Designed for modern travellers seeking comfort, convenience and elevated essentials, this stylish new hotel invites guests to discover Ratchaburi’s rich cultural charm while enjoying limited-time rates, elevated perks, and Centara’s signature warm hospitality.
From now until 31 May 2025, guests booking stays until 30 June 2025 can take advantage of its “The Heart of Ratchaburi: Exclusive Opening Offer”, featuring special rates starting from THB1,500 per night. This limited-time promotion includes daily breakfast for two, hotel credit equal to 15% of the daily room rate redeemable for drinks and dining during the stay, and the added flexibility of early check-in and late check-out. Guests will also receive welcome drinks upon arrival, while CentaraThe1 members earn triple points during their stay — new members can sign up for free at www.centarathe1.com for even more privileges.
With 69 rooms and suites, Thai and Western dining featuring locally sourced ingredients at Terra Bar & Café, and modern meeting and event spaces, Centara Life Wisma Hotel Ratchaburi offers a contemporary city-centre retreat for couples, families, and business travellers just moments from iconic landmarks such as the Ratchaburi National Museum, Wat Mahathat Worawihan, and the striking Ruesi Khao Ngu Cave.
KUCHING, 30 April 2025: Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) proudly made its return at PATA Annual Summit 2025, held from 21 to 23 April in Istanbul, Türkiye, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable tourism growth and cultural preservation.
Reinforcing Sarawak’s position and connection as a leading player in sustainable tourism destinations within the Asia-Pacific region, the Malaysian state welcomed 4.83 million visitor arrivals in 2024 — an impressive 23% increase from the previous year. Sarawak is poised to achieve its bold target of 5 million visitors by the end of 2025.
STB CEO Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor said the growth in visitor arrivals is underpinned by Sarawak’s commitment to authentic cultural experiences, eco-tourism, and innovation — all aligned with the state’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Sarawak’s participation at the Summit showcased its dedication to sustainable tourism and highlighted its investment in future-proofing the tourism sector. A key highlight was Puan Sharzede’s insightful opening at the panel discussion on Building Tomorrow’s Tourism Workforce, held on the last day of the Summit.
Representing the government perspective, STB CEO Puan Sharzede, alongside Olivier Berrivin, Vice President–APAC at BWH Hotels, and Chris Bottrill, Associate Vice President (International) at Capilano University, explored the latest strategies to equip tourism talent with the tools to adapt, evolve, and thrive in a changing global landscape.
“In Sarawak, we don’t build our workforce for fair weather — we build them to sail through storms,” said Puan Sharzede. “From front liners to indigenous communities, we empower people across the tourism value chain with digital tools and future-ready skills. As the industry evolves, so must we — and Sarawak is proud to be a progressive player in this journey.”
She also highlighted Sarawak’s early adoption of digital strategies in tourism marketing, campaign management, and grassroots training— efforts that have positioned the state as agile and inclusive in the global travel ecosystem. Throughout the Summit, STB engaged in knowledge exchange during networking events and participated in the Youth Symposium, reaffirming its support for the next generation of tourism leaders.
Sarawak’s presence in Istanbul sent a clear message — Sarawak connects nature to innovation, tradition to transformation, and people to purpose. Through strategic engagement at PATA, Sarawak continues to bridge local strengths with global aspirations.
As STB strengthens its global partnerships and nurtures a skilled, resilient workforce, Sarawak is setting the benchmark for what sustainable, forward-looking tourism can and should be across the Asia-Pacific region.
SINGAPORE, 30 April 2025: Marriott International has reached an agreement to acquire the lifestyle brand citizenM; a transaction that should accelerate Marriott’s global expansion of its select-service and lifestyle lodging offerings.
The citizenM global portfolio currently consists of 36 open hotels, comprising 8,544 rooms, across more than 20 cities spanning the US, Europe, and Asia Pacific, including gateway cities such as New York, London, Paris, and Rome.
The brand’s current pipeline includes three under-construction hotels totalling over 600 rooms that are anticipated to open by mid-2026, with the prospect of significant additional growth across Marriott’s global regions over the next decade.
The citizenM brand is known for its genuine service, tech-savvy in-hotel experience, highly efficient use of space, and focus on art and design. The brand, founded in 2008, caters to a growing demographic of value-conscious travellers looking for technology-driven accommodations with features like smart in-room design, indoor and outdoor common spaces featuring immersive artwork and local artefacts, comfortably appointed living rooms that serve as collaborative workspaces, creative meeting rooms, grab-and-go food and beverage options, and lively rooftop decks.
“As we continue to drive best-in-class experiences for travellers, our announcement builds upon Marriott’s commitment to enhance options for guests and Marriott Bonvoy members,” said Marriott International president and CEO Anthony Capuano. “We are thrilled to add citizenM as a differentiated offering to our select-service brand portfolio as we continue to strengthen Marriott’s foothold in this valuable market segment worldwide.”
At the transaction’s closing, Marriott will pay USD355 million to acquire the brand and related intellectual property. Following closing, the citizenM portfolio will become part of Marriott’s system, with the hotels owned and leased by the seller subject to new long-term franchise agreements with Marriott.
Stabilised fees for the open and under-construction pipeline portfolio are anticipated to be approximately USD30 million annually. The seller may also receive earn-out payments of up to USD110 million based on the brand’s future growth over a specified, multi-year timeframe. These payments would not begin until the fourth year following closing.
“We are very excited about our agreement with Marriott and look forward to this pivotal next step for our future growth. I envisage this relationship greatly enhancing citizenM’s global reach and brand impact. Marriott as an organisation shares our values and culture, and I am confident in their deep commitment to continuing our brand’s DNA into the future,” said citizenM Founder and Chairman Rattan Chadha
Assuming the closing of the transaction in 2025, Marriott now expects the full-year 2025 net room growth to approach 5%.
Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc and Eastdil Secured acted as financial advisors to the seller in this transaction.
BANGKOK, 30 April 2025: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) confirms a new organisational partnership with the European Travel Commission (ETC), a non-profit organisation committed to supporting the sustainable development of Europe as a tourism destination.
The partnership was publicly recognised on stage during the PATA Annual Summit 2025 (PAS 2025) last week, following a fireside chat between PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and ETC CEO Eduardo Santander. The on-stage discussions between PATA and ETC explored the topic “Building Bridges: Tourism at the Crossroads of East and West.”
Eduardo Santander, CEO of the European Travel Commission (ETC) (right), is presented with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of ETC’s partnership by Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of PATA (left), and Peter Semone, Chair of PATA (centre).
“This Memorandum of Understanding marks a meaningful step forward for PATA as we deepen our commitment to global collaboration in building a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism industry,” stated Hamid.
“In an increasingly interconnected world, the relationship between the Asia Pacific and Europe in travel and tourism is more vital than ever. We look forward to joining forces with the European Travel Commission, which shares our values and long-term vision. Through this partnership, we aim to amplify our impact by exchanging knowledge, co-creating initiatives, and addressing shared challenges with a united voice.”
Under the signed MoU, PATA and ETC aim to collaborate on a range of joint initiatives to address global tourism challenges, promote sustainable and responsible practices, improve connectivity, support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and foster more balanced tourism flows that enhance visitor experiences while benefiting local communities. The partnership also seeks to strengthen synergies between the organisations’ respective programmes to maximise impact and cost-efficiency across advocacy, research, and B2B events.
Santander said: “Tourism bridges cultures, fosters mutual understanding, and unites people – especially in times of uncertainty. In such moments, international organisations like ETC and PATA are crucial in strengthening ties between our regions. We look forward to building a closer partnership with PATA, working together to enhance seamless connectivity, exchange best practices, learn from one another, and collectively shape a more resilient and sustainable future for travel and tourism.”
In addition to these areas of collaboration, PATA and ETC will engage in knowledge-sharing, co-organisation and participation in events, expert exchanges, and joint advocacy campaigns – particularly those focused on sustainability in tourism.
This partnership reflects both organisations’ shared vision of a forward-thinking global tourism ecosystem.
KUALA LUMPUR, 30 April 2025: International passenger markets are growing in line with long-term historical trends according to preliminary March 2025 traffic figures released Tuesday by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA).
Asia Pacific carriers carried 31 million international passengers, representing a 6.9% year-on-year increase compared to the same month last year. Demand, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), rose by 9%, while available seat capacity grew by 11% year-on-year. This resulted in a 1.4 percentage point decline in the international passenger load factor, which averaged 80.8%.
Meanwhile, international air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), registered a 5.7% year-on-year increase in March, supported by forward shipment demand ahead of potential tariff imposition. Offered freight capacity expanded by 4.7%, leading to a marginal 0.5 percentage point rise in the average international freight load factor to 64% for the month.
Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General Subhas Menon said: “Asia Pacific airlines carried 95.6 million international passengers in the first quarter of 2025, a 13% year-on-year increase that marked a strong start to the year, following the solid 29% growth in 2024. This came from international route expansion, liberalised visa regimes, and resilient economic activity across the region.”
“On the cargo front, demand rose by 5% year-on-year in the first quarter, extending the solid 15% annual growth achieved in 2024. Anticipation of US tariff announcements prompted front-loading of air shipments on selected routes, while robust e-commerce activity continued to support overall demand.”
Looking ahead, Menon noted: “The sweeping US tariff announcements have resulted in volatile activity across the world’s stock markets, casting uncertainty over the outlook for Asia’s export-oriented economies, many of which serve as major manufacturing hubs. This could weigh on consumer and business sentiment, potentially softening passenger and cargo demand in the coming months.”
”Additionally, operational challenges resulting from persistent supply chain issues, including aircraft delivery delays, constrain capacity expansion. As a result, airlines face elevated operating costs, including high maintenance, leasing and personnel expenses. In response, Asia Pacific carriers remain focused on driving cost efficiencies while expanding their networks and pursuing customer service innovation.”
SINGAPORE, 30 April 2025: Vietjet has welcomed a brand-new Airbus A321neo ACF aircraft, registration number VN-A516, that will be deployed on new direct routes connecting Ho Chi Minh City with Nagoya and Fukuoka in Japan.
Singapore-based travellers can fly from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City for a quick getaway before continuing their trip to Japan. These route developments mark a significant milestone in Vietjet’s 2025 expansion, which also includes new services to Singapore, India, and China.
Photo credit: Vietjet. Vietjet’s new Airbus A321neo ACF aircraft lands at Tan Son Nhat Int Airport in Ho Chi Minh City.
The new A321 aircraft landed at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on 25 April, following its delivery flight from Hamburg, Germany.
Due to be deployed during Vietnam’s second-largest national holiday period this week — marking the 50th anniversary of Reunification Day combined with Labor Day — the new A321 will boost Vietjet’s capacity to meet the surge in travel demand on regional routes
This is the third new aircraft Vietjet has added to its fleet since the start of 2025. The airline plans to continue receiving new aircraft from Airbus and Boeing throughout the year, reinforcing its commitment to operating one of the region’s most dynamic and efficient fleets.
To celebrate the milestone, Vietjet offers promotional Eco-class fares starting from SGD86(*) for one-way flights from all Singapore-Vietnam flights (to Hanoi, Danang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc), along with super saver fares from Vietnam to Japan and beyond.
Building on this momentum, Vietjet expanded its international network by launching four new services connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with Beijing and Guangzhou in China. These additions mark a milestone in Vietjet’s 2025 expansion plan, including new services to India last month and the highly-anticipated launch of the Phu Quoc–Singapore route, which is set to commence on 30 May.
(*) Inclusive of taxes and fees, Vietjet’s inaugural flight, VJ856, from Ho Chi Minh City (**) Exclusive of public holidays and peak periods
SINGAPORE, 30 April 2025: Airports Council International (ACI) World has released its latest airport industry economic and financial performance data, revealing a significant gap between passenger traffic recovery and total airport revenues.
While passenger traffic nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 — just 5.4% below 2019 — airport revenues lagged further behind, falling by 11.4%.
The latest ACI World Airport Economics Report examines airports’ economic and financial performance for the 2023 fiscal year, drawing data from over 1,060 airports worldwide. These airports account for 82% of global pre-pandemic passenger traffic, providing a comprehensive overview of the sector’s recovery.
Key global highlights
Total revenues: In 2023, global airport revenues reached USD146 billion, a 21.4% increase from 2022. However, this is still 11.4% lower than the USD158.6 billion reported in 2019, pre-pandemic.
Aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenues: Aeronautical revenues remained the primary source of total airport revenues in 2023, reaching USD79 billion (14% below 2019), with a virtually unchanged share of 53.6% compared to 54.0% in 2019. Meanwhile, non-aeronautical (commercial) revenues — a vital component of airport financial sustainability — stood at USD54 billion (17% below 2019) and slightly declined, from 40.2% in 2019 to 36.7% in 2023.
Capital costs rose by 4% from 2022 and exceeded pre-pandemic figures by 1%, reaching USD40 billion. This increase was driven mainly by an 18% increase in interest expenses, reflecting the ongoing financial strain from airport debt.
Debt-to-EBITDA ratio: The debt-to-EBITDA ratio improved to 5.74:1 in 2023, indicating progress in managing debt. However, this ratio remains elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, underscoring ongoing financial challenges.
Infrastructure challenges and future air travel growth
The weakened financial health of airports creates significant challenges for infrastructure development needed to meet future travel demand.
According to ACI World, global passenger numbers are expected to rise to 17.7 billion by 2043 and 22.3 billion by 2053 — almost 2.4 times the projected volume for 2024. To address the long-term growth in passenger demand, an estimated USD2.4 trillion in total capital investment will be needed by 2040 for airport infrastructure.
These investments are essential to maintaining a sustainable aviation ecosystem that maximises air travel’s social and economic benefits, including job creation and regional development.
“While passenger traffic has rebounded, airport revenues continue to lag behind, underscoring ongoing financial challenges. With air travel demand expected to soar in the coming decades, it is crucial that regulators implement flexible policies to support airport infrastructure investments—ensuring aviation’s sustainable growth and maximising its social and economic benefits,” said ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci.
About ACI Airports Council International (ACI), the trade association of the world’s airports, is a federated organisation comprising ACI World, ACI Africa, ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East, ACI EUROPE, ACI Latin America and the Caribbean and ACI North America. As of January 2025, ACI serves 830 members, operating 2,181 airports in 170 countries.
BANGKOK, 29 April 2025: Organisers of the Thailand International Boat Show have confirmed that the fourth edition will be held at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina, one of Southeast Asia’s premier marinas, from 15 to 18 January 2026.
The marina, located near the island’s northern tip, is known for its capacity to accommodate superyachts. It is an ideal venue for the organisers to expand the scope and solidify Thailand as the epicentre of yachting lifestyle in the region.
Phuket Yacht Haven Marina.
“We are thrilled to announce Phuket Yacht Haven Marina as the official venue for the 2026 Thailand International Boat Show. This location aligns perfectly with our vision to position Thailand not only as a world-class destination but also as the hub of luxury maritime lifestyle in Asia,” said Thailand International Boat Show organisers JAND Events CEO David Hayes.
As a business platform promoting Thailand’s global marine industry, the Thailand International Boat Show generates an estimated THB1 billion annually for the yachting business in Thailand.
“Our goal is to grow the show to accommodate more and bigger boats, increase the superyacht presence, and expand the lifestyle offerings. We are creating a unique platform, the largest of its kind in the region, and one that will attract visitors worldwide to come and experience the best yachting and luxury lifestyle that Phuket and Thailand has to offer,” added Hayes.
After the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia is the next yachting hotspot. It is attracting the attention of yacht owners and charterers worldwide — and Thailand is the region’s jewel. Famed for its hospitality, Thailand has world-class yachting infrastructure, award-winning marinas, and unrivalled international flight connectivity. The Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand offer captivating seascapes matched by world-class facilities onshore.
“Yachting in Thailand is on the rise. From boat sales to berthing, maintenance, provisioning, and chartering, our marine industry grows by approximately 10% annually. As more people discover the breathtaking beauty of coastal destinations like Phuket, Krabi, Samui, and Pattaya — along with the world-class marine infrastructure we offer — we see significant potential for increased growth in the years to come,” said Thai Yachting Business Association Vice President Benjamin Tabuteau.
The 2026 edition features
More than 70 sail and motor yachts from global brands.
Expanded superyacht displays targeting Ultra and High Net Worth Individuals.
The latest in marine technology, water toys and gadgets, and eco-friendly innovations.
Luxury lifestyle showcases include real estate, autos, and fine dining.
Networking events and high-level industry forums.
This curated showcase will reflect the full spectrum of the modern yachting lifestyle — from sustainable solutions to high-end indulgence — making the 2026 Thailand International Boat Show the most dynamic and forward-looking edition.
The Thailand Yachting Conference will be held on 14 January, the day before the boat show opens. It will attract industry leaders, government officials, educators, and yachting enthusiasts with a packed agenda of expert-led sessions covering topics of national and international interest.
“This isn’t just about putting on a show — it’s about creating a platform for real growth and collaboration in the leisure marine industry across the region and putting Thailand at the heart of that,” added Hayes. For more information, visit: www.thailandinternationalboatshow.com.
BANGKOK, 29 April 2025: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, represented in China by Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts, has signed a hotel management agreement with Dongfang Nongbo (Chengdu) Commercial Operation Management Company Limited to operate Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu.
The serene retreat in one of China’s most dynamic and culturally rich destinations is renowned for its vibrant street food, rich tea culture, and iconic giant pandas.
Slated to open on 1 June 2025, the 250-key Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu is located within the expansive Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park, just 30 minutes by car from both Chengdu city centre and Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, and only 20 minutes from Xinjin high-speed rail station, which connects to key cities across Sichuan Province.
Spanning approximately 2.7 square km, Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park is a landmark development dedicated to high-tech agriculture, sustainable farming, and cultural tourism. Designed around the principles of innovation, harmony, and green development, the park integrates agricultural exhibitions, farming culture, scientific research, technology development, and leisure tourism into a seamless experience, making it a fitting location for Dusit’s latest expansion.
Guests can choose from a range of private villas or spacious guest rooms set around beautifully maintained gardens. Enhancing the guest experience, the resort will offer a wealth of premium facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant with a farm-to-table focus, a speciality restaurant, a Chinese restaurant featuring eight private dining rooms, a stylish lobby lounge, an indoor swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, a dedicated kids’ club, mahjong rooms, and a pillarless multi-functional conference hall with three versatile meeting rooms.
Alongside Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, the resort will also offer immersive experiences that connect guests with the best of the destination. These include curated dining experiences that reflect Chengdu’s status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, visits to the world-renowned Sichuan Opera, where the mesmerising ‘face-changing’ performance sees actors seamlessly switch masks in seconds, and the opportunity to see giant pandas up close at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of the city’s most popular attractions.
“With its rich culinary heritage, deep cultural traditions, and world-famous attractions, Chengdu is a destination like no other, and we are thrilled to introduce Dusit’s signature gracious hospitality to this remarkable city,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “This signing underscores our commitment to thoughtful expansion in China, and we are excited to create a unique retreat where guests can immerse themselves in Chengdu’s vibrant energy while enjoying the exceptional service and experiences that define Dusit.”
Dongfang Nongbo (Chengdu) Commercial Operation Management Company Limited Chairman Xiong Rui said: “Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu, is poised to become a true landmark in the region, combining outstanding facilities with warm, personalised service. We look forward to creating a sanctuary where guests can relax, explore, and immerse themselves in the unique charm of Chengdu while enjoying the signature Dusit experience.”
Dusit International’s portfolio now includes nearly 300 properties operating under eight brands across 18 countries. The company currently operates seven hotels in China and has more than 20 properties in the pipeline.
About Dusit Hotels and Resort Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes nearly 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.
About Dusit International Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services.
HO CHI MINH CITY, 29 April 2025: Meliá Hotels International is expanding its portfolio in Vietnam through new agreements with two local players, BB Group Hospitality and Sapa Mountain Resort LLC.
The agreement adds two new properties to the international group Vietnam portfolio, giving it 22 operational hotels and four in the pipeline.
Hotel Sapa Square, Affiliated by Meliá
Like Meliá Hotels International, BB Group Hospitality operates multiple hotels in popular tourist destinations. The recent signing brings Meliá into the scenic hillside town of Sapa, a new destination for the group that is known for the rich culture of the local hill tribes, picturesque, terraced rice fields, and mountainous terrain popular with hikers.
The BB Hotel Sapa and BB Sapa Resort & Spa will become the Spanish hotel group’s most northern properties in the country. Both hotels recently became Affiliated with Meliá properties, a brand known for hotels with strong connections to the local culture.
Under Meliá’s agreement with Sapa Mountain Resort LLC, BB Sapa Resort & Spa will be rebranded to Meliá Sapa Mountain Resort after completing a year under the Affiliated by Melia brand. The resort features 77 rooms and suites.
The interior décor embraces the culture of the local hill tribes, while the facades are traditional wooden designs reminiscent of a European mountain chalet. The property features an expansive garden at its centre and wellness facilities, including a gym, indoor heated pool, and spa.
As part of the strategic partnership with BB Group, BB Hotel Sapa will become Hotel Sapa Square, Affiliated by Meliá. Situated by the town’s heart, Central Square, the 57-room property holds a prime position in Sapa and offers unparalleled views from its rooftop sky lounge. The hotel also features a terrace café, upscale restaurant, and spa.
Late last year Meliá and BB Group Hospitality signed a hotel management agreement for Kobi Onsen Hue, a hot springs resort in Vietnam’s former imperial capital, that is now operating as an Affiliated by Meliá property.
