MARCH 2021 APAC Newsletter

Make an Ordinary Trip, Asian Brands Hit the Open Road: Extraordinary Shine on a Global Stage Scenic Journeys in ~ Page 6 ~ Page 16 & ~ Page 30 FOREWORD

KOWLOON

WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC TravelodgeTravelodge DARYL LEE CEO [email protected]

SUN KOK SHENG CCO [email protected] KowloonJustKowloon steps away from the pulsating energy of Nathan Road in Jordan, Kowloon is the perfect location to experience the colourful excitement of Kowloon and Island. CYNDI NG COO [email protected] We’ve taken inspiration from our homes and designed our with all the comforts you expect and more. Stay in one of our 126 contemporary rooms, each designed for your comfort with a BERNARD CHIONH CFO practical layout, ample space and natural light. [email protected]

CHERYL CHEANG Vice President, Marketing [email protected]

FOREWORD EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology [email protected] Welcome to the March edition of Travel Aggregator – WebBeds’ newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific! KRISTY LEE Premier Room: Lead Research Analyst [email protected] Located on the 2nd to 15th floors, our Premier Rooms offer an This month, we’re showcasing world-class Asian hospitality with a look at some abundance of natural light with mountain-top, sky and trees or city of the region’s finest homegrown hotel brands. Discover how local companies JINTANA PORNTANAPAT views. The Premier Rooms, being corner rooms, are also popular General Manager, and Indo- from Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand have grown to become global icons, with guests who enjoy a spacious layout and a quieter space for a [email protected] comfortable stay. with extensive hotel collections and innovative guest experiences. We’ll also take a first look at a brand new Asian brand, as S Hotels & Resorts opens its first SAii VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Resort on Phi Phi Island. & [email protected] Do you dream of getting in your car and hitting the open road? In this edition of JOY HUANG Travel Aggregator, we’ll showcase two of Asia Pacific’s most breath-taking road Managing Director, China trips: an epic journey up the east coast of Australia and a scenic ride through the [email protected] lush highlands of Peninsular Malaysia. Finally, experience seekers can check out a LINDA KIM selection of offbeat adventures, paired with unique boutique hotels. General Manager, South Korea [email protected] And of course, we’ll provide all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from ASHUTOSH DOGRA WebBeds in Asia. General Manager, India Deluxe Room: [email protected] Located on the 2nd to 15th floors, our Deluxe Rooms offer an I hope you enjoy the read! abundance of natural light with mountain-top, sky and trees or city JOHN STUCCI President, Pacific views. The clean, practical layout as well as an en-suite bathroom Daryl Lee [email protected] designed for high efficiency makes it an ideal choice. CEO of WebBeds JOY ZHOU Asia Pacific General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia [email protected] To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to attractions.fitruums.com/landing/aggregator

@WebBedsAPAC ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR

Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created especially for our travel trade partners and clients, this informative newsletter will include the latest Room Features: • Beds designed to offer the best sleep with premium comfort updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our Banyan Tree Lang Co, partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more! • Large desk facing the window with plenty of natural light • Free high speed WiFi to help you stay connected If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email • Power sockets in all the right places for easy charging [email protected]. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, • Open plan wardrobe for easy access please email [email protected]. • Power shower that gives you hot water in seconds

2 SAII PHI PHI ISLAND VILLAGE SAII PHI PHI ISLAND VILLAGE

SAii Phi Phi Island Village SAii Phi Phi Island Village officially opened its doors on 1st February, introducing a new era of eco-friendly upscale hospitality to this tropical Thai destination. Nestled in 70 acres of coconut groves on Phi Phi Island, with an 800-metre-long stretch of sandy beach, this is pure paradise for couples and families alike.

Previously known as Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, the resort underwent an extensive refurbishment before relaunching under the SAii Resorts brand, the casual and contemporary upper-upscale brand from S Hotels and Resorts PCL.

The four-month renovation included upgrades to the open-plan lobby, freeform pool, spa, restaurants and lounges. Fresh brand concepts have been introduced, including Mr Tomyam, a poolside Thai restaurant with live kitchens and alfresco seating; Lèn Be Well, which promises a personalised approach to wellbeing; and M.I.Y Aroma Lab, where guests can create their own bathroom products using natural ingredients. The Thai-style bungalows, suites and villas have also been updated and a new premium room category has been added; the 150sqm Two-Bedroom Hillside Pool Villas, which are nestled in the trees above the resort, overlooking the Andaman Sea.

The resort’s Marine Discovery Centre is a popular attraction for guests. Led by a dedicated marine biologist, this conservation hub provides interactive exhibitions and leads environmental projects such as coral propagation and fish breeding programmes. Guests have plenty of opportunities to take eco-sensitive excursions into this pristine environment.

With its fresh look and feel, relaxed vibe and sustainable ethos, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is perfectly suited to the new generation of eco- conscious, experience seeking travellers.

4 5 Make An Ordinary Trip, Extraordinary

Do you crave an adventure or desire to simply take a step back and relax? For an escape that truly satisfies the soul, visitors must write their own agenda. In this article, we invite experience-seeking travellers to get under the skin of their destination, from discovering a shopping paradise that embraces the old and new, to a private and quiet space with mesmerizing views, all these with unique boutique accommodation to take it all in. MONG KOK, HONG KONG HOTEL 1936

MONG KOK, HONG KONG Hotel 1936 After a day of exploration, guests can unwind amid the glitz and glamour of FOR THE ULTIMATE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE Hotel 1936. This chic 20-storey boutique hotel sweeps guests back in time to

Mong Kok means “crowded corner” in Cantonese the glittering ‘30s (the decade the building was originally built), with distinctive and stays true to being one of the busiest districts Art-Deco interiors and 50 designer rooms (Classic or Grand Classic) that offer in the world. While this area is not exactly off the panoramic views over Lion Rock and the Kowloon peninsula. This stunning hotel beaten track, explorers can still craft their own sets the scene for captivating cultural escapes. adventures. Soak in the atmospheric blend of old and new and wander through the characteristically array of endless shopping streets, malls and markets. HOT DEAL! Book with WebBeds before 31st March 2021 and get 10% off!

8 9 MALANG, HOTEL TUGU MALANG

MALANG, INDONESIA

FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL WIND-DOWN

Could anywhere feel further away from the whirl of 21st Century Asia than Malang? This Indonesian Hotel Tugu Malang city is strewn with historical and cultural wonders, This breath-taking hotel completely immerses visitors in the vibrant colour and from ancient Hindu temples to Dutch colonial culture of Malang. Nestled in the heart of the city, this 49-key boutique hotel is architecture, all surrounded by mysterious volcanic a masterpiece, adorned with a priceless collection of Javanese Babah Peranakan hills. Visitors can enjoy a quaint and relaxing break while uncovering the local Arema culture, including antiques, original artworks, and hand-carved stone and wooden furnishings. A choice traditional music and theatre, at a leisurely pace. of lavish dining experiences transports guests on a journey through East Javan history, while the Apsara Spa offers guests an indulgent and romantic oasis of peace.

10 11 TOKYO, JAPAN HOTEL EMIT SHIBUYA

TOKYO, JAPAN

FOR THE TRENDIEST EXPEDITION

If Tokyo is the heart of Asian pop culture, Shibuya is its creative spark. This dynamic district is packed Hotel Emit Shibuya with entertainment, dining, and shopping. Famed Guests can immerse themselves in the energy of the city at Hotel Emit Shibuya. for the iconic Shibuya Crossing, it is also best known Casual and contemporary, this sleek boutique hotel emphasises space and style. for the mass of delectable dessert cafés and stylish Rooms are comfortable and fully connected with complimentary Wi-Fi, so guests coffee joints ranging from large global chains to traditional and indie coffee shops – everything a can instantly upload their latest Insta posts. Every day starts with a breakfast of coffee café hopper could ask for! and freshly-baked croissants, in a café-style atmosphere that perfectly reflects the cosmopolitan vibe of this chic district.

12 13 JEJU ISLAND, SOUTH KOREA LIBENTIA HOTEL AND POOL VILLA

JEJU ISLAND, SOUTH KOREA

FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPE

Jeju is like nowhere else on Earth. A natural and Libentia Hotel and Pool Villa cultural treasure trove, this volcanic island evolved To fully appreciate the beauty of Jeju, what could be better than a hilltop retreat in isolation over millennia, creating a mural of iconic with panoramic 360-degree vistas of the mountains and sea? This elegant landmarks and astounding attractions. Discover the Mediterranean-style hotel promises a collection of luxurious pool villas, all blessed wonders of Mount Halla, the Geomunoreum Lava Tubes and Seongsan Sunrise Peak, all of which are with spectacular views. There is also a spa room and the largest outdoor rooftop inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. swimming pool on the island, giving guests endless opportunities to soothe their bodies and soak up the scenery.

14 15 Asian Hotel Brands Shine on a Global Stage

Is Asia the spiritual home of hospitality? Throughout history, international travellers have been welcomed to this enchanting region with genuine warmth and hosted with care and kindness. Any country or company can provide five-star facilities, but Asia seems to create emotional connections that attract visitors back to its shores time and again. It is little surprise therefore, that Asian hotel groups have become some of the most trusted and treasured brands in the industry. By blending the grace and elegance of Asian culture with international amenities, homegrown hoteliers are now creating truly world-class guest experiences that reflect the essence of this exotic region. BANYAN TREE HOTELS & RESORTS BANYAN TREE HOTELS & RESORTS

BANYAN TREE HOTELS & RESORTS Banyan Tree has become the benchmark for eco- sensitive luxury hospitality in Asia. This pioneering Singaporean company combines the romance and beauty of its destinations with an environmental ethos that is focused on sustainability. All of its idyllic all-villa resorts in iconic locations are blessed with authentic local design, private pools and dramatic dining, and the famous Banyan Tree Spa brand blends the ancient wisdom of oriental wellness with cutting-edge spa science.

18 19 BANYAN TREE VABBINFARU BANYAN TREE LANG CO

MALDIVES VIETNAM Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Banyan Tree Lang Co

When it opened in 1995, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru was the first international Nestled between the mountains and the sea on Vietnam’s spectacular resort in the . Twenty-five years later, this romantic private island central coast, this multi-award winning all-pool villa resort is the ultimate retreat is still enchanting guests. Guests can stay in thatched villas, snorkel luxury hideaway. Guests can unwind and enjoy beachfront bliss with plenty on the house reef, unwind in the spa, dine in beachfront restaurants or learn of activities and water sports, play golf on a course designed by Sir Nick about conservation at the Marine Biology Lab. Faldo, savour exceptional Asian cuisine or enjoy soothing spa therapies.

20 21 ANANTARA HOTELS, RESORTS & SPAS ANANTARA HOTELS, RESORTS & SPAS

ANANTARA HOTELS, RESORTS & SPAS Thai hospitality is famous all over the world for its natural warmth. Anantara, ’ award- winning luxury brand, has become synonymous with the “Land of Smiles”. Since it debuted in 2001, Anantara has developed a global collection of high-end, eco-sensitive hotels and resorts on three continents, all of which house an Anantara Spa. The brand strives to connect guests with their destination through signature experiences, such as its responsible Elephant Camp in northern Thailand, surfing in Bali, cultural explorations in , and many more.

22 23 ANANTARA ANGKOR RESORT & SPA ANANTARA HUA HIN RESORT

CAMBODIA THAILAND Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa Anantara Hua Hin Resort

This beautiful boutique retreat immerses guests in Cambodia’s ancient culture. The brand’s first location, Anantara Hua Hin Resort opened in 2001 and remains Just moments from the famous temples of Angkor, this all-suite resort is adorned a benchmark of exquisite Asian hospitality. Designed in the image of a local with authentic artworks and artefacts. The 39 spacious suites are set around a village, traditional Thai-style buildings appear to float above lotus ponds, courtyard pool and a Khmer restaurant. Cooking classes let guests discover local restaurants overlook tropical gardens, and shady pathways wind through lush cuisine, and the Anantara Spa showcases classical wellness techniques. tropical foliage, emerging at the sandy beach and the sparkling sea.

24 25 THE PENINSULA HOTELS

THE PENINSULA HOTELS The Peninsula has been an Asian icon for almost a century. The brand’s original hotel, , was reputed to be the “finest hotel east of Suez” when it opened in 1928, on the waterfront where well-heeled travellers arrived on ocean liners. Since then, The Peninsula has docked in many of the most famous cities on Earth, including New York, Paris and Shanghai. It remains the only hotel brand to achieve a Forbes Five-Star rating for all its hotels.

26 27

CHINA PHILIPPINES The Peninsula Shanghai The Peninsula Manila

The brand’s flagship hotel in Mainland China, The Peninsula Shanghai reflects the One of the Philippines’ most prestigious hotels, The Peninsula Manila has been style and sophistication of this cosmopolitan city. Located on The Bund, this grand greeting guests – including many VIPs – for over 40 years. Perfectly positioned waterfront hotel features Art-Deco interiors, luxurious rooms and suites, Michelin- on the corners of Ayala and avenues, this 351-room hotel exudes grace starred restaurants and world-class facilities, including a rooftop bar and terrace and grandeur. Standout services include a glass-walled Asian restaurant, which overlooking the Huangpu River and Shanghai’s glittering high-rise skyline. overlooks the gardens and pool, and The Peninsula Spa, a serene wellness sanctuary.

28 29 Hit the Open Road: Scenic journeys in Australia & Malaysia

As international air travel remains subdued, 2021 is the year of the road trip! All across Asia Pacific, drivers have an unprecedented opportunity to hit the road and explore the wonders of their home country. This breath-taking region is home to some of the world’s most sensational roads; ribbons of smooth, black tarmac that wind through spectacular landscapes – over mountains, past lush jungles and along dramatic coastlines. And all this is available without the need for passport checks or airport queues! The only thing you need is car and the open road – the rest is up to you.

THE STAR GRAND GOLD COAST RILEY, A CRYSTALBROOK COLLECTION RESORT

RECOMMENDED HOTEL IN GOLD COAST RECOMMENDED HOTEL IN CAIRNS The Star Grand Gold Coast Riley, A Crystalbrook

Guests who want to treat themselves to a luxurious break on the Gold Coast should look no further than The Star Grand. Check in to a choice of stylish and Collection Resort spacious accommodation, including ocean-facing suites, plunge into sparkling Nestled on the tropical shoreline in Cairns, overlooking the cerulean Coral swimming pools, soothe your body at Azure Spa, dine at award-winning Sea, Riley is a fantastic five-star resort that exudes a sense of laid-back luxury. restaurants, and play in the 24-hour casino. The five-star fun never ends! Discover rooms and suites with city or sea views, take a dip in the glistening pool, dine at Asian and Mediterranean restaurants, or rest your weary body at Discover more accommodation options across Australia > the Eléme Day Spa. Pure bliss!

Discover more accommodation options across Australia >

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THE LAKEHOUSE CAMERON HIGHLANDS THE HAVEN ALL SUITE RESORT, IPOH

RECOMMENDED HOTEL IN CAMERON HIGHLANDS RECOMMENDED HOTEL IN IPOH The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands The Haven All Suite Resort, Ipoh

Transport yourself back to a beautiful bygone era at this exquisite country The Haven All Suite Hotel seamlessly blends contemporary architecture house hotel, which is nestled in the verdant hills. Stay in a choice of rooms and with the glorious landscape of lush rainforest and soaring peaks. The hotel spacious suites with wooden beamed ceilings and four-poster beds, enjoy a immerses guests in the nature, with dramatic outdoor pools, tropical gardens spot of afternoon tea on the terrace, or soothe your body at spa. Every aspect and a jogging track set against the backdrop of dramatic limestone karsts. of this hotel exudes old-world charm. Guests can stay in a choice of one-to-three bedroom suites.

Discover more accommodation options across Malaysia > Discover more accommodation options across Malaysia >

38 39 SINGAPORE AGENTS EXCLUSIVE

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