Tuesday, May 19, 2026
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Korea’s tourism pioneer chairs PATA

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GYEONGJU, South Korea, 13 May 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association confirms that Henry Oh, Chairman, Global Tours Ltd, has been elected as Chair of the association, following ratification at the PATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, 12 May.

Following his appointment as PATA Chair, Oh said: “I am honoured to be elected by members of the PATA Board of Directors to take on this role. As the new Chair, I am committed to strengthening collaboration within the association, while building partnerships across the industry, so that PATA continues to serve as a guiding force for our members and network.”

(L/R): Top Row: New PATA Chair Henry Oh, Chairman, Global Tours Ltd, and New PATA Vice Chair Ben Montgomery, Corporate Ambassador of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Bottom Row: The members of the new Executive Board comprise Jackson Pek, Chief Corporate & Legal Affairs Officer, Amadeus; Maria Paz Alberto, President, Ark Travel Express, Inc; Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA); Shuichi Kameyama, Chief Consultant, JTB Tourism Research & Consulting Co; and Dr Sharzede Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board.

He takes over from Chair Peter Semone, who has completed two terms of two years each as the association’s Chair.

Alongside Oh, Ben Montgomery, Corporate Ambassador of Centara Hotels & Resorts, was appointed the new Vice Chair. 

Four new members of the Executive Board were ratified during the AGM. They are: Jackson Pek, Chief Corporate & Legal Affairs Officer, Amadeus; Maria Paz Alberto, President, Ark Travel Express, Inc; Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA); and Shuichi Kameyama, Chief Consultant, JTB Tourism Research & Consulting Co. 

They will join Dr Sharzede Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board, who will remain a member of the PATA Executive Board.

Henry Oh is Chairman of Global Tour, Ltd, South Korea’s first private travel agency and one of the earliest Asian members of PATA. His strategic direction has earned the company both national and international recognition, including the Korean Government’s ‘20 Million Dollar Award’ and the ‘Tourism Pioneer Award’ from ITB Berlin.

He is currently the Immediate Past Chairman of the Korea Association of Travel Agents (KATA).

Ben Montgomery, the new Vice Chair of the association, represents Centara in various industry councils and associations. She currently serves as Vice President of the Thai Hotels Association (THA) and a Board Member of the ASEAN Hotel & Restaurant Association. She represents Centara at the Joint Public & Private Working Committee to develop workforce capacity for Thailand’s hotel and tourism industry.

Before joining Centara, Ben once served as the Regional Director – Greater Mekong and Director of Chapter Development at PATA headquarters.

(Source: PATA)

GFOB embarks on leadership transition

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SINGAPORE, 13 May 2026: Globus family of brands (GFOB) has announced the planned leadership transition of its current managing director for Asia Pacific, Chris Hall, to a newly created advisory role, reflecting its ongoing investment in long-term growth in the APAC region.

After more than a year of leading the tour and river cruise operator, Chris Hall will transition from the role of Managing Director, APAC to Chairman and Strategic Advisor with the organisation. This role will commence on 15 July 2026.

Since joining GFOB in March 2025, Hall has steered a new APAC region strategy which has seen a refresh of its product, pricing and marketing approach. Aiming to deliver even sharper travel packages, he led the introduction of ‘Fly-free’ and flight-inclusive deals across Avalon Waterways and Globus. 

Chris Hall

During his tenure as Managing Director, Hall increased industry training initiatives, delivering the first-ever advisor charter training and launching the ‘Travel Deals you can Trust’ campaign, which highlighted Cosmos’ value-driven tour offering.

GFOB President and Chief Executive Officer Scott Nisbet applauded Hall’s contributions to the company to date.

“Chris has shown great leadership of the APAC region over the past twelve months, bringing a laser sharp focus to our product offering and pricing in the market and ensuring Globus, Avalon and Cosmos brands are set up for future growth,” Nisbet said.

“The APAC region holds great potential for our brands, so we are investing in the team to create the Chairman and Strategic Advisor role while also appointing a new Managing Director to continue with the execution of the refreshed strategy.”

Hall says that, in addition to fulfilling director duties in his new role, he will continue to hone GFOB’s strategic approach in the region and will play a key role in supporting the new managing director and leadership team in achieving the company’s set objectives.

“At GFOB, we’ve evolved significantly over the past 12 months, working to sharpen our offering and go to market with an even more competitive product,” Hall said.

GFOB is currently accepting expressions of interest for the Managing Director, Asia Pacific role. 

(Source: GFOB)

TripWorks takes top tour platform title

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NEW YORK, 13 May 2026: TripWorks, the first AI and BI‑powered booking and operations platform built specifically for tour and activity operators, has announced that it has been named Travel Tour Platform of the Year in the 2026 TravelTech Breakthrough Awards.  

The annual programme recognises the most innovative companies, products and services shaping the future of travel technology, with thousands of nominations submitted from around the world.

TripWorks’ CEO and founder, Aaron Fessler

TripWorks was selected for its operator‑built design, enterprise‑grade infrastructure, and its unique combination of AI automation and business intelligence that helps operators grow revenue, streamline operations and deliver exceptional guest experiences. The platform’s hybrid AI model supports everything from dynamic pricing and automated communications to real‑time reporting and operational workflows.

“We built TripWorks to give operators the kind of technology advantage that has historically only been available to the largest travel brands,” said Aaron Fessler, Founder and CEO of TripWorks. “Being recognised by the TravelTech Breakthrough Awards is a meaningful validation of our approach, and of the operators who have trusted us to power their growth.”

The TravelTech Breakthrough Awards are part of the Tech Breakthrough organisation, which evaluates innovation across the most competitive areas of technology, including IoT, AI, cybersecurity, fintech, digital health and mobile. Winners are selected based on innovation, performance, ease of use, functionality, and overall impact on the travel and hospitality ecosystem.

TripWorks’ recognition places it alongside leading global travel brands honoured across other categories this year, including Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia Group, SAP Concur and Mews.

About TripWorks
Founded in 2019, TripWorks is an AI-driven, enterprise-grade booking, automation, and business intelligence platform for tour, activity, attractions, and experience operators.

Across the Table: Shared Meals

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SINGAPORE, 13 May 2026: Returning for its third edition, Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series invites guests to rediscover the quiet power of gathering — where a shared meal becomes a moment of connection, and time slows to the pace of conversation.

Unfolding across Asia Pacific, the 2026 Luxury Dining Series brings together celebrated culinary voices and evocative settings to create spaces where culture, creativity and human connection converge. 

Photo credit: Marriott International.

2026 series locations 

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa. 

Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket. 

St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. 

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. 

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto. 

A trip across Japan on Luminara, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht.

Exclusive stay packages will be available across the six destinations, inviting guests to experience Across the Table beyond the dining room.  

Series schedule 

Vietnam: 5 to 9 August — JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa.

Thailand: 12 to 16 August — The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket.

Maldives: 25 to 30 August — The St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort.

Indonesia: 9 to 13 September — Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

Japan: 23 to 27 September — The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto.

Japan: 9 to 18 October — Luminara, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

(Source: Marriott International)

Jen Hong Kong refresh completed

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HONG KONG, 12 May 2026: JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La has raised the curtain on its renovated rooms and suites, the launch of JEN Residence, and newly upgraded rooftop wellness facilities. 

The upgraded room categories include Cityscape, Harbourscape, Mountain Club, Harbour Club, Suite Club, and JEN Residence.

JEN Residence

JEN Residence

The newly launched JEN Residence sets the benchmark for long-stay comfort, offering a spacious, home-like option in the heart of the city. 

Inspired by residential living, each unit features separate living and sleeping areas, a fully equipped kitchenette with a fridge and freezer, microwave, and an auto-refresh water dispenser, as well as an in-unit laundry and a walk-in closet.

Experience refined comfort at the Suite Club. Each suite is thoughtfully divided into living and sleeping zones, creating a residential-style retreat designed around everyday ease. Highlights include a spacious walk-in wardrobe, a dedicated washing area with double sinks, and a fully equipped kitchenette.

Rooftop pool and gym

Perched high above the hotel, the L29 Rooftop is a wellness and revitalisation zone featuring a state-of-the-art gym with 24/7 access, complemented by an outdoor yoga and meditation deck.

The newly renovated Club Lounge, with a dedicated meeting room, located on level 28, provides a shared sanctuary in the sky, featuring a modern design and an open pantry tailored for work, relaxation, and social connection, set against a stunning 180-degree view of Victoria Harbour.

Located in the centre of Sai Wan, JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La is just a one-minute walk from HKU MTR Station and is adjacent to the cultural hubs of Sheung Wan and Central, making it perfect for discovering local culture, including temples, cafés, and historic streets.

(Source: Shangri-La)

Marriott debuts City Express in Osaka

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SINGAPORE, 12 May 2026: City Express by Marriott has announced the opening of City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya and City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South. 

The simultaneous launch of both properties introduces the brand to Osaka, a city renowned for its culinary innovation, energy, and vibrant urban character.

Photo credit: Marriott International.

City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya

The 100-room City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya is located in Minami, one of Osaka’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, offering access to the city’s commercial districts and iconic landmarks. Surrounded by a mix of retail, residential, and commercial developments, the hotel provides both convenience and immersion in local urban life.

The hotel is located directly adjacent to Shin-Imamiya Station, one of Osaka’s key transport interchanges. With access to the JR Osaka Loop Line, Nankai Main Line, and Osaka Metro, the hotel offers connectivity across the city and the wider Kansai region. Travellers arriving via Kansai International Airport benefit from direct train access on the Nankai Main Line, with a journey time of approximately 50 minutes.

Guests can explore nearby attractions, including Tsutenkaku Tower, Tennoji Zoo, and Kuromon Market, all within proximity. 

City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South

The 143-room City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South is located in Hanazono-kita, Nishinari-ku, set within a neighbourhood that reflects the authentic rhythm of Osaka’s urban landscape. The hotel is adjacent to Hanazonochō Station on the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line, providing direct and convenient access to central Osaka.

Guests can easily explore nearby attractions, including Abeno Harukas and Tennoji (seven minutes), Namba (10 minutes), Dotonbori (12 minutes), and Shinsaibashi (15 minutes). Osaka Dome and Osaka Castle Park are also accessible from the hotel. Kansai International Airport is approximately 45 minutes away via direct train on the Nankai Line, ensuring smooth access for international and regional travellers.

The hotels will be operated by Shin‑Imamiya Hospitality GK, a subsidiary of Pacifica Hotels GK, under a franchise agreement with Marriott International.

(Source: Marriott International)

Oceania opens sales for 2028/2029 world sailings

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SINGAPORE, 12 May 2026: Oceania Cruises has unveiled the inaugural sailings for Oceania Aurelia, set to debut in late 2027, which include the launch of two 180-day Around the World voyages for 2028 and 2029 and two Grand Voyages of more than 70 days each.

Now available for online preview, with reservations opening on 13 May 2026, this is the first time Oceania Cruises has released two world cruises simultaneously. 

Photo credit: Oceania Cruises.

Hosting fewer than 500 guests and served by 400 officers and crew, the ship offers a residential ambience as it sails across the globe.

Among the highlights of the two Around the World voyages is a series of overnight port stays that allow for more time ashore for deeper exploration in destinations including Papeete, Bora Bora, Sydney, Bali, Tokyo, Singapore, Mumbai, Seville and Bordeaux.

Across each circumnavigation, nearly 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites are within reach, offering rare access to the world’s most treasured landmarks.

Alongside these two 180-day odysseys, Oceania Aurelia will also sail two 70-plus-day Grand Voyages: one through the Nordic and Baltic seas; the other spanning the Americas, linking the Caribbean, South America, and the Pacific.

Two Around-the-World Voyages

2028 Around-the-World Voyage: 180 days, Miami to New York, departing 18 January, 2028

2029 Around-the-World Voyage: 180 days, Los Angeles to New York, departing 6 January, 2029

Two Grand Voyages

Grand Nordic & Baltic Discovery: 78 days from New York to Boston, departing 18 July, 2028

Grand South America Adventure: 71 days from Miami to Los Angeles, departing 27 October 2028 – Holiday Voyage

(Source: Oceania Cruises)

Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort opens:

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BANGKOK, 12 May 2026: Outrigger Hospitality Group has announced the opening of Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort in Thailand, joining the group’s Thailand portfolio of properties in Koh Samui, Khao Lak and Phuket. 

Located in the protected boundaries of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, the resort offers 63 suites and villas on a stretch of coastline where limestone cliffs rise from white-sand beaches on the Andaman Sea coast.  

Photo credit: Outrigger Phi Phi.

Accessible only by boat, the resort sits inside a national park where development is tightly controlled, and the natural environment remains largely untouched. 

The national park that surrounds the resort is one of the most biodiverse marine environments in Southeast Asia. PADI-certified diving excursions reach coral formations where sea turtles, manta rays and reef sharks are regular sightings. Eco-sensitive boat rides access islands and coves that see limited visitor traffic. 

The resort was constructed using local, organic materials and designed to work with its environment — maximising natural light and ventilation, minimising waste and protecting the ecosystem it sits within. 

Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort is now live on GHA Discovery, connecting the property to more than 35 million loyalty members across 1,000 hotels in 100 countries.

Indonesia-China QR connectivity launches in Jakarta

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JAKARTA, 12 May 2026: Under the guidance of Bank Indonesia and the People’s Bank of China, the China-Indonesia cross-border QR payment linkage was launched at a recent event in Jakarta.

It involves collaboration between Indonesia’s Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) and China’s leading payment ecosystems, enabled by Alipay+, the unified wallet gateway of Ant International, and UnionPay International.

The launch of the Indonesia-China QR connectivity was announced at an event at Bank Indonesia in Jakarta.

A milestone in regional connectivity, the initiative opens a new bridge for commerce between China’s 1.4 billion people and Indonesia’s 280 million citizens. Consumers from both countries can now make seamless and secure QR code payments using their home e-wallets.  

At the launch, users of Alipay, an Alipay+ wallet partner, and the UnionPay App can pay at more than 40 million QRIS merchants across Indonesia, mostly MSMEs. On the other hand, QRIS-supported e-wallets and bank apps will be able to scan more than 80 million Alipay and UnionPay QR codes in China. 

The implementation of QR payments between Indonesia and China strengthens the commitment to using local currencies in cross-border transactions, enhances exchange rate visibility and travel convenience, and promotes more efficient tourism and trade flows.

Driving growth for local merchants

This linkage significantly expands access for local businesses — especially micro and small enterprises—to international customers across two major Asian economies. For local Indonesian merchants, the launch requires no new hardware or integration: an existing merchant QRIS code is all that’s needed to accept payments from Chinese travellers, unlocking new revenue streams from inbound tourism and cross-border consumption.

In 2025, Chinese arrivals to Indonesia reached a six-year high, with more than 1.34 million visitors. Enabling frictionless payment for these visitors has a direct impact on merchant revenues, particularly for the MSMEs, who account for over 99% of all businesses in Indonesia.

The QRIS–China linkage reflects a broader push toward interoperable, real-time payment connectivity across Asia. The cross-border QR payment linkage is a government-to-government initiative supported by industry partners like Ant International. Alipay+ provides the technical layer that connects both ecosystems, enabling interoperability between payment systems and allowing users to pay with their home wallets. At the same time, merchants receive funds through their existing domestic infrastructure. 

This collaboration is part of ongoing efforts to create an open, inclusive payments ecosystem that supports regional trade, travel, and digital economic growth. It also builds on efforts to expand QRIS cross-border connectivity across ASEAN and beyond. 

Cross-border QRIS transactions via Alipay showed strong growth momentum during the pilot phase, reflecting growing awareness and engagement with cross-border QR transactions. It also emphasises the importance of strengthening innovation and digital readiness to ensure that digital transformation adds value to the national economy.

As merchant adoption and wallet connections expand, the initiative is expected to accelerate digital payment usage further, strengthen financial inclusion, and deepen economic connectivity among Indonesia, China, and the broader region.

The Indonesia-China launch reflects Alipay+’s commitment to connecting with national payment schemes. As a unified wallet gateway, Alipay+ partners with 50 international e-wallets and bank apps, connecting their more than 2 billion user accounts to more than 150 million merchants, including over 10 national payment schemes across Asia and beyond.

Ant International is a leading global digital payment, digitisation, and financial technology provider. It offers a unified techfin platform that helps financial institutions and merchants of all sizes achieve inclusive growth. Its unified wallet gateway, Alipay+, provides cross-border payment and digital services that help connect global merchants to consumers. 

 (Source: Ant International)

Adelaide hosts the 46th ATE

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SINGAPORE, 12 May 2026: Australia’s largest tourism tradeshow, the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE26), opens this week at the Adelaide Convention Centre, with a strong turnout from global travel Buyers.

More than 2,700 attendees, including 730 buyers and travel agents from 32 countries, will converge in Adelaide for ATE26. They will meet with 1,400 Australian industry representatives from 674 tourism organisations.

Photo credit: Tourism Australia

There are more than 55,000 appointments scheduled over the next four days, with many more expected on the fringes of the event. Each of these meetings will contribute to new and strengthened relationships and partnerships that drive sustained growth in the tourism sector, and economic opportunity for all Australians.

Tourism Australia Managing Director Robin Mack said: “This year will see 74 new products offered, and 131 new buyer organisations attending for the first time, highlighting strong demand in the sector and in Australia in particular. 

“We acknowledge the impact of global shocks on the sector at this time. It makes Tourism Australia’s role more important than ever in shaping international demand and to lift sustainable yield and support dispersal, directing tourism revenues into Australia and across its regions.”

Tourism contributes significantly to Australia’s economy, supporting more than 700,000 jobs, attracting visitors to regional communities and sustaining around 300,000 businesses across the country.

ATE26 is being delivered in partnership with the South Australia Tourism Commission, which has provided support to ensure extraordinary experiences for attendees.

ATE26 should contribute an estimated AUD13.6 million to the local Adelaide economy. The last time the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) was held in Adelaide was in 2018. 

(Source: Tourism Australia)

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