San Cassiano in Badia, north-east it’s alpine chic bar none! And how wood-oven baked pizzas, I give it Italy. An easy 2.5-hour drive from utterly luxurious it is in space, another try and it’s heartwarming Venice and I’m in the heart of the quality furnishings and amenities, how they try to make up for that Dolomites. typically a Relais & Chateaux (R&C). little error. Besides, Antonella who I step into the balcony and I don’t serves me is yet another staff who AMBIENCE want to leave it: views of the hotel’s makes this place so wonderful. Name Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa This hotel feels like private, immaculate garden below The Wine & Grill also has pri- No. of rooms and suites 51 Address Strada Micura de Ru, home. Cosy corners, and the dense pine forest across, not vate rooms that serve meat, cheese 20, 39030 San Cassiano in a fireplace, the warm to mention the fresh air, makes me and chocolate fondues, perfect Badia, Dolomites, Italy hues of wooden floor- feel utterly content and recharged. when the weather outside is cold. Contact Tel: (39) 0471-849- 500; Email: info@rosaalpina. ing and golden can- For more pampering, there’s a it; Website: www.rosalpina.it; a delabras, fresh roses FACILITIES spa with an indoor pool, jacuzzi, Relais & Chateaux hotel everywhere, jars of But leave the warm and modern steam bath and Finnish sauna. cookies and sweets for comforts of my suite I must, for the the taking and, my first encounter Dolomites beckon. Stefania even SERVICE/VERDICT with the real reason why this hotel takes the trouble of arranging for a I always think I’m lucky if I find feels like home: Resident manager private guide, Diego, to come to the one or two stars among a hotel’s Stefania Belle comes flying down hotel and brief me on the must-see’s, team members. Rosa Alpina is the stairs to welcome me; insists as I have only five days. At the end astonishing in that it has so many that I have a bit of early lunch on of our meeting, I feel I must stay a stars. This speaks for small, family- her as my room isn’t ready. It’s the month, for there is just so much to run hotels. The three-generation first encounter of the hotel’s family- see and do, and it involves hours of Pizzinini family can be proud of like hospitality which will provide driving and hiking in order to see their achievement. Rosa Alpina is me with many happy and relaxed the stunning sites. as monumental as the Dolomites – moments over the next few days. After an active outing each day, only, size has nothing to do with it.

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 37 longhaul switzerland

Asian presence is becoming more visible in St Gallen down to Chur and Davos in the east, from Montreux in the west onto Verbier, FIT for the alps Crans Montana and Saas-Fee in the south, from Bern to Interlaken and Sophisticated, less daunted by price Emmental. This comes at a time when the markups and eager to explore new places and alpine destination has become more expensive with the lifting of the experiences, Asian repeat visitors are trading euro/Swiss franc exchange rate early this year. the touristy trail for quaint little towns, mountain With clockwork precision, Swit- zerland Tourism ramped up market- villages and hidden corners of Switzerland, ing to Asian FITs including families and repeat travellers as the destination became less affordable to Euro- reports Rosa Ocampo peans. Asia’s growing importance is obvious during the Switzerland

38 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p38-40 Longhaul Switerland (revised)RH_TKY-FINALred.indd 38 21/12/15 10:06 am China’s FIT market is still small Although shopping list of certain market seg- but will soon follow Hong Kong’s “internation- ments but since prices for them are pattern. Singapore is pretty much alisation” the same in Lucerne as in Singa- an FIT market. Thai FITs are grow- was how pore, it is a reason to not travel to Switzerland ing while South Korea is shifting to Switzerland. Tourism CEO, FIT in the past three to five years. However, Breiter said there is Jurg Schmid, The Philippines and Vietnam have dubbed still a cache of collectors who prefer small FITs but the potential is there. the shift buying in Switzerland which still Asian FITs liken Switzerland, in inbound has the biggest spread of Rolex a premium destination, to an tourism models and are sure to be real. expensive watch – it’s worth the from nearby “There’s an emotional value of price. Maurus Lauber, CEO, Swiss European buying designer goods in places Travel System, summed it up: “We countries where they have been made,” he are perfectly made for individual into longhaul explained. travellers: clean, safe and easy to Asian mar- Another popular price buster travel”. kets, “Asian- is the Swiss Travel Pass, a train isation” could Ivan Breiter, Switzerland Tour- ticket that takes travellers through well be the ism director for South-east Asia, the country’s most scenic regions catchword. shared that FITs from South-east which can be used on consecutive Asia stayed longer – not just for or non-consecutive days. one to two nights but for three to Yen Thing, tours consultant of four nights. He also noted the shift Kuala Lumpur-based Boustead away from visiting multiple Euro- Travel Services, said the pass was pean countries to mono-Switzer- popular and good value-for-money land or semi-mono travel, pairing as the trains were safe, efficient and Switzerland with another destina- well-connected to many places. tion like Paris, Rome or Germany. She also pointed out that the And for mature source markets Swiss Travel Pass was family-ori- such as Hong Kong, an emerg- ented and offered generous perks, ing trend is the quest for a more including free admission to 470 in-depth outdoor experience such museums and free travel for chil- as easy hiking and cycling instead dren 16 years old and below for up of mere sightseeing and relaxing. to five children per travelling adult. For instance, Jenny Ho, operations The Adult Saver Fare snips 15 per manager, Sincerity Travel Hong cent off the original fare while the Kong, said it had five hiking Swiss Youth Pass shaves 15 per Travel Mart in Zermatt in Septem- groups to Switzerland this year, cent off the fare for those under 26 ber: the region fielded the biggest from just one when it launched the years old. contingent of 120 buyers, or 25 per programme three years ago. Considered a good indicator cent of the 480 invited buyers from But pricing remains an issue, of FIT travel, sale of Swiss Travel 52 countries. particularly several months ago Pass is “booming” with India as the Although “internationalisation” when a basket of Asian currencies number one in sales, according to was how Switzerland Tourism weakened in value, which means Swiss Travel System’s Lauber. CEO, Jurg Schmid, dubbed the shift Asians needed more money to Indeed, there is growing de- in inbound tourism from nearby travel abroad, especially to long- mand for Switzerland from Indian European countries into longhaul haul Switzerland. FITs including families, honey- Asian markets, “Asianisation” To make Switzerland more af- moon couples inspired by Bol- could well be the catchword, as the fordable for them, Asian tourists lywood movies shot in the alpine continent is expected to comprise are being encouraged to go dur- destination, and young students 14 per cent of total visitors by 2016, ing off-seasons (March-June and who combine Switzerland with from a mere one per cent two dec- September to mid-November), and Above Resplen- other destinations, according to ades ago. to mountains and villages during dent in winter: Sahil Dewan, executive director of Kempinski Grand Asia, too, is seeing a clear shift weekdays when rates are lower Hotel des Bains, Delhi-based Dewan Travels. away from groups to FITs. Half of than in the weekends. St Moritz – see “Indians love to spend time in visitors from Hong Kong are FITs; Rolex watches are high on the page 41 the mountains. They love that they

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can take the train without spend- Right Adrian Mueller, presi- ing too much. We have Switzerland dent of Roman- in all our European itineraries and tik Hotels & tourists spend at least two nights Restaurants, and staff are eager to there,” said Dewan. welcome Asian Keen to host Asian tourists, guests Swiss industry players are moving to meet the specific needs and requirements of this growing and high-spending source market. For Adrian Mueller, president of Ro- mantik Hotels & Restaurants, one way is to offer a more personalised service to Asian guests and different experiences of the real Switzer- land, including the chance to try local cuisines and wines. trani’s Chocolarium or ScoggiLand some hotels and restaurants ask “Asians going to Chur are still will rise in April 2017, an enhance- guests beforehand of food that they small, but it’s a good start,” said ment of the current chocolate don’t eat. Mueller, who owns and operates production site, with factory tours With China having replaced Romantik Hotel Stern in Chur. Op- that will include designing your France as the fifth biggest inbound erators in the area were collaborat- own chocolate bar and offers of market for Switzerland, several ing with Chur Tourism Bureau to chocolate pouring and other related industry players including Wengen work the Asian market, he said. courses. Classic Hotels are bringing a tinge They are also investing in Many Swiss hotels and restau- of home by having Chinese TV attractions that appeal to Asian rants already have Wi-Fi, a big plus channels in all rooms and bro- travellers. Kambly SA, maker of for Asian travellers who are mostly chures in Chinese language. the famous Swiss cookie brand that Internet and social-media savvy, Fabienne Jeanneret, key account has a 105-year-old, family-owned according to Daniela Toneatti, as- manager of Free Republic of Holi- chocolate factory in the Emmental sistant sales and marketing of HLS days, said the company’s resort in village of Trubschachen, opened a Hotels and Spa, which operates Saas Fee has a Chinese-speaking themed attraction last May. There Hotel Beatus in Merlingen and manager based in China. There is a rope-making factory using Hotel Ermitage in Schonried. were more individuals than groups high-technology steel rope and an Another way to win Asians is from China, she noted. interactive pottery factory with through their stomach. Bettina Zin- Andrea Federer, marketing as- traditional potters at work, among nert, whose family owns Wengen sistant, St Gallen-Bodensee Touris- others, and visitors can participate Classic Hotels, said all rooms in the mus, noted that while Asia was not in activities from making chocolate hotels Silberhorn and Wengener that big a market, it was increasing. cookies to sports in the Emmental Hof both in the Jungfrau village of “We want to have more guests valley. We want to Wengen, were equipped with a ket- from Asia so we have produced a Kambly is a pretty new destina- have more tle. Together with their third hotel, sales manual in Chinese and we tion for Asians; it was getting its guests from Belvedere, the hotels have rice on did three weeks in Asian sales call Asia so we share of FITs from Singapore, China the menu, Asian soup for breakfast this year,” Federer said. have pro- and Korea, said Jan Cermak, Kam- and Asian food on request. He said travellers from Singa- duced a sales bly’s head of B2C and e-commerce manual in In summer, the hotels have a lot pore, Thailand, China and Japan and market manager for China. Chinese and of Asian guests looking for a real were attracted to St Gallen’s unique Also targeting Asians is the we did three Swiss experience in the mountains. selling point: its proximity to chocolate production site of Maes- weeks in “More than 50 per cent of our Austria, Germany and Lichtenstein trani in Flawil, St Gallen, where Asian sales guests are from Asia,” Zinnert said. makes it the best starting point tourists get to experience the differ- call this year. Best Western Plus Mirabeu in for trips to Appenzeller and Lake ent processes of making chocolate Lausanne has cup noodles for Constance. Top attractions also in- bars, and taste and shop for their Andrea Federer, breakfast – and the chef knows to clude the World Heritage site of the marketing favourite flavours. assistant, St cook it, with the accompanying baroque cathedral and the Abbey Monika Knobel, who is in charge Gallen-Bodensee fried egg just the way Asians like it. library, and the internationally- of events at Maestrani’s, said Maes- Tourismus Vegan food is easily available and renowned St Gallen embroideries.

40 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p38-40 Longhaul Switerland (revised)RH_TKY-FINALred.indd 40 21/12/15 10:06 am Check-in Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains

By Raini Hamdi

LOCATION St Moritz, the famous haunt of European jet-setters, thanks to its grand hotels, powdery ski slopes, elite shopping strip, marvellous hiking trails (a favourite of mine is Muottas Muragl, which takes me to Segantini hut at 2,731m) and an abundance of great restaurants to cap a super day out. And the hotel’s location just minutes from it all is a feather in its cap. With the exception of Japanese, Asians have not made it to St Moritz in big numbers yet. I doubt this will be for long, as no sophisticated traveller worth his salt will say he does not know St Moritz.

AMBIENCE One of the grand hotels in St Moritz, the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains looks like a fairy-tale castle straight out of a Above Lobby – a grand hotel that keeps up with the times glamorous movie set. It is low-rise, sprawling and snow white with sky-blue windows looks airy, bright and modern right large bathroom, the speedy Wi-Fi, Name Kempinski Grand Hotel (see page 38). Capti- from the lobby. There are lots of etc, the bell rings – welcome cham- des Bains vating right from the fresh flowers and it smells divine. pagne is served in my living room. No. of rooms 184 rooms, 27 suites and residences start, it is also at once An air of relaxed splendour perme- Address Via Mezdi 27, 7500 warm and welcom- ates everywhere in the property. FACILITIES St Moritz, Switzerland ing, not stiff as many Those who wish for it to be more The hotel has four restaurants, a Contact Tel: (41) 81-838- 3838; Email: info.stmoritz@ of these grand hotels ‘Swiss-ly’ only have to look out bar, a cigar lounge, six meeting kempinski.com; Website: are. This is in no small the windows to a beautiful, green rooms, a 2,000m2 fitness and spa www.kempinski.com/stmoritz measure due to the surrounding outside. As well, the area, a kids club, a ski school, a cheerful doormen and hotel pays homage to the history sports shop and a casino. friendly front office staff who skil- of Alpine tourism in the Engadin Breakfast is an event in itself and fully make me feel like a modern- region creatively through modern reflects the hotel’s spirit of large- day princess. and old photos in rooms or public ness, generosity and top quality. areas. I love my Classic Junior Suite ROOM for its clean lines, comfort-above-fad SERVICE To my delight, ‘grand’ here does design and rich furnishings. It is far Consistently exceptional. not mean dark, brooding, sombre from junior in size! Baggage arrives and uptight in order to keep up right after me and in 20 minutes, VERDICT with decorum and old money after I’ve gone ooh and ahh over Now among the top three in my tradition. On the contrary, the hotel the views, the super-duper bed, the own list of The World’s Best Hotels.

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 41 longhaul switzerland

Check-in 7132 Hotel

By Raini Hamdi

LOCATION For Asian FITs longing for a place they don’t have to share with thou- sands of other tourists, it cannot get more remote than this. The hotel is located 1,250m above sea level in Vals, Graubunden, a village that prides itself on having “1,000 inhabitants, 1,000 sheep, 1,000 guest beds”, and is bent on preserv- ing its old ways and values. Vals is famous for the thermal springs centre at this hotel, designed by award-winning Swiss architect Peter Above Room at renovated 7132 Hotel designed by Tadao Ando Zumthor. The other two things it is famous for are the bottled mineral water, Valser, and the beautiful Vals- ian quartzite. Aside from 33 Zumthor rooms in overlooking the mountains. There the main building, the hotel, which are no fewer than five other pools AMBIENCE just finished massive renovations, of varying temperatures; sweating Its surroundings are so quiet I can also boasts three new 90m2 suites stones; treatment rooms and many hear a pin drop. On the streets, I designed by Japanese starchitect other facilities one would wish of hardly see anyone. There is surreal Kengo Kuma. Each suite book- a spa. beauty in having the mountains to ing comes with – listen to this – a Gastronomy is another of the myself and strolling a village that helicopter or a limousine at your hotel’s USP. Its Silver restaurant isn’t at all commercialised. People disposal should you wish is helmed by Sven Wassmer, who come here to rest and recharge – in- Name 7132 Hotel to lunch in Geneva, shop previously worked for three- No. of rooms 86 in Zurich or whatever Michelin-star Andreas Caminada. deed it is at the thermal springs spa Address 7132 Vals, that I see a lot of them, and a few Switzerland takes your fancy. At the end of of the spectrum is the of them on the hiking trails as the Contact Another wing, House of homely Da Papa which, as its name mountains to traverse are vast. Tel: (+41) 58-7132-000; Architects, now fields 13 suggests, serves authentic Italian in Email: [email protected]; Website: www.7132.com and 18 new rooms respec- a cosy, homely setting. Caesar the ROOM tively designed by Kuma manager rules this home and he is I am in a Zumthor room in the main and another starchitect, Tadao so personable and generous I can’t building (Room 712). It’s unmistak- Ando. At 20m2, the rooms may be help going back there again. ably Zumthor The Modernist and small yet are large in vision. Minimalist, gleaming with white SERVICE walls and white linen that contrast FACILITIES I love that the hotel employs many with brilliant blue silk curtains, Zumthor was ahead of his time in young people who are friendly, orange-red kilim carpets and black designing the Zen-like thermal spa knowlegeable and eager to please. lacquer classic furniture. Even the in the 70s. A 1,885m2 building made freshly-made chocolates in the room of 60,000 plates of Valsian quartz- VERDICT are unadulterated. And only one ite, it is a sight to behold. A special A best-kept secret of a world-class, painting is allowed – if you can see feeling engulfs me when I’m in independent hotel in an away- it (it’s 15cm X 15cm). the outdoor main thermal pool from-it-all location.

42 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p42 checking in Vals-redFINALrh.indd 42 21/12/15 10:07 am luxury people Filip Boyen Team player By Karen Yue

What’s your leadership style? plan. What’s in store? I adopt a consultative approach There are five key areas that we will (and) consistently seek feedback be focusing on: a real focus on our from my staff and listen to them hotels and the unique experience about how we can do things better, that they offer to SLH guests in more collaboratively and more ef- existing and new destinations; ficiently. As they feel invested in the ensuring consistently high levels brand and its direction and goals, of quality across the entire SLH the commitment to achieve and collection through a more robust surpass expectations is present from Quality Assurance programme; the outset. rewarding loyal SLH Club members with a new Club to be launched in What is the most exciting business September 2016; investing in tech- decision you are making to bring nology such as new mobile apps SLH forward for another 25 years? and an updated Chinese website We recently unveiled a new look in addition to Spanish and German and feel for the brand that creates a language sites; implementing new dynamic platform for our “Indepen- and updated distribution tools. dently minded” hotels and phi- losophy. This mindset isn’t new as How is the consumption of luxury we have long been the champions travel evolving? of small and independent (proper- (Luxury travel has grown) 48 per ties), however, it provides us with cent in the last five years (according a contemporary and representative to the World Travel Monitor). We brand positioning. We will also be have observed a significant rise in launching several new initiatives independent travellers seeking out for our guests, member hotels and travel partners over the course of the next year. The new CEO of Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a listener and he has adopted a What’s your own definition of SLH’s new tagline “Independently collaborative approach in launching a new minded”? five-year plan to take the business forward It means that we are consistently different – we have our own voice and use it to provide a voice to unique, local experiences, while the these often hidden gems. We are definition of luxury is progressing passionate about finding small, beyond mere material consumption luxury, independent, character- to an experiential one. filled hotels that actively go above and beyond to set themselves apart. How can SLH make the most of SLH hotel owners are proud of this evolution? what makes them stand out; they Seeking out gems that offer genu- wear their independence as a badge ine, one-of-a-kind experiences has of honour, sometimes even passed been SLH’s guiding principle for down through generations. the past 25 years, and will continue to guide us as we seek out suitable I hear that SLH has a new five-year hotels that resonate with the brand.

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A Starck contrast to traditional hotels

By Paige Lee Pei Qi Feast your eyes upon the fi rst Philippe Starck-designed hotel in Sin- gapore, The South Beach, which has already been hailed as a visual stunner in the heart of Singapore’s city landscape. The interiors of this 654-room designer luxury hotel are exuberantly decked out by Starck, while its architecture is by Foster + Partners and Aedas. A fi tting prelude to the wildly imaginative setting inside is an electronic art installation at the entrance. A Starck contrast to traditional hotels, the hotel reception area is minimalistic, comprising seven desks each exuding a different culture and vibe. All check-in and check-out processes are done wirelessly using tablets. The lift ride up to the rooms is in itself an experience to behold as loud and psychedelic prints adorn the walls, while lights pulsate from the ceiling. The South Beach has many cool social spaces that allow guests to connect with friends and business partners, or simply relax alone. The two sky gardens on level 18 are a gem, offering an eclectic mix of designer couches, armchairs and stools for one to sit on and admire the breathtaking cityscape. Two infi nity swimming pools and a gym complete the suite of facilities on this level. The dining outlets are also attractions, each boasting a unique interior and character. The boldly named ADHD (All Day Hotel Dining) is an elegant space, in contrast to Laugh with its colourful prints and mishmash furniture. The hotel is part of the South Beach mixed-use development which incorporates heritage sites – three army blocks and the well-known Non-Commissioned Offi cers (NCO) Club – along with two new tower blocks. The Court Martial Bar, set in one of the army blocks, draws on its court house history and serves concept drinks. The second 1,200m2 army block – South Beach Quarter – will be home to four new F&B concepts by lifestyle group Massive Collection. These include Vanity, a cocktail bar; Vatos Urban Tacos, a Korean-Mex- ican restaurant; The Armoury, a gastropub with a wide range of craft beers and boutique wines; and a nightclub. The grand ballroom, housed in the fi nal army block, is the current talk of town – just dazzling its in design and lighting.

Luxe City Guides goes B2B with Luxe Concierge Hong Kong-based publisher Luxe City Guides now offers consultants with lower-value recommendations, which an enterprise version of its consumer-oriented applica- are the restaurants and shops, the fi ddly things that good tion. (consultants) always do with a smile on their face for cli- Named Luxe Concierge, the subscription-based app ents. But in their business model, those things have to be (US$49 per month) was offi cially launched at Luxperience packaged up as an administration fee or booking fee. in Sydney last September, and is aimed at travel consult- “What we are giving on the platform is their own app, ants and hotel concierges. co-branded with Luxe, without them having to invest in It offers them a platform where they can conveniently their own proprietary software.” input and share their client’s itineraries with clients on Going forward, Wescott hopes to demonstrate the their smartphone devices. product to potential luxury travel consultants fi rst-hand. Subscription also allows access to to Luxe’s full range “With Luxe Concierge offi cially launched to market, we of recommendations in 25 cities worldwide, updated by are now focused on showcasing the product to as many its editorial team on a monthly basis. high-end travel consultants, luxury hotel concierges and Simon Westcott, CEO of Luxe said: “What we do is help event planners as we can,” Westcott said. – Dannon Har

44 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p44-48 gasp (5pages)FINALred.indd 44 21/12/15 10:08 am Insight’s new gold edition aims to shine By Paige Lee Pei Qi Insight Vacations has rolled out its new Luxury Gold collection with the promise of whisking clients away in style and elegance to Europe in new itineraries. Apart from staying at the finest hotels and dining at Michelin-star restaurants, the eight new Luxury Gold European journeys will also see guests going behind the scenes of iconic attractions, and travelling on Wi-Fi equipped luxury motor coaches. For instance, in the 12-day Italy gold itinerary which showcases the iconic destinations of Rome, Capri, Perugia, Florence, Cinque Terre and Venice, guests will enter the Sistine Chapel for a private tour before it opens to the public. Then on the island of Capri they will ride an open- top taxi to the five-star luxury boutique Signature South-east Asian travellers Hotel, the Capri Palace and enjoy a lunch at Il Riccio, a Michelin-star restaurant famous for its waterside yen for ryokan experience setting. John Boulding, global CEO of Insight Vacations, said: “In Europe, guests on every tour will enjoy a Michelin By Dannon Har With six new members this year, dining experience, an outstanding collection of excep- Tokyo-based The Ryokan Collection is the collection now has a total of 32 tional hotels, private and unique, out-of-hours visits to seeing increased stays by South-east independently-owned ryokan-styled famous venues and sight.” Asian clients at its luxury inns based in hotels under its portfolio, with an aver- “Travellers today live, dine and enjoy great standards off-the-beaten locations around Japan. age inventory size of 25 rooms. back at home – so why would they settle for less when Heading a roadshow in the region “Our inventory is very small, so we they travel?” he added. recently, Hiroki Fukunaga, founder and have to reach very selected customers, CEO of The Ryokan Collection, said: those who are looking for something “This year, we have decided to come to exclusive, experiential,” he explained. Singapore and Bangkok as we have seen A loyalty scheme will be launched a significant increase in guests from by the end of this year to entice more South-east Asia, especially from Singa- visitors and encourage repeats. Guests pore and Thailand.” can earn a free night’s stay upon com- According to Fukunaga, Singapore pletion of 10 separate stays at three has chalked up a 55.2 per cent increase or more of The Ryokan Collection’s in the number of guests staying at its properties within a period of two years. properties during January-July compared “In our own research, about 10 per to the same period in 2014. Last year, a cent of our customers already achieve total of 918 guests from Singapore had this (benchmark),” Fukunaga said. stayed at one of its properties. “Our main attraction are the meals. “Eighty-five per cent of ryokan busi- The best ryokans are the ones that ness comes from domestic customers, serve the best food. Those keen on with an increasing but limited number of authentic Japanese cuisine will come international travellers,” added Fukunaga. back again,” he said.

Virtuoso moves into Asia with five member agencies

Virtuoso will launch its luxury travel network in place is scheduled to become an increasingly move into Europe and the UK in 2014, according the Asian market with the addition of five mem- powerful force as the luxury travel market and to Londregan. ber agencies in Singapore and Hong Kong. Virtuoso is very excited to be developing our He added: “The growth of Virtuoso in the The five members are Country Holidays, brand in Asia with these established and highly Asia-Pacific region proves that demand for Jebsen Travel Group, Charlotte Travel, Luxe regarded members.” service from expert travel advisors and experien- Travel and Quotient Travel Planner. The expansion into Asia comes off the deci- tial travel that is unique and bespoke is a global Michael Londregan, Asia-Pacific managing sion to base the new regional headquarters for reality and Virtuoso is perfectly placed to help director of Virtuoso, said: “The Asia market- Asia-Pacific in Australia, following the brand’s agencies and advisors move with the demand.”

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Singapore’s new Aura

By Raini Hamdi Creating Singapore’s next F&B institution Caviar; Grilled Seabream, Pomegranate is Aura, located in an institution itself, the & Pistachio Salsa. And desserts – who country’s former City Hall and Supreme says Italians are masters at only pasta? Court which has been reincarnated as Thank goodness Aura Restaurant encour- the National Gallery since November 24. ages guests to share dishes in a casual Aura is a four-in-one dining destina- family style so typical of the Italians – tion in the commanding building, whose and Singapore eating-out. grand, historic architecture, especially There is also a wine list of over 500 when lit at night, will wow your clients different labels, old world wines and even before they even so much as step arguably one of the city’s best collection into the place. of Italian heavyweights. Your decadent customers will feel at The whole Sky Lounge can easily seat home on the rooftop Aura Sky Lounge 300pax in case you have a client who (Level 6), which resembles a crowded wants to throw a party in Singapore. SEVVA in Hong Kong with its all- Aura Restaurant seats 90 pax. embracing views. The spectacle before In all, Aura holds three potential areas their eyes, of the Padang and Marina Bay to fi t groups or parties of all sizes and all skyline, alone makes this a must-go, for occasions: Raw Bar (11.30-14.30 daily), it gives a sweeping and uplifting vision which offers a free ﬂ ow buffet of Mediter- Blissful bedroom slippers of what this tiny country, which has ranean food for only S$18++ (US$13++) We’ve found the most blissful bedroom slippers – slip th just celebrated its 50 anniversary, has per pax; Tea Lounge (14.30-17.00 daily), these on at Shangri-La Hotel, at The Shard, London. achieved. which offers classic European high tea; Created by London-based designer, Beatrix Ong, they Advise clients to go just before dusk and Lounge Bar (17.00 to 01.00 daily), are a new limited edition only for guests and residents at around 19.00 to have a drink at the which offers after-work drinks and deluxe of the hotel. sky lounge and enjoy the changing bar grub. The slippers marry sustainability, high design and colours of the skyline before heading Aura Restaurant is opened daily from comfort that both brands are renowned for. Made with for dinner at Aura Restaurant, one level 12.00-14.30 and from 18.30-22.30. A luxurious silk velvet and non-slip suede soles, and down. Or they could do post-dinner four-course dinner set menu is priced at available in two sizes, the backs can be folded down, drinks too. S$68++ per person, just to give an idea transforming them into a slip on style. Insoles are made The Aura Restaurant itself is another of pricing. from bamboo and charcoal, natural deodorisers that must. Led by Beppe de Vito, who has Tel: (+65) 6866 1977; email: book@ are also anti-perspiring and ionising. also just opened ilLido Bali and Osteria aura.sg; www.facebook.com/aura.nation- They complement Acqua Di Parma bathroom Art Singapore, here’s where your clients algallery products, Chinese Tea Sets and a pillow menu. Free for can enjoy artisanal, homely Italian at The National Gallery also boasts other guests of the hotel’s three Signature Suites, they are affordable prices in a world-class venue. F&B outlets, Yàn (Chinese restaurant) available in all rooms and suites for purchase at £88 The menu is all of one page, yet there and Smoke & Mirrors by Park Hotel (US$131) per pair. is plentiful as it lists only the choicest, Group, National Kitchen by Violet Oon, Ong, the fi rst creative director for Jimmy Choo, is none-too-fancy dishes. It is agonising to Odette by The Lo & Behold Group, and also launching a new concept collection in collaboration forego one dish for another. Examples of SAHA and The Altimate by The Padang with the Design Museum in London. dishes: Tagliolini with Scampi and Avruga FNB.

46 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

TTG Luxury Dec2015-p44-48 gasp (5pages)FINALred.indd 46 21/12/15 10:08 am Lounging in style

By Xinyi Liang-Pholsena Connecting the dots in between fl ights in an age of lengthy security checks amid increased global travel is what independent airport lounge operator Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has fi rmly on its radar, as it plans to invest over US$100 million on its four core businesses and expand to some 200 locations in the next few years. “A lot of people doing similar business (in airport hospitality) wait for Tarzan to see them, but we go into the jungle to look for Tarzan,” said Song Hoi-see, CEO & founder of PPG (below), on the company’s expansion strategies and vision to provide a seamless airport experience for travellers. The Hong Kong-based group is upping the game for its fl agship brand, Plaza Premium Lounge, by expanding to Taiwan Taoyuan and Rio de Janeiro-Galeão airports next year – the latter will open in time for the Rio 2016 Olympics – in addition to its existing 130-plus locations across 35 international airports worldwide. Inside Plaza Premium Lounges, upper-class travellers can have their own personal space in VIP rooms, indulge in a full-body massage, create their own dining experience from gourmet selections or call on a dedicated concierge to whisk them off to their fi rst-class airline seat. Allways, PPG’s newly launched meet-and-greet services, can also be used by corporations to enable their VIP clients breeze through airport formalities, families with elderly parents who are unfamiliar with air travel or even for lovers to surprise their partners with welcome gifts, Song elaborated. This service is currently available at Toronto Pearson Inter- national Airport and New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, and will soon be introduced to airports in Singapore, Macau, Kuala Lumpur, Muscat and London Heathrow. Meanwhile, the unveiling of airport transit hotel Aerotel Singapore adds another feather in the cap for PPG as part of its diversifi cation strategy. Aside from being the world’s only airport hotel to boast an outdoor swimming pool, poolside bar, gym and library facilities, the 70-key Aerotel Singapore also features such amenities as pillow menu, hot shower, soft acoustics, natural skincare products plus a massage service to help travellers prepare and recover from a lengthy fl ight, according to Song. Other Aerotels are slated to open in Abu Dhabi and London Heathrow. As well, a brand-new airport dining concept Flight Club will be unveiled in Kuala Lumpur Interna- tional Airport this month to enable travellers indulge in a dining experience centred around their Plaza Premium Lounge in Hong Kong (top) and London (above); Right Song personal preferences.

TTG Asia luxury | December 2015 47

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will be assigned to accompany them. If they want to rent equipment instead of using their mobile, there are GoPro cameras for rent. Clients can then select one of the story- boards which have been prepared for them and, with the help of dedicated producers, direct how they want the story to unfold and in what format – movie, digital or virtual reality (VR). D-Den has also prepared destination footage capturing, say, a sunset or a hermit crab moving in the sand, so they don’t have to waste moments shooting those scenes. “For special moments, such as proposals, VR is so much more engaging than photos or videos. They can almost relive every moment in 360 degree – it’s as close as being there when someone watches it,” said Kittisak. Fully launched in November, D-Den charges guests different fees for the services required. In conjunction with its launch, Trisara is offering a stay four nights and the fourth night free, with full perks such as daily breakfast for two, roundtrip private airport transfers, free Wi-Fi, etc. Priced from 97,400 baht (US$2,722) for an Ocean Pool Room, the offer is available till March 31. Make your own movie at Trisara “We have a lot of guests for whom story- telling is important. Our clients from every single market are now younger. Four years By Raini Hamdi ago, their average age typically was 50 years, Trisara Phuket has launched Director’s Den ducing top-quality photo, video or VR keep- today it’s 42 years. As well, we have devel- (D-Den), a fully-equipped studio manned by sakes. Plus, most people today do not just oped new markets such as China and Korea, an in-house team of professional produc- want to consume content, they want to create and these markets comprise younger people, ers and digital artists, to help guests create it,” said Kittisak Pattamasaevi, vice president mostly honeymooners, so we have to find compelling stories of their holiday in photo, sales and marketing of Montara Hospitality ways to engage them. video or even virtual reality formats – a first in Group which owns the luxury resort. Younger people take selfies, love to share the industry. So D-Den provides them the solutions. If their holiday memories, but often don’t have “Most people do not have the time, exper- guests just want someone to identify the most the time or patience to do so in a compelling tise and resources to master the art of pro- instagrammable spots at Trisara, a buddy way,” said Kittisak.

Where to get very expensive cocktails

Place: Avi, poolside bar of Velaa Private Baron Gaston Legrand 1888 and Dom Island, Maldives Perignon Cuvee Rose 1982.

Here are a few of our favourites from the (And the modest) A Good Year new Vintage Cocktail Menu: Cocktail (USD$1,930) Lucky & Al (US$6,530) 1930, known as the year of peace and Homage to the Prohibition era in the US, tranquility, heard BBC Radio from Lon- this cocktail is created with a vintage don on April 18 reporting that “There is 1930’s Guy Lheraud, Vieil Armagnac and no news” and a good year for all, uses Salon 1988 Champagne. vintage Armagnac – Guy Lheraud, Vieil Armagnac 1930 and topped with Louis The Belle Époque (US$4,285) Roederer Cristal. A time of peace and prosperity, this era is considered the start of the ‘golden Way to raise the glass to a luxurious age’ post World War I and is made with new year! Happy 2016 from all of us at

Lucky & Al; The Belle Époque & Al; The Lucky top From a rare Guy Lheraud, Vieil-Armagnac, TTG Asia Luxury.

48 TTG Asia luxury | December 2015

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